Why Early Access?

“Whiskey Island is a relaxing, casual world of Trucks, Trains, and Transportation, and I want to get the balance just right. The game has tremendous flexibility in how it can be played, and I would very much like our Community to participate in its development from this basic version into a fully-developed world. Early Access is a tremendous opportunity to engage with our Community to help identify important content and features, establish themes, and shape this great game together.”

Approximately how long will this game be in Early Access?

“I anticipate that Whiskey Island will be in Early Access for a minimum 10-12 months after release, and will create a schedule for proposed updates based upon Community feedback and suggestions.”

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

“The plan is to improve Whiskey Island during Early Access by upgrading artwork, audio, terrain, and game assets to a more finished state, and by improving performance of the code-base - the goal is to make the game "better, faster, and stronger."

Content and features may be introduced, modified, or removed during Early Access, based upon Community feedback, suggestions, and game-testing, although the current plan is to develop a strong base game first, then allow players to customize their personal experience by adding new features as DLC. These features might include additional maps and environments, vehicles, railway equipment, new building types and cargos, and refinements to the logistics and economics systems, depending upon thoughtful feedback. The goal is to build a solid foundation for a long-term future.”

What is the current state of the Early Access version?

“PLEASE NOTE : THIS IS BETA SOFTWARE - Whiskey Island is indeed at a very early stage of development - an exciting time when thoughtful player feedback is most welcome. If you're the kind of person who likes to be involved in the early stages of development, knowing the developer will carefully listen to your positive suggestions, then Whiskey Island is a great opportunity. Otherwise, you should wait until the game is a bit more polished.

This current Early Access version presents a basic level of gameplay. It includes 1 predefined test map, 3 locomotives (2 types), railway cars (5 types), 6 types of truck, 19 building types (cargo points), and 12 cargo types. The player may only save progress for 1 game at a time. From time to time, as the game develops, changes to the data structure will require starting a new game and the loss of previously saved game data - I'll try to keep this situation to the absolute minimum. Some audio features including sound effects and background music may be disabled or use temporary sound tracks.”

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

“We plan to gradually raise the price as we ship new content and features.”

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

“Our Community is invited to provide feedback and suggestions for improvements to Whiskey Island, via the Whiskey Island Community Page and social media channels. I also plan to continue game-testing at various events and locations in my studio's area.”