Plarium Blog Gaming's Best 11 Best Free MMORPG Games To Play in 2025
Characters and scenes from some of the best MMORPG games.

Massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) titles are highly immersive experiences that thrive on a live-service model. With each passing update, the game feels richer and more massive. Usually, the game engine supports a server that can be the home to multiple players at the same time, providing a seamless experience.

Choosing the best free MMORPG games is no easy task — that’s why we’ve created a list of titles that vary in genre, theme, and gameplay mechanics. Based on your preference, you’re sure to find a game worthy of your time.

The 11 Best MMORPG Games

1. RAID: Shadow Legends

RAID: Shadow Legends game in action.
Genre:RPG
Release Date:July 29, 2018
Platforms:iOS, Android, Windows
Gameplay features:Massive collection of champions, strategic turn-based combat, class-based
DeveloperPlarium
Payment modelFree to play with in-app purchases
Rating4.5 stars on Google Play
Best forGamers looking for a large collection of heroes and frequent updates

RAID: Shadow Legends combines polished graphics with deep hero collection mechanics that make for memorable experiences. Its variety of both player versus environment (PvE) and player versus player (PvP) modes keeps things fresh and interesting.

Thanks to mechanics like Masteries and Blessings, the game’s turn-based combat optimizes strategy and class-based gameplay. The game’s active community fosters an interactive and welcoming experience for new and experienced players alike.

89,998,207 RAID PLAYERS GLOBALLY. JOIN THEM!

2. Final Fantasy XIV

Final Fantasy XIV game in action.
Genre:MMORPG
Release Date:September 30, 2010
Platforms:Windows, macOS, PlayStation
Gameplay features:Story-driven quests, a massive open world to explore, multiple jobs (roles) for characters to master
DeveloperSquare Enix
Payment modelFree trial based on a subscription model
Rating86/100 on Metacritic
Best forFans of MMORPGs looking for a diverse community and class-based gameplay

Final Fantasy XIV is one of the best MMORPGs on PS5. A testament to the series’ vibrant world-building, this game functions on a class system that adds a realistic touch to its gameplay. It’s a mix of flexible gameplay (thanks to class-driven characters) and narrative depth that rivals some of the bigger RPGs in the series.

It’s a massively multiplayer online (MMO) experience that thrives on dynamic events players mutually experience within a fantastical setting. The game’s art direction alone makes it worth playing.

3. Guild Wars 2

Guild Wars 2 game in action.
Genre:MMORPG
Release Date:August 28, 2012
Platforms:Windows
Gameplay features:Dynamic in-game events, character classes, mix of PvE and PvP, world bosses
DeveloperArenaNet
Payment modelFree to play with purchasable expansion packs
Rating90/100 on Metacritic
Best forGamers who enjoy immersive open-world exploration with player-driven events and cooperative experiences, those who want to test the genre

Welcoming to newcomers and filled with dynamic content, Guild Wars 2 feels like a handcrafted experience that feels unique to each player, thanks to its character-driven gameplay. For instance, fans of ranged weapons can play as a Thief.

Within that role, Deadeyes specializes in sniping as if you’re playing a massively multiplayer online first-person shooter (MMOFPS). Just like that, there are endless specializations and stories to play through, making Guild Wars 2 an easy choice for those stepping into the genre for the first time.

4. World of Warcraft

World of Warcraft game in action.
Genre:MMORPG
Release Date:November 23, 2004
Platforms:Windows, macOS
Gameplay features:Several realms to explore, multiple races/classes to play as, a mix of PvE and PvP content, massive expansions
DeveloperBlizzard Entertainment
Payment modelFree to play with a subscription model, purchasable expansion packs
Rating93/100 on Metacritic
Best forGamers who enjoy deep lore, world-building, and continuous updates

One of the most recognizable games of all time, World of Warcraft offers an expansive universe for players to explore. Whether you’re playing alone or with a group, you’ll often be defending the same objectives, like a real-time strategy (RTS). Or, embark on quests at your own pace.

Even after all these years, it’s still one of the best MMORPGs, thriving on epic battles and rich lore. Seasonal updates introduce new storylines and things to unlock, keeping players engaged for years without the gameplay loop feeling monotonous.

5. Lost Ark

Lost Ark game in action.
Genre:MMORPG, action
Release Date:December 9, 2019
Platforms:Windows
Gameplay features:Customizable skills, huge focus on combat effects, over 20 character classes, a mix of PvE and PvP content
DeveloperTripod Studio, Smilegate RPG
Payment modelFree to play with in-game purchases
Rating81/100 on Metacritic
Best forGamers who enjoy combat elements with polished visuals

Lost Ark is one of those MMOs that blends action RPG elements within a dynamic and vibrant world. It pushes you to explore tranquil moments (like fishing) and be part of epic raids and battles. The intricate class-based mechanics add to the game’s fluid combat system. 

It’s also one of the best crossplay games since it features multi-platform functionality. This opens up the possibility for new social encounters while keeping traditional MMORPG aspects intact.

6. Star Wars: The Old Republic

Star Wars: The Old Republic game in action.
Genre:MMORPG
Release Date:December 20, 2011
Platforms:Windows
Gameplay features:Story-driven RPG elements, different factions to choose from, several story expansions
DeveloperBioWare Austin
Payment modelFree to play with a subscription model
Rating85/100 on Metacritic
Best forStar Wars fans looking for an immersive storytelling experience within an MMORPG setting

Celebrated for its cinematic storytelling and ability to draw new players in, Star Wars: The Old Republic offers a blend of mechanics that keep its gameplay fresh. From epic lightsaber duels to being part of large space battles, there’s a lot to dive into here.

With the addition of frequent story expansions, the game has always managed to feel like a new MMORPG. And thanks to its sci-fi elements, it’s one of the best medieval games set in a fantasy realm in a galaxy far, far away.

7. Black Desert Online

Black Desert Online game in action.
Genre:MMORPG
Release Date:March 3, 2016
Platforms:iOS, Android, Windows, PlayStation, Xbox
Gameplay features:Fast-paced combat, highly customizable characters, dynamic open world
DeveloperPearl Abyss
Payment modelFree to play in certain regions (Korea, Japan, and Russia), $9.99 for the rest of the world
Rating73/100 on Metacritic
Best forFans of MMORPGs who enjoy fast-paced battles and high-quality visuals

Setting itself apart with its breathtaking visuals and dynamic combat system, Black Desert Online is an action-packed journey where players choose their own path thanks to its life-skills system. There’s also the Shadow Arena mode, which allows players to experience battle royale, keeping the game a mixed bag of different game mechanics. 

While there’s a version available on Google Play, the game’s PC and console version takes things up a notch by delivering a seamless experience that sets a new benchmark for games in this genre.

8. Albion Online

Albion Online game in action.
Genre:MMORPG
Release Date:July 17, 2017
Platforms:iOS, Android, macOS, Windows
Gameplay features:Combat system that focuses on gear and builds, loot-based mechanics, large-scale battles
DeveloperSandbox Interactive
Payment modelFree to play with in-game purchases
Rating77/100 on Metacritic
Best forGamers who enjoy a sandbox-style MMO with crafting systems

Albion Online is a vibrant player-driven world where every gear (sword, helmet, and even a loaf of bread!) is crafted by real players. Thanks to its use of a reliable and strong game engine (Unity), it’s one of the best MMORPG titles for PCs at the moment. This results in a loot system that feels seamless while adding tension to the excitement of going against other players. 

Things take a turn when the game’s guild scene and massive faction wars become part of the gameplay loop. It’s an intense MMO experience where the player’s role feels increasingly important.

9. Neverwinter

Neverwinter game in action.
Genre:MMORPG
Release Date:June 20, 2013
Platforms:Windows, Xbox, PlayStation
Gameplay features:Dungeons & Dragons backdrop, fast-paced combat, voice-acted NPCs, co-op and PvE elements
DeveloperCryptic Studios
Payment modelFree to play with in-game purchases
Rating74/100 on Metacritic
Best forFans of Dungeons & Dragons who enjoy co-op exploration within an MMORPG setting

Neverwinter captures the magic and depth of Dungeons & Dragons by blending iconic lore within an MMO setting. The game’s episodic campaigns offer a rich storytelling experience curated for fans of the fantasy genre.

Its guild-based activity has city-building elements where you’ll work with others to achieve a common goal. Teaming up with other players and exploring dungeons keeps the novelty alive, keeping you engaged for hours on end. For fans of Dungeons & Dragons, it’s easily one of the most popular MMORPGs in 2025.

10. Tower of Fantasy

Tower of Fantasy game in action.
Genre:MMORPG, open world
Release Date:August 11, 2022
Platforms:iOS, Android, Windows
Gameplay features:Large open world to explore, dynamic battles with weapon swapping, customizable characters
DeveloperHotta Studio
Payment modelFree to play with in-game purchases
Rating70/100 on Metacritic
Best forFans of games with vibrant open worlds, gacha systems, and dynamic combat systems

Tower of Fantasy thrives on a shared open world with dynamic combat and a fresh take on the genre. It supports exploration within a sci-fi setting and polished graphics where players can dive into an intricate narrative to freely explore the world at their own pace.

Thanks to its relaxed nature of exploration, you can roam freely and play the game anytime you’re bored, without having an incentive in mind. The free-to-play experience is quite rewarding, with plenty of stories to discover.  

11. RuneScape

RuneScape game in action.
Genre:MMORPG, open world
Release Date:January 4, 2011
Platforms:iOS, Android, macOS, Windows
Gameplay features:Skill-based progression system, diverse combat options, large world to explore, puzzle-solving
DeveloperJagex
Payment modelFree to play with a subscription model
Rating81/100 on Metacritic
Best forPlayers looking for an MMO with skill-based progression and a highly detailed world

RuneScape is one of the longest-running MMORPGs, offering the perfect blend of novelty and nostalgia. It’s the best PvE and PvP experience you can have that lets you craft a unique playstyle as you explore its world however you wish.

It’s also one of the best free-to-play games, making it a perfect MMORPG for newcomers who want to try the genre for the first time. Its lighthearted narrative with humor and drama never fails to draw players in, letting them explore a world that has remained charming even after all these years.

With so much variety, the most popular MMORPGs draw players into a vibrant world that’s meant to be explored with others who share a similar goal. Here’s a glance at which one could be the ideal pick for you.

GameBest forPlatforms
RAID: Shadow LegendsGamers looking for a large collection of heroes and frequent updatesiOS, Android, Windows
Final Fantasy XIVFans of MMORPGs looking for a diverse community and class-based gameplayWindows, macOS, PlayStation
Guild Wars 2Gamers who enjoy immersive open-world exploration with player-driven events and cooperative experiencesWindows
World of WarcraftGamers who enjoy deep lore, world-building, and continuous updatesWindows, macOS
Lost ArkGamers who enjoy combat elements with polished visualsWindows
Star Wars: The Old RepublicStar Wars fans looking for an immersive storytelling experience within an MMORPG settingWindows
Black Desert OnlineFans of MMORPGs who enjoy fast-paced battles and high-quality visualsiOS, Android, Windows, PlayStation, Xbox
Albion OnlineGamers who enjoy a sandbox-style MMO with crafting systemsiOS, Android, macOS, Windows
NeverwinterFans of Dungeons & Dragons who enjoy co-op exploration within an MMORPG settingWindows, Xbox, PlayStation
Tower of FantasyFans of games with vibrant open worlds, gacha systems, and dynamic combat systemsiOS, Android, Windows

How To Choose a MMORPG Game

Whether it’s an MMO or MMORPG, choosing the right one for you can be a time-consuming process. To make things easier, give some thought to these aspects of the game:

  • Combat system: The combat system in an MMORPG can either be slow, click-based (tab-targeting), or more reliant on parry/blocking and dodging. These are all enjoyable but highly based on the kind of gameplay you prefer.
  • World-building and exploration depth: Most MMORPGs are filled with vibrant and vast worlds to explore, but some are more lore-driven, while others are based on social and dynamic events. Keep this in mind when evaluating a game’s world. 
  • Character customization options: Do you want to pick a character to play as or design someone from scratch? The storylines and combat can feel different based on your preference.
  • Player interaction: Certain games are quite solo-friendly and can be explored by yourself or with the help of others. On the contrary, some MMORPGs persuade you to fight other factions (PvP scenarios) or take part in world events where you need to work with others (such as raids and dungeons). Consider your preference when evaluating games to play.
  • End game content and progression systems: MMORPGs are designed to be played for years. This means each game has a progression system that takes time and practice to get used to. Go into a game with a character class/race in mind, and play multiple characters if the game allows.

Find Your Perfect MMORPG Experience

Choosing the best MMORPG title ultimately comes down to your preferences and what you’re looking for in a game. 

Based on your playstyle, there are many universes to explore, filled with endless possibilities and discoveries. Start with one of the free MMORPGs on this list and enjoy hours (or years!) of exciting gameplay.

FAQ

What Is the #1 MMO Right Now?

Final Fantasy XIV and World of Warcraft are the largest and most popular MMOs right now. They are continuously updated with rich stories and offer players the opportunity to journey through massive realms full of things and quests to be unlocked.

What Makes MMORPGs Different From Other Types of Online Games?

MMORPGs are built to host thousands (or millions) of players in shared worlds. Unlike MMORTS games, MMORPGs offer multiple gameplay mechanics to keep players engaged for years.

Are MMORPGs Free To Play or Do They Require a Subscription?

While most MMORPGs are free to dive into, they may require either a monthly subscription fee or purchasable expansions. These additions ensure players have access to all the content available for the game and don’t miss out on promising gameplay and story elements.

How Do I Get Started in an MMORPG If I’m a Beginner?

To get started with an MMORPG, choose a game that caters to your preferred gameplay, themes, world-building, and other elements. Also keep in mind that many free MMORPG games require premium expansions, monthly subscriptions, or in-game purchases for more content. Pick a game that’s fit for your budget.

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