Place 3 – MapleStory
Setting: Fantasy | Developer: Nexon | Platform: PC, Mobile | Release Date: April 29, 2003 | Model: Free2Play
What is known about the total number of players? The 2D MMORPG from 2003 is said to have attracted over 260 million players worldwide according to the official product page on Steam. In a financial report for Q2 2023 (via pdf.irpocket.com), Neople also states that the brand has generated 4 billion USD in revenue to date.
One of the trailers for MapleStory:
What kind of game is this? MapleStory attracts with its cute 2D pixel anime style. But looks can be deceiving: behind the seemingly cute game lies a complex MMORPG. The MMORPG from South Korea was released back in 2003 but only arrived on Steam in 2012. However, over the years, fans claim that the game has changed.
Although the title is played by many players, it currently struggles with mixed reviews on Steam. Many players complain that it is too Pay2Win. For example, the spawn rate of monsters depends on whether a player has invested money in the MMORPG.
Who is this game worthwhile for? For genre fans who appreciate the pixel-anime look, enjoy complex class systems, and don’t immediately get an allergic reaction to traces of Pay2Win. If you’re looking for better-rated alternatives, check here: The 10 MMORPGs on Steam with the best ratings
