Runescape
Release: January 4, 2001 | Platform: PC, macOS, Android, iOS | Setting: Fantasy | Developer, Publisher: Jagex | Here’s the official website of Runescape
The once Free2Play browser MMORPG Runescape has never been able to impress with its graphics, but it has managed to establish itself as one of the largest MMORPGs to this day through good and diverse content.
In the years since its release, various versions of RuneScape have been released:
- RuneScape Classic, which continued the original RuneScape but was closed in 2018
- RuneScape 2 with 3D graphics
- RuneScape 3, which ultimately replaced RuneScape 2 in 2013
- Old School RuneScape, which allows players to return to the origins, essentially the “Classic Servers”
- DarkScape, a RuneScape focused on PvP, which was only active from 2015 to 2016 – interest was lacking here
- a mobile version of RuneScape
Those who want to feel like in the good old days can today experience a similar experience in Old School RuneScape. Here, players decide about the changes in the game. This also leads to funny results like sounds that are way too loud.
Meridian 59
Release: December 15, 1996 | Platform: PC | Setting: Fantasy | Developer, Publisher: Open Source | Here’s the official website of Meridian 59
Meridian 59 is probably the most atypical representative of the genre on our list. This MMORPG was the first successful MMORPG with 3D graphics. Before that, this type of game did not use 3D graphics. Despite the 3D graphics, many elements of the MMORPG were played through the text console at the bottom of the screen. Objects like characters and enemies were still in 2D, making the game not very similar to WoW and newer representatives.
The focus of the MMORPG was primarily on PvP duels. Upon death, players were heavily punished, losing items and having their maximum health points reduced.
The game is still playable today and even available on Steam, but has not significantly evolved since its release. The source code is open-source and even almost 30 years after its launch, the first 3D MMORPG still has a small player base.
Final Fantasy 11
Release: May 16, 2002 | Platform: PC, PlayStation 2, Xbox 360 | Setting: Fantasy | Developer, Publisher: Square Enix | Here’s the official website of Final Fantasy XI
Final Fantasy 11 was very interesting for players back then on several levels. On the one hand, it was the first major MMORPG from Japan, bringing many new ideas that had not been seen before. On the other hand, the MMORPG could be played on the PS2 and Xbox360.
Final Fantasy 11 is still playable today, but it does not offer nearly the convenience that newer MMORPGs provide. The game would today be considered complex and difficult. You can expect challenging raids, PvP events, and especially group content.
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