Nexon confirmed the release date for its highly anticipated hardcore action role-playing game (RPG) "First Berserker: Kazan" as March 28, 2025, at The Game Awards 2024 (TGA) and has officially launched its global market assault.
◇ March 28 global simultaneous launch of "First Berserker: Kazan" lights up the skies over LA
"Kazan" revealed its official release schedule and a new trailer through TGA, held in Los Angeles, USA, on the 12th. Notably, this trailer was directed by the Russo brothers (Anthony and Joe Russo), famous for producing global blockbuster films at AGBO Studios.
The dynamic battle with the "Viper" legion, which can be encountered in the game's boss fights, was reinterpreted in the Russo brothers' unique direction, providing fresh enjoyment. The Russo brothers made a surprise appearance at TGA through a special video message to introduce the new trailer of "Kazan," which features stunning action. The official live broadcast of the trailer recorded a peak concurrent viewership of 1.22 million.
"Kazan" will be released simultaneously in Korea and globally on March 28 next year (Korean time) through PC (Steam), PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S. Players can choose between a standard edition, consisting of physical and digital versions, and a deluxe edition in digital format. A demo version allowing players to experience the early stages of the game will be released on January 17.
Purchasing the standard edition will provide an in-game item, the "Fallen Star Armor Set." Buyers of the deluxe edition will also receive the "Hero's Weapon Set," "Hero's Armor Set," and additional bonuses such as a digital art book and early access to play "Kazan" 72 hours before the official release.
At TGA, a 3D hologram of "Kazan" was showcased above the Peacock Theater, the event's venue. Bold graphics suited for the Berserker maximized the dark and mysterious atmosphere created by the hologram. Large outdoor advertisements for games based on the "Dungeon & Fighter" intellectual property (IP), including "Kazan," were posted around the theater, signaling the full-scale expansion of the "Dungeon & Fighter" universe.
◇ Completing a vibrant narrative, behind-the-scenes recording session revealed by the voice cast
In a video released on the 18th detailing the production process, Ben Starr, who voiced the main character "Kazan," along with the key voice cast and voice director, introduced their characters and shared anecdotes.
Voice director Justine Villiers noted, "Everyone needed to start the work fully understanding their characters, so we ensured that we were on the same page regarding each individual's style and tone."
Particularly, since "First Berserker: Kazan" is a single-package game centered around a tragic revenge story, additional efforts were made to maximize the characters' empathy and the situations. Notably, "Blade Phantom" provided a unique voice by combining deep, low tones with high tones, emphasizing its multi-dimensional character that sometimes collides with and cooperates with "Kazan."
In addition, to distinguish them from real-world characters, elements such as ghosts and spirits were given variations in inflection, voice tone, and dialogue to create a mystical atmosphere.
Nexon plans to showcase an immersive narrative and characters through "Kazan" and expand its multiverse based on the "Dungeon & Fighter Universe." Players will be able to experience unique fun by following the reinterpreted path of "Kazan" and the stories leading in new directions.
Yoon Myung-jin, CEO of Neople, expressed gratitude for the global users' passionate interest in "Kazan," which is set to launch on March 28. He stated, "We will continue refining the game up until the release to provide a high-quality gaming experience showcasing the unique hardcore action of 'Kazan.'"