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[Captain's Log: To spec or not to spec?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/captains-log-to-spec-or-not-to-spec/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/captains-log-to-spec-or-not-to-spec/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/captains-log-to-spec-or-not-to-spec/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Screenshot - Star Trek Online
Captain's Log, Stardate 65340.3...

Hello, computer (and players)! Unlike an answer to Shakespeare's original question, the answer to the question in this week's title is probably a no-brainer for most of you: Yes! Choosing a specialization, or "speccing," in MMOs is something that stretches across most titles out there, and Star Trek Online is no different. Whether you wish to resist attacks longer, do more damage, or add strength to your powers, choosing a customized spec can be rewarding and a challenge at the same time. With so many variables and places to spend your points, the possibilities are endless.

While this week's Captain's Log is not here to tell you what you should spec into for your particular class or ship set-up, I would like to go over the space skill point overhaul that STO is about to go through. In the past, one of the biggest complaints from players was that they did not have a clear understanding of which skill tree affected which ability. The devs heard this feedback and have been working on a complete revamp to make these decisions simpler. Hopefully, this will allow you to have a better understanding of where and why to spend your points in a particular skill when you do have to re-spec at the launch of F2P on January 17th, 2012.

Ensign, warp 10! Let's get our readers' bookmark buttons ready...

Continue reading Captain's Log: To spec or not to spec?

MassivelyCaptain's Log: To spec or not to spec? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Nov 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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    ]]>    batteriescaptain-gekocaptains-logcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosefficiencyenergy-weaponsengineering-systemsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playguidelivestreamoperation-systemsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentprojectile-weaponsre-specscience-systemsshakespeareskillpointsspecspeccingspecializationspecsst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotactical-systemstargeting-systemstrek-onlinetribbletwittertwitterverseweaponsThu, 10 Nov 2011 19:00:00 EST    <![CDATA[Captain's Log: A two-minute read could save you 15% or more on nerdrage insurance]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/captains-log-a-two-minute-read-could-save-you-15-or-more-on-n/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/captains-log-a-two-minute-read-could-save-you-15-or-more-on-n/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/captains-log-a-two-minute-read-could-save-you-15-or-more-on-n/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

    Screenshot - Star Trek Online
    Captain's Log, Stardate 65340.3...

    Hello, computer (and players)! Welcome to this week's edition of Captain's Log, brought to you by "Geko" Insurance. (And let's just say, you may want to purchase a policy). If you are a Star Trek Online player who watches Cryptic's official forums, you know that the game experienced an Occupy movement of its own this past weekend. Even if you don't frequent the forums, you may have seen some of the concerns raised through the #STO Twitter feed.

    Over the weekend, players lashed out against some of the recent changes that have made their way to the Tribble test server. It may be surprising to some of you reading this, but the commotion was not related to the economy changes. The main concern is that some of the items for purchase in the C-Store are going to be changing from account-wide unlocks to per-character transactions. While I was a little perturbed at the thought too, I was happy to see that some of the misconceptions were cleared up once we got an official statement from one of the devs. But since there is a lot more to the story, let's take a look.

    Ensign, warp 10! And don't forget to buckle your seatbelt...

    Continue reading Captain's Log: A two-minute read could save you 15% or more on nerdrage insurance

    MassivelyCaptain's Log: A two-minute read could save you 15% or more on nerdrage insurance originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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      ]]>      al-riverabalanceboycottc-storec-store-pointscaptain-gekocaptains-logconsumablescraftingcrypticcryptic-pointscryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdoffduty-officerduty-officer-systemExchangef2pfeaturedfeedbackforumsfree-to-playhereticlivestreammarketingpatch-notesperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestarshipsstotrek-onlinetribbletribble-test-servertwitterunlock-statusThu, 03 Nov 2011 18:30:00 EST      <![CDATA[Captain's Log: Every day I'm tribbleing]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/captains-log-every-day-i-m-tribbleing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/captains-log-every-day-i-m-tribbleing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/captains-log-every-day-i-m-tribbleing/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

      Screenshot - Star Trek Online
      Captain's Log, Stardate 65322.9...

      Hello, computer (and players)! For the past several weeks, Star Trek Online players have been checking out the latest F2P beta builds on the Tribble test server. While there have been a few patches on other days, more for stability fixes and minor tweaking, Thursdays seem to be the designated day for us to receive the largest pushes of new content. The latest round of updates has brought further economy changes, new events and ships, and even more heated debates. Since we seem to be a ways out from the seeing the updates ported to the Holodeck live server, there is still plenty of time to check it all out and provide your feedback to the devs.

      I would like to dedicate this entry to those who are helping test the changes. This week's Captain's Log serves as a checklist of sorts on what new content you can test and where you can provide feedback about it. As you read through, I suggest that you read a particular section, jump into game to check out the particular change, formulate an opinion, and head to the linked forum where you can leave your feedback. No matter what you think, it's important to let the devs know -- they will make changes based upon a collective opinion.

      Ensign, warp 10! It's time to create our own party rock anthem...

      Continue reading Captain's Log: Every day I'm tribbleing

      MassivelyCaptain's Log: Every day I'm tribbleing originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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        ]]>        abilityc-storeconsolecraftingcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdaily-eventdevdev-blogdev-diarydeveloper-blogdeveloper-diarydevsdilithiumdoffduty-officerduty-officer-systemevent-calendarf2pfeature-testingfeaturedfeedbackforumforumsfree-to-playgame-mechanicsgame-systemsgeargozerhereticklingon-academylivestreamloglore-missionspatchespath-to-f2pperfect-world-entertainmentpowerpwesci-fishipsspecial-task-forcespecial-task-force-missionsspecial-testingstst-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestarfleet-academystephen-dangelostfstf-updatesstostormshadetest-servertrek-onlineuiui-tweakupdatesThu, 27 Oct 2011 18:00:00 EST        <![CDATA[Captain's Log: More on the economy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/captains-log-more-on-the-economy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/captains-log-more-on-the-economy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/captains-log-more-on-the-economy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

        Screenshot - Star Trek Online
        Captain's Log, Stardate 65303.9...

        Hello, computer (and players)! As I discussed last week, heated discussions surround Star Trek Online's change to a F2P hybrid model and planned game mechanics updates. While new updates are being pushed to the Tribble server for testing and feedback, many aspects are in a state of flux as such feedback is collected, evaluated, and implemented. The biggest area affected is the economy. While everyone has his own thoughts on the matter, Cryptic is leaving no feedback forum post unread -- the players will help shape these changes.

        Last week, we saw the push of another patch that seems to have made some giant strides toward solving some of the biggest concerns, including significant reductions in prices for most items and the return of free ship tokens for most ranks. Stephen D'Angelo, acting Executive Producer and Emergency Executive Producer Hologram (EEPH), explained: "Based on how rapidly we're getting data and revising the game, we're still probably two more weeks away from having the economy in a state that is close to good enough." Since he said a lot more in his recent dev blog post, I thought I should take some time to expound on it.

        Ensign, warp 10! Let's take a look at what else the EEPH had to say and break it down...

        Continue reading Captain's Log: More on the economy

        MassivelyCaptain's Log: More on the economy originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 Oct 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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          ]]>          auction-housec-storec-store-pointsconsumablescrypticcryptic-pointscryptic-star-trekcryptic-studioscurrencycurrency-exchangedangelodev-blogdilithiumdoffduty-officerduty-officer-systemeephenergy-credit-systemenergy-creditsExchangef2pfeaturedfeedbackforumsfree-to-playhigh-end-gearlivestreamperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpvpspecial-task-forcest-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestarshipsstephen-dangelostfstotop-end-geartrek-onlinetribbletribble-test-serverThu, 20 Oct 2011 20:00:00 EST          <![CDATA[Captain's Log: The voices of reason]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/captains-log-the-voices-of-reason/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/captains-log-the-voices-of-reason/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/captains-log-the-voices-of-reason/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

          Screenshot - Star Trek Online
          Captain's Log, Stardate 65284.2...

          Hello, computer (and players)! It is often said that the voices of the gaming community are some of the loudest, and most passionate, around. This is especially true within the Star Trek Online community. While some may see particular posts made in Cryptic's forums as trolling or whining, others see passion and dedication for making the game they love the best it can be. There is no denying that there will always be those who love to hate and hate to love, but there are also community members out there who are the voices of reason -- they take their time to carefully examine something and provide appropriate and well-thought feedback on how to make something better.

          As STO is preparing to re-launch with its F2P model, many changes are being pushed to the Tribble test server for players to playtest and provide feedback on. Before the test shards ever open, debates based on the patch notes begin. After a few hours of testing on Tribble, players make their feedback posts public in hopes that developers notice and hear their opinions. The great news here is that the developers are reading each post and have vowed that feedback does not go unnoticed. Since I have been following this feedback closely myself, I thought I should share some of it here.

          Ensign, warp 10! Let's share some recent community feedback on two of the hottest topics out there...

          Continue reading Captain's Log: The voices of reason

          MassivelyCaptain's Log: The voices of reason originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Oct 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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            ]]>            c-storec-store-pointscommunitycrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdevelopersF2Pfeaturedfeedbackfree-to-playgold-membersgrindholodeckperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesilver-membersst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestothe-economytrek-onlinetribbletrollingtrollsThu, 13 Oct 2011 14:30:00 EST            <![CDATA[Captain's Log: Testing out the future]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/captains-log-testing-out-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/captains-log-testing-out-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/captains-log-testing-out-the-future/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

            Star Trek Online wallpaper of a pile of Tribbles
            Captain's Log, Stardate 65264.3...

            Hello, computer (and players)! As you have must have seen by now, open beta testing of Star Trek Online's new F2P model is well underway; the developers have been posting dev diaries about the impending changes for the last couple of days. Because testers on the Tribble test server were required to start new characters, and because character transfers will not be an option for at least a few weeks, many players have begun a mad dash to level up their test characters in order to test out some of the retooled endgame content.

            Since testing, especially in this manner, can be confusing, I have decided to dedicate this week's Captain's Log to those who are willing to take on the challenge. Past the jump, you will find a checklist of sorts that you can use while testing (or, ultimately, playing) the new content and updates. I suggest reading each section and then checking it out in-game. While some recommendations may seem less interesting than others, I suggest you give each a fair shot so you can provide feedback on what can make the game better.

            Ensign, warp 10! Let's give our dedicated Tribbleites some structure to their testing time...

            Continue reading Captain's Log: Testing out the future

            MassivelyCaptain's Log: Testing out the future originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 06 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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              ]]>              blogc-storecrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studioscurrencycurrency-updatedan-griffisdeep-space-ninedev-blogdev-diarydeveloper-blogdeveloper-diaryduty-officerduty-officer-systemevent-calendarf2pfeature-testingfeaturedfree-to-playgame-mechanicsgame-systemsgeoff-tuffligozerlivestreamlore-missionsmission-journalmission-windownew-systemspatchespath-to-f2pperfect-world-entertainmentpweremasteredsci-fispecial-testingstst-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestephen-dangelostfstf-updatesstotest-servertesting-rewardstrek-onlinetutorialtutorial-updateuiui-tweakupdatesThu, 06 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST              <![CDATA[Captain's Log: What's your (energy) type?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/captains-log-whats-your-energy-type/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/captains-log-whats-your-energy-type/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/captains-log-whats-your-energy-type/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

              Star Trek Online screenshot
              Captain's Log, Stardate 65244.9...

              Hello, computer (and players)! Happy birthday to me, happy birthday to me, happy birthday dear meeeeeee, happy birthday to me. Sorry, I couldn't resist. Yes, today is my birthday, and the best present I could receive is being able to share this week's Captain's Log with you all. As we get closer and closer to the F2P re-launch of Star Trek Online, I expect that there will be new captains tuning into this column each week, so to help support our new comrades in between the weeks that feature an influx of breaking news and developments, I am going to be taking some time to educate everyone on a few of the game's mechanics.

              When I first started playing STO, I often found myself wondering about many of the choices available to my different characters. From armor to shields, deflectors to engines, and kits to weapons, there is an endless array of options that we can decide to play with and use. One of the most frequently asked questions I get from new players is, "What is the best energy type to use for my ship's weapons?" In the past, when I really did not know much, I would choose my type by the color it emitted. I now know that "pretty" does not equal "power." While each type has its own special bonuses, it's up to you to decide which to use and why. Here's to hoping I can aid in that decision.

              Ensign, warp 10! Let's take a look at the spectrum of colors and their abilities...

              Continue reading Captain's Log: What's your (energy) type?

              MassivelyCaptain's Log: What's your (energy) type? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                ]]>                antiprotonarmorbirthdaycaptains-logcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdeflectorsdisruptorenginesF2Pfeaturedfree-to-playkitslivestreamperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentphaserplasmapolaronprocpweshieldsspecst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestosubsystemstertryontrek-onlineTribbleweaponsThu, 29 Sep 2011 11:00:00 EST                <![CDATA[Captain's Log: Preparing for launch (and farewells)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/captains-log-preparing-for-launch-and-farewells/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/captains-log-preparing-for-launch-and-farewells/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/captains-log-preparing-for-launch-and-farewells/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                Star Trek Online screenshot
                Hello, computer (and players)! As we are all now aware, the development team at Star Trek Online is busy making its preparations to re-launch the game with a hybrid, free-to-play model. Currently, the Tribble test server has been taken down as a beta build is being prepared for testing. In the meantime, Red Shirt, originally a Closed Beta test sever, has been opened up to current subscribers to continue testing new releases that will occur between now and the F2P launch. While there is still no date set for when this will be happening, many signs point to an October or November launch period.

                To add to the craziness that must be going on at Cryptic's headquarters in Northern California, on Tuesday, Dan Stahl, Executive Producer of STO, publicly announced that he would be vacating the Captain's Chair as he moves on to a new endeavor in his career. Effective immediately, Stephen D'Angelo, Cryptic's CTO, will be taking temporary command as the search for a new EP begins. While this came as a shock to many and was completely unexpected even by me, it may not be the "end of the world" as some players are calling it. Let's explore more.

                Ensign, warp 10! Set sensors to maximum range as we explore a little bit more about this change...

                Continue reading Captain's Log: Preparing for launch (and farewells)

                MassivelyCaptain's Log: Preparing for launch (and farewells) originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                  ]]>                  crypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahldevelopment-teamepescortexecutive-producerfeaturedlivestreampatchperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpvppweredshirtst-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestephen-dangelostotest-servertrek-onlinetribbleThu, 22 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST                  <![CDATA[Captain's Log: Class spotlight - Engineer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/captains-log-class-spotlight-engineer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/captains-log-class-spotlight-engineer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/captains-log-class-spotlight-engineer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                  Star Trek Online engineer patch
                  Captain's Log, Stardate 65205.7...

                  Hello, computer (and players)! As you may or may not know, the Star Trek franchise celebrated a momentous birthday last week as it turned 45 years old. While humankind first set out to "boldly going where no one has gone before" in the late 1960s, its legacy lives on today, four decades later, through Star Trek Online. Although the game has had its fair shares of ups and downs, I am not afraid to stand behind it and be proud of it for being able to continue Gene Roddenberry's dream. I am also extremely honored to play a small part in its history by bringing you Captain's Log each week, and I look forward to what the next 45 years hold.

                  I'd like to welcome each of you to the third and final installment of my three-part series focusing on the classes within STO. After checking out the awesome DPS that Tactical captains can dish out a couple of weeks back, we now shift our focus to the Scottys, LaForges, Obriens, and Torreses of the game -- the Engineering captains. Players taking on this role often find themselves having a blast, literally, as they materialize their defense and medical turrets, call on their support and seeker drones, and deploy their force fields and cover shields. While there are a variety of powers that this career can utilize, I would like to showcase a few of them past the jump.

                  Ensign, warp... actually, no; it's actually time to realign the dilithium matrix...

                  Continue reading Captain's Log: Class spotlight - Engineer

                  MassivelyCaptain's Log: Class spotlight - Engineer originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                    ]]>                    armekborgclassescrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdirected-energy-modulationeject-warp-plasmaemergency-poweremergency-power-to-auxiliaryemergency-power-to-shieldsengineering-teamextend-shieldsfeaturedfuse-armorlivestreammedical-generator-fabricationperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentRebecca-Simmonsred-alertscience-teamshield-generator-fabricationst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlineSTFstosto-class-spotlightsto-wikitrek-onlineturret-fabricationweapons-malfunctionwikiThu, 15 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST                    <![CDATA[Captain's Log: Setting a new course, page two]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/captains-log-setting-a-new-course-page-two/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/captains-log-setting-a-new-course-page-two/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/captains-log-setting-a-new-course-page-two/#comments Last week, after first hearing about the F2P news, I sent in some questions to our PR contact at Cryptic to get a few answers that are less about fact-finding and more about the process. Ivan was able to answer them for us.

                    Massively: With STO gaining new members every day, how did the team decide that this was the right time to change the subscription model to include F2P?

                    Ivan: Great question! Also a great opportunity for me to clarify something. First, I think it's important to note that F2P transitions for AAA MMOs that were originally boxed products (at least in our case) in no way imply imminent failure. "Transition equals doom" seems to be a pretty widespread misconception gamers share these days -- looking at comments we see on editorial sites, anyway. STO is, in fact, a solid, successful game for us and has a great playerbase. We're extremely proud of all the team has accomplished since launch. So when we decided to implement a hybrid F2P model, it was not out of necessity. It was a choice. I think that leads us to the question of why.

                    We've always said that our business models, like everything else at Cryptic, are not exempt from scrutiny. Certainly, we've struggled with product launches in the past, but we never give up on our games, and we constantly learn, improve, and change.

                    We've also said that decisions related to Star Trek Online's business model would be based, at least in part, on the success of Champions Online: Free for All. Specifically with regard to STO F2P, we've been considering for some time now how we'd go about appealing to more users (as all developers do).

                    In today's market, MMOs that require retail keys and subscriptions carry very high barriers of entry. Their very nature excludes huge groups of gamers and casual players who might otherwise be interested in playing. F2P resolves most of those barrier-of-entry issues (though large client sizes still prove to be obstacles, even if the client is free). Furthermore, today's market is one that's rapidly shifting toward gaming as a service and free-to-play gaming with pay-as-you-like models. It's a concept that's only now becoming acceptable in the West and gaining real momentum. Remember that when we started working on STO (and even when we shipped) AAA F2P games in the West were almost unheard of. They carried a stigma and were often unfairly associated with grind heavy titles in other regions.

                    Of course, we also have an amazing IP. Star Trek appeals to millions. If we'd like millions to try STO, it makes sense to lower the barriers of entry for them.

                    And then we saw the proven success of Champions Online: Free for All's hybrid model, in that it utilized F2P to attract new users and yet it still retained value for existing subscribers. That settled it for us.

                    Everything added up! We have a beloved IP, we've made huge improvements to the game since launch, with F2P we can appeal to more users, with F2P we can lower the barriers of entry and appeal to more ST fans, F2P is now an acceptable practice in the West gamers respond well to, we can still retain value for existing subscribers as we proved with CO... and, best of all, now we're owned by a company that has proven success doing exactly what we intend to do.

                    Timing + game improvements + new support + market = planets aligned. Go! Do!

                    Was this model in the works before the acquisition by PWE?

                    Yes. As I mentioned above, we've been thinking about F2P for some time, and we were working on bits and pieces here and there. Perfect World just encouraged us to do more, better. Perfect World also provides MMO and F2P-specific expertise and support we just didn't have before.

                    What does STO's going F2P mean for its players?

                    It's very important for us not to make waves for existing subscribers. Like we did with CO, we want to ensure that existing subscribers (be they recurring or lifetime) still have valuable subscriptions. Our features matrix on the official website breaks down the offerings, but we include things like a 400CP stipend, veteran rewards, Foundry creation and a slew of other miscellaneous perks specific to subscribers. No content limiters, though. We want everyone to play 1 to max.

                    I suppose the biggest immediate change will be more players to play with. Of course, once we do launch F2P, we're going to start working double-time on new content.

                    What do you see as the biggest benefit of switching to a F2P model?

                    More players, for sure. It benefits everyone. Existing subs have more people to game with, the community expands, the business grows, the game grows, still more players come in. It's a good circle.

                    With F2P, people have the opportunity to play the game whenever they want and not have to worry about subscriptions. Some only want to play for 30 minutes or an hour, maybe play a mission or two, and then not play again for another week or so. Perfect. F2P allows for that, but the hybrid model ensures subscribers aren't devalued.

                    What do you see as the biggest opportunity of switching to a F2P model?

                    Again, players. It's all about growth. F2P makes a game more accessible, which means more people can play. I think we have an opportunity to grow the game even more and do all the things we want to do. There are so many great ideas being passed between team members and the community. Switching to F2P allows us to bring even more of them to fruition. 2012 is going to be an amazing year for STO. Some of the content and changed we have in the works are big and very, very cool.

                    What, if any, marketing is planned around trying to increase the playerbase?
                    We'll have two more press releases, more editorial outreach, several more trailers (including a great new intro to the game), new screens, a new website, new ships features, some contests, lots of web ads, third-party promotions with our friends at Intel and Alienware and Logitech and NVIDIA, key giveaways... all kinds of neat things.

                    It's really just about trying to get the word out that it will be F2P. We've already had a bunch of people tell us that they'll definitely check the game out now that it's offering a F2P model. And really, that's all we can ask for.

                    Thanks for your time, Ivan!

                    Star Trek Online screenshot
                    My overall thoughts

                    Like I mentioned above, I truly believe that this move is smart and strategic for the game. Star Trek is one of the biggest IPs out there and has a massive fanbase. With a hybrid model like the one STO is going to adopt, there is an opportunity for even more people to play the game. Many diehard Trekkers and Trekkies whom I spoke with at the Las Vegas Star Trek convention admitted they did not play the game because they were not "gamers" and did not want to pay money to try it out just to see if they would like it, so this is going to give them an opportunity to give it a go and, possibly become paid subscribers for all of the benefits.

                    To convert some of the free players into paid subscribers, constant and new content for the game is going to be important. Therefore, I also think this change will mean that there will be a constant stream of new content coming out. This is obviously a win-win situation for both types of players, including long-time veterans who have been going through the supposed "content drought" (it's debatable whether that exists at all when you consider that there are dozens of new Foundry missions published each day).

                    Well, Captains, we have come to the end of this week's log entry. As with anything in the MMO world, things can change at a moment's notice; while there is no firm date for when the above changes will take place, keep your eyes locked on my column for more information as it develops. Also, I am going to be livestreaming STO next week on a special evening edition broadcast -- tune into our livestream channel next Thursday evening, September 15th, at 10 p.m. EDT, as I continue leveling my new Klingon Engineer toon, a Gorn name Thwack.

                    Until next time, let me know what your plans are and what you think of the F2P change by commenting below or emailing me directly at brandon@massively.com.

                    Computer, terminate recording.

                    Boldly going where no one has gone before, Brandon Felczer transmits Captain's Log through Subspace right to your PADD every Thursday. Join him as he discusses the latest news, gossip, and dev interviews about Star Trek Online. Hailing frequencies are always open to his bridge through brandon@massively.com.

                    MassivelyCaptain's Log: Setting a new course, page two originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                      ]]>                      Thu, 08 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST                      <![CDATA[Captain's Log: Setting a new course]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/captains-log-setting-a-new-course/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/captains-log-setting-a-new-course/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/captains-log-setting-a-new-course/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                      Star Trek Online logo
                      Hello, computer (and players)! Leave your credit cards, er, I mean, Latinum, at the turbolift door -- Star Trek Online has changed course for a new destination... Planet Free-to-Play. As we reported late last week (thanks again to tipster The First Avenger and @Altexist), it was announced during a Perfect World Entertainment earnings call that STO would be adopting a new subscription model before year's end. Little did we know that the plan to make a full-scale announcement had already been in the works and was set to have been released this week, the first inkling of which we saw this past Tuesday.

                      The press release and new F2P information page that Cryptic has launched on STO's home page contains a lot of information that explains the different benefits that paying and non-paying players will experience. As it did with Champions Online, the development team is planning on being as transparent as possible, listening to feedback, and making adjustments based on closed beta experiences of the new hybrid model. This week's Captain's Log is going to explore some of these benefits, shed some positive light on some worries, share with you exclusive answers to some questions we sent into PR, and let you know some of my overall personal thoughts -- so without further ado, make it so!

                      Ensign, warp 10! Let's help our readers decide whether they are going to be Silver or Gold members...

                      Continue reading Captain's Log: Setting a new course

                      MassivelyCaptain's Log: Setting a new course originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                        ]]>                        character-slotscrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studioscustomer-servicedaniel-stahlenergy-creditsf2pfeaturedfeatures-matrixfleetfleetsfoundryfree-to-playkdfklingonklingon-factionlivestreammonthly-stipendperfect-world-entertainmentQ-and-Arespec-tokenst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestipendstothe-foundrytrek-onlineThu, 08 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST                        <![CDATA[Captain's Log: Class spotlight - Tactical]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/captains-log-class-spotlight-tactical/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/captains-log-class-spotlight-tactical/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/captains-log-class-spotlight-tactical/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                        Star Trek Online tactical patch
                        Captain's Log, Stardate 65168.1...

                        Hello, computer (and players)! Welcome to Captain's Log and the second installment in a three-part series focusing on the classes within Star Trek Online. After exploring some of the amazing powers available to those who roll a Science captain, we shift our focus away from support and healing this week to dive into the realm of DPS. While this realm can be filled with members of all three classes, Tactical captains, if specced correctly, take the trophy each and every time.

                        Ever since the game launched early last year, my main toon has always been a Tactical captain. During the time I leveled up, I tested out different types of ships at each rank. While flying a science ship as a Tactical captain was fun during the early stages of leveling, I would definitely suggest flying an escort, or if you must, a cruiser, when you first make it to Rear Admiral. I am sure there are some Tacticals out there flying Science classes, but I feel that the Bridge Officer stations equipped on escorts allow the best Tactical abilities to come into play. But enough about telling you what to do -- let's move onto talking about some of the best attack powers in the game.

                        Ensign, warp 10! It's time to help our reads unload some DPS on their next enemy...

                        Continue reading Captain's Log: Class spotlight - Tactical

                        MassivelyCaptain's Log: Class spotlight - Tactical originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Sep 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                          ]]>                          abilityattack-patternattack-pattern-betaattack-pattern-omegabeam-array-fire-at-willcannon-rapid-firecaptains-logclassclass-spotlightcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosengineerengineer-officerfeaturedguideguidesKAkhitomer-accordlivestreammotion-acceleratoroverwatchrally-crysciencescience-officerskill-treeskill-tree-blockst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestealth-moduleSTFstosto-class-spotlightstun-grenadesuppressing-firetacticaltactical-officertactical-teamtorpedo-high-yieldtrek-onlineThu, 01 Sep 2011 12:30:00 EST                          <![CDATA[Captain's Log: Class spotlight - Science]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/25/captains-log-class-spotlight-science/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/25/captains-log-class-spotlight-science/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/25/captains-log-class-spotlight-science/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                          Star Trek Online medical patch
                          Captain's Log, Stardate 65150.3...

                          Hello, computer (and players)! McCoy, Crusher, Bashir, the EMH and Phlox are all known for their amazing medical skills throughout the many series of Star Trek. While some of these Doctors were the most beloved characters in all of the franchise, Science officers seem to be a rare item in the Star Trek Online universe. Although Science is the least commonly played career, many who do venture into the field have rewarding gaming experiences due to the different sub-careers they can spec into.

                          This week's Captain's Log introduces the first installment in a three-part series that will span the next few weeks -- each entry will focus on a different class and provide some great information that you will be able to reference the next time you roll a new character. Whether you prefer to provide support through healing, debuffs, or powerful expose attacks that leave your enemies vulnerable to vaporization, this spotlight on Science captains has something for everyone. Continue past the jump for information of some of my favorite skills for Science officers.

                          Ensign, warp 10! Let's get those medical tricorders ready for use...

                          Continue reading Captain's Log: Class spotlight - Science

                          MassivelyCaptain's Log: Class spotlight - Science originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 25 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                            ]]>                            abilitycaptains-logcharged-particle-burstclassclass-spotlightcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdoctorExothermic-Induction-Fieldfeaturedfeedback-pulseguideguideshazard-emittersHyperonic-radiationjam-sensorsKAkhitomer-accordlivestreammedical-tricordernantie-health-monitorPhotonic-Shock-Wavesciencescience-officerscramble-sensorsskill-treeskill-tree-blockst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlineSTFstosto-class-spotlighttachyon-harmonictrek-onlinetriageThu, 25 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST                            <![CDATA[Captain's Log: Incoming messages from the devs... again]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/captains-log-incoming-messages-from-the-devs-again/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/captains-log-incoming-messages-from-the-devs-again/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/captains-log-incoming-messages-from-the-devs-again/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                            Photo from the event
                            Captain's Log, Stardate 65131.6...

                            Hello, computer (and players)! I seem to mention this all the time, but I believe it to be true: The developers working on Star Trek Online are more transparent with their work than the devs of most other games. Whether or not this transparency has been always been a good thing is debatable, though. Still, no matter what one's thoughts on this are, I think we can all agree we like to be "in the know" when it comes to new things in development. This past weekend, a select group of STO players was able to attend another Dine with the Devs event, hosted by yours truly, where transparency was taken to the next level.

                            As I let you all know last week, the second-ever Dine with the STO Devs event coincided with some STO devs' visit to the Star Trek Las Vegas convention. Over 50 players gathered at a local Vegas restaurant to eat, drink and bombard Cryptic's developers with their most burning questions. Because 99.99% of the game's players were unable to attend, I captured the entire event on audio and would like to present you with a basic transcript of the evening's events. So make some food, grab a drink, and get ready to fire up the Holodeck for another edition of Captain's Log.

                            Ensign, warp 10! Auxiliary power to the Holodeck matrices and brace for impact...

                            Continue reading Captain's Log: Incoming messages from the devs... again

                            MassivelyCaptain's Log: Incoming messages from the devs... again originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                              ]]>                              andoriaBorgcrypticcryptic-gozercryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdevelopersdine-with-the-devsdinnerexplorationfeaturedfleetfleet-actionfleetsfoundryfoundry-missionfoundry-missionsgozericonianiconiansinto-the-hivejheiniglas-vegasMeetupnevadapokerpriority-onepvpq-and-ashipshipsst-onlinestastar-trekstar-trek-las-vegasstar-trek-las-vegas-conventionstar-trek-onlinestfstfstargtargstholiantholiansthomasthecrypticcattribbletribblestricorderUIzeroniusrexThu, 18 Aug 2011 20:00:00 EST                              <![CDATA[Captain's Log: Resistance might actually be futile]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/11/captains-log-resistance-might-actually-be-futile/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/11/captains-log-resistance-might-actually-be-futile/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/11/captains-log-resistance-might-actually-be-futile/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                              Star Trek Online screenshot
                              Captain's Log, Stardate 65112.3...

                              Hello, computer (and players)! They're mean, they're green(ish), and they are of a collective mind... they are the Borg, and resistance is futile. As most of you know, the Federation's most feared enemy plays a major part in Star Trek Online, and while the Borg are the current endgame "baddie," players find themselves on a daily basis in situations that force them to avoid assimilation. Be they in Deep Space Encounters (DSEs), Special Task Forces (STFs), or random explore missions, the Borg are out there and planning an invasion into the Alpha Quadrant. Bad news, Captains -- their plans are about to come to realization.

                              Later this month, the Borg Fleet Intercepts are scheduled to commence, and as the Borg take up their offensive stance, players of all ranks are going to be called to the front lines. Since this is the first "global combat event" the game has ever had (not including one during beta), players are excited to see what is in store and what they're up against. Luckily, being a member of Section 31, I was able to gain access to some secret intelligence that contains the Borg's plans, and Captain's Log is about to let you in on them so you know how to organize your counterattack.

                              Ensign, warp 10! Let's prepare our readers for the impending invasion...

                              Continue reading Captain's Log: Resistance might actually be futile

                              MassivelyCaptain's Log: Resistance might actually be futile originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 11 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                ]]>                                alpha-quadrantassimilationborgborg-invasionconventioncrypticcryptic-studiosdeep-space-encounterdine-with-the-devsdsefeaturedgormgorngozerground-invasionhomeworldinto-the-hiveinvasionKDFklingonlas-vegasorionpriority-oneraidremasteredresistance-is-futilestar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlineSTFstlvstosto-conthe-borgunimatrixThu, 11 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST                                <![CDATA[Star Trek Online's Dine with the Devs event details -- Vegas edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/star-trek-onlines-dine-with-the-devs-event-details-vegas-edi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/star-trek-onlines-dine-with-the-devs-event-details-vegas-edi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/star-trek-onlines-dine-with-the-devs-event-details-vegas-edi/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

                                With the Star Trek Las Vegas convention coming up this weekend, trekkers and trekkies are sewing the final buttons and putting the finishing touches on their costumes. With estimates of over 15,000 Humans, Klingons, and Romulans -- among others -- attending the event at the Rio Convention Center, there is bound to be a massive turn-out of Star Trek Online players, including a handful of Cryptic developers. Just like last month, there is a special event being planned that will bring players and devs together for an evening of fun.

                                Priority One, the STO podcast for which I am Executive Producer, is proud to be hosting another Dine with the Devs event this Saturday evening, August 13th. While not affiliated with Massively, the casual meet-up will be within walking distance of the convention. As we dine, the devs will be answering players' questions and talking more in depth about some of the projects they have been involved with. It is important to note that each attendee's expenses are their own responsibility. For more information, including location and time, visit the event's information page.

                                MassivelyStar Trek Online's Dine with the Devs event details -- Vegas edition originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 09 Aug 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                ]]>                                crypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdine-with-the-devsdinnerLas VegasLasVegasMeetuppriority onePriorityOneq and aQAndASan Diegost-onlinestar trekstar trek conventionstar trek las vegas conventionstar-trek-las-vegasstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlineStarTrekStarTrekConventionStarTrekLasVegasConventionstotrek-onlineTue, 09 Aug 2011 15:00:00 EST                                <![CDATA[Captain's Log: Building a successful fleet]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/04/captains-log-building-a-successful-fleet/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/04/captains-log-building-a-successful-fleet/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/04/captains-log-building-a-successful-fleet/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                                Captain's Log, Stardate 65093.1...

                                Hello, computer (and players)! In the Star Trek Online universe, fleets are the foundation that ensures ones' in-game (and even out-of-game) experience is one that is active, social, and fulfilling. Whether you enjoy PvP, Special Task Forces, role play, or a combo of all the above, there should be a fleet out there for you to call home. But, what do you do if you can not find one that suits your warp core? Well, you start your own! That's right! Gather your friends (or make new ones), visit the fleet contact on Earth Space Dock, think up a clever name, and click that "create" button.

                                Okay, okay -- I make it sound a lot easier than it actually is. Building a fleet takes a lot of work, time and dedication, but is possible with the right spirit at the helm. Then, just when you have it built, successfully running it becomes an even bigger challenge. During this week's Captain's Log, I am going to take you on a tour of duty as we explore a possible structuring to your future fleet. Based off of one of the most successful fleets in-game, Stonewall Fleet, which has had over 1,400 members sign-up for membership, let's take a look at the roles they have in place to make it all happen.

                                Ensign, warp 10! Let's help our readers create the perfect structure to their fleet...

                                Continue reading Captain's Log: Building a successful fleet

                                MassivelyCaptain's Log: Building a successful fleet originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                  ]]>                                  admiraladmiraltyalliesambassaforcode of conductCodeOfConductcombatcounselorcraftingcrafting corpCraftingCorpcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdata samplesDataSamplesenergy creditsEnergyCreditsfleet admiralfleet resourcesFleetAdmiralFleetResourcesfleetsHazard teamHazardTeamintelligenceinvitesKDFklingonlas vegasLasVegaslivestreamnewsletternicholas swinfordNicholasSwinfordnick swinfordNickSwinfordofficersPersonnelpvprecruitmentrostersocialst-onlineStar Trek Conventionstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlineStarTrekConventionSTFstlvstostonewall fleetstonewall-fleetStonewallFleettrek-onlineThu, 04 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST                                  <![CDATA[Captain's Log: Dining with the devs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/28/captains-log-dining-with-the-devs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/28/captains-log-dining-with-the-devs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/28/captains-log-dining-with-the-devs/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                                  Captain's Log, Stardate 65075.4...

                                  Hello, computer (and players)! Ahhh, the good 'ol developers! You follow them on twitter, you read every one of their forum posts, and you even stalk them in-game. But you know what? Developers are just like us, a fellow human being, right? Wrong! Developers are the key to the future, the hands that create our dreams, the molders that shape our gameplay. Okay, okay -- I'm going a bit overboard, but you have to admit, they are pretty dang cool!

                                  Luckily for us Star Trek Online players, the devs that are working on the game, as well as all of the other projects in development at Cryptic, are very transparent. More often that not, they let us know what they are working on and look to the community to see what we think about particular ideas -- we truly get to help influence what makes it into the game. Aside from posting in the forums, many of them also participate with the community by guest starring on podcasts and meeting up with players when they can.

                                  As I broke the news to you all last week, I was privileged to host a Dine with the Devs event that coincided with a visit of some of the STO devs to this year's San Diego Comic-Con. While this was not associated with Massively, I figured all of you would like to know what happened and what was said. So, without further ado, it's time to recap the event and fill you all in on the super-secret meeting minutes!

                                  Ensign, warp 10! Let's boldly go where most of you were not able to go...

                                  Continue reading Captain's Log: Dining with the devs

                                  MassivelyCaptain's Log: Dining with the devs originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Jul 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                    ]]>                                    Borgcaliforniacomic-concomic-con-2011Comic-conInternationalcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdevelopersdine-with-the-devsduty officerduty-officer-systemDutyOfficerfleetfleet starbasesfleetsFleetStarbasesfoundrygold pressed latinumGoldPressedLatinumground combatGroundCombathereticjheinigKDFklingonLas VegasLasVegaslivestreamMeetuppriority onePriorityOneq and aQAndAsalami_infernoSan DiegoSanDiegoseason fourseason-fourSeasonFourst-onlinestar trekstar trek conventionstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestarbasestarfleetstarfleet academyStarfleetAcademyStarTrekStarTrekConventionstougcThu, 28 Jul 2011 17:00:00 EST                                    <![CDATA[Captain's Log: The reverse slingshot effect]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/captains-log-the-reverse-slingshot-effect/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/captains-log-the-reverse-slingshot-effect/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/captains-log-the-reverse-slingshot-effect/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

                                    Captain's Log, Stardate 65056.3...

                                    Hello, computer (and players)! The slingshot effect is a maneuver, shown throughout the Star Trek franchise, which allowed starships to move back through the time continuum. By traveling at a high warp factor towards a star with a large gravitational pull, the ship would whip around it and time travel. While this seemed to only exist within the realms of the IP, it looks as though Star Trek Online's Executive Producer Dan Stahl took us on a reverse slingshot course, giving us a glimpse into the future of the game. Before we returned to the original timeline, he made sure to write up everything we saw along the way for those who couldn't make the trip.

                                    In layman's terms, for those of you who missed the news earlier this week, July's Engineering Report has been released. While this is a monthly publication that contains the development pipeline for STO, including some items that have been featured in past issues, there are always a few bullet points added that seem to spark a healthy amount of debate -- one of these includes the ability to auction off your in-game Emblems, a form of currency, for C-Store points that have been paid for with real money. For information on this, including a response from Cryptic's PR department, and more, read ahead past the jump for this week's Captain's Log entry.

                                    Ensign, warp 10! Let's pull a slingshot maneuver of our own...

                                    Continue reading Captain's Log: The reverse slingshot effect

                                    MassivelyCaptain's Log: The reverse slingshot effect originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Jul 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                      ]]>                                      academyauctionbugsc-storecaptains-logcaptainslogcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studioscstore pointsCstorePointsdan stahldan-stahldaniel stahlDanielStahlDanStahldevelopmentdine with the devsdine-with-the-devsDineWithTheDevsemblemsengineering reportengineering-reportEngineeringReportexplorationfeaturedfleet starbasefleetsFleetStarbasefoundryklingonlivestreammicrotransactionpatchesplutoQAseason-fiveseason-fourshipsslingshotsolsol planetsSolPlanetsspeciesst-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestarbasesstarfleetstfstoterritory controlTerritoryControltime travelTimeTraveltrek-onlinetribblewarpThu, 21 Jul 2011 13:00:00 EST                                      <![CDATA[Star Trek Online's Dine with the Devs event details]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/19/star-trek-onlines-dine-with-the-devs-event-details/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/19/star-trek-onlines-dine-with-the-devs-event-details/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/19/star-trek-onlines-dine-with-the-devs-event-details/#commentsFiled under: , ,

                                      With San Diego Comic-Con right around the corner, attendees are making their final plans on what events and attractions they are going to visit in the historic city by the bay. While there is always a decent turn out of Star Trek fans, many Star Trek Online players have always hoped for a stronger presence from Cryptic. Whether it be a panel interview, a booth, or even just a casual meet-up, Captains want to connect with their developers. Well, dreams are about to come true!

                                      Priority One, the STO podcast for which I am Executive Producer, will be hosting the first ever Dine with the Devs event this Friday evening, July 22nd. While not affiliated with Massively, this casual meet-up will take place off-site at a local restaurant in the San Diego area. As we dine on the patio, the devs in attendance will be answering players' questions about the game and explaining their roles on the project. It is important to note that each attendees' expenses are their own responsibility. For more information, including location and time, visit the information page.

                                      MassivelyStar Trek Online's Dine with the Devs event details originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 Jul 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                      ]]>                                      comic-concomic-con-2011Comic-conInternationalcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdine-with-the-devsMeetuppriority onePriorityOneq and aQAndASan DiegoSanDiegost-onlinestar trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlineStarTrekstothe quantum cafeTheQuantumCafetrek-onlineTue, 19 Jul 2011 19:00:00 EST                                      <![CDATA[Star Trek Online posts the latest Engineering Report]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/19/star-trek-online-posts-the-latest-engineering-report/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/19/star-trek-online-posts-the-latest-engineering-report/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/19/star-trek-online-posts-the-latest-engineering-report/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

                                      With the launch of Season Four now behind the developers at Star Trek Online, the team is now focusing on what lies ahead for its Captains. The latest Engineering Report, a monthly forum post that is released and written by Executive Producer Dan Stahl, foreshadows some upcoming content that we will see soon[TM] and commits to the eradicating of bugs that recently came to life. There are even some new additions that are sure to bring some "healthy" discussions to the Cryptic forums.

                                      Between now and Season Five, we will see the introduction of the Duty Officer system, STF revamps, new gear sets, more Klingon updates, and the advancement of the Borg into Federation space. While it has been said that Season Five will most likely not be released until 2012, players can look forward to seeing major updates for fleets, a rework of how exploration works, more in-game species, and the introduction of fleet starbases. Make sure to take a look at the full report, as well as this week's upcoming Captain's Log entry, to read about these and other updates coming to a starship near you.

                                      MassivelyStar Trek Online posts the latest Engineering Report originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                      ]]>                                      bugscaptains-logcaptainslogcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdan stahlDanStahldevelopmentengineering-reportexplorationfleet starbasefleetsFleetStarbasepatchesseason-fiveseason-fourshipsspeciesst-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestarbasesstotrek-onlineupcoming-patchesTue, 19 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST                                      <![CDATA[Captain's Log: Season Four launch recap]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/captains-log-season-four-launch-recap/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/captains-log-season-four-launch-recap/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/captains-log-season-four-launch-recap/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                                      Captain's Log, Stardate 65037.1...

                                      Hello, computer (and players)! As I mentioned in last week's Captain's Log entry, Season Four: Crossfire is now alive and kicking on Star Trek Online's Holodeck server. Based on past experiences with major content and code pushes, I feel that this was the smoothest to date with virtually no server issues or overload. While there have been a few snags along the way with some bugs making it past Cryptic's "white-glove" QA process, the update was a success and players are having more fun than ever before.

                                      As discussed in one of my past log entries, Season Four was to bring many updates to the game, including the acclaimed ground combat 2.0 system, which would make it an even better Trek experience -- in all honestly, Cryptic delivered. STO is more active than ever and the fleet that I am in is having multiple newbies sign up each day; it is an exciting time to be a player and your weekly columnist. What I would like to do this week is revisit what I let you know was coming to the game and let you know some of my thoughts on them now that I have been experiencing them for myself.

                                      Ensign, warp 12! Oh yeah, we are taking this to a whole new level...

                                      Continue reading Captain's Log: Season Four launch recap

                                      MassivelyCaptain's Log: Season Four launch recap originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                        ]]>                                        art-updateassimilationbehind-the-scenesborgcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdan-stahlfeaturedfoundrygozerground-combatground-combat-revampkdfklingonlivestreampvepve-queueqonosseason-4season-fourst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-ostar-trek-onlinestotrek-onlineThu, 14 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST                                        <![CDATA[Captain's Log: Hailing frequencies were, are, and will be open]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/07/captains-log-hailing-frequencies-were-are-and-will-be-open/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/07/captains-log-hailing-frequencies-were-are-and-will-be-open/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/07/captains-log-hailing-frequencies-were-are-and-will-be-open/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

                                        Captain's Log, Stardate 65018.1...

                                        Hello, computer (and players)! While we have all been out and about gallivanting across the galaxy, the development team for Star Trek Online has been busy working on getting Season Four: Crossfire from Tribble test server to the Holodeck live sever, and it looks like the mission was a success as it was finally patched into the game this morning. In between all the bug-squashing, feedback-gathering, and sleepless nights, Executive Producer Dan Stahl found time to sit down and answer some of his players' burning questions about the future of STO.

                                        Toward the end of every month, a Cryptic Community Manager creates a new thread in the forums where players can submit questions. While it seems that the policy is "no question is too out there," only a select few are chosen and personally responded to. Whether you are interested in the future of Klingons, wondering when Starfleet Academy will make its debut, or curious to learn if the Romulans will become a playable faction, this month's Ask Cryptic is sure to leave you wanting more. While Dan seems to jump from topic to topic, I thought it would be handy if I put it all together for you in this week's Captain's Log entry.

                                        Ensign, warp 11! Yeah, that's right! This is for all the readers who thought we couldn't even go warp 10...

                                        Continue reading Captain's Log: Hailing frequencies were, are, and will be open

                                        MassivelyCaptain's Log: Hailing frequencies were, are, and will be open originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Jul 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                          ]]>                                          2409academyask crypticAskCrypticbridge officerBridgeOfficercardassiancrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosend gameEndGamefactionfeaturedfightersklingonmvamperpetualprometheuspugseason fourSeasonFourshipsspecial task forceSpecialTaskForcest-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestfstotrek-onlineThu, 07 Jul 2011 17:00:00 EST                                          <![CDATA[Players to celebrate diversity in Star Trek Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/05/players-to-celebrate-diversity-in-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/05/players-to-celebrate-diversity-in-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/05/players-to-celebrate-diversity-in-star-trek-online/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

                                          This upcoming weekend, Stonewall Fleet, Star Trek Online's largest GLBT and straight ally guild, will be hosting the second annual STO Pride Weekend. In memory of the gay rights movements from decades ago, as well as to celebrate the diversity that Gene Roddenberry always envisioned Star Trek to encompass, festivities are planned that will span both Saturday, July 9th, and Sunday, July 10th. Whether you would like to attend the opening ceremonies, play a round of PvP, warp in the parade, or attend the prom, there is something for everyone.

                                          We had a chance to speak to Nicholas Swinford, founder and Fleet Admiral for Stonewall Fleet, who told us, "this time of year is a time of great celebration for the GLBT community. Millions worldwide celebrate during this time of year in remembrance of the Stonewall Riots. For this occasion, Stonewall Fleet will be hosting events throughout the second weekend of July. The events will be open to the entire Star Trek Online community and we hope that you and your fleet will come join in." With that said, red (orange, yellow, green, blue and purple) alert, shields up, set your phasers to fabulous, and engage!

                                          [Comments have been closed, because no one can play nice and act like a grown up. - Ed]

                                          MassivelyPlayers to celebrate diversity in Star Trek Online originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 05 Jul 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                          • Source: http://stonewallfleet.com/pride

                                          ]]>                                          crypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studioseventsgay-pridegay-pride-weekglbtnicholas swinfordNicholasSwinfordnick swinfordNickSwinfordst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestostonewall fleetstonewall-fleetStonewallFleetStonewallRiotstrek-onlineTue, 05 Jul 2011 09:00:00 EST                                          <![CDATA[Captain's Log: Shop till you drop (out of warp)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/30/captains-log-shop-till-you-drop-out-of-warp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/30/captains-log-shop-till-you-drop-out-of-warp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/30/captains-log-shop-till-you-drop-out-of-warp/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

                                          Captain's Log, Stardate 64997.8...

                                          Hello, computer (and players)! Over the past couple of weeks, there has been much heated debate about microtransactions within MMOs. Whether those microtransactions involve an accessory for your character, additional character slots, or a new mount, players have mixed emotions on spending real money to obtain such items. No matter what your position is on the topic, one thing for certain is that microtransactions are not going to disappear. In fact, they seem to be the future when it comes to how most studios will be delivering exclusive content and items.

                                          Star Trek Online is no stranger to such transactions -- the infamous Cryptic Store (C-Store) is full of items priced from just a dollar all the way up to $25. If you are new to the game or have never made a purchase before, at first glance, you may be wondering what you should buy. While some items are simply there as cosmetic enhancements, some will actually help in your battle against your favorite enemy. To help shed some light on your choices, this week's Captain Log is going to explore the top 10 must-have C-Store items that every STO player should not leave spacedock without.

                                          Ensign, warp 10! It's time to go on a virtual spending spree...

                                          Continue reading Captain's Log: Shop till you drop (out of warp)

                                          MassivelyCaptain's Log: Shop till you drop (out of warp) originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 30 Jun 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                            ]]>                                            borgbundlec-storeconsolecrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosenterpriseexcelsiorfeaturedfightersklingonsmirandaMVAMoberthpowerssehlatspendingst-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestostoretargtpoltribbletribblesundineThu, 30 Jun 2011 13:30:00 EST                                            <![CDATA[Captain's Log: The lower decks]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/captains-log-the-lower-decks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/captains-log-the-lower-decks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/captains-log-the-lower-decks/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                                            Captain's Log, Stardate 64977.3...

                                            Spock, Riker, Kira, Worf, Chakotay, and T'Pol. What do they all have in common? They are the notable men and women who served under their Captains as First Officer. Joret, Sito, Alyssa, Taurik, Sam and Geniveve. What do they all have in common? No one knows who the heck they are. In the world of Star Trek, these "unknowns" are the members of the lower decks, people whose work goes unnoticed, whose accomplishments are unacknowledged, and who are often killed off at the end of the episode when you finally do get to know them.

                                            While the ships in Star Trek Online currently seem to be manned only by the Captain, his or her Bridge Officers (BOff), and some random crewmen walking around the ship, this is about to change. In the next couple months, get ready to welcome new members to your ship's lower decks. The Duty Officer (DOff) system will be adding a new form of gameplay to STO and give players even more ways to level characters and become immersed in the universe surrounding them. While there are a ton of random pieces of information about it floating out there, I think that Captain's Log is the perfect place to put it all together and give you a more concise picture of how it will work.

                                            Ensign, warp 10! It's time to attend your new favorite class, DOffs 101...

                                            Continue reading Captain's Log: The lower decks

                                            MassivelyCaptain's Log: The lower decks originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                              ]]>                                              assignmentsBOboffbreenchakotayclasscommendationcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdefaridepartment-headsDOdoffduty-officerduty-officer-systemengineeringfeaturefeaturedfirst-officerforumsHereticholodeckkiraklingonklingonslivestreamrarityrikersciencespeciesspockst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotacticaltcgtpoltrading-card-gametrek-onlineworfThu, 23 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST                                              <![CDATA[Captain's Log: The Gospel of Tribble]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/16/captains-log-the-gospel-of-tribble/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/16/captains-log-the-gospel-of-tribble/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/16/captains-log-the-gospel-of-tribble/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                                              Captain's Log, Stardate 64959.3...

                                              Hello, compu... what the... shields up, red alert! Brace for impact! A giant Tribble is on the loose, and its name is Season Four. That's right -- the Star Trek Online public test server, Tribble, sometimes nicknamed the Trouble with Tribble, has finally reopened with the major update that we have all been waiting for. This build was first pushed last Friday but was taken down moments later due to a "major database error." The show-stopping kinks have been worked out now, so it is time to get to testing out all of the new content I have been writing about for the past couple of months.

                                              If you have not seen the release notes for this build, there are dozens of updates that will be altering the way you have come to play the game. Not sure what to test? That is what I am here for. The goal of this week's Captain's Log is to provide you a checklist on what to hit up once you patch your game and get on your test toon. Also, if you have never installed the test server, now is a great time -- Cryptic will soon be announcing a Tribble Test Weekend, during which you can log in and receive an exclusive item on the live server just for helping test.

                                              Ensign, warp 10! Let's share some text from the word of Tribble...

                                              Continue reading Captain's Log: The Gospel of Tribble

                                              MassivelyCaptain's Log: The Gospel of Tribble originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                ]]>                                                art-updateassimilationbehind-the-scenesborgcrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahlfeaturedfoundryground-combatground-combat-revampkdfklingonlivestreampvepve-queueqonosseason-4season-fourstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestosto-livestreamtesttest-servertribblevivoxThu, 16 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST                                                <![CDATA[Priority One podcast interviews Daniel Stahl]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/10/priority-one-podcast-interviews-daniel-stahl/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/10/priority-one-podcast-interviews-daniel-stahl/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/10/priority-one-podcast-interviews-daniel-stahl/#commentsFiled under: , ,

                                                Daniel Stahl, Executive Producer of Star Trek Online, sat down with the guys at Priority One podcast to answer some community-submitted questions and drop some exclusive news about upcoming content. While he also shares a little bit about his leadership style and some inner-workings of his team, he was unable to comment on anything about the Perfect World acquisition of Cryptic. But he answered plenty of other questions!

                                                Are you interested in finding out when the new Enterprise-F will be making it into game? Have you dreamed of learning more about what happens with the Q Continuum? Are you wondering when more minigames are coming? Still upset you have so many Trianium rare samples that are not used for anything? You will definitely want to tune in get answers to these questions and many more!

                                                Priority One is hosted by The Quantum Cafe, a "facebook-like" social network dedicated to STO players. The show comes out weekly, so make sure to tune in to listen to guest developers and to share community-submitted ideas and feedback.

                                                MassivelyPriority One podcast interviews Daniel Stahl originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 Jun 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                ]]>                                                crypticcryptic-studiosdaniel-stahldstahlenterpriseenterprise-fEnterpriseFfacebookperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpriority-onepweQQ-continuumQContinuumquantum-cafestar-trekstar-trek-onlinestothe-quantum-cafetrianiumFri, 10 Jun 2011 18:00:00 EST                                                <![CDATA[Captain's Log: Missed dev transmissions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/09/captains-log-missed-dev-transmissions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/09/captains-log-missed-dev-transmissions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/09/captains-log-missed-dev-transmissions/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

                                                Captain's Log, Stardate 64940.2...

                                                Hello, computer (and players)! As we have explored in past logs, the developers working on Star Trek Online are extremely transparent with the community, and this, surprising to some, is actually by design. Since Dan Stahl took over as Executive Producer a year ago come July, he made it his personal mission to make sure that fans of the game knew where the game was heading at all times and what was currently being developed. Due to the success of this open communication, Cryptic as a whole has made a shift to this philosophy for its other announced projects. New details often emerge through several different official sources: the monthly Ask Cryptic and Engineering Report as well as a plethora of interviews.

                                                While the previously listed outlets are often marketed and widely known about, there are several channels that I would like to bring to light, ones that seem to fall under the radar. As Twitter is one of the biggest social media crazes, developers are using it to get information and work-in-progress screenshots out to the public. Also, some devs seem to be sacrificing sleep, as we will often wake up to posts in the STO forums that were posted near the midnight hour of Cryptic's time zone. Many feel that the most interesting and drool-worthy information is found in these "leaks," so I would like to share some of them with you.

                                                Ensign, warp 10! You might want to grab a towel to wipe up your mouth...

                                                Continue reading Captain's Log: Missed dev transmissions

                                                MassivelyCaptain's Log: Missed dev transmissions originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                  ]]>                                                  ask-crypticcaptains-logcraig zincCraigZinccrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdan griffisdan stahlDanGriffisdaniel stahlDanielStahlDanStahldstahlduty officerduty officer systemDutyOfficerDutyOfficerSystemfawfeaturedfire at willFireAtWillforum-postsforumsgozerground combatGroundCombathereticinterviewjheiniglivestreammatt highisonMattHighisonmhighisonmidnightocdpriority onePriorityOnestostormshadethomasthecattwilighttwitteruniformswipwishstonework-in-progresszincThu, 09 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST                                                  <![CDATA[E3 2011: A look at Star Trek: Infinite Space]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/08/e3-2011-a-look-at-star-trek-infinite-space/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/08/e3-2011-a-look-at-star-trek-infinite-space/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/08/e3-2011-a-look-at-star-trek-infinite-space/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                                                  Engagieren! At this year's E3, German game developer Keen Games (under the production of Gameforge) brought us to warp speed and gave us a first look at the upcoming browser-based MMO Star Trek: Infinite Space. Powered by the Unity 3D engine, the latest game in the Trek franchise will be free-to-play by the end of 2011. The devs are calling it an "action-tactic" MMO, and it title will hopefully give players just what they have been asking for in a Trek MMO.

                                                  Set in the Deep Space Nine timeline, the game allows players to create custom characters and immediately begin to pilot their own ships. Right from the beginning, a player can start as either a Starfleet or a Klingon officer. To our surprise, the game's development is being fully supervised by Mike and Denise Okuda, Star Trek experts who have been involved in the franchise's many movies and television shows.

                                                  Star Trek: Infinite Space is currently in closed beta but has a cinematic trailer that is sure to give any Trekker or Trekkie goosebumps. Check it out after the break!

                                                  Massively's on the ground in Los Angeles during the week of June 6-9, bringing you all the best news from E3 2011. Whether you're dying to know more about Star Wars: The Old Republic, RIFT, or any MMO in between, you can bet we'll have it covered!


                                                  Gallery: E3 2011: Star Trek: Infinite Space

                                                  Continue reading E3 2011: A look at Star Trek: Infinite Space

                                                  MassivelyE3 2011: A look at Star Trek: Infinite Space originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 Jun 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                    ]]>                                                    action-tacticdeep-space-ninedenise-okudae3e3-2011galleriesgallerygameforgeinfinite-spacekeen-gamesmike-okudaokudascreenshotscreenshotsstar-trekstar-trek-infinite-spaceStarTrektrailertrailerstrekkertrekkieunity-3dunity-engineunity3dvideovideosWed, 08 Jun 2011 14:00:00 EST                                                    <![CDATA[Captain's Log: To boldly go where... Perfect World has never gone before?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/02/captains-log-to-boldly-go-where-perfect-world-has-never-gon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/02/captains-log-to-boldly-go-where-perfect-world-has-never-gon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/02/captains-log-to-boldly-go-where-perfect-world-has-never-gon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                                                    Captain's Log, Stardate 64918.1...

                                                    Hello, computer (and players)! Isn't it amazing how the MMO gaming world works? One week you might be ecstatic about the planned updates for your favorite game, and the next week you are wondering if that same game is even going to last another day. Like many other Star Trek Online players, I was in this boat just last week. When Atari announced that it was going to be divesting interest in Cryptic, many players initially went into panic mode. But as I stated in my entry last week, I strongly felt that things were going to turn out just fine, possibly for the better -- and they definitely have.

                                                    Earlier this week, Perfect World Entertainment announced that it would acquire a 100% equity stake from Atari, with Cryptic Studios remaining as the sole shareholder. Made famous for its free-to-play games, including Perfect World International, Pocketpet Journey West, and Forsaken World, Perfect World has the potential to help STO continue to grow. While the new owners are very excited at the opportunity to utilize the engine Cryptic is famous for, they are also excited at the fact that Champions Online uses the free-to-play business model. Oh dear -- here we go again.

                                                    Ensign, warp 10! Everything is going to be OK and here's why...

                                                    Continue reading Captain's Log: To boldly go where... Perfect World has never gone before?

                                                    MassivelyCaptain's Log: To boldly go where... Perfect World has never gone before? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Jun 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                      ]]>                                                      acquisitionataricrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdan stahldan-stahlDanielStahlDanStahldiscontinueddstahlElliot Tanelliot-tanElliotTanfeaturedfor-saleforsaken-worldfree-to-playlifetime-subscriptionLiveStreamLiveStreamingopinionPerfect Worldperfect-world-entertainmentPerfectWorldpocket petsPocketPetspvppwerumorst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoStudiosThe Quantum CafeTheQuantumCafetrek-onlineThu, 02 Jun 2011 15:30:00 EST                                                      <![CDATA[Captain's Log: The breakup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/26/captains-log-the-breakup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/26/captains-log-the-breakup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/26/captains-log-the-breakup/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

                                                      Captain's Log, Stardate 64903.4...

                                                      Hello, computer (and players)! When most relationships come to an end, the dumpee can often feel a sense of abandonment. As Star Trek Online players, we are currently feeling something similar after the announcement that Atari is "parting" ways with Cryptic. As we noted last week, Atari announced during its May earnings report that Cryptic is a now "discontinued operation," which leaves us pondering what will become of the game we are so passionate about.

                                                      In an attempt to counter the rumors flying on the internet, I spoke with Cryptic's PR team and can confirm that that there is no official press release yet and there are no comments that have been or can be made by Cryptic. So all the rumors out there about what is going on are currently just that... rumors. All we know right now is that Atari is planning on putting Cryptic Studios up for sale. With that said, and rumors aside, I would like to share some of my thoughts, explore the feelings of the playerbase, clear up some misconceptions, and explain why this could actually be the best thing to happen to STO.

                                                      Ensign, warp 10! There is no looking back now...

                                                      Continue reading Captain's Log: The breakup

                                                      MassivelyCaptain's Log: The breakup originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 May 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                        ]]>                                                        atariclosed-betacrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdiscontinuedenjinfeaturedfor-salelifetime-subscriptionLiveStreamLiveStreamingopinionrumorst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoStudiostrek-onlinetroiThu, 26 May 2011 15:00:00 EST                                                        <![CDATA[Captain's Log: Back to the future]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/19/captains-log-back-to-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/19/captains-log-back-to-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/19/captains-log-back-to-the-future/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

                                                        Captain's Log, Stardate 64884.1...

                                                        Hello, computer (and players)! Guess what's back? That's right! Hailing frequencies are now reopened -- Captain's Log is no longer on hiatus. Over the past few weeks, there has been some great news released about the Star Trek Online universe: the winner of the Design the Next Enterprise Contest was announced, the May Ask Cryptic was released, the dev team revealed the 500-day veteran rewards, and the Featured Episode reruns began. While everyone has had his or her own opinions on these stories, there is one piece of news that everyone can agree on: the awesomesauceness of the latest Engineering Report.

                                                        As first announced earlier this week, Executive Producer Dan Stahl dropped his latest report, which describes the updates to the game coming in Season Four. As usual, aside from the imminent new content, Dan foreshadows the future for us. Captain's Log is no stranger to talking about the future of the game, so I am excited to share some more details about the upcoming updates with you. Since Season Four is right around the corner and I believe it will be the "game changing update this game has needed since launch," let's get on to this week's Log entry.

                                                        Ensign, warp 10! Let's talk about Season 4 and beyond...

                                                        Continue reading Captain's Log: Back to the future

                                                        MassivelyCaptain's Log: Back to the future originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 May 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                          ]]>                                                          academycaptains-logcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdan stahldaniel stahlDanielStahlDanStahldpsdstahlduty officerduty officer systemDutyOfficerDutyOfficerSystemfeaturedforum-postsforumsground combatGroundCombatGunsIdeasklingonofficial-forumspostssalami_infernoseason 4season fourSeason4SeasonFourshuttlestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestar-trek-online-gameplaystarfleetstarfleet academyStarfleetAcademystosto-gameplaytutorialVivoxvivox-voice-chatwishstonewishyThu, 19 May 2011 18:00:00 EST                                                          <![CDATA[Captain's Log: Warp trails through deliberation]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/captains-log-warp-trails-through-deliberation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/captains-log-warp-trails-through-deliberation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/captains-log-warp-trails-through-deliberation/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

                                                          Captain's Log, Stardate 64806.6...

                                                          Hello, computer (and players)! It has been said that the development of a MMO and the direction it takes can attributed to those who were not afraid to speak out and gather followers who are in support of abstract ideas. As I have preached about since I took over the helm of the Captain's Log, the community has been at the forefront of the Star Trek Online universe. Bolstered by numerous fan sites and thousands of fleets and cemented by transparent developer posts and interviews, STO wouldn't be where it is today without such a passionate community. A lot of this passion takes its form through posts in Cryptic's official forums.

                                                          Whether the residence of your most beloved troll or the dwellings of your favorite developer, a game's official forums are a place to come together to rant, rave, and be that person who stands out and speaks up. The STO forums are no different. While the past few columns of mine have been about what the developers have said are coming in the future, I thought we should set a course this week for the forums and blaze a trail through the vast expanse filled with wants, desires, and demands. Shields up. Red alert.

                                                          Ensign, warp 10! What are the players asking for this week?

                                                          Continue reading Captain's Log: Warp trails through deliberation

                                                          MassivelyCaptain's Log: Warp trails through deliberation originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Apr 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                            ]]>                                                            captains-logcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosfeaturedforum-postsforumsGunsIdeasklingonofficial-forumspostspreorder-bonusshuttlest-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestar-trek-online-gameplaystosto-gameplaythomasthecattrek-onlineThu, 21 Apr 2011 13:00:00 EST                                                            <![CDATA[Captain's Log: Incoming message... from the future]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/captains-log-incoming-message-from-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/captains-log-incoming-message-from-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/captains-log-incoming-message-from-the-future/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

                                                            Captain's Log, Stardate 64787.3...

                                                            Hello, computer (and players)! Captain Brandon Felczer of the USS Radiance Vesta-class battleship reporting in. While en route to the Gamma Orionis sector block to investigate readings of potential Borg energy signatures, we encountered an unexplained anomaly unlike any we have ever encountered; the computer system could not provide any data to us. As we attempted to break away from its gravitational pull, we lost all control and systems -- the crew lost consciousness. Once we awoke several hours later, we discovered that we had been pulled into its void and somehow propelled 365 Earth days into the future.

                                                            While the Prime Directive has required us to stay out of affairs not in our timeline, we managed to record several pieces of data about developments that will happen in the future. There have been some gigantic leaps forward, and I can honestly say I cannot wait for a year from now. After I am finished recording this log, I will send it on subspace frequencies back to Starfleet Command. If you are reading this now, you have received my log one way or another. You must be now asking yourself, "What did we see?"

                                                            Ensign, warp 10! Let's report on our findings of what we will see in Star Trek Online soon[TM]...

                                                            Continue reading Captain's Log: Incoming message... from the future

                                                            MassivelyCaptain's Log: Incoming message... from the future originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Apr 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                              ]]>                                                              academyask-crypticataricrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdan-stahlDaniel-stahlfeaturedfeatured-episodesfeatured-seriesklingonpvpshipsStst-onlineStar-Trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestar-trek-online-gameplaystar-trek-online-newsstosto-academytrek-onlineThu, 14 Apr 2011 18:00:00 EST                                                              <![CDATA[Inaugural STO Podcast Summit announced]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/inaugural-sto-podcast-summit-announced/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/inaugural-sto-podcast-summit-announced/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/inaugural-sto-podcast-summit-announced/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                                                              Star Trek Online has always been known for generating unwavering support from its community of gamers. Whether identifying as trekkers, trekkies, casuals or hardcore gamers, players are extremely dedicated, including yours truly. Alongside the numerous fan sites that have been created, there is a select group of individuals out there who have gone beyond the call of duty and put out weekly podcasts.

                                                              This Sunday, April 17th, the STO podcasting community will come together for the inaugural STO Podcast Summit. Join Red Shirt Army, STOked, Priority One, Podcast UGC and Hailing Frequency as they broadcast live at TrekRadio.net from 6 p.m. EDT to 8 p.m. EDT. If you miss the livestream, have no fear -- the show will be posted in mp3 format on each of the podcasts' individual websites. We are also told that there may be even some surprise guests who drop by, including Cryptic developers.

                                                              MassivelyInaugural STO Podcast Summit announced originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                ]]>                                                                communitycrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosfeaturedfeatured-carouselgroup-chathailing-frequencyinterviewpodcastpodcast ugcpodcast-summitPodcastUgcpriority onePriorityOnered shirt armyRedShirtArmyst-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestosto-fan-guidesto-podcast-summitstokedstoradiosummitThu, 14 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST                                                                <![CDATA[Captain's Log: Raiding in STO -- A look at the Special Task Forces]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/07/captains-log-raiding-in-sto-a-look-at-the-special-task-forc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/07/captains-log-raiding-in-sto-a-look-at-the-special-task-forc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/07/captains-log-raiding-in-sto-a-look-at-the-special-task-forc/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                                                                Captain's Log, Stardate 64768.1...

                                                                Hello, computer (and players)! One of the best parts about playing MMOs is the ability to group up with other real players and conquer certain tasks. Whether they're taking on a pesky boss or battling through a heroic dungeon, endgame players are constantly seeking out challenges to help keep their interest up on their max-level toons. In my opinion, the best part about endgame content is teaming up and raiding. While I have never experienced or played in a 25-man (nor even a 10-man) raid, I am super excited to talk about one of my favorite subjects within the Star Trek Online universe -- the Special Task Forces.

                                                                Originally introduced in February of 2010, the STFs have provided a unique challenge to Admiral-level toons looking to do more than patrol and complete dailies. In the endgame sector, Gamma Orionis, Federation and Klingon forces are battling against the Borg and Undine in an attempt to stop their advances into the Alpha and Beta quadrants. While these are only 5-man "radisodes," they are nothing to sneeze at -- you cannot go into one of these without a game plan. Ready to learn about what it takes to save the galaxy?

                                                                Ensign, warp 10! Let's show our readers that resistance is not futile...

                                                                Continue reading Captain's Log: Raiding in STO -- A look at the Special Task Forces

                                                                MassivelyCaptain's Log: Raiding in STO -- A look at the Special Task Forces originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Apr 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                  ]]>                                                                  borgcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosfeaturedspecial-task-force-missionsspecial-task-forcesst-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestfstf-missionsstotrek-onlineundineThu, 07 Apr 2011 17:00:00 EST                                                                  <![CDATA[Captain's Log: The Foundry and you]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/captains-log-the-foundry-and-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/captains-log-the-foundry-and-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/captains-log-the-foundry-and-you/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                                                                  Captain's Log, Stardate 64750.3...

                                                                  Hello, computer (and players)! "Ceeeeelebrate good times, come on!" That's right, captains -- it's time to let the good times roll and the never-ending content stream to begin. Earlier this week, Larry Everett helped break Star Trek Online's news drought with his post about the Foundry being moved from the test server, nicknamed Tribble, to the live server, aka Holodeck. (I've always thought the test server should have been called Holodeck, but that is a discussion for another day.) For those of you who do not know by now, the Foundry is a user-generated content (UGC) toolset that allows players to create their own missions and episodes.

                                                                  Since late last year, volunteer testers have been creating hundreds of missions and pushing them out for captains of all ranks to try. Co-developed by Cryptic devs who are working at implementing the system in the upcoming Neverwinter game, the Foundry has gone through extensive changes since its inception -- the evolution of the toolset has actually provided a platform for some UGC episodes that rival those made by Cryptic. But what does this really mean for STO players?

                                                                  Ensign, warp 10! Let's talk about STO's "saving grace."

                                                                  Continue reading Captain's Log: The Foundry and you

                                                                  MassivelyCaptain's Log: The Foundry and you originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 31 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                    ]]>                                                                    authorcaptains-logFeaturedholodeckRolePlayingst-onlineStar-TrekStar-Trek-MMOstar-trek-onlinestar-trek-online-foundrystar-trek-online-foundry-betastosto-foundrysto-foundry-beginnerssto-foundry-beta-walkthroughsto-foundry-forumsTribbleugcThu, 31 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST                                                                    <![CDATA[Captain's Log: The future for fleets]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/captains-log-the-future-for-fleets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/captains-log-the-future-for-fleets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/captains-log-the-future-for-fleets/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                                                                    Captain's Log, Stardate 64731.1...

                                                                    Hello, computer (and players)! On my way home from work today, Jason DeRulo's Ridin' Solo came up on my iPod's playlist, and I thought to myself, how boring -- who would want to ride solo? Most of us will agree that we have the most fun when we are teamed up with someone while playing. Whether it is for the social interaction or the companionship or just so that we don't have to keep zerging, we play MMOs so that we can play with other people from around the world. Our games also allow us to take teaming one step further in the form of guilds. In Star Trek Online, joining a fleet is one of the most popular ways to play the game.

                                                                    Since the early days of closed beta, thousands of fleets have formed inside Cryptic's server, fleets that have brought players together from around the world. It truly does not matter whether you speak English or not -- some of the larger fleets out there have members who represent dozens of countries, languages and ethnicities. Whether you are into PvP, roleplay, raiding, PvE, or accolade-hunting, there is a fleet for everyone -- but it doesn't stop there! As time warps on, developers of the game are going to be adding new options and creating new gameplay that will change the way you will interact with your fleet. So what are they?

                                                                    Ensign, warp 10! Let's talk about the future of fleets...

                                                                    Continue reading Captain's Log: The future for fleets

                                                                    MassivelyCaptain's Log: The future for fleets originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Mar 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                      ]]>                                                                      12th-fleetcaptains-logcrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldevelopmentfeaturedfleetfleetsfoundryinterviewpvpsci-fist-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-onlinestarbasestougcThu, 24 Mar 2011 17:30:00 EST                                                                      <![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Would you like to see cross-faction teaming?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/the-daily-grind-would-you-like-to-see-cross-faction-teaming/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/the-daily-grind-would-you-like-to-see-cross-faction-teaming/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/the-daily-grind-would-you-like-to-see-cross-faction-teaming/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                                                                      The Alliance vs. Horde. The Federation vs. the Klingons. The Guardians vs. the Defiant. Most of our favorite games have done a fantastic job splitting up its players into two different groups and sending us on quests aimed at obliterating each other. Although these divisions allow for dynamic gameplay through PvP interactions and the opportunity to play through two different storylines, sometimes you just want to cuddle up with your friends from across the bay.

                                                                      Hugs and kisses aside, each faction comes together to defeat a common enemy without being able to offer each other an /invite. While this can be easily blamed on the story or chalked up to the fact that the various studios don't have the technology within their games to allow for this, wouldn't it just be awesome to team up and move on from enemies to frenemies?

                                                                      So if you had the choice, could you see yourself throwing aside your differences to team up against a universal foe? Would you cross-faction team through raids? Would this be too game-changing or immersion-breaking? How would PvP at endgame work?

                                                                      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: Would you like to see cross-faction teaming? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                        ]]>                                                                        endgamefactionsfrenemiesopinionpvptdgteamingthe-daily-grindFri, 18 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST