I’m currently developing a 2D MMORPG aimed at East and Southeast Asia.
The project is based on a classic Korean MMORPG IP originally released in 1998 (Nexon), and I wanted to share development thoughts while also hearing opinions from MMORPG players around the world.
When I look at modern MMORPGs, I feel like many of them became much smoother and more convenient, but at the same time lost some of the social atmosphere and sense of adventure that older online games used to have.
Especially in East Asian MMORPG culture, P2W systems and monetization-driven progression became very dominant over time, and I’ve been thinking a lot about whether there are different ways to approach MMORPG design today.
That’s why I’m especially curious about perspectives from MMORPG players outside the East Asian bubble.
What do you think modern MMORPGs have lost?
And on the other hand, are there any elements from older MMORPGs that you would genuinely like to see return?
I’d really appreciate hearing any thoughts or experiences.