Warborne Above Ashes Surpasses 30,000 Players in First Playtest, Showcases 100 vs 100 24/7 PvP MMO Warfare

Comments

The debut playtest for Warborne Above Ashes, a new 24/7 PvP MMO blending large-scale battles with strategic faction warfare, has drawn over 30,000 players since its launch. The game’s focus on instant action and massive 100v100 clashes helps the game distinguish itself among a crowded field. While MMOs like Albion Online and Eve Online feature large scale PvP, it isn't the only reason to play those games. Warborne seems to be focused on PvP first and foremost. The game is available on Steam and is currently conducting a playtest.

The Art of War in Warborne | Highlights from Technical Testing

What is Warborne Above Ashes?

  • 24/7 PvP Warfare: The game emphasizes non-stop battles across a sprawling open world, with no grinding required. Players can join fights in minutes, engaging in skirmishes, duels, or 100v100 faction sieges.
  • Strategic Depth: Six factions vie for control, with players taking roles like frontline fighters, tacticians, or resource raiders. Dynamic weather and mobile bases add tactical complexity.
  • Accessible Combat: A streamlined progression system lets players gear up in 30 minutes, focusing on combat over grind.

Playtest Details

  • Current Content: Two factions (Ashen and Sirius), 28 playable “Drifters,” 60+ weapons, and 30+ armor types.
  • Battles: Modes range from solo duels to open-world skirmishes and 100v100 sieges.
  • Future Tests: More factions, Drifters, and mechanics like electromagnetic cannons and siege vehicles are planned.

Key Features

  • Massive Scale: Battles support 200 players, with environmental hazards like sandstorms altering combat dynamics.
  • Customization: 40+ Drifters and 150+ gear options allow for diverse playstyles.
  • Persistent Wars: Monthly faction resets ensure fresh starts, with new maps and challenges added regularly.

Time will tell if an MMO focused almost entirely on PvP will resonate with gamers. I have my doubts. While I enjoy PvP in MMOs, I view PvP as just one small facet to the MMO experience. Still, the emphasis on PvP should help Warborne stand out in a crowded field.

Little is publicly available about the game's developer, Pumpkin Studio, or its publisher, Qooland, but they appear to be based in Singapore. Qooland previously published Soulmask, which is doing well on Steam.

Further reading: Official website

Related:

tagged with