Are you looking for a new massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) to sink your teeth into? Check out our list of the most popular games with the most players. Whether you’re a fan of fantasy or sci-fi, there’s sure to be something on this list that catches your eye.
MMORPGs With the Most Players
MMORPGs, or massively multiplayer online role-playing games, have been around for over two decades now. In that time, they’ve become one of the most popular genres of video games, with millions of players worldwide. But what is it that makes MMORPGs so captivating?
Often, it’s the sense of community and social interaction that players can find in these games. In a world where we’re increasingly feeling isolated and disconnected, MMORPGs offer a chance to connect with other people and feel like part of a larger community. They also give players a sense of purpose and accomplishment as they work together to complete quests and defeat enemies.
Let’s look at the top eight MMORPGs with the highest player counts.
World of Warcraft (120 Million Players)
World of Warcraft, often referred to as WoW, was first released in 2004 by Blizzard Entertainment. Since then, it has become one of the most popular games in the world, with millions of active players.
It’s the fourth installment in the Warcraft series and became the fastest-selling PC game of all time, with over 10 million copies sold in its first month of release. In addition to its commercial success, WoW has received critical acclaim, winning several awards, including Game of the Year.
The game is set in the fantasy world of Azeroth, and players take on the role of characters who can explore, fight, and quest their way through the game. There are many different kinds of activities you can engage in, such as raiding dungeons, participating in player-versus-player combat, or simply exploring the world.
The game has been praised for its intricate world design, deep gameplay mechanics, and rich social interactions. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just curious about what the fuss is all about, World of Warcraft is worth checking out.
Final Fantasy XIV (35 Million Players)
Since its launch in 2013, Final Fantasy XIV has won over millions of players around the globe with its captivating story, immersive world, and innovative gameplay.
The game invites players to experience the exhilaration of battle as they explore the vast and fantastical world of Eorzea. It features a unique blend of traditional Final Fantasy elements and modern MMO gameplay, allowing you to enjoy the best of both worlds.
From the bustling streets of Limsa Lominsa to the rolling plains of Mor Dhona, there’s always something new to discover. And with a constantly evolving storyline, there is always something new to experience.
With an ever-growing community of players, Final Fantasy XIV is a game everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re questing solo or adventuring with friends, there’s a role for everyone to play.
Elite Dangerous (17 Million Players)
Elite Dangerous is a highly realistic space simulator that allows you to experience the dangers and rewards of piloting spacecraft in an immersive and dynamic galaxy. The game is set in the Milky Way galaxy and tasks players with locating, mining, and trading resources to upgrade their ship and equipment.
From the moment you step into their ship, you’re thrust into a living, breathing universe where you must contend with other pilots, hostile forces, and the perils of space exploration. With its realistic physics and impressive graphics, Elite Dangerous is truly unique and immersive.
The game is not for the faint of heart, but if you’re willing to take on the challenge, you’ll be rewarded with an unforgettable experience.
RuneScape (17 Million Players)
RuneScape was released in January 2001 by British developer Jagex and is one of the oldest MMORPGs in existence and still popular today.
The game is set in the medieval-inspired realm of Gielinor, divided into different kingdoms, regions, and cities. Players can travel throughout the game world on foot, by horse-drawn carriage, or by various magical means. The game offers both free-to-play and pay-to-play options, with different content accessible to each type of player.
RuneScape has a wide variety of things to do, including questing, combatting other players and monsters, training skills, and simply exploring the game world. The game also has a rich lore developed over its long history, and its recent updates have added even more depth to the story.
Whether you’re looking for a challenging game to sink your teeth into, or just a simple way to pass the time, RuneScape is definitely worth looking at.
Black Desert Online (12 Million Players)
Black Desert Online is a fantasy-themed MMORPG developed by Pearl Abyss and originally published by Kakao Games in 2014. It’s been praised for its visuals, gameplay, and Sandbox elements.
Various other companies have since published the game in different regions. It’s well known for its expansive and high-quality world, intricate and strategic combat system, intractable quests, lively character creation system, and deep personalization options.
The game is set in a fictional world with various landscapes ranging from deserts to forests and mountains. It features a unique combat system that allows players to unleash combo attacks and numerous special skills. It also has an in-depth character customization system that allows players to create unique avatars.
Black Desert Online has a large following in Asia and is quickly gaining popularity in the West.
Star Wars: The Old Republic (11 Million Players)
Star Wars: The Old Republic is a free-to-play MMORPG based in the Star Wars universe. Developed by BioWare Austin and a team of other developers, the game was first released for Microsoft Windows in December 2011.
The game’s story takes place in the space fantasy world of the Star Wars universe, with players taking control of characters from one of eight available factions. Each faction has its own unique storyline, and the player’s chosen faction will determine which quests and tasks they will undertake during the course of the game.
To progress through the game, players must complete quests, explore the game world, and interact with other players. The Old Republic is one of the most popular MMORPGs available, with over 200,000 daily players as of 2022.
Along with its many features and gameplay mechanics, the game’s popularity is likely due to its connection to the well-known and beloved Star Wars franchise. Whether you’re a diehard fan of Star Wars or simply looking for a new MMORPG to play, The Old Republic is definitely worth taking the time to check out.
Eve Online (9 Million Players)
EVE Online is an MMORPG set in a space-faring, persistent world. In EVE Online, players control their own spaceships and pilot them around in the vast expanse of space. You can mine resources, trade goods, participate in player-versus-player (PvP) combat, and explore unknown territory. The game has a deep and complex history, with years of player-driven events and conflicts.
PvP combat is a central component of EVE Online, and players regularly compete for territory and resources. There are three main types of PvP combat in EVE Online: factional warfare, nullsec warfare, and lowsec warfare. Each type of warfare has its own unique set of rules and objectives.
Factional warfare is fought between the game’s four major factions, while nullsec warfare takes place in the lawless regions of space known as nullsec. Lowsec warfare is fought in the lower-security regions of space. No matter which type of warfare you choose to engage in, you’re guaranteed a challenging and exciting PvP experience.
In addition to its PvP combat, EVE Online also offers a rich player- versus-environment (PvE) experience. You can participate in missions and other activities that further the game’s storyline. Additionally, you can explore the game’s environment, which includes over 7,000 star systems and hundreds of unique planets.
With so much to see and do, EVE Online is an endless source of adventure for players.
Guild Wars 2
Guild Wars 2 is a popular massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) that takes place in the high fantasy world of Tyria. `
The game features a unique classless system that allows players to customize their characters in any way they see fit, and the open-world design encourages exploration and discovery. In addition, the game features dynamic events that change the world in real-time, making each playthrough unique.
Guild Wars 2 has won numerous awards and accolades, including Game of the Year from PC Gamer and Best MMO from IGN.
Stay Connected
The games with the most players are those that offer a sense of community and social interaction. Whether it’s questing together, raiding, or just chatting in-game, gamers want to feel like they’re a part of something bigger. If you’re looking for an MMO with many players, we recommend you try these eight first.
Do you have a favorite MMORPG? Let us know in the comments below.
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