Massively Speaking http://massively.joystiq.com This is the Massively podcast http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Massively SpeakingJoystiqMassively Speaking<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you judge all MMOs by the same standard?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/the-daily-grind-do-you-judge-all-mmos-by-the-same-standard/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/the-daily-grind-do-you-judge-all-mmos-by-the-same-standard/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/the-daily-grind-do-you-judge-all-mmos-by-the-same-standard/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Xsyon - player-created temple
One of the challenges facing sandbox developers is the fact that recent themepark MMORPGs have raised the bar in terms of smooth launches and relatively bug-free experiences. Aside from EVE Online, most of the current sandboxes on offer are small indie affairs known as much for their rough-around-the-edges implementation as for their feature innovations.

And yet, many so-called sandbox fans seem to expect games like Xsyon, Darkfall, and others to be as polished as World of Warcraft, RIFT, and other themeparks with fewer features and several times the budget.

For today's Daily Grind, we'd like to know how much (if any) slack you cut developers of sandbox and/or indie MMOs. Do you hold these games to the same standard that you hold a triple-A themepark?

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: Do you judge all MMOs by the same standard? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 May 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugsdaily-grindfeaturedopinionpolishsandboxsandbox-fanstdgthe-daily-grindthemeparkxsyonThu, 17 May 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xsyon welcomes back former players, gears up for totem decay]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/xsyon-welcomes-back-former-players-gears-up-for-totem-decay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/xsyon-welcomes-back-former-players-gears-up-for-totem-decay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/xsyon-welcomes-back-former-players-gears-up-for-totem-decay/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Xsyon - Totem decay
Notorious Games is working overtime to highlight all of the changes it's made to its Xsyon sandbox. The company ran a 10-day welcome back promotion late last month, and it's doing so again starting this Friday. Previous subscribers will receive a free 10-day pass, while current players will get two additional weeks of game time on the house.

The dates for the 10-day passes vary, according to Notorious' latest press release. If you're a previous subscriber, check your email over the next few days to see where your game time falls within the larger five-week promotional window.

Also noteworthy for dedicated Xsyon players is the fact that the game's totem system will enter something called a decay phase once these trial periods are over. Totems represent land claimed by a particular guild, and those without any actively subscribed players will become abandoned in short order. Abandoned totems will then decay and free up the land for other players, while also leaving any buildings, resources, and containers free for the taking.

[Source: Notorious Games press release]

MassivelyXsyon welcomes back former players, gears up for totem decay originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 May 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fantasynotoriousnotorious-gamespost-apocpost-apocalypticpvpsandboxsci-fantasysci-fitotem-decayxsyonxsyon-totem-decayTue, 15 May 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Latest Xsyon patch adds player-made quests, tweaks skill gains]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/latest-xsyon-patch-adds-player-made-quests-tweaks-skill-gains/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/latest-xsyon-patch-adds-player-made-quests-tweaks-skill-gains/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/latest-xsyon-patch-adds-player-made-quests-tweaks-skill-gains/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Xsyon - player-made cart
What's new in the world of Xsyon? Quite a lot, according to Notorious Games' latest patch notes. The new update has overhauled many of the sandbox survival MMO's systems, including extensive skill tweaks, increased stat gains based on actions, and stat readjustment functionality.

Players may also create quests for one another. Doing so rewards both the quester and the creator with XP upon successful quest completion. Overall experience gain has been adjusted to reward players per action and via quests, which should lead to a marked reduction in the grinding necessary to gain skills.

These are just a few of the improvements, too. Have a look at the patch notes for the full list.

MassivelyLatest Xsyon patch adds player-made quests, tweaks skill gains originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 May 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fantasynotoriousnotorious-gamesplayer-contentplayer-generated-contentplayer-made-questsplayer-questspost-apocpost-apocalypticpvpsandboxsci-fantasysci-fiuser-generated-contentxsyonxsyon-patchxsyon-skillsThu, 03 May 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xsyon hosts 10-day welcome back promotion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/xsyon-hosts-10-day-welcome-back-promotion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/xsyon-hosts-10-day-welcome-back-promotion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/xsyon-hosts-10-day-welcome-back-promotion/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Xsyon
Did you play the sandbox title Xsyon in the past year but you've let your subscription slip? Notorious Games wants your patronage back, and it's willing to meet you halfway with 10 days of free game time to check out all of the new additions and developments in the game.

Any former subscriber to Xsyon will receive a 10-day pass to the game sometime after May 18th. This time will be used over the course of five weeks. Eligible players will be notified by email when their 10-day slot is scheduled.

Xsyon recently celebrated its first anniversary and since launch has seen explosive growth of both player-created structures and the wildlife population. Other improvements that Notorious Games is proud of include a better crafting system, an overhauled UI, and tweaked visuals.

MassivelyXsyon hosts 10-day welcome back promotion originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversaryfantasyfree-game-timenotoriousnotorious-gamespost-apocpost-apocalypticpromotionpvpsandboxsci-fantasysci-fiwelcome-backwelcome-back-promotionxsyonTue, 24 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xsyon celebrates its first year of Prelude]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/xsyon-celebrates-its-first-year-of-prelude/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/xsyon-celebrates-its-first-year-of-prelude/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/xsyon-celebrates-its-first-year-of-prelude/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Xsyon screenshot
One year and counting. Crack open the waterskin and raise a toast to Xsyon: Today the post-apocalyptic sandbox by Notorious Games celebrates its first full year of launch. Well, the first year of the official launch of Prelude, a limited first release of the virtual world. Come to think of it, even that date seems a bit nebulous as the pre-order players in the first phase of Year Zero (basically beta) actually had their most significant change on March 11th, 2011 when the second phase launched and totems were introduced.

Semantics aside, Xsyon has come a long way from that official first day. Unlike many games where gameplay is neatly laid out, this indie title gives players only the canvas and a few tools before setting them loose to fashion their world. As the year continued, additional tools were provided and the world became more vibrant and dynamic. Initially barren without any critters (other than your surviving neighbors) to hunt, the world is now populated with large creatures that roam the land, threatening the lives of travelers and hunters alike. Even the lay of the land itself is different as players manipulate and alter the terrain, build settlements, and plant trees. Communities are forming; groups are supporting and even entertaining each other. Civilization is slowly rebuilding.

And that's only the beginning.

Continue reading Xsyon celebrates its first year of Prelude

MassivelyXsyon celebrates its first year of Prelude originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarybuildingcraftingdynamic-AIfeaturedharvestingmutantsnotoriousnotorious-gamesplantingplanting-treespost-apocpost-apocalypticpvprebuildingrebuilding-civilizationsandboxsci-fantasysci-fiterraformingxsyonThu, 15 Mar 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Assembly Required: Six must-haves for creative expression]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/some-assembly-required-six-must-haves-for-creative-expression/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/some-assembly-required-six-must-haves-for-creative-expression/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/some-assembly-required-six-must-haves-for-creative-expression/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Some Assembly Required header
Creativity. It is expressed in so many ways in so many mediums. Art, literature, architecture, music, performance... I love it all, conventional and unconventional. Heck, I revel in it! Why do you think my work and recreation include gaming?

Wait, gaming?! You betcha!

Beyond the artistry of the developers, MMORPGs offer outlets for player creativity in a variety of ways. I am not ashamed to admit that the primary reason I delve into MMORPGs is not for the gameplay but to explore and experience the creative expression of others (and to express some of my own as well). In fact, finding and sharing that very creativity by championing and highlighting player-generated content is precisely what Some Assembly Required is about.

Between (or in lieu of) the hacking, the slashing, and the plundering, players seize proffered tools in myriad virtual realms to build works of art, pen masterpieces, construct edifices, compose melodies, and take the stage, all within the pixeled confines of a virtual world. Unfortunately, not all games have adequate tools for such creative expression. While inspired players can make do if they must, having supporting features exponentially enhances a game (and positively affects retention). Thankfully, some games provide a few standard-setting features that -- in my opinion -- should be included in every game on the market. Here are six of those must-have features.

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: Six must-haves for creative expression

MassivelySome Assembly Required: Six must-haves for creative expression originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appearance-slotsbookbookscreativitydecoratingdungeon-makeremotesEQ2EverQuest-2everquest-iifeaturedgame-mechanicshousingopinionperformancepgcplayer-booksplayer-contentplayer-generated-contentplayer-housingplayer-written-booksquest-builderroleplayRolePlayingrpsandboxsarSOEsome-assembly-requiredSony-Online-Entertainmentstar-trek-onlinestar-wars-galaxiesswgterraformingvanguardwritingxsyonxsyon-preludeFri, 02 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Are you a bad enough dude to survive Xsyon's Mutant Maze?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/are-you-a-bad-enough-dude-to-survive-xsyons-mutant-maze/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/are-you-a-bad-enough-dude-to-survive-xsyons-mutant-maze/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/are-you-a-bad-enough-dude-to-survive-xsyons-mutant-maze/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Also the president might have been kidnapped by a giant bear.
Do you feel lucky when you log into Xsyon? Do you feel as if you can go anywhere and do anything in complete safety? Then perhaps you'd like to test your skills this weekend when the game unleashes the Mutant Maze event starting at 3 p.m. EST (12 p.m. PST). Open to everyone who wishes to take part, the event will teleport all volunteers to the designated grounds at the start and teleport them back at the conclusion... but there's no certainty you'll emerge victorious.

So what is the Mutant Maze? It's a labyrinth filled with all sorts of nasty mutants, hence the name. Players will be able to keep the spoils of their kills, and there's a special prize for completing a round of the maze by both surviving and finding the exit successfully. There are three total rounds, enough to test the game's most seasoned veterans -- but for the glory of a prize, won't you spend a weekend ambling through a maze filled with enormous bears?

[Source: Notorious Games press release]

MassivelyAre you a bad enough dude to survive Xsyon's Mutant Maze? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>challengeseventin-game-eventlabyrinthlimited-time-eventsmazemutant-mazenotorious-gamesspecial-eventsupcoming-eventsxsyonWed, 22 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Assembly Required: Xsyon picks up speed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/some-assembly-required-xsyon-picks-up-speed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/some-assembly-required-xsyon-picks-up-speed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/some-assembly-required-xsyon-picks-up-speed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Some Assembly Required header
Last year, I had the opportunity to meander around Xsyon for Choose My Adventure. Then, the game was still at the end of its beta phase. Now, with some time under its belt since release, the game continues to grow. And January has seen quite the growth spurt.

I won't complain if the momentum that Xsyon has shown in the last month keeps up. Announcing multiple events and an architecture contest? Not to mention introducing new goodies? You go, game! Though it's small and indie, I am totally rooting for this title to succeed. Why? The main reason is that the game is reliant on player generated content: Instead of developers designing every aspect of the game, they built the world as a foundation and gave players the tools to go from there. This game is one of the few out there that offers many avenues for players to generate their own content and have a visible and lasting impact on the world around them.

And just how is post-apocalyptic Earth shaping up with the players at the helm? This week, Some Assembly Required explores the once-ravaged land to highlight some of that generated content, from events (both player-run and developer sponsored) to small- and large-scale construction.

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: Xsyon picks up speed

MassivelySome Assembly Required: Xsyon picks up speed originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>architecturechoose-my-adventurechoose-my-adventure-xsyonCMAcontestcontestseventsevents-in-gamefeaturedin-game-eventsnew-featuresnotorious-gamesplantingplanting-treesplayer-generated-contentplayer-run-eventssandboxsandbox-experienceSARsome-assembly-requiredterraformingXsyonxsyon-earth-2012Fri, 03 Feb 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xsyon hosting month-long architecture contest]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/xsyon-hosting-month-long-architecture-contest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/xsyon-hosting-month-long-architecture-contest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/xsyon-hosting-month-long-architecture-contest/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Xsyon - This took insane amounts of time.
If you're a member of a tribe in Xsyon, you might want to check out Notorious Games' latest architecture contest. The event runs from February 1st to March 1st, and it's open to both small tribes (between one and five members) and larger groups (six or more members).

Since it's an architecture contest, you'll obviously need to construct (or re-construct) your tribe settlement. Notorious will be judging your creations for originality, uniqueness, design, layout, and beautification.

The dev team is remaining coy when it comes to contest incentives, but the latest Xsyon press release does say that "there will be a large prize for the winning tribe in each group."

MassivelyXsyon hosting month-long architecture contest originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>architecture-contestcontestfantasyin-game-eventnotorious-gamesplayer-citiesplayer-contentplayer-generated-contentpost-apocalypticsandboxtribe-citiesuser-generated-contentxsyonMon, 30 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xsyon architecture gallery shows off unique player-made structures]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/xsyon-architecture-gallery-shows-off-unique-player-made-structur/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/xsyon-architecture-gallery-shows-off-unique-player-made-structur/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/xsyon-architecture-gallery-shows-off-unique-player-made-structur/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Xsyon - player town
Xsyon's PR machine is shifting into high gear of late, and the post-apocalyptic sandbox title from Notorious Games has released another batch of screenshots. This isn't your typical 10-screenshot blast, either, but rather an entirely new gallery section on the official website devoted exclusively to user creations.

Notorious is intent on showing off what it calls player architecture, as Xsyon is one of the few games on the current MMO market that actually allows for unique creations in terms of buildings, structures, and even town layouts. You can see a few of the choice shots in our Xsyon gallery below, but you'll need to head to the game's official website to see them all.

[Source: Notorious Games press release]

Gallery: Xsyon

MassivelyXsyon architecture gallery shows off unique player-made structures originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingfantasygallerynon-combat-gameplaynotorious-gamesplayer-architectureplayer-citiesplayer-generated-contentplayer-housingpost-apocalypticsandboxscreenshotscreenshotssurvivaltradeskillsxsyonTue, 17 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xsyon highlights upcoming player-run event, includes bear-fighting]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/xsyon-highlights-upcoming-player-run-event-includes-bear-fighti/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/xsyon-highlights-upcoming-player-run-event-includes-bear-fighti/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/xsyon-highlights-upcoming-player-run-event-includes-bear-fighti/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Ribcages will be available via microtransaction in the next DLC update [Citation Needed]
It's been a while since we've heard anything from Notorious-Games' sandbox MMO Xsyon, but the silence has been broken with a new press release from the studio announcing a large player-run event. The Praetorian Guard tribe is hosting a Spring Clean-Up event, throughout the course of which attendees will be treated to activities ranging from treasure hunts, obstacle courses, and -- our personal favorite, if only for the wtf factor alone -- The Bear Arena of Doom. The event will be taking place at 3:00 p.m. EST on January 14th, which is this coming Saturday, so gather up your best ursine-proof equipment and go wrestle some bears for fun and profit.

[Source: Notorious-Games press release]

MassivelyXsyon highlights upcoming player-run event, includes bear-fighting originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bear-arena-of-doooooomeventsin-game-eventsjesus-christ-its-a-bear-get-in-the-carnotorious-gamesplayer-run-eventplayer-run-eventstribe-run-eventtribe-run-eventsxsyonWed, 11 Jan 2012 18:00:00 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: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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

MassivelySome 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[Xsyon tweaks combat, releases new screenshots]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/22/xsyon-tweaks-combat-releases-new-screenshots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/22/xsyon-tweaks-combat-releases-new-screenshots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/22/xsyon-tweaks-combat-releases-new-screenshots/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Xsyon - that's a lot of logs
It's been quite a while since we checked in with Xsyon, and it's been nearly nine whole months since the game officially launched with its Prelude limited release event.

In that time, Notorious Games has been hard at work, and the company has just published a partial listing of all the improvements made to the post-apocalyptic sandbox (as well as a few new screenshots). Tweaks include new twitch-based combat, an enhanced creature system, an expanded construction system that allows for buildings and towns, and various UI improvements.

Xyson: Prelude is now available for a $39.99 client fee (which includes one month of free game time) and a $14.99 monthly sub. Have a look at some of the player-created content in our gallery below.

[Source: Notorious Games press release]

Gallery: Xsyon

MassivelyXsyon tweaks combat, releases new screenshots originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fantasygallerynotorious-gamesplayer-contentplayer-created-contentplayer-generated-contentpost-apocalypticsandboxscreenshotsvirtual-worldxsyonThu, 22 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Assembly Required: Is the sandbox dead?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/02/some-assembly-required-is-the-sandbox-dead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/02/some-assembly-required-is-the-sandbox-dead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/02/some-assembly-required-is-the-sandbox-dead/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Some Assembly Required - header with plans
Let's face it, folks, 2011 has been a fairly bad year for sandbox MMORPGs. Whether we're talking about the premature (and, ahem, forced) demise of Star Wars Galaxies, EVE Online's public relations disasters and its capitulation to the cash-shop-in-a-sub-based game fad, or Earthrise's rough launch, there hasn't been a lot to celebrate for fans of non-linear MMO gameplay in quite a while.

I've even had several friends ask me point blank: Is the sandbox dead? The short answer is not just no, but hell no. Join me after the cut for a few bright spots as we look to the future, take stock of the present, and try to forget about the past.

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: Is the sandbox dead?

MassivelySome Assembly Required: Is the sandbox dead? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Sep 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-tale-in-the-desertasherons-callavataravatar-creationsaventurinecraftingdarkfalldawntideearthriseemergent-gameplayeveeve-onlinefeaturedis-the-sandbox-deadmastheadmasthead-studiosopinionperpetuumplayer-contentplayer-generated-contentsandboxsandbox-optionssome-assembly-requiredstar-wars-galaxiesswgturbineultimaultima-onlineuoworking-as-intendedwurmwurm-onlinexsyonFri, 02 Sep 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xsyon devs talk farming, crafting and PvE vs. PvP]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/xsyon-devs-talk-farming-crafting-and-pve-vs-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/xsyon-devs-talk-farming-crafting-and-pve-vs-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/xsyon-devs-talk-farming-crafting-and-pve-vs-pvp/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

If sandbox MMORPGs are more ambitious than their themepark counterparts, it follows that the former are also more susceptible to bugs, performance problems, and general player discontent. Xsyon is no exception, and the post-apocalyptic world-building title from Notorious Games has traveled a rough yet familiar road since its March release.

According to a couple of recent posts on the Xsyon boards, better times are in the offing. Notorious is in fact expanding its dev roster, and new game designer/programmer Danathur throws the community a few bones in his introduction post. Aside from providing a bit of detail on his new duties, he also addresses the ongoing war of words between PvE and PvP supporters vying for the future of Xsyon. "We do not want to create a massively multiplayer first person shooter. On the other hand, conflicts and managing them (not only by violence) [are] the real challenge and where the most fun will come from in the long term," he explains.

Danathur goes on to say that both crafting and combat will become more expensive in short order due to the enabling of item stats and decay. His sentiments echo those of lead designer Jordi Grau-Davis, who posted earlier this week to announce the new dev hires and to give the community a feel for Xsyon's development roadmap. "We are going to evolve Xsyon to include farming, contested expansion totems and revamped combat. The goal is to provide more daily activities to tend to and something to fight over," he wrote.

MassivelyXsyon devs talk farming, crafting and PvE vs. PvP originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingdanathurdevelopersfarmingjordi-grau-davisnew-devsnotoriousnotorious-gamespost-apocalypticpvepvpsandboxsci-fisurvivalxsyonWed, 27 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Community Detective Issue #20: Xsyon [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/12/community-detective-issue-20-xsyon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/12/community-detective-issue-20-xsyon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/12/community-detective-issue-20-xsyon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Community Detective banner - Xsyon
Welcome back, intrepid readers. After a bit of a hiatus, Community Detective is back on the case (that case being the chronicling of various MMORPG communities and customer service experiences).

When I left off a few weeks ago, I'd just completed a whirlwind tour of DC Universe Online -- the PC and console versions -- and this week's issue couldn't be more different. We're talking polar opposites here, as Notorious Games' Xsyon sandbox is everything that DCUO is not (although the two titles do share half-baked chat functionality).

I'll be honest here: I tend to cut sandboxes an inordinate amount of slack because a) I love them, and b) they've been relegated to second-class citizen status on account of the casual MMORPG explosion. Join me after the cut as I attempt to maintain some semblance of objectivity while recounting a couple weeks' worth of Xsyon community and customer service adventures.

Continue reading Community Detective Issue #20: Xsyon [Updated]

MassivelyCommunity Detective Issue #20: Xsyon [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 12 Apr 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>communitycommunity-detectivecommunity-pollingcommunity-questionscsrcustomer-servicefeaturedgmhands-onpost-apocalypticsandboxsci-fitahoe-basinxsyonTue, 12 Apr 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: The final countdown]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/choose-my-adventure-the-final-countdown/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/choose-my-adventure-the-final-countdown/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/choose-my-adventure-the-final-countdown/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Your voices were heard! At least, I do hope those are your voices I've been hearing in my head... they are telling me to do things. And I listened. I am instructed to listen to the voices. The voices can't hurt me, right? Well, maybe not the voices themselves, but since they chimed in on experimenting with combat, I know I am about to get hurt some!

This week concludes our foray into Xsyon for Choose My Adventure, but I dare say it does not end my time there. Although the game does not fit the standard mold of MMO fare today, it has been quite enjoyable and a great change of pace. I have kept myself entertained with my adventures in-game and I still look forward to logging in each time (minus the apprehension as the combat loomed closer).

Take a (final) hike past the cut for the results of our look at combat, some final impressions on the game, and a sneak peek at your next CMA guinea pig.

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: The final countdown

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: The final countdown originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Apr 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>architecturechoose-my-adventurechoose-my-adventure-mj-guthriechoose-my-adventure-xsyoncmafeaturedffa-pvpgalleryimpressionimpressionsnotoriousnotorious-gamesplayer-created-contentpost-apocalypticpreludepvppvp-tournamentSandboxsandbox-experiencesandbox-gamingsandbox-mmoTahoetahoe-basinterraformingtribetribesxsyonxsyon-earth-2012xsyon-preludeWed, 06 Apr 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: Making the world (a better place?)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/30/cma-making-the-world-a-better-place/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/30/cma-making-the-world-a-better-place/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/30/cma-making-the-world-a-better-place/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Here we are, drawing closer to the end of our Choose My Adventure journey, and I feel like I have just barely gotten started in Xsyon! There is so much left to do; I haven't even scratched the surface of my goals yet. Since construction is a slow process and gathering resources is taking longer and longer each day (you should see the workout I get hauling logs!), my personal fortress is still just a few completed walls and one pillar. I also haven't managed to circumvent the lake, find any chalk, or convince anyone to let me be President/Supreme Ruler of the Lake.

All right, maybe I haven't really tried hard at that last goal, but this week has seen your CMA correspondent meeting and greeting neighbors throughout the region, gathering resources, politely declining tribe invites (I will remain true to the vote throughout our adventures), and attempting to improve my skill in architecture. Also, I have enjoyed some relaxing fishing. As jaunts into the wilds for wood became longer each day, I kept watch over my shoulder with a touch of apprehension, always on the lookout for hostile folks and animals alike. There is always some question as to whether or not the elusive animals are in the game, but I have had a couple of run-ins with a mama and baby bear that ended poorly for me, so I try to never let my guard down.

What else did I learn this week about life on the shores of Lake Tahoe? Hike past the break to take a look at this week's adventures in Xsyon and then vote on how we approach combat for our final installment of Choose My Adventure.

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: Making the world (a better place?)

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: Making the world (a better place?) originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 30 Mar 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>choose-my-adventure-mj-guthriechoose-my-adventure-xsyoncombatcraftingcrafting-systemCraftingBuildingsexploreexploringfeaturedfishingnotorious-gamespollpollspost-apocalypticpvpSandboxsandbox-experiencesandboxingskillskill-masteryskillssurvival-tipstravelxsyonxsyon-earth-2012xsyon-preludeWed, 30 Mar 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: I've been digging on the homestead...]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/23/choose-my-adventure-ive-been-digging-on-the-homestead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/23/choose-my-adventure-ive-been-digging-on-the-homestead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/23/choose-my-adventure-ive-been-digging-on-the-homestead/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

All the live long day! Sing it with me now...

There really is something to be said for creating your own world. How many of you gamers out there have just ached for a MMO game in which you could truly affect the world instead of rolling along on a predestined path that is the same for everyone? As I delve deeper into Xsyon, that is what I find -- a world where my actions have real meaning. A world where we can change not only the political and economic landscapes but the literal landscape.

For Choose My Adventure this week, you, the Massively readers, decided that I shall work on my architecture skills and place a homestead (thereby allowing me to terraform). This really highlights some of the most unique features of the game. Although I dove into these new tasks with gusto, I now know why olden-day manual laborers sang songs during their work -- there is serious need of brain stimulation during long, monotonous labor. And building a new world from the ground up is seriously a long and slow process. If nothing else, Xsyon is not a game for the instant-gratification crowd. Which is all the better, in my opinion.

For a deeper look at terraforming, crafting, and general life in the Tahoe Basin, build a bridge over the cut and check out where our adventures led this week.

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: I've been digging on the homestead...

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: I've been digging on the homestead... originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>architecturechoose-my-adventurechoose-my-adventure-mj-guthriechoose-my-adventure-xsyoncmacraftingfeaturedffa-pvpgatheringnotoriousnotorious-gamespost-apocalypticpvepvpresourcesstorageTahoetahoe-basinterraformingTravelingtribetribesxsyonxsyon-earth-2012xsyon-preludeWed, 23 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: And so it began... again]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/16/choose-my-adventure-and-so-it-began-again/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/16/choose-my-adventure-and-so-it-began-again/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/16/choose-my-adventure-and-so-it-began-again/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Well, this week has certainly been interesting. And by interesting, I mean not really usual. Then again, if any of you know me very well, that really should not come as much of a surprise; normal and MJ usually do not coexist in the same stratosphere. I am also not one to shy away from the untrodden path, and I tend to take off on my own tangents. Who needs easy when you can have interesting? Perhaps this quality alone made me a decent match for tackling the world of Xsyon for this round of Choose My Adventure. That, and a measure of patience.

In my first true week of playing Xsyon, I really didn't get to "play" much of anything. Not in any sense of the word that most MMO gamers would be familiar with. That isn't to say that I didn't have any fun; on the contrary, I really enjoyed the time I did get in, and I look forward to really digging my toes into that rich Tahoe soil. Well, my shovel, really.

So what were the unusual circumstances surrounding my first adventures? Hike past the cut for a deeper look at the week and some helpful tips for anyone planning to jump into game come launch.

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: And so it began... again

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: And so it began... again originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 Mar 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>choicechoiceschoose-my-adventurechoose-my-adventure-mj-guthriechoose-my-adventure-xsyoncmafeaturednotoriousnotorious-gamespollpollspvpSandboxsandbox-experiencesandbox-mmoserver-downtimeskillssurvival-tipsterraformingtotemstribesxsyonxsyon-earth-2012xsyon-preludeWed, 16 Mar 2011 12:00:00 EST