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[TUG closes in on its Kickstarter deadline with a new video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/25/tug-closes-in-on-deadline-and-rounds-up-updates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/25/tug-closes-in-on-deadline-and-rounds-up-updates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/25/tug-closes-in-on-deadline-and-rounds-up-updates/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Don't be the guy on the left. Pay attention.
It's the final countdown for TUG, with less than a week to go and about $50,000 more needed as of this writing. The development team has penned a penultimate Kickstarter update for fans and would-be fans, compiling several updates and news posts for everyone to read. It covers the care and development of player characters, the use of companions, and the structure of the game servers... all questions to be asked by anyone looking to back the game.

There's also a video on the page, one you can watch after the cut to see how the game is being based around science, even more so than the other games that turn your computer into virtual three-dimensional worlds. You can also take a look at our recent interview with the staff behind TUG to learn a bit more about the game's structure. If it piques your interest, now's the time to hop over and give the game a bit more funding.

Continue reading TUG closes in on its Kickstarter deadline with a new video

MassivelyTUG closes in on its Kickstarter deadline with a new video originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 25 May 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>crowdfundingfundingkickstarternerd-kingdomnew-titlesnewssandboxesthe-untitled-gametrailertrailerstugupdatevideovideosSat, 25 May 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mog Log: Final Fantasy XIV beta phase 1 and 2 - crafting]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/25/the-mog-log-final-fantasy-xiv-beta-phase-1-and-2-crafting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/25/the-mog-log-final-fantasy-xiv-beta-phase-1-and-2-crafting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/25/the-mog-log-final-fantasy-xiv-beta-phase-1-and-2-crafting/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

I knew I'd either time this perfectly or be just shy. Let's see which it is.
The thing about Final Fantasy XIV's crafting is that it's always been an odd mixture of wonderful and terrible, much like the game as a whole. You had crazily interconnected crafts that could be frustrating to level, the simple difficulty of trying to find the items you need, and a minigame that made mass production maddeningly slow. But you also had a real sense of personal craftsmanship, and the complex interplay between quality, durability, and progress meant that your successes or failures were truly your own.

None of these elements has been removed from the beta phases, but each has been streamlined and largely improved. The test phases allowed us to explore the two crafting classes based in Gridania, Carpenter and Leatherworker, and so I got to really dive into the heart of working with wood and dead animal hides. It was a lot more fun than that summary might imply.

Continue reading The Mog Log: Final Fantasy XIV beta phase 1 and 2 - crafting

MassivelyThe Mog Log: Final Fantasy XIV beta phase 1 and 2 - crafting originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 25 May 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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    ]]>    betabetasclassesconsoleconsolescraftingcraftsfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgame-mechanicsmog-logopinionplayer-craftingsquaresquare-enixsquenixtestingthe-mog-logSat, 25 May 2013 16:00:00 EST    <![CDATA[WRUP: Visiting the Department of Inevitable Arguments edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/25/wrup-visiting-the-department-of-inevitable-arguments-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/25/wrup-visiting-the-department-of-inevitable-arguments-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/25/wrup-visiting-the-department-of-inevitable-arguments-edition/#commentsFiled under: ,

    Leave a note saying you registered with the department about whose car was parked where and why it was necessary to ram the other car off the road.
    The Department of Inevitable Arguments is there when life happens, you know it's going to happen, and more than anything you just want it to get on with the happening so you can go to lunch. Filing at the department saves time and reduces stress for all participants. Do you know you'll disagree with your friends about a movie or game? Did you eat the last doughnut like a jerk when someone else wanted that doughnut? Put in for the argument in advance and avoid the hassle of having an argument crop up in the middle of an otherwise uneventful evening of amateur machete fights.

    All of our writers have already filed their gaming choices for your potential objection, but if you want to be sure about whether or not you object to what they play, just check out this week's WRUP. It tells you exactly what the staff is playing this week so you can argue about it in the comments. Or you can let us know what you'll be playing in the comments, same difference.

    Continue reading WRUP: Visiting the Department of Inevitable Arguments edition

    MassivelyWRUP: Visiting the Department of Inevitable Arguments edition originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 25 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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      ]]>      featuredmassively-metametaweekendweekend-gamingwhat-are-you-playingwrupSat, 25 May 2013 10:00:00 EST      <![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Should big guilds have a mechanical advantage over smaller ones?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/25/the-daily-grind-should-big-guilds-have-a-mechanical-advantage-o/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/25/the-daily-grind-should-big-guilds-have-a-mechanical-advantage-o/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/25/the-daily-grind-should-big-guilds-have-a-mechanical-advantage-o/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

      Defeating The Infernal One with the power of pure, unadulterated rock.
      No matter how hard you try, you cannot defeat large-group endgame bosses with an awesome guitar solo. Big guilds offer you the people needed to tackle this sort of content. In some games, though, big guilds get even more. World of Warcraft guilds level faster with more people, and Star Wars: The Old Republic will be adding a bonus to guilds based on their overall sizes (although you'll easily get the bonus so long as no original members of the guild have left). In some places, size matters.

      Should it matter? Organizing and maintaining a guild with 50 members is a lot more work than one with 15 members, so mechanical bonuses certainly give some incentive. Those bonuses also lead to guilds wanting to be bigger without necessarily getting any better; more live bodies, no matter the quality. And bigger guilds can already have advantages over smaller guilds. So should big guilds have a mechanical advantage over smaller ones? Or should the size be its own reward?

      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: Should big guilds have a mechanical advantage over smaller ones? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 25 May 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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        ]]>        bonusesdaily-grindgame-mechanicsgroup-sizeguild-bonusesguild-sizeguildsopinionother-peopleother-playerstdgthe-daily-grindSat, 25 May 2013 08:00:00 EST        <![CDATA[Pirate101 sets sail for Marleybone]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/pirate101-sets-sail-for-marleybone/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/pirate101-sets-sail-for-marleybone/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/pirate101-sets-sail-for-marleybone/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

        The game is 78% sharks by volume.
        One of the bonuses of having Pirate101 set in the same world as Wizard101 is that the former can benefit from some of the latter's layout. KingsIsle has launched a big expansion for the game that includes some old favorites for veteran players, starting by sending pirate captains to the familiar land of Marleybone. Players will be investigating a war zone they helped inadvertently create while working up through another 15 levels of experience.

        The update also adds the new region of Aquila, a new Bazaar system for players to trade goods, and a new tutorial to help players get accustomed to the game. There are also new bosses and transport systems to give players more to do while they sail across the oceans. Last but not least, new companions are scattered through the added regions, and old companions are learning some new tricks. Pirate101 players can log in and start enjoying the update immediately.

        MassivelyPirate101 sets sail for Marleybone originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 May 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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        ]]>        f2pfamilyfantasyfree-to-playkid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlevel-caplevelinglevelsmajor-patchmajor-updatenew-areaspatchpiratepirate101piratestutorialupdateFri, 24 May 2013 21:00:00 EST        <![CDATA[Betawatch: May 18 - 24, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/betawatch-may-18-24-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/betawatch-may-18-24-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/betawatch-may-18-24-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

        Space troopers always look space trooper-y.
        This has been quite the week if you're interested in hearing about what's going on behind the curtain. Destiny offered everyone a new trailer, WildStar gave us plenty of information to chew on, The Elder Scrolls Online talked crafting, and Final Fantasy XIV announced a definite date for its relaunch with a new video. Tons of stuff behind the scenes.

        Meanwhile, Eldevin quietly moved into its second phase of closed beta. Oh, and Neverwinter's economy completely collapsed, which is either bad for the beta or bad for the game's launch depending on how you see the game's current state.

        How do we see it? Well, you can take a look at our testing list for an idea. In fact, you might want to take a look at the list anyway just to see what's out there. If you notice something erroneous on there, feel free to let us know so we can take a look ourselves.

        Continue reading Betawatch: May 18 - 24, 2013

        MassivelyBetawatch: May 18 - 24, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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          ]]>          alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betadestinyeldevinfeaturedfinal-fantasy-xivgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaneverwinteropen-betarounduptestingthe-elder-scrolls-onlinewildstarFri, 24 May 2013 20:00:00 EST          <![CDATA[Storyboard: As stupid does]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/storyboard-as-stupid-does/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/storyboard-as-stupid-does/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/storyboard-as-stupid-does/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

          Ironically, I felt too dumb to write this column effectively.
          Playing a stupid character is oddly frustrating because it's incredibly difficult to do.

          This should not be the case. This should, in fact, be the opposite of the case. Playing someone with the mental alacrity of a ball of twine should be much easier than your brilliant wizard. But when you try to play a dumb character, it's easy for that character to wind up slipping into periods of pointless stupidity without acting like any of the nitwits you've actually dealt with over the course of your life.

          Intelligence is a hard thing to quantify at the best of times, but some of our characters are meant to be just plain slow. I've played a few, and it's always a challenge to make the character feel like a person instead of a caricature. So here are some tips for making your big dummy feel appropriately oafish and endearing instead of just being a strawman.

          Continue reading Storyboard: As stupid does

          MassivelyStoryboard: As stupid does originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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            ]]>            airheadsbad-choicesdimdopesdumbdummiesfeaturedmoronsnimrodsnincompoopsnitwitsopinionroleplayroleplayersroleplayingrpstorystoryboardstupiditytwitsFri, 24 May 2013 10:00:00 EST            <![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 mixes up its WvW matchups]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/guild-wars-2-mixes-up-its-wvw-matchups/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/guild-wars-2-mixes-up-its-wvw-matchups/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/guild-wars-2-mixes-up-its-wvw-matchups/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

            Invaders from another very similar dimension.
            There's a problem in the Guild Wars 2 World vs. World matching system, and it's a subtle one that's almost invisible until you look closer. Because of the way ratings are calculated and how the matchups happen, the net result for each server is always being matched up against the same servers. No matter how well you perform, you wind up locked into a certain tier without any hope of changes. It's a problem that the development team is both aware of and is moving to address.

            The short version of how things will work is that servers will be matched up semi-randomly, with ratings taken into account to assure that the spread between opponents isn't too severe. More math beneath the surface takes into account both the current rating of a given world and its overall deviation, producing a "real" rating that will facilitate fair matches. Take a look at the official blog for all the hard details.

            MassivelyGuild Wars 2 mixes up its WvW matchups originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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            ]]>            anetarenanetbuy-to-playdevelopment-blogfantasyguild-wars-2gw2matchesmatchmakingncsoftpvpranking-systemwvwFri, 24 May 2013 09:00:00 EST            <![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Would you re-buy a game for bonuses?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/the-daily-grind-would-you-re-buy-a-game-for-bonuses/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/the-daily-grind-would-you-re-buy-a-game-for-bonuses/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/the-daily-grind-would-you-re-buy-a-game-for-bonuses/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

            And take my money.
            So Final Fantasy XIV has announced its relaunch date, along with another collector's edition for people to buy. I'd like to point out here that I still have the original collector's edition sitting on a shelf in my office, and it has been stated clearly that all of the digital gewgaws for the collector's edition will be awarded to people with the old version. Yet I still have to fight the urge to buy another CE anyway, because there's an art book and other physical trinkets.

            MMOs especially are games that you should never need to re-purchase. But sometimes you can find a game packaging something nice in with another purchase, and it almost becomes worth it to have another copy despite not needing a second account. So would you re-buy a game for new bonuses, either in-game or just bonus trinkets? Or does the very idea seem ridiculous to you?

            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 re-buy a game for bonuses? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 May 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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              ]]>              bonus-itemsbonusesbuying-things-you-owncollectors-editiondaily-grindin-game-itemsopinionpurchasere-buyre-purchasespending-moneytdgthe-daily-grindtrinketsFri, 24 May 2013 08:00:00 EST              <![CDATA[Ken Hartsook discusses Ultima Forever from behind the scenes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/ken-hartsook-discusses-ultima-forever-from-behind-the-scenes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/ken-hartsook-discusses-ultima-forever-from-behind-the-scenes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/ken-hartsook-discusses-ultima-forever-from-behind-the-scenes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

              It's already better than Ultima Occasionally, Ultima Every Once In A While, and Ultima Biweekly.
              Looking forward to having some nostalgic adventures with Ultima Forever when it releases this summer? Then you might enjoy a trip behind the scenes of development with Ken Hartsook, a software engineer working on the title at Mythic. Hartsook is the subject of a new video detailing some of the programming challenges associated with bringing Ultima Forever to the iOS family of devices as well as his favorite parts of the game as it approaches launch.

              According to Hartsook, one of the biggest challenges was finding a control scheme that worked for tablets and smartphones, which meant deviating substantially from classic control models. He also discusses the tilesets in the game and his experience playing a Fighter in the test version of the game. So if your iPad is ready and waiting for a chance to take the jump into Britannia, check out the full interview just past the break.

              Continue reading Ken Hartsook discusses Ultima Forever from behind the scenes

              MassivelyKen Hartsook discusses Ultima Forever from behind the scenes originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 May 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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              ]]>              behind-the-scenesdevelopmenteaelectronic-artsken-hartsookmobilemythicmythic-entertainmenttabletsufultima-forevervideovideosThu, 23 May 2013 19:00:00 EST              <![CDATA[38 Studios vs. State of Rhode Island court case begins]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/38-studios-vs-state-of-rhode-island-court-case-begins/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/38-studios-vs-state-of-rhode-island-court-case-begins/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/38-studios-vs-state-of-rhode-island-court-case-begins/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

              Whoever wins, this whole thing was a pretty substantial loss.
              We'll never see Project Copernicus come to light, and for some people that's the last that needs to be said about 38 Studios. For the state of Rhode Island, however, there's quite a bit more at stake, with the state alleging that 38 Studios tried to hide its financial condition and essentially defrauded the taxpayers of Rhode Island. Opening arguments have been heard today for the case, with the 14 individual defendants seeking to have the case dismissed as completely spurious.

              When 38 Studios folded, that left Rhode Island in the hole for a $75 million loan. The lawsuit is seeking restitution from Curt Schilling and 13 other individuals, including former members of the Rhode Island Economic Development Corp that originally supported the loan. According to the EDC's lawyers, substantial evidence exists that this loan was based upon intentional misdirection on the part of upper management, although the defense claims these allegations are ridiculous. At this point, it's up to the courts who's in the right.

              Massively38 Studios vs. State of Rhode Island court case begins originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 May 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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              ]]>              38-studiosamalurcopernicuscourtcourt-battlecurt-schillinglawslawsuitlegalproject-copernicusrhode-islandWed, 22 May 2013 18:30:00 EST              <![CDATA[New video details the website changes for RuneScape 3]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/new-video-details-the-website-changes-for-runescape-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/new-video-details-the-website-changes-for-runescape-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/new-video-details-the-website-changes-for-runescape-3/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

              I believe this man is named Scores. Hi, Scores.
              What's in a website? Quite a lot when your game is based in a browser client, as it happens. With RuneScape 3 around the corner, the team at Jagex is hard at work putting together a new and improved website, and a new video from the development team shows off just what players can expect. Which is quite a lot.

              For example, one of the centerpieces of the revised design is a series of six buttons front-and-center on the page. The trick is that three of the buttons can be customized by you, allowing you to immediately jump to the most useful parts of the page for your particular playstyle. The team is also revamping the high score pages to incorporate weekly high scores, meaning that newer players can still have a shot at the top. There will even be rewards for people who do well in a given interval. For more details, check out the full video past the break.

              Continue reading New video details the website changes for RuneScape 3

              MassivelyNew video details the website changes for RuneScape 3 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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              ]]>              browserbrowser-basedclassic-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studiorsrunescaperunescape-3sandboxvideovideoswebsitewebsite-improvementsWed, 22 May 2013 18:00:00 EST              <![CDATA[Uncharted Waters Online discounts Steam packages before a big patch docks]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/uncharted-waters-online-discounts-steam-packages-before-a-big-pa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/uncharted-waters-online-discounts-steam-packages-before-a-big-pa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/uncharted-waters-online-discounts-steam-packages-before-a-big-pa/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

              Logically speaking even a really cruddy ship would still be ship-shape.
              Is your ship in Uncharted Waters Online something less than ship-shape? Perhaps you could put the wind back in your sails with one of the special item packs available for the game on Steam. In anticipation of the game's next major patch arriving on the 28th, Netmarble has lowered the prices on all three packs by 70%, allowing characters to leave port with big boosts for fewer of your hard-earned real money.

              The Booster pack is down to just $1.49 and provides faster experience gain, faster ship movement, and the ability to revive fallen sailors away from a port. The Premium pack is only $2.99, offers even faster experience gain, and also sets up you with 200 million ducats (in-game currency) and possibly even a rare ship. Last but not least, the Sea Adventure pack is down to $11.99 and offers the best possible experience boost, 300 million ducats, and several exclusive items. So if you're looking to set sail, a little money now will help you find your fortune.

              MassivelyUncharted Waters Online discounts Steam packages before a big patch docks originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 May 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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              ]]>              booster-packsdealsdiscountdiscountsf2pfree-to-playitem-packsmicrotransactionsnetmarblepackspromotionssteamuncharted-waters-onlineuwoWed, 22 May 2013 15:00:00 EST              <![CDATA[A Mild-Mannered Reporter: Another look at Plan Z]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/a-mild-mannered-reporter-another-look-at-plan-z/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/a-mild-mannered-reporter-another-look-at-plan-z/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/a-mild-mannered-reporter-another-look-at-plan-z/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

              Please, guys, put out some art so I can stop using this header every time I talk about you.
              When life hands you lemons, you build a new life. Out of lemons. The metaphor is a bit tortured, but the ultimate point is still the same: When City of Heroes fans found out the game was shutting down, some decided to band together and make a new game to incorporate all of the best of CoH while not being, you know, shut down completely. It's something that I've discussed a few times now because it's a really neat idea that also has some really big potential pitfalls.

              The Phoenix Project and Heroes & Villains are the two big games working at getting themselves together, and they've had about half a year to do so. Both have been moving forward, networking, and putting together everything needed to make the games actually exist. And there's good news and bad news about both, some in tandem and some separately. So despite the possibility of missing an important context clue or two, we carry on with our look at what's going well and what is... less so.

              Continue reading A Mild-Mannered Reporter: Another look at Plan Z

              MassivelyA Mild-Mannered Reporter: Another look at Plan Z originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 May 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                ]]>                a-mild-mannered-reportercity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxf2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreedomheroes-and-villainsmild-mannered-reportermissing-worlds-mediancsoftopinionparagonparagon-studiosplan-zplan-z-virtual-studiossuperherosuperhero-genresuperheroesthe-phoenix-projectWed, 22 May 2013 14:00:00 EST                <![CDATA[EVE Mobile is coming according to Jon Lander]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/eve-mobile-is-coming-according-to-jon-lander/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/eve-mobile-is-coming-according-to-jon-lander/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/eve-mobile-is-coming-according-to-jon-lander/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

                Now you can stand next to someone, blow up their ship on your phone, then punch them.
                If you've ever been involved in a discussion about EVE Online, you've heard it referred to as a sequence of spreadsheets which occasionally let you fly a spaceship. Which certainly has some basis in truth. Certainly it's a game with many possible systems that could be ported to a mobile client, something that CCP's Jon Lander is claiming will be a reality in the near future. Lander has moved from being EVE's executive producer to mobile development, but his new position is clearly still tied to the same game.

                Rather than simply being a series of spreadsheets for your smartphone, Lander has made it clear that the mobile team wants for the various EVE mobile apps to be functional games in their own right. It's a field that CCP has explored before, stopping either due to technical hurdles or business concerns. But Lander's confident that players will be using the mobile applications by the time next year's Fanfest rolls around.

                MassivelyEVE Mobile is coming according to Jon Lander originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                ]]>                ccpccp-gameseveeve-mobileeve-onlineinternet-spaceshipsjon-landermobilemobile-developmentsandboxsci-fispreadsheets-onlineMon, 20 May 2013 20:30:00 EST                <![CDATA[It's a ship in a box in Star Trek Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/its-a-ship-in-a-box-in-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/its-a-ship-in-a-box-in-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/its-a-ship-in-a-box-in-star-trek-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                Astute observers will note the similarity to the Scimitar.
                Just because you're playing a Romulan in Star Trek Online's first expansion doesn't mean every other Romulan is your friend. Empress Sela's Tal Shiar are a huge threat not just to the nascent Romulan Republic but to all sentient life throughout the galaxy, epitomized with their insectoid ships that fuse Romulan, Borg, and Elachi technology together. Needless to say, these ships are never good to see on the horizon. Unless you happen to open one in a lockbox, anyhow.

                Yes, the newest lockbox in the game will give players a chance to earn the strange ships of the Tal Shiar, giving all captains a chance to fly some of the strangest ships yet seen in the game. The ships perform similarly to Romulan crafts with their built-in cloaks, but they exchange some of the active Romulan cloaking power for tactical weapons like Shrapnel Torpedoes. For more details on what awaits in the upcoming lockboxes, take a look at the full rundown of potential prizes.

                MassivelyIt's a ship in a box in Star Trek Online originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                ]]>                crypticcryptic-studiosexpansionf2pfree-to-playlegacy-of-romuluslockboxnew-lockboxnew-shipsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweremusromulussci-fishipsstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoMon, 20 May 2013 17:30:00 EST                <![CDATA[The Nexus Telegraph: Still moving in WildStar]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/the-nexus-telegraph-still-moving-in-wildstar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/the-nexus-telegraph-still-moving-in-wildstar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/the-nexus-telegraph-still-moving-in-wildstar/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                Or just stand there and let it reach you, that's cool too.
                The downside to writing about WildStar in this stage of the game's lifecycle is that because of the very nature of beta tests, I'm going to be spending a lot of time speculating instead of talking about certainties. Last week, I speculated. I was wrong on some points, as I found out when I got a letter from Carbine clarifying some things that had previously been ambiguous enough for speculation.

                The upside to writing about WildStar in this stage of the game's lifecycle is that sometimes I get letters from development staff letting me in on valuable inside information.

                Aside from being able to clarify my previous incorrect speculation, I also have for you a number of other important bits of information regarding the game this week, including a brief discussion of whether or not the game will allow for flight on a regular basis. So since that's well worth discussing, let's go ahead and just make this column another dialogue about movement.

                Continue reading The Nexus Telegraph: Still moving in WildStar

                MassivelyThe Nexus Telegraph: Still moving in WildStar originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                  ]]>                  areascarbinecarbine-studiosclimatecolumnfeaturedflightflyingflying-mountsloremovementncsoftnexusnexus-telegraphopinionregionssandparksci-fantasysci-fithe-nexus-telegraphtransportwildstarzonesMon, 20 May 2013 11:00:00 EST                  <![CDATA[The Mog Log: Final Fantasy XIV beta phase 1 and 2 - FATEs and dungeons]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/the-mog-log-final-fantasy-xiv-beta-phase-1-and-2-fates-and-du/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/the-mog-log-final-fantasy-xiv-beta-phase-1-and-2-fates-and-du/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/the-mog-log-final-fantasy-xiv-beta-phase-1-and-2-fates-and-du/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

                  That withdrawal is a very real thing. I'm missing it.
                  Do you smell that on the wind, my friends? It smells like June is fast approaching, and more importantly it smells like soon we'll be able to welcome the third phase of testing with open arms. Which is good, since I am currently going through withdrawal. I wake up in cold sweats, try to change my class in other games, start up the Final Fantasy XIV beta client in the hopes that someone "accidentally" turned the servers back on... you get the general idea.

                  To help alleviate this, I'm going to talk about the two pieces of the game from the first two beta phases that are in need of the most polish. While there are places to improve elsewhere, FATEs and dungeons have issues that might need a bit more hammering to fix. Or they might be fine and we just haven't yet seen enough of the game to know everything. Either way, let's get started with the big addition to the game, the system that had no predecessor in Final Fantasy XIV's first version: the FATE system.

                  Continue reading The Mog Log: Final Fantasy XIV beta phase 1 and 2 - FATEs and dungeons

                  MassivelyThe Mog Log: Final Fantasy XIV beta phase 1 and 2 - FATEs and dungeons originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 18 May 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                    ]]>                    betabetasconsoleconsolesdungeonsdynamic-eventsfantasyfatesfeaturedffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivfull-active-time-eventsgroup-contentmog-logopinionraidssquaresquare-enixsquenixthe-mog-logSat, 18 May 2013 16:00:00 EST                    <![CDATA[WRUP: Someone no longer likes us on Facebook edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/wrup-someone-no-longer-likes-us-on-facebook-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/wrup-someone-no-longer-likes-us-on-facebook-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/wrup-someone-no-longer-likes-us-on-facebook-edition/#commentsFiled under: ,

                    UUUUUUNNNNBREAK MY HEEEEEEAAAAART
                    It finally happened. Like fools, we ignored the dire warnings of what would happen if we kept posting stuff about games you don't like or articles you didn't agree with. The worst has finally come to pass -- someone no longer likes our Facebook page.

                    We've been in shock here at the office. I've been hitting the rum pretty hard even by my standards, Jef is sitting in an empty bathtub sobbing, and Bree has been playing "Unbreak my Heart" on loop for about seven hours. We'd plead for that reader to come back, but he'll never see it. He no longer likes us. It's really the worst insult you could deliver.

                    Despite the fact that this traumatic event has left us as broken shells, we somehow managed to pull ourselves together long enough to put together an installment of WRUP. Click on past the break to see what we're up to for the next couple of days other than staring at the number of likes on Facebook, and let us know what you'll be up to in the comments.

                    Continue reading WRUP: Someone no longer likes us on Facebook edition

                    MassivelyWRUP: Someone no longer likes us on Facebook edition originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 18 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                    ]]>                    featuredmassively-metametaweekendweekend-gamingwhat-are-you-playingwrupSat, 18 May 2013 10:00:00 EST                    <![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Are you still excited to try RIFT's free-to-play option?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/the-daily-grind-are-you-still-excited-to-try-rifts-free-to-pla/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/the-daily-grind-are-you-still-excited-to-try-rifts-free-to-pla/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/the-daily-grind-are-you-still-excited-to-try-rifts-free-to-pla/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

                    I don't have any idea what hand I should place this on. It looks kind of gross.
                    If you'd missed it, RIFT recently announced that the game will go free-to-play on June 12th. Obviously, the hope is to bring in a variety of new players, but the circumstances surrounding the announcement can result in a bit of whiplash when deciding whether or not to count yourself among those getting into the game.

                    On the one hand, RIFT is making humble promises about the item shop... but on the other hand, the development team also promised the game would never go free-to-play. Trion Worlds did just get hit by layoffs, but it's been said those layoffs don't affect RIFT's staff. It's long had consistent updates, but those updates have dropped off sharply this year.

                    Is trying the game out a good idea? A bad one? Today, we ask our readers to decide. Carefully weighing all the evidence, are you still excited to try RIFT's free-to-play option? Or do you think you'll be giving it a pass?

                    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: Are you still excited to try RIFT's free-to-play option? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 18 May 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                      ]]>                      conquestdaily-grindf2pfantasyfree-to-playopinionpvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrtdgthe-daily-grindthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsSat, 18 May 2013 08:00:00 EST                      <![CDATA[Storyboard: The way it was for three years]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/storyboard-the-way-it-was-for-three-years/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/storyboard-the-way-it-was-for-three-years/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/storyboard-the-way-it-was-for-three-years/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                      Going back in time.
                      Roleplaying is the same as it ever was. People are still shoehorning in lore characters into backstories, someone is a sparkly magic vampire, and you can still turn a corner in a tavern to find two people with a decided lack of gear or public shame. (In Second Life, that corner is the one you turn to download the game.) But I've had three years of talking about it, so it's at least a little different than it was.

                      I don't know if I'd go so far as to say it's better.

                      Every year I like to take a look back at the past year, talk about what worked well, what didn't work at all, and what I'd like to do in the future. So it is for this year, complete with a nice big surprise down at the end there. Regular readers may be less surprised, but you can just bear with me.

                      Continue reading Storyboard: The way it was for three years

                      MassivelyStoryboard: The way it was for three years originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 May 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                        ]]>                        featurednew-featuresopinionretrospectiveroleplayroleplayersroleplayingrpstorystoryboardstoryboard-librarythree-yearsyear-in-reviewFri, 17 May 2013 21:00:00 EST                        <![CDATA[Betawatch: May 11 - 17, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/betawatch-may-11-17-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/betawatch-may-11-17-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/betawatch-may-11-17-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                        But Iron Man 3, amirite?
                        Early access for Marvel Heroes is just around the corner, if you consider 11 days to be a corner. It'll be a chance for everyone to get started on the process of hitting the level cap... or at least getting halfway there before grinding dailies. Your mileage may vary. DUST 514 finally ended its testing earlier this week, meaning that you can go be obliterated by an orbital strike right now if you own a PS3.

                        Elsewhere in the testing world, Anno Online quietly went into open beta (keep an eye out for our own Beau Hindman's look at the game later this month). There are games preparing for a beta in the future, as well, and more information about popular titles still in beta. It's been a quiet week otherwise.

                        That doesn't mean there isn't a list past the break. There's always a list. As always, if you see something odd on there, feel free to let us know in the comments.

                        Continue reading Betawatch: May 11 - 17, 2013

                        MassivelyBetawatch: May 11 - 17, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                          ]]>                          alphaalphasanno-onlinebetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betadust-514featuredgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmarvel-heroesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingFri, 17 May 2013 20:00:00 EST                          <![CDATA[TUG hopes to make guilds more meaningful by not having them]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/tug-hopes-to-make-guilds-more-meaningful-by-not-having-them/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/tug-hopes-to-make-guilds-more-meaningful-by-not-having-them/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/tug-hopes-to-make-guilds-more-meaningful-by-not-having-them/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                          Being a part of the Solitary Explorer's League was a poor decision.
                          Guilds are pretty much ubiquitous in MMOs -- they serve as a way to bind players together into a group. But the team behind TUG thinks that all too often guilds come about mostly so you can have a name and a chat channel all to yourself. Which is why the latest design post about the game explains that the designers want to remove that sense of artificially created communities. To strengthen that sense of forming player groups, guilds have to go.

                          As the post explains, too often guilds become things formed for the purpose of having a guild, placing an artificial limitation on what groups players belong to. Instead, the goal is to get players to form societies and groups organically, creating more freedom by removing arbitrary restrictions. It's an idea with a lot of promise, and as the game's Kickstarter continues you can decide if that promise is something you feel like supporting.

                          MassivelyTUG hopes to make guilds more meaningful by not having them originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 May 2013 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                          ]]>                          crowdfundingdevelopment-blogguildguildskickstarternerd-kingdomno-guildsorganizationplayer-organizationspreviewtugWed, 15 May 2013 19:30:00 EST                          <![CDATA[A Mild-Mannered Reporter: How Champions Online could get its groove back]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/a-mild-mannered-reporter-how-champions-online-could-get-its-gro/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/a-mild-mannered-reporter-how-champions-online-could-get-its-gro/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/a-mild-mannered-reporter-how-champions-online-could-get-its-gro/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                          I believe I can fly! It's a demonstrable fact! Hence why I believe it.
                          It's hard to be a fan of Champions Online right now. The game has not been in a good state for pretty much any of its life cycle, but as I've discussed previously, its woes have really come into focus lately. It's been a long time since the game really sat down and advanced any sort of story, and it's been even longer since the game offered players something new in the endgame. When Cryptic has two other games with lots of ambition and promise, Champions Online is left looking like the unwanted sibling.

                          Part of the problem is the fact that CO currently has a skeleton crew working on it and a minimal budget. I suspect (without having hard numbers) that it's at the same sort of uneasy place as Vanguard was for a long while -- making just enough money to justify its continued operation while not making enough money for additional development staff. So with all of that in place, what can the game do to prop itself up a bit more without requiring a huge infusion of additional money? How can Champions Online get its act back together?

                          Continue reading A Mild-Mannered Reporter: How Champions Online could get its groove back

                          MassivelyA Mild-Mannered Reporter: How Champions Online could get its groove back originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 May 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                            ]]>                            a-mild-mannered-reporterchampionschampions-onlinechampscocrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfeaturedfoundryfree-to-playgame-mechanicsmild-mannered-reporteropinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpgcplayer-generated-contentpwespeculationsuggestionssuperherosuperhero-genresuperheroesWed, 15 May 2013 13:00:00 EST                            <![CDATA[Combine your consoles and get new ships in Star Trek Online's expansion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/combine-your-consoles-and-get-new-ships-in-star-trek-onlines-ex/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/combine-your-consoles-and-get-new-ships-in-star-trek-onlines-ex/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/combine-your-consoles-and-get-new-ships-in-star-trek-onlines-ex/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                            Split and combine and split and combine and it's kind of tedious.
                            If you've already purchased the very expensive Legacy Pack for Star Trek Online's first expansion, there's good news to be had -- you just got more for your $125 investment. For one thing, you've got access to a new ship, the Haakona Advanced Warbird, an assault craft capable of separating into two units for maximum versatility. For another, you've got a set of uniforms based off of the Romulan outfits from the original series, if you want to really hit that "legacy" button as hard as you can.

                            Whether or not this entices you to drop some additional money, the latest development blog on the official site details the bonuses for slotting Romulan refit consoles together in Legacy of Romulus. These include buffs to turn rate, energy weapons, and defensive systems based on speed. The net result is that owners of both refit and retrofit versions of these vessels can access a new playstyle for the class, a new trick to surprise opponents of the Romulans. Which is apropos.

                            Gallery: Star Trek Online Gallery

                            MassivelyCombine your consoles and get new ships in Star Trek Online's expansion originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                            ]]>                            crypticcryptic-studiosexpansionf2pfree-to-playgalleriesgallerylegacy-of-romuluslegacy-packnewsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpre-purchasepweremusromulussci-fiset-bonusessetsstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoTue, 14 May 2013 20:00:00 EST                            <![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you like the increasing trend of active combat in MMOs?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/the-daily-grind-do-you-like-the-increasing-trend-of-active-comb/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/the-daily-grind-do-you-like-the-increasing-trend-of-active-comb/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/the-daily-grind-do-you-like-the-increasing-trend-of-active-comb/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                            No percentage chance to dodge for you, miss.
                            Back in the day, combat in MMOs was nice and sedate. You had a weapon, the other guy had a weapon, and you both walked up and hit one another with weapons until one of you died. To ensure that you succeeded at that goal, you had huge bars of abilities filled with various tricks to make the other guy die a little more than you did. It was a bit passive, is what we're getting at.

                            Recent MMOs have been swinging to the other extreme, with players having a handful of abilities and a mandate to dance around the screen like a hyperactive rabbit. Titles like WildStar and The Elder Scrolls Online are previewing themselves partly on the strength of active combat. Do you like the increasing trend of active combat in MMOs? Or do you wish that we could go back to more sedate combat systems, possibly with those darn kids getting off our lawns in the process?

                            Every morning, the Massively bloggers probe the minds of their readers with deep, thought-provoking questions about that most serious of topics: massively online gaming. We crave your opinions, so grab your caffeinated beverage of choice and chime in on today's Daily Grind!

                            MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do you like the increasing trend of active combat in MMOs? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 May 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                              ]]>                              action-combatactive-combatcombatculturedaily-grindgame-mechanicshumormobilityopinionreflexestdgthe-daily-grindtwitchtwitch-reflexesTue, 14 May 2013 08:00:00 EST                              <![CDATA[The Nexus Telegraph: Getting from place to place in WildStar]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/the-nexus-telegraph-getting-from-place-to-place-in-wildstar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/the-nexus-telegraph-getting-from-place-to-place-in-wildstar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/the-nexus-telegraph-getting-from-place-to-place-in-wildstar/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                              There are so many things wrong with that space blimp that I'm not sure where to start.
                              Nexus is a big place. We saw last week what it's going to be like getting from spot to spot in a smaller sense with last week's overview of movement, but there's more to movement in WildStar. After all, there are a lot of zones stretched out over big chunks of land, and even if you're sprinting as much as you can you'll eventually find that you can't traverse an entire continent by foot, much less the ocean.

                              No, for this sort of transport you need something more robust. You'll need vehicles, both personal and otherwise. You'll need boats, you'll need ships, you'll need something that can move faster than you can move even if you can jump out of a dodge. But a lot of what you need will depend upon what the game's layout looks like, so it's time to fire up the speculation machine and ask some questions, starting with those of location.

                              Continue reading The Nexus Telegraph: Getting from place to place in WildStar

                              MassivelyThe Nexus Telegraph: Getting from place to place in WildStar originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 May 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                ]]>                                carbinecarbine-studioscolumnfeaturedmobilityncsoftnexusnexus-telegraphopinionsandparksci-fantasysci-fispeculationthe-nexus-telegraphtransporttransportationwildstarzonesMon, 13 May 2013 14:00:00 EST                                <![CDATA[Cutting to the heart of extraction in The Repopulation]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/cutting-to-the-heart-of-extraction-in-the-repopulation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/cutting-to-the-heart-of-extraction-in-the-repopulation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/cutting-to-the-heart-of-extraction-in-the-repopulation/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

                                Come on out, critters! I'm not going to chop you up and take your livers!
                                If you want to craft items in The Repopulation, you're not going to go down to the science fiction equivalent of Ikea and buy the Martin Plasma Rifle. You're going to get out into the wild and get the resources you need. There are two systems for gathering items in The Repopulation, and the newest development blog for the game discusses one of the ways to grab those resources: Extraction, also known as "digging useful components out of corpses."

                                Since the game doesn't feature levels, there's a more organic system to gathering these resources. Players first decide how difficult the extraction should be, with higher difficulties resulting in higher-grade resources. More difficult extractions take longer, however, and as a result, players have a higher chance to fail unless they've practiced harvesting a particular species. For more details on the specifics, check out the full development blog on the official site.

                                MassivelyCutting to the heart of extraction in The Repopulation originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                ]]>                                above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiescraftingextractiongame-mechanicsgatheringgathering-systemsitemsrepopulationresourcessandboxsci-fithe-repopulationMon, 13 May 2013 10:00:00 EST                                <![CDATA[The Mog Log: Final Fantasy XIV beta phase 1 and 2 - gathering]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/11/the-mog-log-final-fantasy-xiv-beta-phase-1-and-2-gathering/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/11/the-mog-log-final-fantasy-xiv-beta-phase-1-and-2-gathering/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/11/the-mog-log-final-fantasy-xiv-beta-phase-1-and-2-gathering/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                                Fit the pieces together.
                                We all like to stop and smell the roses. And then we like to pluck those roses, bring them home, and melt them into component enzymes that will allow us access to a temporary attack power buff. Final Fantasy XIV is beautiful, sure, but you need that attack power bonus.

                                If it isn't obvious, this week's stop on my whirlwind beta tour is the fine art of grabbing items from the landscape and turning them into crafting fodder. Final Fantasy XIV had quite an interesting gathering system at launch, but it also had some pretty serious problems, and so the relaunch had to completely revamp the system while retaining the soul of the original version. No pressure.

                                Not a whole lot changed in terms of gathering between my time in San Francisco and my time in the beta, but I did have a great deal more time to try out the gathering system. So let's take a walk on the self-sufficient side.

                                Continue reading The Mog Log: Final Fantasy XIV beta phase 1 and 2 - gathering

                                MassivelyThe Mog Log: Final Fantasy XIV beta phase 1 and 2 - gathering originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 11 May 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                  ]]>                                  betabetasbotanistclassclassesconsoleconsolesfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgame-mechanicsgatheringharvestingmog-logopinionsquaresquare-enixsquenixthe-mog-logSat, 11 May 2013 16:00:00 EST                                  <![CDATA[WRUP: Next week on Massively edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/11/wrup-next-week-on-massively-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/11/wrup-next-week-on-massively-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/11/wrup-next-week-on-massively-edition/#commentsFiled under: ,

                                  Absolutely nothing will explode.
                                  Next week on Massively, tensions run high as Bree races to prevent Justin from assembling the shards necessary to release The Matrix Online from its shutdown. Meanwhile, Eliot, Matt, and Lis continue their investigation into Allods Online by concluding that it is in fact a game. Shawn investigates the fact that every game in the world is now free-to-play and concludes it's the fault of space aliens from another dimension who are also ghosts. Terry O'Quinn guest stars.

                                  We hope you enjoyed this week of Massively, and now it's time for WRUP because no one read the end credits before. Instead of telling you who did what, we've opted to just let you know what we'll be playing over the weekend. You can let us know what you'll be up to in the comments and tune in again next week for the exciting episode that we just explained to you, thereby obviating any need for you to sit down and watch it.

                                  Continue reading WRUP: Next week on Massively edition

                                  MassivelyWRUP: Next week on Massively edition originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 11 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                    ]]>                                    featuredmassively-metametaweekendweekend-gamingwhat-are-you-playingwrupSat, 11 May 2013 10:00:00 EST                                    <![CDATA[The Daily Grind: How long can you play a game in one sitting?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/11/the-daily-grind-how-long-can-you-play-a-game-in-one-sitting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/11/the-daily-grind-how-long-can-you-play-a-game-in-one-sitting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/11/the-daily-grind-how-long-can-you-play-a-game-in-one-sitting/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

                                    Now just two dozen more fights like that and I'll be halfway through the day and my level.
                                    You've got nothing else to do on a lazy Saturday. You've got plenty of food and beverages, a comfortable seat, and a burning desire to get something accomplished in your game of choice. So you settle down, you log in, and you start running around and getting stuff done.

                                    Exactly how long is it going to be until you get up?

                                    We're not asking about when you get up to grab more chips or run to the bathroom or whatever. Today's question is just about how long you can sit in front of the screen without needing to get up and do something else for a little while. How long can you play a game in one sitting? Does it depend on the game, with group-based games like Final Fantasy XI meriting a longer session compared to solo-friendly titles like World of Warcraft? Or can you tolerate only a certain amount of time before you need a break no matter what?

                                    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: How long can you play a game in one sitting? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 11 May 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                      ]]>                                      all-day-gamingculturedaily-grindmarathon-sessionsopinionplay-sessionstdgthe-daily-grindSat, 11 May 2013 08:00:00 EST                                      <![CDATA[Pathfinder Online never closes a door without opening a PvP window]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/pathfinder-online-never-closes-a-door-without-opening-a-pvp-wind/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/pathfinder-online-never-closes-a-door-without-opening-a-pvp-wind/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/pathfinder-online-never-closes-a-door-without-opening-a-pvp-wind/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                                      I'm sure he just wants to show off his new knife.
                                      Having a settlement you worked hard to build be under constant attack just isn't fun. Pathfinder Online realizes this, which is why settlements are normally defended by large numbers of respawning NPC guards. Not too many to prevent players from scouting a town or stealing a few things, but enough to make a frontal assault fruitless unless you want your corpses to litter the outskirts of town.

                                      If that were always the case, though, attacking a settlement would be pointless. So during a brief window every day, the guard respawn rate decreases, numbers thin, and suddenly the town looks much more vulnerable to attack. A well-developed settlement will still have guards, but a coordinated force will be able to eliminate them... unless players step in to defend the settlement. This also solves the problem of having massive attacks come when no one is awake to know what's happening. Read the full details in the latest development blog on the official site.

                                      MassivelyPathfinder Online never closes a door without opening a PvP window originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 May 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                      ]]>                                      fantasygoblinworkspathfinderpathfinder-onlineplayer-settlementsplayer-structurespnppvppvp-windowsandboxsandparkterritory-controlFri, 10 May 2013 21:00:00 EST                                      <![CDATA[Betawatch: May 4 - 10, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/betawatch-may-4-10-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/betawatch-may-4-10-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/betawatch-may-4-10-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                                      It's really good, it is.
                                      You don't need to read the rest of this column, folks. City of Steam goes into open beta in two hours, so there is no reason for you to be sitting here when you could be playing that. Oh, and Marvel Heroes is running one last open beta weekend. And UFO Online is also in open beta. Plus, Arcane Saga launched (or re-launched) its beta. There is too much stuff to play for you to be sitting around reading columns about betas. You've got your project right there.

                                      Still here? You're really dedicated to that beta list, huh? Well, we appreciate that. And you can find it just past the break as always, and you can feel free to let us know if we missed anything down in the comments just as always. But seriously, you don't even need to close your browser for City of Steam. That's accessibility right there.

                                      Continue reading Betawatch: May 4 - 10, 2013

                                      MassivelyBetawatch: May 4 - 10, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                        ]]>                                        alphaalphasarcane-sagabetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchcity-of-steamclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmarvel-heroesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingufo-onlineFri, 10 May 2013 20:00:00 EST                                        <![CDATA[Project Tank tanked by World of Tanks]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/project-tank-tanked-by-world-of-tanks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/project-tank-tanked-by-world-of-tanks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/project-tank-tanked-by-world-of-tanks/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

                                        Military pre-enactment.
                                        A while ago, Project Tank popped up on our radar for two reasons. First of all, it was a browser-based multiplayer tank-based combat simulator. Second, it bore a lot of similarities to the existing multiplayer tank-based combat simulator World of Tanks, enough that Wargaming.net brought out the copyright lawyers. A copyright infringement suit was filed today by Wargaming.net, claiming that Project Tank directly copies many elements of World of Tanks and violates some existing patents.

                                        Gamebox has responded to these claims on the official site for the game, claiming that Wargaming.net has engaged in "underhanded" actions to try to shut down the project. This marks the end of the closed beta for Project Tank, which is promising open beta in approximately a month. You can take a look at the side-by-side comparison from before and draw your own conclusions about whether Project Tank is being unfairly accused or entirely fairly accused.

                                        MassivelyProject Tank tanked by World of Tanks originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 May 2013 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                        ]]>                                        comparisoncopiescopyright-infringementf2pfree-to-playgameboxhistoricalinjunctionip-infringementlegalproject-tankpvptanktankswarwargaming.networld-of-tankswotFri, 10 May 2013 19:30:00 EST                                        <![CDATA[No launch torch for Marvel Heroes, but plenty of Steam]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/no-launch-torch-for-marvel-heroes-but-plenty-of-steam/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/no-launch-torch-for-marvel-heroes-but-plenty-of-steam/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/no-launch-torch-for-marvel-heroes-but-plenty-of-steam/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                                        Squirrel Girl rightfully has a single power, which just lets her win.
                                        When Marvel Heroes announced that Squirrel Girl, Emma Frost, Nova, and Luke Cage would be delayed until after the game had launched, it was bad news, depriving the game of three popular heroes and Nova until later. Now another hero has joined the ranks of the not-in-launch crowd. The Human Torch will be delayed until after release, although players who have pre-purchased launch packs will still have full access to all of the Torch's add-ons when he does go live.

                                        Despite this loss, the game has obviously generated enough heat to make its way on to Steam for its final open beta weekend. Players who already have the game installed don't need to worry, but Steam users can install the game directly from the Steam client. Launch packs purchased prior to the Steam integration should work seamlessly, and you can also purchase launch packs directly from Steam if the final beta weekend inspires you to do so.

                                        MassivelyNo launch torch for Marvel Heroes, but plenty of Steam originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 May 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                        ]]>                                        actionaction-mmof2pfree-to-playgazilliongazillion-entertainmenthuman-torchlaunchlaunch-delayslaunch-heroesmarvelmarvel-heroesmarvel-universemarvel-universe-onlinemuopost-launchsecret-identitysteamsuperherosuperheroesFri, 10 May 2013 18:30:00 EST                                        <![CDATA[Storyboard: Making villains work]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/storyboard-making-villains-work/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/storyboard-making-villains-work/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/storyboard-making-villains-work/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

                                        So how am I going to make the header screwy next week? I have a few ideas.
                                        A while ago, I talked about the fact that roleplaying in MMOs most closely resembles comic books. This is apropos of the current discussion because both mediums have a fundamental issue with how villains are supposed to work. A good villain should be roundly trounced by the end of a story, but you also want to bring back a villain for more antics later on. So as I begin the follow-up to my recent column on the topic, the question becomes how you can make a villain who's entertaining and satisfying to encounter without becoming boring or making everyone wonder why no one has stabbed him yet.

                                        To be fair, there's no way to absolutely fix this problem. Someone will always have the idea that stabbing the villain to death will alleviate the problem, and that assumption is pretty much right. But there are ways to minimize the issue without making everyone seem like a colossal twit or creating the soap opera problem (wherein everyone is a malicious jerk every so often and no one seems to make long-term changes). This week I want to examine how both antagonistic and malicious villains can be played to avoid those pitfalls.

                                        Continue reading Storyboard: Making villains work

                                        MassivelyStoryboard: Making villains work originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 May 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                          ]]>                                          antagonistscharactersfeaturedjerksopinionroleplayroleplayersroleplayingrpstorystoryboardvillainsFri, 10 May 2013 13:00:00 EST                                          <![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: How WildStar has the power to move you]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/massively-exclusive-how-wildstar-has-the-power-to-move-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/massively-exclusive-how-wildstar-has-the-power-to-move-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/massively-exclusive-how-wildstar-has-the-power-to-move-you/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                                          I fly through the air with the greatest of ease, then land with a cracking sound from both my knees.
                                          Movement does not normally seem like a complicated topic in MMOs. You press forward; your character goes forward. Backward? Same deal. You can turn, and you can strafe, and you can turn and strafe and run forward if you're some kind of rebel or you want to give yourself motion sickness. But WildStar makes movement a bigger deal than normal because with a greater emphasis on action comes a greater emphasis on moving out of the path of danger.

                                          The latest official video covers all the basics of movement, from dashing to sprinting to pining for the presumably nonexistent quadruple jump. But we had a chance to sit down with lead combat systems designer Chris Lynch and lead class designer Hugh Shelton to talk about more of the specifics, starting with the obvious question: What beast must we slay to unlock the all-powerful quadruple jump?

                                          Wait, that wasn't it. It was about chaining movement tricks together in an endless cycle of airborne dashes.

                                          Continue reading Massively Exclusive: How WildStar has the power to move you

                                          MassivelyMassively Exclusive: How WildStar has the power to move you originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 May 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                            ]]>                                            action-combatcarbinecarbine-studiosdashingdodgingfeaturedinterviewinterviewsjumpingmomentummovementncsoftphysicsplacementsandparksci-fantasysci-fiwildstarwsFri, 10 May 2013 10:30:00 EST                                            <![CDATA[Get some Defiance DLC with a side of free updates]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/get-some-defiance-dlc-with-a-side-of-free-updates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/get-some-defiance-dlc-with-a-side-of-free-updates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/get-some-defiance-dlc-with-a-side-of-free-updates/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                                            DLC purchasers will unlock new abilities, including Shoot More, Shoot Even More, and Shoot The Most.
                                            Now that Defiance is live and has gone through the usual slew of launch-day messes, it's time for the developers to start thinking about the future. That means DLC. The latest development blog explains both what the team is doing to address the game's issues and how DLC will be released in a tiered system, with every major DLC update containing upgrades to the cash shop, a paid DLC component, and a free update for everyone.

                                            The first DLC is already en route, and its $10 paid component allows players to make a Castithan character, access a unique storyline, and gain some special vehicles and outfits. Even if you don't pay for the DLC, you'll have access to new Castithan Blades, and a new open world game mode called Siege, and can earn new Charge Weapons. The game's store, meanwhile, will allow you to tint your Castithan Blades, buy new lockboxes or vehicles, and re-customize your character. There's a little something for everyone playing the game, and that's the ultimate goal.

                                            MassivelyGet some Defiance DLC with a side of free updates originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                            ]]>                                            arkark-hunterarkfallb2pbuy-to-playcash-shopdefiancedlcdlc-updatesmmo-shooterplayer-racespvpracessci-fishootersyfythird-person-shootertpstransmedia-synergytriontrion-worldstvweaponsxboxThu, 09 May 2013 20:00:00 EST                                            <![CDATA[New WildStar video is all about smooth moves]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/new-wildstar-video-is-all-about-smooth-moves/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/new-wildstar-video-is-all-about-smooth-moves/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/new-wildstar-video-is-all-about-smooth-moves/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                                            He's either angry or getting up after a nap. I give even odds either way.
                                            Movement is always important in MMOs; you can't get into arguments about who's standing in the fire if everyone is rooted in place, after all. Since WildStar is promising active combat, it needs to have even more movement than normal so that you can find new and exciting ways not to stand in new and exciting sorts of fire. And the newest DevSpeak video is all about that.

                                            "That" being movement. Not new and exciting sorts of fire. It's still pretty much normal fire.

                                            Some elements will be immediately familiar to anyone who has played a video game on a computer within the past decade. Some elements are a bit more uncommon, like double-jumping or giving every class access to a quick dashing roll. And some elements, like switching positions with a target by tearing a hole in space itself, are pretty well unique. Take a look at all of them just past the break.

                                            [Source: NCsoft press release]

                                            Continue reading New WildStar video is all about smooth moves

                                            MassivelyNew WildStar video is all about smooth moves originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                              ]]>                                              carbinecarbine-studiosdodgingdont-stand-in-the-fireexplorationjumping-puzzlesmovementncsoftnewsobstaclessandparksci-fantasysci-fivideovideoswildstarwsThu, 09 May 2013 09:00:00 EST                                              <![CDATA[Making friends and recruiting officers in Star Trek Online's expansion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/making-friends-and-recruiting-officers-in-star-trek-onlines-exp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/making-friends-and-recruiting-officers-in-star-trek-onlines-exp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/making-friends-and-recruiting-officers-in-star-trek-onlines-exp/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                                              One of those unique traits is backstabbing, presumably.
                                              When Star Trek Online rolls out its Legacy of Romulus expansion on May 21st, you'll be playing a Romulan (or Reman) captain on a Romulan ship. But you will be allying with either the Klingons or the Federation, and so you might worry that you'll be surrounded by distinctly non-Romulan officers. Never fear, as the latest development blog makes it very clear that Romulan characters will be able to access a unique pool of Duty Officers and Bridge Officers unavailable to the other factions.

                                              While Klingon or Federation characters may occasionally earn a Reman or Romulan Duty Officer, these are rare recruits that can only be obtained after exceptional effort. Actual Romulans will be able to recruit new officers of these races with unique traits simply by visiting New Romulus. They will also have access to recruitment from their allied factions, ensuring that the ship may have a mix of races while still remaining Romulan at its core.

                                              MassivelyMaking friends and recruiting officers in Star Trek Online's expansion originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 May 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                              ]]>                                              bridge-officerscrypticcryptic-studiosduty-officersexpansionf2pfactionsfree-to-playlegacy-of-romulusofficersperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweremansremusromulansromulussci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoWed, 08 May 2013 18:30:00 EST