Hearthstone's Year of the Raptor is here, bringing a revitalized esports scene, a Core Set overhaul, and a new expansion cycle kicking off with Into the Emerald Dream.

Key highlights include:

• Core Set Update: A refreshed Core Set featuring returning favorites, crucial balance adjustments, and exciting new cards. Cards known for frustrating burst damage and disruptive effects have been removed to enhance gameplay. Specific details will be revealed soon.

• Esports Returns: Hearthstone Esports is back in 2025 with a robust schedule including two Seasonal Championships and a World Championship. In partnership with Netease Thunderfire, the total prize pool will exceed $600,000, aiming to boost participation in competitive Hearthstone. Further details on the format and rules are forthcoming.

• Major Arena Update (Patch 32.2): Following the launch of Into the Emerald Dream, Patch 32.2 will deliver a significant Arena update designed to improve the drafting experience and introduce a new dynamic to the game 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 temporarily shift the release timing of updates to better streamline development. The standard schedule will resume with Patch 33.0.

This strategic shift in the release schedule aims to optimize the development and content delivery process. The Into the Emerald Dream expansion will maintain its standard structure, including all planned updates and events. The usual release cadence will be restored with Patch 33.0, following Patch 32.4.

Download Hearthstone for free today and join the Year of the Raptor! Visit the official website for more information.