Themes System Architecture Social Interaction Progression

Themes

Traditionally, MMORPGs were fantasy-themed, with an emphasis on Dungeons & Dragons-styled gameplay. But as of late, themes have expanded to include sci-fi, crime fiction and even pirates. Some MMORPGs extend from popular licenses, such as The Lord of the Rings and DBZ. These themes are explored though the gameplay involving quests, opponents and spoils of war.

System Architecture

MMORPGs require a client-server system architecture. Users generally install client software once only, and require an Internet connection to play online via the server. Some MMORPGs require monthly subscription fees such as WoW and The Lord of the Rings Online, while others still require some form of income to upkeep servers. Patches are published regularly and sometimes expansions are released as major upgrades.

Social Interaction

A massive feature of an MMORPG is its social environment; players can interact with each other or with NPCs in order to achive their full potential. Players can join guilds or clans for more social activity. MMORPGs require each branch of the game to be fairly balanced, so no players get unfair advantages against others. This may sometimes be difficult when many diferent characters are introduced with the intention of making the experience more dynamic. An important game principle is to have characters serve certain purposes, like healers, tanks and buffers. GMs are employees who supervise the world for any issues that may occur, or for extra events.

Progression

In all MMORPGs there is an experience points system, which usually is the primary goal for players in order to "level up" and achieve the full potential. The ways of accumulating experience points are through combat or questing, which sometimes require team work with other players. MMORPGs also have a virtual economy in order to purchase items for the players' characters.