Ground Branch Officially Leaves Early Access After Nearly Eight Years of Development
After spending almost eight years in Steam Early Access, Ground Branch has officially reached version 1.0. Developed by BlackFoot Studios and published by MicroProse, the tactical shooter marks a major milestone with a full release that introduces significant gameplay improvements, expanded content, and the foundation for future updates. The launch represents the biggest step in the game's long development journey, bringing its realistic military experience to a wider audience.
Version 1.0 delivers a range of enhancements across the entire experience. Players can expect smarter AI behavior, improved animations, refined environments, upgraded visuals, and expanded inventory and interaction systems. The update also reintroduces the campaign framework with a new prologue set in northwest Pakistan, offering the first missions in what will become a larger single-player and co-op experience. BlackFoot Studios describes this release as the realization of the game's original vision rather than the end of development.
Since entering Early Access in 2018, Ground Branch has earned a dedicated following thanks to its emphasis on realism, tactical planning, and authentic squad-based gameplay. Inspired by classic military shooters, the game avoids fast-paced arcade mechanics in favor of careful movement, communication, and mission execution. Throughout its lengthy development, the team regularly expanded core systems while working closely with community feedback to shape the final release.
Although version 1.0 is now available, the developers have confirmed that additional content is already planned. New campaign chapters, gameplay features, and further refinements are scheduled to arrive through future updates, ensuring Ground Branch continues to grow beyond its official launch. With its long-awaited exit from Early Access, the tactical shooter begins a new chapter while staying true to the realistic military experience that attracted players in the first place.
