The Dark Ride Update for MapleStory Launches with Fresh Content, Revamps Characters and Introduces Boss Rush Challenges

The iconic MMORPG MapleStory by Nexon has launched the initial part of its winter update, The Dark Ride, loaded with exclusive content tailored to the global version of the game. It unveils a fresh storyline, character overhauls, enhanced leveling processes, and long-lasting seasonal events to retain player interest.

Introduction of the Ride or Die Challenge

The Ride or Die challenge includes forming alliances with a new character, Althea, who is heading a team of dimensional inspectors equipped with the Mapae device. The device permits players to roam across different dimensions of the Maple World, albeit for a limited duration.

Players are challenged to combat Kazax, a revived enemy who controls six infamous bosses: Vellum, Horntail, Papulatus, Darknell, Zakum, and Guardian Angel Slime. Defeating these bosses helps thwart Kazax’s malevolent plans, earning players unique rewards.

New Boss Rush Challenge : This 12-week event, open to level 200+ players, includes randomized boss battles with three levels of difficulty. Accomplishing extra challenges bestows additional bonuses and adds to the weekly scores, with higher levels promising greater rewards.

Character Enhancements: Aran and Shade

The update includes extensive improvements to two much-loved characters, Aran and Shade, with new abilities, animations, and voiceovers:

• Aran: The Polearm Master now possesses updated skills bolstering his prowess as a formidable melee combatant.
• Shade: The Forgotten Hero has been granted new abilities focused on utility and has improved combat animations.

During the event, players can generate new Aran and Shade characters to benefit from swift leveling and gear support. Existing characters of Aran and Shade can join the Blossoming by Moonshade event to secure special outfits and event items.

Hyper Burning, Tera Blink, and Item Burning

New features and reintroduced mechanisms aim to smooth out the leveling and gearing process:

• Hyper Burning: Grants players two additional levels every time they level up, up to level 260.
• Tera Blink: Enables speedy leveling for Hyper Burning characters to reach level 200 swiftly.
• Item Burning: A freshly introduced mechanism that enhances gear stats as Hyper Burning characters complete boss challenges.

Seasonal Events and Other Features

Running until January 14, the Page of Memories event provides rewards associated with Maple World’s history, such as stat buffs, cosmetics, and growth items. Besides, The Dark Ride introduces class realignments and quality-of-life updates aimed at refining gameplay.

The Dark Ride: Part Two Coming Soon

The second half of The Dark Ride will be released on December 17, with new challenges via the Dark Maplemas event, a dynamic boss fight against Limbo, and more opportunities to bolster characters. January shall witness the New Name Auction and Champion Burning, wherein players can level up two more characters alongside a main character.

For More Information: V255 Patchnotes