Massively Speaking http://massively.joystiq.com This is the Massively podcast http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Massively SpeakingJoystiqMassively Speaking<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What areas do you hate?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/02/the-daily-grind-what-areas-do-you-hate/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/02/the-daily-grind-what-areas-do-you-hate/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/02/the-daily-grind-what-areas-do-you-hate/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

There may be better litmus tests, such as simply askiing, but you can generally tell if someone has played Final Fantasy XI by their reaction when someone mentions dunes. In Vana'diel, there is only one region known as the Dunes, and it is hated. Plagued with goblins whose sole purpose is to blow up low-level characters, ghosts that flay you alive with AoE spells fueled by nuclear energy and hate itself, and roaming bands of clueless players, the zone is not well-loved. All of the above might not be so bad, except that it's the most likely leveling spot for ten long levels. Good luck completing that level band without dying and losing some of your progress toward freedom several times.

While.not every game has a zone that causes some players to swear they will never return, they all have regions we'd as soon forget. What spots in your favorite game do you try to avoid? Did they feature really bad design, annoying enemies, or confusing layout? Was it an area devoted to an awful grind or series of truly obnoxious events? Or were they just spots soured by so many bad experiences that you can't separate them from the aggravation?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What areas do you hate? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>annoyingdisliked-locationsdunesffxifinal-fantasy-xilocationsplacestdgthe-daily-grindTue, 02 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you like getting lost?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/07/the-daily-grind-do-you-like-getting-lost/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/07/the-daily-grind-do-you-like-getting-lost/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/07/the-daily-grind-do-you-like-getting-lost/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


In everything from fantasy to science fiction, maps are important. Frequently, navigation comes down to a character picking up a compass, or a sextant, or activating the cross-subspace differential beacon scanner, picking a direction and then heading that way with all the certainty of an indecisive ferret. But that isn't usually a problem in most MMOs. Hitting the "m" key is frequently pre-bound to bring up your map, and you usually have a minimap as well, in addition to a dot on your map representing exactly where you are and arrows pointing you out where to go. In games that support modifications, you usually have several of them devoted to making navigation even easier for players.

Every so often, however, you wind up underground or in an area where your map doesn't work for whatever reason. And there's something to be said for that sense of adventure, that lack of a map and a clear picture where you're going, to have to just strike off in what you think is the right direction. Today, we ask: do you like being lost and having to find your own way? Does it make the game more invigorating for you? Or is it an obnoxious gimmick designed to frustrate players and force them to take more time for simple objectives?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do you like getting lost? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>culturegimmicksimmersionirritationlostmapsnavigationtdgthe-daily-grindMon, 07 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Detailed LotRO maps document a year of new content]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/31/detailed-lotro-maps-document-a-year-of-new-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/31/detailed-lotro-maps-document-a-year-of-new-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/31/detailed-lotro-maps-document-a-year-of-new-content/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2008 has been a great year for Lord of the Rings Online. Not only for the exploding playerbase, but also for the amazing amount of content that has been added to the game since it launched. This includes everything from new classes, housing, hobbies, trophies, weapons, armor, and of course, new areas to explore.

As a testament to this, the wonderful fan site Visions of the Ring has compiled a "before" and "after" set of maps showing the areas we had available a year ago versus the areas we have to explore now. You'll notice the addition of Forochel, Eregion, the Mines, Lothlorien and more. These maps are taken and compiled from the overhead radar map, so the detail is all there. While you're at the site, be sure to check out the Interactive Horse Routes Flash Map, the Homesteads Flash Maps and the Speculated Expansions Flash Map, which is said to be updated for the new year's expanded areas very soon.

MassivelyDetailed LotRO maps document a year of new content originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 31 Dec 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>areasexpansionslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromapsturbinevisions-of-the-ringzonesWed, 31 Dec 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bringing WAR to the web]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/bringing-war-to-the-web/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/bringing-war-to-the-web/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/bringing-war-to-the-web/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


Any massively multiplayer online game built around the twin pillars of PvP and territorial control can't go wrong by providing realtime status updates of the struggle via the web. Warhammer Online has endeavored to do just that with the Realm War site, as addressed in a dev diary by the title's Web Development Lead, Scott Stricklin. The dev blog touches on what Mythic has accomplished thus far with bringing WAR to the web, and what they hope to accomplish in the future -- namely, podcasts, community news, and character and guild profiles. While they have no shortage of ideas about how to expand WAR outside of the client, their first objective has been to bring Realm vs. Realm data to the web. That goal has now been realized, and Stricklin walks the reader through the features of the newly revamped Realm War site.

Players now have access to updated information about the overall campaign and the status of each capital city, Stricklin writes. This information is also presented visually, with each capital city's look changing based on its status, ranging from peaceful to besieged. This can all be kept in a pop up box in your browser to provide continual updates for when the tide of battle turns. Further information is provided through selectors which represent a server's racial pairings, giving a snapshot of what's happening with each tier's zone control. An added bonus to this are influence maps for each zone, similar to the in-game maps, which show the status of the various RvR objectives and allow a player to mouse over keeps, seeing when it was last captured and by which guild. Have a look at Scott Stricklin's dev diary for more on the Realm War site, or better yet, just head over there and try it out for yourself.
Warhammer Online Coverage Did you enjoy this? Make sure to check out our Warhammer guides: Massively's Character Creation Guide and our WoW Player's Guide to Warhammer. Plus, don't miss any of our ongoing coverage as Massively goes to WAR!

MassivelyBringing WAR to the web originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 21 Nov 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capital-citiesdestructionea-mythicendgamefantasygame-mechanicsinfluence-mapkeepkeepsmapsmythic-entertainmentorderpvpracesrealm-vs-realmrealm-warrealm-war-sitervrscott-stricklinterritorial-controltierswarwarhammer-onlinezone-controlzonesFri, 21 Nov 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wrath of the Lich King 101]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/13/wow-insiders-wrath-101-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/13/wow-insiders-wrath-101-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/13/wow-insiders-wrath-101-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


The much-anticipated Wrath of the Lich King expansion has arrived for World of Warcraft, and may well be one of the most popular expansions we've ever seen in the MMO industry. That said, WoW players may find themselves a bit overwhelmed by their unfamiliar surroundings. Fortunately, our friends over at our sister site WoW Insider have been tearing into WotLK, and put together a series of guides called "Wrath 101." The WoW Insider guides will give you an in-depth look at the Wrath expansion's geography, and help you to find your way around. We've rounded up the entire guide series and assembled them for you here. Enjoy, and keep watching Massively for our ongoing news and features focusing on the Wrath of the Lich King expansion.
Wrath 101: How to get to Northrend and where to go once you're there
How do I get to Northrend? For Alliance, head to the northernmost dock at Stormwind Harbor to get to Borean Tundra or take the boat out of Menethil Harbor in the Wetlands to be dropped off in Howling Fjord.
Wrath 101: Level 70 PvP gear
If you were looking forward to getting gear upgrades through Honor at Level 70 when Wrath of the Lich King finally arrives in a few days, you probably shouldn't hold your breath. I know I advised doing a lot of PvP, but I meant that you should be keeping all that Honor for Level 80 rewards.
Wrath 101: Getting from Borean Tundra to Howling Fjord and vice versa
One of the questions frequently asked is which zone will you be leveling in first? A large majority of players will pick Borean Tundra or Howling Fjord. Why not both?
Wrath 101: Alliance flight paths in Howling Fjord, Borean Tundra, and Dragonblight
We'll all be storming the (figurative) gates of Northrend, in one of two zones: Borean Tundra and Howling Fjord. The zones are pretty large, but fortunately, they're replete with flight paths.
Wrath 101: Horde flight paths in Howling Fjord, Borean Tundra, and Dragonblight
Previously, we covered the Alliance flight paths of the first three zones in Northrend. Now it's the Horde's turn.

Continue reading Wrath of the Lich King 101

MassivelyWrath of the Lich King 101 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Nov 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>expansionsfantasyguideslaunchesmapstips-and-tricksworld-of-warcraftwotlkwowwow-insiderwrathwrath-101wrath-of-the-lich-kingThu, 13 Nov 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Unboxing the Wrath of the Lich King Collector's Edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/13/unboxing-the-wrath-of-the-lich-king-collectors-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/13/unboxing-the-wrath-of-the-lich-king-collectors-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/13/unboxing-the-wrath-of-the-lich-king-collectors-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

It can't have escaped your notice that the release of Wrath of the Lich King is upon us, and if it has let me be among the first to welcome you to Planet Earth. Here at Massively, we have a metric tonne of Wrath-related content lined up for you, starting with a look inside the Collector's Edition box. We've spoken about the CE before, but this is the first chance we've had a chance to lay hands on it.

I won't go into the details of how we got our grubby mitts on it early, but it may involve some obscene and blasphemous rituals conducted in honour of the Great Old Ones. Or a pre-order, take your pick.

Read through our Unboxing the Wrath of the Lich King Collector's Edition Gallery, enjoy a good look at the contents. We'll even peek inside the Art book, the two March of the Legion TCG starter decks and the Instruction Manual if you're lucky.

Gallery: World of Warcraft: WOTLK

MassivelyUnboxing the Wrath of the Lich King Collector's Edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Nov 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>collectors-editionfeaturedunboxingworld-of-warcraftwowwrathwrath-of-the-lich-kingThu, 13 Nov 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Keeping yourself alive in EVE with safespots]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/15/keeping-yourself-alive-in-eve-with-safespots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/15/keeping-yourself-alive-in-eve-with-safespots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/15/keeping-yourself-alive-in-eve-with-safespots/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Learning how to create safespots in EVE Online is an essential survival skill, but it's one that takes some time to get the hang of. The Goonfleet video tutorial to safespotting is an excellent start, but other player resources are popping up and explain how important it is to have and properly use different types of safespots.

EVE blogger Manasi has written an excellent guide to safespotting called "Getting your A$$ out of the fire" that covers the different types of safespots a player in EVE can make use of. Namely, "gate" safespots (useful for watching a gate at range while cloaked), "deep" safespots (used most often, numerous such bookmarks are needed), and "station" safespots (within docking range of a given station, allowing you to evade attackers by docking up). Manasi goes into detail about how to create each type of safespot, and -- most importantly -- how to use them. Manasi's "Getting your A$$ out of the fire" paired with the aforementioned Goonfleet Safespotting 101 are all you need to get a handle on safespotting in EVE Online. Be sure to check them both out if you're a new pilot. Goonfleet's Safespotting 101 video tutorial is embedded below the cut.

Continue reading Keeping yourself alive in EVE with safespots

MassivelyKeeping yourself alive in EVE with safespots originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Sep 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-mule-in-eveccpccp-gamesevadeevasioneveeve-onlinegame-mechanicsgoonfleetgoonswarmguidesmanasimapmapssafespotsafespottingsci-fisurvivalsystem-maptips-and-tricksvideoMon, 15 Sep 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online's answer to GPS]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/05/eve-onlines-answer-to-gps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/05/eve-onlines-answer-to-gps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/05/eve-onlines-answer-to-gps/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EVE Online is a vast setting where all players interact in one galaxy. While other MMOs are sharded across different servers, some with different locales, EVE places all of its players together. Its implementation ensures that many servers seem to be just one from the perspective of any pilot flying in New Eden. However, given the daunting size of EVE's explorable environment, there have been some players who took it upon themselves to map the known universe and release their findings as a resource for other pilots. Shayne Smart, aka Serenity Steele, is one such player. He's been getting some media attention in recent months as Vice-Chairman of the Council of Stellar Management (CSM). Beyond his duties on the CSM, Smart is also well-known to many players as the creator of EVE Strategic Maps, a spiral bound collection of star charts which some fans of the game find indispensable.

You would think Smart would find mapping out 5000 solar systems (each with its own myriad planets, moons, stations, and other resources) a feat hard to top. But what Smart's done is found a way to use the in-game browser in the EVE client to act as a sort of GPS, tracking your position as you jump from one solar system to the next, and allowing you to better see your relative position in the galaxy as part of your overview. The cartographer's latest 'minimap' effort is presently 2-D only and in beta, though is well worth a look and quite simple to use. Click the gallery below for Shayne Smart's instructions on how to use the free 2D minimap within your in-game browser.


Gallery: Serenity Steele's 2D minimap

Minimap overviewA few tipsThe map will track your locationClick on the minimap to begin a searchSearch maps vs. auto-update maps

MassivelyEVE Online's answer to GPS originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Sep 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cartographercartographyccpccp-gamescommunitycouncil-of-stellar-managementcrazykinuxcsmeveeve-mapseve-onlineeve-strategic-mapeve-strategic-mapsgalleriesgame-mechanicsgpsigbin-game-browsermapmapsminimapminimap-addonsnew-edenoverviewresourcessci-fiserenity-steeleshane-smartsolar-systemsstarchartsstarmapsstellar-cartographerstellar-cartographytips-and-tricksFri, 05 Sep 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX08: Hands-on with Mines of Moria]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/02/pax08-hands-on-with-mines-of-moria/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/02/pax08-hands-on-with-mines-of-moria/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/02/pax08-hands-on-with-mines-of-moria/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,


This weekend at PAX 2008, Massively had the opportunity to be a part of the first-ever public preview of Mines of Moria with Lord of the Rings Online Executive Producer Jeffrey Steefel. During this showing, Steefel showed us many of the main features of this first expansion for LotRO, including the Legendary Weapon system, the two new classes, the vastness of the mines themselves and much more.

The overall impression we got from this presentation was that this expansion is going to be epic. Just the sheer size of the world, which includes the mines themselves, more of Eregion and into Lothlorien, will be immense. This, combined with the game mechanic changes and additions to just about every aspect of gameplay, will speak volumes (pun!) about the potential of Turbine with this franchise.

Follow along on our journey through Moria>>

Gallery: PAX08: Mines of Moria Preview

Moria mapInside the Great DelvingFighting a MorrovalThe Great Delving mapForging a Legendary weapon

MassivelyPAX08: Hands-on with Mines of Moria originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Sep 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredjeffrey-steefeljoystiqfeatureslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromines-of-moriapax-08pax-2008turbineTue, 02 Sep 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Map of WoW online communities]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/25/map-of-wow-online-communities/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/25/map-of-wow-online-communities/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/25/map-of-wow-online-communities/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Keeping in line with a recent hypothetical map created by our very own Michael Zenke, which depicts a geographical equivalent to the MMO blogosphere's most popular sites, Tim Howgego decided it was about time he created one for the World of Warcraft community. This map shows an interesting assortment of sites, including a humorous take on gold farmers and an itty bitty island in the middle of the sea called GM Island.

There is a thorough explanation accompanying the map on Howgego's website, including his reasoning behind the placement of each landmass versus the outlying islands. Even the directional arrangement has a purpose. Curiously enough, we find our sister site WoW Insider occupying a lone island in the murky southwestern corner of the map, although Howgego explains that placement as well. The best part about this map? Everything is linked!

MassivelyMap of WoW online communities originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Jun 2008 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardblogospherecommunitygeographymapworld-of-warcraftwowwow-insiderWed, 25 Jun 2008 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Recap]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/25/the-daily-recap/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/25/the-daily-recap/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/25/the-daily-recap/#commentsFiled under:

Richard Bartle vs Tobold
Massively's interview with Richard Bartle from last week has caused several tidal waves of opinion over the now-infamous line, "I've already played Warhammer. It was called World of Warcraft." by the father of the genre. MMO bloggers are coming out of the woodwork to give their own opinions on what this means ...
NCsoft licenses texture software used in Xbox Live Arcade games
Allegorithmic, the creator of a procedural texture production tool called ProFX, announced that NCsoft has licensed its product. ProFX produces highly compressed textures that are "tiny, typically a few kilobytes" in size.
The Daily Grind: Has AoC earned your money for another month?
The folks that picked up Age of Conan around the time of its release are nearing the one-month milestone of their accounts. The game's launch was fairly smooth as far as MMO launches go, with people actually able to log on and play for the most part.
Interview with Chuck Kallenbach, Game Designer on Legends of Norrath
What's this gab we're hearing about Legends of Norrath, it isn't all about the loot cards? Heresy! We're still buying up those virtual packs in hopes to score a rare loot card. Nevertheless, over on IGN's EQ2 Vault we came across this interview ...
Don't expect World of Warcraft on the PS3 or Xbox 360 ever
Blizzard Entertainment's Rob Pardo is a bona fide Rockstar in the gaming industry. In his recent keynote speech at the Game Developer's Conference at the Paris GDC he continued to indirectly extinguish rumors that suggested World of Warcraft is coming to a Console ...

MassivelyThe Daily Recap originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Jun 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>massivelyrecaproundupthe-daily-recapyomWed, 25 Jun 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do zones kill immersion?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/the-daily-grind-do-zones-kill-immersion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/the-daily-grind-do-zones-kill-immersion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/the-daily-grind-do-zones-kill-immersion/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


One of the complaints we hear rather frequently of Age of Conan is that the game's scattered zones have the effect of discouraging exploration amongst players. Those accustomed to traversing World of Warcraft's (mostly) seamless world have levied their displeasure at the fact that Age of Conan feels like a series of disparate maps instead of a single unified world.

The explanation in terms of lore is rather obvious -- the universe created by Robert E. Howard's fiction is simply too large to contain within a single MMO world. But is that just hiding behind a convenient excuse? What would you rather have, a zoned game that fits more closely with the game's lore, or a seamless world that allows you to explore from one area to the next?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do zones kill immersion? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Jun 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanhyboriamapseamlessthe-daily-grindworldworld-of-warcraftzoneszoningTue, 24 Jun 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Have Clone, Will Travel: 3 Essential Tools for Capsuleers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/19/have-clone-will-travel-3-essential-tools-for-capsuleers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/19/have-clone-will-travel-3-essential-tools-for-capsuleers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/19/have-clone-will-travel-3-essential-tools-for-capsuleers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


With Empyrean Age finally released, I wanted to give it a try to get this old Carebear in some pew pew action. Since my main character, Treenara Mazouk, was part of an industrial corporation that wanted to remain neutral throughout this war time, I decided to create an alternate character (Alt) to test out Factional Warfare.

What I didn't know, and didn't expect, was being humbled by the whole experience. You see, I've been immersed in EVE Online for almost four years now, and playing a new character reminded me how much work new players have to go through to get ahead. Talk about a major flashback!

Despite my experience and knowledge of the game, I still felt very limited by my new characters (lack of) abilities, assets and skills. It reminded me of my early days in New Eden, and how little I knew of what to do, where to go or who to ask. Through it all, I've gained a respect for the brave new players who start off in New Eden.

I felt I needed to do something about this. Something more then the initial list I had made a few months back. The following is a list of 3 basic tools that I feel every new capsuleer should have in order to survive the harsh landscape of the EVE universe. So strap yourselves in, buckle-up and start taking notes.

Continue reading Have Clone, Will Travel: 3 Essential Tools for Capsuleers

MassivelyHave Clone, Will Travel: 3 Essential Tools for Capsuleers originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Jun 2008 06:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applicationdownloadeve-onlineevemonfactional-warfarefeaturedmodulesmonitorshipsetupsskill-pointsskillstrainingThu, 19 Jun 2008 06:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Player Consequences: Pervasive Map Features]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/16/player-consequences-pervasive-map-features/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/16/player-consequences-pervasive-map-features/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/16/player-consequences-pervasive-map-features/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

There are a lot of reasons for the increasing popularity of MMOs and the amount of game developers who are entering into the market. I personally think that MMOs with their rich and complex fantasy worlds have a huge advantage over most single player games. There are a few exceptions like Baldur's Gate and Oblivion, but in general if you want to experience a completely different world then you need a MMO. I think this goes back to the days when online fantasy games were text based and developers tried their best to create immersion through good lore and storytelling.

In fact a lot of players enjoy the immersion in MMOs and have fun exploring the hidden areas in the game. Going into the unknown has always had an attraction for some people and history is filled with the names of famous explorers. However, in modern times the world doesn't really contain that much which is unknown and it will probably be a while before we get to another planet. Thus virtual worlds offer a false, but satisfying sense of exploration. Not everyone wants to be an explorer when playing a game and the majority of players tend to fall more into the achiever player type.

Continue reading Player Consequences: Pervasive Map Features

MassivelyPlayer Consequences: Pervasive Map Features originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Jun 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conaneverquestfeaturedmappingplayer-consequencestabula-rasavanguardwarhammer-onlineworld of warcraftWorldOfWarcraftMon, 16 Jun 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Updated LotRO stable route travel chart]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/updated-lotro-stable-route-travel-chart/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/updated-lotro-stable-route-travel-chart/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/updated-lotro-stable-route-travel-chart/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


With gas prices skyrocketing through the roof these days, it's nice to know we have other options in store. Luckily, there is no war over horses in Middle-earth, so the price of travel tends to stay consistent. But when it does change, TheBrasse.com is here to help keep us informed of the changes.

In the latest, most updated stable route chart, you can see the exact routes from stable to stable, as well as the price in silver and minimum level requirements for each one. This chart includes the latest from the Evendim update. Each route is also color-coded for regular overland travel, swift travel and there's a separate section for the Ettenmoors PvP travel. So next time you're scraping together some loose change for gas money, think of the horses!

MassivelyUpdated LotRO stable route travel chart originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 May 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>horsehorseslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroroutestableswift-traveltravelturbineFri, 30 May 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Why can't Earth have a fantasy MMO?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/the-daily-grind-why-cant-earth-have-a-fantasy-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/the-daily-grind-why-cant-earth-have-a-fantasy-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/the-daily-grind-why-cant-earth-have-a-fantasy-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,


Take a look at the preeminent Fantasy MMOs available: World of Warcraft takes place in Azeroth. Age of Conan's setting is Hyborea. Guild Wars boasts Tyria as its location. Lord of the Rings Online has Middle-Earth, which Tolkien refers to as much as an age as a location, hinting that it could in fact be Earth's past, but the landscape as described doesn't really match anything in our reality.

And what does Earth have? Hellgate: London, The Agency, The Day, and possibly The Secret World. While there may be supernatural elements in a couple of these titles, for the most part they belong firmly in a science-grounded reality, and couldn't be considered true Fantasy settings. So what gives? With the unlimited imagination on display for all these other titles, why does Earth get short shrift? Is there any good reason for our fair Terra to be left out of the Fantasy loop?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Why can't Earth have a fantasy MMO? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 May 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanearthfantasyguild-warshellgate-londonlord-of-the-rings-onlinetdgterrathe-agencythe-daily-grindthe-daythe-secret-worldworld-of-warcraftFri, 30 May 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CoX: Player ingenuity identifies bizarre drops bug]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/cox-player-ingenuity-identifies-bizarre-drops-bug/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/cox-player-ingenuity-identifies-bizarre-drops-bug/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/cox-player-ingenuity-identifies-bizarre-drops-bug/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Farming often gets a bad rap in City of Heroes, but sometimes it does the game a major favor. For example, a player working the same map with the same enemies over and over is in a perfect position to notice when random events - the dropping of loot, for example - aren't as random as they should be.

This was exactly the situation that a forum regular called KeepDistance encountered. Every time they ran a particular map, they would get exactly the same number of salvage and recipe drops, distributed exactly the same way. That's not supposed to happen.

Continue reading CoX: Player ingenuity identifies bizarre drops bug

MassivelyCoX: Player ingenuity identifies bizarre drops bug originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 May 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugbugscity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxdrop-ratesfarmersfarmingncsoftrecipessalvageThu, 22 May 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Joshua Slack demonstrates NCSoft worldbuilding tool]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/19/joshua-slack-demonstrates-ncsoft-worldbuilding-tool/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/19/joshua-slack-demonstrates-ncsoft-worldbuilding-tool/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/19/joshua-slack-demonstrates-ncsoft-worldbuilding-tool/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

In the course of a technical session at JavaOne, Joshua Slack and Rikard Herlitz showed off the kind of tools you can build using the jMonkeyEngine, and used the NCSoft world-building tool as an example. This video shows Rikard putting together a hasty landscape that comes out quite nicely, given that he is 'just a programmer' rather than a professional level designer. (Self-deprecatory humor for the proverbial win.)

Although the video is intended to demonstrate the capabilities of the jMonkeyEngine, it's an interesting look at one of the tools used by a major player in the MMO market. NCSoft has been using jMonkeyEngine for the last two years. Joshua doesn't mention any specific games that have used the tool, though he does hint rather strongly that NCsoft's most recent output might have employed it.

The worldbuilding tool presentation follows behind the break.

Continue reading Joshua Slack demonstrates NCSoft worldbuilding tool

MassivelyJoshua Slack demonstrates NCSoft worldbuilding tool originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 May 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>game-designjmonkeyenginelevel-designncsofttoolsworld-buildingworldbuildingMon, 19 May 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mythos Overworld delayed; more beta news leaks out]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/16/mythos-overworld-delayed-more-beta-news-leaks-out/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/16/mythos-overworld-delayed-more-beta-news-leaks-out/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/16/mythos-overworld-delayed-more-beta-news-leaks-out/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,


Flagship Studios sends their regrets, but the mega-update to Mythos that would turn their heavily instanced over world into one seamless land spattered, Oblivion-like, with dungeons has been delayed. Due yesterday, it now looks as if Mythos beta testers will have to wait until next week to run naked and free ... through Mythos' world of Uld, at any rate.

To tide us over while we wait, player Kirent has compiled a list of all the interesting snippets of developer responses to questions about the delay. Characters won't be wiped when the Overworld goes live, but they likely will be wiped when the test server is folded into the live beta server, after which open beta will likely begin. Zones 2 and 3 (mid and high level areas) won't be enabled initially, but we knew that. The pressures of pushing the Overworld out the door means that new monsters, dungeons, and quests won't be in in any significant way. Most of the crafting changes will be on the test server, but the balancing of the heraldries (temporary buffs applied to crafted items) will not be. Special armor sets, a new class (!!!) , retirement (here you voluntarily retire a high level character to start a new character with some sort of advantage) and any sort of endgame are all taking a back seat to the Overworld. However, it sounds like Epic weapons will be in.

Mythos is currently slated to release late this year. It will be free to play, but with an item store where you can buy items for real money, though you will be able to see and do everything in the game without paying a cent. Bored with waiting for the update? Kanthalos at MMOre Insight has been writing a series of articles about the best character builds for maximum wtfpwnage -- check it out!

MassivelyMythos Overworld delayed; more beta news leaks out originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 May 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaclassescraftingfantasyflagship-studiosfree-to-playkanthalosmapsmmore-insightmythosnew-titlesnewsoblivionpatchesFri, 16 May 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CoX Issue 12: Journey to Cimerora]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/06/cox-issue-12-journey-to-cimerora/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/06/cox-issue-12-journey-to-cimerora/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/06/cox-issue-12-journey-to-cimerora/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


City of Heroes Issue 12: Midnight Hour has finally reached Open Beta, and in the first of our articles covering the new issue content, we're delighted to bring you a scenic tour of the Cimerora zone.

The Midnight Squad, researchers into the arcane, have acquired a time-travel crystal. Those who have gained access to the Midnighters Club, their secret stronghold connected to both Paragon and the Rogue Isles, can reach it; but access to Cimerora is limited to characters of levels 35-50.

A co-operative zone where Heroes and Villains work together (each for their own ends) Cimerora is small but beautiful, containing one introductory arc, a contact who gives out repeating missions, and one extraordinary Task Force that testers have called the best in the game so far.

Gallery: CoX Issue 12 Cimerora

Sybilline OracleMarcus ValeriusBridgeRomulus's FortCimeroran Arches
Face down the forces of evil! Give good a quick jab to the jaw! Massively has all the CoX Issue 12 news you can handle. Make sure to check it out!

MassivelyCoX Issue 12: Journey to Cimerora originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 May 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betascimeroracity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxcox-issue-12featuredissue-12issue-12-midnight-hourncsoftzonesTue, 06 May 2008 14:30:00 EST