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1h ago

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.

Jun 24

MIRESI: The Invisible Future Pre-Registration Begins Ahead of Anime Expo 2026

Smilegate Megaport opened global pre-registration on June 24, 2026, for MIRESI: The Invisible Future, a free-to-play time-travel RPG for iOS, Android, and PC. The game is developed by CONTROL9, a studio founded by key development members of Goddess of Victory: NIKKE and Seven Knights 2. The art director is illustrator Hyolra, known for his work on NIKKE. Pre-registration commemorates the game's exhibition at Anime Expo 2026, held in Los Angeles from July 2 to 5. Players can register via the official website, and in-game items will be awarded at launch based on the total number of registrants. The game is set in a world where multiple timelines intersect; players take the role of a Councilor and journey with characters Ende, Tieria, and Itsuka to save a world on the brink of destruction. Combat uses a real-time turn-based system where character positioning and movement affect outcomes. The release date has not been announced. Smilegate director Han Jae-yong said the pre-registration is meant to introduce the game to global users and create closer communication opportunities.