Key information
Developer Corecrew has announced that its cooperative mining horror comedy game, Coal Duty, will launch in early access on Steam on October 27. The title supports one to five players and features a unique premise where a nation mandates strict mining quotas for its citizens.
Players must manage quotas while exploring mines, where they can also pursue illicit activities like smuggling or gathering loot for the black market. A core mechanic involves proximity voice chat, which allows players to coordinate, though the game warns that mysterious entities lurking in the tunnels can overhear these conversations.
The early access version expands significantly upon the previous demo, introducing multiple difficulty levels, diverse biomes, new creatures, and additional escape machinery. Developers estimate that reaching the first of two available endings will take approximately five hours, with further content planned for those seeking alternative escape routes.
Corecrew anticipates an early access period lasting 12 to 18 months, during which they plan to add more items, tools, and biomes. The game will be available in 13 languages, including Korean, Japanese, and Simplified Chinese, upon its release.
