Nexon has just launched MapleStory Worlds, which allows players to design their world using 30,000 MapleStory assets. While it isn’t a sequel to the charming 2003 2D MMO, it still funnels the same nostalgic charm as the original game. However, assets are where the similarities end. MapleStopry Worlds isn’t just a game, per se, it’s more of a platform that comes equipped with creation tools. 
 

Those who are successful enough in building worlds will get the chance to earn money for the creations they make. If you’re not already well-versed in Lua, the code used for the game, and don’t feel confident venturing out into the great unknown building things by yourself, you can check out the comprehensive “Creation Guide” where players can learn anything ranging from the very basic features of the maker and components to optimizing their Worlds and security. After clicking through, it really is a wealth of readily available knowledge, all in one place. Although it isn’t obvious to someone watching the quick trailer, if you’re more interested in the artistic side of video games, there will also be an opportunity to make and sell assets. If you’d like to develop your World in a group, there is a native system in place to be able to work together co-operatively, which opens up the possibility of building a team comprised of members with different proficiencies. 

On a personal note: While not all of the information will carry over to other platforms, a lot of the concepts will, and if you’re interested in making games or know someone who is it’s worth looking through. (There’s more here than I learned in the first year of my game’s degree.)

The team at Nexon is passionate about building a community of gamers, but also about supporting creators who they believe have the passion and skills to be successful. The Creator Circle is a program where creators, once accepted, will receive marketing support, operation support, design guidance, and feedback as well as playtesting for their games.

Reception to MapleStory Worlds has been mixed. Some have noted that the model so closely resembles that of already established and successful platforms like Roblox that there might not be a place for it in the current gaming environment. I might argue that leaning on the nostalgia from a game that was first launched in 2003 makes the target audience a bit older than that of Roblox, and might give it a head start. 

What do you think of MapleStory Words? Do you think it’ll be able to compete with Roblox?