MapleStory Universe 2023 Recap
Over the past year, MapleStory Universe has continued to take on various challenges to develop a blockchain ecosystem that goes beyond the limitations of existing online games.
In particular, we started off by introducing MapleStory Universe’s ecosystem at GDC, then committed to various activities such as participating in TOKEN2049, solidifying partnerships, and rebranding our X channel. On that note, we would like to briefly review some key highlights from this year.
GDC 2023
MapleStory Universe presented at GDC 2023 in March with the topic “MapleStory Universe: Perfecting the Core MMORPG Experience with Blockchain”’. The key message of the session was that MapleStory Universe will enhance user reward experience by limiting item quantity and distributing rewards to creators.
Additionally, in order for the MapleStory IP to go above and beyond in the upcoming years ensuing its successful 20 years of live service, we announced that we will create an ecosystem where all participants can grow together, as opposed to one solely operated by the developer.
For your reference, MapleStory Universe is a collection of four different experiences, each working together to supercharge an expansive virtual world with the MapleStory IP at its center.
MapleStory N — A blockchain-based PC MMORPG that pioneers the RX 2.0 experience, defined by its cutting-edge NFT integrations with fixed-quantity item supplies.
MapleStory N Mobile — The mobile version of MapleStory N, featuring seamless item and character interoperability with the aforementioned PC version, N.
MapleStory N Worlds — A blockchain-based UGC game platform that enables easy development, from unique jump quests to completely new game modes using MapleStory characters, items, and map designs.
MapleStory N SDK — A software development kit (SDK) enabling tailored MapleStory-themed experiences, including MapleStory-themed mobile apps. Purpose-built for developers to expand the MapleStory Universe.
KBW 2023
Back in early September, the team also attended IMPACT, the main stage event at Korea Blockchain Week (KBW). Sunyoung Hwang, who spearheads MapleStory Universe, took part in a panel talk with CCP Games CEO Hilmar Veigar.
Sunyoung Hwang defined the term game as a comprehensive experience that includes non-game creations and community-derived activities, with the core message being that blockchain is an innovative technology.
He also proposed a new concept called “Decentralizing the Ability to Create Items” as a way to acknowledge participants’ contributions and encourage active creation.
TOKEN2049
Following KBW, MapleStory Universe participated in TOKEN2049 as a title sponsor under the name “NEXPACE.” At the event, we delivered a keynote speech on the importance of community, ensued by a Fireside Chat with Sky Mavis Chairman Aleksander Leonard Larsen.
In these sessions, MapleStory Universe was introduced as an NFT game ecosystem that encompasses not only game services, but also IP-based secondary creations, and it was emphasized that community will play an important role in the sustainability of the project.
Various Events and AMAs
Adding to the ongoing list of conferences, MapleStory Universe also took part in different events and AMAs to discuss the project’s vision, core values, and prospects.
Specifically, we spoke at conferences hosted by media companies such as TechM and ZDNet Korea, not to mention events including HelloNFT, CMC Live AMA (Coin Market Cap), and Matr1x AMA. Furthermore, the team worked with DreamPlus and Xangle to create a video that underlines the project’s strategies.
Rebranded X Channel
As mentioned above, we recently rebranded our X (formerly Twitter) channel, which is worth keeping an eye on given the new operator Tuner will continue to share intriguing updates. Official X(Twitter) Link: https://twitter.com/MaplestoryU
2024 Roadmap
At the end of the day, what MapleStory Universe strives to build is not only an enjoyable game, but also an innovative blockchain ecosystem based on the MapleStory IP. Hence, we’re working to offer eye-opening perspectives that will spark market interest to ensure that all players have a satisfactory experience using our services.
As follows, H1 2024 will be heavily focused on revealing our roadmap for the year and carrying out performance tests to prepare for launch. Stay tuned for more exciting news!
