Major South Korean video game companies wager on massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs) as a means to reverse revenue declines
The gaming landscape is abuzz with excitement as the second half of 2022 approaches, bringing with it a host of anticipated MMORPG releases and developments. Here's a round-up of what you can look forward to:
New Titles on the Horizon
Netmarble, a leading Korean game developer, is set to launch two new titles in the latter half of the year. The first, The Seven Deadly Sins: Origin, is an open-world action RPG adaptation based on the popular anime IP, marking a push into immersive MMORPG experiences. The second title, Vampir, is a Vampire-themed, dark fantasy MMORPG, offering a unique twist in the genre. The Seven Deadly Sins: Origin will be available on all consoles, PC, and mobile, while Vampir will be offered on mobile devices and PC [4].
Smilegate Megaport is also set to launch LORDNINE: Infinite Class, a fantasy MMORPG emphasizing player choice and class diversity. This new adventure focuses on varied class paths and player-driven narratives [5].
Aion 2: A Sequel to the Classic MMORPG
NCSoft is launching a follow-up version of the iconic Aion, released in 2008, in the fourth quarter of this year. Dubbed Aion 2, this new version is being developed by major Korean game developers including NCSoft, Netmarble, and Kakao Games, with the aim of boosting earnings in the success of the new games [6].
According to Ahn Jae-min, Aion 2 is expected to appeal to both existing MMO users and young gamers. The game is based on a traditional MMORPG style and is gearing up to offer a variety of player versus environment content [7]. Aion 2 is projected to launch in Korea and Taiwan first, with launches in North America and Europe following later.
Other Notable Developments
Despite the focus on 2022 releases, sources for 2025 report on upcoming releases in that year, such as Wemade’s Legend of YMIR planned for late 2025. However, there is no direct evidence of additional launches specifically in the latter half of 2022 beyond those mentioned above [2][3].
One notable development is the extended testing phase of Bellatores, a sandbox MMORPG featuring faction PvP (Occupation War), guild-based Territory War, and open Boss Raids. The game blends sandbox and MMORPG elements with a focus on PvE and PvP content, but its exact launch date remains undetermined [1].
Buy-to-Play Titles on the Rise
An interesting trend in the MMORPG market is the rise of buy-to-play titles. Chrono Odyssey, developed by Kakao Games, is an open-world action MMORPG with a fantasy background, set to launch in the fourth quarter of this year. It was developed with Epic's Unreal Engine 5 for stunning visuals and will be available for PC and console as a buy-to-play title [8]. About 400,000 gamers participated in its closed beta test in North America and Europe.
The Power of Intellectual Property
The power of intellectual property is considered an important factor in a game's success, as suggested by the statement. Vampir is projected to showcase Netmarble's potential in the gothic horror genre, while The Seven Deadly Sins: Origin capitalises on the popularity of the anime IP.
The Enduring Popularity of MMORPGs
Despite the ever-evolving gaming landscape, the MMORPG market remains vibrant. MMORPGs can create stable profits due to their loyal fan base, according to analyst Lee Jun-ho. He also emphasises that the genre can continue to perform well with consistent content updates and operational stability [9].
In conclusion, the second half of 2022 sees a focus on blending PvE/PvP sandbox elements and open-world action RPG mechanics, while several key MMORPG titles, like Bellatores, experience delays moving into extended testing phases. The MMORPG market continues to thrive, with the rise of buy-to-play titles and the power of intellectual property playing significant roles in shaping the landscape.
In the realm of technology, artificial intelligence might play a role in enhancing the gaming experience of these upcoming MMORPGs, providing more immersive and personalized gameplay.
As these MMORPGs delve into data-and-cloud-computing for multiplayer capabilities and seamless gameplay, cybersecurity becomes even more vital to protect player data and ensure a safe gaming environment.
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