Published: April 10, 2026
A new chapter begins for Etheria: Restart as developer XD Games officially rolls out Season SS4: Loong’s Thunder – Shattered Dawn.
Live starting April 9, 2026 and running through June 10, 2026, the latest season introduces a major progression overhaul, new characters, and systems designed to deepen both strategy and long-term player growth.
SS4 Introduces Tactical Imprint: A New Progression System
At the core of SS4 is the Tactical Imprint system, a brand-new progression feature that significantly enhances character customization and combat efficiency.
How Tactical Imprints Work
- Equipable across all Animus
- Provide passive traits for stat boosts
- Feature four fixed sockets for further enhancements
Players can insert newly introduced Components into these sockets to upgrade:
- Offensive stats
- Defensive capabilities
- Vitality and survivability
This system allows for deeper build customization, enabling players to tailor their Animus for specific combat roles.
Hyper Kernel System Powers Up Progression
To support the new Imprint system, SS4 also introduces the Hyper Kernel, a factory-style system that generates key resources.
Key Features of Hyper Kernel
- Produces Tactical Imprints and Components
- Generates Energy Crystals for upgrades
- Enables regional expeditions for rewards
- Can be upgraded into a fully automated resource system
Energy Crystals can be used to:
- Level up terminal nodes
- Increase maximum stability
- Unlock additional progression bonuses
This system adds a strategic layer to resource management, giving players more control over long-term growth.
Sprint Server Boosts New Player Progression
New players jumping into Etheria: Restart during SS4 can take advantage of the Sprint Server, designed to accelerate early-game development.
Sprint Server Benefits
- 14-day Double Drop event for faster farming
- Hyper Camp missions with Training Point rewards
- Beginner protection system in Summit Arena matchmaking
The protection system ensures new players won’t face high-level opponents until they’re ready, making onboarding smoother and more accessible.
New Animus Arrive in SS4
Season SS4 brings a fresh roster of Animus, expanding gameplay strategies and team compositions.
Available Now
Xuan Chi
- Defense-oriented Animus
- Boosts turn meter for allies
- Creates more opportunities for team actions
Rimeheart Dinah
- Support-type character
- Absorbs damage for teammates
- Counters with powerful melee attacks
Upcoming Animus
- Luvia (Intelligence Officer) – arriving April 30
- Qano (Senior Security Operative) – arriving April 30
- Sharon (Test Subject) – arriving May 21
These additions introduce new tactical options, especially for players focused on synergy and team-based strategies.
Balance Changes and Gameplay Adjustments
SS4 also refines the existing roster with several balance updates:
- Asal receives a major buff
- Bornova gets stabilized damage output
- Heinrich gains new control abilities
These changes aim to improve overall gameplay balance and keep the meta dynamic throughout the season.
Why SS4 Is a Major Update for Etheria: Restart
Season SS4 marks a significant evolution for Etheria: Restart, delivering:
- A deeper progression system with Tactical Imprints
- Enhanced resource management via Hyper Kernel
- New Animus with diverse combat roles
- Improved onboarding for new players
Together, these updates create a more engaging and flexible gameplay experience for both newcomers and veterans.
Play SS4 Now
Loong’s Thunder: Shattered Dawn is now live and available until June 10, 2026. Players can jump into Etheria: Restart today on PC, iOS, and Android to experience the latest season.
