DragonSword: Awakening Steam Launch Story

From Live-Service to Steam Package

DragonSword: Awakening is Hound13's self-published repackage of the live-service Dragon Sword originally released through Webzen in January 2026. After Webzen failed to pay the remaining minimum guarantee, Hound13 terminated the publishing contract in February and pivoted to a buy-to-play Steam release with all heroes obtainable through quests and exchange rewards — no gacha.

Webzen Injunction Dismissed — July 22

Webzen filed a court injunction to block Hound13's independent Steam launch. On July 22, 2026, the Seoul Central District Court dismissed the request, citing Webzen's failure to fulfill contractual obligations within the specified period. With legal barriers cleared, Hound13 confirmed the July 23 release would proceed as planned at 7:00 AM KST.

Steam Review Delay — July 23 Morning

At 6:00 AM KST on launch day, Producer JYJ posted a delay notice: Steam's final app review was not yet complete despite submission on July 15 (review period began July 1). Korean and Asia-Pacific players who waited for the 7:00 AM unlock saw the store remain closed for several hours.

Final Steam review cleared around 11:50 AM KST. The game officially launched on the store at 12:10 PM KST. Western players who unlocked July 22 evening were unaffected by the Korean delay window.

Launch Day Pricing Revealed

Alongside the store going live, Hound13 confirmed pricing: Standard Edition at ₩33,000 ($29.99 USD), Deluxe Edition at ₩55,000 with a 10% launch discount to ₩49,500. Deluxe includes digital artbook, soundtrack, and Valiant Hatchling cosmetic Familiar. Compare editions on our DLC & Editions page.

Start playing with the First Hours guide and read Launch Reviews for press scores including Inven 8.5/10 and Rectify Gaming 7.5/10.