What Are Underrealm Settlements?
Underrealm settlements are essentially underground cities or towns located beneath the surface of the game world. They are fully-fledged settlements, meaning they can have their own nodes, influence, and potentially even their own quests or events. However, they do not share the same Zone of Influence (ZOI) as the surface settlement directly above them.
Most players should understand that while these settlements exist independently underground, they are still considered adjacent to their surface counterparts in terms of influence and game mechanics. This adjacency allows for some interesting interactions, which we’ll cover below.
How Do Underrealm and Surface Settlements Interact?
In practice, there is a “bleed over” effect between underrealm settlements and the settlements above them. Influence from an underrealm settlement can affect the surface, and vice versa. For example:
A strong underrealm settlement might increase or modify the influence of the surface town above it.
Players could notice changes above ground that reflect the status of the underrealm settlement, such as visual cues or environmental changes.
Steven Sharif, the game’s director, has mentioned that this interaction is slightly different from earlier design ideas. Initially, underrealm settlements were meant to be completely independent. But as the world map was further developed, it made sense to allow some overlap and combined influence between the two layers.
Most players can think of this as a dual-layered system where underground and surface settlements are connected but operate in separate ZOIs.
Can You Travel Between Underrealm and Surface Settlements?
Yes. Caravan routes in Ashes of Creation are planned to extend underground. This means that trade, transport, and potentially PvE or PvP encounters can happen below ground, just as they do on the surface.
For players focused on resource gathering, crafting, or trade, this opens up new opportunities. Many players will likely use these underground routes to bypass surface dangers or access rare resources. The interaction between surface and underrealm settlements also means that controlling both layers can offer strategic advantages in trade and influence.
Are Underrealm Settlements Subject to Sieges?
Yes, underrealm settlements can be sieged in the same way surface settlements can. This means guilds or player alliances have to prepare defenses for both layers.
In practice, this adds a layer of strategic depth. Most players don’t just focus on the surface when planning sieges or defenses—they will also consider the underrealm settlement as a potential weak point or secondary objective. It also encourages coordinated attacks or defenses, where teams split between surface and underrealm targets.
Will There Be Underrealm Cities?
The current information suggests that full-scale underrealm cities will exist. These could operate similarly to surface cities, with nodes, influence, and potentially large-scale events or wars. For players interested in PvP or guild dominance, underrealm cities could become key strategic locations.
Many players expect that controlling an underrealm city will provide tangible benefits, such as additional resources, influence bonuses, or unique access to underground trade routes. This is where coordination with guilds or larger player groups becomes essential.
Practical Tips for Players
Explore Early: Players who take the time to explore the underrealm will gain an advantage in trade and resources. Since underrealm settlements interact with surface settlements, early control can have a lasting impact on influence.
Coordinate with Guilds: Most sieges and defense strategies will require communication between players on different layers. Coordinating surface and underrealm actions can make or break a campaign.
Watch for Visual Cues: Surface players may notice environmental changes or visual cues indicating underrealm influence. These can signal opportunities or threats, especially during PvP conflicts.
Use Trade Routes Wisely: Caravan routes underground aren’t just for convenience—they can be used strategically to move goods safely or surprise opponents.
Resource Management: Some players may focus on underrealm resource nodes to supplement surface economies. This can be especially helpful for crafting or economic influence. Occasionally, players may choose to buy AoC gold from a trusted site like U4N to support their node upgrades or trade ambitions, though in general, resource management and exploration are key to self-sufficiency.
Underrealm settlements in Ashes of Creation add a new layer of complexity to the game. While they exist independently of surface settlements in terms of ZOI, their adjacency allows for influence, interaction, and strategic depth. Players who understand these dynamics—exploring underground, coordinating with allies, and leveraging trade routes—will have an advantage in both PvP and economic growth.
In general, most players will treat underrealm settlements as extensions of their surface holdings rather than separate entities. Mastering this dual-layered approach can be a significant factor in long-term success within the game.
