Released on March 25, 2025, Schedule 1 is an ambitious blend of simulation, strategy, and action, crafted by developer and publisher TVGS. Available now on Steam in Early Access, this title thrusts players into the shoes of a small-time drug dealer with big dreams: constructing a sprawling criminal empire in the seedy streets of Hyland Point. The Early Access phase is projected to span roughly two years, with regular updates introducing fresh content like new drugs, production methods, and gameplay mechanics. TVGS is committed to involving the community, letting player feedback steer the game’s evolution. A heads-up, though: expect a 25-50% price hike once Early Access wraps up.
Gameplay: Hustle, Expand, Automate
At its core, Schedule 1 is about crafting and distributing an array of drugs, each with its own unique production process. You’ll hustle through Hyland Point—on foot, skateboard, or behind the wheel—navigating a treacherous landscape of rival cartels and ever-present law enforcement. But it’s not just about slinging product. Players can scale their operation by hiring dealers, snapping up properties, and forging a web of suppliers and customers. The goal? A fully automated drug empire that runs like clockwork.
This open-world sim offers deep customization, letting you splurge on vehicles, luxury items, weapons, and more. You can also recruit staff to manage businesses—legit or otherwise—fueling your rise to underworld dominance. Whether you’re fine-tuning your operation or outmaneuvering foes, Schedule I delivers a dynamic sandbox where every choice matters.
Multiplayer: Team Up or Take Over
A standout feature is the multiplayer mode, where you can join forces with friends to grow your criminal network. Collaborate to outsmart rival cartels, pool resources, or build a thriving distribution pipeline. The multiplayer experience is fluid and unpredictable, offering endless opportunities for teamwork—or betrayal—in Hyland Point’s unforgiving streets.
What’s Next for Schedule I
With two years of Early Access ahead, TVGS has big plans. Updates will roll out frequently, expanding the drug roster, refining production systems, and introducing new mechanics to keep the gameplay fresh. The developers are leaning on community input to shape these additions, ensuring the game evolves in step with its players. From perfecting your empire’s logistics to facing off against tougher rivals, Schedule I promises to grow richer and more challenging over time.
Final Thoughts
Schedule 1 is a bold take on the simulation genre, blending strategic depth with pulse-pounding action. Whether you’re cooking product in a dingy hideout, dodging cops, or plotting with pals online, the game captures the thrill—and peril—of life in the underworld. As it matures through Early Access, this title has the potential to become a defining name in crime sims. Ready to stake your claim in Hyland Point? The empire-building starts now.
