Who Will Claim the 2025 Korea Game Awards? Nexon’s Mabinogi Mobile vs Netmarble’s Seven Knights Reverse Showdown

Rising Anticipation for the 30th Korea Game Awards

The Korea Game Awards celebrates its 30th edition this year amid a fierce competition between Nexon's Mabinogi Mobile and Netmarble's Seven Knights Reverse. Both games represent a revival of classic intellectual properties (IPs), which has become this year's theme. The event, held on November 12 at Busan Bexco, has caught the attention of gamers and industry experts alike, curious about who will take home the prestigious Presidential Award. With changes to the judging process emphasizing public and media votes more than ever before, the stakes have never been higher.

Mabinogi Mobile’s Charm and Enduring Success

Developed by Devcat Studio under Nexon, Mabinogi Mobile revitalizes the beloved 20-year-old PC MMORPG Mabinogi for mobile platforms. It stands out for its player-friendly business model that reduces pay-to-win pressure and enriches gameplay with diverse activities like fishing, crafting, and non-competitive board games like Midnight Werewolf. Boasting over 2 million registered users mostly aged between 10 and 20, it has reshaped the traditionally older mobile MMORPG market. Its strong and sustained presence at the top of the Google Play Store’s revenue rankings shows just how successfully ‘Mobinogi-like’ gameplay has captured hearts once again.

Netmarble’s Seven Knights Reverse and the Battle for the Crown

Netmarble enters 2025 with three nominees but all eyes are on Seven Knights Reverse, a collection-type MMORPG that launched in May to instant success, topping the App Store and Google Play revenue charts within days. Maintaining core elements of the original Seven Knights but modernized to fit current gamer tastes, it also made a strong global debut, topping charts in Thailand and Hong Kong. Netmarble's other notable title, RF Online Next, retains massive appeal for fans of sci-fi MMORPGs, while the dark fantasy vampire-themed Vampire adds an artistic, atmospheric flavor to the lineup. Netmarble aims to secure a second consecutive grand prize after winning last year with Alone Level Up: Arise.

New Judging Criteria and Growing Public Influence

This year marks significant changes to the Korea Game Awards judging system. The weight of jury votes was reduced to 50%, while public and media voting increased to 25% each, bringing gamers' voices to the forefront. The scoring method was revamped: points are now assigned based on ranking with an additional proportional score to reflect vote counts, enhancing fairness and transparency. The event also addresses previous controversies by disclosing detailed scoring after the awards and ensuring secure vote handling. The voting period runs from October 20 to November 10, and the final winner will be decided from a combined tally including judges, the public, media, and influencers.

Fan Excitement and Industry Perspectives

Excitement in the gaming community is palpable. Fans of Mabinogi Mobile celebrate its fresh take on a nostalgic classic, appreciating its focus on leisurely and social gameplay, while supporters of Seven Knights Reverse praise its fast-paced, strategic combat and global success. Industry insiders note the competition symbolizes a broader trend of successful old IPs being reborn for new generations amid evolving mobile gaming landscapes. Although Mabinogi Mobile and Seven Knights Reverse are frontrunners, the diversity of strong nominees suggests the Korean gaming industry's vibrant health and continuous innovation.

Indeed, who will emerge at the top remains unpredictable, but one thing is clear: Korean mobile MMORPGs are living their golden age, thrilling gamers locally and worldwide with rich stories and engaging mechanics. Will it be the beloved Nexon classic or Netmarble’s commanding sequel? Mark your calendars and join the celebration of Korea’s gaming excellence this November.