NC, the Korean game company formerly known as NCsoft, has announced a major publishing partnership with China's Shengqu Games for Aion 2 Items and the broader Chinese launch of its upcoming MMORPG. The agreement brings together two companies with a long history of cooperation and gives Aion 2 a dedicated publishing partner for the Chinese market.
A Partnership With Deep History
The relationship between NC and Shengqu Games is not new. The two companies have worked together since 2009, when the original Aion entered the Chinese market. That history gives the latest agreement an important foundation, as both companies already understand the expectations of MMORPG players in China.
The new partnership was formally signed during a ceremony in Shanghai. NC co-CEO Kim Taek-jin and Shengqu Games CEO Feng Cheng attended the event, highlighting the importance both companies place on the upcoming project.
Under the agreement, Shengqu Games will be responsible for publishing Aion 2 in China. Rather than handling the market entirely on its own, NC will rely on an experienced local partner to manage the game's Chinese service and help introduce the sequel to a large MMORPG audience.
A New Local Identity
One of the first results of the partnership was the launch of an official Chinese website for the game. Shengqu Games also revealed that the Chinese service will use the name Eternal Tower 2.
A localized title can help establish a distinct identity for a major MMORPG entering a new market. It also gives the publisher an opportunity to build awareness among local players before the full release.
However, the companies have not yet announced a specific Chinese launch date. NC stated that additional information, including the release schedule, will be revealed later. This means players interested in the Chinese version will need to wait for further announcements before making plans around launch.
NC's Vision for the Sequel
Kim Taek-jin described Aion 2 as a project that takes the ideas of the original game and develops them to a higher level of quality. His comments suggest that NC views the sequel as more than simply another entry in the franchise.
The original Aion established a strong identity through its fantasy world, aerial gameplay, character progression, and large-scale MMORPG systems. Aion 2 is expected to build on that foundation while introducing newer technology and a broader gameplay experience.
For NC, entering China successfully could be particularly important. China remains one of the world's largest gaming markets, and MMORPGs have a long-established audience there. Having an experienced publisher could therefore help the sequel reach players more effectively.
Shengqu Games Prepares for Launch
Feng Cheng also emphasized that Aion 2 should be viewed as an innovative new title rather than merely a conventional sequel. He highlighted the combination of NC's accumulated MMORPG development experience with modern technology.
Shengqu Games plans to remain involved beyond the initial release. According to the company's comments, the partnership will cover the game's launch and continuing live-service operations.
That point is important for an MMORPG. Publishing a game is only the beginning of its lifecycle. Long-term success requires regular updates, technical support, community management, events, balance changes, and communication with players.
ChinaJoy Becomes the Next Showcase
Aion 2 will also receive significant exposure at ChinaJoy in Shanghai. NC and Shengqu Games plan to showcase the game at the event, with a dedicated demonstration area located at Shengqu Games' booth.
Visitors will be able to experience a demo while trailers are displayed on a large-format screen. This gives the companies an opportunity to introduce the game directly to Chinese players and generate interest before the local launch.
A large public demonstration can also provide useful feedback. MMORPG audiences often pay close attention to combat, visuals, classes, progression systems, and the overall feel of a new game, making ChinaJoy an important promotional opportunity.
What Players Should Watch Next
The partnership marks a significant step toward Aion 2's eventual Chinese release, but several details remain unknown. Players are still waiting for a confirmed launch schedule and more information about the Chinese service.
For players preparing their characters and progression plans, buy Aion 2 Boosting may appear attractive once the game launches, but understanding the official release structure should come first. The Chinese version will have its own publishing and service framework, making future announcements particularly important.
The partnership also increases the potential availability of Aion 2 Items across a major new market. With Shengqu Games handling local publishing and NC continuing development, the next major milestone will be learning when Eternal Tower 2 officially opens its servers.
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