If you're looking for an MMO with a new, different setting you might want to look in the direction of Gatheryn. The story begins on an island with a new civilization that's harnessed the power of steam.
The island is called Elymia and on the island the power of steam is used in ways surpassing that of other nations. Other nations in the "Outworld" always come to Elymia to buy wares there because of the advancements steam power has afforded the island. More of the back story to the world of Gatheryn can be found at the official site.
One thing that's caught my eye is a sentence taken from the game's "gameplay" section. "Show off your new pet -- perhaps a ferret, or a steam-powered mechanical monkey." I'm all about ferrets and mechanical monkies. Gatheryn promises minigames within the steampunk setting and a rich setting befitting to MMO players.
If you're interested you can sign up for the beta here.