From the characters to the environment, Voldis appears to be heavily inspired by Marvel’s region of Wakanda.
Roughly one year after its release in Europe, North America, and South America, Lost Ark has revealed a new continent that appears to be heavily inspired by the infamous nation of Wakanda. The new continent will be named “Voldaik” when it implements in Korea on February 15 and “Voldis” in the Western localization.
In a recent trailer, Korean developer Smilegate showcases the upcoming content, and the new setting certainly resembles Marvel’s Wakanda. The trailer also features several new images of the Voldis for the game’s Korean version, and Wakanda’s technological utopia is reflected in a major way.
Smilegate describes the new continent as a land full of vitality and a good climate for its wise people and alchemists. It also has a city called Kalinari and a port that serves as the players’ point of departure. The trailer also showcases some of the characters in the new continent, including the Abyss Dungeon, named “the Ivory Tower of Chaos,” and its Guardians of Chaos bosses.
The locals include the descendants who left the Ivory Tower, forming an advanced society with a special magical affinity. Kalinari also has the Sages’ Tower, a major attraction for knowledge seekers. Nonetheless, it’s the city’s widespread use of alchemy that demonstrates its majesty, with homunculi providing manpower and the Aquagates serving as a quick means of transport.
Lost Ark’s recent patch notes also feature several new images proving Wakanda’s influence in the game. As you will see below, the man on the left in the image has a striking resemblance to Michael B Jordan’s version of Erik Killmonger.
Wakanda has dramatically influenced popular culture since Black Panther’s release in 2018. The fictional nation in Africa has played a special role in the world of video games as Lost Ark joins the list of games inspired by Wakanda. The new continent of Voldis reflects Wakanda’s technological utopia significantly while the markings on the statues also resemble the costumes clad by Black Panthers in the MCU.
It’s worth noting that gamers outside South Korea may have to wait a few months before the continent releases in-game. There’s also the possibility that some names may change once Smilegate localizes the new continent.
Lost Ark is currently available for PC, and developers have provided a detailed 2023 roadmap that promises a new continent, a new class, and a witcher event.
