Find The Needle Early Access plan

When does Early Access open?

Early Access opens November 6, 2026 on the full-game store page. The page shows a live countdown for the unlock. For the countdown itself, see launch time.

What is in the Early Access build?

The developer’s Early Access FAQ on Steam states:

• You can play from the first handful of hay through to finding all 24 needles.
• There are five stages of production, from hay bales and bricks up to paper, bioplastic and carbon fibre, with conveyors, pipes, power, scanners, delivery orders, blueprints and building parts.
• A Standard pile takes around 7 to 10 hours; the Mountain takes 30 hours or more.
• Bugs are expected; the game sends a crash report on its own, and other reports go to the developer Discord.

For the free playable build available now, see the Demo page. For the stage map, see production stages.

How long will Early Access last?

The FAQ estimates roughly 6 to 12 months, depending on later-stage feedback. After Early Access the developers plan more machines, diggers, late-game projects and balancing on top of the five stages already described.

Will the price change?

Yes. The FAQ says the price is planned to rise when the game leaves Early Access, so buying during EA is the cheapest window. No regional price is posted while the listing is coming soon. Details: buying guide.

Demo versus full game

Build	Steam app	Role
Find The Needle Demo	5165210	Free Windows demo
Find The Needle	5160800	Full game / Early Access listing

Wishlist 5160800 for the Early Access unlock. Hardware notes sit on system requirements.