Why Early Access?

“Haunted Mines is already a fully playable and enjoyable game, but it does not yet represent the final vision I have for the project. As a solo developer, Early Access gives me the opportunity to share the game with the community before its full release, gather feedback, and see how players interact with the mechanics.

My main goals for Early Access are:

- Expanding the amount of content (more tools, monsters, maps, instincts, etc.).

- Improving balance, polish, and performance.

- Incorporating community ideas so Haunted Mines can evolve into something greater than what I could create alone.”

Approximately how long will this game be in Early Access?

“My current plan is for Haunted Mines to remain in Early Access for around one year. This gives me enough time to add meaningful new content, refine the mechanics, and polish the overall experience, while keeping the timeline realistic and focused.

If development expands due to community ideas or additional features, this period could be extended, but the goal is not to drag it out unnecessarily.”

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

“The full version will include more variety, features, and polish compared to Early Access. Planned additions include:

- New tools and usables: at least 3 new light sources and 3 additional utility items.

- More instincts: new abilities to customize playstyles.

- Additional monsters and variations: with unique behaviors to increase replayability.

- New maps: for example, a labyrinth and an abandoned laboratory, each with unique mechanics and atmosphere.

- General improvements: better balance, optimizations, and quality-of-life updates.

The Early Access version already provides a complete and fun experience, but the full release will expand the scope and polish of the game significantly.”

What is the current state of the Early Access version?

“The current version of Haunted Mines is advanced and fully playable. Right now it includes:

- Core exploration and survival gameplay in procedurally generated mines.

- Several tools and light sources to support the player.

- A monster with its own mechanics and behaviors that creates tension and challenge.

- A functional instincts system to add player customization.

- Complete game loops with objectives, victory, and defeat conditions.

For more details, please refer to the “About This Game” section, which lists all currently implemented features.”

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

“Yes. Haunted Mines will have a lower price during Early Access compared to its final release. This is to reward the players who support the project early on and provide feedback during development.

As new content is added (tools, monsters, maps, instincts), the price may gradually increase. By the time of the full release, the final price will reflect the amount of content and polish the game has reached.”

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

“The community will play a crucial role in the development of Haunted Mines. I plan to:

Actively listen to feedback on Steam forums, Discord, and social media.

Implement ideas and improvements suggested by players whenever they fit the game’s vision.

Share regular development updates so players know what is being worked on.

Run polls or discussions to let the community help decide priorities for new content (e.g., which monster or tool to add first).

As a solo developer, fresh perspectives are invaluable. My goal is to build Haunted Mines into the best version of itself, shaped together with the community.”