Why Early Access?

“We intend to further development core systems and additional art development while in early access. We hope to add the following features while developing the project in early access:

• Out-of-ship NPC interaction and combat. allowing players to not only travel the universe but stop and more personally interact with NPCs.
  
• Saloons located in spaceports where you can grab a drink, hire help, or stir up trouble with some rowdy patrons.
  
• Paint shops where you can customize your ship's colors.
  
• A handgun shop where you can purchase out-of-ship weaponry. This will allow for more dynamic action gameplay while out of your ship.
  
• Faction allegiances that influence item prices and NPC assistance. The player can interact with NPCs to tilt faction standing.
  
• Warship NPC encounters that function as boss battles.

These goals are subject to change as we receive feedback from the community.”

Approximately how long will this game be in Early Access?

“We are aiming to launch the full version 6 months from now, but this date is subject to change.”

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

“The game in its current start supports one of the two core mechanics that will make Deep Space Scoundrel truly special. Currently, exploring the universe in your ship is a blast, but docking at a spaceport offers limited gameplay to the player. In the future, landing your ship and interacting with NPCs will be fundamental to the game and the player's progression. Our roadmap includes:

• Out-of-ship NPC interaction and combat
  
• Saloons where you can grab a drink, hire help, or stir up trouble with some rowdy patrons.
  
• Paint shops where you can customize your ships colors
  
• A handgun shop where you can purchase out-of-ship weaponry
  
• Faction allegiances that influence item prices and NPC assistance
  
• Warship NPC encounters

”

What is the current state of the Early Access version?

“Fully playable and fun! However, we are missing some core mechanics that will significantly expand the gameplay in the near future. Currently, the game features classic Shmup action with roguelike progression and shops full of customizable items. In the future, exiting your ship to explore the universe on foot will be fundamental to the gameplay.”

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

“The game is currently free but will be paid upon full release.”

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

“The roguelike mechanics in Deep Space Scoundrel involve many moving parts and require heavy user engagement to be perfectly balanced. We would also love insight from the community on what kinds of weapons, enemies, and gameplay they'd like to see in the future.”