What Are Underrealm Settlements?

Underrealm settlements are underground cities and villages located beneath the surface world of Verra. They function as fully-fledged settlements but are separated from surface settlements in terms of their Zone of Influence (ZOI). Despite being underground, these settlements are connected to the world above in meaningful ways.

In general, underrealm settlements allow for exploration, trade, and political activity in a unique environment. Most players will notice that these settlements feel different from the surface—not just visually, but also in terms of gameplay mechanics, such as movement, trade routes, and interaction with NPCs.

How Do Underrealm and Surface Settlements Interact?

One of the more interesting aspects of underrealm settlements is their interaction with surface settlements. Although each type of settlement has its own ZOI, they are considered adjacent for certain gameplay purposes. This adjacency creates what developers call "bleed over," meaning influence and activity in one settlement can impact the other.

For example, a surface settlement might experience visual cues that reflect the presence or influence of an underrealm settlement below it. This could be noticeable in the form of market activity, NPC movement, or even subtle environmental changes that signal underground influence. Most players tend to find this adds a layer of strategy, especially for guilds managing multiple settlements, because controlling an underrealm settlement can indirectly benefit the surface settlement above.

How Do Caravan Routes Work Underground?

Trade and logistics are a major part of settlement gameplay in Ashes of Creation. Interestingly, caravan routes are not restricted to the surface; they can extend into the underrealm as well. This means that players can establish supply lines and trade networks beneath the surface.

In practice, this allows for more dynamic trade strategies. Players might use underrealm routes to move goods more safely or efficiently, avoiding conflicts that might occur above ground. That said, these routes may also come with unique risks, such as ambushes by monsters or enemy players, depending on the settlement’s security and faction alignment. Some players even take advantage of this underground connectivity to boost economic influence, especially during times when surface routes are heavily contested.

Can Underrealm Settlements Be Sieged?

Yes. Underrealm settlements can participate in the same siege mechanics as surface settlements. The usual siege rules apply, meaning players can attack and defend these settlements using a mix of strategy, numbers, and resources.

In practice, sieging an underrealm settlement can feel different due to its confined environment. Most players will find that underground layouts affect movement, chokepoints, and the use of siege equipment. Planning is essential, and understanding both the underrealm layout and its surface adjacency can provide significant advantages during these conflicts.

Are There Underrealm Cities?

Yes, underrealm settlements are not limited to villages—they can also grow into full cities. This expansion mirrors surface settlement progression but occurs in the distinct environment of the underrealm.

Typically, players who control underrealm cities will notice that these settlements offer unique resources, strategic locations, and potential for high-level political and economic influence. While some aspects of these cities are still being developed, most players expect that controlling an underrealm city will be a key factor in long-term server dynamics.

It’s worth noting that for players looking to maximize resources and influence, underrealm settlements provide additional opportunities. For instance, some players might choose to invest in both surface and underrealm settlements to create overlapping advantages. Others might focus on the underrealm alone, using its hidden nature to create safer storage or trade networks. In some communities, it’s even common to use underrealm settlements as a hub for crafting and economic activity. Some players, for example, may even buy Ashes of Creation gold from U4N to fund settlement expansions or prepare for sieges.

Visual Cues and Player Awareness

One aspect that often surprises new players is the presence of visual cues on the surface that indicate underrealm influence. These cues can be environmental, like subtle changes in terrain or unusual NPC behavior. Most players who pay attention find these cues helpful for planning activities or predicting where influence from underground settlements is strongest.

In practice, keeping track of these signals can provide a strategic edge. For instance, guilds that coordinate both surface and underrealm activities can monitor these cues to plan resource collection, trade, or defense, making them more effective than groups that focus on just one layer of the world.

Underrealm settlements in Ashes of Creation offer a rich layer of gameplay that interacts with surface settlements in meaningful ways. They are fully functional settlements capable of hosting sieges, trade, and political activity. While each settlement has its own ZOI, adjacency and influence create "bleed over," meaning that actions in one can affect the other. Caravan routes extend underground, offering new opportunities for trade and strategy, and cities can grow beneath the surface just like on land.

Most players find that mastering both surface and underrealm dynamics can lead to stronger economic power and better strategic positioning. By observing visual cues and managing adjacency effects, players can gain an advantage in trade, politics, and combat. In general, understanding underrealm settlements is essential for players who want to fully engage with Ashes of Creation’s layered world.