What can we expect from the Rust January force wipe (2026)

The Rust January force wipe is right around the corner, and is set to go live for all regions on January 1, 2026, at 11 am PT/ 7 pm UTC/ 12:30 am IST (next day). Naturally, fans are quite excited to know what they can potentially expect from the upcoming force wipe.

In this article, we will explore the possible changes and updates that can potentially surface with the debut of a brand-new force wipe in the game. To know more, read below.

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All expected changes coming in the Rust January force wipe for 2026

As we stated above, the January wipe is kicking off on the very first day of the new year. With this update, we are expecting to see some quality of life improvements in the game. Initially, we were speculating that the Naval update might debut with this update. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, the major Naval update has been delayed till February 2026.

That said, here are some of the changes that we are expecting to see with the latest force wipe:

Blueprint wipe

First and foremost, we are expecting Facepunch Studios to wipe off all blueprints from different servers in the game with the debut of the Rust January force wipe. Naturally, the community has to restart their grind once more, in the server of their choice, and farm up enough scrap to learn the blueprints that they require in order to progress within the game.

Blueprint in Rust (Image via Facepunch Studios)

Read more: Blueprint Fragments in Rust: How to use, and where to find

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Map wipe

All official, and most community and modded servers will wipe off the maps they had running since the previous wipe. With the onset of a new force wipe, players can expect servers to feature a new procedurally generated map with different monuments scattered in each corner of said map. Naturally, all the progress you had gathered in your previous wipe will be removed, and you must once again farm up resources and establish yourself in your preferred servers.

Players will have to gather resources, make their favorite bases once more, and fortify their areas by setting up a compound to ensure that their loot is safe.

Read more: 5 base-building tips for beginners in Rust (2025)

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QoL changes

Last but not least, we are speculating the Rust January force wipe to be a filler update. We are expecting developers to issue hotfixes and fix ongoing issues that are currently prevalent in the game. In our opinion, all major resources are currently being diverted to the Naval update, which is officially queued for release in February 2026.

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That's everything that you need to know about the Rust January force wipe.

For more related news and guides, check these links below:

• Beekeeping in Rust: How to start, bee grenade, and more
• Minigun and Military Flamethrower in Rust: How to get and use
• Homing Missile Launcher in Rust: How to craft, how to use, and more
• Fishing guide in Rust: How to fish, benefits, and more
• Attack Helicopter might get a major buff in future update

Edited by Jay Sarma