Kakao Games has launched its new large-scale multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) 'World of Goblins,' marking its first major release in three years. The success of this title is seen as crucial for the company's recovery, as it has faced seven consecutive quarters of losses due to a lack of new releases and declining revenue from existing games.
On October 8, Kakao Games officially released 'World of Goblins,' developed by Supercat. This 2.5D MMORPG, available on both mobile and PC, is based on the Naver web novel and webtoon 'Myeolgi Su-do Jeon.' It combines 2D pixel characters with 3D backgrounds, incorporating traditional Korean elements to set itself apart from other MMORPGs.
The game features a growth structure that breaks down job boundaries and emphasizes user cooperation. Players can create their own combat styles by combining various skills and enjoy boss raids and cooperative content centered around clans.
Additionally, the game includes large-scale player-versus-player (PvP) content, shifting away from a competition-focused growth model to one that prioritizes player choice and collaboration. Collaborating with Redice Studio, the creators of the original intellectual property (IP) 'Solo Leveling,' has enhanced the quality of the Korean fantasy setting.
Pre-launch interest was evident, as the game reached the top of the Apple App Store's popularity rankings shortly after pre-downloads began on October 6. A character name reservation event also quickly filled up. Kakao Games held an online showcase and live demonstration featuring co-CEO Lee Si-woo, along with the business director, Supercat director Jang Soo-min, and PD Park Sung-jun, to unveil key content and operational plans. This approach aimed to engage early users by addressing their questions and gathering feedback.
The significance of this new release is underscored by Kakao Games' prolonged performance struggles. In 2025, the company reported annual revenue of approximately 465 billion won, a 26% decrease from the previous year, with an operating loss of 39.6 billion won. In the second quarter of this year, revenue was 75 billion won, with an operating loss of 23 billion won, reflecting a 35% year-on-year decline. The combination of falling revenue from existing games and a lack of new releases has made improving profitability urgent.
Kakao Games plans to sequentially introduce new titles, starting with 'World of Goblins,' in hopes of a turnaround. In the fourth quarter of this year, the company intends to release the PC and console-based action RPG 'ArcheAge Chronicle' and the strategic adventure RPG 'Dungeon Arise.'
In January next year, the company aims to launch 'Odin Q: Valkyrie's Call,' an expansion of its flagship IP 'Odin.' This title will feature a world based on Norse mythology, utilizing Unreal Engine 5 for graphics and a quarter-view open world.
Further new releases are planned for next year, including the PC and console-based zombie survival game 'God Save Birmingham' and action RPGs 'Chrono Odyssey' and 'ArcheAge S: The Gulf of Freedom.' The strategy involves expanding from a mobile-centric business to PC and console platforms while diversifying genres to secure growth in the global market.
Kakao Games is also streamlining its operations by focusing on its gaming business and pursuing the acquisition of Metoon, as part of its portfolio adjustment. The sale of Metabora's web3 gaming business is also part of this efficiency drive.
Cha Myung-soo, Kakao Games' business director, stated, "We have taken user feedback into account while preparing 'World of Goblins.' After the official launch, we will continue to listen to various opinions from players and incorporate them into the service to create a game that can be enjoyed for a long time."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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