Why Early Access?

“I'm putting this game out on Early Access in order to get a feel for how game publishing works. And I want the community to be involved in the development of this game.”

Approximately how long will this game be in Early Access?

“This game will probably be in Early Access for about a year, maybe less. I cannot meet the one-year goal. This game will probably be in Early Access for at least two years, but hopefully no more than three.”

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

“The full version of this game will not be exclusive to Steam and will be a lot more feature-rich. The goals for additional features include the following:

• Online high score tracker instead of the current save-to-file system. Implemented
  
• A feature-complete upgrade system instead of the current system that just makes sure the engines are strong enough for you to safely land. Implemented
  
• An AI system for the command module to make it easier to dock with. Partially Implemented
  
• A multiplayer option to compete against other players.
  
• An online achievement-tracking system for various things you can do in-game. Implemented
  
• Better orbital mechanics integrator.
  
• Saving game state and reloading. Implemented
  
• Time acceleration! Implemented

”

What is the current state of the Early Access version?

“The Early Access version has had a major physics update, and the game currently has the following major features:

There is an upgrade system in place for progression mode that allows you to choose how you upgrade your lander between levels. There is also in-game sound, and fully-configurable joystick and keyboard controls.

You start each level in orbit around a planet docked to the command module (just like the Apollo missions). You are able to undock and redock, stage the lander, and land on the planet below. There is a HUD to help you get your bearings and fuel status. And you have the ability to zoom in and out with the mouse wheel or other control of your choice.

You have translation controls to help you with docking, and a kill rotation button just in case you get into trouble.

You can affect the orbit of the command module when you are undocked as it's under the same physics that you are under. When you're docked, all controls except for undock are disabled.

Each planet in the game is loosely modeled after real life objects in the solar system and have their own unique characteristics including planet-specific terrain generation parameters.

Unlike earlier lander games that require you to land on perfectly flat terrain, you have the option of landing on any terrain feature that you like.”

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

“The price of this game will double when it comes out of Early Access.”

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

“I would like the community to provide feedback with the type of hardware that this game can and cannot run on, and to let me know if they think they've found a bug or an exploit. I also want the community to provide feedback on what would make the game overall more enjoyable for everyone, and what should be improved upon.”