NEXON (The First Berserker: Khazan) has officially announced the global Alpha Test dates for Vindictus: Defying Fate, and it’s a lot sooner than expected, and will be available from June 8 to June 16, 2025. Building off the March 2024 pre-alpha, this next phase brings a whole arsenal of upgrades that includes companion NPCs, enhanced combat mechanics, a new village hub, a revamped inventory system, and yes, more ways wreck the crap out of just about anything. Sounds like fun, doesn’t it?
To sign up for the Alpha Test, head on over to the Steam page. However, at the time of the announcement, the sign-up / apply for the Alpha Test button wasn’t live when I checked. Keep checking back!
A New Taste of Combat and Companions
To celebrate the announcement, NEXON dropped the Alpha Test Trailer, spotlighting the game’s evolving world and fresh characters. Lann and Fiona are back from the pre-alpha, now joined by Delia and Karok, each bringing new flair to the fight. Expect smoother animations, more brutal combos, and a combat flow that feels like every hit could split the screen in two.
While the Companion NPC System lets you roll into battle with AI-controlled allies. These aren’t just meat shields either. These are fully capable warriors that will stand alongside you when you go toe-to-toe with towering threats like the White Tyrant and Blood Lord, two bosses that don’t care how good your gear looks. It’s nice to have backup, and it sounds like in this game, we’ll need it.
Also new? The Companion NPC System lets you roll with AI-controlled allies in battle. These aren’t just meat shields either. These are fully capable warriors that will stand alongside you when you go toe-to-toe with towering threats like the White Tyrant and Blood Lord, two bosses that don’t care how good your gear looks.
A Living World Worth Fighting For
The updated village hub is more than just a place to stock up. Expect a vibrant community filled with expressive NPCs, including fan-favorite Tieve, who makes her first appearance in this build. Between missions, you’ll dive into the narrative, explore new storylines, and soak in the medieval-meets-fantasy aesthetic. If this is done right, it could give this game an edge and provide a place for a community to thrive.
Plus, the newly expanded inventory system, progression mechanics, and ability crafting ensure your journey from rookie to legend is filled with meaningful upgrades, not just number boosts.
Here’s what’s new in the Vindictus: Defying Fate Alpha Build
- Four Playable Characters: Lann, Fiona, Delia, and Karok each bring unique playstyles.
- Companion NPCs: AI allies that assist in both solo and multiplayer battles.
- Multiplayer Raids: Jump into new co-op challenges alongside other players.
- New Hub Village: Interact with NPCs, take on quests, and progress through the story.
- Inventory & Crafting: Streamlined systems to manage gear, upgrades, and customization.
- Expanded Story Content: Dig deeper into the lore with new quests and cutscenes.
- Developer Logs: NEXON’s May dev log dives into Karok’s “Precision Action” system and the all-new gesture mechanics.
Whether you’re a Vindictus veteran or a first-time slayer, this alpha test looks to offer a fresh slice of chaos and combat. Oh, and no…this isn’t a Soulslike. While the game may share features similar to a Soulslike, it’s not. According to NEXON, this is an action RPG, but then again, we could argue about that and Soulslikes all day. Regardless, from what I’ve seen, the game is shaping up to be fun either way.
The Vindictus: Defying Fate Alpha Test will be available on PC via Steam from June 8 to June 16, 2025. There is currently no announced release date for the game, or if it will be released on other platforms.
I’m looking to get my hands on this, as it sounds like the kind of game that I’ll enjoy. How about you?
