For players diving into Ashes of Creation, one of the first choices is selecting a starting zone. Currently, the game offers two options: the Riverlands and The Ashes of Creation Gold Anvils. Having spent time exploring both, we can offer some insights into which area might suit your early adventures best.

Compared to previous alpha tests, the game has become significantly more beginner-friendly. Early enemies now drop rations that restore health and mana, reducing downtime and allowing players to stay engaged in combat. Quests in both zones are designed to guide players through the first few levels, gradually equipping them with better gear and eventually even a mount. Additionally, the newly implemented Destiny goals provide a rough roadmap for new players, helping them understand the broader objectives of the game. In this regard, both the Riverlands and The Anvils offer a welcoming introduction to the world of Verra.

However, the similarities between the zones start to fade once players reach level 5 or 6. At this point, guidance begins to fade. Questboards and commissions, particularly in the black settlements, often require traveling long distances, nudging the game toward its sandbox roots. This is where your choice of starting area begins to influence the experience.

The Anvils felt slightly more polished during our playthrough. Quest design and environmental flow seemed smoother, making the transition from guided play to open-world exploration feel more seamless. The area is visually distinct, featuring rugged landscapes and fortified settlements that give a sense of a lived-in world. For players who appreciate a slightly more structured progression and a clearer sense of direction during the early stages, The Anvils may be the better choice.

The Riverlands, by contrast, are still very much a work in progress. While the environment is expansive and offers the potential for exciting exploration, some quests felt uneven, and navigation between objectives could be cumbersome. The open design is enticing for those who enjoy discovery and experimentation, but it might feel overwhelming for newcomers who prefer a smoother ramp into the sandbox mechanics. This aligns with developer warnings that the Riverlands are not yet fully refined, and players should expect some rough edges in the gameplay experience.

Ultimately, choosing a starting zone comes down to playstyle. If you prefer a slightly more guided introduction with a polished early-game experience, The Anvils are likely your best bet. If you enjoy exploration, experimentation, and don’t mind some rough patches in exchange for a larger sense of freedom, the Riverlands offer an intriguing challenge.

Regardless of your choice, both zones now provide a far more welcoming entry into Ashes of Creation than in past alphas. With helpful early-game mechanics like restorative rations, guided quests, and Destiny goals, new players can quickly get a feel for combat, exploration, and progression. From there, the world gradually opens up, allowing players to engage with the sandbox elements that make Ashes of Creation such a unique MMORPG experience.

In conclusion, both starting zones have their merits, but The buy Ashes of Creation Gold Anvils currently edges out the Riverlands for a smoother, more polished early-game experience—perfect for players looking to ease into Verra before tackling its larger, open-world challenges.