The Best console MMOs (and the best to come)

The best MMOs on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One (plus 10 upcoming titles that are getting us excited).

MMO stands for Massive Multiplayer Online, and it's something we usually associate with the PC, but there is also a number of interesting options available to console players, and the choice is multiplying in the coming months.

Below you can find what are, in our opinion, the best MMOs for the new generation consoles (PS4 and Xbox One). Games with persistent online game worlds co-inhabited with other players, even if you are not necessarily interacting directly. You can also check out ten of the most interesting MMOs coming in the months ahead.

THE CREW

Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, (also on PC and Xbox 360)
Subscription: Not required.

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It may seems strange fitting Ubisoft's racing game in a list dedicated to the MMO genre, but that is precisely what Ubisoft's title is. All basic components of the MMO genre are present - a huge persistent world, shared online multiplayer and player progression.

The only thing different is that you control a vehicle instead of a character. In terms of gameplay, The Crew lags behind other driving games, but can be competent enough to be competitive and exciting. In addition, there are not many games that let you cross the States coast-to-coast, even if it is a miniature version.

DC UNIVERSE ONLINE

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Platforms: PS4 (also PS3 and PC)
Subscription: Free-to-play

DC Universe Online was originally released in 2011 for PC and PlayStation 3, but was available to all PS4 players on the console's launch. It's age is apparent throughout, but DC Universe Online is an interesting MMO none the less, especially for those who appreciate the superhero theme, and in particular, for anyone who is a fan of DC Comics.

The experience with the controller on consoles, is a bit more problematic than the PC experience with mouse and keyboard, but for 2011 it was a reasonable attempt to adapt the format to consoles. Today, DC Universe Online is a fairly polished game, with a lot of content for players to explore. If are curious, try it, it's free!

DESTINY

Platforms: PS4, Xbox One (also PS3 and Xbox 360)
Subscription: Not required.

Destiny is not exactly a "MMO" (hough Bungie's terms it 'shared-world shooter') but it is close enough to be part of this list. Bungie's epic game employs many features that are normally associated with the MMO format: a persistent game world, shared areas with several players, and specific content for groups of players, like the Strikes and Raids.

Although it works like a FPS, Destiny is a game that lives for the repetition of content, or grind, in an attempt for players to try and evolve their characters, either through levels or new equipment. In addition to PvE content, players can also participate in PvP encounters. Probably your best option if you are looking for an easy starting point into the genre.

GTA ONLINE (Grand Theft Auto V)

Platforms: PS4, Xbox One (also PS3 and Xbox 360)
Subscription: Not required.

It may be another title we can argue over being folded into an MMO list, but a persistent world with 30 players racing, shooting and exploring separately, cooperatively or competitively as well as a character progression system gets the nod from us, and is one of the most fun MMO-like experiences on console right now. And let's be honest, in terms of game quality, few titles can match Grand Theft Auto.

The experience on the new consoles is smoother than in the previous versions, and enjoys of several updates that have improved the gameplay over the last year. Recently, with the inclusion of Heists, GTA Online got even better, and is now one of the most complete persistent experiences for console gamers.

FINAL FANTASY XIV: A REALM REBORN

Platforms: PS4 (also on PS3 and PC)
Subscription: £7.29 (30 Day Subscription + 1 Character), £8.99 (30 Day Subscription + 8 Characters)

Final Fantasy XIV had a complicated early life, struggling to be relevant in the competitive environment for the MMORPG market. The new version, The Realm Reborn, fortunately managed to correct many faults of the original and the game has improved considerably over several updates. On consoles (PS3 and PS4), this is possibly the MMO that'll offer the experience closest to what players have come to expect in a MMO.

Although the controls and interface require a period of adjustment, they're smartly adapted usual functions expected from a keyboard and mouse, and so the game runs on PS4 without major problems. It is a true RPG experience with great interaction between players, loot hunts, group content... and even weddings. If are looking for a good MMORPG on consoles, this is your best option at the moment, but soon there will be others.

On the next page you can find 10 MMOs to be launched for the new consoles in the coming months.

The MMO genre is here to stay on console, and over the coming months there's even more worlds coming to your machine. Fantasy, sci-fi, near-future, co-op play, massive battlefields, space flight, tank battles - there's enough to suit every taste. Get a feel of what's due with these trailers.

THE ELDER SCROLLS ONLINE: TAMRIEL UNLIMITED

Platform: PS4, Xbox One (PC)
Launch: June 9 (already available on PC)