Odyssey 3D – image simulated for illustrative purposes. Cables not shown.

Samsung Electronics today announced that it has retained its position as the world’s leading gaming monitor for the sixth consecutive year, according to the latest data from the International Data Corporation (IDC).[1]

Based on total revenue, Samsung captured a leading 21.0% share of the global gaming monitor market in value for 2024[2], reaffirming its dominance in a fast-evolving, performance-driven industry. Samsung also ranked first in the global OLED monitor segment for the second year in a row, reaching a 34.6% market share just two years after launching its first OLED model[3].

Odyssey 3D – image simulated for illustrative purposes. Cables not shown.

“Samsung’s momentum in the gaming display market reflects our relentless pursuit of innovation and deep understanding of what today’s gamers need,” said Hoon Chung, Executive Vice President of the Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “From immersive 3D experiences to industry-leading OLED performance, we’re shaping the future of gaming.”

Samsung’s continued growth is fuelled by its powerful Odyssey gaming monitor lineup, which sets the standard for immersive and high-performance gaming through a variety of models:

• Odyssey 3D (G90XF model): A revolutionary 27” monitor that delivers immersive glasses-free 3D gaming, powered by eye-tracking and proprietary lenticular lens technology. With seamless 2D-to-3D video conversion via Reality Hub, a 165Hz refresh rate and an ultra-fast 1ms GTG response time, the monitor redefines interactivity and realism.[4]
• Odyssey OLED G8 (G81SF model): A cutting-edge 27” or 32” 4K 240Hz OLED gaming monitor that delivers exceptional colour accuracy and ultra-fast performance through advanced QD-OLED technology. It features the highest pixel density in its Samsung class, a 0.03ms GTG response time and Samsung OLED Safeguard+ to help protect against burn-in.[5]
• Odyssey OLED G6 (G60SF model)[6]: A 27” QHD QD-OLED monitor with an ultra-fast 500Hz refresh rate and a 0.03ms GTG response time — planned for launch in the second half of 2025. The Odyssey G6 helps extend Samsung’s leadership into the competitive gaming segment, helping to bring elite-level speed and responsiveness.[7]

At the core of this next-generation lineup is Samsung’s proprietary Quantum Dot OLED technology, which helps to enhance colour accuracy, contrast and brightness across viewing angles — making it the preferred choice for gamers seeking both stunning picture quality and elite performance.

The Odyssey 3D and the Odyssey OLED G8 are available in Australia. The Odyssey OLED G6 will be available in Australia in the second half of 2025.

For more information about Samsung’s gaming monitor lineup, please visit

www.samsung.com/au.

[1] IDC Q4 2024 Worldwide Quarterly Gaming Tracker, Gaming monitor classification is based on IDC criteria (over 144Hz since 2023 2Q, over 100Hz prior to that), Value Based

[2] IDC Q4 2024 Worldwide Quarterly Gaming Tracker, Gaming monitor classification is based on IDC criteria (over 144Hz since 2023 2Q, over 100Hz prior to that), Value Based

[3] IDC Worldwide PC Monitor Tracker, Q4 2024 (Based on value amount, OLED Total).

[4] Refresh rate and response time may vary based on the performance of the input source. ‘1ms’ means one millisecond, which is the average response time range between 1.00ms and 1.99ms, truncated to whole number. Based on GtG measured under internal test conditions. Results may vary by content and monitor settings (Requires ‘Extreme mode’ setting). GtG (Grey to Grey) measures the time taken for a monitor pixel to change from one grey value to another.

[5] Refresh rate and response time may vary based on the performance of the input source. Based on GtG measured under internal test conditions. Results may vary by content and monitor settings. GtG (Grey to Grey) measures the time taken for a monitor pixel to change from one grey value to another.

[6] Availability is yet to be announced in Australia

[7] Refresh rate and response time may vary based on the performance of the input source. Based on GtG measured under internal test conditions. Results may vary by content and monitor settings. GtG (Grey to Grey) measures the time taken for a monitor pixel to change from one grey value to another.

Elements of ‘The First Berserker: Khazan’ have been customised utilising Samsung’s Odyssey 3D monitor to create an immersive 3D gaming experience. Image simulated for illustrative purposes.

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today announced a partnership with game developers Nexon Korea and Neople to deliver incredible 3D experiences in the upcoming game ‘The First Berserker: Khazan.’ The game’s 3D elements are being specially customised and designed during development, utilising Samsung technology and the advanced capabilities of the Odyssey 3D (G90XF) monitor to create a glasses-free immersive 3D gaming experience.

Through this partnership, Nexon, Neople and Samsung have been working closely to tailor the 3D visuals, carefully adjusting them based on the composition of characters, backgrounds, and cinematics throughout the game. This process gives the developers increased control over the 3D effects, enabling them to bring their creative visions to life with more precision.

“The partnership between Samsung and Nexon will provide a unique gaming experience with ‘The First Berserker: Khazan’ on the Odyssey 3D monitor,” said Yongjae Kim, Executive Vice President of the Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “We’ll continue to expand partnerships with premium gaming companies across the globe to deliver 3D gaming technology that provides the highest level of gaming immersion.”

By fine-tuning the focal distance for 3D effects on a case-by-case basis, Nexon and Neople aim to develop specific scenarios that determine when and how elements become 3D. These efforts help to reduce crosstalk a common issue causing visual overlap — while enhancing the clarity of epic boss battles and cinematic cut-scenes.

“This partnership marks a significant step in establishing a competitive 3D gaming model on a global scale, driving innovation across the whole industry,” said Choi Sung-wook, head of the publishing live division at Nexon. “We are excited for gamers worldwide to experience the vibrant graphics and intricate gameplay of ‘The First Berserker: Khazan,’ made possible by the cutting-edge technologies available to our developers and the highly esteemed Samsung Odyssey gaming monitor.”

‘The First Berserker: Khazan’ is a hardcore action RPG (role playing game) where players experience Khazan’s legendary journey firsthand, immersing themselves in the world of Nexon’s leading franchise — the Dungeon & Fighter Universe. The game is set for global release on March 28 KST.

Samsung’s Odyssey 3D monitor was unveiled at CES 2024. Image simulated for illustrative purposes.

The Odyssey 3D, unveiled at CES 2024 and recognised with the prestigious Best of Innovation award, will launch in certain markets in April, delivering groundbreaking 3D technology that elevates gaming for players globally. The Odyssey 3D is designed to deliver a surreal gaming experience in 3D without dedicated glasses. Paired with extraordinary speed and image accuracy, Odyssey 3D will enable gamers to battle and explore like never before. Local availability for the Odyssey 3D (G90XF) in Australia has not yet been announced.

– Bill Mandel, VP, Samsung Research America

HDR (high dynamic range) technology has been revolutionising visual quality in movies and TV shows for several years. Now, with Samsung championing HDR10+ GAMING, the same visual transformation is making its way to the video game industry. It’s beneficial for game makers and players alike, and truly makes it possible to get the most visual impact out of gaming’s modern graphics and realism.

Samsung Newsroom sat down with Bill Mandel, Vice President, and Steve Larson, Senior Manager at Digital Media Solutions, Samsung Research America, to discuss HDR10+ GAMING and how the technology is changing the gaming industry.

▲ Steve Larson (left), Senior Manager and Bill Mandel, VP, Digital Media Solutions, Samsung Research America

Gamers and Game Creators Deserve HDR, Too

While HDR dramatically heightened the visual experience for television and film, its application in video games has been limited. Game engines have built-in colour management systems that help the connected TV or monitor know what colours to show. However, a lack of communication between screens and game engines may require users to manually calibrate their displays.

“HDR10+ GAMING establishes a direct line of communication between the screen and the game engine”

– Steve Larson, Samsung Research America (SRA)

In search of a solution, SRA started to develop HDR10+ GAMING. By automatically adjusting HDR settings based on the screen’s capabilities, HDR10+ GAMING[1] can unlock a premium visual experience through accurate colour, contrast and brightness.

“HDR10+ GAMING establishes a direct line of communication between the screen and the game engine,” said Larson. “The screen can now understand what the game engine is doing, and the game engine knows what the screen can display. That produces a much better visual output.”

“It’s all about making colours truer to the vision of video game creators,” said Mandel.

Engineering a Simple Solution for the Artists

Game developers were the first to call for new technology that addressed the limitations of HDR.

“The initial need came from game developers themselves who want the games they build to look the best they possibly can,” said Mandel. “They were struggling to get colours to look the way they hoped across monitors.”

▲ Bill Mandel, VP, Digital Media Solutions, Samsung Research America, explains how HDR10+ GAMING was introduced to bring better visual experience to all gamers

“We wanted the specs we published to be simple for game developers to use, without a heavy burden,” said Larson. “Once they integrate our specs into their game engine, they can use it across any game built in that engine. This significantly simplifies adoption across the industry because it doesn’t rely on certain configurations or devices. It’s easy.”

Making It Simple for the Players

With HDR10+ GAMING, gamers no longer need to deal with dials and test patterns to calibrate their monitors.

“HDR10+ GAMING simplifies the process by automatically adjusting settings for games, just like it does for movies,” said Mandel. “This ensures gamers get optimal picture quality without any hassle — just turn on the game and go.”

▲ Bill Mandel (top), VP, and Steve Larson, Senior Manager, Digital Media Solutions, Samsung Research America demonstrate how HDR10+ GAMING automatically elevates the gaming experience

Because HDR10+ GAMING works both on TVs and gaming monitors, gamers can now enjoy a consistent visual experience with immersive graphics across platforms without setting anything up. This standard is especially important as today’s gamers expect photorealistic graphics in gaming today.

“When activated, your device automatically identifies that HDR10+ GAMING is an available option in any compatible game and takes advantage of it,” said Larson. “There’s no need to navigate a hidden menu or adjust settings.”

Lowering the Threshold for the Gaming Industry

For game developers, one major advantage of HDR10+ GAMING is that it is free to implement. With the right application programming interface (APIs), they can integrate HDR10+ GAMING into their existing game engines without any specialised training.

“It’s simple. Once developers integrate our specs into their game engine, they can use it across any game built in that engine”

– Steve Larson, Samsung Research America

Putting these standards into action, Samsung partnered with NEXON in September 2023 to launch the world’s first HDR10+ GAMING title, “The First Descendant.”

At Summer Game Fest this past June, the company showcased its latest Odyssey OLED gaming monitors with HDR10+ GAMING capabilities. The combination of HDR10+ GAMING and Samsung’s Odyssey OLED gaming monitors demonstrates how advanced display technology can elevate the gaming experience in video games like “Red Dead Redemption 2.”

Moreover, Samsung has worked with partners such as CD PROJEKT RED on “Cyberpunk 2077” — bringing the game’s fictitious Night City, California, to life like never before. The copy was a great hit, selling over 25,000,000 copies worldwide.

“We designed the system to be incredibly simple to implement,” said Larson. “In fact, CD PROJEKT RED told us that they knew HDR10+ GAMING was something they wanted to use. They were impressed with how fast and easy it was to implement. Their team was actually able to get it up and running in about half a day.”

“This is a free license technology. We’ll see a lot more games and platforms adopting the technology”

– Bill Mandel, VP, Samsung Research America

A Radiant Future Ahead for HDR10+ GAMING

Samsung is looking to expand HDR10+ GAMING to include additional game engines, particularly those that are more niche. The company is already working with major studios and developers to add into their proprietary engines and some of the more widely adopted ones.

“Through collaborations with game companies, we will expand the HDR10+ GAMING ecosystem — ensuring broader adoption and richer gaming experiences,” said Mandel.

This wide network will provide game developers with a versatile and powerful set of tools to create visually stunning games more efficiently.

▲Steve Larson (left), Senior Manager, and Bill Mandel, VP, Digital Media Solutions, Samsung Research America

“As this is a free license technology, we’ll see a lot more games and platforms adopting the technology,” Mandel continued. “For consumers, it means a consistent and immersive gaming experience across a range of devices — with minimal setup and maximum visual impact.”

Mandel and Larson anticipate a notable increase in the number of developers, games and users leveraging HDR10+ GAMING soon.

“Expect big things to come!” said Mandel.

[1] HRD10+GAMING compatible monitors include Odyssey OLED G8 32 inch G80SD Gaming Monitor, 57″ DUHD Odyssey Neo G9 G95NC Gaming Monitor, and 27″ Odyssey OLED G6 G60SD QHD 360Hz Gaming Monitor. To use HDR10+ GAMING, the content must be HDR10+ GAMING compatible, and additional settings may need to be adjusted depending on the content.

– Junhwan Kim, Lead programmer, Engine Program team, Nexon Games

Game development is an art, and like any masterpiece, it requires the right tools. Nexon’s upcoming title, The First Descendant, is set to redefine the looter-shooter genre with its stunning visuals and immersive gameplay. At the heart of this development process is Samsung’s Odyssey OLED G8 — a monitor that not only displays these graphics but can elevate them to a new level of realism.

Join us as we dive into the behind-the-scenes journey with the developers at Nexon Games, who reveal how this cutting-edge display technology has helped bring their ambitious vision to life. From the precision of colour to the speed of response, discover why the Odyssey OLED G8 is more than just a monitor — it’s a game-changer in the industry.

Founded in 1994, Nexon has become a global leader in online gaming. Known for creating popular titles like MapleStory, Dungeon & Fighter and KartRider, Nexon continues to push boundaries in the gaming world. This year, the company introduced The First Descendant, a looter-shooter that attracted 260,000 concurrent players at launch. Nexon is focused on expanding its global reach and adapting to the fast-changing gaming industry. In 2021, Nexon completed the acquisition of Embark Studios AB, a company based in Stockholm, Sweden, developing multiple projects for global release.

▲ (From left) Lead Engine Programmer Junhwan Kim from the Engine Program team and Lead World Concept Artist Sinwook Wi, from the Environmental Concept Design team at Nexon Games, sat down with Samsung to talk about their latest project, The First Descendant and how the Odyssey OLED G8 played a role in its development.

Q. Can you tell us about your role in developing The First Descendant and how you contributed to the game’s creation?

Kim: I’m responsible for the game engine. I develop the software that integrates essential elements like graphics, sound and physics engines, make them work seamlessly together.

Wi: I handle the environmental concept design. My role involves creating the overall concept of the game and designing the backgrounds and characters to fit within that environment.

▲ (From left) Gley, Blair and Enzo, key characters from Nexon’s looter-shooter game ‘The First Descendant’ (Image courtesy of Nexon)

Q. What sets The First Descendant apart? What were some of the key innovations and design choices that defined your approach?

Kim: The First Descendant is a looter shooter that blends third-person shooter (TPS) mechanics with role-playing game (RPG) elements. It features spectacular combat scenes, high-quality graphics and a rich loot system filled with powerful guns and gear. The core of the game lies in its storytelling, character development and the pursuit of the best weapons and equipment.

A major focus for us was bringing the open world of The First Descendant to life through cutting-edge graphics. Using Unreal Engine 5, we leveraged Nanite to achieve highly detailed environments, allowing us to render complex landscapes and objects with incredible precision. This was crucial for creating an immersive open-world experience where players can explore vast and visually stunning environments. Lumen played a significant role as well, enabling real-time lighting that reacts dynamically to the game’s world and characters, further enhancing the realism of the gameplay.

* Open World: A game design element that allows players to freely explore most areas with minimal restrictions.

* Unreal Engine 5: A game engine developed by Epic Games, known for key features like Nanite, which efficiently handles high-capacity graphics, and Lumen, which enhances lighting effects.

▲ Junhwan works on the development of ‘The First Descendant’ using the Odyssey OLED G8. The Odyssey OLED G8 delivers superb graphics with its high resolution and colour accuracy.

Wi: The game is set in an apocalyptic world where factions — each with their own traditions — battle for survival. The story follows humanity’s fight against the Vulgus, invaders who nearly wiped out the human race. Players take on the role of descendants, embarking on a quest to find the Iron Heart, the ultimate weapon to end the war.

On the design front, our goal was to create an apocalyptic world that felt rich and immersive while avoiding the overly dark and futuristic look often seen in similar settings. The environment itself is a key part of the storytelling. So, we integrated colourful, future-oriented designs for city of Albion to balance the grim atmosphere with a sense of hope. This approach doesn’t just end at the visual appeal but also helps the game engage players on an emotional level, too.

▲ Sinwook works on the design for the city of Albion, a key area in ‘The First Descendant,’ using the Odyssey OLED G8. The monitor’s consistent colours and detailed contrast has helped bring out the intricate design elements.

Q. As a game developer, what do you consider the most important factors in creating a visually immersive gaming experience?

Kim: A high-quality display is crucial to accurately present the game’s graphics and visuals. Today’s gaming standards demand seamless gameplay with vibrant graphics, high frame rates, detailed resolutions and minimal input lag. To fully experience these advancements, it’s crucial to use a gaming monitor with high resolution, a wide colour gamut and fast response times.

As part of our collaboration with Samsung, I received the Odyssey OLED G8 during the development of The First Descendant, and what stood out to me was the monitor’s awesome display quality — colour accuracy, expressions and its quick response time. The monitor delivers colours and contrast with a high level of precision, which was crucial for developing the game. The 0.03ms (GTG) response time made a noticeable difference during our demonstrations as well.[1]

“[With the Odyssey OLED G8,] You get two distinct display experiences with a single monitor—16:9 for working and 21:9 for playing”

– Wi Sinwook, Lead World Concept Artist, Environmental Concept Design team, Nexon Games

Wi: As a World Concept Artist, I constantly ask myself, “How can I best convey the immersive universe to players?” I want players to experience every detail of the environments and even the subtle expressions of the characters as they were intended. For that, a display accurately reproduces colours and fine details is crucial. When players can see the subtle nuances in shading and the vibrant colours, it significantly enhances their immersion in the game.

▲ Sinwook builds out the background concept designs for ‘The First Descendant’ using the Odyssey OLED G8.

Q. Other than picture quality, were there any other the Odyssey OLED G8 features that stood out when you were working on and demonstrating the game?

Kim: The First Descendant is a multi-platform game, available on PC (Steam) and consoles. The fact that the Odyssey OLED G8 supports up to three external inputs[2], was especially helpful when we were testing across the different platforms. The sleek, metal design also saved space and complemented the game’s sci-fi aesthetic.

▲ Junhwan demonstrates the console version of ‘The First Descendant’ on the Odyssey OLED G8. The Odyssey OLED G8 offers enhanced convenience with 2 HDMI 2.1 ports, 1 DisplayPort 1.4 and a USB hub.

Wi: Working on the design and demonstrating the game on the Odyssey OLED G8, I found the gameplay smoother and more comfortable compared to my previous monitor. The colours and contrast were balanced and accurate, even on the big screen.

I also really appreciated the ability to switch the screen ratio between 16:9 and 21:9 with just a single setting change. Normally, I avoid wide monitors due to the viewing angle, but the Odyssey OLED G8 made it convenient to switch between ratios for different tasks — 16:9 for working and 21:9 for demonstrating the game. The big advantage is that you get two distinct display experiences with a single monitor.

▲ The Odyssey OLED G8’s Game Bar allows users to switch between 21:9 and 16:9 screen ratios, enabling them to enjoy games in their preferred ratio.

“The fact that the Odyssey OLED G8 supports up to three external inputs, was especially helpful when we were testing across platforms like PCs and different consoles”

– Junhwan Kim, Lead Programmer, Engine Program team, Nexon Games

Q. What features of the Odyssey OLED G8 do you think will elevate the experience for The First Descendant players?

Kim: The First Descendant is the world’s first HDR10+ GAMING title. We collaborated with Samsung to implement this technology in our game, optimising peak brightness of the monitor and supporting standard HDR without the need for manual adjustments[3]. Playing The First Descendant on the Odyssey monitor with HDR10+ GAMING[4] allows you to experience the game’s vivid, high-quality graphics at their best.

* HDR10+ GAMING: A gaming technology that helps enhance image quality by analysing game content to enhance the depth of graphics and supporting features like response time and Auto HDR.

▲ The Odyssey OLED G8 supports HDR10+ GAMING, allowing gamers to enjoy an optimised HDR gaming experience without manual adjustments in supported titles. ‘The First Descendant’ is the first game to feature HDR10+ GAMING technology.

Wi: Unlike my previous monitor, where colours near the edges tended to darken, the Odyssey OLED G8 maintained consistent brightness across the entire screen. The thin frame and bezel also made it easier to focus on the game.

▲ The Odyssey OLED G8’s slim metal design and Core Lighting+ on the back enhance user immersion and create a stylish gaming space.

Kim: I also found the Game Bar feature to be helpful. When the Odyssey OLED G8 is connected to a PC or console, it automatically calls up the Game Bar. Selecting FPS mode in the Game Bar brightens dark areas in the game, giving you an advantage over hidden enemies. Also, the sound becomes rich, further enhancing the immersion.

▲ (Left) Default Game Bar settings without a selected genre, (Right) FPS genre selected in Game Bar.

Q. Any final words for The First Descendant players?

Kim: If you’re a fan of The First Descendant, or any third-person shooter (TPS) game with high-quality graphics, the Odyssey OLED G8 is an excellent choice. It has high refresh rate, wide colour gamut and fast response time, which really enhance the gaming experience.

Wi: I’ve always debated between choosing a monitor with high resolution and refresh rate for gameplay versus one with accurate colours and contrast for development. The Odyssey OLED G8 meets both needs, so I can confidently recommend it to any gamer…or developer!

[1] Based on GtG measured under internal test conditions. Results may vary by content, monitor settings and the performance of the input source.

[2] Supports 2 HDMI 2.1 cables, one Display Port 1.4 and three USB 3.0 ports (1 Up, 2 Down)

[3] To use HDR10+ GAMING, the content must be HDR10+ GAMING compatible, and additional settings may need to be adjusted depending on the content.

[4] HRD10+GAMING compatible monitors include Odyssey OLED G8 32 inch G80SD Gaming Monitor, 57″ DUHD Odyssey Neo G9 G95NC Gaming Monitor, and 27″ Odyssey OLED G6 G60SD QHD 360Hz Gaming Monitor.

– Hwang Junha, Dungeon Lead, ‘Solo Leveling:ARISE’

In the world of game production, transforming a popular story into an immersive, interactive experience is both a challenge and an art. Solo Leveling: ARISE,[1] the first game adaptation of the Solo Leveling franchise—which has captivated millions with over 14.3 billion views globally—is a prime example of this transformation. As the gaming industry pushes the boundaries of visual storytelling, the technology behind the screen plays a crucial role in bringing these dynamic universes to life.

To explore this fusion of creativity and technology, Samsung Newsroom spoke with the developers behind Solo Leveling: ARISE. They shared insights into how they captured the webtoon’s intense action and stylish visuals in the game, and how the Odyssey OLED G8 has been instrumental in this process.

Founded in 2000, Netmarble has become a leader in Korea’s gaming industry, fueled by innovative strategies and strong partnerships with third-party studios. Since 2012, the company has made its mark in mobile gaming with popular titles like Modoo Marble, Seven Knights, and Solo Leveling:ARISE. Building on its success at home, Netmarble is now expanding its global reach, delivering engaging gaming experiences to players around the world.

“[With the Odyssey OLED G8,] I could see attack animations more clearly, which helped me dodge more precisely. I also noticed effects and background details that I’d missed before.”

Kim JaeSeong, Combat Balance Part, Solo Leveling:ARISE’

▲ (From left) Hwang Junha, Dungeon Lead, and Kim JaeSeong, Combat Balance Part at Netmarble Neo, a developer of Netmarble ‘Solo Leveling:ARISE’

Q. What are your roles in developing Solo Leveling:ARISE?

Junha: I’m responsible for creating the dungeons and monsters in Solo Leveling:ARISE. This includes designing the environments where battles take place and developing the monsters-players encounter. Essentially, I establish the game’s META to ensure players have a rewarding and engaging combat experience.

*META: An acronym for “Most Effective Tactics Available,” representing the optimal strategies or approaches used by players in a game.

JaeSeong: I’m in charge of combat balance. My role is to allow players to craft their own combat styles by combining various elements like weapons, skills, hunters, and shadows. Players will enjoy the combination-dependent controls and actions, as well as the variety of buffs and debuffs that are granted to characters and enemies, which further enhance their attacks to clear dungeons and tricky bosses.

▲ With the Odyssey OLED G8, JaeSeong reviews the dynamic environments and monster designs, ensuring that each battle scene delivers a visually stunning and immersive experience

Q. Can you give us an overview of Solo Leveling:ARISE? What was your main focus in developing the game?

Junha: Solo Leveling:ARISE is an action RPG based on Solo Leveling, the popular webtoon. We strived to stay true to the original work while at the same time leveraging our expertise to enhance the experience with high-quality action scenes and cinematic cut scenes, immersing players in a way that only a game can.

JaeSeong: Given the popularity of the original work, our goal was to faithfully capture each character’s unique combat style as depicted in the webtoon. In the game, we allow players to experiment with different skills and weapons. Additionally, we wanted to offer something special, so we included new, original content and behind-the-scenes stories that weren’t in the webtoon. This adds a fresh dimension to the game, enhancing the overall experience.

▲(From left to right) Shadow Igris, hunters Cha Hae-In, Sung Jinwoo, Choi Jong-In and shadow Tusk in ‘Solo Leveling:ARISE’ (Provided by Netmarble)

Junha: For Solo Leveling:ARISE, we wanted fast-paced combat and the freedom to pursue a variety of fighting styles. The goal was to avoid a one-size-fits-all approach and enable players to adapt their strategies based on the boss or challenge they’re facing.

JaeSeong: Our focus was on balancing the different characters, monsters, and dungeons to offer diverse combat experiences. For each character, we added specific skills and combos in addition to their unique abilities from the original series. The challenge was to maintain balance by tweaking attack ranges, damage rates, and speed to make combat more engaging, especially when playing as a team.

Q. As a game developer, what do you think are the most important elements of the gaming environment for players? Did the Odyssey OLED G8 sufficiently deliver during development and playtesting?

JaeSeong: In the RPG action game Solo Leveling:ARISE, players rely heavily on visual information like character movements and the detailed environments during combat. Therefore, having a display that can clearly present this information is crucial. A wide monitor, in particular, enhances the visibility of character motions and provides a broader field of view, helping you catch every detail during intense battles.

The Odyssey OLED G8’s wide screen and high resolution made it easy to catch even the smallest details in the game. This helps gamers play better, too. For instance, I could see attack animations more clearly, which helped me dodge more precisely. I also noticed effects and background details that I’d missed before.

▲ The monitor’s 4K OLED screen provides clear, vibrant visuals, allowing developers and the art team to fine-tune colours and expressions for smoother gameplay.

Junha: An outstanding monitor like the Odyssey OLED G8 that has great contrast and vibrant colours can really bring out the game’s unique art style, whether you’re exploring gates or summoning shadows. The Odyssey OLED G8 proved its value in the game development process. The 4K OLED’s clear images and wide colour gamut were incredibly helpful for discussions with the art team on character effects, allowing us to discuss colours and expressions in greater detail.

Q. What other aspects are important for action-based RPGs?

JaeSeong: A high refresh rate is key for smooth gameplay. It ensures that the screen transitions are seamless, without tearing or stuttering, which reduces eye strain and makes for a more fluid and enjoyable gaming experience.

▲ JaeSeong uses Odyssey OLED G8 to monitor gameplay performance and fine-tunes combat mechanics, ensuring smooth and immersive action sequence.

Junha: To fully experience the intense combat and character animations in Solo Leveling:ARISE, you need a monitor with fast response time and high resolution. The high refresh rate of the Odyssey OLED G8 made combat in <Solo Leveling:ARISE> feel seamless and smooth.

Q. What features of the Odyssey OLED G8 would you recommend to Solo Leveling:ARISE players?

Junha: The Odyssey OLED G8 has a lot going for it, but what really stood out to me was the OLED Glare-free feature. Other monitors that use anti-reflection films usually end up dulling colours. This monitor, on the other hand, reduces glare while keeping the image vibrant and clear.

▲ Junha gives an overview of how the game allows players to choose their own playstyle, enabling them to adapt strategies to different bosses and challenges. The OLED Glare-free feature reduces glare while maintaining vibrant and clear colours, ensuring an optimal experience without compromising image quality.

Also, the Dynamic Black Equaliser feature really helps in dark dungeons, making hidden details easier to spot and enhancing the overall gaming experience. I highly recommend players take advantage of this feature to elevate their gaming experience and enjoy every detail.

*OLED Glare-free: A UL-verified technology that reduces glare from external light sources. Provides a screen that is 54% less glossy than conventional Anti-Reflection film.

* Dynamic Black Equaliser: A feature that analyses the brightness of game scenes and adjusts sharpness, saturation, and black details automatically, while improving visibility in dark areas, allowing for more detailed black levels.[3]

▲ The Dynamic Black Equaliser enhances visibility in dark areas by automatically adjusting sharpness, saturation, and black details for a more immersive gaming experience.

JaeSeong: One feature I think players will find super useful is the Game Bar. By selecting the genre you’re playing, the Game Bar automatically optimises picture quality and sound for that specific genre. According to the selected genre, the display’s brightness is adjusted for better visibility and it delivers richer sound, which really pulls you deeper into the game.

▲ The Game Bar optimises picture quality and sound based on the selected genre, adjusting brightness and enhancing sound to create a more immersive gaming experience.

Q. Any final thoughts for players enjoying Solo Leveling:ARISE?

Junha: I hope you get to fully immerse yourself in the amazing art and combat of Solo Leveling:ARISE with a gaming monitor that supports a high refresh rate and resolution. The Odyssey OLED G8, with its 4K 240Hz display and fast response time, is an excellent choice for this game.[4]

JaeSeong: The Odyssey OLED G8’s gaming features make it a great pick for smooth, immersive gameplay. My advice is to experiment with different strategies and combat styles in Solo Leveling:ARISE, to find your own playstyle and really get the most out of the experience.

[1] ⓒ DUBU (REDICE STUDIO), Chugong, h-goon 2018 / D&C MEDIA ⓒ Netmarble Corp. & Netmarble Neo Inc. All Rights Reserved.

[2] Based on internal test results.

[3] To use the Dynamic Black Equaliser, Game Mode must be activated in settings.

[4] Refresh rate and response time may vary based on the performance of the input source.

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., a global leader in the display industry, has secured the top position in global sales of OLED monitors just one year after launching its first OLED model —  the 34″ Odyssey OLED G8 (G85SB model), a gaming monitor.

According to the International Data Corporation (IDC), Samsung Electronics has taken the top position in the global OLED monitor market by capturing 34.7% of market share [1] based on total revenue, and the top position in market share based on sales volume with 28.3% of OLED monitors sold in 2023.[2]

“The OLED monitor market is highly competitive, so reaching the top spot requires innovation and product quality,” said Hoon Chung, Executive Vice President of Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “This achievement speaks to our drive for excellence and understanding of consumer needs, the key factors in producing outstanding OLED monitors for performance-demanding gamers around the globe.”

Samsung has also maintained its leadership in the overall global gaming monitor market for the fifth consecutive year, recording a market share of 20.8% in terms of total revenue.[3]

Since entering the OLED market, Samsung has continued to innovate and receive praise for new monitors, including the Odyssey OLED G9 (G95SC model), which received widespread acclaim from experts and reviewers worldwide.

At CES 2024, Samsung announced an expansion of its OLED monitor lineup, unveiling three new products:

• The Odyssey OLED G8 (G80SD model), with a 32” 4K UHD resolution, a 16:9 aspect ratio, 240Hz refresh rate and 0.03ms response time (GtG[4])
• The Odyssey OLED G6 (G60SD model), with a 27” QHD resolution, a 16:9 aspect ratio, 360Hz refresh rate and 0.03ms response time (GtG)
• An updated Odyssey OLED G9 (G95SD model), with 49” dual QHD resolution in a 32:9 aspect ratio, a 240Hz refresh rate and 0.03ms response time (GtG) and new features

The new OLED offerings have impressed early reviewers, and have already won awards. At CES — the most powerful tech event in the world — the Odyssey OLED G9 was named a CES® 2024 Innovation Awards Honoree.[5]

Samsung will continue to diversify its gaming monitor lineup by introducing new Odyssey OLED models, each of which will leverage Samsung’s proprietary OLED technology. This innovation follows the success of the Odyssey Neo series with Quantum Mini LED technology, as well as the Odyssey Ark, which showcased a groundbreaking interface and form factor.

For more information on Samsung’s industry-leading monitor lineups, please visit www.samsung.com/au/.

[1] Refers to market share based on total revenue.

[2] IDC Q4 2023 Worldwide Quarterly Gaming Tracker

[3] IDC Q4 2023 Worldwide Quarterly Gaming Tracker, Gaming monitor classification is based on IDC criteria (over 144Hz since 2023 2Q, over 100Hz prior to that), Value Based.

[4] Gray to gray, a unit of measurement for how long it takes for a pixel to go from one gray level to the next.

[5] The CES Innovation Awards are based upon descriptive materials submitted to the judges. The Consumer Technology Association (CTA) did not verify the accuracy of any submission or of any claims made and did not test the item to which the award was given.

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today announced the global launch of Odyssey Ark, the world’s first 55-inch 1000R curved gaming screen, adding a completely new form factor to the industry-leading Odyssey lineup. The huge display delivers a 165Hz refresh rate, 1ms response time (GtG^[1]), plus an all new rotating Cockpit Mode and an exclusive controller, the Ark Dial – offering the ultimate window into the world of gaming with unparalleled immersion.

“We are excited to unveil this totally unique, next-generation gaming screen, the Odyssey Ark. This 55-inch 1000R curved gaming screen brings together premium, cinematic picture quality, immersive surround sound and an incredibly flexible interface which gamers increasingly demand,” said Hyesung Ha, Executive Vice President of Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “The gaming community craves new experiences and Odyssey Ark delivers access to a new world of gaming that will raise standards across the entire industry.”

The groundbreaking Odyssey Ark is built to deliver incredible cinematic experiences, superior gaming performance and an interface that offers completely optimised flexibility. Originally unveiled at the Consumer Electronics Show earlier this year, the Odyssey Ark was recognised as a CES Innovation Award Honoree.

A New Cinematic Experience That Appeal to The Senses

The large 55-inch screen wraps around the user’s field of view thanks to its 1000R curvature, filling their peripheral vision. This is further emphasised by Cockpit Mode, which enables the screen to rotate with HAS (Height Adjustable Stand), tilt and pivot functionality for an optimal screen environment that creates a new sense of world-blending immersion.

The Odyssey Ark brings Samsung’s Quantum Matrix Technology to bear, using Quantum Mini LEDs, which enable ultra-fine and precise control of the densely packed LEDs. With newly added 14-bit processing, a sophisticated lighting control technology, gamers see both dark and bright scenes, including 16,384 black levels for ultra-realistic graphics.

A million-to-one static contrast ratio brings out even the most subtle details with perfect clarity. Plus, the Neural Quantum Processor Ultra takes content quality to new heights by using data generated from 20 neural networks to enhance every visual detail, upscaling content to up to 4K resolution.

For supreme cinematic experience, the Odyssey Ark leverages Samsung’s Matte Display and Sound Dome Technology. The Matte Display provides both anti-glare and anti-reflection protection, minimising distractions and keeps users focused on the content in front of them. The Odyssey Ark introduces magnificent sound with ‘Sound Dome Tech’ featuring AI Sound Booster and Dolby Atmos to enhance the surround sound experience. Four speakers, one at each corner, and two central woofers result in realistic and rich sound thanks to a 60W 2.2.2 channel with the lowest 45Hz notes of any gaming screen or gaming soundbar.

Superior Gaming Performance Optimized For Players

Along with the 165Hz refresh rate, the Odyssey Ark brings together a 4K (3,840 x 2,160) resolution featuring 1ms response time (GtG) with AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, maximising on-screen accuracy and giving gamers a competitive edge in fast-moving environments. The Odyssey Ark also delivers powerful gaming performance and enables gamers to experience the best of gaming in one place with Samsung Gaming Hub^[2]. Available in specific countries only, Samsung Gaming Hub is an all-in-one game streaming discovery platform, where players can discover and enjoy games they love from partners such as Xbox, NVIDIA GeForce NOW, Google Stadia, Utomik and Amazon Luna.

Flexible Interface to Find the Perfect Settings for Victory

Gamers increasingly expect personalised and customisable gaming experiences. The Odyssey Ark provides a range of innovative features that let gamers adjust screen size, position and even ratio for an optimal gaming setup. First, the solar-powered Ark Dial – the exclusive controller for the Odyssey Ark – can quickly and simply control a variety of settings, including Flex Move Screen, Multi View, Quick Settings and Game Bar.

Flex Move Screen allows users to adjust screen size between 55- and 27-inches, change the screen position and even switch the screen ratio between 16:9, 21:9 and 32:9 – all with just one touch of Ark Dial. This freedom in not only horizontal, but also vertical position, gives users even more control of the viewing experience. Multi View allows users to use the large screen to its full potential by displaying up to four screens all at once while horizontal, or three while in Cockpit Mode. This eliminates the need for multi-monitor setups, so gamers can enjoy a clutter-free environment.

Game Bar^[3] is a powerful tool enabling gamers to quickly and easily view their gaming status and control important settings without ever needing to leave the game screen. From checking FPS (Frames Per Second), HDR (High Dynamic Range) and VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), to adjusting settings such as screen ratio, response time and Game Picture mode, Game Bar puts the player in control and on the road to victory.

As well as being equipped with a solar panel, the Ark Dial can also be charged by a USB Type-C connection, eliminating the need for any disposable batteries.

Availability Odyssey Ark in Australia is yet to be announced. Australian’s can register their interest for the Odyssey Ark via this link: https://www.samsung.com/au/monitors/odyssey-ark/register/

Samsung Gaming Hub is not currently available in Australia.

Featuring the industry’s first Quantum Mini LED curved display and Samsung’s proprietary Quantum Matrix Technology, along with whip-fast response, refresh rates and a sleek design, the Odyssey Neo G9 delivers brilliant screen quality and premium performance to every gamer.

To learn more about the Odyssey Neo G9, take a look at the spec infographic below.

With the previous launch of the Odyssey G9 in 2020, Samsung pushed the boundaries in terms of seamlessly smooth and brilliant picture quality. Now with Quantum Mini-LED display delivering refined detail no matter the game, the Odyssey Neo G9 is catapulting the gaming monitor category forward. With Quantum Matrix Technology combined with super-fast response and refresh rates, Odyssey Neo G9 delivers an unrivaled dynamic picture and pro-level performance for all gamers.

“Samsung’s Odyssey Neo G9 with Quantum Mini-LED is a stunning addition to any gaming set-up, it delivers an unrivalled immersive experience.” said Phil Gaut, Director of Display and Memory Solutions at Samsung Australia. “As Australians continue to explore the world of gaming in record numbers, the Odyssey Neo G9 offers a competitive advantage thanks to the addition of Quantum Matrix Technology combined with super-fast response and refresh rates that will take you to the top of the leader board. This is the time to stop playing fair and up the ante with a curved gaming monitor.”

Experience sensational colour

The Odyssey Neo G9 utilises the same Mini-LED technology built into Samsung’s latest Neo QLED TV lineup. This next-generation display technology is enabled by a new light source, Quantum Mini LED. At 1/40 the height of a conventional LED, the Quantum Mini LED has incredibly thin micro layers filled with many more LEDs.

Quantum Matrix Technology enables ultra-fine and precise control of those densely packed LEDs, guaranteeing high black level 12-bit image quality, making dark areas darker and bright areas brighter with 2,048 dimming zones, ensuring viewers enjoy content as it’s meant to be seen**. Quantum HDR2000 offers peak brightness of 2,000 nits, with certification received from VDE (Verband Deutscher Elektrotechniker), alongside a static contrast ratio of 1,000,000:1. In addition, Samsung’s cutting-edge picture quality technology provides deep black and white levels, for incredible contrast and immaculate detail.

See it all on one screen

Based on the high-performance technology pioneered by the current Odyssey G9, the Odyssey Neo G9 features an ultra-wide 49-inch display with a 32:9 aspect ratio that offers Dual Quad High-Definition (DQHD; 5,120×1,440 resolution) with a rapid, 240Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time.*** The futuristic and immersive 1000R curvature of the monitor was certified by TÜV Rheinland, a leading international certification organization, awarding it their Eye Comfort certificate. The Odyssey Neo G9 provides Adaptive Sync on DP1.4 and HDMI2.1 VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) through HDMI 2.1 with NVIDIA G-SYNC Compatibility and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, delivering dynamic and seamless action scene-by-scene for a groundbreaking gameplay experience.

Colour lighting that matches your mood

The display seamlessly fits into any gaming setup or environment, with glossy white exterior and futuristic rear infinity core lighting system, which includes 52 colours and five lighting effect options. The monitor also comes with the CoreSync feature, allowing users match the Infinity Core Lighting with what’s on the screen, for truly world-blending immersion.

Samsung’s Odyssey Neo G9 with Quantum Mini LED will be available for preorder from 29 July 2021 and on sale in retail locally by 12 August 2021.

**Source: IDC Worldwide Gaming Tracker, Q121, 16.9% market share based on revenue (over 100Hz)

** Compared to LC49G95TSSEXXY

***Based on Gray to Gray industry standard measurement

ENDS

Notes to Editor

Spec Table