Release Date March 5, 2026
Platform PC (Steam Deck Verified / Proton)
Version 1.0 (Full Release)

Timberborn Hits 1.0: The King of Beaver-Sims Graduates

After a highly successful stint in Early Access, the "lumberpunk" city-builder Timberborn is officially hitting its 1.0 launch on March 5th. We’ve seen plenty of titles stall out in development hell, but EOD (Mechanistry) has actually used this period to build a meaningful, complex survival sim that stands head and shoulders above the typical sandbox crowd. While the exact changelog for the 1.0 update is still being finalized, the experimental branch gives us a clear look at the QoL (Quality of Life) polish incoming. Expect an expanded tutorial to help newcomers find their feet, a massive UI overhaul, and the long-awaited inclusion of Steam Achievements.

What’s New for the 1.0 Launch

The jump to 1.0 isn't just a label; it’s a significant polish pass. Here is what we know is packed into the final release:
  • Visual Overhaul: Numerous graphical upgrades and asset improvements to make those beaver colonies pop.
  • Modding Support: Heavy focus on modding improvements and Steam Workshop integration to ensure the game’s longevity.
  • Fresh Content: A brand-new map type and an expansion of the built-in map pool (which has already grown from 7 to 16 during development).
  • Technical Fixes: A massive sweep of bug fixes and translation improvements for global players.

A Look Back: How the Meta Evolved

For players who haven't touched the game since its early days, the 1.0 version is a different beast entirely. We've seen the two main factions—the nature-loving Folktails and the industrial Iron Teeth—diverge into completely different playstyles. They no longer just share skins; they have unique food chains, architecture, and even mass transit systems like ziplines and tubeways. The introduction of 3D water physics and badwater (toxic waste) fundamentally changed the verticality of the game. You aren't just building a flat city; you're managing complex irrigation, damming systems, and surviving "badtides" that can wipe out a colony if your engineering isn't on point. The addition of end-game "Wonders" also gives the sandbox loop a much-needed sense of finality.

Steam Deck and Linux Performance

On the technical side, Timberborn remains a gold standard for indie optimization. It currently holds a Platinum rating on ProtonDB and is officially Steam Deck Verified. Reports from desktop Linux users show the game running flawlessly via Proton. If you're a handheld gamer, this is one of the smoothest city-building experiences you can get on the go.

Our Take

We’ve tracked Timberborn for years, and it’s rare to see a developer stick the landing this well. The game has transitioned from a quirky "beaver sim" into a deep, mechanically dense survival strategy game. If you’ve been waiting for the "complete" experience before jumping in, March 5th is your day. For those who can't wait, the experimental opt-in Beta is live on Steam right now.