Ragnarok Online Enters Blockchain on Ronin

The beloved MMORPG, Ragnarok Online, is venturing into the blockchain sphere through a strategic collaboration between its developer Gravity and the Ronin sidechain network. This partnership marks the introduction of a new game titled “Ragnarok: Monster World,” which is set to launch on Ronin in the third quarter of 2024.

Since its inception in 2002, Ragnarok Online has captivated millions with its engaging gameplay, accruing over 167 million downloads worldwide. This transition into the blockchain with Ragnarok: Monster World represents a significant evolution of the franchise, blending traditional elements with modern blockchain technology.

Developed by Web3 studio ZERO X AND, Ragnarok: Monster World is a strategy game that incorporates tower defence and monster collection dynamics. The game promises a unique experience where players can tame and train creatures known as Ragmons. Players can look forward to engaging in player-vs-player (PvP) battles, where they can earn rewards by leveraging their strategic skills and monster lineups.

The CEO and co-founder of Sky Mavis, Trung Nguyen, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, noting the cultural significance of Ragnarok in Southeast Asia and his team’s personal connection to the game. He highlighted the potential of the “Ronin Effect” to transform Monster World by integrating cutting-edge technology that bridges gaming cultures.

Anticipation for Ragnarok: Monster World is further amplified by the involvement of Sky Mavis, the creators behind the successful Axie Infinity game, which pioneered the play-to-earn model in the gaming industry. This new venture is set to benefit from the combined expertise of Gravity’s traditional gaming experience and Sky Mavis’s proficiency in Web3 technologies.

Seokjun Kim, the founder of ZERO X AND, emphasized the collaborative effort, noting the fusion of skills from both Web2 and Web3 backgrounds aimed at fostering a robust gaming and blockchain community. This synergy is expected to drive innovation and attract a broad audience, both old fans and new players.

As Ronin continues to expand its portfolio, supporting various third-party games like Pixels, Apeiron, and The Machines Arena, the addition of Ragnarok: Monster World is poised to further enhance its platform’s dynamics and user engagement.

The launch of Ragnarok: Monster World not only reinvigorates a classic game for a new era but also sets a precedent for future integrations of traditional games into the blockchain, promising a revitalized gaming landscape that honours its roots while embracing the future.