Why Early Access?

“I am releasing in Early Access because I intend to continually develop and balance the game based on player feedback and real-world play. The game includes an in-game economy that will require ongoing tuning, as well as custom physics systems that may reveal unexpected bugs or edge cases as more players interact with them at different levels. Early Access will allow me to identify these issues, make meaningful adjustments, and continue improving the experience alongside the community.”

Approximately how long will this game be in Early Access?

“I don't have a fixed timeline for leaving Early Access. I'd prefer to let the community driven feedback help decide when the game feels best. ”

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

“The full version will build upon the core gameplay and systems available during Early Access. It's difficult to say now, but it could come in the form of new blueprints, crew members, consumable items, and additional events and curveballs to the Career Mode. I also expect to continue refining the game's economy, balance, and physics based on player feedback and testing. The goal is for the full version to offer a broader variety of challenges and strategies while retaining the core experience established during Early Access.
”

What is the current state of the Early Access version?

“The Early Access version is already by many of my testers admission, full and ready to go. It contains the complete core gameplay loop, including Career Mode and Freeplay Mode. Players can choose from available construction jobs, review blueprints, create custom blueprints, manage and upgrade their available crew, and earn a disgusting amount of money (I just want to continue to provide you fun new ways to spend those in-game bucks!)”

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

“No, dude.
I just want to be transparent about how the game may evolve and grow over time - to some that may be for better and for others that may appear as for worse. Grab the game if you are here for the ride. I promise it won't overnight become some random "watch paint dry simulator" ”

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

“The entire goal of early access here is to heavily involve the community to better understand where balancing needs to occur in both gameplay feel, economy, features, etc.

Shady Contractor has a discord channel! Join it and help build the best game this can be.

”