Kakao Games will launch the 2.5D MMORPG 'Goblin's World,' developed by Supercat, in October. This marks the company's first new MMORPG in 2 years and 8 months since 'ROM' in February 2024, aiming to drive a recovery in performance for the second half of the year.
On August 20, Kakao Games held a media showcase for 'Goblin's World' at the Korea House in Jung-gu, Seoul, revealing key content and service directions for the game.
Co-CEO Lee Si-woo stated, "We prepared 'Goblin's World' with the principle of finding intellectual property (IP) that will be loved for a long time and providing stable service in close cooperation with capable developers. We will do our best for the launch and stable service based on the partnership between Kakao Games and Supercat."
'Goblin's World' is particularly significant as it is the first new title under the new co-CEO system of Kim Tae-hwan and Lee Si-woo. Kakao Games reported a revenue of 75 billion won and an operating loss of 23 billion won in the second quarter, marking its seventh consecutive quarter of losses. The company aims for a significant revenue rebound starting in the fourth quarter with its new lineup.
Kakao Games is focusing on developing 'Goblin's World' into a long-term expandable IP. The game is based on the web novel and webtoon IP 'Myeolgwisudojeon,' developed in collaboration with Red Ice Studio.
Supercat's PD Park Sung-jun noted, "We closely discussed with the original author from the early development stages to share the original story and game world. The original web novel 'Myeolgwisudojeon: Goblin's World' has been serialized since March this year."
To avoid repeating the original story in the game, Supercat has created a 300-year time gap between the game and the web novel. PD Park explained, "While sharing the same world and characters, we structured it so that both users who have read the original and those who encounter the game first can enjoy new stories."
Supercat aims to differentiate itself with its strengths in pixel graphics and Korean traditional folklore. While typical MMORPGs emphasize growth and competition, 'Goblin's World' focuses on visual elements to enhance its competitiveness.
Having built its pixel graphic capabilities through games like 'Wind of the Country: Yeon,' Supercat combines 2D pixel characters with 3D backgrounds, reflecting traditional Korean sentiments in the backgrounds and objects.
By incorporating elements from Korean folklore, such as goblins and spirits, into pixel graphics, the game aims to create a distinct impression compared to existing medieval fantasy MMORPGs.
The incorporation of traditional Korean folklore and visual elements is expected to influence its global success. Kakao Games is considering expanding its services to the global market after the domestic launch.
Kakao Games believes that utilizing traditional Korean folklore will resonate well with global users. The challenge will be whether these Korean elements can provide familiarity for domestic users while offering a unique experience for international players.
PD Park stated, "K-content, including K-pop, movies, and dramas, is gaining popularity in the global market. We believe that K-content utilizing our traditional folklore can have a significant impact in the gaming sector as well."
To help users navigate the complex growth structure, the game will feature an AI function. 'Goblin's World' will include an AI assistant named 'Myorong' to support individual player experiences.
Myorong analyzes equipment, stats, combat power, and activity data to suggest growth directions and investment priorities. It will summarize daily hunting, earnings, and growth results, as well as provide information necessary for guild management by analyzing guild member statuses and strengths.
Kakao Games plans to initially offer Myorong at a beta level and then enhance its features. The goal is to guide users on which equipment to upgrade and which skills to develop.
Given the game's lack of fixed classes and the numerous skill combinations and growth options, the use of AI aims to reduce the trial and error and burden users may face during their growth process, supporting long-term play.
There is also interest in how far the target audience for 'Goblin's World' will expand. While it primarily targets existing MMORPG players, the cute pixel graphics, Korean elements, and the expanded original IP from web novels and webtoons may attract a broader audience, including female players.
Director Jang Soo-min remarked, "I can't say it's specifically aimed at female players, but we have prepared many features to allow players to express their individuality and grow their characters freely." The game aims to appeal not only to traditional MMORPG players but also to those who enjoy character growth and customization.
'Goblin's World' is set for an official release on PC and mobile in October, following an online showcase in September.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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