Why Early Access?

“The basic gaming loop and gaming concepts for A Merchant's Promise are complete and playable. However they still need expanding upon along with incorporating more cities, game items, transportation types, upgrades, animations, map adjustments and gameplay balancing which are a continuing process. As a Developer my core vision and goals for the game are progressing at what I believe to be a healthy pace, but I also have a responsibility to my customers. By opening up to early access I get the opportunity to see others enjoying the game while also receiving feedback to help further develop and ensure the best gameplay possible for A Merchant's Promise!”

Approximately how long will this game be in Early Access?

“Upon releasing to Early Access it is my goal to leave EA within 6-10 months at the current game scale, features, and progress.”

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

“There is still much to be added to fully complete the overall atmosphere, scope, and desired detail of gameplay. Some of these things include: Implementing more NPC world actions to immerse the player (player being arrested, fined, pardoned etc), additional Cites and Villages, routes, items, transportation, upgrades, NPCs and their interactions/roles, World Events, and player house options. Along with these things I always strive to improve game performance or at least options to help improve playability for different computer specs.”

What is the current state of the Early Access version?

“As stated earlier, the basic gaming loop and gaming concepts for A Merchant's promise are complete and playable but can still be expanded upon. Players begin with practically nothing and can begin traveling to the few cities and villages that exist in effort to find and trade items. This in turn helps build their wealth and status in society to earn their way to Royalty. Weather elements, item condition and value all work properly as well as seasonal price variations to reflect obtainability of goods. Carts are upgradable with a few options. Players can choose to sell items direct to other traders, or rent a trade stall to sell to traveling customers for higher profits. Players can buy or find furniture to be placed in their houses thus improving their living conditions.”

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

“EA Pricing is set to reflect the current state and features of the game. While a final price has not yet been determined, pricing after Early Access will be increased to reflect the final content and gameplay mechanics.”

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

“This will done both through Steam and Discord. There are clear ways to provide your valued praises, complaints, suggestions, and general feedback. Priority will primarily be given to bugs and performance issues, but with more preference and selective requests and suggestions we can prioritize by feasibility and community desire.”