Krafton Inc. is a name that has become synonymous with innovation in the global gaming industry. Best known for developing and publishing the massively popular battle royale game PUBG: Battlegrounds, Krafton has rapidly evolved into one of the most influential gaming companies in the world. This article explores Krafton’s rise, its top games, and what the future holds for this South Korean powerhouse.
What is Krafton?
Krafton is a South Korean video game holding company headquartered in Seoul. Formed in 2018 as a rebranding of Bluehole Studio, Krafton now operates as a collective of game development studios, including PUBG Studios, Striking Distance Studios, Bluehole Studio, and RisingWings.
The name “Krafton” comes from the word “craft,” reflecting the company’s mission to craft immersive and original experiences in the world of gaming.
Top Games by Krafton
1. PUBG: Battlegrounds
Originally launched in 2017, PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG) changed the gaming landscape by popularizing the battle royale genre. PUBG has sold over 70 million copies on PC and consoles and has hundreds of millions of downloads on mobile platforms, making it one of the best-selling and most-played video games globally.
2. PUBG Mobile & BGMI
Krafton extended the PUBG franchise with PUBG Mobile, tailored for smartphone gamers. In India, the localized version Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI) became a massive hit after PUBG Mobile’s ban, crossing 100 million downloads.
3. The Callisto Protocol
Developed by Striking Distance Studios, a subsidiary of Krafton, The Callisto Protocol is a sci-fi survival horror game. Though it received mixed reviews, it showcased Krafton’s willingness to experiment with genres beyond battle royale.
4. Moonbreaker
Krafton partnered with Unknown Worlds Entertainment to release Moonbreaker, a digital miniatures strategy game with turn-based mechanics. It shows Krafton’s efforts to diversify its portfolio beyond shooters.
Krafton’s Focus on Innovation and Technology
Krafton is more than just a game publisher. It’s also investing heavily in AI, metaverse, virtual humans, and deep learning. The company’s ambitious vision includes:
- Creating story-rich universes
- Expanding into web3 gaming
- Developing next-gen game engines
- Collaborating with global partners on AAA titles
This focus on future-ready tech positions Krafton as a leader in interactive entertainment.
Krafton’s Global Expansion
Krafton has expanded beyond South Korea by opening studios and offices in:
- North America
- Europe
- India
- Southeast Asia
Their Indian subsidiary plays a crucial role in operating BGMI and investing in the local gaming ecosystem. Krafton has also invested in Indian gaming startups, promoting innovation in mobile esports and development.
Krafton IPO and Financial Growth
Krafton went public in August 2021, raising billions through its IPO on the Korean stock exchange. Despite market fluctuations, the company has shown strong revenue streams, thanks to its diversified gaming portfolio and global reach.
What’s Next for Krafton?
Krafton is set to release multiple new games, including Project Black Budget, a new extraction shooter, and Project Gold Rush, a sandbox adventure game. It also plans to create original fantasy universes and explore narrative-driven storytelling, expanding its influence in the gaming world.
Conclusion
Krafton has transformed from a single-studio developer into a global gaming powerhouse. With blockbuster titles like PUBG and innovative new projects on the horizon, Krafton continues to shape the future of gaming. Whether you’re a mobile gamer, console enthusiast, or esports fan, Krafton’s diverse portfolio offers something for everyone.