MapleStory has created a great reputation and remains to be one of the most popular side-scrolling MMORPGs to ever exist. The game was launched in the early 2000s for Microsoft Windows and instantly became a massive hit garnering millions of users worldwide. Due to its popularity, the game expanded to a sequel in 2015 with a vast of wonderful improvements. Now, fans of MapleStory have another reason to rejoice as the game finally ventured into a mobile platform through Nexon’s MapleStory M. This game will take you back to the fantastic world of Maple and embrace the classic characters that we all loved and enjoyed. If you are up for a brand new Maple world Adventure, feel free to explore the new MapleStory M and see what else this mobile version has to offer.

The Gameplay

Despite the popularity of 3D visuals that are very common in most MMORPGs today, MapleStory M remains faithful to its classic 2D side-scrolling environment. The mechanics of the game are very simple and easily manageable especially now that it comes with Auto-play features that allow you to progress quickly. The game starts with character creation but unlike your typical RPG, you are not just selecting a class in this game but you are also selecting the type of story you want to explore. MapleStory M offers 7 slots for different characters. Interestingly, each character comes with a unique story and their journey will also take place in an entirely different location in Maple World.

Currently, there are eight characters to choose from and each will also vary in terms of their skills and abilities. The characters include Luminous, Explorer, Phantom, Mercedes, Evan, Aran, Cygnus, and the recently added Shade. The game interestingly comes with this unique Lie Detector Test that you must pass in order to create the character successfully. It is also important to mention that MapleStory M requires large storage on your phone. There is more than 2GB of data to be downloaded to fully access the game and you can play the so-called “Forest of Endurance” while waiting for the entire data to be downloaded. This Forest of Endurance allows you to be familiarized with the controls.

A Colorful 2D Side-Scrolling RPG Adventure

The fact that MapleStory M is done and played in classic 2D side-scrolling adventure makes the game absolutely unique and distinctive above the rest. Those who have experienced playing the original MapleStory game on Windows will surely find this game absolutely nostalgic. Depending on your chosen character, the game starts with a simple mission. In the entire course of this game, the player will be asked to accept a series of quest, accomplish them, and receive their rewards in return. Most quests will ask you to collect items from different monsters. Players can navigate from one map to another through portals.

As far as the game controls are concerned, players can navigate around the 2D Side-scrolling screen using the virtual joypad located on the bottom left corner. You can use skills and other actions like Jump using the tap-based buttons on the lower-right corner of the game screen. You can also activate the Auto-Play mode and let the AI do the rest of the job. Your character will be accompanied by Pets that can help you in all your battles and they can also assist you in collecting nearby loots (dropped from the enemies you killed). Once the Auto-Play is activated, both navigation and combat will be done automatically. You can always turn it off if you want more challenges and if you want to play the game in an old-fashion way.

PvP, Party, and Guild System

Much like its predecessor, MapleStory M will not be completed without its multiplayer elements. The game comes with so many multiplayer campaigns to explore. For cooperative and PvE matches, each player can search for allies and build parties. This can be very beneficial especially when raiding dungeons or battling field bosses. You can access the dungeon once you have reached Level 10. This will give you the opportunity to explore Daily Dungeons (features different bosses daily), Elite Dungeon, Mini-Dungeon, Star Force Field, Expedition, Monster Mashers, and many equally engaging multiplayer campaigns.

Guild system is also one of the most common elements in most MMORPG and MapleStory M is not different at all. It allows you to join a guild and be part of their agendas. Being part of a guild comes with many great advantages. There’s the Guild fort battle which works like a virtual race competition, the immortal Guild dungeon with a comprehensive ranking system, guild hideout, guild shop, guild skill, and many reward systems that you can take advantage with. Other noteworthy features include the Soul System, Jewel Crafting, 2v2 Pvp modes, and many more.

The Verdict

Those who have experienced playing the original MapleStory game will absolutely find this game nostalgic and equally fascinating. They will finally get a chance to revisit the iconic world of Maple and embrace the characters they grew up loving with. Appearance-wise, MapleStory M will surely not disappoint you with its impressive anime-inspired design. It is an absolute visual delight. While most games boast their immersive 3D world, MapleStory M remains faithful to its classic 2D side-scrolling environment and that’s absolutely perfect. The game comes with so many great features to explore and an overwhelming number of multiplayer campaigns you can be part of. Overall, MapleStory M provides a decent justice to its predecessor and it’s wonderful to see how it impressive captures the classic MapleStory game while incorporating some new exciting elements on it. Currently, MapleStory M is available for both Android and iOS devices and you can download this amazing game absolutely for free. Cheers!

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