However, here are some options to explore that might fit your criteria:
1. Free-to-Play MMORPGs with Animal-Themed Features:
* Black Desert Online: While not strictly an animal-themed game, it features a robust animal taming and training system, allowing you to capture and raise various creatures. It offers a free-to-play option with limited features and a paid subscription for full access. Mac support is available.
* MapleStory: This long-running 2D side-scrolling MMORPG offers a wide variety of character classes, including some with animal themes. It's a charming and accessible game with a free-to-play model. Mac support is available.
* Neverwinter: Another free-to-play option with a rich fantasy world. While not strictly animal-focused, it features various creatures you can interact with and some animal-themed character classes. Mac support is available.
2. Free-to-Play, Browser-Based MMORPGs with Some Animal Aspects:
* Star Stable Online: This game focuses heavily on horses, offering a wide array of horse breeds, care, and riding experiences. While primarily designed for younger audiences, it can be enjoyable for those who enjoy horse-themed games. It's free-to-play with a subscription option for additional features. It runs on a web browser and is compatible with Macs.
* The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild: While technically not an MMORPG, this open-world adventure game features a rich animal ecosystem and allows for significant player interaction with animals. You can ride, hunt, and even tame some creatures. It's available on the Nintendo Switch, which is compatible with Macs.
3. Indie Animal RPGs:
* The Forest: While not an MMORPG, this survival horror game allows you to interact with animals in a very immersive way. You can tame and ride wolves, hunt for food, and even craft weapons from animal parts. It's available on Steam and compatible with Macs.
* Ooblets: This charming life sim game features a world full of cute, colorful creatures called "Ooblets" that you can befriend, train, and battle. It's available on Steam and compatible with Macs.
Finding Other Options:
* Look for Upcoming Releases: There may be upcoming indie games that are animal-themed and offer RPG or MMORPG features. Stay updated on gaming news and Kickstarter campaigns.
* Consider Virtual Worlds: Platforms like Second Life and VRChat allow you to create and customize avatars, including animal-themed ones, and engage in social interactions within a virtual world.
Remember that the "free-to-play" label can sometimes be misleading. Many games offer a free version with limited features and require a paid subscription for full access.
I hope this helps! Happy gaming!