Why Early Access?

“Working alone on a title has its limits so to really make this game shine, it is vitally important to communicate with the players for feedback early on. The game has some very specific mechanics that result in very different experiences for each player so these need to be tested, one of which is the procedurally generated dungeons. With your input, this will ultimately become a greater horror experience for all.

This is just the start of a long but fun journey of working together to make this game great. Stability and bugs will be addressed first initially but as players get involved and send feedback, expect to see more content and features inserted.”

Approximately how long will this game be in Early Access?

“Largely comes down to the feedback I get from all of you. However, I aim to release the game in 2021 so I will take this opportunity to work with you and consider any suggestions you may have during Early Access.”

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

“Early Access will focus on the core functionality that makes up the bulk of the experience.

The Full Version will provide the following:

• 7 Story Acts - Additional Acts to explore that dig deeper into the story which include their own Hub and dungeons levels
  
• Secret Acts - Optional catacombs for you to explore that have unlimited depth. The deeper you go, the bigger the reward
  
• Additions to the enemy lineup based on your feedback
  
• Dungeon bosses
  
• A variety of tools such as different Crucifix
  
• Ritual books where you can summon well-known folklore

The list above is not final and comes down to the feedback I get from you and what we decide together.”

What is the current state of the Early Access version?

“Early Access Launch
Acts 1 and 2 are included and will be used to fine tune the mechanics and core functionality. A good understanding of what the game is about and trying to achieve will be possible from these early sections.

Additionally, the game is split into several key areas, one of which are the dungeons. The dungeons currently are from the upper levels so the tone and theme will not vary all too much. That being said, these dungeons are 100% procedurally generated so every map is different including the horror elements held within.

During Early Access
The remaining Acts will be added over time with your feedback. These Acts will have their own theme including what creatures roam inside.

There are over 20 types of enemy class that I will introduce into Early Access over time for testing when these Acts are opened. These include the Werewolf, Scout, Blind Shaman, Fallen Angels, The Mothman and many more.

In addition, player abilities and skills need to be developed and tested with the community. These will include a variety of items for the player to use such as different Crucifixes, basic weaponry plus many more.”

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

“Yes, the price for the final version of Ergastulum will be higher than the Early Access price.”

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

“I am a great believer in listening to the audience that I am making this game for. I have had great success in involving the audience in one of my earlier titles and this ultimately ended up in being a greater title that is still considered one of the scariest indie games out there.

I plan to communicate with the players in the forums on the store page frequently to discuss all areas of development, including new mechanics, design choices as well as game testing.”