What pre-release access to Grounded 2 actually means

Pre-release access means you can play Grounded 2 before the game officially launches to the public. Obsidian Entertainment, the studio making the game, releases early versions to a limited group of players so they can find bugs, test features, and give feedback. This is not a special privilege you unlock — it is a deliberate testing phase that the studio controls.

The most common way to get in is through the Xbox Game Pass for PC program, where Obsidian has historically made early builds available. You pay the monthly Game Pass subscription (around $10 to $17 depending on which tier you choose), and you gain access to games in development alongside finished titles. The second route is through Steam's Early Access program, if Obsidian chooses to release Grounded 2 that way — though as of now, Grounded 1 went through Early Access but Grounded 2's distribution model has not been officially announced.

Key Takeaways

  • Xbox Game Pass for PC is the most likely way to play Grounded 2 early, since the first game was available there during development.
  • You need an active Game Pass subscription and a Windows PC or Xbox console to access pre-release builds when they become available.
  • Pre-release builds are incomplete — you may encounter crashes, missing features, and balance changes that wipe your progress between updates.
  • Obsidian Entertainment has not yet announced the official pre-release distribution method for Grounded 2, so check their official channels for confirmation.

Xbox Game Pass for PC as the primary route

If Grounded 2 follows the same path as the first game, Xbox Game Pass for PC will be where early access happens. Game Pass is a subscription service that gives you access to a rotating library of games, including titles still in development. You read the Xbox app on your Windows PC, sign in with a Microsoft account, and browse the available games — pre-release builds appear in the same library as finished games, usually marked with a label like "Game Preview" or "Early Access".

The subscription costs $9.99 per month for Game Pass for PC (standard tier) or $16.99 per month for Game Pass Ultimate, which also includes Xbox console access and Xbox Live Gold. If you already have Game Pass, you do not pay extra — the pre-release build appears automatically when it launches. If you do not have it, you will need to subscribe first.

One important detail: pre-release builds on Game Pass can be wiped or reset between major updates. Your progress, your base, your inventory — all of it may disappear when the developers push a new version. This is normal and expected during development. The studio does this to test new systems or fix problems that would break old save files.

Steam Early Access as a possible alternative

Grounded 1 spent two years on Steam Early Access before its full release in September 2022. If Obsidian uses the same model for Grounded 2, you would buy the game on Steam (usually at a discount compared to the full launch price) and receive updates as they roll out. Steam Early Access games appear in your library just like finished games, and you can read and play them when ready after purchase.

The catch is that Obsidian has not confirmed whether Grounded 2 will use Early Access or go straight to full release. They may also use Game Pass exclusively for the pre-release phase and skip Steam Early Access entirely. Until the studio makes an official announcement, you cannot assume Steam will be an option.

How to stay informed about the actual release plan

The safest way to find out when and where pre-release access opens is to follow Obsidian Entertainment's official channels. Check their website (obsidian.net), their Twitter account (@ObsidianEnt), and the official Grounded social media pages. These are where they announce distribution decisions, release dates, and when pre-release builds go live.

You can also join the Grounded community on Reddit (r/GroundedGame) or Discord, where players share news and discuss updates. Community members often post announcements within hours of an official release, so if you check regularly, you will not miss the window when access opens.

What to expect from a pre-release build

Pre-release builds are not finished products. You may encounter crashes when you load a save, features that do not work as intended, balance problems (some weapons or creatures may be too strong or too weak), and visual glitches. The game may also run slower than it will at launch because the developers are still optimizing performance.

Progress wipes are common. Between major updates, the developers may reset all player saves to test new systems or fix problems that would break old data. Before you invest 20 hours into a base or a character, understand that you may lose that progress. Some players find this frustrating; others see it as part of the testing process and do not mind starting over.

You also may not get the full game. Some features planned for launch may not be in the pre-release build yet. Obsidian releases features in stages, so you might play for weeks before a major system becomes available.

The difference between pre-release and the full launch

When Grounded 2 officially launches, it will be available to everyone without a subscription (if it goes to Steam) or included in Game Pass without any special label. The game will be considered feature-complete, and the developers will shift from adding new systems to fixing bugs and balancing gameplay. Your save file will not be wiped between updates (though major patches may still require you to start a new game, this is rare).

Pre-release access is a way to play months earlier than the general public, but you trade stability and completeness for that early access. If you prefer a polished, finished experience, waiting for the official launch is the better choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my pre-release save carry over to the full game?

Usually not. Obsidian typically wipes saves when the game officially launches because the final version may have balance changes or new systems that make old saves incompatible. Assume your pre-release progress will not transfer.

Do I need to pay extra for pre-release access if I have Game Pass?

No. If Grounded 2 releases through Game Pass, it will be included in your subscription at no additional cost. You only pay the monthly Game Pass fee.

Can I play pre-release Grounded 2 offline?

Game Pass games require an internet connection to verify your subscription, but once verified, you can play offline. Steam Early Access games do not require internet after launch, though you need it to read updates.

What if I find a bug in the pre-release build — how do I report it?

Obsidian usually has a bug reporting system in the game itself or on their website. Look for a "Report Bug" button or menu option, or visit the official Grounded forums. Include details about what you were doing when the bug happened and what your system specs are.

Is pre-release access worth it if I just want to play the finished game?

If you prefer a stable, complete experience, waiting for the official launch is better. Pre-release builds are for players who do not mind bugs and incomplete features in exchange for playing months early.