Game Developer Nexon Introduces MapleStory N, Complete with Blockchain Support and NXPC Cryptocurrency
In a groundbreaking move, Nexon, a renowned South Korean gaming company, has launched the blockchain version of its flagship title, MapleStory, called MapleStory N. However, the game is currently inaccessible to users in South Korea due to national regulations restricting blockchain-based gaming.
MapleStory N introduces blockchain-based elements that convert in-game items and currency into non-fungible tokens (NFTs). The in-game currency, rebranded as "nesos," is traded within a dedicated marketplace. Users without enough nesos can purchase NXPC, the associated virtual asset of Nexon, from supported exchanges and utilize it within the game, connecting gameplay with financial utility.
NXPC, which listed on several domestic and global cryptocurrency exchanges on May 15, operates on Avalanche's mainnet, a blockchain that ranks 11th globally by market capitalization. Players can mint items they acquire into NFTs using smart contracts, trade them with others, and convert their holdings into NXPC tokens in MapleStory N.
Nexon's blockchain subsidiary, Nexpace, introduced NXPC, which is not only the primary currency within Nexspace's broader blockchain gaming initiative, MapleStory Universe, but also specifically for the newly launched game MapleStory N. The exchange rate between NXPC and nesos is maintained stable through automated smart contract mechanisms.
Rare in-game items obtained through challenging content can be monetized and traded transparently using NXPC. This move could potentially redefine industry standards in blockchain gaming, as some in the domestic crypto sector believe.
The longstanding popularity of the original MapleStory, which has amassed over 180 million global users, offers a strong foundation for the adoption of NXPC as an in-game digital asset. The second testing period for MapleStory N, held in November last year, drew over 500,000 participants and saw daily active users peak at 240,000.
Trading of NXPC was scheduled to commence on major South Korean won-based exchanges, including Upbit and Bithumb, with the exact timing to be announced. Domestic users reportedly used virtual private networks (VPNs) to participate in the pre-download phase, aiming to engage with the MapleStory Universe ecosystem by acquiring NXPC tokens.
Industry analysts are cautiously optimistic about MapleStory N, with concerns about potential deviations from the core gaming experience and hopes that Nexon could set a positive example for sustainable tokenomics in blockchain gaming. Stakeholders are looking to see whether MapleStory N can strike the right balance between traditional gameplay enjoyment and the financial opportunities offered by blockchain integration.
NXPC tokens can be exchanged for fiat currencies via participating exchanges, offering a unique financial utility within the gaming world. With MapleStory N's launch, the future of blockchain gaming in South Korea and beyond is poised for an intriguing evolution.
Read also:
- Global Gaming Company, LINEUP Games, Moves Into Extensive Global Web3 Multi-Platform Gaming Network
- Stock market in New York showing signs of continuous record-breaking performances leading up to the announcement of the US interest rate decision.
- Rebuilding Obstacles: The Complexities of Revamping: Part 2
- Musk initiates legal action against Apple over exclusion from App Store dispute
