Source: Kakao Games

On the 17th, Kakao Games unveiled the official world-building for 'Dokkaebi World,' a new MMORPG currently under development by Supercat. 'Dokkaebi World' is a mobile MMORPG based on the web novel IP 'Myeol-gwi-su-do-jeon'.

'Myeolgwi Sudojeon' is a Korean-style cultivation fantasy web novel presented by content IP production company Redice. Written by Yeon Woo-sol, the story follows a boy named 'Ise' who loses his family to demons and becomes a disciple of 'Mongryeon,' a master of the Dokkaebi tribe. The series is characterized by a worldview that blends Korean folklore and Eastern fantasy elements, such as Dokkaebi, demons, and cultivation (Sudo).

The game is set approximately 300 years before the events of the original work. Taking place in an era when humans and Dokkaebi have yet to fully trust one another, players will participate in the process of the two races forging a new era together. The origins of characters and events mentioned only as legends in the original work will also be explored within the game.

Kakao Games explained that they collaborated with the original author, Yeon Woo-sol, from the very beginning of the worldview design process. By co-developing key elements such as the Dokkaebi tribe's lore and the historical setting, they ensured a seamless narrative connection between the original work and the game.

'Dokkaebi World' features a growth structure that minimizes class boundaries, diverse skill combinations, and guild-centered cooperative content. The graphics are implemented using a 2.5D hybrid style that combines 2D dot-art characters with 3D backgrounds. Additionally, a skill deck-building system has been incorporated to allow players to customize their own combat styles.

The original IP is also expanding. 'Myeol-gwi-su-do-jeon' is currently being serialized on Naver Series, and a webtoon adaptation that offers a fresh reinterpretation of the story is scheduled for release in July. With the addition of the game to the existing web novel and webtoon, fans will be able to experience the same universe through multiple mediums.

Cha Myeong-su, Business Division Head at Kakao Games, stated, "From the initial stages of world-building, we collaborated closely with Yeon Woo-sol, the author of the original 'Myeol-gwi-su-do-jeon,' to ensure that both readers of the novel and gamers can experience a single, living world." He added, "We are preparing to deliver a title that allows users to fully immerse themselves, not only through its visuals but also through its scenario and direction."

'Dokkaebi World' is targeting a release in the third quarter of this year. Kakao Games plans to begin pre-registration in July and will reveal key content and service details through an online showcase in August.