As GameFi gradually returns to rationality from its frenzy, the entry of a classic IP has reignited interest in the Web3 gaming circle:

Nexpace, a blockchain subsidiary of South Korean gaming giant Nexon, is bringing the globally renowned PC game (MapleStory) onto the blockchain and launching its ecological token - NXPC.

In just one day after launch, NXPC experienced a volatile surge from $1.43 to $3.83, with a trading volume exceeding $700 million, attracting the attention of both traders and players. However, this time, it is not just about nostalgia.

1. Project core: Building the 'MapleStory Universe'

Nexpace is not simply creating a 'Web3 mini-game'; it aims to transfer the entire worldview of (MapleStory) onto the blockchain, constructing a complete MapleStory Universe and building an on-chain game asset system, governance mechanism, and creator platform around it.

This means players can not only 'grind for loot' in the Web3 version of MapleStory but can also truly own the equipment, materials, pets, and map items that drop, freely circulating or trading them as NFTs on the blockchain.

2. Dual token drive: NXPC + NESO

The project has designed a dual-token structure:

  • NXPC: The main token, serving a function similar to 'governance + value anchoring', can be exchanged for ecological NFTs, used for platform governance, and value circulation.

  • NESO: In-game token used for players to receive quest rewards, item drops, ecological interactions, etc., and can be exchanged for NXPC at a certain ratio.

This structure is similar to the AXS + SLP of the Axie era, but Nexpace has implemented stronger inflation control and a transparent exchange mechanism, attempting to carve out a new path of 'preventing collapse and focusing on experience'.

3. Strong backing from the MapleStory IP.

You may not know that (MapleStory) is one of South Korea's national-level MMORPGs, operating for 20 years with over 180 million registered users worldwide.

Its uniqueness lies in:

  • Strong interactivity: Teaming up, trading, fighting bosses, socializing... naturally suited for on-chain modularity.

  • Classic gameplay: Dungeons, equipment crafting, pet raising, laying a natural foundation for NFTs.

  • High IP value: Compared to many original blockchain games, it has a strong user base and cultural sediment.

This is not some metaverse conjured up by a new studio, but a 'blockchain-reformed real game' that has players, memories, and an economic system in reality.

4. My preliminary judgment on this project.

Advantages:

  • Backed by a traditional large company (Nexon), not merely 'issuing tokens to exploit people'.

  • Strong IP, high nostalgia value, broad user base.

  • Token model is relatively clear, ecosystem is predictable.

'Not all blockchain games are worth looking forward to, but (MapleStory) going on-chain is worth observing.'

If Axie Infinity pioneered the Play-to-Earn model, Nexpace may be attempting to open up the future of Play-and-Own.

I am currently still observing the on-chain data and community operation rhythm of this project, not holding any tokens, nor getting overly emotional.

But I admit, this project is worth a glance from the crypto community - because it tells more than just a Web3 story; it is part of the real life of players over the past 20 years.