Smilegate's 'STOVE' Joins GameVerse 2026 in Vietnam, Boosting Global Growth
Smilegate Expands into Vietnam Market with STOVE Platform
Smilegate, a leading gaming company, has made a significant move into the Vietnamese market through its global gaming platform, 'STOVE.' The platform participated in Vietnam's largest gaming event, 'GameVerse 2026,' which took place at the SECC in Ho Chi Minh City from the 8th to the 9th. This event marked a full-scale push by Smilegate into the local market, showcasing its commitment to growth and engagement.
Ahead of the official launch of the all-class MMORPG 'Lord Nine,' STOVE set up an exclusive booth that attracted considerable attention from local users. The booth featured pre-registration opportunities and a 'stamp rally' event where attendees could experience game demos. This interactive approach helped generate excitement and interest among gamers in Vietnam.
In addition to the 'Lord Nine' promotion, Smilegate introduced 'STOVE Vietnam,' the only open gaming platform that fully complies with local laws and game rating procedures. This initiative demonstrates the company's dedication to adhering to regulatory standards while offering a diverse selection of games. The platform showcased a variety of indie and retro classics from Korea, Vietnam, and Japan, including titles like 'Doom's Hair Salon' and 'Tengai.'
Strategic Partnership with VTC Online
A key highlight of the event was the signing ceremony for a joint business agreement between Smilegate and VTC Online (VTCO), a subsidiary of a Vietnamese state-owned enterprise. The ceremony was attended by Yang Sung-yeol, Head of Smilegate's Platform Division, and Le Viet Hoa, CEO of VTCO. This partnership aims to combine Smilegate's platform technology and operations with VTCO's expertise in local licensing and business development. Together, they are working to build a legal open game distribution system in Vietnam.
This collaboration is expected to provide a stable foundation for Smilegate as it seeks to acquire the G1 license, which is essential for game services in Vietnam. The G1 license is a critical step for any gaming company looking to operate legally in the country, and this partnership ensures that Smilegate can navigate the regulatory landscape effectively.
Enhancing Accessibility for Local Users
To maximize accessibility for local users, Smilegate plans to introduce a local payment system and a web-based store platform. These initiatives will make it easier for Vietnamese gamers to access and purchase games on the STOVE platform. By integrating local payment methods, Smilegate is addressing the needs of its target audience and ensuring a seamless user experience.
The introduction of a web-based store platform further enhances convenience for users, allowing them to browse and purchase games directly from their browsers. This approach aligns with current trends in online gaming, where ease of access and user-friendly interfaces are crucial for success.
Conclusion
Smilegate's participation in GameVerse 2026 and its strategic partnerships with local entities like VTCO demonstrate a clear commitment to expanding its presence in Vietnam. Through initiatives such as 'STOVE Vietnam' and the introduction of local payment systems, the company is positioning itself as a reliable and accessible gaming platform for Vietnamese users. As Smilegate continues to grow, it is likely to play a significant role in shaping the future of the gaming industry in Vietnam.

