What is Alpha-2 Phase 3?
Alpha-2 phase 3 is the final part of the Alpha-2 testing cycle. The goal of this phase is to expand the game world, introduce new features, and refine existing systems. This is the stage where scalability and stability are the main focus. Unlike Phase 1 or Phase 2, Phase 3 is intended to run 24/7 with minimal interruptions. While wipes are still technically possible, they are generally not expected unless absolutely necessary.
Phase 3 officially launched on August 26, 2025, after a full wipe of all previous characters and progression. Two initial realms, Shol (US East) and Lotharia (EU West), were made available for continuous testing. These realms are monitored closely for queue times, population balance, and server performance. Developers have indicated that additional realms may be added depending on demand and server stability.
What Can Players Expect in Terms of Gameplay?
In general, Phase 3 is designed to provide a more polished and persistent gameplay experience. Here’s what most players can expect:

• Expanded Content: New quests, locations, and environmental features are being introduced. Players will encounter richer landscapes and more interactive elements in cities, dungeons, and wilderness areas.
• Lighting and Visual Improvements: The development team has been working on lighting, maps, and interior environments. A "nativization" of the custom lighting system is helping address some of the previous graphical inconsistencies, especially in large indoor areas.
• Dynamic Gridding and Server Improvements: Servers are getting smarter. Dynamic gridding allows server workers to be optimized and even split during runtime, meaning larger groups of players can explore, fight, and trade without heavy lag.
• PvX Events and Harbingers: The upcoming Harbinger update, scheduled for November 18, 2025, introduces new raid content and PvX challenges. The Ancient One, a new raid boss, will present both PvE and PvP threats. These events highlight how the game blends player-driven conflict with ongoing world events.

Phase 3 is expected to last at least a year, though active development and feedback could adjust the timeline.
How Should Players Participate in Testing?
Most players find the key to Phase 3 is active participation. Developers rely heavily on player feedback to refine systems. Here are some practical tips for making your time in Phase 3 productive:

• Report Bugs and Issues: The game is still in active development, so if you encounter glitches, exploits, or unusual behavior, report them through official channels. Your feedback directly shapes the game.
• Experiment with Features: Try new mechanics, quests, and events. Understanding how these systems work in practice helps the development team identify potential improvements.
• Engage in Community Events: Even small actions, like participating in hide-and-seek events or testing new dungeon encounters, help evaluate game systems and server load.

Being an active participant doesn’t just help the developers—it also gives you a front-row seat to changes and improvements as they happen.
How Economy and Currency Are Affected
Phase 3 also introduces groundwork for the in-game economy. While some systems, like monster coins, are planned to be fully implemented closer to the Beta, early economic interactions are already possible. Players can explore crafting, trading, and resource management, which can impact your ability to accumulate Ashes of Creation gold. Understanding how gold flows and how resources are distributed in Phase 3 will give you a head start when more permanent systems come online.
What to Keep in Mind About Stability and Performance
Unlike previous phases, Phase 3 aims for high uptime and reduced wipes. However, players should still be prepared for occasional instability due to new systems being tested. Server performance, queue times, and dynamic events may fluctuate, especially in the first few weeks after new updates. Most players adapt by being flexible with their schedules and focusing on exploration, small-scale content, or group activities rather than relying solely on endgame achievements during this period.
Looking Ahead: Phase 3 to Beta
Phase 3 sets the stage for Beta by stabilizing core systems and introducing persistent world elements. Players should view this phase as both a chance to enjoy early content and an opportunity to influence the final shape of the game. Key systems, including advanced crafting, large-scale PvP, and refined economic mechanics, are expected to evolve between Phase 3 and the Beta.
In summary, Alpha-2 Phase 3 is about persistence, refinement, and preparation. For players who want a more reliable, engaging experience, it offers expanded content, technical improvements, and meaningful ways to contribute to development. By actively participating, reporting issues, and experimenting with systems, players help ensure that Ashes of Creation continues to improve as it moves toward Beta.