What the developers have to say:

Why Early Access? “Identity is an absolutely enormous undertaking, especially for our modest team. In order to get you into the game and experiencing what Identity offers as soon as possible, we're releasing small pieces called modules, leading up to Identity's full retail release.



You can now play the first module, Town Square. In the future your game will be expanded with additional modules such as SWAT and Racing before the release of Identity.” Approximately how long will this game be in Early Access? “We currently expect one year of development between each module release, as well as the full Identity release. This time will be greatly affected by our resources; as more people purchase Identity our team grows and development will hasten. Help us spread the word!



With our current pace, we estimate that the SWAT module will be complete in late 2019, the racing module in 2020 and the feature-complete Identity beta will begin in 2021. These are not to be taken as release dates but as our current best estimates.” How is the full version planned to differ from the Early Access version? “Early access will begin with the Town Square social module, followed by a SWAT module which focuses on competitive and realistic combat, and finally a car racing simulator. These modules allow you to experience the core elements of Identity before release.



After all modules are available, you'll gain access to the beta/early-access version of Identity as a whole. It is at this point where you'll have full character progression systems, access to the entire game world, persistent gangs and crime, the entire police force and more.



Identity is currently in the Town Square module release!” What is the current state of the Early Access version? “The first Identity module, Town Square, is currently available for play. The Town Square will be continuously expanded upon as we're developing the second module, SWAT.



The Town Square module does not contain much of Identity's full gameplay, but includes all character creation and customization, player housing (including furnishing), NPC shops, the cinema, karaoke and more social features. The Town Square allows you to get your character into the world and meet new friends.



The SWAT module will expand this to include weapon systems and competitive cops versus criminals gameplay, which will be followed by vehicles and racing. Finally, early access will be expanded to include the Identity beta before full retail launch. Those who purchase Identity on Steam during early access will have full access to all of these phases including the retail release.” Will the game be priced differently during and after Early Access? “While currently undecided, we may gradually raise the price as we ship new content and features.” How are you planning on involving the Community in your development process? “Identity is a large project, and we're very open to feedback from the community and those who are supporting its development. Voice your suggestions and feedback on the official forums; the Identity development team keeps a close eye on them and we'll consider any great ideas.”