Korean gaming giant Nexon has announced the closure of 'MapleStory 2,' the highly-anticipated sequel to 'MapleStory' that hit the scene in 2015, almost ten years after its debut.

In an official statement on the game's website, Nexon stated, "We have come to the decision that we can no longer deliver a gaming experience that aligns with the expectations of our players given the current circumstances," confirming that MapleStory 2 will bid farewell on May 29, 2025.

All in-game payment services will cease operations as part of this process, starting from today.

Originally launched in July 2015, MapleStory 2 presented a 3D MMORPG approach to the beloved MapleStory universe, transitioning from its traditional 2D style to a dynamic 3D world.

While Korean gamers and 'MapleStory 2' enthusiasts have expressed disappointment over the news, many have also acknowledged that the sequel fell short of the mark. Unlike 'MapleStory,' which continues to be a key revenue generator for Nexon alongside hits like 'Dungeon & Fighter' and 'FC,' MapleStory 2 struggled to make an impact. Upon its release, it faced criticism for its subpar visuals and limited content, missing the mark in the competitive gaming market.

Reactions from Korean online communities included:

- "I've been a player since 2017, and now the server is shutting down… How heartbreaking." - "Is this a joke? I can't believe it." - "Sudden Attack 2, Overwatch 2, and now MapleStory 2… the trend continues." - "I just logged in after years and saw this… shocked." - "Reminds me of my favorite game, had to check in..." - "Didn't even realize MapleStory 2 was still around." - "Spent a lot of time in MapleStory 2 back in the day… Nostalgic." - "The title had me panicked until I read further." - "Disappointed, to say the least."

It's evident that the shutting down of MapleStory 2 has evoked a mix of emotions within the gaming community, resonating with those who were once part of its virtual world.