Shroud of the Avatar: Forsaken Virtues vs Ultima Online
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.


Shroud of the Avatar: Forsaken Virtues is a computer role‑playing game that merges deep, story‑driven single‑player quests with a living, player‑driven world. Created by Lord British, Starr Long, and Tracy Hickman, the game offers a rich fantasy setting where every choice matters. The game features a classless skill system, extensive crafting, housing, and a Selective Multiplayer mode that lets you play solo, with friends, or in an open MMO environment. Available on Linux, PC, and Mac, it delivers a blend of adventure, action, and survival mechanics for both solo adventurers and large communities.
Ultima Online lets players step into Britannia, a vast sandbox realm born from the classic Ultima series. As a massively multiplayer experience, it offers endless freedom to quest, craft, trade, and shape the world together. From its deep role‑playing roots to player‑driven economies and open‑world PvP, the game continues the legacy of Richard Garriott’s vision of a shared fantasy universe where every action matters.
- Deep, classless skill customization
- Flexible multiplayer modes
- Extensive crafting and housing systems
- Cross‑platform availability
- Deep player freedom
- Rich, persistent world
- Strong community and guild tools
- Robust crafting and economy
- Steep learning curve for new players
- Graphics may feel dated to some
- Microtransaction shop can affect balance
- Steep learning curve for new players
- Outdated graphics compared to modern MMOs
- Subscription costs for premium content
More alternatives & similar tools
Alternatives to Shroud of the Avatar: Forsaken Virtues
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Explore Middle‑earth in a living MMORPG alongside the Fellowship.
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataUltima Online offers a classic, free‑to‑play sandbox MMO with a steep learning curve and older graphics, while Shroud of the Avatar provides a modern, paid, classless RPG with flexible solo or MMO modes and cross‑platform support.
Key differences
- •Pricing model: Ultima Online is freemium with optional subscription; Shroud of the Avatar is a one‑time $39.99 purchase.
- •Multiplayer flexibility: Ultima Online is always MMO; Shroud lets you switch between solo, friends‑only, or full MMO.
- •Platform support: Ultima Online is PC only (implied); Shroud runs on Linux, Windows, and macOS.
- •Release era: Ultima Online launched in 1997 with legacy graphics; Shroud released in 2018 with newer but still dated visuals.
- •Age rating: Ultima Online is ESRB M (17+); Shroud is ESRB T (13+).
Pricing & value
Ultima Online is free to start, while Shroud requires a $39.99 upfront cost.
Platform availability
Shroud supports Linux, Windows, and macOS; Ultima Online only listed for PC.
Multiplayer / co‑op
Shroud offers solo, friends‑only, co‑op, and MMO modes; Ultima Online is strictly MMO.
Graphics & performance
Shroud (2018) has newer graphics than Ultima Online's 1997 engine, though both may feel dated.
Content & replayability
Ultima Online’s persistent world, player‑driven economy, and guild system provide ongoing sandbox content.
Difficulty & accessibility
Both have steep learning curves, but Shroud’s flexible solo mode eases new players compared to Ultima’s always‑online world.
Gameplay & fun factor
Both emphasize deep skill customization and crafting; preference depends on desire for pure MMO vs hybrid RPG.
Choose Shroud of the Avatar: Forsaken Virtues if…
Players who prefer a modern, one‑time purchase with solo play option, cross‑platform support, and classless skill system.
Choose Ultima Online if…
Players who want a free, classic sandbox MMO with deep player‑driven economy and guild life.
Common questions
Is there any upfront cost to try Ultima Online?
No, Ultima Online is freemium; you can play for free and only pay for premium content if desired.
Can I play Shroud of the Avatar without an internet connection?
Yes, Shroud offers a single‑player mode that works offline.
Which game has broader platform support?
Shroud of the Avatar runs on Linux, Windows, and macOS, while Ultima Online is only listed for PC.



