Updates / Updated 2026-08-20
Demo and Playtest Status
How to distinguish past demos from the live Early Access build.
Mandate Order is now sold as an Early Access game. Earlier public demos and playtests are historical; the current Steam store page does not present a separate playable demo in the verified purchase area.
Route
Do this in order
- 1
Check the Steam store buttons for a current Download Demo action.
- 2
Use Steam News for dated playtest announcements.
- 3
Compare video and guide dates with the Early Access launch.
- 4
Remove old demo branches before installing the live build if Steam reports conflicts.
How to identify an outdated demo guide
A page can remain useful for broad mechanics while its costs, pacing or interface no longer match the live build. Use the recording or publication date as the first filter.
- Recorded before August 12, 2026: treat balance details as historical.
- No current patch number: verify every cost-sensitive instruction.
- Different menus or objectives: follow the live interface.
- A current Steam Download Demo button would override this status.
Installing the live build
The purchasable Steam version uses AppID 1733690. If an earlier branch or local file causes a conflict, use Steam's normal installation and file verification flow before applying community fixes.
- Confirm the library entry belongs to AppID 1733690.
- Allow Steam to finish updating before launching.
- Verify local files when old demo remnants cause errors.
- Read the newest official patch note before deleting saves.
If it does not work
A community video labeled demo may show an older balance version. Compare its upload date with August 12, 2026 and current patch notes.
Completion signal
Steam installs the Early Access app under AppID 1733690.
Next moves