Why Early Access?

“Hellish Scrub began as a student project. The initial Early Access release is our final release for the project. Now, we are committed to finishing development of the game on our own. We are releasing in Early Access to continue developing and improving the game with player feedback. As a student project that has been in development for about eight months, we’ve built a solid foundation and core gameplay experience, but there is still significant room for expansion, refinement, and polish.

Early Access allows us to involve the community in shaping the game as it grows, helping us prioritize features, improve balance, and create a more complete and enjoyable final experience.”

Approximately how long will this game be in Early Access?

“We are currently planning to continue developing this game in Early-Access for one year. Further development will be re-evaluated in the future.”

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

“We are releasing in Early Access to give us time to expand and refine the overall experience based on player feedback. While the core gameplay is in place, several systems and features are still in development or need additional polish.

Potential future plans include a larger more interconnected map, a currency and shop system, an expanded story narrative and NPC dialogue, a distinct and interesting equipment system. We plan to deepen progression and add many more surprises.

Overall, the full version is intended to offer a more complete, polished, and content-rich experience.”

What is the current state of the Early Access version?

“The current Early Access version includes a fully playable core experience that introduces players to the game’s mechanics and world. Players begin in a tutorial dungeon where they are guided through the basic controls and core gameplay systems.

Beyond the tutorial, the game features an initial district containing multiple areas to explore, along with a variety of enemies that introduce different combat and gameplay challenges. Players also have access to an early ability, “Swipe,” which expands movement and interaction within the environment.

While the foundation of the game is in place, additional content, systems, and polish are planned as development continues.”

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

“The pricing of the game will be re-evaluated before the game's full release. If you have downloaded the game for free, you will not need to pay later regardless.”

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

“We plan to actively involve the community throughout Early Access by gathering feedback and using it to help guide development. Players can join our Discord server to share their experiences, report bugs, and suggest ideas directly to the team:
https://discord.gg/Fx2asKSdTf

We will also be monitoring Steam reviews and community discussions to better understand player priorities and identify areas for improvement. Community feedback will play an important role in helping us refine gameplay, balance systems, and shape future updates.”