What’s Next For EA Mythic?

MMORPG.com has published a speculatory article about what types of MMORPGs we might eventually see developed by EA Mythic. A well-built Ultima Online II is all I could ask for:

This has been tried several times, but never has the much rumored and anticipated sequel to one of the most beloved MMOs ever made become a reality. The original title has survived the test of time and despite its 2D isometric view and the dozens of games that followed in its footsteps, it still ranks among the largest MMORPGs – in terms of subscribers – on the market.

Unlike most other MMO sequels, there is a real chance to differentiate the two products. A fully 3D game, using cutting edge technology, but set in the world of Ultima could provide a radically different experience than the original product. Given its age, UO cannot possibly hope to compete with the new games. The best case scenario is that UO retains as many of its subscribers for as long as possible. By now, all that is left is the hardcore. Yet, when you consider that a good chunk of MMO players today probably tried UO at some point, the potential for UO2 seems huge.

The downside is that Ultima is an IP familiar only to MMO players and gaming veterans. Nothing has been done in that space for years and it is not a brand likely to draw new gamers into pay-to-play online gaming. Ask the average person on the street what Ultima is and you’ll receive a blank look. That said, the same probably could have been said about WarCraft a few years ago.