Get started with massively multiplayer gaming
Connect and compete with thousands of real live players online
Once upon a time, getting a bunch of friends together around the living room PC and passing its keyboard was considered state-of-the-art multiplayer entertainment. But today's leading Windows Vista games instead offer sprawling worlds of wonder which can be explored by thousands of players simultaneously.
These massively multiplayer online (MMO) universes – virtual realms that exist 24/7 on the Internet – are now almost as common as high-octane racers and finger-cramping sci-fi shooters. What's more, all offer players around the globe plentiful opportunity to chat, interact in real-time and adventure alongside enthusiasts just like themselves.
With a copy of the game you want to play and a modem or broadband connection, anyone can jump right in. A few important points you'll need to know, however, to begin:
Thousands can join in on your online adventures.
On This Page
Introduction
Like single-player games, MMOs can be purchased at retailers nationwide or downloaded directly from the manufacturer. But unlike solo experiences, you're never alone – socialization is one of the core tenets of play.
Dealings with fellow players may be limited to conversation and simple item swaps. Or they can be as complex as banding together with dozens of like-minded heroes to slay an evil wizard, invade a hostile military base, or blow a giant spaceship out of the sky. Play differs accordingly every time you login, granting these titles much more longevity than their solo-specific counterparts.
One needn't control a mighty legionnaire or legendary scoundrel either: Thanks to growing interest in the category by a wider range of fans than ever, variety is the spice of virtual life today. Furthermore, every individual has a unique part to play in each tale's outcome. Offerings such as Audition, Second Life and Club Penguin, for example, let those who'd prefer a more offbeat role double as dancers, virtual land barons, and even cuddly waterfowl.
Bored with reality? Try living a Second Life.
Selection isn't an issue either. MMOs come in every imaginable flavor and cover an astounding range of topics. Whether you're looking for swashbuckling excitement, leisurely sports simulations or sci-fi thrills, rest assured there's an outing that fits the bill.
Bottom line: These games make players the star in a grand, unscripted drama filled with all the surprise, intrigue and subtle nuances of everyday life. See below for a few first-rate recommendations.
Requirements
Windows Vista
| • | Game |
| • | Modem or Broadband Internet Service |
| • | Credit Card or Pre-Paid Game Card |
Windows XP
| • | Game |
| • | Modem or Broadband Internet Service |
| • | Credit Card or Pre-Paid Game Card |
Explore the stars in EVE Online.
Pricing
Costs differ for every title.
Several games are free; others demand you pay a fixed fee up-front for a boxed or digitally downloadable copy. Expansion packs and add-ons may likewise be offered pro bono, or require an additional purchase.
Extremely important to note: Many titles, though not all, also come with a monthly subscription fee attached, typically in the $10-$15 range. Membership dues cover server upkeep, maintenance, and the ongoing addition of in-game content.
By and large, MMOs are more expensive than standalone games, as most demand that you make repeated payments to participate in the action. Even free-to-play titles offer the option to purchase extra items for your character or access to uncharted areas and new missions for an added cost. Such expenditures do go to fund the continued expansion and development of these universes though, which ultimately results in a more enjoyable experience for you, the end-user.
No matter your age or interests, there's a virtual quest for everyone.
Items of note
| • | Game worlds are always expanding. Check back regularly for new quests, extra items, and additional areas to explore. |
| • | Guilds, or player-run groups, are a great way to make new friends. Consider joining one today. |
| • | Excitement and adventure are always at your fingertips. You're free to login and experience the magic of MMOs at any time of day or night. |
| • | Don't be afraid to experiment. It's your world – you're free to explore and adventure at your own pace. |
| • | If you don't like combat or diplomacy, try crafting… several games let you spend your days building virtual items for sale. |
| • | Never give out personal information online. You never know who's hiding behind the guise of a friendly character. |
| • | If you have a question or concern, ask the creators. Game supervisors are constantly observing the action to make sure everything runs smoothly. |
| • | Warning: Administrators can't be everywhere at once, or account for everyone's good behavior. As in real life, some players may curse and/or lie, cheat, and steal. |
Dare you enter the Mines of Moria?
Recommendations
World of Warcraft
From: Blizzard
www.worldofwarcraft.com
ESRB Rating: Teen
Inspired by the award-winning strategy series, this groundbreaking fantasy epic has quickly transcended from idle desktop amusement to pop culture sensation. More than 11 million subscribers already adore its user-friendly interface and addictive play, including the 2.8 million aspiring wizards and warriors who scooped up latest expansion Wrath of the Lich King on day one. As such, it's worth experiencing as much for an incredible user community as the game's straightforward sword-and-sorcery mayhem.
The Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria
From: Blizzard
www.lotro.com
ESRB Rating: Teen
Revisit author J.R.R. Tolkien's literary classics as you journey through the world of Middle Earth and one of its most terrifying subterranean depths. Players take on the role of custom wizards and warriors, with the ability to interact with iconic heroes like Frodo, Aragorn and Gandalf a major bonus. Between battling loathsome monsters with spell or blade and completing daunting quests, you can even build new equipment and form your own fellowship.
Combat Arms
From: Nexon
http://combatarms.nexon.net
ESRB Rating: Mature
If it moves, fill it full of lead: That's the general mindset behind this run-n-gun military outing for mature audiences. Customize over 40 weapons including pistols and assault rifles, then link up online for head-to-head duels against teams of fellow commandos. Statistics are tracked as you battle in industrial warehouses and sweltering jungles, with the title's modern backdrop and frantic excitement a nice counterpoint to competitors, which generally favor slower pacing and medieval or futuristic settings.
City of Heroes/Villains
From: NCSoft
www.cityofheroes.com
ESRB Rating: Teen
Indulge your every comic book fantasy with the first superhero-themed outing to truly capture the world's imagination. As a personalized caped crusader or masked evildoer, fight for all that's right or wage war to further your nefarious plans using a dizzying array of powers and special abilities. Subscribers love the title's close-knit fan base, sense of style and emphasis on teamwork, as well as a range of ongoing free story expansions and the adventure's singular (some might say superhuman) game mechanics.
MapleStory
From: Nexon
http://maplestory.nexon.net
ESRB Rating: Everyone 10+
A free to play, side-scrolling 2D cartoon dungeon crawl that's currently enjoyed by more than 50 million people – and clearly influenced by the kind of quest common to classic set-top console systems. Leaning more towards zany fun than in-depth storytelling or visceral combat, it's a great fit for the teen and tween set. Just don't be surprised if you also find yourself hypnotized by the title's humorous and stunningly animated antics, sure to captivate the kid, and closet hero, in everyone.
Also see:
| • | Warhammer Online, ESRB Rating: Teen
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| • | Star Wars Galaxies: Trading Card Game, ESRB Rating: Everyone 10+
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| • | Wizard 101, ESRB Rating: Everyone 10+
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| • | Runescape, ESRB Rating: N/A
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| • | Dungeon Runners, ESRB Rating: Teen
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| • | Final Fantasy XI: Wings of the Goddess, ESRB Rating: Teen
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| • | zOMG!, ESRB Rating: N/A
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| • | EverQuest II: The Shadow Odyssey, ESRB Rating: Teen
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| • | Magic: The Gathering Online, ESRB Rating: Teen
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| • | Age of Conan: Hyborian Adventures, ESRB Rating: Mature
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 | Scott Steinberg
Get Rich Playing Games author, freelance writer, and radio/TV host Scott Steinberg has covered technology for 400+ outlets from CNN to the LA Times, NY Times, Playboy, Rolling Stone, and TV Guide. For more of his insights, visit him at scottsteinberg.com or gadgetexpert.net, where he highlights the hottest new gadgets and games.
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