TL;DR
- New Stockpile mode puts two teams of four competing for Sigma resources.
- Tokyo dystopian map and two unique Operators debut at Early Access launch.
- Game uses $SHRAP token for player ownership of Operators and cosmetic items.
The tactical shooter game Shrapnel will arrive on Steam in Early Access on March 5, 2026. Developers presented version 2.0 of the title, which includes a new game mode and technical improvements based on player feedback. The company Neon Machine is behind the project, with a team that includes veterans from franchises such as Call of Duty and Halo.
The Early Access version includes a competitive mode called Stockpile. Two teams of four players face off on lunar terrain to collect 300 grav-kilos of a resource called Sigma. The mode emphasizes resource gathering and team play over direct combat. Developers adjusted weapon balance, movement and match flow using feedback from previous tests.
Tokyo-Based Map and Operators with Unique Abilities
The launch includes a main map set in a dystopian version of Tokyo. The stage design allows vertical play and tactical maneuvering between buildings and structures. Players can choose between two Operators at the start, each with exclusive weapons and special abilities called Sigma Abilities. The development plan includes expanding the roster to five Operators during the Early Access phase.
The Neon Machine team carried out a major technical update by migrating the game to Unreal Engine 5. The changes include improvements in visual fidelity and responsiveness during matches. Techniques such as bullet pooling and a rewrite of server code were implemented to optimize performance during high-action moments. The transition to Shrapnel 2.0 also incorporated gameplay adjustments based on suggestions sent by the community over the past year.
During the Early Access period, the studio plans to add more features. Skill-based matchmaking, a detailed menu for customizing weapon loadouts and an account progression system are in development. Future plans include adding social features, more maps, daily missions and a Battle Pass. Neon Machine stated that all future additions will be built with player participation to match what the user base expects.
Economic Model Based on SHRAP Token
The game operates with an economic model that uses the $SHRAP utility token. Players can own in-game assets such as Operators and cosmetic items with verifiable ownership. The player-driven economy allows the transfer and trading of objects between users. The studio secured 37.5 million dollars in funding for the title’s development.
Sigma deposited. Have a nice day. ☄
Early Access March 5 on Steamhttps://t.co/teM1z7cyjq pic.twitter.com/wEaaWvHqHx
— SHRAPNEL (@playSHRAPNEL) February 24, 2026
The team’s focus during Early Access is to build an ongoing relationship with those who play. Decisions on balance, new content and game direction will take community opinions into account. Shrapnel seeks to set itself apart from other titles in the genre by allowing players to actively contribute to expanding game content and diversity.
The Steam launch marks the start of a phase where the game will be available to a wider audience. Interested players can access the Early Access version starting March 5 and try Stockpile mechanics, explore the Tokyo map and get familiar with the available Operators. The studio will continue applying patches and updates in the following months based on collected data and community suggestions.
