Been grinding away in Azeroth so long you’ve got a permanent crick in your neck? Maybe that sweet, sweet loot just ain’t hitting the same anymore. Or perhaps the thought of another Mythic+ run makes you want to chuck your keyboard out the window.
Hey, I get it. Even the most die-hard WoW fan needs a change of scenery sometimes. But fear not, my fellow adventurer, the world of MMOs is vast and overflowing with virtual landscapes ready to steal your heart (and maybe a few more hours of sleep).
So, let’s ditch the orcs and elves for a while. We’re diving headfirst into the top 11 MMOs that’ll scratch that World of Warcraft itch in 2024, without feeling like you’re just playing a reskinned version of the same game. We’re talking new combat styles, fresh stories, different vibes – the whole enchilada.
Grab your energy drink and settle in, because we’re about to embark on an epic quest to find your next MMO obsession.
Top 11 World of Warcraft Alternatives for 2024:
1. The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO)
Sick of orcs and trolls? How about exploring the lush forests of Valenwood, the scorching deserts of Elsweyr, or the frozen peaks of Skyrim? ESO isn’t just another fantasy MMO; it’s a deep dive into the rich lore of the Elder Scrolls universe. You can choose from a variety of unique races and classes, each with their own distinct playstyles. Whether you’re a sneaky Khajiit Nightblade who prefers to strike from the shadows or a stalwart Nord Dragonknight who thrives on the front lines, ESO has something for everyone.
And don’t even get me started on the dungeons, trials, and PvP arenas. ESO has enough content to keep you busy for months, if not years. So if you’re looking for a vast and immersive world with tons of replayability, ESO is definitely worth checking out.
Platform: PC, Mac, PlayStation, Xbox
Released: 2014
Genre: MMORPG
Developer: ZeniMax Online Studios
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2. Final Fantasy XIV (FFXIV)
If you’re a sucker for a good story (and let’s be honest, who isn’t?), Final Fantasy XIV might just sweep you off your feet. This ain’t your average MMO; it’s a sprawling epic with lovable characters, dramatic twists, and enough emotional gut punches to make you weep like a baby goobue. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of action to balance out the feels. The combat is fluid and engaging, the dungeons and raids are challenging but rewarding, and the endgame is constantly evolving with new content.
Plus, the FFXIV community is known for being incredibly welcoming and supportive. It’s the kind of place where you can make lifelong friends, join a Free Company (FFXIV’s version of guilds), and even find your soulmate (no joke, there have been FFXIV weddings!). So if you’re looking for an MMO that’s as much about the journey as it is about the destination, FFXIV is the perfect choice for you.
Platform: PC, Mac, PlayStation
Released: 2010 (A Realm Reborn version released in 2013)
Genre: MMORPG
Developer: Square Enix
3. Guild Wars 2 (GW2)
Tired of the same old MMO grind? Guild Wars 2 throws out the traditional leveling treadmill and embraces a more organic approach to progression. You’ll explore a dynamic world where events unfold in real-time, shaping the landscape and offering new challenges every time you log in. Combat is fast-paced and action-oriented, requiring you to dodge, weave, and combo your way to victory. And with a unique horizontal progression system, you can explore the world at your own pace, focusing on the content that interests you most. Whether you’re diving into the personal story of your character, tackling challenging world bosses, or joining forces with other players to defend Tyria from Elder Dragons, Guild Wars 2 always has something exciting in store.
Platform: PC
Released: 2012
Genre: MMORPG
Developer: ArenaNet
4. Lost Ark
Ready for a K-pop-infused action MMO that’s taking the gaming world by storm? Lost Ark throws you into a vibrant and colorful world filled with epic boss battles, flashy skills, and addictive loot systems. Choose from a wide range of classes, each with their own unique abilities and playstyles, and embark on a quest to uncover the secrets of the Lost Ark. The isometric perspective and fast-paced combat will feel familiar to Diablo fans, but Lost Ark brings its own unique flavor to the genre with a deep and engaging storyline, a vast array of islands to explore, and an endgame that’ll keep you hooked for hours on end.
Don’t be fooled by the cute character models and anime-inspired aesthetics – Lost Ark is a hardcore MMO with a steep learning curve and a focus on high-skill gameplay. But if you’re up for the challenge, the rewards are more than worth it.
Platform: PC
Released: 2019 (North America and Europe release in 2022)
Genre: MMORPG
Developer: Tripod Studio and Smilegate RPG
5. New World
Yearning for a taste of the New World (and I don’t mean the Age of Exploration kind)? Amazon Game Studios’ MMO is all about carving your own path in a sprawling, untamed wilderness. Gather resources, craft powerful weapons and armor, build settlements, and engage in massive PvP battles for control of territories. New World’s combat is action-based and visceral, with a focus on skill and timing. You’ll need to master dodging, blocking, and unleashing powerful abilities to survive in this unforgiving land.
And if you’re tired of the typical class restrictions in other MMOs, New World’s weapon mastery system lets you experiment with different playstyles and switch things up whenever you want. So whether you’re a lone wolf explorer, a master craftsman, or a bloodthirsty PvP warrior, New World has something to satisfy your adventurous spirit.
Platform: PC
Released: 2021
Genre: MMORPG
Developer: Amazon Game Studios
6. Black Desert Online (BDO)
Prepare to be mesmerized by Black Desert Online’s breathtaking visuals and unparalleled character customization. Seriously, you can spend hours perfecting your character’s appearance, from the curve of their eyebrows to the length of their fingernails. But BDO isn’t just a pretty face; it also boasts a sprawling open world with diverse landscapes, bustling cities, and hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.
The action combat is fast, fluid, and oh-so-satisfying. You’ll chain together combos, unleash devastating skills, and feel like a total badass as you mow down hordes of enemies. And if you’re looking for a break from the fighting, BDO offers a wide range of life skills to master, from fishing and farming to trading and crafting. You can even own a house, furnish it to your liking, and invite your friends over for a virtual housewarming party.
Platform: PC, PlayStation, Xbox
Released: 2014
Genre: MMORPG
Developer: Pearl Abyss
7. Albion Online
If you’re the type of player who thrives on a challenge, and the idea of a world where your actions have real consequences gets your blood pumping, then Albion Online might be your new stomping grounds. This sandbox MMO throws you into a player-driven world where you can be whoever you want to be – a farmer, a merchant, a craftsman, or a ruthless warrior. There are no classes, so you’re free to experiment with different builds and playstyles as you see fit.
The full-loot PvP system means that every battle is a risk, but the rewards are oh-so-sweet. Conquer territories, build castles, and wage war against rival guilds for control of Albion’s resources. The economy is entirely player-driven, so you can make a fortune by crafting and trading goods, or become a master of the auction house. It’s a world where the possibilities are endless, and the only limit is your own ambition.
Platform: PC, Mac, iOS, Android
Released: 2017
Genre: MMORPG
Developer: Sandbox Interactive
8. Star Wars: The Old Republic (SWTOR)
Ever dreamed of wielding a lightsaber and facing off against Darth Malgus himself? SWTOR lets you live out your wildest Star Wars fantasies in a galaxy far, far away. Choose your allegiance to the Republic or the Sith Empire and embark on a story-driven adventure that’ll take you to iconic planets like Tatooine, Alderaan, and Hoth.
Each of the eight playable classes has its own unique storyline, complete with twists, turns, and tough choices that’ll shape your destiny. Whether you’re a noble Jedi Knight, a cunning Sith Inquisitor, or a wise-cracking Smuggler, you’ll experience a personalized story that’s worthy of the Star Wars legacy. And let’s not forget the Flashpoints – SWTOR’s version of dungeons – where you and your crew will face off against iconic villains and uncover ancient mysteries.
Platform: PC
Released: 2011
Genre: MMORPG
Developer: BioWare
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9. The Lord of the Rings Online (LOTRO)
If you’ve ever dreamed of wandering through the Shire, sharing a pint with hobbits in Bree, or battling orcs in the Misty Mountains, LOTRO is your ticket to Middle-earth. This MMO stays true to the spirit of Tolkien’s world, with stunningly detailed environments, epic quests that’ll take you from the peaceful fields of the Shire to the fiery depths of Mordor, and a deep crafting system that lets you forge your own legendary gear.
But don’t expect a cakewalk. LOTRO’s combat can be challenging, and the endgame raids will put your skills to the test. But if you’re a fan of Tolkien’s work and you’re looking for an MMO that truly feels like a living, breathing world, LOTRO is the perfect place to hang your adventurer’s hat.
Platform: PC
Released: 2007
Genre: MMORPG
Developer: Standing Stone Games
10. EVE Online
Are you ready to dive into a universe where players truly shape the world? EVE Online isn’t your average MMO; it’s a sprawling sandbox where you can become a ruthless pirate, a cunning industrialist, a daring explorer, or anything in between. This space-faring epic throws you into a cutthroat universe where corporations rise and fall, alliances are forged and broken, and wars rage across the stars.
EVE’s gameplay is notoriously complex, but that’s part of its charm. You’ll need to master economics, diplomacy, espionage, and of course, spaceship combat to thrive in this unforgiving universe. But if you’re up for the challenge, the rewards are immense. There’s nothing quite like the thrill of commanding a massive fleet in a climactic battle that can have lasting consequences for the entire game world.
Platform: PC
Released: 2003
Genre: MMORPG
Developer: CCP Games
11. RuneScape
Feeling nostalgic for the good ol’ days of browser-based MMOs? RuneScape might just be the perfect trip down memory lane. This classic MMO has been around for over two decades, and it’s still going strong with a dedicated community and a vast world to explore.
While the graphics might not be as flashy as some of the newer titles on this list, RuneScape makes up for it with its charm, depth, and endless possibilities. You can be a master chef, a skilled fisherman, a treasure-hunting archaeologist, or even a dragon slayer. The choice is yours. With over 200 quests to complete, dozens of skills to master, and countless secrets to uncover, RuneScape offers a truly unique and engaging experience. And with the recent addition of the mobile version, you can now take Gielinor with you wherever you go. So dust off your old adventurer’s cap and rediscover the magic of RuneScape – it might just surprise you.
Platform: PC, Mac, iOS, Android
Released: 2001
Genre: MMORPG
Developer: Jagex
Choosing Your Next Adventure
Alright, so we’ve toured 11 amazing MMOs that could be your next virtual home. But which one is right for you?
Let’s break it down a bit:
- Craving a familiar feel? ESO and LOTRO might be your best bets, with their classic fantasy settings and familiar MMO tropes.
- Want a story that’ll make you ugly cry? FFXIV is your jam, hands down.
- Need some fast-paced action to get your blood pumping? Lost Ark, Guild Wars 2, and Black Desert Online will have you button-mashing like a pro.
- Ready to build an empire and conquer the world (or at least a virtual one)? New World, Albion Online, and EVE Online are where it’s at.
- Just want to chill and explore a vast world at your own pace? RuneScape is a surprisingly deep and relaxing option.
- Got a thing for lightsabers and the Force? SWTOR is the only MMO that’ll let you live out your Jedi (or Sith) fantasies.
Ultimately, the best MMO for you is the one that clicks with your personal preferences and playstyle. So take some time to explore your options, try out a few free trials, and see which world calls to you the loudest.
