How long did they say Early Access would take, and how long has it been? · 1,931 in Early Access · 2,291 promises read · 757 announced, not started
| Year | Games | In Early Access now | Graduated | Median time in EA | Promise read | Overdue | Promise kept |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 995 | 983 | 121% | 1 month | 89890% | 26of 818 parsed | — |
| 2025 | 364 | 364 | 00% | 13 months | 31286% | 118of 269 parsed | — |
| 2024 | 173 | 173 | 00% | 2 years 1 month | 15187% | 88of 121 parsed | — |
| 2023 | 101 | 101 | 00% | 3 years 2 months | 8786% | 49of 69 parsed | — |
| 2022 | 71 | 71 | 00% | 4 years 2 months | 6287% | 39of 47 parsed | — |
| 2021 | 50 | 50 | 00% | 5 years 1 month | 4080% | 23of 31 parsed | — |
| 2020 | 43 | 43 | 00% | 6 years 1 month | 3888% | 18of 22 parsed | — |
| 2019 | 36 | 36 | 00% | 7 years 3 months | 36100% | 17of 20 parsed | — |
| 2018 | 20 | 20 | 00% | 8 years 1 month | 1890% | 9of 10 parsed | — |
| 2017 | 17 | 17 | 00% | 9 years 3 months | 1694% | 7of 9 parsed | — |
| Game | Promise | Promised | Elapsed | Clock | Verdict | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| STARSEEKER: Astroneer ExpeditionsSTARSEEKER: Astroneer Expeditions | Although it is hard to give a solid date, based on the goals we have, we estimate that the campaign will last around 1 year. We want to work sustainably while leaving enough time to respond to player feedback.read 9 Sep 2026 | about 12 months | 3 months | 25% | On the clock9 months left | |
| 华夏史诗：战国华夏史诗：战国 | The Early Access phase is expected to last 12 to 18 months. Our goal is to ensure that by the time the game leaves Early Access, it delivers a sufficiently deep, stable, and complete epic experience.read 7 Sep 2026 | 12–18 months | 4 months | 25% | On the clock14 months left | |
| Bounty Pro PullingBounty Pro Pulling | The game is planned to be in Early Access for approximately a year.read 6 Sep 2026 | about 12 months | 3 months | 24% | On the clock9 months left | |
| Deadline EscapeDeadline Escape | We estimate the game will remain in Early Access for roughly 1 to 2 years, depending on feedback and development progress.read 7 Sep 2026 | 12–24 months | 6 months | 24% | On the clock18 months left | |
| Kaiju HarvestKaiju Harvest | We expect Kaiju Harvest to remain in Early Access for approximately three months. Internally, we are currently aiming to leave Early Access around November 11, 2026. However, this is an approximate target and may shift slightly depending on development progress, player feedback, and the amount of additional polishing needed before the full release.read 9 Sep 2026 | about 3 months | 3 weeks | 24% | On the clock2 months left | |
| Blue Guy Must DieBlue Guy Must Die | We plan for Early Access to last roughly 2-3 months, depending on feedback and how development goes. That timeline may shift as we learn what players care about most.read 6 Sep 2026 | 2–3 months | 3 weeks | 24% | On the clock2 months left | |
| Chickenfinger's RallyChickenfinger's Rally | In the ball park of one or two years, I really can't guarantee any timeline though.read 6 Sep 2026 | 12–24 months | 6 months | 24% | On the clock18 months left | |
| Playto: Learn Languages Through GamesPlayto: Learn Languages Through Games | Approximately 6–12 months. The timeline depends on how quickly we can ship the planned features (see below) and validate them with community feedback. We'll leave Early Access when the learning tools, language coverage, and community features reach a level where we're confident in the full experience.read 8 Sep 2026 | 6–12 months | 3 months | 24% | On the clock9 months left | |
| Optical Shop SimulatorOptical Shop Simulator | We plan to keep the game in Early Access for approximately 6 to 12 months. This duration may vary depending on the quality of the new content we want to add and the feedback from our community.read 9 Sep 2026 | 6–12 months | 3 months | 24% | On the clock9 months left | |
| Play and Learn EnglishPlay and Learn English | We plan to stay in Early Access for approximately 8-12 months. This timeline may shift depending on the desired content scope and the direction the community takes. Rather than rushing out an incomplete game, we aim to ship a polished, refined full version shaped by player feedback.read 9 Sep 2026 | 8–12 months | 3 months | 24% | On the clock9 months left | |
| SeparatedSeparated | We’re targeting a 6-month Early Access period, but we’re committed to staying longer if necessary to deliver the quality our players expect.read 6 Sep 2026 | about 6 months | 1 month | 24% | On the clock5 months left | |
| InfiniumInfinium | It is difficult to accurately predict how long Early Access will last. Based on the progress so far, we expect it to take roughly 12 months. We have a a few more goals we are working towards. We are focusing on delivering quality at a reasonable pace. There is no higher goal than completing Infinium and making it the best game possible.read 8 Sep 2026 | about 12 months | 3 months | 24% | On the clock9 months left | |
| Last GambitLast Gambit | One to two months. Long enough to gather enough matches to see which pieces need adjusting and to close out the last fixes. If it takes less, good. If it takes more, we'll tell you instead of vanishing.read 8 Sep 2026 | 1–2 months | 2 weeks | 23% | On the clock2 months left | |
| RélyoraRélyora | We currently expect Relyora to remain in Early Access for approximately three months. This estimate may change depending on community feedback and the development needs identified during this period.read 7 Sep 2026 | about 3 months | 3 weeks | 23% | On the clock2 months left | |
| Run! And Don't StopRun! And Don't Stop | Our current goal is to keep developing the game through Early Access and move toward a full release sometime in 2027. That said, we do not want to rush it. We would rather take the time needed to improve the game properly, based on player feedback, balance changes, new content, and performance work.read 7 Sep 2026 | 21 monthsuntil 31 Dec 2027 | 5 months | 23% | On the clock16 months left | |
| Sudden Attack Zero PointSudden Attack Zero Point | We currently plan to remain in Early Access for approximately 6 months. During this period, we will actively incorporate community feedback before transitioning to the official release.read 8 Sep 2026 | about 6 months | 1 month | 23% | On the clock5 months left | |
| The RanchersThe Ranchers | A final date for the full release has not yet been decided, but we roughly expect the game to be in Early Access for six months. Our goal is to continue improving the game throughout Early Access, both through our planned milestones and the feedback we receive from you, so that the full release is something we can all appreciate and enjoy.read 9 Sep 2026 | about 6 months | 1 month | 23% | On the clock5 months left | |
| Moon CoronaMoon Corona | We currently expect Moon Corona to remain in Early Access for approximately 6 months. This is our current development estimate and may change as development progresses and community feedback is incorporated. Our goal is to continue improving the game while expanding its content at a steady pace.read 8 Sep 2026 | about 6 months | 1 month | 23% | On the clock5 months left | |
| Backrooms Lost UnitBackrooms Lost Unit | We expect Backrooms Lost Unit to remain in Early Access for roughly 12 to 16 months. This timeframe may change depending on development progress, player feedback, and testing results. As the project is primarily developed by a solo developer, timelines may shift as features are tested and refined. Our goal during Early Access is to gradually expand the game’s content and improve stability while shaping the experience alongside the community.read 8 Sep 2026 | 12–16 months | 4 months | 23% | On the clock12 months left | |
| '83'83 | We intend the game to be in Early Access until mid-to-late 2027 with regular updates happening during this period. We’ll also aim to trial new biomes and maps alongside new gameplay mechanics, new vehicles and new weapons. Whilst doing this, we plan to continue the optimisation process, improving the gameplay experience for players with all kinds of systems.read 7 Sep 2026 | 20 monthsuntil 31 Dec 2027 | 5 months | 23% | On the clock15 months left | |
| VMXVMX | We aim to advance development as quickly as possible. While we have a rough vision for the full release, the scope may evolve over time. Our current estimate for a complete launch is between one to two years.read 7 Sep 2026 | 12–24 months | 6 months | 23% | On the clock18 months left | |
| RotenRoten | We currently expect ROTEN to remain in Early Access for approximately 18 to 24 months. The exact duration may change depending on development progress, feedback, and technical considerations.read 10 Sep 2026 | 18–24 months | 6 months | 23% | On the clock18 months left | |
| Master of RealmsMaster of Realms | We currently expect Master Of Realms to remain in Early Access for approximately one to two years. During this period, we plan to continue refining core systems, expanding content, and improving overall stability and performance based on community feedback. The exact duration may adjust depending on development progress and users' input.read 8 Sep 2026 | 12–24 months | 6 months | 23% | On the clock18 months left | |
| FOURVIVEFOURVIVE | Based on our current plans, we expect the game to remain in Early Access for approximately one to two years. However, this timeframe may be adjusted depending on development progress and the pace at which feedback is collected and reflected.read 10 Sep 2026 | 12–24 months | 5 months | 23% | On the clock19 months left | |
| PrivaEmanatorPrivaEmanator | Approximately 1 year.read 9 Sep 2026 | about 12 months | 3 months | 23% | On the clock9 months left | |
| Deadly TrickDeadly Trick | The game’s core features and rules have already been established. During Early Access, we plan to add and revise content to provide a better overall experience. We currently expect the Early Access period to last approximately five to six months.read 8 Sep 2026 | 5–6 months | 1 month | 23% | On the clock5 months left | |
| Sprint CitySprint City | We plan to work on the Early Access version for another one to two years. There are still many features we would like to add, and we’re also very open to extending that list based on community feedback. We expect that after about two years we will have a version that feels complete, though we plan to continue supporting the game with regular updates even after leaving Early Access.read 7 Sep 2026 | 12–24 months | 5 months | 22% | On the clock19 months left | |
| SandSand | We don’t have an exact amount of time that we plan to be in Early Access at this stage. It will be shaped by community feedback. We expect around a year in Early Access based on a very rough estimate.read 6 Sep 2026 | about 12 months | 3 months | 22% | On the clock9 months left | |
| Pawsome ResortPawsome Resort | We’re currently planning for Pawsome Resort to stay in Early Access for around one year. During this time, we’ll roll out frequent updates including new animals, gameplay systems, quality-of-life improvements, and story content.read 8 Sep 2026 | about 12 months | 3 months | 22% | On the clock9 months left | |
| Leap of LegendsLeap of Legends | We plan to keep the game in Early Access for approximately one year. During this time, we'll be working hard to gather feedback from the community, make improvements, and add new content to the game. We believe this timeframe will give us enough time to address player concerns, balance the gameplay, and create a final product. Of course, we'll keep the community updated throughout the Early Access process, and we're committed to creating the best game possible.the store says it leaves Early Access on 20 Jun 2026 | about 12 months | 3 months | 22% | On the clock9 months left | |
| SpaceSlogSpaceSlog | It's difficult to specify a precise timeline, but we anticipate to be in Early Access until at least February 2028. We have a long list of features and ideas for the game, all of which require time to develop in order to deliver a high quality product. However, we strongly recommend to only purchase the game based solely on its current features rather than on planned future updates, to avoid any potential disappointment.read 7 Sep 2026 | 22 monthsuntil 29 Feb 2028 | 5 months | 22% | On the clock17 months left | |
| Pro Soccer Manager 27Pro Soccer Manager 27 | Pro Soccer Manager 2027 will remain in Early Access for approximately 2 months. During this period, we will continue adding new features and new leagues.read 9 Sep 2026 | about 2 months | 2 weeks | 22% | On the clock2 months left | |
| Running LateRunning Late | We currently expect the Early Access period to last approximately one to two months. This estimate may change depending on the scope of the remaining work and the feedback we receive from players. Our priority is to use this period to address important issues, improve the overall experience, and evaluate the planned additions before moving out of Early Access.read 6 Sep 2026 | 1–2 months | 2 weeks | 22% | On the clock2 months left | |
| Disc Golf MastersDisc Golf Masters | We estimate the game will be in Early Access after its initial release for about one year.read 8 Sep 2026 | about 12 months | 3 months | 22% | On the clock9 months left | |
| Rift Wizard 3Rift Wizard 3 | We are aiming for a 1 year early access period.read 10 Sep 2026 | about 12 months | 3 months | 22% | On the clock9 months left | |
| National TransitNational Transit | We expect to remain in Early Access for approximately 12 months. However, we will only leave Early Access when we feel the game is truly complete — not on a fixed schedule.read 10 Sep 2026 | about 12 months | 3 months | 22% | On the clock9 months left | |
| RuneveilRuneveil | We plan to keep the game in Early Access for approximately 6 to 12 months, depending on player feedback and the time required to implement planned content.read 8 Sep 2026 | 6–12 months | 3 months | 22% | On the clock9 months left | |
| EMPULSEEMPULSE | We expect EMPULSE to be in Early Access for 9-12 months. The exact timeline depends on player feedback and how quickly we can refine movement, maps, core systems and deliver the game our players want. Our goal is to move to full release once the gameplay feel, content, and stability meet both our standards and that of our players.read 8 Sep 2026 | 9–12 months | 3 months | 21% | On the clock9 months left | |
| Sphere TDSphere TD | I expect Sphere TD to remain in Early Access for around 12 months. The exact timeline will depend on development progress, player feedbacks, feature scope and quality. As a solo dev, sometimes it may go slow, but I'm glad you're in it!read 10 Sep 2026 | about 12 months | 3 months | 21% | On the clock9 months left | |
| Dead Reckoning: The Long DriftDead Reckoning: The Long Drift | No fixed date, but roughly 6–12 months is our best estimate. The core experience is stable, but the content layer has room to grow. We'll stay in Early Access until the event pool is deep enough that runs stop feeling familiar, and until the balance reflects a wider range of player strategies than the ones we shipped with.read 9 Sep 2026 | 6–12 months | 3 months | 21% | On the clock9 months left | |
| Ludus Magnatus: Gladiator Manager SimulatorLudus Magnatus: Gladiator Manager Simulator | The target is 6–8 months of Early Access.read 8 Sep 2026 | 6–8 months | 2 months | 21% | On the clock6 months left | |
| Silly SuspectsSilly Suspects | We expect the game to be in early access for approximately six months.read 10 Sep 2026 | about 6 months | 1 month | 21% | On the clock5 months left | |
| DeckslingerDeckslinger | We expect Decked Out to be in Early Access for around one year. This will give us the opportunity to add additional Classes, Enemies and Challenges to the game - as well as new features, quality of life changes and balance improvements driven by player feedback.read 8 Sep 2026 | about 12 months | 3 months | 21% | On the clock9 months left | |
| Eyes Of The ElderWoodEyes Of The ElderWood | We plan to release the game around Halloween 2026. We believe about a year is the optimal timeframe to finish Eyes of The ElderWood, and we want to avoid falling into “eternal Early Access,” especially since we already have plans for our next project.read 8 Sep 2026 | about 12 months | 3 months | 21% | On the clock9 months left | |
| Unhallowed SurvivorsUnhallowed Survivors | We currently expect Unhallowed Survivors to remain in Early Access for approximately 1 month. This timeframe may change depending on player feedback, balancing needs and the development of the remaining stages, heroes and systems.read 6 Sep 2026 | about 1 month | 6 days | 21% | On the clockDue this month | |
| Pier PalsPier Pals | We plan to stay in Early Access for a few more months while the game grows with the community's feedback. If things go as we hope, we're expecting the full release by the end of 2026, and we'll set a firm date once we're close.read 5 Sep 2026 | 5 monthsuntil 31 Dec 2026 | 1 month | 21% | On the clock4 months left | |
| Shopenkraft's Quantum CuriositiesShopenkraft's Quantum Curiosities | Full release is planned for December 2026.read 6 Sep 2026 | 5 monthsuntil 31 Dec 2026 | 1 month | 21% | On the clock4 months left | |
| 仙之气仙之气 | Approximately 12-18 months.read 9 Sep 2026 | 12–18 months | 4 months | 20% | On the clock14 months left | |
| BitCraft OnlineBitCraft Online | We honestly don’t know when BitCraft Online will be ready to leave Early Access. We have large ambitions for the full release and it could take us several years to get there. That said, we don’t believe there is a need to rush leaving early access and would only consider leaving early access when both us and the community feel that BitCraft will be a great full release.read 10 Sep 2026 | 36–72 months | 15 months | 20% | On the clock4 years 9 months left | |
| MEGACITYMEGACITY | I'm planning roughly 12 months in Early Access. That window covers the planned expansion of the world map, the military and War Room overhaul, the remaining auto-manager roles, the character/officer deepening pass, and replacing the placeholder pencil-sketch portraits with finished art. I'll revisit the timeline publicly if community feedback pushes us in a direction that needs more time.read 8 Sep 2026 | about 12 months | 2 months | 20% | On the clock10 months left |
A game is in Early Access when the store lists it among its genres; the clock starts on the day the ledger saw it enter or, for a game that launched into Early Access, on the release date the store prints. The promise is the developer’s own questionnaire answer, kept word for word; only ranges and single figures are compared, open answers are listed as open, and answers the parser could not read say so. Graduations are recorded from 3 Sep 2026, so earlier years undercount them. A game whose questionnaire has not been read yet says “not read yet” under No promise (how). Data by SteamPeaks.com.