Difference between revisions of "Massively Multiplayer Online Game (MMOG)"

Revision as of 02:54, 11 February 2023

Massively multiplayer online game (MMOG or MMO) is a form of multiplayer video game which contains hundreds to thousands or even hundreds of thousand players on the same server. MMOs usually take place in an open world although there are many games that differ. Gamer can get access to these game by purchasing or installing the game on most network-capable platforms such as video game consoles, personal computer (PC), or even smartphones and many other devices. MMOs enable the ability to cooperate or compete with other players all over the world on a large scale. They includes a variety of online-only gameplay types, representing many video game genres, which overshadows the single player mode that many of the video games were originally designed around.

History

Virtual Worlds

A virtual world is an animated three-dimensional world created with computer graphics imagining (CGI) and other rendering software ^[1]. Users of a virtual world interact with each other through a representation of themselves called "avatars". The avatars are controlled by users input of mouse movement or keystrokes, where they can interact with objects within the virtual world. ^[2][3] A virtual had all the features: multi-user, different points of view, 3D graphics, bots, chat, IM, shooting and scoring. Additionally, a virtual worlds also provides sounds effect, chat, and even instant messaging in the environment, which allow it to be used for interaction and entertainment. Interaction-based virtual worlds are used for socializing, education or training purposes. Users would explore the world with the main ideas like debates, having seminars, or simply connect with other users. ^[1] Entertainment-based virtual worlds represent the majority of virtual worlds to date and are used for gaming purposes. Gaming worlds allow users to explore, cooperate, or even compete with other users. They are often influenced by fantasy or fiction like storylines, where each player can be the protagonist and acquire achievements while conquering the game.

Evolution

Although the most popular type of MMOG is the MMORPG, the first ever multiplayer online video game were Mazewar, coined in 1973. ^[4] Mazewar is a first-person multiplayer shooting game, in which players at different computer could visually interact in the virtual world and compete with each other. Players wanders around the maze and try to shoot the other player first. The ability to move around in first-person view was an innovation that set it apart from the more well known shooter games at the time.^[5] Since online games started with playing on a computer, old school MMOs are generally characterized by mostly mouse and keyboard gameplay, where players click on icons to cast spells, swing their swords, or use their abilities, and communicate with others by typing on their keyboards. As the world evolves, newer MMOs enable more direct control, allowing the players to have a better gaming experience as their avatars can move more smoothly with more realistic movements. The reason for this is because of the birth of video game consoles, newer MMOs aims to allow players to be more flexible with their access to the game, giving more direct control give players the ability to play the game on either a computer or a console.

Genres

With MMOG having hundreds or thousands of simultaneous players connected via the internet, designers and game developers do their best to create games that anyone can have access to. Unlike the old time where all of the online games were predominantly played on a computer, all the new gaming consoles like PS4, Xbox 360, Nintendo Dsi and Wii also provides internet connectivity ^[6]. The ability to play games become even easier with hand held mobile devices like the iPhone, Nokia, Samsung, etc. MMOGs also attract many players because they can meaningfully interact with thousands of people across the world. As Massively Multiplayer Online Games continue to grows and most games cannot be described as a single types, MMOGs were able to be classified as 15 different categories:

Role Playing

This is the most common type of MMOG, known as MMORPG. This type of game allow players to create an avatar and progress the game with it. Most MMORPGs have some type of fantasy theme that take place in the virtual world.^[7] It could be crime fictions, science fictions, sorcery and magic, etc. Developers try to implement thematic materials from comic books or movies and merge the storyline with the characters and quests that player and interact with. Not only that MMORPGs also allows players to select different characters and progress with it. Depending on their decision, they can open up a lot of different playstyles.

Battle Arena

Multiplayer Online Battle Arena or MOBA is a type of MMO that gives a more combat and strategy feel. Players can also select existing characters like MMORPGs, however, they do not need to progress or improve the characters, but rather come up with strategies to defeat other players. Although these games also hold thousands or even millions of players simultaneous, players are typically grouped together in a team of 4 to 5 players with the sole purpose of destroying the enemy base in a form of battle.^[8] Some of the most popular MOBAs include League of Legends, DotA 2 and Smite.

Real Time Strategy

Real Time Strategy is a type of game where players build up a base using various resources and in-game currency. The goal of MMORTS is to expand the base alone or by joining forces and engage with other players.^[9] Players progress simultaneously with each other in "real-time" as opposed to taking turns. In other games such as MMORPGs, the timing are sped up so that players can experience multiple in-game days within a few hours. For games like MMORTS, players have to wait in "real-time" in order to construct buildings and raise armies.

First Person Shooter

MMOFPS is very similar MOBA in the sense of choosing a character and compete against the opposing group using strategies while cooperating with other players within the team. However, MMOFPS requires players to be able to aim in first-person view, which set it aside from other type of MMOG. The game also includes other aspect like breathing or footstep sounds in additional to regular sounds effect. This can make a difference in the gameplay at a higher level. MMOFPS also focus a lot more on player's skill rather than statistic, as players have to aim accurately while moving around and think tactically.

Sports

Massively multiplayer online sports games (MMOS) simulate various sports, usually traditional major league sports, such as football, basketball, baseball, and others, and allow players to compete against each other in real-time. MMOS provide a social gaming experience, allowing players to interact with each other, form teams, and compete in tournaments and leagues. Players can control their own virtual athletes and use strategy and skill to win against other players. Some examples for this type of game including FIFA Online, NBA 2K, Rocket League.

Racing

Massively multiplayer online racing games (MMORGs) are video games that allow a large number of players to participate in virtual car or bike races over the internet. These games allow players to compete against each other in real-time, using a variety of vehicles and tracks. MMORGs often provide a social gaming experience, allowing players to interact with each other, form teams, and compete in tournaments and leagues. These games typically feature realistic physics, graphics, and sound effects, providing players with an immersive racing experience. Besides that, the games also have features like buying, selling and personalizing a car in the garage with the in-game cash, competing online, unlocking new racing game track design, driving openly anywhere, and having different game modes like drift, drag, sprint, circuit, time-lapse, and even freestyle are what grab a player's attention and help the game propel to the next level of success and popularity^[10].

Rythm/Dancing

These games challenge players to perform musical actions, such as tapping buttons in time with the beat of a song, in order to score points and progress through the game. MMRGs often feature a wide variety of music genres, from classic rock to hip-hop to electronic dance music, and provide players with a social gaming experience, allowing them to interact with each other and compete in online tournaments and events. Rhythm games demand your attention visually, sonically, and physically in a way that’s wholly unique to the art forms of both music and video games^[11].

Management

Management game type put players in role of a manager or leader, and make decisions that will impact their virtual organization or community. MMOMGs can simulate various types of organizations, including businesses, sports teams, and governments.

Bulletin Board and Puzzle

Just like normal bulletin board and puzzle games, these games typically involve players moving game pieces around a board or solve puzzles, with the objective being to achieve a specific goal or reach a certain state. Bulletin board and puzzle games can be played by two or more players and can range in complexity from simple games that are quick to play, to more complex games that require strategy and problem-solving skills. Although it's a type of board game, these games can also be classified as MMOG as nowadays developers has allow players to enjoy this type of game online by being able to quickly match with other people around the world.

Collectible Card

Massively Multiplayer Online Collectible Card Games revolves around collectible card from fictional movies or fantasies. These games require players to collect and build decks of cards that represent different characters, abilities, and spells, and then use those decks to compete against other players in online matches.

Alternate Reality

Alternate reality games (ARGs), also sometimes called pervasive games or transmedia storytelling, are designed to combine real life and digital game play elements^[12]. ARGs are typically designed as immersive, interactive experiences that involve a combination of elements such as websites, telephone numbers, live events, and other real-world elements, along with traditional video game elements such as puzzles and challenges^[13]. The goal of an ARG is to create a sense of immersion for the player, making them feel as if they are part of a larger story that is unfolding in the real world. ARGs often have a narrative structure, and players are encouraged to work together and collaborate to solve puzzles and progress through the game. The outcome of an ARG is often influenced by the actions and decisions of the players, making each play-through a unique and personal experience.

Turn Based Strategy

Massively Multiplayer Online Turn Based Strategy Games (MMOTBS) is just like the name suggests. Players take turn in making moves and issuing commands to compete against each other, and the outcome of each match is determined by the choice and tactics made by each player^[14]. MMOTBS games often feature elements of resource management and base building, and players must carefully balance their military forces, economy, and technological development in order to succeed. The goal of these games is typically to defeat other players and conquer territory, or to achieve some other victory condition, such as controlling a certain number of cities or acquiring a certain amount of resources.

Simulation

Massively multiplayer online simulation games (MMOS) are video games that allow players to experience and participate in virtual simulations of real-world scenarios and activities. In these games, players interact with a virtual environment and other players in real-time, and can control a variety of characters, objects, and systems within the simulation. MMOS games often feature elements of life simulation, strategy, and role-playing, and allow players to get involved in real-life situations and learn more about the processes behind them such as running a business, managing a city, or piloting an aircraft^[15]. The goal of these games is often to achieve a specific objective or to advance through various levels and challenges, and players must make strategic decisions and take actions in order to succeed.

Ethical concerns

Cheating

Cyberbullying

Scamming

Violence

References

1. ↑ ^{1.0 1.1} Kayne, R. (2023, January 11). What is a Virtual World?. https://www.easytechjunkie.com/what-is-a-virtual-world.htm
2. ↑ Terdiman, D. (2006, November 10). A brief history of the virtual world. https://www.cnet.com/tech/gaming/a-brief-history-of-the-virtual-world/
3. ↑ Panilio, N., & Ali, R. (2020, August 16). What is Virtual World?. https://aciiid.com/what-is-virtual-world/
4. ↑ Olivetti, J. (2012, June 12). The Game Archaeologist: Maze War, the first online multiplayer shooter. https://www.engadget.com/2012-06-12-the-game-archaeologist-maze-war.html
5. ↑ Elmqvist , N. (2021, September 25). The Old Guard vs The New Generation: The Evolution Of The MMO. https://www.mmorpg.com/editorials/the-old-guard-vs-the-new-generation-the-evolution-of-the-mmo-2000123159
6. ↑ Majhi, S. (2011, May 23). 16 Different Types of Massively Multiplayer (MMO) Online Games. https://www.dragonblogger.com/16-types-massively-multiplayer-mmo-online-games/
7. ↑ Khristopher, Y. (2022, January 2). 4 Characteristics That Make MMORPGs Stand Out. https://www.androidheadlines.com/2022/01/4-characteristics-mmorpgs-stand-out.html/
8. ↑ Nelson, H. (2020, March 22). Esports Explained: MOBA. https://www.kemperlesnik.com/2020/03/esports-explained-mobas/
9. ↑ Hoekstra, K. (2022, October 20). What Is an RTS game? A Guide To Real-Time Strategy. https://www.historyhit.com/gaming/what-is-an-rts-game-a-guide-to-real-time-strategy/
10. ↑ Ali, H. (2022, July 6). All Racing Game Mechanics Explained In-Depth. https://www.cubix.co/blog/racing-game-mechanics-guide
11. ↑ Greeley, S. (2019, November 22). The fantastic history of rhythm games.https://splice.com/blog/history-rhythm-games/
12. ↑ Kapp, K. (2012, January 18). ARG and ARG --What are they? What does it mean? Should you care?.https://www.td.org/insights/arg-and-arg-what-are-they-what-does-it-mean-should-you-care
13. ↑ Velasquez, S. (2022, June 20). Alternate Reality vs. Augmented Reality Games: What's the Difference?.https://www.makeuseof.com/alternate-reality-augmented-reality-games-differences/
14. ↑ Rowett, S. (2021, July 17). What Makes A GOOD Turn-Based RPG System?.https://www.cbr.com/jrpgs-turn-based-systems/
15. ↑ Oganesson. (2020, March 13). What Makes a Good Simulation Game? An Analysis.https://thevaultpublication.com/2020/03/13/what-makes-a-good-simulation-game-an-analysis/