What Makes Underrealm Resources Different?

In general, resources in the Underrealm are not the same as those found on the surface. You’ll encounter unique species of fish, specific ores, and other materials that only spawn in these subterranean environments. This naturally affects professions like fishing, farming, and animal husbandry.

• Fishing: Some fish species are exclusive to the Underrealm. Most players who enjoy fishing will find new recipes and buffs associated with these species. The rarity of these fish usually encourages trading between players who are surface-bound and those exploring the Underrealm.

• Farming & Animal Husbandry: If you plan to run a Freehold in the Underrealm, you’ll need to consider which artisan specializations make the most sense. Since each player can only have one Freehold, choosing the right mix of production capabilities for your underground home is critical. For instance, certain crops or animals may thrive better in the Underrealm’s unique environment, while others are restricted to surface zones.

It’s also worth noting that players who are focused on gathering or crafting will want to pay attention to these differences, as they can influence economic activity and trade patterns in the game. Some players even leverage this by setting up supply lines between surface settlements and Underrealm Freeholds, creating a steady demand for rare items.

Interestingly, for players who are just starting out or want a quick way to fund their ventures, there are services that offer instant Ashes of Creation gold delivery from U4N, which can help jumpstart your progression and resource acquisition.

How Underrealm Settlements Work

Underrealm settlements function similarly to surface settlements but with some important differences. Most players approach these settlements strategically, as their influence and interactions are subtly tied to what happens above ground.

• Adjacency & Influence: Settlements in the Underrealm are considered adjacent to the surface settlements above them, but they do not exist in the same Zone of Influence (ZOI). This means that while they are connected in terms of geography, they maintain distinct management and expansion mechanics.

• Bleed Over Effects: There is a level of "bleed over" between underrealm settlements and their surface counterparts. Influence from an Underrealm settlement can affect the surrounding surface area, potentially providing buffs, trade benefits, or even visual cues that indicate the presence of underground activity. In general, most players notice that these cues can help with navigation or planning strategic moves like trade caravans or sieges.

• Visual Cues: Players on the surface may see subtle indicators above ground showing that an Underrealm settlement exists below. While not a game-breaking mechanic, it encourages exploration and can inform decisions about where to settle or expand.

Caravans and Trade Routes in the Underrealm

Caravan routes are an essential part of Ashes of Creation’s economic system, and they extend into the Underrealm. In practice, this allows players to move goods and resources between surface settlements and underground hubs.

• Trade Efficiency: For most players, setting up an efficient supply chain between an Underrealm Freehold and a surface town is key to maximizing profits and access to rare resources.

• Strategic Positioning: Placing your settlement near established caravan routes underground can ensure quicker resource turnover and stronger economic influence. Many experienced players choose locations that balance resource access with safety and trade potential.

Sieges and Underrealm Cities

Underrealm settlements are fully integrated into the game’s larger PvP and PvE systems. This means they can be attacked during sieges just like surface cities.

• Siege Mechanics: Siege events operate in the usual manner, with attackers and defenders vying for control over strategic positions. For most players, this adds an extra layer of risk when managing an Underrealm Freehold, particularly for those running resource-heavy operations.

• City Development: There will be full-fledged cities underground, which can grow, expand, and influence surrounding zones. Experienced players often treat these cities as high-value targets or strongholds, depending on their strategy. Underrealm cities also play a role in the broader political landscape of the game, as controlling one can shift trade and influence patterns across the server.

Choosing the Right Strategy for the Underrealm

In practice, succeeding in the Underrealm often comes down to a mix of preparation and specialization:

1. Pick Your Profession Wisely: Most players opt for artisan skills that complement the unique resources underground. For example, focusing on fishing, mining, or animal husbandry that is exclusive to the Underrealm can provide a steady income and rare crafting materials.

2. Plan Settlement Placement: Consider proximity to caravan routes and surface influence zones. Being near high-traffic areas can improve trade efficiency, while isolated spots might reduce risk of sieges.

3. Use Available Tools: Services that offer instant Ashes of Creation gold delivery from U4N can provide the initial resources needed to develop your Freehold or trade effectively. Many new players find this useful for jump-starting their Underrealm economy without having to grind excessively.

4. Engage with Surface Players: Since there’s bleed over, collaboration or competition with surface dwellers can influence your success underground. Understanding how influence spreads and how settlements interact is key.

The Underrealm in Ashes of Creation is more than just an underground zone—it’s a strategic layer that impacts resources, settlements, trade, and political influence. Most players who invest time in understanding its mechanics find that careful planning and specialization pay off. From choosing the right artisan skills to leveraging caravan routes and managing city influence, the Underrealm offers a deep and rewarding layer of gameplay. Whether you’re a crafter, trader, or explorer, understanding these mechanics is essential for maximizing your experience and success in the game.