The Valkyrie is about to descend upon Arkesia. Downtime will begin on August 20 at 2 a.m. PT (9:00 a.m. UTC) and is expected to last 4 hours.

This update introduces the new Valkyrie class, Trust Point System, Ebony Cube changes, two new progression events, the return of the Golden Frog, Prestige Shop and more. Check out the full list of new content, events, store offerings, and other changes here[www.playlostark.com]. Thanks for your support and we’ll see you in Arkesia!

We caught up with Smilegate RPG for more insight into the Valkyrie class before she slashes through Arkesia on August 20.

The Valkyrie class is easy to pick up, but flexible in how players can showcase their skill. This flexibility extends to its ability to switch between damage dealer and support. From skills and combat animations to skins and class design, Valkyrie faithfully delivers the essence of a holy warrior, making her highly appealing to those who value immersive character visuals.

Q: The Valkyrie brings a fresh take on the holy warrior archetype to Lost Ark. What makes Valkyrie stand out from other classes as well as her male Paladin counterpart?

A: Like the Paladin, Valkyrie uses a one-handed sword and channels her Faith Gauge as a resource. However, her combat design and playstyle introduce distinct differences. The most notable difference lies in her identity system. While the Paladin sustains allies through continuous healing and damage reduction via divine aura, Valkyrie utilizes two identity skills—Release Light (Z) and Light of the Faithful (X)—to offer situational support like offensive buffs or instant recovery.

Another key distinction is her damage-dealing role through the Ark Passive. The Paladin focuses on steady back-attack-based damage, whereas Valkyrie delivers explosive bursts centered around the skill Final Splendor (X). Even though they share the same resource, the flow and feel of battle differ dramatically.

In terms of combat tempo and feel, Valkyrie offers a faster, flashier, and more agile experience than the heavier, grounded playstyle of the Paladin.

Q: Her armor and weapon designs are very distinct. What were the inspirations behind her launch skin visual design?

A: We began the costume design with a focus on conveying the “sanctity” shared by the Paladin and their gender-locked counterpart, the Valkyrie. To express the clean and pure image that sanctity evokes, we drew inspiration from a bride in a white dress walking down the aisle. The off-shoulder design was also influenced by this concept. We chose white and gold, colors commonly used in bridal rings, as the main palette.

The halo, which shines like the glow of the head avatar, further enhances the sense of sacredness. Additionally, to emphasize the keyword “Holy Warrior,” we incorporated armor elements into the costume. However, we avoided overly flashy or extravagant designs that wouldn’t suit a holy warrior, and instead based the design on traditional medieval armor.

Q: The Valkyrie's weapon design, alongside her ability to wield two swords, is quite striking. Can you share why the team opted for two swords instead of a sword and shield?

A: From early development, a key goal was to differentiate Valkyrie's combat actions from those of the Paladin. While the Paladin projects a calm, defensive presence through his use of a one-handed sword and holy book, Valkyrie was designed to deliver a more aggressive and dynamic feel.

To achieve this, Valkyrie was conceptualized to wield multiple sacred relic weapons, depending on the situation. One example is her skill that has her summon and wield a sacred sword alongside her normal sword and briefly engage in dual-blade combat. This symbolizes both her divine power and offensive potential.

Weapons like the sacred shield, spear (used in Hyper Awakening), and sacred banner (used in Hyper Awakening) are featured throughout her skill set. These diverse weapon types create a more immersive and cinematic experience, breaking away from the monotony of single-weapon classes. The visual design of divine energy channeling through her sword also reinforces her core concept.

Q: What makes Valkyrie visually and functionally different in battle, especially as a support?

A: Valkyrie's skills are divided into three categories: Justice, Starlight, and Protection. Each has a distinct theme and purpose.

• Justice Skills focus on minimal use of divine power, instead relying on refined swordsmanship to present a disciplined and knightly image. Motions like striking and holding posture emphasize composure and control.

• Starlight Skills allow Valkyrie to summon a sacred sword in her left hand, wielding it like a dual blade, or infusing her one-handed sword with divine energy for powerful strikes. This category enhances her identity as a valiant and symbolic holy warrior.

• Protection Skills use sacred shields to protect allies or weaken enemies. Some skills include impact animations to strengthen her presence as a defensive class.

Unlike traditional ranged supports that provide stable backing from a distance, Valkyrie is designed to engage more actively in battle. Her hybrid structure shares some skills with the DPS Ark Passive, featuring many aggressive visuals. She dashes toward allies and supports them from close range, offering a more hands-on, proactive support experience compared to other support classes.

Q: Let's talk about sound. What went into designing the Valkyrie's divine audio?

A: To fully capture Valkyrie’s identity as a wielder of a holy sword radiating divine energy, the team centered the sound design around the keyword “sanctity.” Special focus was given to her weapon design and supportive role in combat.

Valkyrie’s skills incorporate a variety of divine weapons, including holy swords, shields, and throwing spears. Although these weapons serve different functions, their sound design was carefully crafted to maintain a cohesive sense of holiness across all skill types. As a support class capable of buffing allies, the team also balanced aggressive, impactful sound effects with softer, uplifting tones that convey the supportive nature of her skills. The goal was to ensure these effects harmonize smoothly.

Above all, the team prioritized preserving the overall atmosphere of the game, while giving Valkyrie a distinct divine presence. Her sound design reinforces her role as a support class while also highlighting her strong and memorable identity.

Special attention was given to Final Splendor, one of Valkyrie’s identity skills. Unlike traditional buff skills, Final Splendor directly impacts her damage output. To reflect its raw power, the skill was designed with a bold, overwhelming sound profile that contrasts sharply with Valkyrie’s sacred appearance—emphasizing strength as much as sanctity.

Striking the right balance between “sanctity” and “might” was a key challenge. The result is a unique audio identity that defines Valkyrie in both form and function.

We can’t wait for players to experience Valkyrie as part of the Rise of the Valkyrie update on August 20.