The development studio behind the MMORPG Lost Ark, Smilegate, hints at a mobile version of the game and a switch to Unreal Engine 4. But when will it finally come to us?
What is Lost Ark? The MMORPG Lost Ark can be described as a sort of Diablo MMORPG.
- From an isometric view, you explore a large world and fight many enemies
- Group play is important, just like quests
- The battles are action-based and active, similar to a hack ‘n slash
The Korean open beta of Lost Ark is very well received by the testers. However, it is still unclear when the game will be released in Europe. It is possible to play the beta in Germany, but it’s not that easy.
Are Lost Ark Mobile and a switch to Unreal Engine 4 coming?
This has been hinted at: Smilegate is currently looking for employees for a “new project” that is supposed to be a mobile game. Media in Asia believe that this is a mobile version of Lost Ark.
Furthermore, the studio is seeking employees who are familiar with Unreal Engine 4. However, these individuals are also being sought for the PC version of Lost Ark. Therefore, rumors are currently circulating that a switch of the engine for the MMORPG could be on the horizon.
The idea makes sense
How realistic are these rumors? Mobile games are performing excellently in Asia. And Lost Ark is a game that is also very well received. Hence, a mobile version of the title seems only logical. It is thus quite conceivable that Lost Ark Mobile is coming.
The switch of the engine also makes sense. Lost Ark currently uses Unreal Engine 3. Continuing to develop a current game with this is not so easy, as the new version is more effectively supported, offers better performance and more effects. A game with Unreal Engine 4 is thus better equipped for the future.
That such an engine switch is possible is currently shown by NCSoft, which is transitioning its MMORPG Blade & Soul from Unreal Engine 3 to the new version.
What do the developers say about this? Smilegate only stated that such rumors are “normal” when a development studio enters a recruitment phase. Whether there is any truth to it, the studio did not want to comment.
When will the game be released for us? There is still no date for a release in Europe and the USA. However, if the rumors are true, we might get to play the “new” version of the MMORPG at release.
