Kim Taek-jin: "We Will Create Games with NCSoft’s Unique Identity"... New Title Utilizing Sony’s ‘Horizon’ IP Unveiled [G-STAR 2025]

[Financial News] [Busan = Joo Won-gyu] Kim Taek-jin, co-CEO and CCO of NCSoft, stated, "We aim to shed new light on the essence of MMORPGs and create games with our own unique identity across various genres." He also unveiled, for the first time, the new MMORPG 'Horizon Steel Frontiers.' This game utilizes the intellectual property (IP) of Sony’s flagship PlayStation 4 (PS4) title, the 'Horizon' series.
On the 13th, during the opening session of 'G-STAR 2025' at BEXCO in Haeundae-gu, Busan, CCO Kim emphasized, "Since 1997, we have been developing games where people can connect with each other, not just compete." He added, "The joy of growing and creating memories together is the essence of the games NCSoft strives to build."
Kim noted, "The gaming industry is undergoing fundamental changes at a rapid pace, much like other sectors." He continued, "Users are no longer passive consumers of content; they now watch, share, and create, transforming their experiences into new content beyond just playing."
He went on to say, "We are contemplating whether our games can be chosen amid cultural shifts brought by new technologies and generations." He concluded, "Ultimately, establishing NCSoft’s unique game identity is what matters most."
He further stated, "By participating as the main sponsor of G-STAR 2025, NCSoft is reaffirming its commitment and responsibility to advance the Korean gaming industry." He added, "G-STAR is not just a showcase of our present, but a stage for unveiling the first scenes of the future."
Meanwhile, on the same day, Lee Seong-gu, Vice President of NCSoft, officially revealed the new title 'Horizon Steel Frontiers' based on the Horizon IP. He shared, "After experiencing 'Horizon Zero Dawn' in 2017, I was captivated by its vibrant world." He explained, "I wanted to share this excitement with others, which led us to develop it as an MMORPG." Regarding the release schedule, he said, "We are aiming for a launch in late 2026 or early 2027."
The Horizon franchise is an action RPG series set in a post-apocalyptic world, developed by Guerrilla Games and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE). The series has achieved global sales of over 40 million units, reflecting its immense popularity.
wongood@fnnews.com Joo Won-gyu Reporter