Age of Conan: Unchained vs Ultima Online
Age of Conan: Unchained
Age of Conan: Unchained is an MMORPG that's based on the timeless classic comic and TV series, Conan the Barbarian. Featuring one of the best fantasy-themed lore, the game also has a very unique action-based combat system that, despite its steep learning curve, is comparable to that of TERA... though, we'd say that combat in this game is much more varied. You can weave spells, attempt to capture battlekeeps with massive siege machines and even enjoy some good ol' mounted combat that is surprisingly not at all too clunky. However, you should bear in mind that this MMO has been around for quite some time, so the graphics in this game might be a tad bit old fashioned.What we love the most about Age of Conan is that the game actually rewards players who go off the beaten track and explore the secret corners of the world that questlines will never bring you to. The shift from being a subscription-based MMO to becoming a free-to-play MMO has been very well-received too, mainly because it injects a certain amount of much-needed players into its population and well, it allows newcomers to try the game out at no cost.
All in all, Age of Conan is a solid MMORPG that is very well-suited for players who like to explore and a challenge. Hardcore fans of Conan may want to try this game out as well, even if it's only to experience the different storylines in the game.
Ultima Online
Ultima Online is one of the most legendary MMORPGs of all time. In fact, if you were to trace the entire MMORPG genre back to a single game, then you’d probably end up at Ultima Online. Being one of the longest running MMOs has its fair share of perks - a ton of updates to keep the gameplay fresh as well as a solid and loyal player base, and of course, downsides... there is only so much of the game they can update and graphics is, unfortunately, not one of them. That's actually great in some way since the game still retains its classic looks and charm.Ultima Online is a massive game and as you might expect, you can spend years in the game and still be pleasantly surprised to discover new parts of the game that you may not have known before. Aside from exploring the land, you can even set sail on your very own ship and make your mark at the seas as well. Character building is equally as impressive here mainly because you are free to mix and match over 50 different skills to come up with a build you feel comfortable with. However, if you're looking for a casual PvP experience, you won't find it here since your stuff can be looted by your opponent if you were defeated in combat.
As amazing as it is, Ultima Online is not a free-to-play game. That said, the game does offer a 14-day trial for players who would like to try the game out and who knows? You might just end up paying for the game for the sake of being able to fully experience the "founder" of modern-day MMOs.