Why Early Access?

“The top two reasons why I'm making this game:

(1) To bring joy to the players.
(2) It's fun creating a game. The process of creating a game makes me happy.

I need a better idea of where players would like the game to go. I need player input and suggestions. I've reached the stage of the game creation process where I will be making major game play and content decisions. It would be best if players could join in this decision-making process.

I'm making this game simply because it's the game I want to play. I need no other motivation. It's a game unlike any other, a game that I wish existed, but it doesn't, so it's my job to create it, so I can play it.

You might ask yourself: what about money? The small amount of money that I might make from this game isn't important. Jiro Ono, master craftsman and sushi maker, has said as much about his own work. My goal is perfecting the game and delivering a product of excellent quality. In Jiro Ono's words:

"Once you decide on your occupation, you must immerse yourself in your work. You have to fall in love with your work. Never complain about your job. You must dedicate your life to mastering your skill. That’s the secret of success, and is the key to being regarded honorably."”

Approximately how long will this game be in Early Access?

“Six months to one year.”

How is the full version planned to differ from the Early Access version?

“All of the major functional areas of the game will be more developed in the full version. The early access version provides a sneak peak into the open world, rogue-like vision that I plan on delivering in the full version.

The full version will contain:

(1) Behavior based AI for important factional NPCs. Non-scripted AI is key to the Elanor design concept. Think of the difference between how NPCs behave in a game like the Sims (behavorial) versus Skyrim (scripted). Based upon their needs (food, social interaction, job), NPCs change their behaviors and actions.
(2) Multiple economic and productivity models for earning gold or simply interacting with the people of Elanor. This isn't just a farming, fishing and adventuring game. Become a blacksmith and sell weapons. Become a potter and sell pottery. Build a library and center of learning.
(3) Factional politics.
(4) Large overworld map featuring thousands of programmatically generated sub maps.
(5) Branching story lines.
(6) Deep skill tree.

Please visit the Isle of Elanor discussion group here on Steam to see the Road Map for the Isle of Elanor. The Road Map provides a more detailed look at the features that will be available in the full version. Feel free to make suggestions or ask questions.”

What is the current state of the Early Access version?

“Although the current release is best described as a beta, the demo was available for years on Steam, and the game is stable and well tested.

All of the major systems for the game are working: combat, quests, skills, farming, resource gathering, programmatic map generation, NPC interaction, crafting, experience and leveling.

Warning: do not expect hours of game play from the current early access version. All of the major systems are working, and the game is now transitioning to a building content phase.”

Will the game be priced differently during and after Early Access?

“I plan to raise the game price by approximately 10 percent after the Early Access period ends. I plan to raise the price to account for new content and features.”

How are you planning on involving the Community in your development process?

“I'm planning on involving the Community in the development process through Steam Forums.

My ideas are not always the best ideas, and I can't wait for players to be able to make suggestions.”