🛠️ Dev Update #2: New Ages, Player Trading, Steam Playtest and What’s Next

Hey everyone,

It’s been a little while since the first dev post, and we’ve got a ton of exciting updates to share — so let’s dive right in!

🕰️ Four Ages, One Empire

I've now expanded the game to include four fully playable eras:

• Stone Age

• Bronze Age

• Iron Age

• Classical Age

Each brings new resources, buildings and wonders — and sets the stage for the future of Idle Empires, next up, The Renaissance. If you’ve been testing the prototype, you’ll already know how progression is starting to shape up!

🌐 Multiplayer Foundations

Since the last update, I've added:

• Server support with in-game chat so players can connect, discuss, and maybe brag a little.

• Player trading, which just went live this past weekend! ⚖️ We’re still tuning it, so keep an eye out for a future post diving into how the system works and how you can make the most of it.

🐛 Bug Fixes & QoL

I've been squashing bugs left and right and adding tons of quality-of-life improvements based on feedback. Fixing bugs, adding QoL and polish are important so that will be something that gets addressed before moving onto newer content.

🔮 What’s Coming Next

🧪 Steam Playtest — Coming in July!

I'm planning to host a Steam Playtest later in July, opening up the game to a wider group of players. This will be your chance to jump in, try things out, and give feedback that directly shapes the future of the game.

There will probably be another Playtest after that, as we keep refining and expanding the game — so if you miss the first, there’ll be another chance to join.

🚀 Early Access on the Horizon

I'm starting to think seriously about launching into Early Access, probably in the Autumn. The plan is to build momentum gradually: polish the core, release new content in waves, and bring in players who want to be part of the journey from the beginning.

🌲 Tech Tree Overhaul

Right now, the tech tree is functional but basic — more of a checklist than a web of decisions. That’s going to change. I'm planning a complete rework that makes progression more strategic, rewarding, and engaging, that's the plan any way.

We’ll also be releasing future ages one at a time, allowing us to balance and refine each before moving on. And once all the ages are in...

🌀 Prestige Layer 2: Coming Soon(ish)

With all the ages in place, I'll begin locking in the second prestige layer — adding depth, challenge, and long-term goals for players who’ve mastered the initial climb.

And after that? Who knows where Idle Empires will go. There are a lot of possibilities — and I’d love for you to be part of the ride.

Thanks again for following along — I'm excited to keep building, testing, and evolving the game with you. More posts coming soon!

Stay idle (but not too idle 😉),
— Vethon