Netizens react to beloved game 'MapleStory 2' shutting down in Korea after nearly 10 years

Korean gaming company Nexon is shutting down 'MapleStory 2,' the ambitious sequel to 'MapleStory' that launched in 2015, nearly a decade after its release.

Through the game's official website, Nexon announced, "We have determined that it is no longer possible to provide a service that meets our players' expectations under the current circumstances," and confirmed that MapleStory 2 will officially shut down on May 29, 2025.

As part of this process, all in-game payment services will be discontinued starting today.

Originally launched in July 2015, MapleStory 2 was a 3D MMORPG that reimagined the world of the original MapleStory, shifting from its classic 2D format to a 3D environment.

Korean netizens and fans of 'MapleStory 2' are expressing disappointment but also pointed out that the sequel fell short of expectations. While 'MapleStory' remains a major revenue driver for Nexon alongside franchises like 'Dungeon & Fighter' and 'FC,' MapleStory 2 struggled to find success. Upon its release, it faced heavy criticism for its lackluster graphics and insufficient content, ultimately failing to gain traction in the market.

Korean netizens also commented:

"I’ve been playing since 2017, and now the server is shutting down… so sad."

"No way, is this bait?"

"Sudden Attack 2, Overwatch 2, and now MapleStory 2… they all end up failing."

"Whoa… I logged in just a little while ago after years…"

"This reminded me of my main game, so I came in shocked…"

"Whoa, that scared me."

"MapleStory 2 existed?? I thought it was the MapleStory my favorite celebrity plays, and I panicked for a second."

"Oh wow, that surprised me."

"Ah, so it’s MapleStory 2… It feels like most sequels flop."

"I thought it shut down ages ago… I actually enjoyed it."

"That startled me."

"MapleStory 2 was still running???"

"I played MapleStory 2 so much in the early days… I wish I could go back."

"That scared me."

"Oh, it’s 2… I was worried for a second because 1 will never shut down."

"Wait, it’s only been 10 years? Oh, it’s MapleStory 2, that makes sense."

"That gave me a scare—why did I think it was about 10 years?"

"Oh wow, that surprised me."

"Well, yeah, it’s 2, after all."

"I spent so much money on custom items in MapleStory 2 back in middle school…"

"What did I just read?"

"MapleStory 2 had a good start… the graphics were cute… but honestly, the management ruined it."

"Please change the title… I ran here thinking the main MapleStory was shutting down."

"Ugh, they should just shut down 1 too."

"I’m more shocked that it’s only been 10 years."

"Oh, 1 and 2 are different? Okay, got it."

"I liked MapleStory 2 in its own way… I need to buy a laptop and play a bit more before it’s gone."

"But seriously, this is disappointing."