Alpha development stage

The alpha development stage was the testing period for Puzzle Pirates lasting from July 28, 2002, to July 13, 2003.

As with most computer software, the alpha version was a necessary part of Puzzle Pirates' natural development. The game still awaited full debugging or full implementation of all its functionality, but satisfied a majority of the requirements.

During alpha-testing, it was rare to see more than a few players online at once. It was often possible (due to the word-of-mouth nature of the game) to log on to an empty ocean.

Alpha testers were given the opportunity to purchase Jewel-Encrusted lifetime subscriptions, and a few of them continue to regularly play.

=See also=
 * Release (Alpha)
 * Beta development stage

=External links=
 * Puzzle Pirates News, which has several Alpha notices archived
 * The Mad Mutineers Photo Gallery, which features several Alpha testing screenshots.