Lost Ark, the popular MMORPG that made a splash in the West last February, continues to captivate players with its exhilarating blend of Diablo-esque action and a rich, long-term progression system. With an extensive roster of classes and a free-to-play model, Lost Ark quickly established itself as one of the standout games of 2022.
The team at Smilegate RPG is now embarking on an ambitious Q2 roadmap, promising an array of thrilling updates leading into the summer season. From challenging raids to the enigmatic Thronespire and much more, there's a wealth of content awaiting players. To shed light on what's in store, we had the opportunity to sit down with Roxanne Sabo, Product Community Manager for Lost Ark, and delve deeper into the upcoming developments for players.
Unleash your power for free
Lost Ark's status as a free-to-play MMO, featuring dynamic combat and a vast, immersive world, makes it an enticing choice for players seeking a seamless "pick-up and play" experience. Roxanne Sabo emphasizes the game's appeal to new adventurers, stating, "Every day, new players are venturing into the world of Arkesia in Lost Ark."
"The free-to-play design of the game is undoubtedly a major attraction for newcomers, as it eliminates any entry barriers and allows players to easily give the game a try," Sabo continues.
While Sabo takes pride in Lost Ark's consistent update schedule, ensuring close alignment with the game's original Korean release, she acknowledges that the sheer amount of content can be overwhelming for new players. "The extensive content can be intimidating, creating a sense of catching up for those starting their journey," she explains. In response, the teams at Amazon Games and Smilegate RPG have been actively listening to player feedback and will be prioritizing adjustments to enhance accessibility for both new and returning players.
Embracing the new while revitalizing the old
These adjustments include the addition of free battle items to Guardian Raids at entry level and the refinement of Knowledge Transfer requirements for leveling alternate characters. But what about players who have already immersed themselves in the world of Arkesia and are seeking fresh incentives to return?
"When it comes to new content, there's plenty to be excited about," Sabo reveals, highlighting the arrival of the Slayer and Aeromancer classes during the summer.
"With the introduction of the Slayer, players will gain access to a formidable melee class specializing in dealing devastating damage on the battlefield."
Sabo goes on to share details about the Aeromancer, the second Specialist Advanced Class joining the ranks. "The Aeromancer possesses the ability to manipulate weather with devastating effects on the battlefield. It offers a versatile playstyle, making it inviting for newcomers to pick up."
Additionally, players can anticipate exploring new territories as the game introduces Elgacia, a new continent with significant story implications. "Elgacia will make its debut in July, taking the form of a floating island continent and serving as a pivotal moment in the Lost Ark narrative," Sabo teases. "Following the Elgacia update in Korea, Lost Ark saw a remarkable 176% increase in new and returning players. We expect the Western player base to be equally eager to delve into this exciting new chapter."
Revamping and looking ahead
Smilegate RPG is also committed to refining existing content, streamlining the gear progression system, and making early raids more accessible for MMO players who are newer to the genre or seeking a smoother experience.
Looking ahead, the question arises: Where does Lost Ark go from here? Sabo exudes confidence in the game's future, stating, "Lost Ark remains one of the most played games on Steam today, with new players joining daily. We've already shared a roadmap for the summer and will have more exciting content to share with players later this year," Sabo affirms.
"As we continue to release new content and approach parity with the Korean version, we remain dedicated to bringing fresh experiences to players as soon as they become available in Korea and after we've localized them for the Western audience."
The journey of Lost Ark is far from over. With a thriving player base and a commitment to delivering exciting updates, Smilegate RPG and Amazon Games are poised to keep the adventure alive. As the game progresses, players can expect to embark on new quests, face formidable challenges, and witness the ongoing evolution of Arkesia. The developers are determined to ensure that Lost Ark remains at the forefront of the gaming community, with a steady stream of content and surprises awaiting players on their epic quest.
So, whether you're a seasoned explorer of Arkesia or a newcomer eager to dive into this vibrant world, there's never been a better time to join the ranks of Lost Ark. Prepare to unleash your power, conquer treacherous lands, and discover the boundless wonders that await in this captivating MMORPG. The future is bright for Lost Ark, and players can look forward to an exciting journey ahead.
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