Neolithic Dawn adds Survival Mode in major 2026 update
London based studio Neolithic LLC has released a major update for Neolithic Dawn, adding a new Survival Mode and several system upgrades to the VR adventure. The update follows the game’s 1.0 launch on Meta Quest in December 2025 and expands how players can approach life in 10,000 BC North America.
Survival Mode lets players start custom sessions without fixed objectives. Instead of following a set campaign path, the goal is simple. Stay alive as long as possible in a hostile prehistoric setting. The mode also supports drop in and drop out access, making it easier for friends to join ongoing sessions without complicated setup.
Neolithic Dawn’s update continues the trend of VR games strengthening how players interact with digital worlds. “This new Survival Mode is a direct response to our community,” said founder James Belian. “We heard your ideas, and when something can make Neolithic Dawn even better, we are all in.”
How Survival Mode changes gameplay
The addition of Survival Mode reshapes the structure of the game. The original campaign is now labeled Story Mode and remains available for solo and co-op play. A merged save system allows players to keep multiple Story Mode saves and continue those same adventures with friends.
Future updates are planned to expand Survival Mode with base building features. Players will be able to create homesteads in locations of their choice, adding a long-term progression layer to open ended sessions.
The update also introduces several quality-of-life improvements. The backpack system has been redesigned with three new weapon slots and improved stability. Support for bHaptics gear adds physical feedback during gameplay, increasing the sense of presence in VR.
Valentine cosmetics and customization options
Alongside gameplay changes, the update adds a themed cosmetic pack. The Lovestruck accessories set includes a heart themed hat and pastel pink hair color for character customization.
Platforms, pricing and cross play support
Neolithic Dawn is available now through the Horizon Store for Meta Quest at 19.99 USD and through Steam Early Access for PC VR headsets. Both versions support full cross play co-op, allowing Meta Quest and PC VR users to play together.
Set in a large open world built specifically for VR, the game casts players as hunter gatherers searching for resources, crafting tools and facing prehistoric creatures across forests and tundras.
Players interested in testing the new Survival Mode can download the update now, join the Neolithic Dawn community Discord and share feedback with the developers as Neolithic Dawn continues to grow.