# Devlog: Closed Beta Kickoff + What’s Next

• Rift Miner is now in Closed Beta (non-public).
• First wave of keys has been delivered to testers — thank you!
• Want to follow along or apply to playtest? Join the Discord: https://discord.gg/kKeEK3AUBh
• The prototype on itch.io remains free to try.
• I’m actively developing the game toward a future Steam release.

What’s New (September 2025)

Rift Miner reached a big milestone: the Closed Beta is live and feedback is already shaping the next iterations. This phase helps validate core systems, polish feel, fix bugs, and fine-tune pacing before I widen access.

If you enjoy watching games evolve (and want to influence that evolution), you’re warmly invited to join the community Discord for progress updates, polls, behind-the-scenes notes, and playtester opportunities:
👉 Join the Rift Miner Discord

Note: Beta access is limited and distributed in waves to keep feedback focused and iteration fast.

Road to Steam

• Iterating frequently based on community feedback
• Improving UX, game feel, balance, and onboarding
• Expanding systems in manageable steps while keeping performance solid

I’ll share more about the Steam timeline and features as they firm up — you’ll see that first on Discord.

Try the Prototype (Free on itch.io)

The current prototype remains free here on itch.io so you can get a taste of the core loop. It’s not final and doesn’t represent the full scope, but it helps collect early impressions while the Closed Beta runs in parallel.

How You Can Help Right Now

• Join the Discord to follow progress and apply for future test waves — https://discord.gg/kKeEK3AUBh
• Play the free prototype and share your thoughts
• Spread the word if Rift Miner looks like your kind of game

Thanks so much for your interest and support — it truly powers development. Let’s make Rift Miner the best it can be! ⛏️🚀