Blizzard Entertainment has announced the upcoming release of The Great Dark Beyond, the latest expansion for Hearthstone, set to launch on 6 November 2024. As the third expansion in the Year of the Pegasus, this new set introduces 145 cards, featuring fresh mechanics, minions, and the return of popular gameplay elements. Pre-purchase options are now available, offering players the chance to prepare for the expansion with exclusive bundles.
One of the flagship additions in The Great Dark Beyond is the introduction of a new minion type: Draenei. These characters, led by Prophet Velen, escaped their world under threat from the Burning Legion and now explore the stars in search of a new home. Draenei minions come with unique abilities, many of which offer support to the next Draenei played, reflecting their hopeful and forward-looking nature.
Another significant feature is the introduction of a new keyword, “Starship.” Throughout the expansion, players will encounter Starship Piece minions. When these minions die, their stats and abilities contribute to constructing a Starship. Once built, players can launch the Starship directly onto the board, providing a powerful new gameplay mechanic. Additionally, the “Spellburst” keyword, which grants an effect the first time a spell is played, returns in this expansion, adding another layer of strategic depth.
Players will have an opportunity to experience the new cards early through a pre-release Tavern Brawl. Running for one week before the official launch, this event allows players to open The Great Dark Beyond packs, build decks, and compete in a limited-time competition. Prizes will be awarded based on performance, with the first entry free and subsequent entries requiring 300 Gold, 400 Runestones or Tavern Tickets.
Two pre-purchase bundles are available for The Great Dark Beyond. The Mega Bundle, priced at $119.95 AUD, includes 80 card packs, 10 golden card packs, a random Signature Legendary card, a random Golden Legendary card, 6 Tavern Tickets, and a Prophet Velen card back and hero skin. A smaller bundle is available for $74.95 AUD, offering 60 card packs, 2 random Legendary cards, and the Prophet Velen card back.