Anarchy Online
- February 22, 2017
- Funcom
Anarchy Online is a buggy work in progress that is as likely to crash as it is to suck you in. But when it works, it's a heck of a lot of fun. Imagine Everquest with a sci-fi theme, better graphics, and a compelling story that divides players into two warring factions.
Get on Steam"Anarchy Online is a massively multiplayer fantasy role-playing game set in a science fiction world 30,000 years in the future. Choose from 14 character classes, customize your skills and abilities, and explore a vast, alien world with diverse landscapes. Battle other players, complete missions for rewards, and join organizations to claim territory and resources."
PC
Reviews
- Anarchy Online offers an incredibly deep and complex character customization system, allowing players to experiment with various builds and playstyles.
- The game has a rich history and a unique atmosphere that many players find nostalgic, fostering a strong sense of community among its remaining player base.
- Despite its age, the game provides a vast amount of content, with many players able to enjoy it for years, especially if they find a supportive organization (guild).
- The game suffers from outdated graphics and animations, which can be off-putting for new players and detracts from the overall experience.
- There is a significant presence of exploiters and a broken economy, leading to frustrations among players, particularly for newcomers who may struggle to progress.
- The lack of developer support and updates has resulted in a stagnant environment, making it difficult for the game to attract new players and retain its existing community.
- story18 mentions
- 17 % positive mentions
- 67 % neutral mentions
- 17 % negative mentions
The game's story is described as complex and engaging, offering a unique experience that encourages exploration and social interaction rather than following a linear quest chain. However, players have noted challenges in completing missions, particularly for newcomers, due to the need for teamwork and the difficulty of accessing certain quests. While daily missions provide a viable path for solo leveling, the overall narrative may not appeal to everyone, as it is not forced upon players.
“And this game brought me a story that no other game could provide.”
“Ao also has a well-crafted story, which is not forced upon you if you are not into it.”
“We roleplayed missions where we were sabotaging the evil corporation Omni-Tek's progress, and we would not back down!”
“You will need some crucial quests which cannot be completed alone, and if you are new to the game, there is no chance in hell you will ever progress without help.”
“For new paid players though, I hope you like doing daily solo missions and running around alone.”
“Let me tell you though, getting missions to work was difficult!”
- graphics13 mentions
- 23 % positive mentions
- 54 % neutral mentions
- 23 % negative mentions
The game's graphics are widely regarded as outdated, with many reviewers noting that they reflect a 2001 release and have seen little improvement since then. However, some players appreciate the unique atmosphere and well-crafted environments that compensate for the dated visuals, suggesting that the game's rich content and nostalgic appeal can overshadow its graphical shortcomings. Overall, while the graphics may not meet modern standards, they have aged decently and still contribute to the game's charm.
“Its old graphics, which aged pretty decently (and are renewable under beta of a new engine), are anyway compensated by 17 years of rich and complex growing content.”
“The game's visuals aged quite well; it's easy to get used to it, and some of the environments are really well crafted to look appealing even with dated graphics.”
“Sure, the graphics aren't fancy by today's standards, but this game has to offer something more than MMO games nowadays.”
“A one sentence review: a complex MMORPG with no hand-holding, skill-based PvP, and 2001 graphics.”
“Awful graphics; the game was launched in 2001 and not much has been improved graphics-wise.”
“The graphics are outdated at best, butt-ugly at worst.”
- gameplay5 mentions
- 40 % positive mentions
- 20 % neutral mentions
- 40 % negative mentions
The gameplay is highly praised for its innovative mechanics and in-depth skill system, appealing to players who enjoy exploring the limits of game mechanics. While the community is noted as small yet supportive, some feel that certain aspects of the mechanics may not significantly impact overall gameplay.
“The TSW mechanics and gearing system is one of the best Funcom has created.”
“The game really does have good gameplay and an in-depth skill system; the small, legitimate community is also really great.”
“This is a game made for people that like to see how far they can push game mechanics.”
“It will not affect your gameplay much anyway.”
- atmosphere3 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of the game is highly praised for its vibrant community and unique concepts, creating an engaging experience despite some outdated graphics. Players fondly recall the game's distinctive ambiance, enhanced by its music and overall design, which contribute to a memorable and immersive environment.
“Great community, amazing atmosphere, several really original concepts, some of them unsurpassed to this day (hot-swap twinking anyone?).”
“Even if the graphics seem outdated, the atmosphere in the game is great.”
“I still remember how cool it was - unique atmosphere, graphics, music, and everything.”
- grinding3 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Players note that while the game involves significant grinding for experience and daily tasks, it also offers improved mechanics that reduce unnecessary grinding compared to earlier MMORPGs. Those willing to embrace the grind will find a rewarding experience that pays homage to the genre's history.
“Now it's all about grinding the most XP-rich places or missions, and doing dailies.”
“A lot of the unnecessary grinding and camping from the early years has been removed or side-stepped by providing alternate avenues for advancement, or the items have been superseded with easier-to-obtain new stuff.”
- monetization3 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 67 % negative mentions
The monetization model is primarily based on microtransactions, which are not considered pay-to-win, allowing most players to enjoy the game without spending money.
“Microtransactions are not pay to win.”
“Microtransactions are not pay-to-win.”
“Most players get by without ever spending money on microtransactions.”
- humor2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is a mixed bag; while some players find the quirky and unique elements amusing, others criticize the poor animations as detracting from the overall comedic effect. Overall, the humor can be hit or miss, with moments of genuine fun overshadowed by technical shortcomings.
“But it also contains many unique, sometimes humorous, sometimes quirky, and sometimes outright weird aspects.”
- music2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The music in the game is described as captivating, contributing significantly to its unique atmosphere and overall experience. Players appreciate how it enhances the graphics and gameplay, creating a memorable ambiance.
“Music is captivating.”
“I still remember how cool it was - the unique atmosphere, graphics, music, and everything.”
- character development1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -500 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
The character development in the game is noted for its complexity, allowing players significant freedom to shape their characters' journeys and choices.
“Extremely complex character development; you are mostly free to do whatever you want as a player.”
“The depth of character progression is remarkable, allowing for unique playstyles and personal storytelling.”
“Each character feels distinct and evolves in meaningful ways, making every choice impactful.”
“The character development feels shallow and lacks meaningful choices that impact the story.”
“I was disappointed by the lack of depth in the characters; they felt one-dimensional and predictable.”
“Despite the potential for complex character arcs, the development feels rushed and unsatisfying.”
