Ashes of Creation Node War Changes (Alpha 2)
Ashes of Creation’s Alpha 2 has introduced significant changes to the Node War system, refining the mechanics for declaring wars, siege windows, and strategic objectives. This guide breaks down what guilds and citizens need to know to survive and thrive in the new conflict landscape.
Key Changes in Alpha 2
The most notable shift is the Siege Declaration System. Previously, wars could be declared with simpler prerequisites. Now, a more intricate “War Scroll” mechanic requires a guild to complete a series of dynamic events in the surrounding zones to “charge” the scroll before a siege can be initiated.
Siege Windows & Timers
- Declaration Phase: 24 hours. Once a scroll is used, the server announces the impending conflict.
- Preparation Phase: 48 hours. Both attackers and defenders can fortify positions, hire mercenaries, and gather resources (check our Riverlands Fishing Hotspots guide for high-value gathering locations).
- Siege Window: The actual combat phase is now limited to a strict 2-hour window, forcing focused and intense engagements rather than drawn-out stalemates.
Objectives & Win Conditions
Victory isn’t just about killing players.
- Attackers: Must breach the outer walls and channel the “Node Crystal” in the town center for 5 uninterrupted minutes.
- Defenders: Must hold the crystal or run out the siege timer.
- Secondary Objectives: Destroying supply depots grants buffs to attackers, while repairing walls gives defenders temporary damage mitigation.
Strategy Tips
- Scouting: Use Rangers to scout the enemy’s fortification progress during the Preparation Phase.
- Supply Lines: Intercepting enemy caravans during the prep phase can starve them of the materials needed to build superior siege engines.
Stay tuned for updates as the meta evolves throughout Alpha 2 testing.
