Hearthstone's Year of the Raptor is here, bringing a revitalized competitive scene and exciting new content! This year features a new expansion cycle, a Core Set update, and the return of esports.
Key highlights include:
Core Set Update: A refreshed Core Set arrives with returning favorites, balance adjustments, and brand-new cards. Cards known for frustrating burst damage and disruptive effects have been removed to enhance gameplay. Specific details will be revealed soon.
Esports Resurgence: Hearthstone Esports is back and bigger than ever in 2025, with two Seasonal Championships and a World Championship. In partnership with Netease Thunderfire, the total prize pool will be at least $600,000. Further details on the competitive structure are forthcoming.
Major Arena Update (Patch 32.2): Following the launch of Into the Emerald Dream, Patch 32.2 will introduce a significant Arena update designed to improve the drafting experience and offer a fresh take on the mode. This patch will also include a Battlegrounds Seasonal Update and the Into the Emerald Dream Mini-Set (releasing a patch earlier than usual). A revised patch schedule will be in effect until Patch 33.0.
The first expansion, Into the Emerald Dream, launches soon, preceded by a special pre-release event. A new Year of the Raptor game board with updated visuals and sound effects will also debut. This altered patch schedule is a strategic adjustment to better synchronize development and content releases. The Into the Emerald Dream expansion will maintain its standard structure, with all planned updates and events.
Download Hearthstone for free today and experience the thrill of the Year of the Raptor! Visit the official website for more information. Don't forget to check out our list of top mobile turn-based games while you're at it!