BitCraft Online Finally Enters Early Access — But Is It Fun?

BitCraft Online finally launched into Early Access this past weekend. Developed by Clockwork Labs, the sandbox MMORPG is planned to be free-to-play on official launch — but for now, it’ll cost you $30 to hop in. It’s a community-focused game built around exploration, gathering, crafting, building, and long-term, slow-burn progression. There’s technically combat, but it’s miminal. The whole thing takes place in a single, shared world with click-to-move controls.

Visually, the game is striking. The minimalist art style works well, and I’m a fan of the evolving, persistent world that players help shape over time. The shared server idea is neat too. However, I don’t like the lack of WASD movement. And while I respect that this isn’t meant to be a combat-driven MMO, I’m not sure how long I’d stay engaged just chopping trees, planting crops, and building towns with strangers. If you’re into cozy, low-stress games though, BitCraft might be exactly your vibe — and I do appreciate that kind of experience when I’m in the right mood.

So far, reception has been mixed. Some players enjoy the laid-back gameplay loop, while others are calling it an “AFK simulator.” There are also early concerns about the in-game economy and how the empire-building mechanics could lean into pay-to-win territory if real-money purchases become necessary to maintain large settlements.

If you’re a fan of MMOs like Old School RuneScape or Palia, this game might scratch that same itch — especially if you're looking for something that’s not combat-focused like most titles in the genre. I tried an earlier build of BitCraft and got bored pretty fast, but I’m curious enough to give it another shot.

Just keep in mind: any progress made during Early Access will be wiped before the full launch. So, if you dive in now, maybe don’t get too attached.