What Will Be Available at Launch?
In general, the launch version of Ashes of Creation will include a substantial amount of content, although not everything that has been shown in earlier previews will be immediately playable. The MVP features include:
All 64 Classes: Players will be able to create characters from any of the 64 available classes. Most players expect to see the standard archetypes like tanks, healers, and DPS, along with hybrid options. It’s worth noting that while all classes will be playable, balancing between them will likely evolve post-launch.
Character Level Cap of 50: At launch, the maximum level will be 50. Most players will need to plan their progression carefully, especially if they want to optimize for group content like dungeons and node sieges.
Tulnar Playable Race: The Tulnar race is confirmed to be available. This race has unique racial abilities, which most players consider when choosing their starting class combination.
Underrealm: This feature, which is Ashes of Creation’s dungeon-like underground zones, is expected to be partially available, potentially limited to key overland chokepoints. Players shouldn’t expect the full underground world to be accessible right away.
Settlements Up to City Level (Stage 5): The node system, where towns grow into cities, will be partially implemented. Most players will see functioning cities, but the higher stages and expansions may come later.
Instanced Dungeons: Standard dungeon content will be available at launch. Most players rely on these for both gear progression and cooperative play experiences.
Naval Content: The game will include boats and naval mechanics. In general, early adopters often experiment with naval combat and trading for extra gold and resources.
Animal Husbandry and Breeding: Players can engage in farming and animal breeding. This is mostly a quality-of-life and progression feature that benefits crafting and resource gathering.
Freeholds: These personal housing plots will be available. Most players see freeholds as a way to store items, craft, and show off customization.
Monster Coins: These are a currency tied to certain gameplay systems, likely used for rewards and crafting. Collecting them efficiently will be part of most players’ progression strategies.
Constellations: The star and skill system, which affects character progression and combat options, will be available. Most players usually focus on optimizing their constellations to complement their class roles.
What Features Might Come After Launch?
Some content will likely be added later in post-launch expansions. For example:
Second Continent (Elyrium): Players can expect new zones and exploration content to expand the world. Most players are aware that new regions typically introduce higher-level content and new mechanics.
Additional Settlement Stages: There’s a possibility that a sixth settlement stage may be added later. This will further extend the node progression and city-building experience.
In general, these post-launch expansions are intended to keep the world evolving and give players a reason to return to older nodes while exploring new ones.
What Features Could Be Dropped or Delayed?
Some systems may not make it into the launch version. For example, combat pets are currently under discussion. Even though the technology exists (it shares systems with Summoner pets), the developers are debating whether they are worth including at launch. Most players don’t prioritize pets in terms of core gameplay, but they can add extra fun and strategic options for combat.
How Will This Affect Player Experience?
For most players, the MVP features will provide a rich experience at launch. The full 64 classes and level 50 cap mean that there’s a lot of variety in how characters can be built. Node progression up to stage 5 cities ensures that players can still engage in meaningful world-building, PvP, and PvE content.
However, because some features will be scaled back or added later, it’s important to manage expectations. For example, the Underrealm may feel limited at first, and naval content or settlement expansions may take time to fully explore. Players planning for long-term strategies, like gathering Ashes of Creation gold or rare crafting materials, will need to consider these launch limitations.
Tips for Early Players
Focus on Core Progression: Leveling your character to 50 and participating in node growth activities should be the primary focus at launch. Most players find this helps them engage in endgame content faster.
Experiment with Classes: With all 64 classes available, early experimentation helps identify which roles suit your playstyle. Most experienced players suggest testing a hybrid class to see how it handles in group and solo content.
Use Resources Wisely: Whether it’s crafting materials, freehold space, or Ashes of Creation gold, prioritizing resources early will make progression smoother. Avoid hoarding unnecessary items in favor of those that directly support your goals.
Engage With the Community: Early players often benefit from trading knowledge, organizing groups for dungeons, and participating in node activities. In general, Ashes of Creation rewards players who collaborate.
Prepare for Updates: Post-launch content will expand the world significantly. Staying flexible and revisiting older nodes or systems will help you stay competitive.
The launch of Ashes of Creation will offer a strong foundation for players, even if some features are delayed or scaled back. Most players can expect a rich class system, solid PvE and PvP content, and meaningful progression through nodes and settlements. Being aware of what is included, what may come later, and what might be dropped can help players plan their early strategies effectively. Whether your focus is gathering Ashes of Creation gold, exploring new zones, or mastering a class, the MVP provides a playable and enjoyable experience.