Why Early Access?

“Full keyboard rhythm game - Off the Text started as a side project with demo versions in January 2023, and I began serious development in April 2024. All 42 main levels are now complete and ready for release. But here's what I realized I was missing: I built this alone. While that brings certain advantages, it also raises concerns. This game features many experimental elements - full keyboard gameplay, generous timing windows, montage techniques, dark graphic art - and I desperately need player feedback on these diverse elements. Great games aren't built by stubborn developers alone - they're shaped by passionate communities. That's why I want to gather extensive feedback and improve the game in better directions. By releasing part of the total levels in Early Access, I want feedback on the core gameplay loop. I aim to improve usability and convenience features directly through many players' opinions on levels, interfaces, and more. Since this is a single-story game, diverse language support is crucial for story comprehension, and I plan to add languages based on community demand. All of this is why I'm launching Early Access. Simply put, I need your thoughts and feelings.”

Approximately how long will this game be in Early Access?

“I'm currently planning for 6-9 months. I've structured the Early Access period into distinct seasons:

• Early Access Season -4: 9 months to 7 months before launch
  
• Early Access Season -3: 7 months to 5 months before launch
  
• Early Access Season -2: 5 months to 3 months before launch
  
• Early Access Season -1: 3 months before launch to launch

Update & Patch Schedule: Every other Wednesday

• Incorporate user feedback
  
• Improve usability and convenience features
  
• Add 2 new levels (up to 31 total)
  
• Performance optimization
  
• Add additional languages (based on community demand)

Hotfixes: Development initiated within 48 hours when critical fixes are needed

• Critical issues severely impacting user experience
  
• Cases requiring immediate fixes in the game environment

Seasons -4 through -2 will focus on core gameplay loop feedback, usability/convenience improvements, and language additions. The final Season -1 is flexible and may be adjusted or shortened - it's dedicated to polishing work and testing seasonal content like betaMix. While the overall timeline or individual Early Access seasons may be adjusted, my goal remains constant: ensuring players have a fun and smooth gaming experience by gathering extensive feedback and using it to continuously improve the game.

* Please note that the above schedule may change based on development and user feedback. Any changes will be announced as soon as possible.
* Please refer to the visual below for a more intuitive understanding.”

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

“The Early Access version is planned to launch with 17 levels available initially. I plan to release 2 new levels approximately every other Wednesday, targeting a total of 31 levels. The initial 17 levels represent 40% of the total 42 levels, and by the end of Early Access level updates, I aim to have 75% available. At full release, I plan to have all 42 levels accessible. Excluding DLC, the only planned difference between the full game and Early Access is the number of available levels. Everything else will be provided equally where possible.”

What is the current state of the Early Access version?

“All 42 levels complete, core gameplay finished, currently optimizing UI/UX. I'm currently developing the Early Access branch version. I've selected and implemented the levels for the initial Early Access launch, and I'm now working on adjusting non-level elements like intro, title screen, and level selection. Of course, I'm also handling marketing tasks such as opening and updating the store page and launching social media channels. This response will be continuously updated as Early Access progresses.”

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

“The base game price will remain unchanged. However, all users who support the game through Early Access will receive a complimentary Early Supporter Pack, including the Original Soundtrack and Digital Artbook. As mentioned below, this is my way of showing respect to those who believed in and supported this game from the beginning. I want to express my gratitude to everyone who took the risk with an indie game and supported and participated in its development. To everyone who has read this far - thank you sincerely.”

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

“You can communicate with me directly through Steam's excellent channels: the Steam Store page, Steam Community, and Steam Creator page. Of course, you can also connect through popular platforms like Discord, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, Instagram, and Pinterest. Each platform has its own unique communication style, making them excellent channels for gathering diverse user feedback. I believe I can receive diverse and valuable feedback through these channels. I'll gather various opinions from different countries to improve and develop the game, creating a more fun and enjoyable gaming experience.”