Dragon Sword Shifts to Paid Model Amid Ongoing Drama

Dragon Sword, the open-world action RPG often described as the spiritual successor to Dragon Nest, is undergoing a major shift as developer Hound13 changes its business strategy amid ongoing controversy.

From Free to Play to Premium Game

Originally planned as a free-to-play title with in-app purchases, Dragon Sword will now be transformed into a one-time purchase package game. This change aligns the game with traditional Steam releases, aiming to attract a broader global audience.

The team is also moving forward with a self-publishing strategy, choosing to operate independently rather than relying on a publishing partner.

Target Release Window

Hound13 is preparing to launch Dragon Sword on Steam, with an expected release window between July and August 2026. A store page is expected to go live soon.

Ongoing Conflict with Webzen

Despite the new direction, the situation between Hound13 and Webzen remains unresolved.

• Hound13’s stance: The developer claims the contract was terminated due to unpaid minimum guarantees and failure in publishing responsibilities.
• Webzen’s response: The company argues the contract termination is invalid and insists the agreement is still legally binding.

This disagreement raises concerns about potential legal disputes that could impact the game’s global release.

Challenges Ahead

The shift to a paid model introduces new challenges:

• Development concerns: The studio recently underwent restructuring and layoffs, raising questions about meeting the 2026 release timeline.
• Legal risks: If the contract dispute escalates, it could delay or complicate the Steam launch.

A Risky but Bold Move

Switching from free-to-play to a premium model is a bold decision, especially in the current market. However, it could also redefine how Dragon Sword positions itself among modern RPGs.

For now, the future of Dragon Sword remains uncertain, but it is undoubtedly one of the most closely watched developments in the gaming industry.