Best Games by NCSoft

As a gamer with decades of experience under my belt, I can confidently say that NCSoft has consistently delivered some of the most captivating and immersive MMORPG experiences out there. From the original Lineage to the modern marvel that is Guild Wars 2, their games have been a staple in my gaming diet for years.

Ever since they made their debut as far back as March 1997, South Korean game developers NCSoft have consistently stood out in the MMORPG (Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game) genre. Beginning with Lineage in 1998, they’ve continually pushed boundaries in multiplayer RPG gaming, providing players with a wealth of unique and engaging gaming experiences throughout their history.

Known for its captivating gameplay and storytelling, NCSoft stands out as a trailblazer in the online gaming industry. This reputation has been earned by the developers who have managed to attract a worldwide following, receiving recognition for their dedication to crafting immersive, magical, and vast virtual realms for players to delve into. To this day, NCSoft remains a significant player in the gaming world, having launched numerous iconic titles throughout its history, some of which have significantly influenced the MMORPG genre as it is recognized today.

5 Lineage

A highly influential classic that started everything for NCSoft.

Best Games by NCSoft

Initial release date: September 3, 1998
Platforms: Mac OS X, Windows
Designer: Jake Song
Genres: MMORPG, fantasy

Straight from its debut, this groundbreaking, medieval-themed MMORPG, originating in South Korea, became an instant phenomenon. Based on a popular comic book series hailing from the same nation, it rapidly gained global popularity due to its compelling narrative and intricate game mechanics.

In a retro 2D isometric style reminiscent of old school gaming, this game offers ample opportunity for players to personalize their characters through customization. You can pick from seven different character classes when creating your hero. If you opt for the Prince class, you’ll even have the chance to lead a guild. With its immersive fantasy setting, siege combat mechanics, and competitive multiplayer features, Lineage left an indelible mark as a trailblazer in the engrossing realm of MMORPG gaming.

4 Aion: The Tower Of Eternity

A high-concept fantasy epic.

Initial release date: November 25, 2008
Platforms: Windows
Designer: Yongchan Jee
Genres: MMORPG, fantasy

In this captivating, high-fantasy Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game (MMORPG), adventurers find themselves in the perilous world of Atreia. Here, they delve deeper into the mysteries surrounding the divine entity Aion and the powerful Drakan who safeguard humanity.

In Aion, you’ll find exceptional world-building and backstory that creates a deeply engaging and fulfilling narrative for players. Beyond the captivating storyline, the game features a character progression system based on skills, offering a satisfying gaming experience. To add more fun, there are castle sieges and multiplayer battles, making this highly-acclaimed fantasy game visually stunning as well as entertaining.

3 Blade & Soul

An acclaimed, all-action kung-fu take on the MMORPG genre.

Initial release date: June 30, 2012
Platforms: Android, iPad OS, iOS, Windows
Designer: Byungjoo Kwon
Genres: MMORPG, Wuxia

Lovers of martial arts action and the Wuxia genre will find an exciting experience with this swift MMORPG. This game transfers the complex, adrenaline-fueled peril of kung fu into a lively, colorful open-world backdrop.

Characters crafted by players should enhance their strengths and skills by finishing diverse, vibrant missions. Engaging in battles, either against other players or the game environment, is possible, as high-speed martial arts combat becomes prominent. With entertaining storylines, a visually striking atmosphere, and an intriguing emphasis on Chinese mythology and culture, Blade & Soul offers a unique, captivating role-playing adventure.

2 Lineage 2

A smash-hit sequel that improved upon the classic original.

Initial release date: October 1, 2003
Platforms: Windows
Designer: Raoul Kim
Genres: MMORPG, fantasy

In terms of this acclaimed fantasy MMORPG sequel, the focus is primarily on grand conflicts. A significant part of the gaming experience involves active engagement, as players encounter numerous monsters scattered across the vast game world.

Just as with many fantasy role-playing games, players have the opportunity to design their own character from the ground up, choosing everything from their physical attributes and appearance to their abilities and skills. The multiplayer system in Lineage II is well executed, offering intense siege warfare for an exciting, easy-to-understand adventure suitable for both beginners and veterans of MMORPGs. The game’s dynamic narratives and experiences that change based on the race you choose to play adds a layer of replay value, ensuring there’s plenty to come back to in the future.

1 Guild Wars 2

A well-rounded fantasy epic that set a new bar for the series.

In this free-to-play MMORPG, players return to the captivating fantasy realm of Tyria, last seen in the original Guild Wars series. Over the years since the events of the first game, this magical world has fallen under control of terrifying Elder Dragons.

Without a doubt, it’s up to the player to dive in and battle those colossal, world-dominating monsters. When it comes to crafting characters, players are given a wide range of choices for their abilities, race, and profession. These decisions influence the character’s skills, revealing strengths and weaknesses that contribute to shaping their gaming journey. In combat especially, this is crucial as it’s primarily skill-based. Acclaimed for its vastness and captivating narrative, Guild Wars 2 stands out due to its absence of recurring payments, making it even more enticing.

2024-10-08 11:33