Vindictus
Setting: Fantasy | Developer: Nexon | Platforms: PC | Release: January 21, 2010 | Model: Free2Play
What makes the combat system so good? Vindictus can be most closely compared to Black Desert in its combat system. The animations are powerful and grand, though not as overloaded with effects as in Black Desert.
Without the huge effects or the commitment to long animations, fighting feels overall a bit smoother. Generally, the dynamics in battles are good, and you must constantly pay attention to dodging enemy attacks.
Criticism is directed at the “credibility” of the attacks. There are often odd physics interactions, like when enemies are thrown back several meters by explosions or attacks. This can be fun, but it doesn’t appeal to everyone.
In Vindictus, you have the choice of numerous different characters to control in battle. However, it is one of the MMORPGs that completely forgo the holy trinity.
This video from YouTuber Draknalor186 provides insight into the combat system:
What does the game offer besides combat? Vindictus is a hub-based MMORPG. This means you only meet other players in cities, while outside, you embark on your adventure alone or in groups, similar to Guild Wars 1.
You can expect various dungeons and later raids that you revisit repeatedly to upgrade your equipment. The endgame in Vindictus is also focused on fashion.
Who is Vindictus worth it for? If you enjoy fast-paced and action-heavy fights in an Asian setting, enjoy completing dungeons and raids, and also focus on fashion in the endgame, you should give Vindictus a chance.
However, it is not a classic MMORPG with an open world and side activities like fishing or housing. Additionally, in the endgame, equipment can be destroyed during upgrades, which does not appeal to many players.
Honorable Mentions
In addition to the titles mentioned, there are also several MMORPGs that have an excellent combat system but did not make it into the top 7.
Alexander’s personal favorite is the combat system of Guild Wars 2 because it relies on powerful abilities as well as skillful dodging. However, Guild Wars 2 continues to use tab-targeting because you can easily switch between enemies and guarantee your abilities hit.
The combat system gets really good when you activate the so-called action cam. Then you actually have to aim.
A similarly action-heavy combat system is found in Blade & Soul. The battles there mainly focus on combos and beautiful animations in “martial arts” style. In terms of impact, they are somewhere in between New World and ESO.
Which of the action MMORPGs mentioned do you think has the best combat system? Or do you have another favorite that wasn’t mentioned here? Feel free to leave it in the comments. The overall best MMOs and MMORPGs of 2024 have been presented here: The 15 currently best MMOs and MMORPGs of 2024
