NCSoft Unveils Team-Based Survival Shooter 'Like or Die' at Gamescom

Like or Die is designed as a four-team, sixteen-player survival shooter. The primary mode, Nexus Survival, pits teams against each other to defend their designated base, known as a 'Nexus,' while simultaneously attempting to destroy the opposing team's Nexus. Once a team's Nexus is destroyed, that team can no longer respawn, adding a critical layer of strategy where early aggression can force opponents into a defensive posture. The game aims for a target match duration of over 10 minutes, though intense rushes could conclude matches in as little as five.

The gameplay loop revolves heavily around resource management and loadout progression. Each faction possesses resource generators scattered across the field, which players collect to purchase weapons, gadgets, and building blocks from an in-game shop. Unlike traditional shooters where weapons are permanently bound to a character, Like or Die utilizes a hybrid system combining pre-match Outgame Roadout settings with in-game purchases, allowing for dynamic loadout adjustments during the match.

A defining feature of the title is its 'Block Action' system, which allows players to manipulate the battlefield in real-time. Using a tool called 'Block Gun,' players can construct bridges, build defensive walls around their Nexus, or create pathways to infiltrate enemy territory. Lead Developer Kim Hwan emphasized that this is not about complex architectural building like Fortnite, but rather about shaping the terrain itself using simple blocks to alter the flow of combat instantly.

The developers are actively tuning the balance between shooting and building to ensure a fluid experience. They aim to optimize the Time-to-Kill (TTK) and weapon swap speeds so that players can effectively dodge incoming fire by swapping to a block immediately after being hit, or use blocks to shield their line of sight while firing. Currently, basic defensive maneuvers like stacking blocks to ascend or block shots are functional, with further refinements planned for the live environment.

Adding a layer of unpredictability is the 'Sponsor' mechanic, which introduces a roguelike element to every session. Each match features a different sponsor that brings unique mechanisms and items to the field. For instance, players might consume a flower item to transform the floor into a garden or gain special abilities. Random events like 'Lucky Boxes' and 'Airdrops' also appear throughout the map, offering rare rewards and potential game-changing weapons to turn the tide of battle.

To prevent the game from becoming purely defensive, the developers have implemented counter-measures such as airdropped weapons that can be used to attack even when a team is solely focused on defending their Nexus. Additionally, missions that reward points for hiding and passive abilities are being tuned to encourage players to weigh the risks of aggression against the safety of defense.

The game's setting takes place in a parallel universe version of Seoul, created by a massive intergalactic streaming platform that has expanded its reach to Earth. The narrative follows humans participating as streamers on this platform, competing for stardom across the universe. While the world is heavily themed around streaming culture, the developers have decided to keep the actual gameplay focused on action rather than role-playing elements like in-game chat reactions, which are currently reserved for post-match highlights.

There are no fixed characters in Like or Die; instead, it functions as an avatar-based game where players can customize their appearance and gear. The team consists of veterans from major titles such as A.V.A, PUBG, CrossFire, and Rainbow Six Siege, ensuring a strong foundation in shooting mechanics. Lead Director Kim Tae-jin stated that the team is prioritizing fundamental gunplay, believing that without solid shooting skills, an FPS cannot succeed.

Development of Like or Die began two years ago and utilizes Unreal Engine 5. The project is targeting both PC and console platforms. NCSoft plans to proceed through a series of private tests, including FGT (First Gameplay Test), CBT (Closed Beta Test), and OBT (Open Beta Test) later this year. While the target release date is set for 2027, Kim Tae-jin emphasized that they will not rush the launch if the game does not meet their standards of fun and quality.