Red Hook Studios has confirmed that the original Darkest Dungeon is receiving a new expansion, The Fire's Edge, more than a decade after the game's initial release. The DLC is scheduled to launch on August 18, 2026.
Quick Facts
- Expansion Title: The Fire's Edge
- Release Date: August 18, 2026
- New Hero Classes: The Duelist and the Runaway
- New Content: Three Hamlet Districts (Academie Duello, Craftworks, and Archaeological Base Camp)
New Classes and Mechanics
The upcoming expansion brings two hero classes from Darkest Dungeon II into the original game. The Runaway is designed to utilize a new "Burn" combat mechanic, favoring fire and stealth during encounters. The Duelist, characterized by her ornate capelet, offers a distinct, high-pressure playstyle described by the developer as having a "bitter edge."
Beyond the new characters, the update introduces significant changes to item management. The developers are implementing new trinket mechanics, specifically "Trigger Uses," "Quest Charges," and "Progressive Trinkets," which are intended to provide additional layers of strategy during dungeon runs.
Expanding the Hamlet
Players will gain access to three new Hamlet Districts: the Academie Duello, the Craftworks, and the Archaeological Base Camp. These additions follow the original game's tradition of building up the hub area to grant specific bonuses and utility for the roster of heroes.
This release marks the first time Red Hook Studios has provided new content for the original Darkest Dungeon since 2020. The game, which originally debuted on January 19, 2016, remains a verified title for the Steam Deck.