Bellatores, the upcoming PC MMORPG from South Korean developer Nyou, is making bold strides as it opens sign-ups for its Closed Beta Test (CBT) via Steam on July 8, with the actual test running from July 30 to August 3. Once planned as a tab-targeting MMO, Bellatores has undergone a major evolution-it’s now fully action-based and powered by Unreal Engine 5.
The CBT will showcase two of the game’s five noble Houses, with a core focus on combat, skill progression, and the player-driven economy. 
According to Nyou CEO Jung Hwan Kim, this test is pivotal in aligning player expectations with the studio’s vision: “We aim to actively incorporate player feedback to craft a truly engaging MMORPG.”
Producer Lee Gi Baek revealed the cornerstone of Bellatores: a Mastery-based progression system. Rather than following fixed classes or leveling paths, players gain Mastery through activities and weapon choices. Mastery unlocks unique combat styles, survival abilities, and crafting perks, offering a diverse sandbox of playstyles. However, players can only specialize in a limited number of Expert Masteries, encouraging inter-player cooperation as no one can master everything alone.
Crafting isn’t an afterthought-it’s the backbone of the game’s economy. Gear is not loot-dropped but created via crafting or trading. Items vary based on the crafter’s Mastery, influencing both appearance and stats. This system ties a character’s progression to the community, reinforcing the game’s social focus.
Visually, switching to UE5 elevates the game graphically, though some players may fear performance issues. Still, the developers clarify that an SSD is required, and recommended specs include 32GB RAM and an RTX 3070, suggesting a demanding but rich experience.
Bellatores is slated to launch in Russia in 2026. A Western release is pending as the studio searches for a publisher. But with a merit-based progression system, community reliance, and robust crafting, this title may be exactly what many MMORPG fans have been craving.