South Korean game developer NCSoft has announced that it will acquire a 70% stake in German mobile games developer JustPlay for 301.6 billion won ($204.8 million). The deal, expected to close on April 30, 2026, marks NCSoft’s continued push into the European casual gaming market.
JustPlay operates a reward-based mobile platform called JustPlay: Earn Money or Donate, which allows players to earn rewards such as real money or vouchers by playing games. The acquisition gives NCSoft access to JustPlay’s established user base and the opportunity to integrate its own titles into the platform, further expanding its mobile gaming portfolio in the region.
Following Recent Global Acquisitions
This move comes after NCSoft’s December 2025 acquisition of a majority stake in Singapore-based mobile games publisher Indygo Group for $103.8 million. Indygo also owns Lihuhu, a Vietnam-based developer specializing in casual and puzzle games. At the time, NCSoft co-CEO Park Byung-moo noted that the company was in discussions with several European studios regarding potential acquisitions and collaborations to broaden its international reach.
The acquisition of JustPlay aligns with NCSoft’s strategy to strengthen its presence outside of South Korea, particularly in markets where casual mobile gaming is seeing significant growth. By investing in established platforms like JustPlay, NCSoft can diversify its offerings and reach a wider audience across Europe.
Ongoing Development and Future Plans
Beyond its acquisitions, NCSoft is actively developing a new MMORPG titled Steel Frontiers, which is based on the Horizon intellectual property from Sony and Guerrilla Games. The combination of global acquisitions and ongoing in-house projects indicates NCSoft’s dual approach of expanding internationally while continuing to develop flagship titles in-house.
The company’s growing portfolio of casual and mobile games, combined with major IP-based MMORPG development, positions NCSoft to remain competitive in both the casual and core gaming markets.
Source: PocketGamer
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is JustPlay?
JustPlay is a Berlin-based mobile games developer that operates a reward-based platform called JustPlay: Earn Money or Donate, where players can earn money or vouchers by completing in-game tasks.
How much did NCSoft pay for JustPlay?
NCSoft acquired a 70% stake in JustPlay for 301.6 billion won, which is approximately $204.8 million.
When will the acquisition be completed?
The transaction is expected to close on April 30, 2026.
Why is NCSoft acquiring JustPlay?
The acquisition is part of NCSoft’s strategy to expand its mobile and casual gaming presence in Europe, leveraging JustPlay’s platform and user base to reach new audiences.
What other recent acquisitions has NCSoft made?
In December 2025, NCSoft acquired a majority stake in Singapore-based Indygo Group, which owns the Vietnam-based casual game developer Lihuhu.
What other projects is NCSoft working on?
NCSoft is currently developing Steel Frontiers, an MMORPG based on Sony and Guerrilla Games’ Horizon intellectual property, alongside continuing investments in its mobile and casual game portfolio.
