Netmarble launched its dark fantasy MMORPG RAVEN2 on September 15, 2026, introducing its first fresh start server, “ZERO,” alongside a concurrent “Legendary Festival” event for existing servers. Designed to eliminate barriers for new and returning players, ZERO features altered progression mechanics, increased drop rates, and dedicated peace zones to mitigate monetization and player-killing pressures.
Engineering a Lower Barrier to Entry on Server Zero
Massive multiplayer online role-playing games often suffer from severe progression cliffs for late-arriving users. Netmarble engineers tackled this structural imbalance by configuring ZERO with a fundamentally distinct ruleset. Progression friction is further reduced through the omission of Mythic-grade Summons and Awakenings, creating a cleaner, more linear leveling curve for participants.
To combat the economic bottlenecks typical of mature virtual economies, developers introduced a dedicated Farming Crystals system. This mechanic allows players to acquire core in-game currencies directly through active combat and hunting, rather than relying strictly on microtransaction-driven pathways. Furthermore, specific fields within the server operate as peace zones where player-killing is disabled. These safety corridors encourage broader user participation in boss encounters, guild crafting material collection, and high-grade gear assembly.
Ecosystem Rewards and Event Structures
Monetization pressure remains a primary deterrent for churned MMORPG players. To counteract this, Netmarble deployed a heavy onboarding incentive package on ZERO. New arrivals gain access to 550 Summon Scrolls, a Legendary Holy Garment, a Legendary Familiar, and level milestone chests. Additional assistance comes via the ZERO Special Corps Member Growth Event, which hands out Heroic-grade equipment and essential skill books. Logging in immediately grants users the [ZERO] Special Starter Package, bundling a Heroic Holy Garment Summon Scroll and a Heroic Familiar Summon Scroll.
Meanwhile, existing servers are running the “Legendary Festival” through October 7, 2026. This parallel event supplies seasoned players with 330 Summon Scrolls, Abyss-related benefits, and an upgraded Elite Special Corps Member Growth Event.
Architectural Continuity and Franchise Background
RAVEN2 serves as the official sequel to Raven (also known as EvilBane: The Iron King). Built within a dark fantasy framework, the title emphasizes narrative-driven exploration where players operate as members of a Special Corps. Their mandate involves investigating bizarre, hazardous incidents under royal decree while navigating large-scale military conflicts.
