Why Early Access?

“The Headlands already has its core gameplay loop, the foundations of its story and most of its key mechanics, so I feel the game is ready to reach a wider audience.

At the same time, I want to keep developing it together with players. Over the course of the demo I've received a lot of great ideas about mechanics, farm machinery, balance and all sorts of improvements. I've already implemented some of them, and it's thanks to that active feedback that The Headlands is what it is today.

Early Access gives me the chance to keep that conversation going, test new ideas and make the game better based on how people actually play it.”

Approximately how long will this game be in Early Access?

“I plan for The Headlands to stay in Early Access for roughly 12 months.

This estimate is approximate and will depend on how quickly I can implement the planned content and act on community feedback. If reaching the quality I'm aiming for takes longer, I'd rather take that time than release a raw 1.0.”

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

“During Early Access I plan to keep expanding the game with new content and features.

My plans include continuing and developing the storyline through new contracts, additional types and models of machinery, new ways to grow your farm, and an expanded game world — the final version won't be limited to Traktorivka alone. I also plan to improve the balance, interface, controls and other systems based on player feedback.

I want the final version to be more than the same game with a few extra tasks — a fuller, richer experience that has grown together with its community.”

What is the current state of the Early Access version?

“The current version already contains the core gameplay loop of The Headlands: the player can build up a farm, work the fields, operate agricultural machinery, complete contracts and earn money to gradually expand what they are able to do.

The game already features a storyline with characters and events, along with a substantial part of its core mechanics and systems.

That said, some parts of the game are still being developed. That's exactly why I chose Early Access: the foundation is ready, but I want to keep expanding and improving it while taking community feedback into account.”

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

“I plan to raise the price slightly once The Headlands leaves Early Access.

Players who buy the game during Early Access will, of course, receive access to all future updates.”

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

“Community feedback is already an important part of developing The Headlands, and it will remain so throughout Early Access.

Over the course of the demo, players have suggested a lot of great ideas about mechanics, machinery, balance and improvements. Some of those suggestions are already part of The Headlands and even more of them are currently in development, so the game as it stands today has been shaped in large part by active player feedback.

During Early Access I plan to keep talking with the community through discussions, reviews and other channels, gathering suggestions and using them in further development.

I want players to feel that they can genuinely influence what The Headlands becomes, rather than simply waiting for updates.”