If you’ve been around MMOs long enough to remember gliding off cliffs with trade packs or getting ganked halfway across the ocean while trying to get your large farm, you’ve probably heard whispers of ArcheAge Chronicles. This is the game that aims to carry the franchise into the next generation.
XL Games is developing it, and Kakao Games will publish it globally. The game appears to be part sequel, part prequel, and part reboot of one of the most ambitious and controversial MMOs ever made.
Here’s everything confirmed so far, backed by official sources, developer interviews, and a healthy dose of caution.
ArcheAge Chronicles Is ArcheAge 2 with a New Name
ArcheAge Chronicles is the official name for what was originally introduced as ArcheAge 2. The name was changed in late 2024, likely to emphasize its narrative focus. The story takes place around 2,000 years before the events of the original ArcheAge. In practical terms, this is ArcheAge with a new engine and a new storytelling approach.
Built in Unreal Engine 5 and Targeting PC and Console
The game is being developed using Unreal Engine 5. Visuals shown during Sony’s State of Play and in official trailers reveal large, open landscapes, detailed cities, seamless transitions, and improved character models. ArcheAge Chronicles will launch on Steam, Epic Games Store, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.
This makes it one of the only large-scale sandbox MMOs aiming for a simultaneous release across PC and modern consoles.
The Setting is a Prequel, with a Bigger Focus on Story
The game is set on the continent of Auroria during its early colonization. This setting existed in the original ArcheAge but appeared later in that timeline. In Chronicles, players are part of the first wave of settlers. The developers have confirmed a shift toward cinematic quests and personal narrative arcs.
The story will focus less on large-scale faction war and more on individual character involvement and smaller community development. The world is still open and exploration-focused, but the experience will be more immersive and personalized.
Trade Packs, Housing, and Player Economy are Returning
Several core sandbox systems from ArcheAge will return in revised form. Trade packs are coming back, but players will now be able to complete runs solo, in parties, or as raids. This expands the accessibility of one of the original game's most defining features.
Housing is being redesigned. The new system will allow players to build towns together rather than only placing standalone houses. Crafting, farming, and trading systems will be reworked to feel more interconnected and community-oriented. The goal is to preserve freedom while tightening integration between systems.
Combat is Now Action-Based and More Console Friendly
ArcheAge Chronicles will no longer use tab-targeting combat. The system has been rebuilt to offer fast, reactive, action-based gameplay. Players will manually aim attacks, dodge incoming hits, and time their abilities. This makes the game more compatible with controllers and more appealing to players used to modern action RPGs.
There is no confirmation yet on whether the class and skill-swapping systems from ArcheAge 1 will return. However, the new system promises a smoother and more engaging combat loop overall.
The Lore Will Be Front and Center This Time
ArcheAge 1 had deep lore, but most players ignored it. In Chronicles, the narrative is meant to drive the experience. The game will explore the founding of civilizations, the early history of the major races, and the first rise of powerful magic in the world of Auroria.
The story will follow the player’s role in shaping the world. Every quest and choice is meant to feel more meaningful. The game will still offer player freedom, but now with more story structure to support it.
Jake Song Has Left the Project
Jake Song, the creator of ArcheAge and founder of XL Games, stepped down from his CEO role in 2023 to focus on development. In January 2025, he officially left the company. His departure was described as a personal decision to take time off.
The project is now led by executive producer Ham Yong-jin. Kakao Games and XL Games have confirmed that the game's development remains on schedule. Beta is still planned for late 2025, with full launch expected in early 2026.
Missing Archeage 1? Sadly it has Has Officially Ended
Kakao shut down the North American and European servers for the original ArcheAge in June 2024. The Korean servers followed in March 2025. ArcheWorld, the NFT-based version, and ArcheAge War, the PvP mobile game, are still active. Neither one has earned the attention of the core player base.
ArcheAge Chronicles is the primary successor. It carries forward the name, the legacy systems, and the lore of the franchise.
Release Plans and Monetization Remain Undisclosed
Kakao has confirmed closed beta testing for the second half of 2025. The global launch is still targeted for early 2026. Western regions will receive full localization, and Kakao will handle publishing directly.
The business model has not been revealed. Most signs suggest the game will be free-to-play. Monetization decisions will be closely watched by players who remember the pay-to-win issues that plagued the original title and ArcheAge Unchained. Kakao has a rare opportunity to rebuild trust by designing a fair and transparent system from the start.
Final Thoughts
ArcheAge Chronicles could become the MMO comeback story many players have been waiting for. It has updated visuals, refined combat, personal storytelling, and core sandbox features that defined the original game. These changes show promise, but success will depend entirely on execution.
The ArcheAge name still carries baggage. Many players were burned by over-monetization and design inconsistencies in the past. Kakao and XL Games now have one chance to do it right.
I am watching this closely. I remember what it felt like to believe. I also remember getting murdered mid-trade run and waking up in jail with zero labor points. This time, the outcome is still unwritten.