MMORPGs are constantly evolving, but not every player likes change. And that leads us to our Friday Fight for this week. In one corner, we have classic servers and their nostalgia-fueled recreation of an MMO’s initial days. In the other corner, we have the innovation and evolution in the genre that comes with sequel MMOs. Both classic servers and sequels have their merits. But, just like every Friday Fight, in the battle between classic servers and sequel MMOs, there can be only one winner.
Classic Servers
Classic servers give players the opportunity to relive the golden era of an MMO in its original, often more challenging form. These servers cater to nostalgia and those who believe the game was at its peak before expansions altered its identity. They also provide a sense of stability—no drastic system reworks, no modern monetization shifts, just the MMO as it was originally intended.
Take World of Warcraft Classic, for example. Blizzard’s return to vanilla WoW was met with overwhelming enthusiasm, proving that there was a demand for the old-school experience. Similarly, RuneScape fans have embraced Old School RuneScape (OSRS) as a separate entity from its evolving main game, with community-driven updates that keep the experience feeling fresh while preserving its classic identity.
Beyond nostalgia, classic servers offer a shared, familiar world where veterans and newcomers alike can engage in a slower, more social experience. The commitment to long-term progression and difficulty is often a draw for those who feel modern MMOs have become too streamlined.
Sequel MMOs
While classic servers preserve history, sequels push MMOs forward with improved mechanics, updated visuals, and fresh narratives. A proper sequel can refine what worked, discard what didn’t, and introduce innovations that weren’t possible in the original game.
Guild Wars 2 is a prime example of a sequel that reimagined its predecessor’s formula while maintaining the core spirit of the franchise. It introduced dynamic events, a more fluid combat system, and an entirely new progression system, offering a fresh take rather than just retreading old ground. Likewise, Final Fantasy XIV is essentially a sequel to Final Fantasy XI, modernizing its mechanics while continuing Square Enix’s legacy of immersive storytelling and group-based content.
Sequels also allow MMOs to stay technologically relevant. Many classic MMOs, despite their charm, struggle with outdated engines and mechanics that feel clunky compared to newer titles. A sequel offers the chance to rebuild the experience with modern advancements, attracting new players while giving veterans something new to sink their teeth into.
My Take
Both classic servers and sequels have their merits, but I lean toward sequels. While I love revisiting old favorites, I believe the future of MMOs depends on their ability to evolve. A well-crafted sequel retains the heart of the original while enhancing gameplay, keeping the genre alive and growing rather than trapped in nostalgia. After all, the best MMOs aren’t just about reliving the past – they’re about forging new adventures.
