From the start, 'Aion 2' showed a different side than previous NC games. While there was much speculation that it would induce spending through performance-linked items like Transformations, wings, and pets, none of these elements were actually tied to monetization. The only performance-related Transformation was the 'Guardian Deity' usable in the Abyss, and even that was restricted to a tiny fraction of top-tier Rankers who had to earn their ranking through in-game play. Similarly, all paid wings and pets were purely cosmetic; anything affecting performance could be obtained solely through gameplay. This was a stark departure from the P2W-oriented path of previous NC titles.

Yet, perhaps due to past baggage, skepticism persisted among users, with many saying, "We don't know yet; we need to keep an eye on NC." The suspicion that performance or convenience-related monetization would eventually be added remained like a shadow.

Amidst this lingering distrust, 'Aion 2' held a summer showcase on the 14th—roughly seven months after its official launch—to reveal its future roadmap. The showcase featured a massive update, arguably the largest in the game's history, including a new class (the 'Kwonseong'), new dungeons, and a revamped party system. But the most eye-catching announcement was the overhaul of the membership system.

Previously, 'Aion 2' memberships were divided into three tiers: the 'Breeze Membership' (₩19700), which provided remote Storage access and trading features, and the 'Changaru Membership' (₩29700), which increased the number of times players could select cube Rewards and use content like Od energy. There was also the 'Shugo Express Membership' (₩45k), a bundle of the two, which most players purchased as a monthly subscription. Crucially, these memberships, along with paid cosmetic items, were the core revenue drivers for 'Aion 2'.

These three memberships are being consolidated into a single product. Surprisingly, it is not being integrated at the previous high price of ₩45k; instead, it is being replaced by the 'Kwairing Express Membership' at a significantly lower price of ₩25k. The subscription period is also being improved. The previous membership was based on a 28-day cycle, which effectively left players two days short of a standard 30-day month. This led to frequent complaints from users early on, who suspected it was a "tactic to sell more products."

At launch, Business Division Head So In-seop explained that the decision was "tailored to a development environment that updates on a 7-day cycle," but this was difficult for users to accept. With this update, however, the ambiguous duration is finally being extended to 30 days. More precisely, purchasing the Kwairing Membership automatically unlocks a membership pass that provides various benefits, including a 2-day extension ticket, effectively filling out a 'full month.'

Regardless of the mechanics, simply buying the Kwairing Membership and playing the game consistently allows players to earn the 2-day extension through pass Rewards, making it effectively a 30-day service. In short, the membership features remain the same, but the price has dropped and the duration has increased. So In-seop described this as "a decision to lower the barrier to entry so more users can enjoy our game."

The reaction was enthusiastic. Applause erupted at the event when the price of the Kwairing Express Membership was revealed, and again when the extension of the subscription period was announced. It was welcome news for the users who love and enjoy the game more than anyone else.

The recent moves by NC and 'Aion 2' are certainly commendable. They have made a decisive break from the deep-seated distrust that 'NC will eventually return to its greedy ways and implement predatory monetization,' choosing instead to offer existing products at lower prices in a bold, unexpected move.

Leandros from Warhammer 40k: Space Marine 2 once said that the stain of doubt does not fade easily. Even after Titus completed an impossible Mission and regained the trust of his fellow Space Marines and the Chapter Master, Leandros remained suspicious, vowing to keep a watchful eye. Perhaps the users' view of 'Aion 2' was exactly like that. From launch until now, the eyes of suspicion have rarely wavered.

'Aion 2's' response was also very much like Titus. Instead of offering long-winded excuses, it silently stayed its course. It wasn't perfect, but the team maintained communication through consistent live broadcasts, and now, by introducing a cheaper membership, they have proven that they are willing to change for the sake of their users, rather than clinging to greed.

Of course, the baggage and the stain of distrust that NC has accumulated over the years are not shallow. However, 'Aion 2' has proven through its actions that it has changed. Just as good deeds cannot completely erase past wrongs, past wrongs cannot obscure current good deeds. At least for this moment, I want to send my unreserved applause to the changed path of NC and 'Aion 2'.