Phantom Abyss: The Hectic Xbox Game Pass Title Finally Leaves Early Access

Phantom Abyss: The Journey to Full Release

Phantom Abyss, the hectic roguelike with asynchronous multiplayer elements, has been a part of Microsoft's subscription service since late 2022. The game, developed by Australian studio Team WIBY, first launched as a Steam Early Access title in late June 2021 and was later ported to the Xbox Series X/S. The full release of Phantom Abyss is scheduled for January 25, marking the end of its early access period. The 1.0 version of the game brings significant changes, including an overhaul of its Adventure Mode, reworking of the Classic Mode, and updates to whip mechanics.

The Adventure Mode has been completely overhauled, offering players a choice of several temples to explore, each with specific challenges, relics, and whips. Additionally, the Classic Mode has been renamed Abyss and still challenges players to progress through all four areas within a temple to collect the relic at the end. The new update also brings changes to the whip mechanics, making them unlockable by playing Adventure Mode and rewarding whip skins through player opt-in challenges.

Notable Changes in the 1.0 Version

The 1.0 version of Phantom Abyss introduces several notable changes, including a comprehensive overhaul of its Adventure Mode. This mode now offers the choice of several temples to explore, each with themed challenges and distinct relics. The game's Classic Mode has been reworked and renamed as Abyss, challenging players to progress through procedurally generated temple grounds in search of hidden treasures. The update also brings significant changes to the whip mechanics, making whips unlockable by playing Adventure Mode and offering a variety of whip skins as rewards for completing challenges.

The upcoming update promises to further refine the unique spin on the roguelike formula that Phantom Abyss introduced back in mid-2021. This full-fledged release of the game is expected to bolster the selection of high-quality roguelikes on Xbox Game Pass and raise questions about the game's potential expansion to more platforms in the future.

The Future of Phantom Abyss

The full-fledged release of Phantom Abyss marks the end of its early access period, raising questions about the game's future. With the game leaving early access, it remains to be seen if Team WIBY will have enough time to port Phantom Abyss to more platforms and continue supporting the picturesque roguelike. The end of the early access period also raises the question of whether the studio will focus on expanding the game's reach or venture into a new project in the near future.

The update marks a significant milestone for Phantom Abyss and its presence on Xbox Game Pass, leaving players curious about the game's potential expansion and the studio's future plans. As the game moves from early access to full release, the community awaits to see what lies ahead for this exciting roguelike adventure.