[IT Cafe] Is This Really NCSOFT? Gamers Surprised by Consecutive "Aion 2" Live Broadcasts

Swift Compensation Through System Improvements
NCSOFT’s New Approach: Continuous Communication with Users

November 19, 21, 24, and 26.

NCSoft has been expanding communication with its users by continuing live broadcasts through its official YouTube channel following the launch of its new title, "Aion 2." The live broadcasts, which began with the development team apologizing for server connection errors on the first day of the launch on November 19, have been conducted four times in just one week. By hosting live broadcasts almost every other day to address gamers' concerns, the gaming industry and community are noting that "NCSoft has changed."

It was not just about apologies. Taking advantage of the real-time, interactive nature of live broadcasts, the developers also discussed upcoming updates and addressed users' questions and concerns.

The effects were immediate. When users voiced their requests via chat, the development team either accepted them on the spot or proposed alternatives if immediate implementation was not possible, creating a much improved atmosphere. The company quickly improved systems and provided compensation as well. For example, in response to feedback that mobile controls were more difficult than on PC, an "assist mode" was added.

Above all, considering NCSoft's previous image, the fact that the company is taking such steps has come as an even greater surprise. Among gamers, reactions have ranged from "Is this really the NCSoft we knew?" and "They're being honest and straightforward," to "They must be putting everything on the line for Aion 2," and even "As a player of another game, I'm honestly jealous."

Of course, during the first live broadcast, there were many critical opinions, such as "They must be desperate because of the stock price plunge." "Aion 2" is NCSoft's most anticipated release of the second half of the year and has drawn attention as a major MMORPG returning to the market after a long time. However, server issues on launch day caused NCSoft's stock price to plummet.

Amid this crisis, NCSoft turned the live broadcasts into an ongoing opportunity rather than a one-off event. By continuing to communicate with users, the company is determined to dispel negative perceptions such as the "Lineage-style monetization." This model, characterized by "probability-based items," allows players to boost their character's stats and obtain better items by spending more money. In "Aion 2," this has been excluded, with a monthly subscription battle pass and membership system serving as the business model.

An NCSoft representative stated, "We are monitoring user feedback," and added, "We will do our best to regain trust." The company also plans to ensure that upcoming titles are so-called "good games." In particular, attention is already focused on "Horizon: Steel Frontiers," a new MMORPG first revealed at this year's G-Star, which is set for release next year.