Image credit: Joker Studio

NetEase Games and Joker Studio have officially confirmed the ‘Wanderer’ alpha test for their free-to-play oceanic RPG Sea of Remnants.

TL;DR

Sea of Remnants ‘Wanderer’ alpha test — dates, how to join, and what you’ll play

NetEase Games + Joker Studio confirmed a limited closed alpha for their free-to-play ocean RPG, letting selected players test core systems and send feedback before the 2026 launch.

Test dates, platform, and languages

  • When: February 5–12 (one week).
  • Where: PC via Steam.
  • Languages: English and Japanese.

How to sign up (and deadline)

  • Signup deadline: January 23, 12:59 JST.
  • Where to register: Steam page + official community channels (Reddit, Discord, X/Twitter interaction).
  • Note: Registration does not guarantee access — it’s a limited selection.

Limited access: what to expect

  • Only a small number of players will be invited.
  • Selected participants are notified directly, so keep an eye on the channels you used.

Game premise in one line

  • You play a memory-lost puppetfolk sailor exploring dangerous seas and influencing the pirate city Orbtopia.

Core gameplay pillars

  • Open-sea exploration for resources, islands, and hidden loot.
  • Ship / fleet customization (build and upgrade for speed, raiding, or heavy combat).
  • Monster battles against sea creatures.
  • Island activities (gathering, challenges, secrets).
  • Companion relationships with a large roster (300+ characters).
  • Meaningful choices that shape encounters and longer-term outcomes.

Orbtopia: the “reactive hub” idea

  • Orbtopia evolves based on your actions, impacting politics, economy, and culture across playthroughs.

Launch window and platforms

  • Planned release: 2026.
  • Platforms: PS5, PC (Steam), iOS, Android.

Important tips: If you want in, sign up before the deadline and treat it like a lottery — the test is short, PC-only, and selection is limited, so follow the official channels and watch for an invite.

This early test gives players a unique opportunity to explore the game before its official launch, try out core systems, and provide feedback that will help shape the final version.

Test Dates and Platform for Sea of Remnants

The closed alpha will run from February 5 through February 12, giving participants one week to experience the game.

It will be available on PC via Steam, supporting both English and Japanese, allowing players from different regions to participate and test the game in their preferred language.

How to Sign Up

Sign-ups are open until January 23 at 12:59 JST. Players can register through multiple channels, including the game’s Steam page, Reddit, Discord, or by interacting with the official Sea of Remnants X (Twitter) account.

Early registration is recommended, as spots are limited and registration does not guarantee entry

Limited Access

Participation in the alpha test is extremely limited, and only a small number of players will be selected.

Those chosen will be notified directly, so it’s important for interested players to sign up early and follow the official channels to stay informed.

Game Premise

In Sea of Remnants, players take on the role of a memory-lost puppetfolk sailor navigating treacherous seas.

They will battle monstrous creatures, explore uncharted waters, and play a key role in shaping the pirate city of Orbtopia, where their actions can influence the growth and development of the city itself.

Core Gameplay

Sea of Remnants offers a rich and dynamic gameplay experience, including:

  • open-sea exploration – navigating vast and dangerous waters in search of resources, hidden treasures, and new islands
  • fleet customization – designing and upgrading ships to suit different playstyles, from fast raiding vessels to heavily armed battleships
  • monster battles – engaging in intense fights against monstrous sea creatures across the oceans
  • island activities – gathering resources, completing challenges, and uncovering secrets on various islands
  • companion relationships – building bonds with over 300 characters, each with unique personalities, abilities, and backstories, allowing for strategic alliances, cooperative play, and personal storytelling
  • impactful choices – making decisions that influence the world, shaping events, encounters, and long-term gameplay outcomes

World of Orbtopia

Orbtopia, the central pirate city, reacts to player choices, creating a dynamic and evolving world.

How players interact with factions, companions, and the environment can shape the city’s politics, economy, and culture, making each playthrough feel unique.

Looking Ahead

Sea of Remnants is planned to launch in 2026 for PS5, PC (Steam), iOS, and Android.

The full release promises a rich oceanic RPG experience with cooperative and solo play, offering both console and mobile players a chance to dive into the world of Orbtopia.