1. Introduction and Composition of the Ark Grid System
Ark Grid is a new spec-up element introduced at LOA ON, obtainable after Kazeros Desert and the Finale.
The core element consists of Cores and additional Gems.
Cores can be obtained from end-game content (raids), and additional Gems can be obtained from daily content such as Guardian Raids.
Cores range from Heroic to Ancient grades; Heroic to Relic grades can be converted, but Ancient grades are 100% dependent on luck.
It grants additional effects to various skills, and additional spec enhancements are possible through Gems.
The method of acquiring Cores and equipping Gem slots is gradually unlocked.
2. Differences from the Existing Reward System and Direction of Change
The existing end-game content rewards were mainly cumulative rewards such as Gold, equipment inheritance materials, and honing materials.
Ark Grid maximizes the sense of growth by adding dopamine elements that directly affect specs and skills.
It is expected to be the most influential spec change in Season 3.
The main changes are the expansion of bound Gold introduction and the expansion of luck-based rewards.
3. Analysis of the Pros and Cons of Ark Grid
Pros: You can directly experience the positive changes and strength of the character, motivating growth.
Cons: The luck element can cause relative deprivation for hardcore early adopters, and success or failure may depend on luck regardless of the effort for end-game specs.
It may be difficult to act as a universal spec-up element because it is introduced in the middle of the Season 3 structure change.
This is an attempt to change the reward and resource stance that Lost Ark has adhered to so far.
4. Concerns and Expectations of Luck-Based Farming
Due to the luck element regardless of effort, the results may not be good compared to the time and money invested.
As a long-term farming element, users who have played the game seriously for a long time may have higher expectations and greater disappointment.
Due to the alt system, satisfaction may be dispersed if an alt character acquires it before the main character.
It is a challenging situation whether the changes will bring positive results to Lost Ark.
5. Impact on Users Joining After Part 2 and the 'Nice Squad'
It can act as a new starting point for users joining after Kazeros, and there is a possibility that luck-based growth will act as a universal spec-up element.
It can affect the 'Nice Squad' (Gem sharing system), and the skills used may change depending on the Ark Grid effect, requiring the purchase of new Gems.
The developers do not seem to recommend the 'Nice Squad'.
6. Conclusion and Gathering User Feedback
We want to gather various user opinions on the luck-based dopamine meta of the main spec element.
Expectations that Lost Ark will optimize while making various attempts through changes.
It is suggested that it can be a valid patch if it can change existing characters.
Along with concerns that affection for the main character may be damaged due to the luck element, we are seeking user opinions on this.