Service Ends on March 31
Succession with New Title 'KartRider Drift'
Excluding P2W, Capsule Items, and Probability
Director Jo Jae-yoon is announcing the termination of KartRider service and plans for its sequel. (Photo by KartRider YouTube capture)
[Asia Economy Reporter Seungjin Lee] Nexon will end the service of 'KartRider,' launched in 2004, on March 31. As a successor, they will introduce ‘KartRider Drift’ to the global market on the 12th, initiating a generational shift.
On the evening of the 5th, Jae-yoon Cho, director of Nitro Studio, the developer of KartRider, explained the direction of the next installment ‘KartRider: Drift’ that inherits KartRider, and the future league plans through a YouTube live broadcast.
Director Cho explained the reason for ending the service, saying, "During discussions on how to make the KartRider IP (intellectual property) loved by more people, issues such as the aging of the PC KartRider and the gap between new and existing users were pointed out. Despite efforts, we ultimately could not resolve these issues, leading to a difficult and painful decision."
KartRider Drift introduces a bold ‘3No’ policy excluding Pay to Win (P2W), capsule-type items, and probabilities. The goal is to become a racing game where only driving skills determine victory or defeat.
In the preseason starting January 12, players can play on PC and mobile, and in the upcoming regular season, console platforms such as PlayStation 4 (PS4) and Xbox One will be additionally supported, showcasing Nexon’s first full cross-play environment.
The pro league, which was held domestically, will be expanded into a global esports event.
Director Cho explained, "We will establish an esports foundation not only in Korea but also in various regions, and hold tournaments in diverse environments including PC, console, and mobile."
For users who have devoted time and affection to KartRider over 18 years, Nexon will open the 'Rider Dream Project' page on the 12th, allowing them to convert their playtime and owned items in the existing KartRider into 'Racer Points.' Racer Points can be used in the sequel or exchanged for KartRider-related products.
Payments for KartRider will end on the 6th, and a refund application page will open on February 1.
Director Cho expressed gratitude, saying, "Thank you for the love you have given to KartRider so far, and we hope you will share that love in KartRider Drift."
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