Lost Ark Western Publishing Moves From Amazon Game Studios to Smilegate
Amazon Game Studios announced on August 12 that it will step back from publishing the Korean MMORPG Lost Ark in Western regions, with developer Smilegate taking over operations in early 2027. The transition is part of a broader retreat by Amazon Game Studios from MMO operations, which also includes handing over Throne and Liberty to NC and FirstSpark Games in the fourth quarter of 2026. Lost Ark, developed by Smilegate and operated in the West by Amazon Game Studios, will see most player data carried over, though in-game mail, chat messages, and some other elements will not transfer. Players will link their Steam accounts to Smilegate's system during the transition, and those who do not want their data moved can opt out through a dedicated page before the transfer date. Amazon Game Studios described the move as returning the game to its developers, while Smilegate framed it as a chance to reconsider the game's future direction, aiming to respond faster to player feedback and gradually close the content update gap with the Korean version. The Japanese service for Lost Ark ended in March 2024, and the Steam store page remains restricted there, though the developer's overseas operation could open the door to a revival.