Independent developer and publisher Octopus Panic launched the co-op action building game 'GRAVHOUNDS' into Steam Early Access and Xbox Game Preview on August 3.

Gravhounds supports one to four players. The game follows bio-engineered canine operatives as they explore a hostile alien planet, gather resources, build defensive structures, and survive dangerous enemy attacks. Players can deploy gravity-manipulating tools alongside physics-based building and destruction systems to execute various strategies.

The early access version features five playable Gravhounds, seven star systems with 25 planets, 21 defense systems, and 60 unlockable mods. Octopus Panic co-founder Josh Holmes stated, "Reaching early access is a major milestone for our team, but we see this as the beginning of the next chapter." Josh Holmes added, "Thank you to everyone who has played the game, shared feedback, and helped spread the word about Gravhounds. We look forward to getting the game in front of more players, hearing their thoughts, and improving the game together."

Players can choose one of five playable Gravhounds and combine special abilities. For instance, 'Dozer' uses explosive bone bombs, while 'Zane' employs a physics-based shockwave bark. Players can also utilize the powerful 'Grab Beam' to hurl objects across the battlefield or send foes flying, turning the environment into a weapon.

Additionally, players can deploy and upgrade a total of 21 turrets and defense systems to fortify their base. These range from weapon platforms like MLRS and electrocoils to tactical tools such as cryo rockets and ballistic shields. Furthermore, players can unlock 60 mods to customise their 'mod deck' and determine upgrades for future expeditions.