Why Early Access?

“As a solo developer who started game development in late 2023, Early Access allows me to gather community feedback while ensuring the game meets quality standards before full release. The core personality-driven AI and combat systems are fully functional, but I want player input on balancing, content pacing, and feature priorities as I expand the roster of adventurers and dungeons. Early Access also provides sustainable funding for the extensive art and audio assets needed for the remaining content.”

Approximately how long will this game be in Early Access?

“Approximately 12-18 months. The game should exit Early Access by mid-2027. As a solo developer learning the craft, I'm being conservative with timelines to ensure I can deliver the full vision without rushing or compromising quality.”

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

“Early Access focuses on expanding content scope and polish. Development goals include additional themed dungeons beyond the current two, more adventurer/pet personality combinations, expanded ability trees and character progression options, comprehensive audio implementation, and significant visual polish. All player-facing mechanics currently in the game are functional - Early Access development centers on implementing additional systems, content expansion, balance refinement, and overall presentation quality improvements based on community feedback.”

What is the current state of the Early Access version?

“The game is fully playable with 2 themed dungeons, 1 complete adventurer/pet personality combination, and all implemented mechanics functioning properly. Players can experience the core gameplay loop of personality-driven AI partnerships, asymmetric death mechanics, and progression systems. Expect ongoing visual polish, placeholder audio, and balance adjustments as development continues. The foundation is solid, but presentation and content scope will expand significantly during Early Access.”

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. The Early Access launch price reflects the current content scope, with increases planned as we add dungeons, adventurer combinations, and polish. The final release price will reflect the complete game experience.”

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

“Community feedback will be essential for refining the experimental AI personality and relationship mechanics. Key areas where player input will guide development include:

AI personality distinctiveness and believability
Balance between meaningful challenge and frustration in the pet/owner dynamic
Effectiveness of the approval/dismissal system as a gameplay motivator
Combat balance and skill progression pacing
Dungeon difficulty curves and content variety

Player feedback will be gathered through Steam forums, in-game surveys, and direct community discussion. Since the 'expendable pet' concept is largely unexplored in gaming, community insights will be particularly valuable for identifying what works, what doesn't, and where improvements are needed. Regular development updates will show how community suggestions are being incorporated.”