Ragnarok Online vs Record of Lodoss War Online
Ragnarok Online
Ragnarok Online is a timeless classic and is among one of the very first anime-themed MMORPG that's based on a popular Korean comic series of the same name (which is still pretty popular now). The game is different from any other MMOs at that time mainly due to its unique graphical approach - using 2D sprites set in a 3D game environment. The game also infuses the "kawaii" and "chibi" concepts into its characters, giving rise to the famously cute Porings in the game.Gameplay-wise, Ragnarok Online has many features that may be relatively unheard of such as giving players the ability to set up their own vendors, in addition to having an auction house, to sell off items that have farmed or crafted. The job-based character progression system in this game is also incredibly in-depth, allowing for a wider variety of character builds. There are even collectible cards that players can not only collect from every single mob type in the game, but also equip these cards to enhance their equipment and stats.
It's not at all surprising to see that even 15 years after its initial release and having to put up with competition from its fully 3D sequel, Ragnarok Online 2, this game is still going pretty strong. If you consider yourself a hardcore MMO gamer, Ragnarok Online is a game you should try the first chance you get!
Record of Lodoss War Online
Record of Lodoss War Online is a somewhat old-school, anime-themed MMORPG that has a unique top-down-like view (much like in Drakensang Online), a straightforward hack-and-slash combat, and a storyline that’s intriguing enough to make you stick around. Set in a world on the verge of being plunged into yet again another war, you play a promising adventurer who has uncovered a plot by the evil sorcerer, Bagnard - he is hellbent on bringing back the evil gods and their armies of doom. Naturally, you can't let his plans come to fruition.In addition to its unique Reaction skills that works in a combo-like manner, this dungeon-crawling game also features a myriad of dungeons to challenge with friends, a merc system where you can recruit NPCs to aid you in your adventures, and also a dual-leveling system where you level up both your character and your character’s ranking in the Adventurer’s Association. There are plenty of other features in this game as well, including the mercenary system where you can recruit up to 2 other NPCs to join you in your adventures; fun stat-boosting titles to earn, free teleports to town, and an account-wide vault where you can use to transfer gear or other items between characters. Players can also set up their own stalls, a.k.a. “Sales Agency”, to sell items they don’t need.
Record of Lodoss War Online may be grindy, like most MMORPGs are, but it's a pretty decent dungeon-crawling game overall. The beautiful and adorable anime graphics, the incredible title theme as well as its simple-to-grasp gameplay made it a fun game to play even in this day and age.