Why Early Access?

“Elemental world is an MMO that aims to give players full freedom to choose how they play good or evil in any play-style. Up to now its just had me working on it whilst I complete my computer networking degree at The Colchester Institute in Essex. This doesn't leave a lot of spare time so development is slow and right now there are only the basics of a standard MMO - crafting, combat and quests as well as a baseline morality system such as mass effect where as you talk to someone it may trigger a positive or negative response such as a better deal with a trader although this is still being developed and enhanced.

Although some may think this game is still missing a lot of content and features and the game buggy, with the help from player and indie community development, even from early access will lead to adding features such as a housing system, implementing full player customization, flight simulator and maintaining, fixing and upgrading the core system.”

Approximately how long will this game be in Early Access?

“The game will be in early access through to 2017-2018 although this date is a estimate based on revenues and a community established right from the start that will mean the core system can be upgraded and the features and content added to make the basics of 2015 the best possible MMO possible over the next few years. This time may be earlier or later depending on money, skills, what the community wants the world to be, how the community helps Elemental World's evolution and the benefits of early access means the base world is here for you to test, explore, play, develop, build, learn skills, teach skills. This is no ordinary MMO as the players can also help build their indie future themselves or start learning how to do so with Wise Owl.”

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

“When the full game is released the game aims to have a full crafting system so items are individually customisable. For example a tank with extra Armour on its underside to protect from mines or a mortar attachment on a bike that can then be modified to be automated with some sort of tech. It also aims to add in the ability to steal from npcs and players both inventory and raiding carts eg blockade a ship board them and steal the cargo as well as regular events held by moderators.

There will also be a aim to have a housing system and possibly kingdom system so players can make in game money with designing homes and buildings and a full bartering system.”

What is the current state of the Early Access version?

“Currently it has :

• Basic magic/skills system for combat
  
• Basic crafting - item A+B=C
  
• Basic gathering eg mine copper rock
  
• Basic conversation system
  
• Basic mmo quest system - kill, gather, talk
  
• Basic shops

There's a lot more system and content made but not yet implemented due to needing coder help etc to fix the bugs or get it linked such as player customize but it is a basic standard mmo currently. Now it needs sales and community bases, indies, players, writers, performers and supporters.”

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

“Generally the price wont change except slow increases as more content gets added until the full version of Part 1 for example 5 early alpha 10 when have team members helping 15 at beta 20 late beta 25-30 on release although this may change based on demand etc”

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

“This is a game all about community based around making sure the player is enjoying their time, so feedback will be taken on board, listened to with respect and learnt from. What you say matters and whether that means we need make a modders mod official, add a feature , fix bugs, add more content in area X, we'll hear you. There will also be forums and other places where people can suggest ideas and what they want next to help direct development as well eventually be modding/workshop support for some parts.”