
Big spiky hair on buff dudes and flowing silver hair on very young people. Eyes the size of frisbees. Swords that could cleave a tanker truck in twain. Heightened emotions literally running off of people’s faces. Huge mechs. Weird chubby animals. A penchant for the ninja and/or samurai lifestyle. Unrequited love. Impossible jumps. Over-the-top attacks. And colors so rich and vivid they’ll make your eyes pop.
It’s safe to say that anime continues to draw a huge crowd, and that’s no different than in the MMO genre. In fact, we’re swimming in options for anime games, so today we want to highlight some — but certainly not all! — of the anime MMOs out there to play.
Phantasy Star Online 2: New Genesis
If you want some guns and futuristic tech mixed in with your anime, then your first stop should be the latest iteration of the Phantasy Star Online universe. This relaunched action MMO is surprisingly decent, with lots of content, multiple platforms, fun collaborations, and a nonstop parade of events to enjoy. Fun fact: The original Phantasy Star Online launched a quarter-century ago in 2000 on SEGA’s Dreamcast!
Final Fantasy XIV
Of course, we can’t overlook the king (queen?) of anime MMORPGs. Final Fantasy XIV is a one-stop shop of anime tropes and bliss, with a sprawling story that takes hundreds upon hundreds of hours to fully experience. One of the best parts about this MMO is that you don’t need an army of alts to experience every class; each character can learn and freely swap between all of the (currently) 21 “jobs” in the game.
Mabinogi
Likewise, Nexon’s Mabinogi also touts the ability to learn and use every skill in the game, handing each player a broad spectrum of freedom. This sandbox MMO was never the popular kid in class, but it does have a cult following that appreciates the sheer variety of activities available — and, of course, the absolutely adorable anime art style.
Crystal of Atlan
Free-to-play action MMO Crystal of Atlan arrived on the scene this past spring with a “magipunk” setting and crazy combat that looks like it’s pulled straight out of an anime series like One-Punch Man or Dragonball Z. As a bonus, this title is available on console and mobile as well as PC.
Ragnarok Online
Dating all the way back to 2002, the Ragnarok Online franchise has its fair share of fans who think fondly upon this Korean MMO that’s based on Norse mythology and was published in the west. It’s a cultural stew! This franchise stays relevant by reinventing itself every so often — the latest iteration, Ragnarok Online 3, is in the works at this very moment.
MapleStory
If you like your anime squished down and yet still full of spark and over-the-top attacks, MapleStory has plenty to offer — including dozens of classes and several spin-offs (including a sadly canceled sequel). Be warned: It’s a popular game but by reports kind of tough to get into.
Aion
NCsoft’s long-running Aion is a nostalgic favorite for many who may have a preference for one specific version of the game (and there are several). A follow-up is in the works, but for now, you can enjoy gliding and fighting in this original anime universe.
Blue Protocol Star Resonance
While the original Blue Protocol devastated us with the news of its premature cancelation, at least we’re getting a version of it with the upcoming Blue Protocol Star Resonance. What’s really great here is that you’ll be able to play this cel-shaded anime MMO on either PC or mobile in the same worlds.
Tower of Fantasy
Before this list comes to a close, I’d be remiss not to include Tower of Fantasy — with two caveats. First, it’s a gacha game, and second, it’s not a pure MMO but rather an online RPG. That said up front, this title oozes scifi anime vibes like you wouldn’t believe and is a remarkably solid and fun experience.
Genshin Impact
The “other” cel-shaded anime online gacha RPG that needs mentioning here is Genshin Impact. This is a title that’s drowning in amazing production values, especially with its visuals and music design. There’s so much story and so many (collectable) characters to enjoy here that it’d take you a very long time to see it all.
Everyone likes a good list, and we are no different! Perfect Ten takes an MMO topic and divvies it up into 10 delicious, entertaining, and often informative segments for your snacking pleasure. Got a good idea for a list? Email us at [email protected]/topic/y or [email protected]/topic/y with the subject line “Perfect Ten.”