5 MMORPGs That Are Still Going Strong in 2023

The MMORPG genre has had a long and somewhat tumultuous history. Games have come and gone in this genre, with many dwindling. However, today we will discuss titles that have kept their embers alight and cemented their legacies. These are games of immense scale and beauty, worlds to get lost in. Every entry on this list has a healthy population and player base supporting it. So without further ado, here are our picks for the 5 MMORPGs That Are Still Going Strong in 2023.

5. The Elder Scrolls Online

The Elder Scrolls Online brings the beautiful world of Tamriel to life. Players are able to explore many of the locations mentioned in other Elder Scrolls games. Firstly, this allows players to see every nook and cranny of the world. A world they have only begun to explore in games like Skyrim and Oblivion. The game allows players to choose their starting area, which is great for player agency and allows you to explore where you wish. This is aided by the use of level-scaling in the game, which makes any of the game's wonderful areas accessible to the player.

The future also seems bright for this MMORPG, as it plans to release its next bit of expansion content, which are called chapters, later in 2023. Another reason as to why the game and its community have been performing so well is its approach to skills in the game. The game's skill system allows players to build their character how they want, which is great for player agency. Finally, The Elder Scrolls Online is, without a doubt, one of the strongest MMORPGs that players can experience in 2023.

4. Guild Wars 2

Celebrating the release of its highly-praised expansion, End of Dragons Guild Wars 2 is now flourishing. While it may have taken some time for players to get in on the hype, players are experiencing just how fantastic the game can be. The game, much like The Elder Scrolls Online, features level scaling, making it possible for players to explore where they wish. A unique aspect of the game is its Renown and Heart systems. Players are able to adventure around quest hubs and gain rewards for doing quests in the area. This is a brilliant approach to gameplay.

Secondly, the game has a wonderful community willing to teach new players the ropes. This is fantastic as it helps the starting experience in the game quite a bit. Also, players can enjoy the astounding mount system in the game, which many other MMORPGs have taken inspiration from. All in all, Guild Wars 2 might not have the name recognition of other names on this list. But that is in no way a knock on the game. Guild Wars 2 has plenty of heart as an MMORPG and is one of the best MMORPGs you can experience for yourself in 2023.

3. Runescape

Runescape is a rather unique entry on this list. It exists in a few different iterations, both of which are immensely popular. There is Old School Runescape, which has stood the test of time to be one of the most played MMORPGs of all time. As well as Runescape which takes a more modern approach to its graphical style as well as its system. Both of these experiences are fantastic for those who want to dip their toes in the genre, however.

No matter which experience you prefer, both games offer a ton of fun and an ever-increasing amount of content. Players will be able to live out their virtual lives as they see fit, with many players opting to simply become “skillers” meaning they level the professions in the game and don't focus too much on combat themselves. In contrast, players can certainly engage in the combat in both games if they so choose. Altogether, Runescape allows players a number of experiences that they can choose from and is a great example of what we want from MMORPGs in 2023.

2. World of Warcraft

World of Warcraft has become a cultural icon at this point. Simply put, the game has arguably the highest amount of name recognition on this list. That being said, that isn't without merit either. Players of this wonderful title will tell you about how much adventure there is to have in its many iterations. Players can enjoy the recent content of World of Warcraft Dragonflight, which centers around the Draconic race within the game's lore. If that isn't your cup of tea, there is also Classic World of Warcraft. A rerelease of older content that, for many, has much of the heart and a more rewarding experience overall compared to its retail counterpart.

So no matter what kind of adventure you want to go on, the world of Azeroth will open itself to you. Players can participate in many of the game's classes, as well as its professions, which are things like crafting and gathering. So there is a bit of something here for everyone. So if you haven't jumped into the World of Warcraft yet. Then 2023 is a fantastic time to do so, as it is one of the best experiences in MMORPGs currently.

1. Final Fantasy XIV

Final Fantasy XIV has risen from the ashes of a failed release to become the most popular MMORPG on the market. With its commitment to storytelling, it has allowed players to experience a journey like no other. Players are able to explore the world of Eorzea in a number of ways and have as many adventures of varying types as they would like. It is this versatility that keeps players coming back to the game.

The community for the game is also immense and only grows larger by the day. With the massive success of its most recent expansion Endwlaker, the game shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon. With much more planned in the future for the game, it would seem that this is a game that will be supported for quite some time. This is wonderful as it allows the game to grow with the player. To close, Final Fantasy XIV is to many, a must-play MMORPG and one of the best MMORPGs in 2023.

So, what's your take on our picks for the 5 MMORPGs That Are Still Going Strong in 2023? Let us know over on our socials here or down in the comments below.