Ashes of Creation: Which Starting Zone is Better
Ashes of Creation, the highly anticipated MMORPG from Intrepid Studios, officially entered Early Access on Steam in December 2025. For newcomers to the game-or even seasoned MMO veterans-the first choice upon arriving in the world of Verra is crucial: which starting zone to select. Each zone introduces players to the game's layered systems, including combat, crafting, quests, and node-building, all in a player-driven world where choices carry weight.
Currently, two zones dominate the conversation: the Riverlands and The Anvils. While both provide unique experiences, the decision can significantly affect your early progression up to level 10. Let's explore these zones in depth, examining their advantages, drawbacks, and who should play where.
Riverlands: The Polished Beginner Haven
The Riverlands, accessible through the Aelan divine gateway, is an ideal starting area for new players. Set amid lush ruins, flowing rivers, dense forests, and Aelan architectural remnants, the Riverlands presents a visually stunning and user-friendly introduction to Verra. Its sub-areas, Lionhold (home to Kaelar humans) and Sam's Hope (Vaelune elves), offer rich racial lore, though players are free to choose any race without restriction.
Pros
Quest Density and Guidance
The Riverlands is packed with solo-friendly quest chains that carry players smoothly to level 6-7. Early quests introduce key systems such as the Destiny Board (press L for milestones), crafting, and mount acquisition. Players receive abundant experience points, gear, and other resources, making the leveling process efficient and rewarding.
Safety and Flow
Balanced mob strength and clear quest markers reduce frustration for beginners. Enemy drops often include consumables like rations for health and mana, which helps players experiment with combat and survival strategies without constant risk of death.
Content-Rich Environment
The Riverlands boasts numerous points of interest (POI), pocket dungeons, and vendors. The landscape feels alive, with dynamic NPC behavior and environmental storytelling that enhances immersion.
Cons
Crowded Conditions
Due to its popularity, peak server hours can bring long queues and competition for mobs and resources. Players may find themselves in crowded areas, reducing the sense of freedom for exploration or farming.
Transition to Sandbox Gameplay
While initial guidance is strong, post-level 5-6 progression shifts toward more open-ended commissions requiring travel across the zone. Players expecting hand-holding may find this abrupt.
The Anvils: Rugged Dwarven Frontier
For players seeking a challenge or a more specialized experience, The Anvils offer a different kind of adventure. Located in the Dünzenkell Mountains, this zone is accessible via the dwarven gateway and features vertical terrain, underground caves, and sprawling forges reminiscent of ancient dwarf kingdoms. Coastal regions include Niküa influences, providing visual and cultural contrast to the Riverlands.
Pros
Less Competition
The Anvils are less crowded than the Riverlands, making it easier to gather resources, farm mobs, and gain artisan XP. Players hunting for three-star mobs will find the area rewarding, as resource nodes are abundant and encounters less contested.
Group Synergy
Vertical landscapes, grappling mechanics, and party-oriented quest design make The Anvils ideal for cooperative play. Pocket dungeons, starter gear, and mounts are optimized for group engagement, encouraging teamwork and social interaction.
Immersive Thematics
Lore enthusiasts and roleplayers will appreciate the rich dwarven history, unique mob designs, and specialty loot. Many players note that quests feel more engaging and immersive with a group, making exploration feel purposeful.
Cons
Solo Experience is Punishing
The Anvils are not designed for casual solo play. Quests often assume group participation, and vertical terrain can be difficult for newcomers to navigate without guidance.
Limited Scope and WIP Feel
Fewer quest chains and post-level-10 activity require players to travel to zones like the Riverlands for continued action. Some players have noted that the area still has a work-in-progress feel, especially compared to the polished Riverlands.
Comparing Early Progression
When it comes to early progression to level 10, the choice between the Riverlands and The Anvils boils down to playstyle:
Solo or Duo Players: Riverlands is generally the recommended path. Its dense, guided questlines, generous XP gains, and intuitive environment ensure smooth progression without heavy reliance on other players.
Group-Oriented or Gatherers: The Anvils shine for players who enjoy cooperative mechanics and crafting-focused gameplay. Less competition for resources, vertical terrain challenges, and party-friendly quests create a rewarding experience for those willing to collaborate.
Both zones converge toward shared world hubs like Oak after level 10, and both provide early mounts with a quick respawn timer (10 minutes), allowing players to experiment with both zones if desired. Joining a guild early can further boost experience and access to shared resources.
The Player Verdict
No starting zone is inherently superior; it depends on your goals and playstyle.
Riverlands: Accessible, beginner-friendly, and polished. Ideal for players prioritizing smooth progression, solo play, or an introduction to Ashes of Creation's systems.
The Anvils: Rugged, immersive, and group-oriented. Perfect for players seeking a challenge, resource farming, and vertical exploration.
Future expansions promise more zones, such as the Turquoise Sea, offering additional options for starting and transitioning players. Early access players should see this period as an opportunity to test both zones. The world of Verra is designed to reward flexibility, experimentation, and adaptation, making either choice a valid and exciting start.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a starting zone in Ashes of Creation is more than just picking a location-it shapes your first impression of the game's vast, living world. The Riverlands provides a gentle but engaging entry point, filled with quests, lore, and accessible mechanics. The Anvils cater to players willing to embrace a more demanding environment that emphasizes cooperation and crafting. Regardless of which region you choose, accumulating resources such as Ashes of Creation Gold and AoC Items is essential; it's the foundation for becoming stronger.
For players new to MMORPGs, or those who value a streamlined, story-rich introduction, the Riverlands is the safer bet. However, for adventurers looking for a challenge, a farming haven, or a vertical playground, the Anvils deliver a uniquely rewarding experience.
Ultimately, the game's design encourages trying both paths to fully appreciate Verra's diversity. Early access may limit content compared to the full launch, but the differences between these starting zones already highlight Ashes of Creation's commitment to player choice, strategy, and immersive world-building. Whether you prefer the polished riverside villages or the rugged dwarven forges, Verra's doors are open.
MMOexp AoC Team