Now that it is 2011, it’s time to update the top ten free MMORPG list. This list is based on the top ten free MMORPGs that you should look into playing now in terms of graphics, gameplay both PvE and PvP, sound, quests, features and community. This list is not inclusive of all of the best free to play MMORPGs as there are more than a few that just missed the cut. There are also plenty more free to play games to choose from on our website. Feel free to comment on the top ten list if you feel your game was snubbed and it may make a top ten update in the future!
1. Lord of the Rings Online
Lord of the Rings Online made the jump to free to play last year and now beats out the competition as it features some of the best PvE content of any MMORPG free or pay. The quest arcs and storylines in LOTRO immerse you in the world of Middle Earth as you feel like you are part of the lore of the books. The world is huge, familiar, and beautiful though the graphics are a little outdated. The PvP content is lacking for free players though there is more PvP content for paid subscribers.
2. Runes of Magic
As one of the first games to coin the term “WoW clone” it has come into its own as a MMORPG. While it takes some similarities from WoW it features a dual class system that has many interesting combinations for the player. You will never run out of quests and the PvP is pretty decent as well. Runes of Magic regularly updates content and now has one of the larger communities in the free to play market.
3. Perfect World
Perfect World has one of the most diverse character customization of any MMORPG paid or free. Unless you take a default option you won’t find another player that looks exactly like you. This is coupled with a gorgeous game that also has flying and pets. The quests are ok and this game does have some grinding but it also has many great PvP options like territory wars.
4. Dungeons and Dragons Online
Dungeons and Dragons Online made a huge splash when it decided to go free to play after spending years as a subscription game. DDO features instanced combat and the familiar types of classes and spells that pen and paper Dungeons and Dragons fans will recognize. The quality and attention to detail in the game are really good as well.
5. Vindictus
Vindictus is an intense action MMORPG. While it only currently has 3 playable characters, the graphics in this game are very dark and realistic. The controls are totally different than other MMORPGs as you have to manually swing your weapon, cast skills, and even dodge or block incoming attacks. The environment is interactive as you can pick up and throw objects or smash barrels.
6. Atlantica Online
Atlantica Online is unique in the world of MMORPGs as it plays closest to the traditional RPG. This game is turn based and you command a squad of characters, not just one. This allows you to upgrade and customize multiple characters and play like a regular RPG as you level up your group. It also even has group quests where you can team up with 2 other players to have larger battles against enemies. You can also PvP your squad against another player’s squad to see which team is better.
7. Aika
Aika was built for PvP and it shows. It has great graphics and does have decent questing and PvE content to level up, but the game focuses on solo, squad, and guild PvP. It also features realm vs. realm combat which can be up to 1000 vs. 1000 players.
8. Allods Online
Allods Online could be considered another “WoW clone” but it is very well polished as an MMORPG. The customization is pretty good and there is a huge amount of quests in game so that you won’t ever run out. You will join either the League or the Empire and fight against the other alliance in both PvE and PvP combat.
9. Jade Dynasty
Jade Dynasty has a traditional Chinese look to it and more martial arts type weapons. It has many features that make things easy for the players like pets, auto-navigation to quests, and even its own botting system. This helps as the quests can have a good deal of grinding. JD also has pretty good PvP as well.
10. Everquest 2
Everquest 2 also made the jump from pay to free to play. Fans of the original Everquest as well as new players can take a look into the world of Norrath. This game plays like an updated Everquest and has a great questing system. It has many classes and races that are unfortunately locked at the beginning for free players.
Updated by vip 1/3/11
(4.18 out of 5)
John Doe