The Wilds of Talandre expansion for Throne and Liberty introduces a variety of new environments that deepen the world of Solisium. NCSoft’s development team shared insights into the creative process behind these zones, highlighting the care taken to craft memorable locations that blend story and atmosphere.
Herba Village
At the heart of Talandre, Herba Village features a wind wheel lift perched at its highest point. This aerial transport system was designed to feel medieval yet practical. Inspired by current cable cars, it is powered by wind and operated with cogs and pulleys. The open-air design invites players to take in the sweeping views of the new zone.
Bercant Mansion
Inspired by the ornate exterior of the Louvre, Bercant Mansion stands out with a distinct architectural style that tells the tragic story of Limuny Bercant. The mansion’s elegant interior contrasts sharply with the dilapidated village outside. Red accents inside create a sense of opulence, while the audience chamber features a striking red tree symbolizing a cursed transformation.
Temple of Truth
This zone draws inspiration from an ancient library hidden within cliffs by a lake. The temple’s concealed entrance and luminescent ancient characters emphasize mystery and the passage of time. Surrounded by enormous inscriptions, players will uncover knowledge long lost to history.
Quietis’ Demesne
This region tells the story of Quietis, an ancient giant who lost his heart in a war and was petrified, leaving behind a scarred scene. The Guardian’s Forest blends destruction and magic, while the Scream of Quietis shows the giant merging with nature. The Conquest Battles area contrasts a harsh ravine with a serene battleground.
Black Anvil Forge
The dwarves’ settlement in this harsh terrain showcases their craftsmanship and technology, including elevators and minecarts. The region’s design uses red soil, black stone architecture with sharp geometric shapes, and green minerals symbolizing dwarven vitality and magic.
Crimson Manor House
Following the architectural style of Bercant Mansion but with a darker tone, Crimson Manor House includes a basement laboratory blending prison and bone-themed designs. The surrounding Snowburn Highlands and Manor Fields are desolate, ruled by wild monsters, with landscapes inspired by Italy’s Dolomites featuring unusual flora.
Swamp of Silence
This environment changes frequently, with water levels shifting due to weather and time of day. Once a vast ocean, it became a swamp where sharks evolved into dominant predators. The area is divided into the green, vegetative River Swamp and the misty, mysterious Sea Swamp, featuring wrecked ships and fog-covered creatures.
A notable feature is a rotating ghostly ship drifting endlessly, adding motion to the still swamp and contributing to its eerie atmosphere.
Forest of the Great Tree
Centered around the Ancient Tree of the Sage, this mystical forest was once a place where elves taught magic to humans. The tree emits a soft glow at night, inspired by Norse mythology’s Yggdrasil. The design focuses on the tree’s grandeur, blending elven architecture naturally with the environment.
Which of these new areas in Talandre caught your eye? Feel free to share your thoughts and favorite spots in the comments below. Thanks for reading, and I hope to see you in Solisium soon!
