With growing anticipation, players of Lost Ark are in for a treat as we pull back the curtain on the final leg of the 2023 roadmap. The roadmap gives a tantalizing glimpse into the monumental content additions set to grace the virtual shores of Arkesia in the upcoming months. Join us as we embark on this exciting adventure with insights from Franchise Lead Soomin Park, Product Manager Andy Lin, Head of Editorial Henry Stelter, and Community Manager Roxanne Sabo in our inaugural video update.
While this roadmap outlines the most awaited highlights, it’s important to note that it’s not an exhaustive list. Rather, it serves as a teaser of what lies ahead, with room for potential changes and surprises. As we edge closer to each month, more intricate details will be revealed, promising a dynamic and exciting experience for players. Beyond the major content pieces, players can look forward to quality-of-life improvements, balance adjustments, support for new and returning players, and unique events that promise to enrich the world of Arkesia. For a comprehensive view of what’s to come, keep an eye on our website and social channels for the full release notes, including new content, cosmetics, balance tweaks, events, bug fixes, and more in our extensive monthly updates. Let’s embark on this journey together and dive into what the future holds.
Unfolding the Plans for August: A Glimpse of Enhancement
Before we delve into the exciting developments planned from September to December, let’s first explore the additional changes brewing for August. Stay tuned for the complete release notes, which will be unveiled next week, just ahead of the update’s release.
Refining Daily Activities: Chaos Dungeon Upgrades
Our utmost priority for Chaos Dungeons is enhancing the overall playability of these dungeons. We understand that the weariness players feel from Chaos Dungeons cannot be resolved merely by decreasing encounter frequencies. Our strategy revolves around elevating Chaos Dungeons to offer a more engaging and rewarding experience, thereby mitigating player fatigue. The initial phase of our Chaos Dungeon overhaul encompasses boosted rewards such as cards, higher-tier gems, increased silver, and adjustments to enemy AI, which will reduce the time required to complete a single dungeon by approximately 25%. This collaborative effort with Smilegate RPG will pave the way for further improvements based on player feedback and in-game data.
Empowering Guardian Raids
Prepare for an exciting transformation in Guardian Raids, as we adjust the frequency to once a day, accompanied by more substantial rewards.
Enhanced Accessibility to Cards
Acknowledging the concerns around content fatigue, especially among new players, we are committed to enhancing card accessibility. Our approach commences with increasing the base card supply. This enhancement extends to both Chaos Dungeons and Guardian Raids, accompanied by adjustments to Wandering Vendors to bolster other sources of card supply.
September: Introducing Jump-Start Servers
Get ready for the introduction of Jump-Start servers—an initiative designed to provide a fresh perspective for both new and returning players who seek to rediscover the allure of Lost Ark. Drawing insights from comprehensive analysis and player feedback, we’ve identified common obstacles such as gatekeeping, bots, and the grind, which have hindered players from fully immersing themselves in the world of Lost Ark.
A central aspect of Lost Ark revolves around collaborative gameplay, and Jump-Start servers are set to infuse new life into early and mid-game experiences. By synchronizing the arrival of Jump Starters, we anticipate a more vibrant early and mid-game environment, while also reducing gatekeeping tendencies in raid lobbies. Our diligent efforts to address initial challenges, including steep progression curves, bots, and stability issues, position the Western service for a reinvigorated experience that beckons players to return.
Dedicated servers will be available in each region, granting players a South Vern pass for instant elevation to Item Level 1415. These servers will remain isolated from existing servers, offering independent matchmaking, party finding, marketplace interactions, and auction environments. Players on Jump-Start servers will receive materials to expedite progression, alongside benefits from the ongoing Super Mokoko Express event, which extends up to Item Level 1540. An abundance of honing materials awaits in a special event shop, promising swift progression to Item Level 1580.
Detailed information will be shared closer to the launch of the September Update.
Yoz’s Jar: A Canvas for Cosmetics
Introducing Yoz’s Jar—an innovative consumable that unlocks a world of Epic and Legendary skins. Unwanted or unused skins can be deconstructed into “Cloth,” which can be employed with a Jar (Season 1 or 2) to obtain a new skin from a curated list. Available in the store, Yoz’s Jar and Cloth open avenues for exploration. Moreover, Epic skins obtained from Yoz’s Jar can be disassembled to create Cloth. Anticipate discounted packs of Cloth and Jars on a monthly basis. Players can even convert untradeable skins into Cloth, with only Royal Crystal-purchased skins being eligible for deconstruction. The brilliance of this system lies in its flexibility—Legendary skins, with their superior benefits, can be ‘Overlayed’ with preferred skins, balancing aesthetics and potency.
An update to Yoz’s Jar introduces 1,000 Amethyst Shards with Epic skin results. This update also enriches the Amethyst Shop’s offerings, including Silver, Dawn skins, and reagents for skin customization. Dawn Skins extend to Slayer, Artist, and Aeromancer classes, allowing customization beyond expectations. The Amethyst Shop will undergo a yearly refresh, responding to evolving player preferences.
The refinement of Yoz’s Jar, meticulously aligned with player feedback and Smilegate RPG collaboration, emphasizes rewarding pulls and a smoother experience, even without the Legendary skins.
Strengthening Bonds: Affection Rapport Ranks
Dive deeper into the stories of Thirain and Nineveh, characters who have become familiar companions during your journey through Arkesia. Thirain, busy with his responsibilities, is preparing for a royal ball that marks his ascent to the throne. However, beneath the excitement lies Thirain’s silent struggles, confided only to you. On the other hand, Nineveh, a symbol of positivity in Arkesia, faces a chaotic force that reveals hidden depths beneath her cheerful exterior. This force uncovers tales of pain and secrets she is now ready to share with you.
Primal Island Battle Royale: A Savage Challenge
Venture to Primal Island and brace yourself for a thrilling challenge—a battle royale-style event demanding survival, combat skill, and strategic resourcefulness. Engage in combat against both players and ferocious dinosaurs in an electrifying arena showdown. However, raw statistics alone won’t secure victory here. Instead, success hinges on scavenging gear during the match and strategically upgrading it in real time.
October: Embrace Pleccia’s Artistic Splendor
Prepare to be enchanted by the artistic allure of Pleccia, a new continent welcoming players with Item Level 1475 or higher. Embark on a journey through Pleccia Port and Prehilia Prairie, where you’ll encounter unique NPCs like Vediches and Yoz illusionists. The story of Pleccia unfurls in Luterra, as whispers of mysterious occurrences weave their way through the city. By solving the enigmas surrounding the Vediche family, the priests of Sacria, and a dear friend, players unlock a tapestry of rewards and hidden achievements unique to Pleccia. Completing the Pleccia narrative is a prerequisite for the looming Voldis adventure.
Caliligos Trial Guardian Raid: A Lightning Challenge
Caliligos, the master of lightning, takes center stage in a new Trial Guardian Raid. Challenge his might and aim for victory, etching your name in the annals of the first and fastest clears. Triumph grants new titles, emblematic of your achievement.
November: Unleash the Souleater Advanced Class
November heralds the arrival of the Souleater, an Assassin subclass wielding a massive scythe to reap the souls of enemies. Choose from three distinct attack modes—direct scythe strikes, summoning the dead, and transformation into a reaper. Core to Souleater’s identity is the ‘Reaper Mode,’ accessible once the Soul Stones identity gauge is filled. An additional ‘Possession Meter,’ exclusive to Reaper Mode, introduces an extra layer of depth to gameplay. As the identity meters and skills evolve, the stage is set for tactical mastery.
Progression Events: Nurturing Souleater’s Evolution
The Souleater’s introduction is accompanied by dedicated progression events aimed at facilitating character growth. Engage in the Express event and unlock a free Powerpass, propelling your Souleater’s journey.
December: Voldis Beckons
Voldis emerges as a new continent, welcoming adventurers with Item Level 1520 and above. Kalinar, a city brimming with wisdom and alchemical mastery, stands as Voldis’ heart. Seek guidance from the Sages and unravel the mysteries that shroud the Great Rainforest, home to potent and mysterious creatures. Journey alongside the Raiyas, the forest’s guardians, and ascend the Sage’s Tower to unveil Voldis’ hidden tales.
Ivory Tower Abyssal Dungeon: Unveiling Secrets
Step into the Ivory Tower Abyssal Dungeon, a new challenge within Voldis’ realm. Featuring four gates and Item Level entry requirements of 1600 for Normal mode and 1620 for Hard mode, this dungeon promises abundant rewards. Honing Materials, Gold, and a new Elixir system beckon daring adventurers.
Elixirs: Empowerment through Alchemy
Introducing Elixirs, a revolutionary system amplifying combat prowess through potent gear effects. Acquire Epic Elixirs via Normal mode and Legendary Elixirs through Hard mode in the Ivory Tower Abyssal Dungeon. Refine Elixirs with ‘Ductility Catalysts,’ acquired through gold and Chaos Stones. Guided by the Sages, refine Elixirs through a limited number of attempts, blending strategy and luck. Imbue gear with Elixirs to unlock diverse bonuses—offensive, defensive, and utility. Seek Set bonuses, triggered by specific conditions, and master the art of refining for optimal results.
New Ark Pass Season: A Tapestry of Rewards
Prepare for an all-new Ark Pass season, boasting free tiers accessible to all players and premium tracks laden with rewards and cosmetics.
A Glimpse into Tomorrow
Anticipation swells as we approach the horizon of unique events, uncharted territories in Arkesia, electrifying PvP contests, and the enigma of new dungeons and raids. Stay engaged with our website, social channels, and release notes for the complete roster of new content, store updates, events, bug fixes, and more.
