The horror-themed extraction shooter The Bornless is hosting a new limited-time playtest called Fractured Souls, which will run for 48 hours from June 7 to June 8. This test introduces several gameplay updates and marks a shift toward more accessible testing by extending server uptime. Participants who join during this period will experience longer access windows, new mechanics, and progression systems that will carry into the upcoming Steam Next Fest.
The Bornless Launches Fractured Souls Playtest
The Bornless Launches Fractured Souls Playtest
The Bornless takes place in the 1960s with a survival horror battle royale experience that never fails to terrify you every time you jump in-game. Players are dropped into the thick of the action alongside the first Demon, Orobas. Eight players pair up into teams of two and battle one another in a fight for survival. But there is a twist, it's not just people they'll be fighting.
Extended Server Uptime for Global Participation
One of the main differences in this playtest compared to earlier sessions, such as the Halloween Weekend Playtest, is the increased server availability. This time, the servers will remain live for a full 48 hours, making it easier for players across multiple time zones to take part. The extended uptime is expected to allow more consistent engagement, ensuring that players can access the game without the time constraints that limited previous events.
The Bornless Launches Fractured Souls Playtest
Trading, Quests, and Character Progression
The Bornless Fractured Souls playtest introduces new features that expand the core gameplay loop. Among the most significant additions are trading and quests. Players can now visit Haag, a Demon Merchant character who provides trade opportunities and assigns quests that reward Gold. This in-game currency can be used to obtain new weapons and resources, adding more strategic layers to the experience.
The playtest also features improvements to the account progression system. For the first time, progress made during this test will be saved and carried over into Steam Next Fest, allowing players to unlock new Playable Characters and Demons in advance. Up to 10 Seekers and 3 Demons can be unlocked during the event, offering a notable head start for those who participate.
The Bornless Launches Fractured Souls Playtest
Visual Overhaul and New Environments
This latest version of The Bornless includes a complete visual update. The development team has implemented graphical enhancements using technologies such as Nanite, Lumen, and hardware-based ray tracing. These updates improve lighting, shadows, and reflections, resulting in a more visually detailed and atmospheric experience.
The update also expands the in-game environment, particularly on the haunted Farmouth Island. New locations such as ancient crypts and hidden chambers have been introduced, alongside changes to enemy behavior and the addition of concealed Enigmas. These features aim to encourage exploration while adding depth to the game’s PvPvE horror setting.
The Bornless Launches Fractured Souls Playtest
Character Diversity Based on Personality Types
A new character system is now available, allowing players to choose Playable Characters and Demons that align with different personality types. Each option comes with unique powers and abilities that support a variety of playstyles. This addition is designed to offer more diversity in gameplay and strategic choices, further enhancing the customization available to participants.
To take part in the Fractured Souls playtest, players need to obtain a Steam key. Those interested can reply to the official announcement on X (formerly Twitter), join the official Discord server for potential giveaways, or sign up for the newsletter via the game’s official website. Wishlisting the game on Steam and the Epic Games Store may also increase the chances of receiving a key. Players who previously claimed a key or joined earlier tests are already eligible for access and do not need to take additional steps.
Access and Steps Ahead of Steam Next Fest
Players who do not participate in the Fractured Souls playtest will still have an opportunity to try The Bornless during the Steam Next Fest, which runs from June 9 to June 16. The upcoming public event will provide broader access, and progression from the playtest will carry over, allowing early participants to retain their unlocked characters and inventory.
The Fractured Souls playtest represents a key phase in the development of The Bornless, offering a combination of technical updates, new gameplay systems, and extended accessibility. With blockchain integration continuing to be part of the broader development strategy, this test sets the stage for the next major public showing of the game.
