Announcement: Celebrating 35 Years of Gemstone IV
Category: General
Subject: Announcement: Celebrating 35 Years of Gemstone IV
Author: GS4-THANDIWE
Date: 2025-03-29
Celebrating 35 years of Gemstone IV
We are proud to celebrate the 35th Anniversary of GemStone IV and as part of that we are unveiling the Isle of Ornath, a new seaport in the Sea of Crisium. As part of this anniversary milestone, adventurers will discover Sleeping Drake Harbor, a vibrant seaport rich with history, culture, and a gateway to everyday accessibility to Ornath.
This release also introduces an update to Elanthia’s navigable waters, which we have been rolling out throughout the month. While the core mechanics of Open Sea Adventures (OSA) remain unchanged, the ocean itself has been expanded with 19 new seas for players to explore. These additions enhance naval travel without altering the familiar systems that experienced sailors know and enjoy.
We are also excited to announce that the Agora Promenade and the Needle of Pentas are now openly accessible through Sleeping Drake Harbor. Chronomage and mount travel options have been updated to include these destinations, making it easier than ever to visit these iconic locations. In addition, access to the Trials of Lumnis has been restored for those who still possess Scholar’s Cards, allowing those cards to be used freely once again.
To enrich this new region, we released a collection of lore and cultural documents that bring the Isle of Ornath to life. These writings offer insight into the island’s daily life, traditions, natural wonders, and historical significance:
- Echoes of Ornath: Life Amidst the Waves – A dissertation on Ornathian culture, cuisine, and everyday life
- Flora Guide of the Isle of Ornath – A guide for cultivators and culinary enthusiasts detailing the island’s unique plant life
- History of the Library of Biblia – A historical account of one of the isle’s oldest scholarly institutions
- Sights of Ornath – A tour through notable locations blending history and legend
- Currents of Tradition: Analyzing the Sea Shanties – An exploration of maritime folklore and musical traditions
- Ornathian Holidays – A look into the island’s vibrant celebrations and seasonal rituals
- Tobacco Wood – A new crafting material gathered from Ornath’s repurposed drying houses
- Geography of Ornath – A detailed topographical overview of the island
- Lost Glassmakers of Kannalan – A rediscovery of an ancient art form linked to the Kannalan Empire
From the sacred Tholos of Silence and the formidable Spine of Koar to the tranquil Wavesong Grotto and relaxing Travertine Pools, as well as the now-accessible Agora Promenade and Needle of Pentas, the island features a wide range of locations waiting to be explored and enjoyed.
The Isle of Ornath will enter a soft launch, providing accessibility starting today. The official grand opening is set for Friday, April 4th at 9:00 PM EDT and will coincide with the start of Bericsaba Market. This beloved annual festival celebrates craftsmanship, trade, and culinary traditions with spirited contests, unique island goods, and the opportunity to meet both native inhabitants and fellow travelers. Adventurers are encouraged to arrive earlier at 7:00PM EDT to take part in a tour of Sleeping Drake Harbor.
Join us as we continue to celebrate 35 years of adventure in GemStone IV. The tides are turning, and a new journey begins. The Isle of Ornath awaits… where will it take you?
tldr
Celebrating 35 years of Gemstone IV