Ashes of Creation is finally entering Early Access on December 11, but not without bringing old doubts back to the surface. The MMO, ten years in the making, promises a dynamic player-driven world, but some corners of the community aren’t buying it.

Ashes of Creation Early Access arrives with unfinished edges

The Steam launch signals a new chapter for Intrepid Studios, but expectations are tense. Early Access means not all content is finished. Key systems remain in flux, and players hoping for a polished MMO experience might be in for a rougher ride.

Still, the developers have clarified that the purpose of this phase is refinement. Systems can shift based on feedback, and new content will roll out over time. That hasn’t stopped critics from questioning what’s actually ready at launch.

Concerns around Steven Sharif resurface

Some player skepticism isn’t tied to the game itself but to who’s behind it. Steven Sharif, the studio’s founder and creative director, is a recurring lightning rod. His past links to family-run multi-level marketing companies continue to shadow discussions.

One of those businesses, Xango, sold health supplements and received warnings from the FDA for making unverified claims. Though there’s no direct link between those ventures and the game, Sharif’s name alone sparks wariness for certain fans.

Streamer conflict throws fuel on the fire

Tensions escalated when long-time content creator Narc publicly stepped away from covering Ashes of Creation. After four years of coverage, he accused the team of misleading showcases focusing on a desert biome he described as incomplete and barely functional.

This set off a fierce split in the community. Some backed Narc’s view, questioning the transparency of Intrepid Studios. Others defended the developers, pointing to actual in-game footage that contradicted the streamer’s claims.

Counterpoints from trusted players and dev response

Popular creator Piratesoftware, with over 500 hours in testing phases, pushed back on Narc’s claims. He provided footage of the same biome in better shape than presented in the video. His response added fuel to the fire but in the opposite direction.

Meanwhile, Steven Sharif responded in detail to the controversy, aiming to clarify the development process and defend the studio’s choices. The reply sparked fresh debates, instead of settling them.

Ashes of Creation still has its believers

Despite the noise, plenty of fans remain hopeful. They see Early Access as a chance to shape the game, not just judge it. But for others, the launch reawakens questions of trust about the team, the promises, and the process itself.

Ashes of Creation isn’t just launching a game. It’s walking into a fight for credibility. And in this genre, patience isn’t infinite.