Ragnarok Online vs Tartaros Rebirth
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!
Tartaros Rebirth
Tartaros Rebirth is the revived version of the anime-themed MMORPG that was popular back in the 2000s, Tartaros Online. Featuring everything you know and love from back in the day, this game has something new to offer as well, such as brand-new storylines. Like the original, you'll get to play as one of nine unique characters, each with their own personalities and skillsets. You can switch between them while you're in town, but not in dungeons or instances. Questing is the main way to level up in this game and the grind is real. However, there are tons of places for you to explore and you can even use higher level characters to complete quests for your lower level characters to turn in.The combat system is rather clunky though, so is its controls with keys that you'll probably have to rebind. Battles are played out in a semi-action-based manner, but since you can't really dodge, block or dash away from danger, all the "non-action" can be a bit underwhelming. Not to mention, the graphics isn't updated somehow and although it may have been acceptable back then, it is definitely not something that will appeal to players in this day and age.
So, in short, Tartaros Rebirth is a great anime-themed game to play, despite sharing many similarities with Dragon Nest, for nostalgic purposes but if you're simply looking for a new anime game to play, you might have a better time playing Lineage II: Revolution.