Game development has never moved at a faster pace. Yesterday's Early Access games quickly become today's blockbuster releases, and huge updates can drop in the time it takes to pop to the kitchen for a cup of tea. Games evolve fast, and Bless Online's rebirth as a triple-A free-to-play title, bringing with it a massive raft of new content for all, is testament to that.
With this latest release, you're invited to join Bless Online's seamless open world and take part in massive Raids and PvP battles using an avatar created from one of five distinct classes and seven different races. Wildly different playstyles are contained within those choices: crushing melee DPS from the Guardian and Berserker, potent magical attacks and status effects from the Mage, healing, defense and damage from the Paladin, stealthy, lithe manoeuvres from the Assassin, and basically the chance to straight-up play as Legolas via the Ranger. Boxes: ticked. And with the unique range of races on offer here, a characterful build is assured. You might have created 25 Dwarven Mages in MMOs previously, but have you inhabited the role of the werewolf-like Lupus, or gone all in for the Kawaii charisma of the squirrel-like Mascu? Thought not.
Whoever you create, they don't have to brave Bless' enormous world alone. 660 unique tameable pet species are out there in the wilds, ready to become your trusted companion—with a little gentle encouragement. If you've ever fancied stomping through forest glades as an Elf riding a rhinoceros, or mounting an enormous grub with your lumbering Lupus build, wish fulfilment time has arrived.
In between all the beast taming and traversal on your mighty steed, humbler activities such as crafting take place. There’s a huge amount to create using the game’s deep crafting system, including weaponry, armor, handiwork, enchantment, alchemy, and cooking.
While the concept and core action has remained constant throughout its Early Access phase - huge battles, huge lands to explore, huge customisation options - Bless Online has grown in scope and scale of content a great deal over that period. In its full Steam release, eight distinct dungeons catering to a broad range of character levels from beginner to elite await you. Brave the gloomy Underground Prison of Balmont, take on the flaming horrors of Migra Turris, and search the recently added Patala Ruins for loot and glory. Seasonal raids and events also pop up from time to time, such as the special Halloween-themed event, Visitor in the Dark.
Ongoing throughout is a guild territory war. The forces of Hierion and Union are locked in an eternal struggle for the game map, and massive 100v100 player battles determine which faction has the upper hand. To the north, the Habicht-led Holy Empire of Hierion fights for territory, and its own vision of the future: one built around order and a clear hierarchy. Meanwhile to the South, the union fights for freedom and independence. On whose side you choose to battle is, of course, your call.
Check out Bless Online on Steam right here.
