A Look Back: Inkwell's Original Pitch to Nexon for MapleStory Classic

Inkwell's vision for a classic MapleStory experience began as a passionate plea to Nexon a decade ago. This article dives into the fascinating history behind Inkwell's original pitch, its key elements, and how it laid the groundwork for what we now anticipate in MapleStory Classic World.

The Genesis of the Idea

The journey began in 2015, when Inkwell, a dedicated MapleStory player and community advocate, recognized a growing sentiment among fans longing for the simpler, pre-Big Bang gameplay mechanics. Inkwell compiled feedback from forums, social media, and fan sites, culminating in a detailed pitch document aimed at Nexon.

Key Components of the Pitch

Inkwell's pitch encompassed several vital aspects that resonated with the MapleStory community:

• Nostalgia Factor: Emphasizing the emotional connection players had with classic game features and mechanics.
• Community Engagement: Highlighting the importance of community input in shaping the game's development.
• Monetization Models: Proposing fair and engaging monetization strategies that would support the game without compromising player experience.
• Technical Feasibility: Presenting a roadmap for how Nexon could technically implement a classic version alongside the existing game.

Engagement with the Community

To bolster his proposal, Inkwell engaged the MapleStory community through polls, forums, and discussions, gathering insights and testimonials from players who yearned for the classic experience. This grassroots approach not only validated his vision but also showcased the potential player base for a classic revival.

The Presentation to Nexon

Inkwell's presentation to Nexon took place at the annual gaming conference in 2016. Armed with data, player testimonials, and a passionate delivery, Inkwell outlined the potential for a successful classic version of MapleStory. Key points included:

• Market Demand: Presenting data from surveys indicating a significant interest in a classic version.
• Competitive Analysis: Analyzing successful classic MMORPG revivals and drawing parallels to MapleStory's unique strengths.
• Long-term Engagement: Discussing how a classic version could rejuvenate player interest and retain veterans while attracting new players.

Initial Reactions from Nexon

After the presentation, Nexon expressed cautious optimism. While they acknowledged the potential, there were concerns regarding the technical challenges and the risk of fragmenting the player base. Inkwell was encouraged to refine his proposal, particularly around the monetization aspects and community engagement strategies.

Refining the Proposal

Taking feedback seriously, Inkwell returned to the drawing board. He conducted further research on monetization models used in other successful MMORPGs, focusing on how to balance free-to-play access with optional paid content that enhances the experience without being pay-to-win.

The Turning Point

In late 2017, after years of discussions, Nexon announced a pilot project for MapleStory Classic. This decision was met with overwhelming excitement from the community, validating Inkwell's efforts and demonstrating the power of player advocacy.

Building MapleStory Classic

The development of MapleStory Classic began in earnest, with Inkwell's original pitch serving as a guiding document. The team focused on recreating the essence of the original game while integrating modern quality-of-life improvements based on community feedback.

The Role of the Community

Throughout the development process, community engagement remained a cornerstone. Players were invited to participate in alpha testing, providing valuable feedback that shaped the final product. This collaboration was instrumental in ensuring that MapleStory Classic met the expectations of both new players and nostalgic veterans.

Launch and Beyond

With the successful launch of MapleStory Classic, Inkwell's vision came to fruition. The game has not only revitalized interest in the MapleStory franchise but has also created a thriving community of players eager to relive the magic of the original experience. The journey continues, with ongoing updates and community involvement shaping the future of MapleStory Classic.