TL;DR
- NCSoft is strategically diversifying from PC to mobile gaming to address market shifts
- Blade & Soul Mobile features lighter tone, card elements while preserving core combat mechanics
- Tencent partnership brings Hongmoon Rising as a prequel with potential VR integration
- Korean gaming market shows clear revenue transition from PC to mobile platforms
- Both mobile adaptations maintain universe continuity while optimizing for mobile playstyles
The explosive growth of mobile gaming platforms has fundamentally reshaped the gaming industry’s landscape, creating significant competitive pressure on traditional PC-based client games. This transformation has been particularly pronounced in South Korea, where the gaming sector represents a major export industry and economic driver. Financial reports since 2012 clearly demonstrate how client game revenues have been progressively compressed compared to mobile gaming profits. In response to this market evolution, NCSoft—historically dependent on PC gaming success—initiated a comprehensive strategic diversification plan to navigate the changing industry dynamics.
NCSoft announced its intention to broaden its entertainment portfolio beyond traditional gaming, leveraging the extensive intellectual property library it has developed over decades. The company’s 2014 G-Star exhibition showcase in Korea featured six mobile game announcements, including a mobile adaptation of its acclaimed Blade & Soul franchise. The original Blade & Soul MMO achieved international recognition among gaming communities through its innovative combat mechanics and distinctive oil painting-inspired visual aesthetic.
Revealed through press conference materials, Blade & Soul Mobile incorporates 3D graphics with strategic card game elements, creating a hybrid gameplay experience. The visual direction shifts from the original’s mature aesthetic to a more approachable, charming art style. Narrative themes undergo significant transformation—abandoning the dark revenge plot for lighter, romance-focused storytelling. All iconic characters from the PC version will transition to the mobile platform, maintaining franchise continuity while appealing to broader audiences.
Combat mechanics and skill execution in Blade & Soul Mobile feature exceptional three-dimensional visual effects with proprietary artistic treatment. The signature QingGong movement system—celebrated for its fluid aerial combat and traversal mechanics—will be faithfully adapted for touchscreen controls. This preservation of core gameplay elements ensures veteran players will recognize the authentic Blade & Soul experience despite platform transition.
Last month, Tencent Games revealed Hongmoon Rising, another mobile title utilizing NCSoft’s Blade & Soul intellectual property. This project represents a collaborative development effort between both companies, combining NCSoft’s franchise expertise with Tencent’s mobile gaming proficiency. The narrative serves as a prequel to existing Blade & Soul events, exploring the origins and ascendancy of the formidable Hongmoon Clan. Both mobile adaptations share the same universe framework, character relationships, and combat system foundations.
Chinese media reports indicate the game remains in active development with limited official information available. (Tencent, the corporate parent of Tencent Games, recently invested over $8 billion acquiring Supercell, creators of Clash of Clans, reinforcing its position as China’s leading gaming corporation). NCSoft’s objective involves translating the genuine combat experience to mobile platforms, with potential virtual reality integration considered for future updates.
For comprehensive Blade & Soul information, visit Mmogah.com’s gaming resource center.
Players lacking time or energy for character progression can utilize professional power leveling services for assistance, or purchase in-game currency to accelerate advancement. Understanding class mechanics through our Class Guide can significantly improve gameplay efficiency.
Action Checklist
- Research both mobile adaptations to determine preferred gameplay style
- Familiarize with card-based mechanics if interested in the main mobile version
- Review original Blade & Soul lore to understand Hongmoon Rising’s prequel context
- Monitor official channels for development updates and release timelines
- Prepare device storage and specifications for optimal mobile gaming performance
No reproduction without permission：OnLineGames Guides » 2 Scheduled Mobile Games of Blade and Soul NCSoft's strategic pivot to mobile gaming with Blade & Soul adaptations and Tencent partnership explained