While the idea of “massive multiplayer” online RPG means that we’re in there with others by design, sometimes it’s nice to just adventure through with a partner-in-crime, just the two blazing a path to glory. With that in mind, we’ll take a look today at games that that are great fun for two.
There are several things that all of the following games have in common that make them duo- or small-group friendly, not the least of which is the vast amount of content each game contains. Add in quests, collections, crafting, achievements, small group PvP, and exploration (to name a few) and you have the makings of a fun and entertaining experience for pairs.
Before anyone says so, none of the games listed below are 100% duo-friendly. There are, of course, parts of the game that can only be completed in larger groups such as raids and dungeons. The bottom line is that each game on the list has something special for the discerning duo.
So here’s our list in no particular order:
Star Wars: The Old Republic
There is no question that the SWTOR and its story are head and shoulders above nearly any other MMO in existence. With the new ability to level from 1-60 strictly by running main story quests, players never really feel the grind that too many side quests tend to bring to the table. In addition, pairs can choose different classes within their chosen faction and experience the arc right alongside their partner.
Guild Wars 2
ArenaNet’s GW2 offers pairs a chance to run through the game without ever having to soil a perfect pair’s wish to remain “just we two”. With the flexible open grouping that automatically kicks in when entering a quest area, it’s a game that is literally tailor made for duos.
Neverwinter
Neverwinter, with its scaled instances and the further adventures available to players outside the main game via the Foundry, seems a duo’s dream come true. With its background firmly entrenched in great DnD lore and the ability to travel alongside iconic Wizards of the Coast characters, NW is great fun for reading and gaming pals.
Elder Scrolls Online
For pairs who adore a beautiful game, a decent story and one that encourages exploration, ESO is a good fit. There is plenty to do together when time permits, though when one is working or otherwise unavailable, there is also solo content that can’t be done in a pair regardless. It’s the best of both worlds for the busy duos out there.
World of Warcraft
Blizzard’s WoW is the King of Content when it comes to never, and I do mean never, running out of content to complete. Even the two players in the world who have earned every achievement point in the game can’t say that they’ve done it all. Of course, all of this comes couched in RNG and a sometimes very grindy path to partnership perfection, but there are literally years of things to do for any adventuresome duo.
WildStar
For pairs with an active funny bone, Carbine’s WildStar is a great world to adventure through. While not all nudges and giggles, there’s plenty of over-the-top humor to produce good natured guffaws and fantastic times for those looking for a bit lighter MMO fare.
< Insert Own Favorite Game >
It can also be argued that nearly any “MMO” out there will have things that can be done by pairs so this space is for you to lovingly place your own favorite game.
So there you have it, a few of our favorite MMOs that seem to be well suited to pairs. Obviously this isn’t a comprehensive list and we’d love to hear what games you think are best suited to you and your gaming significant other. Leave us your thoughts in the comments!