Early access model and platform rollout

Scars of Honor is described as a PC-first MMORPG. Mobile support is planned only later as a port, months after the initial PC launch rather than as a mobile-first design target.

The recording distinguishes clearly between early access and release. In this framing, version 1.0 is the actual release of the game and the point at which the free-to-play model fully applies. Early access is presented as a pre-release phase that allows players to enter before 1.0.

PC-first launch

The game is stated to target PC at the start. Mobile is treated as a later adaptation rather than the primary platform. This point is emphasized to counter the perception that the project is designed around mobile constraints.

Early access as a pre-release phase

Early access is presented as a limited pre-release period rather than the launch itself. The stated purpose is to let players enter before version 1.0, help identify issues, and improve the game before full free-to-play release.

A paid early access option is discussed for players outside the already existing supporter-pack owners, who are said to already have access covered. The proposed entry price is described as relatively low, around 20 euro or 20 dollars, and explicitly contrasted with much higher-priced access models used by some other MMORPGs.

Wipe and progression reset

A full reset at the end of early access is treated as the fairest approach. The stated reason is that keeping progression from a paid pre-release period would create an advantage for paying players and could be interpreted as pay-to-win.

Under this model, players would keep non-power rewards such as cosmetics and possibly reserved character names, but not gameplay progression. Knowledge gained during testing is acknowledged as an unavoidable advantage, but one considered acceptable compared with preserving levels or gear.

Why early access is considered useful

Early access is described as beneficial for both development and operations. It is intended to provide:

• bug discovery before 1.0
• gameplay feedback from a smaller audience
• testing of authentication and payment flows
• a safer environment for scaling service operations

The smaller initial audience is presented as especially important for a studio that is not operating at the scale of a major publisher.

Timing discussed in the recording

If paid early access is pursued, the target mentioned is Q3 or Q4 of 2026. If the project skips that model and waits for a direct free-to-play launch, the timeline is described as moving further out, potentially into 2027.

The recording also states that Q3 2026 should not be understood as a full release date. At best, that window is associated with early access, while version 1.0 remains the true free-to-play launch.

Demo availability

A separate demo is also discussed. The planned demo content is said to include PvE, PvP, open-world play, quests, leveling, the Crypt of the Fallen dungeon, arenas, battlegrounds, and Morning Pass. The team is said to be aiming for Q1 for the demo, though this is not presented as a firm promise.

Free access periods

Free weekends similar to those used by other online games are mentioned as something the game could offer. This is discussed as part of broader access planning rather than as a confirmed launch feature.

Source

• Recording: Playing MMoRPGs and Discussing Scars Of Honor Early Access
• YouTube: Watch on YouTube
• Published: Sunday, January 11, 2026 at 9:10 PM UTC