Quick answer
Aion 2 features three factions: the playable Elyos and Asmodian , plus the non-playable Balaur who serve as a balancing NPC force. The Elyos inhabit the sunlit south, the Asmodian dwell in the frozen north, and the Balaur intervene in PvPvE based on faction power ratios. Faction choice is primarily cosmetic and story-based, as both playable factions have access to the same nine classes.
The Elyos
Lore
The Elyos are the inhabitants of Elysea, the southern half of Atreia that retained the Tower of Eternity’s light after the Cataclysm. Their lands remained fertile and bright, preserving their original appearance and culture. Their capital, Sanctum, stands as a beacon of civilization. The Elyos blame the Asmodians for causing the Cataclysm.
Chapter 1 Zone
In Chapter 1: Sands of Frost, the Elyos-exclusive expansion zone is the Eltan Desert , offering new quests, dungeons, and open-world content.
The Asmodian
Lore
The Asmodians inhabit Asmodae, the dark and cold northern half of Atreia. After the Cataclysm stripped their lands of warmth and light, they adapted physically — developing darker skin, claws, and manes to survive. Their capital, Pandaemonium , was built as a symbol of resilience. Led by Lord Azphel , the Asmodians blame the Elyos for the Tower’s destruction.
Chapter 1 Zone
The Asmodian-exclusive expansion zone in Chapter 1 is the Morheim Ice-Volcano region, featuring new content and challenges.
The Balaur
Role in PvPvE
The Balaur are the third faction — a non-playable draconic force that maintains balance in PvPvE. They can attack either the Elyos or Asmodians anywhere, at any time, based on faction power ratios. Originally known as Drakan , five of their most powerful awakened as Dragon Lords , seeking to surpass the Tower of Eternity itself.
Key Figures
The Dragon Lord Fregion played a pivotal role during the Cataclysm. The Balaur remain the hostile third faction in Aion 2, appearing in the Abyss and during dynamic world events.
Faction Choice Impact
Does faction affect gameplay?
Faction choice is primarily cosmetic and story-based. Both playable factions have access to all nine classes, the same progression systems, and the same endgame content. The main differences are in story, starting zones, and visual aesthetics.
Can I switch factions?
Characters are locked to their chosen faction. Players who want to experience both sides need to create separate characters on each faction.
FAQ
Are the Balaur playable?
No, the Balaur are a non-playable NPC faction. They serve as the balancing force in the three-faction PvPvE system, intervening based on power ratios.
Do Elyos and Asmodian have different classes?
No, both factions have access to all nine classes. Faction choice affects story, starting zones, and appearance, but not class availability.
What is the Abyss?
The Abyss (Obis) is the inter-dimensional space of floating islands connecting the two halves of Atreia. It is the primary site of three-way PvPvE warfare between Elyos, Asmodian, and Balaur.