I've come to the conclusion that there is no single perfect solution to the crowds. So there will be an option in the settings window when you start the game to pick 2d or 3d crowds. Performance may still be affected, despite trimming it down to 6,500 polys so people with low spec PC's may have to choose the faster option. Everyone else can pick the one they like looking at best.
I am working on this as much as possible, so I do hope to have the beta complete soon. As soon as I have the beta finished, I will release a feature-limited demo to help my gauge performance, find out about any changes or additions people would like, and ask for help ensuring it's bug free.
When it will go on sale, I really can't say. I can't offer it to a publisher until it's finished. All I can do at the moment is show it around and see who's interested. I have been approached by one publisher already, but nothing's definite there either.
I am working on this as much as possible, so I do hope to have the beta complete soon. As soon as I have the beta finished, I will release a feature-limited demo to help my gauge performance, find out about any changes or additions people would like, and ask for help ensuring it's bug free.
When it will go on sale, I really can't say. I can't offer it to a publisher until it's finished. All I can do at the moment is show it around and see who's interested. I have been approached by one publisher already, but nothing's definite there either.