Meridian 59

Meridian 59 holds a special place in online RPG history as one of the early pioneers of the graphical massively multiplayer genre. Released in the mid-1990s, it invited players into a persistent fantasy world where adventuring, combat and interaction with other people were the main attractions. By modern standards its graphics are extremely modest, but that simplicity is also part of its appeal: this is a glimpse of an era when merely sharing a virtual world with hundreds of strangers still felt like technological wizardry. Characters develop their abilities through play, explore dangerous locations and encounter other players who may become allies, rivals or something considerably less friendly. For MMO historians, Meridian 59 is practically interactive archaeology.

“Meridian 59 was the first 3D massively multiplayer game, released in 1996. What makes Meridian fun is the small community of players you'll meet every time you log in. Build up your character by fighting monsters and working together with others to solve puzzles. But watch your back: Meridian has a well-balanced player-versus-player combat system that will keep you coming back for more long after you've mastered the game world.” - Archetype Interactive