Free and paid massively multiplayer online (MMO) role-playing games and virtual worlds are hugely popular. Here’s how to enjoy fantasy, sci-fi, and kids MMOs with the Windows operating system.
Massively multiplayer online games, or MMOs, as insiders know them, are among PC gaming’s best new offerings. Virtual worlds that exist around the clock on the Internet, these sprawling cyberspace universes let as many as several thousand fans connect and play games online simultaneously. Fantasy, sci-fi, superhero, and free kids’ MMOs are just the beginning, allowing distant friends or relatives the world over to chat, interact in real-time, or adventure alongside fellow enthusiasts. Enjoying them is easy, too. Some can be played in your web browser, while others require a copy of the Windows operating system. To play, you’ll need the game (packaged in a box or as a digital download) and a modem or broadband Internet connection.
Introduction
Like single-player games, MMOs can be purchased at retailers nationwide or enjoyed as free downloads. But unlike solo experiences, you're never alone—socialization is one of the core tenets of play.Dealings with fellow players can be limited to conversation and simple item swaps or may be as complex as joining forces with dozens of like-minded heroes to slay an evil wizard or to stop an invading army. Play differs accordingly every time you sign in, giving these titles much more longevity than their solo counterparts.
One needn't control a wizard or a space-age mercenary either: From strategy games to trading-card games and even children’s titles, variety is the spice of virtual life today. Whether you're looking for swashbuckling high-seas excitement, competitive sports simulations, or sci-fi thrills, there are endless choices.
Requirements
Desktop games (free)- Windows: Windows 7, Windows Vista, or Windows XP
- Modem or broadband Internet service
- Credit card or prepaid card (optional)
- Windows 7, Windows Vista, or Windows XP
- Modem or broadband Internet service
- Credit card or prepaid card
- Windows 7, Windows Vista, or Windows XP
- Modem or broadband Internet service
- Internet Explorer
- Credit card or prepaid card (optional)
- Windows 7, Windows Vista, or Windows XP
- Modem or broadband Internet service
- Internet Explorer
- Credit card or prepaid card
Pricing
Some massively multiplayer online games and virtual worlds are completely free to play, although optional payments can be used to gain access to new areas, purchase virtual goods, or enjoy special power-ups and item upgrades.Other popular MMOs require you to pay a monthly subscription fee (often $10–$15). Although they may seem more expensive than stand-alone games, endless replay value and online words that change and evolve—whether you’re signed in or not—often offer more bang for the buck.
Both options have their upsides, with plenty of choices for players across the board.
Best new MMO games
From fantasy games to car games, war games, or superhero-themed outings, today’s virtual worlds offer endless choice.Following are 10 of the top free and 10 of the top subscription-based MMO titles to choose from, although many more await your discovery.
Best free MMOs
- RuneScape
- FreeRealms
- Need for Speed World
- The Lord of the Rings Online
- Wizard 101
- Champions Online
- Heroes in the Sky
- Guild Wars
- Runes of Magic
- Magic: The Gathering – Tactics
- World of Warcraft
- DC Universe Online
- Aion
- EVE Online
- Star Wars: Galaxies
- Test Drive Unlimited 2
- City of Heroes
- EverQuest II
- Star Wars: The Old Republic
- Rift
Hints and tips
- Game worlds are always expanding. Check back regularly for new quests, items, and areas to explore.
- Guilds, corporations, or other in-game player groups are a great way to make new friends. Join one today.
- Excitement and adventure are available anytime. You’re free to sign in day or night.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment. It’s your world—explore and adventure at your own pace.
- If you don’t like combat or diplomacy, try crafting—many games let you create and sell virtual items.
- Never give out personal information online or share details, like birthdays or vacations. You never know who’s watching.
- Parental controls can help you limit those with whom children can interact online.
- If you have questions or concerns, ask game creators. Supervisors are constantly observing the action to make sure things run smoothly.
- Warning: Administrators can’t be everywhere at once or account for everyone’s good behavior. As in real life, some players may lie, steal, or cheat.
Posts
0 comments:
Post a Comment