*Image Credit: Square Enix, Final Fantasy XIV*

MMORPGs that encourage player interaction can make the game feel so much more alive, especially if you’re looking to make friends or join an active in-game community. Here’s a look at some of the most social MMORPGs in 2024 along with what makes each one unique:

1. Final Fantasy XIV

Final Fantasy XIV has one of the friendliest communities out there. Players here really look out for each other, and veterans often guide new players through the world. Because of its cross-world play, you can join parties and events across different servers which makes it feel like one big world instead of separate ones. The community also hosts a lot of player-run events, from concerts to themed parties, especially within Free Companies (guilds). For anyone wanting a game that’s full of story, events, and welcoming, chill players, FFXIV is a great choice.

*Image Credit: Blizzard, World of Warcraft*

2. World of Warcraft (WoW)

Even after nearly 20 years, World of Warcraft is still a top pick for its strong social aspect. Guilds are at the heart of WoW, with groups for every interest, from intense raids to casual PvP and role-playing. Joining a guild unlocks a lot of what makes WoW special, as group challenges are where players build strong friendships. WoW’s dungeons and raids really encourage teamwork, and its cross-realm feature means you can meet and play with people from other servers. WoW also has role-playing servers with a lot of creativity and community spirit (and random-ness) that really helps the game feel alive and like an evolving world. I HIGHLY recommend joining Moonguard and wandering around Stormwind to get the full experience!

*Image Credit: Jagex, Old School RuneScape (OSRS)*

3. Old School RuneScape (OSRS)

Old School RuneScape was quite literally founded on community (a player poll willing it into existence), with updates voted on by players, making everyone feel part of the game’s direction. Random skills throughout the entire world like fishing, woodcutting, mining, slayer, and more often bring people together in the same areas, with people often chatting as they level up, and the Grand Exchange serves as a central hub where people trade. OSRS’s Clan system also creates more ways to connect, with players teaming up for everything from boss fights to PvP. Since OSRS is available on mobile, it’s easy to stay connected wherever you are, making social play even more accessible for casual moments or quick chats.

4. Guild Wars 2

Guild Wars 2 focuses heavily on cooperative gameplay, with huge world events that pull players together to achieve goals. These events don’t need special groups, so anyone nearby can join in which makes teamwork feel natural. Guild Wars 2 also has a mentorship system where experienced players help new ones which immediately, right off the bat, creates a friendly vibe right from the start. Its Mega Server system also means players from different servers can adventure in the same world, keeping it bustling with activity. And the epic world boss battles, which gather hundreds of players, make it easy to feel part of something bigger than yourself.

*Image Credit: ZeniMax Studios, The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO)*

5. Elder Scrolls Online (ESO)

Elder Scrolls Online is perfect for players who love exploring a big world with friends, with players all on one single megaserver. ESO’s questing and world events are easy to jump into with others, and the game’s guild system lets you join up to five guilds, so you can be part of different groups based on your interests—whether that’s PvP, crafting, trading, or just adventuring. The alliance system adds another level of teamwork, where players join one of three factions battling for control in Cyrodiil if you want that sense of loyalty and fighting for a cause. Plus, with player housing, you can decorate a home and invite friends over, adding a personal touch to your social life in-game.

*Image Credit: Broadsword, Star Wars The Old Republic (SWTOR)*

6. Star Wars: The Old Republic (SWTOR)

While there are many players that treat SWTOR as a solo game and only care about the main storylines/quests, I think that Star Wars: The Old Republic has the social element is woven into the storytelling and open world which is incredibly immersive. Missions and dialogue choices can be chosen through cooperation, with players making key decisions together that shape the story. SWTOR’s guilds are also very active, with guilds frequently hosting events and role-playing gatherings. Role-playing within the main servers gives Star Wars fans a place to really live out their character stories which adds an immersive element for those who love the Star Wars universe (and frankly, who doesn’t?). It’s also really cool how you’ll randomly see players all over the place doing their thing and looking like epic Sith warriors, Jedi Knights, or Bounty Hunters. SWTOR’s community feels like a true extension of the game’s story and gives players a chance to bond over shared choices, storylines, and alliances. It’s worth noting that there is also a relatively healthy PvP scene for a game of its size.