That said, I think this is the perfect time for new BnS NEO Divine Gems players to jump in and experience what I feel is a time capsule of what could have been a new step forward in the genre or at least a competitor to larger MMORPGs at the time, as Blade and Soul offered something truly unique.

Probably. It’s a way for me to relive the summer of 2014, hunkered down with my laptop, next to my partner, coordinating how to duo a boss we had no right fighting. And if I stick around long enough I might even get the chance to check out classes that were released by the time I dropped the game. I just can’t see the revival of this MMORPG being a particularly large success for NCSOFT, even if I wish it would be.

NC America is taking the term "remaster" seriously with free-to-play Blade and Soul NEO, revamping virtually every aspect of the game while preserving its unique kung fu action-based MMORPG gameplay. Blade and Soul wasn't a half-bad-looking game by 2012 MMORPG standards, but this remaster has propelled the Wuxia-themed Korean MMO's visuals beyond some of today's most popular genre offerings. Beyond the obvious graphics update, Blade and Soul NEO has also built upon its predecessor's gameplay features. There's a reworked new player experience, a drastic enhancement of its traversal, and several all-new systems that add depth to the game's build expression.

Game Rant was given a hands-off preview of BnS Classic Divine Gems for sale comprising about 20 minutes of footage highlighting the remaster's key additions. It's a remaster, not a full-blown sequel, so fans of the original should have no trouble acclimating. There are no new classes or races, the combat system is largely unchanged, and, aside from some added systems, itemization should be familiar to seasoned kung fu MMO gamers. Meanwhile, the reworked onboarding experience should help new players effortlessly windwalk their way to success.