Why Early Access?

“Shijing Xiaoshenxian is a life-simulation RPG set in Yueming Town, rendered in traditional Chinese ink-wash style. You inherit your parents' old inn and build it up — developing recipes through a hands-on cooking minigame, serving guests, running trade caravans, bidding at auctions, and befriending 40+ neighbors, each with their own story. We are launching in Early Access because the core gameplay is ready to be played and enjoyed, while several systems and the main story are still being completed. Player feedback during this period will directly shape our priorities: which systems to deepen, how to tune the economy, and what stories to tell next.”

Approximately how long will this game be in Early Access?

“We plan to graduate from Early Access once the main story and all planned lifestyle systems are complete and polished. Our current estimate is roughly 6 to 12 months, and we will keep the community updated on our progress along the way.”

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

“The Early Access version includes the complete inn-management core loop: recipe development, guest service, gardening, and the trade caravan system, along with a substantial portion of the main story. The full version will add more lifestyle systems and story chapters, plus additional recipes, neighbors, and events. We will also continue polishing the game based on player feedback throughout Early Access.”

What is the current state of the Early Access version?

“The Early Access version is fully playable: you can run your inn day to day, develop and master recipes, grow vegetables and flowers in your garden, serve guests, and build your trade caravan. The main story is partially implemented, and new content updates will arrive regularly during Early Access. As with any Early Access title, you may encounter bugs — please report them and we will fix them promptly.”

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 during Early Access, so players who join early will pay less. The full release will be priced higher than the Early Access version. We will always announce any price change to the community in advance.”

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

“We read all player feedback — Steam discussions, reviews, and our community channels. Bug reports and balance suggestions will be prioritized in our update roadmap, and we will post regular development updates so you can see how your input shapes the game.”