Massively Speaking http://massively.joystiq.com This is the Massively podcast http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Massively SpeakingJoystiqMassively Speaking<![CDATA[Alganon delays expansion, plans double-XP weekend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/alganon-delays-expansion-plans-double-xp-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/alganon-delays-expansion-plans-double-xp-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/alganon-delays-expansion-plans-double-xp-weekend/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Alganon
Citing "unforseen circumstances," the team at QOL has announced that Alganon's Rise of the Ourobani expansion will be delayed until the fourth quarter of this year. "After evaluation of the project, it was decided that more time was needed in order to do some critical bug fixes as well as to spend more time on certain areas and features of the expansion in order to do the best work possible," the devs wrote in the April newsletter.

Rise of the Ourobani will feature the playable titular race, a brand-new continent to explore, a Warden combat companion, PvP, and flying mounts. To soften the blow of the expansion's delay, QOL has released several sneak peek pictures and videos.

Even though the expansion is a ways away, players have a reason to log in now, as Alganon is preparing a double-XP weekend from April 20 through the 23rd.

You can watch Rise of the Ourobani flying mounts in action after the break.

Continue reading Alganon delays expansion, plans double-XP weekend

MassivelyAlganon delays expansion, plans double-XP weekend originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alganonclasscontinentdelaydouble-xpdouble-xp-weekendf2pfantasyflying-mountflying-mountsfree-to-playourobaniqolquestquest-onlineracerise-of-the-ourobanitrailervideowardenTue, 17 Apr 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Alganon opens European servers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/13/alganon-opens-european-servers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/13/alganon-opens-european-servers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/13/alganon-opens-european-servers/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Quest Online announced today that its free-to-play MMORPG Alganon is expanding! The game's reach grows just a wee bit longer with the launch of the Aeon server, located in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Players on either continent can choose to play on either server, so there's nothing stopping North American players from throwing down with their friends across the pond.

As a result of this new addition to the Alganon family, players will have a week (until July 19th) to transfer to the Aeon server free of charge. To do so, all you have to do is log into the Alganon website, choose the My Account option, and click My Transfers. Voila! The new server also comes just in time for the upcoming GM vs. Player battles taking place on July 16th and 17th. For more information, head to the official Alganon site.

MassivelyAlganon opens European servers originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Jul 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeonaeon-serveralganoneueu-servereuropeeuropeaneuropean-serverf2pfree-to-playgm-vs-playersgms-vs-playersnew-serverquest-onlineWed, 13 Jul 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise of the Ourobani coming to Alganon this winter]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/07/rise-of-the-ourobani-coming-to-alganon-this-winter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/07/rise-of-the-ourobani-coming-to-alganon-this-winter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/07/rise-of-the-ourobani-coming-to-alganon-this-winter/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Alganon has come a long way since its launch, with the conversion to free-to-play and several updates helping to improve the game's feel and engine immensely. Now it's time for the game to move on to its next big step of development -- its first expansion. Yes, that's right, the game is expanding with Rise of the Ourobani, introducing a new race and class to the game along with several other new features.

The eponymous Ourobani are a race in service to a god long thought lost, with the Asharr and Kujix both attempting to seize the Ourobani's power for their own ends. Players will also get access to the game's first pet class in the form of the Warden. In addition, the game is promising both player and guild housing, flying mounts, and a new continent called Aeon, on which players can enjoy a whole new leveling experience. If your opinion of Alganon hasn't been updated since the game's original development, it might be a good time to start looking at the game with new eyes -- there's a lot on the expansion plate, especially for a free-to-play game.

MassivelyRise of the Ourobani coming to Alganon this winter originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Jun 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alganonexpansionf2pfree-to-playpatchpatchespreviewsqolquest-onlinerise-of-the-ourobaniupcoming-expansionupcoming-patchesupdateTue, 07 Jun 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Gaming with Game of Thrones]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/11/free-for-all-gaming-with-game-of-thrones/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/11/free-for-all-gaming-with-game-of-thrones/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/11/free-for-all-gaming-with-game-of-thrones/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

I have really been enjoying the new series Game of Thrones over on the HBO network. In fact, when I recently changed to a faster internet provider, I deliberately added on the exclusive channel just for the series. Even though I have never read the books, a 15-minute preview of the show was enough to convince me to watch it. While I am truly enjoying the break from fantasy that is chock-full of smart-alec modern-day references (all delivered by smirking hipsters with swords), I admit to still being a little afraid that the series will take a turn for the goofy or overly dramatic. If a single vampire shows up in this one, I am going to turn it all off and go on a long vacation.

So far, though, it's been a delightful romp into a cold, realistic world. After I watch a new episode, I avoid the internet for fear of random spoilers or the temptation to look at character bios. I simply do not want to know what's going to happen, so please do not tell me. Since the series has started, I have begun to notice how I enjoy the same basic entertainment in my gaming.

I want political intrigue, amazing landscapes, and the occasional epic, bloody fight. Join me past the cut and let's look at some games that provide those three things.

Continue reading Free for All: Gaming with Game of Thrones

MassivelyFree for All: Gaming with Game of Thrones originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 May 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-game-of-thronesa-song-of-ice-and-firealganonankamaAtysbeau-hindmanbrowser-basedf2pface-of-mankindfeaturedfree-for-allfree-to-playftpgame-of-thronesgeorge-martingeorge-r-r-martingotillyriadmin-kimmmortsnexonnexon-americaryzomsean-beanSquare-Enixvindictuswakfuwinter-is-comingWorld-of-WarcraftWed, 11 May 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: A week of scheduled playtimes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/13/free-for-all-a-week-of-scheduled-playtimes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/13/free-for-all-a-week-of-scheduled-playtimes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/13/free-for-all-a-week-of-scheduled-playtimes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

After a loose week of playing scheduled games, I can say that I have a lot of work to do to perfect my system. Once again, Tim and Jon from the Van Hemlock podcast are my inspiration. They are both dedicated to the art of playing games, to "finishing" games, almost to the point of obsession. It's certainly not for everyone, but they seem to maintain a real balance while skipping around. Perhaps the podcast they host helps them with this balance? I've hosted several podcasts over the years, so maybe putting my weekly gaming thoughts into audio form is necessary to keeping my sanity?

In reality, what I need to do is just stick it out and stay the course. I am not sure of many things in this world, but I am positive that repetition and scheduling are more powerful than almost any plan. Humans are habitual creatures, even with their gaming. Especially with their gaming. Over this last week, I started to settle into the role of a scheduled player and even looked forward to it each night.

Click past the cut and I'll let you know how it went.

Continue reading Free for All: A week of scheduled playtimes

MassivelyFree for All: A week of scheduled playtimes originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Apr 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alganonbeau-hindmaneq2eq2xeqiieverquest-2everquest-2-extendedf2pfeaturedfree-for-allfree-to-playftpmabinoginexonnexon-americaonetoofree-abonetwofree-abquest-onlineryzomsoeSony-Online-Entertainmentvan-hemlockwinch-gatewinch-gate-property-limitedwurm-onlineWed, 13 Apr 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Alganon patches Phase III PvP update]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/26/alganon-patches-phase-iii-pvp-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/26/alganon-patches-phase-iii-pvp-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/26/alganon-patches-phase-iii-pvp-update/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Destruction, terror, and mayhem came to Alganon this past November with the arrival of the game's first PvP patch. This week, the free-to-play fantasy MMORPG is tweaking the functionality with Phase III of its planned PvP rollout which includes a couple of noteworthy additions.

First up is the new tower mechanic. In a nutshell, the towers are PvP-enabled zones that automatically flag players for conflict five seconds after they've entered. Temporary promotions will be in effect for characters from levels 10 to 49, and statistics and action levels will be raised to level 50 for the duration of a player's time in the tower zone. The towers can also be captured, which brings bonuses to every member of your faction in the zone. The Quest devs have also added local and world defense chat channels to facilitate battlefield communication.

Finally, the new patch has also increased the renown level cap to 10 and there is new PvP gear for sale at various capital city quartermaster NPCs. Read all the details on Alganon's 2.5.2 patch at the official website.

MassivelyAlganon patches Phase III PvP update originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 26 Jan 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.5.2-patchalganoncapturef2pfree-to-playpatchpvppvp-gearpvp-zonesqolquestquest-onlinerenownrenown-caprenown-cap-increasetowersWed, 26 Jan 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Alganon dev blog talks character models, more PvP]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/19/alganon-dev-blog-talks-character-models-more-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/19/alganon-dev-blog-talks-character-models-more-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/19/alganon-dev-blog-talks-character-models-more-pvp/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

If you've been following the long and indie road of Quest Online's Alganon, you'd know that development has picked up over the last several months. PvP was released in a recent patch, despite warnings that it might not fit into a game that was meant solely for PvE. Well, PvP fans can rejoice as a "PvP phase III" will be rolling out soon. This means that players will be able to interact with towers while murdering each other. "Capturing all three Towers in a particular area provides a benefit to your entire faction while adventuring and defending that zone," stated a recent blog post.

Concerns for adding PvP were always high. At one point, Derek Smart even told the team that, "I think this would be asking for trouble because we would have the PvP players in a world primarily designed for PvE. It could be a can of worms that I'm not sure we want to deal with." However, according to the official blog, PvP has gone off pretty well.

New character models are coming, as well. The much-anticipated addition will be rolled out in the "early part of this year" according to the latest entry. While the before and after shots could be more dramatic -- something Smart admits in the blog -- he goes on to honestly explain the thinking behind the development process.

You can check the official blog out here, and find out more information about Alganon on their main site.

MassivelyAlganon dev blog talks character models, more PvP originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 19 Jan 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alganonbeau-hindmancharacter-modelsderek-smartpatchpvpquest-onlineupdateWed, 19 Jan 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Tilting at windmills]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/15/one-shots-tilting-at-windmills/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/15/one-shots-tilting-at-windmills/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/15/one-shots-tilting-at-windmills/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It's been a while since we've had an Alganon sent in by a player, but with today's One Shots from Niklas, we break that streak. As a small free-to-play fantasy MMO, Alganon has certainly had its share of trials and tribulations, but that isn't stopping players from enjoying the game or stopping to check out the scenery like we see in today's image. Niklas writes in to share his thoughts: "When I was walking around in the world of Alganon, a beautiful free-to-play MMORPG (which some of you hate), I stopped for a moment just to listen to the music. Then after a couple of seconds, I looked up in the sky where the moon was shining brightly on me. I could only hear the sound from the forest and I got a warm feeling. It is strange how a game can make you so emotional!"

If we haven't seen a screenshot of your favorite MMO here for some time, why not take a moment to snap a picture and send it in to us. It's easy to do. Email it in to oneshots@massively.com along with your name, the name of the game, and a description of what we're seeing in the image. Please make sure the image is at least 1024 pixels wide and has no visible UI elements. If chosen, we'll post it out here on Massively for everyone to enjoy and give you the credit for sending it in!

Gallery: One Shots: 2011

MassivelyOne Shots: Tilting at windmills originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 15 Jan 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alganonfree-to-playniklasone-shotsqolquest-onlinescreenshotscreenshotsSat, 15 Jan 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Most controversial MMO stories of 2010]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/16/the-perfect-ten-most-controversial-mmo-stories-of-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/16/the-perfect-ten-most-controversial-mmo-stories-of-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/16/the-perfect-ten-most-controversial-mmo-stories-of-2010/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Well, this is it, folks. The end of the year. A time of reflection, of massive weight gain and of lists. Man, we like our lists, do we not? Fortunately, at Perfect Ten Industries, we've been excelling in lists for months now. Frankly, we're just getting warmed up!

While 2010 may not have been much to write home about in terms of newly launched MMOs, there was more than enough controversy to keep the discussion brewing for months. MMOs are big business, and when every move you make is closely scrutinized by millions of gamers, there's no room to slip up unless you like forum hyenas pouncing all over you, snapping and snarling at your faulty flesh.

So let's take a jaunt down our top 10 list of the most controversial stories of 2010 on Massively, keeping in mind that it was devilishly hard just to keep this list to 10 at all. What's a week without being riled up about pixels and polygons, after all?

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Most controversial MMO stories of 2010

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Most controversial MMO stories of 2010 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Dec 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advisory-councilalganonallodsallods-onlineapocryphaAtaribethesdaBethesda-Softworksc-storeccpCCP-GamescodemasterscontroversyCraig-Zinkievichcrypticcryptic-studiosdavid-allenddoddo-offer-walldelayderek-smartdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeaea-lousElectronic-Artsend-of-the-year-2010europeeuropean-games-awardseveeve-onlinefeaturedfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgpotatointerplaylaglawsuitlegallord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromythicMythic-Entertainmentoffer-wallragequitsquare-enixstar-trek-onlinestar-wars-the-old-republicstostockstockholderswtorthe-old-republictorturbinewarWarhammer-OnlineThu, 16 Dec 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: An insight on indie from Alganon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/15/free-for-all-an-insight-on-indie-from-alganon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/15/free-for-all-an-insight-on-indie-from-alganon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/15/free-for-all-an-insight-on-indie-from-alganon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Recently I decided that I wanted to ask different indie developers how their world revolves and what it's like to exist within that world. Development is a funny thing and often much more difficult than many of us will ever know. In my experience, the budget doesn't change the basic goings-on in the development studio, but it can effect what developers are willing to talk about. I would never expect certain mainstream developers to ever open up to certain questions, while many indie developers seem more than willing.

Last time, I asked the developers of Istaria what they thought, which you can read here. This time, I decided to send some questions to Quest Online, the maker of Alganon. I received my answers from Derek Smart, president of QOL. Alganon has been one of my surprise favorites of the last year, so I was eager to ask some questions -- after all, he says exactly what's on his mind.

Continue reading Free for All: An insight on indie from Alganon

MassivelyFree for All: An insight on indie from Alganon originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Dec 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alganonalganon-relaunchbeau-hindmanderek-smartf2pfree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumftpindependentIndieIndieDesignersinterviewqolquest-onlinerelaunchWorld-of-Warcraftwowwow-cloneWed, 15 Dec 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Alganon adding PvP functionality]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/11/alganon-adding-pvp-functionality/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/11/alganon-adding-pvp-functionality/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/11/alganon-adding-pvp-functionality/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Despite its checkered history, free-to-play fantasy MMORPG Alganon soldiers on. In its recently released November newsletter, Quest Online details the latest feature set added to the game in the form of PvP combat. The upgrade is scheduled to proceed in stages, with phase one consisting of both dueling and open world PvP, both of which are already available on the live servers.

Phase two of the PvP integration is currently slotted for a December release and looks to add an objective system to the open-world PvP mechanics in the form of conquerable towers. Said towers will provide adventuring benefits to factional members located in the zone. Quest is also working on PvP armor sets and accessories for characters between levels 10 and 50. Keeps will be making an appearance in phase two as well and will represent stepping stones along the path to being able to enter the enemy capitol and slay the factional leader for fun and profit.

Finally, phase three of the PvP master plan will bring battlegrounds to the world of Alganon. These self-contained PvP instances will feature team objectives and function similarly to the maps found in traditional FPS titles. Quest is also prepping a renown system that will feature weapons, armor, and assorted gear, as well as a resource-control mechanic. Battlegrounds are scheduled to go live sometime in 2011.

Check out the official Alganon newsletter for more details.

MassivelyAlganon adding PvP functionality originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 11 Nov 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alganonbattlegroundsfantasyfree-to-playkeepspvppvp-objectivespvp-patchpvp-phasequest-onlinerenownrenown-systemresource-controltowersThu, 11 Nov 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Thirteen spooky free-to-play Halloween events]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/27/free-for-all-13-spooky-free-to-play-halloween-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/27/free-for-all-13-spooky-free-to-play-halloween-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/27/free-for-all-13-spooky-free-to-play-halloween-events/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Ah, Halloween. The dark Xmas. Around our house, Halloween is king. Despite the fact that we have no kids to dress up and parade around the neighborhood, we will still hand out tons of candy to all the trick-or-treaters. Until that spooky night, however, we love to spend the time exploring different Halloween events in our favorite MMORPGs.

MMOs are perfect for such events -- they have the players to fill them out, the ability to host whatever kind of event they want, and a lot of optional blood and gore. Some of the events fit perfectly in their game-world, and some stick out like a stock broker on D&D night. Either way, there is always a lot of fun to be had, and sometimes very cool loot to snag! (Like that sweet ride pictured above -- got it on my first try.)

Read on for some of my favorite events -- none of them costing a dime.

Continue reading Free for All: Thirteen spooky free-to-play Halloween events

MassivelyFree for All: Thirteen spooky free-to-play Halloween events originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Oct 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alganonbeau-hindmancostume-contestf2pfeaturedflyfffree-realmsfree-to-playFreejackftpglobal-agendagrand-fantasiahalloweenin-game-eventsmabinogiMapleStorypuzzle-piratesvindictuswizard-101zentiaWed, 27 Oct 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: Alganon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/22/rise-and-shiny-recap-alganon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/22/rise-and-shiny-recap-alganon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/22/rise-and-shiny-recap-alganon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

We have all heard of the controversy surrounding Alganon. Essentially, it breaks down into a few basic points: it is a "WoW clone," and it is being run by Derek Smart, a say-it-like-you-mean-it development bad-boy. Many claim he looks for negative attention and enjoys arguing with players. To be blunt, I don't care what people think about Derek Smart. I have said it before: I actually believe that he reacts to negative attention the way other developers wish they could. I don't keep track of his battles, though; I keep track of what he has done in gaming. All I know is that before he was with Alganon, I did not enjoy the game. After he became involved, the game got better.

Concerning the "WoW-clone" issue: If I had a gold piece for every time I've heard that, I could afford that incredible level 50 mount! (*snort*) If I took a moment to break down all games that have similarities to WoW, this article would be much, much longer than it needs to be. WoW was successful, and the industry takes cues from success. WoW took its own cues from other games before that. Still, does Alganon take more from WoW than, say, Lord of the Rings Online?

Read on, and let's discuss it.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Alganon

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Alganon originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 22 Aug 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alganonbeau-hindmanderek-smartf2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumftpglobal-agendalord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroquest-onlinerise-and-shinyRyzomvelvet-ropeWorld-of-Warcraftwowwow-cloneSun, 22 Aug 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Alganon making the switch to the full free-to-play model]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/10/alganon-making-the-switch-to-the-full-free-to-play-model/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/10/alganon-making-the-switch-to-the-full-free-to-play-model/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/10/alganon-making-the-switch-to-the-full-free-to-play-model/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It's been quite a while since we've heard much from Alganon, with the last major game announcement having been the switch to a subscription-free model back in April. The team over at Quest Online has apparently decided to take that philosophy to the next level, as on Friday, August 13th, the game is going fully free to play. The client will be free to download and play indefinitely, with no time limits. There will be certain restrictions on new accounts, with a lowered level cap and ability cap that can be ameliorated via microtransactions.

Said microtransactions are also the game's way of compensating players who had already purchased a copy of the game, with existing purchasers getting several caps removed automatically. The full details, as well as details on a special offer within the first week of the game's free-to-play launch, are outlined within the official announcement. Alganon is certainly no stranger to controversy, but it remains to be seen what the MMO community at large will think about the game in its newest incarnation.

MassivelyAlganon making the switch to the full free-to-play model originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 Aug 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alganonbusinessbusiness-modelsf2pfree-to-playgame-changesmicrotransactionmodel-changesqolquest-onlinesubscription-freeTue, 10 Aug 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Alganon steals press release from BioWare]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/08/alganon-steals-press-release-format-from-bioware/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/08/alganon-steals-press-release-format-from-bioware/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/08/alganon-steals-press-release-format-from-bioware/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The comedy train that is Alganon just keeps on rolling. Ethic over at Kill Ten Rats alerts us to a press release for the newly relaunched fantasy MMORPG that copies, nearly word for word, the verbiage used by Bioware to promote Star Wars: The Old Republic almost two years ago.

"'Traditionally, massively multiplier online games have been about three basic gameplay pillars - combat, exploration and character progression,' Derek Smart continued. 'In Alganon, in addition to these we've added the fourth pillar to the equation; a story. We delivered a fun, immersive adventure that gamers expect in a top quality massively multiplayer online game. To top it all off, we're not done yet. A whole new adventure with new updates will follow soon, starting with a consignment house, new classes, PvP and much more,'" proclaims the offending release.

Sound familiar? That's probably because it was posted a while back on The Old Republic's official site:

"Traditionally, massively multiplayer online games have been about three basic gameplay pillars - combat, exploration and character progression," said Dr. Ray Muzyka, Co-Founder and General Manager/CEO of BioWare and General Manager/Vice President of Electronic Arts Inc., "In Star Wars: The Old Republic, we're fusing BioWare's heritage of critically-acclaimed storytelling with the amazing pedigree of Lucasfilm and LucasArts, and adding a brand-new fourth pillar to the equation - story. At the same time, we will still deliver all the fun features and activities that fans have come to expect in a AAA massively multiplayer online game. To top it all off, Star Wars: The Old Republic is set in a very exciting, dynamic period in the Star Wars universe," reads a BioWare release dated in October 2008.

Check out Ethic's post over at Kill Ten Rats. Additionally, Massively has contacted Quest Online for comment and will update the story as information becomes available.

[Update: Quest CEO Derek Smart has responded with this post over on Alganon's official boards.]

MassivelyAlganon steals press release from BioWare originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 08 May 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alganonbiowarederek-smartplagiarismpress-releasesquest-onlineray-musykaray-muzkyastar-wars-the-old-republicthe-old-republicSat, 08 May 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: In with the new]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/04/one-shots-in-with-the-new/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/04/one-shots-in-with-the-new/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/04/one-shots-in-with-the-new/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

With the recent relaunch of Alganon including a change of model to something more akin to Guild Wars than the original box & subscription model, there are quite a few people taking a look at the game and reporting back on their impressions. Today we have a lush One Shots taken recently by Todd L. who has been checking the game out as well. He writes in to give us his impressions on the view in the above screenshot: "I was out adventuring in the woods of Alganon on my Healer and stopped for a second to take in the scenery in the forest before getting back to the tasks at hand. What a great view!"

From big to small MMOs, we love to see what you're doing. All you have to do to take part of the fun is to email your image to us here at oneshots AT massively DOT com along with your name, the name of the game, and your thoughts/description of what we're seeing. Please make sure your image is at least 1024 pixels wide, and has as little UI showing as possible. Yours could be the next one we feature here on Massively!

Gallery: One Shots: Gallery II

MassivelyOne Shots: In with the new originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 May 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alganonalganon-relaunchone-shotsquest-onlinescreenshotscreenshotstodd-lTue, 04 May 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Alganon re-release: worth all the hype?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/03/alganon-re-release-worth-all-the-hype/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/03/alganon-re-release-worth-all-the-hype/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/03/alganon-re-release-worth-all-the-hype/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

For starters, there are two things that I will not cover in this look at the Alganon re-launch:

  • Derek Smart: I am still not that familiar with the man. I am familiar with his games, and familiar with the snarky jokes made at his expense, but I do not feel it has any bearing on how much or how little I enjoy a product that he is involved in. His religious beliefs probably affect his life and thus his work more than most things, yet I do not care to read about them either. To put it as he does in his forum signature: "Game developers are just human beings who happen to make games for a living. If you want to hold us up to higher standards of conduct, then go ahead...but don't be surprised if we don't uphold them."
  • "WoW clones:": If we spend any amount of time comparing user interfaces, monster types and general looks, we will be here all day. I am a fan of 30's crime novels, a genre that definitely "borrows" stylistically from itself, but I do not dismiss the use of subtle details that separate different authors from one another simply because they sometimes feel the same or are set in the same universe. Let's not compare vehicles for the content, let's discuss the actual content.

Continue reading Alganon re-release: worth all the hype?

MassivelyAlganon re-release: worth all the hype? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 03 May 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alganoncash-shopderek-smartfeaturedfree-to-playftpquest-onlinerelaunchMon, 03 May 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Alganon finishes changes, announces relaunch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/29/alganon-finishes-changes-announces-relaunch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/29/alganon-finishes-changes-announces-relaunch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/29/alganon-finishes-changes-announces-relaunch/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Alganon has been going through some huge changes over the past few months, and while sometimes it seems like it's taken a back burner to other things, the Alganon employees have been hard at work behind the scenes.

Their work paid off yesterday with the grand reopening of Alganon's doors, accompanied by a hearty thank you to the fans from Derek Smart: "We appreciate the valuable feedback from the testers as well as those who bought and played the original December 2009 release. The continued enthusiasm and dedication of players around the world, and the help they gave us in helping to finish and fine tune the game is very much appreciated."

Fine tuning might be a bit of an understatement, as the game has gone through an overhaul from the business model up. Yesterday's relaunch announcement provided an overview of what you can expect from the new-and-improved Alganon, so take a look and see what you think of the new direction the game has taken. Keep an eye on Massively too, as our own Beau Hindman will be taking a detailed look at the changes very soon.

MassivelyAlganon finishes changes, announces relaunch originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Apr 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alganonalganon-relaunchderek-smartqolquest-onlineThu, 29 Apr 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Quest Online responds to David Allen lawsuit]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/26/quest-online-responds-to-david-allen-lawsuit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/26/quest-online-responds-to-david-allen-lawsuit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/26/quest-online-responds-to-david-allen-lawsuit/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Lawsuits aren't necessarily a fact of life in the world of video games, but they seem to be a bit favored over words when two parties just can't seem to get along. David Allen, the gentleman formerly in charge of Alganon's development, has opted for legal action in the matter of his removal from the company, which was followed by Derek Smart taking his position. While Smart has responded to Allen on his personal blog, Quest Online has taken the opportunity to attempt to put the record straight in a more official capacity.

According to the official statement, "the company's members, forced to make a decision between David Allen and Derek Smart, unanimously voted to remove Mr. Allen as managing member thereby leaving Derek Smart as President of the company." Those who have been following the debate since the beginning will note that this matches Smart's depiction of events. The company states that it will defend itself against untrue allegations by Mr. Allen, and that they are confident the courts will see that there were no unfair actions taken on their part. The unfolding legal drama certainly has succeeded in stirring up more interest in Alganon, but only time will tell how the legal side will play out.

MassivelyQuest Online responds to David Allen lawsuit originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Apr 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alganondavid-allenderek-smartlawsuitlegal-actionlegal-battleqolquest-onlineremovalMon, 26 Apr 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Alganon reveals much of the overhauled launch experience]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/16/alganon-reveals-much-of-the-overhauled-launch-experience/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/16/alganon-reveals-much-of-the-overhauled-launch-experience/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/16/alganon-reveals-much-of-the-overhauled-launch-experience/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It's easy to get wrapped up in the war of words between the inimitable Derek Smart and the equally inimitable David Allen, but the whole reason behind that back-and-forth is a game. Much of the news coming out about Alganon has been both sides sniping at each other, but it looks like the development team has been hard at work revamping the game for an April 28th launch. As the website has slowly been updated, they've begun posting more and more information about what's due out when the game goes live... which promises to be pretty extensive.

There's more about the various cash shop items that can be purchased with the new "subscription-free" model, which follows a vaguely Dungeons & Dragons Online pattern -- increased experience gain, bonuses to study speeds, limited-duration enchanted equipment. The starter areas are also being revamped, with the Asharr Humans starting in the Temple of Argon (which may or may not contain an eye) and the Temple of Xukiss becoming the start point for Talrok Kujix characters. And as expected, the feature list prominently states that Alganon's graphics have been overhauled, especially for the UI. With a little over a week to go, it should be interesting to see how the new iteration of the game plays out.

MassivelyAlganon reveals much of the overhauled launch experience originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Apr 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alganoncash-shopcontroversydavid-allenderek-smartlaunchqolquest-onlinerevampssecond-launchstarting-areassubscription-freeFri, 16 Apr 2010 21:00:00 EST