Since first bursting onto the scene all the way back in March 1997, South Korean video game developers NCSoft have set themselves apart in the MMORPG genre. Starting with 1998's Lineage, the developers have time and again upped the ante in the world of multiplayer RPG action, offering players a variety of innovative gaming experiences over the years.
Ranking The Oldest MMORPGs (That Are Still Online Today)
MMORPGs can have great longevity if made correctly. Here's a look at some examples of old titles that are still online today.
Well regarded for its engaging gameplay and storytelling, NCSoft has established a solid reputation as a pioneer of the online gaming industry. In turn, the developers have successfully netted a global audience, garnering praise for their commitment to creating rich, fantastical, expansive worlds for players to discover and explore. Still a formidable figure in the gaming industry to this day, NCSoft has released several seminal classics over the years, some of which have even helped to shape the MMORPG genre as players know it today.
5 Lineage
A highly influential classic that started everything for NCSoft.
- Initial release date: September 3, 1998
- Platforms: Mac OS X, Windows
- Designer: Jake Song
- Genres: MMORPG, fantasy
This seminal, medieval fantasy MMORPG proved to be a runaway success in South Korea almost immediately. Adapted from a comic book series from the same country, the game quickly caught fire worldwide thanks to its storytelling and multi-faceted gameplay.
Sporting an old school 2D isometic viewpoint, the game makes plenty of room for players to enjoy character customization. There are seven classes for players to choose from when crafting their protagonist. For those who select the Prince option for their character, the chance to be a guild leader also presents itself. Overall, with its richly-realized fantasy world, siege combat system, and competitive multiplayer action, Lineage proved to be an influential classic in the addictive world of MMORPG gameplay.
4 Aion: The Tower Of Eternity
A high-concept fantasy epic.
- Initial release date: November 25, 2008
- Platforms: Windows
- Designer: Yongchan Jee
- Genres: MMORPG, fantasy
This wild, high-fantasy MMORPG sends players to the dangerous land of Atreia. There, players learn more about the creator god Aion and the mighty Drakan who protect the human race.
The world-building and lore on offer in Aion are first-class, ensuring an immersive, rewarding narrative experience for players. On top of the rich storytelling, the game also has a rewarding, skills-based character progression system. Castle sieges and competitive multiplayer battles add further entertainment value to this well-regarded, visually appealing fantasy effort.
3 Blade & Soul
An acclaimed, all-action kung-fu take on the MMORPG genre.
- Initial release date: June 30, 2012
- Platforms: Android, iPad OS, iOS, Windows
- Designer: Byungjoo Kwon
- Genres: MMORPG, Wuxia
Fans of martial arts action and the Wuxia genre are in for a treat when it comes to this fast-paced MMORPG. The game brings the intricate, high-octane danger of kung fu to a rich, vibrant open world setting.
Players must develop their created characters’ strengths and abilities through completing a variety of colorful quests. Both taking on other players and just taking on the game world itself are options when it comes to combat, as fast-handed martial arts action is brought to the forefront. With fun plotlines, a visually distinctive setting, and an intriguing focus on Chinese folklore and culture, Blade & Soul is a distinctive, memorable role-playing experience.
2 Lineage 2
A smash-hit sequel that improved upon the classic original.
- Initial release date: October 1, 2003
- Platforms: Windows
- Designer: Raoul Kim
- Genres: MMORPG, fantasy
When it comes to this well-regarded fantasy MMORPG seque l, it’s all about epic battles. Much of the game’s playing experience revolves around action, as players collide with a variety of monsters all over the game’s expansive map.
As is so often the case with fantasy role-playing fun, players get to create a character from scratch, deciding on their appearance, looks, and abilities among many other traits. With a nicely done multiplayer system, and massive siege warfare to discover, Lineage II is an all-action, straightforward experience perfect for new and seasoned MMORPG players alike. The changing narratives and experiences depending on the race characters pick to play also lends it plenty of replay value down the road.
1 Guild Wars 2
A well-rounded fantasy epic that set a new bar for the series.
Guild Wars 2
This free-to-play MMORPG takes players back to Tyria, the imaginative fantasy setting of the original Guild Wars as well. In the years since the events of the first game came to pass, the fantasy world on offer has suffered a takeover from the monstrous Elder Dragons.
Needless to say, it falls to the player to get stuck in and take on these titanic, world-conquering beasts. When it comes to character creation, players have plenty of options for their skills, race, and job. Their choices impact the abilities of their characters, highlighting strengths and weaknesses that help to shape their gaming experience. Combat in particular is heavily affected by this due to it being largely skills-focused. Praised for its scope and immersive storytelling value, Guild Wars 2 is a fine effort made all the more appealing by its lack of required payments.
MMORPGs That Are Perfect For Beginners
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when looking at the genre of MMORPGs, but if you don’t quite know where to start, we have you covered!