Some folks online like to make a lot of fuss about Xbox being better than PlayStation, PC being the best way to play video games, or other unimportant arguments. Honestly, we all play games on the platforms we like, and that's fine, but some of us also want some options when we play. Even better, if progress can be carried from one platform to another, or if players from multiple platforms can join together, now we're talking. For the MMO-inclined, here are 10 games that can be played and enjoyed across multiple platforms, be it PC, console, or even mobile devices.
Final Fantasy XIV
The game even non-MMO players think of when they hear those three letters together, Final Fantasy XIV's journey from laughing stock to the top of the MMO food chain has been long, but the spoils of victory speak for themselves. Millions of players, multiple incredible expansions, and continuous support make this one of the best bangs for your MMO buck. Now that Endwalker has been out for a while, we might be in the best time to get in and get caught up.
Sea of Thieves
Another example of perseverance reaping rewards, Sea of Thieves' swashbuckling adventures continue to delight those who have stuck with it. The game has followed a similar blueprint to FFXIV with constant, quality updates – including a wonderful crossover with Disney's Pirates of the Caribbean that brought Captain Jack Sparrow himself to the game. Those seeking a more lighthearted experience would do well sailing the seven seas with this motley crew.
Destiny 2
We mentioned Destiny 2 in our Best Space MMOs list, but it should also be mentioned here. We talked about the consistent updates through TWAB and its multiple expansions adding loads of content – and there's a new one, Lightfall, on the way – but we never mentioned the fact that both new-gen consoles and PC can link up for some harmonious hostility across Destiny 2's multiple modes. A space epic is great alone, but it's even better with some pals, and Destiny 2 lets you pair up no matter how you're playing.
Warframe
While technically a crucial piece of the cross-platform experience--cross-saves--is missing from Warframe, we're including it on this list because Digital Extremes has confirmed it's on the list of updates for 2023, and this is a list about what play in 2023, so it's a match made in a dystopian techno-ninja heaven. Warframe's action-packed gameplay and exciting overarching storyline have been delighting fans for years, one need only look at the annual TennoCon attendance for proof, so joining the ranks this year – the game's 10th anniversary, by the way – makes a lot of sense.
Dauntless
For those who enjoy games like Monster Hunter that are looking for something new to try, Dauntless would be our suggestion. Set in a world where a catastrophic event has unleashed giant baddies called Behemoths, you play as a Slayer, a warrior tasked with taking these massive monsters down one by one. Along the way you'll upgrade gear, gain new abilities, and learn new ways to attack. Best of all it's free-to-play, so you can get hunting without spending a cent.
Genshin Impact
Genshin Impact is one of those "blink and you'll miss it" success stories, a game that went from unknown to a worldwide phenomenon basically overnight. Its rich Breath Of The Wild-style gameplay and the compelling overarching story keeps its players hooked, while the constant additions of new heroes to try out means the gameplay never grows stale. Best of all, you can play both on your console/PC or on the go thanks to the mobile app, with crossplay functionality allowing you to take your character with you wherever you go.
Tower Of Fantasy
At first glance to an unknowing eye, Tower of Fantasy may be confused with the aforementioned Genshin Impact. Both games are action RPGs that utilize a character-swapping mechanic, both lean heavily on an anime look, and both seemingly emerged out of thin air. This comparison does not do Tower of Fantasy justice, however, as it has plenty going on to separate it. Mobility is improved thanks to vehicles, and Tower of Fantasy features a full PvP slate--something Genshin lacks. Tower of Fantasy is definitely worth checking out on its own.
Phantasy Star Online 2: New Genesis
This is another game we'd previously mentioned on our Best Sci-Fi MMOs list, but it bears repeating how impressive Phantasy Star Online 2's longevity truly is. This is a game that hadn't even launched in the West until 2020, and yet now it's one of the best massively multiplayer games on the market. The New Genesis expansion went a long way in bringing this years-old game to the modern era as well, so there are not many instances of old tech getting in the way. Whether you're on Xbox, PlayStation, or PC, put PSO2: NG on your list of games to try. You will be glad you did.
Runescape
The venerable free-to-play MMO RuneScape jumped to cross platform with the launch of RuneScape and Old School Runescape on mobile. Players can join forces with friends all across Gielinor whether they are on a browser, on Steam, or even on your phone. The 20-year-old MMORPG from Jagex is more convenient than ever to play as a result, making that grind to your next life skill or adventure in its dangerous PvP-laden Wilderness a simple tap on your phone’s screen.
Temtem
With Temtem, developer Crema decided to take on the Herculean task of filling an oft-requested void: a MMO centered around Pokemon (PokeMMO? MMOkemon?). Temtem does an admirable job of mirroring the Pokemon experience, as it gives players hundreds of unique creatures to catch, train, and battle 2v2 against other players, all in a vast open world brimming with things to do. If you're a parent looking to introduce the idea of MMOs to a younger player, Temtem is a great place to start.
