Online gaming is unlike anything else, having the ability to bridge divides, whether that be age, gender, or geographical location. Over the past few decades, we’ve come a long way, evolving from text-based MUDs (Multi-User Dungeons) to virtual worlds that look and feel incredibly real. This technology has become so advanced that some games hit unprecedented heights, selling millions of copies. In this article, we’ll look at some of the most impressive games in online gaming history, explaining why so many players love them.
The Evolution of Online Gaming
As you might have expected, online gaming has come a long way from its humble beginnings in the 1970s and 80s. During this time, online gaming did exist, to an extent, but it was limited to elementary text-based games that would be unrecognizable to a modern audience. However, this work set the industry toward something great, which would be built upon in the 1990s and continue to grow from there. Little did we know that the gaming industry would soon include countless online poker, slots, and even shooter games that could host hundreds of players in a single lobby.
At the time, the idea of being able to play with others in the digital realm was completely groundbreaking, especially with the limited technology compared to what we have today. However, with the invention of more powerful computers and better internet connectivity, we could see quick development and online gaming soon resembled what we know and love today. This started in the 1990s when massive multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs) became the go-to choice, thanks to titles like “Ultima Online” and “EverQuest.”
Once players had an appetite for these massive online games, there would be no looking back. The 2000s saw a further increase in the popularity of online gaming, with many developers keen to capitalize on the excitement and potential that this gaming area had. It could be argued that the release of “World of Warcraft” in 2004 was a critical moment, quickly becoming one of the most played games in the world, attracting millions to the industry, and setting the standard for many games to come.
The Legends: Exploring the Biggest Games
Now that we’ve brought you up to speed, we can take a look at some of the most popular video games that have helped bring multiplayer online gaming into the spotlight, engrossing millions of players who have since become avid gamers.
1. World of Warcraft (2004)
“World of Warcraft” is arguably the most iconic MMORPG ever. It was created by Blizzard Entertainment, which is one of the industry’s most successful studios, creating other successful games, including “StarCraft,” “Diablo,” and even “Overwatch.” Warcraft is unique because it introduced players to an in-game world at a level never before seen, relying on complex storytelling and intricate lore to engage players and keep them playing, so much so that the franchise is still played today.
2. Counter-Strike (1999)
If you’re a fan of first-person shooters (FPS), then we’re sure you know all about “Counter-Strike” – it is the classic first-person shooter that has dominated the online gaming world for decades. What started as a modified version of “Half-Life” quickly became one of the most popular games in the world, gaining a massive following and an entire franchise as a result. The game has a simple team versus team premise, but this is part of the charm, keeping players hooked for hours.
3. League of Legends (2009)
Somewhat similar to “World of Warcraft,” “League of Legends” has done wonders for the gaming community, becoming one of the most popular games in the world, especially among those hardcore fans who play almost exclusively on their gaming computer. It’s a free-to-play multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game, pitting teams against one another in fast-paced games that rely on individual skill and strategic thinking, which is why it’s become a mainstay in many eSports competitions.
4. Minecraft (2011)
While “Minecraft” is not an online game in the same sense as those listed above, it wouldn’t be where it is today without the online element. This popular world-building game was released in 2011, and while it can be played on your own, allowing you to build and survive within your world, being able to do this with friends is what makes it such a gaming heavyweight. While the idea itself might be simple, the ability to cooperate with your friends was a key selling point, and many young adults will have fond memories of playing “Minecraft” after school many years ago.
Online gaming has come a long way over the past few decades and looks unrecognizable compared to what it once was. The games listed above have redefined what we think gaming can and should be, attracting millions of players simultaneously. As technology advances and new generations of gamers enter the scene, online gaming will undoubtedly continue to improve.