Why Early Access?

“Power Network Tycoon is a complex and ambitious project to create an engaging game whilst also producing an accurate model for simulating a power network, taking the player through engineering design and management processes. Since the inception of this idea, I’ve made a range of game design decisions to make this game the best it can be, but projects of this scale are difficult to be produced by one developer. Early Access will give me the opportunity to share the core mechanics of the game with some of my thoughts on what the future could be, but also get feedback from the gaming and engineering community.”

Approximately how long will this game be in Early Access?

“I plan to stay in Early Access until Power Network Tycoon reaches its full potential. While I don't have a fixed timeline, my goal is to launch the full version when I feel confident that it provides a comprehensive, engaging, and polished experience. It will not include every possible Power Engineering simulation known to man, but through the updates and community feedback, new features and enhancements will be considered and integrated until Power Network Tycoon becomes the game it was meant to be. My early estimate is one year of Early Access based off my current understanding of the game, however it should be noted I also work as a Power Engineer have a high standard for this Power Engineering game.”

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

“At the beginning of Early Access, Power Network Tycoon will have its core functions fully operational. However, it will also feature elements that serve as placeholders, intended for further development to enhance gameplay mechanics in both power engineering and tycoon-style gaming. For instance, in the initial Early Access release, players can add electromagnetic field shielding to substations. Future expansions may include upgrades to substations, poles, conductors or other assets to enhance network efficiency in the full game version. The current Early Access version includes 'Missions’ and ‘Alerts', which are planned to be developed further, offering player rewards, unlocking new features and helping to avert disasters. Additionally, it is planned to integrate an overarching objective that ties player progress across various gameplays. The goal throughout Early Access is to continuously engage with the community, integrating their feedback to ensure every game aspect truly resonates with our players.”

What is the current state of the Early Access version?

“The Early Access version provides a robust foundation, featuring the core gameplay mechanics and a significant portion of the planned content. Players can already experience the thrill of building and managing a dynamic power network, facing challenges like extreme weather events and balancing power demands. The game also contains elements of simulations with a level of accuracy and detail only used in industry grade engineering design software. While some areas are still under development, the current version offers a solid and enjoyable gaming experience, with plenty of content to explore.”

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

“I aim to reward early supporters with a marginally lower price point during the Early Access phase, but not deter future players unless its determined significantly more gameplay content was added between the Early Access version and the Full versions release.”

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

“I have social media platforms where I share screenshots or videos of ideas I’m working through and these have been good for obtaining feedback. I will continue to post content and ideas as well as be available for feedback.”