The beta development stage was the testing period for Puzzle Pirates lasting from July 14, 2003, to December 8, 2003. During this period, pirates were moved from the Azure Ocean to the Midnight Ocean on October 27, 2003. As with most computer software, the beta version was a necessary part of Puzzle Pirates' natural development. The beta version was mostly feature complete, but needed testing with a larger audience before becoming an officially launched game. Beta testers could buy a special subscription that lasted two years for $50 USD.