Early Access games have redefined the way video games are developed, funded, and played. This model allows players to purchase and play unfinished games while developers continue working on them, often shaping the final product based on community feedback. While Early Access provides exciting opportunities for innovation, it also comes with its own set of challenges.
In this blog, we’ll explore the concept of Early Access, its benefits and risks, and its impact on the gaming industry.
What Are Early Access Games?
Early Access is a distribution model where developers release a game in a partially completed state, giving players the chance to buy and play it before the official launch. Typically, Early Access games are available on platforms like:
- Steam (Early Access Program)
- Epic Games Store
- Xbox Game Preview
- PlayStation’s Game Previews
- io
These games often undergo significant changes during development, with regular updates adding new features, polishing mechanics, or fixing bugs.
The Evolution of Early Access
1. Crowdfunding Origins
The concept of Early Access gained momentum in the early 2010s, with platforms like Kickstarter allowing developers to fund their projects through community contributions. However, instead of just funding, players began demanding hands-on access to these games during development.
2. Steam Early Access
Launched in 2013, Steam’s Early Access program popularized the model, giving developers direct access to a massive audience. Titles like DayZ and Rust became breakout successes, proving the potential of Early Access as a business model.
3. Widespread Adoption
As the model gained traction, other platforms adopted similar systems, and Early Access evolved from an indie developer tool into a viable option for larger studios.
The Benefits of Early Access Games
1. Funding Development
For indie developers, Early Access provides critical funding during development, allowing them to sustain operations and complete their vision without relying on traditional publishers or loans.
2. Community-Driven Development
Early Access creates a symbiotic relationship between developers and players. Gamers provide feedback, bug reports, and suggestions that help refine the game. For example, Subnautica and Hades are renowned for incorporating player input into their design process.
3. Building Hype and Community
Releasing a game in Early Access allows developers to build a dedicated fanbase before the official launch. Communities often form around these games, generating word-of-mouth promotion and creating a foundation for future updates.
4. Real-World Testing
Unlike internal playtesting, Early Access players provide large-scale data on gameplay mechanics, server stability, and balance issues, helping developers optimize their games.
5. Innovation and Experimentation
Early Access enables developers to experiment with unconventional ideas, knowing that they can iterate based on feedback. This has led to unique, genre-defining games like Slay the Spire and Factorio.
The Risks and Challenges of Early Access
1. Incomplete Games
By definition, Early Access games are unfinished, meaning players may encounter bugs, performance issues, or missing features. While some players embrace this, others may feel frustrated or disappointed.
2. Abandoned Projects
One of the biggest risks of Early Access is developers abandoning a game before it’s complete. Players who invest early may lose out if the game is left unfinished, as seen in titles like The Stomping Land.
3. Unrealistic Expectations
Players often develop high expectations for Early Access games, especially if the initial version shows promise. However, delays, feature cuts, or slow progress can lead to backlash and damage the game’s reputation.
4. Financial Pressure on Developers
While Early Access can provide funding, it also creates financial expectations. If sales fail to meet targets, developers may struggle to continue development or deliver on promised features.
5. Spoilers and Burnout
For narrative-driven games, Early Access can lead to story spoilers, diminishing the impact of the final product. Additionally, players who experience an incomplete version may lose interest by the time the full game releases.
Examples of Successful Early Access Games
- Hades (Supergiant Games)
A roguelike dungeon crawler, Hades launched in Early Access in 2018. Supergiant Games actively engaged with players, refining gameplay and narrative elements based on feedback. The game’s official 2020 release received critical acclaim and multiple awards. - Minecraft (Mojang Studios)
Before becoming a global phenomenon, Minecraft started as an Early Access project in 2009. Community feedback played a significant role in shaping its mechanics and features. - Subnautica (Unknown Worlds Entertainment)
Released in Early Access in 2014, Subnautica used player input to refine its underwater survival mechanics and world-building. Its 2018 full release was met with widespread praise. - Rust (Facepunch Studios)
A survival game blending player interaction and resource management, Rust debuted in Early Access in 2013. Continuous updates and community involvement helped it become a multiplayer hit. - Valheim (Iron Gate Studio)
Released in Early Access in 2021, this Viking-themed survival game sold over 5 million copies within a month, driven by word-of-mouth and regular updates.
Tips for Players Considering Early Access Games
- Research the Developer: Look into the developer’s track record and community reputation to gauge the likelihood of project completion.
- Check the Game’s Roadmap: Developers often share their plans for future updates, giving you an idea of what to expect.
- Understand the Risks: Remember that Early Access games are a work in progress, and your experience may not reflect the final product.
- Engage with the Community: Join forums or Discord servers to share feedback and stay informed about updates.
- Be Patient: Development can take years, so be prepared for delays and incremental improvements.
The Future of Early Access
As the gaming industry evolves, Early Access is likely to remain a vital tool for developers and players alike. Innovations in cloud gaming and game engines may make Early Access even more accessible, while better communication and transparency can address some of the model’s pitfalls.
Additionally, hybrid models that blend Early Access with crowdfunding or subscription services like Xbox Game Pass could offer new ways for developers to bring their games to life.