Kakao Games Launches Global CBT for SM Entertainment IP Game 'SMiniz'

Kakao Games (293490.KQ) has begun global closed beta testing (CBT) for "SMiniz," a new mobile game based on intellectual property from SM Entertainment.

SMiniz is a mobile casual game featuring miniature characters called "Miniz" resembling SM Entertainment artists, where players solve match-3 puzzles alongside their favorite characters. The CBT is being conducted on Android and will run until January 12 for users selected through pre-registration. The game drew strong response when it recruited participants through fandom communities in November.

The test allows players to encounter SM artists including NCT, aespa, and RIIZE as in-game characters. Users can preview various content including photocard collections featuring the artists' images. The game also offers diverse entertainment options including puzzle gameplay and features to customize characters and photocards.

Kakao Games plans to review overall game performance through the CBT ahead of the official launch, using user feedback to enhance completeness and accelerate release preparations.

SMiniz is targeting official service launch in the first quarter of next year. As a self-developed title aimed at global fans, Kakao Games handles global publishing and service operations. Metabora is responsible for game development, while SM Entertainment provides IP from its artist groups.