Ragnarok Online 3 Begins First Closed Beta Test in China

IT Home reports that the Chinese version of Ragnarok Online 3 (RO3), a game jointly developed by Gravity and Huanle Huyou and exclusively published by bilibili games in China, has commenced its first limited, data-wiping closed beta test. The testing period is set to end on September 3.

The original Ragnarok Online game launched in 2002, reaching over 67 million users globally across 91 countries. Its predecessor, Ragnarok Online 2, was released in 2012. Ragnarok Online 3 marks the first direct sequel to the PC title in over a decade.

The game is developed with PC as the primary platform, featuring cross-platform synchronization with mobile devices, which will primarily supplement daily content. Visually, RO3 maintains the IP's signature 2.5D hand-drawn line style, enhanced with 3D rendering technology. The classic main city, Prontera, has been redesigned, and its login music has been re-arranged.

Gameplay elements include a free trading system, GVG guild battles, and ten-player team dungeons. GVG battles support up to a hundred players in real-time combat. The development is handled by Huanle Huyou, known for its successful mobile title Ragnarok: Love at First Sight.

This initial test aims to gather player feedback and identify potential issues before wider release. Further details regarding subsequent testing phases or a full launch date have not yet been announced.