MMORPGs are available in different graphic and gameplay styles, but also with different payment models. In this list, we present four online role-playing games that you only have to pay for once and can then play for as long as you want.
About the List: On the following pages, we have selected four recommended MMORPGs that require a one-time payment to play. These are known as Buy2Play games.
Some of the selected MMOs offer additional content in the form of DLCs or expansions that cost extra money. Nevertheless, they belong to the list because they do not charge monthly fees, and the original content would also be playable without expansions.
The list was created based on personal experiences, and the order is randomly chosen. If you know of any other good Buy2Play MMORPGs, feel free to write them in the comments.
Elder Scrolls Online
Type: Theme park | Developer: Zenimax Online | Platform: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Stadia | Release Date: April 4, 2014 | Model: Buy2Play
What is Elder Scrolls Online? The Elder Scrolls Online is a theme park MMORPG from ZeniMax and takes place in the world of Tamriel, about 1,000 years before Skyrim.
You can experience the story of the MMO with other players or complete it entirely alone. Thanks to a special phasing technology, the world changes dynamically for you, but for other players around you, it may remain the same.
During character creation, you have the choice of numerous races and classes. The system is complemented by skill lines that expand your character’s repertoire.
What is the unique selling point? In ESO, the entire world scales with you, so you can play and have fun anywhere. This is especially enjoyable when playing with friends.
Another highlight is the story of the game world, which now also takes you to many areas from the single-player games. The Necrom expansion brought a new class and two new areas to the game last year. The recent chapter Gold Road was released in June 2024, featuring a scriptural system, a new 12-player trial, and more.
You can also play ESO on Xbox or PlayStation. There is currently no option for crossplay.
Who is ESO aimed at? Elder Scrolls Online is a must for fans of the series. If you enjoyed Morrowind, Oblivion, or Skyrim, you should definitely take a look at the MMORPG as well.
However, ESO is also a real recommendation for players who enjoy exploring the world alone and like an exciting story. PvP is often highlighted, where three factions fight against each other. However, you are safe from other players in the open world.
What content requires real money? The new addon Gold Road costs 40 euros in the standard version, but also includes the base game and the Morrowind chapter. To get the full package with the expansions Summerset, Elsweyr, Greymoor, Blackwood, High Isle, and Necrom, you need to invest 60 euros in the Deluxe Edition.
In addition, there are story and dungeon DLCs that you can purchase for real money in the Crown store. Alternatively, you can subscribe to the optional “ESO Plus” subscription for ten to 13 euros, which gives you access to all DLCs and additional bonuses.
Additionally, the Crown store offers clothing sets, mount skins, and other cosmetic content for real money.
What does the future of ESO look like? Elder Scrolls Online is currently doing very well. It is one of the most popular MMORPGs in the West and regularly releases new updates. The game continues to be optimized to eliminate technical flaws. The chief says: Hardly anyone talks about his MMORPG, but it is extremely successful
