Nexon has announced the global shutdown of KartRider: Drift, the mobile, console, and PC racing game launched in January 2023. This closure impacts all global platforms, but notably excludes the Asian (Taiwan and South Korea) servers. While the Asian versions will receive updates, Nexon remains tight-lipped about specifics and the possibility of a future global relaunch.
Asian Servers Remain Operational
The announcement specifically states that the game's service in Taiwan and South Korea will continue, although a revamp is planned. Details regarding these changes are currently unavailable.
Global Shutdown Timing Unclear
The exact date of the global shutdown remains unannounced. The game is still accessible on the Google Play Store, allowing players to enjoy it before its closure later this year.
Reasons Behind the Shutdown
Despite efforts to provide a seamless global experience, KartRider: Drift faced significant challenges. Player feedback highlighted frustration with excessive automation, transforming the racing experience into a repetitive chore. Further compounding the issue were technical problems, including subpar optimization on some Android devices and numerous bugs. These factors ultimately led Nexon to reassess their strategy, resulting in the global shutdown and a renewed focus on the Asian PC market.
Nexon aims to revitalize KartRider: Drift's original vision by concentrating on the Korean and Taiwanese PC versions. They hope to address past shortcomings and deliver a more satisfying gaming experience.
