Netmarble's "Solo Leveling: Karma" Adds Fun with Manual Controls and New Content

Content for Shared User Experience to Ensure Longevity
A New Narrative... Targeting Release in the First Half of Next Year

Netmarble's roguelite action role-playing game (RPG) "Solo Leveling: Karma" (hereafter referred to as "Solo Leveling") will introduce new content that allows users to enjoy the game together.

Kwon Do-hyung, General Producer of Netmarble Neo (left), and Moon Jun-gi, Head of Business at Netmarble, are conducting an on-site interview for "Solo Leveling: Karma" at "G-Star 2025," which opened on the 13th at BEXCO in Busan. Photo by Noh Kyung-jo

Kwon Dohyung, General Producer of Netmarble Neo, said in an on-site interview at "G-Star 2025," held at BEXCO in Busan on the 13th, "We will add content that allows users to compete or cooperate so that the game can remain sustainable."

Although the roguelite genre is generally more suited for single-player experiences, the company determined that providing a space where users can do something together is necessary for the long-term service of the game.

This game tells a new story of the protagonist Sung Jinwoo, who returns to the past using the "Cup of Reincarnation." It covers a narrative not found in the original web novel, or in the subsequent webtoon and animation adaptations. The development team emphasized that presenting this new storyline in a compelling way is a key differentiator of the game.

When asked about similarities to the indie game "Hades," which was released in 2020, Kwon said, "Since we referenced well-made quarter-view roguelite games, there may be some similarities in feel. However, I believe that the more we incorporate the unique characteristics of Solo Leveling, the more the gameplay will stand out."

As for fun elements, Kwon highlighted manual controls. He stated, "I insisted on manual controls because I believe they are essential for creating truly enjoyable content in the roguelite action genre. Since the essence of a game is fun, we will make sure to prepare thoroughly for the launch." The release is expected in the first half of next year.

Regarding the business model, he mentioned that they are considering various action and growth elements, while ensuring that the monetization will not be burdensome for global users.

Moon Jungki, Head of Business at Netmarble, said, "This is a game where you play solely as Sung Jinwoo. It is not a system where multiple characters are released or picked up every two to three weeks. We are considering models such as monthly subscriptions or battle passes."