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[The Mog Log: Final Fantasy XIV beta phase 1 and 2 - crafting]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/25/the-mog-log-final-fantasy-xiv-beta-phase-1-and-2-crafting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/25/the-mog-log-final-fantasy-xiv-beta-phase-1-and-2-crafting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/25/the-mog-log-final-fantasy-xiv-beta-phase-1-and-2-crafting/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

I knew I'd either time this perfectly or be just shy. Let's see which it is.
The thing about Final Fantasy XIV's crafting is that it's always been an odd mixture of wonderful and terrible, much like the game as a whole. You had crazily interconnected crafts that could be frustrating to level, the simple difficulty of trying to find the items you need, and a minigame that made mass production maddeningly slow. But you also had a real sense of personal craftsmanship, and the complex interplay between quality, durability, and progress meant that your successes or failures were truly your own.

None of these elements has been removed from the beta phases, but each has been streamlined and largely improved. The test phases allowed us to explore the two crafting classes based in Gridania, Carpenter and Leatherworker, and so I got to really dive into the heart of working with wood and dead animal hides. It was a lot more fun than that summary might imply.

Continue reading The Mog Log: Final Fantasy XIV beta phase 1 and 2 - crafting

MassivelyThe Mog Log: Final Fantasy XIV beta phase 1 and 2 - crafting originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 25 May 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabetasclassesconsoleconsolescraftingcraftsfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgame-mechanicsmog-logopinionplayer-craftingsquaresquare-enixsquenixtestingthe-mog-logSat, 25 May 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Should big guilds have a mechanical advantage over smaller ones?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/25/the-daily-grind-should-big-guilds-have-a-mechanical-advantage-o/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/25/the-daily-grind-should-big-guilds-have-a-mechanical-advantage-o/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/25/the-daily-grind-should-big-guilds-have-a-mechanical-advantage-o/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Defeating The Infernal One with the power of pure, unadulterated rock.
No matter how hard you try, you cannot defeat large-group endgame bosses with an awesome guitar solo. Big guilds offer you the people needed to tackle this sort of content. In some games, though, big guilds get even more. World of Warcraft guilds level faster with more people, and Star Wars: The Old Republic will be adding a bonus to guilds based on their overall sizes (although you'll easily get the bonus so long as no original members of the guild have left). In some places, size matters.

Should it matter? Organizing and maintaining a guild with 50 members is a lot more work than one with 15 members, so mechanical bonuses certainly give some incentive. Those bonuses also lead to guilds wanting to be bigger without necessarily getting any better; more live bodies, no matter the quality. And bigger guilds can already have advantages over smaller guilds. So should big guilds have a mechanical advantage over smaller ones? Or should the size be its own reward?

Every morning, the Massively bloggers probe the minds of their readers with deep, thought-provoking questions about that most serious of topics: massively online gaming. We crave your opinions, so grab your caffeinated beverage of choice and chime in on today's Daily Grind!

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Should big guilds have a mechanical advantage over smaller ones? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 25 May 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonusesdaily-grindgame-mechanicsgroup-sizeguild-bonusesguild-sizeguildsopinionother-peopleother-playerstdgthe-daily-grindSat, 25 May 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hall conquers Everest, talks DayZ's ownership and loss]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/hall-conquers-everest-talks-dayzs-ownership-and-loss/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/hall-conquers-everest-talks-dayzs-ownership-and-loss/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/hall-conquers-everest-talks-dayzs-ownership-and-loss/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Dean Hall on top of Mt. Everest
Dean Hall has officially made it to the top of the world. The DayZ creator watched the sun rise from the summit of Mt. Everest on May 21st, according to a tweet released earlier today.

Gamasutra recently asked Hall about his Arma zombie mod's phenomenal success, and he pointed to the design's ability to trigger psychological responses to both ownership and loss. "I think the big thing was that it was this finely-crafted mix of permadeath -- which gave you a sense of value, because you could lose something -- and ownership," Hall explained. "Because it's persistent, it means that it's going to be there tomorrow. I think those two things mixed together meant that you had these really valuable stories that came from it."

MassivelyHall conquers Everest, talks DayZ's ownership and loss originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 May 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dayzdean-halldean-hall-everestdean-hall-interviewhorrorinterviewrocketsandboxFri, 24 May 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lots of new content coming to SWTOR this summer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/lots-of-new-content-coming-to-swtor-this-summer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/lots-of-new-content-coming-to-swtor-this-summer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/lots-of-new-content-coming-to-swtor-this-summer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

This happened in a SWTOR flashpoint
Star Wars: The Old Republic senior producer Bruce Maclean has posted a summer development roadmap on BioWare's official game forums. The update outlines the 2.2 and 2.3 patches, with the former tentatively scheduled for June 11th and the latter penciled in for August 6th.

The first patch will feature additional guild XP bonuses based on membership numbers (up to a maximum 10% boost), the ability for crafters to make underworld gear, and Nightmare Mode for Terror From Beyond (along with new gear drops).

The second patch will feature "significant graphical upgrades," a new daily area, a new recurring event, and new flashpoints.

MassivelyLots of new content coming to SWTOR this summer originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 May 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebruce-macleaneaelectronic-artsf2pfree-to-playlucasartssci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorswtor-2.2swtor-2.3swtor-new-flashpointsthe-old-republictorFri, 24 May 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 mixes up its WvW matchups]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/guild-wars-2-mixes-up-its-wvw-matchups/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/guild-wars-2-mixes-up-its-wvw-matchups/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/guild-wars-2-mixes-up-its-wvw-matchups/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Invaders from another very similar dimension.
There's a problem in the Guild Wars 2 World vs. World matching system, and it's a subtle one that's almost invisible until you look closer. Because of the way ratings are calculated and how the matchups happen, the net result for each server is always being matched up against the same servers. No matter how well you perform, you wind up locked into a certain tier without any hope of changes. It's a problem that the development team is both aware of and is moving to address.

The short version of how things will work is that servers will be matched up semi-randomly, with ratings taken into account to assure that the spread between opponents isn't too severe. More math beneath the surface takes into account both the current rating of a given world and its overall deviation, producing a "real" rating that will facilitate fair matches. Take a look at the official blog for all the hard details.

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 mixes up its WvW matchups originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbuy-to-playdevelopment-blogfantasyguild-wars-2gw2matchesmatchmakingncsoftpvpranking-systemwvwFri, 24 May 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Champions' Forum Malvanum alert now live]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/champions-forum-malvanun-alert-now-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/champions-forum-malvanun-alert-now-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/champions-forum-malvanun-alert-now-live/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Champions' Forum Malvanun alert now live
Have you ever wanted to battle for galactic glory on the moon? Now you can thanks to Champions Online's Forum Malvanum alert. The new content just went live, and Cryptic says that player heroes will need to "defeat some of the the most dangerous monsters and gladiators from around the universe" in order to become champions of the Lunar Games.

"The Lunar Games include ten rounds of enemies, with some variation in each run," according to Cryptic's announcement post. "Heroes who complete the first five rounds are guaranteed a prize as worthy competitors. More rewards will be granted by Tateklys for defeating the time-limited sixth through tenth rounds, including a climactic final fight with Firewing himself, reigning champion of the Games. Rewards include costume pieces, resources and more."

[Thanks Matixzun!]

MassivelyChampions' Forum Malvanum alert now live originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 May 2013 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alertchampionschampions-alertchampions-onlinechampions-raidchampscocrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfirewingforum-malvanumfree-to-playlunar-gamesperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpvepwesuperherosuperheroesThu, 23 May 2013 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare responds to SWTOR Legacy system exploits and bans]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/bioware-responds-to-swtor-legacy-system-exploits-and-bans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/bioware-responds-to-swtor-legacy-system-exploits-and-bans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/bioware-responds-to-swtor-legacy-system-exploits-and-bans/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

SWTOR - Innocent smuggler
BioWare has followed up on the recent Legacy system/crystal banning brouhaha that resulted in the temporary banning of some players from Star Wars: The Old Republic. Community manager Eric Musco says that less than 150 people were incorrectly flagged, and if you're one of those folks you should have already received a message from customer service.

"If you have not had your suspension reversed and you feel this was in error, please contact accountdisputes@swtor.com and they will be able to look into the issue further," Musco writes.

[Thanks Olorunsegun Adewumi!]

MassivelyBioWare responds to SWTOR Legacy system exploits and bans originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaelectronic-artsexploitsf2pfree-to-playits-not-my-faultlegacylucasartssci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorswtor-exploitthe-old-republictorThu, 23 May 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ken Hartsook discusses Ultima Forever from behind the scenes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/ken-hartsook-discusses-ultima-forever-from-behind-the-scenes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/ken-hartsook-discusses-ultima-forever-from-behind-the-scenes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/ken-hartsook-discusses-ultima-forever-from-behind-the-scenes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

It's already better than Ultima Occasionally, Ultima Every Once In A While, and Ultima Biweekly.
Looking forward to having some nostalgic adventures with Ultima Forever when it releases this summer? Then you might enjoy a trip behind the scenes of development with Ken Hartsook, a software engineer working on the title at Mythic. Hartsook is the subject of a new video detailing some of the programming challenges associated with bringing Ultima Forever to the iOS family of devices as well as his favorite parts of the game as it approaches launch.

According to Hartsook, one of the biggest challenges was finding a control scheme that worked for tablets and smartphones, which meant deviating substantially from classic control models. He also discusses the tilesets in the game and his experience playing a Fighter in the test version of the game. So if your iPad is ready and waiting for a chance to take the jump into Britannia, check out the full interview just past the break.

Continue reading Ken Hartsook discusses Ultima Forever from behind the scenes

MassivelyKen Hartsook discusses Ultima Forever from behind the scenes originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 May 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>behind-the-scenesdevelopmenteaelectronic-artsken-hartsookmobilemythicmythic-entertainmenttabletsufultima-forevervideovideosThu, 23 May 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Black Sheep Online gameplay detailed in new vids]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/black-sheep-online-gameplay-detailed-in-new-vids/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/black-sheep-online-gameplay-detailed-in-new-vids/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/black-sheep-online-gameplay-detailed-in-new-vids/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Black Sheep Online screenshot
Neowiz is probably best known to western MMO fans as the publisher behind BLESS, one of those gorgeous big-budget Korean imports that seems to land on our shores once or twice per year. The firm is working on another title called Black Sheep Online, though, and if the gameplay vids and screenshots on display at Steparu.com are any indication, the new title might be worth watching.

The game allows for different limb-focused hit boxes (so targeting arms and legs is a viable strategy), and it also features destructible environments including breakable dungeon walls. Steparu reports that Black Sheep boasts action-style combat and some sort of grappling system. You can check out a gameplay video after the cut, then head to Steparu.com for the full report.

Continue reading Black Sheep Online gameplay detailed in new vids

MassivelyBlack Sheep Online gameplay detailed in new vids originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 May 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionaction-combatblack-sheepblack-sheep-onlinedestructible-environmentsfantasyhit-boxesneowizThu, 23 May 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Shazam gives Infinite Crisis lineup a jolt]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/shazam-gives-infinite-crisis-lineup-a-jolt/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/shazam-gives-infinite-crisis-lineup-a-jolt/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/shazam-gives-infinite-crisis-lineup-a-jolt/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Shazam gives Infinite Crisis lineup a jolt
Even as a mere mortal, Billy Batson stood up to injustice. And now, thanks to the powers granted him by the ancient wizard Shazam, Billy can turn into a mighty lightning-infused warrior to fight against injustice, evil... and whatever opponents happen to queue against him! Joining the pool of available champions in Turbine's upcoming MOBA Infinite Crisis, the superhero formerly known as Captain Marvel (name officially changed to Shazam in 2010) hails from the Prime Universe and brings the power of lightning front-and-center as a melee enforcer.

Want to catch of glimpse of Shazam's powers and abilities like Speed of Mercury, Power of Zeus, Lightning Field, and Mystic Power/Defense? Then watch the champion reveal video after the break.

[Source: Turbine press release]

Continue reading Shazam gives Infinite Crisis lineup a jolt

MassivelyShazam gives Infinite Crisis lineup a jolt originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 May 2013 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betadc-comicsInfinite-Crisisinfinite-Crisis-videomeleeMOBAnew-championShazamTurbinevideoThu, 23 May 2013 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: An interview with ThresholdRPG's Michael Hartman]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/free-for-all-an-interview-with-thresholdrpgs-michael-hartman/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/free-for-all-an-interview-with-thresholdrpgs-michael-hartman/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/free-for-all-an-interview-with-thresholdrpgs-michael-hartman/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

ThresholdRPG screenshot
The last time I explored ThresholdRPG, I had a blast. It was one of a batch of MUDs that I used to re-introduce myself to the ancient gaming genre, and I enjoyed its simplicity and friendly community. MUDs can seem to be very similar to each other, so in order to enjoy them, you must be able to pick out the finer details that separate them. In ThresholdRPG, I particularly enjoyed fishing, roleplay, customization, and a free-to-play model that was years ahead of its time when first released 17 years ago.

The game can be a bit odd, like any MUD. During MUD May I've discovered just how confusing many of these titles can be, but I have also grown to enjoy solving the "mystery" of each game's particular set of code-words that unlock actions. ThresholdRPG is like other MUDs and introduces players to basic commands, but once out in the world a player is on her own. The good news is that an out-of-character help chat is always available and sits right on top of the standard roleplay-enforced chat. That juxtaposition of both channels actually helps immerse me in the game, allowing me to see literally where and when I can use out-of-character speech.

I asked Michael Hartman, president and CEO of Frogdice, to talk about MUD development and branching out into other styles of gaming.

Continue reading Free for All: An interview with ThresholdRPG's Michael Hartman

MassivelyFree for All: An interview with ThresholdRPG's Michael Hartman originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achaeabeau-hindmanf2pfeaturedffafree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiuminterviewmichael-hartmanmudMUD-MayMUDsopinionthresholdrpgvelvet-ropeWed, 22 May 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Art of Wushu: Learning the basics of combat]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/the-art-of-wushu-learning-the-basics-of-combat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/the-art-of-wushu-learning-the-basics-of-combat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/the-art-of-wushu-learning-the-basics-of-combat/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The Art of Wushu Learning the basics of combat
Many readers balked when I said Age of Wushu had the best combat in an MMO ever back when I did my first impressions piece. I admit, it was a bold claim. However, even after playing Guild Wars 2, TERA, and numerous other games with "deep MMO combat," I stand by what I said back then. Age of Wushu's PvP combat is the best in any MMO.

If you're coming from a mostly MMO background, combat in Age of Wushu is a bit daunting at first. It's really nothing like combat in any other MMO. It has a bit slower pace than a typical action-MMO, but it is the first to really employ tempo control. Attacking recklessly is a patch to a quick defeat, forcing players to make tough tactical decisions.

If you're like me and came to MMOs from a fighting game background, things readily click into place. Baiting common reactions and punishing them, punishing actions on reaction, and getting in the head of your opponent is better-rewarded than in any other MMO combat system. I don't want to badmouth games like GW2 that have great combat, so don't get me wrong; many other games have excellent combat. Age of Wushu's battle system is just even more fantastic. When I win a fight against an even-leveled opponent (or higher level, though that's rare) without taking an unblocked hit, I feel like a total beast.

Continue reading The Art of Wushu: Learning the basics of combat

MassivelyThe Art of Wushu: Learning the basics of combat originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-wulinage-of-wushuart-of-wushubasicsbest-combat-everbest-combat-in-an-mmo-everbest-mmo-combatchinachinesechinese-mythologycolumncombatduelduel-guideduelingfeaturedkung-fumartial-artspvprock-paper-scissorssandboxsnail-gamessnail-games-usawushuwuxiaWed, 22 May 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively surveys WildStar's Scientist and Settler paths, the Esper class, and the crazy things Jeremy Gaffney says]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/massively-surveys-wildstars-scientist-and-settler-paths-the-es/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/massively-surveys-wildstars-scientist-and-settler-paths-the-es/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/massively-surveys-wildstars-scientist-and-settler-paths-the-es/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

WildStar -- hells yeah
So who wants to hear some cool stuff about WildStar? Thought so!

Massively's Gavin Townsley recently attended a WildStar media event in San Francisco, at which he was treated to a hands-on look at the upcoming sci-fantasy MMORPG's Scientist path and Esper class. He also chatted with Carbine Studios executive producer Jeremy Gaffney, who pulls a Gaffney (I'm coining that) and can't resist leaking a bit of new info about tradeskills while filling Gavin in on how endgame will work, why we should play the Settler path, and whether talent trees are passé. If you think making 10 pairs of cotton space pants sounds boring, then yeah -- you're going to like what he's got to say.

Enjoy all three articles plus the brand-new path videos we've embedded past the cut!
Hands-on with WildStar's Scientist path and Esper class
There is something exciting about taking your first steps into the mysteries of a new planet. I was anxious to mingle with the locals, analyze artifacts, and even pick a few plants -- that is, until I saw a flower burst from the ground as a giant vine-like beast.
WildStar's Jeremy Gaffney on the Settler path
WildStar's Settlers don't just build bonfires for sappy Explorers to sing around; these titans of construction will save you time in dungeons, establish bigger outposts, and open up new realms of quests for everyone.
WildStar's Jeremy Gaffney on progression, tradeskills, and endgame
Jeremy Gaffney divulges the beautiful details on essential parts of the game: character progression, tradeskills that don't suck, and life in the elder game.

Continue reading Massively surveys WildStar's Scientist and Settler paths, the Esper class, and the crazy things Jeremy Gaffney says

MassivelyMassively surveys WildStar's Scientist and Settler paths, the Esper class, and the crazy things Jeremy Gaffney says originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 May 2013 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbinecarbine-studioselder-gameendgameesperhands-onhousinginterviewinterviewsjeremy-gaffneyncsoftpathpathspreviewpreviewssandparksci-fantasysci-fiscientistsettlertrailertrailersvideovideoswildstarwsWed, 22 May 2013 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WildStar's Jeremy Gaffney on progression, tradeskills, and endgame]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/wildstars-jeremy-gaffney-on-progression-tradeskills-and-endga/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/wildstars-jeremy-gaffney-on-progression-tradeskills-and-endga/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/wildstars-jeremy-gaffney-on-progression-tradeskills-and-endga/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Interview Wildstar's Jeremy Gaffney on Progression, Tradeskills, and Endgame
In the first part of our interview with Carbine Studios executive producer Jeremy Gaffney, we discussed everything we could about the Settler path. In this followup interview, he divulges the beautiful details on essential parts of the game: progression, tradeskills, and the elder game.

WildStar has been setting a fun tone with each new video that's released. As it turns out, that same philosophy extends to nearly every corner of the game.

Continue reading WildStar's Jeremy Gaffney on progression, tradeskills, and endgame

MassivelyWildStar's Jeremy Gaffney on progression, tradeskills, and endgame originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 May 2013 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbinecarbine-studioscraftingelder-gameendgamefeaturedinterviewinterviewsjeremy-gaffneyncsoftpreviewpreviewsraidingsandparksci-fantasysci-fitradeskillswildstarwsWed, 22 May 2013 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WildStar's Jeremy Gaffney on the Settler path]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/wildstars-jeremy-gaffney-on-the-settler-path/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/wildstars-jeremy-gaffney-on-the-settler-path/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/wildstars-jeremy-gaffney-on-the-settler-path/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Wildstar's Settler Class An interview with Jeremy Gaffney
In a world full of potential and chaos, WildStar's factions will succeed on the planet Nexus on the backs of the Settlers. The Settlers don't just build bonfires for sappy Explorers to sing around; these titans of construction will save you time in dungeons, establish bigger outposts, and open up new realms of quests for everyone.

At a recent media event, Carbine Studios executive producer Jeremy Gaffney was only too happy to explain how the Settler path opens up the world, intersects with housing, and even plays a part in PvP.

Continue reading WildStar's Jeremy Gaffney on the Settler path

MassivelyWildStar's Jeremy Gaffney on the Settler path originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 May 2013 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbinecarbine-studiosfabkitfeaturedhousinginterviewinterviewsJeremy-Gaffneyncsoftphasingplayer-housingpreviewpreviewssandparksci-fantasysci-fisettlersettlerssocializerswar-plotwar-plotswildstarwsWed, 22 May 2013 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with WildStar's Scientist path and Esper class]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/hands-on-with-wildstars-scientist-path-and-esper-class/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/hands-on-with-wildstars-scientist-path-and-esper-class/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/hands-on-with-wildstars-scientist-path-and-esper-class/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Handson with Wildstar's Scientist Path, Esper class, and more
There is something exciting about taking your first steps into the mysteries of a new planet. I was anxious to mingle with the locals, analyze artifacts, and even pick a few plants -- that is, until I saw a flower burst from the ground as a giant vine-like beast. As it chewed up the slinky Aurin next to me, I decided to leave the flowers for the next Scientist.

So began my hands-on experience with WildStar, the exciting and often comical new MMO from NCsoft and Carbine Studios. The half-day event gave me time to play the Esper class, build some structures on the Settler path, and hurtle myself through the air in the name of science. There is so much to talk about!

Except plants. 'Cause allergies. *ahem*

Continue reading Hands-on with WildStar's Scientist path and Esper class

MassivelyHands-on with WildStar's Scientist path and Esper class originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 May 2013 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbinecarbine-studiosEsperfeaturedhands-onjeremy-gaffneymedia-eventncsoftpathpress-eventpreviewpreviewssandparksci-fantasysci-fiscientistwildstarwsWed, 22 May 2013 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's Dragon's Prophet first impressions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/massivelys-dragons-prophet-first-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/massivelys-dragons-prophet-first-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/massivelys-dragons-prophet-first-impressions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Massively's Dragon's Prophet first impressions
I don't have many fond memories from Runes of Magic. I didn't play it long, and the thing I recall most vividly is being forced to hunt around Runewaker's cash shop for an item that would let me talk in global chat.

Fortunately, negative vibes like that didn't affect my recent hands-on with Dragon's Prophet's beta, which, in case you're wondering, is Runewaker's followup to Runes of Magic. Unfortunately, I don't think the new game in its present state is quite ready for prime time.

Continue reading Massively's Dragon's Prophet first impressions

MassivelyMassively's Dragon's Prophet first impressions originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 May 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-combatdragondragonsdragons-prophetdragons-prophet-beta-impressionsdragons-prophet-first-impressionsdragons-prophet-reviewfeaturedhousinginfernuminfernum-productionspreviewpreviewsrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentsoesonysony-online-entertainmentsorcererTue, 21 May 2013 19:00:00 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[EVE Online redesigns radial menu for Odyssey]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/eve-online-redesigns-radial-menu-for-odyssey/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/eve-online-redesigns-radial-menu-for-odyssey/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/eve-online-redesigns-radial-menu-for-odyssey/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EVE Online redesigns radial menu for OdysseyIn looking to trim down some of the menu bloat for EVE Online's Odyssey expansion, CCP Games is resurrecting and redesigning the radial menu to be a "silver bullet" for this issue.

The updated radial menu will be connected to the underutilized left mouse button and is confined to eight segments that will change depending on what the user is clicking. The studio wrote up a blog post on the subject, promising that the redesign is intuitive and will result in faster access to relevant commands.

Initially, the radial menu upgrade will be for ship flight only, although CCP is willing to expand its domain if players find it useful. This feature is currently available on the test server.

MassivelyEVE Online redesigns radial menu for Odyssey originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 May 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesdev-blogdev-diaryeveeve-onlineinternet-spaceshipsmenumenusodysseyradial-menusandboxsci-fispreadsheets-onlineTue, 21 May 2013 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT introduces loyalty rewards program for dedicated players]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/rift-introduces-loyalty-rewards-program-for-dedicated-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/rift-introduces-loyalty-rewards-program-for-dedicated-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/rift-introduces-loyalty-rewards-program-for-dedicated-players/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

RIFT introduces loyalty rewards program for dedicated players
RIFT is introducing an innovative new program that allows players to get items for free when they spend money or money-substitutes on other items! The new rewards program will give players Loyalty points as those players purchase or spend credits, subscribe as a Patron, or consume REX (RIFT's tradable currency that can be purchased for real-world money). Since REX is tradable between players, a particularly thrifty player could accrue loyalty points without ever spending a real-world dime in RIFT's store.

Current and former subscribers will be awarded some Loyalty points based on how long they have been subscribed. Players will be able to use Loyalty to unlock exclusive costumes, the ability to change target icons, and unique dimensions.

This is all part of RIFT's free-to-play initiative and will be going live on June 12th with RIFT 2.3: Empyreal Assault.

MassivelyRIFT introduces loyalty rewards program for dedicated players originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 May 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conquesteconomyempyreal-assaultfantasyloyaltyloyalty-rewards-programpatch-2.3pvprewards-programrexriftrift-2.3rift-exchangerift-literift-planes-of-telararvrthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsTue, 21 May 2013 14:30:00 EST