Alpha testers should not expect to "play" a game, Ashes of Creation Director warns

The ongoing Alpha Two phase of Ashes of Creation became a hot topic when a Redditor kekdubbaew cleared a misunderstanding among testers. They shared that alpha testing is a development phase and not the final product; therefore, testers shouldn’t expect fully polished patches, complete zones, and finalized content.

Instead, they advised players should accept gradual updates and provide feedback to the developers to help them build a complete game. The game's Creative Director, Steven Sharif, hammered the point further by saying he always recommends not participating in Alpha tests if the participants expect to “play” a game rather than help develop it.

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Ashes of Creation Director helps clear out misconception about Alpha two phase

Alpha 2 was promised as more than it is byu/kekdubbaew inAshesofCreation

On the Reddit post was originally made on December 25, 2024, Steven responded to the players’ sentiments and reminded testers that alpha testing isn’t for everyone. He explained that Alpha Two will span a long period, during which systems and content will roll out in an incomplete state. Sharif acknowledged that this process could be frustrating but requested all the testers to have realistic expectations.

Comment byu/kekdubbaew from discussion inAshesofCreation

Sharif highlighted the challenges of game development, particularly for a project as complex as Ashes of Creation. The interconnected systems often lead to unpredictable issues when changes are made. He encouraged the community to approach testing with more open mind and stay away if they want to experience a full game.

"I have consistently beat the drums of not participating if you are expecting to “play” a game."

However, the standard of expectations toward this game is justified by a part of the community who believe that while the game is still in Alpha two, it has been under development for over a decade. Expecting some level of polish in a game under development for so long, even though it is in Alpha stage, doesn't seem so unreasonable to most players.

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What are the updates on Ashes of Creation Alpha two?

What is added in the game so far (Image via Intrepid Studios)

The Alpha-testing phase has entered its second stage, introducing exciting new content and systems in Ashes of Creation:

• New playable races: Players can now play as the Vaelune, a Jinn-inspired human race, and the Dünir, a dwarven culture tied to the Sandsquall Desert.
• New dungeon – Befallen Forge: A sprawling underground area that ties into Dünir lore. A dracolich world boss is set to arrive later in this area.
• Node Expansion: Three new Nodes in the Sandsquall Desert have been implemented, along with significant adjustments to the surrounding areas.
• Player Housing: Freeholds, the game’s housing system, are now available for purchase. These customizable plots require players to be Level 20 and will evolve through phases two and three.
• Marketplaces: A first iteration of trading hubs allows players to list items for sale, with developers cautioning against potential bugs.

Seasonal festivities have also made their way into the game. The testing environment has also shifted toward a more extended uptime, with servers active most days until January 6, 2025. After that, servers will remain live at least five days a week as Intrepid prepares for a 24/7 third phase scheduled for May 2025.