I found a server called CrownMC RPG and it feels like a big open world survival MMO. You pick your own path and just start building your character with a bunch of skills you can level up.
You can farm for a chill life or focus on crafting and fishing. If you like money stuff there is an economy with shops and an Auction House where players run the market.
There are custom bosses and dungeons too and you can go raid them for special gear and crate keys. Health scales up as you gain experience so you can get way tougher over time.
The wild twist is the monarchy system. The crown is a real thing and if you find and slay the current King you instantly become the new King. You take their claims and can zone their kingdom. It is optional but it makes the server feel like there is always a power struggle happening.
You can also party up with friends and level together. It is basically an RPG SMP with roleplay and PVP if you want to chase the crown.
CrownMC Open-World RPG SMP With Kings
GG.MINEWIND.NET New Server IPBuild Nations Java RP With PVP Balance
This is a Java nations role play server where players can start their own nation or join one that already exists.
You can rise in the ranks over time and pick your own style like merchant mercenary or just a humble fisherman.
People say the community is great and there are fun custom items but it still feels mostly vanilla. The server tries to keep a good balance between role play pvp and safe building.GG.MINEWIND.NET New Server IPAvalonEarth Towny Geopolitics EarthSMP
AvalonEarth is a geopol style earthsmp server with a big 1 to 500 scale earth map. There is a lot of room to make nations and spread out.
The server uses Towny so players can create towns and nations. Anyone can start a nation because you get starter money when you join. You do not need a bunch of requirements first.
This server is now in its second season. The first season started in September and a strong community grew from that. The second season is already getting a lot of new players.
There are wars and conflicts for people who like pvp and strategy. If you do not like war you can still live a peaceful life and try to avoid most of the fighting.
The main ways to make money are jobs farming and fishing. More money methods are being added over time. The whole thing feels like a growing world where players shape the map and politics.GG.MINEWIND.NET New Server IP