Why Early Access?

“Guard Protocol is already fully playable and content-complete enough to showcase the core gameplay loop. My aim during Early Access is to refine balance, gather community feedback, and expand the game’s systems to make every run more rewarding and diverse.

Right now, the game includes:

Around 60 global perks (I’m exploring the possibility of expanding this to 80–90)

About 70 in-game perks (may grow to over 100)

3 leg and body types (I’d like to add up to 5 each)

5 weapon types (potentially 1–2 more later)

1 shoulder weapon type (I plan to expand to as many as 5 total)

2 generator types (possibly 3–4 in the future)

2 backpack types (possibly 3 total)

1 complete level (I’m hoping to create 4–5 total)

During Early Access, I’ll use real player data and feedback to fine-tune balance, enemy scaling, and perk synergies, while continuing to explore ways to expand content and customization. My goal is to make every run feel unique, challenging, and worth pushing “just one more wave.””

Approximately how long will this game be in Early Access?

“I currently expect Guard Protocol to remain in Early Access for around 3 months, though this may change depending on player feedback and development needs. The core systems are already complete. Early Access is mainly for expanding content, fine-tuning gameplay balance, and incorporating community feedback before the full release.”

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

“The full version of Guard Protocol is intended to offer a broader range of customization options, deeper progression, and a larger variety of enemies and environments.

During Early Access, the focus will be on expanding content and refining systems based on player feedback. By the time development reaches full release, the game may include:

An expanded roster of global perks (around 80–90, up from 60)

A larger pool of in-game perks (over 100, up from 70)

More mech parts - 5 leg types, 5 body types, and additional weapon, shoulder, generator, and backpack options

New levels and mission environments to provide fresh challenges and variety

Improved balancing, enemy scaling, and UI/UX polish based on community feedback

Additional visual effects and sound design improvements for a more immersive experience

The goal is to ensure that every new run feels more dynamic, strategic, and rewarding building on the strong foundation already established in Early Access.”

What is the current state of the Early Access version?

“The Early Access version of Guard Protocol is fully playable and offers a complete gameplay loop that can take up to 20 hours to experience in depth.

It includes one fully playable level, a complete mech customization system, and a working global perk progression system. Players can build and upgrade their base using 7 different tower types, battle through 25 enemy types, and face off against 7 unique bosses as waves intensify over time.

All core gameplay systems: combat, progression, mech customization, base defense, and perk selection are fully functional and stable. The Early Access period will primarily focus on expanding content, improving balance, and refining the overall player experience.”

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

“Yes. The price is expected to increase once Guard Protocol leaves Early Access to reflect the additional content, expanded features, and overall improvements added during development. Early supporters will receive the full version at no extra cost.”

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

“Community feedback will play a major role in shaping Guard Protocol’s development. I’ll be actively listening to player suggestions and ideas through the game’s Discord server, especially when it comes to new mech parts, boss designs, and weapons.

Early Access will be a chance to gather real player input on balance, difficulty, and feature ideas, helping ensure every new addition feels meaningful and fun to play.”