HYBE IM's MMORPG "Architect" Targets Apple Market with iOS and macOS Launch
Korean gaming publisher HYBE IM announced plans to bring its anticipated MMORPG "Architect: Land of Exiles" to Apple's iOS and macOS platforms in the second half of this year, marking an unusual move for Korean MMORPGs to embrace Mac gaming.
HYBE IM revealed on June 10th that "Architect: Land of Exiles" will launch sequentially on iOS and macOS platforms domestically in the latter half of 2025. The game will utilize Apple's Metal API and other core technologies to deliver optimized experiences across iPhone, iPad, and Mac devices.
"Supporting the macOS platform for MMORPG genre is very rare even in the Korean market," said a HYBE IM representative. "We expect to provide Apple users with a new gaming option."
The game represents a collaboration between HYBE IM and developer Aquatree, founded by Park Beom-jin, who previously led development of hit titles "Lineage 2: Revolution" and "Ni no Kuni: Cross Worlds." HYBE and HYBE IM jointly invested 30 billion won in the project.
Built on Unreal Engine 5, "Architect" features photorealistic graphics and seamless open-world gameplay. Players can explore vast environments using special movement including flying, swimming, and rock climbing, while engaging in non-target combat with dynamic bosses and monsters.
The story centers on giants who built a tower seeking godhood. When the tower reached the sky, darkness engulfed the world and the giants vanished. Players become adventurers exploring the "Abandoned Lands" to uncover the tower's secrets.
The game offers five character classes: Warrior, Mage, Battle Priest, Assassin, and Hunter. At G-STAR 2024, demonstrations included both story and exploration modes, showcasing detailed character customization and challenging puzzle elements.
According to Park Beom-jin, content and system development is past the midpoint, though artwork and sound resources require additional work. The game generated significant attention at G-STAR 2024, where HYBE IM made its first major exhibition debut.
For HYBE IM, "Architect" represents a crucial test as the company seeks to establish itself beyond entertainment into comprehensive game development. The success of this title could influence other Korean developers to reconsider their platform strategies.
The game will support cross-platform play between PC and mobile, with PC offering intensive action gameplay and mobile featuring automation systems optimized for touch controls.
Pre-registration details and specific launch dates will be announced through official channels as the company prepares for what it calls a defining moment in its gaming division's evolution.
