What We Liked..
Amazing soundtrack Convincing story Cool graphical ass...ets Simple and fun
.. and what we didn't
The gameplay lacks some depth... ... so it will get boring after a few weeks or months
Let's be honest: In Goddess of Victory you come for those sweet, spicy shooting girls in anime style, but you end up staying for an unexpectedly good lore, storytelling and soundtrack.
The gameplay itself is pretty simple: you shoot at things in 2D, so don't expect a full-featured online shooter like Call of Duty. Fights can (and will) get messy and fun, that's for sure, but the game lacks the depth of a hardcore shooter.
This is where the surprise comes in, because you'll immediately recognize the quality of the soundtrack, the colourful artworks and the solid lore and storytelling, which will immediately create an enjoyable and convincing atmosphere
If you like anime and are looking for a causal, simple game that is not too addictive or time consuming, definitely give Nikke a chance
What We Liked..
Original PVP system
Breathtaking graphics
Limitless character creation system
.. and what we didn't
Quests lack variety
Huge download
Showing its age
Aion is a truly massive MMORPG in terms of size as well as scope. This formerly pay-to-play game attempts to reinvent the usual MMORPG experience through its original gameplay which allows the player to explore its world in an interesting new way.
The game offers players a chance to take a side in the conflict between two opposing races, the Asmodians and the Elyos. There is a classic struggle of good (Elyos) over evil (the Asmodians) as the races are in essence angels and devils.
The game earns its place among MMO juggernauts thanks to its great graphics and unique flight system.
What We Liked..
Lovely soundtrack
Combos-based gameplay
Private servers that keeps things interesting
.. and what we didn't
Very dated graphics
No new content
Slow experience gain
Released in 2004, Metin2 is a Korean free to play MMORPG that allows players to pick one of three kingdoms to represent as factions, and embark on slow progression journey to becoming a master combat fighter. The game's combo-based action combat is revolutionary for its time, making open world fighting a pleasure especially against waves of enemies.
When it comes to gameplay, the PVE content is mediocre as questing is largely uninteresting, but the game's focus lies largely within its exciting PVP modes.
The game does look very aged and dull in comparison to newer MMOs, but there is a certain nostalgic factor in addition to an emergence of private servers that has been keeping Metin2 relevant today. Overall, Metin2 is a pioneer of Asian-style MMORPGs and it's worth checking out for the combat and PVP, and since it's free, all you have to lose is just time.
What We Liked..
Impressive graphics and animations
Nice RPG elements
Diverse range of activities and challenges
.. and what we didn't
Heavy focus on microtransactions
Steep learning curve
Lacks some serious innovation
Rise of Kingdoms is a multiplayer online strategy game developed by Lilith Games.
It takes place in a fantasy world where players take on the role of a leader of a small city-state and must build, expand, and defend their kingdom against other players and AI-controlled enemies. The game has gained a lot of popularity since its release and has become one of the most-played strategy games, especially in the mobile gaming market.
One of the most notable features of Rise of Kingdoms is its impressive graphics and animations.
The game is visually stunning, with highly detailed and realistic character models and environments.
The game’s interface is also user-friendly and intuitive, making it easy for players to navigate through the game and access different features.
RoK offers a wide range of customization options, allowing players to personalize their cities and armies to suit their playstyle.
You can choose from a variety of different commanders, each with their unique abilities and specialties: these commanders can then be leveled up and equipped with different equipment to increase their effectiveness in battle, adding some interesting RPG elements to the otherwise well-known MMORTS mechanics.
There is of course an alliance system that allows you to team-up with other players, and work together to conquer other kingdoms and complete more difficult challenges. The alliance system also offers a range of benefits, including shared resources and reinforcements during battles.
While the game is free to play, players are encouraged to spend real money to purchase in-game resources and items. This can make the game feel somewhat pay-to-win, as players who spend more money on the game will have a significant advantage over those who do not.
Another potential issue with the game is its steep learning curve.
While the game is relatively easy to pick up, mastering its complex mechanics and strategies can take a significant amount of time and effort. This could be either a turn-on or a turn-off based on the type of player that you are.
Overall, Rise of Kingdoms is one of the best games of its kind, so if you like classical and casual MMORTS games like this, you'll love RoK too!
What We Liked..
Excellent battle system
Realistic and detailed graphics
.. and what we didn't
Bland and repetitive quests
It takes a good setup in order to run the game at its maximum
Watch the trailer:
A big budget MMORPG, TERA originally required a subscription fee but it has recently become free-to-play. This title was released in Korea in 2011 and then later in 2013 for a Western audience. TERA was published in the US and Europe by En Masse Entertainment and Frogster, respectively.
The game has one big advantage: its combat system which was extensively highlighted during the game's marketing campaign. TERA's combat system is far from what people are used to seeing in other titles. At times the action will remind you more of a third person action game with its much more direct and visceral presentation.
Despite all this, the repetitive quests will quickly remind you that this games is an MMORPG, but fortunately the very sophisticated graphics along with the combat system make up for the repetitiveness of the quests.
More or less free-to-play, there isn't much from stopping you to at least try the game's new adaptations, except maybe its long download times.
What We Liked..
Fun shooting Lots of different levels Fun graphics Convincing pirate atmosphere
.. and what we didn't
We didn't want another city building game
Genre: strategy, casual, managerial
Setting: fantasy, historical, sea
Graphics: animated artworks
PvP: guild or factions PvE PvP
Stormshot: Skull Isle Odyssey is a casual free-to-play game from FunPlus Entertainment (a company you might already know for other games like State of Survival or King of Avalon).
It is set in a world of pirates, hidden treasures, monsters and beautiful beaches, recreated with convincing graphics and dialogues... don't get us wrong: we're still talking about a casual game for PC and mobile devices, so don't expect the immersive experience of a full-featured MMORPG, but for the intended use of this game (killing some time during the lunch break, for example), the technical and story-telling aspects were quite enjoyable.
Regarding the gameplay, Stormshot is basically two-games-in-one: there will be the physics-based strategic shooting puzzles, and the city-building aspect.
The puzzles are the most enjoyable part: they are made in the style of Angry Birds, the iconic game that kinda invented this genre many years ago. There are hundreds of levels, very different one from another, very coloured, fun and sometimes humorous, granting a unique and fun experience every single time.
The city-building aspect is what we already know so well: gather resources, wait, build stuff, wait, wait more time, upgrade stuff, and so on... While many people do love this kind of dynamics, we felt it wasn't really necessary in a game like this, and we would have preferred to just have the excellent puzzles without being forced to play all the rest.
What We Liked..
Modern Graphics
Funny and laid-back atmosphere
Puzzles!
.. and what we didn't
Some features still need to be polished (the game is in Open Beta)
Hawked is a free-to-play online shooter released (in Open Beta) in November 2023.
It catapults players into the heart of X-Isle's untamed chaos, blending humor, mayhem, and the thrill of treasure hunting.
The game's strength lies in its dynamic gameplay—loot, upgrade gear, and engage in strategic battles against both AI-controlled Disciples and other player-controlled Renegades. The map, although filled with lizards, provides ample room for exploration, gearing up, and solving brain-teasing puzzles seamlessly integrated into the environment.
While the aesthetics might borrow heavily from popular trends, the game's quirks and charms overshadow any lack of distinct identity. Movement mechanics and gunplay may need refinement, but the overall experience hints at the potential for a gaming gem.
What We Liked..
Nice mix of different genres
Pleasant graphics and storyline
.. and what we didn't
Base-building aspect too important
Not well optimized on PC
Genre: strategy, war, managerial, action, simulation
Graphics: full 3D
PvP: all vs all guild or factions PvE PvP
State of Survival is an immersive, zombie-themed survival strategy game for PC and mobile devices.
The game combines real-time strategy, role-playing, base-building and tower defense elements, providing a rich gameplay experience.
Set in a post-apocalyptic world, players must band together in settlements and defend them against hordes of zombies and other players.
Combat happens in real time in full tower-defense style, combining RPG and strategy elements. While you're not fighting, you'll spend your time upgrading your settlement, training your troops, recruiting your heroes and coordinating with your alliance to rule this harsh, zombie-infested world.
Another notable aspect of the game is the rich storyline, which unfolds through a series of quests and missions. Players can explore different regions, uncover hidden secrets, and interact with various characters as they progress through the game. The narrative adds a sense of purpose and direction to the game, and helps players stay engaged and invested in their settlements and characters.
Overall, State of Survival is a compelling and addictive game that offers a unique and satisfying experience for players who enjoy strategy, RPG, and survival games.
With its pleasant visuals, engaging gameplay, and rich narrative, it's easy to see why the game has become so popular among PC gamers.
What We Liked..
Good storyline
15 classes and sub-classes and challenging missions.
.. and what we didn't
Graphics have a room for improvement.
The world of NosVille has turned to chaos and your character comes in with tremendous power and fighting abilities to bring it to peace.
You'll have a number of NosMates (computer-controlled characters) to help you in this quest, as well as pets. Over the course of the game, you will also gain access to different cards that will give your character newfound skills.
NosTale comes with a number of unique classes and their interesting sub-classes with each character possessing special abilities depending on which group they are from.
To make the game less gloomy and more fun, you can train pets as well and make them get involved in missions too.
With all these features and so much more, NosTale really promises to be an excellent adventure for you.
What We Liked..
Accurate historical setting with a twist
A blend of MMORTS and base-management elements
.. and what we didn't
Pay to win
Story and lore could be better
Genre: strategy, war, shooter, simulation
Setting: city, historical
Graphics: full 3D
PvP: guild or factions matches or duels PvE PvP
Warpath, developed by Lilith Games, ventures into an alternate World War II scenario where historical accuracy blends with creative liberties. The game showcases impressive 3D graphics and semi-animated cutscenes that set the stage for a conflict against the enigmatic Raven faction, replacing the traditional Axis powers.
Players command a variety of meticulously designed units, including infantry, artillery, tanks, and aircraft, each reflecting authentic World War II equipment.
Gameplay revolves around managing bases and engaging in real-time strategy combat on a hex-based grid, where tactical decisions shape the outcome of battles.
While Warpath excels in presentation and combat mechanics, its adherence to free-to-play mobile game tropes, such as heavily guided base management and a pay-to-win PvP mode, limits its potential for deeper strategic gameplay.
Despite its flaws, Warpath offers a visually compelling experience with historical nods that may appeal to players seeking a mobile MMORTS with accessible gameplay and engaging combat dynamics.