An expansion that could help define the longevity of an MMORPG – Is there anything in particular that stands out to you?

We’re entering that point on the calendar where more games are being expanded. It’s not every year you see three or four MMOs expanded, but this year we’re sure to be rewarded. The expansions themselves can help define an MMO’s lifespan – so is there one that stands out to you?

It’s an interesting question for me to ponder because I’m not really sure about my favorite MMO, Lord of the Rings Online, there have been truly transformative expansions. Certainly, there are more memorable and successful ones (Mines of Moria and Helm’s Deep think about) while others are considered a bit unpolished (Riders of Rohan – seriously, mount fight still feel terrible).

When I review the expansions that have changed a game for me, something suggests that the developers finally have something “click” to say about where things feel like. it is running on all cylinders, i have to look elsewhere.

Because of that, The Elder Scrolls Online: Morrowind that’s for me.

This is an expansion that takes seemingly all of the changes and updates the ZeniMax Online Studios team has made since the One Tamriel update came to the fore. It clicked a way I’ve been looking for in every subsequent expansion since. The nostalgic element also obviously plays a role, like The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind is my favorite in the RPG series.

Getting off the boat at Seyda Neen, listening to familiar leitmotifs on the soundtrack as I travel around Vvardenfell and more really brings home what it promises to be. ESO for me: for me to experience new stories and experiences in this world, I already know I love, but with my friends.

So I wonder if anyone else has had this moment with the expansion, for a game that is now defunct or is still going strong. I know for many people World of Warcraft player, The Rage of the Lich King appreciated, while most recently Final Fantasy XIV: Shadowbringers has been heralded as one of the best MMO expansions of all time. Let us know what you think in the comments section below.