When Solo Leveling: ARISE OVERDRIVE was first announced, fans of the global phenomenon had one burning question: how could Netmarble possibly translate the lightning-fast action and emotional intensity of the hit series into an interactive experience that lived up to expectations?
During TwitchCon San Diego 2025, BGN chatted with game director Kwanghun Kim from Netmarble, the developer and publisher behind ARISE OVERDRIVE, to talk about the challenges, innovations, and creative collaborations that went into bringing Sung Jinwoo’s journey to life on PC.
Translating Intensity into Interactivity
BGN: Solo Leveling is known for its breathtaking action and high-stakes storytelling. What were some of the biggest challenges in adapting that into gameplay?
Netmarble: The main focus of this game is not about the monsters it’s about the main character, Sung Jinwoo himself. We really focused on how he attacks, rather than how other hunters or creatures behave. The biggest challenge was making those controls intuitive and accessible for every kind of player. We wanted that sense of powerful, cinematic action to come through even for fans who aren’t experienced gamers.
The result is a game that captures the signature rhythm and weight of Solo Leveling’s battles, while still feeling fluid and approachable.
Expanding Beyond the Mobile Version
BGN: How does ARISE OVERDRIVE build on or differ from the original Solo Leveling: ARISE?
Netmarble: We added a lot of new mechanics, things like parry and guard systems that weren’t in the mobile version,” they shared. “We also introduced skill combos like the Synchro Chain and the Overdrive System, which let three hunters launch coordinated attacks together. These features expand the experience so players feel like they have full control over every movement and moment.
With these refinements, ARISE OVERDRIVE feels more like a next-gen evolution than a simple port.
New Systems, New Transformations
BGN: Can you share any gameplay mechanics or character systems fans will experience for the first time in Overdrive?
Netmarble: Three big things. First is the Monarch Transformation. Sung Jinwoo can now fully transform into the Monarch of Shadows. That was something we really wanted to capture. Second is the Overdrive Skill, unique to each hunter. It’s inspired by familiar action systems but designed to fit the world of Solo Leveling perfectly. And third, the Synchro Chain, that moment when all three hunters attack together. It really amplifies the sense of power and teamwork.
Working Closely with the Creators
BGN: Did you collaborate with the original Solo Leveling creators or animation team during development?
Netmarble: Absolutely. We were in constant communication with the original writer and other stakeholders. For example, we added a customization system where players can change Sung Jinwoo’s hairstyle or add accessories. We made sure the IP owner was comfortable with that, and they loved the idea. Everything we added went through that approval process to ensure we stayed true to the core spirit of Solo Leveling.
A Game Made by Fans, for Fans
With its expanded mechanics, high-fidelity visuals, and faithful character portrayal, Solo Leveling: ARISE OVERDRIVE is a reinvention. Netmarble’s passion for the source material shines through every motion, combo, and transformation.
Fans can step into the shadows themselves when Solo Leveling: ARISE OVERDRIVE launches this November on Steam and Xbox PC.
