Developer Gameforge has announced the first major update of 2026 for the MMO AION Classic EU. Dubbed “Ignite”, Update 4.5 is currently scheduled to launch sometime in early 2026.
The new update introduces a new class, extra content, gameplay changes, and more.
The main addition is the new Phoenix class. Phoenix is a ranged class that specializes in fire attacks.
“The Phoenix’s flame revolvers are one-handed weapons that can be equipped simultaneously in both hands,” Gameforge said. “Players can freely choose between deadly bombardments or mass crowd control. As a magic class, the Phoenix is perfect for players who like powerful skills with lots of effects, intuitive gameplay, and a dynamic, yet stylish form of combat.”
What Else Is Coming In AION Classic EU Update 4.5?
In addition to the new Phoenix Class, AION Classic EU is adding more streamlined onboarding for both new and returning players. Gone is the legacy base class system in favor of characters starting as their chosen advanced class.
“Additionally, players now start in their faction’s main city rather than a low-level starter zone, providing faster access to core services, clearer progression guidance, and a more efficient introduction to the game’s systems,” they added.
There’s also a new open-world progression zone, Teva, that will act as a central hub for players. Teva will feature field missions, rare monster encounters, rotating anomalies, hidden islands, and a weekly-reset currency to gain new rewards.
Other new additions include skill reboots, realm vs. realm updates, and expanded endgame progressions.
“Update 4.5 represents an important step for AION Classic EU as we move into 2026,” Syd, Product Manager for AION EU at Gameforge, said. “Our goal with this update is to deliver meaningful new gameplay—like the Phoenix class and Teva—while also refining the core experience based on what we’ve learned so far. We want players to feel that AION Classic continues to evolve in a thoughtful and sustainable way.”
A specific release date hasn’t been announced, but it will be free for all players when it arrives. And, rather than releasing it piece by piece, it will be released as a single large update.
Are you going to check out AION Classic either now or when Update 4.5 launches? Leave your thoughts down in the comments and join the discussion in the official Insider Gaming Discord.
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Mike has been covering the gaming industry since 2012, and has reported on some of the largest events in the industry while also working as an investigative reporter. Outside of…
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