First person shooter Shrapnel, developed by Neon Machine, is launching in Steam Early Access on March 12. The game previously debuted on the Epic Games Store in February 2024, and the Steam release introduces new updates as the player community grows.
Good to Know
Early access places players inside a futuristic Tokyo battleground where two teams compete in a 4 versus 4 mode. The main objective involves collecting 300 units of Sigma, a resource that drops from the sky during in game storms.
Sigma acts as both a collectible objective and a power source. Players use it to activate special abilities tied to their characters.
At launch, players can select between two characters. Swan uses Sigma to perform fast dash movements across the battlefield, while Index converts the energy into powerful attacks.
Weapons and cosmetic items will also be available, and some cosmetics can increase experience gain. Character progression during early access will be capped at level 20 while developers roll out updates.
The studio plans to release new content updates every Wednesday at 10 a.m. PST during the early access period.
The Steam version currently excludes blockchain functionality because of platform rules. However, developers still plan to integrate blockchain technology through GalaChain in other markets.
A partnership with Trusted Copyright Chain will support the project expansion, particularly in the Chinese gaming market, where digital asset ownership and blockchain features may play a larger role.
Players interested in joining the early access phase must sign up through the game portal and link their Steam and Discord accounts.
Developers say that connection will help build a strong community and allow players to provide direct feedback as new features roll out during development.
The early access stage gives players a chance to test gameplay systems, shape future updates, and explore new mechanics before the full launch.