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[Cloud Imperium unveils Star Citizen hangar module]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/cloud-imperium-unveils-star-citizen-hangar-module/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/cloud-imperium-unveils-star-citizen-hangar-module/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/cloud-imperium-unveils-star-citizen-hangar-module/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Star Citizen - Hangar module with Hornet
Cloud Imperium has taken the wraps off Star Citizen's hangar module, a standalone app that's scheduled to be released to early adopters later this summer. Pledgers will get a chance to walk through their hangars and ogle their pledge ships, as well as climb inside them and invite their friends over for a spaceship-themed soiree.

The hangar module is "about 50 percent fleshed out right now," according to the spiffy Cloud Imperium video tour that you can watch after the cut.

[Thanks Eric!]

Continue reading Cloud Imperium unveils Star Citizen hangar module

MassivelyCloud Imperium unveils Star Citizen hangar module originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chris-robertscloud-imperiumcloud-imperium-gamescrowdfundingcry-enginecryenginehangarhangar-moduleinternet-spaceshipskickstartersandboxsci-fispaceshipstar-citizenstar-citizen-hangarvideozomg-do-wantMon, 20 May 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gloria Victis pre-alpha screens show forest updates]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/gloria-victis-pre-alpha-screens-show-forest-updates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/gloria-victis-pre-alpha-screens-show-forest-updates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/gloria-victis-pre-alpha-screens-show-forest-updates/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Gloria Victis pre-alpha screens show forest updates
Black Eye Games updated its Gloria Victis Facebook page over the weekend. The occasion was a pre-alpha feature push that saw plenty of new stuff make its way into the fledgling sandbox.

"The forest is now filled with life," the post says, including boars, foxes, wolves, and plenty of raw gatherables like bark, timber, hops, flax, and sunflowers. Black Eye has also enlarged the game world proper and added humanoid mobs. There are screens of all this stuff and more behind the links below. You'll also find some Massively-exclusive screens behind the break.

[Thanks to everyone who tipped us!]

Continue reading Gloria Victis pre-alpha screens show forest updates

MassivelyGloria Victis pre-alpha screens show forest updates originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-eyeblack-eye-gamesfantasygloria-victisgloria-victis-alphapre-alphasandboxMon, 20 May 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaderboard: Which upcoming fantasy MMO are you looking forward to the most?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/leaderboard-which-upcoming-fantasy-mmo-are-you-looking-forward/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/leaderboard-which-upcoming-fantasy-mmo-are-you-looking-forward/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/leaderboard-which-upcoming-fantasy-mmo-are-you-looking-forward/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Leaderboard Which upcoming fantasy MMO are you looking forward to the most
Since last week's Leaderboard went over so well, I figured, why not put up another semi-controversial poll in the hopes that fans of the choices I inadvertently leave off will pepper my inbox with hate mail? Snarkiness aside, I am curious to see the results of today's vote, which pits the big three fantasy MMOs releasing over the next year against one another in a grueling duel to the death.

The prize? The coveted title of Most Anticipated 2013/14 Fantasy MMO in the Massively Comments Section, which is going to be really hard to cram onto the trophy. In any case, vote for your favorite after the break.

Ever wish that you could put to rest a long-standing MMO debate once and for all? Then welcome to the battle royal of Massively's Leaderboard, where two sides enter the pit o' judgment -- and only one leaves. Vote to make your opinion known, and see whether your choice tops the Leaderboard!

Continue reading Leaderboard: Which upcoming fantasy MMO are you looking forward to the most?

MassivelyLeaderboard: Which upcoming fantasy MMO are you looking forward to the most? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battle-royalleaderboardmost-anticipated-mmoone-on-oneone-vs-oneopinionpollpollsversusvotevotesvotingvsMon, 20 May 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Chaos Theory: Opinions, facts, and open flames]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/chaos-theory-opinions-facts-and-open-flames/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/chaos-theory-opinions-facts-and-open-flames/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/chaos-theory-opinions-facts-and-open-flames/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Chaos Theory Opinions, facts, and open flames
It's not often that my writings take a ranty slant, In fact, I don't believe I have ever expressed anything along those lines here in Chaos Theory -- although I have a time or two elsewhere. Blue moons come and go much more frequently than I don my Massively-standard-issue flame-retardant garb and venture forth. But right here, right now looks to be one of those times, and I'm already suiting up. So what about The Secret World has me riled up enough to flex my woefully underused ranting muscle?

Nothing.

Seriously, I can't call to mind a single thing in the game deserving of a rant. Sure, TSW isn't perfect; there are flaws and there are things that could use improving, things that are certainly worth discussing. But rant-inducing? Nope. Too bad the same can't be said for people.

It doesn't matter how many times I've witnessed it: It never ceases to amaze me when folks trumpet their own opinions as fact while insisting dissenting opinions can't possibly exist. It's like they board the crazy train where the lines between opinion and fact are swirled together like coffee and creamer, where reality and logic are tossed right out the window. So as a public service, I'm going to derail that train.

Continue reading Chaos Theory: Opinions, facts, and open flames

MassivelyChaos Theory: Opinions, facts, and open flames originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3-faction3-factionsbuy-to-playchaos-theoryconspiracyconspiracy-thriillerdark-days-are-comingdragonendgamefactionfaction-pvpfantasyfeaturedfuncomhorrorilluminatimythologyopinionopinion-vs-factopinionsrantrantssci-fantasysecret-worldsecret-world-chaos-theoryskill-basedsubscriptionlesstemplarsthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-chaos-theorythree-factionthree-faction-pvpthree-factionstswtsw-chaos-theorytsw-dragonwho-cares-about-endgameMon, 20 May 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rhode Island selling 38 Studios' game assets]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/rhode-island-selling-38-studios-game-assets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/rhode-island-selling-38-studios-game-assets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/rhode-island-selling-38-studios-game-assets/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Rhode Island selling 38 Studios' IP
Do you have a few million on you and a desire to preserve some gaming history? Then pick up the phone and call Rhode Island, as the state is getting ready to sell 38 Studios' assets, including its games.

The state is looking to recoup some of it $130 million debt that it fell into once 38 Studios went belly-up. One of Rhode Island's lawyers says there "is interest" in the studio's assets, including concept art, design documents, and computer software. The sale of 38 Studios' IP includes the Amalur franchise, which encompassed the Project Copernicus MMO.

The state is also set to begin a lawsuit this week against former 38 Studios execs, including founder Curt Schilling. The suit claims that the executives did not inform the state when they knew that the studio would have a hard time keeping afloat financially. Schilling has asked the judge to dismiss the suit.

MassivelyRhode Island selling 38 Studios' game assets originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosamaluramalur-mmo-industryassetsconcept-artcurt-schillinggame-assetsipip-assetskingdoms-of-amalur-reckoninglawsuitproject-copernicusrhode-islandriedcsaleMon, 20 May 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aion helps player pop the question]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/aion-helps-player-pop-the-question/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/aion-helps-player-pop-the-question/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/aion-helps-player-pop-the-question/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Aion helps player pop the question
Who says devs only want to beat us with a nerf bat? When a long-time Aion player decided he wanted to ask the most important question of his life using the game he and his beloved shared countless hours in over the years, devs jumped to his aid.

To help make the experience memorable, Aion's devs provided a backdrop of cakes and musicians in Sanctum Square on the Israphel server where both resided. Then as the hopeful groom-to-be dropped to his knee in game, the heartfelt words he recited to her in real life also flashed across the game screen for all to see. When she gave her answer, the sky exploded in fireworks and everyone saw the message, "She said YES!!!"

Congratulations to the happy couple, Jambo and Trishann! We're sure that's a proposal that will not be forgotten. And kudos to NCsoft for having the heart to be a part of one of the greatest moments in its players' lives. You can see more images of the event below.

Gallery: Aion wedding proposal

MassivelyAion helps player pop the question originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionascensionf2pfantasyfree-to-playncsoftproposaltruly-freeMon, 20 May 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Obsidian and Allods team up to create Skyforge]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/obsidian-and-allods-team-up-to-create-skyforge/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/obsidian-and-allods-team-up-to-create-skyforge/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/obsidian-and-allods-team-up-to-create-skyforge/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Obsidian and Allods team up to create Skyforge
If you've ever been curious about what would happen if you mixed the Allods Online team with Obsidian Entertainment, wonder no more! The two forces announced their partnership at the Russian Game Developers Convention where they unveiled their upcoming MMORPG, Skyforge. The game is planned to release for the PC in 2014.

More details are available from the devs themselves in the video after the break, if you speak Russian. For those who don't, you can catch a few snippits of game video between the interviews and a stretch coming just before the seven minute mark.

Continue reading Obsidian and Allods team up to create Skyforge

MassivelyObsidian and Allods team up to create Skyforge originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allodsallods-onlineastrum-nivalf2pfantasyfree-to-playgala-netgpotatomail-ru-gamesmail.ru-gamesmailru-gamesObsidianObsidian-EntertainmentSkyforgeMon, 20 May 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: When are rollbacks and wipes absolutely necessary?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/the-daily-grind-when-are-rollbacks-absolutely-necessary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/the-daily-grind-when-are-rollbacks-absolutely-necessary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/the-daily-grind-when-are-rollbacks-absolutely-necessary/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

When are rollbacks absolutely necessary
In the last few weeks, two big games we cover on Massively have been slammed with exploits that have injured their respective economies: Diablo III and Neverwinter. In Diablo III's case, a gold duping bug apparently pumped insane amounts of cash into the economy. Neverwinter's exploits run the gamut from Foundry abuses to negative auction hall bids that don't consume gold to classes that can one-shot bosses making farming trivial. According to these claims, NW exploiters are making off with thousands of real-life dollars when cashing out their ill-gotten funds.

In both cases, players called for characters wipes and rollbacks, believing each exploit severe enough to merit a clean slate. But in Diablo III's case, while the studio dealt harshly with the exploiters, the developers disagreed with the need for wipes and do-overs, presumably having concluded that such drastic measures would impact the legit playerbase far more than would a dented economy. Neverwinter, on the other hand, chose to roll back the servers, causing widespread uproar.

That brings us to today's question: Which studio was right? How bad does an exploit have to be before character wipes and server rollbacks are absolutely necessary?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: When are rollbacks and wipes absolutely necessary? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Blizzardbrianna-royce-tdgcharacter-wipecryptic-studiosdaily-grinddiablo-3diablo-iiieconomyexploitexploitsneverwinteropinionperfect-world-entertainmentpwerollbackrollbacksserver-wipetdgthe-daily-grindwipewipesMon, 20 May 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Neverwinter returns with seven-hour rollback after exploit]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/neverwinter-returns-with-seven-hour-rollback-after-exploit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/neverwinter-returns-with-seven-hour-rollback-after-exploit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/neverwinter-returns-with-seven-hour-rollback-after-exploit/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Neverwinter returns with sevenhour rollback after exploit
Over the weekend, a massive exploit plagued Perfect World Entertainment's Neverwinter beta as players discovered a way to make billions off of the auction house and Astral Diamond Exchange.

After initially closing the economy to explore the company's options, PWE decided to do a seven-hour rollback of the servers that affects the progress made between 8:20 a.m. EDT (5:20 a.m. PDT) and 3:20 p.m. EDT (12:20 p.m. PDT) yesterday for all players.

"Rest assured, the issue has been corrected and we have taken appropriate action against all players who took advantage of the bug, including but not limited to enforcing permanent bans," the announcement reads.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this one in!]

MassivelyNeverwinter returns with seven-hour rollback after exploit originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmocrypticcryptic-studiosdndexploitsf2pfantasyfree-to-playneverwinterperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwerollbackMon, 20 May 2013 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Fanfest 2013 video roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/eve-evolved-fanfest-2013-video-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/eve-evolved-fanfest-2013-video-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/eve-evolved-fanfest-2013-video-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

EVE Evolved Fanfest 2013 video roundup
Last month saw the huge tenth anniversary EVE Online Fanfest, a three-day convention packed full of exclusive reveals, behind-the-scenes talks, and community events. This year's Fanfest was the biggest one yet, celebrating EVE's tenth anniversary with special guest speakers from the scientific community, the reveal of a new virtual reality dogfighter, DUST 514's launch, and details of the upcoming Odyssey expansion. Massively was there to bring you coverage of the big news as it happened, and CCP streamed some of the key talks and events live to viewers at home.

This year's Fanfest sold out so quickly that many people who wanted to go didn't get a chance to, and only a select few talks were shown on the public livestream. With such a packed event schedule, even players in attendance couldn't be there for every interesting talk. Thankfully, CCP recorded over 30 of the most anticipated events and has now uploaded the videos to YouTube. Highlights include the Make EVE Real videos, the EVE keynote, the CCP Presents Keynote, and the talks on how DUST 514 integrates with the EVE economy.

In this week's EVE Evolved, I round up all of the EVE Fanfest videos in a handy list.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Fanfest 2013 video roundup

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Fanfest 2013 video roundup originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 19 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alliance-panelapocalypseasteroidasteroid-miningasteroidsbattleshipccpccp-gameschinaconcept-artconsoleconventioncrimewatchcsm-paneldustdust-514economyeveeve-evolvedeve-fanfesteve-fanfest-2013eve-is-realeve-onlineeventeventsfanfestfaster-than-lightfeaturedfpsftlgame-designgearinternet-spaceshipskeynotemake-eve-realminingmmofpsodysseyopinionplanetary-conquestplaystationplaystation-3progressionps3pvpsandboxsci-fishooterspace-elevatorspreadsheets-onlineuprisingSun, 19 May 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Stick and Rudder: Why all the love for Roberts and Star Citizen?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/stick-and-rudder-why-all-the-love-for-roberts-and-star-citizen/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/stick-and-rudder-why-all-the-love-for-roberts-and-star-citizen/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/stick-and-rudder-why-all-the-love-for-roberts-and-star-citizen/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Stick and Rudder - Why all the love for Roberts and Star Citizen?
I was talking with a gaming buddy recently who missed the whole space sim experience in the 1990s. He's a Star Wars fan and a real-life pilot pushing 40, so it surprised me to learn that he'd never heard of Wing Commander, Freespace, X-Wing, and the like. My jaw really hit the floor as our conversation turned to current games and I began to evangelize about Star Citizen and Chris Roberts.

"Who's Chris Roberts?" he asked, with a straight face.

Continue reading Stick and Rudder: Why all the love for Roberts and Star Citizen?

MassivelyStick and Rudder: Why all the love for Roberts and Star Citizen? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 19 May 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>celebritychris-robertsclaw-markscloud-imperiumcloud-imperium-gamingfeaturedhero-worshipimmersionloreroberts-space-industriesroleplayingrsisandboxsci-fishipspacespace-simspacesimstar-citizenstar-citizen-lorestar-citizen-writers-guidestick-and-ruddertie-fighterwing-commanderx-wingSun, 19 May 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Yes, that is a car in ArcheAge]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/yes-that-is-a-car-in-archeage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/yes-that-is-a-car-in-archeage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/yes-that-is-a-car-in-archeage/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Yep, that's a car in ArcheAge
This not-sure-if-serious moment is brought to you by XLGAMES. The Korean MMO maker, presumably hard at work collaborating with Trion to westernize its ArcheAge sandbox opus (right guys... guys?), has published what can only be termed a curious gameplay video to its official YouTube channel.

The clip features car racing and a number of spiffy looking hot rods, which normally wouldn't raise any eyebrows if they weren't located smack dab in the middle of a feudalized high fantasy world that, up until now, has featured sailing ships, horses, and low-tech gliders as its primary forms of transportation. It's hard to tell what's under the hood on these babies -- maybe it's some sort of steampunkish propulsion system -- but one thing's for sure: We can't make this stuff up.

Have yourself a look-see after the cut.

[Thanks Dengar!]

Continue reading Yes, that is a car in ArcheAge

MassivelyYes, that is a car in ArcheAge originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 19 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aaarche-agearcheagearcheage-cararcheage-carsarcheage-racingfantasypvpracingsandboxsandparkwtfxl-gamesxlgamesSun, 19 May 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TUG tech video shows off in-house engine]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/tug-tech-video-shows-off-in-house-engine/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/tug-tech-video-shows-off-in-house-engine/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/tug-tech-video-shows-off-in-house-engine/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

TUG concept art
Recently Nerd Kingdom promised more demonstrations of the tech behind its new TUG MMO hopeful. The company has made good with a new video that shows off the in-house engine, and lead programmer Brandon Nelson starts things off with an interesting tidbit about the game's contouring algorithm. "An algorithm like dual contouring gives us the ability to have the same quality of terrain that other games have, but not have to have them generated by level designers," Nelson explains.

There's quite a lot of additional info packed into the clip's six-minute running time, all of which you can see for yourself after the break. You can also learn more about TUG via the project's Kickstarter site.

Continue reading TUG tech video shows off in-house engine

MassivelyTUG tech video shows off in-house engine originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 18 May 2013 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brandon-nelsoncontouring-algorithmcrowdfundingdevelopmentkickstarternerd-kingdomopen-worldopen-world-sandboxsandboxtugtug-videoSat, 18 May 2013 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Darkfall plans summer content update, suffers DDOS attack [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/aventurine-outlines-darkfalls-summer-content-update-plans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/aventurine-outlines-darkfalls-summer-content-update-plans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/aventurine-outlines-darkfalls-summer-content-update-plans/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

This is a road in Darkfall
Darkfall's long-awaited Unholy Wars makeover launched almost a month ago, and now Aventurine is turning its eyes toward the future of its PvP-focused fantasy sandbox. AV's Tasos Flambouras posted a schedule of planned content updates on the forums earlier this week that stretches all the way into July. Aside from the usual MMO bug fixes and tweaks, there are major additions like the Svartvann, Marthnyr, Hardruk, and Dulguna dungeons, new families of monsters, new ships, and sea fortresses. [Thanks Dengar!]

[Update: Aventurine is reporting that its NA servers are suffering the effects of a DDoS attack. The official blog reads, "In regard to the ping issues on the NA server the past couple of days, this was due to a DDoS attack during NA prime time. We have taken measures in cooperation with our hosting providers to filter this attack, and we're monitoring the situation. We'll keep you updated and we apologize for any inconvenience."]

MassivelyDarkfall plans summer content update, suffers DDOS attack [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 18 May 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agonaventurinedarkfalldarkfall-dungeonsdarkfall-unholy-warsdarkfall-updatesdffantasyopen-pvppvpsandboxtasos-flambourasunholy-warsSat, 18 May 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wizardry Online prepping for 'major code update']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/wizardry-online-prepping-for-major-code-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/wizardry-online-prepping-for-major-code-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/wizardry-online-prepping-for-major-code-update/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Wizardry Online prepping for 'major code update'
SOE's Wizardry Online website has updated with a post outlining an upcoming "major code update." The patch will bring the western client "one step closer to all the advanced features of the Japanese version of Wizardry Online," the company says.

Advanced forging and the game's socketing system take up most of the space in this particular blog entry, but there's also a mention of new skills for each class as well as a skill reset NPC.

MassivelyWizardry Online prepping for 'major code update' originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 18 May 2013 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamepothardcoreopen-pvppermadeathpkplayer-killingpvpsir-techsoesony-online-entertainmentwizardrywizardry-major-code-updatewizardry-onlineSat, 18 May 2013 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Are you still excited to try RIFT's free-to-play option?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/the-daily-grind-are-you-still-excited-to-try-rifts-free-to-pla/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/the-daily-grind-are-you-still-excited-to-try-rifts-free-to-pla/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/the-daily-grind-are-you-still-excited-to-try-rifts-free-to-pla/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

I don't have any idea what hand I should place this on. It looks kind of gross.
If you'd missed it, RIFT recently announced that the game will go free-to-play on June 12th. Obviously, the hope is to bring in a variety of new players, but the circumstances surrounding the announcement can result in a bit of whiplash when deciding whether or not to count yourself among those getting into the game.

On the one hand, RIFT is making humble promises about the item shop... but on the other hand, the development team also promised the game would never go free-to-play. Trion Worlds did just get hit by layoffs, but it's been said those layoffs don't affect RIFT's staff. It's long had consistent updates, but those updates have dropped off sharply this year.

Is trying the game out a good idea? A bad one? Today, we ask our readers to decide. Carefully weighing all the evidence, are you still excited to try RIFT's free-to-play option? Or do you think you'll be giving it a pass?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Are you still excited to try RIFT's free-to-play option? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 18 May 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conquestdaily-grindf2pfantasyfree-to-playopinionpvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrtdgthe-daily-grindthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsSat, 18 May 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: May 11 - 17, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/betawatch-may-11-17-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/betawatch-may-11-17-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/betawatch-may-11-17-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

But Iron Man 3, amirite?
Early access for Marvel Heroes is just around the corner, if you consider 11 days to be a corner. It'll be a chance for everyone to get started on the process of hitting the level cap... or at least getting halfway there before grinding dailies. Your mileage may vary. DUST 514 finally ended its testing earlier this week, meaning that you can go be obliterated by an orbital strike right now if you own a PS3.

Elsewhere in the testing world, Anno Online quietly went into open beta (keep an eye out for our own Beau Hindman's look at the game later this month). There are games preparing for a beta in the future, as well, and more information about popular titles still in beta. It's been a quiet week otherwise.

That doesn't mean there isn't a list past the break. There's always a list. As always, if you see something odd on there, feel free to let us know in the comments.

Continue reading Betawatch: May 11 - 17, 2013

MassivelyBetawatch: May 11 - 17, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasanno-onlinebetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betadust-514featuredgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmarvel-heroesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingFri, 17 May 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gaslight Joker spotlighted in new Infinite Crisis gameplay vid]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/gaslight-joker-spotlighted-in-new-infinite-crisis-gameplay-vid/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/gaslight-joker-spotlighted-in-new-infinite-crisis-gameplay-vid/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/gaslight-joker-spotlighted-in-new-infinite-crisis-gameplay-vid/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Infinite Crisis - Gaslight Joker art
Looking for a beefy enforcer who can dominate close-range combat in Infinite Crisis? Look no further than Gaslight Joker, the newest champion spotlighted in Turbine's ongoing DC-centric MOBA video reveals.

Turbine says its laughing butcher can throw hams at enemies with the Shower of Filth skill, sending them running in fear and debuffing them for good measure. The video touches on a number of other Gaslight Joker skills, too, both passive and active, and it shows off a good bit of Infinite Crisis gameplay footage in the process. See for yourself after the cut.

Continue reading Gaslight Joker spotlighted in new Infinite Crisis gameplay vid

MassivelyGaslight Joker spotlighted in new Infinite Crisis gameplay vid originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 May 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc-mobagaslight-jokerinfinite-crisisinfinite-crisis-videojokermobaturbineFri, 17 May 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Trion hit with another round of layoffs [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/trion-reportedly-undergoing-massive-layoffs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/trion-reportedly-undergoing-massive-layoffs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/trion-reportedly-undergoing-massive-layoffs/#commentsFiled under: ,

Trion reportedly undergoing 'massive' layoffs
IGN is reporting "massive" layoffs at Trion. Though the website doesn't cite any sources, it suggests that "well over half the company has been let go," and it also says that those affected may include as much as 80% of the company. An undisclosed IGN source says that "employees are being escorted out of the building and that senior leaders from various Trion teams may not receive severance due to 'undelivered services.'" [These claims have since been rebutted by a Trion Worlds representative, who told Massively directly that while there were indeed layoffs, the 80% number originally suggested by IGN was "grossly exaggerated." She further clarified that no one was escorted out of the building or denied severance as IGN's unnamed source alleged. Additionally, developers emphasized during today's official stream that the RIFT team is not affected by the layoffs.]

Trion recently announced a free-to-play offering for its RIFT MMORPG. It also launched Defiance earlier this year and partnered with Korea's XLGAMES to bring the company's ArcheAge sandbox MMO to western audiences.

Trion also provided the following official statement.
To best position Trion in a rapidly changing industry, we have reorganized our teams and are expanding our free to play offering. With Defiance, we delivered a great game that more than one million gamers registered to play and continue to enjoy. As we progress from launch to ongoing development of the game, we are adjusting our staffing levels to deliver new content and improved features. RIFT, and our other titles in development, were unaffected by these changes. We are very much looking forward to the free to play release of RIFT and are excited by the other new titles currently in development.
[Thank you to everyone who helped us develop this story.]

MassivelyTrion hit with another round of layoffs [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 May 2013 17:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakinglayoffstriontrion-layoffsFri, 17 May 2013 17:02:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR's Gree event returns May 21]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/swtors-gree-event-returns-may-21/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/swtors-gree-event-returns-may-21/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/swtors-gree-event-returns-may-21/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

You can have this Gree mount after a lot of grinding
The Gree starship Grey Secant is returning to Star Wars: The Old Republic's planet Ilum. BioWare's website has updated with all the details on the event's return engagement, which starts May 21st and runs through the 28th.

Players can earn reputation, rare armor, vehicles, and pets, and BioWare says that "this is a great time for players at level 45-plus to jump into the event before the event returns at level 55 in the future." More info is available via the Relics of the Gree event blog.

MassivelySWTOR's Gree event returns May 21 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 May 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaelectronic-artsf2pfree-to-playgreegree-eventlucasartsrelics-of-the-greesci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorswtor-eventthe-old-republictorFri, 17 May 2013 16:30:00 EST