Why Early Access?

“In short: player feedback, eradicating bugs, and add more content.

We've been working on Botlike for over two years. We've worked extensively on essential mechanics: gunplay, movement, random levels, opponent AI, etc. are already really polished in the Early Access version. At this point, we think it's important to get feedback from real players, even if the content of the game isn't completely finished yet. The game is already playable, and it's lots of fun.

Moreover, we want to use the time during Early Access to implement more content in the game.
In detail:

• more biomes and levels
  
• more opponents
  
• more items
  
• more upgrades
  
• more weapons
  
• champion system

”

Approximately how long will this game be in Early Access?

“That depends on a few variables. An important factor is your feedback. We expect the Early Access phase to take at least six months.
We have this ambitious goal of making Botlike an absolutely amazing game – with Early Access and your feedback, we can make that happen.”

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

“The Early Access version is running very smoothly and bug-free on all our computers. But we're a small indie team and don't have the resources for large-scale testing. There are infinite possibilities to combine hardware, and even a huge test budget (which we, being indie devs, of course don't have) could not cover all of them. An Early Access phase gives us the chance to run Botlike on many different computers and subsequently fix problems that might occur. That way, the final version will be more bug-free and polished. Additionally, the finished game will have more content. This makes for a longer gameplay time and better replayability.”

What is the current state of the Early Access version?

“The Early Access version is technically sound and fun to play. Gameplay is entertaining and lasts several hours; the levels are randomized, so you can re-play the game repeatedly. You'll face new challenges in each playthrough: you will have to adapt your strategy to the weapons and items you find and the opponents you encounter.”

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

“We plan to raise the price once we are adding more content. Early Access will come with a small discount to benefit early adopters.”

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

“We're looking forward to receiving active community feedback! With your help, we can improve our game.

That means:

Balancing
Botlike uses many systems that allow you to adapt the game to your own playing style. By unlocking upgrades or buying specific item/weapon builds, you can play the game however you like – there are infinite possibilities of gameplay.
But many of those possibilities require an extensive balancing phase. And here's where we need you! The more players there are in Early Access, the more we can collect data and feedback to balance Botlike.

Suggestions and Ideas
We do have a very clear vision for the final version of Botlike. But we're always open to good ideas. So please don't hesitate and send us your ideas and suggestions for improving Botlike.

Bug Hunting
There'll be some bugs! That's 'Game Dev 101'. Our aim is to eliminate as many bugs as possible in the Early Access phase. With your help and active feedback, we can transform Botlike into what it deserves to be: an all-around awesome game.”