The wait is finally over. After a six-year journey through Early Access and more than 250 updates, SCUM — the hardcore open-world survival sim from Croatian studio Gamepires — will officially launch into version 1.0 on June 17, 2025. The long-awaited milestone brings with it a massive graphical overhaul, new gameplay systems, and a sharpened focus on realism and intensity in one of the most demanding survival experiences on PC.
🎥 Watch the SCUM 1.0 Launch Trailer
From Early Access to Elite Survival Sandbox
Originally launched in 2018, SCUM built a reputation for its punishing mechanics, deep simulation systems, and no-holds-barred PvPvE gameplay. Set on a deadly prison island run by the dystopian TEC1 Corporation, players assume the role of maximum-security inmates forced into a televised fight for survival.
Over the years, SCUM has evolved into a 225km² open-world sandbox of unforgiving nature, tactical combat, metabolic management, complex crafting, and emergent gameplay. It supports up to 64 players per server, creating an ecosystem where zombies, mechs, and humans all pose equally lethal threats.
What’s New in 1.0?
With its official release, SCUM 1.0 introduces game-changing updates, including:
- Full World Rework: Every biome, region, and landmark across the island has been overhauled for greater detail, fidelity, and performance.
- New Threats: Armed NPCs now patrol the island, adding unpredictable encounters and rewarding loot drops.
- Expanded Vehicles: Drive or fly with new and returning vehicles, including the Seaplane, Tractor, and Sports Bike.
- Enhanced Anti-Cheat: A complete revamp of security systems ensures a fairer, cleaner experience for all players.
- Performance Optimizations: The 1.0 build significantly improves framerates and reduces loading times across a wider range of hardware.
Not for the Faint of Heart
Gamepires describes SCUM as “not a game for the faint-hearted,” and they aren’t exaggerating. From managing hydration and nutrient levels to enduring permadeath in permacold forests, every element of the game has been built to challenge your instincts and patience. It’s a survival experience where crafting decisions, real-time adaptation, and sheer willpower mean the difference between becoming the apex predator or becoming carrion.
“The entire team has been working tirelessly to create an open-world simulation experience like no other,” said Sven Folkesson, General Manager at Gamepires, during Summer Game Fest 2025. “We can’t wait to see players put their skills to the test.”
A Proven Survivor
Despite its niche difficulty, SCUM has sold over 3 million copies, consistently appearing in Steam’s Top 100 most played games. With the 1.0 launch, Gamepires is betting that SCUM’s hardened fanbase — and a wave of new thrill-seeking players — will solidify its place as a next-gen survival staple.
SCUM 1.0 Launches June 17
SCUM is available now in Steam Early Access, and version 1.0 officially releases on June 17, 2025. For updates, join the community on Discord, and follow @SCUMgame across Facebook, X (Twitter), and Instagram.
Learn more at scumgame.com.