The Outer Rim: Survivor

Summary: A good start for Early Access. Graphics are decent but controls could use some work. Plenty to work on, though. Controls: Sensitivity seems to be only for keyboard controls. Mouse sensitivity is not affected by the slider. I think a game like this would benefit from Freelancer-style controls - you move, and aim, where you look. To do this the default zoom level may need to be brought 'back'. I changed to flying with the keyboard (plus choosing weapons, views, etc) and aiming with the mouse, which is easier than holding right-click to fly while also using the mouse to aim. Graphics: Good from what is there. I like the style. I didn't see any major glitches and I had high framerate. Weaponfire might need to be a little bigger to be seen more easily, especially when you see other ships fighting and want to know by sight how they are doing. A change in targetting reticle might be good when the target is in range (couldn't easily gauge plasma cutter weapon distance). Radar only somewhat useful at this stage. Sound: Could use some work, though this is stated in the Early Access information box. For what it is now, though, it's utilitarian and works well enough for an early release. Gameplay: I had fun flying around and shooting the enemy ships. Once they start fighting back I can see where it will be a challenge. Enemy ships seem to die rather quickly, though (2-3 hits). Eventually, having them go down with more effort (along with visible enemy ship damage, pieces of debris floating, etc) would be welcome. UI: A lot of work needs to be done here. An in-flight 'map' of what keys are used for what (as a reminder), even if you still need to exit from the game to make changes via the input window, would be very welcome. I initially couldn't figure out how to shoot missiles. Lots of polish needed for the settings window, too - there is misaligned text. Future: Will this be a trading/fighting/bounty/mining game? Will you be able to have wingmen (input controls suggest it)? Can you set up your own station, provide it with resources, manufacturing and sales for profit? Can you pilot, or at least own/command, capital ships? A bit of guidance into what the developer's plans are would be helpful. Or maybe that's why it's in Early Access - to get those suggestions. :) Wrap-up: Overall, I'm excited to see how the Early Access development of the game goes and what's in store for us with the campaign. This is a great base for a fun game and the developer should be proud. Thanks for the opportunity to test!