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 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Massively SpeakingJoystiqMassively Speaking<![CDATA[Age of Conan announces 5th anniversary event, new membership perks]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/age-of-conan-announces-5th-anniversary-event-new-membership-per/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/age-of-conan-announces-5th-anniversary-event-new-membership-per/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/age-of-conan-announces-5th-anniversary-event-new-membership-per/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Age of Conan announces 5th anniversary event new membership perks
Just because it's a tough and gritty world in Age of Conan doesn't mean folks don't know how to celebrate. In fact, Funcom has announced fitting festivities for the fifth anniversary of this fierce fantasy world. Each day for five days starting Thursday, May 23rd, a new epic boss will begin roaming the lands of Hyboria, and each day that a boss remains unconquered it will increase its level of brutality. On the flip side, the chance for epic rewards for defeating one also increases by the day. All players, regardless, of level can join in the fight to take these monsters down, and everyone will have a chance at the rewards.

As anniversary gifts, all players will receive a one-week pass to Khitai as well as other items that can be claimed from the item shop. Members will receive a double item store discount throughout the five-day event as well as a special gift.

Starting tomorrow, membership will include account-wide double xp items, 200 bonus points per month, and a bonus AA point for every level (granted retroactively). Interested in becoming a member? Funcom is also offering a special deal through May 30th granting 50% more time with multi-month subscriptions.

MassivelyAge of Conan announces 5th anniversary event, new membership perks originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 May 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanage-of-conan-unchainedanniversary-eventanniversary-eventsanniversary-giftsanniversayaocaoc-unchainedconanf2pfantasyfree-to-playfuncomhyboriamembership-dealsunchainedWed, 22 May 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: Catching crabs in Guild Wars 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/flameseeker-chronicles-catching-crabs-in-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/flameseeker-chronicles-catching-crabs-in-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/flameseeker-chronicles-catching-crabs-in-guild-wars-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Flameseeker Chronicles
My goodness, that lady's bikini is awfully close to body tone from this far away, isn't it?

If the sun and sandy beaches didn't give it away, I've spent most of the last week or so of Guild Wars 2 time in Southsun Cove. Karka Island! Sunny Orr! Whatever you call it, I hope we can all agree that Southsun Cove is a terrible place filled with awful monsters that nobody in their right mind, in-universe or otherwise, would ever want to visit without the lure of titles and shiny -- literally, one of them glows, and the other glistens -- backpieces.

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: Catching crabs in Guild Wars 2

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: Catching crabs in Guild Wars 2 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 May 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbuy-to-playcrab-tossfantasyfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw1gw2karkakarka-islandlost-shoresncsoftopinionsecret-of-southsunsouthsun-covethe-secret-of-southsunTue, 21 May 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Cash MOBA tournaments, Diablo III's birthday, and Star Citizen's new website]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/not-so-massively-cash-moba-tournaments-diablo-iiis-birthday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/not-so-massively-cash-moba-tournaments-diablo-iiis-birthday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/not-so-massively-cash-moba-tournaments-diablo-iiis-birthday/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively Cash MOBA tournaments, Diablo III's birthday, and Star Citizen's new website
Dota 2 celebrated the incredible sales of its world championship interactive compendium with free gifts for all players; the compendium has now sold over 266,000 units, raising the prize fund in The International to over $2,000,000 US. Third-person MOBA SMITE has recently entered the competitive tournament scene with two new weekly $1,000 tournaments. Rise of Immortals also announced its first competitive tournament since the Battle For Graxia update and revealed details of its hilariously-named ranged centaur character Murderhoof.

League of Legends revealed the new custom item set feature coming in Patch 3.7 and published a new champion spotlight video on classic ranged carry Ashe. Guardians of Middle-Earth also released its latest paid DLC character, The Mouth of Sauron, based on a character who was originally cut from the cinematic release of The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King.

Diablo III celebrated the first anniversary of its release on May 15th with anniversary livestreams and a magic-find bonus for all players. The latest patch also raised the increments in which money can be sold on the Real Money Auction House to ten million in response to massive oversupply. Path of Exile revealed details of its upcoming Patch 0.1.1.0 that will add new party loot options and other features, and Star Citizen showed off its new website with a special e-commerce section in which players can buy ships for cash.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Cash MOBA tournaments, Diablo III's birthday, and Star Citizen's new website

MassivelyNot So Massively: Cash MOBA tournaments, Diablo III's birthday, and Star Citizen's new website originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoaction-rpganniversaryanniversary-eventashebattle-for-graxiabattlenetbirthdayblizzardblizzard-entertainmentCompendiumcompetitive-gamingconsolecustom-item-setCustom-Item-Setsd3dawngatediablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotadota-2e-sporte-sportsesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgaslightgodgodsgothic-fantasygraxiagrinding-geargrinding-gear-gamesguardians-of-middle-earthinfinite-crisisInteractive-Compendiumisisjokerleague-of-legendslollord-of-the-ringslotrmiddle-earthmobamonolithmonolith-studiosmouth-of-sauronmultiplayermurderhoofnewsnot-so-massivelynsmone-yearone-year-anniversaryonline-multiplayeropinionpath-of-exilepetroglyphpetroglyph-gamesplaystation-networkpoeps3psnpvpriotriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsroiround-uprounduprpgskarasmitethe-jokerthe-mouth-of-sauronthird-personvalvevideovideoswarner-brosxboxxbox-360xbox-livexbox360Mon, 20 May 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 prepares for Southsun showdown]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/guild-wars-2-prepares-for-southsun-showdown/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/guild-wars-2-prepares-for-southsun-showdown/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/guild-wars-2-prepares-for-southsun-showdown/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Guild Wars 2 prepares for Southsun showdown
The big baddie of Guild Wars 2's recent living story has been called out. He's Canach, a renegade who thinks that that the answer to every urban planning problem is "more monsters." The Sylvari is behind a plot to use the creatures of Southsun to free settlers from the grasp of the Consortium.

A showdown with Canach is set to happen when the next chapter of the game's living story rolls out on May 28. The update, titled Last Stand at Southsun, will contain a solo dungeon where players will go mano-a-planto with Canach. ArenaNet says that those who defeat Canach will then open up new group content to tackle.

Other changes on deck include a zone-stomping monster and plenty of changes to world-vs.-world content. Southsun living story events, achievements, and rewards will be available until June 11th.

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 prepares for Southsun showdown originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbuy-to-playcanacheventfantasyguild-wars-2gw2in-game-eventlast-stand-at-southsunliving-storyncsoftsouthsunsouthsun-coveworld-vs-worldwvwMon, 20 May 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tattered Notebook: A guide to EQII's Moonlight Enchantments (with new stuff!)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/tattered-notebook-a-guide-to-eqiis-moonlight-enchantments-an/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/tattered-notebook-a-guide-to-eqiis-moonlight-enchantments-an/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/tattered-notebook-a-guide-to-eqiis-moonlight-enchantments-an/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Tattered Notebook A guide to EQII's Moonlight Enchantments and new stuff!
Lately, there have been a number of topics all vying for my attention here in Tattered Notebook. In a couple of instances, some of them got a little rough and started pushing the others around to try for a better place in line. Yet all the while, EverQuest II's Moonlight Enchantments has been patiently waiting. So as a reward (we do like to reward good behavior here!), that quiet little topic is getting the spotlight in a special bonus edition. And the timing couldn't be more perfect!

You see, initially this guide was just going to focus on speed to help you get through that short two-day event that comes but once a month on the 20th and 21st in EQII. Now, however, we get to delve into the changes and new things coming to the Enchanted Grottoes, from even more housing items (yes, that's on top of the new additions in March) to two new repeatable quests to earn the tokens to buy the items. And with this month's festival right around the corner, having a game plan ready to get the most out of those two days will benefit new and old players alike.

Continue reading Tattered Notebook: A guide to EQII's Moonlight Enchantments (with new stuff!)

MassivelyTattered Notebook: A guide to EQII's Moonlight Enchantments (with new stuff!) originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 18 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>decoratingeqeq-2eq-iieq2eqiieverquesteverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgrottogrottoeshousinghousing-itemsin-game-eventMoonlight-Enchantmentmoonlight-enchantmentsnew-itemsnew-questsopinionsoesonysony-online-entertainmenttattered-notebookthe-tattered-notebookSat, 18 May 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: Shugo Kingdom returns to Aion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/wings-over-atreia-shugo-kingdom-returns-to-aion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/wings-over-atreia-shugo-kingdom-returns-to-aion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/wings-over-atreia-shugo-kingdom-returns-to-aion/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Wings Over Atreia Shugo Kingdom returns to Aion
Who says we can't get what we want? I wanted the Shugo Kingdom Adventure event to return to Aion, and I'm getting my wish. Booyah! No, really, it's true: Starting after maintenance on May 22nd, Daevas who've flown over level 50 will again be able to journey for a limited time to the long lost vaults of the Shugo Kingdom in search of great and glorious treasure. And by treasure, I mean a trove of chests filled with AP items, Stormwing armor pieces and weapons, or even rare sets of wings. Of course what you get depends on how many keys you have and a little luck, so there's no harm in starting your sacrifices to Aion's RNG gods now.

Did you miss out on the event last time but are looking forward to it this go around? Or maybe you need a refresher because the trauma of not getting that one item caused you to block all knowledge of the zone from your mind? Either way, this edition of Wings Over Atreia will give you a heads up on what to expect. And as an added bonus, Associate Producer Sean Orlikowski shared his tips and tricks for making the most of your Shugo Kingdom Adventures.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: Shugo Kingdom returns to Aion

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: Shugo Kingdom returns to Aion originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 18 May 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionascensionbe-a-Shugodungeonseventf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playguideImperial-Tombin-game-eventinstancencsoftopinionSean-OrlikowskiShigosShugo-Kingdom-AdventureStormwing-loottruly-freewings-over-atreiaSat, 18 May 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR's Gree event returns May 21]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/swtors-gree-event-returns-may-21/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/swtors-gree-event-returns-may-21/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/swtors-gree-event-returns-may-21/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

You can have this Gree mount after a lot of grinding
The Gree starship Grey Secant is returning to Star Wars: The Old Republic's planet Ilum. BioWare's website has updated with all the details on the event's return engagement, which starts May 21st and runs through the 28th.

Players can earn reputation, rare armor, vehicles, and pets, and BioWare says that "this is a great time for players at level 45-plus to jump into the event before the event returns at level 55 in the future." More info is available via the Relics of the Gree event blog.

MassivelySWTOR's Gree event returns May 21 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 May 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaelectronic-artsf2pfree-to-playgreegree-eventlucasartsrelics-of-the-greesci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorswtor-eventthe-old-republictorFri, 17 May 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Conquer Online 10th anniversary trailer takes the cake]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/conquer-online-10th-anniversary-trailer-takes-the-cake/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/conquer-online-10th-anniversary-trailer-takes-the-cake/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/conquer-online-10th-anniversary-trailer-takes-the-cake/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Conquer Online 10th anniversary trailer takes the cake
Hitting the big 1-0 is certainly a cause for celebration. So how does Conquer Online top its free trip to China offered last year? With a trailer that offers a unique look at the last 10 years and turns attention towards the future. That, and a number of festivities lasting through mid-June that span events, bonuses, and gifts galore. Oh, did we mention another trip to China? This time the trip goes to the supreme champion of the first World Fighting League, a contest open to all new and veteran players spanning all 10 versions of CO.

Launched in 2003, the oriental fantasy game boasting plenty of kung-fu elements has continually added new content over the years, including pirates and more PvP-based activities. This year will see even more expansions, from a new character (the mysterious Kung Fu Master) to a new massive cross-server PvP battle, the Kingdom War. To accommodate new players, Conquer Online has opened two new servers and is giving away special Starter's Packs to aid the newcomers. Veterans have not been forgotten; they'll receive a gift when logging into their original servers.

Want a glimpse at what the future holds for Conquer Online? You'll have to get through the first half of the video to see the preview. Check it out after the cut.

[Source: TQ Digital press release]

Continue reading Conquer Online 10th anniversary trailer takes the cake

MassivelyConquer Online 10th anniversary trailer takes the cake originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 May 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10th-Anniversaryanniversary-giftsCOconquer-onlineeventsf2pfree-to-playfree-tripfree-trip-to-Chinafreemiummartial-artsmartial-arts-mmomicrotransactionmicrotransactionsNetDragonpremiumPvPtq-digitalWorld-Fighting-LeagueFri, 17 May 2013 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Maplestory celebrates eight years with events]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/maplestory-celebrates-eight-years-with-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/maplestory-celebrates-eight-years-with-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/maplestory-celebrates-eight-years-with-events/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Maplestory celebrates eight years with events
Do you remember what you were doing eight years ago? Nexon does. It was introducing the 2-D fantasy MMORPG game MapleStory to North America. Since then, the game has grown with plenty of content from new characters (like Kanna and Hayato) to extensive character customization options.

To celebrate this eighth anniversary, Maplestory is holding a number of events for players to enjoy, including daily eighth anniversary coin giveaways to all players level 10 and above, and special XP bonus events and hot-days throughout the month. Special celebration boxes containing in-game items will also drop off defeated mobs.

As for going into the ninth year, NA Producer Teddy Kim stated, "We have a dedicated and engaged group of players, and we appreciate the loyalty and passion they have for MapleStory. We are committed to continuing to deliver the best content to our players to keep the adventures rolling."

[Source: Nexon America press release]

MassivelyMaplestory celebrates eight years with events originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversaryanniversary-eventsf2pfantasyfree-to-playmaplestorynexonnexon-americanexon-koreaTeddy-KimFri, 17 May 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Champions Online brings back the Bloodmoon event and prepares for space gladiators]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/champions-online-brings-back-the-bloodmoon-event-and-prepares-fo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/champions-online-brings-back-the-bloodmoon-event-and-prepares-fo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/champions-online-brings-back-the-bloodmoon-event-and-prepares-fo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

yeah you heard me. SPACE. GLADIATORS.
Players of Champions Online, rejoice! The Bloodmoon has risen once again, and dark and dire perils threaten Millennium City. From this Thursday at 3:01 p.m. EDT until Tuesday at 2:59 a.m. EDT, you'll be able to hop into the action and bathe in the blood of your ghoulish enemies. Do ghouls have blood? We'll assume so.

Did you know that there are aliens hiding on the dark side of the moon? Of course you did! But here's the thing: There are also aliens hiding on the dark side of the moon in Champions Online. They've been kidnapping heroes from earth to fight in their lunar gladiatorial arena. Soon, the Forum Malvanum custom alert will be open to any Earthling brave enough to step up to the challenge.

Skip below the cut to catch a bit of history on what the Bloodmoon is all about.

Continue reading Champions Online brings back the Bloodmoon event and prepares for space gladiators

MassivelyChampions Online brings back the Bloodmoon event and prepares for space gladiators originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 May 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bloodmoonchampionschampions-onlinechampscocrypticcryptic-studiosdark-side-of-the-moonf2pforum-malvanumfree-to-playperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpreviewpwespace-gladiatorssuperherosuperheroesvideovideosThu, 16 May 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wargaming celebrates 15 years with new World of Tanks tournament]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/wargaming-celebrates-15-years-with-new-world-of-tanks-tournament/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/wargaming-celebrates-15-years-with-new-world-of-tanks-tournament/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/wargaming-celebrates-15-years-with-new-world-of-tanks-tournament/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Wargaming 15th anniversary event
You may be familiar with Wargaming through the development studio's wildly successful game World of Tanks, but did you know that the company has been around for 15 years and has developed almost a dozen other games?

To help celebrate this special 15th anniversary, Wargaming has announced a global World of Tanks tournament that will see winning teams from Europe, North America, Russia, South Korea, Southeast Asia, China, Vietnam, and more represent their regions with an all-expense-paid trip to the World of Tanks studio in Minsk, Belarus.

The tournament will be a traditional 7 v 7 format and will run from May until the end of June. Check out the Wargaming site for more info.

MassivelyWargaming celebrates 15 years with new World of Tanks tournament originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversaryf2pfree-to-playhistoricalpvptanktankstournamentwarwargamingwargaming.networld-of-tankswotThu, 16 May 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Celebrating MUD May with Gemstone IV]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/free-for-all-celebrating-mud-may-with-gemstone-iv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/free-for-all-celebrating-mud-may-with-gemstone-iv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/free-for-all-celebrating-mud-may-with-gemstone-iv/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

GemStone IV website screenshot
MUD May has been a blast so far, but I won't lie to you and say that I hope to even make a dent in the decades-old history of many of these titles. I decided instead to use some examples from my favorite MUDs that I have come across over the last couple of years. It's admittedly been a challenge to think about what to cover. Do I cover the communities? The in-game mechanics? The publishers?

This week I decided to attempt to kill several birds with a handful of stones (and questions) and snagged Simutronics Producer Eric Latham for an video interview. Simutronics has been in the business for 26 years, and the publisher makes my favorite MUD, Gemstone IV. Latham has been with the company for 15 of those years! Technically I am using the interview and video as part of my Rise and Shiny series, but the questions and answers are more relevant to the general topic of MUDs. You might see it now as well as later, but it will hopefully provide some insight into the world of making MUDs.

Continue reading Free for All: Celebrating MUD May with Gemstone IV

MassivelyFree for All: Celebrating MUD May with Gemstone IV originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 May 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmaneric-lathamf2pfeaturedffafree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumgemstonegemstone-ivmudMUD-MayMUDsopinionsimutronicsvelvet-ropeWed, 15 May 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Catch ArenaNet's Spring Break tour of Southsun Cove replay on Twitch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/catch-arenanets-spring-break-tour-of-southsun-cove-replay-on-tw/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/catch-arenanets-spring-break-tour-of-southsun-cove-replay-on-tw/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/catch-arenanets-spring-break-tour-of-southsun-cove-replay-on-tw/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Catch ArenaNet's Spring Break tour of Southsun Cove replay on Twitch
Did you miss ArenaNet's Southsun Cove developer livestream? Do you have a spare 27 minutes and 31 seconds? If you answered yes to both of those questions, you can head to the Guild Wars 2 Twitch page and watch the replay. Even if you didn't answer yes to both of those questions, you can still watch the replay, and yes, I am attempting to fill out what is otherwise an extremely cut-and-dried news post.

Let's see, what else? ANet's Scott McGough and Leah Rivera are the developers on record, and there's plenty of gameplay footage and commentary packed into the half-hour block.

MassivelyCatch ArenaNet's Spring Break tour of Southsun Cove replay on Twitch originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 May 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbuy-to-playfantasyguild-wars-2gw2leah-riverancsoftscott-mcgoughsouthsunsouthsun-coveWed, 15 May 2013 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online seeks tourney commentators, plans dual character training for Odyssey]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/eve-onlines-11th-alliance-tourney-makes-changes-needs-commenta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/eve-onlines-11th-alliance-tourney-makes-changes-needs-commenta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/eve-onlines-11th-alliance-tourney-makes-changes-needs-commenta/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

EVE Online's 11th Alliance tourney makes changes, needs commentators
Want to be a part of EVE Online's 11th annual Alliance Tournament that starts on July 20th, 2013, but not from the cockpit of your ship? You can apply to be one of the PvP commentators who will discuss the tourney, tactics, and teams involved live on air with developers as well as providing commentary on matches as they unfold. Yes, live means you'll actually be in Iceland for this gig! Qualifications include having a valid passport, being over 21, having a sharp wit, and being well-versed in PvP. Full details for the application process are available on the official site.

If you'd prefer to participate in the battles themselves, note that there will be a few changes to the tourney from years past. To start, Alliance Tournament XI will run over only three weekends, not four. Second, qualifying rounds and group stages have been replaced by double elimination from the get go. Next, from the second weekend onward, two ship types will be banned from the match by team captains. And finally, to fly with an alliance you had to have been a member since downtime this morning. Dev blogs covering all the rules, the broadcast schedule, and sign-up details will be coming soon.

[Update: CCP has been busy today! The official site has now also been updated with a dev blog announcing that dual character training will ship with the Odyssey expansion next month.]

MassivelyEVE Online seeks tourney commentators, plans dual character training for Odyssey originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 May 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alliance-tournamentAlliance-Tournament-XIccpccp-gamescommentatorseveeve-alliance-tournamenteve-onlineinternet-spaceshipsPvPsandboxsci-fispreadsheets-onlineWed, 15 May 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: SWTOR's customization cash kitty]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/hyperspace-beacon-swtors-customization-cash-kitty/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/hyperspace-beacon-swtors-customization-cash-kitty/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/hyperspace-beacon-swtors-customization-cash-kitty/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Hyperspace Beacon SWTOR's customization cash kitty
It's a hard thing to admit when you're wrong. But I admit that I was wrong about Star Wars: The Old Republic Update 2.1: Customization. Even as late as last night on The Republic, I believed that things like the new Appearance Designer might not cost players Cartel Coins to use, but now that the update has arrived, I admit that is certainly not the case. Had I known that it would cost CCs to so much as use the Appearance Designer, I would be in the camp of players upset about this update containing only Cartel items. If you define an expansion or DLC as additional content that costs money, then that is exactly what this update is.

I'm not against BioWare making money, and to be completely honest, I'm not upset about the company making money on many of these items. Perhaps through my own misunderstanding, I feel a bit cheated with the update. Let me break down the Update 2.1 items for us. I'll point out the good and the bad, and maybe you will understand my perspective, even if you don't agree.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: SWTOR's customization cash kitty

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: SWTOR's customization cash kitty originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 May 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appearance-designerbiowarecartel-coinscartel-marketcatharcollectionsCollections-uicustomizationeaelectronic-artsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhyperspace-beaconlucasartsopinionsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorupdate-2.1Tue, 14 May 2013 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Yet another D3 exploit, Star Citizen pay-to-win debate, and MOBA news]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/not-so-massively-yet-another-d3-exploit-star-citizen-pay-to-wi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/not-so-massively-yet-another-d3-exploit-star-citizen-pay-to-wi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/not-so-massively-yet-another-d3-exploit-star-citizen-pay-to-wi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively Yet another D3 exploit, Star Citizen paytowin debate, and MOBA news
Diablo III was hit with yet another exploit this week as players discovered a way to duplicate gold via a bug in the auction house. Blizzard responded by shutting down the auction house but did not perform a server rollback to reverse the damage. Star Citizen clarified its stance on the lifetime insurance available to veteran backers amidst debate over whether it gives early adopters an unfair advantage over other players. Path of Exile also released a new Letters of Wraeclast lore feature in its latest update, and MechWarrior Online's update 15 added a new Misery mech.

Dota 2 began preparations for its biggest world championship tournament yet with the release of a new Interactive Compendium that players can use to stay up to date with the matches. Rise of Immortals has now officially launched its Battle For Graxia revamp, and Infinite Crisis officially entered closed beta this week with the release of new champion The Joker. Finally, Smashmuck Champions released its hilarious new community-designed champion that's half platypus and half unicorn.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Yet another D3 exploit, Star Citizen pay-to-win debate, and MOBA news

MassivelyNot So Massively: Yet another D3 exploit, Star Citizen pay-to-win debate, and MOBA news originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbatmanbattle-for-graxiabattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentchris-robertscloud-imperiumcompetitive-gamingd3dcdc-comicsdiablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotadota-2e-sporte-sportsesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgothic-fantasygraxiaindieinfinite-crisisinsurancejokerkiz-studioslifetime-insurancemobamultiplayernewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayeropinionpetroglyphpetroglyph-gamespvprise-of-immortalsroiround-uprounduprpgsandboxsci-fismashmuckstar-citizensupermanthe-jokerturbinevalvevideovideoswarner-broswonder-womanWraeclastMon, 13 May 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Allods Online pops the cork on its second anniversary]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/allods-online-pops-the-cork-on-its-second-anniversary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/allods-online-pops-the-cork-on-its-second-anniversary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/allods-online-pops-the-cork-on-its-second-anniversary/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Allods Online pops the cork on its second anniversary
Considering how long Allods Online was launched-but-not-officially-launched, we think it's slightly inaccurate to acknowledge gPotato's claim that this is the title's second anniversary. Still, any excuse for a party, right? Starting today, Allods Online is featuring plenty of events, giveaways, and store sales to mark the occasion.

Active players have another shot at taming a free grey wolf or earning a "Noble Hero" costume set during the anniversary. There's also a few special NPCs who will be accepting anniversary coins in exchange for an array of special goodies. If you're of a mind to spend some money, all of the item shops wares are available for 20% off through the 13th.

GPotato is also giving veteran players 250 premium crystals and an anniversary gift package for those who have been in the game prior to today. The anniversary event goes from now until June 10th.

MassivelyAllods Online pops the cork on its second anniversary originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2nd-anniversaryallodsallods-onlineanniversaryanniversary-eventastrum-nivaleventf2pfantasyfree-to-playgala-netgiveawaygpotatoin-game-eventmail-ru-gamesmail.ru-gamesmailru-gamessalesecond-anniversaryFri, 10 May 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2's living story takes us back to Southsun Cove]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/guild-wars-2s-living-story-takes-us-back-to-southsun-cove/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/guild-wars-2s-living-story-takes-us-back-to-southsun-cove/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/guild-wars-2s-living-story-takes-us-back-to-southsun-cove/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Guild Wars 2's living story takes us back to Southsun Cove
As the Flame and Frost living story in Guild Wars 2 draws to a close, ArenaNet is gearing up for the next step of its story delivery system. Starting on May 14th, the team will be enticing players to return to Southsun Cove, the location of the controversial Lost Shores event.

A new dev blog on the official site outlines what the team is looking to do with the living story: "May represents a transition: The Flame and Frost arc is now complete, and our plan calls for content to build on what came before while also kicking things off in a new direction. With that in mind, Team Spring Break first focused on the essentials: characters, story, and gameplay."

In this first chapter of the new living story, players will team up with Inspector Ellen Kiel of the Lionguard as she and her allies address a tense situation between the settlers and the Consortium. It's only the start of the story, however; events won't be heating up until the summer proper.

MassivelyGuild Wars 2's living story takes us back to Southsun Cove originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 May 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbuy-to-playfantasyguild-wars-2gw2living-storylost-shoresncsoftsouthsun-covethe-lost-shoresFri, 10 May 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Age of Wushu hosts a Royal Celebration]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/age-of-wushu-hosts-a-royal-celebration/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/age-of-wushu-hosts-a-royal-celebration/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/age-of-wushu-hosts-a-royal-celebration/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Age of Wushu hosts a Royal Celebration
Party like it's 2013! Snail Games invites players in the world of Jianghu to join in a special Age of Wushu Royal Celebration starting today. This celebration will have various events sprinkled throughout the month, from earning rewards just for just logging in to chances to face and fight world bosses for their loot. And the rewards themselves range from gift packs to buff items to VIP bonuses.

Want to earn a special gift pack? Log in for one hour a day and you'll get one for each day. Players who manage to spend at least two hours online every day for the entire week will earn a much larger reward that includes a 30-day mount and a number of buffs and bonuses. Gain even more rewards for leveling school inner skills and for being a VIP. The event is open to all players regardless of school or skills. For a full listing of the events and their accompanying rewards, check out the official event schedule.

[Source: Snail Games press release]

MassivelyAge of Wushu hosts a Royal Celebration originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-wulinage-of-wushuasiachinachinesechinese-mmoeventgpotatogvgin-game-eventin-game-eventskidnappingmartial-artsming-dynastypvprewardsRoyal-Celebrationsandboxsnail-gamessnail-games-usawushuwuxiaFri, 10 May 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth recruiting for high-level arena testing]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/fallen-earth-recruiting-for-high-level-arena-testing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/fallen-earth-recruiting-for-high-level-arena-testing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/fallen-earth-recruiting-for-high-level-arena-testing/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Fallen Earth recruiting for highlevel arena testing
Calling all high-level Fallen Earth players! GamersFirst is looking for some level 55 wastelanders to help alpha-test the new Dome arena. The Dome is a PvE challenge that was previewed in the March State of the Game, and it's now ready for the next step of development with your help.

If you're interested, send your forum name, typical hours of play, build, and PvE vs. PvP ratio to DeconLead@gamersfirst.com for review. Take note that involvement in this test doesn't mean you're in the elite Decon testing team, as this is more of a one-off event. Check out the Fallen Earth May State of the Game for more details.

MassivelyFallen Earth recruiting for high-level arena testing originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 May 2013 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alpha-testdecondomef2pfallen-earthfefree-to-playg1gamersfirsthigh-levelpost-apocpost-apocalypticsandboxsci-fitesterswastelandsWed, 08 May 2013 09:30:00 EST