Blizzard Entertainment has released the 35.6.2 patch notes for Hearthstone, detailing balance updates for the game's various modes. The patch includes adjustments to cards in the Hearthstone, Arena, and Battlegrounds meta, as well as some bug fixes. Here's a breakdown of the key changes and commentary from the developers.
Hearthstone Updates
Card Adjustments:
- Confront the Tol'vir: Mana cost increased from 3 to 4, aiming to balance the power of No Hand Hunter and Companion Hunter builds.
- The Eternal Hold: Mana cost increased from 6 to 1 when no minions are in the deck, addressing its strength in No Minion Demon Hunter decks.
- Hatchery Helper: Attack bonus for minions with 2 or less attack changed from +1/+2 to +1/+1, part of the ongoing tuning of Token Druid.
- Twilight Egg: Deathrattle changed from summoning a 2/2 Whelp to a 2/1 Whelp, slightly reducing its efficiency.
- Crystallized Leyline: Mana cost increased from 5 to 6, aiming to give it a better chance to impact the game.
Dust Refunds: Full dust refunds for the above cards will be available for two weeks following the patch.
Arena Updates
- Added Cards: Several cards have been added to the Arena draft pool, including Bursting Leyline, Mystic Runesaber, and more.
- Trinket Changes: Changes to trinkets include cost adjustments and bans to balance their power.
Battlegrounds Updates
- Minion Buffs and Nerfs: Buffs were given to Beasts, Murlocs, Quilboar, and Undead, while Dragons received nerfs.
- Specific Card Adjustments: Cards like Ring Bearer, Twilight Hatchling, and others were adjusted to balance their play rates.
- Trinket Pool Changes: Several trinkets were banned or modified to ensure fair gameplay.
Returning and Cut Minions
- Returning Minions: Felhorn, Costume Enthusiast, and Trench Fighter return.
- Cut Minions: Egg of the Endtimes, Bristleback Bully, and others are removed.
Trinket Pool Changes
- Bans and Adjustments: Specific trinkets were banned or modified to balance their power.
Bug Fixes and Gameplay Improvements
- Battlegrounds Fixes: VFX adjustments, bug fixes for trinkets, and improvements to gameplay mechanics.
The patch notes emphasize the developers' ongoing efforts to balance the game and provide an enjoyable experience for players. With a new expansion on the horizon, these adjustments aim to create a healthier meta and ensure that all decks have a chance to shine.
