Nexon is bringing back the early 2000s MapleStory experience with Classic World, a new server type designed to recreate the game’s golden era. Revealed as part of MapleStory’s 20th anniversary, this project is led by Miyoung “Nemi” Oh, the original lead game designer from developer Wizet.
For those who missed its heyday, MapleStory was a groundbreaking 2D side-scrolling MMO that captivated players with its charming art style, social gameplay, and grind-heavy progression. While the modern version has evolved with expansions and mechanics, Classic World aims to recapture the simplicity and challenge of the early days, similar to Old School RuneScape or World of Warcraft Classic.
What Makes Classic World Special?
- Faithful Recreation: Built to mirror MapleStory’s original gameplay, with its slower progression and community-driven grind
- Original Dev Involvement: Miyoung Oh, who shaped the game’s early years, is leading the project
- Modern Touches: Some quality-of-life improvements from the current Global MapleStory (GMS) will be included
- Fresh Start: Players create new characters, reliving the journey from scratch
Why Now?
Nostalgia for early MMOs has proven powerful. WoW Classic and OSRS thrive because they offer both a return to simpler mechanics and a shared social experience. MapleStory Classic World aims to tap into that same appeal, targeting:
- Veterans who want to revisit the game’s roots
- New players curious about its origins
- Anyone craving the distinctly slow-burn RPG feel of 2000s MMOs
What’s Next?
More details will arrive in late 2025, including a release date. For now, Nexon emphasizes that this isn’t just a rehash but rather a deliberate revival of what made MapleStory unique, with input from the community. So it will be a ‘Classic plus’ experience.
Whether you’re eager to grind Sleepywood again or experience the game’s humble beginnings for the first time, Classic World could be the throwback MMO fans have waited for.
MapleStory remains one of the longest-running live-service games, and this move shows Nexon’s commitment to honoring its legacy while giving players a reason to return. Will you be logging in? Personally, I’ll give it a whirl to rekindle my own nostalgia, but I find it hard to believe that many others will have the patience required to get to mid or even end game. Pre Big Bang MapleStory was extremely grindy.
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