Node System Guide
Ashes of Creation\'s revolutionary node system lets players shape the world. Every action contributes to the growth and development of settlements.
Node Types
Divine Nodes
Economic Nodes
Military Nodes
Scientific Nodes
Development Stages
Stage 0: Wilderness
Starting stateFeatures:
- No buildings
- Wild monsters
- Resource nodes
Housing:
None
Stage 1: Expedition
Several hoursFeatures:
- Basic camp
- Tent merchants
- Few services
Housing:
None
Stage 2: Encampment
Several hoursFeatures:
- Permanent buildings
- Crafting stations
- Basic services
Housing:
None
Stage 3: Village
Several daysFeatures:
- Inn
- Quest givers
- First housing options
- Artisans
Housing:
Inns available
Stage 4: Town
Several daysFeatures:
- Market
- Advanced services
- Multiple districts
- Guards
Housing:
Apartments & small houses
Stage 5: City
Several weeksFeatures:
- Auction house
- Specialized vendors
- Arena
- Multiple services
Housing:
Medium houses
Stage 6: Metropolis
Several weeksFeatures:
- Unique services
- Metro-wide events
- Castle influence
- Luxury housing
Housing:
Large houses & mansions
Node Government
Monthly mayoral elections where citizens vote for leaders who can implement changes through mandates.
Siege Mechanics
Nodes from Stage 3 onwards can be attacked. Successful sieges delevel nodes back to Stage 0.
Citizenship System
Players who own housing in a node become citizens with benefits including reduced taxes and exclusive services.
Castle System
5 castle nodes per server control surrounding regions and engage in geopolitical warfare.
Zone of Influence
Each node has a geographical Zone of Influence (ZOI). Player activities within this zone contribute experience to the node's development. Higher-level nodes expand their ZOI and can make neighboring nodes their vassals.