PC Gamer has released its Top 100 list for 2023, notably excluding MMOs, citing a shift towards freshness and fewer new titles. This marks a significant change in the list's composition.
Reasons for Exclusion
MMOs were absent from the list due to several factors. One key reason is the 'Freshness' metric, which prioritizes unique new entries over long-established ones. This inherently disadvantages MMOs, as many of them have maintained similar structures over time.
- The staff's limited time to explore MMOs affected their inclusion.
- There is a small pool of new notable MMO releases.
- Freshness and uniqueness were prioritized for list inclusion.
Industry Trends
The MMO industry sees fewer major new releases as developers focus on maintaining long-standing titles like Final Fantasy XIV. This trend impacts their visibility in current rankings by emphasizing already established player bases.
According to PC Gamer, the industry's focus has shifted, leaving many MMOs to prioritize quality and longevity over innovation. This sees them often overlooked in lists seeking novelty.
Implications for MMOs
The exclusion from such lists may drive MMO developers to rethink innovation and differentiate their offerings. However, their established presence ensures continued loyalty and success within niche audiences.
As the landscape evolves, MMOs may need to adapt to retain relevance and secure spots on future lists.
