Project KV Cancelled After Negative Reactions Over Blue Archive Similarities

Project KV, a visual novel developed by former Blue Archive creators, has been cancelled following significant backlash over its striking resemblance to its predecessor. This article explores the reasons behind the project's abrupt termination.

Project KV Cancellation: Dynamis One's Apology

Dynamis One, the studio founded by ex-Blue Archive developers, announced the cancellation of Project KV on September 9th via Twitter (X). The statement apologized for the controversy sparked by the game's similarities to Blue Archive, a mobile gacha game developed at Nexon Games. The studio acknowledged fan concerns and emphasized its commitment to avoiding future conflicts, removing all Project KV related materials online. They expressed regret to supporters and promised to strive for higher standards in future projects.

Initial teasers for Project KV, released on August 18th and August 31st, showcased the game's story, characters, and voice acting. However, the project's cancellation just a week after the second teaser surprised many. While the developers likely faced disappointment, online reaction to the cancellation was largely positive.

Blue Archive vs. "Red Archive": A Storm of Controversy

Dynamis One, led by former Blue Archive lead Park Byeong-Lim, generated considerable buzz upon its founding in April. The departure of key developers from Nexon raised eyebrows among Blue Archive fans. The subsequent unveiling of Project KV ignited a firestorm due to its undeniable similarities to Blue Archive.

The similarities extended from aesthetics and music to the core concept: a Japanese-style city populated by weapon-wielding female students. The inclusion of a "Master" character, reminiscent of Blue Archive's "Sensei," and the use of halo-like adornments, mirroring those in Blue Archive, further fueled the controversy.

The halos, significant narrative elements in Blue Archive, were particularly contentious. Their presence in Project KV led to accusations of plagiarism and the perception of a blatant rip-off. The speculated connection between "KV" and "Kivotos" (Blue Archive's city) and the nickname "Red Archive" solidified this perception.

While Blue Archive's general producer, Kim Yong-ha, indirectly addressed the controversy by sharing a clarifying fan post emphasizing the lack of official connection between the two projects, the negative reaction ultimately led to Project KV's cancellation.

The overwhelming negative feedback proved decisive. Dynamis One's cancellation announcement lacked specifics, leaving the future direction of the studio and its future projects uncertain. While some expressed disappointment, many viewed the cancellation as a justified response to the perceived plagiarism. The incident raises questions about the studio's ability to create a distinct identity for future endeavors.