Dear Adventurers of Aeternea,

As we navigate through the early days of March 2024, the journey of Abyss Online has reached new heights, thanks to your unwavering support and enthusiasm. Here's a glance at the milestones we've achieved together and what lies ahead:

🛠️ Tech and Game Development Achievements:

Successful Upgrade to Unreal Engine 5.3:

Our transition to UE 5.3 has been a game-changer, resolving previous challenges and unlocking new possibilities for Abyss Online. The engine upgrade has significantly enhanced game performance and visual fidelity.

If you are interested in pre-purchasing the game, hop in Discord, ping a moderator and come test with us before you buy! The servers will be online a lot leading up to Early Access and you feedback is invaluable. If you are in the media and are interested in giving out Steam keys, please email nick@abyssonline.com

Taipei Game Show Success:

Our presence at the Taipei Game Show in January was a resounding success! We connected with many of you, shared insights about the game's future, and celebrated with exclusive Abyss collectibles.

Expanded Testing Platforms:

We've broadened our testing horizons beyond PC to include Mac, with Mobile and Console platforms later this year. This expansion ensures that more adventurers can explore Aeternea, regardless of their preferred gaming device.

Early Access Launch Set for April 18th:

Our journey through Alpha testing has paved the way for an Early Access, we are shipping a constant Stream of updates headed towards our full release later this year.

🌐 Website and Community Engagement:

Website Revamp Complete:

Thanks to the incredible talent within our community our website has undergone a significant transformation. It's now better equipped to serve as the central hub for all things Abyss Online. A community member named enjie provided the service through his company. If you are interested in a similar site please reach out to him here!

Price Update and Early Access Pricing:

We've transitioned to our Early Access pricing of $24.95. We are not going to require a mandatory subscription going forward, we will offer an optional subscription later this year for reduced taxes and fast travel fees.

Server Tests and Optimization:

Our recent server tests have been instrumental in optimizing performance, leading to an enhanced starter map that addresses FPS and GPU load issues.

🎮 Gameplay and Content Updates:

Overhaul and Closed Testing Feedback:

Since our last playtest in November, Abyss has undergone a monumental transformation. Every aspect, from animations and particle effects to procedural generation and loot systems, has been refined for Early Access. We are nearly ready to test maps that can host up to 200 players. Please sign up here

Community-Driven Development:

Your feedback has been vital. The test center is online, streaming the client and gathering invaluable insights. This collaborative effort is shaping Abyss into a game we all can be proud of.

🌟 A Look Forward:

The path we're on is filled with promise and potential, thanks to your partnership and passion. As we edge closer to Early Access, the adventure within Aeternea grows ever more exciting. Your contributions, whether through feedback, testing, or simply sharing in our collective excitement, are what make this journey so extraordinary.

Stay tuned for more updates, and as always, thank you for being an integral part of the Abyss Online community. Here's to forging ahead into a year of unparalleled adventure and discovery in the world of Aeternea!

With deepest gratitude,

The Abyss Team 🐉

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