SmartNow officially rolled out Joseon Hyeokgaekjeon Classic on the 25th. This cross-platform MMORPG, set against the backdrop of the Imjin War, leans heavily into the nostalgia of its predecessor with a classic pixel-art aesthetic.

In a rather refreshing turn, Joseon Hyeokgaekjeon Classic has ditched the usual aggressive Monetization schemes, opting instead for a progression model rooted in good old-fashioned grinding and farming. They claim that skill and tactical decision-making dictate the outcome of battles. Even the premium currency, 'Diamond', can be scavenged from the field, which should keep the pressure off your wallet.

The team spent roughly three years overhauling the graphics, combat flow, and progression systems. Iconic features like the transformation skills, mythical beasts, and mapae (horse tokens) are now rewards for field exploration. Furthermore, their gear appraisal system adds a layer of depth, ensuring that even identical items can offer varying utility, making the grind feel a bit more rewarding.

To celebrate the launch, SmartNow is running a level-up verification event and a daily login bonus campaign, handing out a fair share of early-game supplies just for signing in.

A spokesperson for SmartNow noted, "We are genuinely grateful for the overwhelming interest throughout the pre-registration, closed beta, showcase, and early nickname reservation phases." They added, "We are committed to listening to our players post-launch to ensure this becomes a lasting classic MMORPG."