Released in the West in 2018, MapleStory 2 is a free-to-play MMO with a bright anime aesthetic. While the original MapleStory was a 2D side-scrolling MMO, the sequel introduced a 3D isometric perspective and later a controversial battle royale mode.

The sequel seemed to prove far less popular than the original and was shut down on May 27, less than two years after its October 2018 launch in the West (it launched in Korea in 2015 and then in China in 2017). Today's announcement was made on the MapleStory 2 website.

"While we are eternally grateful for your patience and dedication to MapleStory 2 as we attempted to rework the game starting with Project New Leaf, we ultimately decided that we could not provide the service you have come to expect." The company announced.

"After a close examination of the game's current status and future roadmap, we have sadly come to the conclusion that it will be difficult to remain true to what makes MapleStory 2 "MapleStory 2" and still maintain its long-term continuity."

Purchasable currencies, including blue melts and meso tokens, are no longer available for purchase, but a series of in-game events are planned for the coming months.

For players who used the Nexon Launcher, all purchases made between December 11, 2019 and today will be refunded in NX, the currency of the Nexon launcher; Steam users must go through the Steam channel.