MMORPGs have been a dominant force in the gaming industry, with legendary titles. The gaming experience combines elements of exploration, socialization, competition and character progression. Check out more in our list of the best MMORPG games of all time.
The MMORPGs (Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games) are a subgenre where a large number of players interact in a virtual world.
Unlike single-player or limited multiplayer games, MMORPGs have a persistent world that continues to exist and evolve even when players are offline. This means that players’ actions can have lasting effects on the game world.
As with other role-playing games, MMORPGs usually include character progression systems, where players can gain experience, level up and acquire better skills and equipment. See the most popular titles:
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The best MMORPG games of all time
World of Warcraft (2004)
World of Warcraft is widely acclaimed as one of the best MMORPGs of all time due to its immense scale, engaging narrative and captivating gameplay. Set in the vast world of Azeroth, WoW offers an experience rich in content, from epic quests to faction battles.
Final Fantasy XIV (2010)
One of the best MMORPGs of all time due to its gripping narrative, stunning world design and innovative game systems. After a troubled initial launch, the game was relaunched as “Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn” in 2013, receiving critical and player acclaim. With regular content updates and a passionate community, Final Fantasy XIV continues to delight players around the world.
Guild Wars 2 (2012)
Recognized as one of the best MMORPGs of all time for its dynamic gameplay, vibrant world and branching narrative. The game stands out for its dynamic event system, which shapes the game world based on players’ actions, and for its innovative approach to PvP (Player versus Player).
The Elder Scrolls Online (2014)
The Elder Scrolls Online is considered one of the best MMORPGs of all time for its vast setting, immersive narrative and freedom of exploration. Based on the rich universe of The Elder Scrolls, the game allows players to explore the lands of Tamriel, completing quests, facing enemies and interacting with a variety of factions.
Runescape (2001)
One of the oldest and best-loved MMORPGs of all time due to its accessible gameplay, expansive world and variety of activities. With simple graphics and flexible game mechanics, Runescape offers players the freedom to explore, fight, perform skills and interact in a vast online world. Its dedicated community and regular updates keep the game relevant and appealing even decades after its release.
EverQuest (1999)
EverQuest is one of the pioneers of the MMORPG genre and one of the best of all time due to its vastness, challenges and lasting impact. Set in a fantasy world called Norrath, EverQuest offers a deeply immersive gaming experience, with exploration, combat and character progression. Its influence can be seen in many of the MMORPGs that came after it, and its community is still active even decades after its release.
Lineage II (2003)
Lineage II is lauded as one of the best MMORPGs of all time for its intense PvP gameplay, impressive graphics and vast open world. Set in a medieval fantasy world, the game offers players the opportunity to engage in epic battles between clans and factions, while exploring dungeons, carrying out quests and developing their characters. With a vibrant community and regular updates, Lineage II continues to attract passionate players around the world.
Star Wars: The Old Republic (2011)
Star Wars: The Old Republic is one of the best MMORPGs of all time due to its rich narrative, vast Star Wars universe and immersive game systems. Set thousands of years before the events of the films, the game allows players to choose between the light or dark side as they embark on an epic journey across the galaxy.
Black Desert Online (2014)
Black Desert Online, released by Pearl Abyss in 2014, stands out as one of the best MMORPGs of all time due to its stunning visuals, dynamic combat and deep character customization. Its impressive character creation and vast open world give players a sense of freedom and immersion that few games can replicate.
Aion (2008)
Recognized as one of the best MMORPGs of all time for its stunning visuals, unique flight system and thrilling combat. Set in a world divided between heaven and earth, the game offers players the chance to explore magnificent landscapes while facing epic challenges and battles.
RuneScape Classic (2001)
RuneScape Classic is one of the best MMORPGs of all time due to its captivating simplicity, accessible mechanics and dedicated community. This 2D MMORPG continues to be loved by many nostalgic gamers for its engaging gameplay and expansive world. Its long history and legacy in the online gaming industry make it an important part of MMORPG history.
The Lord of the Rings Online (2007)
The Lord of the Rings Onlin is considered one of the best MMORPGs of all time for its faithfulness to Tolkien’s world, immersive narrative and unique music system. Set in Middle-earth, the game offers players the chance to explore familiar places from the books and films while embarking on their own adventures.
TERA (2011)
TERA is lauded as one of the best MMORPGs of all time for its innovative combat system, stunning visuals and vast open world. With a skill-based combat system and an unconventional approach to character design, the game offers a unique experience that attracts players from all over the world. Its combination of fast-paced action and stunning visuals make it a popular choice among fans of the genre.
EVE Online (2003)
Recognized as one of the best MMORPGs of all time for its player-driven economy, large-scale combat and vast universe. Set in a science fiction universe, the game offers players the chance to explore, trade, fight and form alliances in a world where players’ actions shape the course of history.
Star Trek Online (2010)
Star Trek Online is considered one of the best MMORPGs of all time for its faithfulness to the Star Trek universe, vast ship customization and captivating missions. Set in the science fiction universe of Star Trek, the game allows players to explore space, take part in space battles and embark on exciting missions while commanding their own ships.
Age of Conan (2008)
Age of Conan is set in the dark and violent world of Conan the Barbarian, the game offers players the chance to explore dangerous lands, fight powerful enemies and build their own kingdoms. With a rich story, challenging combat systems and a dedicated community, Age of Conan continues to attract players looking for a unique experience in the genre.
DC Universe Online (2011)
DC Universe Online features immersion in the DC Comics universe, character customization and superhero action. Allowing players to create their own superheroes or villains, the game offers the opportunity to explore iconic locations from the DC universe, face powerful threats and interact with famous characters.
MapleStory (2003)
MapleStory is one of the best MMORPGs of all time for its accessible gameplay, cute aesthetics and welcoming community. With colorful 2D graphics and simple mechanics, the game offers players the chance to explore a vibrant world, carry out fun quests and take part in social activities.
Asheron’s Call (1999)
One of the pioneers of the MMORPG genre and one of the best of all time for its vastness, freedom of exploration and gameplay innovations. Set in a fantasy world called Dereth, the game offers players the chance to explore a vast continent, face dangers and forge their own path.
Ultima Online (1997)
Ultima Online, released by Origin Systems in 1997, is considered one of the best MMORPGs of all time for its pioneering spirit, freedom of play and lasting influence on the genre. As one of the first successful MMORPGs, Ultima Online offered players the opportunity to explore a persistent fantasy world, interact with other players and shape the course of history.
List: the 20 best MMORPG games of all time
- World of Warcraft (WoW)
- Final Fantasy XIV
- Guild Wars 2
- The Elder Scrolls Online
- Runescape
- EverQuest
- Lineage II
- Star Wars: The Old Republic
- Black Desert Online
- Aion
- RuneScape Classic
- The Lord of the Rings Online
- TERA
- EVE Online
- Star Trek Online
- Age of Conan
- DC Universe Online
- MapleStory
- Asheron’s Call
- Ultima Online
MMORPGs continue to play a significant role in the gaming industry, offering players a socially rich experience that goes beyond the boundaries of traditional games. Now that you know the best MMORPG games of all time, keep following our content:
