Saleblazers isn’t your everyday simulation game. Developed by Airstrafe Interactive, this early access title boldly blends survival mechanics with shopkeeping in a vibrant open-world setting. Released on Steam on 29 September 2023, Saleblazers introduces a fresh take on the genre, mixing adventure, crafting, and action into a retail empire simulator. Whether you’re battling samurai or setting up elaborate shop layouts, the game offers something for everyone.
The concept is deceptively simple: survive on a hostile island while running a shop that sells anything you can get your hands on. But don’t let the quirky premise fool you—Saleblazers is a surprisingly deep and engaging experience, offering both single-player and multiplayer modes for up to 1-8 players.
The heart of Saleblazers lies in its shopkeeping mechanics. Players start with a modest shop and gradually expand it into a bustling retail hub. You’ll have complete control over its design, from the wallpaper to the floor tiles. Fancy running a high-tech operation? Install self-checkout machines, hire NPC employees, and set up electricity generators to keep everything running smoothly.
The level of customisation is immense. You’re not limited to selling traditional goods either—anything you can pick up, be it bamboo, fish, or discarded trash, can be sold for profit. As you progress, the game introduces a robust skill tree and research board to unlock new items and improve shop efficiency. It’s all about finding your rhythm, balancing the shop’s upkeep, and maximising profits.
Saleblazers isn’t just about running a shop; it’s about surviving. The island becomes increasingly dangerous after sunset, with goblins, bandits, and other foes appearing to disrupt your operations. Players can use weapons like swords, guns, or even improvised tools to fend off these nightly horrors. For those looking for a more relaxed shopkeeping experience, automated turrets can do the dirty work, allowing you to sleep soundly while your shop stays secure.
Combat, while fun, is a bit janky in its current state. Players report that attacks can feel awkward, with characters sometimes overshooting their intended targets. Despite this, the thrill of surviving the night and looting fallen enemies adds a layer of excitement to the shopkeeping gameplay.
Beyond the shop, Saleblazers offers a sprawling open world filled with biomes, towns, and world bosses. The narrative campaign takes players on a journey across these varied landscapes, uncovering secrets about the island and its inhabitants. Side quests, mini-games, and PvP invasions keep things lively, ensuring there’s always something new to discover.
Gathering resources like bamboo, stone, and fish is essential for crafting and stocking your shop. The fast travel system makes it easier to move between points of interest, though you’ll need to explore on foot to uncover hidden treasures and complete objectives. The game’s dynamic world, complete with reactive AI customers and a crime system, ensures that every decision you make has consequences.
The developers at Airstrafe Interactive have been transparent about the game’s early access status. They aim to keep Saleblazers in this phase for at least two years, focusing on player feedback to refine mechanics and add content. Regular updates have been promised, with plans to introduce deeper shopkeeping systems and a fully fleshed-out main campaign.
Players can engage with the developers via Steam forums and Discord, ensuring that community suggestions play a significant role in shaping the game’s future. The roadmap includes major updates, likely tied to price increases, so early adopters should keep an eye out for significant improvements.
Saleblazers is a unique gem that’s already making waves in its early access phase. Despite its rough edges, the game’s ambitious blend of survival and shopkeeping mechanics offers an engaging and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re a solo player or someone looking to team up with friends, there’s plenty to keep you entertained on this bizarre yet captivating island.
If you’re willing to overlook some bugs and a steep entry price, Saleblazers is a game worth investing in. With its potential for growth and a dedicated development team, it’s only going to get better. So, grab your katana, open your shop, and dive into the quirky world of Saleblazers. The island awaits!
