Palworld officially leaves Early Access with the launch of version 1.0, featuring World Tree and dozens of new Pals

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More than two and a half years after entering Early Access in January 2024, Pocketpair's Palworld officially launched version 1.0 on July 10, 2026. This marks the game's biggest update yet for the hit survival creature-collecting title that took Steam by storm.

Version 1.0 is now available on PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One. Players who purchased Palworld during Early Access will receive the update free of charge without needing to buy the game again.

Palworld (Image source: Steam)
Palworld (Image source: Steam)

World Tree and Sky Islands introduce major new regions

Ever since Palworld entered Early Access, the massive World Tree could be seen in the distance but remained inaccessible. With version 1.0, players can finally explore this long-awaited area, which now serves as one of the game's most important endgame regions.

The update also introduces Sky Islands, a collection of floating islands above the Palpagos Archipelago. These new locations offer fresh vertical exploration and prepare players for the greater challenges awaiting them at World Tree.

A vast world waiting to be explored. (Image source: Steam)
A vast world waiting to be explored. (Image source: Steam)

New Pals and an upgraded breeding system

Version 1.0 expands the Paldeck with numerous new Pals, including Sky Dragon, Sword Eel, Tree Guardian, and Giant Whale. In addition to the expanded roster, the breeding system now features Genetic Recombination, allowing players to combine genes from Legendary Pals to create even stronger companions with unique traits.

An adorable-looking Pal. (Image source: Steam)
An adorable-looking Pal. (Image source: Steam)

Revamped bosses and expanded building options

Familiar Tower Boss encounters have been redesigned with new abilities and more complex combat mechanics, requiring even veteran players to rethink their strategies. Version 1.0 also introduces brand-new boss battles.

Base building has also been expanded, allowing players to construct structures directly on the water using a new set of building pieces designed specifically for coastal and offshore areas.

Fight enemies alongside your Pals. (Image source: Steam)
Fight enemies alongside your Pals. (Image source: Steam)

A more complete story experience

Palworld version 1.0 also adds new story quests that better connect the game's overall narrative while expanding the lore surrounding the islands of the Palworld universe.

Do you need to delete your old save?

Pocketpair has confirmed that existing save files remain compatible with version 1.0. However, due to the extensive gameplay and system changes, the developer recommends starting a new save file to fully experience everything included in the update.

Leaving Early Access and launching version 1.0 marks a major milestone for Palworld, bringing more than two years of active development and frequent content updates to a close. With World Tree, Sky Islands, new Pals, and a wide range of gameplay improvements, now is an excellent time for both new and returning players to explore the Palpagos Archipelago.