In the vast realm of gaming, MMORPGs stand tall as a beloved genre that captivates players with immersive worlds, epic quests, and unforgettable adventures. For the ardent fans of massive multiplayer online role-playing games, the quest to find the best MMORPG games is an exhilarating journey in itself. Whether you’re seeking the grandeur of PC MMORPGs, the convenience of console experiences, or the freedom of mobile gameplay, we’ve got you covered.
Massively Multiplayer Online role-playing Game
Join us as we embark on a thrilling expedition to discover the most enchanting MMORPGs across three distinct platforms. From the boundless landscapes of PC MMORPGs to the interactive realms of console adventures and the handheld wonders of mobile gameplay, our curated listicles will unveil the ultimate MMORPG gems that will leave you enchanted and yearning for more.
Prepare to immerse yourself in a universe of limitless possibilities, epic battles, and unforgettable stories as we reveal the best MMORPG games that promise to take your gaming escapades to unprecedented heights. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a fledgling hero, these titles will awaken your inner explorer and usher you into worlds where dreams come alive and legends are born. Let’s dive into the three captivating realms that await your arrival – PC, console, and mobile MMORPGs!
Best MMORPG Games On Mobile
MMORPGs have primarily thrived in the PC gaming realm, but recently, popular titles like Final Fantasy 14 and Warframe have expanded into the console market, finding success in this previously untapped domain. However, the final frontier for MMORPGs lies in the mobile market, an area largely unexplored by major online gaming names.
Mobile devices are designed with social interactions in mind and seem like a natural fit for the MMORPG formula, especially for low-stakes grinding. Yet, finding the best mobile MMORPG games to suit individual preferences is not as straightforward as it may seem. While the mobile MMO market has grown in popularity, no single title dominates the genre like World of Warcraft and Final Fantasy 14 in the PC MMO world.
Nonetheless, mobile MMORPGs offer beautifully designed and captivating experiences for players of all types. These games provide immersive worlds and take players on unforgettable adventures, while also fostering connections with new friends from around the globe. Players have a diverse range of options, from exploring colorful and fun-filled realms to facing challenging dark fantasy landscapes.
Players can even delve into mythology in these brilliant mobile games, embodying iconic historical and mythological figures. While many of the best mobile MMORPG games feature thrilling battles, there are also vibrant and peaceful options that focus on farming, crafting, and enjoyable quests rather than combat.
10. Sword Art Online: Integral Factor
Sword Art Online: Integral Factor, based on the anime series of the same name, is the most popular mobile game inspired by the show. While there are other games based on Sword Art Online, the success of the anime series naturally led to the creation of a real MMORPG based on it.
To this day, Sword Art Online: Integral Factor continues to receive updates, with new events and original areas being added regularly. Since its initial release in 2017, the game has undergone significant changes, including modernized graphics and the incorporation of new mechanics. These updates bode well for new players, who can anticipate discovering a wealth of unexplored content within the game.
9. EVE Echoes
EVE Echoes began as a mobile offshoot of the space simulation MMO EVE Online, but it has quickly surpassed its predecessor in the eyes of many players. Unlike the original EVE, this mobile game automates repetitive actions, simplifying the virtual lives of its players. Mining, traveling, and even combat are just a few taps away, making gameplay more streamlined and accessible.
Despite these differences, both EVE games share similarities, featuring a living world with intricate emergent economic and political systems. However, EVE Echoes lacks interaction with its bigger brother, offering no cross-play or community bridging the two games. As a result, there is no incentive for players to switch between them.
8. Tales Of Wind
Tales of Wind, a lively and engaging mobile MMORPG, immerses players in a delightful fantasy realm called La Place, boasting an adorable anime art style. To restore light to their city, players embark on a thrilling and action-packed adventure.
In their journey, players must vanquish formidable monsters, team up with others for missions, and conquer rival guilds. Additionally, they can personalize their characters and collect charming pets and mounts. The game’s creative guild system and beloved feast and quiz events add to the excitement, offering a perfect fusion of action and interactivity.
7. IdleOn – The Idle MMO
IdleOn sets itself apart from other mobile MMOs and even traditional MMOs by combining the popular autoplay feature with idle game mechanics. The premise is seemingly straightforward: blend MMO gameplay with the idle gaming concept. However, the game’s true strengths and innovations lie beyond this initial idea. Notably, even the seemingly mundane aspects, such as the designs of enemies and characters, showcase remarkable creativity and polish.
In IdleOn, players take charge of multiple characters simultaneously. While players determine the actions these characters take during active play, most of these actions continue to resolve when the player is not actively engaged in the game. This passive accumulation of resources and experience lies at the heart of idle games, and IdleOn skillfully incorporates this aspect into its gameplay.
6. Albion Online
Albion Online is a rare exception, where the mobile version of a multiplatform title surpasses its popular counterparts. Unlike many cross-play games, Albion Online is fully playable on mobile devices with minimal issues. However, it demands more dedication than typical mobile MMOs, featuring lengthy quests, intricate character builds, and a social experience akin to PC MMORPGs.
The game’s main challenge lies in its grinding aspect. Progression is slower, and PvP encounters can be noticeably unbalanced for players who refrain from spending money on their characters. While there are methods to earn the game’s essential currency, silver, without real money transactions, these approaches often require players to adapt to a system that most players may not receive.
5. Black Desert Mobile
Black Desert Mobile offers players a portable version of Black Desert Online, allowing them to carry the game wherever they go. Despite sharing the same name, these two games are entirely distinct, lacking cross-play, trading, and character transfers between them. While the mobile version may not match the popularity of its PC and console counterpart, it has garnered significant appreciation in the realm of autoplay MMOs.
The original Black Desert Online gained fame for being a rare action-based MMO, making it somewhat ironic that Black Desert Mobile has become one of the most well-liked autoplay mobile MMORPGs. In these games, players have the option to automate much of the combat, though they may still choose manual control for PvP battles.
4. RuneScape
Modern RuneScape showcases the evolution of a classic MMORPG over 20 years. Although not as widely known as World of Warcraft and Warframe, RuneScape holds a special place in the hearts of many MMO enthusiasts, particularly on mobile platforms. RuneScape’s full cross-play compatibility with other platforms sets it apart from other popular MMO ports.
While RuneScape has a rich gaming history, players may wonder if it is worth playing on mobile. The answer is affirmative, but with a caveat: it’s best enjoyed on mobile for specific purposes and not as a complete replacement for the PC version. The mobile game mirrors the PC experience, sharing the same persistent world, meaning no autoplay, no streamlined mechanics, and no alterations to dungeons and creatures.
3. Adventure Quest 3D
Adventure Quest 3D stands out as one of the most finely crafted MMORPGs exclusively tailored for mobile devices in today’s market. Serving as a spiritual successor to the ongoing Adventure Quest from 2008, the game has undergone significant changes, yet it retains a touch of the classic, whimsical humor characteristic of old flash games.
In line with its predecessor’s approach, Adventure Quest 3D skillfully utilizes the strengths of the mobile platform. It boasts pleasant and lightweight graphics, user-friendly controls, and quests that cater to short gaming sessions. While the content may not be as extensive as in other titles, it proves more than sufficient to delight the majority of mobile players.
2. Old School RuneScape
Old School RuneScape, deliberately set in a late 2000s rendition of the iconic MMO, has presently garnered more popularity, especially on the mobile platform, compared to its more mature counterpart. Similar to the regular RuneScape, this version excels in offering a satisfying grind and tackling straightforward quests, while it may not be as well-suited for venturing into high-level and demanding areas.
Choosing Old School RuneScape might appear peculiar for those who have recently delved into mobile MMORPGs. However, it’s essential to understand that this isn’t merely an old edition of RuneScape but rather an enhanced revival that captures the essence of what made the original version immensely popular back in 2007. A notable highlight among numerous quality-of-life enhancements is the introduction of raids, the first of which was implemented in 2017.
1. Dofus Touch
Dofus, a long-established PC MMORPG with a tactical twist, never quite managed to achieve mainstream success. However, its charming and cartoony graphics, unique gameplay mechanics, and overall relaxed atmosphere have cultivated an incredibly dedicated fanbase. On the other hand, Dofus Touch, the mobile adaptation of the older PC version, continues to receive its own content updates, much like Old School RuneScape.
Dofus Touch is most notably associated with the free RPG Wakfu. While not as popular as its younger counterpart, Wakfu remains a core part of a multimedia franchise. For longtime fans of the series who were dissatisfied with the direction the PC original took in recent years, Dofus Touch has become a haven. Similar to the choices made for Old School RuneScape and World of Warcraft Classic, this preference may be motivated by more than just nostalgia.
Best MMORPG Games On PC
Join us as we delve into the immersive worlds of best MMORPG games on PC, where fantasy intertwines with reality, and the boundaries of imagination are transcended. From the ever-evolving world of Gielinor in Runescape to the grandeur of Azeroth in World of Warcraft, we present the best MMORPG games that have captivated gamers for generations.
Embark on a journey where guilds become families, epic battles shape destinies, and endless possibilities await your every step. The enchanting world of PC MMORPGs beckons you to embrace the hero within and carve your legend in the annals of gaming history. So grab your gear and summon your courage as we traverse the realms of Runescape and World of Warcraft, the best MMORPG games on PC. Prepare to be spellbound!
10. Lost Ark
In 2020, Smilegate and Amazon Games joined forces to release Lost Ark, a relatively new free-to-play MMORPG that has swiftly captured the attention of players. The game stands out with its deliberate action combat, smooth progression systems, captivating fantasy world, and chaotic dungeons, making it an MMORPG worth investing your time in.
Additionally, Smilegate has worked diligently to continuously add fresh content to the endgame, offering a wealth of activities and experiences for both new and veteran players. While it may lack the polished refinement of older MMOs, Lost Ark exudes an undeniable freshness that sets it apart.
9. Lord of the Rings Online
Tolkien’s World of Middle-earth provides an ideal backdrop for an MMO. The vast world offers an array of characters, from valiant Humans, Elves, Dwarves, and Hobbits to the intriguing classes like hunters and burglars. In Lord of the Rings Online, players can embark on their own adventures, loosely following the famous Fellowship’s footsteps. The game allows you to encounter Ents, explore the depths of Moria, and journey through Rohan on horseback.
Expansions continuously advance the story in alignment with the books, introducing new mechanics like mounted combat. For those yearning to immerse themselves in Tolkien’s universe, this MMORPG offers a compelling experience. The best part is that it’s free-to-play, making it an ideal RPG MMO to enjoy at present.
8. Runescape
Runescape, like World of Warcraft, has been a prominent MMORPG for as long as we can recall. However, instead of diminishing, Runescape’s player base and content continue to expand. New quests and events are regularly introduced, ensuring that veterans always have novel experiences, while newcomers enter a world already enriched with a decade’s worth of lore and adventures.
Navigating Runescape is made easy by its generous and friendly community, ready to offer advice or engage in a chat. Moreover, the game’s history is not its only highlight. With major expansions, a mobile release, and numerous spin-offs, Jagex’s MMO exhibits no signs of slowing down.
7. The Elder Scrolls Online
The Elder Scrolls Online offers the ultimate experience of Tamriel. While some may still be immersed in Skyrim, TESO has become a valuable way to pass the time until The Elder Scrolls 6 arrives. As one of the best MMORPGs on the market, it provides console players with a fantastic introduction to massively multiplayer online gaming.
The game’s core systems are designed with freedom and flexibility, and it boasts years of expansion packs that allow players to revisit beloved locations like Morrowind and Oblivion or explore new territories like Summerset Isle and Elsweyr. The Elder Scrolls Online stands out as one of the most generous MMORPGs available today.
6. Star Wars: The Old Republic
Time flies when players are having fun in The Old Republic era of the Star Wars timeline. It’s hard to believe, but BioWare’s MMORPG has now been around for over a decade. Naturally, the free-to-play MMO has undergone several changes during that time, but its core elements remain intact: a vast and engaging storytelling experience, impressive production values, and the chance to immerse oneself in the Galactic Republic or Sith Empire.
With eight distinct classes, each offering a unique narrative journey, a dialogue system inspired by Mass Effect’s success, a wide range of abilities representing both Light and Dark alignments, and combat reminiscent of KOTOR (Knights of the Old Republic), Star Wars: The Old Republic continues to be an incredibly enjoyable experience.
5. Guild Wars 2
Guild Wars 2 has always been overshadowed by World of Warcraft, but now, after a decade of expansions and advancements, it’s clear why ArenaNet’s MMORPG has maintained its popularity. The game’s depth and grandeur in design continue to impress, whether you’re drawn to its dynamic living world that reflects your actions or its diverse story campaigns that offer hours of engaging gameplay.
Guild Wars 2 emphasizes discovery and exploration, and what’s truly remarkable is that ArenaNet has managed to maintain a refined RPG experience without overwhelming players with excessive content. This is an MMO that values and respects your time, energy, and attention.
4. Blade & Soul
Blade & Soul, released in 2012, remains unquestionably one of the finest free-to-play MMORPGs available today. Its captivating and immersive story, extensive character customization options, and adrenaline-pumping action-based combat filled with flashy combos make it a must-try game.
The game’s narrative revolves around a fusion of martial arts and magic, where players start as students and are soon drawn into a world of darkness as they seek vengeance for the defeated. With a staggering selection of 15 classes, including the newest addition, the Musician introduced in the October 2022 Symphony of Destruction update, and four distinct races, players have a wide range of options to tailor their gameplay to their preferences.
3. Eve Online
Many have considered Eve Online to be the most intriguing MMORPG to read about, while some have labeled it as dull to play. While most of these claims are baseless, there is an element of truth: Eve Online undeniably stands out as one of the most captivating experiences to emerge from the gaming industry.
This is largely due to the vibrant community that has thrived within the intricate sandbox of real-time space combat and statistics management. With its player-driven economy, rulesets and faction hierarchies determined by a real-life council of players, and conflicts that have given rise to some of the most remarkable tales in gaming history, Eve Online must be experienced firsthand to be truly appreciated.
2. World of Warcraft
World of Warcraft stands as the ultimate MMORPG, revolutionizing the video game industry upon its launch in 2004, and Blizzard has consistently pushed boundaries ever since. With nearly two decades of evolution and expansion, World of Warcraft does have some elements that may not be perfect – and there’s a balancing act between attracting new players in starting areas and keeping existing players engaged with World of Warcraft: Classic’s nostalgic appeal.
However, beneath it all, there’s a remarkable brilliance to WoW that is hard to overlook, especially as Blizzard consistently delivers new expansions and essential quality-of-life enhancements.
1. Final Fantasy XIV
Final Fantasy XIV (commonly known as FFXIV) received a lukewarm response upon its initial release in 2010 and was heavily criticized by reviewers. However, after a complete shutdown, the game reemerged in the summer of 2013 as A Realm Reborn, a full-scale overhaul that resonated with fans and became a massive success.
The story in Final Fantasy XIV is a vital aspect of the game, and with a total of five expansions to explore, it offers a wealth of lore to uncover. The world of Eorzea is incredibly vast, granting players complete freedom to switch between classes and its 20 jobs as they wish.
Though it requires a buy-to-play model and a subscription fee, FFXIV offers one of the best free gaming trials, allowing new players to experience gameplay up to level 60 (the maximum level cap being 90 as of Endwalker’s release). While PvP options are available, the community widely acknowledges that the game’s primary focus lies in its rich PvE content.
In 2022, the 6.2 patch, Buried Memory, introduced a new location called Island Sanctuary. Catering to those seeking a more relaxed and leisurely pace, fans of games like Animal Crossing or Disney Dreamlight Valley will feel right at home here. They can engage in activities like building, collecting, and farming while creating their own slice of paradise. With all this additions on top of what is already a great game, Final Fantasy 14 is undoubtedly one of the best MMORPG games ever.
Best MMORPG Games On Consoles
Console gaming has traditionally been overshadowed by PC gaming when it comes to MMORPGs. However, in recent years, the addition of more PC-like architecture to the latest console generations has paved the way for these immersive experiences to return to the living room.
While consoles have seen a few MMOs throughout their lifetimes (such as Phantasy Star Online and Final Fantasy XI), games like The Elder Scrolls Online and Black Desert have emerged as defining examples of the type of MMO experiences that console fans can now expect on these platforms. If you’re seeking a game to play while relaxing on the couch, here are some of the best console MMORPGs to explore.
10. Bless Unleashed
Based on the Bless universe, Bless Unleashed is a free-to-play action MMORPG developed on Unreal Engine 4, which was initially released on consoles in 2020 and later made its way to PC in 2021. In this game, players can explore a persistent open world and embark on quests across the untamed landscape.
The world is filled with dynamic events, including boss encounters, while those seeking a challenge can participate in thrilling PvP battles. The game’s action combat relies heavily on combos, and players can choose from various classes such as Mages, Archers, Berserkers, and more, requiring proper execution and strategic positioning on the battlefield to succeed.
9. Phantasy Star Online 2: New Genesis
A few years ago, Phantasy Star Online 2 made its highly anticipated debut on Xbox One, garnering widespread excitement among Western players. Even though the game was already considered an older MMO at the time, its official support on Xbox One was a delightful surprise for devoted fans of the series.
Phantasy Star Online 2: New Genesis represents an upgraded version of the original MMO, introducing an expansive open world to explore within the console MMORPG. With its revamped character creator, improved graphics compared to its predecessor, and various other enhancements, Phantasy Star Online 2: New Genesis propels the aging MMO into the next generation, ensuring its relevance for years to come. The best part? It’s available as a free-to-play experience!
8. New World
Amazon Game Studios’ MMORPG, New World, immerses players in the setting of America’s colonization, urging them to venture to a mysterious land and unveil its hidden secrets.
Set in the 1600s, the game offers unique armor and aesthetics that blend historical elements with a high-fantasy atmosphere, resulting in an unparalleled player experience. Players face off against NPC Humans who have succumbed to the dark, mystical power of the island of Aeternum.
While exploring the world and delving into its lore, players can engage in dungeons, participate in PvP content involving battles between 25 to 50 players, and experience a PvPvE mode where they compete for control by vanquishing enemies and gathering resources for their respective teams.
7. DC Universe Online
DC Universe Online, set in the vast comic book DC universe, continues to thrive since its initial release in 2011. With the entire DC Universe at players’ fingertips, they have the opportunity to interact with legendary characters such as Superman, Wonder Woman, Batman, and infamous villains like the Legion of Doom and The Joker.
The game’s action combat is also well-designed for controllers, making it one of the most accessible console MMORPGs available – and it’s accessible on every major home console in some capacity. Fortunately, players who wish to catch up can do so with ease, as all episodes were made free to all players in May 2021, regardless of whether they opt for the optional subscription.
6. Elite: Dangerous
Frontier brings you the ultimate sci-fi fantasy of exploring the Milky Way galaxy in Elite: Dangerous. This console MMO offers a fully persistent 1:1 recreation of our galaxy, granting Commanders the chance to fulfill their spacefaring dreams. Whether you aspire to be an intrepid explorer, mapping uncharted systems and stars, or seek to dominate the intergalactic trade routes, Elite: Dangerous allows you to realize these aspirations and more.
Engage in factional power struggles or showcase your combat prowess in the PvP arena; this game caters to all playstyles. Excitingly, the planned Odyssey expansion will soon enable console players to disembark from their ships, exploring stations and planets firsthand, making the possibilities seem as vast as the stars themselves.
5. Black Desert
Black Desert stands out as one of the most visually stunning MMORPGs available on any platform. However, its beauty is not its only strength; it also offers a delightful gaming experience. Beyond its captivating visuals, Black Desert excels in various aspects, including impressive PvP systems, a complex node crafting and trading system, and highly satisfying action combat.
Pearl Abyss, the company behind this MMORPG, continuously updates the game, providing major additions as free upgrades. While players need to purchase the MMO to get started, the substantial amount of content available at the beginning and ongoing support from the developers more than justifies the investment.
Despite some concerns about microtransactions potentially leaning toward a “pay-to-win” model, Black Desert is still worth exploring, especially if your goal is to engage in thrilling adventures like smashing goblins as the Nova or battling foes as the Striker. The addition of its first major co-op dungeon, Atoraxxion, further enriches the world of Black Desert, offering players plenty to experience and enjoy.
4. Star Trek Online
Cryptic Studios made a significant leap in 2016 when they brought Star Trek Online, initially released on PC, to Xbox and PlayStation consoles. They reworked much of the control schemes and UI layout from scratch for the console version. As a result, players on home consoles now have access to this free-to-play MMO set in the vast and captivating Star Trek universe.
The game remains faithful to the storylines and established lore from the beloved shows and movies, even featuring cast members from the franchise lending their voices to their respective characters in the game. If you’ve ever dreamed of captaining your own Starfleet vessel and embarking on adventures to explore new and mysterious worlds, then Star Trek Online is the perfect starting point for you.
3. Neverwinter
Cryptic Studios brings players to the enchanting setting of the Forgotten Realms in Dungeons & Dragons with their MMO, Neverwinter. Although it is not a continuation of the earlier Neverwinter game series, this iteration allows players to immerse themselves in their D&D fantasies within one of the most iconic locations in the history of the Role-playing game.
Neverwinter is also a free-to-play title, and the ruleset has been recently updated to align with the latest tabletop version of D&D, the 5th Edition. Cryptic Studios continuously introduces new content, such as the Ascent into Avernus campaign, which coincided with the release of the table-top variant. Additionally, they recently launched a campaign battle pass, guiding players on a journey to thwart the Cult of the Dragon. If you’re seeking a way to delve into the world of Dungeons & Dragons without the tabletop experience, Neverwinter offers an excellent starting point.
2. No Man’s Sky
After facing a challenging launch on PC and PlayStation 4 years ago, the team at Hello Games has undergone a quiet transformation, turning No Man’s Sky into one of the finest exploration games available today. In No Man’s Sky, players can venture into an expansive and seemingly boundless galaxy of stars, where they can chart planets, construct bases, and uncover the mysteries of the universe alongside other players.
Whether you aspire to build a magnificent spaceport, delve deep into the caverns of a desolate and radioactive planet, or become the most skilled fighter pilot in the galaxy, all these possibilities and more await you in the game. No Man’s Sky continues to provide new content to its players free of charge, fulfilling the vision envisioned by Sean Murray years ago and offering an unparalleled experience to those who are ready to embark on a journey of exploration through the cosmos.
1. Destiny 2
Bungie’s online FPS, Destiny 2, has experienced its fair share of ups and downs over the years, but it has found a stable and positive state on a mechanical level lately. The recent expansion, The Witch Queen, exemplifies this by reworking the Void subclasses (with plans for other subclasses in future seasons) to offer greater flexibility, aligning them with the Stasis options introduced in Beyond Light. Additionally, a new crafting system empowers Guardians to create customized weapons with desired perks, eliminating the need for grinding to find the perfect roll.
Though Bungie initially avoided labeling Destiny as an MMO and preferred terms like ‘shared world shooter,’ the game can be seen as an MMO-lite due to its clear MMO elements when players explore various destinations and dynamically team up with others for Public Events, world bosses, and emergent activities.
The base game became free-to-play some years ago, but it lacks significant content since the Red War campaign was vaulted during the launch of Beyond Light. The expansions are now the primary focus for story-driven content, with the latest ones offering compelling narratives, new gear to pursue, engaging quests to undertake, and challenging large-scale activities for Fireteams.
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