NCsoft are closing Paragon Studios meaning the popular original superhero MMORPG City of Heroes is set to shut down before the year’s end.

Paid subscribers should take note that their recurring subscription billing has already been cancelled. Further details regarding a timeline for cessation of services will be revealed over the coming weeks. So we’d recommend getting as much game time in as possible before the servers are turned off permanently.

A statement on NCsoft’s blog read: “”In a realignment of company focus and publishing support, NCsoft has made the decision to close Paragon Studios. Effective immediately, all development on City of Heroes will cease and we will begin preparations to sunset the world’s first, and best, Super Hero MMORPG before the end of the year.”

City of Heroes paved the way for titles like DC Universe Online and the upcoming Marvel Heroes, but has since become an unviable option for NCsoft since switching to a free-to-play model. With around 80 employees affected by the studio closure, it’s certainly a big loss for the MMORPG world. We wish the team the best of luck in finding employment soon.