NCSoft has just revealed monetization plans and new details about Aion 2, giving players a clearer picture of what to expect when the MMORPG launches in September.

If you are not familiar with the game, Aion 2 is set 200 years after the fall of the Tower of Souls in a world where the protective barrier surrounding Atreia has disappeared. The Elyos and Asmodians are now locked in a struggle against the Balaur, and players will begin their journey as members of one of the two playable factions before becoming Daevas.

According to NCSoft, Atreia is 36 times larger than the world featured in the original game. Built with Unreal Engine 5, the setting has been designed as a seamless open world where flight remains a core feature. Exploration won’t be limited to the skies, as underwater environments will also play a significant role. Activities that were previously restricted to land can now be experienced while flying or swimming.

In comparison to the first game, character customization has been significantly expanded, with more than 200 adjustable options available. Players can modify everything from facial structure and eye placement to smaller visual details, allowing for a wide range of unique character designs.

The game still retains the original eight classes with each class maintaining a distinct role like a traditional tank, healer, and damage dealer. Combat is also receiving a major overhaul. Aion 2 replaces the original targeting system with non-target combat that relies on direct control and real-time decision-making. The change places greater emphasis on player skill, positioning, and timing during battles. The big win here is their desire to support both solo and group play.

Players will be able to invade opposing territories through time-space rifts, while large-scale faction battles will take place around Abyss Artifacts on floating islands. NCSoft noted that PvE and PvP content have been designed separately, allowing players to focus on the activities they prefer.

Customization extends beyond character creation. Equipment appearances can be unlocked through gameplay, while dyes allow additional visual changes. Wings continue to serve as a defining feature of the franchise, and players can also capture monsters as collectible pets with unique animations and interactions.

NCSoft confirmed that shop items, including outfits, wings, weapon skins, accessories, and pets, will be cosmetic only and won’t provide combat advantages, which is good to know because players were concerned about P2W. However, the game will offer a $15 monthly membership and a battle pass featuring free and paid reward tracks that use the premium currency Kuna, which sounds a bit concerning, but as long as there are no P2W elements, it should be fine, right? RIGHT?

More details are expected to be revealed ahead of Aion 2‘s September launch.