NCSoft's Cancellation of the Horizon MMORPG, Codenamed "H"

News broke on January 13, 2025, via South Korean news outlet MTN, that NCSoft had canceled several projects, including a highly anticipated Horizon MMORPG internally designated "H." This decision follows a company-wide "feasibility review." NCSoft, a leading developer and publisher of MMORPGs (most notably the Lineage and Guild Wars franchises), cited this review as the reason for halting development. The cancellation of "H" was further substantiated by the removal of the project from NCSoft's organizational chart and the reported departure of key development personnel. Another project, codenamed "J," also faced cancellation, while "Pantera" (or "Raising Lineage") remains under evaluation. No official statement has been released by NCSoft or Sony regarding this development. The future of "Project H" and the possibility of another developer picking up the project remains uncertain.

Guerrilla Games' Ongoing Horizon "Online Project"

In contrast to NCSoft's cancellation, Guerrilla Games, the studio behind the main Horizon series, continues development on its own separate online project within the Horizon universe. Initially announced via a Twitter (X) post on December 16, 2022, the project promises a new cast of characters and a unique visual style. Job postings, such as one for a Senior Combat Designer in November 2023, hinted at the scale of the project, mentioning the design of challenging machine enemies for multiple players. A more recent job listing for a Senior Platform Engineer in January 2025, specifying experience with "1M+ globally distributed systems," suggests a player base of at least one million is anticipated. This further reinforces the scope of Guerrilla Games' ambition.

Sony and NCSoft's Strategic Partnership

The strategic partnership between Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) and NCSoft, announced November 28, 2023, adds another layer to this situation. While the cancellation of the NCSoft Horizon MMORPG is disappointing, this partnership could open new avenues for Sony, potentially expanding its reach into mobile gaming and other online multiplayer experiences. The future remains to be seen, but the partnership suggests a broader strategic shift for Sony in the gaming landscape.