Hello fishers! :)
I'm very excited to confirm that the Playtest will open tomorrow, 06:00 AM EST / 11:00 AM GMT on the 9th of January and run until 06:00 AM EST / 11:00 AM GMT of the 12th of January with a chance of extension depending on community feedback.
The game has seen a lot of progress in the past weeks! The original focus has shifted a little bit, which means that the map from the trailer got replaced with a new one, which features nicer visuals, multiple areas and lots of cozy vibes. I thought this was essential to have you enjoy your chatting sessions more :3
I know that we're all excited, but please be patient with me. This is a first playtest, therefore there won't be too much content. There will be (digital!) bugs! I'm hoping for your feedback and help in bug reporting (Press F6 in-game)! Systems and features will be improved over time, and everything you see is subject to change. I'm also making improvements to the painting system. Because of that you can't currently see other players paintings when you late-join. I'm working on this, but otherwise you can paint just fine with other players. The Equipment system is not in the Playtest, Anchors and Totems can't currently be obtained.
Also, we now have Emotes and Expressions (meow/bark, and much more in the future!), more fish in the Playtest than planned and a boat that drives you around! You can fish on the boat, but it might still make your fishing line streeetch. And yes, boats will get a bigger focus in the future.
After the playtest, we will post a survey in which you can give your feedback in more detail. With your input we will be able to steer the ship in the right direction :)
Hopefully you will enjoy this first playtest, or even, first look at Rift Fishing! And please report any bugs or misconduct!
Much love <3
- Saia