Massively multiplayer online games (MMOs) have been keeping players hooked for decades. Whether you’re diving into massive fantasy worlds, battling in space, or conquering entire planets, MMOs bring a level of scale and immersion that single-player games simply can’t match. But with so many options out there, which ones are truly worth your time? We’ve put together a list of the 15 best MMO games that offer unforgettable experiences, deep progression, and thriving communities. Let’s get into it!
1. World of Warcraft: The War Within
It’s impossible to talk about MMOs without mentioning World of Warcraft, and The War Within is shaping up to be another huge expansion for Blizzard’s legendary MMORPG. With a brand-new storyline diving deep into Azeroth’s hidden secrets, fresh zones to explore, and new dungeons and raids, it’s clear that WoW is still very much alive and evolving.
One of the biggest draws of The War Within is the introduction of Delves, a new form of endgame content that offers solo and small-group challenges. This adds even more variety to WoW’s already massive endgame. The return of iconic characters and a darker narrative tone have long-time players hyped for what’s next.
For those who love customization, the expansion brings Hero Talents, allowing for deeper class specialization. The visuals continue to get a modern facelift, keeping Azeroth looking better than ever. And with cross-faction play becoming more common, grouping up with friends—regardless of faction—is easier than ever.
Whether you’re a returning veteran or a new player, The War Within proves that World of Warcraft isn’t just coasting on nostalgia—it’s still pushing the MMO genre forward.
2. Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn
If World of Warcraft is the king of MMOs, Final Fantasy XIV is its closest rival—and for good reason. Originally a disaster at launch, A Realm Reborn completely turned things around, delivering one of the best stories in MMO history.
This game’s biggest strength is its narrative. Unlike most MMOs where the story is just background noise, FFXIV treats its main story like a fully fleshed-out Final Fantasy game. The emotional weight of the characters, cutscenes, and voice acting makes it a standout experience.
But it’s not just the story that shines. FFXIV has one of the best class systems in any MMO—allowing you to switch jobs on a single character. The world of Eorzea is absolutely stunning, packed with diverse locations and breathtaking music.
Endgame content is also top-tier, with challenging raids and constant updates that keep players engaged. If you love MMOs but crave a stronger narrative, Final Fantasy XIV is the perfect pick.
3. New World: Aeternum
Amazon’s New World had a rocky launch, but Aeternum is proving that second chances are possible. With major overhauls, new content, and a more refined PvE experience, this MMO is finally finding its footing.
The combat system is one of New World’s standout features. It’s real-time and action-packed, relying on dodging, blocking, and timing your attacks rather than traditional MMO tab-targeting. This makes battles feel weighty and rewarding.
The game world is massive and visually stunning, filled with lush forests, ancient ruins, and terrifying supernatural creatures. Crafting and gathering also play a huge role, making New World feel like an open-world sandbox just as much as an MMO.
With Aeternum, Amazon is doubling down on what makes the game great, refining systems, and adding fresh content. It’s proof that New World isn’t just surviving—it’s evolving into something truly special.
4. Star Wars: The Old Republic
For Star Wars fans, there’s no better MMO than The Old Republic. Developed by BioWare, this game is packed with deep storytelling, cinematic cutscenes, and player choices that actually impact the narrative.
Each class has its own unique storyline, making replayability incredibly high. Whether you want to be a Sith Lord manipulating galactic politics or a noble Jedi protecting the weak, the role-playing possibilities are endless.
Beyond the story, SWTOR has solid PvE content, with flashpoints (dungeons), operations (raids), and tons of planets to explore. The PvP system is also surprisingly good, featuring large-scale warzones and space battles.
While it’s not as popular as it once was, The Old Republic still delivers an epic Star Wars experience that few games can match.
5. The Elder Scrolls Online
If you love Skyrim, then The Elder Scrolls Online is a must-play. This MMO takes everything great about the single-player Elder Scrolls games and expands it into a fully online world.
The biggest appeal? True open-world freedom. You can go anywhere, do anything, and tackle content in whatever order you choose. There are no strict level requirements for zones, meaning you can carve your own path through Tamriel.
Combat feels fluid and engaging, blending traditional MMO mechanics with real-time action. The class system also allows for insane build diversity, letting you play as a battle-mage, a stealthy assassin, or anything in between.
With constant updates and expansions, ESO is one of the most content-rich MMOs out there. If you love deep lore, immersive exploration, and meaningful choices, this game delivers.
6. EVE Online
No other MMO offers the sheer scale and depth of EVE Online. This space-faring MMO is a player-driven universe where politics, economy, and warfare are entirely in the hands of its community.
The game’s most famous aspect is its massive space battles. Thousands of players can clash in wars that shape the galaxy, with real financial stakes involved. The in-game economy is also mind-blowingly complex, mimicking real-world supply and demand.
EVE Online isn’t for the faint of heart. The learning curve is steep, and the game doesn’t hold your hand. But for those willing to dive in, it offers a level of freedom and consequence that few games can match.
If you want an MMO where your actions genuinely matter, EVE Online is an unmatched experience.
7. Lord of the Rings Online
For fans of Tolkien’s legendary world, Lord of the Rings Online is a dream come true. It lets players explore Middle-earth, from the Shire to Mordor, with an insane level of detail.
The game leans heavily into storytelling and immersion, making it one of the most faithful adaptations of the Lord of the Rings universe.
Unlike most MMOs, LOTRO has a slower, more methodical pace, emphasizing role-playing and exploration over fast-paced combat.
It may not be the biggest MMO out there, but for those who want to live out their Middle-earth fantasies, it’s a must-play.
8. RuneScape
RuneScape is a legend in the MMO world. Whether you’re playing Old School RuneScape (OSRS) or the modern version, this game has stood the test of time for over two decades. It offers an open-ended experience where you can level up skills, go on epic quests, or just hang out with friends in Lumbridge.
One of its biggest strengths is its non-linear gameplay. Unlike traditional MMOs that push you towards a set progression path, RuneScape lets you do whatever you want, whenever you want. Want to become a master fisherman instead of a warrior? Go for it.
The economy is entirely player-driven, making trading and market manipulation just as important as combat. PvP in the Wilderness is still a thrilling risk-reward system that hardcore players love. And let’s not forget the nostalgia factor—many players keep coming back simply because of the memories.
Whether you’re a casual player or a dedicated grinder, RuneScape offers something for everyone.
9. Rift
Rift was once considered a real contender to World of Warcraft, and while it never quite reached those heights, it’s still a solid MMO. The game’s dynamic world events, where rifts tear open and unleash enemy invasions, make the world feel alive and unpredictable.
One of its standout features is its deep class system. Instead of being locked into one playstyle, Rift allows players to mix and match souls (sub-classes), creating near-endless build possibilities. This makes theorycrafting and character customization some of the best in any MMO.
The game’s world is beautiful, with diverse zones ranging from lush forests to volcanic wastelands. Dungeon content is well-designed, offering engaging boss fights and rewarding loot.
While Rift may not have the player base it once did, its systems still hold up today. If you love experimenting with class builds and enjoy unpredictable world events, Rift is worth checking out.
10. Guild Wars 2
Guild Wars 2 takes a unique approach to MMOs, ditching traditional questing in favor of dynamic events that happen all over the world. Instead of clicking NPCs for quests, you stumble upon events naturally, making exploration feel organic and rewarding.
The combat is fast-paced and action-oriented, with dodging and positioning playing a major role. Unlike other MMOs that emphasize strict class roles, Guild Wars 2 gives every class the ability to heal, making group content feel more flexible.
One of its biggest draws is its no subscription model. You buy the game once (or play the free-to-play version) and enjoy a full MMO experience without worrying about monthly fees.
The world of Tyria is absolutely gorgeous, packed with rich lore and epic storylines. And let’s not forget the amazing mount system—mounts in Guild Wars 2 feel more like tools for exploration rather than just speed boosts.
For players tired of traditional MMO tropes, Guild Wars 2 offers a fresh take on the genre.
11. EverQuest
Before World of Warcraft, there was EverQuest. This is the MMO that set the foundation for many of the mechanics we take for granted today. While its graphics and UI may feel outdated, the depth of its gameplay still holds up.
EverQuest is all about challenge. There are no easy-mode mechanics here—death penalties are brutal, and dungeons require serious coordination. The sheer amount of content, including countless expansions, ensures there’s always something new to experience.
For players who love hardcore progression, EverQuest offers a rewarding grind. Raiding in this game requires true dedication, and those who conquer its toughest content earn serious bragging rights.
While modern MMOs have streamlined many features, EverQuest remains a bastion of old-school MMO difficulty. If you want to experience the roots of the genre, this is the game to try.
12. Star Trek Online
If you love Star Trek, this is the MMO for you. Star Trek Online captures the spirit of the franchise by letting players captain their own starships, explore new worlds, and engage in space combat.
The game splits its time between space battles and ground combat, offering a mix of strategic ship fights and more traditional MMO action. The customization is insane—you can tweak every part of your ship and even design your own crew.
The storyline is rich with Star Trek lore, featuring missions that feel like full-fledged episodes. Voice acting from real Star Trek actors adds an extra layer of authenticity.
PvP battles in space are a highlight, with fleet combat offering some of the best large-scale engagements in any MMO. If you’ve ever wanted to command your own Federation (or Klingon) vessel, Star Trek Online makes that dream a reality.
13. Black Desert Online
Black Desert Online is an MMO like no other. It features one of the most fluid and satisfying action combat systems in the genre. Instead of standard tab-targeting, you engage in real-time combat, chaining combos like a fighting game.
The character creation system is second to none, allowing for insane levels of customization. The open world is vast and stunning, with a realistic day/night cycle and dynamic weather effects.
One of the game’s biggest draws is its player-driven economy. From fishing to horse breeding to trading, there’s an entire life-simulation side of the game that players can sink hours into.
PvP is a major focus, with large-scale sieges and guild wars that can shake up entire servers. The grind-heavy progression may not be for everyone, but for those who love deep, long-term investment in an MMO, Black Desert Online delivers.
14. Planetside 2
Unlike traditional MMOs with swords and magic, Planetside 2 is all about massive-scale futuristic warfare. It’s a true MMOFPS, where thousands of players fight for control of continents in real-time battles.
There are no small skirmishes here—every battle feels like a war, with tanks, aircraft, and infantry clashing on enormous battlefields. The persistent world means that fights don’t just reset after a match; territory control is always changing.
The game features three factions, each with unique weapons, vehicles, and playstyles. Squad-based gameplay is key, making teamwork essential for success.
The scale of combat in Planetside 2 is unmatched. Whether you’re storming an enemy base with hundreds of teammates or piloting a fighter jet in a dogfight, every moment feels epic.
If you love shooters but want something bigger than traditional FPS games, Planetside 2 is the perfect MMO for you.
15. Trove
Not every MMO needs to be serious, and Trove proves that. This voxel-based game blends MMO mechanics with Minecraft-like creativity. Instead of traditional classes, you play as unique characters with crazy abilities, like a Candy Barbarian or a Neon Ninja.
The game’s biggest appeal is its exploration. Every world is procedurally generated, meaning there’s always something new to discover. Dungeons are quick and fun, making Trove a great choice for casual play.
Crafting and building are a major focus, letting you design your own personal world. The art style is charming and colorful, making it a relaxing break from the usual dark and gritty MMOs.
If you want an MMO that’s less about hardcore grinding and more about fun and creativity, Trove is a great choice.
Final Thoughts
MMOs come in all shapes and sizes, from hardcore fantasy epics to casual sandbox experiences. Whether you’re looking for deep storytelling, intense PvP, or massive-scale battles, there’s an MMO out there for you. So, which one will you dive into next?
