Upcoming MMO Highlights

Traditionally, we at Massively OP have wrapped up each year by compiling a list of upcoming MMOs that we’re eager to see in the next twelve months. Crafting this list has always been a challenging task, filled with tentative dates and educated guesses about which titles will actually launch within the year. (Just check last year’s predictions to see how close I came!)

However, for this year's list, we’re shaking things up by removing the strict expectation of a 2018 launch. Instead, I’ve put together a selection of 20 MMOs that hold promise for 2018, whether they’re launching for the first time, entering a highly anticipated beta phase, or unveiling major updates. And the best part? You get 20 titles for the price of 10—so no complaints!

Note that this list doesn’t include several other exciting multiplayer games slated for release in 2018, such as Anthem, Sea of Thieves, The Crew 2, Monster Hunter World, DayZ, Red Dead Redemption 2, Stardew Valley, Conan Exiles, and State of Decay 2. Also, nostalgic fans should keep in mind that Ultima Online is launching a new free-to-play option this spring.

Looking ahead to 2018, several highly anticipated MMORPGs are generating excitement within the gaming community. Among them, Ashes of Creation is making a strong impression after a successful Kickstarter campaign and notable presence at PAX. The game’s developers are eager to maintain the momentum, with the upcoming launch of Alpha Zero scheduled for this winter. Fans are eager to participate in testing phases next year, and ongoing updates and expanded alpha tests are expected to keep the community engaged and enthusiastic.

Another title capturing attention is the Western release of a popular import. Although the release date is still to be announced, anticipation is high for its arrival in the West next year. Concerns remain regarding the developer’s approach to self-publishing, but hopes are that it will lead to a positive outcome. This game’s arrival could potentially generate a moderate buzz, similar to the reception of Revelation Online last year, which managed to make a noticeable impact despite modest marketing.

In addition, a small indie team is working on a distinctive MMO that initially aimed for a 2017 release but faced delays. Fans are now looking forward to its early access debut on Steam, which the developers hinted might happen soon. The recent redesign of the user interface and other improvements suggest that the game is progressing well, and players are eager to see it launch and begin exploring its unique features in the near future.

Fans are eager to explore a visually stunning steampunk universe set within an eastern-themed MMO tailored for Western audiences. The announcement of Ascent: Infinite Realm by Bluehole has generated enthusiastic buzz, with many expressing strong interest in its unique blend of aesthetics and gameplay. This project represents a bold move for the developer, known for delivering engaging titles, and has been considered one of the most promising surprises of 2017. A Western beta test is expected in the first half of 2018, raising anticipation among players.

Meanwhile, Star Citizen’s alpha version 3.0 remains a critical milestone. The developers at RSI are under pressure to release this update promptly, as any further delay risks significant dissatisfaction from the community. Although expectations are high, fans are mostly hoping for the release to happen at all in 2018, given the project's lengthy development timeline. Many feel that the current focus should be on delivering this major update, with hopes that it marks a step toward the game's full realization.

In the realm of Western MMOs, Wild West Online has faced a rocky road to launch. Originally anticipated to arrive within the year, the game has experienced multiple delays, leaving fans uncertain about its timing. Despite the hurdles, the title has garnered notable attention from streamers and the gaming community, reflecting a genuine interest in experiencing a cowboy-themed MMO. Players are excited about the prospect of stepping into the shoes of virtual cowpokes and exploring the frontier, even if the journey to launch remains unpredictable.

Upcoming MMO Delays and Releases

Delays seem to be a recurring theme across many upcoming MMOs, and this year is no exception. Shroud of the Avatar initially planned to launch Episode 1 within the year but had to admit it wasn't quite ready. Although a release in 2018 appears likely, past predictions suggest caution, as the game's official debut may still face hurdles. The big question remains whether this launch will attract a broader audience or largely serve its dedicated community.

Another game garnering attention is Worlds Adrift, which shouldn't be overlooked despite its delayed timeline. Significant investment and advanced technology backing this title hint at a promising future. Early beta testing this year indicated strong player engagement, and the team is gearing up for a full early access release on Steam. While an official launch date remains uncertain, 2018 could be a pivotal year for its development.

In January, the community eagerly anticipates major updates from the developers of a certain RVR-focused MMO. The game has undergone a lengthy development process, leading to impatience among fans. Despite setbacks and delays, the developers remain committed to quality, and a proper beta test is expected next year. This stage will likely set the stage for a subsequent launch, marking a significant milestone.

Finally, Crowfall faces its own set of challenges with accumulated delays extending development time by nearly a year. Recognizing the urgency to deliver, ArtCraft has announced plans for a soft launch in early 2018, though specific dates are yet to be confirmed. The pressure is on to bring this PvP-focused MMO to players sooner rather than later, with the hope that this step will lead to full release in the near future.

As the gaming landscape shifts towards mobile platforms, especially with many upcoming eastern titles making their way to smartphones, it's important to highlight some notable western releases on the horizon. Among these are Runescape and Villagers and Heroes, both of which have announced mobile versions. Villagers and Heroes is set to launch on iOS following its earlier Android release in 2017. Significantly, both titles are expected to support cross-platform gameplay, promising a seamless experience that rivals their PC counterparts rather than offering watered-down alternatives.

Meanwhile, development on Chronicles of Elyria, an ambitious project inspired by classic MMORPGs like Ultima Online, has been relatively slow but shows persistent effort. The development team concluded its final alpha testing phase earlier this fall, leading many to anticipate that 2018 will be focused on beta testing and further content releases. The project’s scope raises questions about feasibility—whether it’s overly ambitious or achievable will become clearer as the team progresses.

Looking ahead, Chronicles of Elyria aims to deliver a range of pre-launch features in 2018, including the rollout of its Voxelyria visual mud client. Back in July 2017, the developers outlined plans for the upcoming year, which include initiating alpha testing, launching the Kingdoms of Elyria, and enabling server selection. Fans of the genre should keep an eye out for these developments as the year unfolds, as they could mark significant steps toward realizing this game's full potential.

Upcoming MMO Projects Overview

Two ambitious projects are generating buzz, yet their future remains uncertain due to limited updates since their initial announcements. Whether they will make a significant impact next year hinges on their ability to re-enter the public eye, but optimism persists.

Meanwhile, progress is steadily advancing in the realm of City of Heroes spiritual successors, as each project becomes more accessible through ongoing testing phases. Among these, City of Titans is poised to launch first, potentially hitting its fall 2018 target date. The question remains: which of these projects will ultimately dominate the genre and capture players’ imaginations?

In addition, Pantheon’s pre-alpha testing has officially begun, marking a pivotal step toward its full release. This early phase suggests that 2018 could see the game moving into alpha testing, with a potential transition to beta by early 2019. The development team anticipates about a year of testing before launch, indicating a gradual but promising progression toward a polished MMO experience.

A promising sleeper hit may be on the horizon, featuring a unique post-apocalyptic universe rendered in vivid cel-shaded graphics. Anticipation is building for its upcoming beta testing scheduled for next spring; are you planning to join in? If this style doesn’t appeal to you, consider exploring Closers Online, which has already entered closed beta testing in the West, or Moonlight Blade, currently progressing through Korean testing phases.

Meanwhile, the gaming community watches the developments of various MMO projects. Rise of Agon made headlines as the first reboot of Darkfall to launch, but doubts remain about its long-term viability given its recent struggles. In contrast, New Dawn aims to make its mark with an official release set for January 26th, though skepticism persists regarding the sustainability of a second reboot in this franchise.

Two long-awaited MMO ARPGs continue to generate interest after years of development updates and reports. NCSoft’s restart of Lineage Eternal, initially known as Project TL, has faced delays, yet progress persists. Additionally, Lost Ark is gearing up for launches in Korea and China in 2018, sparking hope for major announcements and testing phases. Fans are eager to see these titles reach broader audiences soon.

Lastly, a lesser-known space simulation sandbox has garnered attention following a successful pre-alpha test this year. Originally planning to enter beta and launch within 2018, its future status remains uncertain, but it’s definitely a title worth keeping on your radar for upcoming space adventures.

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