Why Early Access?

“Game design is an iterative process -- and the value of player feedback is huge. My aim is to take critique, suggestions, and general feedback into consideration to make the best product possible.”

Approximately how long will this game be in Early Access?

“The aim is to have the game feature complete before the end of 2027, but this is subject to change, particularly if additional features are brought on board during development.”

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

“The full version intends to add numerous additional ships and variants, numerous islands and points of interest, as well as gameplay additions including crew management, limited combat, more in-depth ship management, etc.

This does not aim to be a fully narrative experience, but some story elements are planned as well.

Regarding the current state of the game:

The game is in active development, bugs, balance issues, and performance are all considered in progress.

As a note on performance, the cloth simulation used by Following Seas is somewhat performance intensive, and coupled with incomplete optimization, some systems may have poor performance. I'd suggest trying the demo as a means of benchmark.

The team is small (1 dev and a myopic Daschund), so content delivery may be slow.”

What is the current state of the Early Access version?

“The game is currently playable. Most core sailing features are implemented, as are a selection of functional game loops. These include:

• Navigation through authentic tools of the age of sail.
• Aerodynamic simulation of sails, and hydrodynamic modelling of the hull.
• First person, player controlled sail control, pumping, ballast, warping, etc.
• Resource driven fast travel.
• Gameplay loops of trading, exploration, and commercial fishing.
• Numerous islands and secrets to discover.
• The ability to purchase or build 7 ships of various types.

Gameplay is persistent, with both autosave and manual saving implemented.”

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

“Price may increase depending on amount of features added.”

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

“Feedback is welcome. Join the discord server, youtube channel, or send me an email at followingseas.official@protonmail.com. I strive to read each and every comment, and heavily involve the community when introducing or changing features.”