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[Rise and Shiny revisit: Mabinogi remains magical]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/12/rise-and-shiny-revisit-mabinogi-remains-magical/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/12/rise-and-shiny-revisit-mabinogi-remains-magical/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/12/rise-and-shiny-revisit-mabinogi-remains-magical/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mabinogi screenshot
I try to take deeper looks at certain titles at least once a year. These are special games that prove to me that MMORPGs are still the best gaming you can participate in, pixel for pixel. Mabinogi is one of those titles. It's also one of those titles that almost makes me want to quit writing about games. Ironically, the more you write about games, the less time you have to play specific titles, games that could easily suck away hours of your life every day. These are virtual worlds with open character development and grand, sweeping storylines. If I had the time, I'd probably spend most of it in Mabinogi.

During this week's revisit, I knew I had to accomplish several things. First, I needed to clean up my quest list. Mabinogi is wonderful in the way it offers a player tons and tons of content and storylines, but they can be visited in a non-linear fashion that leads to confusion. Second, I wanted to revel in the glory that was the newly free extended inventory. Third, I wanted to check out the new systems and tweaks that have come along since I last dived into the game.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny revisit: Mabinogi remains magical

MassivelyRise and Shiny revisit: Mabinogi remains magical originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 12 May 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanDragonrealmsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhands-onlivestreammabinogimassively-tvmudMUD-MayNexonnexon-americarise-and-shinySandboxstreamtwitchtwitch-tvvideoSun, 12 May 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: The continued standardization of selling power]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/free-for-all-the-continued-standardization-of-selling-power/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/free-for-all-the-continued-standardization-of-selling-power/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/free-for-all-the-continued-standardization-of-selling-power/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

EVE Online forum screenshot
Selling power is a much quieter controversy than it used to be. I've been in gaming long enough to remember when selling anything desirable at all was taboo. At the same time, it's always been OK to sell some things like subscriptions or special boxed editions, proving that MMO gamers and others are brilliant at segmenting their rage. If it's a cool, special box with a neat virtual item inside, it somehow does not fall under the same umbrella as selling powerful, useful items in game. I think it does. But geeks in general are good at justifying poor behavior if they get what they want; just ask the hackers and file-swappers.

Still, it doesn't matter how we feel about selling power because the industry is already moving in the direction of selling power, lots of power. EA recently announced that every title it produces from now on will feature microtransactions. While that doesn't guarantee the sale of powerful items, I can promise that it will include some. This train ain't stopping. Sure, the console community seems a bit late to the party when it comes to the power-selling controversy, but that's likely because of MMOs' always-on multiplayer mode.

Continue reading Free for All: The continued standardization of selling power

MassivelyFree for All: The continued standardization of selling power originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Mar 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinallods-onlineapbbattlestar-galactica-onlinebeau-hindmanBigpointcliff-bleszinskidead-space-3die2niteeve-onlineeverquestEverQuest-2everquest-iif2pfeaturedffafree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumgamersfirstgears-of-warGears-of-war-2gpotatokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromabinogimass-effect-3mmortsmobileNexonnexon-americaopinionpirate101SOESONYspacetime-studiosTeam-Fortress-2turbinevalvevelvet-ropewakfuwizard101Wed, 06 Mar 2013 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: The second annual Frindie Awards]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/02/free-for-all-the-second-annual-frindie-awards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/02/free-for-all-the-second-annual-frindie-awards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/02/free-for-all-the-second-annual-frindie-awards/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Frindie Awards logo
It's time once again for the Frindie Awards, my attempt to shine some light on the best indie, browser-based, free-to-play, and unusual MMOs that are all-too-often ignored by press -- and players. This one is for the little guys! Well, mostly. It's also for those games that seem to have passed under the collective radar of Massively readers or that seem to be very misunderstood.

Picking the winners this year is just as hard as it was last year, maybe even harder. 2012 was an incredible year for MMOs, so I would rather have just put together an article that highlights every single favorite. In the end, it's more helpful to make myself pick out a winner. It's a rare thing for some of these games to even receive a nod on a major website, something I still can't figure out. Either way, it's best to think of all of the MMOs on this list as my favorites from 2012.

Anyway, let's get to the awards!

Continue reading Free for All: The second annual Frindie Awards

MassivelyFree for All: The second annual Frindie Awards originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 Jan 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-mystical-landalganonarcane-legendsasherons-callbeau-hindmanbrowsercastle-empireclub-penguindeepworldderek-smartdrakensang-onlinef2pfeaturedffaforge-of-empiresfree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumfrindiefrindie-awardsfrindiesgameglobeglitchhabbo-hotelinnogamesistariajagexlife-is-magiclinden-labmilmonadirimopinionrunescapeRyzomsalemSandboxsecond-lifeSOESony-Online-Entertainmentspacetime-studiosSquare-EnixStar-Stablethe-matrix-onlinethe-missing-inkThereThere Will Be Bloodtiny-specktravianturbineVanguard-Saga-of-Heroesvelvet-ropewakfuwurm-onlineWed, 02 Jan 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Newest Mabinogi 2 Arena video showcases sword and board]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/13/newest-mabinogi-2-arena-video-showcases-sword-and-board/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/13/newest-mabinogi-2-arena-video-showcases-sword-and-board/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/13/newest-mabinogi-2-arena-video-showcases-sword-and-board/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Newest Mabinogi 2 Arena video showcases sword and board
While a previous combat trailer gave players a peek at a variety of fighting styles in the upcoming Mabinogi 2 Arena, the newest release focuses on just the use of the sword and shield combination. Throughout the clip, developer DevCat showcases stabs, cuts, kicks, and rolls against a room full of foes. The video also demonstrates a certain level of gore, as every slice and dice leaves a swath of blood on the floor. Want to get a better look at the action for yourself? Check out the demo after the break!

Continue reading Newest Mabinogi 2 Arena video showcases sword and board

MassivelyNewest Mabinogi 2 Arena video showcases sword and board originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Nov 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoarena-combatcombat-trailerf2pfantasyfree-to-playmabinogimabinogi-2-arenanexonnexon-americanexon-entertainmentsandboxvindictusTue, 13 Nov 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Player guide explains Mabinogi 2 Arena gameplay]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/08/player-guide-explains-mabinogi-2-arena-gameplay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/08/player-guide-explains-mabinogi-2-arena-gameplay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/08/player-guide-explains-mabinogi-2-arena-gameplay/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Guide explains Mabinogi 2 gameplay
After the recent release of various videos demonstrating the upcoming Mabinogi 2 Arena, players have voiced questions about how the gameplay works and which predecessor it will more closely resemble, Mabinogi or Vindictus. In answer, Steparu has put together an initial explanation of the combat mechanics and gameplay.

The guide maps out the keyboard controls for both attacks and counter moves; fighting is controlled by only seven keys (X, Z, C, and 1-4), with one more (Q) bound to consuming potions. It also highlights one of Mabinogi 2 Arena's unique features -- the fact that attack animations change depending on where an enemy is situated and what condition it is in (such as stunned). Once in battle, Mabinogi veterans will recognize that mobs glowing different colors signifies which skill or action the mobs are using.

MassivelyPlayer guide explains Mabinogi 2 Arena gameplay originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Nov 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playgame-playgameplaykey-bindingsmabinogiMabinogi-2-Arenanexonnexon-americanexon-entertainmentsandboxvindictusThu, 08 Nov 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New combat trailer demonstrates Mabinogi 2 Arena battles]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/05/new-combat-trailer-demonstrates-mabinogi-2-arena-battles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/05/new-combat-trailer-demonstrates-mabinogi-2-arena-battles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/05/new-combat-trailer-demonstrates-mabinogi-2-arena-battles/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

New combat demo trailer for Mabinogi II Arena
Mabinogi 2 Arena, Nexon's recently revealed companion to Mabinogi and Vindictus (AKA Mabinogi Heroes in the east), takes a good fight and makes it the centerpiece of the game. Slated to launch later this year, the action MMO allows players to fight in arena combat as well as spectate others' matches. While a previous video showed off some character models and environments for the upcoming game, Nexon's latest official trailer gives folks a taste of the actual combat moves players can expect.

The video shows off both 1v1 and one vs. many scenarios; various kicks, throws, slaps, and slices are exchanged between characters as well as inflicted upon nondescript practice dummies. Footage also demonstrates battle atop dinosaur-like and mechanical mounts, with the pet/mount dealing its own damage. Check out the action after the break.

Continue reading New combat trailer demonstrates Mabinogi 2 Arena battles

MassivelyNew combat trailer demonstrates Mabinogi 2 Arena battles originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Nov 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoarena-combatcombat-mountscombat-petsf2pfantasyfree-to-playmabinogimabinogi-2mabinogi-2-arenaMabinogi-Heroesnexonnexon-americanexon-entertainmentsandboxtrialervideovindictusMon, 05 Nov 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nexon working on Mabinogi 2 Arena]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/01/nexon-working-on-mabinogi-2-arena/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/01/nexon-working-on-mabinogi-2-arena/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/01/nexon-working-on-mabinogi-2-arena/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Nexon working on Mabinogi 2 Arena
If you're a big fan of the inventive sandbox Mabinogi and action RPG Mabinogi Heroes (known as Vindictus in the west), we have to ask you: Is there room in your heart for more Mabinogi? Nexon's betting on "yes" because the publisher is hard at work on Mabinogi 2 Arena.

Revealed at GStar 2012, Mabinogi 2 takes the franchise in a new direction in a genre that Nexon is calling "MMO Arena." The game's built on an in-house engine and rewards both spectators and players alike. In fact, being a spectator is a major part of Mabinogi 2 as it provides players another way to be entertained by the game. Spectators can aid participants and be given rewards from them in return.

Mabinogi 2 Arena has five classes, combat styles, and body types. It's decidedly an action MMO that involves a wide range of actions such as throwing counters, grabbing opponents, and even slapping. It's slated to launch later this year, and you can watch the shaky-cam trailer after the jump.

Continue reading Nexon working on Mabinogi 2 Arena

MassivelyNexon working on Mabinogi 2 Arena originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Nov 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playmabinogimabinogi-2mabinogi-2-arenammo-arenanexonnexon-americanexon-entertainmentsandboxvindictusThu, 01 Nov 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Why I Play: Mabinogi]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/22/why-i-play-mabinogi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/22/why-i-play-mabinogi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/22/why-i-play-mabinogi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Mabinogi login screenshot
How do you define a sandbox MMO? In my opinion, sandbox MMOs are often described in ways that are much more complicated than they deserve. To me, they are simply MMOs that allow players to play how they want by providing systems -- real, game-impacting systems -- that foster unique character growth. These systems can be represented in a lot of different ways, however. You might grow a unique city in an MMORTS or customize an avatar in a social sandbox like Second Life. The general rule is that there are no rules in a sandbox, within the limits of the particular game, of course. Even then, sandbox players can be some of the most stringent rule-makers and followers. Just ask a Darkfall or EVE Online player how to get the most DPS and she'll rattle off a series of rules, essentially providing a class cheat-sheet. In other words, sandboxes are much like their themepark cousins, only with many more choices for character development. The themepark rules might be left out of a sandbox, but the sandbox communities often fill the void with new guidelines.

Mabinogi provides so many systems to grow a unique character with that it's ridiculous. I can easily log in and spend an hour just decorating my avatar, crafting goods, exploring new areas, flying around in the hopes of stumbling across trouble, or growing my character by leveling any one of the possible hundreds of skills. However you describe a sandbox, Mabinogi should be one of the first on the list of examples. Let me show you three reasons why.

Continue reading Why I Play: Mabinogi

MassivelyWhy I Play: Mabinogi originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Aug 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmancash-shopccpdarkfalleditorialeve-onlineeverquestf2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpillyriadillyriad-gamesillyriad-mmortsjagexmabinogimassively-metametaNexonnexon-americanostalgiaop-edopinionrunescapeSandboxsandbox-mmoSOESony-Online-Entertainmentwhy-i-playWed, 22 Aug 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: MMO streaming services have a long way to go]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/10/mmobility-mmo-streaming-services-have-a-long-way-to-go/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/10/mmobility-mmo-streaming-services-have-a-long-way-to-go/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/10/mmobility-mmo-streaming-services-have-a-long-way-to-go/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Splashtop screenshot
I've been a huge fan of streaming technology for a while mainly because it gives players an opportunity to access more powerful and flexible devices from the convenient location of their hand-held tablets or phones. The tech has come a long way even since I started reporting on it, and it continues to impress me. What's the point, you might ask? Why not just sit down at a desktop to play MMOs like everyone else? Well, the truth is that moving around is sometimes more relaxing and can definitely be better for your health.

Being able to get up, walk around, check in on a game from different locations, and just be mobile isn't just a neat gimmick. Some MMOs also work much better with a touchscreen device, especially MMORTS titles and games that require only a button press to perform an action. There are options for those who need a fully functioning joystick or control scheme, but they are not yet available to everyone. Let's go over the options we do have. Be sure to try out one or two on your tablet... you just might find that playing on a smaller screen is really fun.

Continue reading MMObility: MMO streaming services have a long way to go

MassivelyMMObility: MMO streaming services have a long way to go originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 Aug 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedfeaturedmmo-streamingmmobilitymobilemobile-gamingmobile-mmoOnLiveopinionphonesmartphonesplashtopSplashtop-remote-desktopstreamed-mmostreamingstreaming-desktopstreaming-servicetechnologyFri, 10 Aug 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: The best weather systems in free-to-play]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/01/free-for-all-the-best-weather-systems-in-free-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/01/free-for-all-the-best-weather-systems-in-free-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/01/free-for-all-the-best-weather-systems-in-free-to-play/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Mabinogi screenshot
Perhaps someone can explain my obsession with in-game weather systems. I remember interviewing the lead designer for Vanguard: Saga of Heroes a few years ago. I had to stop him and ask for more details about the weather system the game used. He told me it was on a separate server, a pretty fancy program that ran independently of the rest of the game. It sounded as if he was telling me that there were real storms brewing in the game and the system knew when and where they were happening.

I was fascinated. How cool it is to imagine in-game clouds forming at one point of the world and slowly moving across the land until the sky begins to rain on your character's head? Sadly, in-game weather seems to be either a low priority or a hard system to tackle. I'm guessing it's a combination of both.

So I searched out those few MMOs that feature an impactful weather system. Not coincidentally, they also happen to be some of my favorite MMOs.

Continue reading Free for All: The best weather systems in free-to-play

MassivelyFree for All: The best weather systems in free-to-play originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 Aug 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanf2pfeaturedffafree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumImmersionmabinogiNexonnexon-americaopinionrolf-janssonRyzomSquare-Enixvelvet-ropewakfuweatherweather-systemswurm-onlineWed, 01 Aug 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mabinogi's new bard class highlighted in video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/26/mabinogis-new-bard-class-highlighted-in-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/26/mabinogis-new-bard-class-highlighted-in-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/26/mabinogis-new-bard-class-highlighted-in-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Mabinogi screenshot
If you thought the only thing missing from the world of Mabinogi was a battle-mandolin-wielding bard, Nexon's news will be music to your ears: The Battle Maestro joined the line-up of available classes in the free-to-play fantasy game. This new bard class supports others with the power of music, using seven new skills to enhance and buff teammates or debuff enemies.

The Battle Maestro is live and playable now. You can catch a glimpse of the bard in action in the video after the break.

[Source: Nexon America press release]

Continue reading Mabinogi's new bard class highlighted in video

MassivelyMabinogi's new bard class highlighted in video originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Jul 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bardBattle-Maestrof2pfantasyfree-to-playmabinoginew-classnewsnexonnexon-americasandboxsupport-classvideoThu, 26 Jul 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: The indie edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/25/choose-my-adventure-the-indie-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/25/choose-my-adventure-the-indie-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/25/choose-my-adventure-the-indie-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Goonies screenshot, down here
It might be your time up there, but it's my time -- my time -- down here! For this latest edition of Choose My Adventure, I get to hand out a selection of odd little games for you to vote on, and then for the next month and change, I will stumble my way through the title. At your direction and with your help, of course. The trouble is that I have already played darn near everything. I've downloaded and tried so many games that I simply can't remember them all. So, what to do?

Well, I decided to give a mix of games a chance at several weeks coverage here on Massively. I picked out an assortment of browser games, independent titles, and lesser-known client-based MMOs. Hopefully you will steer me the right way, and if I am lucky, I won't even have a horrible time. I chose games that I know have a robust community in the hopes that plenty of voters will turn out. The key is to get the word out there, so if you have a favorite, go tell your community!

But first, click past the cut and vote on the game you would like to see me tackle for the next several weeks. Just don't expect to see triple-A games on the list!

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: The indie edition

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: The indie edition originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Jul 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-quest-worldsallods-onlineankamaaq-worldsbeau-hindmanBigpointchoose-my-adventureClone-Wars-Adventurescmadrakensang-onlinefeaturedgpotatohands-onjeremy-strattonjunebudkingdom-of-loathingkolmabinogimilmoNexonnexon-americaopinionpollpollsreaders-choiceromancerunes-of-magicshawn-schusterSOESONYSony-Online-EntertainmentSquare-EnixvotevotingwakfuzentiaWed, 25 Jul 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Making the perfectly flawed character]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/06/free-for-all-making-the-perfectly-flawed-character/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/06/free-for-all-making-the-perfectly-flawed-character/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/06/free-for-all-making-the-perfectly-flawed-character/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Vanguard screenshot
Whenever I play a new MMO, the first thing I want to know is who I am supposed to be inside this particular game world. I would like to have as much control over the conception of my character as possible, but let's be honest: Great customization is not as common as many of us would like. This might explain my attraction to games that offer the ability to craft a true, unique character, even if only in looks. I love a good cash shop and the ability to make my character essentially me -- if I were the me inside that other world.

I don't play MMOs to be the hero, at least not most of the time. I don't want to kill the largest boss or get the best armor. I'll leave that to gamers who like that sort of thing. I play an MMO to sort of lose myself inside the world of a character of my own making. Over the years I've noticed a pattern in how I establish a great character, one that I want to continue playing. Originally, I wanted to refine this process into a list in case other players wanted to compare, but the list keeps evolving, so instead, I'll give some examples of how I have been creating unique and wonderfully flawed main characters in some of my favorite MMOs.

Continue reading Free for All: Making the perfectly flawed character

MassivelyFree for All: Making the perfectly flawed character originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Jun 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanf2pfeaturedffafree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumgemstone-ivhalflingheroheroesheroicmabinogimudMUDsopinionRolePlayingSOESONYSony-Online-EntertainmentVanguard-Saga-of-Heroesvelvet-ropeWed, 06 Jun 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Winner of Mabinogi's Merchant of Venice contest highlighted]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/winner-of-mabinogis-merchant-of-venice-contest-highlighted/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/winner-of-mabinogis-merchant-of-venice-contest-highlighted/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/winner-of-mabinogis-merchant-of-venice-contest-highlighted/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Mabinogi screenshot
If you are familiar with the Mabinogi-hosted contest from November called The Merchant of Venice, California, then you know that the popular free-to-play developer and publisher Nexon asked players to participate in order to win a free trip to the company's California studios to play, relax and discuss the new content. The event celebrated the release of the Merchant of Venice update. The addition gave players the ability to literally transport goods across the lands of Mabinogi. Players gain levels, earn in-game cash that can be used to buy special items and weapons, and gain access to better items to be traded. All expansions in the popular free-to-play title are free.

Sayre, a player from the Mari server, was invited to meet the developers, tour the office and even give some advice about how to make the game better. He received a free Alienware computer, 500 USD in cash and three nights in a hotel right on Venice Beach! In order to qualify for the contest drawing, players were required to have reached merchant level 9 in each of the game's towns.

Click past the cut to watch an exclusive preview of the tour!

Continue reading Winner of Mabinogi's Merchant of Venice contest highlighted

MassivelyWinner of Mabinogi's Merchant of Venice contest highlighted originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmancontestexpansionf2pfree-to-playftpmabinogimerchant-of-venicenexonnexon-americavideoTue, 07 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Best MMO theme songs (part one)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/the-perfect-ten-best-mmo-theme-songs-part-one/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/the-perfect-ten-best-mmo-theme-songs-part-one/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/the-perfect-ten-best-mmo-theme-songs-part-one/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Perfect Ten
As I've well established both here on Massively and elsewhere, I'm somewhat of a nut for video game music. Whereas others might collect vintage hair metal tracks or the latest Justin Bieber opus, I'm always digging through obscure (and not-so-obscure) official soundtracks to games like Wipeout and Kirby. Video game scores can be right up there with the best that the film industry puts out, and the fact that they tie into personal experiences that we've played through can lend them sentimental weight.

So for the next two Perfect Tens, I scoured all the MMO theme songs that I could get ahold of in an attempt to formulate a list of the very best. It was originally slated to be just one list, but after an hour or so of listening to tracks and having friends and fellow staffers weigh in on the subject, I knew it was impossible to keep it there.

Two important things to note for this list. First, I wanted to keep to just the title/login screen tracks so that I wouldn't be working on this for the next 2.5 years. Second, unlike most past Perfect Tens where there's no significance to the order of the list, in this case we're going to have a genuine countdown to the best MMO theme song of all time. And I expect to take no flak about it, do you hear me? Good. Let's begin.

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Best MMO theme songs (part one)

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Best MMO theme songs (part one) originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanbiowareblade-and-souldarkfalldarkfall-onlinefeaturedffxifinal-fantasy-xiharry-potterlistmabinogimusicNobuo-Uematsuperfect-10perfect-tenpiratespirates-of-the-burning-searunescapescorestar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-perfect-10the-perfect-tenthemetheme-musictitle-musictop-10top-20transformerstwilightwizard101wurm-onlineThu, 12 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Assembly Required: A virtual world roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/some-assembly-required-a-virtual-world-round-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/some-assembly-required-a-virtual-world-round-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/some-assembly-required-a-virtual-world-round-up/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Some Assembly Required header
If you are perusing this column, chances are you are a fan of virtual worlds and the sandbox genre. Join the club! (Dues will be due on the third Tuesday.) The aspect that compels many aficionados to delve into a game is the ability to make an impact on the world in some small respect instead of making them into Hive Member 1593072 running a static, predetermined gauntlet. How that impact is accomplished, however, varies; there are multiple features that can facilitate it, and which ones are considered most important depends on the player.

With the loss of one of the best sandbox games just last month, some players may be feeling a void. Others still are looking/hoping for the "ultimate" sandbox that contains nearly every virtual world feature. Certainly, there are some upcoming games that make some drool-worthy promises, but what about playing something now? There are actually games out on the market that have at least one aspect of the genre, if not more.

To start off the new year, Some Assembly Required looks at some of the top features of virtual worlds and lists games that incorporate these features. While this list isn't exhaustive (considering the sheer number of games when you include all of the smaller free-to-play titles, I'd run out of column space!), it is a comprehensive enough overview to point you toward some games worth playing that perhaps you hadn't considered before.

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: A virtual world roundup

MassivelySome Assembly Required: A virtual world roundup originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaionaion-gameAnarchy-Onlineaocccpccp-eveccp-gameschampions-onlinecharacter-creationcharacter-customizationcity-of-heroescocohcraft-of-godscraft-of-the-godscraftingcrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdaocdark-age-of-camelotdarkfalleden-eternaleq-1eq-2eq-ieq-iieveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlineever-quest-1ever-quest-2ever-quest-iever-quest-iieverquest-1everquest-2everquest-ieverquest-iifallen-earthfeaturedfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-xiflyffFuncomglitchguild-housinghousingking-of-kings-3liden-labs-second-lifelinden-labslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroluna-onlinemabinogimission-architectnc-softnc-soft-aionncsoftncsoft-aionnotorious-gamesparagonparagon-cohparagon-studioesplanetsideplayer-generated-contentplayer-generated-missionsplayer-housingplayer-run-economyrunescapeRyzomsecond-lifesecond-life-linden-labsslsl-liden-labssoe-eq-1soe-eq-2soe-eq-isoe-eq-iisome-assembly-requiredsony-eq-1sony-eq-2sony-eq-isony-eq-iisquare-enixst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotrek-onlineturbineTurbine-EntertainmentUltima-OnlineUOvanguardVanguard-Saga-of-Heroesvirtual-worldwar-of-the-immortalswizard-101xbox-360XsyonFri, 06 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nexon bringing Mabinogi back online, compensating affected players]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/03/nexon-bringing-mabinogi-back-online-compensating-affected-playe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/03/nexon-bringing-mabinogi-back-online-compensating-affected-playe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/03/nexon-bringing-mabinogi-back-online-compensating-affected-playe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Mabinogi - character selection screen
Nexon has brought Mabinogi back online, and the company tells Massively that "the issues that led us to temporarily disable service have been addressed."

The free-to-play sandbox was offline for nearly 40 hours last weekend, and Nexon will be compensating players with 5,000 NX (the company's cash shop currency), a two-day extension of VIP/Premium/Inventory Plus service, and a forthcoming double XP event. Nexon also tells us that players who were directly affected by the recent malicious activity will receive an additional 5,000 NX (10,000 total) and will have their lost items restored.

If you think you've been affected by the recent attacks, contact Nexon Support directly, and be sure to provide the following info when submitting your ticket:
  • account name
  • character name
  • character server
  • date of malicious activity
  • items missing/removed
  • name of malicious character (if available)
Finally, affected players should include the keyword MUGWORTS in their support ticket summary field to assist in filtering and processing.

[Source: Nexon press release]

MassivelyNexon bringing Mabinogi back online, compensating affected players originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>account-securityf2pfantasyfree-to-playmabinogimabinogi-hackingmabinogi-offlinemalicious-activitynexonnexon-hackingsandboxsecurityTue, 03 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nexon takes Mabinogi offline indefinitely due to 'malicious activity']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/01/nexon-takes-mabinogi-offline-indefinitely-due-to-malicious-acti/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/01/nexon-takes-mabinogi-offline-indefinitely-due-to-malicious-acti/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/01/nexon-takes-mabinogi-offline-indefinitely-due-to-malicious-acti/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Mabinogi - down for the count
If you were looking to play a little Mabinogi to kick off the new year, you might want to make alternate arrangements. Nexon has taken the free-to-play sandbox offline in order to deal with the recent spate of "malicious activity" going on in-game.

Mabinogi went dark yesterday, and Nexon says that it does "not have a specific time for the service to re-open." This is the second time in the past three months that Nexon has disabled the game, as the company dealt with a rash of unauthorized RMT issues and botting as recently as October of 2011. As per usual when MMO security issues crop up, the company has not released any details, saying only that "we feel that we have no choice but to take the game down in order to prevent any further malicious action."

[Thanks to David for the tip!]

MassivelyNexon takes Mabinogi offline indefinitely due to 'malicious activity' originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 01 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bottingf2pfantasyfree-to-playhackingmabinogimabinogi-malicious-activitymabinogi-offlinemalicious-activitynexonrmtsandboxsecuritySun, 01 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: Revisiting Mabinogi]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/04/rise-and-shiny-recap-revisiting-mabinogi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/04/rise-and-shiny-recap-revisiting-mabinogi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/04/rise-and-shiny-recap-revisiting-mabinogi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Mabinogi screenshot
If you've kept up with my columns for a while, it should be no secret that I think Mabinogi is still one of the best games out there. While it does have its issues, the game simply presents more sandboxy goodness to players (while keeping those systems coming) than almost any game I can think of. In fact, the game has added so much since I started this column that a returning player can get confused. A new player might even become lost.

I like to officially dip my toes into old, familiar games once in a while. Checking back on these games from my past is a great way for me to get my gamer's bearings and see how my opinions might have changed. Mabinogi has been calling to me for a while because I haven't really jumped into it for that long over the past few months. I figured now is the time.

Click past the cut!

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Revisiting Mabinogi

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Revisiting Mabinogi originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 04 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmaneve-onlinef2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpLiveStreammabinogimin-kimNexonnexon-americarise-and-shinytwitch-tvvanguardVanguard-Saga-of-HeroesvindictusSun, 04 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mabinogi announces The Merchant of Venice, California contest]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/mabinogi-announces-the-merchant-of-venice-california-contest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/mabinogi-announces-the-merchant-of-venice-california-contest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/mabinogi-announces-the-merchant-of-venice-california-contest/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- Mabinogi
Mabinogi's latest content update followed the Shakespearean themes of the game's recent additions and added an in-game version of the Bard's famous play The Merchant of Venice. Now, Nexon is giving one lucky player the opportunity to become the merchant of Venice. Venice, California, that is. That's right, Nexon is giving away a trip for one player and a guest to sunny Venice, California, where they will receive 500 USD in spending money, three-night hotel accommodations, and a tour of the Nexon studios, complete with lunch with the Mabinogi team.

To qualify for the contest, players much reach Merchant level 9 in each of Mabinogi's towns. Completing this task by November 28th will enter them into the drawing for the grand prize. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and peddle your wares.

[Source: Nexon press release]

MassivelyMabinogi announces The Merchant of Venice, California contest originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 Nov 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestcontestsf2pfree-to-playmabinoginexonthe-merchant-of-venicethe-merchant-of-venice-californiaMon, 07 Nov 2011 22:00:00 EST