At PAX East 2025, NEXON gave exciting insights into the upcoming update "Breakthrough" for the looter shooter *The First Descendant*. The third major seasonal update brings a host of new features that will allow players to experience the game in a completely new way. In addition to new game mechanics and features, the first official crossover with *NieR: Automata* is also on the cards, which should delight fans of both games in equal measure.

New battlefield and hover bikes

A central element of the update is the massive "Axion Plains" battlefield. This devastated game world, once an outpost, is now more dangerous than ever thanks to artificial creatures and mutated beasts. In keeping with this, a new means of transportation has been introduced: Hover bikes. Players can not only use them to navigate quickly across the open levels, but also to upgrade or improve their models. The dynamic movement system with boost and jump abilities makes for an exciting experience while exploring.

New challenges and social features

The "Colossus Field Raid" adds a special 8-player content to the game. Here, players can cross the huge field on their hover bikes to face the impressive colossus "Wall Crasher".

Another highlight is the introduction of the "Lounge", an exclusive social area for players. Here, the playable characters can be personalized and skins can be applied. Collectable items such as so-called "Colotoys" can also be displayed, with future updates promising additional functions and items for the Lounge.

Extended characters and items

The playable line-up is also growing: Nell, formerly an NPC, is being introduced as a new "Descendant". With her ability to weaken and attack enemies using telekinesis, she is likely to be particularly popular with fans of the fast and aggressive style of play. New weapons have also been added to the game - including swords at last. These can be used for both normal and special attacks and are being introduced in several variants, such as a lightsaber-like design. These new features are complemented by the release of Ultimate Luna, who is further customizing her abilities with two new modules.

The first crossover and anniversary plans

The *Breakthrough* update also marks the start of crossovers in *The First Descendant*. The collaboration with *NieR: Automata* brings special content and skins to the game. Further collaborations with other brands are already being planned.

The game is also celebrating its first anniversary. With the so-called TFD Fest, players can look forward to events, a skin design competition and exclusive in-game rewards.

What does the new battlefield "Axion Plains" contain?
Axion Plains is a vast, devastated terrain plagued by a Void Storm and new threats. Players can explore the map on hoverbikes and defeat dangerous enemies.

What are hoverbikes and how do they work?
Hover bikes are new vehicles in The First Descendant that allow players to move quickly and dynamically across the new battlefield. Models can be upgraded to use boost and jump abilities.

What new features does the Lounge offer?
The Lounge is a social space where players can customize their characters and display items such as Colotoys. Additional features will be added in future updates.

Who is Nell and what skills does she have?
Nell is a new playable character with telekinetic powers. She can weaken enemies, pull them closer and turn shots into targeted weak-point attacks.

What's special about the NieR: Automata crossover?
The update brings the first official crossover with NieR: Automata. Players can look forward to special content and exclusive designs from the NieR: Automata universe.

When will the Breakthrough update be released?
The "Breakthrough" update will be released in summer 2025 and will be released in several episodes.