FromSoftware has kicked off 2026 with a substantial balance-focused update for Elden Ring Nightreign. Released as version 1.03.2—and appearing on consoles as update 1.003.002/1.22—this patch represents the first major client-side adjustment of the year. Rather than introducing brand-new content, the developers have taken a careful look at the game’s existing systems, classes, and progression loops, delivering sweeping changes aimed squarely at improving overall balance and long-term playability.

For a game that has evolved significantly since its launch in May 2025, this update feels less like routine maintenance and more like a recalibration of Nightreign’s core experience.

Addressing the Meta: Nightfarer Class Buffs Take Center Stage

The headline feature of Update 1.03.2 is the extensive rebalancing of Nightfarer classes. Community feedback over the past several months has consistently pointed to underperforming characters, especially after The Forsaken Hollows expansion introduced powerful new options like the Scholar and Undertaker. This patch directly addresses that disparity.

The Executor receives the most dramatic overhaul. Long considered one of the most difficult Nightfarers to master, the Executor now benefits from increased critical hit damage, better stamina efficiency, and enhanced defensive properties while the Cursed Sword skill is active. Guard breaks after successful deflections are no longer an issue, and weapon arts now properly scale with skill-based relic bonuses. When combined with buffs to the Ultimate Art Aspects of the Crucible: Beast, the Executor transforms into a far more viable high-risk, high-reward pick—especially in Deep of Night expeditions.

The Raider also sees meaningful improvements. Attack speed has been increased across most heavy weapon categories, helping offset the class’s traditionally sluggish feel. The passive skill Fighter’s Resolve now grants an attack power boost when HP is critically low, reinforcing the Raider’s identity as a bruiser that thrives under pressure. Additionally, the Totem Stela Ultimate Art now boasts a wider effective range, making it more impactful in group encounters.

Meanwhile, the Guardian and Revenant receive smaller but highly targeted buffs. Guardians now enjoy improved Guard Boost and stronger damage negation against both physical and elemental attacks, reinforcing their role as frontline defenders. Revenants, on the other hand, gain increased damage output and survivability for summoned spirits, particularly when triggering Immortal March or operating in Deep of Night mode. These changes significantly enhance the value of summoning-focused builds.

Minor tweaks were also applied to the Duchess, Scholar, and Undertaker, primarily addressing visibility, positioning, and consistency issues rather than raw power.

Relics Rebalanced: Power Gains with a Few Necessary Nerfs

Relics, a cornerstone of Nightreign’s build customization, have undergone broad adjustments. Most relic effects have been strengthened, especially those tied to guarding, Totem Stela synergy, and class-specific abilities. Executor and Undertaker relics, in particular, benefit from longer healing durations and stronger conditional attack boosts.

However, not all changes are buffs. Relics that previously stacked excessive damage—such as Successive Attacks Boost Attack Power and bow-focused enhancements—have been toned down. FromSoftware clarified that this corrects an unintended interaction from Patch 1.03, where bow weapons were receiving inflated bonuses. The result is a healthier balance between ranged and melee-focused builds.

Sorceries, Incantations, and Equipment Tweaks

Magic users will notice increased FP consumption for Shattering Crystal and Beast Claw, a change clearly aimed at limiting their sustained damage potential. In addition, the Rotten Crystal Staff now defaults to Crystal Release, subtly shifting early combat dynamics for certain builds.

Several talismans have also been adjusted to reduce their drawbacks, including the Primal Glintstone Blade and Crucible Feather Talisman. These refinements encourage more experimentation without overly punishing trade-offs.

Field and Event Improvements

Beyond combat mechanics, Update 1.03.2 introduces notable changes to Nightreign’s environments. Enemy density, rune rewards, and loot quality have been improved in areas like the Marsh and Blacksmith Village, making them more rewarding to explore. Raid events—including Tricephalos, Fissure in the Fog, and Balancers—have received visibility tweaks, damage adjustments, and refined enemy behavior to improve clarity and fairness.

Special shops now appear more frequently in The Great Hollow Shifting Earth, enhancing progression pacing for players tackling Forsaken Hollows content.

What This Update Means for Players

Taken as a whole, Elden Ring Nightreign Update 1.03.2 signals a renewed focus on balance, accessibility, and long-term engagement. Weaker classes are no longer left behind, relics feel more purposeful, and core activities are more rewarding. For console players jumping back in, topping up their account with Cheap Xbox Gift Card, this patch offers a noticeably smoother and more satisfying experience.

As Nightreign moves deeper into 2026, this update lays a strong foundation for whatever content lies ahead. More importantly, it restores confidence that FromSoftware is listening closely to its community and is committed to refining Nightreign into a more cohesive and competitive experience.