Massively Speaking

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[MMO Week in Review: Trion's tribulations and DUST's launch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/mmo-week-in-review-trions-tribulations-and-dusts-launch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/mmo-week-in-review-trions-tribulations-and-dusts-launch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/mmo-week-in-review-trions-tribulations-and-dusts-launch/#commentsFiled under: Massively Meta, Week in Review, Miscellaneous

RIFT

At the end of every week, we round up the best and most popular news stories, exclusive features, and insightful columns published on Massively and then present them all in one convenient place. If you missed a big MMO or WoW Insider story last week, you've come to the right post.

This week, Trion Worlds' announcement that RIFT will transition to a free-to-play MMO in less than a month was tempered by news that the studio was forced to lay off a large portion of its staff, though the RIFT team itself was unaffected. Meanwhile, CCP's console shooter DUST 514 officially launched; Massively's Jef Reahard delivered tepid impressions of the game.

Read on for a look at the rest of this week's top MMO stories.

Continue reading MMO Week in Review: Trion's tribulations and DUST's launch

MMO Week in Review: Trion's tribulations and DUST's launch originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 19 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredjoystiqmassively-metametarounduptop-storiesweek-in-reviewweekly-recapweekly-roundupwow-insiderSun, 19 May 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WRUP: Someone no longer likes us on Facebook edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/wrup-someone-no-longer-likes-us-on-facebook-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/wrup-someone-no-longer-likes-us-on-facebook-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/wrup-someone-no-longer-likes-us-on-facebook-edition/#commentsFiled under: Massively Meta, Miscellaneous

UUUUUUNNNNBREAK MY HEEEEEEAAAAART

It finally happened. Like fools, we ignored the dire warnings of what would happen if we kept posting stuff about games you don't like or articles you didn't agree with. The worst has finally come to pass -- someone no longer likes our Facebook page.

We've been in shock here at the office. I've been hitting the rum pretty hard even by my standards, Jef is sitting in an empty bathtub sobbing, and Bree has been playing "Unbreak my Heart" on loop for about seven hours. We'd plead for that reader to come back, but he'll never see it. He no longer likes us. It's really the worst insult you could deliver.

Despite the fact that this traumatic event has left us as broken shells, we somehow managed to pull ourselves together long enough to put together an installment of WRUP. Click on past the break to see what we're up to for the next couple of days other than staring at the number of likes on Facebook, and let us know what you'll be up to in the comments.

Continue reading WRUP: Someone no longer likes us on Facebook edition

WRUP: Someone no longer likes us on Facebook edition originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 18 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredmassively-metametaweekendweekend-gamingwhat-are-you-playingwrupSat, 18 May 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Storyboard: The way it was for three years]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/storyboard-the-way-it-was-for-three-years/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/storyboard-the-way-it-was-for-three-years/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/storyboard-the-way-it-was-for-three-years/#commentsFiled under: Culture, Opinion, Massively Meta, Roleplaying, Storyboard, Miscellaneous

Going back in time.

Roleplaying is the same as it ever was. People are still shoehorning in lore characters into backstories, someone is a sparkly magic vampire, and you can still turn a corner in a tavern to find two people with a decided lack of gear or public shame. (In Second Life, that corner is the one you turn to download the game.) But I've had three years of talking about it, so it's at least a little different than it was.

I don't know if I'd go so far as to say it's better.

Every year I like to take a look back at the past year, talk about what worked well, what didn't work at all, and what I'd like to do in the future. So it is for this year, complete with a nice big surprise down at the end there. Regular readers may be less surprised, but you can just bear with me.

Continue reading Storyboard: The way it was for three years

Storyboard: The way it was for three years originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 May 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featurednew-featuresopinionretrospectiveroleplayroleplayersroleplayingrpstorystoryboardstoryboard-librarythree-yearsyear-in-reviewFri, 17 May 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Think Tank: What got you started in MMOs?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/the-think-tank-what-got-you-started-in-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/the-think-tank-what-got-you-started-in-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/the-think-tank-what-got-you-started-in-mmos/#commentsFiled under: Opinion, Massively Meta, Miscellaneous, The Think Tank

The Think Tank What got you started in MMOs

Can you remember your first MMO buying experience? What series of events led to your interest in massively multiplayer gaming? What made you finally accept that paying monthly for a game is a thing that's OK? Or did you wade through countless free-to-play games before finding one that suited you?

As the guys and gals you turn to each day for your MMOs news, the team at Massively has a solid history with this genre. So I dug a bit deeper to get those stories from a few members of the team. Feel free to leave your own MMO origins story in the comments below as you enjoy our own after the jump.

Continue reading The Think Tank: What got you started in MMOs?

The Think Tank: What got you started in MMOs? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>editorialfeaturedgroup-editorialmassively-staffmassively-teamopinionopinionsoriginsroundtableroundupthe-think-tankthink-tankThu, 16 May 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 248: Duped!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/massively-speaking-episode-248-duped/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/massively-speaking-episode-248-duped/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/massively-speaking-episode-248-duped/#commentsFiled under: Podcasts, MMO Industry, Massively Meta, Massively Speaking, Miscellaneous

Massively Speaking Episode 248

Sometimes it's all about the little details in MMOs: How a character moves. How to create billions in gold due to a duping exploit. What goodies the collector's edition will include. Why losing 1.3 million subscribers is "no biggie." And we're nothing if not about the details on Massively Speaking! Listen to Bree and Justin fact-check in real-time, racing against the clock to stop a terrorist plot to bring down auction houses everywhere!

Have a comment for the podcasters? Shoot an email to podcast@massively.com. We may just read your email on the air!

Get the podcast:
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Listen here on the page:

Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 248: Duped!

Massively Speaking Episode 248: Duped! originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 May 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brantbrianna-roycefeaturedhumorjustin-olivettimassively-speakingopinionpodcastpodcastingpodcastsTue, 14 May 2013 15:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 248Massively.com Staff01:15:29podcast<![CDATA[The Stream Team: MLT edition, May 13 - 19, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/the-stream-team-mlt-edition-may-13-19-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/the-stream-team-mlt-edition-may-13-19-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/the-stream-team-mlt-edition-may-13-19-2013/#commentsFiled under: Massively Meta, Livestream, Miscellaneous, The Stream Team

The Stream Team May 13 19, 2013

Nothing beats an MLT, especially when the tomato is nice and ripe! Except maybe Massively TV. MMmm mmmm. Now there's something you can really sink your teeth into -- the wild and crazy antics of your favorite Stream Team hosts! And they've got a menu for all tastes this week, from space adventures to dragons to WWII planes. Of course, it all comes with a side of reruns and a dessert highlight to complete your meal.

So pull up a chair and grab yourself a helping or two... or 10. Hey, there's no limit here; enjoy as much as you like! While you're enjoying the spread, be sure to join in the after-dinner chat in Outtakes.

Continue reading The Stream Team: MLT edition, May 13 - 19, 2013

The Stream Team: MLT edition, May 13 - 19, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoactivisionage-of-conanage-of-conan-unchainedagonanetaocaoc-unchainedarenanetarkark-hunterarkfallaventurinebiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbuy-to-playccpccp-gamescity-of-steamconanconsoleconsolescrypticcryptic-studiosdarkfalldarkfall-unholy-warsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuodefiancedfdnddota-2Dragonrealmseaelectronic-artselswordeq-2eq-iieq2eqiieveeve-onlineeverquest-2everquest-iif2pfactionfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfuncomgoblinguild-warsgwhi-rezhi-rez-studioshistoricalhorrorhyboriainternet-spaceshipslivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamslucasartsmabinogimassively-metamassively-tvmechmechanistmechanist-gamesmechsmechwarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemetammo-shootermobamultiplayer-online-battle-arenamv-guidemv-tvmvguidemvtvmwomythologyncsoftneverwinternexonnexon-americaopen-pvpperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpiranhapiranha-gamesplaneplanesplaystation-3playstation3pollps3pvppwesandboxsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldshooterskill-basedSmitesoesonysony-online-entertainmentspreadsheets-onlinestar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsteampunkstreamstream-schedulestream-teamstreamersstreamingstreamteamsubscriptionlesssuperherosuperheroesswtorsyfythe-old-republicthe-secret-worldthe-stream-teamthird-person-shootertortpstransmedia-synergytriontrion-worldstswtvtwitchtwitch-tvunchainedunholy-warswarwarcraftwargaming.netwarplanewarplanesworld-of-warcraftworld-of-warplaneswowwowpxboxMon, 13 May 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Week in Review: Quarterly financials]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/12/mmo-week-in-review-quarterly-financials/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/12/mmo-week-in-review-quarterly-financials/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/12/mmo-week-in-review-quarterly-financials/#commentsFiled under: Massively Meta, Week in Review, Miscellaneous

SWTOR

At the end of every week, we round up the best and most popular news stories, exclusive features, and insightful columns published on Massively and then present them all in one convenient place. If you missed a big MMO or WoW Insider story last week, you've come to the right post.

Every three months, we gawk at the revealed financial health of various gaming companies, collectively cheering and jeering and sometimes both. This week, we fixated on NCsoft's mixed fortunes, Star Wars: The Old Republic's vindicating free-to-play success, and World of Warcraft's 1.3 million subscriber losses.

Blizzard was further vexed this week by a duping bug that saw the Diablo III auction house taken offline for several days before its restoration sans rollback.

Read on for a roundup of the rest of this week's top MMO stories.

Continue reading MMO Week in Review: Quarterly financials

MMO Week in Review: Quarterly financials originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 12 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardfeaturedjoystiqmassively-metametancsoftroundupstar-wars-the-old-republicswtortop-storiesweek-in-reviewweekly-recapweekly-roundupWorld-of-Warcraftwowwow-insiderSun, 12 May 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WRUP: Next week on Massively edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/11/wrup-next-week-on-massively-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/11/wrup-next-week-on-massively-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/11/wrup-next-week-on-massively-edition/#commentsFiled under: Massively Meta, Miscellaneous

Absolutely nothing will explode.

Next week on Massively, tensions run high as Bree races to prevent Justin from assembling the shards necessary to release The Matrix Online from its shutdown. Meanwhile, Eliot, Matt, and Lis continue their investigation into Allods Online by concluding that it is in fact a game. Shawn investigates the fact that every game in the world is now free-to-play and concludes it's the fault of space aliens from another dimension who are also ghosts. Terry O'Quinn guest stars.

We hope you enjoyed this week of Massively, and now it's time for WRUP because no one read the end credits before. Instead of telling you who did what, we've opted to just let you know what we'll be playing over the weekend. You can let us know what you'll be up to in the comments and tune in again next week for the exciting episode that we just explained to you, thereby obviating any need for you to sit down and watch it.

Continue reading WRUP: Next week on Massively edition

WRUP: Next week on Massively edition originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 11 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredmassively-metametaweekendweekend-gamingwhat-are-you-playingwrupSat, 11 May 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Massively: Trailers, emulators, and 'skill caps']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/ask-massively-trailers-emulators-and-skill-caps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/ask-massively-trailers-emulators-and-skill-caps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/ask-massively-trailers-emulators-and-skill-caps/#commentsFiled under: Culture, MMO Industry, Opinion, Massively Meta, Legal, Humor, Ask Massively, Community Q&A, Miscellaneous, Crowdfunding, Player-Generated Content

Dragon Sword

It's time for a grab bag edition of Ask Massively! A reader named Nicholas is up first:

I was wondering if you could help me remember a game studio that was developing a new Korean action- MMORPG game engine (and it wasn't Bless, Blade and Soul, or ArcheAge). In the tech demo, no environment was being shown; it focused on the combat aspect of the engine. All the combat took place against a white background, and it was combo-based and reactive to hits. I remember a slow motion scene with an NPC being punched in the face and the face distorting. At the time, there were no announced games using the engine; the video was just showing what tech the game studio had developed. If it helps any, I remember the comments saying that the engine was just going to be vaporware.

I think we might! Massively's Lis pegged it as NetEase's Dragon Sword trailer. +1 to Lis.

Continue reading Ask Massively: Trailers, emulators, and 'skill caps'

Ask Massively: Trailers, emulators, and 'skill caps' originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 May 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ablegamersadviceadvice-columnage-of-wushuask-massivelybeau-hindmanbrianna-royce-ask-massivelydifferently-ableddisableddmcadragon-swordemulatoreulaeula-violationfeaturedgames-in-developmentguild-wars-2gw2humorin-developmentkickstartermassively-metametaopinionprivate-emulatorsprivate-shardRichie-Procopiotrailertrailersultima-onlineThu, 09 May 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 247: TransMMO synergy!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/massively-speaking-episode-247-transmmo-synergy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/massively-speaking-episode-247-transmmo-synergy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/massively-speaking-episode-247-transmmo-synergy/#commentsFiled under: Podcasts, MMO Industry, News Items, Massively Meta, Massively Speaking, Miscellaneous

Massively Speaking Episode 247 TransMMO synergy!

Crossovers are cool, in this humble author's opinion. They not only keep comics spicy and interesting but have offered MMO studios the opportunity to join the hands of two games together in holy geekamony. As Massively Speaking makes a triumphant return this week, we talk about transMMO synergy, Camelot victorious, Flame and Frost, and more.

Have a comment for the podcasters? Shoot an email to podcast@massively.com. We may just read your email on the air!

Get the podcast:
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[MP3] Download the MP3 directly.
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Listen here on the page:

Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 247: TransMMO synergy!

Massively Speaking Episode 247: TransMMO synergy! originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brantbrianna-roycefeaturedhumorjustin-olivettimassively-speakingopinionpodcastpodcastingpodcastsTue, 07 May 2013 09:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 247Massively.com Staff01:26:38podcast<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Seis de Mayo edition, May 6 - 12, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/the-stream-team-seis-de-mayo-edition-may-6-12-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/the-stream-team-seis-de-mayo-edition-may-6-12-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/the-stream-team-seis-de-mayo-edition-may-6-12-2013/#commentsFiled under: Polls, Massively Meta, Miscellaneous, The Stream Team

The Stream Team Seis de Mayo edition, May 6 12, 2013

You have to agree, May is one month that's full of holidays. The first week alone contains May Day, (unofficial) Star Wars Day, and Cinco de Mayo. But the party doesn't stop there! Following quickly on the heels of these is perhaps one you are less familiar with: Seis de Mayo.

Not unlike its cousin the day before, Seis de Mayo is a day of celebration; however, this celebration centers on freedom from boredom via visual entertainment. No, really! And to commemorate the day, we're releasing an all-new Massively TV schedule, giving you the means to celebrate the whole week through with The Stream Team. If you can't celebrate live, just tune into a rerun and party whenever.

Well, even if you don't believe us, you can still commemorate the occasion with us. Just check out the past the cut for a heaping helping of daily festivities.

Continue reading The Stream Team: Seis de Mayo edition, May 6 - 12, 2013

The Stream Team: Seis de Mayo edition, May 6 - 12, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 06 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoactivisionage-of-conanage-of-conan-unchainedagonaionanetaocaoc-unchainedarenanetarkark-hunterarkfallascensionaventurinebiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrowserbrowser-basedbuy-to-playccpccp-gamesclone-warsclone-wars-adventuresconanconsoleconsolescrypticcryptic-studioscwadarkfalldarkfall-unholy-warsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuodefiancedfdnddota-2dragondragonsdragons-propheteaelectronic-artseq-2eq-iieq2eqiieveeve-onlineeverquest-2everquest-iif2pfamilyfantasyfeaturedfpsfree-to-playfuncomguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw2heroes-and-generalshi-rezhi-rez-studioshousinghyboriainfernuminfernum-productionsinternet-spaceshipskid-friendlykidskids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamslobbylucasartsmabinogimassively-metamassively-tvmechmechsmechwarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemetaminigamemmo-shootermmofpsmobamultiplayer-online-battle-arenamv-guidemv-tvmvguidemvtvmwoncsoftneverwinternexonnexon-americaopen-pvpperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpiranhapiranha-gamesplanetsideplanetside-2playstation-3playstation3pollps2ps3pvppwerunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentsandboxsci-fantasysci-fishooterSmitesoesonysony-online-entertainmentspreadsheets-onlinestar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstreamstream-schedulestream-teamstreamersstreamingstreamteamsuperherosuperheroesswtorsyfythe-old-republicthe-stream-teamthird-person-shootertorTorchlight-2torchlight-iitpstransmedia-synergytriontrion-worldstruly-freetvtwitchtwitch-tvunchainedunholy-warswarcraftwarmage-battlegroundswizard101world-of-warcraftwowxboxMon, 06 May 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Week in Review: Neverwinter is... well, actually, it's here]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/05/mmo-week-in-review-neverwinter-is-well-actually-its-here/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/05/mmo-week-in-review-neverwinter-is-well-actually-its-here/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/05/mmo-week-in-review-neverwinter-is-well-actually-its-here/#commentsFiled under: Massively Meta, Week in Review, Miscellaneous

Neverwinter

At the end of every week, we round up the best and most popular news stories, exclusive features, and insightful columns published on Massively and then present them all in one convenient place. If you missed a big MMO or WoW Insider story last week, you've come to the right post.

Dungeons and Dragons-flavored action-MMO Neverwinter soft-launched into open beta this week, free-to-play for all comers except for the inconvenient parts where you're probably going to pay. Massively was prepared, if lacking in pants, with a two-part hands-on launch diary and a formal (if irreverent) first impressions piece.

Read on for a look at this week's other top MMO stories.

Continue reading MMO Week in Review: Neverwinter is... well, actually, it's here

MMO Week in Review: Neverwinter is... well, actually, it's here originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 05 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredjoystiqmassively-metametarounduptop-storiesweek-in-reviewweekly-recapweekly-roundupwow-insiderSun, 05 May 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WRUP: A glance at Paragon City edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/04/wrup-a-glance-at-paragon-city-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/04/wrup-a-glance-at-paragon-city-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/04/wrup-a-glance-at-paragon-city-edition/#commentsFiled under: Massively Meta, Miscellaneous

I'd like to think that after it all ends things are still basically all right. That the world grows a bit smaller, that everyone is more aware of that shrinkage, but there's still a general sense of peace. From now to forever.

It's a lot quieter in City of Heroes these days without all the heroes around. A lot more boring. But it's all right, after a fashion. Bringing over the old Praetorian Police seemed like an iffy idea, but it's turned out to work well, and ultimately the two worlds have learned to work together. Sometimes there's a bit too much zeal involved, but old habits die hard, and everyone's keeping an eye open.

As for the heroes, no one knows quite where they went. Some people are guessing that they ascended to some deific plane of existence; others figured that they just left when they weren't needed. The favored theory is that they're needed elsewhere, that after the Praetorian invasion they found someplace in greater need of heroes. There's no memorial in the city, but that's because everyone still remembers.

Not every random WRUP opening needs to be funny. Don't worry, we saved some jokes for our weekend plans just past the break. Let us know what you'll be up to in the comments.

Continue reading WRUP: A glance at Paragon City edition

WRUP: A glance at Paragon City edition originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 04 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredmassively-metametaweekendweekend-gamingwhat-are-you-playingwrupSat, 04 May 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Massively: A new era of soft launches]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/02/ask-massively-a-new-era-of-soft-launches/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/02/ask-massively-a-new-era-of-soft-launches/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/02/ask-massively-a-new-era-of-soft-launches/#commentsFiled under: Betas, Fantasy, Business Models, MMO Industry, Opinion, Free-to-Play, Massively Meta, Ask Massively, Events (Massively's Coverage), Miscellaneous, Neverwinter

Neverwinter. It's blue.

Neverwinter soft launched this week. What's a soft launch? It's when a game really shouldn't be launching yet and knows it and yet has to launch anyway for reasons probably involving money. Soft launches are incredibly confusing to old school gamers who are used to a certain kind of testing and release cycle, the uncomplicated kind that involves, you know, some testing and a release. Soft launches make games writers uncomfortable too. Why won't your weird special snowflake of a game launch fit into our perfectly planned box?

Massively reader zmeul expressed his annoyance with us thusly: "I can't understand why some games get this 'soft launch' from you and others do not, even if the criteria are met."

It's a brave new world out there, zmeul!

Continue reading Ask Massively: A new era of soft launches

Ask Massively: A new era of soft launches originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adviceadvice-columnask-massivelybetabrianna-royce-ask-massivelycrypticcryptic-studiosfeaturedhumorlaunchlaunchesmassively-metametaneverwinteropen-betaopinionperfect-world-entertainmentpwesoft-launchstar-conflicttestingwar-thunderwarframeThu, 02 May 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Fuzzy slippers edition, April 29 - May 5, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/the-stream-team-fuzzy-slippers-edition-april-29-may-5-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/the-stream-team-fuzzy-slippers-edition-april-29-may-5-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/the-stream-team-fuzzy-slippers-edition-april-29-may-5-2013/#commentsFiled under: Massively Meta, Miscellaneous, The Stream Team

The Stream Team Fuzzy slippers edition, April 29 May 5, 2013

Comfort food is a pretty universally understood concept. And most folks can also easily envision the security of a blanket a la Linus in the Peanuts cartoons. But what do gamers turn to for stability and comfort during stressful times? I mean, we all know that sometimes games get pretty intense. If you don't believe me, just watch Massively TV! Death and glory, victory and defeat: The Stream Team experiences it all.

Some folks have specific food or drinks on hand for their gaming sessions. I know one gamer with a bobble-head. Me? I've got my fuzzy slippers! Yes, really. When I wear them, glorious victories are all the sweeter and harrowing defeats lose their sting. And I swear they bring me luck. Gaming is just better in fuzzy slippers. If you haven't tried it, I totally encourage you to. Uncertain? Try it, you might like it! Grab a pair and give them a test run while watching this week's shows. Or if you have your own can't-do-without gaming accessory, let us know what it is in the Outtakes.

Continue reading The Stream Team: Fuzzy slippers edition, April 29 - May 5, 2013

The Stream Team: Fuzzy slippers edition, April 29 - May 5, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 29 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoactivisionall-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-reloadedanetapbapb-reloadedapbrarenanetbiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrowserbrowser-basedbuy-to-playclone-warsclone-wars-adventurescrimecrypticcryptic-studioscwadnddragondragonsdragons-propheteaelectronic-artseq-2eq-iieq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfactionfamilyfantasyfeaturedfpsfree-to-playfuncomg1gamersfirstguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw2Heroes-and-GeneralsHeroes-and-Generalshi-rezhi-rez-studioshistoricalhorrorhousinginfernuminfernum-productionskid-friendlykidskids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamslobbylucasartsmassively-metamassively-tvmetaminigamemmo-shootermmofpsmobamultiplayer-online-battle-arenamv-guidemv-tvmvguidemvtvmythologyncsoftneverwinterperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentplaneplanesplanetsideplanetside-2pollps2pvppwerunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentsandboxsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldshooterskill-basedSmitesoesonysony-online-entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstreamstream-schedulestream-teamstreamersstreamingstreamteamsubscriptionlessswtorThe-Lost-Titansthe-old-republicthe-secret-worldthe-stream-teamtorTorchlight-2torchlight-iitswtwitchtwitch-tvwarWar-Thunderwarcraftwargaming.netWarMage-Battlegroundswarplanewarplaneswizard101world-of-warcraftworld-of-warplaneswowwowpMon, 29 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Week in Review: EVE Fanfest 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/28/mmo-week-in-review-eve-fanfest-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/28/mmo-week-in-review-eve-fanfest-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/28/mmo-week-in-review-eve-fanfest-2013/#commentsFiled under: Massively Meta, Events (Massively's Coverage), Week in Review, Miscellaneous

EVE Fanfest

At the end of every week, we round up the best and most popular news stories, exclusive features, and insightful columns published on Massively and then present them all in one convenient place. If you missed a big MMO or WoW Insider story last week, you've come to the right post.

Every spring for the last 10 years, EVE Online fans from around the globe have journeyed to their MMO Mecca in Reykjavik, Iceland, for EVE Fanfest. This year, Massively's Brendan Drain attended the event to report not just on EVE but on CCP's other inbound titles, console shooter DUST 514 and vampire sandbox World of Darkness. From Brendan, we heard about EVE's virtual reality demo and revamp plans, DUST's launch date, EVE's anniversary collector's edition and TV series, and of course, World of Darkness' early development.

Read on for a peek at the rest of this week's top MMO stories.

Continue reading MMO Week in Review: EVE Fanfest 2013

MMO Week in Review: EVE Fanfest 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 28 Apr 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eveeve-fanfesteve-fanfest-2013eve-onlineeve-online-fanfesteve-online-fanfest-2013eventevent-coveragefanfestfeaturedicelandjoystiqmassively-event-coveragemassively-metametareykjavikrounduptop-storiesweek-in-reviewweekly-recapweekly-roundupwow-insiderSun, 28 Apr 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WRUP: A spectacular week edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/27/wrup-a-spectacular-week-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/27/wrup-a-spectacular-week-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/27/wrup-a-spectacular-week-edition/#commentsFiled under: Massively Meta, Miscellaneous

I'm not saying it was the Black Death, but it felt apropos.

Certain moments force you to re-evaluate certain life choices. Monday evening was one of those nights for me. Specifically, it forced me to re-evaluate the choice to ever eat anything other than saltines, as I was suffering from the most debilitating stomach virus I have ever experienced. You don't want to know the details; I will say that it was about 24 hours before I ate anything approaching food again, and that was a handful of crackers.

Given the pattern of the past couple weeks, I fully expect for everything I love to burst into flame over the course of the next several days. Right now, it's time to stop thinking about the week that's past and focus on WRUP, wherein all of the Massively staffers let you know what they'll be up to for the weekend. Check out the rundown past the break, and let us know your plans in the comments!

Continue reading WRUP: A spectacular week edition

WRUP: A spectacular week edition originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 27 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredmassively-metametaweekendweekend-gamingwhat-are-you-playingwrupSat, 27 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Has an MMO ever implemented your idea?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/the-daily-grind-has-an-mmo-ever-implemented-your-idea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/the-daily-grind-has-an-mmo-ever-implemented-your-idea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/the-daily-grind-has-an-mmo-ever-implemented-your-idea/#commentsFiled under: Game Mechanics, MMO Industry, Opinion, Massively Meta, The Daily Grind, Miscellaneous, Player-Generated Content

City of Steam

Earlier this month, Massively's MJ sat down with the City of Steam devs and discovered that you, the Massively readers, had actually influenced one of the game mechanics. Wrote MJ,

There is one new feature that was put into game specifically because of Massively fans: jumping! That's right. You made it clear you wanted jumping in game, and the devs listened. Who says you don't have the power to change things?

Leaving aside the implication that we spent one of our precious wishes on jumping, I thought this was really cool, and I tried to think of other examples of players coming up with amazing (or not) design ideas that were subsequently implemented in a game. I can think of certain demands that were met in classic MMOs. World of Warcraft is infamous for implementing the most popular player mods as official features, and in more recent news, there are Guild Wars 2's efforts to split reset times for different continents after much player protest.

How about you? Has an MMO ever implemented your idea or the ideas of a fellow player?

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

The Daily Grind: Has an MMO ever implemented your idea? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 26 Apr 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brianna-royce-tdgbring-back-precastingcity-of-steamdaily-grindgame-designGuild-Wars-2gw2ideaideasjumpingopinionplayer-ideastdgthe-daily-grindultima-onlineuoWorld-of-WarcraftwowFri, 26 Apr 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Massively: Why we cover what we do, part two]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/ask-massively-why-we-cover-what-we-do-part-two/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/ask-massively-why-we-cover-what-we-do-part-two/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/ask-massively-why-we-cover-what-we-do-part-two/#commentsFiled under: Business Models, Events (Real-World), MMO Industry, Opinion, Massively Meta, Ask Massively, Events (Massively's Coverage), Miscellaneous

State of Decay

Last week, I promised you a second round of questions and answers regarding the types of calls Massively makes on which games and stories it will cover and why. Let's get to it.

Mike9 wrote, "I will play [State of Decay] because it looks awesome, but I never understand why Massively covers it; it is a single-player game, not an MMO by even the loosest of definitions, not unless Super Mario World is also considered an MMO now (well, I guess that did allow two players)."

I assume you're looking for a better answer than braaaaaiiiiinnnnsssssss!

Continue reading Ask Massively: Why we cover what we do, part two

Ask Massively: Why we cover what we do, part two originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adviceadvice-columnask-massivelyBrainsssbrianna-royce-ask-massivelyesofeaturedhumorleakleaksmassively-metametaopinionstate-of-decaytesothe-elder-scrolls-onlineundead-labszombiesThu, 25 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 246 -- The princess and the frog in her throat]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/23/massively-speaking-episode-246-the-princess-and-the-frog-in-h/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/23/massively-speaking-episode-246-the-princess-and-the-frog-in-h/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/23/massively-speaking-episode-246-the-princess-and-the-frog-in-h/#commentsFiled under: Podcasts, MMO Industry, Massively Meta, Massively Speaking, Miscellaneous

Massively Speaking Episode 246

Bree's sick, but does that mean that her voice has just become 50% more awesome? We think it does. On this week's episode of Massively Speaking, we deal with cash shop trickery, the ups and downs of relaunching an MMO, and plenty of mailbag topics sent in by listeners!

Have a comment for the podcasters? Shoot an email to podcast@massively.com. We may just read your email on the air!

Get the podcast:
[RSS] Add Massively Speaking to your RSS aggregator.
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Listen here on the page:

Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 246 -- The princess and the frog in her throat

Massively Speaking Episode 246 -- The princess and the frog in her throat originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Apr 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brantbrianna-roycefeaturedhumorjustin-olivettimassively-speakingopinionpodcastpodcastingpodcastsTue, 23 Apr 2013 10:30:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 246Massively.com Staff01:07:22podcast