The gates are opening once again...
Our next Gateworlds Public Playtest begins July 15, and with it comes our biggest update yet, which we're naming: Call of the Abyss...
Over the past few months we've been expanding Gateworlds with new progression systems, new exploration challenges, and a fairly unfortunate limb loss system.
Here's what you'll find in next week's playtest.
Every adventure needs an exciting destination or challenge to overcome. For this playtest we're introducing the Abyss world, a dangerous new realm that serves as the ultimate challenge of the playtest.
Hidden deep within the Abyss world lies a sprawling dungeon filled with powerful enemies, dangerous encounters, and valuable rewards. Reaching the Abyss won't be easy, it will require a lot of world hopping, preparation, and solid set of weapons and armour.
In addition to this "mega dungeon" there will also be a lot of other interesting challenges sprinkled across every other world (like the mire tomb in the gif below).
If you manage to survive... we'd love to hear how.
(quick note: this update has placed combat as a primary a focus, as we really want to test how far we can push the challenge and discovery aspects of the game. In the future, there will be a variety of ways to play that don't centre around combat).
The gods may be willing to help you on your journey to the Abyss. The new Boon System allows you to devote yourself to your chosen deity and earn powerful blessings in return. For this playtest only Balatoc is available, but you will be able to see the potential of the other deities.
As your favour grows, you'll unlock boons that strengthen your characters and open up new ways to shape how you play. Whether you focus on combat, exploration, or another path entirely, your relationship with the gods will now become a central part of your progression.
Just remember, divine favour rarely comes without expectations (for this playtest the expectations are about fighting; Balatoc loves a good fight).
The Gateworlds are a dangerous place. Sometimes your characters will win, and sometimes... they'll come home missing an arm or a leg...
We've added a new set of injury animations, including dynamic limb loss during combat. It's equal parts brutal and dramatic.
Don't stress too much if your favourite character loses their favourite arm. They will still be able to help out around the village, but at a much slower pace. Plus, in a world of magic and wonder there might be a way to fully restore those missing limbs...
Whether you're returning from our previous playtest or stepping into the Gateworlds for the first time, we can't wait to see the adventures and disasters you create!
If you haven't already, wishlist Gateworlds and request access to the playtest so you're ready when the gates open on July 15.
We'll see you in the Abyss!
Lots of love,
Hydrarch