Why You Should (Or Should Not) Play Albion Online

Albion Online is a free-to-play sandbox MMORPG that isn’t for everyone. And yet, 30,000 people play it every day. So if you’re curious, here’s why you should (or should not) play the game.

Why You Should Play

Everything in the economy is created by players. That sword you just bought? Crafted by another adventurer. The potion that saved your life? Brewed by someone who gathered herbs. If you’re into resource gathering, crafting, or running your own shop, Albion Online lets you live that fantasy for real. You actually can influence the economy.

The game is playable on Android and iOS (in addition to PC, Mac, Linux). Being able to play your current MMO on the go is always a nice thing to have. And your progress is shared, of course.

PvP in Albion Online is no joke. If you die in certain zones, you drop all your gear. And someone else can pick it up, adding insult to injury. It’s risky, but that’s the appeal. Sucks when you lose, yet rules when you win. I don’t know a better MMO to recommend to fans of the genre who love PvP.

In this game, guilds legit fight for territory. There’s even drama. We’re talking massive battles, shifting alliances, and the occasional backstab. If you have a group of friends, or wish to make some, memories are surely to be made here.

Why You Should Not Play

Losing all your gear in a single fight can be a real buzzkill, especially if you're new to the game. Albion Online’s full-loot system means everything you’re carrying is fair game when you die, which can make the game feel brutal if you’re more into casual play or PvE content.

The game doesn’t hold your hand. Not everyone has the time or energy to learn how to play well enough to survive. You’ll probably have to watch a bunch of guides, and maybe even find a mentor. It’s easy to feel lost or frustrated when starting out.

Albion Online is basically pay-to-win. You can straight up buy in-game currency with real money. Some argue this is more so “paying-for-convenince.” If you’re going the distance with this game, know that eventually you will probably have to swipe. Competitive players use their hard-earned cash to bounce back after a loss. Those who don’t are stuck grinding all over again to get back what they lost.

What do you think? Did I convince you to play Albion Online? Or did I scare you away from ever touching the game?