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NCSoft Scraps Horizon MMORPG "Project H"
NCSoft's plans for a Horizon MMORPG, internally codenamed "H," have been canceled, according to a January 13, 2025 report by South Korean news outlet MTN. The cancellation follows the departure of key developers from NCSoft and a company-wide "feasibility review." Several other projects, including one codenamed "J," were also reportedly axed. "Pantera," or "Raising Lineage," remains under evaluation. The cancellation is further evidenced by the removal of "H" and "J" from NCSoft's organizational chart.
While neither Sony nor NCSoft have issued official statements, the news raises questions about the future of the Horizon IP in the MMO space. The possibility of another developer picking up the project remains uncertain.
Parallel Development: Guerrilla Games' Online Horizon Project
This news contrasts sharply with the ongoing development of a separate Horizon online project by Guerrilla Games. Announced on Twitter (X) in December 2022, this "Online Project" is distinct from NCSoft's canceled effort, featuring a new cast and art style. Recent job postings, including one for a Senior Platform Engineer in January 2025, suggest Guerrilla Games anticipates a player base exceeding one million and is actively building infrastructure for a large-scale online experience. This points towards a significant, potentially internally developed Sony title, rather than a continuation of NCSoft's work.
Job listings from November 2023 also highlighted the development of new, challenging machines designed for multiplayer combat, further hinting at the scale of Guerrilla Games' ambitions.
Sony and NCSoft's Strategic Partnership
The November 28, 2023 announcement of a strategic partnership between Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) and NCSoft adds another layer of complexity. While the canceled Horizon MMO might seem like a setback, this collaboration could open doors for Sony to expand its reach into mobile gaming and other online platforms.
Jim Ryan, President and CEO of SIE, stated that the partnership aims to broaden PlayStation's audience. The future remains uncertain for a dedicated Horizon MMORPG, but the partnership suggests a broader strategic shift for Sony in the online gaming landscape.
