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[Mythic community manager bids a sorrowful farewell]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/mythic-community-manager-bids-a-sorrowful-farewell/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/mythic-community-manager-bids-a-sorrowful-farewell/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/mythic-community-manager-bids-a-sorrowful-farewell/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Warhammer
It looks as if yesterday's EA layoffs are hitting MMO gamers closer to home than originally thought. In a post today on BioWare's Warhammer Online forums, Mythic's Timothy Chappell announced that he has been let go. Chappell was the community manager for Warhammer Online, Ultima Online, and Dark Age of Camelot.
I am very sorry to say that I was informed that my position was no longer needed. Though I had many titles I was handling for Mythic, I grew to love and appreciate all the communities and only wish I could have had more time or resources to get more involved with them. Though I had only been in the position for a little over a year, I will miss a great many of you and hope that you keep in touch.
The news is of particular concern for Warhammer, which also lost its lead developer earlier this week. Ultima Online, by contrast, assured players of its continuing operation in a producer's letter last week.

[Thanks to Fozee for the tip!]

MassivelyMythic community manager bids a sorrowful farewell originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 26 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWareclassic-mmoeaelectronic-artsfantasylayoffslord-britishmythicMythic-Entertainmentpvptimothy-chappellultimaultima onlineuowarwarhammerWarhammer-OnlineFri, 26 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online's Keaven Freeman leaves Mythic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/24/warhammer-onlines-keaven-freeman-leaves-mythic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/24/warhammer-onlines-keaven-freeman-leaves-mythic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/24/warhammer-onlines-keaven-freeman-leaves-mythic/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Warhammer Online's Keaven Freeman leaves Mythic
Lead Developer Keaven Freeman is no longer heading up Warhammer Online. Freeman wrote a goodbye post on his personal blog stating that he is leaving Mythic Entertainment to "explore new growth and new career possibilities."

"It is with heavy heart I report I am leaving Mythic Entertainment. I have worked with Mythic since 2007, and it quickly became my family," he said.

Freeman expressed his gratitude to the company and fans, saying that his time with WAR was rewarding: "I'm by no means saying everything was perfect -- there was a lot I could have done better, in hindsight, but I think we really managed to take some giant steps forward as well, as non-perfect as those steps may have been."

MassivelyWarhammer Online's Keaven Freeman leaves Mythic originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 24 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>departureeaelectronic-artsendless-trialfantasykeaven-freemanleavemmo-industrymythicmythic-entertainmentpvprvrwarwarhammerwarhammer-onlineWed, 24 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA named 'Worst Company in America' second year in a row]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/09/ea-named-worst-company-in-america-second-year-in-a-row/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/09/ea-named-worst-company-in-america-second-year-in-a-row/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/09/ea-named-worst-company-in-america-second-year-in-a-row/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

EA named the worst company in America second year in a row
Gamers aren't letting up on Electronic Arts for its record and attitude. The games publisher was voted "Worst Company in America" for a second year in a row in The Consumerist's poll. EA trounced the other finalist, Bank of America, with 78% of the tallies.

The Consumerist provided commentary as to why EA earned that reputation with customers and what it could be doing to not earn this title next year. The site identified EA's three main problems as failing to provide a product people want and like, failing to sell products at reasonable prices, and failing to support its products.

EA COO Peter Moore posted a letter last week responding to the probable second win, admitting mistakes while attempting to refute popular complaints. His response to the poll? "We can do better. We will do better."

MassivelyEA named 'Worst Company in America' second year in a row originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 09 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaelectronic-artsf2pfree-to-playlucasartspeter-moorepollsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-consumeristthe-old-republictorworst-company-in-americaTue, 09 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online: Wrath of Heroes goes down swinging today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/warhammer-online-wrath-of-heroes-goes-down-swinging-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/warhammer-online-wrath-of-heroes-goes-down-swinging-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/warhammer-online-wrath-of-heroes-goes-down-swinging-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Warhammer Online Wrath of Heroes goes down swinging today
Warhammer Online: Wrath of Heroes' final month is up and the game is scheduled to be closed at 5:00 p.m. EDT today.

That doesn't mean the title will be going down without one heckuva fight! According to Wrath of Heroes' Facebook page, the developers are spending the last few hours in battle with the players. The team has also added a chance for killers to transform into vampire chickens or bloodthirsters.

If you're just now finding out about the sunset and want more information, check out EA's FAQ on the closure.

[Thanks to Adam for the tip!]

MassivelyWarhammer Online: Wrath of Heroes goes down swinging today originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Mar 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artsendless-trialfantasymobamythicmythic-entertainmentpvprvrshutdownsunsetwarwarhammerwarhammer-onlinewarhammer-wrath-of-heroeswohwrath-of-heroesFri, 29 Mar 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WAR weathers difficult weekend, compensates players]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/war-weathers-difficult-weekend-compensates-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/war-weathers-difficult-weekend-compensates-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/war-weathers-difficult-weekend-compensates-players/#commentsFiled under: , ,

WAR weathers difficult weekend, compensates players
Warhammer Online certainly has seen better weekends than this past one. Because of a nasty bug that caused immense amounts of lag spikes and zone crashes, Mythic was forced to take WAR's servers down while the team worked to isolate and fix the problem. The good news is that the issue has been fixed via a new build and the studio is working on a "compensation package" for those affected.

The goodie package includes 10 days of game time, a golden writ, a seven-day XP and RP booster, a special title, and 10 lesser bone wards. The team is still checking some details in regard to the compensation period but will be letting players know when and for whom this package will be available.

MassivelyWAR weathers difficult weekend, compensates players originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Feb 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugbugscompensationcrashcrashesdowntimeeaelectronic-artsendless-trialfantasymythicmythic-entertainmentpvprvrwarwarhammerwarhammer-onlineMon, 25 Feb 2013 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Reminiscing about Warhammer Online with Mark Jacobs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/reminiscing-about-warhammer-online-with-mark-jacobs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/reminiscing-about-warhammer-online-with-mark-jacobs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/reminiscing-about-warhammer-online-with-mark-jacobs/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Reminiscing about Warhammer Online with Mark Jacobs
When it comes to the 2008 phenomenon of Warhammer Online and the story of its rise and fall, there's one obvious source for the full dish: Mark Jacobs. The former big kahuna of Mythic Entertainment is now CEO of City State Entertainment, and while Jacobs is no longer in the WAR business, he's still passionate about making games and talking about his past experiences.

We sat down with Jacobs to look at WAR and what he thought went right and wrong with the title. Even today, many gamers are passionately divided on the game's build-up to release and design decisions. Some lay the blame at Jacobs' doorstep, while others admire the passion and vision of this MMO creator. So what does Jacobs have to say when put to the question about WAR's outcome? Find out in this exclusive interview!

Continue reading Reminiscing about Warhammer Online with Mark Jacobs

MassivelyReminiscing about Warhammer Online with Mark Jacobs originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Jan 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city-state-entertainmentclimaxclimax-onlinedaocdark-age-of-cameloteaelectronic-artsendless-trialfantasyfeaturedimperatorimperator-onlineinterviewinterviewsliving-citiesliving-guildsmark-jacobsmythicmythic-entertainmentpublic-questspvprvrstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorwarwarhammerwarhammer-onlineWed, 23 Jan 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Return to Ekrund now in Warhammer Online's live event]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/22/return-to-ekrund-now-in-warhammer-onlines-live-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/22/return-to-ekrund-now-in-warhammer-onlines-live-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/22/return-to-ekrund-now-in-warhammer-onlines-live-event/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Return to Ekrund now in Warhammer Online's live event
A week ago, it was only a tease hinted at on Twitter. Now, it's a sure thing: The Return to Ekrund live event is on Warhammer Online servers. The event takes place in or around Ekrund, the tier one starting area for Dwarven Oathbreakers. Players can work through the many steps of the event to earn special rewards. Event tasks include safely escorting Dwarf historians, killing enemy Greenskins, piecing together puzzles, and more.

Worried about turning into a chicken because your level is too high for a starting zone event? Don't be! Higher level players are tweaked in the RvR lakes (the PvP areas) and returned to a level fit for the area. However, don't expect to keep all your high-powered skills and your fast mount when you level down; you actually only get access to the skills, abilities, and tactics of that level!

MassivelyReturn to Ekrund now in Warhammer Online's live event originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 Jan 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artsendless-trialfantasyin-game-eventlive-eventlive-eventsmythicmythic-entertainmentpvpReturn-to-Ekrundrvrwarwarhammerwarhammer-onlineTue, 22 Jan 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online hints at new live event]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/15/warhammer-online-hints-at-new-live-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/15/warhammer-online-hints-at-new-live-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/15/warhammer-online-hints-at-new-live-event/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Warhammer Online hints at new live event
Is Warhammer Online preparing to unveil a brand-new live event to the game? A recent Twitter message by Mythic Implementation Lead Keaven Freeman suggests so. The developer posted a page from the Tome of Knowledge titled Return to Ekrund: A Stronghold Saga -- Part 1.

The page discusses a Dwarf explorer who discovers an ancient stronghold which contains clues to "legendary weapons of great power." The page also shows a standard reward meter with three icons on it.

A new live event is something to be anticipated and celebrated, so we'll be sure to follow this as it develops.

MassivelyWarhammer Online hints at new live event originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Jan 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>A-Stronghold-Sagaeaelectronic-artsendless-trialeventfantasykeaven-freemanlive-eventmythicmythic-entertainmentpvpReturn-to-Ekrundrvrwarwarhammerwarhammer-onlineTue, 15 Jan 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Today's Warhammer Online update unifies RvR currency]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/03/todays-warhammer-online-update-unifies-rvr-currency/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/03/todays-warhammer-online-update-unifies-rvr-currency/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/03/todays-warhammer-online-update-unifies-rvr-currency/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Today's Warhammer Online update unifies RvR currency
If you've played MMOs for any length of time, chances are you have come upon the dreaded "inventory full" message during your adventures. Warhammer Online is no exception to this phenomenon, and you don't have to be a certified packrat to run out of room when juggling the game's multiple RvR currencies. Even with the dedicated currency bag, the sheer volume of different types fills it quickly. But thanks to today's Game Update 1.4.8, Warhammer Online players will be able to convert all those crests, medallions, insignias, and emblems into a single currency -- war crests.

In the patch notes released last Friday, Mythic Entertainment detailed the unification of RvR currencies, outlining the specific conversion rates and RvR reward distribution. It also announced the addition of a new novelty vendor (where players can spend those newly acquired war crests on special experience, renown, or influence gain buffs) along with other equipment and merchant changes.

MassivelyToday's Warhammer Online update unifies RvR currency originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 03 Dec 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artsendless-trialfantasyGame-Update-1.4.8influence-bonusmythicmythic-entertainmentnew-vendorspatchpvprenown-bonusrvrRvR-currencyupdatewarwar-crestswarhammerwarhammer-onlineXP-bonusXP-buffsMon, 03 Dec 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA given best workplace title for LGBT employees]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/15/ea-given-best-workplace-title-for-lgbt-employees/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/15/ea-given-best-workplace-title-for-lgbt-employees/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/15/ea-given-best-workplace-title-for-lgbt-employees/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EA given best workplace title for LGBT employees
If there's one thing reading Massively's comments has taught me, it's that major big-budget game companies are evil and probably kill kittens. But a recent rating by the Human Rights Campaign might work towards changing your mind about EA a bit.

The Human Rights Campaign has given the company a 100 percent rating which has earned it the title of "Best Place to Work for LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender) Equality" for 2013. In addition to providing what they call a welcoming work environment for everyone, EA has also made changes to its medical benefits, involved itself in LGBT community events, and publicly denounced the Defense of Marriage Act.

EA currently publishes some of the most popular console and PC games out there, including the MMOs Star Wars: The Old Republic, The Secret World, Warhammer Online, and more.

MassivelyEA given best workplace title for LGBT employees originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Nov 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareconquesteaelectronic-artsendless-trialfactionfantasyfuncomhorrorhuman-rights-campaignlgbtlucasartsmythicmythic-entertainmentmythologypvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldskill-basedstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorthe-old-republicthe-secret-worldthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptortriontrion-worldstswwarwarhammerwarhammer-onlineThu, 15 Nov 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare Mythic is now just Mythic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/08/bioware-mythic-is-now-just-mythic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/08/bioware-mythic-is-now-just-mythic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/08/bioware-mythic-is-now-just-mythic/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

BioWare-Mythic is now just Mythic
Has the BioWare name lost its luster? That depends on whom you ask, of course, and we can't help but wonder at the mixed message behind Mythic's recent decision to dissociate itself from the famed RPG behemoth.

In a blurb on the official Warhammer Online website, community manager Kai Schober writes that BioWare Mythic will henceforth be known as Mythic, which is a return to the studio's pre-2010 days before it merged with BioWare and adopted the parent company's name as its prefix.

"In the wake of a new focus our studio has recently changed its name from BioWare Mythic to Mythic. Everything else stays the same -- our passionate teams will continue to support and develop our existing titles as well as working on some new and exciting projects," Schober writes.

MassivelyBioWare Mythic is now just Mythic originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Nov 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebioware-mythicbioware-mythic-is-now-mythiccamelotclassic-mmodaocdark-age-of-cameloteaelectronic-artsendless-trialfantasymythicmythic-entertainmentmythologypvprvrwarwarhammerwarhammer-onlineThu, 08 Nov 2012 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online unleashes the Daemonic Gifts of Khorne]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/24/warhammer-online-unleashes-the-daemonic-gifts-of-khorne/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/24/warhammer-online-unleashes-the-daemonic-gifts-of-khorne/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/24/warhammer-online-unleashes-the-daemonic-gifts-of-khorne/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

What, you expected the forces of chaos to work as a well-disciplined team?
Chaos in Warhammer Online is bad news. It's bad news for the more orderly people of the realm, but it's also sometimes bad news for the followers of Chaos, since the deities can be a bit unfocused when spreading madness. Case in point: the new event in which several of Khorne's daemons have broken through and joined the battles across the land by attacking every mortal within arm's reach. That means both Order and Chaos players will be able to take part in the event to push back Khorne's minions.

Participation simply requires players to slay Khorne's minions as well as throw in some enemy player kills. Successful participation rewards you with several boosts, including a special binding scroll for a daemon and new pieces of jewelry. No word on how long this event will take place, but considering it's a manifestation of chaos, we think it might be best to jump in and take advantage before it vanishes.

MassivelyWarhammer Online unleashes the Daemonic Gifts of Khorne originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 24 Oct 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chaosdaemonic-gifts-of-khorneeaelectronic-artsendless-trialeventevent-rewardsfantasyin-game-eventmythicmythic-entertainmentpvprewardsrvrspecial-eventswarwarhammerwarhammer-onlineWed, 24 Oct 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer's Daemon Moon Rising event now playing]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/23/warhammers-daemon-moon-rising-event-now-playing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/23/warhammers-daemon-moon-rising-event-now-playing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/23/warhammers-daemon-moon-rising-event-now-playing/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Warhammer's Daemon Moon Rising event now playing
If you haven't firmed up your MMO Halloween plans, we've got another event to tell you about. Warhammer Online's Daemon Moon Rising shindig is going on now through November 1st.

It features a Daemonball Rally public quest, a Daemon Mask event quest, and the High Pass Cemetery Scenario which offers extra influence if you participate wearing a Daemon Mask. There are seasonal drops aplenty, too, including crafting components for talisman-makers. Full event details are available on the official Warhammer website.

MassivelyWarhammer's Daemon Moon Rising event now playing originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Oct 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daemon-moon-risingeaelectronic-artsendless-trialfantasyhalloweenhalloween-eventin-game-eventsmythicmythic-entertainmentpvprvrwarwarhammerwarhammer-onlineTue, 23 Oct 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: Whimsy and oddity]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/02/jukebox-heroes-whimsy-and-oddity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/02/jukebox-heroes-whimsy-and-oddity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/02/jukebox-heroes-whimsy-and-oddity/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes Whimsy and oddity
I have two big announcements today. The first is that Jukebox Heroes is switching from a bi-weekly to a weekly schedule, which should delight my 30 readers and cause an epidemic of indifference elsewhere. The second is that we're going to take a week off examining specific soundtracks to have a little fun with how silly MMO studios can get.

If you haven't figured it out already, this column is kind of a not-so-subtle outlet for sharing my MMO music collection with you. I don't have any firm method of collection other than I just acquire tracks that my ear tells me I'd like to hear again. So along the way, I've acquired a few oddball pieces that you probably won't find on any OST but that are notable enough to share.

In some cases, these tracks represent studios' attempts (successful or otherwise) to let down their hair and be humorous. In others, these songs are parodies or one-time special events. So let's take a sidebar to look at the whimsical and odd songs of gaming.

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: Whimsy and oddity

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: Whimsy and oddity originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Oct 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbrowserbrowser-basedchampionschampions-onlinechampscocomposercomposersconsoleconsolescrypticcryptic-studiosddodungeons-and-dragons-onlineeaelectronic-artsendless-trialf2pfantasyfeaturedfrfree-realmsfree-to-playgame-musicguild-wars-2gw2hello-kittyhello-kitty-onlinehkojukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettikid-friendlykidskids-mmokiss-my-axemmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicmythicmythic-entertainmentncsoftopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentplaystation-3playstation3ps3pvppwervrsoesonysony-online-entertainmentsoundtracksoundtrackssuperherosuperheroesthe-guildthe-hamtoucherswarwarhammerwarhammer-onlineworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 02 Oct 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Four years of WAR: An interview with Mythic's James Casey]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/20/four-years-of-war-an-interview-with-producer-james-casey/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/20/four-years-of-war-an-interview-with-producer-james-casey/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/20/four-years-of-war-an-interview-with-producer-james-casey/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Four years of WAR An interview with Producer James Casey
To celebrate Warhammer Online's fourth anniversary this week, we got in touch with EA Mythic Producer James Casey to talk about the past, present, and future of WAAAGH!

Massively: Four years is a sizable length of time in any MMO's life. How does it feel to hit that mark?

James Casey: It feels great to have been able to have support from the Warhammer and gaming community for the last four years. That support has allowed us to continue bringing them the thrilling Realm vs. Realm combat and engrossing worlds that they have come to expect from Mythic and Games Workshop.

To your point about four years being a sizable length of time for an MMO, I will say that as a studio, we actually have a stable of MMOs that have been around for a damn respectable amount of time. From Ultima Online hitting its amazing 15th anniversary this year to Dark Age of Camelot having already broken that fabled 10-year mark, we've had a remarkable run in the MMO space, and I think that I can speak for everyone who has come and gone or still remains in saying a heartfelt thanks to all of our fans and customers over all the years. We owe that track record to them, and we hope that as we continue to evolve and develop as a studio and across our products, we can provide more of that sense of community in all of our offerings.

Continue reading Four years of WAR: An interview with Mythic's James Casey

MassivelyFour years of WAR: An interview with Mythic's James Casey originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 Sep 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowaredaocdark-age-of-cameloteaelectronic-artsendless-trialf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playinterviewinterviewsjames-caseymobamythicmythic-entertainmentpvprvrultima-onlineuowarwarhammerwarhammer-onlinewarhammer-wrath-of-heroeswohwrath-of-heroesThu, 20 Sep 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist: Happy birthday, Warhammer Online and Fallen Earth!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/18/the-game-archaeologist-happy-birthday-warhammer-online-and-fal/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/18/the-game-archaeologist-happy-birthday-warhammer-online-and-fal/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/18/the-game-archaeologist-happy-birthday-warhammer-online-and-fal/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The Game Archaeologist Happy birthday, Warhammer Online and Fallen Earth!
September is a special month for me because it was around this time that two MMOs personally meaningful to me launched. Four years ago, Warhammer Online came into being amid a flurry of hype, insane expectations, and fan frenzy. It's the game that excited me enough to start my journey as a blogger, eventually landing me a spot here on Massively. And three years ago, Fallen Earth opened my eyes to how much fun an MMO about the end of the world and crafting could be.

Despite the fact that neither of these titles qualifies for the title of "success" these days, I still bear a soft spot in my heart for them. I spent well over a year in each game, racking up several memories and useful lessons that I'd carry with me going forward. And I don't regret a single day playing them.

Since this month is the fourth anniversary of WAR and the third of Fallen Earth, I wanted to offer a hearty "congrats!" and take a minute to see what's been moving and shaking in these games during this past year.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist: Happy birthday, Warhammer Online and Fallen Earth!

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist: Happy birthday, Warhammer Online and Fallen Earth! originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Sep 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversaryclassicclassic-mmosclassicseaelectronic-artsendless-trialf2pfallen-earthfantasyfefeaturedfree-to-playg1game-archaelogistgamersfirstmythicmythic-entertainmentnostalgiaopinionpost-apocpost-apocalypticpvprvrsandboxsci-fithe-game-archaeologistwarwarhammerwarhammer-onlinewastelandsTue, 18 Sep 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online celebrates fourth anniversary with rewards and bonuses]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/18/warhammer-online-celebrates-fourth-anniversary-with-rewards-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/18/warhammer-online-celebrates-fourth-anniversary-with-rewards-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/18/warhammer-online-celebrates-fourth-anniversary-with-rewards-and/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Warhammer Online celebrates four years with rewards and bonuses
Belch forth a mighty "WAAAGH!" today, for Warhammer Online is now officially four years old. EA Mythic's dark fantasy title came on the scene in 2008 with a strong emphasis on PvP combat.

To celebrate the occasion, Mythic announced that all players will enjoy 10 days of bonus XP and RP starting today. Also as part of the festivities, fireworks can be looted from corpses during this time. Why are so many warriors carrying fireworks? Discount sale, of course. Finally, Mythic is rewarding the faithful who have stuck with WAR for all four years with a new portable mailbox at the end of the month.

The devs used this opportunity to remind players that patch 1.4.7 is on course to go live later in September after the Wild Hunt event. The team's also working on a new random live event and an upcoming community patch.

MassivelyWarhammer Online celebrates fourth anniversary with rewards and bonuses originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Sep 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.4.74th-anniversaryanniversarybonus-xpeaelectronic-artsendless-trialfantasyfour-yearsfourth-anniversarylive-eventmythicmythic-entertainmentpatch-1.4.7portable-mailboxpvprvrwarwarhammerwarhammer-onlinewild-huntTue, 18 Sep 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Goosebump trailers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/02/the-perfect-ten-goosebump-trailers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/02/the-perfect-ten-goosebump-trailers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/02/the-perfect-ten-goosebump-trailers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Perfect Ten Goosebump trailers
I love trailers. Man, I love trailers. I'm almost embarrassed to admit it, but sometimes I'll spend a shameful hour just flipping through all of my favorite movie and game trailers. When the editing is tight and the music spot-on, my spine becomes infused with epicness and I feel a heady buzz that comes from seeing so much awesome crammed into such a short clip.

Just as in the movie industry, MMO studios are hit or miss with their trailers. There have been so many generic, forgettable videos that I pad the lining of my imaginary dog's crate with them. They're very absorbent and release the fresh scent of pine. But once in a while, there comes along a trailer that acts like the Dark Crystal, sucking my soul right into it before shaking it around and then releasing it. Trailers like that give me goosebumps, and here are 10 of them, all in a row.

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Goosebump trailers

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Goosebump trailers originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Aug 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionanetarenanetbiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentblurblur-studioscarbinecarbine-studiosconsoleconsolescrypticcryptic-studiosdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuoeaelectronic-artsendless-trialf2pfactionfantasyfeaturedfpsfree-to-playfuncomgaglobal agendaguild-wars-2gw2hi-rezhi-rez-studioshorrorhumorlucasartsmmo-shootermmofpsmoviemoviesmythicmythic-entertainmentmythologyncsoftopinionp10perfect-10perfect-tenperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentplanetsideplanetside-2playstation-3playstation3ps2ps3pvppwerounduprvrsandboxsandparksci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldshooterskill-basedsoesonysony-online-entertainmentspy-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstosubsubscription-feesuperherosuperheroesswtorthe-burning-crusadethe-old-republicthe-perfect-10the-perfect-tenthe-secret-worldthird-person-shootertop-10top-10-listtop-tentop-ten-listtortpstrailertrailerstswvideowarwarcraftwarhammerwarhammer-onlinewildstarworld-of-warcraftwowwsThu, 02 Aug 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Amazing amateur MMO cosplay]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/05/the-perfect-ten-amazing-amateur-mmo-cosplay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/05/the-perfect-ten-amazing-amateur-mmo-cosplay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/05/the-perfect-ten-amazing-amateur-mmo-cosplay/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Perfect Ten Great MMO cosplay outfits
I find the whole cosplay subculture at conventions to be both foreign and fascinating. On one hand, I deeply admire the dedication and time it takes to put together a complex outfit and then spend all day wearing this custom-made sweatsuit. On the other hand, it does tend to bring out some folks' narcissism and unnecessary cleavage.

While many facets of geek and video game culture are adequately represented by those crazy cosplayers, I don't see as much when it comes to MMORPGs. Was it truly underrepresented, I wondered, or have I just never looked?

Consider the following 10 costumes the result of an afternoon or two combing through so much amateur cosplay that it vastly exceeded the recommended amount as set by the American Medical Association. I'm glad to make the sacrifice for you, and besides, you just know those doctors are the ones in these outfits, anyway.

(Please note that if you're looking for more skin than skill, this will not be the list for you!)

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Amazing amateur MMO cosplay

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Amazing amateur MMO cosplay originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Jul 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acaction-rpgactivisionaionanetarenanetascensionasherons-callbattlenetbiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcash-shopclassic-mmocosplaycostumecostumesd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiieaelectronic-artsendless-trialeqeq-2eq-iieq1eq2eqiieverquesteverquest-2everquest-iif2pfactionfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfroglokfuncomgothic-fantasyguild-warsgwgwenhorrorhumorlucasartsmultiplayermythicmythic-entertainmentmythologyncsoftonline-multiplayeropinionoutfitoutfitsp10perfect-10perfect-tenpvpratongaroguelikerounduprpgrvrsandboxsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldskill-basedsoesonysony-online-entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorthe-old-republicthe-perfect-10the-perfect-tenthe-secret-worldtop-10top-10-listtop-tentop-ten-listtortruly-freetswturbineturbine-entertainmentwarwarcraftwarhammerwarhammer-onlineworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 05 Jul 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Blender: Eliot's self-made legend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/29/mmo-blender-eliots-self-made-legend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/29/mmo-blender-eliots-self-made-legend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/29/mmo-blender-eliots-self-made-legend/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Yes, I sort of had a Greek thing on my mind with this one.
I like games that make your characters feel legendary, but sometimes I think they've gotten the whole formula wrong. The problem is that the only thing important about your character is what he or she has done, not what he or she is. World of Warcraft has a lot of quests and raids that seem to imply your character is a big deal, but how big a deal can you really be if you're learning all of your tricks at the local trainer?

What about a game where your personal history has as much to do with your future development as anything else? A game where your accomplishments aren't just backstory but an integral part of your character's abilities? A game where every new encounter is a chance for your character to learn something unique? I'd love to see a game where your accomplishments are not a list of things that you've killed but a clear litany of skills learned and scars accumulated -- a game where the path to power isn't necessarily clearly marked.

Continue reading MMO Blender: Eliot's self-made legend

MassivelyMMO Blender: Eliot's self-made legend originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Jun 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armchair-game-designblueholebluehole-studioscity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeaelectronic-artsen-masseen-masse-entertainmentendless-trialf2pfantasyfavorite-mmofeaturedffff11ffxifinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-xifree-to-playfreedomgame-designgame-mechanicslord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromechanicsmmo-blendermmo-mechanicsmmo-mix-tapemmo-mixologymythicmythic-entertainmentncsoftopinionparagonparagon-studiospvprvrsquaresquare-enixsuperherosuperheroesteraturbineturbine-entertainmentwarwarhammerwarhammer-onlineFri, 29 Jun 2012 15:00:00 EST