7 Great Games Like World of Warcraft to Play in 2025

For over two decades, World of Warcraft has defined the massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) landscape, creating a benchmark for epic quests, sprawling continents, and unforgettable community experiences. But the world of online gaming is vast, and many incredible adventures await those willing to venture beyond the familiar shores of Azeroth. If you're searching for your next immersive digital universe but feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of options, this guide is organised to help you find the perfect fit.

This comprehensive roundup cuts through the noise, presenting the best games like World of Warcraft available today. We move beyond simple descriptions to provide a detailed breakdown of what makes each title unique. For every game featured, you will find a clear analysis of its core gameplay mechanics, a look at its distinct visual style, and a straightforward explanation of its subscription or payment model. We also detail the available platforms and identify the specific type of player each game is best suited for, ensuring you can make an informed decision.

Each entry is designed for clarity, featuring screenshots to give you a genuine feel for the game and direct links to official stores like Steam, the Square Enix Store, and Green Man Gaming, so you can start your adventure without delay. Our goal is to equip you with the practical information needed to discover a new online world that captures your imagination. While our primary focus is on PC MMORPGs, for those who appreciate immersive narratives and grand adventures across the broader RPG genre, you might also find intriguing titles among the best role playing games for Xbox 360. Let's find your next grand adventure.

1. Steam

For PC gamers, Steam is often the first and last stop when searching for new experiences, and its massive library makes it an essential resource for finding games like World of Warcraft. More than just a digital store, Steam acts as a comprehensive ecosystem for discovering, purchasing, and managing your entire gaming library. Its robust search and tagging system allows you to easily filter for the "MMORPG" tag, instantly bringing up hundreds of potential WoW alternatives.

The platform streamlines the often-chaotic process of managing multiple online games. Instead of juggling different installers and update clients, Steam centralises everything into one convenient library, handling downloads, patches, and even expansion pack installations automatically.

Key Features and User Experience

Steam's true power lies in its community-driven features. Before committing to a new MMORPG, you can read thousands of user reviews, watch community-uploaded gameplay videos, and browse screenshots to get an authentic feel for the game. The "Wishlist" feature is particularly useful; you can add promising titles and receive email alerts whenever they go on sale, which happens frequently during Steam's major seasonal sales events. This system allows you to explore many games without breaking the bank.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what makes Steam stand out:

• Massive Selection: Offers nearly every major MMORPG on PC, from free-to-play titles like Star Wars: The Old Republic to buy-to-play giants like The Elder Scrolls Online and Final Fantasy XIV.
• Community Insight: User reviews, community hubs, and curator pages provide invaluable, real-world feedback to help guide your choice.
• Convenience: All your games, updates, and DLC are managed in one application. Its user interface is polished and easy to navigate.
• Regional Pricing: Fully supports Australian currency (AUD) and local payment methods, removing any guesswork with exchange rates.

Practical Tip: Use the "Advanced Search" filters to narrow down your hunt. You can filter by tags like "Fantasy," "Open World," and "MMORPG" while excluding tags like "Early Access" to find polished, complete experiences that closely match the WoW formula you're looking for.

While Steam is incredibly convenient, it's worth noting that some MMORPGs may still require you to create a separate publisher account. Additionally, be aware that DLC or in-game items purchased on Steam might not be transferable if you later decide to play through a non-Steam version of the same game. However, for most players, the benefits of a centralised library and frequent discounts far outweigh these minor caveats. If you're looking to capture your epic raids or questing adventures, you might be interested in the best screen recording software to pair with your gaming sessions.

Website: https://store.steampowered.com/

2. Square Enix Store (AU) — Final Fantasy XIV Online

For players seeking one of the most direct and celebrated games like World of Warcraft, going straight to the source is often the best approach. The official Square Enix Store is the definitive platform for purchasing Final Fantasy XIV Online in Australia. It offers a direct, secure, and clear pathway into the world of Eorzea, removing the ambiguity that can come with third-party key sellers and ensuring your purchase is legitimate and fully supported.

The store is designed specifically for getting new adventurers started. It clearly breaks down the various editions of the game, from the Starter Edition for beginners to the Complete Edition that bundles all available expansions. This direct-from-publisher model guarantees that your game codes are valid and delivered instantly, streamlining the account creation and registration process.

Key Features and User Experience

The Square Enix Store’s primary advantage is its clarity and authenticity. Unlike browsing a massive marketplace, this platform is singularly focused on the Final Fantasy XIV ecosystem. It provides detailed explanations of what each edition includes, specifying which expansions you get and whether the purchase includes the initial 30 days of game time. The checkout process is localised for Australian users, displaying prices in AUD and offering familiar payment methods.

This focus simplifies the often-confusing world of MMORPG licensing, especially regarding platform-specific entitlements for PC, Mac, and PlayStation.

• Official and Secure: Purchasing directly from Square Enix ensures you receive legitimate game keys and direct customer support for any purchase-related issues.
• Clear Edition Breakdowns: The store explicitly details the contents of the Starter, Complete, and latest expansion packs, helping you choose the right starting point.
• Localised for Australia: All prices are in Australian Dollars (AUD), eliminating currency conversion surprises and supporting local payment options.
• Instant Digital Delivery: Game codes are delivered immediately upon purchase, along with clear instructions on how to register them to your Square Enix account.

Practical Tip: Before purchasing, double-check which version you need. The non-Steam PC version and the Steam version have separate licenses and cannot be mixed on a single service account. If you plan to use the Steam client, you must buy the game and all future expansions through Steam.

While the game requires an ongoing subscription after the initial free period, buying from the official store is the most reliable way to begin your journey. It’s also crucial to secure your new account; you can read more about why this is important and learn what two-factor authentication is to protect your in-game progress. For those ready to dive into a story-rich, polished MMORPG that consistently rivals WoW, the Square Enix store is the ideal first stop.

Website: https://au.store.square-enix-games.com/final-fantasy-xiv-online-starter-edition—digital

3. The Elder Scrolls Online — Official Store

For players looking for a rich, story-driven MMORPG that breaks away from the traditional subscription model, the official store for The Elder Scrolls Online is the definitive starting point. As one of the most popular games like World of Warcraft, ESO offers a vast world steeped in the lore of the beloved single-player series. The official website serves as the central hub for purchasing the game directly from the developer, ZeniMax Online Studios, ensuring you get the correct version for your platform, whether it's PC/Mac, Xbox, or PlayStation.

The store is designed to clearly present the various entry points into the sprawling world of Tamriel. Unlike WoW's mandatory subscription, ESO is a buy-to-play game, meaning a one-time purchase grants you access to the base game and potentially hundreds of hours of content. The official site simplifies the often-confusing array of bundles and chapters, making it the most reliable place to begin your adventure.

Key Features and User Experience

The official ESO store’s main advantage is clarity. It meticulously breaks down what each edition includes, from the base game to the latest major chapter, helping new players avoid buying outdated or incomplete packages. The website details the content included in the Standard Edition versus the Collection, which bundles all previous major chapters, offering a complete, binge-worthy experience right from the start. It also provides direct information on the optional ESO Plus subscription, which grants access to all smaller DLCs, an unlimited crafting bag, and other quality-of-life benefits.

Here’s a breakdown of what makes the official store the best place to start:

• Direct-from-Developer: Purchasing here guarantees you get an authentic game key and supports the creators directly. It's the most secure way to buy.
• Clear Edition Breakdowns: The site clearly explains the difference between a standard "Upgrade" (for existing players) and a "Collection" (for new players), a common point of confusion on third-party sites.
• Multi-Platform Access: Provides direct purchase links and information for PC, Mac, Steam, Xbox, and PlayStation, centralising the buying process regardless of your preferred platform.
• ESO Plus Information: Offers a comprehensive overview of the optional subscription, explaining its value proposition so you can make an informed decision on whether it's right for you.

Practical Tip: For the best value as a new player, look for the "Collection" that includes the latest chapter. This bundle typically includes the base game and all previous major expansions, giving you immediate access to the entire world map and its main storylines for a single price.

While the buy-to-play model is a huge draw, the sheer number of editions and the ongoing release of new chapters and DLCs can feel overwhelming. The naming conventions (e.g., Necrom Collection vs. Necrom Upgrade) can be confusing at first glance. However, the official store does the best job of demystifying these options. By providing a clear path to purchase and comprehensive information, it ensures you can jump into Tamriel with confidence, ready to forge your own path in a world that rivals WoW in scale and depth.

Website: https://www.elderscrollsonline.com/buy

4. Guild Wars 2 (Steam / ArenaNet)

For players searching for a high-quality MMORPG without a mandatory subscription, Guild Wars 2 stands as a monumental achievement in the genre. Available via Steam or directly from its developer, ArenaNet, the platform offers one of the most compelling games like World of Warcraft by challenging many of its core design philosophies. The base game is entirely free-to-play, allowing you to explore the vast world of Tyria and its main storyline without spending a cent, making it incredibly accessible.

The game is managed either through the convenient Steam client, which handles downloads and updates, or ArenaNet's proprietary launcher. Both platforms provide access to purchase the game's critically acclaimed expansions, which unlock new regions, elite specialisations, and endgame content like the popular mount system.

Key Features and User Experience

Guild Wars 2 excels with its focus on horizontal progression and community-driven gameplay. Instead of a traditional quest log, the game features dynamic world events where players organically team up to fight massive bosses and defend territories. This design fosters a sense of cooperation over competition and keeps the open world feeling alive and relevant even at the maximum level.

The platform choice between Steam and ArenaNet is an important one. Steam offers the convenience of a unified library, while an ArenaNet account might provide access to specific promotions or bundles. It’s crucial to note that accounts are platform-specific; expansions bought on one cannot be used on the other.

• No Subscription Fee: The core game is completely free, with a one-time purchase model for major expansions like Heart of Thorns and End of Dragons.
• Dynamic Open World: Replaces static quest hubs with large-scale "meta-events" that require dozens of players to work together, creating epic, unscripted battles.
• Action-Oriented Combat: Features a more active combat system with dodging, positioning, and weapon-swapping, offering a faster pace than traditional tab-target MMOs.
• Accessible PvP and WvW: Offers structured player-versus-player arenas and massive World-versus-World battles where entire servers clash for control of keeps and territories.

Practical Tip: Before committing to either the Steam or ArenaNet version, consider where your friends play. Since accounts are locked to the platform they were created on, choosing the same one as your guild or friends is essential for purchasing and playing expansion content together seamlessly.

While the separation between Steam and ArenaNet accounts can be a point of confusion, the core experience is one of the most polished and rewarding in the MMORPG space. Its "buy-to-play" model offers incredible long-term value, and its respect for player time makes it a perfect alternative for those who can't commit to a monthly subscription. If you plan on capturing your epic WvW sieges or fractal runs, using the best video editing software for Windows can help you create stunning gameplay compilations.

Website: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1284210/Guild_Wars_2/

5. New World — Official Site

For players looking for a modern MMORPG without a monthly subscription, the official New World website is the primary destination. Developed by Amazon Games, New World offers a refreshing buy-to-play model, making it a standout choice for those searching for games like World of Warcraft that don't require an ongoing financial commitment. The website serves as the central hub for purchasing the game, learning about its lore, and staying updated on its evolving world, Aeternum.

It's the definitive source for official news, developer diaries, and detailed patch notes, giving prospective and current players direct insight into the game's direction. The site clearly outlines the one-time purchase options for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox, including information on the upcoming cross-platform play features that will unite the entire player base.

Key Features and User Experience

The official New World website is designed to be a comprehensive resource, detailing the game’s core pillars: large-scale PvP battles like Wars and Outpost Rush, challenging PvE expeditions (dungeons), and one of the most in-depth gathering and crafting systems in the genre. It provides clear, organised information on seasonal content, new storylines, and gameplay updates, ensuring players always know what’s next.

Here’s a breakdown of what makes the New World site a valuable resource:

• One-Time Purchase Model: The site provides direct links to purchase the game on Steam and console marketplaces, emphasising its subscription-free access.
• Cross-Platform Information: It is the best place to find details on the upcoming "Aeternum" console launch and the integration of cross-play, a major feature for friends playing on different systems.
• Deep Gameplay Guides: Offers official guides and overviews on key systems like crafting, factions, and combat, helping new players get started.
• Direct Developer Updates: Features a news section with patch notes and developer blogs, offering transparency on game balance, bug fixes, and future content.

Practical Tip: Before purchasing, check the website’s FAQ or support section for information on regional servers. For Australian players, connecting to the correct server is crucial for managing latency and ensuring a smooth combat experience, which is very action-oriented in New World.

While the game is a one-time purchase, it does feature optional seasonal passes and cosmetic items in an in-game store, which the website details. The constant evolution of the game means the meta can shift, so staying updated via the official site's news feed is vital for planning your character build. As with any online game, securing your PC is paramount; ensuring you have the best antivirus software for Windows 10 is a crucial step before diving into any online world.

Website: https://www.newworld.com/

6. Black Desert (Pearl Abyss) — Steam Official Listing

For players searching for games like World of Warcraft but craving a more dynamic, action-oriented combat system, the Steam listing for Black Desert is an essential destination. This storefront provides direct access to the sprawling sandbox MMORPG developed by Pearl Abyss. It serves as the primary gateway for purchasing the base game and its various tiered bundles, allowing you to jump straight into its visually stunning world known for deep life-skill systems and fluid, fast-paced combat.

The platform streamlines the entry process by integrating the game into your Steam library, which handles the initial download, ongoing patches, and content updates automatically. This is particularly useful for a game like Black Desert, which receives frequent, large-scale updates that add new regions, classes, and gameplay mechanics.

Key Features and User Experience

The Steam page for Black Desert excels at showcasing its core strengths: best-in-class action combat and an incredibly detailed character creator. Prospective players can watch official trailers, browse community screenshots, and read thousands of user reviews to understand the game's unique appeal before making a purchase. The store offers different editions, such as the Explorer and Conqueror bundles, which include valuable in-game items to give new adventurers a head start.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what makes the Black Desert experience stand out:

• Best-in-Class Action Combat: Moves away from WoW’s tab-targeting system in favour of a fluid, combo-based combat experience that feels more like an action game.
• Deep Sandbox Systems: Offers extensive non-combat activities (life skills) like fishing, trading, farming, and horse taming, allowing for diverse playstyles.
• Stunning Visuals: Features one of the most graphically impressive worlds in the MMORPG genre, supported by a famously robust character creator.
• Steam Integration: Simplifies game management with automatic updates and access to the Steam Community Hub for guides, discussions, and friend invites.

Practical Tip: For Australian players, it’s crucial to note that the Steam version connects to the NA/EU servers. While playable, this can result in higher latency. Some players in the AU region may prefer the standalone SEA/Oceania client for a better connection, so consider your tolerance for lag before purchasing on Steam.

While the integration with Steam is convenient, the game’s performance heavily relies on your PC's hardware. Ensuring your system is up to the task is key, and running the latest operating system can significantly improve stability; you can learn more about how to install Windows 11 to get the best performance. Ultimately, for those who want a visually rich, action-packed alternative to WoW's traditional formula, Black Desert offers an unparalleled sandbox experience.

Website: https://store.steampowered.com/app/582660/Black_Desert/

7. Green Man Gaming

For savvy PC gamers looking to expand their MMORPG library without paying full price, Green Man Gaming (GMG) is a must-visit digital retailer. As an authorised key seller, it offers official game codes for many of the best games like World of Warcraft and their expansions, often at a significant discount compared to primary platforms like Steam or a publisher’s own store. It’s a legitimate and cost-effective way to buy into major titles such as The Elder Scrolls Online or Final Fantasy XIV.

GMG’s business model is straightforward: they partner with publishers to sell official game keys directly to consumers. This allows them to host frequent sales and offer competitive pricing on new releases and essential expansion packs, making it a valuable resource for budget-conscious adventurers looking to dive into a new world.

Key Features and User Experience

What sets Green Man Gaming apart is its combination of competitive pricing and transparency. Unlike grey market sites, GMG is a fully authorised retailer, meaning your purchase is secure and directly supports the game developers. The platform is also known for its XP Program, a loyalty system that rewards you with exclusive discounts on future purchases, encouraging repeat business and offering even better value over time.

Here's a quick look at what makes Green Man Gaming a great choice:

• Authorised Discounts: Offers legitimate, often discounted, game keys for major MMORPGs and their expansions, providing a safe alternative to publisher storefronts.
• XP Loyalty Program: Earn XP with every purchase, which unlocks access to better, personalised discounts on a wide range of games.
• Clear Redemption Info: Each product page clearly states which platform the key is for (e.g., Steam, Epic Games, or a direct publisher client like the FFXIV Mog Station), preventing accidental purchases.
• Regular Sales Events: Frequently runs themed sales, publisher promotions, and seasonal events that rival those on larger platforms.

Practical Tip: Always double-check the platform and region for the key you are purchasing. A key for the standalone Elder Scrolls Online client will not work on Steam, and vice versa. GMG makes this information very clear on the product page, so take a moment to confirm before you buy.

While the catalogue may not be as exhaustive as Steam's, Green Man Gaming focuses on providing value for popular PC titles. Buyers must be diligent in ensuring they purchase the correct version for their existing accounts, as refunds on revealed keys are typically not possible. However, for players who know what they want and are looking for the best price on their next MMORPG adventure, GMG is an excellent and reputable online store that delivers official keys quickly and affordably.

Website: https://www.greenmangaming.com/

7-Platform MMO Store Comparison

Platform / Store	Implementation complexity 🔄	Resource requirements ⚡	Expected outcomes 📊	Ideal use cases 💡	Key advantages ⭐
Steam	Low — single account/library; some platform‑lock caveats	Variable (purchase or F2P; instant downloads)	Broad discovery of WoW‑like MMOs; mixed entitlement consistency	Discover/sample many MMOs, use sales/wishlists	Massive catalog, sales, community reviews ⭐
Square Enix Store (AU) — FFXIV	Low — direct publisher flow; account registration required	Purchase + possible subscription after trial; AU pricing	Guaranteed official codes and clear edition contents	Buying FFXIV with region‑correct licensing and support	Direct delivery and edition clarity ⭐
The Elder Scrolls Online — Official Store	Low — straightforward purchase; edition naming can confuse	Buy‑to‑play with optional subscription (ESO Plus adds cost)	Access to chapters/bundles; optional ongoing cost	Players preferring buy‑to‑play with extensive solo/group content	No mandatory subscription; clear chapter breakdowns ⭐
Guild Wars 2 (Steam / ArenaNet)	Low — F2P base, paid expansions; platform differences matter	Low entry (free base); expansions cost separately	Easy to sample base game; buy expansions as desired	No‑subscription MMO with open‑world events and horizontal progression	No subscription required; strong endgame systems ⭐
New World — Official Site	Low — official purchase hub; cross‑platform notes	One‑time purchase; seasonal content (no subscription)	Access to modern buy‑to‑play MMO with crafting/gathering focus	Players wanting cross‑play, large PvE/PvP and crafting loops	One‑time purchase, cross‑platform play ⭐
Black Desert (Pearl Abyss) — Steam Listing	Moderate — action combat and region‑tied builds; Steam NA/EU service	Purchase(editions) and frequent updates; possible higher PC specs	Deep life‑skill systems, frequent content updates, region constraints	Players seeking action combat and sandbox life systems	Best‑in‑class action combat and deep progression ⭐
Green Man Gaming	Moderate — retailer requires correct key selection and redemption	Often lower prices; loyalty discounts; check key region/type	Savings on expansions/editions if platform matches	Cost‑conscious buyers seeking legitimate keys and discounts	Competitive pricing, transparent key policies ⭐

Your Next Adventure Awaits

The quest for games like World of Warcraft is not about finding a carbon copy of Azeroth. It's about discovering a new digital home, a vibrant world filled with its own unique lore, challenges, and community. Throughout this guide, we've journeyed through some of the most compelling alternatives, each offering a distinct flavour of the MMORPG experience you cherish. From the epic, story-driven realms of Final Fantasy XIV to the action-packed, dynamic combat of Black Desert, the perfect new world for you is out there.

We've explored how platforms like Steam and Green Man Gaming provide a centralised hub for accessing many of these titles, often with competitive pricing and community features. We’ve also dived into dedicated storefronts like the Square Enix Store and the official sites for The Elder Scrolls Online and New World, which are the most direct ways to support the developers and often come with exclusive perks.

Making Your Choice: Which World Will You Conquer?

Selecting your next MMORPG is a significant commitment of time and energy, so choosing wisely is paramount. To help you make the final decision, consider what aspects of World of Warcraft you love most and which you'd be happy to leave behind.

• For the Story-Driven Player: If a deep, character-focused narrative is what keeps you logging in, Final Fantasy XIV is an unparalleled choice. Its Main Story Quest is widely regarded as one of the best stories in gaming, not just within the MMO genre. The Elder Scrolls Online also delivers rich lore and questing that will feel familiar to fans of the single-player Elder Scrolls games.
• For the Action Combat Enthusiast: Do you prefer a more hands-on, visceral combat system? Black Desert leads the pack with its fast-paced, combo-heavy combat. New World also offers a satisfying action-RPG feel, while Guild Wars 2 strikes a fantastic balance between traditional MMO targeting and active, movement-based skills.
• For the Subscription-Averse Adventurer: If the monthly fee is a major hurdle, Guild Wars 2 is your champion. Its buy-to-play model offers incredible value, granting access to a massive base game and requiring payment only for major expansions. The Elder Scrolls Online follows a similar model, providing a huge amount of content with a single purchase.
• For the Traditionalist Seeking a Modern Twist: For players who appreciate the core "trinity" system (tank, healer, DPS) and structured endgame content like dungeons and raids, both Final Fantasy XIV and The Elder Scrolls Online deliver robust and polished experiences that will feel both familiar and fresh.

Ultimately, the best way to find your next digital home is to try it. Many of these games like World of Warcraft offer free trials or have a free-to-play base game, allowing you to get a feel for the world and its community before fully committing. Remember that as you embark on these new adventures, spending many hours in front of the screen is part of the experience. To ensure your long-term comfort and eye health, it’s worth reading a guide to blue light glasses for gamers to help minimise digital eye strain during those epic raiding sessions. Your journey awaits, champion.

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