Looking for the top iPad MMO games 2024 has to offer? You’re not alone. Many gamers love the mix of social play and action-packed battles these games deliver. In this guide, we’ll cover the best MMORPGs for iPad, including free options, games for hardcore players, and ones perfect for playing on the go. Whether you’re looking to sink hours into large online battles or just want a fun game with friends, this list has something for you.
What Are MMORPGs and MMOs?
Before we dive into the list, let’s quickly explain the difference:
- MMORPG: Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games. These feature open-world play, character upgrades, and heavy storytelling.
- MMO: Massively Multiplayer Online games. They don’t always have RPG elements but still focus on large numbers of players interacting in one shared online space.
Now let’s get into the best iPad MMO and MMORPG games you can play right now.
1. Old School RuneScape
Focus keyword: best MMORPGs for iPad
Old School RuneScape (also known as OSRS) is a classic. It was first released back in 2007 but has since made its way to tablets with smooth gameplay and full cross-platform support.
Why it’s great for iPad:
- Built-in touch controls
- Massive global player base
- Run it even on older iPads
- No pay-to-win systems
Free or Paid?
- Free with optional membership
Active Players (2024): Over 1 million active users monthly
Try Old School RuneScape on iOS
2. Albion Online
Focus keyword: top iPad MMO games 2024
Albion Online stands out with its player-driven economy and classless combat system. Everything is crafted or earned in the game, making it one of the most rewarding MMOs on the market.
Top features:
- Cross-platform play (iOS, Android, PC)
- Works surprisingly well on iPads
- No fixed roles or classes
- PvP and PvE content
Free or Paid?
- Entirely free to play
Active Players (2024): 350,000+ daily players
Visit Albion Online to get started
3. Genshin Impact
While technically more of an action RPG, Genshin Impact has MMO-style online features and an expansive open world. It’s especially popular among players who value story-driven gameplay and stunning design.
Why it fits this list:
- Co-op multiplayer mode
- Massive world map
- Gorgeous visuals for iPad
- Free to play with gacha features
Free or Paid?
- Free with in-app purchases
Use Cases:
- Great for solo players and social gamers alike
Download Genshin Impact on iOS
4. AdventureQuest 3D
Focus keyword: best iPad MMORPGs to play
AdventureQuest 3D offers a light-hearted, cross-platform MMORPG with frequent updates and goofy events packed with humor. Ideal if you don’t want to take the genre too seriously.
Key aspects:
- Full 3D world
- Cross-play between iOS, Android, and PC
- Play solo or join friends in real-time
- Fun seasonal events
Free or Paid?
- Free with premium gear optional
Why choose it:
- Works well on older iPads
- Casual-friendly
5. Black Desert Mobile
If you’re after deep combat and dense graphics, Black Desert Mobile is everything you’d expect from a desktop-grade MMO. While demanding, newer iPads handle it perfectly.
Top highlights:
- Deep character customizations
- Action combat
- PvE dungeons and PvP modes
- Pet, mount, and housing system
Free or Paid?
- Free with optional spending
Active Players: 5 million downloads on iOS alone
6. Villagers & Heroes
This lesser-known MMORPG delivers a mix of casual adventure and deep crafting. It’s welcoming to new players and features a strong in-game community.
What you’ll like:
- Easy to learn
- Well-designed quest system
- Combat plus farming, fishing, and crafting
Free or Paid?
- Entirely free with microtransactions
Hands-on Tip:
- Great for slower-paced gamers
Get it on the App Store
7. Order & Chaos Online
A long-time pillar in the mobile MMORPG space, Order & Chaos blends classic fantasy RPG elements with deep content.
Best features:
- Classic dungeons and raids
- Choose from 5 races and 5 classes
- Real-time PvP
Free or Paid?
- Free with optional upgrades
Note: It may not be updated as often as newer games, but fans still love it
8. Lineage 2: Revolution
Lineage 2 is a mobile rework of the classic PC series. It has flashy graphics, large-scale combat, and auto-control features for easier mobile gameplay.
Why it’s great:
- Supports massive battle modes
- Hundreds of hours of content
- High-end design perfect for iPads
Free or Paid?
- Free with in-game purchases
Active Players: Over 6 million worldwide
Compare iPad MMO Game Features
| Game Title | Free to Play | Cross-Platform | Player Base | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Old School RuneScape | Yes | Yes | 1M+ monthly users | Classic MMORPG fans |
| Albion Online | Yes | Yes | 350K+ daily users | Economy & PvP players |
| Genshin Impact | Yes | Yes | 63M downloads | Solo + co-op adventures |
| AQ3D | Yes | Yes | 500K+ installs | Casual humorous gameplay |
| Black Desert Mobile | Yes | No | 5M+ downloads | Advanced combat lovers |
| Villagers & Heroes | Yes | Yes | Smaller community | Craft/explore balance |
| Order & Chaos | Yes | No | Longtime fans | Classical MMO gameplay |
| Lineage 2 | Yes | Yes | 6M+ downloads | Large-scale PvP |
What Makes a Good MMORPG on iPad?
When choosing the best MMORPGs for iPad, look at a few key things:
- Controls: Does it play well with touch? Some games struggle with tablet input.
- Graphics vs Performance: Can your device handle it? A game may look great but still lag.
- Online Community: A good player base means active guilds and events
- Content Updates: Avoid games that are no longer supported.
Also think about your play style:
- Want deep PvP combat? Go for Albion or Lineage 2.
- Love crafting and trading? Try Villagers & Heroes.
- Enjoy leveling and solo content? Genshin Impact or Old School RuneScape works well.
Tips for Playing MMO Games on iPad
If you’re serious about playing MMOs on your tablet, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Wi-Fi to avoid lag and disconnects
- Invest in a game controller if the title supports one
- Get an iPad stand for comfort during long sessions
- Regularly check for updates to avoid crashes or speed issues
- Join active Discords or forums to find friends and team up
Final Thoughts: Best iPad MMORPGs to Try Today
The best iPad MMORPGs to play include something for every type of gamer. Whether you’re after story, PvP, crafting, or fantasy, these picks hold up in 2024. Try the free games first to see what you enjoy.
If you’re new to this genre or want something more laid back, AdventureQuest 3D and Villagers & Heroes are good starts. Meanwhile, fans of hardcore grinding and complex systems will enjoy Albion Online or Black Desert Mobile.
Have your own favorite iPad MMO not listed here? Share your top pick in the comments or tag us with #iPadMMORating!
Useful External Resource
For a deeper dive into game performance on mobile devices, check out GSMArena’s reviews for iPads and other tablets.