Game of Thrones: Kingsroad has dropped a fresh developer note, and frankly, the community hasn't been this buzzing since launch. Let us break down exactly what has everyone so excited.

As I hinted, a massive bombshell landed on August 7th for a community starving for fresh content. Game of Thrones: Kingsroad announced a major update via a developer note, featuring the addition of the Westerlands in the western part of the continent. With the update arriving as soon as August 19, players both in South Korea and across the globe are throwing their hands up in genuine excitement.

Casterly Rock, the seat of House Lannister and one of the most formidable natural fortresses in the realm, is finally coming. True to its lore as a stronghold carved directly into a mountain, the newly revealed images show damp, oppressive stone walls. Alongside it, the massive trade city of Lannisport—built on the wealth of western gold—joins the fray, serving as a hub where all manner of goods change hands.

This update promises a narrative shift far more tense than what we have seen thus far. Once players step foot into the Westerlands, they find themselves branded as fugitives, forced to clash blades with the Kingslayer, Jaime Lannister. More importantly, the game will delve into a backstory for Tyrion Lannister that the original material never touched upon, which explains why the player base is currently in a state of absolute euphoria.

The first regular season of Game of Thrones: Kingsroad, 'Northern Banner Selection: Frost and Steel', is entering its final week. Competition is fiercer than ever, as rewards are tied to cumulative scores. Top-tier family ranking players have already smashed through the 30,000-point mark, thanks to a 50% hot-time bonus on dungeon scores and the strategic dumping of stockpiled tokens.

The season concludes at 6:00 AM on August 19, followed by a two-week breather. It is a necessary reset before the next chapter. Moving forward, the developer is shifting to a structure of four-week regular seasons followed by two-week pre-seasons. It seems they are finally looking to pace things out and ease the fatigue for the players..

Also, on August 19, the 'Iron Bank Coin' will be retired. These coins, which acted as a currency for purchasing various in-game items, required separate top-ups. It is entirely understandable that players are feeling a bit of apprehension regarding this change.

Post-update, some items previously bought with Iron Bank Coins will be available for 'Dragon Gold'. Key items include character outfits like 'Salt Reef' and 'Scoundrel', along with three types of mounts. Other items will transition to direct payment models. Keep in mind that membership benefits that previously granted Iron Bank Coins are also seeing a shake-up; check the details below.