Kerbal Space Program officially releases after 4 years of testing

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It takes a little time to prep a mission to space.

Kerbal Space Program, a simulator that enables players to create their own rockets and spaceships and then try to actually get them to lift off and fly, has officially launched its 1.0 version today. The game originally has been playable in its alpha form back in June 24, 2011. It went to beta in Dec. 15, 2014.

That’s a long time between an alpha release and an official launch, but Kerbal Space Program has benefited. Not only has the developer been able to receive plenty of feedback and used to make the game better, but the simulator already has a faithful fan base that has been playing the game for years.

The 1.0 update also adds new features, including mining that has players searching the solar system for resources. The spacecraft also have improved heating and aerodynamic simulations.

Kerbal Space Program costs $40, but it’s on sale for $30 until May 1 on Valve’s digital store, Steam.