Have you ever imagined a vast universe where thousands of players interact simultaneously, collaborating and competing in real-time? Welcome to the world of MMOs, an acronym for “Massively Multiplayer Online.”
This type of game transforms the way we experience digital entertainment, creating huge, highly engaged communities and unforgettable gaming experiences.
In 2024, MMOs are more impressive than ever, featuring innovative game mechanics and expansive worlds that can easily captivate you for hours. We will explore what makes MMOs so special and discover the best games of this genre to dive into this year!
What is MMO?
MMO, or Massively Multiplayer Online, is a type of online game where thousands of players connect simultaneously, interacting in a vast virtual universe. In other words, it is a category of real-time multiplayer games.
Unlike traditional games, where the experience is limited to a few simultaneous players, MMOs offer a dynamic and continuous environment, inhabited by a community that interacts from anywhere in the world.
In these games, thousands of players can participate simultaneously, whether collaborating on missions, competing in battles, or simply exploring the virtual world together.
The MMO game universe continues to change even when you’re offline. Events can occur and affect the state of the world, creating a sense of continuous reality.
For example, players can evolve their characters, acquire skills, and customize their appearances and equipment over time, making each experience unique.
From epic boss battles to exploring unknown territories and participating in seasonal events, immersive games offer a wide variety of activities for all tastes.
What is the difference between MMO and MMORPG?
MMO is a general term that refers to any online game that supports numerous simultaneous players. MMORPG, however, is a specific subgenre of MMOs that incorporates elements of RPG (Role-Playing Game) games.
The main differences between MMOs and MMORPGs lie in the game focus, as MMOs cover a wide range of genres, while MMORPGs focus on RPG experiences.
Additionally, MMORPGs typically feature more complex narratives and detailed worlds to explore, while MMOs may or may not have a narrative focus.
If you enjoy developing characters and immersing yourself in epic stories, MMORPGs like World of Warcraft and Final Fantasy are for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a variety of multiplayer experiences like those offered in World of Tanks and EVE Online, exploring other types of MMOs might be more suitable.
MMO Games 2024
Check out some of the best MMO games standing out this year:
World of Warcraft
Released in 2004, it’s one of the most iconic MMORPGs, known for its vast fantasy world, engaging narrative, and constant updates.
- Release Date: 2004 (updates in 2024)
- Category: MMORPG
- Mode: Online
- Supported Devices: PC, macOS
- Paid or Free: Paid
Guild Wars 2
Known for its innovative mechanics, dynamic events, and lack of a subscription fee. It offers both cooperative and competitive gameplay.
- Release Date: 2012 (updates in 2024).
- Category: MMORPG
- Mode: Online
- Supported Devices: PC
- Paid or Free: Paid
The Elder Scrolls Online
Set in the Elder Scrolls universe, offering a vast world to explore with rich quests and cooperative gameplay.
- Release Date: 2014 (updates in 2024).
- Category: MMORPG
- Mode: Online
- Supported Devices: PC, macOS, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S
- Paid or Free: Paid
Ashes of Creation
Ashes of Creation is redefining the MMORPG genre with its dynamic, ever-evolving world. Although not free, the game is worth every penny.
Player actions can influence the development of cities, economies, and even the environment’s climate. With impressive graphics and innovative mechanics, this title promises to deliver an immersive and unique experience.
- Release Date: To be announced (in testing phase)
- Category: MMORPG
- Mode: Online
- Supported Devices: PC
- Paid or Free: Paid (with subscription model and/or microtransactions)
Star Citizen
Star Citizen is not a free game, but it continues to impress with its vast space universe and deep gameplay. In 2024, the game is expanding even further, with new planets to explore, missions to complete, and an ever-evolving economy.
Whether piloting your ship in space combat or exploring the surface of unknown planets, Star Citizen offers a unique MMO experience.
- Release Date: To be announced (in continuous development)
- Category: Space MMORPG
- Mode: Online
- Supported Devices: PC
- Paid or Free: Paid (with crowdfunding model and microtransactions)
Black Desert Online
Known for its impressive graphics and dynamic combat system, it offers an open world and a rich economy.
- Release Date: 2014 (updates in 2024).
- Category: MMORPG
- Mode: Online
- Supported Devices: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
- Paid or Free: Paid
New World
New World, by Amazon Game Studios, is a paid game that continues to grow and improve. Set on a mysterious island, the game mixes fantasy elements with 17th and 18th-century colonization.
With intense combat, a robust economy, and an active community, New World is one of the most exciting MMOs of 2024.
- Release Date: September 28, 2021 (updates in 2024).
- Category: MMORPG
- Mode: Online
- Supported Devices: PC
- Paid or Free: Paid
Blue Protocol
Blue Protocol, by Bandai Namco, is an action MMORPG with stunning anime-style graphics. In 2024, the game is gaining popularity thanks to its dynamic combat and breathtaking visuals.
Players can embark on memorable missions and explore a world full of secrets and dangers. It’s a free game with microtransactions.
- Release Date: 2024
- Category: MMORPG
- Mode: Online
- Supported Devices: PC
- Paid or Free: Free (with microtransactions)
Lost Ark
Lost Ark combines ARPG elements with an MMO structure, creating a unique experience. In 2024, the game, free with microtransactions, continues to expand its content, offering new classes, dungeons, and events. With its fast-paced combat and impressive visuals, Lost Ark is a favorite among players.
- Release Date: February 11, 2022 (in South Korea); February 11, 2022 (in the West) – (updates in 2024).
Category: MMORPG, ARPG - Mode: Online
- Supported Devices: PC
Paid or Free: Free (with microtransactions)
Path of Exile
Path of Exile is an ARPG with a vast skill tree and deep character customization system. Known for its complex gameplay and frequent updates, it offers a challenging experience for fans of the genre.
- Release Date: October 23, 2013 – (updates in 2024).
- Category: ARPG
- Mode: Online
- Supported Devices: PC, macOS, Xbox One, PlayStation 4
- Paid or Free: Free (with microtransactions)
Ragnarok Online
Ragnarok Online is a classic MMORPG that has garnered a dedicated fan base with its 2D graphic style and engaging gameplay. It offers a nostalgic experience with a wide range of classes and activities for players.
- Release Date: August 31, 2002 – (updates in 2024)
- Category: MMORPG
- Mode: Online
- Supported Devices: PC
- Paid or Free: Paid (with subscription model and/or microtransactions)
Albion Online
Albion Online is an MMORPG focused on player-driven economy and combat in an open world. It stands out for the freedom of customization and the ability for players to shape the world around them through their economic and combat actions.
- Release Date: July 17, 2017 – (updates in 2024)
- Category: MMORPG
- Mode: Online
- Supported Devices: PC, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android
- Paid or Free: Free (with microtransactions)
Revendawn
Revendawn is an MMORPG with a rich narrative and an open world to explore. The game offers a dynamic combat system and various crafting and trading activities, allowing players to customize their experiences and deeply interact with the environment and other players.
- Release Date: To be announced (in development)
- Category: MMORPG
- Mode: Online
- Supported Devices: PC
- Paid or Free: Paid
The Best Free to Play MMORPGs of 2024
Are MMOs only for PC?
It’s a common misconception that MMOs are exclusive to PC. While many well-known games in this genre were initially launched for computers, the MMO landscape has evolved significantly.
In 2024, players can enjoy MMO experiences on various platforms, each offering its own advantages. However, regardless of the platform, ExitLag can enhance your gaming experience.
How to reduce lag in MMO games?
Although multiplatform gaming is now a reality, lag can be a major obstacle in MMOs, affecting gameplay and enjoyment.
Here are steps to eliminate lag and ensure a better experience:
- Use a stable connection; prefer Ethernet over Wi-Fi for greater stability.
- Close bandwidth-hogging applications like streaming and downloads.
- Select closer servers to reduce latency.
- Keep network drivers and router firmware up to date.
- Use ExitLag, software that improves game connectivity by reducing lag and latency with optimized routing. Free trial available.
See more:
What are the most famous MMO games?
Several MMO games stand out for their popularity and impact on the gaming community:
Final Fantasy XIV
Gained immense popularity due to its rich story, impressive graphics, and strong community. The “Endwalker” expansion was particularly acclaimed.
- Release Date: 2010
- Category: MMORPG
- Mode: Online
- Supported Devices: PC, macOS, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5
Paid or Free: Paid
Star Wars: The Old Republic
An MMORPG based on the Star Wars universe, known for its engaging narrative and the ability to choose factions.
- Release Date: 2011
- Category: MMORPG
- Mode: Online
- Supported Devices: PC
- Paid or Free: Paid
EVE Online
A space MMORPG with an expansive universe and dynamic economy, offering a sandbox environment for exploration and combat.
- Release Date: 2003
- Category: MMORPG
- Mode: Online
- Supported Devices: PC
- Paid or Free: Paid
Runescape
An MMORPG with a vast open world and a long history, known for its flexible gameplay and constant updates.
- Release Date: 2001
- Category: MMORPG
- Mode: Online
- Supported Devices: PC, macOS, iOS, Android
- Paid or Free: Free
