It’s probably going to be a while before we get to play Blue Protocol worldwide. Likewise, we know Square Enix is probably working on a new Final Fantasy XIV expansion, though there’s no release date for it yet. So, while we wait for new announcements, let’s think about all of the existing MMORPGs available in 2023 and consider ones that might be the best options for certain sorts of players. Also, please feel free to recommend additional ones you think people might enjoy that we didn’t bring up.
Best MMORPG in 2023 that requires a subscription: Final Fantasy XIV
Final Fantasy XIV is an extraordinary game with an incredible story, majestic music, lots of content no matter how experienced you are, and a game that you could honestly play alone if you can’t find a group. It’s just an incredible experience. However, you will need to first pay for the game, then pay between $12.99 and $14.99 per month depending on the plan you go with. You can play it on your PS4, PS5, or PC worldwide.
Best MMORPG in 2023 that is free-to-play: Phantasy Star Online 2: New Genesis
Given our focus here at Siliconera is games made outside of Japan, we’re going to go ahead and recommend Phantasy Star Online 2: New Genesis as a free MMORPG to try. It’s a lot of fun, there are regular updates expanding the world and array of available classes, and it won’t cost you anything to give it a chance. It’s available on the PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and PC.
Best MMORPG in 2023 with action-RPG elements: Lost Ark
Lost Ark is a bit unusual, in that it’s an action-RPG. It’s got tons of amazing raids available, as well as a lot of content to challenge players. For example, Brelshaza Hard Mode is now available and should really make people think. It’s free-to-play and on PCs.
Best MMORPG in 2023 that’s actually a 2D beat’em up: Dungeon Fighter Online
There are a lot of MMORPGs out there that can be pretty atypical, and Dungeon Fighter Online is one of them. It’s a 2D game with beat’em up elements and lots of different classes with sub-class specializations. Plus, if you got into DNF Duel, you’ll already recognize some of the characters. It’s free-to-play on PCs.
Best MMORPG in 2023 if you want to get really into crafting: Black Desert
Black Desert has the typical MMORPG elements you’d expect. You can go around the world and fight enemies. You can take part in PvP and face other players. But it’s also unique in that you can become lords of an area and control land, take on various professions, get various materials from Nodes, and hire NPCs to act as your workers who can gradually get better at making things for you. It’s on the PS4, Xbox One, and PC, and it requires you to buy it to play. There’s no monthly subscription, however. You can also find Black Desert Mobile on Android and Apple iOS devices.
