As we recently reported, after first lifting the verbal NDA, Ashes of Creation released the NDA on all content, allowing players to stream and discuss their experiences from the game this past weekend.
Whereas Alpha 1, the last NDA-free test, took place three years ago (from July to August 2021), this Alpha 2 was set to be an opportunity for everyone to verify the progress made in the world of Vera. Furthermore, although some areas have improved, especially in terms of combat pace and specific environmental features, the overall experience shows that the game is still very much in its early stages.
Polished Promises vs Alpha Reality
Each month, Intrepid Studio showcases features and content that never fail to excite fans - whether it's the seasonal and day/night system or the character creation tool. Yet, many of these key features were conspicuously absent in this Alpha phase. Adding to this is a significant difference in graphic quality, making the current state feel a far cry from what was initially promised.
After eight years of development and dozens of livestreams, the gap between what was shown (sometimes years ago) and the current state of Ashes of Creation gives the impression that two versions of the game are being built: a polished version for livestreams and a less refined version for players.
Crowdfunded MMORPGs: A Troubled History
This discrepancy has raised red flags, especially in a context where similar crowdfunded MMORPG projects have struggled to meet their ambitious promises or stopped development and left backers disappointed.
Take Crowfall, which, although it went all the way through development, largely failed to realize its initial vision, so much so that the project was shut down and acquired by Monumental with the intention of re-releasing it at a later stage.
Even more infamous is Chronicles of Elyria, for which the project's initiator practically walked away with backers’ money… Oh wait, we still got an autobiographical diary about ‘How I Almost Made a MMORPG’ instead.
As for Ashes of Creation, I don't think the MMORPG has reached that point, at least not yet. Despite these recent disappointments, the project still portrays an oldschool game with strong social aspects, which is pretty cool.
Lowering ambitions for greater success?
I can't help but extend Steven Sharif and his teams a little grace because this isn't a AAA studio benefiting from the industry titans’ experience. Objectively, Ashes of Creation doesn't live up to expectations after eight years of development and support. Still, I can see a base on which they can build, but time is running out: Ashes of Creation risks being outdated before it even reaches the market if it doesn't improve quickly.
For instance, some crowdfunded projects still offer a finished product that is consistent with the initial objectives. For example, Temtem, the Pokémon-like MMO, managed to pull through an enjoyable experience, even if it lacked the staying power many of its fans hoped for. Also, it has to be said that its initial objectives were far more achievable and much less innovative than those of other well-known projects like Crowfall, Chronicles of Elyria, or even Camelot Unchained. In fact, lowering its ambitions could be a way for Ashes of Creation to get back on track.
What is the future for crowdfunded MMORPGs?
Looking at the history of MMORPG crowdfunding projects, it's clear that none have truly delivered a lasting impact on the MMORPG genre. In this context, do you believe crowdfunded MMORPGs should scale back their ambitions to release a finished and playable product within a reasonable timeframe? Or, on the flipside, does their greatest value reside in making us dream and introducing brand-new ideas, even at the risk of remaining out of reach?
