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 a company-wide "feasibility review" that also resulted in the termination of other unannounced projects (codenamed "J"). The report further states that key developers assigned to "Project H" have departed NCSoft, with remaining team members reassigned to other projects. The removal of "H" and "J" from NCSoft's organizational chart solidifies their cancellation.
While NCSoft and Sony have yet to officially comment, the news raises questions about the future of the Horizon IP in the MMORPG space. The possibility of another developer picking up the project remains uncertain.
Guerrilla Games' "Online Project" Remains Active
Despite the NCSoft setback, Guerrilla Games continues development on its own Horizon online project, announced in December 2022. Job postings, including one for a Senior Combat Designer in November 2023 and a recent listing for a Senior Platform Engineer, indicate a focus on a large-scale multiplayer experience, potentially targeting over one million players. These listings highlight the development of new, challenging machines designed for cooperative gameplay.
The scale of Guerrilla Games' ambition suggests a significant online title, possibly distinct from the canceled NCSoft project.
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 "Project H" is defunct, this collaboration opens doors for future collaborations, potentially bringing Sony IPs to mobile platforms. The partnership emphasizes NCSoft's technological expertise and SIE's global reach, hinting at broader expansion into new gaming markets.
The future of Horizon in the online multiplayer space remains fluid, with Guerrilla Games' project offering a glimmer of hope for fans eager for a connected Horizon experience. The impact of the NCSoft cancellation and the implications of the Sony-NCSoft partnership remain to be seen.
