27 MMORPGs Played By Millions

MMORPGs are a genre that requires dedication. An ability to stay with a game for a LONG period of time and keep on grinding, leveling up, doing raids with other players, and so on. Over time, many have come and gone, but a few stand out above the rest. So allow us to show you a few MMORPGs some fans can’t get enough of.

#27 Last Epoch

Platforms: PC

Not all MMORPGs are the same, as some take elements from other genres to give players an even deeper experience. In the case of Last Epoch, it’s a title that acts just as much as a dungeon crawler as it does with being an MMO.

In the game, your goal is to travel across the world and fight various monsters so that you can save the land from “The Void.” Where the dungeon crawler elements come in is via the class and skill systems. You’ll have numerous options for building up your character and seeing how far you can go and how powerful you become.

#26 Once Human

Platforms: PC

There aren’t actually a lot of MMORPGs that revolve around alien invasions that actually succeeded, so Once Human will be a special experience for you if you play it. In the game, aliens haven’t just taken over much of the planet; they’ve infected it with a substance called “Stardust.” That’s bad, as it transforms both the planet and much of its population into monsters.

On the plus side, it’s giving you and other players powers to fight back. On the minus side, if you keep taking in Stardust, you’ll lose your mind. So, you’ll need to balance your powers, sanity, and survival to take on this alien threat and get it off your world.

#25 Onigiri

Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, PlayStation Vita

Let’s start out with one that you might not have heard of before. Onigiri.

This MMORPG has a definitive anime aesthetic, and you’ll be in charge of leading a party of your friends and NPCs as you try and contain a dark force that has broken out of a seal made by the Sun God Amaterasu.

The game is made to be simple to control, so you’ll be able to jump right in and enjoy things! So why not give it a shot?

#24 Star Conflict

Platforms: Linux, Microsoft Windows, macOS, SteamOS, Macintosh operating systems

If you’re looking for a more sci-fi feel in your MMORPG, then try out Star Conflict. In this game you’ll play as a pilot who is constantly fighting for survival in interplanetary skirmishes in a varied and deep system.

You’ll be able to not just control one ship, but a fleet of ships as you build yourself up. You’ll be able to try and influence the events of the worlds via your actions and by taking missions from certain corporations vying for control. Fight other players, alien races, or just go and explore what’s out there, it’s all up to you.

#23 Lineage 2

Platforms: PC

Asia as a whole has been a very special market for video games, especially ones that require dedication and a desire to level yourself up to master your skills. Lineage 2 is an MMORPG from a franchise in Korea, and it’s VERY popular in Asia as a whole. They’ve had over 14 million players on it…and most of them came from that continent.

Not that there isn’t other players worldwide, mind you.

The game is actually a prequel to the previous Lineage title and takes place 150 years before the original game.

Per usual, you’ll create your own character and then explore a vast MMO world while also completing story “Sagas” that advance the plot. If you’re up for trying something a little different, you’d be fine with trying Lineage 2.

#22 Blade & Soul

Platforms: PC

If you’re looking for something a bit different, then you might want to try Blade & Soul. Because this is a title that focuses on a martial arts style of gameplay over just having weapons and guns and such.

You’ll need to use your skills in the proper way to not just defeat enemies, but rival players, and of course, when you go on quests for the various NPCs of your world.

The game was so popular that it even got an anime! So clearly this game had something going for it.

#21 Lost Ark

Platforms: PC

Lost Ark is a game that aims to be vast in every aspect of the word. For example, the game has seven different continents for you to go and explore.

That says nothing of the character creation, where you’ll not only choose who they are, but then build up their skills and abilities over time so that they can be whoever you want them to be.

Like classic MMOs, you’ll have a large story to partake in, massive enemies to go and kill, raids to do alongside other players, or, go and fight other players to see whose character is the best built!

#20 New World

Platforms: PC

Oh yes, this game. New World was meant to be something truly special by Amazon Games, and to help redefine the MMORPG experience.

It…didn’t do that, at all. But it doesn’t mean it’s bad per se.

You are the survivor of a shipwreck, and now you must survive on the island you now find yourself on. Which is a bit hard to do given the supernatural threats that are upon it! Search for supplies, ensure your survival, then go and fight in a large-scale game that might keep your interest for a while.

Or…maybe it won’t.

#19 Temtem

Platforms: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 5

We’d honestly be shocked if there WASN’T an MMO that was a Pokemon ripoff. It’s just the world we live in, you know?

Anyway, Temtem is just that, a Pokemon-style MMO with its own unique world and creatures that you need to catch. There are some twists on the gameplay via the MMO experience like tag teaming with your friends in game instead of just battling and trading them.

And there are some interesting monster designs if you’re curious about what they made. It won’t replace Pokemon by any means, but it might be a fun little getaway for you as you wait for Gen 8 to arrive.

#18 Trove

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Macintosh operating systems, Microsoft Windows

Have you ever wanted to play an MMORPG that kind of reminded you of Minecraft? Well, you’re in luck, because Trove exists.

This is a massive fantasy MMO that looks like Minecraft but plays like an expansive RPG. You’ll get to go across a major world, try and get a lot of loot so you can build things for yourself, make your own home for you to live in, and more.

It’s not meant to be the most serious of MMOs, but it can be seriously fun if you try it out.

#17 Final Fantasy XIV Online

Platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, macOS, PlayStation 3, Macintosh operating systems, Microsoft Windows

We’re going to do two different entries for FFXIV, and for good reason. This isn’t the first MMO from Final Fantasy, but it is the only good one. Final Fantasy XIV started its life again with “A Realm Reborn” and did everything possible to ensure that the game wasn’t just fun, but deep, expansive, and a meaningful experience that would touch even the most casual of FF fans.

Over the course of its life (which we’ll talk about more later), the game grew, gave massive expansions, and brought in more classic references to Final Fantasy games of old.

From start to finish, Final Fantasy XIV is something special. So if you haven’t partaken in it, please do so.

#16 Albion Online

Platforms: Android, macOS, iOS, Linux, Microsoft Windows, Classic Mac OS

Albion Online definitely has some unique elements that you should consider testing for yourself. Mainly because they have a “player driven economy”. What does that mean? Well, in this case it means that basically every item in the game is made by players. You can create what you want, wear what you want, sell what you make, and make a class that is defined as “you are what you wear”.

So that is a new kind of freedom there as that will allow to truly craft who you want your character to be! And that’s BEFORE you go and explore and be a part of a massive medieval world.

#15 TERA

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Microsoft Windows, Xbox Series X and Series S

TERA is an MMO title that definitely tried to change things when it came online. Not the least of which was by making the combat system one that was more finesse than button mashing. You’ll actually need to use aim and timing in order to hit your targets, as well as dodging to not take massive damage.

Whether alone or in a group, you’ll find a massive world full of quests, monsters, and more to do:

” Explore countless multiplayer dungeons, huge battlegrounds, or delve into open world PvP with an array of seven races and 13 classes to choose from.”

So why not let this game TERA-Form what you think about MMOs? See what I did there?

#14 Black Desert Online

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and Series S, iOS, Microsoft Windows, Android

Easily one of the more popular MMORPGs out there right now, Black Desert Online has built itself upon having intense and action-packed combat, loads of content for you to do, and to have it constantly updating so it never becomes broken or stale.

The world of Black Desert Online is vast, and so you’ll have a lot to do no matter who your characters is or what class they take.

Whether you play alone, or team up with friends, you’ll find this experience quite special. 20 million have played this title, will you be next?

#13 EVE Online

Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Linux, macOS, Macintosh operating systems

Most MMORPGs are based on fantasy settings, and for fair reasons. EVE Online is not that kind of MMORPG.

The game is a space-focused title where you will be in control of your own life amongst the stars. It’s been active for over 20 years, and there are 7000 solar systems for you to explore, try and do things in, or ignore completely, it’s entirely up to you.

You’ll be able to battle not just the world, but other players on your journey to be whatever you want to be. So get in your ship and see what this massive universe has to offer you.

#12 Phantasy Star Online 2 New Genesis

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X and Series S, Microsoft Windows, Android, iOS, PlayStation Vita

Not to be confused with a certain game a little later on, Phantasy Star Online 2 New Genesis is an expansion/recreation/upgrade upon what the original PSO 2 was. Giving players something fresh in this “new chapter” of the game’s existence.

” This new adventure takes place on a vast open field! Up to 32 people can enjoy the adventure in a new world with beautifully evolved graphics!”

Plus, you can play this game AND PSO 2 (which we’ll get to later) simultaneously should you want to as neither interferes with the other. Japan is in love with Phantasy Star Online, give it a shot and maybe you will too.

#11 Neverwinter

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows

For those looking for a bit more old-school of an experience, Neverwinter is the game for you, as this is based off of D&D in the best ways.

The game promises not just an expansive set of characters to play as, but a deep world to explore, lots of engaging combat to do, and so many iconic D&D experiences to enjoy.

This game has been popular for a while, and given that it’s free-to-play? Why not give it a shot yourself?

#10 Destiny 2

Platforms: Google Stadia, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X and Series S, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Microsoft Windows

Arguably a little controversial, Destiny 2 did its best to fulfill the promises made by Bungie with the original Destiny title. Make a game that was deep, expansive, could be played alone or with friends, and feel like a truly worthy experience.

Destiny 2 focuses more on a main campaign that expands through the DLC, and it’s done major fixes and changes based on fan feedback. It’s NOT perfect, far from it. But, it does a lot of things right, and if a Destiny 3 were to come out…we’d project it would be even better than the first two.

#9 The Elder Scrolls Online

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5,Xbox Series X, PC

Let’s be honest here, Elder Scrolls 6 is not coming ANY time soon, it’s sad, but it’s true. But, that doesn’t mean you won’t have the ability to do anything Elder Scrolls in the meantime as The Elder Scrolls Online is more than a suitable replacement for the mainline games.

In fact, The Elder Scrolls Online takes what the recent titles like Oblivion, Skyrim and even Morrowwind did and give players the freedom to do what they want, how they want, and go wherever they want.

The game is constantly expanding its reaches for players to explore, so if you’re a new player, you’re going to have a lot to do. And even if you’re a veteran…you’ll still have a lot to do.

#8 Phantasy Star Online 2

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X and Series S, Microsoft Windows, Android, iOS, PlayStation Vita

We’ve already talked about Phantasy Star Online before, but this time, we’re talking about the sequel that has been going on for a decade now and really pushed the franchise forward in many ways.

Phantasy Star Online 2 took what the original two MMO titles did and put some fun twists on them. You’ll be able to completely customize the look of your character and pick from one of nine classes for them to be. Then, you’ll board your “ship” and set out on a grand adventure.

As noted before, Japan LOVES this series, but you might like it too!

#7 Star Wars The Old Republic

Platform: PC

Star Wars has captured the imagination of many over the years, and after the success Bioware had with Knights of the Old Republic, they decided to go bigger with Star Wars: The Old Republic, an MMORPG where you can truly carve out your place in a galaxy far, far away.

Be a Jedi, be a Sith, be a Smuggler, be a freedom fighter, be who YOU want to be in this expansive universe.

Plus, you can play the game for free up to level 60, more than enough reason to try it out, right?

#6 RuneScape

Platforms: Web browser, Microsoft Windows, macOS, Java, Android, Linux, iOS, Macintosh operating systems

RuneScape for many is the “little brother” MMORPG that you just can’t help but love. It doesn’t have the best graphics, it doesn’t have the deepest gameplay, but, you can’t deny that it has a fleshed out world that you can get invested into…and millions have proven that over time.

Including a certain cousin of mine, just saying.

It’s really the community that has helped make this game so special over the two decades of its life. As they have come together to keep this game going alongside its devs. So if you want a more “turn off your brain and play” experience, then Runescape is for you.

#5 World of Warcraft

Platforms: macOS, Microsoft Windows, Macintosh operating systems

To some, WOW is THE MMORPG, and for a time…that would’ve been a fair thing to say. But while it’s been out since 2004, that doesn’t mean it has maintained the quality and fanbase that it once did. Sure, when it came out and with its first few expansions it was THE game to play in the genre…but…then certain expansions came about. After that, the game started to change in ways that left fans desiring more, and desiring better.

Eventually, an exodus of sorts happened within the game and Blizzard was left scrambling. So why is it so high on our list? Because many still play it, and when it was on top? It was very much on top, and we can honor that.

#4 DC Universe Online

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 3, Microsoft Windows

A superhero MMORPG is hardly a “new idea”, many have done it in the past with mixed results. But the one that has not only lasted the longest, but has become a staple of the genre is DC Universe Online.

This game allows you to create your own hero or villain within the DC Comics universe and then go on missions, quests, and more alongside legendary good guys and bad guys.

Add to that, the game is CONSTANTLY updating with new events, new ways to interact with heroes/villains, and so on. It really makes you feel a part of the DCU.

#3 EverQuest

Platforms: Microsoft Windows, macOS, Nintendo 64, DOS, Classic Mac OS

You know the phrase, “the OG”? Well, while EverQuest wasn’t the first MMORPG ever, it was one that many will say is the standard bearer, and helped make the genre strong enough for titles like World of Warcraft to exist (it came 5 years after Everquest for the record).

It arrived in 1999, and since then…it’s still going. It’s still updating, and it’s even letting people “delve into the past” with certain features so they can relive the “elden days” of the title.

There are legions of fans dedicated to EverQuest, showing just how popular it was then, now, and until it shuts down…which hopefully won’t be soon.

#2 Final Fantasy XIV: Endwalker

Platforms: PS4, PS5, PC

This title deserves to be mentioned so highly because of how Endwalker was just that. The end of the main story for Final Fantasy XIV. A true ending is something that is rare for an MMORPG, but for this one, it was worth it.

For years, players have been diving into the tale of Hydaelyn and Zodiark, and with Endwalker, we finally get the conclusion to the tale.

The game’s expansion was so popular upon release that people were forced to WAIT to play it because the servers were so full. How often does that happen?

So we thank you Endwalker for delivering a satisfying and emotional end to your saga. And if you haven’t played it yet…the lines might be a little smaller now.

#1 Guild Wars 2

Platforms: PC

You might be surprised that Guild Wars 2 is above all the others on this list, but the reason for that is simple. It’s never done the biggest of things in terms of marketing, and yet, it’s still here a decade later.

What’s more, it was a game that dared to be different by not only not having a subscription fee (much like its predecessor) but also by having a world that is truly affected by the players and their actions!

Plus, the game is still getting updated, and a massive update featuring dragons just happened in February. It’s doing a lot of things right, and very few things wrong, a very lovely combination, wouldn’t you say?