Next EPID IP may be under development (and expand Trickcal IP)

Source: https://inews24.com/view/1974080

Mainly google translated so there might be some errors

EPID Games on the verge of securing over 20 billion won in investment... Developing the successor to 'Trickcal'

Investment negotiations pursued since last year… also seeking to expand 'Trickal' IP EPID Games, known for 'Trickal Revive', is on the verge of securing an investment in the 20 billion won range. This is a rare case of a domestic small-to-medium-sized game company attracting global investment through its unique IP and fandom management. The company plans to use the investment funds to develop its next title and expand the Trickcal IP.

According to the gaming industry on the 5th, EPID Games (CEO Han Jung-hyun) has been pursuing investment in the 20 billion won range since the second half of last year, and it has been reported that investment negotiations with one global company are nearing completion. Previously, the company had been holding discussions with various game companies and investors, setting key criteria such as the expansion of Trickcal IP business, business synergies, and guaranteed development autonomy, going beyond simple capital raising.

The investment raised will be invested in the development of the next title in the Trickcal Revive series. EPID Games plans to begin full-scale development of the next title immediately after securing the investment, and intends to focus on conquering the global market by seeking to secure a publisher. The company is also accelerating the expansion of the Trickcal IP. The company has begun preparations to increase IP awareness by expanding beyond games into other media such as merchandise, animation, and webtoons.

EPID Games is a small but strong game company that garnered attention with the success of its subculture RPG, Trickcal Revive, released in September 2023. It is also known as a game company that defied the adage that "re-released games cannot succeed."

Trickcal Revive is a subculture RPG characterized by its unique SD-style character designs, represented by 'cheeks,' and witty direction. The charming yet distinctive characters are based on different races and settings, while the game enhances immersion through a solid storyline and interactive elements.

The game recorded cumulative revenue of $15 million (approximately 23 billion won) at the time of its first anniversary, and achieved cumulative revenue of $100 million (approximately 150 billion won) after entering the global market through China's Bilibili in the fourth quarter of last year. Cumulative downloads both domestically and internationally have surpassed 5 million.

Driven by the success of Trickcal Revive, EPID Games' performance has skyrocketed. Last year, the company achieved sales of 46.8 billion won, a 116% increase from the previous year. It also maintained a surplus, recording an operating profit of 8.2 billion won, a 136% rise. With this investment, attention is focused on whether the company can continue its success in the global subculture market, extending beyond Korea and Japan.