MMORPGs have come and gone over the years, but a handful of classic legacy games have stood the test of time—still running in 2025, decades after their original launches. These titles shaped the genre, built dedicated communities, and continue to receive updates, events, or community-driven support.

Here are the most notable old-school MMORPGs still worth checking out today.

1. Ultima Online

Ultima Online launched in 1997 and remains one of the most influential MMORPGs ever. This sandbox-style game allows you to live a full virtual life—becoming a crafter, tamer, adventurer, or criminal in a world where virtually everything is player-driven.

With recent anniversary events and updates, it’s still going strong after nearly three decades, offering true sandbox freedom that few modern games can match.

2. EverQuest

EverQuest is the granddaddy of 3D MMORPGs. Launched in 1999, it’s still receiving yearly expansions—its 31st arrived in 2024. This game defined raid mechanics, class-based play, and group-focused PvE that inspired nearly every MMO that followed.

If you want a social, grind-heavy MMO experience with tons of content and legacy server options, EQ remains a classic worth revisiting.

3. EverQuest II

EverQuest II launched in 2004 as a more story-driven, accessible evolution of the original. It still boasts massive zones, deep crafting, player housing, and over 20 expansions.

Despite its age, EQ2 receives annual updates and hosts both standard and progression servers—ideal for those wanting a solo-friendly or story-heavy old-school MMO.

4. Final Fantasy XI

Final Fantasy XI is Square Enix’s first MMO and still has a loyal community in 2025. Though slower-paced than modern games, it offers deep job progression, tactical party play, and immersive storytelling.

The devs continue to release quality-of-life updates and new events—even decades later. It’s a legend in the genre that hardcore fans still swear by.

5. Dark Age of Camelot

Dark Age of Camelot is a 2001 MMO famous for its three-faction Realm vs Realm PvP. It pioneered large-scale open-world warfare and still runs officially (with community-run alternatives as well).

While it hasn't received major updates in recent years, its legacy and unique PvP system still draw die-hard fans.

6. Ragnarok Online

Ragnarok Online is a Korean MMORPG from 2002 with iconic sprite graphics and addictive grind-based gameplay. Featuring class progression, MVP bosses, guild wars, and a unique art style, it's still supported in various regions and on official classic servers.

For fans of retro anime-style MMOs with deep class trees and PvP elements, Ragnarok remains a cult favorite.

7. Tibia

Tibia launched in 1997 and continues to update and run official servers today. Its simple top-down graphics and punishing mechanics (such as death penalties and open PvP) have earned it a devoted, old-school fanbase.

If you want a minimalist MMO with a deep community and hardcore rules, Tibia delivers a nostalgic and rewarding grind.

8. MapleStory

MapleStory is a 2D side-scrolling MMORPG that continues to be wildly popular in Asia and active globally. Its charming visuals hide a grind-heavy, loot-driven PvE system with massive boss fights and over 40 playable classes.

With regular events, new classes, and a unique progression loop, MapleStory in 2025 is still one of the most successful MMOs ever released.

Conclusion

These games prove that good MMORPGs never die. Whether you’re chasing nostalgia or discovering these classics for the first time, each of these legacy MMOs has a passionate community and a place in gaming history. They may be old, but they’re still very much alive—and in some cases, still evolving.