Since the early days of video gaming, people have been captivated by massive multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs). These virtual worlds give players a chance to escape reality and explore new lands, meet new people, and experience new adventures. While there are countless MMORPGs out there, only a few have managed to stand the test of time and remain popular for years. In this blog post, we take a look at the 10 most popular MMORPGs of all time. From classics like World of Warcraft to newer games like Guild Wars 2, these are the virtual worlds that have captured the imaginations of millions of players around the world.
World of Warcraft
World of Warcraft (WoW) is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) released in 2004 by Blizzard Entertainment. It is the fourth released game set in the Warcraft fantasy universe. World of Warcraft takes place within the Warcraft world of Azeroth, approximately four years after the events at the conclusion of Blizzard's previous Warcraft release, Warcraft III: The Frozen Throne. The game was announced in 2001 and was released for the 10th anniversary of the Warcraft franchise on November 23, 2004. Since launch, World of Warcraft has had seven major expansion packs produced for it: The Burning Crusade, Wrath of the Lich King, Cataclysm, Mists of Pandaria, Warlords of Draenor, Legion, and Battle for Azeroth.
World of Warcraft was Blizzard's first foray into the growing MMORPG market. In a 2005 poll conducted by Time magazine and CNN, World of Warcraft was voted as having "the most influential mind" among all video games ever created. In 2011 Guinness World Records listed World of Warcraft as the world's most popular MMORPG with over 10 million subscribers worldwide; this number decreased to 7 million subscribers in 2014 but continues to grow with expansions being released regularly.
EverQuest
EverQuest is one of the most popular MMORPGs of all time. It was released in 1999 and is still going strong today. EverQuest has over 500,000 subscribers and continues to grow. The game is set in the fantasy world of Norrath and has players taking on the role of adventurers who explore, fight, and quest their way through the game’s vast world. EverQuest is known for its deep and immersive gameplay, as well as its strong community of players.
Ultima Online
When it comes to massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs), there are few that can rival the popularity of Ultima Online. First released in 1997, Ultima Online is one of the longest-running MMORPGs in existence and continues to be enjoyed by millions of players around the world.
What makes Ultima Online so popular? Part of it surely has to do with its expansive game world which features hundreds of different locations to explore. Another big draw is the fact that Ultima Online has one of the most robust player-run economies in any MMORPG – meaning that there are always plenty of opportunities for players to make some serious gold!
But ultimately, it is the game’s simple yet addictive gameplay that keeps people coming back for more. Whether you’re engaging in combat with other players or monsters, crafting items, or just socializing with friends, there’s always something to do in Ultima Online. And with a community as passionate as Ultima Online’s, you can be sure that you’ll never get bored!
Silkroad Online
Silkroad Online is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) that was released in 2005. The game is set in the ancient world of China and follows the story of two warring factions, the Chinese and the Europeans.
Players can choose to align themselves with either faction, and each has its own unique storyline and questline. The game features a unique blend of both real-time action combat and turn-based strategy elements. Silkroad Online also includes a robust player-versus-player (PvP) system, as well as team-based PvE combat.
The game has been extremely popular since its release, and still maintains a large and active player base. It is one of the most-played MMORPGs in the world and has won several awards for its gameplay and graphics.
Runescape
Runescape is an MMORPG developed and published by Jagex, released in 2001. The game has had several updates and expansion packs over the years. The latest update was in 2013. Runescape has over 200 million registered accounts and is recognized as the world's largest free MMORPG.
There are two versions of Runescape: the browser-based version, which is free to play with some restrictions, and the members-only version, which costs a monthly fee but gives access to more content. In both versions, players can explore the medieval-themed world of Gielinor, complete quests, fight monsters, and interact with other players.
One of the unique things about Runescape is that it allows players to train their skills in real-time. This means that players can level up their characters even when they're not actively playing the game. For example, if a player wants to raise their mining skill, they can leave their character near a rock vein and go do something else while their character slowly gains experience.
World of Tanks
As of 2019, World of Tanks is the most popular MMORPG in the world with over 150 million players. The game is set in the mid-20th century and features historically accurate tanks and vehicles from the era. Players can choose to play as any of the major nations involved in World War II, including the United States, the Soviet Union, Germany, France, China, Japan, and more. There are over 600 different types of vehicles to choose from, each with its own unique strengths and weaknesses.
World of Tanks is a free-to-play game that makes its money through microtransactions. Players can spend real money on premium tanks and items that give them an advantage in battle. The game has been incredibly successful and has won numerous awards.
Blade & Soul
Blade & Soul is a Korean fantasy martial arts massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) developed by NCSOFT. The game combines elements of wuxia, blade singing, and soul fighting, and follows a martial arts-focused storyline.
The game was originally released in Korea in 2012 and has since been localized for Chinese, Japanese, and English-speaking audiences. It remains one of the most popular MMORPGs in Asia, particularly in China and South Korea.
Star Wars: The Old Republic
Released in 2011, Star Wars: The Old Republic was one of the most anticipated MMORPGs of all time. And it didn’t disappoint. The game features eight different playable species and over 50 different class and specialization options – each with its own unique storyline. Add impressive graphics and an immersive environment, and you’ve got one of the best Star Wars gaming experiences around.
Conclusion
There you have it — the 8 most popular MMORPGs of all time. These games have captivated millions of players around the world and continue to be some of the most played games today. If you're looking for a new game to sink your teeth into, any one of these would be a great choice.
