Revision 3

Overview

Neverness to Everness underwent three major beta test phases before its April 29, 2026 global launch. Each test expanded the scope of available content, refined core gameplay systems, and incorporated community feedback. The tests demonstrated steady improvements to the combat system, open-world design, and multiplayer infrastructure.

CBT1 (November 2024)

The first closed beta test took place in November 2024 and was limited to China. This initial test served as the earliest public showcase of Hotta Studio's new IP, giving Chinese players their first hands-on experience with the supernatural urban setting of Hethereau. CBT1 focused on core gameplay loops including basic combat, exploration, and the story introduction. The test established the foundation for the Appraiser premise and the Eibon Antique Shop as the player's home base.

Feedback from CBT1 highlighted the potential of the open-world design and the quality of the visual presentation. Players noted that combat felt fluid but lacked depth in some areas, prompting the development team to begin work on additional defensive mechanics.

Containment Test / CBT2 (July 2025)

The second closed beta, branded as the Containment Test, launched in July 2025 as the first global closed beta. This test marked a significant expansion of the game's scope. The parry system was introduced during this phase, along with dodge-counter mechanics that added a skill-based defensive layer to combat. Players could now time a parry when a visual circle aligned with an outer ring, rewarding precision with damage bonuses and stagger contributions.

The map received a substantial expansion during the Containment Test. The Miguel and New Herland districts were added, making the explorable city area approximately 1.5 times larger than CBT1. New side content, additional story chapters, and more playable characters were also included.

Community reception was broadly positive. Testers praised the parry system for adding a satisfying skill ceiling and commended the expanded map for making Hethereau feel like a living, breathing city. The Containment Test attracted international attention and helped build momentum for the game's global launch plans.

Co-Ex Test / CBT3 (February 6-20, 2026)

The third and final beta, called the Co-Ex Test, ran from February 6 to February 20, 2026. This test was available on PC, PlayStation 5, and mobile platforms, giving players on all planned launch platforms a chance to experience the game. The Co-Ex Test introduced the full multiplayer experience, the crime and wanted system, a functional prison system, and several new playable characters.

A critical change during CBT3 was the rebalancing of boss fights. In earlier tests, some boss encounters lasted roughly 10 minutes, which many players felt was too long. The development team reduced average boss fight durations to approximately 3 minutes, making encounters feel more intense and rewarding. The Esper Cycle reaction system was also refined, with clearer visual indicators for elemental reactions and improved damage scaling.

The Co-Ex Test also featured the Scarborough Fair gacha system in its near-final form, allowing testers to experience the board-game-style roll mechanics and evaluate the pity system.

Community Feedback Summary

Positive Feedback

• World design: Hethereau consistently received praise for its density, verticality, and attention to detail. The seamless open world with no loading screens impressed testers across all three betas.

• Story quality: The narrative involving Anomalies, the Eibon Antique Shop, and character backstories was highlighted as engaging and well-written.

• Esper Gauge combat: The Esper Cycle elemental reaction system and character swap mechanics were considered fun and strategically deep.

• Generous gacha: The no 50/50 system on the limited banner and the absence of a separate weapon banner were widely applauded.

• Reactive NPCs: Non-player characters in Hethereau respond dynamically to player actions, weather changes, and time of day, adding immersion.

Critical Feedback

• PS5 camera issues: During the Co-Ex Test, some PlayStation 5 players reported camera jitter and inconsistent lock-on behavior during fast-paced combat encounters.

• Vehicle handling: Driving mechanics, particularly for cars, were described as stiff and unresponsive compared to dedicated racing games. Motorcycles fared better in feedback.

• Melee-heavy roster: Testers noted that the majority of launch characters favor close-range melee combat, with fewer ranged or support options available during beta.

• Level-gated quests: Some story and side quests were locked behind level requirements, forcing players to grind before progressing.

• Mahjong missing solo mode: The mahjong mini-game required online opponents during the Co-Ex Test, with no option to play against AI. This was a common request.

Beta Test Timeline