Tencent, the massive Chinese tech giant, has announced the beginning of a Closed Beta phase for its upcoming cross-platform MMORPG, Tarisland. This Beta phase, starting June 27, 2023, will be accessible to players in selected regions on mobile and PC platforms. For Android users, the regions include Brazil, Canada, the Philippines, and the United Kingdom. PC players globally will be eligible to participate, with no regional restrictions.
Tarisland, in its essence, feels like a throwback to earlier MMORPGs, notably the popular World of Warcraft, albeit rehashed for the Chinese market. The game presents itself with a familiar form – customizable character classes, multiple biomes and civilizations, and a rich narrative-driven world to explore. It brings nothing particularly new or exciting to the table, but promises a comfortable and recognizable gameplay experience.
During the Closed Beta phase, players will explore areas such as the Ancash Canyon, SilverLit, and the Misty Forest, complete with respective storylines and quests. Seven character classes will be available for selection. Players can team up to challenge raids and dungeons, and an exclusive event awaits those who defeat the four dungeon bosses with a 10-person team. Crafting professions, Arena, Battlegrounds, and World Bosses will also be testable.
Tencent has announced that Tarisland will not incorporate a pay-to-win approach, and stat-boosting items won’t be available for purchase in the in-game shop.
Tarisland’s cross-progression and cross-play feature promises players the freedom to play anytime, anywhere, between mobile and PC versions. However, whether these features are smoothly implemented remains to be seen in the upcoming Beta phase and eventual full release.
Interested players can sign up for the Closed Beta on the official Tarisland website. The full game, set for release on iOS, Android, and PC, is slated for later this year.