Summer has finally arrived, and with it, the chance to dive into the digital worlds that promise adventure and escape. You’re Jack Malone, a high school sophomore with time to burn and not a lot of cash to spend. After hearing the buzz about *Battle for Athera*, the latest MMORPG captivating players across the globe, you’re ready to give it a try. The game boasts sprawling landscapes, intense battles, and a unique twist: you can choose to fight for justice as a valiant hero—or embrace the darkness and play as a monster.

But there’s a catch. Playing as a hero costs a steep $20 monthly subscription, not to mention the temptation of endless microtransactions. With your wallet nearly as empty as your fridge, the choice is clear. You'll be starting your journey as a monster. It’s free-to-play, after all, and you relish the idea of clawing your way up from the bottom, earning your power the hard way.

The game boots up with a fanfare of orchestral music, and soon, the character creation screen appears. Five grotesque, low-level monsters glare back at you, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.

The question looms: Which monster will you choose?