Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.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/<![CDATA[City of Heroes Issue 13: Power and Responsibility enters Open Beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/07/city-of-heroes-issue-13-power-and-responsibility-enters-open-be/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/07/city-of-heroes-issue-13-power-and-responsibility-enters-open-be/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/07/city-of-heroes-issue-13-power-and-responsibility-enters-open-be/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


A couple of days ago, the latest free expansion for City of Heroes was opened up to public testing. Although the main feature that was originally planned, the Mission Architect, has been put back to issue 14, it's still quite a sizeable package. The main features of the new expansion are a Day Jobs option allowing players to earn benefits and accolades from logging out in specific locations, the Shields and Pain Domination powersets, new missions in the Cimerora zone, and a wealth of changes to PvP and to the Epic and Patron power pools.

It's those latter elements that have drawn the most comment from CoX players. The Epic and Patron changes sought to balance out heroes and villains by replacing unpopular powers with new ones; this, however, brought a backlash from players who either didn't like the new powers they were given, wanted to keep the old ones, or both. In response to the player feedback, this has now been changed: the new powers will simply be added in as additional options instead of replacing the old ones wholesale, the first time in the game's history (so far as we are aware) that powersets have been expanded rather than altered. And there was much rejoicing.

Continue reading City of Heroes Issue 13: Power and Responsibility enters Open Beta

MassivelyCity of Heroes Issue 13: Power and Responsibility enters Open Beta originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 07 Nov 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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    ]]>    city-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxcox-issue-13ncsoftpvpFri, 07 Nov 2008 10:00:00 EST    <![CDATA[CoX players seek elusive zombie trigger]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/05/cox-players-seek-elusive-zombie-trigger/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/05/cox-players-seek-elusive-zombie-trigger/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/05/cox-players-seek-elusive-zombie-trigger/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

    As City of Heroes players will know, Paragon City and the Rogue Isles were recently rocked by a wave of zombie invasions, as hordes of the crumbling dead clawed their way up from beneath the lawns and sidewalks. As events go, it was a great success.

    It was thought that with the passing of the Season of the Witch, the invasions would cease, and indeed they have; however, recent arcane communications have confirmed that the players can cause an invasion to take place, in a similar way to that in which Rikti invasions are triggered by the completion of a Lady Grey Task Force. This is excellent news for badge collectors, as the chance to earn badges for zombie defeats now won't be limited to a short time window.

    Continue reading CoX players seek elusive zombie trigger

    MassivelyCoX players seek elusive zombie trigger originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 Nov 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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      ]]>      city-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxhalloweenncsoftzombiesWed, 05 Nov 2008 11:30:00 EST      <![CDATA[What's with all the capes? Why so many superhero MMOs?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/31/whats-with-all-the-capes-why-so-many-superhero-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/31/whats-with-all-the-capes-why-so-many-superhero-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/31/whats-with-all-the-capes-why-so-many-superhero-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


      City of Heroes kicked off the MMO superhero genre back in 2004. For several years it's led the field, due to being the only superhero MMO out there, but now direct competition is appearing. Cryptic Studios, the original developers of CoX, recently sent their own title Champions Online into Closed Beta. Sony's DC Universe Online, which at one point had gone so quiet that people wondered if it was still being made, has recently produced gameplay footage, stacks of art and a detailed analysis of how the game will work.

      So what's with all the cape games? Although the superhero genre has been a steady burner outside of the MMO context, it's not the most obvious kind of world to set an MMO in, and designers trying to adapt comic-book themes and events to MMO gameplay face some pretty stiff challenges. We're going to walk through all three games, explain the differences, and try to answer that question.

      Continue reading What's with all the capes? Why so many superhero MMOs?

      MassivelyWhat's with all the capes? Why so many superhero MMOs? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 31 Oct 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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        ]]>        champions-onlinecity-of-heroescity-of-villainscoxcrypticcryptic-studiosdc-universe-onlinedcuofeaturedjoystiqfeaturesncsoftsoeFri, 31 Oct 2008 16:00:00 EST        <![CDATA[Heavy Metal live event brings two new careers to Warhammer Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/29/heavy-metal-live-event-brings-two-new-careers-to-warhammer-onlin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/29/heavy-metal-live-event-brings-two-new-careers-to-warhammer-onlin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/29/heavy-metal-live-event-brings-two-new-careers-to-warhammer-onlin/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


        Much sooner than many were expecting, two new careers - the Knight of the Blazing Sun and the Black Guard - are to be introduced to Warhammer Online. Rather than just slip them in with a patch, Mythic is making a festival of the event. The classes won't be available to everyone at first; instead, by completing certain tasks, players will be able to unlock them early.

        From November 17th when the event launches, a new tab in the Tome of Knowledge will take players to the Live Events page. There will be a new daily task placed on the page each day, and completing those tasks earns influence, public quest style; the ultimate prize, which will require a login and task completion each day, will be the ability to play the new classes a week before general release.
        Warhammer Online Coverage Did you enjoy this? Make sure to check out our Warhammer guides: Massively's Character Creation Guide and our WoW Player's Guide to Warhammer. Plus, don't miss any of our ongoing coverage as Massively goes to WAR!

        Continue reading Heavy Metal live event brings two new careers to Warhammer Online

        MassivelyHeavy Metal live event brings two new careers to Warhammer Online originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 29 Oct 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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          ]]>          black-guardeventheavy-metalknight-of-the-blazing-sunlive-eventreikland-factorywarwarhammer-onlineWed, 29 Oct 2008 11:30:00 EST          <![CDATA[Murderers and criminals arrive as Patch 3 comes to Age of Conan]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/29/murderers-and-criminals-arrive-as-patch-3-comes-to-age-of-conan/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/29/murderers-and-criminals-arrive-as-patch-3-comes-to-age-of-conan/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/29/murderers-and-criminals-arrive-as-patch-3-comes-to-age-of-conan/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


          It's been a while in development, as the devs ironed out bugs and tweaked the system to get it just right, but the much-anticipated 'Patch 3' goes live this morning. The main feature it brings to Age of Conan is the PvP consequence system. No longer will players be able to gank other players without fear of reprisal. Accumulated 'murder points' will result in the dishonorable becoming outcasts from society, forced to rely upon a scattered few 'shady camps' for their supplies and rez points, attacked by guards on sight.

          This means that being an unscrupulous PvPer will result in a whole new way to play the game, rather than just an arbitrary penalty. It looks a whole lot better than the original mooted plans for AoC, which involved jails and repetitive tasks that other players could watch you being forced to do.
          Warhammer Online Coverage Having fun in Conan's homeland? Make sure to check out all of our previous Age of Conan coverage, and stick with Massively for more news from the Hyborian Age!

          Continue reading Murderers and criminals arrive as Patch 3 comes to Age of Conan

          MassivelyMurderers and criminals arrive as Patch 3 comes to Age of Conan originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 29 Oct 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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            ]]>            age-of-conanaocbreakingfuncommurdererpatch-3pvppvp-consequencesWed, 29 Oct 2008 09:30:00 EST            <![CDATA[Major Tabula Rasa event only days away?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/28/major-tabula-rasa-event-only-days-away/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/28/major-tabula-rasa-event-only-days-away/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/28/major-tabula-rasa-event-only-days-away/#commentsFiled under: , ,

            According to an in-character communique from Tabula Rasa postergirl Sarah Morrison, something big is about to hit the proverbial fan. The implication is that a large-scale Bane attack is coming, and scuttlebutt among the game's players suggests that General British himself may make an appearance:

            'Increasing Bane activity has been detected across Foreas and Arieki over the past few days. [...] seeking to get as much intel as possible to explain this and have managed to intercept a message between what we believe to be one of their primary Tactical Operations Centers and one of their motherships [...] hard at work trying to decipher the entirety of the message [...] contained information on a possible large scale assault scheduled to take place in approximately 9 days. [...] is probably the last message I am able to send through this channel. It has become increasingly difficult to [...]. Hopefully the bulk of this message will reach you.'

            The date of the event, November 2nd, should be familiar to Tabula Rasa players as the day the game went live, almost a year ago. It's also the anniversary of Massively - good heavens, hasn't the time flown?

            MassivelyMajor Tabula Rasa event only days away? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Oct 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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              ]]>              baneeventsgeneral-britishncsoftrichard-garriottsarah-morrisontabula-rasaTue, 28 Oct 2008 10:00:00 EST              <![CDATA[Mega-makeover for City of Heroes site]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/28/mega-makeover-for-city-of-heroes-site/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/28/mega-makeover-for-city-of-heroes-site/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/28/mega-makeover-for-city-of-heroes-site/#commentsFiled under: , ,


              Alex 'Lighthouse' Von Minden's cryptic hints of changes in the pipeline were unravelled yesterday when the brand new City of Heroes website was unveiled. The thorough revamp has resulted in a brighter, slicker site, similar in style to the Tabula Rasa page. The old site had used many images dating from as far back as launch, and was frankly getting stale, looking a bit dated next to the European site for the same game. The new-look website showcases many of the new powersets and costume pieces, and also has a completely new section on the game's signature heroes and villains - the kind of information a new player would be looking to learn about.

              The new-look site brings an end to the days of separate front pages for City of Heroes and City of Villains, now that all players have full access to both. Devotees of the villain side still have their red-themed forums of evil, however; though we're not sure if this will continue once the forums switch over to vBulletin. We'd like to think that this merging somehow foreshadows the ability to switch sides in the game, though that's nothing but speculation on our part.

              MassivelyMega-makeover for City of Heroes site originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Oct 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                ]]>                city-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxncsoftwebsiteTue, 28 Oct 2008 09:00:00 EST                <![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Are you a one-game gamer?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/28/the-daily-grind-are-you-a-one-game-gamer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/28/the-daily-grind-are-you-a-one-game-gamer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/28/the-daily-grind-are-you-a-one-game-gamer/#commentsFiled under:

                Not so long ago, Mark Jacobs made a comment that got several of you riled: 'Any comment along the lines of 'well if they're in my game they're not playing in another game,' flies in the face of all research that's been done among MMO players... The idea that you only play one is really kind of silly.' Mark was of course referring to the idea that if someone stopped playing WoW they were playing WAR, and if they started playing WoW again they must have stopped playing WAR.

                While there is obviously no law that says you must play only one fantasy game or SF game, we did wonder just how 'silly' it is to expect gamers to pick one game and prioritize that. Not everyone has the resources, or the time, or the inclination to keep multiple MMOs on the go. For many gamers, it is an issue of having one primary MMO to which they devote their time.

                Are you one of these? Do you have one main MMO that takes up most of your gaming time? Or do you spread your time around over multiple titles?

                MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Are you a one-game gamer? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Oct 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                  ]]>                  mark-jacobsone-gamethe-daily-grindTue, 28 Oct 2008 08:00:00 EST                  <![CDATA[Word of mouth key to bringing Age of Conan players back, says Craig Morrison]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/24/word-of-mouth-key-to-bringing-age-of-conan-players-back-says-cr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/24/word-of-mouth-key-to-bringing-age-of-conan-players-back-says-cr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/24/word-of-mouth-key-to-bringing-age-of-conan-players-back-says-cr/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

                  Since Craig 'Sirillon' Morrison took over as the director of Age of Conan, even the gnarliest curmudgeon would have trouble claiming that things hadn't changed for the better. They might not have changed enough for some people's tastes, but work has been done and is still ongoing. Now, Craig talks to Eurogamer.net (at considerable length) about AoC, the changes that have been made and those that are yet to come.

                  Although there's plenty of information, there isn't all that much new information; players will be glad to know that the hope is for the PvP consequence system to go live 'early next week, if not this week' with Ymir's Pass following soon after.

                  When it comes to enticing back lost subscriptions, Craig places great value on word of mouth among the players themselves, observing that people who are having a good time in AoC will naturally pass on that information: '... that's what we focus on - making the game as good as we possibly can, so that our own players become advocates for the game.'

                  MassivelyWord of mouth key to bringing Age of Conan players back, says Craig Morrison originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 Oct 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                    ]]>                    age-of-conanaoccraig-morrisonfuncominterviewFri, 24 Oct 2008 20:00:00 EST                    <![CDATA[Open RvR experience boosted even further in Warhammer Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/23/open-rvr-experience-boosted-even-further-in-warhammer-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/23/open-rvr-experience-boosted-even-further-in-warhammer-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/23/open-rvr-experience-boosted-even-further-in-warhammer-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


                    One of the most common criticisms of Warhammer Online is that many players seem to spend ages just grinding scenarios, while the open RvR areas - clearly meant to be heaving with Order and Destruction players going at it - are much less populated. Mark Jacobs recently announced that the WAR devs intend to 'boost RvR like crazy', and the rumblings have already begun.

                    The bonus XP for killing a player in an open RvR area, previously boosted by 50%, is now going to be boosted by 100%. Players killed in open RvR will thus be worth double the amount of XP of those killed in scenarios. As carrots on sticks go, that's a hefty carrot.

                    There's already been some tweaking done to the chat system to add region-wide and RvR-wide channels; presumably the next big thing to come to the RvR zones will be the boss monsters promised for Witching Night.
                    Warhammer Online Coverage Did you enjoy this? Make sure to check out our Warhammer guides: Massively's Character Creation Guide and our WoW Player's Guide to Warhammer. Plus, don't miss any of our ongoing coverage as Massively goes to WAR!

                    MassivelyOpen RvR experience boosted even further in Warhammer Online originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Oct 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                      ]]>                      ea-mythicopen-rvrpatchespvprvrwarhammer-onlineThu, 23 Oct 2008 11:00:00 EST                      <![CDATA[This is Halloween... or Witching Night, if you're in WAR]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/this-is-halloween-or-witching-night-if-youre-in-war/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/this-is-halloween-or-witching-night-if-youre-in-war/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/this-is-halloween-or-witching-night-if-youre-in-war/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


                      We've seen a few protestations here and there that there won't be any Halloween event in Warhammer Online. Not so! Associate producer Mark Davis has provided some juicy details, along with a lot of other inside information on some of the game's narrative twists and turns on the PvE side. It's not all kill ten of this and deliver that to the other: being tied to the stake and set alight will probably be a new MMO experience for most players.

                      Halloween in the Warhammer universe is known as Witching Night, a time when the divisions between worlds grow thin (or thinner) and the power of the Purple Wind of Magic waxes strong. In the RvR areas, there will be boss monsters roaming around, laden with choice loot and looking for players to mash to a pulp. As they'll be in the skirmish areas, the opportunity technically exists for Order and Destruction to fight against the supernatural foes jointly, though this is about as likely as the two sides declaring a ceasefire and playing football with a dwarf head. There will also be some purely PvE monster encounters planned for Witching Night, but Mark Davis is keeping us all in the dark about those for now.

                      MassivelyThis is Halloween... or Witching Night, if you're in WAR originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Oct 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                        ]]>                        ea-mythichalloweenwarwarhammer-onlinewitching-nightWed, 22 Oct 2008 11:00:00 EST                        <![CDATA[Artist David Nakayama joins City of Heroes team]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/artist-david-nakayama-joins-city-of-heroes-team/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/artist-david-nakayama-joins-city-of-heroes-team/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/artist-david-nakayama-joins-city-of-heroes-team/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


                        Comics artist David Nakayama, who has done an immense amount of work for Draw the World Together, has joined the NCsoft NorCal team as a concept artist for City of Heroes. The official announcement was made at HeroCon, where David was also making character sketches for the lucky contest winners.

                        David's no stranger to the CoX universe, having drawn several of the comics that came out as accompaniment to the MMO and worked on art for the trading card game. His recent work also includes projects for Marvel Comics, including an upcoming series written by Chris Claremont. The addition of a concept artist of David's calibre at this stage in the game's life is an exciting development and raises some questions.

                        Continue reading Artist David Nakayama joins City of Heroes team

                        MassivelyArtist David Nakayama joins City of Heroes team originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Oct 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                          ]]>                          city-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxdavid-nakayamanc-norcalncsoftWed, 22 Oct 2008 10:00:00 EST                          <![CDATA[Begin to shape the very game world itself in Star Wars: The Old Republic?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/21/begin-to-shape-the-very-game-world-itself-in-star-wars-the-old/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/21/begin-to-shape-the-very-game-world-itself-in-star-wars-the-old/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/21/begin-to-shape-the-very-game-world-itself-in-star-wars-the-old/#commentsFiled under: , ,

                          These levees broke hard. The information pouring out of various game sites is fascinating, and we're watching keenly for the choice parts. For example, IGN's exhaustive coverage mentions that "your own actions can begin to have a lasting impact on the game world." Storytelling is clearly a critical aspect of the SWTOR approach, and we're intrigued to see how the fate of the world is entangled with that of the protagonists.

                          Another point that caught our eye was the limitation on content: "there are places that you won't be able to go and things you won't be able to do unless you join a mixed party." Although you'll be able to bring along NPC companions (sounds rather like the way Guild Wars handles it) it's not clear whether this would allow devotedly solo players to access the group content. More news as it emerges.

                          Gallery: Star Wars: The Old Republic Screenshots

                          A HuttCantina of the Hutt PalaceDroids with blastersTomb Lightsaber Duel Trooper opens fire

                          Star Wars: The Old Republic is here! Bioware has finally unveiled Star Wars: The Old Republic, their new MMO! Massively's got you covered on all the details -- from liveblogging the announcement to screenshot galleries and more. Join us in the Galaxy far, far away!

                          MassivelyBegin to shape the very game world itself in Star Wars: The Old Republic? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 Oct 2008 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                            ]]>                            biowarefeaturedstar-wars-the-old-republicstorytellingswtorTue, 21 Oct 2008 18:15:00 EST                            <![CDATA[New CoX Mission Architect details emerge from HeroCon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/20/new-cox-mission-architect-details-emerge-from-herocon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/20/new-cox-mission-architect-details-emerge-from-herocon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/20/new-cox-mission-architect-details-emerge-from-herocon/#commentsFiled under: , ,


                            Okay, the City of Heroes Mission Architect feature is an issue away, and there's already an issue in testing in Closed Beta, but that doesn't mean the players aren't eager for information. At HeroCon, which recently took place in Santa Clara, California, several of the CoX developers held a panel discussion on the Mission Architect. Fortunately for everyone who couldn't make it, forum poster Quilcene was present and taking notes.

                            You can instantly see where the additional development time is going. Players will now be able to 'customize enemies, rescuees, allies and contacts in what they are calling the Critter Creator.' In other words, yes, players will be able to put their own heroes (and villains) in the missions. Another key fact is how the rewards will work: there will be no mission complete XP and nothing in a player-generated mission will count towards badges, and instead of regular drops players will earn 'skeeball tickets', which will apparently work similarly to the Merit system.

                            Continue reading New CoX Mission Architect details emerge from HeroCon

                            MassivelyNew CoX Mission Architect details emerge from HeroCon originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Oct 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                              ]]>                              city-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxmission-architectncsoftMon, 20 Oct 2008 15:00:00 EST                              <![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Repurposed Content]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/20/the-daily-grind-repurposed-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/20/the-daily-grind-repurposed-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/20/the-daily-grind-repurposed-content/#commentsFiled under:

                              'The street has its own uses for things', wrote William Gibson; Field Marshal Helmuth von Moltke also wrote that 'no plan survives contact with the enemy', or in this case, the players. When developers introduce a feature or content of some form or another, there's always the possibility that players will use it for a completely different function.

                              Take City of Heroes, for example, where the ability of some desks in the base designer to have objects stacked on top of them has led to a whole school of base design involving levitating objects. Also in CoX was the superbly inventive use of a dropped oil slick as the target for a mass rez power, causing one of the developers to exclaim 'wth?!' when he saw what the players were up to. And that's not even touching upon the use of pink-tinted gas masks as surprisingly effective pig snouts in the costume generator. (Don't ask.)

                              What repurposed content have you seen in games? Have you come across (or instigated) any new uses for content that were better than the original envisioned design?

                              MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Repurposed Content originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Oct 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                ]]>                                city-of-heroescohcoxtdgthe-daily-grindMon, 20 Oct 2008 08:00:00 EST                                <![CDATA[Zombies run amok in City of Heroes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/19/zombies-run-amok-in-city-of-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/19/zombies-run-amok-in-city-of-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/19/zombies-run-amok-in-city-of-heroes/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


                                Halloween has come early to City of Heroes. Among the now-traditional trick or treating, collecting temporary costume powers and hunting down roaming giant monsters, the dead have risen from their graves and are devouring the living. Both Paragon City and the Rogue Isles have been affected. Reports mention tattered undead who have a strange resemblance to real-life celebrities, as well as Elite Boss 'Nightmares' who seem to be in command.

                                Players may be wondering why this sudden outbreak of ravaging zombies has happened with Halloween still some time away. An eyewitness from HeroCon has shed some light on the timing of the invasion: 'After dinner, Positron got up and told us that there were lots of cool things ahead--but he couldn't tell us about them. Everyone was calling him a big tease. So in order to placate the mob, he turned to Heather and asked if she could call Ops and have them unleash the zombies right then.'

                                MassivelyZombies run amok in City of Heroes originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 19 Oct 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                  ]]>                                  braaaiiinnnsscity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxhalloweenncsoftzombiesSun, 19 Oct 2008 11:00:00 EST                                  <![CDATA[WAR has only just begun to compete with WoW, declares Mark Jacobs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/18/war-has-only-just-begun-to-compete-with-wow-declares-mark-jacob/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/18/war-has-only-just-begun-to-compete-with-wow-declares-mark-jacob/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/18/war-has-only-just-begun-to-compete-with-wow-declares-mark-jacob/#commentsFiled under: , ,

                                  If you've been following this particular exchange you'll know the score, but let's recap: Blizzard's Jeff Kaplan just like turned around and said some stuff about Warhammer Online, about how he wasn't even in the Beta and stuff, and Mark Jacobs was like whoa, and he totally turned around and said some stuff about World of Warcraft, and now Mark Jacobs is all, like, dude, bring it, and everybody's like, ohmygawd, it is so on.

                                  In his discussion with gamesindustry.biz, Mark is upfront about competing with Blizzard. 'We're in this space to be successful and, when you have a competitor that is as successful and important to the games industry as WoW has been, you don't go into this space unless you're willing to spend money and spend time and really compete against them.'

                                  Continue reading WAR has only just begun to compete with WoW, declares Mark Jacobs

                                  MassivelyWAR has only just begun to compete with WoW, declares Mark Jacobs originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 18 Oct 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                    ]]>                                    activision-blizzardea-mythicjeff-kaplanmark-jacobswarhammer-onlinewrath-of-the-lich-kingSat, 18 Oct 2008 13:00:00 EST                                    <![CDATA[Aion shows off new light and shadow effects]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/18/aion-shows-off-new-light-and-shadow-effects/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/18/aion-shows-off-new-light-and-shadow-effects/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/18/aion-shows-off-new-light-and-shadow-effects/#commentsFiled under: , ,


                                    Aion: Tower of Eternity was already looking very, very pretty, and the upgraded graphics that have just been unveiled on the official Aion site demonstrate that it's just getting prettier in the move towards Open Beta. The story of Aion is one of struggle between primordial forces, so it's fitting that factions of shadow and light should have environments to suit their nature. Asmodae has no direct sunlight, so diffuse shadows and strong interior lights dominate, while Elysea is constantly sunlit and clear shadows give depth to architectural textures.

                                    Obviously, graphics aren't everything, but this looks like a world we'd like to explore further. With the emphasis in Aion on travel in three dimensions, with winged movement and combat being an important part of the gameplay, it's not surprising that the developers have ensured the environments look interesting from all angles.

                                    MassivelyAion shows off new light and shadow effects originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 18 Oct 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                      ]]>                                      aionAsmodaeElyseagraphicslightncsoftshadowSat, 18 Oct 2008 12:00:00 EST                                      <![CDATA[Aion's Twelve Lords of Legend revealed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/18/aions-twelve-lords-of-legend-revealed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/18/aions-twelve-lords-of-legend-revealed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/18/aions-twelve-lords-of-legend-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , ,


                                      Aion: Tower of Eternity is drawing closer to Open Beta, and there's a growing hunger for information. An ingenious and generous person by the name of Hellrose over at Aionsource.com has translated some information on the Twelve Lords of Legend, directly from the game's Korean site.

                                      You can peruse the lore over at mmosite.com. The Twelve Empyrean Lords were sent forth to defend the Tower of Eternity against the Balaur, warrior members of the original race of Atreia; each one is given a brief description and image. It's evocative stuff, reminiscent of Zelazny's Nine Princes in Amber, the Choirs of the Archangels from the Kabbalah (unsurprisingly) and the kind of radiant archetype seen in anime such as Fate: Stay Night. The images reminded us strongly of Zelazny's Amber Trumps, too; a merchandising opportunity if ever there was one.

                                      MassivelyAion's Twelve Lords of Legend revealed originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 18 Oct 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                        ]]>                                        aionempyreanlords-of-legendlorencsoftSat, 18 Oct 2008 10:00:00 EST                                        <![CDATA[The Daily Grind: When is a grind not a grind?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/18/the-daily-grind-when-is-a-grind-not-a-grind/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/18/the-daily-grind-when-is-a-grind-not-a-grind/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/18/the-daily-grind-when-is-a-grind-not-a-grind/#commentsFiled under:

                                        According to a history documentary this blogger remembers watching some time back, 'the daily grind' was originally a literal grind; the processing of cultivated grain to make flour for bread, which people would do on small stone wheels. In their thatch roof cottages. Before the Trogdor came in the niiiiight.

                                        But in the context of MMOs, such as Scott Jennings' recent criticism of Warhammer Online for being grindy, what exactly makes a grind? It's easy to come up with a rough definition: doing the same thing over and over with little variation and modest but predictable reward, a bit like grinding little stone wheels to make enough flour for one family sized loaf.

                                        However, given that pretty much everything you do in an MMO is a task carried out for some sort of reward or other, what stops it all from feeling like one big grind - variations in quest type, changes of scenery, or changes of mob type? What features work best - and worst - to break up the monotony? What makes the difference between feeling like you're playing and feeling like you're grinding?

                                        MassivelyThe Daily Grind: When is a grind not a grind? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 18 Oct 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                          ]]>                                          boredomburnoutgrindingthe-daily-grindxpSat, 18 Oct 2008 08:00:00 EST                                          <![CDATA[Craig Morrison keeps players posted on Age of Conan changes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/17/craig-morrison-keeps-players-posted-on-age-of-conan-changes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/17/craig-morrison-keeps-players-posted-on-age-of-conan-changes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/17/craig-morrison-keeps-players-posted-on-age-of-conan-changes/#commentsFiled under: , ,


                                          Without doubt, things are hotting up in Age of Conan. There's still a lot of ground left to cover, but it would be senseless not to acknowledge that a game which recently seemed to be wallowing in post-launch doldrums has turned into something of a comeback king. The final instalment of the current series of patches, Patch 3, is growing by degrees on Testlive, and now Craig Morrison has given a rundown of what's coming and why.

                                          Craig kicks off by detailing the final version of the PvP consequence system, which regular readers will be familiar with. The gist of it is that AoC players who attack weaker foes will become outcast 'murderers', attacked on sight by guards, fair game for anyone who wants to kill them, and depending on rough camps on the fringes of society for their needs. There's a new mechanic of 'redemption' that allows murderers to go on special quests to rid themselves of this bloody stain.

                                          Continue reading Craig Morrison keeps players posted on Age of Conan changes

                                          MassivelyCraig Morrison keeps players posted on Age of Conan changes originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                            ]]>                                            age-of-conanaoccraig-morrisonfuncompatchsirillonFri, 17 Oct 2008 18:00:00 EST                                            <![CDATA[Age of Conan cultural armor and weapons on the workbench]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/17/age-of-conan-cultural-armor-and-weapons-on-the-workbench/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/17/age-of-conan-cultural-armor-and-weapons-on-the-workbench/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/17/age-of-conan-cultural-armor-and-weapons-on-the-workbench/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

                                            We've blogged at length before about the crafting changes coming to Age of Conan, and every new piece of information we find out makes them look even more intriguing. Take the Culture armor and weapons: new pieces that crafters can make that don't require a guild city, with recipes that drop from bosses as blue loot. Now designer Dave Williams has put up a thorough Q&A about these pieces.

                                            As well as adding visual diversity to AoC, with many more cultures represented than we expected to see, they'll be worth wearing for mechanics reasons: stat-wise, the pieces will be somewhere between dungeon-dropped blues and epics. Dave explains that the first batch of recipes to be patched in is only the initial iteration of something that will be much larger.

                                            From the look of it, there will be plenty to be going on with: 'There are 24 culture armor recipes. Each recipe makes three pieces of set. Thus for patch 3 we are releasing twelve 6 piece armor sets -- one set per class. There are four culture weapon recipes grouped by geography, and each weapon recipe can make 3 weapons related to that theme. There are a couple of details that I'm going to leave to discovery, that I think players will find interesting.'

                                            MassivelyAge of Conan cultural armor and weapons on the workbench originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                              ]]>                                              age-of-conanaoccraftingcultural-armorcultural-weaponsfuncomFri, 17 Oct 2008 15:30:00 EST                                              <![CDATA[Floyd 'Castle' Grubb gives a Q&A on the new CoX power sets]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/17/floyd-castle-grubb-gives-a-qanda-on-the-new-cox-power-sets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/17/floyd-castle-grubb-gives-a-qanda-on-the-new-cox-power-sets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/17/floyd-castle-grubb-gives-a-qanda-on-the-new-cox-power-sets/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


                                              Castle, famous in City of Heroes for being the guy who designs and fixes the powers, has prepared a Q&A on the new powersets coming with CoX Issue 13: Power and Responsibility, now deep into Closed Beta: Shield Defense and Pain Domination. Though controversy over proposed PvP changes is dominating the CoX boards at the moment, the new powersets seem to have met with universal acclaim.

                                              In the Q&A, Castle explains the thinking behind Pain Domination and the restrictions on the design, the player base's role in the creation of Shields, and his own take on which hero and villain powers are the coolest ones in the game right now. Check out the Q&A after the cut.

                                              Continue reading Floyd 'Castle' Grubb gives a Q&A on the new CoX power sets

                                              MassivelyFloyd 'Castle' Grubb gives a Q&A on the new CoX power sets originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Oct 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                ]]>                                                castlecity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxcox-issue-13ncsoftpain-dominationshieldsFri, 17 Oct 2008 09:00:00 EST                                                <![CDATA[Striking new zone opened on Age of Conan Testlive]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/16/striking-new-zone-opened-on-age-of-conan-testlive/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/16/striking-new-zone-opened-on-age-of-conan-testlive/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/16/striking-new-zone-opened-on-age-of-conan-testlive/#commentsFiled under: , ,


                                                Players have been asking for new Age of Conan content for a while now, and one of the biggest content gaps had been the mid-50s. That's the levelling range the new Ymir's Pass zone (previewed some time ago) seeks to fill, and it's now opened on Testlive. The developers want to make it clear that Ymir's Pass is a work in progress, and as such is not complete. We're keen to see what it's like when it's done, because currently it's gorgeous. It's far from being the only new AoC content; we've still to see the Tarantia Commons and the House of Crom yet.

                                                No sooner do you enter the zone than an inhuman bellow echoes through the air and the ground shakes. Something huge is making that sound, and the story of what it is (and why it's suffering) is played out through the zone. The first thing you'll probably be doing is looking for footprints. Colossal ones.

                                                To help players test out the new content, the Goddess Fate has been placed just outside Tortage where the former level-up contacts were, and she will do pretty much anything you like: increase your level, give you money or a mount, or even teleport you somewhere. She's the only way to get to Ymir's Pass for now, so players that would like to check out the zone on Testlive should roll a new character and talk to her.

                                                MassivelyStriking new zone opened on Age of Conan Testlive originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Oct 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                  ]]>                                                  age-of-conanaocfuncomtestliveymirs-passThu, 16 Oct 2008 20:00:00 EST                                                  <![CDATA[Video showcases new CoX powersets for Issue 13]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/15/video-showcases-new-cox-powersets-for-issue-13/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/15/video-showcases-new-cox-powersets-for-issue-13/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/15/video-showcases-new-cox-powersets-for-issue-13/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                                                  The two new powersets in City of Heroes Issue 13: Power and Responsibility are Pain Domination and Shield Defense. Pain Domination finally gives Villains a dose of the healing and buffing power that Heroes had with the Empathy set, but with a potent offensive edge. Shield Defense is coming to both sides, giving several melee classes the option to wield a highly customizable shield in battle. It's emerged that shields will be able to bear cape patterns underneath their emblems, allowing for heraldic style designs.

                                                  Over at mmorpg.com, a video has appeared showing the two new powersets in action. It's not very long, but it delivers the goods. We're pleased to see that Pain Domination looks every bit as gore-hued and dramatic as we'd have wished, and the Shields animations are slick. Check the video out at mmorpg.com

                                                  MassivelyVideo showcases new CoX powersets for Issue 13 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Oct 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                    ]]>                                                    city-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxcox-issue-13ncsoftpain-dominationshield-defenseshieldsWed, 15 Oct 2008 20:00:00 EST                                                    <![CDATA[Lum the Mad on the many pros and few cons of WAR]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/15/lum-the-mad-on-the-many-pros-and-few-cons-of-war/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/15/lum-the-mad-on-the-many-pros-and-few-cons-of-war/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/15/lum-the-mad-on-the-many-pros-and-few-cons-of-war/#commentsFiled under: , ,

                                                    Scott Jennings, known to the blogosphere by his nom-de-keyboard Lum the Mad (a reference that crusty old D&D players like this blogger have no trouble recognizing) has set out to amend his image as Mark Jacobs' personal imp of torment, and post a hearty list of things he likes about Warhammer Online which he thinks other games should learn from.

                                                    The list is fair, honest, and educational - did you know you can earn the title 'AAAAHHHH' by jumping off cliffs enough times? - and makes some sound points. He's particularly on the money when writing about WAR's open groups, which he sees as much more radical and innovative than the more commonly trumpeted public quests. It's a feature we've also appreciated; instead of looking for a group or sending messages to ask if there is room in one, you can just dive on in to any open group nearby.
                                                    Warhammer Online Coverage Did you enjoy this? Make sure to check out our Warhammer guides: Massively's Character Creation Guide and our WoW Player's Guide to Warhammer. Plus, don't miss any of our ongoing coverage as Massively goes to WAR!

                                                    Continue reading Lum the Mad on the many pros and few cons of WAR

                                                    MassivelyLum the Mad on the many pros and few cons of WAR originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Oct 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                      ]]>                                                      ea-mythiclum-the-madscott-jenningswarwarhammer-onlineWed, 15 Oct 2008 16:00:00 EST                                                      <![CDATA[City of Heroes PvP changes explained at length]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/14/city-of-heroes-pvp-changes-explained-at-length/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/14/city-of-heroes-pvp-changes-explained-at-length/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/14/city-of-heroes-pvp-changes-explained-at-length/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                                                      Floyd 'Castle' Grubb clearly does not know the meaning of fear. He's now unveiled a detailed breakdown of the foreshadowed changes to powers in City of Heroes PvP, and they're so radical it will probably be like playing a different game. Are these changes for the better? Once Issue 13: Power and Responsibility goes to Open Beta, we'll be sure to join in with the testing, because we can't wait to find out.

                                                      We already knew about the changes to mez protection (removed in PvP) but the changes go far, far beyond that. For example, simply being the target of an attack is enough to suppress your travel power for two seconds, though suppression won't be as severe as it currently is in PvE.

                                                      Buffs are subject to a 'diminishing returns' system, meaning no more stacking buffs for huge increases to ToHit or damage. Even healing is changed, with each successive heal giving you 25% resistance to healing for 15 seconds, so that 4 heals in close succession would make you immune to healing for the duration. Healspamming will no longer be a viable tactic.

                                                      Continue reading City of Heroes PvP changes explained at length

                                                      MassivelyCity of Heroes PvP changes explained at length originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 Oct 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                        ]]>                                                        arenacastlecity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxncsoftpowerspvpTue, 14 Oct 2008 19:00:00 EST                                                        <![CDATA[Richard Garriott's Logos message to Tabula Rasa players deciphered]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/14/richard-garriotts-logos-message-to-tabula-rasa-players-decipher/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/14/richard-garriotts-logos-message-to-tabula-rasa-players-decipher/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/14/richard-garriotts-logos-message-to-tabula-rasa-players-decipher/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


                                                        A couple of minutes after Richard Garriott's flight to the International Space Station blasted off, he held up a sign for the camera, consisting of two strings of heiroglyphs. Tabula Rasa players will have recognised these instantly as Logos, the pictographs of the Eloh, and key to unlocking the various Logos abilities. The message's cryptic quality was further enhanced by the obscurity of some of the symbols, which were completely new.

                                                        As of last night, community member Lady Valashar has provided the translation: 'Earth is the cradle of humanity but mankind will not be in the cradle forever', first spoken by Soviet rocket scientist Konstantin E. Tsiolkovsky. What's even more thrilling for those of us who follow Tabula Rasa news closely is a hint dropped by NCsoft staff member Leilo, who stated 'Several of the symbols are new. Though one will have significance in-game in the near future...'

                                                        Among the new symbols is the very first one, interpreted as 'Earth', and it's third-rock-from-the-sun appearance can surely mean nothing else. There have been many rumors recently that a return to Earth is on the cards in Tabula Rasa, including the exhortation to 'kick those Bane bastards off our own planet' from new Lead Designer Susan Kath. If this is really the news that's waiting to drop, it's going to be huge for the game.

                                                        MassivelyRichard Garriott's Logos message to Tabula Rasa players deciphered originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 Oct 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                          ]]>                                                          earthlogoslogos-tabletncsoftrichard-garriotttabula-rasatrTue, 14 Oct 2008 12:00:00 EST                                                          <![CDATA[Age of Conan's renowned combo system streamlined on Testlive]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/14/age-of-conans-renowned-combo-system-streamlined-on-testlive/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/14/age-of-conans-renowned-combo-system-streamlined-on-testlive/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/14/age-of-conans-renowned-combo-system-streamlined-on-testlive/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

                                                          One of the innovations Age of Conan provided when it hit the MMO scene earlier this year was an original, fast-paced combat system, involving attacking in multiple directions. As levels are earned, 'combos' are unlocked (for most classes, anyway) which, once triggered, require multiple keystrokes to complete. There's no denying that combos can be some of the most satisfying effects in AoC: firing off a whole barrage of arrows, for example, or dealing a powerful DoT, or even triggering a fatality as frequently happens.

                                                          Now, though, in a recent patch to the Testlive server, the system (described by one enthusiast as 'DDR with knives') is being streamlined, or as some players are putting it, 'dumbed down'. Combos that required multiple keystrokes have been changed, so that fewer button-presses are required. Some are reportedly even down to being one button in addition to the trigger. The objective seems to have been to increase the pace of PvP, with more frequent attacks required in place of heavy burst damage. It's a controversial change, and we should point out that it's only on Testlive so far.
                                                          Warhammer Online Coverage Having fun in Conan's homeland? Make sure to check out all of our previous Age of Conan coverage, and stick with Massively for more news from the Hyborian Age!

                                                          Continue reading Age of Conan's renowned combo system streamlined on Testlive

                                                          MassivelyAge of Conan's renowned combo system streamlined on Testlive originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 Oct 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                            ]]>                                                            age-of-conanaoccombosfuncompvpTue, 14 Oct 2008 10:00:00 EST                                                            <![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Sandbox or story?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/14/the-daily-grind-sandbox-or-story/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/14/the-daily-grind-sandbox-or-story/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/14/the-daily-grind-sandbox-or-story/#commentsFiled under:

                                                            Jonathan Steinhauer over at WarCry.com has been working on a series of articles, 'The Death Of Story', and in the latest piece he explores variant methods of storytelling in MMOs. It's clear that there has to be a balance struck between, at the one extreme, story that is entirely handed down by the game in which the players participate (but which they don't direct) and at the other extreme, an open 'sandbox' where the important storylines are entirely created by players from the resources the game provides.

                                                            There's an increasing trend towards giving players tools to create their own stories. The player-built cities in Age of Conan come to mind, as does Eve Online's open-ended approach and of course the eagerly anticipated City of Heroes mission architect feature.

                                                            We're curious to know which end of the spectrum players prefer. Do you enjoy games where the story is predominant, expressed and played out through locations, quests and NPCs, adding to immersion but detracting from individual impact on the world? Or do you prefer a more sandbox-like approach, with the players' own interactions and creations providing the stories, and the campaign world in the background? What additional tools would you want to see, beyond city building, base building, mission creation, and the like?

                                                            MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Sandbox or story? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 Oct 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                              ]]>                                                              sandboxstorythe-daily-grindTue, 14 Oct 2008 08:00:00 EST                                                              <![CDATA[Scouting ahead to Tabula Rasa deployment 14]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/13/scouting-ahead-to-tabula-rasa-deployment-14/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/13/scouting-ahead-to-tabula-rasa-deployment-14/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/13/scouting-ahead-to-tabula-rasa-deployment-14/#commentsFiled under: , ,


                                                              Tabula Rasa has seen a lot of attention recently, what with the free trial offer pulling in many curious new (and old) players, and Richard Garriott sending a message in Logos script back to Earth. Now, excitement is hotting up for the next deployment due to be issued to Tabula Rasa players.

                                                              Three of the team members have been talking about specific areas of the game that are due to be addressed. Casey Thorp gives the rundown on changes in enemy strategy on Divide, with an increase coming in Bane aggressiveness and tactical intelligence. There's also a tantalizing hint at a new system of Dynamic Spawners, 'the first steps of a system of modular kits that will add new and interesting combat scenarios to the already lush environments of TR.' Casey doesn't go into detail, but it seems there will be reactive spawns specifically engineered around player presence.

                                                              Dwight Spaulding describes changes to the treasure chest mechanics on Plains and Mires, with a broader variety of loot and a chance at enemy response, while Raven Sherman has explained the addition of expanded storage in the Clan Lockboxes, something the players have been asking for. Many players are also revved up at the arrival of the long-awaited PAUs (Personal Armor Units) on the Public Test Server, which (although the design has changed since the first announcements) show a good deal of potential.

                                                              MassivelyScouting ahead to Tabula Rasa deployment 14 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Oct 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                ]]>                                                                deployment-14dynamic-spawnersrgtrtabula-rasaMon, 13 Oct 2008 17:00:00 EST                                                                <![CDATA[Champions Online announces Closed Beta signups]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/13/champions-online-announces-closed-beta-signups/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/13/champions-online-announces-closed-beta-signups/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/13/champions-online-announces-closed-beta-signups/#commentsFiled under: , ,


                                                                Cryptic Studios has just announced that players can now sign up for a chance to participate in the first Closed Beta of their forthcoming superhero MMO, Champions Online, with the Beta beginning in mid-November 2008. Applications can be made at the official website. The Beta is for PC only.

                                                                Jack Emmert, chief creative officer of Cryptic Studios, announced 'This closed beta is an exciting step in the evolution of Champions Online... All of us here in the Cryptic offices have been playing the game for a while now, and we're excited to invite others in to have as much fun with Champions Online as we've been having internally.'

                                                                As we've covered in considerable depth here at Massively, Champions Online features highly customizable character costumes as well as the option to create a super-powered nemesis for your character, action-based gameplay, and a large-scale comic-book universe to explore. The game is scheduled to be released in the Spring of 2009.

                                                                MassivelyChampions Online announces Closed Beta signups originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Oct 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                  ]]>                                                                  breakingchampions-onlineclosed-betacrypticcryptic-studiosjack-emmertMon, 13 Oct 2008 15:30:00 EST                                                                  <![CDATA[Rewards for CoX PvP definitely planned, says Castle]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/13/rewards-for-cox-pvp-definitely-planned-says-castle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/13/rewards-for-cox-pvp-definitely-planned-says-castle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/13/rewards-for-cox-pvp-definitely-planned-says-castle/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                                                                  It's been a strange week for City of Heroes news. The lid of the Issue 13: Power and Responsibility Closed Beta pressure cooker remains firmly on, with nothing escaping, and yet the developers have been slightly more forthcoming with hints about future content.

                                                                  PvP is firmly in the spotlight, following radical changes in Issue 13 that include the (apparent) total removal of mez protection in that context. Take Chris 'Back Alley Brawler' Bruce, for example, who seemed to us to be suggesting a comeback for the Cathedral of Pain, Items of Power and base raiding with consequences: 'Cathedral of Pain is intrinsicly tied to Items of Power. Items of Power are intrinsicly tied to Base Raids. Base Raids are intrinsicly tied to PvP. Any thoughts on why PvP is getting attention in this issue?'

                                                                  Powers guy Floyd 'Castle' Grubb has been even more forthright, stating that rewards for PvP are definitely planned, assuming the new changes work out. (These might not be for Issue 13, but would definitely follow if the system succeeded.) At present, with the exception of zone mechanics such as those in Siren's Call, PvP in CoX doesn't really have rewards, unlike (say) Warhammer Online. Castle explains that several different possibilities are being considered, listed after the cut.

                                                                  Continue reading Rewards for CoX PvP definitely planned, says Castle

                                                                  MassivelyRewards for CoX PvP definitely planned, says Castle originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Oct 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                    ]]>                                                                    cathedral-of-paincity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxitems-of-powerncsoftpvppvp-rewardsMon, 13 Oct 2008 11:00:00 EST                                                                    <![CDATA[CoX Lead Dev to rattle the d20s for charity]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/12/cox-lead-dev-to-rattle-the-d20s-for-charity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/12/cox-lead-dev-to-rattle-the-d20s-for-charity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/12/cox-lead-dev-to-rattle-the-d20s-for-charity/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                                                                    Most City of Heroes players know that many of their Devs love good old fashioned pen-and-paper RPGs. They've chimed in on mechanics discussions and discussed the games they run. Now, as part of HeroCon, lead CoX developer Matt 'Positron' Miller is going to be donning his Dungeon Master hat to run a select group of players through a Dungeons and Dragons scenario. It's all in a good cause, with proceeds going to Scare for a Cure.

                                                                    Matt's raising said proceeds by auctioning off the six seats in the game, with bids starting at $49.99. He'll be setting up the DM's screen at 8:00 pm PST on Friday, October 17, 2008, at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Santa Clara, California - the venue for HeroCon, of course. And Matt will be using the slick new 4th Edition rules, so we won't be seeing any multiclassed dual wield spiked chain half-dragon-half-unicorn characters.

                                                                    MassivelyCoX Lead Dev to rattle the d20s for charity originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 12 Oct 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                      ]]>                                                                      charitycity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxdungeons-and-dragonsscare-for-a-cureSun, 12 Oct 2008 13:00:00 EST                                                                      <![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Are 'quest contacts' becoming outdated?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/12/the-daily-grind-are-quest-contacts-becoming-outdated/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/12/the-daily-grind-are-quest-contacts-becoming-outdated/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/12/the-daily-grind-are-quest-contacts-becoming-outdated/#commentsFiled under:

                                                                      Everybody knows and understands the quest model. You go to see a guy. The guy asks you to do something. You go and kill the ten rats, or click the object, or fetch the shrubbery, or whatever. You return to the guy. He rewards you and may ask you to do something else. Repeat, with variations, several gazillion times over. Ever since the first RPGs had you encounter the Guy in the Tavern who Needed Something Done, quests and contacts have been a staple of the genre.

                                                                      But the model is mutating more and more. Warhammer Online's public quests do away with the need for a quest-giving contact altogether. Although you still visit a Rally Master to cash in your Influence, the quest simply applies to an area, rather than being handed out by a contact. Now, we've learned that DC Universe Online will offer a great deal of dynamically spawned content centered upon the player, popping up as you move through the city, and though it will still have traditional questing it will generate a great deal of its content spontaneously, through 'encounters' instead of quests.

                                                                      Is this the way things are likely to go in the future? Is this the way we want them to go? Are we collectively tired of the Guy who Needs Something Done, and yearning for new mechanics? Or are we risking tinkering with something too fundamental to change?

                                                                      MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Are 'quest contacts' becoming outdated? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 12 Oct 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                        ]]>                                                                        niquest-contactsqueststhe-daily-grindSun, 12 Oct 2008 08:00:00 EST                                                                        <![CDATA[A look at Cultural Armor in Age of Conan]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/11/a-look-at-cultural-armor-in-age-of-conan/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/11/a-look-at-cultural-armor-in-age-of-conan/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/11/a-look-at-cultural-armor-in-age-of-conan/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


                                                                        Age of Conan has been (in our view, fairly) criticized for lacking costume diversity. It's not quite Age of Strikingly Similar If Slightly Recolored Leather, but it's close. The huge revamp to the crafting system that was recently announced will do a lot to fix this, adding new crafting recipes for armor sets including the Cultural Armor sets.

                                                                        We had initially thought that the 'cultures' mentioned would be the three in the game currently - Aquilonian, Cimmerian and Stygian - but a recent feature on the new sets has added Acheronian to the list. It's accompanied by a lengthy piece of background text concerning niello, a substance that does exist in the real world, and will presumably appear in Age of Conan as a crafting material.

                                                                        The whole piece, however, is clearly a FunCom addition to the work of Robert E Howard, and while it's inevitable that the canon would have to be expanded upon in order to flesh out the game, we can't help but raise an eyebrow at a chronicle by 'Lascivicus' that mentions 'Deathcoils' and 'the Dark Lord'. A bit too black metal, perhaps. And Lascivicus? Come on, Funcom. The Bearded Clam was bad enough, but let's steer cleer of the silly NPC names, eh?
                                                                        Warhammer Online Coverage Having fun in Conan's homeland? Make sure to check out all of our previous Age of Conan coverage, and stick with Massively for more news from the Hyborian Age!

                                                                        MassivelyA look at Cultural Armor in Age of Conan originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 11 Oct 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                          ]]>                                                                          age-of-conanaocarmorcraftingcultural-armorfuncomSat, 11 Oct 2008 16:00:00 EST                                                                          <![CDATA[The other side of the cape: designing Day Jobs in CoX]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/09/the-other-side-of-the-cape-designing-day-jobs-in-cox/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/09/the-other-side-of-the-cape-designing-day-jobs-in-cox/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/09/the-other-side-of-the-cape-designing-day-jobs-in-cox/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


                                                                          The new Day Jobs feature coming with City of Heroes Issue 13: Power and Responsibility has caught the imagination of many of the roleplaying crew, but some other players are unsure what to make of it. Designer Phil Zeleski has provided some insight into how the feature works and what sorts of rewards players can get from using it.

                                                                          Put simply, the CoX Day Job system allows players to log out from a specific location (like a hospital or vault) and when they return to play, after an extended log out period, they will gain a temporary power or some other benefit. With the exception of badges and accolades, the benefits either last for a limited time or have a limited number of uses before they are used up. However, you can replenish the benefit by logging out in the same area. Most rewards need 10 days of logged out time to hit the maximum benefit.

                                                                          Continue reading The other side of the cape: designing Day Jobs in CoX

                                                                          MassivelyThe other side of the cape: designing Day Jobs in CoX originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 Oct 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                            ]]>                                                                            city-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxcox-issue-13day-jobsncsoftThu, 09 Oct 2008 17:00:00 EST                                                                            <![CDATA[City of Heroes Issue 13 enters Closed Beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/09/city-of-heroes-issue-13-enters-closed-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/09/city-of-heroes-issue-13-enters-closed-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/09/city-of-heroes-issue-13-enters-closed-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                                                                            City of Heroes Issue 13: Power and Responsibility has now been patched to the Test Server, where a small but dedicated group of people will be testing the hell out of it for a while before the gate is unlocked and Open Beta begins.

                                                                            Leaking stuff from a Closed Beta is of course a major no-no, and we would not condone this from anyone. There is, however, a limited amount of access that anyone can get, simply by going through character creation. Although it's not possible to enter the game fully unless you're in the Closed Beta, costume pieces and new powersets can be examined in their current state. These are in testing, so it would be unwise to fixate on anything for now.

                                                                            So far we've had a look at the Shields powerset, which is extremely cool and contains many surprises, and Pain Domination, which picks up the buffity-healy hero set Empathy, runs with it, and smashes its face into the wall repeatedly while laughing like some ice-girdled steel-toothed agony maiden from Hell's own surgical wing.

                                                                            Continue reading City of Heroes Issue 13 enters Closed Beta

                                                                            MassivelyCity of Heroes Issue 13 enters Closed Beta originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 Oct 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                              ]]>                                                                              breakingcity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxcox-issue-13ncsoftpain-dominationshieldstestThu, 09 Oct 2008 09:30:00 EST                                                                              <![CDATA[CoX's Bruce Harlick talks mission building, moral choices]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/coxs-bruce-harlick-talks-mission-building-moral-choices/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/coxs-bruce-harlick-talks-mission-building-moral-choices/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/coxs-bruce-harlick-talks-mission-building-moral-choices/#commentsFiled under: , ,

                                                                              As part of their ongoing Ask a Dev series, the folks at City of Heroes recently took questions from the community for new staff member Bruce Harlick. Bruce has a seriously prestigious pedigree in hero gaming, and has been there since the very early days, when pen-and-paper was king, we moved in hexes, and Champions had us rolling fistfuls of dice for our ranged killing attacks.

                                                                              Bruce explains how the CoX mission team are going to keep the standard of missions high with custom art and scripts. There are hints of new mechanics coming that haven't yet been announced, and plans to explore the backstories of characters currently in the game.

                                                                              But the comment that had us sitting up and taking notes was this one, after the cut:

                                                                              Continue reading CoX's Bruce Harlick talks mission building, moral choices

                                                                              MassivelyCoX's Bruce Harlick talks mission building, moral choices originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 Oct 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                                ]]>                                                                                bruce-harlickcity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxncsoftWed, 08 Oct 2008 17:00:00 EST                                                                                <![CDATA[A Castle, a Jester, and a parcel of CoX power changes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/a-castle-a-jester-and-a-parcel-of-cox-power-changes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/a-castle-a-jester-and-a-parcel-of-cox-power-changes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/a-castle-a-jester-and-a-parcel-of-cox-power-changes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


                                                                                Credibility is a precious resource; DJ Jester of w00tstudios.net is one of those people on the MMO circuit who has bags of it stashed under his mattress. His podcasts have always been right on the pulse, and he's had many worthy personages in the past as guests, from April 'CuppaJo' Burba to Matt 'Positron' Miller.

                                                                                Now, Floyd 'Castle' Grubb, aka Castle the Powers Guy from City of Heroes, joins Jester and friends at the mike for a 41 minute megasesh in which the coming changes to powers in CoX are expertly dissected, laid out and examined for your delight and edification.

                                                                                Continue reading A Castle, a Jester, and a parcel of CoX power changes

                                                                                MassivelyA Castle, a Jester, and a parcel of CoX power changes originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 Oct 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                                  ]]>                                                                                  castlecity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxjesterncsoftpodcastWed, 08 Oct 2008 15:00:00 EST