Why Early Access?

“Development on Tommyknockers has reached a crossroads. We have a playable Alpha version of the game showcasing the concept and overall gameplay, but are in search of outside feedback and design input to allow us to explore how each individual element intertwines with one another.

Our demo was designed to set the overall tone of the game atmosphere and showcase how we built an environmental gameplay system that creates tension, only to exploit the players feelings and emotions.”

Approximately how long will this game be in Early Access?

“The early access phase of Tommyknockers should only last a few months (2-4). Tommyknockers is currently in a late beta stage of development, showcasing a full vertical slice of the game.”

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

“The early access version of Tommyknockers represents a full vertical slice of the game, however the gameplay is at a point where we require outside testing and feedback to identify the elements of the game that are fun and exciting, and those that don’t work.

We are aiming to eventually have the full version release include the following improvements:

● Polished gameplay
● A total graphical overhaul to ensure all game elements share a common art theme
● Dynamic and random gameplay map’ generation to ensure no playthrough ever feels quite the same
● Enhanced gameplay curve where there are unlockable tunnels and the overall game showcases more features, rewards, etc.
● Narrated / animated introduction tutorial
● Revamp start of game character narration with professional voice actor
● General Store
● Overhaul the in-game upgrade system
● Integrate Steam Achievements

We are also working on a version for Mac OS X.

We also have VR support coming very soon. We already have an in-house version for the Oculus/Samsung Gear VR that works, we just need to adapt it to non-mobile VR setups that can fully utilize the high-end graphics that are possible for total VR immersion. And yes, it's pretty damn creepy.”

What is the current state of the Early Access version?

“The initial Early Access release of Tommyknockers represents a complete vertical slice of the game. It was designed as a proof of concept, to both demonstrate and test our core gameplay vision.

Currently Tommyknockers is playable from start to finish, with all 7 nights implemented. Core gameplay elements are present and working, and throughout the night the AI controlled Tommyknockers attempt to steal back their gold while you try to protect it by throwing rocks or laying bear traps.

The decision was made to release the game on Early Access at this point in the development process, so we could start building a community around the constantly evolving game design as development continues.

During our Early Access development time our goal is to implement several primary features and provide additional gameplay and graphical polish:

• Improved game graphics
  
• Implement ragdoll physics for Tommyknocker deaths
  
• Write, record, and implement a musical score for the game
  
• Overhaul the game introduction to provide an organic way for the player to learn how to play the game, and finish implementing the game tutorial
  
• Finish implementing Steam Achievements
  
• Gather gameplay feedback from the community and use it to further polish the game

”

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

“Yes, the price of Tommyknockers is currently set at a lower price point for the duration of early access. The price may approximately double for the full launch, depending on how much content we are able to add.”

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

“We are launching both a Facebook page for the game and a weekly development blog on our company website. One of our primary objectives for launching the game on Early Access is to gather in depth community feedback on the current state of the game, and use that data to refine and improve gameplay, pacing, and elements of fun. Our goal is to reach out to as many people in the community as we can to gather feedback and help build excitement about the game.

We have extensive plans to tap into the support of our local community in Summit County, CO before and after the launch of Tommyknockers. Our plan is to partner with our local community newspaper, the Summit Daily News, and do an interview about the upcoming game launch, highlighting who we are as developers and members of the community - along with info on the game and instructions on how to purchase or donate towards future development.”