Game news Released almost 30 years ago, the first MMORPG is still playable today. And it’s free!
Published on 12/26/2024 at 8:48 p.m.
Share :
World of Warcraft is the most famous MMORPG, but it is by no means the first to see the light of day. Another video game is considered the pioneer of the genre and more importantly, it is still playable almost 30 years after its release.
The very first MMORPG
Launched in 1996 by Archetype Interactive, Meridian 59 is one of the pioneers of MMORPGs (for Massively multiplayer online role-playing games). This game, which became a model for its many successors including World of Warcraft released 8 years later, introduced key concepts of the genre, such as persistent worlds and a monthly subscription system. From its beginnings, it offered competitive gameplay, with intense PVP mechanics, guilds, and a virtual economy.
Its universe, inspired by medieval fantasy, allows players to explore vast territories and interact with players and non-player characters, whether through quests or battles against mythological creatures. The game also stands out for its technical approach, with a simple interface and a 3D view.even if the graphics seem rudimentary compared to current standards.
Still playable almost 30 years after its release
Despite his age (he is slowly approaching 30), Meridian 59 is still playable in 2024 thanks to its migration to free software status in 2012, thus preserving a loyal community. The game, although passed through different hands after being shut down by 3DO in 2000, has seen multiple revisions and updates. This includes the introduction of new graphics engines and a series of visual improvements, such as dynamic lighting, and a more modern interface.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Meridian 59 is how it remains alive, well beyond the lifespan of games of the time and even today. The community continues to keep the game alive, with private servers still active, offering an experience that is both nostalgic and a return to the roots of the MMORPG genre. The game embodies a true monument of the 10th Art, whose appeal persists among players of all generations. Meridian 59’s journey demonstrates the importance of community and the continued evolution of video games. Even after almost 30 years, this MMORPG continues to captivate new players and revive the memories of those who knew it in its beginnings.
- Play Meridian 59 for free on Steam
