Is Hytale worth its price and initial content?

Hytale, the project that began as an ambitious proposal from Hypixel Studios and was close to never seeing the light of day, is finally preparing to launch in Early Access. Its initial release, along with the announced prices and statements from the development team, has revived the central question: is it worth buying in its current state?

Editions and Pricing: an Early Access Designed to Be Affordable

Hypixel Studios confirmed that Hytale will arrive with three editions:

• Standard Edition (US$ 19.99)
• Supporter Edition (US$ 34.99), which includes additional cosmetics such as capes and hats
• Cursebreaker Edition (US$ 69.99), aimed at players who want more cosmetic items

These differences do not affect playable content: the extras are purely visual.

Regarding pricing, Simon Collins-Laflamme explained that they aimed to keep it as low as possible, even if that meant taking personal financial risks. According to him, the game is based on an older build, “it’s not good yet,” and charging more wouldn’t be appropriate.

He also stated that he wants as many players as possible to join, especially in a challenging economic context, and highlighted his commitment after reacquiring the project and planning to sustain its development for at least ten years.

What Will Hytale Actually Offer at Launch?

Although the price is attractive, the Early Access content will be limited.
The team described it as a “real Early Access,” with bugs, incomplete systems, and elements that still need to be rebuilt.

Available and Missing Modes

At launch, the following will be available:

• Exploration Mode
• Creative Mode
• Modding tools available from day one

However, two key features from the original concept will be absent:

• The Adventure Mode
• The minigames

The absence of Adventure Mode is one of the main concerns among players who expected a complete experience from the beginning.

Game Engine and Technical State

Hytale will launch on the Legacy Engine, the classic engine used in early versions of the project, after abandoning the more modern version that was being developed with Riot.

The team has rehired more than 30 previous developers, and around 50 people are now working to stabilize and expand the game. Even so, the initial version will launch with bugs and will require several years of evolution.

Criticism and Warnings About Its Initial State

Alongside the excitement, several warnings have emerged. Some opinions suggest that the game looks “empty,” with few mechanics and a lack of content compared to what was originally promised.

These criticisms do not deny the project’s potential —recognized since 2016— but highlight that this potential has not yet materialized. The absence of Adventure Mode also reduces its appeal for those who expected a fully narrative experience.

Another point frequently mentioned is the lack of regional pricing, which makes the entry cost higher in affected economies.

Advantages of Entering Early Access

Despite its limitations, Hytale offers several positive aspects for players who enjoy being part of early-stage development:

• The base price is affordable, reducing the risk of buying early.
• Modding from day one enables the community to contribute additional content.
• The project has confirmed long-term funding.
• Players can directly influence the game’s evolution.

Is It a Good Time to Start Playing Hytale?

The answer depends on the type of player. Those who enjoy Early Access games, can tolerate bugs, and want to be part of the development process may find the cost reasonable considering the game’s potential.

On the other hand, players seeking a complete and stable experience may prefer to wait, as this initial version does not yet represent the project’s final vision. Hytale has potential and a committed team, but its Early Access will be exactly that: a early, incomplete, and evolving stage.