Arknights Endfield: Release Date, Characters, and Latest Updates

Arknights: Endfield is one of the most anticipated strategy RPG titles, expanding the Arknights universe into a new genre and scale. Developed by Mountain Contour and published by Hypergryph, the game introduces a real-time 3D tactical experience combined with base-building mechanics, setting it apart from the original tower defense format. 

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Arknights: Endfield Release Date and Time

The official release date for Arknights: Endfield is January 22, 2026, launching at 09:00 AM (GMT+8). The announcement was revealed during The Game Awards 2025 on December 11, 2025, through an official trailer showcasing the game’s world and characters.

At launch, Arknights: Endfield will be available on the following platforms:

• PC
• PlayStation 5
• Android
• iOS

This simultaneous multi-platform release confirms Hypergryph’s intention to make Endfield a globally accessible title from day one.

Version 1.0 Livestream Schedule

Ahead of the game’s launch, a Version 1.0 Livestream is scheduled for January 16, 2026, at 7:30 PM (GMT+8). The livestream will air on the official Arknights: Endfield YouTube channel and is expected to provide final details about launch content, gameplay systems, and post-release plans.

Livestreams have historically been used by the developers to explain mechanics in detail, introduce characters, and clarify changes from previous test versions.

Arknights: Endfield Official Release PV

Following the release date announcement, an official Release Promotional Video (PV) was published. The PV features:

• The full playable cast revealed so far
• Key environments and locations
• Combat sequences and AIC (Artificial Intelligence Construct) showcases
• Confirmation of the global release schedule

The trailer emphasizes Endfield’s darker sci-fi tone and its shift toward a large-scale tactical RPG experience.

Playable Characters in Arknights: Endfield

While the full roster has not yet been officially revealed, Arknights: Endfield introduces an entirely new cast alongside familiar concepts from the Arknights universe. Characters are designed with unique combat roles, skills, and weapon types, optimized for real-time battles instead of traditional grid-based defense.

Characters are closely tied to the game’s AIC system, which plays a major role in both combat and base management. During previous livestreams and trailers, several operators were showcased, each with distinct fighting styles such as melee-focused units, ranged attackers, and tactical supports.

More detailed character kits and progression systems are expected to be revealed during the Version 1.0 Livestream and after launch.

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Final Prep Orders Web Event

Ahead of release, Hypergryph launched the Final Prep Orders web event, running from January 7, 2026, at 11:00 AM (UTC+8) until February 5, 2026, at 11:59 PM (UTC+8).

The event allows players to prepare for launch by completing tasks and unlocking in-game rewards available upon release. This event also serves as a bridge between beta testers and new players entering the game at launch.

Endfield Beta Test History

Arknights: Endfield has gone through multiple testing phases to refine gameplay systems and performance.

Closed Beta Test 2

• Start: November 27, 2025 (UTC-5)
• End: December 29, 2025 (UTC-5)

This test was available to selected players who participated in the Recruitment Survey. It introduced new characters, expanded environments, and improvements to combat pacing.

Previous Beta Test

• Start: January 16, 2025 (UTC-5)
• End: February 17, 2025 (UTC-5)

The earlier beta focused on foundational gameplay mechanics and base-building systems. As of now, no additional beta tests have been officially announced following Beta Test 2.

Major Trailers and Event Appearances

Arknights: Endfield has appeared in several major gaming events, highlighting its growing global presence.

Gamescom 2025 – Opening Night Live

A special trailer was revealed during Gamescom 2025, showcasing:

• Expanded combat gameplay
• New locations
• The AIC system in action
• A new fox-like character wearing a red hood

ChinaJoy 2025 Livestream

During ChinaJoy 2025, a dedicated livestream segment aired on August 3, 2025, focusing primarily on PlayStation gameplay footage. This marked one of the first extended looks at console performance.

Platforms and System Availability

Based on official announcements and trailers, Arknights: Endfield will launch simultaneously on:

• PC
• PlayStation 5
• Android
• iOS

Cross-platform availability positions the game as a major release within the strategy RPG genre, appealing to both mobile and console players.

What Makes Arknights: Endfield Different

Unlike the original Arknights, Endfield shifts toward:

• Real-time 3D combat
• Large-scale tactical encounters
• Base construction and resource management
• A more open and explorable world

The game still retains the core themes of the Arknights universe, including dystopian storytelling, advanced technology, and morally complex factions.

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Arknights: Endfield is shaping up to be a major evolution of the Arknights franchise. With a confirmed release date of January 22, 2026, a multi-platform launch, and a steadily growing roster of characters, the game is positioned as one of the most ambitious strategy RPG releases of the year.

As more information becomes available through the Version 1.0 Livestream and post-launch updates, players can expect deeper insights into character kits, story progression, and long-term content plans. For now, Arknights: Endfield stands as a bold reimagining of a beloved universe, ready to make its global debut.