G-Star 2021 Returns After 2 Years... Game Companies Busy Preparing to Welcome Guests

[Asia Economy Reporter Kang Nahum] The country's largest game exhibition, 'G-STAR 2021,' held its opening ceremony on the afternoon of the 17th at BEXCO Exhibition Hall 1, kicking off a five-day schedule. The main event will officially begin on the 18th, when general visitors are allowed entry. On this day, each participating company was busy preparing to welcome visitors.

Main sponsor Kakao Games secured the largest presence among participants with a total of 100 booths under the theme of 'Live Stage.' They created independent spaces divided into a 'Branding Zone' and a 'Play Experience Zone,' each reflecting the unique features of seven showcased games. These game spaces were connected to form one large stage, realizing a dynamic concept.

In the 'Branding Zone,' four games including new mobile titles were introduced. Visitors could experience the highly anticipated new release 'Uma Musume Pretty Derby,' the action RPG 'Guardis Order,' the collection RPG 'Eversoul,' and the mobile RPG 'Guardian Tales.' Prizes were also offered through on-site events.

Crafton incorporated the futuristic worldview and identity of their new title 'Battlegrounds: New State' into the exhibition hall design and layout. Crafton also operated on a scale of 100 booths. They prepared various experience programs such as a game experience zone, NewBae MBTI zone, emote dance challenge zone, photo zone, and goods shop. Celebrity and creator events including the 'NewBae Challenge Match' and live talks were also arranged.

Shift Up, participating in G-STAR for the first time with 80 booths, unveiled the official trailer for their upcoming title 'NIKKE: Goddess of Victory' on this day. On the 18th, they plan to reveal a demo version of 'NIKKE: Goddess of Victory' for general visitors, providing a space where attendees can play the game themselves.

Angel Games set up a booth to promote their new action game 'Wonderous: The Arena.' They provided spaces for direct play on PC and mobile, and installed a special stage for various events related to 'Wonderous.'

This year's G-STAR saw about a 50% reduction in booths and participating companies compared to previous years due to the impact of COVID-19. Even the three major domestic game companies known as the 3N (NCSoft, Nexon, Netmarble) did not participate, leaving these mid-sized game companies to lead the event's success. A company representative said, "Although the scale of the event has decreased, the attractions and entertainment are no less than in previous years," adding, "The unreleased new titles from participating companies are also highly anticipated."