The developers of Ashes of Creation are currently revealing new details about the game weekly. However, the most interesting aspect is how the Alpha and upcoming tests will progress. An official statement has now been released.
What is the status of Ashes of Creation? The MMORPG is currently in Alpha 1, which was originally scheduled for spring 2019. Although selected testers are allowed to try out the game, these initial tests are under an NDA – players are not allowed to talk about them.
The latest developer update stated that Alpha 1 is set to expand at the end of August. The exact date will be announced soon.
However, the total number of players in Alpha 1 is strongly limited. We provide you with an overview of when you can play and what the developers’ test plan looks like.
First Alpha Tests Only for Early Backers with Lots of Money
Who can play the Alpha at the end of August? With the next expansion of the Alpha, only players who have purchased a “Leader of Men” or a “Phoenix Initiative” package can participate. Both packages, however, cost a considerable amount of money ($1,000 or $10,000). This test is also under an NDA, which was misrepresented in a previous version of the article.
Over time, the test is expected to expand to more players. However, only 10,000 packages were sold for Alpha 1. When the later packages will gain access is currently unknown.
The first tests will only take place at specific times. In the fall, there are plans for servers that will remain permanently online and will not be subject to an NDA.
Can you buy access to Alpha 1? Currently, there is no offer in the shop to gain access to Alpha 1. Sales for it were stopped two years ago.
The developers of Intrepid Studios are considering bringing back such an offer in the future, provided that the tests of Ashes of Creation go positively (via Ashespost).
However, the cheapest package for Alpha 1 previously cost $450. For access to the later Alpha 2, you currently need to pay $250 (via Intrepid Studios).
No Dates Yet for Alpha 2, Beta, and Release
What happens after Alpha 1? Intrepid has already published a roadmap on how things will proceed after Alpha 1:
- Alpha 1 permanent servers – Fall 2020
- Alpha 2
- Beta 0 – Access will be raffled
- Beta 1
- Beta 2
- Pre-Release – 1-2 days before launch
- Release
- One major update per quarter after release
However, there are no time indications for the planned phases. Once these are available, we will update the article accordingly.
Anyone registering for the Beta on the official website before September 2020 will receive a piece of furniture for their home for free and has the chance to participate in Beta 0.
Is there already gameplay for Ashes of Creation? Although there is an NDA on the current tests, the developers have already shown gameplay that has been positively received by many. The system around the nodes and the battles for them is generating a lot of interest.
