Mana Plus

The world of online gaming is constantly evolving when it comes to gameplay and graphics, although most of the modern features are still inherited from giants like EverQuest, Ultima, and obviously World of Warcraft. However, there are original ideas out there as well, albeit not that popular and not very friendly with beginners, including a plethora of 2D MMORPGs.

Mana Plus is a useful tool for those who enjoy the 2D MMORPG called The Mana World, along with all of its forks and versions. Since the game’s engine and files are open to the public, many people created their own worlds and stories using it, which may or may not make you curious. Hence, there are plenty of variations to try out, depending on whether you are up for trying new things.

The application is also a launcher, which means that it contains links to a few other games based on the TMW engine. Not only that, but once you make your choice and create an account, the client also downloads the actual game files, along with any patches and updates. Thus, all you have to do is register for the game you wish to play and wait for the application to get you all set.

Once you enter the actual games, you might have to get used to the basic 2D graphics, which don’t do an awful lot when it comes to atmosphere. Talking with NPCs and doing quests is enough to get you into the proper mood, though, because it doesn’t  matter how everything looks as long as you are having fun. There are not too many players to play around with, so PvE is the way to go.

As far as the other games are concerned, they are basically the same, only with different textures and graphics, to convey a certain kind of atmosphere. They are not as big or as detailed as the original title, but they can do the trick, especially if you are looking for something different. The developers listen to fan requests, and you can even get involved with the development itself, as long as you have the necessary skills.

In the end, Mana Plus’s greatest feat is the fact that it allows you quick access to a variety of games, together with the possibility to download the required files and updates. Hence, you can quickly get something to play, not to mention the chance to be part of a lovely community of gamers.