A persistent browser-based game (PBBG) saves your progress between visits. You can close the browser and return to the same account, character or long-term game. Your progress is saved, but the game’s world may keep changing while you are away.
What does persistent mean in a browser game?
In an online RPG, your character’s level, equipment and other progress are usually saved in your game account. Timers may continue, events may end and other players may act while you are offline. What happens during your absence depends on the game’s rules.
This differs from a short browser game where every visit begins a new, separate match. Your choices carry over between visits: improving a character today can help with a challenge tomorrow. Some games also have seasons or resets, so check what is permanent before investing time.
Are PBBGs the same as text-based RPGs?
The terms overlap but describe different things. “Browser-based” means you play on a website. “Persistent” means your progress is saved between visits. A “text-based RPG” uses words, numbers and menus to help you develop a character. A persistent browser game can use illustrations, menus and statistics rather than typed commands.
For the multiplayer side, see our guide to text-based social RPGs. For the genre’s origins, read KanoPlay’s history of text-based RPG games.
What should you check before choosing a PBBG?
Progression: find out how character skills, equipment and resources develop. Consider whether you want to specialise, collect items or work toward group goals.
Competition: check whether the game centres on battles against other players, cooperative challenges or both. Group systems can give you people to learn from and goals beyond your own character.
Time commitment: look at how quickly Energy and Stamina refill, event schedules and what can happen offline. A browser version makes access convenient, but it does not tell you how much time a game will require.
Accounts and costs: check sign-in requirements and optional purchases. A free-to-play game can still sell items or currency. Use the tutorial to understand its main activities before deciding whether it suits you.
Choose a persistent RPG to try on KanoPlay
These Kano games are available in your desktop browser with no download needed, and as mobile apps for iPhone and Android.
Each has its own theme, character growth and community. Pick the setting you want to explore, then follow the tutorial to try its main activities.
Mob Wars: LCN: a mafia setting with Jobs, properties, equipment, player battles and Syndicates. Play Mob Wars: LCN Free.
Pirate Clan: grow your pirate character, battle other captains and explore Armada competition. Play Pirate Clan Free.
Viking Clan: explore a Norse fantasy setting, develop your character and join Guild competition. Play Viking Clan Free.
Zombie Slayer: choose a zombie apocalypse setting for your next persistent RPG. Play Zombie Slayer Free.
Where should a new player start?
Pick a setting, create an account and follow the tutorial. In Mob Wars: LCN, try Jobs and Fights to understand the main activities, then learn how skill points, equipment and property income support your character. Explore Syndicates and events as they become available.
If you are comparing games rather than starting the genre for the first time, our guide to Mob Wars: LCN for Torn players explains the fit and differences. Browse Find a Game for the wider KanoPlay selection.
Will clearing browser data delete my character?
For online games that save progress in your online account, clearing browser data generally signs you out rather than deleting the character. Make sure you know your sign-in method before clearing data or switching devices. Guest accounts and games with local-only saves can behave differently.
PBBG games to try next
Choose the type of persistent world you want before comparing individual games. Our free multiplayer RPG shortlist covers mafia, pirate, fantasy and zombie settings. The browser mafia comparison focuses on crime games and highlights round rules to check. A game can save an account between sessions while still running competitive resets, so check both systems.
See how saved progress becomes your next goal
In LCN, you can keep improving your character, mob and income between visits. Explore equipment and property choices or follow the beginner guide to get started.
