Before release, we want to be very open about what this first Early Access version is.
What’s in the first build?
The current build is focused and limited in scope. There is roughly 1 hour of gameplay right now, depending on how you play.
It introduces the first version of the core loop:
exploring
gathering resources
analyzing ingredients
brewing potions
discovering recipes
slowly figuring out the rules of alchemy
Our goal is to get the basics and the main mechanics right before we build more content on top of them.
What should you expect?
If you are looking for a large RPG already, we want to be honest: Plague Alchemist is not there yet.
This first Early Access version is a foundation build. It is here so players can try the core systems, tell us what works, tell us what does not, and help shape where the game goes next.
What we’re focusing on after launch
During the first 3 months of Early Access, our main focus will be:
fixing bugs
polishing the existing systems
improving clarity
making the core experience feel better
Player feedback will be a big part of that.
Once we are happy with how the game feels and how the systems work, we plan to shift more focus toward expanding the content:
more potions
more areas
more quests
more secrets
more progression
We also plan to share a 2026 roadmap during June, to give a clearer look at what we are building toward.
Final note
Plague Alchemist has been in development for over 3 years, with thousands of hours of work behind it already. Reaching Early Access is a huge step for us.
We know the first build is still limited, but this project means a lot to us, and we plan to keep working on it for a long time. We want the final game to become something we are genuinely proud of.
At the same time, we do not want to oversell what is in the game today. This first Early Access build is only the beginning.
If you want to jump in early, try the systems, give feedback, and follow the game as it grows, we would be very happy to have you there.
Thank you to everyone who has followed the game, wishlisted it, tested it, or sent encouragement along the way. Getting to Early Access is a big step, and we are looking forward to finally putting the game in your hands.
— The Hardcoded Team