We were planning to open the new test build earlier this July. 700 testers have already signed up, and we can’t wait to start. But as our palace became more dazzling, and the number of visitors grew, so did our nerves. Every bug began to shine brighter than the lights we worked so hard to perfect.
In our previous post, we unveiled a reborn, larger palace with a brand new lighting system. What we didn’t mention: the Caravanserai, Hippodrome, Crypt, and Galata levels all previously available have also been updated with new lighting, animations, and rebalanced combat. They’re not just ready they’re beautiful. Also, deadlier. And no, the rest of the game hasn’t fallen behind. Most levels are in great shape, but this round of testing will focus on select areas to ensure quality over quantity.
So why the delay?
Short answer: 140 concubines.
Long answer: We wanted our palace to feel alive… and may have overdone it just a bit. Between the concubines, dynamic lights, AI behavior, and the ornate architecture, we ended up with a palace that could bring most systems to their knees dropping frame rates into single digits. The final straw came just when we were about to hit upload. We fixed the issue quickly (a few ladies had to be… excused), and now we're back on track.
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Combat Reforged
This build includes a full overhaul of our combat animations and weapon handling. While the skill tree isn’t implemented just yet, we didn’t want to lock away the new special attacks so you’ll be able to test them freely. These attacks will eventually require investment, but for now, consider this a taste of power.
Weapons included:
One-handed and two-handed Ottoman swords
Bows (ranged combat now feels fluid and responsive)
Dual wielding for the brave (try it if you're lucky with drops)
Staves (which will eventually support magic, but currently function like polearms)
The system is designed to reward timing, positioning, and awareness. Combat may feel challenging at first but if you pay attention to the new guidance system, manage your healing potions, and equip wisely, you’ll find your rhythm.
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A Room of One’s Own
Your main character’s room is a blank canvas, just like any other room you can buy in the full game. In the final version, players will decorate it themselves from the bed and wardrobe to mirrors and more. For this build, we’ve set up an example room modest but enough to give you a taste of what a decorated room feels like.
Want to try furnishing it yourself? Talk to the carpenter and pick up a few pieces you’ll see how placement, rotation, and interaction works. It’s a small but satisfying window into how your palace will become truly yours. Soon you will have different styles of furniture to create your dream rooms.
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A Final Word Before Release
One important note: in this test build, death is harsh. If you die, you lose everything and restart. We’ll address this in the first update after the test goes live but to avoid further delays, we’re launching with the system as-is. Consider it a hardcore challenge (and don’t forget to heal!).
As we write this, the team is finalizing the last fixes. Some of us are in Canada where, conveniently, it’s still Monday. If we manage to hit send before they go to bed, technically we’ve kept our promise… right?
Either way, we’re almost there. Thank you for your patience and welcome to the harem.
If you'd like to support the development, get exclusive behind-the-scenes updates, and play early builds like this one, consider joining us on Patreon. Your support is what keeps the palace gates open.
—Upgrade Team
Where desire meets death.