Seoul, South Korea – NCSoft, a leading South Korean video game developer, launched its remastered classic massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG), Lineage Classic
, in Korea and Taiwan today, . The game, a recreation of the Lineage
experience from the early 2000s, is initially available for free access until , after which it will transition to a monthly subscription model.
The pre-open service began at local time on in both Korea and Taiwan, according to company announcements. Lineage Classic
features four original character classes – Monarch, Knight, Elf, and Wizard – and revisits early-version content including the Talking Island, Dragon Valley, and Giran regions. The user interface is designed to mirror the original Lineage
experience, appealing to long-time fans of the franchise.
NCSoft is offering a four-day period of free access to all users in Korea and Taiwan. Starting at on , players will be required to purchase a subscription costing 29,700 won (approximately $21 USD) to continue playing. Detailed information regarding the monthly subscription service is available on the official website, launched today.
The launch is accompanied by a Rare Character Name Time Attack
event, running through . Players can compete to secure exclusive server-specific character names by achieving in-game milestones, such as being the first to reach a specific level or delivering the final blow to a boss monster. Available names include class titles like Monarch, Knight, Elf, and Wizard, as well as the names of iconic bosses like Death Knight, Kurtz, Baphomet, Black Elder, and Drake.
Recognizing the continued popularity of PC bangs (internet cafes) in both countries, NCSoft is also providing premium benefits for players accessing Lineage Classic
through these establishments. These benefits include a Suspicious Aura
buff, providing additional defense, access to PC bang-exclusive dungeons – Talking Island Dungeon and Gludin Dungeon – and Pixie Feathers
, which can be exchanged for consumable items based on playtime.
The original Lineage
has been in service since 1998 and remains a flagship title for NCSoft. Lineage Classic
represents a strategic move by the company to capitalize on nostalgia and re-engage a dedicated player base. The game’s release comes as the MMORPG market continues to evolve, with developers increasingly looking to revive classic titles alongside the development of new intellectual property.
The decision to launch simultaneously in Korea and Taiwan highlights the importance of these markets to NCSoft. Both countries have a strong gaming culture and a significant number of dedicated Lineage
players. The free access period is likely intended to maximize initial player uptake and generate excitement around the game’s re-release.
The subscription price of 29,700 won places Lineage Classic
in line with other popular MMORPGs in the region. The success of the game will depend on its ability to retain players after the free access period ends, and the value proposition offered by the monthly subscription. The exclusive character name event and PC bang benefits are designed to incentivize continued engagement.
The launch of Lineage Classic
is being closely watched by industry analysts, who see it as a test case for the viability of reviving classic MMORPGs in the modern gaming landscape. If successful, it could pave the way for similar re-releases of other popular titles. The game’s performance will also provide insights into the evolving preferences of gamers in Korea and Taiwan, two key markets for the global gaming industry.
NCSoft’s pre-registration for Lineage Classic
began on , indicating a planned and deliberate marketing strategy leading up to the launch. The company unveiled the official brand website at that time, further building anticipation among fans.
