Plague Alchemist launches into Early Access in 2 days

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