Ashes of Creation Queue Issues | Long Queue Times Explained
If you tried logging into Ashes of Creation on launch week and saw a queue number that barely moved after an hour, you’re not alone. The slow queue system during the Steam release left many wondering what’s really going on.
Why Queue Times Are So Long
Queue delays happen because servers have hard population caps. Each world can only handle a set number of active players before performance drops. When that limit’s reached, new logins go into a waiting line.
Ashes of Creation uses a weighted queue, meaning players logging back in after a disconnect may move faster than new players. It also keeps server slots steady to avoid sudden lag spikes when too many players load in at once.
The main reasons queues move slowly include:
Limited server hardware and region capacity during the first week
Players staying logged in for hours, keeping slots full
Login authentication running slower than expected
Account linking between Steam and Intrepid launcher adding delay
When population is stable, players in queue move faster. But early access weeks see everyone online at once, which keeps numbers frozen for long stretches.
How the Queue System Actually Works
Each login attempt pings Intrepid’s central server, not just the one you picked. When that server fills, new players are placed in a global waiting list that syncs across all regions. This is why even low-population worlds sometimes show high queues.
Queue position doesn’t drop one-by-one instantly because the system measures logouts in batches. When a group of players disconnects or times out, it clears space in chunks rather than individually. That makes the count appear to crawl even if hundreds of players are cycling through behind the scenes.
Tips to Avoid Queue Hell
There’s no magic trick, but these steps can help you spend less time staring at the login screen:
Join servers tagged as “New” or “Low” even if friends are elsewhere
Avoid peak hours between 5 PM and 10 PM local time
Don’t idle in character select; you lose your queue spot if disconnected
Keep your Intrepid account linked before launching through Steam
Use wired internet to prevent timeouts that force re-queuing
When Will Queues Improve
Server expansion usually rolls out in waves. Intrepid adds capacity once population data stabilizes and average uptime drops. Queue times will shrink as extra worlds open, population spreads out, and inactive players stop idling all day.
Once cross-server systems and load balancing kick in, queues should become rare outside of major patch releases.
Final Blurb
Long queues are just the growing pains of a big MMO launch. The early access rush pushed servers harder than expected, but things will smooth out fast once capacity catches up. Grab a snack, keep an eye on the launcher, and you’ll be back in Verra soon enough.
FAQ
How long are queues lasting right now
Most players report one to two hours during peak launch times, shorter in off hours.
Why do low-population servers still have queues
Server lists don’t update in real time, so “Low” may reflect outdated data while logins are locked.
Will Intrepid add more servers
Yes, temporary and permanent servers are typically added within the first few days of high demand.
Does staying logged in increase queue times for others
Yes, idle players keep their slot open, which slows the turnover rate.
Can I switch regions to skip the queue
You can, but progress and characters are region-locked for now, so it’s best to pick one and stay there.
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