What a year 2018 is turning out to be for Bless Online. Whether you like the game or not, you can’t deny its prominence among the MMO community – the game generated a ton of buzz. The lead up to its Steam Early Access launch in May was incredibly hyped up, only for the game to be shunted by many for its shortcomings. Since then, player numbers on Steam haven’t been great and now we get the news that Neowiz is finally ready to open up the game to the world. Here’s what you need to know about Bless Online’s official launch on October 23rd.
Bless Online Is Going Free To Play
To the surprise of no one, Bless Online will be launching as a completely free to play MMORPG. As is the case with many Early Access MMOs, developers offer players a chance to play immediately for a price. And players that were woo-ed by the hype this year bought one of three Founders Packs to help fund the game’s arrival on Steam. With much of that player base now gone, it appears going free to play was the only way moving forward. Keep in mind however, that Bless Online does have an optional membership subscription should one wants to be pampered with boosts, buffs and other in-game benefits.
Early Access Supporters Get Appreciation Rewards
But what about those players who own Founders Packs and want to return come October 23rd? Neowiz hasn’t forgotten all about you, and in a rare gesture of appreciation, are actually giving away some tangible rewards. These include free premium membership depending on the pack that you purchased, and one of them – the Collector’s Edition – even gives you the lifetime sub. The other goodies like skins and outfits may be considered fluff, but it’s still something. It’s now up to you Founders Pack owners to decide if its worth coming back for those freebies to give the game another chance or not. Rewards can be seen in picture below:
Bless Online In Korea Shut Down For This
What players of the global version on Steam may not have known, is that in Neowiz’s home country of South Korea, the original game is shutting down. You read that right. The original version of the game debuted in Korea a couple of years ago and have been doing decently. It funded Neowiz’s ambition to launch the game elsewhere such as Russia and Japan, which eventually shut down as well. So why is Bless’s catalyst being shut down? Neowiz are apparently throwing all their eggs in the Steam release’s basket. In order to go full gung-ho, they’ll need the manpower. So RIP Bless Korea.
New Launch Content Coming This Month
The free to play and official launch isn’t the only new things coming to the game this October. The official update also mentions some brand new content to welcome players both old and new. For starters there’s the Patala Raid, targeted at high-level players, makes its way into the game accompanied by all new bosses and loot. What’s more, players of all levels will be able to join in celebrating the spooktacular holiday season in the world of Bless with events held Oct. 4th through Nov. 7th. Boasting Jack-o-Lanterns, Halloween-themed costumes, a special login event, and even more tricks and treats, be sure to read the details on the full Patala Raid and Halloween Update.
