Eleventh Hour Games will add paid Paradox Classes to Last Epoch in 2026, stirring controversy among players.
Paradox Classes Announcement
The developer announced the introduction of Paradox Classes, a new paid DLC feature coming with the game's first major expansion, Orobyss. These classes are innovative and allow players to explore new gameplay mechanics. Despite this, the announcement provoked strong reactions from the community.
CEO Judd Cobler stated that the first three seasons were not profitable, and the introduction of Paradox Classes is a step towards sustainable development. He underscored that this decision stems from the need for alternative revenue streams beyond cosmetic sales.
Community Reaction and Reviews
Since the announcement, Last Epoch's Steam reviews have shifted from 'Mostly Positive' to 'Mixed'. Players expressed concerns about potential imbalances the paid classes could introduce. This sentiment was exacerbated by Eleventh Hour Games' acquisition by Krafton earlier this year, raising worries about monetization strategies.
Cobler, however, assured players that their development approach remains unchanged, despite Krafton's emphasis on AI-first comments.
Expansion Details
Orobyss, the expansion set for 2026, will be free for all existing players, while new players will get it through an updated base game bundle. The expansion follows Seasons 4 and 5, with Season 4 launching early in 2026, bringing a new seasonal mechanic and much-requested updates.
