Closed tests are planned, but the release date is still open
FLEXUS says it plans to hold closed tests before Dear Passengers launches and will share participation news through its Discord community. The studio did not provide a test date, application process, participant count or confirm an open playtest in the October 2 Q&A.
The Steam store still lists a broad 2026 Windows release window. FLEXUS did not announce an exact date or month in the Q&A, saying it will share firmer information when the team is confident in the game's progress. The exact price also remains unannounced, although the studio says it is aiming for a price comparable with similar games in the genre.
Four-player lobbies and two-player sessions
The current maximum is four players per lobby. FLEXUS says it is trying to support larger groups, but has not confirmed whether more than four players will be possible at launch. The team also says the game is designed to remain enjoyable with two players rather than requiring a full four-person crew.
Players will be able to join friends through an invitation or lobby code. Public matchmaking with strangers is being considered, but is not yet confirmed for launch. Local co-op, split-screen and crossplay were not confirmed in this update.
Accessible flying, risky cargo and progression between flights
FLEXUS describes the aircraft controls as detailed enough to provide the feeling of flying, but simplified rather than built as a full simulator. Flights can alternate between obstacle-heavy action and quieter moments when a player can leave the controls to help friends in the cabin. Crashes are possible, and risky cargo can create consequences during a flight.
A typical run is expected to last roughly one to 90 minutes depending on the crew's piloting performance. The studio also confirms progression between flights, but has not yet explained the economy, upgrades or unlock structure. A sandbox mode, fixed character classes and competitive modes are not currently planned.
Controller support, customization and achievements
The team is currently focused on the Steam release. Controller support is planned, while full HOTAS support is not. Other platforms may be explored if there is enough demand, but no console version has been announced.
Character and aircraft customization options are planned, along with Steam achievements. FLEXUS also intends to localize the game before launch and support remappable controls for non-QWERTY layouts, but the final language list will be announced closer to release. Steam Workshop support is not planned for launch.
Where the project stands on October 5
Our October 5 check found no public demo, Steam Playtest registration or price on the official store page. The store continues to list Windows PC, single-player, multiplayer, co-op and online co-op, with 2026 as the release window.
Dear Passengers appeared third on Steam's public Top Wishlists page during the same check. That position is a dated public-chart snapshot and can change as Steam reorders the list; it is not a sales, download or active-player count.