Latest news with #Nexon
Business Insider
2 days ago
- Business
- Business Insider
MapleStory Universe Expands Infinite IP Playground Vision with Developer Tools and Legacy IP Expansion
With the onboarding of APIs, builder momentum and new IP, NEXPACE continues to drive efforts in turning players into builders and IP into ecosystems. MapleStory Universe (MSU), the blockchain-powered expansion of Nexon's game IP, today announced a series of new developments that bring to life its Infinite IP Playground (IIPP) vision through Meta play. These include the roll out of new developer infrastructure, the first of its enhancement API, and the reveal of the next Nexon IP to onboard into the ecosystem. MSU's Infinite IP Playground in Action The IIPP vision has always been about expanding the boundaries of play, from locked-in gameplay loops to open-ended systems where players and builders can co-create experiences. With recent developments, users and the community alike can get a glimpse into what this future looks like: with a focus on infrastructure, builder momentum and cross-IP scalability. 'The Infinite IP Playground isn't just an idea, it's becoming an ecosystem,' said Sunyoung Hwang, CEO of NEXPACE. 'From game logic APIs to builder tools, from new IPs to open infrastructure, MSU is laying the groundwork for a gaming model where creativity, ownership, and community are core.' Ecosystem Expansion: APIs, Builders and Infrastructure As part of its infrastructure expansion, MSU has activated its first gameplay logic API focused on item enhancement, a familiar progression mechanic from MapleStory. Going live on 29 July, Smithy will be the first prototype of Meta play Services to complete and test the enhancement API in a live environment, laying the foundation for more flexible, community-driven possibilities. Smithy also opens the door for future builders to create services using that same enhancement logic, from strategic tools to creating entirely new user experiences. This is the first step in a broader plan to open up other core gameplay pillars through APIs within the upcoming Builder Center, allowing builders to explore, expand and innovate beyond MapleStory's original boundaries. Leveraging on Builder Ecosystem Momentum Since opening its API access, more than 50 independent teams have started building within the MSU ecosystem, including dashboards, guild tools, prediction apps, and marketplace services. Some of these builders' work has already gone live, providing data-driven support and analysis to players. To further support this builder momentum, MSU is rolling out the following infrastructure upgrades: Builder Center: A new portal for developers onboarding, API integration, and modular on/off-chain tools. (Q4 2025) Permissionless Chain: A blockchain layer open to any builder to deploy smart contracts and dApps within the MSU ecosystem Chainlink CCIP integration: Enabling secure cross-chain interactions to expand user experience by supporting seamless use of digital items across different chains MSU has also confirmed the creation of an ecosystem fund to support early-stage projects aligned with the Infinite IP Playground vision. It will support initiatives across Meta play, SocialFi, AI-enhanced gameplay, and community tooling. New IP will Join the Nexpace's Ecosystem Building on the foundation laid by MapleStory Universe, another one of Nexon's iconic game franchises will be the next IP to integrate into the ecosystem, introducing new gameplay formats and creator possibilities. While details will be shared progressively, this signals NEXPACE's commitment to supporting diverse Nexon IP experiences as a multi-IP platform, built not just for one title but for a future where legacy franchises evolve through community-driven innovation. Looking ahead, these developments will be part of MSU's broader 2025 roadmap: August: Launch of ecosystem support policies and additional API enhancements September–November: Rollout of third-party Synergy Apps and services onboard December: Launch of a new Builder Center, expansion of the API suite and MapleStory N Winter Update 'These updates mark a turning point for MapleStory Universe,' added Sunyoung Hwang, CEO of NEXPACE. 'We're not just adding tools or onboarding new IPs, we're building the foundations of a platform where players and builders can shape the future of web3 gaming worlds together.' About NEXPACE NEXPACE, an innovative blockchain company based in Abu Dhabi, pioneers an IP-expansion initiative powered by blockchain technology and NFTs to build a community-driven ecosystem. With a mission to redefine interactive entertainment, NEXPACE creates a vibrant space for exploring, sharing, and engaging with diverse content and gameplay crafted by community members. At the heart of NEXPACE's ecosystem are principles of transparency, security, and trust, empowering creators to freely share their ideas and enabling users to enjoy immersive experiences. By fostering a culture of creative expression, NEXPACE envisions a secure, collaborative environment that unites ecosystem participants in a thriving digital community. Contact Bee Shin
Korea Herald
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
Festival celebrating MapleStory to be held in Taipei, LA
Popular game festival set to go global after 2024 debut in Ilsan South Korean gaming company Nexon announced plans to bring its flagship massively multiplayer online role-playing game MapleStory to fans in Taipei and the US with the upcoming global festival, "Maple Con 2025." Marking the game's 20th anniversary, the event aims to foster community engagement through interactive programs that allow players to share memories and emotional connections forged through the game. "Maple Con 2025 Taipei," scheduled for August 2-3 in Taipei, Taiwan, will offer a diverse lineup including an official merchandise store, game-themed installations and photo booths, a merchandise customization experience, a user-driven stage event and a marketplace dedicated to fan-created MapleStory works. Nexon also announced plans to set a new Guinness World Record by assembling 'the largest human orange mushroom' with over 2,000 participants at the event. This follows a 2017 Taipei event where the company set the record for creating the largest human maple leaf, with 1,558 people forming the shape while wearing red hoodies. The festival will continue in the US with "Maple Con Los Angeles 2025" slated for late October, featuring a range of attractions celebrating two decades of MapleStory. Additional details are expected to be announced in the coming months. The inaugural "Maple Con," held in December at Kintex in Ilsan, Gyeonggi Province, drew roughly 10,000 attendees over three days, highlighting the enduring enthusiasm for the franchise. With a worldwide user base estimated at 150 million, MapleStory is one of the most popular Korean games. By expanding "Maple Con" internationally, Nexon said it aims to reinforce the brand's presence and further develop the MapleStory IP both domestically and abroad.
Korea Herald
22-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
Nexon's Maple Con goes global for 20th anniversary
Nexon said Tuesday that it will host 'Maple Con 2025,' a global festival celebrating its hit game MapleStory, in Taiwan this August and in the US this October. The event was first held in December 2024 at Kintex in Ilsan, just outside of Seoul, attracting 10,000 visitors over three days. This year, the event will expand overseas to celebrate the 20th anniversary of MapleStory's service in both Taiwan and the US. The game has earned massive global popularity, reaching approximately 150 million registered users outside of Korea. Nexon aims to use the event as a platform to further grow its international fanbase and solidify MapleStory as a leading global intellectual property. Maple Con 2025 Taipei will take place Aug. 2-3, featuring official merchandise stores, Maple Island-themed installations and photo booths, a stage program for fan participation and a marketplace for fan-made works. The event will also attempt to set a Guinness World Record with over 2,000 participants forming the 'world's largest human Orange Mushroom,' a nod to the game's beloved mascot. Maple Con Los Angeles 2025 will be held in late October, offering special attractions and activities to celebrate the game's two-decade legacy in North America.
Business Recorder
14-07-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
Japan's Nikkei falls for 3rd day as trade impasse, election weigh on sentiment
TOKYO: Japan's Nikkei share gauge slid for a third-straight session on Monday as concerns about an upcoming domestic election and unresolved trade talks with the United States weighed on investor sentiment. The Nikkei 225 Index closed 0.3% lower, while the broader Topix gauge ended flat. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has said Japan would continue tariff negotiations with the U.S. after U.S. President Donald Trump last week raised tariffs on Japanese imports to 25% starting August 1. However, these talks could face challenges, as prospects of Ishiba's ruling coalition retaining its majority in the upper house after a vote on July 20 are dimming. 'If the ruling party were to lose its majority in the upper house, there is a risk that trade negotiations with the U.S. will be delayed, and market concerns about fiscal expansion will increase,' said Nomura strategist Fumika Shimizu. 'I think there is a great possibility that the Japanese stock market will be affected by these developments.' Japan's Nikkei inches higher as chip stocks track Wall Street's record finish There were 106 advancers on the Nikkei index against 119 decliners. The largest losers by percentage in the gauge were online retailer Mercari, down 5.4%, followed by videogame maker Nexon, which slid 4.2%. The largest gainers in the index were major manufacturers Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd and IHI, both surging more than 3.6%. Real trade negotiations are likely to be compressed in the period after Japan's upper house election and Trump's latest deadline of August 1, said Weston Nakamura, a markets analyst who publishes the Across the Spread newsletter. Even so, Japan and South Korea are looking comparatively better after subsequent tariff announcements by Trump, such as 50% against Brazil, he said. 'So, this Monday, Japan and Korea's situation doesn't look so bad anymore,' Nakamura said. 'They still remain the relatively favoured nations.'
Economic Times
14-07-2025
- Business
- Economic Times
Japan's Nikkei falls for 3rd day as trade impasse, election weigh on sentiment
Japan's Nikkei share gauge slid for a third-straight session on Monday as concerns about an upcoming domestic election and unresolved trade talks with the United States weighed on investor sentiment. ADVERTISEMENT The Nikkei 225 Index closed 0.3% lower, while the broader Topix gauge ended flat. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has said Japan would continue tariff negotiations with the U.S. after U.S. President Donald Trump last week raised tariffs on Japanese imports to 25% starting August 1. However, these talks could face challenges, as prospects of Ishiba's ruling coalition retaining its majority in the upper house after a vote on July 20 are dimming. "If the ruling party were to lose its majority in the upper house, there is a risk that trade negotiations with the U.S. will be delayed, and market concerns about fiscal expansion will increase," said Nomura strategist Fumika Shimizu. "I think there is a great possibility that the Japanese stock market will be affected by these developments." ADVERTISEMENT There were 106 advancers on the Nikkei index against 119 decliners. The largest losers by percentage in the gauge were online retailer Mercari, down 5.4%, followed by videogame maker Nexon, which slid 4.2%. The largest gainers in the index were major manufacturers Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd and IHI, both surging more than 3.6%. ADVERTISEMENT Real trade negotiations are likely to be compressed in the period after Japan's upper house election and Trump's latest deadline of August 1, said Weston Nakamura, a markets analyst who publishes the Across the Spread newsletter. Even so, Japan and South Korea are looking comparatively better after subsequent tariff announcements by Trump, such as 50% against Brazil, he said. ADVERTISEMENT "So, this Monday, Japan and Korea's situation doesn't look so bad anymore," Nakamura said. "They still remain the relatively favoured nations." (You can now subscribe to our ETMarkets WhatsApp channel)
