Rank 5: ArcheAge Chronicles
Developer: XL Games | Platform: PC, consoles | Release period: Q4 2026 | Model: Unclear | Votes in the MeinMMO poll: 118
ArcheAge was never huge here in the West, but it did have a respectable fan base that had enormous fun with the sandbox and PvP focus. With the successor, XL Games now wants to target a different, larger audience. The focus of ArcheAge Chronicles is therefore on PvE content for small groups, exploration of the game world, and an exciting story experience – so promise the developers.
Important pillars such as trading, crafting, housing, and trade voyages will return, but in an adapted form to ensure high accessibility and to support the new focus. Housing is expected to have its own storyline and a progression system, for example.
I personally look forward to this new approach. Much of what the developers wrote to me in August 2025 in response to my numerous questions sounds really good. For example, the plans for the significantly more action-oriented combat system.
However, I am skeptical about the fact that the global release is already scheduled for Q4 2026, but XL Games has only published impressions from the game in homeopathic doses so far. A playtest that was supposedly planned for the last Steam Fest did not take place for unknown reasons. Extensive beta testing needs to happen now to steer the launch of the MMORPG in the right direction.
There are thus question marks and many unknowns. It would not surprise me if yet another delay is added to the various delays of the past… however, if that ultimately leads to a better MMO experience, I could live with it. Speaking of sensible delays…
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