“Project Arc” by Krafton (Image courtesy of Krafton)
SEOUL, Nov. 4 (Korea Bizwire) – Major gaming companies are intensifying their competition in the top-down perspective combat game market, with several high-profile titles scheduled for release around 2025, all emphasizing real-time player-versus-player combat and cross-platform gameplay.
According to industry sources on November 2, Krafton will showcase its upcoming title “Project Arc” at G-STAR, Korea’s largest gaming exhibition. The game features 5v5 team-based combat where players control unique characters in top-down shooter battles, targeting an early access PC release in 2025.
Nexon is countering with “SuperVibe,” a multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game developed by Theory Craft Games, a studio founded by former League of Legends developers.
“SuperVibe” by Nexon (Image courtesy of Nexon)
The game, which recently completed closed beta testing in Korea, allows players to form teams of two or four to compete in battle royale-style matches. Many testers noted similarities to League of Legends in its controls and art style. SuperVibe plans an open beta release by the end of this year, with full launch expected in 2025.
Dev Sisters is expanding its Cookie Run intellectual property with “Cookie Run: Oven Smash,” a cross-platform brawler game scheduled for 2024. The company recently secured a publishing deal with Vietnam’s VNG Games for Asian markets.
“Cookie Run: Oven Smash” by Dev Sisters (Image courtesy of Dev Sisters)
Dizard, a startup founded by former NC Soft developers, is developing “Asurajang,” another top-down action brawler. The game was first demonstrated to the public through Steam Next Fest in June and is also targeting a 2025 release.
These new entries will face established competition in the market. League of Legends, celebrating its 15th anniversary, maintains its dominance despite slightly waning popularity.
Supercell’s mobile brawler “Brawl Stars” enjoys popularity among younger players, while Kakao Games’ “Eternal Return” has cultivated a dedicated fanbase among subculture gaming enthusiasts.
“Top-down action games are optimal for cross-platform live service games due to their relatively simple mobile controls and low barrier to entry,” an industry insider noted.
“However, new entrants will need to establish clear differentiation given the number of existing games in the genre.”
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
