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 Perfect Ten: Final moments of MMOs, part 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/the-perfect-ten-final-moments-of-mmos-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/the-perfect-ten-final-moments-of-mmos-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/the-perfect-ten-final-moments-of-mmos-part-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

The Perfect Ten Final moments of MMOs, part 2
LAST TIME ON THE PERFECT TEN: Games were shut down, tears were shed, memories were dragged unwillingly from long-term storage, and videos were shown. Also, Marty totally suckered Biff into driving into a truck full of manure and then got his parents to kiss at a dance so that he wouldn't be erased from the space-time continuum.

AND NOW FOR THE EXCITING CONCLUSION!

Is it completely morbid to want to revisit (or see for the first time) the final moments of MMOs? Yes, but also no. Really, it's just interesting to me, and I have no great agenda at play here. Sometimes seeing how a game goes out can tell you a lot about its community and dev team. So join us now as we hit the second half of 10 videos showing the last few minutes of these online RPGs.

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Final moments of MMOs, part 2

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Final moments of MMOs, part 2 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-reloadedapbapb-reloadedapbrback-to-betabetabrowserbrowser-basedcasualcity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohconsoleconsolescovcoxcrimef2pfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivflashfree-to-playfreedomg1gamersfirstglitchhipsterhumorlego-universencsoftopinionp10paragonparagon-studiosperfect-10perfect-tenpvproundupsandboxsquaresquare-enixsuperherosuperheroesthe-perfect-10the-perfect-tentinyspecktop-10top-10-listtop-tentop-ten-listunlauncheningThu, 25 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist: When dead MMOs come back to life]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/01/the-game-archaeologist-when-dead-mmos-come-back-to-life/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/01/the-game-archaeologist-when-dead-mmos-come-back-to-life/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/01/the-game-archaeologist-when-dead-mmos-come-back-to-life/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Hellgate Tokyo
Maybe I'm alone in this, but my jaw just dropped when I came home this past week to see that Massively posted the news that Shadowbane is coming back to life. Granted, it's only going to happen in China, but still, that's pretty incredible. Shadowbane's been in the ground for three years now, and if I had to pick an MMO that deserved resurrection, this particular one would be farthest from my mind (no offense if you liked the game; it's just that there are so many others that are even more worthy).

But how can this not give you hope? Many of us have lost an MMO we loved or at least had a decked-out character populating the character select screen, and the thought of that game coming back against all odds is a goosebump-rising one. It may also smack of justice served, as some MMOs fail not because of faulty gameplay but because of mismanagement by the studio, complex legal wrangling, or bad marketing.

Today let's look at a few examples of dead MMOs that were brought back to life and what this may mean for the future of the industry. Zombie MMOs! Not, you know, MMOs with zombies.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist: When dead MMOs come back to life

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist: When dead MMOs come back to life originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-reloadedapbapb-reloadedapbrchangyouclassicclassic-mmoclassic-mmosclassicsclone-wars-adventurescrimediablodiablo-clonef2pfallen-earthfantasyfaxion-onlinefeaturedflagshipfree-realmsfree-to-playfrogsterg1galaxiesgame-archaelogistgamersfirsthanbitsofthellgatehellgate-globalhellgate-londonhellgate-tokyojohn-smedleylego-universemythosmythos-europemythos-globalnostalgiaopinionPirates-of-the-Burning-Seapvprebootredbanaresurrectionrevivalsandboxsci-fishadowbanesoesony-online-entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-galaxiesswgswgot3t3funtabula-rasathe-game-archaeologistthe-matrix-onlinevanguardzombie-mmozombiesTue, 01 May 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pack up your toys: LEGO Universe is shutting down at midnight]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/pack-up-your-toys-lego-universe-shutting-down-at-midnight/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/pack-up-your-toys-lego-universe-shutting-down-at-midnight/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/pack-up-your-toys-lego-universe-shutting-down-at-midnight/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

LEGO Universe
The clock is chiming, and kids (and the young at heart) everywhere are asking for just a little more time with LEGO Universe. Unfortunately the struggling MMO has gotten no reprieve from the imaginary video game governor, and its servers will go offline tonight at midnight EST.

The shutdown FAQ encourages LEGO Universe players to share their favorite memories on the forums and ends with a heartfelt message from the team:
"Our decision to end LEGO Universe is similar to decisions we also make with LEGO Product collection, where favourite sets come and go to make space for new sets. It was time for LEGO Universe to end and hopefully new digital LEGO experiences will come in the future."
We first heard of LEGO Universe's closure last November, when the studio announced that the game's freemium model was not bringing in enough paying customers to keep the title afloat. LEGO Universe is a youngling in the MMO genre, having released in October 2010, making the game one year and three months old at the time of its shutdown.

Refunds for those who had a paid subscription on file after December 31st, 2011 will be distributed early next month. Unused LEGO game cards may also be exchanged for LEGO e-gift cards.

MassivelyPack up your toys: LEGO Universe is shutting down at midnight originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closeclosingclosuref2pfree-to-playfreemiumlegolego-grouplego-universeshutdownMon, 30 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: LEGO Universe, autism, and heartbreak]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/mmo-family-lego-universe-autism-and-heartbreak/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/mmo-family-lego-universe-autism-and-heartbreak/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/mmo-family-lego-universe-autism-and-heartbreak/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Lego Universe
Often when the topic of video games comes up, it's followed by comments about the negatives, such as violence, antisocial behavior, or inappropriate content. But if they do have harmful effects (and it's arguable how many players really are affected in a negative way), they can also be helpful as well, yet you rarely hear a news story about the good. I've written before about how companies like IBM have studied MMO guilds in order to improve team-building and organization within their company. More recently, MMOWGLI focused on global issues, such as the future of piracy, to study what solutions players could cooperatively generate.

There are also positive benefits to children as well, and while we've touched on a few in recent columns, this week we'll focus on the impact LEGO Universe has had on autistic children. Sadly, the game will be shutting down in a few weeks, and while many parents are thankful for how much it's helped, they're also concerned about what will happen once the game is gone. Read on for a bittersweet look at how this LEGO-based game is leaving behind a legacy.

Continue reading MMO Family: LEGO Universe, autism, and heartbreak

MassivelyMMO Family: LEGO Universe, autism, and heartbreak originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aspergersautismcasualchildrenchildrens-mmosf2pfamilyfamily-friendlyfeaturedfree-to-playkaren-bryankid-friendlykidskids-gameslegolego+gameslego+universelego+universe+game+autismlego-universelegogameslegouniverselegouniversegameautismmmo-closingmmo-familymmo-kidsmmo-shut-downopinionstar-wars-galaxiessunsettabula-rasaWed, 28 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Universe shutting down January 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/lego-universe-shutting-down-january-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/lego-universe-shutting-down-january-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/lego-universe-shutting-down-january-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

LEGO Universe
Playtime's over, people -- time to pack up your LEGO bricks and move on. The word's come down from the LEGO Group that LEGO Universe is closing its doors on January 31st, 2012 due to a lack of paying customers. While the game has been free-to-play for a while, apparently not enough players were interested in dishing out cash to keep the MMO operational.

The news was posted just moments ago on the official forums along with a more in-depth FAQ:
Hello Adventurer, today we are very sad to announce that LEGO Universe will be closing on January 31, 2012. This was a very difficult decision to make, but unfortunately LEGO Universe has not been able to attract the number of members needed to keep the game open.

We are thankful to have had the opportunity to share this adventure wiith an amazing community of players. We hope you will continue to enjoy LEGO Universe for the last few months. As a thank you, if you are a paying subscriber on December 31, 2011, we will provide you the full game for the final month for free.

Again, we want to thank the fantastic community of players who made LEGO Universe such a vibrant, fun and creative experience.

Sincerely,
The LEGO Universe Team
Unfortunately, this closure means that the associated studios, including one in Colorado and one in Denmark, will be shuttered and 115 employees will be affected. LEGO Universe launched in October 2010 and converted to a free-to-play model this past August. We've included the official press release behind the break.

Continue reading LEGO Universe shutting down January 2012

MassivelyLEGO Universe shutting down January 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Nov 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closingclosing-downclosuref2pfree-to-playlegolego-grouplego-universeplay-well-studiosshutting-downsunsetsunsettingFri, 04 Nov 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Universe offers $15,000 US in prizes in the Nexus Force Championships]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/lego-universe-offers-15-000-us-in-prizes-in-the-nexus-force-cha/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/lego-universe-offers-15-000-us-in-prizes-in-the-nexus-force-cha/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/lego-universe-offers-15-000-us-in-prizes-in-the-nexus-force-cha/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

LEGO Universe title image
Given the age of the average MMO gamer, it's safe to say most of us grew up with the amazing creative freedom of LEGO. The LEGO franchise has given rise to countless computer games over the years, including kid-friendly MMORPG LEGO Universe. The game recently went free-to-play, and now a huge contest has been released to encourage people to give the game a try.

The eight-week-long Nexus Force Championships start today, challenging players to win as many in-game events and contests as possible before December 8th. Participants will collect points for winning contests and events in a bid to win some truly massive prizes. The single player with the highest number of points at the end of the eight weeks will win around $5,000 US worth of LEGO sets and a new laptop. In total, over $15,000 US of prizes will be given out during the event.

[Source: LEGO Universe Press Release]

MassivelyLEGO Universe offers $15,000 US in prizes in the Nexus Force Championships originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Oct 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestcontestseventeventslegolego-universenewsnexus-force-championshipsprizesThu, 13 Oct 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Universe introduces Ninjago expansion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/lego-universe-introduces-ninjago-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/lego-universe-introduces-ninjago-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/lego-universe-introduces-ninjago-expansion/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Red Ninja on lava
Who doesn't like ninjas? Well, except for pirates, I guess. Now LEGO Universe has both, as its newly announced Ninjago expansion brings the world of the Ninjago LEGO toys and the Masters of Spinjitzu film to the MMO.

In addition to inserting over 100 new ninja-themed missions, this "largest expansion to the game yet" will raise the level cap to 45 and introduce new weapons, new enemies, and new gear -- all just in time for next month's first-year anniversary for the game. The expansion is free for all premium members starting today, and you can check out the screenshot gallery below and launch trailer just after the jump.

Gallery: LEGO Universe Main Gallery



[Source: LEGO Universe press release]

Continue reading LEGO Universe introduces Ninjago expansion

MassivelyLEGO Universe introduces Ninjago expansion originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Sep 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>expansionf2pfree-to-playlegolego-bricks-not-legoslego-universelevel-cap-increasemasters-of-spinjitzuninjaninjagoninjaspatchtrailertrailersupdatevideovideoswarner-brothersTue, 20 Sep 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: LEGO Universe]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/28/rise-and-shiny-recap-lego-universe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/28/rise-and-shiny-recap-lego-universe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/28/rise-and-shiny-recap-lego-universe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

LEGO screenshot
Ah, LEGO. Who in this world was unfortunate enough to grow up without the wonderful plastic bits of imagination? I remember specific types of LEGO, from the hinged legs of the minifigs to the more advanced gears and pistons of the Technic sets. We used to build great long space battleships, similar to the ones you might see in Star Blazers, and we would run down the hall at each other, smashing them into hundreds of wonderful hard plastic pieces. LEGO built my childhood and was as important to me as destroying wasp's nests and building forts. Of course, girls moved to the top of the list pretty soon after that.

So when I heard about LEGO Universe, I was as excited as any normal person would be. I imagined building anything possible, sort of like a child-friendly Second Life, and spending hours in gleeful, plastic bliss. What I found during the beta greatly disappointed me.

Flash forward to now, and I have to say that my opinion has changed quite a bit. Let me tell you what I found, OK? Click past the cut... but leave the massive battleships behind for now.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: LEGO Universe

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: LEGO Universe originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 28 Aug 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanf2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpLEGOLEGO-UniverseLiveStreamnetdevilrise-and-shinytoysvideovideosSun, 28 Aug 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: What is this I don't even edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/the-mmo-report-what-is-this-i-dont-even-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/the-mmo-report-what-is-this-i-dont-even-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/the-mmo-report-what-is-this-i-dont-even-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Screencap -- The MMO Report
Welcome once again to Massively's coverage of The MMO report, where we get to imagine that this entire article is read by a 1930s radio announcer.

The first order of business today is the record-breaking scam perpetrated in EVE Online, followed by the energy and weapon ability changes in the most recent test build of Guild Wars 2. Then we've got The Old Republic's first show of endgame content in the form of the Eternity Vault being showcased at Gamescom. Meanwhile, The Secret World announces a release date, slating the game for April 2012 with beta signups beginning on August 26th. LEGO Universe's transition to a free-to-play model rounds out the selections before a trip into Uncle Casey's Mailbag for some schmemes and other goodness.

So jump on past the cut and check it out. Oh, and don't ask about the beginning. We don't know either.

Continue reading The MMO Report: What is this I don't even edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: What is this I don't even edition originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Aug 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eveeve-onlinegamescomgamescom-2011guild-wars-2gw2lego-universemmo-reportscamstar-wars-the-old-republicthe-mmo-reportthe-old-republicthe-secret-worldtortswvideovideosFri, 19 Aug 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Universe goes F2P today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/lego-universe-goes-f2p-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/lego-universe-goes-f2p-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/lego-universe-goes-f2p-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

LEGO Universe - F2P
Free-to-play conversions have been in the news a lot lately, with games as diverse as Age of Conan and Champions Online throwing open their doors with various flavors of free access. LEGO Universe is the latest freemium convert, and today is the official kickoff for the brick-building MMORPG's new membership tier.

So what can you do for free in LEGO Universe?

Two adventure zones and one player property area are available for starters, and the game also offers up a decent selection of free mini-games, build options, and basic functionality (including the ability to sample faction gear and collect up to 10,000 coins). The LEGO Group is clearly looking to entice gamers to upgrade to a full membership, though, as it only costs $10 a month and it unlocks the full game including over 15 adventuring zones, access to upcoming expansion content, and the ability to join in competitions and community events. Head to the official LEGO Universe website for a full listing of free-to-play offerings and subscriber benefits. You can also click past the cut to see a new free-to-play trailer featuring gameplay and world-building highlights.

Continue reading LEGO Universe goes F2P today

MassivelyLEGO Universe goes F2P today originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Aug 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brick-buildingbricksbuildingbusiness-modelsf2pfamilyfree-to-playkidsLEGOlego-grouplego-universelego-universe-mmolegospress-releasesandboxsubscriber-benefitsthe-lego-grouptrailervideoMon, 15 Aug 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Universe update adds progression system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/lego-universe-update-adds-progression-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/lego-universe-update-adds-progression-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/lego-universe-update-adds-progression-system/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

LEGO Universe has the creative aspects of MMOs and online gaming down pat. After all, we're talking LEGOs (edit: LEGO BRICKS OMG, LEGO BRICKS) here, and if there's one word that's synonymous with the long-running Danish toy line, that word is build.

What's there to do in LEGO Universe when your creativity runs dry, though? Thanks to the game's latest content update, traditional MMO character-building is now a viable option. Player minifigures may progress through 40 levels of content, unlocking points, achievements, and equipment along the way.

That's not all, as the latest LEGO Universe patch also features four new faction kits (Specialized Adventurer, Shinobi, Inventor, and Space Ranger), each of them aligned with one of the game's four Nexus Force factions and each offering players the opportunity to rank up and explore "new gear, powers, and abilities." Last but not least, the new LEGO Universe update brings a new instance challenge in the form of the Avant Gardens, and a big nasty known as the Spider Queen awaits players who are creative enough to make it through to the final battle.

MassivelyLEGO Universe update adds progression system originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avant-gardensbuildingcreativityequipmentf2pfamilyfree-to-playgame-updategeargrindinventorkidslegolego-universelegoslevel-upleveling-systemlevelsminifigure-levelspatchpress-releaseprogressionshinobispace-rangerspecialized-adventurerspider-queenMon, 08 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ex-NetDevil programmer talks LEGO Universe and getting an industry job]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/25/ex-netdevil-programmer-talks-lego-universe-and-getting-an-indust/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/25/ex-netdevil-programmer-talks-lego-universe-and-getting-an-indust/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/25/ex-netdevil-programmer-talks-lego-universe-and-getting-an-indust/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Fan site MMO Fallout has an interesting interview with Stephen Calender that's worth a read. Who's Stephen Calender? He's a Flash developer who was front and center for the brouhaha that went down when The LEGO Group acquired the LEGO Universe MMO from NetDevil (putting many NetDevil programmers out of work in the process).

The interview is a wide-ranging and lengthy affair, and it features discussion on Gazillion's relationship with NetDevil, a blurb about the ill-fated Auto Assault, and of course, the bulk of the piece that focuses on the past and future of LEGO Universe. For all of the aspiring game devs in the audience, Calender also spends quite a bit of time talking about selling yourself in an increasingly competitive industry.

MassivelyEx-NetDevil programmer talks LEGO Universe and getting an industry job originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Jul 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dev-interviewsf2pfamilyfree-to-playgazillioninterviewkidslegolego-grouplego-universemmo-industrynetdevilprogrammingstephen-calenderthe-lego-groupMon, 25 Jul 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Universe dares you to make a 'Brickbuster']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/lego-universe-dares-you-to-make-a-brickbuster/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/lego-universe-dares-you-to-make-a-brickbuster/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/lego-universe-dares-you-to-make-a-brickbuster/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Have an itching desire to be an amateur filmmaker, but all you have to work with is a video camera and your toys? No problem -- LEGO Universe and The Ones and Zeros Pixelshow think that's all you need to become the next hit director!

From now until August 5th, you can film and submit your very own LEGO "Brickbuster" in the Build-a-Brickbuster Animated Film Contest. The best of the best stop-motion machinima will be awarded prizes, showcased at Pixelfest in Broomfield, Colorado on August 13th and 14th, and included in a special DVD later this year.

Pixelfest Producer Dylan Krider sees this as a perfect cross-over between the MMO and real world: "When players aren't busy battling to save imagination in LEGO Universe, they can bring their wildest creations to life with virtual building and behavior tools that make it simple for anyone to make their own machinima creations."

MassivelyLEGO Universe dares you to make a 'Brickbuster' originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Jul 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brickbusterbuild-a-brickbustercontestdvddylan-kriderlegolego-universemachinimapixelfestprizesstop-motionthe-ones-and-zeroes-pixelshowThu, 21 Jul 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Universe going freemium this August]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/lego-universe-going-freemium-this-august/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/lego-universe-going-freemium-this-august/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/lego-universe-going-freemium-this-august/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Fallen Earth? Check. City of Heroes? Check. Which AAA MMORPG act is warming up to take the stage next on the free-to-play 2011 world tour? That would be LEGO Universe, and the LEGO Group has announced via press release that the kid-friendly building-block title will be joining its formerly subscription-based brethren in the freemium ranks as early as this August.

Interestingly, LEGO Universe will continue to make its money via paid memberships, with no microtransactions planned at this time. Free players will have access to a limited selection of game content for an unlimited period of time. If the trial content tickles their fancy, tire-kickers are then free to pony up $10 per month for full access.

LEGO Universe is also doing away with its physical media, as new users will find that the game is transitioning to a download-only model for both paid and free players. Full details on the content available to free players isn't yet available, but check back with us frequently as we bring you all the latest updates.

MassivelyLEGO Universe going freemium this August originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 Jun 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelsdigital-downloadsf2pfree-to-playfreemiumlegolego-grouplego-universemmo-industrysubscriptionstrialTue, 21 Jun 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Former LEGO Universe dev: 'I have decided to get out of the MMO game']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/24/former-lego-universe-dev-i-have-decided-to-get-out-of-the-mmo-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/24/former-lego-universe-dev-i-have-decided-to-get-out-of-the-mmo-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/24/former-lego-universe-dev-i-have-decided-to-get-out-of-the-mmo-game/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

We're all familiar with that guy who gets burned out on his game and makes a very public and lengthy rant as to why he's quitting on the official forums. But what happens when a developer does the same thing to a larger audience? Today we found out, as former LEGO Universe dev Ryan Seabury wrote an open letter saying why he left NetDevil -- and why he'll never work on MMOs again.

Seabury cites four reasons: that the "MMO" label has lost its meaning, it takes too long and is too stressful to develop new games, it's difficult to play around with creative concepts, and the market is trending toward indie titles anyway. He left to start up END Games Entertainment so that he and others of a similar mind could indulge in "a ridiculous variety of game ideas" instead of treading the waters of the status quo.

His letter is largely upbeat as he focuses on the joys of game development and play, and he thinks that it's high past time studios break out of old mindsets to embrace the new: "We have come to a point where the game concept trumps such insignificant bullet points, and global social connectivity is a given. From a creative standpoint, this is fantastic. Ideas are king once again; the industry feels as vibrant to me as the golden nostalgia years I experienced as a kid growing up through the coin-op and early console eras, except we've finally ditched the nerd-in-basement stigma."

You can read Seabury's full letter over at Kotaku.

MassivelyFormer LEGO Universe dev: 'I have decided to get out of the MMO game' originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 May 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>end-gamesend-games-entertainmentindiekotakulegolego-grouplego-universenetdevilopen-letterryan-seaburyTue, 24 May 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Universe opens the Nexus Tower]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/lego-universe-opens-the-nexus-tower/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/lego-universe-opens-the-nexus-tower/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/lego-universe-opens-the-nexus-tower/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

It's always nice to finish a big construction project of LEGO bricks, even if you're just making something out of spare bricks on your desktop instead of working. It's the same for LEGO Universe, but in a somewhat more substantive fashion -- the Nexus Tower, a massive structure composed of a huge number of bricks, has finally been completed in-game. Thanks to players donating bricks and working toward the tower's completion, everyone can start enjoying the features of this large-scale hub as well as several content updates due to accompany it.

Players who explore the tower will find over 50 new missions to undertake as well as several faction leaders to work alongside as they learn more about the history of the game's multiversal setting. There are also new items, new pets, new daily missions, and a promise of more content to come down the pipeline following this. LEGO Universe players can check out all of the new stuff in-game now, but if you can't log in right at the moment, take a look at the trailer just after the break.

Continue reading LEGO Universe opens the Nexus Tower

MassivelyLEGO Universe opens the Nexus Tower originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 May 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>legolego-universelumajor-patchesmajor-updatesnetdevilnexus-towerpatchesupdatesMon, 23 May 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Universe unveils May contest schedule]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/03/lego-universe-unveils-may-contest-schedule/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/03/lego-universe-unveils-may-contest-schedule/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/03/lego-universe-unveils-may-contest-schedule/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

May in LEGO Universe is all about faction pride, and as such, players are invited to participate in a host of exciting contests to demonstrate their factions' superiority. Well, that and win prizes. You can have your blocky cake and eat it in LEGO Universe!

The site has posted its May contest schedule for your edification:
  • All month: Join the community effort is underway to build the Nexus Tower via donations.
  • May 7-8: Race in the LEGO Grand Prix, which will take place at a soon-to-be revealed location.
  • May 14-15: Take aim and fire during the Shooting Gallery Showdown, where players will try to hit enemy ships and creatures in the water.
  • May 21-22: Submit your best faction screenshot for a shot at several prizes.
  • May 28-29: Unite with your faction in the Battle for Nimbus Station!
Take a gander at the contest details and the many, many goodies you can win over at LEGO Universe.

MassivelyLEGO Universe unveils May contest schedule originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 May 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battle-for-nimbus-stationcontestcontestsfactionfaction-pridegrand-prixlegolego-grand-prixlego-grouplego-universenexus-towerprizespromotionsraceshooting-galleryTue, 03 May 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Universe readying new race track, pets, property, and a month-long event]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/26/lego-universe-readying-new-race-track-pets-property-and-a-mon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/26/lego-universe-readying-new-race-track-pets-property-and-a-mon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/26/lego-universe-readying-new-race-track-pets-property-and-a-mon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Next week is looming large for fans of LEGO Universe. May 3rd will see major new challenges made available to the game's community according to a LEGO press release circulated earlier this afternoon.

First up is a month-long initiative to finish the colossal Nexus Tower construction project. The tower houses the Nexus of Imagination, and it's a good thing too since the dastardly Maelstrom is bent on unyielding destruction. Players will need to contribute bricks to the Nexus Force cause or risk leaving Imagination vulnerable to the forces of darkness.

LEGO Universe will also be sporting a new race track as of next week, and the circuit is every bit as grueling as its name (Dragonmaw Chasm) suggests. New achievements are the order of the day, and skilled racers can unlock new cars including the Fire Brawl and Mach Lava. Finally, the new game update is bringing new property options to LEGO Universe. These include the ability for players to place pets on their in-game homesteads and bring said pets to life via a system of behaviors. Head to the official LEGO Universe website for more.

Gallery: LEGO Universe Main Gallery

MassivelyLEGO Universe readying new race track, pets, property, and a month-long event originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Apr 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buildingdragonmarkdragonmaw-chasmfamilygallerykidslegolego-universemaelstromnexus-of-imaginationnexus-towernexus-tower-projectpatchespetspropertyrace-carsrace-trackscreenshotsupdatesTue, 26 Apr 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Universe on sale for $9.99]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/lego-universe-on-sale-for-9-99/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/lego-universe-on-sale-for-9-99/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/lego-universe-on-sale-for-9-99/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Have you seen the prices for LEGO brick,s these days? Some parents have had to choose between purchasing their child a Harry Potter Hogwarts set or paying the mortgage that month -- and Harry Potter usually wins. Fortunately, you can get your virtual LEGOs on for cheap: LEGO Universe is on sale for $9.99 in the official LEGO store.

You'll want to note that this is a physical copy of the game, not a digital download. The purchase also includes the first month of play, which certainly lowers the barrier of entry. This promotion is a limited time offer, although the company didn't put an exact end date on it.

This follows LEGO Universe's transition from Gazillion to the LEGO Group. Newcomers to the game will certainly want to check out the cooperative community events that highlight this MMO's unique strengths.

MassivelyLEGO Universe on sale for $9.99 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 31 Mar 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dealgazillionharry-potterhogwartslegolego-grouplego-universepromotionsaleThu, 31 Mar 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Universe builds community via community building]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/lego-universe-builds-community-via-community-building/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/lego-universe-builds-community-via-community-building/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/lego-universe-builds-community-via-community-building/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The fun of playing with LEGO sets is only half in the assembly -- a lot of the enjoyment comes with showing off what you've created to others, no matter your age. It's an element that LEGO Universe has taken to heart, as a recent release talks about the community events the game has run thus far and the plans for more events in the future.

Each month of the game's operation has been based around a core theme for community events and challenges, giving players unified goals to work toward. March is the Battle Month, with the final event taking place this weekend in the Battle for Nimbus Station. Players who successfully face off against 29 waves of enemies will be in the running to win a variety of in-game prizes as well as some real-world LEGO sets.

The Creation Lab has also been a major area of development, allowing user-generated content to come front and center in the community. Even if you're not currently playing LEGO Universe, you can take part in some of the contests and get your own buildings in the game -- sharing what you've built with everyone even if it's not made out of plastic bricks.

MassivelyLEGO Universe builds community via community building originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Mar 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buildingcommunity-contestscommunity-eventscontestscreationinnovationkid-gameskidslegolego-brickslego-universelunetdeviloriginal-creationugcuser-generated-contentThu, 24 Mar 2011 21:00:00 EST