[h1]Greetings, Wielders![/h1] Sometimes, things fall perfectly into place—and today is one of those days. Ever since we started teasing the Vanir DLC, one question has echoed louder than the rest: “When will it release?” Well, we’re thrilled to announce that the borders of the Bleak East and their fierce inhabitants will open on [b]December 17th[/b], just one week from today! So, channel your inner Viking and do what any self-respecting raider with Steam would do: [b]Wishlist the DLC now![/b] https://store.steampowered.com/app/3260210/Songs_of_Conquest__Vanir/ Sometimes life brings challenges along with triumphs, and we believe in being open and transparent, you have more than earned that. Everyone and their grandmothers know that the gaming industry has had its ups and downs in recent years, and Lavapotion hasn’t been immune. Time, resources, and shifting priorities often lead to tough decisions. For us, one of those was scaling back on our team size. While we’re sad to have parted ways with some of our talented friends, we’re proud that they’ve all moved on to new and exciting opportunities already. But here’s the kicker: Things have been looking up, like a lot, since we unveiled our new roadmap—led by the Vanir and their fast-approaching release. This means we are very confident in our plans and ongoing development investments for SoC during 2025. So, let’s focus on the good stuff ahead of us, starting with Vanir and their launch into the lands of Aerbor! [img]{STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/40723472/99ff816a1baaaba9fb45627818b2aefd24ba9bbd.png[/img][i]Click to enlarge the roadmap. It can and will change, but we are already kneedeep in graphics production for the Roots faction, so things are coming along nicely! [/i] We’ve talked about units, abilities, and Wielders in the previous Vanir Devlogs, but today I want to shine a light on the maps. These are the settings where every adventure unfolds and battles come to life, making them a key part of what makes Song of Conquest so special. With the Vanir DLC release, we’re adding eight new maps, each carefully crafted to immerse you in the environments of the Bleak East. Some are tailored to give you the ultimate Vanir experience, letting you explore the tactics of our new Faction, while others introduce you to new Wielders and the lore that shapes their lands and stories. [img]{STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/40723472/0b8b9a140ce3e7eec2daa291b842d41382db190a.png[/img][i]It's still a little work in progress, but you can sneak a peak! [/i] [b]Sorg’s Journey[/b] puts you in the non-existent shoes of the Troll Sorg. Learn more about the Vanir and their relationship with the Baryan slavers as you fight to get back home. Sorg’s Journey is a story-driven challenge map that helps introduce one of the Vildra Wielders and their game-play as well as introduce lore [b]Steadfast[/b] is another story-driven Challenge map, but the focus isn’t as heavy as in Sorg’s Journey. Lead Jarn Steadfast and his hird of loyal troops and defend Vanir settlements against the angered Vildra. It’s a perfect map to get comfortable with the human part of the faction and provides plenty of insight into the sometimes fragile alliance. You will face waves of Enemy Wielders and it’s a great map to prove your skills. [b]A Clash in the Marsh[/b] The Marsh is no stranger to conflict, and many seek to control the ancient beacons there. But when raiders from the Bleak East arrive, they disrupt the usual battles. Caught between the Rana’s fierce defenses, disciplined Baryan Mercenaries, and the robed zealots of the Barony of Loth, the Marsh is torn apart by a clash unlike any before. This is a classic Conquest map for three players. Great to get your feet wet. [b]Fardeeds Isle[/b] A long time ago magic keystones and portals were built on a small island between the Bleak East and Patriam. It has now been rediscovered and will become a battleground between two fierce explorers. [b]Go East[/b] Arleon, Loth, and Barya all have their own reasons to explore the coastline of the Bleak East. But the Vanir of the East will no more be taken advantage of, they will claim these lands for themselves. This is a large Conquest map set in the lands of Vanir themselves, The map is designed to let you experience the Vanir, our new map entities, and explore new tactics. The map also contains hidden rune-stones that give you more insight into the lore of the Vanir! [img]{STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/40723472/7c0d5a7343e665829451178d820ff0d550f3dd30.gif[/img][i]If I was that Sapper, I’d be hopping mad right now.[/i] [b]Dividing Fjords[/b] A small and fast Conquest map set in the fjords and mountains of the Bleak East. In this secluded snowy landscape, there are only small settlements, and the mountain paths are guarded by trolls and treacherous Vildra. Play as the Vanir or any of your favorite factions on a map that shows our new Biome, but on a small scale. [b]Barren Frontier[/b] Thrown into the heart of a foreign land, you’ll have to establish a foothold in the unwelcoming tundra. Prepare to face the fierce and monstrous foes of the Bleak East! This map might arrive at the same time as the Vanir DLC but it is actually for everyone and part of the free base game update. Designed to let you face off against the Vanir this is the perfect map if you want to get the feeling of facing our newest Faction in battle. [b]Raided Shores[/b] Vanir raiders have landed on the shores of Arleon. Can the defenders push back these invaders, or will they fall under the axes of the aggressors? A co-op map designed to be played as either the two invading Vanir forces or the defending Arleon and Baryan Mercenaries. A medium-sized map that lets you raid the Arleon Countryside! [img]{STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/40723472/1badf94ab76333a08e2230dbd9e97c2982645502.gif[/img][i]Nice town, it would be a shame if something happened to it.[/i] With our new maps of course come the tools to make your very own wintery maps. The Vanir Biome and all the new map entities with beautiful pixel art that comes with it will be yours to use in the Map Editor. Our Artists have outdone themselves and the process has been amazing to follow, and without saying too much, their work for next year is also going to be awesome! [img]{STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/40723472/bbe781c5a8cef232ff653440eebcd2326ad3139b.png[/img][i]From concept to in-game, it’s lodged in my mind.[/i] I could write so much more, but I want to save some for next week and for you to discover yourself as you explore the Bleak East. We are excited and thrilled about the work we have been doing and can’t wait to show you everything, next week can’t come fast enough! /Anders and everyone at Lavapotion