MapleStory Universe (MSU), the blockchain-powered expansion of Nexon’s game IP, today announced a series of new developments that bring to life its Infinite IP Playground (IIPP) vision through Metaplay. These include the roll out of new developer infrastructure, the first of its enhancement API, and the reveal of the next Nexon IP to onboard into the ecosystem.
MSU’s Infinite IP Playground in Action
The IIPP vision has always been about expanding the boundaries of play, from locked-in gameplay loops to open-ended systems where players and builders can co-create experiences. With recent developments, users and the community alike can get a glimpse into what this future looks like: with a focus on infrastructure, builder momentum and cross-IP scalability.
“The Infinite IP Playground isn’t just an idea, it’s becoming an ecosystem,” said Sunyoung Hwang, CEO of NEXPACE. “From game logic APIs to builder tools, from new IPs to open infrastructure, MSU is laying the groundwork for a gaming model where creativity, ownership, and community are core.”
Ecosystem Expansion: APIs, Builders and Infrastructure
As part of its infrastructure expansion, MSU has activated its first gameplay logic API focused on item enhancement, a familiar progression mechanic from MapleStory. Going live on 29 July, Smithy will be the first prototype of Metaplay Services to complete and test the enhancement API in a live environment, laying the foundation for more flexible, community-driven possibilities.
Smithy also opens the door for future builders to create services using that same enhancement logic, from strategic tools to creating entirely new user experiences. This is the first step in a broader plan to open up other core gameplay pillars through APIs within the upcoming Builder Center, allowing builders to explore, expand and innovate beyond MapleStory’s original boundaries.
Leveraging on Builder Ecosystem Momentum
Since opening its API access, more than 50 independent teams have started building within the MSU ecosystem, including dashboards, guild tools, prediction apps and marketplace services. Some of these builders’ work have already gone live providing data-driven support and analysis to players. To further support this builder momentum, MSU is rolling out the following infrastructure upgrades:
- Builder Center: A new portal for developer onboarding, API integration, and modular on/off-chain tools. (Q4 2025)
- Permissionless Chain: A blockchain layer open to any builder to deploy smart contracts and dApps within the MSU ecosystem
- Chainlink CCIP integration: Enabling secure cross-chain interactions to expand user experience by supporting seamless use of digital items across different chains
MSU has also confirmed the creation of an ecosystem fund to support early-stage projects aligned with the Infinite IP Playground vision. It will support initiatives across MetaPlay, SocialFi, AI-enhanced gameplay, and community tooling.
New IP will Join the Nexpace’s Ecosystem
Building on the foundation laid by MapleStory Universe, another one of Nexon’s iconic game franchises will be the next IP to integrate into the ecosystem, introducing new gameplay formats and creator possibilities.
While details will be shared progressively, this signals NEXPACE’s commitment to supporting diverse Nexon IP experiences as a multi-IP platform, built not just for one title but for a future where legacy franchises evolve through community-driven innovation.
What’s Next
Looking ahead, these developments will be part of MSU’s broader 2025 roadmap:
- August: Launch of ecosystem support policies and additional API enhancements
- September–November: Rollout of third-party Synergy Apps and services onboard
- December: Launch of a new Builder Center, expansion of the API suite and MapleStory N Winter Update
“These updates mark a turning point for MapleStory Universe,” added Sunyoung Hwang, CEO of NEXPACE. “We’re not just adding tools or onboarding new IPs, we’re building the foundations of a platform where players and builders can shape the future of web3 gaming worlds together.”