Ultra Launches Closed Alpha for EMPIRES, Blending Strategy and Action in Blockchain Gaming

Ultra has launched the closed alpha phase of EMPIRES, an on-chain strategy game developed by its internal studio, Black Ice Studios. This move marks a significant step in the evolution of gaming economies, as EMPIRES is designed to transform players into active participants in an on-chain economy governed by the community. Unlike traditional games, EMPIRES focuses on economic domination, technological advancement, and political influence, allowing players to form Corporations, extract rare resources, conduct research, build infrastructures, and actively participate in a player-governed economy.

One of the key features of EMPIRES is its direct link with CITADELS, Ultra’s upcoming tactical extraction shooter. This inter-game utility creates an unprecedented bridge between strategy and action, as technologies, buildings, and goods produced in EMPIRES directly influence CITADELS gameplay. Players' economic and political decisions in EMPIRES can affect combat scenarios in CITADELS, providing a seamless blend of strategic planning and real-time action. This integration enhances the overall gaming experience and offers players a unique way to interact with the game's ecosystem.

The closed alpha phase, which began on July 1st, is reserved for a select group of Ultra community members. This exclusive phase aims to test the main game mechanics, put the infrastructure and economic systems to the test, and gather initial feedback from the most engaged players. It is not just a pre-launch demo but a critical moment to shape the game’s economy and dynamics before it opens to the public. The feedback from this phase will be instrumental in refining the game's features and ensuring a smooth transition to the public alpha and beta phases.

Following the closed alpha, Ultra has outlined a roadmap for EMPIRES' development. In mid-July, the public alpha will launch, accompanied by acquisition campaigns and initial quests. The public beta is scheduled for September 1st, with the full launch of the game, known as the Gold version, and the Token Generation Event (TGE) set for October 15th. Starting in July, EMPIRES will introduce a “play-to-airdrop” quest system, rewarding meaningful in-game engagement and promoting organic growth ahead of the TGE. This system is designed to incentivize players to actively participate in the game's economy and contribute to its development.

EMPIRES is more than just a Web3 game; it is a living economy, a governance experimentation ground, and a strategic command center for the Ultra gaming universe. Thanks to full digital ownership, inter-game connectivity, and an economy shaped by players, EMPIRES redefines what blockchain gaming can offer. By leveraging blockchain technology, Ultra aims to create a decentralized gaming economy where players have more control and ownership over their in-game assets. This approach not only enhances player engagement but also opens up new possibilities for monetization and community involvement. The game's on-chain economy is governed by the community, ensuring that players have a say in the game's development and direction. This community-driven model is expected to foster a more dynamic and responsive gaming environment, where player feedback and contributions are valued and integrated into the game's evolution.