Ahead of its new Sanctuary 'Snowfield of Grief' update tomorrow, Aion 2 previewed various content and improvements during a live stream today (September 8). While stating that they are "aware of and plan to improve" most of the issues players are currently raising, NCSoft also revealed plans for follow-up updates scheduled during Chapter 1.
The Sanctuary 'Snowfield of Grief' is a new mechanics-driven raid content. Incorporating player feedback, it excludes so-called 'cyber boot camp' mechanics that require every party member to execute in perfect synchronization. NCSoft emphasized that immediate responses—reading and predicting boss patterns or reacting upon visual confirmation—will be crucial. As mechanics-focused content, it will launch across three difficulty levels: Easy, Normal, and Hard.
The Hard difficulty of Snowfield of Grief drops top-tier weapons and guarders from the 'Liberated White Night (Tier 4)' series. For crafted Tier 4 gear, 'True Azure Dragon / True Extinction Dragon' weapons and guarders are added, provided in a stepped growth structure as before. Players can upgrade Shining Azure Dragon / Extinction Dragon equipment to True Azure Dragon / True Extinction Dragon gear through Succession Crafting, and the extendable effect is provided as a default stat without occupying a Soul Imprint option.
The new accessory 'Deltras's Seal (Unique)' can be obtained starting from Easy difficulty. As a new equipment slot is added, Fabled-grade seals can be crafted via Handicrafting. Unique-grade seals obtained in Snowfield of Grief can be upgraded to Heroic grade through Succession Crafting. Its Breakthrough option increases Weapon Damage Amplification. Additionally, the skill preset system will be improved, allowing players to easily and conveniently configure Stigma skill levels.
Key future updates were announced, including: ① a Soul Imprint Auto-Tuning system, ② a new Trial 'Temple of Fire', ③ expanded sources for Manastones and Spirit Stones, ④ expanded sources for Heroic Tuning Stones, ⑤ reduced difficulty for Pet Familiarity, ⑥ expanded sources for Soul Crystals, and ⑦ Arcana adjustments and improvements. Regarding the Temple of Fire, which will be reworked into a new Trial, NCSoft stated, "The current Trial, Bakron, tended to be easier than intended," adding, "It will be a truly difficult, literal trial."
Additionally, NCSoft revealed that it is comprehensively reviewing class balance and will continue to make adjustments. The developer plans to address the over-preference for certain classes during Abyss field boss fights and dungeon runs while reinforcing the unique flavor of each class.
