Amazon Game Studios is preparing to step away from Lost Ark in the West, with original developer Smilegate set to take direct control of the MMORPG in early 2027. The companies announced the change on August 12, confirming that Lost Ark is not shutting down and that Western players will be able to continue their adventures after the publishing transition.
In brief
- Amazon Game Studios will end its Lost Ark live service operations in early 2027.
- Smilegate will become the direct publisher and operator of Lost Ark in the West.
- Characters, progression, inventory, currencies, and most account data will transfer.
- Lost Ark will remain available through Steam after the transition.
Amazon described the move as handing Lost Ark back to its original creators after nearly five years of operating the Western version.
Amazon and Smilegate originally brought Lost Ark to North America, Europe, and other Western markets in February 2022. The launch became a massive success, with the game recording more than 1.3 million concurrent players on Steam during its opening period.
Until the handover takes place, Amazon will continue operating Lost Ark as usual, including releasing content updates, events, and providing customer support. Smilegate will take responsibility for future content and support following the transition.
What Happens to Lost Ark Accounts and Progress?
For existing players, the transition is designed to preserve almost everything that matters. Characters, progression, inventory, purchased entitlements, items, Royal Crystals, Blue Crystals, Gold, and Silver will transfer to Smilegate. Players will continue accessing Lost Ark through Steam and will not need to repurchase or reinstall the game. A normal Steam client update may be required following the transition maintenance.
Some information will not transfer, including chat history, in-game mail text, friends list memos, blacklist memos, and certain guild and Stronghold messages. Amazon recommends claiming important items from in-game mail before the handover.
Perhaps the biggest takeaway is that Lost Ark’s Western service will continue. A brief maintenance period is planned when Smilegate officially assumes control in early 2027. Afterwards, players will go through a first-login process that links their Steam account with Smilegate’s systems and requires accepting Smilegate’s new Terms of Service.
