The new November update for Lost Ark, entitled "Awakening the Holidays", brings some exciting new features for players. Maintenance will begin on November 27 at 9:00 a.m. CET and is expected to last approximately seven hours. After the maintenance, players can expect a number of changes and new content, including the new island of Sumsum, character and raid balance adjustments, as well as various events and offers in the store.

Sumsum Island: A new adventure

The biggest new addition is the introduction of Sumsum Island, located in the Sea of Gienah, west of Tortoyk. Players with a recommended item level of at least 1520 can enter this island and experience a whimsical adventure. The island not only offers quests and challenges, but also a special race in which players transform into bees and compete against each other. A special feature is the Trial of Honor, which takes place every hour between 10:00 am and 4:00 am server time. Players have the opportunity to earn rewards such as the "Coins of the Sumsum Island Race", which can be exchanged for valuable items.

In addition, three Mokoko seeds, a new island heart and five new achievements and a title to discover have been introduced. Two new jukebox songs can also be collected.

New progression events and balance changes

In addition to the new island, the update introduces two new progression events: the "Voldis Power Pass" and the "Path to Hyper Awakening". These events are designed to help players reach Class 4 and improve their characters efficiently. The Voldis Power Pass will bring players to item level 1540, while the "Path to Hyper Awakening" is available until January 15 and allows players to bring their characters to level 1620.

There are also changes to the raid balance. The hit points (HP) of bosses in the Brelshaza, Akkan, Thaemine and Echidna raids have been reduced in both normal and hard modes to provide players with a customized challenge.

Companion skill system

Another significant update is the new companion skill system, which allows companions to provide special benefits when stationed in Protection Command. Companions can now learn abilities that offer different effects depending on their placement in the Protection Command - whether on the ranch, farm or dock. This should further increase efficiency in the fortress.

Ability training can take two forms: regular training, which grants rare to legendary abilities, or special training, which grants epic to legendary abilities. Training is available daily, with two training slots by default.

Further changes and events

The update also brings a relationship expansion for North Kurzan with three new NPCs and new relationship items that can be purchased from the corresponding exchange NPC. A highlight for the coming months is the return of Toto's Ice Castle, an event that gives players the chance to smash snowflakes in a mini-game to earn rewards. Toto's Ice Castle will remain available until the February update.

There are also special offers in Arkesia for Black Friday. Players can use Royal Crystals to purchase special item packs between November 27 and December 4. These packs offer resources and exclusive items to help players throughout their journey in Lost Ark.

What is Sumsum Island in Lost Ark?
Sumsum Island is the newest island in Lost Ark where players can experience new quests and adventures. It is located west of Tortoyk and requires a recommended item level of 1520.

What new events will be introduced with the update?
The update introduces the Voldis Power Pass and the Path to Hyper Awakening event to help players progress and reach higher item levels.

What changes have been made to the raids?
The hit points of the bosses in the Brelshaza, Akkan, Thaemine and Echidna raids have been reduced to give players a more balanced challenge.

What is the companion skill system?
The companion skill system allows companions to provide special benefits when stationed in Protection Command. These skills are acquired through training and can be used in different areas such as the ranch, farm or dock.

How long do the Black Friday offers last?
Black Friday deals are available in-game from November 27th through December 4th and offer special item packs that can only be purchased during this period.