Hound13, a studio known for its involvement in the development of Dragon Nest, has made a bold decision regarding its latest project, Dragon Sword. Amid ongoing conflicts with its publisher, the game has officially shifted from a gacha-based live service model to a standalone premium title on Steam. This move has quickly gained attention as it challenges current industry trends.
Originally, Dragon Sword was designed as an open-world action RPG featuring gacha mechanics and microtransactions, aligning with the dominant monetization model in recent years. However, this major shift signals Hound13’s intention to prioritize gameplay quality over aggressive monetization. By removing the gacha system, players can now enjoy a complete experience without relying on in-game purchases.
The decision is widely seen as an effort to save the project. Internal conflicts with the publisher are believed to have played a significant role in pushing this change. Facing a difficult situation, Hound13 chose to preserve the core vision of the game, even if it meant sacrificing potential long-term revenue from live service mechanics.
Dragon Sword will still retain its identity as an open-world action RPG. Players can expect an expansive world, dynamic combat systems, and immersive exploration. The key difference now lies in the overall experience, which is designed to be more balanced and uninterrupted by monetization systems that often disrupt gameplay progression.
In addition, Hound13 is targeting a global release on Steam in the near future. This approach allows players from various regions to access the game without server restrictions commonly found in live service titles. It also makes the game more accessible to a broader audience worldwide.
This move has sparked debate within the gaming community. On one hand, the live service model dominates the industry due to its potential for continuous revenue through microtransactions. On the other hand, many players have grown increasingly frustrated with gacha systems and pay-to-win mechanics.
By switching to a premium model, Dragon Sword could appeal to players seeking a fairer and more immersive gaming experience. Paid games without microtransactions are often viewed as more consumer-friendly, as all content is available upfront.
Is this the right move? It ultimately depends on execution. If Hound13 delivers high-quality gameplay and engaging content, Dragon Sword could prove that premium games still have a place in today’s market. However, without strong marketing and consistent quality, the risks remain.
What is clear is that Hound13 has taken a courageous step against industry norms. Dragon Sword is no longer just a game—it represents a potential shift in how developers approach game design and monetization in the future.
