NC's MMORPG "AION 2" is off to a huge start on Steam. However, user reviews seem to be mixed.
Steam concurrent users hit approximately 398,000! A huge success right from launch
“AION 2” is the sequel to the MMORPG “Tower of Aion,” which has been in service since 2009. It utilizes Unreal Engine 5 and features exploration and combat that make use of the “flight” mechanic carried over from its predecessor, as well as eight different classes and both PvE and PvP content.
The global version officially launched as a free-to-play game on October 5, 2026. According to SteamDB, the Steam version recorded a peak of 397,905 concurrent users on launch day. With numbers approaching 400,000, it’s clear that a massive number of players have flocked to the game.
The game has generated significant excitement right from the start, with the official team even announcing a giveaway to celebrate reaching 400,000 players. However, despite the large player base, Steam user reviews are not entirely positive.As of 9:00 a.m. on October 7, 68% of the 11,524 reviews across all languages were positive, and the game’s overall rating was listed as “Mixed.”
In English reviews, dissatisfaction with the monetization model stands out
The harshest criticism can be found in the English reviews.
At that time, there were 5,486 English reviews, with a 66% positive rating and an “Mixed” overall rating. Looking at the negative reviews, complaints about the scope of paid content and the membership system stand out more than issues with the gameplay or graphics themselves.
While *AION 2* is free-to-play, the official FAQ explains that a paid monthly membership is available, granting access to the player economy and currency exchange, among other features.
On Steam reviews, there are multiple comments raising concerns about the fact that this membership applies on a per-server basis rather than across the entire account, as well as the scope of paid items and the Battle Pass.
For example, some users have expressed dissatisfaction that their membership is not transferred when they move a character to play with friends on a different server. Additionally, some MMORPG players who want to try out multiple characters or factions have raised concerns about the fact that paid features are tied to specific servers or characters.
It has also been reported that, in response to this feedback, changes were made to apply certain Founder’s Pack benefits to the entire account. However, according to reviewers, the 30-day membership appears to remain server-specific.
Other criticisms include the claim that “since access to the marketplace is included in the membership, players cannot fully utilize the economic system in a completely free-to-play environment,” and some reviews express concern that the game’s exchange system for premium currency and in-game currency could lead to a so-called “pay-to-win” scenario.
However, opinions on this point are mixed, with some users countering that “while in-app purchases can speed up progress, this is not a game where you can directly buy victory.”
Japanese reviews also express dissatisfaction with the game content and Asian servers
On the other hand, a look at Japanese reviews reveals trends that differ somewhat from those in the English-speaking world.
While there are reviews that take issue with the monetization aspects, they are not the only concerns; opinions regarding the game itself and the operational environment—such as the traditional MMORPG-style progression of leveling up characters by repeatedly completing quests, the monotony of combat, and the chat environment on Asian servers—are also prominent.
On the other hand, there are also voices praising the graphics, character creation, and the game world reminiscent of its predecessor. Some users describe it as a “typical MMORPG” but still recommend it, noting that it is free-to-play.
In Korean reviews as well, while some users raise concerns about monetization elements related to membership, the in-game economy, and equipment enhancement, there are also posts praising the visuals, character development, and collection mechanics.Furthermore, Russian reviews on Steam show a “Mixed” rating with 69% positive out of 424 reviews, indicating that opinions are divided regardless of region.
A Blockbuster Hit Amid “Mixed Reviews”
Judging by the approximately 400,000 concurrent players on Steam, there’s no doubt that *AION 2* has attracted a tremendous amount of attention right from the start of its service.
It’s also interesting to note that even among the negative reviews, some state that “the game itself is fun” and “the graphics are good,” but still do not recommend it due to its monetization model.
Therefore, the current “mixed” reception seems to stem less from the game itself being harshly criticized, and more from a significant divide between evaluations of the gameplay and those of the operation and monetization strategies.
The official service has only just begun. We’re already seeing changes to certain aspects, such as the handling of Founders’ Pack benefits. It remains to be seen whether the game can maintain the momentum that has attracted some 400,000 players, and how it will address the complaints currently being raised.
“AION 2” is currently available as a free-to-play game on PC (Steam/Purple).
