Rank 4: Star Trek Online
Developer: Cryptic Studios | Platform: PC, PlayStation, Xbox | Release Date: February 2 or 5, 2010 | Payment Model: Free2Play | Status: Still active
What do I need to know about the license? In the 1960s, audiences were first taken into the infinite reaches of space aboard the starship Enterprise. Numerous subsequent series and 13 movies followed, along with comics, novels, video games (far too few), and much more. Despite the similar name, the Star Trek universe is quite distinct from its counterpart, Star Wars – and regardless of opposing claims, both franchises can be celebrated equally.
What do I need to know about the game? Star Trek Online is an unusual MMORPG. Here, you don’t control a hero, but an entire spaceship, along with its crew. You can create not only a Starfleet cadet but also an officer in the Klingon Empire, a Jem’Hadar soldier, or a Romulan, each following different story arcs.
The main storyline of STO leads you to the 25th century, about 30 years after the events of Star Trek: Nemesis. Alternatively, you can also travel from the original series time or the Star Trek Discovery era to the year 2409 through time travel.
Since you experience an alternate timeline in the MMORPG, the developers enjoy a degree of freedom in their stories. Still, Star Trek Online lives strongly from its license. You gain access to well-known starship types, meet iconic characters from the universe, and face renowned antagonists like the Borg.
Frequently, the developers deliver well-written story campaigns that reference series or film content, and the respective actors lend their voices to their characters. In the current season, for example, Hugh, the leader of the Cooperative Borg, and Seven of Nine fight alongside you. For Star Trek fans, this is a must, despite some gameplay weaknesses. And this is also because it can be played wonderfully solo if desired.
