The Secret World Retrospective: MMO or Cult Classic?
A Look Back at One of the Most Unique MMOs Ever Made
The Secret World, launched in 2012 by Funcom, was a groundbreaking MMORPG that defied genre conventions and captivated a devoted fanbase. While it may not have achieved the mainstream success of juggernauts like World of Warcraft, The Secret World's legacy as a singular and innovative gaming experience continues to loom large over the industry.
The Premise: Blending the Occult and the Modern World
At its core, The Secret World presented a unique premise that set it apart from its contemporaries. Instead of the traditional high fantasy settings common in the MMO genre, the game took players on a journey through a modern, occult-infused world. Players took on the role of a "Templar," "Illuminati," or "Dragon" – three shadowy factions vying for control over the supernatural forces threatening to engulf the globe.
The world of The Secret World was deeply rooted in real-world mythology, conspiracy theories, and esoteric lore. From the Illuminati's machinations in New York City to the Lovecraftian horrors lurking in the backwaters of Egypt, the game seamlessly blended the mundane and the mystical, creating an immersive and unsettling atmosphere unlike anything else in the MMO space.
Gameplay: A Departure from the Norm
The Secret World's gameplay was also a significant departure from the standard MMO formula. Rather than the traditional class-based character progression, the game embraced a more open-ended and flexible system. Players could freely switch between different ability "decks," allowing them to experiment with a wide variety of playstyles and combat approaches.
Skill Wheel and Progression
The skill system was built around a unique "Skill Wheel," which granted players access to a vast array of abilities, from magical spells to melee weapons and firearms. As players progressed, they could unlock new skills and augment their existing ones, tailoring their character to their preferred playstyle.
This system encouraged experimentation and rewarded players who were willing to explore the game's depth. It also meant that character builds were not set in stone, allowing players to adapt to the challenges they encountered.
Quests and Investigations
The Secret World's quests were also a standout feature, moving away from the typical "kill X, collect Y" structure. Many of the game's missions were centered around investigation and problem-solving, challenging players to uncover clues, decipher puzzles, and piece together the overarching narrative.
These "investigation missions" often required players to scour the game world for subtle hints and engage in real-world research, blurring the lines between in-game and out-of-game activities. This approach not only enhanced the sense of immersion but also appealed to players who enjoyed the thrill of discovery and the satisfaction of solving complex mysteries.
Combat and Progression
The combat in The Secret World was also a departure from the norm, emphasizing the importance of positioning, crowd control, and tactical awareness. Players had to carefully manage their abilities, resources, and positioning to overcome the game's challenging foes, which included everything from possessed civilians to ancient demonic entities.
Progression in The Secret World was also less about simply gaining levels and more about acquiring new skills and abilities. This encouraged players to experiment with different playstyles and strategies, rather than focusing on linear character growth.
The Unique Setting and Storytelling
One of the most defining aspects of The Secret World was its richly detailed and immersive setting. The game's world was a seamless blend of real-world locations and occult-infused environments, each with its own distinct atmosphere and narrative.
Factions and Conspiracies
The three playable factions – the Templars, Illuminati, and Dragon – each had their own unique motivations, histories, and agendas, which were woven throughout the game's storylines. Players were drawn into a complex web of conspiracies, power struggles, and hidden truths as they navigated the game's narrative.
Atmosphere and Worldbuilding
The Secret World's worldbuilding was exceptional, with every location feeling like a fully realized and believable environment. From the gritty streets of New York City to the sun-baked ruins of Egypt, the game's art direction and environmental design created a tangible sense of place that enhanced the overall immersion.
The game's atmosphere was also a standout feature, with a moody and unsettling tone that permeated every aspect of the experience. The use of supernatural horror elements, accompanied by a haunting musical score, contributed to a sense of unease and mystery that kept players on the edge of their seats.
The Legacy of The Secret World
Despite its critical acclaim and dedicated fanbase, The Secret World struggled to find commercial success in the highly competitive MMORPG market. In 2014, Funcom transitioned the game to a free-to-play model in an effort to attract a wider audience, but the damage had already been done.
The Secret World's Cult Status
Although The Secret World never achieved the mainstream popularity of its genre peers, it has since gained a dedicated cult following among gamers who appreciate its unique vision and innovative approach to the MMORPG formula. The game's devoted community continues to keep the flame alive, with fan-run servers and ongoing discussions about the game's legacy.
The Impact on the Industry
While The Secret World may not have been a commercial success, its impact on the MMORPG genre cannot be overstated. The game's willingness to break away from established conventions and explore new narrative and gameplay directions has inspired many developers to push the boundaries of what is possible in the genre.
The Future of The Secret World
In 2017, Funcom announced that The Secret World would be rebooted and rebranded as "Secret World Legends," a free-to-play game that would incorporate many of the original's core features while addressing some of its shortcomings. The reboot received a mixed reception, with some fans embracing the changes while others felt it diluted the game's unique identity.
Regardless of the ultimate fate of The Secret World franchise, its legacy as a bold and innovative MMORPG that dared to be different will endure. The game's influence can be seen in the growing diversity of the genre, as more developers explore the potential of blending the mundane and the supernatural, the modern and the mythical.
Key Takeaways
- The Secret World was a groundbreaking MMORPG that defied genre conventions with its unique premise, gameplay, and storytelling.
- The game's blend of the occult and the modern world, coupled with its focus on investigation and problem-solving, created a deeply immersive and unsettling experience.
- The Secret World's open-ended skill system and emphasis on tactical combat set it apart from its contemporaries, appealing to players who enjoyed experimentation and adaptability.
- Despite critical acclaim, The Secret World struggled to find commercial success, but it has since gained a dedicated cult following and continues to influence the MMORPG genre.
- The game's reboot as Secret World Legends received a mixed reception, but its legacy as a bold and innovative title that pushed the boundaries of the genre remains intact.
Final Thoughts
The Secret World may not have achieved the mainstream success of other major MMORPGs, but its legacy as a unique and groundbreaking gaming experience is undeniable. The game's willingness to explore new narrative and gameplay directions, coupled with its deeply immersive setting and atmosphere, have left an indelible mark on the genre.
While The Secret World's future remains uncertain, its impact on the MMORPG landscape will continue to be felt for years to come. For those who experienced the game's singular charms, it will always be remembered as a cult classic – a testament to the power of innovation and the enduring appeal of the occult and the mysterious.
