Partnership integrates Microsoft’s advanced technologies—including Azure and Copilot Studio—into the development of CINDER CITY
BigFire Games CEO Jaehyun “James” Bae: “Together with Microsoft, we aim to create a game that meets the expectations of global players.”
Microsoft Korea CEO Wonwoo Cho: “We look forward to opening a new chapter in AI-driven game development with NCSOFT.”
NCSOFT today announced that it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Microsoft Korea to collaborate on the development of CINDER CITY.
CINDER CITY is an open-world tactical shooter currently in development by BigFire Games, an NCSOFT studio, and is scheduled for launch in 2026.
Through this partnership, NCSOFT and Microsoft Korea will jointly design and implement a next-generation game-development ecosystem tailored for the era of artificial intelligence (AI). Under the MOU, the two companies will cooperate across several key areas, including:
Jaehyun “James” Bae, CEO of BigFire Games, said, “Microsoft is a partner that brings innovation, stability, and scalability to game development. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as Azure and Copilot Studio, we aim to deliver CINDER CITY as a global title that resonates with players around the world.”
Wonwoo Cho, CEO of Microsoft Korea, said, “NCSOFT is a global leader that combines creativity with technological excellence. We look forward to opening a new chapter in AI-driven game development together, and Microsoft will provide comprehensive support for NCSOFT’s continued global growth.”
CINDER CITY will be available as a playable title at G-STAR 2025, taking place at BEXCO in Busan, South Korea, from November 13 to 16.
Facebook 
Twitter 
Reddit 
LinkedIn 
Email 
Copy URL 
