The 18 MMOs With The Best Graphics In 2024
Did you just upgrade your computer and you’re looking for the MMOs with the best graphics to test it? Do you want to hear those fans spinning like crazy and those temperatures going up? That’s likely to happen because MMORPGs are not the most graphically demanding games, however, that doesn’t mean that they don’t look good.
There are a lot of MMOs on the market, and they all offer something different. Some focus on story, others on gameplay. But one thing that all MMOs have in common is their graphics.
Graphics are essential for immersing players into the game world and making them feel like they are a part of it.
In this blog post, we will take a look at some MMOs with the best graphics currently available. So if you’re looking for an MMO with stunning visuals, look no further!
Available Now
First, let’s take a look at games that are available to play right now before we take a look at some games in development.
12. Guild Wars 2
- Developer: NCSoft
- Released: 2012
- Platforms: PC, Mac
- For fans of Guild Wars, World of Warcraft
Twelve years since Guild Wars 2 was released and players are still amazed at how good this game looks. It’s one of the few MMOs that feature a hand-drawn-like art style. Even the map looks amazing.
Each zone has a unique landscape and scenery. Lion’s Arch is possibly one of the best-looking cities in an MMO game.
The graphics, the architecture, and the lively NPCs, all come together to create one of the most vibrant fantasy atmospheres.
11. World of Warcraft
- Developer: Blizzard
- Released: 2004
- Platforms: PC, Mac
- For fans of Blizzard, Warcraft
When it comes to graphics, World of Warcraft is a sort of jack-of-all-trades. The old saying goes that even a potato can run WoW. However, if you have a machine that can support the highest graphic settings, be prepared to pick up your jaw.
Expansion after expansion, WoW graphics became better but its iconic cartoonish style was not lost. That old Warcraft feeling still lingers even in the newest zones that take us beyond Azeroth.
The new character models together with the many customization options are amazing. And if your computer cannot handle the maximum settings, don’t worry. Even on lower settings, the game still looks great.
There are many mods that can improve the look of WoW. Check out our guide on how to make WoW look better.
10. Neverwinter
- Developer: Cryptic Studios
- Released: 2013
- Platforms: PC, Playstation, Xbox
- For fans of Dungeons & Dragons, the Forgotten Realms, Action Combat MMOs
Neverwinter pairs good graphics with fun combat, a must-have MMORPG feature. The game is based on the famous city from the Dungeons and Dragons tabletop games.
You will be happy to know that many quests take place in the eponymous city so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to admire its streets and buildings. The atmosphere is completed by the NPCs that inhabit Neverwinter.
If you are familiar with the universe, you will recognize some of the most famous D&D characters, villains included.
9. New World
- Developer: Amazon Games
- Released: 2021
- Platforms: PC
- For fans of The Elder Scrolls Online, World of Warcraft
Amazon Games Studios’ recently released New World features some seriously breathtaking graphics and locales.
The AAA MMO has certainly benefitted from having backing from the biggest company in the world, and both the game’s world and the gameplay feel rich and rewarding.
Players can enjoy all sorts of PVE and PVP content along with a complex crafting and gathering system.
New World is certainly a contender for the MMO with the best graphics in 2023!
8. Destiny 2
- Developer: Bungie
- Released: 2017
- Platforms: PC, Playstation, Xbox
- For fans of FPSMMOs
Destiny 2 is a sci-fi MMO FPS that came out in 2017. Players embark on PvE and PvP adventures all over the solar system. The game creates incredible landscapes for planets and moons such as Mercury, Mars, and Jupiter’s Io. The Earth locations don’t look too bad either.
Destiny 2 is a real feast for the eyes on the new PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X consoles, especially when running at 4K. Don’t let the graphics distract you though, the game has many competitive players who are just waiting for an opportunity to score a kill with a poor unsuspecting soul.
7. Blade and Soul
- Developer: NCSoft
- Released: 2012
- Platforms: PC
- For fans of Korean MMOs, Martial Arts MMOs
If you haven’t checked out Blade and Soul in a while, you’re in for a surprise. The Unreal Engine 4 update breathed new life into the game and added more than just a graphic improvement.
However, the system requirements have changed as well. If Blade and Soul used to take up a measly 30GB of storage space, the updated version occupies at least 160GB. Is it worth it? We wouldn’t put Blade and Soul on this list if it wasn’t.
In addition to improved graphics, the UE4 update also includes optimization and better performance.
6. Mortal Online 2
- Developer: Star Vault
- Released: 2021
- Platforms: PC
- For fans of Hardcore Full-Loot PvP MMOs
Mortal Online 2 has truly stunning graphics, but the game is not for everyone. MO2 is a hardcore full-loot MMORPG, so be sure you enjoy PvP before downloading the game.
Mortal Online 2 has some PvE content and a complex crafting system but it is the PvP content that is the focus.
The world of Nave is huge and a fun place to explore.
5. Bless Unleashed
- Developer: Round 8 Studio
- Released: 2020
- Platforms: PC, Playstation, Xbox
- For fans of Korean MMOs
Bless Unleashed hasn’t had the smoothest of journeys. The 2011 teaser created a fair amount of hype as the visuals were unbelievable for that time.
Bless Online didn’t look like your average MMO. Too bad that it took 10 years’ worth of struggles to bring the game to a stable and playable state.
Systems aside, Bless Unleashed still looks amazing. The starting area is so quaint and cozy that it makes you linger. However, you won’t miss your village too much once you see the beauty of the open world.
4. Lost Ark
- Developer: Smilegate
- Released: 2022
- Platforms: PC
- For fans of ARPGs, Diablo, Path of Exile
Lost Ark is the MMORPG we’ve all been drooling over since 2018 when it was released in South Korea. A few years later, Amazon brought the coveted fantasy MMO to the West.
Just like all MMO games, Lost Ark runs even on budget computers, but if you want 1440p or 4K quality, you will need an NVIDIA RTX or AMD Radeon RX card.
There are plenty of videos and tutorials showing how to tweak the graphic settings for the best performance on your computer.
Waiting for all these years may have not been a bad thing after all. The developers had plenty of time to gather feedback and optimize the game so we can enjoy a more stable and polished experience.
3. Final Fantasy XIV
- Developer: Square Enix
- Released: 2010
- Platforms: PC, Playstation
- For fans of Final Fantasy, Anime MMORPGs
Honestly, is there a “Best Something MMORPG” list that doesn’t include FFXIV? Ok, it’s PvP that the game lacks but on all other fronts, it delivers.
With each expansion, Final Fantasy XIV’s graphics became even more beautiful.
The characters’ art style – a combination of anime and fantasy – may not be to everyone’s liking but the landscapes and main settlements, especially Crystarium City, are proof that Final Fantasy XIV has some of the most talented graphic artists.
We cannot help mentioning the soundtrack as well. Boss Encounters have their own theme songs.
If you’re curious to see how the game performs on your system, there’s a little handy-dandy free benchmark program available.
2. The Elder Scrolls Online
- Developer: ZeniMax
- Released: 2014
- Platforms: PC, Playstation, Xbox
- For fans of The Elder Scrolls, Skyrim
Elder Scrolls Online graphics follow in the footsteps of the single-player TES games. This is currently the best-looking TES title unless you are playing a heavily modified version of Skyrim and one of the MMORPGs with the best graphics.
PC players should look into Reshade and the ESO Graphics Extender mod to get better visuals.
If you happen to play on PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X, you’ll be happy to know that this version has improved graphics and native 4K support.
The game zones look amazing but it’s the player-owned houses that steal the spotlight. Graphics aside, ESO has solid gameplay with yearly content additions and fun action combat.
1. Black Desert Online
- Developer: Pearl Abyss
- Released: 2014
- Platforms: PC, Playstation, Xbox
- For fans of Korean MMOs
From another Korean developer, we have another gorgeous sandbox MMORPG. Pearl Abyss is delivering a stunning game that’s more than just pretty graphics.
Many of these Korean MMOs are known for their eye-candy visuals but Black Desert Online breaks the mold.
It has complex gameplay that includes sandbox features, intense action combat, and massive wars.
The beautiful scenery is complete with an amazing soundtrack. This makes BDO an explorer’s dream. If you like to take the time and enjoy the surroundings when working to complete a mission, this game will not disappoint.
In Development
6. Throne and Liberty
- Developer: NCSoft
- Released: 2024
- Platforms: PC, Playstation 5
- For fans of Lineage, Korean MMOs
Throne and Liberty is currently set to be released soon The game is a spiritual successor to the Lineage series of games.
After being launched in Korea earlier this year, the game was heavily criticized for numerous gameplay elements and has since been reworked before the Western release later this year.
Despite its flaws, Throne & Liberty looks visually stunning and has a beautiful world to explore.
To learn more about the upcoming MMO, read our full article about it here.
5. ArcheAge 2
- Developer: XL Games
- Released: 2025 (Rumored
- Platforms: PC, potentially consoles
- For fans of Sandbox MMOs
ArcheAge 2 will utilize Unreal Engine 5, offering enhanced graphics that aim to elevate the visual experience in its expansive sandbox world.
The game will pick up the mantle from its sunsetted predecessor, offering sandbox gameplay featuring building, crafting, and a player-driven economy.
4. Dune: Awakening
- Developer: Funcom
- Released: TBA
- Platforms: PC, PlayStation, Xbox
- For fans of Sci-Fi MMOs
Set in the Dune universe, this game combines the elements of open-world survival and MMOs. It promises high-quality graphics that capture the expansive and challenging environment of Arrakis, focusing on detailed and expansive landscapes.
Dune: Awakening will have a heavy focus on survival elements, pitting players against bandits, sandworms, and each other.
3. Ashes of Creation
- Developer: Intrepid Studios
- Released: NA – In development
- Platforms: PC
- For fans of World of Warcraft, Everquest
Ashes of Creation will be one of the first major MMOs made in Unreal Engine 5 and it really shows. The graphics are just breathtaking, and the game isn’t even released yet.
AoC is currently in Alpha, but the team regularly releases new content on YouTube to show off the game.
The game features a dynamic fantasy world that the players can shape
2. Chrono Odyssey
- Developer: NPIXEL
- Released: TBA (2025 rumored)
- Platforms: PC, PlayStation, Xbox
- For fans of Korean MMOs
Featuring a narrative centered around time travel, Chrono Odyssey is expected to deliver high-quality graphics suitable for next-gen consoles and high-performance PCs. The game focuses on creating a visually rich and dynamic environment.
1. Pax Dei
- Developer: Mainframe Industries
- Released: June 18, 2024
- Platforms: PC
- For fans of Sandbox MMOs
As a sandbox MMO, Pax Dei emphasizes a player-driven approach within a medieval setting. The game features realistic graphics aimed at providing a highly immersive experience, with environments that are both detailed and interactive.
Building and crafting is the bread and butter of Pax Dei, allowing players to build almost anything they want from weapons and gear to massive forts and cities, which of course looks amazing in Unreal Engine 5.
So there you have it, three MMOs with the best graphics currently available or to be released in the near future.
What is your favorite MMO with amazing graphics? Let us know in the comments!
Most of those can hardly be called oldschool.
All fantasy based games. All fail to the great graphics of Eve Online.
World of Tanks has some of the best, if not the best, graphics online today. You can zoom in on a building just before you roll through it and see family portraits. If you turn on the sepia tone setting and turn off the overlay, it actually feels like you’re watching an old news reel. Rubble looks amazing. Trees are made of individual tree leaves. Rivet counters would be impressed with the 3D tank models. The graphics of this game get better and better with each major release.
LOL to WoW being on this list.
@GeekDadRoo, game itself sucks, but the GRAPHICS are good.. this is what that’s about..
@GeekDadRoo, Maybe you dont like the art style but graphically It does have better draw distances, Active environments… It can even have more than 30 other players on screen while other games magically have them disappear.
Esp graphic are junk unless you mod it. Final fantasy 11 arguably is much more pleasing to the eye right out the gate then wow and esp combined. No need to mod it. This also neglects the beauty of games like planet side which is truly jaw droping for its age.
ESO*@Rikka Masami,
@Rikka Masami, Goes to show that its all user preference. I main FFXIV and even I feel ESO looks better. 3080 ti, Ryzen 7 5800x and 64GB RAM at 5120x1440P
I just cant see Final Fantasy higher than Guild Wars 2. Its muted colors and lighting, Not so great draw distance. Makes it feel like its there just out of favoritism.
This list should be updated as many of the titles are sub par when it comes to graphics and gaming. Also Ashes of creation is a terrible game and that graphics still are nothing compared to others. This seems pretty biased
@Name, Did intrepid pay them to write this cause this seems absurd.
@Gregory, I retract all my statements if that alpha two content is going to be the base for gameplay.
Guild Wars 2 should be in the top 5 MMO graphics and WoW and New World should be taken off. WoW’s animations are clunky, their graphics lack detail, they just make everything big to make up for it. New World re-uses entire village assets and areas – I encountered the same village 3 times in 3 different places while leveling. RuneScape looks better than them now.
@David, Why they never shows Silkroad Online, its released in 2002 and still best graphics in terms of fun.
Ashes of Creation doesn’t look good…
From the comments this list is out of date. My goto game is Neverwinter started playing it in 2020. Tried ESO on PS4 but graphics & feel not as good as Neverwinter.