The MMORPG Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning is dead – and it has been for around seven years. Nevertheless, it is very popular today thanks to a private server.
What is Warhammer Online? The MMORPG was based on the dark fantasy world of Warhammer by Games Workshop. It was released in September 2008, but set itself apart from WoW and others by focusing on PvP battles. Guild wars, Realm-vs-Realm fights, and crafting to obtain really good gear were at the center.
The online game was denied success, which is why the doors had to close in December 2013.
A private server takes off
How can fans still play today? On June 14, 2014, the private server “Return of Reckoning” launched. The server is very popular and has been steadily expanded over the years. The developers also continually introduce updates that bring new content, such as increased tier levels in development.
What has happened now? The team behind the private server announced that it needed to increase server capacity. More and more people want to participate, which has led to problems.
Why has the server suddenly become so popular? This is partly due to the fact that more and more YouTubers and Twitch streamers are playing “Return of Reckoning,” bringing Warhammer Online back into the spotlight. Apparently, many find the MMORPG very interesting and therefore want to join in.
On Twitch, the viewer numbers for “Return of Reckoning” even surpassed those of the MMORPGs TERA Online and Vindictus.
Another point contributing to the popularity of the MMORPG is the mature community. Watching the streams shows that it is played seriously and properly. This apparently appeals to a considerable number of MMO fans.
Moreover, fans miss the MMORPG and are glad they can continue playing on the private server. The nostalgia factor also plays a role. Were MMORPGs really “better” in the past? With “Return of Reckoning,” you can find out at Warhammer Online.
You need to be a bit cautious with private servers
What is the problem? “Return of Reckoning” is a private server. This means that, in principle, the rights holders could shut it down at any time. In that case, everything you have achieved would be lost.
Moreover, fans are developing the game in a way they see fit. There is no official further development according to “canon.” There can be quite strange rules regarding participation. Often, not everyone is accepted. You should also be careful with sharing your personal data. Sometimes, the operators require “donations” to keep the servers running.
So pay close attention to the rules of any private server and what you disclose.
How do you get involved? You need to register on the website of ‘Return of Reckoning’, download the client, activate your account, and then you can start playing.
- In addition to Warhammer Online, the also discontinued MMORPG City of Heroes on private servers is also thriving.
- Do you want to play a current MMORPG on official servers? Choose one of these 15 currently best online games.
