BlizzCon 2026 introduced several major Hearthstone updates, including the upcoming Monk class, the Reign of the Black Empire expansion, a redesigned Journal, the limited-time Black Market, and a new Battlegrounds minion type.
Monk Arrives in March 2027
Monk will become Hearthstone’s newest playable class in March 2027, with Chen Stormstout representing the class. Blizzard describes its playstyle as agile and adaptable.
Reign of the Black Empire
The next expansion revisits ancient Azeroth during the conflict between the Old Gods and the Titan-forged. Reign of the Black Empire launches on October 20.
Pre-Purchase and Patch 36.6 Timing
- Pre-Purchase Bundles are available through the Battle.net Shop.
- In-game bundle availability and visibility of pre-purchased items begin when Patch 36.6 launches at 10:00 a.m. PDT on September 15, 2026.
- The expansion introduces a new Old God mechanic and the Assemble keyword.
Free M.O.T.H.E.R. Legendary
Once Patch 36.6 goes live on September 15 at 10:00 a.m. PDT, players can log in to claim the free M.O.T.H.E.R. Legendary card.
Main Menu and Journal Update
Hearthstone’s main menu is being redesigned around a new navigation tray. The updated Journal will host a Journey that develops from week to week.
Journal activities and content will include:
- Rewards and quests
- Hearthstone story content
- Boss battles
- Limited-time events
Limited-Time Black Market
The Black Market will be available from September 15 through October 13. Playing Ranked Hearthstone awards a limited-time currency that can be exchanged for several types of items:
- Packs
- Cards
- Cosmetics
Prices will change over time, and players can attempt to haggle for better offers. Additional information will be included in the Patch 36.6 notes. Future experiences will also be surfaced through the Journal.
Battlegrounds Adds Aberrations
Aberrations debut as a new Battlegrounds minion type in Patch 36.6.1 on September 22.
- Aberrations are built around discard synergies.
- They become stronger while working toward awakening their Deity, an ancient Old God.
- Each Aberration that dies advances the awakening.
Hearthstone Roadmap
Blizzard also shared a roadmap outlining Hearthstone’s plans beyond Reign of the Black Empire.
