These days, it seems as though you can’t toss a fireball without hitting a medieval MMORPG. Despite having some clear outliers in the field of space-faring MMORPGs like EVE Online and kickstarted in-development titles like Star Citizen we’ve compiled a list of 6 upcoming games that fall outside of the traditional medieval fantasy themes that so many games are modeled after.
Project LLL
Project LLL stands out in the gaming landscape by eschewing traditional medieval fantasy themes for a distinct setting in an alternate reality Seoul. The game is an open-world MMO third-person shooter where players encounter an unusual mix of humans, mutants, and powerful demons across different eras and technological advancements??. While there may be instances where players will be taken back in time to more medieval themed worlds, players should expect a more futuristic, third-person shooter feel that feel more at home with Western science fiction shooters such as Destiny 2. ?
As of now, Project LLL appears to be a promising venture with the potential to appeal to a global audience, and was recently showcased during G-Star last week. There is currently no release date, and if NCSOFT’s recent presentations are any indication, we’ll likely see the initial launch to hit Korea before it stretches out to a global audience. Keep your eyes peeled in 2024 for more information about this unique sci-fi gem.
RF Online Next
RF Online Next has completely shirked the typical medieval fantasy theme for over a decade by embracing a unique science-fiction setting. Published by Netmarble and developed by Netmarble N2, this massively multiplayer online RPG is set to offer some high-flying, robot blasting sci-fi action. From the information we’ve been able to gather up to this point from G-Star, players can choose from six distinct biosuits, they’ll be able to summon and pilot giant robots, and the game introduces a free-flight system that allows you to change your altitude, utilize boosts, and plan dynamic landings to enhance exploration and strategic play?
Currently, RF Online Next is gearing up for its release, planned for 2024 on PC and mobile devices. With plans to maintain the largescale high-tech battle elements from its predecessor, enabling players to engage in expansive battles over key resources, it’s clear that this game will appeal to gamers that are looking for something that completely transcends medieval magic and sword mastery. RF Online Next will launch initially in Korea, but make its way to global launch some time afterwards????.
Blue Protocol
Blue Protocol has already released in Japan with plans for launch in Korea this year, and although there are some general fantasy themes built within the world, it’s very clear within just moments of experiencing the game that it’s far more than a traditional medieval fantasy. With the global version currently in closed beta, developed as a joint venture between Amazon Games and Bandai Namco, this free-to-play online RPG promises a unique sci-fi fantasy adventure.
In Blue Protocol you’ll embark on a heroic journey through a planet on the brink of destruction, plagued by millennia of conflict and technological overuse. The game's narrative revolves around uncovering the truth about one's origins and altering the destructive future of the planet Regnas??. Players will also take part in quests, boss battles, and intense raids with other players. With extensive visual customization made more appealing by the gorgeous cell-shaded anime stylization, and a slew of weapons leading to some visceral combat encounters, there’s a lot here for players to dig into when the game releases to a western audience in 2024.
Dune Awakening
Dune: Awakening immerses players in the vast, science-fiction universe of Frank Herbert's "Dune." Developed by Funcom, this open-world survival MMO allows players to experience the harsh, yet fascinating world of Arrakis. The gameplay combines elements of survival games with the social dynamics of large-scale, persistent multiplayer environments. Players will have to navigate the planet's extreme conditions, encounter the iconic massive sandworms, and engage in activities like building shelters, scavenging spaceship wreckage, and uncovering secrets in unmapped sectors??.
Currently, Dune: Awakening is still in the pre-release phase, with no concrete release date announced at this time. However, the team at Funcom has teased that early closed beta is just around the corner, and players can sign up to get into testing now. With such a unique world built upon one of the most popular Sci-Fi series of the past several decades, it’s clear that players looking for a medieval departure will find a home in Dune: Awakening. The game plans to be released eventually on PC, Xbox Series X/S, and PS5.
The Wagadu Chronicles
The Wagadu Chronicles stands apart from just about every other MMORPG in existence with its African inspired fantasy setting. This game places a strong emphasis on classic roleplaying elements and is designed in conjunction with a D&D 5th Edition compatible tabletop roleplaying experience. The team at Twin Drums promises an immersive environment where players can delve into a world rich in African folklore and mythology, crafting their characters and stories in a novel, never experienced world??.
The isometric title will provide a sandbox style of gameplay with a focus on player interaction and cooperation, featuring a player-driven economy, an in-depth crafting system, and the ability to establish and develop player-run villages?. While the game is set to launch into Early Access on December 4th, those looking for a stark departure from any setting they’ve seen before in 2024 should certainly consider giving this game a shot.
Ember Sword
Ember Sword is an isometric action MMORPG developed by Bright Star Studios. While at first glance the game appears to be medieval in nature, if you judge the game from some of the weapons such as a sword and shield, or the magical staff, the game actually is set on the dystopian moon Thanabus. Even though players will also gain access to weapons such as dual pistols, the world of Thanabus has a lot of scientific advancements that litter the world, with different aesthetics that range from the natural, to the steampunk, and even futuristic in nature.
Ember Sword is still in the testing phase and has recently completed a dungeon alpha test. The game plans to offer diverse difficult dungeons, raids, competitive PvP, and as a blockchain game, players will have the opportunity to own and cultivate land that can be sold or traded to other players. With many nuances to the development of the game, such as their own custom-built engine that runs through any browser, to the unique setting spread across four distinct nations, Ember Sword will appeal to gamers that feel comfortable with a blend of technology and magic, and a fully player-run economy???.
