Source: Netmarble

Netmarble announced on the 27th that it will roll out the 'NEXT' update for its mobile MMORPG 'Blade & Soul Revolution' on May 28.

This update will transition the game engine of 'Blade & Soul Revolution' to Unreal Engine 5. The engine upgrade introduces real-time lighting that changes with the passage of time, naturally capturing the atmosphere of different times of day. Expanded long-distance landmarks enhance the sense of space during light-foot (Gyeonggong) travel, while high-resolution asset optimization improves vegetation and environmental details in the fields. Enhanced water rendering technology also elevates the visual elements of fishing content, as well as the experience of gaining EXP and completing collections.

For characters, high-resolution modeling technology has been applied to improve visual fidelity, including skin textures and hair movement. The newly added 'Long-Lin' body type and expanded customization options allow for a wider variety of character appearances. Options for the ears and tails of the Lyn race have been enhanced, and material rendering for costumes—such as silk, metal, and leather—has been improved. The update also includes a feature where players can acquire new costume materials through field gathering.

A new class, the 'Illusionist,' is also being introduced. The Illusionist has the ability to scatter stardust and transform into a star shape, effectively neutralizing enemy targeting. It is designed to seize the initiative in battle by utilizing delayed-action martial arts that disrupt the timing of enemy attacks. The class possesses exclusive skills that allow for continuous attacks, enabling the player to keep striking even after an enemy has been stunned, without breaking the status effect. The visual effects for these skills leverage the power of Unreal Engine 5 to create stunning light and particle displays.

'Netmarble Connect' will be introduced to bridge platforms, allowing users to monitor and remotely manage their game status across mobile and PC. The company plans to share further details on update and operational directions through a future developer live stream. A new server, 'Unique,' will also open. This server will support growth up to Hongmoon level 70 and provide a full set of Mythic grade equipment upon completing missions. Exclusive rewards for the new server include a '+10 Enhanced Radiant Ancient Hunting Weapon Full Set' and a 'Mythic [True] Grade Guardian Spirit,' among other 'Hong Sok-keun's Full Gear' gifts.

Netmarble has unveiled its 2026 update roadmap for 'Blade & Soul Revolution.' The second quarter will feature the first Mythic grade dungeon, 'Poisonous Flower Garden,' improvements to the 'Class Change Ticket,' and new PvE content, the 'Tower of Trials.' In the third quarter, the company will update the game with a new class, the 'Dragon Fist,' known for its impactful combat, add the first Unique grade 'Heaven's Reach' equipment and new 'Heaven's Reach' weapons, and improve the Bloodwind Zone. The fourth quarter plans include the addition of another new class, a large-scale event and content update to celebrate the 8th anniversary of the service, and the addition of an original new scenario.