Amazon is handing over control of the MMORPG Lost Ark to its original developer, Smilegate, in early 2027. This shift matters because it changes who manages the game you play and how content rolls out to Western players. You will see a move toward synchronized updates between Western and Korean servers. This alignment aims to bring new features to all regions at the same time.
Account data moves automatically while subscriptions cancel
The game itself remains the same title, but the operational backbone is moving. Smilegate will take ownership of the servers and the service infrastructure. This transition marks a return to the original developer managing the live service. The change affects how the game is maintained and updated for the global audience.
Your account data will move automatically to Smilegate's systems when the switch happens. Characters, progression, and items will stay intact on the new servers. Preset names, stronghold names, map memos, and combat memos will also transfer. However, friends list memos, in-game mail, and chat history will not carry over. This means you will need to rebuild some social and organizational data manually.
Active Amazon subscriptions like the Crystalline Aura will be cancelled before the transition occurs. Players who do not want the transfer can opt out, but their characters and data will be wiped. This creates a clear choice for current subscribers. You must decide whether to stay with the new operator or leave with no progress.
Smilegate plans to synchronize content updates between Western and Korean servers. The goal is to eventually release new content simultaneously in both regions. This strategy aims to minimize the lag Western players typically experience. The direct statement from Lost Ark Western Operations confirms that account data transfers automatically. Your characters and items remain intact on servers owned by Smilegate going forward.
Source: TweakTown
