Let me just start by saying Runescape is still going strong thanks to die-hard fans. Since everyone knows this, we’re going to skip it on our list. It’s the obvious choice so we needn’t waste time on it. Now, that said, you probably have considered most of these games, but hopefully you’ll find a couple that you want to research even more. Let the raiding, spawn killing, and exploring commence!
Elder Scrolls Online
You’ve heard time and time again that Elder Scrolls Online is a hollow shell of what Skyrim is, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t a good MMO in its own right. Released in 2014, ESO has become increasingly popular. The game is unique and should be treated as such. Your character will be special, unique to you, and you can explore the whole world from the beginning of the game. If you’re looking for another MMO, don’t count ESO out just because it isn’t Skyrim. Skyrim wasn’t even an MMO anyway!
Dungeons and Dragons Online
The other obvious choice here is DDO. However, it is not the huge, open world that ESO is. In fact, the world is pretty small. Even with DLCs (or sister Neverwinter) the world is smaller than most MMOs. But, that said, it is one of the best MMOs to play with friends. Dungeoning with friends is so much better than playing alone!
Red Dead Online
A relatively new option, RDO puts that cowboy spin on the classic MMO. The best thing about RDO is that it’s always improving. Not long ago, it was still considered a beta, even for purchasers. While you can play matchmaking online or story mode offline, the open-world aspect of the game is still a solid choice.
No Man’s Sky
Want the biggest open-world to ever exist? Then give No Man’s Sky a try! This is the best time to do so as well because in August a HUGE update was just released. While the update has a lot in it, the most groundbreaking is the VR compatibility added. Always wanted to fly millions of light years of months and months of gameplay? Then this is your game.
Rust
Rust is one of the best MMO survival games that you’ll ever play, with ARK close behind. In Rust, you can choose to play on a PvE or PvP server. The world here isn’t as big as No Man’s Sky’s automated world but it’s bigger than most MMOs. Go on raids, shoot everyone in sight, or simply live a domestic life of gardening in this versatile Fallout-esque game.
Black Desert Online
Black Desert Online isn’t the most popular choice, but it is a unique one. The game is sandbox-focused, meaning this is your world. What really draws people in though is the graphics. The anime-style world is for Final Fantasy and Kingdom Hearts fans who want to get into the MMO field.
TERA
Now TERA is a popular game. The biggest downfall though is that you have to play…to play. Meaning, the grind is real. It takes hours to really progress and friends to really enjoy the game to its fullest. The game is often compared to Sword Art Online and if you have the time, it can be well worth the investment.
Rift
Rift is about as close to WoW as you’re going to get. There are even two factions like Ally and Horde. It has rarely been called a better game than World of Warcraft due to it being so similar yet not progressive. However, if you’re tired of WoW’s world, this is your next best bet.
Guild Wars 2
One of the only games that had a sequel that was incredibly better than the first game. The world is gorgeous and the game wants you to explore to your heart’s content. Which will take ages! Many argue that the game is pay-to-win but there’s nothing you can buy that will actually make the game better for you, just easier. Looking for your next MMO? GW2 should be a contender.
Warframe
If you want a simple looter shooter, then Warframe is your guy. The third-person shooter will give you everything you’re looking for. From weapon choices to new challenges, Warframe will take years to get old and by then, they’ll probably have new expansions! Until then, enjoy the perks of this free-to-play game done right.