What is PURPLE?
PURPLE is NCSOFT's own PC launcher and game platform — their equivalent of Steam or the Epic launcher, used to distribute and run their games. Aion 2 launches globally on both PURPLE and Steam, and it is the same game either way.
PURPLE at a glance
| What it is | NCSOFT's own PC game platform and launcher |
|---|---|
| Operator | NCSOFT |
| Cost | Free |
| Aion 2 available on it | Yes, from 5 October 2026 |
| Alternative | Steam, app ID 3393110 |
| Required to play Aion 2 | No |
PURPLE or Steam?
- Same game, same servers, same content — the client you install differs, not what you play.
- Steam handles payment, refunds and your library the way it does for any Steam game.
- PURPLE is NCSOFT's direct channel, so account and billing sit with NCSOFT.
- NCSOFT has not announced whether Founder's Pack entitlements bought on one are visible on the other. If that matters to you, buy where you intend to play.
- Both routes need the same 100 GB of storage and the same Windows 10/11 64-bit install.
Why NCSOFT runs its own launcher
PURPLE predates Aion 2 and carries NCSOFT's other titles. Publishing through it as well as Steam lets NCSOFT keep a direct relationship with players — account, billing and updates — without giving up Steam's distribution reach. For players the practical consequence is simply that there are two front doors to the same game.
Frequently asked
- Do I need PURPLE to play Aion 2?
- No. Aion 2 is on Steam as well, as app 3393110. PURPLE is an alternative, not a requirement.
- Is PURPLE free?
- Yes, PURPLE is NCSOFT's free launcher. Aion 2 itself is free to play from 5 October 2026.
Related
Platform details from NCSOFT's announcements and the Steam listing.