Discover the latest on the canceled Horizon MMORPG and what's next for the franchise.
NCSoft Cancels Horizon MMORPG and Other Projects Amid Feasibility Review
On January 13, 2025, NCSoft, a leading South Korean developer and publisher renowned for titles like the Lineage and Guild Wars series, announced the cancellation of several projects, including the eagerly awaited Horizon MMORPG, codenamed "H." This decision followed a "feasibility review" conducted by the company, which also led to the suspension of projects codenamed "J." Meanwhile, "Pantera" or "Raising Lineage" remains under review.
According to reports from MTN, a South Korean news outlet, the departure of developers involved in "Project H" contributed to its cancellation. Those remaining at NCSoft have been reassigned to other ongoing projects. The removal of "H" and "J" from the company’s organizational chart further solidifies their termination.
While Sony and NCSoft have not issued an official statement, it remains unclear whether another team will pick up the remnants of "Project H." However, fans of the Horizon series can find solace in the fact that Guerilla Games is actively developing another multiplayer project within the same universe.
Guerrilla Games Developing Horizon "Online Project" Since 2022
Guerilla Games confirmed their commitment to an online multiplayer project set in the Horizon universe via a Twitter(X) post on December 16, 2022. They are seeking developers to join their Amsterdam-based team to work on this "Online Project," which promises a fresh cast of characters and a distinctive visual style.
A job listing for a Senior Combat Designer in November 2023 hinted at the development of new, formidable machine enemies designed to challenge multiple players simultaneously. Fast forward to January 2025, and the team is still expanding, with a recent job posting for a Senior Platform Engineer seeking someone with experience in managing systems for over a million users globally.
Although an official announcement is pending, this project appears to be a promising multiplayer endeavor directly developed by Sony's internal teams.
Sony Announced its Partnership with NCSoft
On November 28, 2023, Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) unveiled a "strategic global partnership" with NCSoft. This collaboration leverages NCSoft's technological expertise and SIE's global entertainment leadership to expand PlayStation's reach beyond consoles.
Jim Ryan, President and CEO of SIE, emphasized the shared vision of creating impactful gaming experiences, stating, "Partnering with NCSOFT advances our strategy to expand beyond console and broaden PlayStation’s reach to a wider audience."
While the Horizon MMORPG may not see the light of day, this partnership could pave the way for other Sony titles to venture into mobile gaming, enhancing their multiplayer offerings.
