Shroud of the Avatar: Forsaken Virtues is a unique game, but its design and gameplay mechanics share similarities with several other titles, especially those that emphasize deep role-playing, player-driven economies, and a blend of single-player and multiplayer experiences. Here are a few games that Shroud of the Avatar is most similar to:
1. Ultima Online
- Why It’s Similar:
Shroud of the Avatar was designed by Richard Garriott, the creator of Ultima Online, so the two games share a lot of DNA. Both feature an open world with an emphasis on exploration, player interaction, and a high degree of freedom. Ultima Online was one of the first MMORPGs to provide a fully open sandbox experience with a player-driven economy, and Shroud of the Avatar carries on that legacy with its own version of crafting, trading, and community-driven systems. - Key Features in Common:
- Player-driven economy
- Strong PvP options (including specialized PvP zones and arenas plus bonuses in XP for those choosing to PVP)
- Rich role-playing and lore
- Ability to shape the world through player actions
2. The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO)
- Why It’s Similar:
While Shroud of the Avatar (play SOTA!) is more focused on classic RPG elements and sandbox gameplay, it shares some structural similarities with The Elder Scrolls Online in terms of world-building and the inclusion of both single-player and multiplayer components. Both games have deep lore, quests that can be completed in different ways, and a world where exploration is highly encouraged. - Key Features in Common:
- Large, open world with a focus on exploration
- Focus on questing, with branching storylines
- Crafting and gathering systems
- A mix of solo and multiplayer content
- Immersive world-building and lore
3. Star Wars Galaxies
- Why It’s Similar:
Star Wars Galaxies (SWG) is a classic MMORPG that offered deep character customization, player-run economies, and a mix of PvE and PvP content. Like Shroud of the Avatar, it allowed players to shape the world in meaningful ways through crafting, trading, and factional conflicts. SWG was famous for its sandbox elements, much like Shroud of the Avatar, where there was no predefined "correct" way to play. - Key Features in Common:
- Deep crafting and economy systems
- Player-run businesses and towns
- Character progression without being tied to specific class systems
- Exploration and freedom of choice in gameplay
4. Neverwinter Nights (and other Dungeons & Dragons RPGs)
- Why It’s Similar:
Both Shroud of the Avatar and Neverwinter Nights have roots in traditional pen-and-paper role-playing games. While Shroud leans heavily into sandbox elements, it also shares similar RPG mechanics like real-time combat, skill-based progression, and an immersive world influenced by player choices. Both games have deep role-playing elements and allow for story-driven content. - Key Features in Common:
- Focus on player choice and story-driven content
- Tactical combat systems
- Extensive character customization options
- A blend of solo and multiplayer experiences
5. Conan Exiles
- Why It’s Similar:
While more focused on survival and crafting, Conan Exiles shares a similar approach to world-building, with a heavy emphasis on a sandbox experience. Both games allow for crafting, base-building, and exploration, while also giving players the ability to engage with each other in PvP and PvE environments. Both also provide extensive customization options for characters and playstyles. - Key Features in Common:
- Open-world sandbox gameplay
- Player-driven content, including building and crafting
- PvP and PvE elements
- Survival mechanics (in the case of Conan Exiles, this includes more survival-focused elements)
6. Ryzom
- Why It’s Similar:
Ryzom is another MMORPG that offers an open world with a focus on crafting, resource gathering, and player-run activities. It shares with Shroud of the Avatar the emphasis on player freedom, exploration, and a rich lore-driven world. - Key Features in Common:
- Open-world, sandbox-style gameplay
- Crafting and resource management systems
- Player-driven economy and politics
- Skill-based progression
Key Differences:
- Shroud of the Avatar places a heavier emphasis on the single-player story aspect, allowing players to experience the world solo or with friends while still having the option for full online interaction. The game blends aspects of traditional RPGs with MMORPG elements, meaning it doesn't fully embrace the "massively multiplayer" nature of other titles like The Elder Scrolls Online or Star Wars Galaxies.
- Sandbox Elements like land ownership, housing, and crafting are much more pronounced in Shroud of the Avatar, and the game is intentionally more niche and experimental in terms of its mechanics compared to larger, more conventional MMORPGs.