Welcome to the world of MMORPGs, where players from all over the globe come together to embark on epic adventures, form alliances, and conquer virtual realms. Among the vast array of MMORPGs available, there are five that stand out from the rest – the Big Five. These games have captivated millions of players worldwide with their immersive gameplay, intricate storylines, and endless possibilities. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of the Big Five MMORPGs, exploring what makes them so irresistible to gamers and why they continue to reign supreme in the gaming world. So, gear up, and let’s embark on a journey through the biggest and best MMORPGs in the world!
What are MMORPGs?
Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games
Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games (MMORPGs) are a type of video game that can be played online. They are games that are designed to be played by a large number of players simultaneously, who can interact with each other in a virtual world. The players take on the role of a character in the game and can interact with other players and the game world in various ways.
Definition
MMORPGs are defined by their massive multiplayer aspect, where thousands of players can play the same game at the same time. They are also characterized by their persistent world, where the game world continues to exist and evolve even when the players are not logged in. This creates a sense of community and shared experience among the players, as they can interact with each other and with the game world in real-time.
Brief history
The first MMORPG was released in 1978, called “The Realm of Adventure”. However, it wasn’t until the 1990s that the genre began to gain popularity with the release of games such as “Ultima Online” and “EverQuest”. Since then, the genre has continued to evolve and expand, with new games being released regularly and existing games receiving regular updates and expansions. Today, MMORPGs are one of the most popular genres of video games, with millions of players worldwide.
The Big Five: An Overview
The Five Most Popular MMORPGs
- World of Warcraft
- Elder Scrolls Online
- Final Fantasy XIV
- Guild Wars 2
- The Elder Scrolls Online
World of Warcraft
- Overview: Launched in 2004, World of Warcraft is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) developed by Blizzard Entertainment. It is based on the Warcraft series of games and is set in the Warcraft universe.
- Popularity: With over 100 million accounts created, World of Warcraft is one of the most popular MMORPGs in the world.
- Gameplay: Players can choose from a variety of races and classes, and can explore the game world, complete quests, and engage in combat with other players or non-player characters (NPCs).
- Expansions: World of Warcraft has had several expansions, each adding new content and features to the game. These include The Burning Crusade, Wrath of the Lich King, Cataclysm, Mists of Pandaria, Warlords of Draenor, Legion, and Battle for Azeroth.
Elder Scrolls Online
- Overview: Elder Scrolls Online is a MMORPG developed by ZeniMax Online Studios and released in 2013. It is set in the Elder Scrolls universe and shares many elements with the single-player Elder Scrolls games.
- Popularity: Elder Scrolls Online has gained a significant player base since its release, with over 30 million registered accounts as of 2021.
- Gameplay: Players can choose from a variety of races and classes, and can explore the game world, complete quests, and engage in combat with other players or NPCs. The game also features a player-versus-player (PvP) system, allowing players to battle each other in various arenas and battlegrounds.
- Expansions: Elder Scrolls Online has had several expansions, each adding new content and features to the game. These include The Dark Brotherhood, Craglorn, Orsinium, Thieves Guild, and Horns of the Reach.
Final Fantasy XIV
- Overview: Final Fantasy XIV is a MMORPG developed and published by Square Enix. It is set in the Final Fantasy universe and shares many elements with the single-player Final Fantasy games.
- Popularity: Final Fantasy XIV has gained a dedicated player base since its release, with over 20 million registered accounts as of 2021.
- Expansions: Final Fantasy XIV has had several expansions, each adding new content and features to the game. These include Heavensward, Stormblood, and Shadow of Mhach.
Guild Wars 2
- Overview: Guild Wars 2 is a MMORPG developed by ArenaNet and released in 2012. It is set in the world of Tyria and features a unique combat system that allows players to switch between multiple combat modes.
- Popularity: Guild Wars 2 has gained a significant player base since its release, with over 10 million registered accounts as of 2021.
- Expansions: Guild Wars 2 has had several expansions, each adding new content and features to the game. These include Heart of Thorns and Path of Fire.
The Elder Scrolls Online
- Overview: The Elder Scrolls Online is a MMORPG developed by ZeniMax Online Studios and released in 2014. It is set in the Elder Scrolls universe and shares many elements with the single-player Elder Scrolls games.
- Popularity: The Elder Scrolls Online has gained a significant player base since its release, with over 30 million registered accounts as of 2021.
- Expansions: The Elder Scrolls Online has had several expansions, each adding new content and features to the game. These include Daggerfall, Morrowind, Summerset, and Elsweyr.
World of Warcraft
The King of MMORPGs
Overview
World of Warcraft, often abbreviated as WoW, is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) developed by Blizzard Entertainment. It was first released in 2004 and has since become one of the most popular MMORPGs in the world. WoW is set in the Warcraft universe, which is also the setting for the real-time strategy game series Warcraft.
Gameplay
The game is played from a third-person perspective, and players can choose to play as either a member of the Horde or the Alliance. Players can create a character from one of several available races and classes, and they can customize their appearance and abilities. The game world is divided into zones, each with its own storyline and quests. Players can explore these zones, complete quests, and engage in combat with other players and non-player characters (NPCs).
WoW features a complex and deep combat system, with players able to use a variety of weapons and abilities to defeat their enemies. Players can also join groups and raids to tackle more challenging content, such as dungeons and boss encounters.
Expansions
Since its release, WoW has received numerous expansions, each adding new content and features to the game. These expansions have introduced new zones, races, classes, and abilities, as well as new game mechanics and systems. Some of the most popular expansions include The Burning Crusade, Wrath of the Lich King, and Cataclysm.
Community
WoW has a large and active community of players, with many thousands of people playing the game at any given time. The game’s official forums are a hub of activity, with players discussing everything from game mechanics to lore and character development. WoW also has a thriving esports scene, with many professional players and teams competing in tournaments and events.
Despite its age, WoW remains one of the most popular MMORPGs in the world, with a dedicated and passionate player base. Whether you’re a new player looking to explore the world of Azeroth or a veteran gamer seeking a new challenge, WoW has something to offer for everyone.
Elder Scrolls Online
Immersive Fantasy World
Elder Scrolls Online is a popular MMORPG that has captivated the hearts of gamers worldwide. One of the primary reasons for its success is the immersive fantasy world it offers. This section will delve into the various aspects of the game’s world-building that contribute to its immersive experience.
Elder Scrolls Online is set in the fantasy world of Tamriel, which is home to various races, cultures, and landscapes. The game is built on the foundation of the Elder Scrolls series, which is renowned for its intricate lore and immersive world-building. The game’s developers, ZeniMax Online Studios, have done an excellent job of translating the rich world of Elder Scrolls into an MMO experience.
The game’s world-building is evident in its gameplay, which is designed to immerse players in the fantasy world of Tamriel. Players can choose from various races, such as the High Elves, Dark Elves, and Nords, each with their unique culture and history. The game’s questing system is also designed to help players explore the world and uncover its secrets.
Pros and Cons
One of the game’s strongest points is its attention to detail in world-building. The game’s environments are vast and varied, with different biomes, landscapes, and cultures. The game’s storytelling is also top-notch, with a rich lore that is gradually revealed as players progress through the game.
However, the game’s immersive world can also be a double-edged sword. The game’s world is so vast and detailed that it can be overwhelming for new players, who may feel lost in the game’s complex lore and history. Additionally, some players may find the game’s pacing to be too slow, with some quests taking hours to complete.
Despite its challenges, Elder Scrolls Online has a dedicated community of players who are passionate about the game’s world and lore. The game’s official forums are filled with discussions about the game’s story, characters, and environments. The game’s events and festivals are also designed to bring players together and celebrate the game’s world.
In conclusion, Elder Scrolls Online’s immersive fantasy world is one of its most significant strengths. The game’s attention to detail in world-building, storytelling, and community engagement has helped it become one of the most popular MMORPGs in the market.
Final Fantasy XIV
A Vibrant Fantasy World
- Overview
Final Fantasy XIV is a popular massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) developed and published by Square Enix. It is the fourteenth main installment in the Final Fantasy series and was released in 2010. The game is set in the fantasy world of Eorzea, where players can explore various lands, complete quests, and engage in combat with other players and non-player characters. - Gameplay
Final Fantasy XIV offers a variety of gameplay mechanics, including exploration, combat, crafting, and social interaction. Players can choose from a range of classes, each with unique abilities and skills, and can customize their characters with different weapons, armor, and trinkets. The game also features a complex crafting system, where players can gather materials and create their own equipment and items. - Expansions
Since its initial release, Final Fantasy XIV has received several expansions, each adding new content and features to the game. These expansions include the Heavensward expansion, which added new areas, storylines, and gameplay mechanics, and the Shadow of Mhach expansion, which introduced new dungeons and raids. The most recent expansion, Endwalker, was released in 2021 and marked the end of the game’s main storyline. - Community
Final Fantasy XIV has a large and active community of players, with many websites and forums dedicated to the game. The game’s developers, Square Enix, regularly release updates and patches to improve the game and address player feedback. The game also has a strong esports presence, with many professional players and teams competing in tournaments and events.
Guild Wars 2
Dynamic Events and World Bosses
Guild Wars 2’s dynamic events and world bosses are among the most engaging and innovative features in the game. These events and bosses create a sense of community and competition among players, as they work together to complete challenging objectives and defeat powerful enemies.
Dynamic events are randomly generated, instanced events that occur throughout the game world. These events can range from defeating a group of bandits to defending a town from a dragon attack. Players can join in on these events at any time, and they offer a unique, spontaneous gameplay experience.
World bosses, on the other hand, are large, powerful enemies that can be found in specific locations throughout the game world. These bosses are much more difficult to defeat than regular enemies, and they require coordination and strategy among players to succeed. Defeating a world boss can reward players with rare items and experience points.
The dynamic events and world bosses in Guild Wars 2 offer a unique and exciting gameplay experience. They encourage players to work together and strategize, and they can be a lot of fun to participate in. However, some players may find these events frustrating or repetitive, as they require a significant amount of time and effort to complete.
The community surrounding Guild Wars 2’s dynamic events and world bosses is very active and supportive. Many players enjoy organizing groups and coordinating strategies to defeat these challenging enemies, and there are many resources available online to help players improve their chances of success. The sense of community and camaraderie that these events foster is one of the most appealing aspects of Guild Wars 2.
The Elder Scrolls Online
A Skyrim-like Experience
- Immersive world building
- Attention to detail in creating a realistic and believable world, from the architecture to the foliage and terrain
- Incorporation of lore and history from previous Elder Scrolls games to enhance the immersion and sense of place
- Open-world exploration
- Large, seamless map with multiple biomes and points of interest to discover
- Optional quests and activities that encourage players to explore and interact with the environment
- Character progression and customization
- Multiple skill trees and paths for players to specialize in, allowing for a high degree of customization and role-playing options
- Ability to switch between different weapons and combat styles on the fly, promoting experimentation and adaptability
- Dynamic events and PvP
- Dynamic events that unfold in real-time, allowing players to choose whether or not to participate and potentially altering the course of the game world
- Player versus player (PvP) combat with multiple modes and options, including a robust guild system for coordinated efforts
- Main story and side quests
- Rich and engaging main story that ties into the lore and history of the Elder Scrolls universe
- A variety of side quests and content that provide depth and variety to the game world, from dungeon crawls to political intrigue and faction conflicts.
Factors That Make These MMORPGs Popular
What Players Love About the Big Five
One of the main reasons why the Big Five MMORPGs are so popular among players is because they offer a wide range of features that cater to different player preferences. Here are some of the things that players love about these games:
Engaging storylines
MMORPGs are known for their immersive storylines that keep players engaged for hours on end. The Big Five MMORPGs are no exception, with each game offering a unique and compelling narrative that players can immerse themselves in. Whether it’s the epic battles of World of Warcraft, the political intrigue of Eve Online, or the sci-fi adventures of Star Wars: The Old Republic, there’s something for every player to enjoy.
High-quality graphics
Another reason why the Big Five MMORPGs are so popular is because of their high-quality graphics. These games boast some of the most impressive visuals in the gaming industry, with detailed character models, stunning landscapes, and seamless animations. Players love being able to explore these virtual worlds and see them come to life before their eyes.
Rich character customization
Many players enjoy the ability to create and customize their own characters in MMORPGs. The Big Five games all offer extensive character creation options, allowing players to choose from a wide range of races, classes, and appearance options. This level of customization allows players to truly make their characters their own and feel like they are a part of the game world.
Wide variety of gameplay mechanics
MMORPGs are known for their vast, open worlds and the many different activities and quests that players can participate in. The Big Five games each offer a unique blend of gameplay mechanics, from the PvP-focused combat of Eve Online to the complex crafting system in Star Wars: The Old Republic. Players love the variety and the fact that they can switch between different activities as they see fit.
Active communities
Finally, one of the biggest draws of the Big Five MMORPGs is their active communities. These games have been around for many years and have cultivated large, passionate player bases. Players love being able to connect with other like-minded individuals and join forces to tackle challenges and explore the game world together. Whether it’s through in-game chat or online forums, there’s always someone to talk to and play with in the Big Five games.
FAQs
1. What are the big five MMOS?
The big five MMOS refer to the five most popular and well-known massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs) in the world. These games have gained a massive following due to their immersive gameplay, engaging storylines, and extensive worlds to explore. The big five MMOS are:
* World of Warcraft
* Fortnite
* Minecraft
* Roblox
* Grand Theft Auto Online
2. What makes these games the “big five”?
These games are considered the big five because they have consistently been among the most popular and widely played MMORPGs for several years. They have also set the standard for the genre, with many other games trying to emulate their success. These games have also received significant updates and expansions, ensuring that players always have new content to explore and keep them engaged.
3. What are the differences between the big five MMOS?
While all five games are MMORPGs, they each have their unique gameplay mechanics, storylines, and worlds to explore. World of Warcraft is a fantasy-themed MMORPG with a rich lore and extensive PvP and PvE content. Fortnite is a battle royale game with a focus on player-vs-player combat and building. Minecraft is a sandbox game that allows players to build and explore in a blocky 3D world. Roblox is a platform for user-generated content, where players can create their games and play games created by others. Grand Theft Auto Online is an open-world crime game with a focus on driving and shooting gameplay.
4. Which game is the best for me?
The best game for you will depend on your personal preferences and interests. If you enjoy fantasy and RPG elements, World of Warcraft might be the best choice. If you like fast-paced combat and building, Fortnite might be more your style. If you prefer exploration and creativity, Minecraft might be the perfect game for you. If you enjoy user-generated content and social gameplay, Roblox might be the best choice. And if you enjoy open-world crime games, Grand Theft Auto Online might be the game for you.
5. Are these games suitable for all ages?
While these games are generally suitable for players of all ages, some of them may contain mature content or themes that may not be appropriate for younger players. Parents should use their discretion when deciding which games are suitable for their children, and they should also monitor their children’s gameplay to ensure they are playing safely and appropriately.