Cygames has expanded Granblue Fantasy: Relink with its "Endless Ragnarok" update, introducing a wealth of new content that further solidifies the action RPG's place as a standout title. The expansion adds a roguelike mode, new summons, and challenging story missions, alongside making the game available on Nintendo Switch 2, a platform well-suited for its mission-based structure. This update arrives as a significant addition to a game that, upon its 2024 release, successfully transitioned the Granblue series into a premium console experience free of microtransactions.
While Relink's narrative may not be its strongest suit, its combat offers a spectacular and over-the-top experience. Battles against colossal bosses are designed to rival the grandeur of Final Fantasy 16's summon sequences, providing ample opportunity to explore the unique abilities of each character. The game's roster functions akin to a fighting game's diverse cast, but within an action RPG framework. Coupled with multiple progression layers and formidable end-game challenges, Relink presents a compelling overall package.
The Endless Ragnarok update significantly amps up the action. New story missions are largely centered around challenging boss encounters on a new "Chaos" difficulty, intended for players with maxed-out characters. For those returning after a break, this new content presents a steep learning curve due to the game's dense system of numbers and resources. However, the update also introduces new gameplay mechanics, such as the ability to deploy summons via a new gauge, transforming battles with temporary control of monstrous ice and stone beasts. Furthermore, the game's "Full Burst" attack has been enhanced with a follow-up cinematic ultimate attack, adding a layer of exaggerated spectacle.
Cygames appears committed to a design philosophy of relentless escalation. Endless Ragnarok pushes the boundaries of player power even further, introducing "weapon transcendence" to break existing power caps. This aggressive approach extends to the end-game content, with players able to grind through bosses on increasingly difficult "Chaos++" settings. To combat potential burnout from repeating these encounters, the update introduces The Conflux, a new roguelike mode. This mode features a series of arena battles where players acquire run-specific perks, offering a fresh way to test skills and experiment with powerful character builds that might not be accessible in the main game. The Conflux is presented as a valuable addition for both seasoned players seeking new challenges and more casual players navigating the game's continuous power escalation.
With the addition of six new playable characters, including Eustace, a long-range gunner capable of combining shooting and dodging, the Endless Ragnarok expansion offers substantial new content. While the update does not fundamentally alter Relink's narrative focus, it substantially enhances its gameplay and replayability, reinforcing its status as a highly ambitious and visually impressive action RPG.