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 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Massively SpeakingJoystiqMassively Speaking<![CDATA[Latest RuneScape behind-the-scenes video details cryptic clue fest, evolution of combat]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/latest-runescape-behind-the-scenes-video-details-cryptic-clue-fe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/latest-runescape-behind-the-scenes-video-details-cryptic-clue-fe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/latest-runescape-behind-the-scenes-video-details-cryptic-clue-fe/#commentsFiled under: Fantasy, Trailers, Video, Events, in-game, News items, RuneScape, Free-to-play

Screenshot -- RuneScape

It's time yet again for another RuneScape behind-the-scenes video, and this time we get to take a look at the newly announced Evolution of Combat changes that players are surely awaiting with bated breath. Jagex's developers say that they want to keep players from having to navigate through multiple interfaces in order to cast spells, change combat styles, and so forth. To this end they plan the addition of an action bar that will allow players easy access to spells, emotes, items, and anything else they want to keep at their fingertips.

The video also touches on an upcoming very special cryptic clue-fest in honor of the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II. A mysterious royal visitor is on her way to the city of Varrock, and it's up to players to help ensure that everything is in tip-top shape when she arrives. Players will be responsible for assisting Varrock's Tourist Office in keeping supplies for the grand celebration sufficiently stocked. For the full details on both of these exciting upcoming features, head on past the cut and check out the behind-the-scenes video for yourself.

Continue reading Latest RuneScape behind-the-scenes video details cryptic clue fest, evolution of combat

Latest RuneScape behind-the-scenes video details cryptic clue fest, evolution of combat originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>behind-the-scenesbrowserbrowser-basedclassic-mmocryptic-clue-festdiamond-jubileeevolution-of-combatf2pfantasyfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studiorsrunescapesandboxtrailertrailersvideovideosFri, 25 May 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape behind-the-scenes video gives players a peek at upcoming Queen Black Dragon update]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/runescape-behind-the-scenes-video-gives-players-a-peek-at-upcomi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/runescape-behind-the-scenes-video-gives-players-a-peek-at-upcomi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/runescape-behind-the-scenes-video-gives-players-a-peek-at-upcomi/#commentsFiled under: Fantasy, Video, Previews, News items, RuneScape, Free-to-play

RuneScape -- Queen Black Dragon concept art

RuneScape players, do you want a closer look at what goes on behind the scenes of Jagex's popular free-to-play title? If so, then you're in luck because today we've got the first in a series of weekly videos that take fans on a behind-the-scenes tour of the game's upcoming content.

This first video focuses on the upcoming Queen Black Dragon update, which is a members' update that will be coming in two parts. The first part of the update will bring a new questline and a "multi-level training dungeon," while part two will bring the Queen Black Dragon herself. The video promises that the fight will be one of the biggest that RuneScape has ever seen, and players who emerge victorious will have plenty of loot to look forward to. For the full, juicy details, check out the full behind-the-scenes video after the cut.

Continue reading RuneScape behind-the-scenes video gives players a peek at upcoming Queen Black Dragon update

RuneScape behind-the-scenes video gives players a peek at upcoming Queen Black Dragon update originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 May 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>behind-the-scenesbrowserbrowser-basedclassic-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studioqueen-black-dragonrsrunescapesandboxtrailertrailersvideovideosMon, 21 May 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Evolution of Combat coming to RuneScape for player testing June 26th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/the-evolution-of-combat-coming-to-runescape-for-player-testing-j/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/the-evolution-of-combat-coming-to-runescape-for-player-testing-j/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/the-evolution-of-combat-coming-to-runescape-for-player-testing-j/#commentsFiled under: Fantasy, Game mechanics, News items, RuneScape, Free-to-play

Runescape image

What words are music to players' ears? "Biggest content update in its history." And RuneScape fans are getting just that! Jagex announced today that a massive content update bringing the all-new combat system, dubbed The Evolution of Combat, is on its way to the free-to-play fantasy game. The game-altering new system is promised to be more immersive and more involving.

Lead Designer Mark Ogilvie noted that a combat revamp was the community's most requested update and he emphasized the value of community feedback. To garner more feedback, Jagex is offering RuneScape members the opportunity to test the update starting June 26th. This limited-access beta will then run through September, giving beta participants the chance to help "shape the future of one of the most important elements of the game."

For the opportunity to participate in this exclusive combat system beta, players need to be an existing member of RuneScape or sign up for membership on the official site by June 1st.

[Source: Press release]

The Evolution of Combat coming to RuneScape for player testing June 26th originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 May 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-testbeta-testerbeta-testersbeta-testingbrowserbrowser-basedclassic-mmocombatcombat-changescombat-revampevolution-of-combatf2pfantasyfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studiomark-ogilviersrunescapesandboxthe-evolution-of-combatFri, 18 May 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape and Transformers Universe appearing at London MCM Expo for the first time]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/runescape-and-transformers-universe-appearing-at-london-mcm-expo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/runescape-and-transformers-universe-appearing-at-london-mcm-expo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/runescape-and-transformers-universe-appearing-at-london-mcm-expo/#commentsFiled under: Fantasy, Sci-fi, Events, real-world, MMO industry, RuneScape, Free-to-play, Transformers Universe

Jagex

Jagex is heading to the MCM Expo for the first time, with RuneScape and Transformers Universe in tow. The studio has special plans for its fans at the largest pop culture event in the UK, not the least of which will be the opportunity to meet members of the dev team.

At the convention, RuneScapers will get a deeper look into how the game is developed, watch the creation of concept art, and have the opportunity to pick up one of several player packs for the game. The packs will come in two varieties: a starter pack and a premium pack that includes cosmetic items, membership, and an exclusive t-shirt.

Transformers Universe fans also will get to meet the dev team and reserve their names for the game when it releases later this year.

Brian Cooney, the managing director of the expo, is thrilled to have the studio on board: "Each year people ask me if they are coming and finally I can say 'Yes!' The Jagex stand promises to be a 'must see' for show visitors."

The London Expo takes place from May 25th through the 27th at the Excel.

RuneScape and Transformers Universe appearing at London MCM Expo for the first time originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brian-cooneybrowserbrowser-basedclassic-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playhasbrojagexjagex-game-studiosjagex-games-studiolondon-comic-conmcm-expomcm-expo-2012rsrunescapesandboxsci-fitfutransformerstransformers-universeFri, 11 May 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape's mad, mad, mad, Mad May approaches]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/runescapes-mad-mad-mad-mad-may-approaches/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/runescapes-mad-mad-mad-mad-may-approaches/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/runescapes-mad-mad-mad-mad-may-approaches/#commentsFiled under: Fantasy, Events, in-game, RuneScape, Free-to-play, Browser

RuneScape

With the virtual flowers in bloom and the birds and bees merging together to form a hybrid class (beerds), you should expect life and vitality springing forth out of your MMOs this spring. RuneScape is embracing the season by hosting an entire month of prizes called Mad May.

Taking place during the titular month, Mad May will dowse subscribers with bonuses and freebies. First up is an extra daily spin on the new Squeal of Fortune game, which offers players a chance to win a variety of prizes every day. Following that is a hefty 5,000 Loyalty Point boost for members. These points may be redeemed for a whole bunch of new items, including emotes and auras. Finally, Jagex will cap off the month by rewarding all subscribers with 250,000 XP on June 1st.

In addition to the Mad May bonuses, RuneScape will see the return of Wild Weekends during the month. Details about what the Wild Weekends will entail are forthcoming, as is a special behind-the-scenes look into the game's upcoming projects.

RuneScape's mad, mad, mad, Mad May approaches originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonusbonus-loyalty-pointsbonus-spinsbonus-xpbonusesbrowserbrowser-basedclassic-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studiomad-mayrsrunescapesandboxsqueal-of-fortunewild-weekendsMon, 23 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's Easter event roundup: 2012 edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/massivelys-easter-event-roundup-2012-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/massivelys-easter-event-roundup-2012-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/massivelys-easter-event-roundup-2012-edition/#commentsFiled under: World of Warcraft, Fantasy, EverQuest II, Guild Wars, Events, in-game, MMO industry, RuneScape, Free-to-play, Browser, Casual, Runes of Magic, Atlantica Online, Vindictus, Dragon Nest, Miscellaneous

Bunnies at church

Whether you're an Easter traditionalist or you simply need an excuse to eat a chocolate bunny, it's that time of year again. It's also time for a few of our favorite MMO devs to don their silly hats and introduce all manner of egg hunts and contests into games like RuneScape, Runes of Magic, and World of Warcraft.

That's just the tip of the Easter event iceberg; you'll find several more festively inclined titles in our roundup after the cut. Before you hop on over, have a look at the two bunnies above and repeat after us: d'awww.

Continue reading Massively's Easter event roundup: 2012 edition

Massively's Easter event roundup: 2012 edition originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 07 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoactivisionanetarenanetatlanticaatlantica-onlineblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrowserbrowser-basedclassic-mmodragon-nesteastereaster-2012easter-eventseaster-roundupeq-2eq-iieq2eqiieventseverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactiveguild-warsgwholiday-roundupin-game-eventsjagexjagex-games-studioncsoftnexonnexon-americanexon-entertainmentnexon-korearomrounduprsrunes-of-magicrunescaperunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentsandboxscarlet-legacysoesonysony-online-entertainmenttaboreatactical-mmovindictuswarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowSat, 07 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape revamps starting experience, releases new trial and trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/runescape-revamps-starting-experience-releases-new-trial-and-tr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/runescape-revamps-starting-experience-releases-new-trial-and-tr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/runescape-revamps-starting-experience-releases-new-trial-and-tr/#commentsFiled under: Fantasy, Trailers, Video, Game mechanics, MMO industry, Patches, News items, RuneScape, Free-to-play, Browser

RuneScape - The Troll Warzone cinematic

RuneScape's starting experience has a new coat of paint, and Jagex has released a cinematic teaser trailer to celebrate. The long-running browser MMO now features a fresh newbie area called The Troll Warzone that comes complete with a new quest line and plenty of introductory accoutrements.

That's not all, as Jagex has also told us that it is offering a free 14-day trial for new RuneScape adventurers. This includes "full access to the entire RuneScape world, hundreds of hours of members' quests, an additional nine powerful skills, 20 compelling mini-games, full-screen gaming and much, much more."

The new cinematic introduces some of the lore behind The Troll Warzone, so be sure and click past the cut to view it in full.

[Source: Jagex press release]

Continue reading RuneScape revamps starting experience, releases new trial and trailer

RuneScape revamps starting experience, releases new trial and trailer originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedclassic-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studiorsrunescaperunescape-14-day-trialrunescape-cinematicrunescape-free-trialrunescape-newbie-experiencerunescape-trailerrunescape-trialsandboxteaserthe-troll-warzonetrailertroll-warzonevideoThu, 05 Apr 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape: Seventh anniversary retrospective]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/runescape-seventh-anniversary-retrospective/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/runescape-seventh-anniversary-retrospective/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/runescape-seventh-anniversary-retrospective/#commentsFiled under: Fantasy, Video, Game mechanics, MMO industry, RuneScape, Free-to-play, Browser

RuneScape title image

Although RuneScape officially launched in 2001, today marks the seventh anniversary of the end of the RuneScape 2 beta. This was a complete gameplay and graphics overhaul that signaled the rebirth of the game, and it's a date well worth celebrating. The past year has been filled with massive content updates that added clan support, upgradeable clan citadels, a new website, and countless new quests. Player-made battlefields put game design in the hands of players, who have used the system to produce ton of content.

Understandably, most people will likely remember this year for one thing: This was the year that RuneScape beat the bots. Following the momentous Bot Nuking Day, players logged in to find a distinctly emptier world but one filled with real people. RuneFest 2011 was a success, with presentations from the game's developers and a special focus on breaking the bots. This year also saw the interesting story that the Dutch Supreme Court ruling that stealing RuneScape items is the same as theft of real life goods.

In this anniversary retrospective, I look back at some of RuneScape's top news stories and game additions of the year.

Continue reading RuneScape: Seventh anniversary retrospective

RuneScape: Seventh anniversary retrospective originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarybirthdaybotsbottingbreaking-the-botsbrowserbrowser-basedclanclan-citadelsclansclassic-mmocourtdutchf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studiolegalrmtrsrscrunescaperunescape-2runescape-classicseven-yearseven-year-anniversaryseven-yearstheftvideoWed, 28 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape bonus XP weekend generates workshops, strategy videos]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/runescape-bonus-xp-weekend-generates-workshops-strategy-videos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/runescape-bonus-xp-weekend-generates-workshops-strategy-videos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/runescape-bonus-xp-weekend-generates-workshops-strategy-videos/#commentsFiled under: Fantasy, Events, in-game, RuneScape, Free-to-play

RuneScape

If there's one thing we've learned about the RuneScape community, it's that these players are very, very serious about bonus XP weekends -- so serious, in fact, that there are forum threads, workshops, and videos devoted to helping players get the most out of these events.

Starting tomorrow at 8:00 a.m. EDT, RuneScape will be throwing open the gates to a truly insane bonus XP weekend. Unlike most MMOs that try such events, RuneScape won't just slather a steady percentage increase all over players' XP bars. Instead, players will log in to find that their first half-hour of play has a 2.7x multiplier for training activities, and then every 30 minutes after that the rate will decrease until it bottoms out at 1.1x for the remainder of the weekend.

The bonus XP will go away on Monday at 8:00 a.m. EDT, and if you want some tips on how best to maximize this opportunity, hit the jump to watch one of the aforementioned help videos. What, you thought we were joking?

[Source: Jagex press release]

Continue reading RuneScape bonus XP weekend generates workshops, strategy videos

RuneScape bonus XP weekend generates workshops, strategy videos originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonus-xpbonus-xp-weekendbrowserbrowser-basedclassic-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playguidejagexjagex-games-studiorsrunescapesandboxstrategyvideovideo-guideworkshopworkshopsxp-bonus-weekendThu, 15 Mar 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Test your luck with RuneScape's Squeal of Fortune]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/28/test-your-luck-with-runescapes-squeal-of-fortune/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/28/test-your-luck-with-runescapes-squeal-of-fortune/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/28/test-your-luck-with-runescapes-squeal-of-fortune/#commentsFiled under: Fantasy, News items, RuneScape, Free-to-play

Hey, that's not Vanna White!

It's time to step right up and spin the... squeal? Jagex Games Studio, creator of the ever-popular browser-based title RuneScape, announced in a painfully punny press release today that a new minigame known as Squeal of Fortune has been added to the game. As anyone familiar with the game's real-life namesake may have guessed, the minigame is a game of chance that involves spinning a wheel for fabulous prizes. Of course, RuneScape puts its own twist on the classic game show by somehow involving the squishing of goblins. We're not sure we want to know.

At any rate, players can win all kinds of prizes from Squeal of Fortune, ranging "from valuable day-to-day resources to legendary and powerful weapons," so what are you waiting for? Head on over to RuneScape's official site and go for a spin.

[Source: Jagex Games Studio press release]

Test your luck with RuneScape's Squeal of Fortune originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfree-to-playgame-of-chancegame-of-luckjagexjagex-game-studiosjagex-games-studiominigamersrunescapesqueal-of-fortuneTue, 28 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Previously on MV TV: The Week of February 18th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/26/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-february-18th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/26/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-february-18th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/26/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-february-18th/#commentsFiled under: Fantasy, Real life, Video, EVE Online, Guild Wars, Culture, Events, real-world, RuneScape, Free-to-play, Browser, Massively Meta, Hands-on, Casual, Humor, Livestream, Miscellaneous, Sandbox, Previously on MV TV

It's time again to look back on the previous week of MassivelyTV and dig up the greatest moments that we could find! The best thing about this column is that if you have missed the earlier week's streams due to real life hassles, you can now sit back in the comforting arms of the weekend and watch hours and hours of livestreaming action -- only the choicest cuts picked by the staff.

And this week we have some goodies for sure. Starting off, Richie jumped back into Guild Wars, Mike acted like a newb in 0.0 space in EVE Online, and Adventure Mike stole a time machine and visited Nexus: Kingdom of the Winds once again. Plus we saw more Guild Wars action with Adventure Mike, RuneScape on my Thursday stream, and a bit of Zentia!

Make some popcorn, sit back, and click past the cut. Well, click past the cut and hit play first, then sit back. Unless you have a wireless mouse, then you can... well, you get me.

Continue reading Previously on MV TV: The Week of February 18th

Previously on MV TV: The Week of February 18th originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 26 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetArena-Netbeau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedccpCCP-GamesChangyoueve-onlinef2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumftpguild-warslive-eventslivestreammvtvnexus-kingdom-of-the-windspreviously-on-mv-tvpvprunescapeSandboxtwitch-tvtwitchtvzentiaSun, 26 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Comparing the payment models of RuneScape and Illyriad]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/free-for-all-comparing-the-payment-models-of-runescape-and-illy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/free-for-all-comparing-the-payment-models-of-runescape-and-illy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/free-for-all-comparing-the-payment-models-of-runescape-and-illy/#commentsFiled under: Fantasy, EVE Online, Business models, PvP, Opinion, RuneScape, Free-to-play, Browser, Casual, MMORTS, Humor, Free for All, Miscellaneous, Sandbox

Illyriad and RuneScape maps

Last week, I introduced you to two of my favorite free-to-play or freemium payment models. Payment models are endlessly fascinating because so many players normally didn't think about them until free-to-play and freemium models stopped being something that only came from foreign shores. Now, everyone has an opinion about which payment model is the best. I tend to love simple ones, as close to simple as I can get. If a game is truly wonderful, however, I don't care if the developers ask players to cut off their right arms. I've paid my fair share and continue to do so.

In fact, in one of the most disturbing trends of the last few years, players have begun bemoaning the lack of a free version of their favorite game. I see it all the time: players publicly wishing for the time that their favorite game will go free-to-play so they can return without paying a dime. Sure, I can understand being strapped for cash and needing an easy way to get back to an old title, but come on... those titles might not be around much longer if players do not support them in the first place. I am not a fan of free-to-play because I am cheap or because I need to avoid paying developers what they deserve. I have said it before, and I will say it again: I am a fan of free-to-play because it lets me decide when I want to spend my money. There's a big difference.

So let's chat about two of my favorite game's payment models.

Continue reading Free for All: Comparing the payment models of RuneScape and Illyriad

Free for All: Comparing the payment models of RuneScape and Illyriad originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedcash-shopeve-onlinef2pfeaturedffa-pvpfree-for-allfree-to-playftpillyriadillyriad-gamesjagexjames-niesewandMicrotransactionspayment-modelspvprunescapeWed, 15 Feb 2012 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 185: Bree-to-play]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/massively-speaking-episode-185-bree-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/massively-speaking-episode-185-bree-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/massively-speaking-episode-185-bree-to-play/#commentsFiled under: Podcasts, EverQuest II, MMO industry, News items, Opinion, Star Trek Online, RuneScape, Massively Meta, Humor, Massively Speaking, Star Wars: The Old Republic, RIFT, Miscellaneous

Massively Speaking

Massively Speaking Episode 185 marks the debut of the Justin and Bree show as the microphone is passed on to a new generation. Many Bothans died to bring you this broadcast, so show some respect, you scruffy-looking nerfherder! Today we talk about RIFT's new trial, MMO anniversaries, and why Star Wars: The Old Republic may not be dying fast enough for everyone's taste.

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:
[iTunes] Subscribe to Massively Speaking directly in iTunes.
[RSS] Add Massively Speaking to your RSS aggregator.
[MP3] Download the MP3 directly.
Listen here on the page:

Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 185: Bree-to-play

Massively Speaking Episode 185: Bree-to-play originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaeverquest-iihumormassively-metamassively-speakingpodcastpodcastingpodcastsriftrunescapestar-trek-onlinestar-wars-the-old-republicvanguardTue, 07 Feb 2012 12:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 185Massively.com Staff58:25podcasts<![CDATA[Dutch Supreme Court declares RuneScape theft a real-world crime]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/31/dutch-supreme-court-declares-runescape-theft-a-real-world-crime/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/31/dutch-supreme-court-declares-runescape-theft-a-real-world-crime/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/31/dutch-supreme-court-declares-runescape-theft-a-real-world-crime/#commentsFiled under: Fantasy, MMO industry, RuneScape, Free-to-play, Legal, Miscellaneous

Dutch Supreme Court

Is stealing a virtual good deserving of a real-world criminal sentence? According to a recent ruling by the Dutch Supreme Court, the answer is "yes."

The court recently upheld a ruling of a criminal case in which teens attacked another youth and forced him at knifepoint to relinquish his possessions in RuneScape, including an in-game amulet and knife.

The incident happened in 2007, and a lower court convicted the two thieves in 2009. One of the defendants then appealed to the country's supreme court on the grounds that the stolen goods "were neither tangible nor material and, unlike for example electricity, had no economic value."

However, the judges declared that these virtual items had value because they represented "time and energy invested" to acquire. The thieves were sentenced to 144 hours of community service.

Dutch Supreme Court declares RuneScape theft a real-world crime originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>criminal-casedutch-supreme-courtin-game-theftjagexlegallegal-rulingrsrulingrunescapesupreme-courtthefttheiveryvirtual-itemsTue, 31 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape increasing subscription prices on February 1st]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/runescape-increasing-subscription-prices-on-february-1st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/runescape-increasing-subscription-prices-on-february-1st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/runescape-increasing-subscription-prices-on-february-1st/#commentsFiled under: Fantasy, Economy, MMO industry, News items, RuneScape, Free-to-play, Browser

Screenshot -- RuneScape

In a new post on the official RuneScape site, the game's vice president Daniel Clough has announced that, beginning in February, RuneScape membership prices will be rising from $5.95 US per month to $7.95 US per month. If you're already a member, don't worry! Anyone who is a registered member prior to February 1st will still be able to subscribe to the game at the current fee of $5.95 US per month, and the rate will not rise as long as the subscription isn't cancelled. So if you were thinking about shelling out for a RuneScape membership, act before the end of the month in order to lock in the current, lower pricing model. For the full details, click on through the link below to the RuneScape official site.

[Thanks to Sean for the tip!]

RuneScape increasing subscription prices on February 1st originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-based-gamebrowser-based-gamesdaniel-cloughf2pfree-to-playincreasejagexmembermembersmembershipmembership-feesprice-increasersrunescapesub-feessubssubscriptionsubscription-feessubscriptionsTue, 24 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Best MMO theme songs (part one)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/the-perfect-ten-best-mmo-theme-songs-part-one/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/the-perfect-ten-best-mmo-theme-songs-part-one/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/the-perfect-ten-best-mmo-theme-songs-part-one/#commentsFiled under: Age of Conan, Darkfall, Final Fantasy XI, Pirates of the Burning Sea, Wurm Online, RuneScape, Humor, Mabinogi, Wizard101, Star Wars: The Old Republic, Blade & Soul, Perfect Ten

Perfect Ten

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

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

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanbiowareblade-and-souldarkfalldarkfall-onlinefeaturedffxifinal-fantasy-xiharry-potterlistmabinogimusicNobuo-Uematsuperfect-10perfect-tenpiratespirates-of-the-burning-searunescapescorestar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-perfect-10the-perfect-tenthemetheme-musictitle-musictop-10top-20transformerstwilightwizard101wurm-onlineThu, 12 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA['Staunchly British' Jagex sets the record straight about its new ownership]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/staunchly-british-jagex-sets-the-record-straight-about-its-new/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/staunchly-british-jagex-sets-the-record-straight-about-its-new/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/staunchly-british-jagex-sets-the-record-straight-about-its-new/#commentsFiled under: Fantasy, Sci-fi, Interviews, MMO industry, RuneScape, Free-to-play, Stellar Dawn, Transformers Universe

Jagex studios

Jagex doesn't take kindly to being called an American company these days, it appears. In an interview with GamesIndustry.biz, CEO Mark Gerhard set the record straight about the recently reported deal that put the British game studio under the purview of an American investment firm.

Because the deal was made earlier last year, Gerhard sees this as old news and stressed that the company was trucking on much the same as it ever was. "The insinuation that this is a company that somehow now is run by bankers in the US again couldn't be further from the truth," he said. "Sure we therefore have some American shareholders, but the management and the culture and the ethos and everything else is the same people, in the same hands, and staunchly British."

He also clarified why the studio's profits were reported to be down: "If you look at our company's house filings, revenues are up but profits are down, and those aren't because we're doing a crap job, that's because we're consciously taking those profits and ploughing them back into the business."

Gerhard said that the company was "very, very selective" when it came to investors, and that it feels completely comfortable with the current board of directors. He said that the new investors were not interfering with the day-to-day development and operations of Jagex's ever-expanding library of titles: "I'm very excited for the year ahead and everyone in the studio is very focused on, not just making RuneScape and 8Realms a financial success, but our work on Stellar Dawn and even Transformers coming together to make truly great games for this year."

'Staunchly British' Jagex sets the record straight about its new ownership originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>8realmsboard-of-directorsbritishdealinsight-venture-partnersinterviewjagexMark-Gerhardpip-pip-cheerioprofitprofitsrevenuerunescapeshareholdersstellar-dawntransformers-universeThu, 12 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[God save the green: Deal makes Jagex a US company]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/09/god-save-the-green-deal-makes-jagex-a-us-company/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/09/god-save-the-green-deal-makes-jagex-a-us-company/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/09/god-save-the-green-deal-makes-jagex-a-us-company/#commentsFiled under: MMO industry, RuneScape, Free-to-play, Legal, Miscellaneous, Transformers Universe

Jagex

Jagex is trading up the Union Jack for the Stars and Stripes, as controlling interest in the studio has changed hands to a US firm.

Insight Venture Partners, a venture capital firm from the US, completed a deal last year to increase its ownership to 55% of the UK-based company. Previously, the firm had 35% interest in Jagex. Now that the scales have tipped to the new ownership, this technically makes Jagex a US-controlled company and has US investors leading its board of directors.

While revenues were up 2% for Jagex in 2011, both operating and net profits were significantly down from the previous financial year. Jagex is a major player in the MMO free-to-play market, with RuneScape, Transformers Universe, and 8Realms as part of its project portfilio.

Develop reports that the controlling interest was made possible by Jagex co-founder Andrew Gower selling off his ownership claims to the firm for $115.65 million. As part of the deal, Jagex paid $3.85 million in expenses. The studio will remain in Cambridge while its controlling firm is in NYC.

God save the green: Deal makes Jagex a US company originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>8realmsandrew-gowerboard-of-directorsbreakingcontrolling-interestdealinsight-venture-brothersinvestorsjagexjagex-game-studiosprofitprofitsrevenuerevenuesrunescapetakeovertransformers-universeukusMon, 09 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Assembly Required: A virtual world roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/some-assembly-required-a-virtual-world-round-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/some-assembly-required-a-virtual-world-round-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/some-assembly-required-a-virtual-world-round-up/#commentsFiled under: Fantasy, Super-hero, Aion, Anarchy Online, City of Heroes, Darkfall, Dofus, EVE Online, EverQuest, EverQuest II, Fallen Earth, Final Fantasy XI, Flyff, Lord of the Rings Online, PlanetSide, Ryzom, Wurm Online, Opinion, Second Life, Star Trek Online, Ultima Online, Vanguard, RuneScape, Free-to-play, Virtual worlds, Mabinogi, Mortal Online, Wizard101, Runes of Magic, DC Universe Online, RIFT, Xsyon, Family, Post-Apocalyptic, Some Assembly Required, Sandbox

Some Assembly Required header

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

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

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

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: A virtual world roundup

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaionaion-gameAnarchy-Onlineaocccpccp-eveccp-gameschampions-onlinecharacter-creationcharacter-customizationcity-of-heroescocohcraft-of-godscraft-of-the-godscraftingcrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdaocdark-age-of-camelotdarkfalleden-eternaleq-1eq-2eq-ieq-iieveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlineever-quest-1ever-quest-2ever-quest-iever-quest-iieverquest-1everquest-2everquest-ieverquest-iifallen-earthfeaturedfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-xiflyffFuncomglitchguild-housinghousingking-of-kings-3liden-labs-second-lifelinden-labslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroluna-onlinemabinogimission-architectnc-softnc-soft-aionncsoftncsoft-aionnotorious-gamesparagonparagon-cohparagon-studioesplanetsideplayer-generated-contentplayer-generated-missionsplayer-housingplayer-run-economyrunescapeRyzomsecond-lifesecond-life-linden-labsslsl-liden-labssoe-eq-1soe-eq-2soe-eq-isoe-eq-iisome-assembly-requiredsony-eq-1sony-eq-2sony-eq-isony-eq-iisquare-enixst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotrek-onlineturbineTurbine-EntertainmentUltima-OnlineUOvanguardVanguard-Saga-of-Heroesvirtual-worldwar-of-the-immortalswizard-101xbox-360XsyonFri, 06 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: A surprising evening of roleplay in RuneScape]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/04/free-for-all-a-surprising-evening-of-roleplay-in-runescape/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/04/free-for-all-a-surprising-evening-of-roleplay-in-runescape/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/04/free-for-all-a-surprising-evening-of-roleplay-in-runescape/#commentsFiled under: Fantasy, Screenshots, Culture, Opinion, RuneScape, Free-to-play, Browser, Casual, Free for All, Miscellaneous

RuneScape screenshot

Roleplay is often treated as the odd cousin of the MMO family. You know the kid I am talking about... your Aunt comes to visit and your mother tells you to hang out with him, and he ends up vomiting in your room. (Did it only happen to me?) The truth is that the odd cousin is often just misunderstood and generally a lot of fun. It might take a small leap of faith and perhaps some time, but roleplay can be a very rewarding experience.

RuneScape might not seem like a prime spot for roleplay. I hardly even heard of roleplay in the community, but I knew that the playerbase was made up of individuals from all age ranges. I thought of trying to find a good roleplay clan or trying to attend a roleplay event or two, but I didn't find the time to investigate. It began to look like roleplay was not something that happened in the game.

That was until last night. I stumbled upon some sort of spontaneous roleplay session, and it was mostly thrilling. I even interviewed a few players to see how the whole thing worked. Click past the cut and I'll tell you what I found out!

Continue reading Free for All: A surprising evening of roleplay in RuneScape

Free for All: A surprising evening of roleplay in RuneScape originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedcasualEverQuest-2everquest-iif2pfeaturedffafree-for-allfree-to-playftpjagexLARPlarpingroleplayRolePlayingrunescapeSOESONYSony-Online-EntertainmentWed, 04 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST