alpha state sites that are worth their salt would wipe and reset before beta testing. compensation for helping to test is normally given out in the full release and may include exclusive items (FR has Boolean!), but otherwise all players would start on the ground floor again.
letting players keep all their progress (items, pets, etc.) from test phases isn't great for longterm lifespan due to its effects on the economy and player retention.
Re: Santae Exposé
letting players keep all their progress (items, pets, etc.) from test phases isn't great for longterm lifespan due to its effects on the economy and player retention.