Exclusive to backers?

[Texonidas]

I was wondering if the ability to submit characters is exclusive to people who backed the game on Kickstarter, or those who bought the more expensive versions on Steam? If not, how would one go about becoming a contributor? I would love to submit some characters, but I can't afford the amounts on the Steam page.

[Gadg3t]

The kickstarter rewards were one of the ways, the steam/higher tier purchases are another. Unfortunately I don't think there are any other ways to get contributions in.

Tynan is also/has increased the price lately on the tiers
https://ludeon.com/blog/2016/08/backstory-in-game-and-pirate-king-tier-prices-will-be-increased/

[milon]

You can also purchase upgraded tiers from Ludeon:
http://rimworldgame.com/

But you do have to pay for them.