Best VPNs for MapleStory in 2024

MapleStory is a massively popular MMORPG 2D side-scroller with over 180 million registered users. Here, you take down monsters, complete quests, form hunting parties or guilds, and improve your character until you’re powerful enough to defeat the Black Mage. However, a game of such scope comes with its fair share of issues.

You can’t jump between regional servers, and the Reboot servers, which are very F2P-friendly, are only available to NA and EU players. Then there’s the regular high ping and noticeable delay problems that seem to plague every online game. Not to mention that some in-game items, like totems, familiars, and characters, can only be found in specific regional game versions.

Want to explore Maple Island, Victoria Island, and Ossyria hassle-free, and however you like? Then getting a reliable MapleStory VPN is the best way of battling many game-related problems. This software helps you bypass regional restrictions by changing your IP address. Even lag won’t be an issue anymore, as VPNs can marginally reduce ping. These aren’t the only benefits, though – let’s dive deeper into the best VPNs for MapleStory.

Best MapleStory VPNs: shortlist

1. NordVPN

   The Ultimate MapleStory VPN
   9.8
2. Surfshark VPN

   VPN for MapleStory with a large country selection
   9.5
3. PrivateVPN

   A fast and cost-effective VPN to play MapleStory
   8.7
4. Proton VPN

   Freemium MapleStory VPN
   8.6
5. TotalVPN

   User-friendly MapleStory VPN
   8.2

Why do you have to use a VPN for MapleStory?

Due to the nature of the game, different regions across the globe have their own MapleStory servers. There’s Global, Korea, Japan, MSEA, China, and Taiwan. The problem is that you can’t jump from one regional server to another, locking you out of content available only in specific countries. And patches, events, and updates come to certain servers faster than in others.

Then there’s the whole revamped version of the game that significantly improves this MMORPG and makes progressing a bit faster. You earn more XP, there’s an increased Meso income, and it’s easier to achieve endgame if you’re not one to spend money on in-game purchases. Alas, the Reboot of MapleStory is accessible only to NA and EU players.

Of course, you can’t forget about the constant delays and lag caused by high ping. And if the number goes above 200 ms, MapleStory is sometimes completely unplayable. More often than not, it’s a result of overcrowded servers. But another huge factor is your Internet Service Provider (ISP). Yes, your ISP might be throttling your bandwidth, resulting in subpar speeds.

Arming yourself with a reputable gaming VPN will solve these issues, though. Once connected to a VPN server in another country, it’ll appear as if you’re actually there. Hence, you can access any in-game server you want. And since your internet is encrypted with an unbreakable cipher in the process, your ISP can’t see what you’re doing. They won’t be able to meddle with your speeds, significantly improving MapleStory ping.

The best VPNs for MapleStory: detailed list

1. NordVPN – the top VPN to play MapleStory
2. Surfshark VPN – security-first MapleStore VPN with no device limit
3. PrivateVPN – the cheapest VPN for MapleStory
4. Proton VPN – best freemium MapleStory VPN
5. Total VPN – easy-to-use VPN for MapleStory Global

After testing several dozen services, I’ve found the top VPNs that enhance your MapleStory experience. They come with superb speeds for seamless gameplay, extensive server networks for in-game server hopping, and top-of-the-line security measures that keep you safe and private throughout. Plus, they’re not only useful for online gaming.

1. NordVPN – the best VPN for MapleStory

You’ll get the best MapleStory experience with NordVPN. The service houses 6900+ servers across 113 countries, ensuring you can access any in-game server you want. And with the proprietary NordLynx tunneling protocol under the belt, your internet connection won’t be bogged down at all. Thus, a lag-free best gaming experience is guaranteed.

And if you want extra measures to improve latency, NordVPN offers dedicated IP addresses. Only one person can use it, preventing potential VPN server congestion and IP bans. Currently, you can purchase IPs located in countries where the MapleStory Reboot is available (UK and US) and several others, like Hong Kong.

NordVPN doesn’t neglect the security aspect, either. Obfuscated servers let you use the VPN in regions where such software is restricted or outright blocked. Double VPN wraps your internet traffic in encryption twice. Split tunneling allows routing VPN traffic through specific apps only, leaving excluded apps and services to run as usual.

The best thing about NordVPN is that it’s wallet-friendly, coming with a 74% discount. You can even try getting a better deal with various discount codes. A 30-day money-back guarantee protects all plans, so there’s no risk in subscribing. Testing the service is also an option with the 7-day free trial (via Android).

For a deeper investigation of NordVPN, read our NordVPN review.

2. Surfshark VPN – MapleStory VPN with top-notch features

Say goodbye to high ping with Surfshark Maplestory VPN. Picking any connection point from the fleet of 3200+ servers in 100 countries nets superb performance. Moreover, the combination of WireGuard and Software Defined Networking (SDN) ensures stable and speedy connections, no matter what part of the globe you’re virtually relocating to.

What’s more, Surfshark is jam-packed with features. Your ISP (and anyone else for that matter) won’t see what you’re doing online, thanks to a robust security toolkit. Then there are Camouflage and NoBorders modes when you need to hide the fact you’re using a VPN in the first place. This way, you can access MapleStory from restrictive networks that ban VPNs as well.

Other perks worthy of your attention are Bypasser (split tunneling), CleanWeb (for taking down ads, user trackers, and malware), and MultiHop (double the encryption). And if you ever want to take a break from MapleStory and dive into passive entertainment, Surfshark is great for other online activities as well. For example, you’ll have no trouble unblocking various streaming platforms.

You could be playing regional versions of MapleStory today for 86% less. A better bargain could also be found by perusing Surfshark coupons. Either way, refunds are on the table with the 30-day money-back guarantee. But it won’t probably come to that after trying the free 7-day trial (via Google Play or App Store) first.

For a deeper investigation of Surfshark VPN, read our Surfshark VPN review.

3. PrivateVPN – affordable MapleStory VPN with port mapping

PrivateVPN is a great MapleStory VPN with an attractive price tag and a track record of solving many gaming-related problems. Gamers on Windows can swiftly fix MapleStory's high ping with the wicked-fast WireGuard. But don’t worry, as OpenVPN facilitates optimal performance on the rest of the devices. On every single one of 200+ servers in 63 countries, as per my tests.

Besides the necessary features that keep you safe under wraps, PrivateVPN comes with a few neat extras. For starters, you can further resolve MapleStory lag fixes by forwarding ports to the game. Best of all, port mapping allows for torrenting optimization. PrivateVPN supports P2P file-sharing on all of its servers.

As for leaving no traces of VPN usage in the first place, the Stealth MapleStory VPN feature masterfully tricks platforms into reading it as regular traffic. Outside the MapleStory sessions, you can utilize the tool to outfox Netflix and other streaming hubs. The VPN has no issues dancing around geo-blocks for all of your needs.

Budget-tight gamers need look no further as one of the best PrivateVPN deals offer a whopping 85% discount. You can take the service out for a spin during the 7-day free trial period. As for playing it safe, there’s always the 30-day money-back guarantee.

For a deeper investigation of PrivateVPN, read our PrivateVPN review.

4. Proton VPN – MapleStory VPN with a secure free version

Proton VPN is the best MapleStory VPN with a free version that will keep you safe while gaming. Proton VPN has 9200+ high-speed servers in 110 countries, so you will be able to access different MapleStory regions without noticeable speed drops. As well as that, the open-source WireGuard protocol will only exchange the experience as it is one of the fastest protocols. While connected to Proton VPN’s servers, my speeds stayed at 100+ Mbps, which was enough to play MapleStory without any interruptions.

Proton VPN uses AES-256 encryption, meaning that your connection will be highly protected while playing MapleStory. Enabling Kill Switch will ensure that your online activity will stay protected even if the VPN connection is interrupted. What’s more, the NetShield Ad-blocker will protect your privacy while playing MapleStory online by blocking intrusive ads and trackers. On top of that, you can use Secure Core servers while playing online games. Before connecting to a server, Secure Core servers will route your traffic through a shielded server first, providing an extra security layer for you.

Proton VPN has a free version that you’ll be able to use for MapleStory on one of your devices. However, if you’re interested in a paid Proton VPN subscription, you can use the Proton VPN discount code and get a subscription with an 64% discount. All paid subscriptions come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free.

For a deeper investigation of Proton VPN, read our Proton VPN review.

5. Total VPN – easy to navigate MapleStory VPN

Total VPN is a great MapleStory VPN with a user-friendly interface. Even though there are only 50+ servers in 35 countries, it is enough to switch regions on MapleStory online. While Total VPN does not have the fast WireGuard protocol, it is still possible to play MapleStory online without many issues using OpenVPN or IKEv2 protocols. When testing it out, my speeds stayed at a comfortable 80+ Mbps, and that was more than enough to play MapleStory lag-free.

While Total VPN has a limited number of features, it still uses AES-256 encryption which will keep your online activity private at all times. It also ensures IP and DNS leak protection while playing MapleStory, as all your activity goes through an encrypted VPN tunnel, preventing any leaks. Additionally, Kill Switch will add an extra layer of security by disconnecting you from the internet if any VPN connection disruptions occur while playing online games.

If you’re interested in testing Total VPN, be sure to use the Total VPN discount code and get 85% off. Although Total VPN does not have a free version, you can take advantage of the 30-day money-back guarantee or try the 7-day free trial.

For a deeper investigation of TotalVPN, read our TotalVPN review.

Best MapleStory VPNs compared

How I tested the best VPNs for MapleStory

If you accidentally pick an unsuitable VPN service, you might just end up making your MapleStory experience worse. To avoid this, I put several dozen providers through rigorous testing to pick out only the cream of the crop. Here’s what I paid attention to:

• Global reach. If you want to play in regional MapleStory servers, like MSEA ones, the VPN must have connection points in the relevant countries. A vast server network also ensures you have a server as close to you as possible, which helps reduce latency.
• Superb speed. A VPN can make your ping skyrocket if its tunneling protocols aren’t implemented correctly. As such, I looked for providers that ensured stable connectivity and minimal connection speed loss. Check the list of the fastest VPN servers and compare their speeds.
• Security & privacy. Players won’t be able to enter region-locked MapleStory versions if their true location is visible. A robust security toolkit that includes the essentials like AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and IP & DNS leak protection is a must. Furthermore, our top picks respect user privacy and don’t collect your data.
• Versatility. Such software is handy for circumventing geo-blocks imposed by popular online games and getting access to streaming services, too. It also helps you torrent anonymously and protects you from all kinds of snoopers, cybercriminals included. And my best MapleStory VPNs have perks for these online activities, as well.
• Reasonable price. Finally, the subscription shouldn’t hurt your wallet. A great price-to-feature ratio is of the essence. And money-back guarantees are crucial, too, as they let you get a refund if the VPN doesn’t meet your expectations.

Considering everything, it shouldn’t be surprising that the best VPN for MapleStory is NordVPN. Its vast server fleet, excellent speeds, and top-notch security are simply unbeatable. Getting access to MapleStory Korea, NA, or even the Reboot version was easy as pie. And the ping stayed below 50 ms, ensuring smooth gameplay throughout.

How to play MapleStory from different locations

As you know, the version of MapleStory you get to experience differs according to your location. Players who find themselves in the Maplestory Global regions (North America, Oceania, and Europe) are excluded from playing in regional servers (China, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and SEA), and vice versa. Furthermore, the Reboot version of MapleStory is only available to North American and European players.

However, changing your virtual location with a VPN lets you play any version of MapleStory you want.

How to play MapleStory Global with VPN

1. Sing up with a robust VPN. We recommend NordVPN, the best MapleStory VPN
2. Install the application on your device
3. Pick a server located in North America, Europe, or the UK
4. Create a MapleStory account and set the correct location
5. Dive into MapleStory Global hassle-free!

How to play MapleStory Korea with VPN

1. Get a VPN with servers in South Korea. NordVPN has plenty of connection points across Asia
2. Set up the VPN on the device you’ll be playing the game on
3. Select a server in South Korea
4. Register a new MapleStory account and set your location to Korea
5. Level up and defeat the Black Mage!

How to play MapleStory Japan with VPN

1. Purchase a VPN with plenty of Japanese servers. NordVPN even lets you pick a particular server every time you want to connect
2. Download the VPN app on your device and set it up
3. Connect to a server located in Japan
4. Sign up for a new MapleStory account and select Japan as your location
5. Time to grind for XP and Meso!

How to play MapleStory Taiwan with VPN

1. Subscribe to a VPN with Taiwanese servers. You can never go wrong with NordVPN
2. Get the application suitable for your device
3. Pick a server located in Taiwan and connect to it
4. Create a new MapleStory account and choose Taiwan as your region
5. Explore the Taiwanese version of MS!

How to play MapleStory SEA with VPN

1. Sign up with a VPN with vast global coverage. My go-to choice is always NordVPN
2. Download and install the VPN client on your device
3. Select a server in Singapore, Malaysia, or the Philippines
4. Register a new account in MapleStory and select SEA as your region
5. Defeat monsters and make new friends!

How to change the region in MapleStory

1. Subscribe to a reliable MapleStory VPN. My top best pick is NordVPN, now 74% off
2. Download and install the app on your device
3. Connect to a server in your desired location. For example, pick the US or UK for Global, South Korea for KoreaMS, Japan for JapanMS, etc.
4. Create a new account on MapleStory and select your region
5. Enjoy any version of MapleStory you like best!

Play MapleStory with NordVPN

VPN not working with MapleStory: solutions

You have to keep in mind that even the best VPN software is not 100% foolproof. So, even if you closely followed all the steps and got MapleStory to work the first time, it might not always be the case in the future. Lowkey rage-inducing? Yes. Unsolvable? Absolutely not. Here’s what I recommend trying:

• Check whether the game itself is down for maintenance or is unavailable due to a scheduled update
• Ensure you’re connected to the correct VPN server and are trying to enter the correct MapleStory version accordingly
• Try another server in the same region, as the one you’re using might be congested
• Check for IP and DNS leaks, as they might be revealing your actual whereabouts
• Whitelist the VPN application in your firewall and antivirus settings
• Use the Nexon launcher instead of the Steam launcher, as the game version available on Steam is the NA one by default
• Update both the VPN and MapleStory, and reboot your device
• Get in touch with your VPN’s customer support, as it might be an issue on their end

If it all boils down to a faulty VPN that doesn’t work with MapleStory, I advise switching to a recommended service tested with the game.

Do I recommend a free VPN for MapleStory

Seeing as MapleStory is a free-to-play game, I understand the appeal of trying a free VPN with this MMORPG. However, you’ll be better off staying far away from costless services for one simple reason – they can’t unblock regional versions of MapleStory and are so sluggish your ping will be abysmal.

Yes, free VPNs rarely have servers in countries beyond the US or the Netherlands. And even if you’re fine with these locations, well, don’t expect MapleStory to be playable. Such services tend to throttle user bandwidth quite severely, negatively affecting connection speeds. The result? Extremely high latency.

As an alternative, I always recommend going for VPNs with free trials instead. Albeit for a limited time, you’ll have access to the full server scope, security toolkit, and unlimited speed. You can even combine the free trials with the money-back guarantees to play MapleStory however you want scot-free for over a month.

Visit NordVPN today

Conclusion

MapleStory offers a massive world to explore and plenty of activities to do. Unfortunately, the game’s full potential is locked away behind regional restrictions and various connectivity & latency issues. Fear not, though, as it’s nothing an old, reliable MapleStory VPN can’t fix.

For all your online game needs, I recommend the best VPN for Maplestory NordVPN. The VPN boasts impressive global coverage, the fastest speeds in the industry, and versatile features you’ll find useful beyond just games. The cherry on top is that it’s highly affordable, so you won’t have to shell out to enjoy a sublime gaming experience.

Has using a MapleStory VPN improved your game experience? Let us know in the comments below!

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FAQ

Can you use a VPN to play MapleStory?

Yes, you can use a VPN to play MapleStory. In fact, a reliable MapleStory VPN is recommended if you want to lower your ping or access regional versions of the game or the Reboot version.

How to use an American VPN for MapleStory?

Install the VPN on your device and connect to a VPN server in your desired region. Then create a new MapleStory account and select the correct in-game location accordingly. And that’s it, you can now play MapleStory unhindered.

Can I play the MapleStory Global version in Brazil?

Yes, you can play MapleStory Global in Brazil. And you don’t need a VPN to change your location for that, as Brazilian players are automatically assigned to GlobalMS. However, if you want to dabble into other MapleStory regions, you’ll need a VPN to help with that.

Can you get banned for using a VPN on MapleStory?

Nexon doesn’t have any hard rules against VPNs, so you won’t get banned for using one. But your account will get banned if you break the rules, whether you’re using a VPN or not.