Why Early Access?

“I started the framework for this game in 2012 based off a scrapped game called Project Orionis. As a huge fan of the Tales series and other old 2D RPGs, I knew that my ultimate goal was to build a game that fellow RPG fans would love. Ever since starting consistent development on the current iteration of the game back in February 2016, I knew I was working on something that wasn't just "another RPGMaker game". Above & Below prominently features a linear motion battle system, something only seen in the three Tales games currently on Steam. When working with a currently untapped niche, something that sounds great on paper and inside your head may not translate the way you want it to in gameplay. My main goal with early access is developing a community around the game and working with the community to make the full release an amazing indie RPG that fans want to pick up and try out.”

Approximately how long will this game be in Early Access?

“Setting a hard release date is a tricky topic because who knows what's going to come up in the development process. I prefer to look at the project in steps, "Alright, here's when Build 2 is shaping up to be released. Build 3, etc.". Step by step and with the help of the community, we can work towards that final release date. That being said, I'm hoping the full development cycle of this project won't be more than three years at max.”

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

“The full version will contain the full fleshed-out story, projected to be approximately 20-25 hours of gameplay of its own worth. Adding in all the sidequests, faction-specific quests, and extra content will bring the title to have a hardy 30-40 hours of content for a single playthrough. It will also be polished up according to player feedback.”

What is the current state of the Early Access version?

“Currently in the first build of the early access version, players have access to:

• 2-3 hours of main story content
  
• Full access to the towns of Shasla Village, Twin Pines, and the City of Hastil
  
• Able to join the Adventurer's Guild and the Church of Calindor
  
• Access to the first 3 floors of the extra dungeon, the Cave of 10,000 depths
  
• Six side quests
  
• First-Tier Crafting

”

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

“Yes, the earlier you pick up a copy of the game, the more of a discounted price you receive. The plan is to gradually raise the price as new content is shipped. Early adopters of the game, those who will help shape the game and make it even better, deserve a discount depending when they came on to the early access journey.”

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

“I will be consistently checking the discussion forums, answering questions on the game's blog, and interacting with players, listening and discussing their thoughts and feelings on the game. I will also be taking input on future enemy designs, and will perhaps look for submissions on map layouts or dungeon designs.”