By IndieGame.com Editorial Team | Dec. 18, 2025 (Updated: Dec. 19, 2025)
A beloved legend from Korea’s early online gaming era is making a comeback in a new form. SmartNow announced that it will hold a closed beta test (CBT) for its cross-platform MMORPG “Joseon Swordsman Classic” from Dec. 18 to Dec. 23, available via One Store (mobile) and the game’s official Lounge community (PC).
A Modern Reinterpretation of a 1998 Classic
Originally developed in 1998 by Tomis Information & Communications, Joseon Swordsman (Joseon Hyeopgaekjeon) was an MMORPG set during the Imjin War period of the Joseon Dynasty. The title became a standout in Korea’s online game history, reportedly reaching 7,000 concurrent users and 1.5 million cumulative members by 2000.
SmartNow says Joseon Swordsman Classic is not a simple restoration—it aims to be a “fully evolved” version. Over roughly three years of development, the game has been rebuilt with newly designed graphics, systems, and combat structure, while reinterpreting the original’s identity for modern gameplay environments.
Retro Spirit Meets Modern Convenience
One of CBT’s biggest promises is the balance between nostalgia and today’s player expectations. While retaining the original game’s retro feel, the new version features PC-optimized controls and UI, and is designed with a multi-platform ecosystem in mind.
SmartNow also signaled an operational philosophy focused on reducing excessive monetization pressure and emphasizing in-game achievement and cooperation—a stance it plans to elaborate on during the test period.
Built With Player Feedback
The CBT is open to anyone who downloads the game through One Store (mobile) or the official Lounge (PC) during the test window. Participants will be invited to complete a survey, with prizes including chicken gift certificates and a raffle for 10,000 cash (in-game currency).
“Rather than simply recreating the past, we’re working to bring back the emotion of that era while delivering an MMORPG that’s genuinely fun by today’s standards,” SmartNow said, adding that it will actively incorporate user feedback to improve the quality of the official launch version.
Why This Comeback Matters
Joseon Swordsman holds a unique place in Korean online game history. It earned loyal fans with gameplay that demanded more varied and skill-based control than many online games of its time. However, after multiple publisher/operator changes and eventual service shutdowns, it remained a fond memory for longtime players.
With Joseon Swordsman Classic, expectations are high: can the game revive a classic for nostalgic fans while also introducing a new generation to the appeal of Korean-style MMORPGs? The first public verdict will be announced through the CBT, which will run through Dec. 23.
[Click here to download the PC version]
[Mobile Download Shortcut]
CBT Details
How to Join
- Download the PC version from the official website
- Download the mobile version from One Store
(Buttons/links were listed as “PC version download” and “Mobile download” in the original post.)
Schedule
- Period: Dec. 18, 12:00 ~ Dec. 23, 11:59
- Note: All CBT characters will be reset (wiped) after the test ends.
Eligibility
- Anyone who downloads the PC client or mobile version during the CBT period is eligible to participate.
Server Operation
- 24-hour operation during the test window
- Maintenance will be announced separately if required.
Customer Support
- Inquiries via the official Lounge (Inquiry/Bug board) or customer support
- Support email:
chosunclassic_cs@withhug.kr
