DayZ Badlands Release Window and Key New Feature Revealed

 Bohemia Interactive has revealed at the Convergence Showcase that DayZ Badlands, the largest expansion in the game's history, is scheduled to launch in October 2026. The announcement comes alongside the release of the important DayZ 1.29 "Road to Badlands" update that is now available on all platforms.

 

Watch the DayZ Badlands teaser here.  

The latest developer blog also unveiled one of DayZ Badlands' defining gameplay features: rebuilding. For the first time in DayZ, survivors will be able to restore ruined houses across Nasdara, and transform abandoned settlements into fortified homes. More than 5,000 rebuildable structures are spread throughout the map, allowing players to repair walls, install doors and windows, barricade entrances, or fully restore entire buildings using a combination of wood, bricks, mortar, sheet metal, and new construction tools.

This feature also applies to wells. Finding drinking water throughout the new map will be one of the most difficult challenges, and with some hard work, some wells can even be fully restored!

Another long-requested addition arriving with DayZ Badlands is the Code Lock. Compatible with both rebuildable structures and existing base-building fences, the new security system allows players to protect their bases with a PIN code. This official implementation supports consoles and introduces a maintenance element, requiring a charged V9 battery to remain operational. If the battery runs out, the lock automatically disengages.

Furthermore, the newly released DayZ 1.29 update introduces a range of content inspired by DayZ Badlands, including the SCR-17 battle rifle, new optics, brass knuckles, military clothing, desert camouflage equipment, Nasdara military convoys appearing in Chernarus and Livonia with additional infected variants, and more!

Watch the update trailer here.

With Road to Badlands update now live and the release window confirmed to be October 2026, Bohemia Interactive continues the countdown toward DayZ Badlands, with more developer updates arriving in the coming months.

Check out the official DayZ Badlands Steam page and add the expansion to your Steam Wishlist to stay up to date with future reveals, and to be among the first to explore the harsh land of Nasdara upon launch later this year.