So I have been trying to scratch an itch I don’t know if I can still scratch. Are there any MMOs that still exist that use numpad movement, have a clunky UI, and really let you immerse in the game (I’m talking about the good old fashioned run across the continent to do anything days. Like Ruins of Kunark days.)


Then I have just the thing for you, it’s called Project 1999, it’s a snapshot of EQ up to the Velious expansion. It takes a bit of work to get installed but between that and many, many variation servers they are the perfect thing to fulfill that throwback MMO itch.
Well, I just found what to do with my free time in the next couple days! Thanks AngryishHumanoid!
If this is rude, I apologize but I like to take any excuse to post LRR. And this feels extremely relevant to your situation: https://youtu.be/F6JgKQFeBxs
It’s not rude, on the other hand, I played these games then… I enjoyed these games then… I do not enjoy them now…
The only MMO I can still enjoy is Neocron. There’s an element to actually needing to obtain mastery that doesn’t involve button mashing that I miss from my games. Actual targeting, puzzles and dungeons where having an understanding of the lore is beneficial… that kind of thing.
I appreciate that you can pick out direct mechanical and design elements you miss. I think a lot of us, myself included, want games to be “like they were before” and fall into the trap of just wishing we had the energy and time to immerse ourselves like we did when we were 9, or 14, or 22. No graphical style or design philosophy can turn back the hands of the clock…
That being said, I wish you all the best in recapturing your passion. Enjoying things is the key to happiness.