Ultima is a role-playing video game series created by Richard Garriott. The series began in 1981 with the release of Ultima I: The First Age of Darkness and is known for its open-world exploration, complex narratives, and moral choices. Players often take on the role of the Avatar, a hero tasked with saving the world of Britannia from various threats. The series has evolved over the years, introducing innovative gameplay mechanics and rich lore. Ultima Online, released in 1997, was one of the first successful massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs), allowing players to interact in a shared virtual world. The franchise has had a significant impact on the gaming industry and inspired many subsequent games.