Rank 2: Star Wars: The Old Republic
Bioware’s (now) Free2Play MMORPG Star Wars: The Old Republic offers a theme-park gameplay experience similar to World of Warcraft. This means the MMO focuses on quests and storytelling, rather than being a sandbox. Players follow mostly linear quests to level up, acquire gear, and improve their abilities.
SWTOR sets you not in a fantasy world like World of Warcraft, but in the Star Wars universe. However, it takes place about three and a half thousand years prior to the stories told in the films. The Galactic Republic is at war with the Sith Empire, and you decide which side you want to be on. Depending on which class you choose, you experience a personal story that spans many hours of gameplay. A Jedi Knight experiences a different story than a Bounty Hunter or a Sith Inquisitor.
Another interesting aspect is that you can essentially experience this story alone. However, SWTOR offers many group activities such as raids or PvP battles. Several expansions have significantly expanded the story, and the adventures are far from over.
Note: The Free2Play system should be seen more as a trial demo. You can’t avoid paying; this shouldn’t be a problem for WoW players.
Conclusion: The Star Wars setting provides a good change from the fantasy worlds of many MMORPGs. In addition, there are the exciting stories for which the developer studio Bioware has been well known for a long time. If you need a break from common fantasy, you will find a new home in SWTOR.
