MapleStory N, First Blockchain Game in MapleStory Universe, Launches May 15

After years of build-up, NEXPACE, the web3 arm of Nexon, has announced the official launch date for MapleStory N, the first blockchain MMORPG under the MapleStory Universe (MSU) banner. Players worldwide will be able to dive in starting May 15th, merging classic MapleStory charm with a full web3 upgrade.

"The launch of MapleStory N marks the culmination of years of development, rigorous user testing, and unwavering community support," said Sunyoung Hwang, CEO of NEXPACE. "This isn't just the release of a new game; it’s the beginning of a new chapter in gaming history."

According to the team, MapleStory N is not just another nostalgic reboot. It's built on a secure, gasless Avalanche L1 called Henesys, letting players trade and manage assets freely without worrying about blockchain friction. In simple terms: it's the MapleStory you know, but this time, you really own your stuff.

What to Expect at Launch

For old and new players alike, MapleStory N keeps the iconic 2D side-scrolling gameplay intact while adding big twists. Among the key features include:

• Reward Experience 2.0: Players can issue, trade, and manage in-game items on the blockchain. Items aren't just random drops anymore — they carry real ownership value and stay with you across experiences.
• Community-Driven Content: Creators can design worlds, items, and apps with the new Synergy Apps, earning ecosystem rewards in the process.
• Secure Play: With two decades of anti-cheat experience under its belt, Nexon has equipped MapleStory N with serious detection tools to protect its economy and players.

According to the team, MapleStory N has shown strong traction even before its official launch. In pioneer tests, it racked up over 31.5 million on-chain transactions, with an impressive 76.2% of in-game tokens being actively spent. Wallet registrations reached 972,000 during the test phase, while user retention rates hovered between 47–54% — high numbers for any online game. 

MapleStory N will open a new chapter in the MSU ecosystem, fueled by user contributions and Synergy App expansion. The idea is simple: players won't just play; they'll help shape the entire world.

What Is MapleStory Universe?

MapleStory Universe is Nexon's ambitious leap into web3 gaming, with the goal of transforming the iconic franchise into a blockchain-powered ecosystem.

It's not just about MapleStory N, either. MSU is a full platform made up of interconnected games and tools:

• MapleStory N: The flagship PC MMORPG that combines classic gameplay with blockchain elements.
• MapleStory N Mobile: A mobile spin-off offering cross-platform play.
• MapleStory N Worlds: A sandbox tool that lets players create their own worlds, games, and adventures.
• MapleStory N SDK: A development kit allowing third-party developers to build their own MapleStory-themed experiences.

Who's Behind It?

The project is led by Nexon, the South Korean gaming giant known for pioneering online games like the original MapleStory, Dungeon Fighter Online, and Mabinogi.

The web3 development is handled by NEXPACE, Nexon's Abu Dhabi-based blockchain division. Their mission: use blockchain tech to build open, player-driven worlds while keeping things simple and secure.

The game runs on Henesys, a gas-free Avalanche L1. This setup offers faster, cheaper, and safer transactions. 

The Tokens: NXPC and NESO

MSU essentially runs on a dual-token system:

• NXPC: The main on-chain token, with a fixed supply of one billion. It's used to issue and merge NFTs, helping players upgrade and manage their items without flooding the economy.
• NESO: An in-game currency earned by playing. NESO can be used to create NFTs, which players can trade inside and outside the ecosystem.

Together, NXPC and NESO aim to strike a balance between rewarding active players and keeping the economy stable.

The Road Ahead

MapleStory N is just the beginning. The team is already looking at expanding the ecosystem with more games, more creation tools, and more ways for players to own and build.

"With MapleStory N, we've built a platform where players don’t just participate, but actively shape the worlds they inhabit, paving the way for a more immersive and community-driven future for the gaming industry," said Hwang. 

MapleStory N will be released on PC. To learn more, visit the official website at msu.io.