The highly anticipated MMORPG sequel AION 2 is entering its final preparation phase before launch, with developer NCSoft announcing an open Launch Scale Test (LST) scheduled for September 17th through September 18th. This crucial stress test event will allow players worldwide to experience the game while helping developers ensure server stability ahead of the official release. The test represents one of the final opportunities for the development team to identify and address any technical issues before the game goes live.
The Launch Scale Test will be completely open to all players, requiring no keys, invites, or prior registration. This accessibility marks a significant departure from the closed testing phases that preceded it, demonstrating NCSoft’s confidence in the game’s current state while also maximizing the number of participants for accurate server load testing. Pre-download will begin on September 16th, giving players a full 24-hour window to prepare their systems before the test officially begins.
Schedule and Platform Details
The testing schedule has been carefully structured across two days, with Day 1 running from 6AM to 12PM PDT (15:00-21:00 CEST) on September 17th, and Day 2 taking place from 12PM to 6PM PDT on September 18th (21:00 CEST to 03:00 CEST on September 19th). This gives participants a total of 12 hours of gameplay spread across the two-day event. The staggered timing appears designed to capture player activity from different global regions, ensuring comprehensive stress testing across various time zones.
Players will be able to access the test through two platforms: Steam and PURPLE, NCSoft’s proprietary gaming platform. Character progression will carry over from Day 1 to Day 2, allowing participants to build upon their progress throughout the testing period. However, all data will be wiped at the conclusion of the test, with nothing transferring to Advanced Access or the full launch. This fresh-start approach ensures all players begin on equal footing when the game officially releases.
Testing Limitations and Restrictions
NCSoft has implemented several restrictions specifically for this testing phase. The maximum character level will be capped at 37, which will naturally limit access to higher-level content. All monetization features will be completely disabled, including the in-game shop, Quna premium currency, passes, memberships, and all payment portals. This decision allows players to focus purely on gameplay mechanics and server performance without the distraction of economic systems.
Additional restrictions include the disabling of the Marketplace, Quna exchange, and player-to-player trading features. The Closet customization system will also be unavailable, meaning players will be limited to default character outfits. Founder’s Pack items, purchased by early supporters of the game, will not be accessible during the LST. These limitations are typical for stress tests, where the primary goal is evaluating core gameplay systems and network infrastructure rather than peripheral features.
The Road to Launch and AION’s Legacy
AION 2 follows in the footsteps of the original AION, which launched in 2008 and became known for its distinctive flight-based combat system and the eternal conflict between the Asmodian and Elyos factions. The original game cultivated a dedicated player base over more than 15 years, and expectations are high for its sequel. The announcement of Advanced Access beginning September 30th suggests that the full launch is imminent, with this stress test serving as the final technical checkpoint.
Steam users should note an important post-test requirement: they must uninstall the Playtest application after the LST concludes and download AION 2 as a separate application for Advanced Access. PURPLE platform users face no additional steps after the test concludes. Players interested in participating can access the test through the Steam store page, where the Playtest application is now available for wishlisting and pre-download preparation. This Launch Scale Test represents a critical milestone in AION 2’s journey toward what NCSoft hopes will be a successful addition to the competitive MMORPG market.
Expert Opinion: Open stress tests of this nature have become industry standard for major MMORPG launches, and NCSoft’s decision to remove all monetization during testing demonstrates a player-first approach to gathering authentic gameplay feedback. Given the competitive landscape of the MMORPG genre in 2024, AION 2’s success will likely depend on how well it balances nostalgia for longtime fans with innovations that attract new players. The limited 12-hour testing window may create artificial urgency and concentrated server loads, providing valuable data for launch day preparations.
