Why Early Access?

“As a small studio passionate about motion gaming, we’re excited to share Core Trials and see how its unique motion-based gameplay, combined with engaging bullet hell mechanics, resonates with you. While the core mechanic is in place, there’s still room for growth. Early Access allows us to gauge interest and refine the game based on your input. If you enjoy Core Trials and choose to purchase it, it will reinforce our vision and help us continue developing it into a truly exceptional experience.”

Approximately how long will this game be in Early Access?

“The timeline depends on you and your feedback! Our goal is to take Core Trials out of Early Access within 6–12 months. However, this may vary based on your reactions and input. We want to ensure that the game is worthy of your time and enjoyment before the full release.”

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

“We plan to add over 500 unique attacks across 50+ levels with a non-linear story, alongside social features, upgrades and personalization options, and various accessibility improvements. Our content roadmap includes a three-phase expansion with monthly updates introducing more levels and features.

Phase 1: Core Expansion

• New gameplay mechanics and 3 additional level types
  
• Player stats, leaderboards, and achievements

Phase 2: Story & Customization

• Abilities and power-ups to enhance gameplay
  
• Non-linear story progression with dynamic difficulty scaling
  
• Character voiceovers and new soundtracks
  
• Customization options like core skins and background themes

Phase 3: Social Features & Game Modes

• Social features such as guilds and chat
  
• New game modes: Multiplayer and Endless Mode
  
• Level editor to create and share custom challenges
  
• Accessibility improvements, including localization and hands-free controls

Though we have planned all of this, it's your feedback that will guide us in the journey ahead.”

What is the current state of the Early Access version?

“The Early Access version of Core Trials introduces the game's core mechanics and content. You’ll experience motion-based bullet hell action, dodging and surviving various attack patterns. With a focus on learning from failure, you may struggle initially but can retry, learn, and eventually prove yourself to the masters. You can expect this in the current version:

Core Gameplay:

• Dodging is the primary mechanic, requiring you to physically move to avoid attacks.
  
• Brushing past attacks is a secondary mechanic, rewarding close dodges with more score. (The tutorial in settings provides further details on the mechanics.)
  
• The scoring system lets you challenge yourself and beat your previous scores.

Content:

• This version features 6 Trial Masters, each with unique attack patterns.
  
• You’ll face around 30 different attack patterns from various elemental forces, offering about 30 minutes of intense experience.
  
• Levels are replayable, encouraging you to improve and surpass your high scores.

More content and changes will be added in upcoming updates, including new mechanics, levels, and features.”

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

“Yes, we strongly believe that a higher price once we leave Early Access is fair, and most importantly, it will help us develop the game further based on your feedback.”

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

“The community is at the core of Core Trials. We plan to engage with you in three key ways:

Feedback Loop:

Your feedback is essential to us. We want the game to evolve based on your suggestions and ideas, so we’ll gather feedback through Discord, social channels, Steam forums, and in-game features.

Planning and Prioritization:

We’ve shared our vision for the full version, and with your input, we’ll identify and prioritize the features and changes that will make Core Trials the most enjoyable experience for you.

User-Generated Content:

We want Core Trials to showcase the creativity of our community. We seek your input on everything from attack patterns to character art and personalities, ensuring the game reflects your contributions.

Together, we’ll make Core Trials a game everyone loves.”