Erenshor Gets a Summer Development Update, and Community Q&A, and Hardcore Confirmed

mmorpg.com:

Erenshor, the upcoming single player simulated MMORPG, has a summer development update, in the form of a new video from the game’s developer. In it, he talks about what has been done in the past six months and gives a peek at what's ahead.

A full 24 of the planned 28 launch zones have already been constructed, and the game itself is playable and functional on Steam Deck, with gamepad support. The Steam demo has been updated with some of these controls for the curious. 

With the game being inspired by MMORPGs but designed as a single-player experience,  it's catering to the busy gamer who wants to jump in, get something done, and maybe be on the go or grab a few minutes of game time offline.

Player testing is set to expand this summer, with applications set to open for testers. In the months ahead, Erenshor is currently slated to be part of October’s Steam Next Fest event. There will be another modification to the demo in time for the event to include a simulated GM Halloween themed event on the island of Stowaway Step. 

Brian also took the time to answer some community questions on topics like use of generative AI, details on game content, and multiplayer possibilities. As for the potential use of generative AI, the game isn't set up to use it, there are large cost and hardware demands and as a tiny indie game, it's not in the picture. 

Multiplayer isn't planned, although Erenshor will be moddable, and if someone wants to spend the time making that possible, it's a possibility. A type of grieving mechanic with simulated players where maybe there's another group of simulated players getting in trouble and aggroing a bunch of monsters over to where you are.

The plan is still a Q1 2025 Early Access launch and about 100 hours of content.

As for whether there be a hardcore mode with permadeath, that one gets an affirmative answer. The demand is there and this will be on the way. Just keep in mind, as Brian jokingly cautions, “you can't blame the lag this time”.