ArcheAge 2
News, coverage and analysis tracking ArcheAge 2 across the outlets.
Latest coverage
Fight or Kite: ArcheAge Chronicles is not merely an update to the ArcheAge you know, it’s a full on reimagining.
ArcheAge Chronicles represents a significant reimagining of the original MMORPG, moving away from flexible class pairings to a more rigid archetype system. While the demo showcases improved graphics and tighter combat, it also introduces gender-locked classes and a quest system that feels derivative of New World. Despite some clunky mechanics like glider and underwater stamina management, the dynamic quest generation is a highlight.
ArcheAge S Strait of Freedom discusses its sandboxy game loops, design choices, and monetization
XL Games provided details on ArcheAge S: Strait of Freedom, an upcoming MMORPG set to launch in the second quarter of next year. The game aims to refine the sandbox gameplay loops of the original ArcheAge, focusing on progression, combat, competition, and conflict, with features like personal housing instances and cross-server PvP. Monetization will include a membership, passes, and a cosmetics shop.
MMO Week in Review: Foreverrrrr
BlizzCon 2026 saw major announcements including a new open-world StarCraft shooter, Diablo V for 2029, and World of Warcraft Forever launching soon. The event also revealed World of Warcraft's next retail expansion, The Last Titan, and sparked controversy over World of Warcraft Forever's monetization. Other news included the sunsetting of Ship of Heroes, layoffs at Pantheon Rise of the Fallen, and business dealings involving ArcheAge.
XL Games sells off most of the ArcheAge property to Kakao Games-owned entity
XL Games has sold the majority of the ArcheAge intellectual property, including sequels and ArcheAge S development, to Kakao Games' Align Studio for approximately $30 million. XL Games will retain ownership of ArcheAge Chronicles and ArcheAge War, and the right to develop new games.
Betawatch: Palworld goes full mobile MMORPG as Guild Wars 3 talks species
This week's Betawatch covers several upcoming and in-development MMORPGs, including a mobile-only version of Palworld called Palworld Online and Guild Wars 3 confirming playable species. Updates are also provided on games like Runescape Dragonwilds, ArcheAge S: Strait of Freedom, and various titles in testing phases, highlighting the ongoing development and testing cycles within the MMO genre.
Massively OP Podcast Episode 575: I’m turning this car around and going back to Mordor
The Massively OP Podcast episode 575 covers several MMO updates, including The Lord of the Rings Online's new expansion reveal, Elder Scrolls Online's revised roadmap, and the launch date for Stars Reach. The hosts also discuss the return of Closers Online, a new ArcheAge MMO, and a listener question about gameplay chunks.
XL Games announces new MMORPG ArcheAge S: Strait of Freedom scheduled to arrive in 2027
XL Games and Kakao have announced ArcheAge S: Strait of Freedom, a new PC-first MMORPG set to release in 2027. Project director Kim Kyung-tae, who worked on the original ArcheAge, is leading the development to modernize the classic series while preserving its identity.
Perfect Ten: MMORPGs whose fans I feel sorry for
This opinion piece discusses ten MMORPGs whose fans are felt to be underserved or unfairly treated due to various issues like poor publishing deals, legal troubles, corporate decisions, or a perceived lack of developer care. Games like Fractured Online, Ashes of Creation, The Elder Scrolls Online, and New World are highlighted for their fanbases facing significant challenges.
MMO Week in Review: EverQuest rising
This week's MMO news roundup highlights the resurgence of the EverQuest franchise with EverQuest Legends entering paid beta and expansions teased for EverQuest and EverQuest II. Other major stories include the implosion of DreamWorld, potential layoffs at Blizzard and Bethesda, and Sony's shutdown of PS3 and PS Vita storefronts. The article also covers updates and news from various other MMOs like Elder Scrolls Online, Conan Exiles, and Valheim.
ArcheAge Chronicles shares player activity from its June focus group test
XLGAMES has shared player activity data from a recent focus group test for ArcheAge Chronicles, the rebranded and delayed MMORPG formerly known as ArcheAge 2. The test involved 165 participants and accumulated over 2,006 hours of gameplay, with highlights including popular classes and weapons. The game is still projected for a fourth-quarter release this year.
Massively OP Podcast Episode 570: Card Wars 3
The Massively OP Podcast episode 570 covers various MMO industry news, including Guild Wars' card game, a potential ArcheAge revival, and Richard Garriott's interest in Ultima. Discussions also touch on World of Warcraft's upcoming patch, Dungeons and Dragons Online's new race, and EverQuest Legends pre-orders.
MMO Week in Review: ArcheAge’s revival, Guild Wars’ CCG
This week's MMO news roundup covers a variety of topics including Guild Wars receiving a CCG in China, ArcheAge's revival, and Richard Garriott's efforts to regain Ultima copyright. It also features updates on Tomo Endless Blue's Kickstarter success, Embers of the Uncrowned, and Diablo Immortal's new Warlock patch.
Betawatch: EverQuest Legends’ preorders, ArcheAge’s reboot
This week's Betawatch covers several MMORPGs, including EverQuest Legends opening preorders for its July 28th launch and ArcheAge receiving a reboot for Chinese players. The article also highlights ongoing beta tests and demos for games like Embers of the Uncrowned and RF Online Next, while noting delays for Outward 2 and providing updates on Guild Wars 3's business model.
OG ArcheAge is coming back as ArcheAge Returns… but not for you
XL Games and Chuangtian Interactive Entertainment have announced ArcheAge Returns, a reboot of the original MMORPG for the Chinese market. The game will feature enhanced graphics and fixes for existing issues, with PC signups now open. Western players are left with rogue servers as there is no indication of a global release.
XLGAMES reassures fans that ArcheAge Chronicles is still happening and ‘coming together’
XLGAMES has provided an update on the development of ArcheAge Chronicles, formerly known as ArcheAge 2, assuring fans that the MMORPG is progressing. The studio recently conducted an internal playtest and expressed optimism about the game's direction. While specific release details remain scarce, the team plans to share more information soon.