Wasteland 2 beta now available to backers, coming to Steam Early Access

Wasteland 2 can be yours - assuming you helped crowdfund the classic RPG revival, and don't mind playing a beta version which inXile is very keen for you to help shape.

Those who backed Wasteland 2 at $55 or above - except the $60 late backer pack - are eligible to try the beta, which can be obtained by logging into the Ranger Center to retrieve a Steam key.

A reference card is available to explain the game's systems and how to play.

If you missed out on the game's funding period, never fear - inXile plans to make the game available via Steam Early Access once backers have had a go.

In a Kickstarter update, inXile boss and Wasteland creator Brian fargo warned that although the RPGs core system are in place it has now entered one of the most productive periods of development.

"Now, however, is the stage of development where the magic happens. With most of the mechanical issues behind us, now we can really start digging deep into the game and finding ways of taking it from good to great. No amount of prepping and planning can replace old-fashioned hands-on playing, testing and iteration time, which is why we are so grateful to have you, our backers, help us hone this process like never before," he wrote.

The rest of the post outlines various ways in which the game will change before the finished release; notably, the beta section is more linear than the full game and various skills are missing. If you find something you don't like in the beta, do give the post a read to make sure your complaint is justified - but then give inXile your feedback, because it's super keen to hear it.

Dave had a big chat with Fargo about the Wasteland 2 beta process this week.