Understanding Castle Siege Mode in Ashes of Creation Apocalypse

Ashes of Creation Apocalypse has been steadily building its testing phases, and one of the most anticipated features is the Castle Siege mode. For players who enjoy large-scale PvP and strategic combat, this mode offers a glimpse of the mechanics that will eventually shape the MMORPG experience. In this guide, I’ll explain how castle sieges work in practice, based on testing observations and general player behavior, and what you can expect when participating.

What Is Castle Siege Mode?

Castle Siege is a dedicated testing mode in Ashes of Creation Apocalypse designed to simulate large-scale castle battles. Matches typically feature 200 players, split evenly into two teams of 100. Players can invite up to 20 guildmates, making coordinated guild strategies possible but still requiring broader teamwork across the full roster.

The sieges take place in and around large destructible castles, giving players multiple strategic options. The goal is usually to capture or defend key points within the castle. In practice, these points often decide the outcome of the match, and controlling them can shorten or extend the expected match duration of thirty to thirty-five minutes.

How Does Combat Work in Castle Sieges?

Combat in this mode relies heavily on class kits, which are pre-defined sets of abilities and gear for each class. During Alpha-1 testing, most players found that understanding your kit and role is essential for success. For example:

• Tanks and frontliners focus on holding choke points and absorbing damage.

• Ranged damage dealers often position themselves behind walls or on towers to target enemy players and siege equipment.

• Healers and support classes move around to keep key fighters alive, especially at critical control points.

Coordination is usually the deciding factor, rather than individual skill. Most players reported that matches are won not by who has the strongest characters, but by teamwork, positioning, and timing of attacks.

Siege Weapons and Defensive Mechanics

One of the unique aspects of Castle Siege mode is the use of destructible environments and siege weapons. While the Alpha-1 test primarily focused on basic combat, the full release plans to include:

• Custom siege weapons crafted and deployed by players.

• Defensive emplacements influenced by nearby settlements.

• Siege monsters that can turn the tide if deployed strategically.

Even during testing, players quickly learned that targeting weak points in enemy defenses is more effective than charging blindly into battle. Most experienced players suggest splitting roles between siege operators, defenders, and roaming combatants to maximize efficiency.

Match Flow and Strategy

Matches in Castle Siege mode generally follow a three-phase structure:

1. Opening Phase: Teams organize and scout key positions. This phase often lasts only a few minutes, but it sets the tone for the rest of the match.

2. Mid-Battle: Players start capturing or contesting control points. At this stage, coordinating guild groups or small squads becomes crucial, as solo players rarely make a difference.

3. Endgame: Control points are heavily contested, and the winning team is usually the one that can maintain control under pressure while defending against counterattacks.

Most players reported that matches feel intense but manageable. The thirty-to-thirty-five minute duration seems long enough to allow strategy to develop but short enough to avoid fatigue.

Practical Tips for Players

If you plan to participate in Castle Siege mode, here are some tips based on how players usually approach the fights:

• Join with a guild or group: Having even a few coordinated players can make a big difference.

• Focus on objectives, not kills: Controlling points often matters more than individual performance.

• Communicate constantly: Quick callouts for incoming attacks or defense needs are key.

• Experiment with kits: Testing different roles in practice rounds helps you find where you fit best in a team.

• Watch the environment: Destructible elements and positioning often determine success more than raw damage.

Additionally, some players who want to level up faster and prepare for sieges consider options like buy Ashes of Creation gold for leveling on U4N. This can provide a quicker route to gear and abilities, allowing you to participate in higher-level matches more effectively.

Post-Launch Considerations

After the release of Castle Siege mode in the full game, there may be additional features:

• Hosting your own siege sessions to challenge opponents or guilds.

• Expanded interaction with settlements, where your guild’s influence could modify available defenses.

• More complex siege mechanics, including the crafting and deployment of siege monsters and unique battlefield effects.

In general, players should expect Castle Siege mode to remain a central feature of large-scale PvP in Ashes of Creation, reflecting the strategic depth and coordination required in the MMORPG.

Castle Siege mode in Ashes of Creation Apocalypse is a solid preview of what large-scale PvP in the MMORPG will feel like. The mode emphasizes teamwork, strategic use of class kits, and control of key points over simple combat prowess. Matches are engaging, last a manageable duration, and allow guilds to coordinate tactics in meaningful ways. Whether you’re a casual participant or a competitive guild player, understanding the flow and mechanics of Castle Siege is essential for maximizing success.