MMOs without monthly fees?

[splashpot]

After playing WoW(my first MMO), I've found that I like the concept of building up a character, leveling, getting more spells/skills, becoming more powerful, better items, etc. Basically all that good stuff that comes with a MMORPG. However I just started a full time job and no longer play enough to justify paying the monthly fee so I've quit.

Are there any good games I would enjoy? Even if they aren't technically MMOs, are there any games that have some of the same structure or elements that I might like? I know about Guild Wars and the upcoming Hellgate: London looks promising. Anything else?

[TheHip41]

diablo II: lod [img]/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]

[Shoe]

Guild Wars is supposed to be good. I haven't played it though.

Diablo II if you haven't played it already.

[ocdscale]

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However I just started a full time job and no longer play enough to justify paying the monthly fee so I've quit.

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First off let me address your question. There are no free 'true' MMOs that I know of. However, both Diablo II and Guild Wars (although I think Diablo II is better suited for you) have the "leveling" gameplay mechanic you said you enjoy.
They shouldn't be considered MMOs because they lack a persistent world. Imagine what WoW would be like if everything outside of town was instanced, that's basically what you get with those two games.
That said, I'm almost positive you'll enjoy Diablo II (although graphics are a little dated) and highly recommend it.

Now to address the quoted portion. If you enjoy playing WoW (or any MMO), I think it is well worth the subscription price. It costs less than one movie a month and I'm certain you play more than 2 hours in that time period. Don't think of it as 'gaming' expense, compare it to your other entertainment expenses and I'm certain it will be cheaper (and maybe more enjoyable).

[Jeremy517]

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There are no free 'true' MMOs that I know of.

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Maple Story

[Cry Me A River]

www.kingdomofloathing.com

[ilya]

Anarchy Online is free these days, at least until you decide you want to enable one of the expansions.

[Eidal]

A lot of 2+2'ers (well, like 10) are playing this and have been for a while. I just started but still having fun. Give it a shot.

[Senor Cardgage]

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There are no free 'true' MMOs that I know of.

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Maple Story

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Also, Flyff. It's surprisingly half-decent, but the translations from the original Korean are laughably bad.

[ghostface]

Rappelz