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[Outlaws of EVE Online: Mynxee page 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/10/outlaws-of-eve-online-mynxee-page-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/10/outlaws-of-eve-online-mynxee-page-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/10/outlaws-of-eve-online-mynxee-page-2/#commentsContinue reading Outlaws of EVE Online: Mynxee page 2

MassivelyOutlaws of EVE Online: Mynxee page 2 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 10 Feb 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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    ]]>    Wed, 10 Feb 2010 10:00:00 EST    <![CDATA[Outlaws of EVE Online: Mynxee]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/10/outlaws-of-eve-online-mynxee/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/10/outlaws-of-eve-online-mynxee/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/10/outlaws-of-eve-online-mynxee/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


    EVE Online is as much a setting as it is a massively multiplayer online game. EVE's galaxy of New Eden spans thousands of charted solar systems, with thousands more waiting to be discovered in the uncharted frontiers reachable only through wormholes. For all the myriad opportunities New Eden offers players to explore and create, there are just as many risks. The dangers that other pilots can pose also provide memorable stories that few other MMOs can match. The outlaws of EVE Online halt the calming lull of mining lasers, inject some thrills into otherwise routine trade runs, and disrupt the rote completion of mission objectives. More often than not, encounters with New Eden's pirates will leave you with a pounding heart and surge of adrenaline to go along with the flaming wreckage of your ship, if not a one-way trip back to the cloning facility. They create that fear of what threats lie on the other side of the next star gate and ultimately set the tone for New Eden. But even among these criminals there are a few whose accomplishments truly stand out.

    The capsuleer called Mynxee is a well-known pirate in New Eden's underworld. Hers is a name remembered well by the many victims who've met their end under rapid fire from her autocannons. She is the founder and CEO of Hellcats, an all-women pirate corporation in EVE Online, and a central figure in EVE's criminal society. Outside of New Eden, Mynxee has built up quite a following through her Life in Low Sec blog and is one of EVE's more active pilots on Twitter as well. If there is such an individual in New Eden that can be viewed as its pirate king, Mynxee is undoubtedly its queen. She first caught Massively's attention years ago with her flashy red dress (size -10), but she's since become a pivotal figure in New Eden, popular with players from all walks of life in EVE.

    Massively recently spoke with Mynxee about the allure of being an outlaw, and how she has expanded the scope of her piracy -- bringing it out of the shadows of low security space and into the light, where players feel they are safest.



    Continue reading Outlaws of EVE Online: Mynxee

    MassivelyOutlaws of EVE Online: Mynxee originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 10 Feb 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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      ]]>      ccpccp-gamescrimeeveeve-onlinefeaturedgenderhellcatshellfleetinterviewsmynxeenew-edenoutlawspiracypiratespvpshae-tiannvenom-orchidWed, 10 Feb 2010 10:00:00 EST      <![CDATA[Massively's Black Prophecy Q&A: Mission Systems page two]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/01/massivelys-black-prophecy-qanda-mission-systems-page-two/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/01/massivelys-black-prophecy-qanda-mission-systems-page-two/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/01/massivelys-black-prophecy-qanda-mission-systems-page-two/#comments

      Continue reading Massively's Black Prophecy Q&A: Mission Systems page two

      MassivelyMassively's Black Prophecy Q&A: Mission Systems page two originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Feb 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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        ]]>        Mon, 01 Feb 2010 11:00:00 EST        <![CDATA[Massively's Black Prophecy Q&A: Mission Systems]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/01/massivelys-black-prophecy-qanda-mission-systems/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/01/massivelys-black-prophecy-qanda-mission-systems/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/01/massivelys-black-prophecy-qanda-mission-systems/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


        Massively has been following the development of the sci-fi MMO Black Prophecy very closely, and was pleased that the title's developer Reakktor Media wanted to do a series of focused Q&As with us on several aspects of the game. Our last such Q&A started at the beginning with character creation, but in our second installment of the Black Prophecy interview series we discussed the game's mission design. To that end, we posed some questions to Lorenz Dames, the Lead Game Designer on Black Prophecy.

        Lorenz explained a great deal about how Reakktor is approaching solo content vs. group-oriented gameplay. He also told us how Reakktor Media is merging the completion of mission objectives with dogfighting your fellow players through PvP missions, where other players will try to counter your efforts to complete goals. Our interview should provide Black Prophecy fans with a solid overview of the game's mission design, which will be an essential aspect of the sci-fi MMO's gameplay.

        Gallery: Black Prophecy

        Continue reading Massively's Black Prophecy Q&A: Mission Systems

        MassivelyMassively's Black Prophecy Q&A: Mission Systems originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Feb 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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          ]]>          black-prophecyfeaturedgame-designgame-mechanicsinterviewslead-game-designerlorenz-damesmassively-interviewsmissionsnew-titlespvepvpquestsreakktorreakktor-mediasci-fiMon, 01 Feb 2010 11:00:00 EST          <![CDATA[Balancing realistic physics with fun in Black Prophecy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/31/balancing-realistic-physics-with-fun-in-black-prophecy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/31/balancing-realistic-physics-with-fun-in-black-prophecy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/31/balancing-realistic-physics-with-fun-in-black-prophecy/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


          The latest info about the sci-fi MMO Black Prophecy, currently in development at Reakktor Media, comes in the form of a series of dev blogs from the game's Technical Director, Cyrus Preuss. As with his two previous blogs, Cyrus gets down into the nuts and bolts of how the game's physics work, which may be of interest to those who'd like to know more about the underlying systems that will govern Black Prophecy's space combat.

          His rather technical dev blog is all about interaction with the physics engine. It especially deals with balancing the realism that some players want with the need to throw aspects of that realism to the wind, in favor of game mechanics that are simply more fun. He also discusses how the physics engine will relate to space stations, capital ships, and weapon physics. Black Prophecy fans interested in this kind of a look at the game can read all about it in "Interaction with the Physics Engine" on the game's official site.

          MassivelyBalancing realistic physics with fun in Black Prophecy originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 31 Jan 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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            ]]>            black-prophecycyrus-preussdev-blogGame-Mechanicsnew-titlesphysicsphysics-enginereakktorreakktor-mediarealismsci-fitechnical-directorSun, 31 Jan 2010 17:00:00 EST            <![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Will you welcome back the Hellgate franchise?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/31/the-daily-grind-will-you-welcome-back-the-hellgate-franchise/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/31/the-daily-grind-will-you-welcome-back-the-hellgate-franchise/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/31/the-daily-grind-will-you-welcome-back-the-hellgate-franchise/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

            Hellgate: London is one of those games that has really divided opinion from our readers. Some brand it as a deeply-flawed game, or were burned by that costly Founder's lifetime subscription when the game shut down after a rather short life. Others -- like some of us on the Massively staff -- truly miss the game's blend of horror and sci-fi elements and have been hoping that Hellgate: London would one day return in some form or another.

            Although the future of the game has been murky, the most recent (and most straightforward) announcement is that Hellgate: London is slated to return to Western shores. HanbitSoft has secured the worldwide publishing rights to the game from Namco-Bandai, so now it's just a matter of time before it returns. We're interested to hear what you think about this. Would you welcome the return of Hellgate: London? For that matter, how would you feel about playing the game in its current free-to-play incarnation, Hellgate: Resurrection?

            MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Will you welcome back the Hellgate franchise? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 31 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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              ]]>              f2pfree-to-playhanbitsofthellgatehellgate-londonhellgate-resurrectionhorrorlegalmmo-industrynamco-bandaiopinionpublishing-rightssci-fitdgthe-daily-grindSun, 31 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST              <![CDATA[MAG review highlights strengths and flaws of the console MMOFPS]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/30/mag-review-highlights-strengths-and-flaws-of-the-console-mmofps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/30/mag-review-highlights-strengths-and-flaws-of-the-console-mmofps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/30/mag-review-highlights-strengths-and-flaws-of-the-console-mmofps/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


              MAG is a PlayStation 3-exclusive MMOFPS title we've been keeping our eyes on at Massively. The inevitable debate aside about whether Zipper Interactive's title is an MMO or not -- yes, tanks and guns replace dragons and magic spells -- the game accommodates up to 256 players in a zone at a time. The idea of FPS gameplay with that many people at such a high degree of graphical detail is pretty mind-boggling, and it's something we've explored a bit in the MAG beta. Our parent site Joystiq recently sat down with the game now that it's officially launched and wrote a short MAG review.

              Joystiq's Griffin McElroy gives a brief overview of MAG's gameplay and his assessment of the title's merits and flaws. That idea of 128 players per side doesn't mean you'll all be charging towards your opponents in one awesome wave, he notes. Rather, you'll typically be interacting with your fellow soldiers on a squad level (4-8 people) to achieve objectives, with multiple squads comprising platoons, and four such platoons forming an army.

              Continue reading MAG review highlights strengths and flaws of the console MMOFPS

              MassivelyMAG review highlights strengths and flaws of the console MMOFPS originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 30 Jan 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                ]]>                consolesgame-mechanicsjoystiqmagmmofpsplaystation-3pvpreviewsshooterswarZipper-InteractiveSat, 30 Jan 2010 22:00:00 EST                <![CDATA[Planet Risk podcast explains tactics for EVE's high level wormholes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/planet-risk-podcast-explains-tactics-for-eves-high-level-wormho/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/planet-risk-podcast-explains-tactics-for-eves-high-level-wormho/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/planet-risk-podcast-explains-tactics-for-eves-high-level-wormho/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                The EVE Online-focused Planet Risk Show returned this week after a planned holiday hiatus. For those who've never heard of Planet Risk, it's a live weekly Split Infinity Radio program that's also released as a podcast. Planet Risk differs from most EVE podcasts in that it's largely focused on wormhole colonization, which only became possible after the Apocrypha expansion was released, allowing players to pull back the curtain of known space and head into uncharted expanses. Hosts Luminus Aardokay and Quivering Palm spend most of their EVE time in wormhole space, so they're fast becoming experts on the subject. Indeed, they broadcast The Planet Risk Show from within their colonized wormhole system, which is a rather unique one in the game.

                Their home is one of the most hostile types of wormholes in New Eden -- a Class 6 -- where the Sleeper NPCs are especially deadly. The ship setups and tactics used against the Sleepers in such a solar system differ greatly from how it's done in lower class wormholes. They explain some of the tricks that allow them to overcome the Sleepers in their Class 6 wormhole this week in Episode 13 -- right around the 1 hour 11 second mark. It's a good listen, particularly as there isn't a great deal of information available on such high level encounters in the game.

                Continue reading Planet Risk podcast explains tactics for EVE's high level wormholes

                MassivelyPlanet Risk podcast explains tactics for EVE's high level wormholes originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Jan 2010 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                  ]]>                  apocryphaccpccp-gamesclass-5class-6eveeve-onlineexplorationgame-mechanicsluminus-aardokayplanet-riskpodcastspvequivering-palmsci-fisleepersthe-planet-risk-showtips-and-tricksw-spacewormholesFri, 29 Jan 2010 23:59:00 EST                  <![CDATA[MAG's Veteran Mode explained]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/mags-veteran-mode-explained/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/mags-veteran-mode-explained/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/mags-veteran-mode-explained/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                  MAG's official launch was only a few days ago, but developer Zipper Interactive is already explaining some of the benefits to having a high level character in the MMOFPS. Players who hit the level cap of 60 can enable "Veteran Mode", which Zipper Interactive has mentioned in the past. Now, they've clarified what exactly the advantages to doing so are in a blog post -- essentially it's an incentive to reroll once you've maxed out your character, and experience more of the game.

                  If you're looking to try something new, you'll be able to keep your past accomplishments (medals, ribbons, and related stats) when you reset your character to level 1. Even though your experience counter resets to zero, your lifetime experience will show everything you've ever earned -- a permanent record viewable on the stats page of your barracks. Players after trophies for hitting max level in all private military companies (PMCs) in MAG will want to take advantage of Veteran Mode and the experience boost it imparts. Veteran Mode gives players a permanent 10% bonus added to the experience total for each match, provided that players sticks through the entire round. Other players can easily recognize a Veteran by the gold insignia displayed beneath that character's rank. While we suspect it'll be a while before most players hit that level cap, Zipper Interactive detailed MAG's Veteran Mode on the game's official blog.

                  MassivelyMAG's Veteran Mode explained originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Jan 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                    ]]>                    consolesexperience-bonusgame-mechanicsmagmmofpspmcprivate-military-companypvprerolltrophiesveteran-modewarxpzipper-interactiveFri, 29 Jan 2010 22:00:00 EST                    <![CDATA[CCP Games 'PLEX Aid for Haiti' initiative to help Red Cross relief efforts]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/ccp-games-plex-aid-for-haiti-initiative-to-help-red-cross-reli/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/ccp-games-plex-aid-for-haiti-initiative-to-help-red-cross-reli/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/ccp-games-plex-aid-for-haiti-initiative-to-help-red-cross-reli/#commentsFiled under: , ,


                    The devastating January 12 earthquake which struck the Republic of Haiti claimed many lives, and has left even more people homeless. It's a terrible situation, but at the very least there are numerous aid efforts underway, and some companies in the MMO industry are finding ways to help as well. CCP Games now ranks among them, with their PLEX Aid for Haiti initiative. The company is offering a way for the EVE Online playerbase to get involved and help with donations.

                    Here is the message from Hilmar Veigar Pétursson, CEO of CCP Games, in its entirety:

                    Continue reading CCP Games 'PLEX Aid for Haiti' initiative to help Red Cross relief efforts

                    MassivelyCCP Games 'PLEX Aid for Haiti' initiative to help Red Cross relief efforts originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Jan 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                      ]]>                      ccpccp-gamesccp-hellmarcharitydonationseveeve-onlinehaitihilmar-peturssonhilmar-v-peturssoniskplexrelief-effortsFri, 29 Jan 2010 21:00:00 EST                      <![CDATA[All Points Bulletin video podcast shows off the music editor]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/all-points-bulletin-video-podcast-shows-off-the-music-editor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/all-points-bulletin-video-podcast-shows-off-the-music-editor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/all-points-bulletin-video-podcast-shows-off-the-music-editor/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                      Fans of the upcoming urban crime game All Points Bulletin may have noticed there's been a bit of a hiatus with the video podcasts that Realtime Worlds has been releasing. (Although Massively did have a good interview with Chris Collins and EJ Moreland about APB this week.) The APB video podcasts are back for 2010 now, though, and Collins has announced that the next few will focus on the game's audio features. They're beginning the series by showing fans the game's music editor, demonstrated by Stuart Ross, All Points Bulletin's Senior Sound Designer.

                      These in-game audio tools in the Music Studio will allow players to create "death themes" -- very short sound clips that play when you take out another player -- or even create loops and tracks from scratch using software instruments. While the tools look fairly comprehensive, there are simple preset themes for those not familiar with audio tools. Even better, player-created themes and songs are fully tradeable. Players will be able to place their tracks on market for other Criminals or Enforcers to purchase. Stick with us after the jump for a video embed of the All Points Bulletin podcast episode 16: The Music Editor.

                      Continue reading All Points Bulletin video podcast shows off the music editor

                      MassivelyAll Points Bulletin video podcast shows off the music editor originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Jan 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                        ]]>                        all-points-bulletinapbaudiochris-collinscommunity-officercrimecustomizationmusicmusic-editormusic-studionew-titlespodcastsrealtime-worldssenior-sound-designerstuart-rossurbanurban-crimevideoThu, 28 Jan 2010 19:00:00 EST                        <![CDATA[Fan-run contest lets EVE Online players win game merchandise]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/fan-run-contest-lets-eve-online-players-win-game-merchandise/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/fan-run-contest-lets-eve-online-players-win-game-merchandise/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/fan-run-contest-lets-eve-online-players-win-game-merchandise/#commentsFiled under: , ,


                        Our friend and EVE Online fanatic CrazyKinux periodically runs an EVE Blog Banter, where the growing number of bloggers focused on the sci-fi MMO tackle discussion topics. The end result is usually some well thought-out commentary or lively debate about an aspect of the game experience. His latest Blog Banter has a different twist; it's actually a contest where the top ten winners can score merchandise from the official EVE Store. (The prizes: $100 worth for first place, $50 for second place, $25 for third and fourth, fifth through tenth place winners will each get 14 days of EVE time.)

                        Entering is pretty simple. CrazyKinux asks: "What is it that makes this particular virtual world so enticing, so mysterious and so alluring that we keep coming back for more. Why is EVE one of the very few MMOs to see continuous growth in its subscribers? To put it simply: Why do you love EVE Online so much?" Answer this question on your own blog while linking back to CK's contest post in your intro, then let him know about it in his contest post's comments. Be sure to check out the contest rules first, but you've got until January 31st to enter. Winners will be announced on February 5th; the contest will be judged on the merits of quality, structure, approach, and originality.

                        So there you go -- if you're an EVE Online player and a decent writer as well, this could be easy money for you. Good luck to any Massively readers who decide to go for it.

                        MassivelyFan-run contest lets EVE Online players win game merchandise originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Jan 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                          ]]>                          bloggersblogsccpccp-eveccp-gamescommunitycontestscrazykinuxeveeve-blog-bantereve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlinesci-fiThu, 28 Jan 2010 09:00:00 EST                          <![CDATA[Earthrise developers on the beauty of speed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/earthrise-developers-on-the-beauty-of-speed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/earthrise-developers-on-the-beauty-of-speed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/earthrise-developers-on-the-beauty-of-speed/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

                          Masthead Studios CEO Atanas Atanasov recently dropped some info about the company's upcoming sci-fi MMO Earthrise, briefly mentioning the advantages and disadvantages of Exploration and Battle Modes in an interview. The Masthead Studio developers are following up with more on this topic in their latest installment of Question of the Week, "The Beauty of Speed".

                          Players who aren't wielding weapons will be able to move faster, potentially evading combat situations. Entering this "Exploration Mode" in combat can also impart some benefits, namely that enhanced speed couples with shield regeneration. That speed could allow a player to minimize the damage inflicted upon them by attacks but also leaves them open to greater risk of harm, should they take a direct hit. The tradeoff for that speed is lowered damage resistance. Earthrise will offer certain abilities that affect battlefield movement as well. Have a look at "The Beauty of Speed" for more on Earthrise's combat system, and the related discussion taking place among the game's community members.

                          MassivelyEarthrise developers on the beauty of speed originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                            ]]>                            Atanas-Atanasovcombat-modecommunity-managerearthriseexploration-modegame-mechanicsmasthead-studiosmollnew-titlespost-apocalypticsci-fiWed, 27 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST                            <![CDATA[A Tale in the Desert to launch new player driven server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/a-tale-in-the-desert-to-launch-new-player-driven-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/a-tale-in-the-desert-to-launch-new-player-driven-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/a-tale-in-the-desert-to-launch-new-player-driven-server/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


                            A Tale in the Desert may not be the first game that comes to mind when you think of MMOs, but the title from independent developer eGenesis is something quite unique in this market. A Tale in the Desert isn't a combat-focused game at all, rather it's more about social, economic, and even legal systems in an ancient Egyptian setting. Players involved in a "telling" (a game arc) can even vote to determine the game's laws, which sets this title apart from most others.

                            eGenesis announced this week that they're launching a new server on February 20th, stating that it will give even greater control to players by allowing them to "completely control the timing of the telling." The new server will offer players an ancient Egypt that has yet to be built. In other words, it's an open environment where the players can have some degree of control over how that setting takes shape.

                            If the notion of a player-driven setting where the game's subscribers shape the play experience and surroundings appeals to you, have a look at what's coming soon to A Tale in the Desert.

                            MassivelyA Tale in the Desert to launch new player driven server originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Jan 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                              ]]>                              a-tale-in-the-desertancient-egyptancient-worldatitdcultureeconomyegenesisegyptlawslegalmmo-industryplayer-governancepoliticstellingWed, 27 Jan 2010 11:00:00 EST                              <![CDATA[Earthrise interview focuses on game's progress]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/26/earthrise-interview-focuses-on-games-progress/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/26/earthrise-interview-focuses-on-games-progress/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/26/earthrise-interview-focuses-on-games-progress/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


                              We're always on the lookout for more info about Earthrise, an upcoming sandbox MMO with a far future, post-apocalyptic setting. The latest interview updating on the game's status is a Ten Ton Hammer Q&A with Masthead Studios CEO Atanas Atanasov. The studio head explains a bit about the combat system revamp, aimed at keeping Earthrise's combat dynamic and fast-paced, with a more intuitive interface as well.

                              The interview also hits upon how they're fine tuning the game's economic systems as well as balancing rewards as players progress, plus Atanasov talks a bit about Earthrise's "exploration mode" (which imparts faster movement but greater vulnerability to damage) and specialized crafting. Check out Ten Ton Hammer's Q&A with Atanas Atanasov for an update on the state of Earthrise.

                              MassivelyEarthrise interview focuses on game's progress originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Jan 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                ]]>                                atanas-atanasovbetasearthrisegame-mechanicsinterviewsmasthead-studiosnew-titlespost-apocalypticsci-fiTue, 26 Jan 2010 22:00:00 EST                                <![CDATA[Mass Testing in EVE, Wednesday, to determine source of lag in fleet battles]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/26/mass-testing-in-eve-wednesday-to-determine-source-of-lag-in-fl/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/26/mass-testing-in-eve-wednesday-to-determine-source-of-lag-in-fl/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/26/mass-testing-in-eve-wednesday-to-determine-source-of-lag-in-fl/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


                                EVE Online's latest expansion, Dominion, brought sweeping changes to how alliances claim and hold space, and more recently revamped capital ship warfare. However, there has been a downside of late in terms of server stability and lag. Twitter is pretty much aflame with players lamenting the server issues, not to mention the forums, and it's something CCP Games needs to address right away.

                                To that end, CCP is looking to the playerbase for help with "Mass Testing" on Wednesday, to determine the source of lag in large fleet battles. The devs will be looking into the problems widely reported with medium and large scale fleet combat and will need at least 50 pilots, though if 200 or more showed up this would be even better, says CCP Tanis. Players interested in helping out should hop on the Singularity test server on Wednesday, January 27, at 17:00 UTC. Mass Testing participants should join the "MassTesting" channel in-game on the test server as well. All EVE pilots who want to get involved should see CCP Navigator's announcement for more info about tomorrow's fleet combat tests and the discussion in a related forum thread.

                                MassivelyMass Testing in EVE, Wednesday, to determine source of lag in fleet battles originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Jan 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                  ]]>                                  bugsccpccp-gamesccp-navigatordominioneveeve-onlinefleet-combatgame-mechanicslagmass-testingserverssingularitytest-serverTue, 26 Jan 2010 19:00:00 EST                                  <![CDATA[EVE Community Spotlight: Helicity Boson page 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/26/eve-community-spotlight-helicity-boson-page-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/26/eve-community-spotlight-helicity-boson-page-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/26/eve-community-spotlight-helicity-boson-page-2/#comments
                                  What was involved with organizing the Hulkageddon events?

                                  Time. Lots of it. Since I ended up doing all the legwork (and shameless attention grabbing) by myself, I didn't actually get to blow stuff up myself. I answered some 1000 or so emails, Evemails and private convos over the course of the event, not to mention having to deal with the less-intelligent amongst the player base that think the best way to react to an ingame event is to make threats to my person, post spam to the webpage and other completely childish and stupid things.

                                  I find it ironic that they do this, yet apparently I am not right in the head. It's hilarious.

                                  Continue reading EVE Community Spotlight: Helicity Boson page 2

                                  MassivelyEVE Community Spotlight: Helicity Boson page 2 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Jan 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                    ]]>                                    Tue, 26 Jan 2010 13:00:00 EST                                    <![CDATA[EVE Community Spotlight: Helicity Boson]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/26/eve-community-spotlight-helicity-boson/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/26/eve-community-spotlight-helicity-boson/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/26/eve-community-spotlight-helicity-boson/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                                    The setting of EVE Online is a vast galactic sandbox called New Eden, with thousands of charted solar systems and thousands more hidden in uncharted space. The title's developer CCP Games provides the expansive setting and PvE content, but beyond this it's up to the players to define what the game can really be. Although there are plenty of opportunities to take risks in the game with commensurate rewards, a large percentage of the game's playerbase are content to remain in high security space where there are less dangers. Many of these players spend their time mining in asteroid belts and ice fields, which most would admit can be a semi-AFK playstyle. After all, the process of mining is rote: lock asteroids, fire up your mining lasers, and some cycles later you've harvested ore that can be sold outright or used in manufacturing.

                                    That zen-like calm punctuated by the gentle hum of mining lasers was shaken up for many high sec dwellers earlier this month though, when the player-run event Hulkageddon II tore through the mining ship hulls of over 1000 players. The core idea of Hulkageddon II, as with the original event, was to destroy as many mining vessels as possible over the course of a week... a goal that many players pursued with reckless abandon. Indeed, there were numerous prizes awarded and 'achievements' that players racked up over the course of Hulkageddon II. Ultimately, the event injected some much-needed risk into the game -- whether some players wanted it or not -- in places where miners once felt they were untouchable by EVE's criminal population. Of course, a player-run event that pitted players eager to rack up kills against those who would prefer to avoid conflict has proven controversial.

                                    The man behind Hulkageddon II is Helicity Boson, a pirate who flies with The Python Cartel, though he was helped in large part by fellow player Garmon (aka El'Tar) and generous donations from other players. Massively caught up with Helicity to discuss his motivations behind running Hulkageddon II, his views on the game in general, and why some EVE players might be wound up just a bit too tightly.

                                    Continue reading EVE Community Spotlight: Helicity Boson

                                    MassivelyEVE Community Spotlight: Helicity Boson originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Jan 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                      ]]>                                      ccpccp-gamescontroversyeveeve-community-spotlighteve-onlinegame-mechanicshelicity-bosonhulkageddonhulkageddon-2hulkageddon-iiplayer-run-eventspvpsci-fiTue, 26 Jan 2010 13:00:00 EST                                      <![CDATA[EVE Online spymaster The Mittani to present at GDC 2010]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/25/eve-online-spymaster-the-mittani-to-present-at-gdc-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/25/eve-online-spymaster-the-mittani-to-present-at-gdc-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/25/eve-online-spymaster-the-mittani-to-present-at-gdc-2010/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


                                      EVE Online developer CCP Games typically has a presence at major industry events like the upcoming Game Developers Conference, but the session that's caught our attention so far isn't a presentation from the devs -- it's actually from a member of the EVE community. That GDC 2010 speaker is Alexander Gianturco -- better known to most EVE Online players as Goonswarm's spymaster, The Mittani. Others may know the infamous player as the "Sins of the Solar Spymaster" EVE columnist at Ten Ton Hammer. Gianturco will give a lecture at GDC 2010 titled "Uniquely Ruthless: The Espionage Metagame of EVE Online" that will give an insider's perspective on the political machinations possible in the game's sandbox of New Eden.

                                      His talk will hit on topics like the disbanding of the Band of Brothers alliance, how the espionage metagame has changed over time, and of course the myriad aspects of EVE's sandbox that allow players to even engage in such pursuits. The session description for Uniquely Ruthless: The Espionage Metagame of EVE Online states that Gianturco's presentation should be of general interest to anyone with a love of spies and their stories.

                                      MassivelyEVE Online spymaster The Mittani to present at GDC 2010 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Jan 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                        ]]>                                        alexander-gianturcoband-of-brothersccpccp-gamesdeceptionespionageeveeve-onlinegdcgdc-2010goonswarmmmo-industrypoliticssci-fisins-of-the-solar-spymasterspiesspythe-mittaniMon, 25 Jan 2010 13:00:00 EST                                        <![CDATA[Creating the planets of EVE Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/21/creating-the-planets-of-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/21/creating-the-planets-of-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/21/creating-the-planets-of-eve-online/#commentsFiled under: , ,


                                        One of the most visually striking changes that came to EVE Online with the Dominion expansion is how the devs improved the look of the planets. This was no minor facelift either, it's been a dramatic change. The graphics update breathed new life into New Eden's setting -- solar systems now have vibrant gas giants as well as planets dominated by storms, ice, oceans, or lava. Most players are probably just content to see and appreciate the eye candy, but those interested in how CCP Games created these planets will want to read the "Awesome Looking Planets" dev blog from CCP Mannapi. (And just look at that angry expression!)

                                        Although the subject of Mannapi's dev blog is somewhat technical, it's actually rather easy to follow. He walks the reader through the tools and processes CCP Games put to use in revamping planets in Dominion. If reading about height maps, preprocessing, rendering, and textures is your cup of tea, you'll probably enjoy his illustrated explanation of these facets of planetary design in EVE.

                                        MassivelyCreating the planets of EVE Online originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Jan 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                          ]]>                                          ccpccp-gamesccp-mannapidev-blogdev-blogsdominioneveeve-onlineexpansionsgraphicsnew-edenplanetssci-fiThu, 21 Jan 2010 19:00:00 EST                                          <![CDATA[An overview of the EVE Online capital ship changes arriving today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/21/an-overview-of-the-eve-online-capital-ship-changes-arriving-toda/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/21/an-overview-of-the-eve-online-capital-ship-changes-arriving-toda/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/21/an-overview-of-the-eve-online-capital-ship-changes-arriving-toda/#commentsFiled under: , ,

                                          The cries of "Free CCP Abathur" have been heard. He's one of the growing number of EVE Online developers recruited from among the ranks of the playerbase, and in Abathur's case -- he's someone very well-versed in the dynamics of nullsec warfare. His dev blog "The All Caps Ship Blog" deals with changes CCP Games is making to EVE that have long been a hot button with the playerbase.

                                          It's not surprising that capital ship balancing is a controversial topic among players of the sci-fi MMO. Capital ship pilots in New Eden have invested significant amounts of training time and in-game wealth into piloting these massive ships, be it carriers and supercarriers, dreadnaughts, or titans. Some of CCP Abathur's ideas on balancing capital ships seemed to be fairly well-received by the playerbase, but later proposed changes from more senior devs at CCP appeared to be taking the game mechanics in a different direction. (Hence the "Free CCP Abathur" meme.) Ultimately, some of the major capital ship changes didn't deploy with the Dominion expansion launch, but are arriving in EVE today.

                                          Continue reading An overview of the EVE Online capital ship changes arriving today

                                          MassivelyAn overview of the EVE Online capital ship changes arriving today originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Jan 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                            ]]>                                            capital-shipscarriersccpccp-abathurccp-gamescontroversydominiondoomsdaydreadnaughtseveeve-onlinefighter-bombersgame-mechanicsnullsecsci-fisupercarrierstitansThu, 21 Jan 2010 10:00:00 EST                                            <![CDATA[EVE's Dominion 1.1 patch to bring supercarrier changes, fighter bombers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/20/eves-dominion-1-1-patch-to-bring-supercarrier-changes-fighter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/20/eves-dominion-1-1-patch-to-bring-supercarrier-changes-fighter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/20/eves-dominion-1-1-patch-to-bring-supercarrier-changes-fighter/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


                                            A substantial number of changes will be made to EVE Online tomorrow with the Dominion 1.1 patch. The supercarrier changes and introduction of fighter bombs coming in 1.1 were originally slated for the Dominion expansion's launch last month but had to be postponed. Beyond the changes impacting EVE's capital ship pilots, nullsec warfare will be affected by how CCP is altering the stats of Sovereignty structures. (Territorial Control Units will receive increased hitpoints with reduced onlining time, likewise Sovereignty Blockade Units are getting a defensive buff.)

                                            New features are being introduced as well, like voice fonts for the Vivox-powered EVE Voice. According to the latest patch notes: "This new feature will allow you to alter your voice during chat to increase or lower pitch or to change from male to female voices. This is certainly not going to be abused in any way."

                                            Stick with us past the jump for some highlights of how EVE Online will change tomorrow.

                                            Continue reading EVE's Dominion 1.1 patch to bring supercarrier changes, fighter bombers

                                            MassivelyEVE's Dominion 1.1 patch to bring supercarrier changes, fighter bombers originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Jan 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                              ]]>                                              capital-shipscarriersccpccp-gamesdominiondreadnaughtsdreadnoughteveeve-onlineeve-voicefighter-bombersforumsmothershipsnullsecpatch-notespatchessci-fisovereigntysupercarrierstriagevoice-fontsWed, 20 Jan 2010 19:00:00 EST                                              <![CDATA[EVE's animated hangar backgrounds available as high-def downloads]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/eves-animated-hangar-backgrounds-available-as-high-def-download/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/eves-animated-hangar-backgrounds-available-as-high-def-download/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/eves-animated-hangar-backgrounds-available-as-high-def-download/#commentsFiled under: , ,


                                              EVE Online players who were fortunate enough to attend Fanfest in 2009 kept raving about a collection of animated video backgrounds that were running on screens during panels and presentations. Players were so taken with these that they'd been pressing CCP Games to make them available for download. CCP delivered on their promise this week, making these sweeping tours of the Gallente, Caldari, Amarr, and Minmatar space station interiors available for download in HD.

                                              Once you see them, you'll probably understand why the EVE Fanfest attendees have been wanting them ever since. Those are some fairly hefty file sizes though, so for a quick look you can also see all four of the hangars and a nice selection of each race's ships in HD on YouTube. Stick with us past the jump for a look within an Amarr hangar which shows off the theocratic race's golden fleet.

                                              Continue reading EVE's animated hangar backgrounds available as high-def downloads

                                              MassivelyEVE's animated hangar backgrounds available as high-def downloads originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 Jan 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                ]]>                                                amarrcaldariccpccp-gameseveeve-fanfesteve-onlinegallentehdhigh-defminmatarvideoyoutubeTue, 19 Jan 2010 23:00:00 EST                                                <![CDATA[Masthead Studios discusses Earthrise economy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/masthead-studios-discusses-earthrise-economy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/masthead-studios-discusses-earthrise-economy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/masthead-studios-discusses-earthrise-economy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


                                                It's an immutable law: create an online game where virtual currency is used and it'll inevitably give rise to a black market for that currency, not to mention for the various items in the MMO. Earthrise will be no different, but developer Masthead Studios aims to be proactive about the problem of gold sellers, rather than reactive. They also feel that their game will be difficult to bot. "Most of Earthrise design has followed the paradigm of requiring player interaction and skill through every aspect of combat, crafting and logistic movement so we firmly believe the game will be, by design, very difficult to automate via known methods," Masthead explains in their latest Question of the Week.

                                                Another factor that Masthead Studios feels will curb black market activities in Earthrise, at least in respect to items, is that every use of gear slowly degrades the item in question. Of course, where there's a will there's a way. So when Earthrise enters open beta Masthead Studios will keep a close eye on the various ways players find to exploit the economy.

                                                Continue reading Masthead Studios discusses Earthrise economy

                                                MassivelyMasthead Studios discusses Earthrise economy originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                  ]]>                                                  betasblack-marketbottingearthriseeconomyexploitsgame-mechanicsgold-farminggold-sellersmacrosmasthead-studiosmollnew-titlespost-apocalypticqotwsci-fiTue, 19 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST                                                  <![CDATA[Hello Kitty Online's Food for Friends 2 event provides Haiti disaster relief]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/18/hello-kitty-onlines-food-for-friends-2-event-provides-haiti-dis/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/18/hello-kitty-onlines-food-for-friends-2-event-provides-haiti-dis/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/18/hello-kitty-onlines-food-for-friends-2-event-provides-haiti-dis/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                                                  One of the things that's different about Hello Kitty Online, beyond the pink hearts and stars motif, is that the game ties in with some great charitable causes. Now Sanrio Digital has announced the "Food for Friends 2" guild competition, an event that lets guilds compete for Loyalty Point prizes for use in the Hello Kitty Online item mall while helping people in the real world. Players from select regions (North America, Europe, Singapore, Malaysia) who participate in Food for Friends 2 will generate real money donations (from event sponsors) through their gameplay that will help disaster relief efforts in Haiti.

                                                  Food for Friends 2 runs from January 21-30 and getting involved is very simple. Players can log in and head on over to Hello Kitty Online's version of London to speak with an NPC named Cinnamaroll. He's collecting crafted consumable items for the needy. The more people from your guild who donate these items, the higher your guild's point standings increase.

                                                  Continue reading Hello Kitty Online's Food for Friends 2 event provides Haiti disaster relief

                                                  MassivelyHello Kitty Online's Food for Friends 2 event provides Haiti disaster relief originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 18 Jan 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                    ]]>                                                    betascharitable-causescharitiescharitydoctors-without-borderseventsfood-for-friendsfood-for-friends-2haitihello-kittyhello-kitty-onlinehkommo-industryrelief-effortssanrio-digitalMon, 18 Jan 2010 17:00:00 EST                                                    <![CDATA[HanbitSoft acquires worldwide publishing rights for Hellgate: London]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/18/hanbitsoft-acquires-worldwide-publishing-rights-for-hellgate-lo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/18/hanbitsoft-acquires-worldwide-publishing-rights-for-hellgate-lo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/18/hanbitsoft-acquires-worldwide-publishing-rights-for-hellgate-lo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


                                                    It's been a long and turbulent ride for Hellgate: London, stretching all the way back to its rather troubled Halloween 2007 launch under the banner of the ill-fated Flagship Studios. This stretched through a bewildering morass of licensing disputes, general misinformation, and mixed signals (like continual English press releases for the game in a non English-speaking market. *ahem*) in the wake of the Flagship Studios closure and subsequent legal wranglings between T3 Entertainment/HanbitSoft and NAMCO BANDAI. Still, despite some of the flaws both in terms of business decisions made and the game itself, the title has its fans and many were sad to see Hellgate: London's servers in North America and Europe go dark.

                                                    Liken it to a yo-yo, a roller coaster, or what have you -- it's been confusing, but there have been glimmers of hope of the game one day returning to Western regions. An official release from Hellgate: London's license holder HanbitSoft today is perhaps the most solid bit of info we've received about the future of the game outside of Korea. In HanbitSoft's own words: "HanbitSoft Inc., announced today that the company has obtained the publishing rights for Hellgate in North America, Europe and Japan from NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc.. HanbitSoft and NAMCO BANDAI Games America, the formal owner of the publishing rights in these regions, have entered into an agreement for the game to be distributed by HanbitSoft in the future."

                                                    Continue reading HanbitSoft acquires worldwide publishing rights for Hellgate: London

                                                    MassivelyHanbitSoft acquires worldwide publishing rights for Hellgate: London originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 18 Jan 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                      ]]>                                                      asiabreakingeuropeflagship-studioshanbitsofthellgatehellgate-londonhellgate-resurrectionhg-lhorrorkorealegallicensingmmo-industrynamco-bandainorth-americat3-entertainmentMon, 18 Jan 2010 15:00:00 EST                                                      <![CDATA[EVE University founder steps down]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/17/eve-university-founder-steps-down/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/17/eve-university-founder-steps-down/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/17/eve-university-founder-steps-down/#commentsFiled under: , ,


                                                      For every story of deception and betrayal in EVE Online that grabs the headlines, there are far more acts of altruism in the game's setting of New Eden. A fair amount of that goodwill is connected with EVE University [E-UNI], a corporation in the game that exists to help new players and has been doing so for nearly six years. When veteran player Morning Maniac established EVE University, he pioneered the concept of a corporation that teaches new players and exposes them to aspects of the game they would likely not experience on their own. Since its inception, EVE University has brought thousands of new players into the fold and shown them what's possible in the sandbox of New Eden. After a long tenure, however, Morning Maniac announced that he will step down as CEO of EVE University on February 1st.

                                                      He wrote: "Five years and 11 months ago I founded Eve University to create a place where new players could get together and be appreciated for who they were. Classes and doing things together were important but nothing was, and is, more important than the positive attitude towards new players."

                                                      Continue reading EVE University founder steps down

                                                      MassivelyEVE University founder steps down originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 17 Jan 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                        ]]>                                                        ccp-gamese-unieveeve-onlineeve-universitykelduum-revaanmorning-maniacnew-edensci-fiteachingtraining-corpSun, 17 Jan 2010 12:00:00 EST                                                        <![CDATA[Video conveys scale of EVE Online ships]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/15/video-conveys-scale-of-eve-online-ships/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/15/video-conveys-scale-of-eve-online-ships/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/15/video-conveys-scale-of-eve-online-ships/#commentsFiled under: , ,


                                                        One of the common gripes we seem to hear about EVE Online is that some gamers can't get used to the idea of a ship being their avatar. In truth, whatever ship you're flying isn't really intended to be your avatar. You're the pilot floating in a fluid-filled capsule within, your mind interfaced with the vessel you're flying and supported by a (generally doomed) crew. The whole capsuleer thing is a major aspect of the game's lore; when you pilot your ship, it's supposed to be an extension of your body and senses in many respects. Maybe that's a bit of a roleplay leap of faith but it seems to work for most players. Still, the fact remains that any time you're seeing a ship in the game you're not seeing an actual human avatar anywhere in or around it. (At least not until Incarna brings avatars into EVE Online.) This means that a sense of the enormity of these ships is, unfortunately, lost. That is, until now.

                                                        Our friend hi7ch from the Biomassed blog pointed us in the direction of some video footage captured in Garry's Mod, showing the scale of various EVE ships in relation to the sizes of people and high rises. Even the tiniest frigates in the game are actually quite large, as YouTube user TakeBackTheWorld shows us. If you'd like to check this out we've got a video embed for you after the jump.

                                                        Continue reading Video conveys scale of EVE Online ships

                                                        MassivelyVideo conveys scale of EVE Online ships originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 Jan 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                          ]]>                                                          biomassedccpccp-gameseveeve-onlinegarrys-modhi7chincarnascalesci-fishipsvideoyoutubeFri, 15 Jan 2010 10:00:00 EST                                                          <![CDATA[Masthead Studios addresses player questions about Earthrise]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/13/masthead-studios-addresses-player-questions-about-earthrise/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/13/masthead-studios-addresses-player-questions-about-earthrise/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/13/masthead-studios-addresses-player-questions-about-earthrise/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


                                                          Ah Earthrise, you keep dropping tiny breadcrumbs of game info for us each week. We hoard these little morsels and keep them in a jar, slowly trying to piece it all together. This week is no different and Earthrise developers Masthead Studios addressed questions from the playerbase on a few different topics.

                                                          The main thing they discussed is how the game's tutorial will allow players to experiment with skills. In RP-terms, players in the tutorial will make use of "mnemonic adaptation kits" which imprint memories. The Masthead devs state, "Simply put, it lets you test drive certain skills - such as using weapons, crafting, etc. - before you dedicate yourself to development of those skills." Those kits, however, can't be used outside of the cloning facility and won't make their way into the game beyond the tutorial zone.

                                                          Continue reading Masthead Studios addresses player questions about Earthrise

                                                          MassivelyMasthead Studios addresses player questions about Earthrise originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Jan 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                            ]]>                                                            bulgariacriminal-karmaearthrisegame-mechanicsgearmasthead-studiosnew-titlespost-apocalypticqotwsci-fiskillssofiatutorialWed, 13 Jan 2010 09:00:00 EST                                                            <![CDATA[EVE hits new milestone with 56,021 players online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/11/eve-hits-new-milestone-with-56-021-players-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/11/eve-hits-new-milestone-with-56-021-players-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/11/eve-hits-new-milestone-with-56-021-players-online/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


                                                            It was just last week when we mentioned EVE Online's new peak concurrent user (PCU) record of 54,446 pilots online. That record was smashed yesterday though, only one week after the previous PCU record was set, with 56,021 pilots online in New Eden. Beyond the new PCU record being set, this past Sunday's traffic may also make CCP raise the limit on number of players that can be in the Jita trade hub at a given time. 1400 players crowded into Jita yesterday, which is apparently the hard limit that the game's developers had set for the busy solar system. This prompted CCP Games Software Director Erlendur Þorsteinsson (aka CCP Explorer) to state, "We have been increasing the limit in the last few weeks and it looks like there might possibly be room for more in Jita."

                                                            This could be good news for the legions of traders who flock to the system, and overall a good sign for EVE Online to see the PCU climbing higher and higher. Likely a major factor in the surge of active players is the upswing in nullsec alliance warfare which resulted from changes in the Dominion expansion -- not the least of which is that a certain moon material holds great value now; the desire to control these rare resources is a major driver for large scale conflict. And of course, the recent 'get EVE for $5' sales on Steam probably hasn't hurt either.

                                                            MassivelyEVE hits new milestone with 56,021 players online originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                              ]]>                                                              ccpccp-explorerccp-gamesdominionerlendur-s-thorsteinssonerlendur-thorsteinssoneveeve-onlinejitanew-edenpcupeak-concurrent-userssci-fiMon, 11 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST                                                              <![CDATA[New training corp in EVE Online teaches players PvP and nullsec survival]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/09/new-training-corp-in-eve-online-teaches-players-pvp-and-nullsec/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/09/new-training-corp-in-eve-online-teaches-players-pvp-and-nullsec/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/09/new-training-corp-in-eve-online-teaches-players-pvp-and-nullsec/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


                                                              One of the things we really like about EVE Online is how the game experience is player-driven, and that goes far beyond the more notorious aspects which have garnered a lot of attention of late. EVE's open setting of New Eden allows players to establish all types of ventures or organizations -- anything ranging from lotteries and banks to corporations focused on wormhole colonization is possible. Some players opt to create training corps that teach new players about the many aspects of this rather complex game.

                                                              When it comes to training corps there are several well-known options. EVE University is perhaps the most famous training corp in New Eden, but others like 1st Steps Academy and Trader's Academy exist to help out new players. For those hell bent on jumping into PvP, Agony Unleashed offers classes that can help you on your way. Now there's a newcomer to the roster of training corporations in the game -- the Open University of Celestial Hardship [OUCH].

                                                              Continue reading New training corp in EVE Online teaches players PvP and nullsec survival

                                                              MassivelyNew training corp in EVE Online teaches players PvP and nullsec survival originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 09 Jan 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                ]]>                                                                0.01st-steps-academyagony-unleashedalexia-morganblack-clawccpccp-gamescommunityeveeve-onlineeve-universityguildsnew-edennullsecouchplayer-run-venturespvpsandboxtraders-academytraining-corpSat, 09 Jan 2010 10:00:00 EST                                                                <![CDATA[Hulkageddon II event begins in EVE today, miners despair]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/hulkageddon-ii-event-begins-in-eve-today-miners-despair/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/hulkageddon-ii-event-begins-in-eve-today-miners-despair/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/hulkageddon-ii-event-begins-in-eve-today-miners-despair/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


                                                                A player-run event called "Hulkageddon" kicked off in EVE Online today, the second such event to be held in the game. Hulkageddon II is the brainchild of EVE player Helicity Boson, a pirate who flies with The Python Cartel, and is essentially a contest that rewards the destruction of exhumer (Hulk and Mackinaw) mining ships. The most recent Quarterly Economic Newsletter released by EVE developer CCP Games indicated that the Hulk is the most flown ship in the game, which provides plenty of targets for gankers in the contest.

                                                                Hulkageddon exists much to the detriment of the game's numerous miners, seeing as it's a galaxy-wide demolition derby using the very ships they pilot, but has proven very popular with other players the first time around in 2009. Although it's only been a matter of hours since Hulkageddon II began, the event's killboard shows over 250 mining ships destroyed (along with 40 of their pilots). That number will, no doubt, climb over the course of this week. Also, the tears may be just a bit sweeter given the fact that Hulk prices rose sharply in the weeks preceding Hulkageddon II, the result of changes made to Tech II manufacturing requirements with the Dominion expansion.

                                                                Whether you're interested in taking part in the contest or want to know what you're in for over the next week, here are a few details about Hulkageddon II:

                                                                Continue reading Hulkageddon II event begins in EVE today, miners despair

                                                                MassivelyHulkageddon II event begins in EVE today, miners despair originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Jan 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                  ]]>                                                                  achievementsccpccp-gamescontestseveeve-onlineexhumergankinghelicity-bosonhulkhulkageddon-2hulkageddon-iihulkgeddonmackinawplayer-run-eventspython-cartelsci-fisuicide-ganksthe-python-cartelThu, 07 Jan 2010 19:00:00 EST                                                                  <![CDATA[CCP Asia discusses China operations, DUST 514]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/04/ccp-asia-discusses-china-operations-dust-514/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/04/ccp-asia-discusses-china-operations-dust-514/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/04/ccp-asia-discusses-china-operations-dust-514/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


                                                                  The Asia branch of CCP Games had modest beginnings -- the company's Shanghai office was simply formed to administer EVE Online in China, although there was always the hope that the team would eventually be able to develop new games as well. Now CCP's Shanghai office is growing into a full-fledged game development studio with their work on DUST 514, a ground-based console MMOFPS that ties in with the galactic struggle for control between players in EVE Online.

                                                                  A recent interview with Gamasutra's Christian Nutt discusses CCP Asia and their work on DUST 514 from both a western and eastern perspective. Environment Director Larry Herring and Lead Level Designer Jing Yu Zhu give us a better idea of the challenges (and red tape) involved with developing games for Western markets in China, and a look at the console game development scene in Shanghai.

                                                                  Continue reading CCP Asia discusses China operations, DUST 514

                                                                  MassivelyCCP Asia discusses China operations, DUST 514 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 04 Jan 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                    ]]>                                                                    asiaccpccp-asiaccp-gameschinachristian-nuttconsolesdust-514environment-directoreveeve-onlinegamasutrainterviewsjing-yu-zhularry-herringlead-level-designermmo-industrysci-fishanghaiMon, 04 Jan 2010 15:00:00 EST                                                                    <![CDATA[Win an Alienware laptop in the Cities XL photography competition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/31/win-an-alienware-laptop-in-the-cities-xl-photography-competition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/31/win-an-alienware-laptop-in-the-cities-xl-photography-competition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/31/win-an-alienware-laptop-in-the-cities-xl-photography-competition/#commentsFiled under: , ,


                                                                    Photography enthusiasts who'd like to get their hands on an Alienware M15x laptop will want to take note of the latest Cities XL contest -- "Aim, Shoot... Win!". Cities XL developer Monte Cristo writes: "Since the city is at the very heart of CitiesXL, this competition will allow you to immortalize yours by submitting photos to our jury in one of the following categories:

                                                                    • Most beautiful photo
                                                                    • Best Christmas photo"
                                                                    Those competition submissions should be photos of actual cities, not screenshots captured in Cities XL. If you've got a nice shot that would fit into either of those categories, check out the contest rules and head on over to the "Aim, Shoot... Win!" announcement and submission form for your shot at winning the laptop, plus other prizes Monte Cristo has on offer. (Those prizes include Kodak cameras, Nvidia GTX 260 video cards, Novotel gift vouchers, and copies of Cities XL Limited Edition.)

                                                                    The submission deadline is 23:59 (Paris time) on January 17, 2010.

                                                                    MassivelyWin an Alienware laptop in the Cities XL photography competition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 31 Dec 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                      ]]>                                                                      alienwarecities-xlcompetitionscontestslaptopsmonte-cristoparisphotographyThu, 31 Dec 2009 20:00:00 EST                                                                      <![CDATA[How the Grinch Stole Christmas EVE]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/28/how-the-grinch-stole-christmas-eve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/28/how-the-grinch-stole-christmas-eve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/28/how-the-grinch-stole-christmas-eve/#commentsFiled under: , ,

                                                                      "Curzon Dax stole Christmas." Words I never thought I'd be writing here, but there it is. EVE Online player and forum personality "Curzon Dax" -- perhaps best known for his many song parodies of the game and its players -- has unveiled his in-game IPO for what it really was: a multi-billion ISK confidence scam. Curzon made the announcement on Christmas, no less, and placed the scam at 374.4 billion ISK raised.

                                                                      While the players who were taken for those billions will certainly be less excited by this news, Curzon accomplished something that's becoming less and less common in the game. For every player that uses cunning to profit in New Eden, there is a horde of player alts who resort to copy-paste scams in local chat at most any mission and trade hub in EVE. As these players simply try to profit from mislabeling items in contracts or spam local chat with the ubiquitous "I'm quitting EVE. Send me ISK and I'll send you 10x back!" garbage, Curzon aimed much higher and cultivated an image which he used to draw his marks in.

                                                                      Continue reading How the Grinch Stole Christmas EVE

                                                                      MassivelyHow the Grinch Stole Christmas EVE originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 28 Dec 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                        ]]>                                                                        ccpccp-gamescurzon-daxdeceptioneveeve-onlinenew-edenscamssci-fitheftMon, 28 Dec 2009 20:00:00 EST                                                                        <![CDATA[Leading a life of crime in Earthrise]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/28/leading-a-life-of-crime-in-earthrise/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/28/leading-a-life-of-crime-in-earthrise/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/28/leading-a-life-of-crime-in-earthrise/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


                                                                        Today's post-holiday Question of the Week for Earthrise concerns the game mechanics of being (and killing) criminals in the post-apocalyptic MMO. Players who opt to become felons will build up "Criminal Karma", what seems to be a sort of quantified notoriety. From what the developers are saying, it seems that going outlaw won't be a trivial choice, given such characters will be kill-on-sight in the more secure regions of Enterra island. Also, it may be difficult to wipe the slate clean if a character has a shady past.

                                                                        According to Moll, the Earthrise Community Manager: "Criminals cannot clear their records, nor do they generate additional Karma by killing other criminals in safe zones." She adds that criminals who hunt down other criminals won't do so to repair their faction standings, rather there may be a good chance of obtaining loot by taking out a fellow wrongdoer. However, beyond such scenarios where 'evil fights evil', Earthrise's law-abiding citizens will have incentives for killing the criminals of Enterra; successfully knocking off criminal players will garner them extra Contribution rewards (faction standing).

                                                                        Continue reading Leading a life of crime in Earthrise

                                                                        MassivelyLeading a life of crime in Earthrise originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 28 Dec 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                          ]]>                                                                          contributioncontribution-rewardscrimecriminal-karmacriminalsearthriseenterrafaction-standingsfactionsgame-mechanicskarmamasthead-studiosmollnew-titlesnotorietypost-apocalypticqotwsci-fiMon, 28 Dec 2009 16:00:00 EST                                                                          <![CDATA[EVE player run lottery offers some of game's rarest ships]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/28/eve-player-run-lottery-offers-some-of-games-rarest-ships/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/28/eve-player-run-lottery-offers-some-of-games-rarest-ships/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/28/eve-player-run-lottery-offers-some-of-games-rarest-ships/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

                                                                          One of the things we really like about EVE Online is how the sandbox encourages all manner of player-run services and ventures. Sure, some of them can be risky, but others have been quite successful. A few of these projects are starting to become a mainstay of the game and some players have really made a name for themselves by establishing such ventures. A good example of this is EVE Online player T'Amber who is known for running lotteries. Big lotteries. The current (and fourth) "Ships of EVE" lottery that T'Amber is running is no exception and has tons of prizes, including some very rare ships in the game. Ticket prices are reasonable at 10 million ISK each, particularly in light of what can be won.

                                                                          1st place is a whopping 228 ship collector's fleet, featuring one of virtually every Tech I, Tech II, and Tech III ship across the game's four races, along with their faction variants (including the pirate faction ships). The collective value of this prize fleet is many billions of ISK. Just as appealing to some players as winning first prize in this lottery is coming in second -- and getting a "Mimir". Blueprints for these rare cruisers were only given to members of Pandemic Legion for winning EVE Alliance Tournament VII this past September. Indeed, the "VII" is emblazoned on the ship's hull, commemorating the tournament victory. There are very few Mimirs in the game and Ships of EVE 4 might be the only chance most players will have of obtaining one.

                                                                          Continue reading EVE player run lottery offers some of game's rarest ships

                                                                          MassivelyEVE player run lottery offers some of game's rarest ships originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 28 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                            ]]>                                                                            alliance-tournament-viiccpccp-gamescontestseveeve-onlineF90OEXguardian-vexorlotterieslotterymimirpandemic-legionplayer-run-eventssci-fiships-of-eveships-of-eve-4TAmberMon, 28 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST                                                                            <![CDATA[Changes and improvements to Epic Mission Arcs in EVE Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/26/changes-and-improvements-to-epic-mission-arcs-in-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/26/changes-and-improvements-to-epic-mission-arcs-in-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/26/changes-and-improvements-to-epic-mission-arcs-in-eve-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                                                                            When EVE Online players think of what's changed in the game with the recent Dominion expansion release, the game's PvE content may not be the first thing that comes to mind. (Although Dominion introduced Epic Mission Arcs -- branching storylines -- for both the Guristas and Angel Cartel pirate factions.) The Atlanta-based content team at CCP Games has put a lot of work into Epic Mission Arcs for this expansion, though, which is the subject of the latest EVE dev blog. Developer CCP Big Dumb Object walks readers through the changes in game mechanics with the Epic Arcs and gives a breakdown of their adjusted rewards (plus the introduction of faction standings rewards), while paying homage to Led Zeppelin throughout the blog.

                                                                            New mission content is also beginning to reflect how player actions in factional warfare affect the game's setting, specifically the Caldari militia's overwhelming victory over the Gallente. CCP Big Dumb Object mentions two new Gallente storyline missions, adding that "each mission stems from the past year's Faction Warfare results, Heth's resultant sale of key Gallente systems to the Caldari megacorps, and the Federation's reaction."

                                                                            Continue reading Changes and improvements to Epic Mission Arcs in EVE Online

                                                                            MassivelyChanges and improvements to Epic Mission Arcs in EVE Online originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 26 Dec 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                              ]]>                                                                              caldariccpccp-big-dumb-objectccp-gamescontent-teamdominionepic-mission-arcseveeve-onlineexpansionsgallentegame-mechanicshethmission-runningmissionspvesci-fistorylinetibus-hethSat, 26 Dec 2009 12:00:00 EST                                                                              <![CDATA[Spock!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/22/spock/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/22/spock/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/22/spock/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


                                                                              We recently showed you a video of Zachary Quinto -- Spock Reloaded, if you will -- doing voice work for Star Trek Online. Quinto won't be reprising his role as the famous Vulcan though, and will instead guide new players through the tutorial as an Emergency Medical Hologram. Now we've come across footage of Leonard Nimoy lending his voice as well for Cryptic's massively multiplayer take on the Star Trek IP. He'll be providing the narration that brings players up to date with events in Star Trek Online's setting.

                                                                              Stick with us past the jump for footage of Leonard Nimoy (and clips from the game) in a behind-the-scenes video for Star Trek Online.

                                                                              Continue reading Spock!

                                                                              MassivelySpock! originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 Dec 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                                ]]>                                                                                behind-the-scenescrypticcryptic-studiosleonard-nimoynarrationnarratornew-titlespointy-earssci-fispockstar-trekstar-trek-onlinestovideovoice-overvulcanzachary-quintoTue, 22 Dec 2009 19:00:00 EST                                                                                <![CDATA[Earthrise launch Q2 2010, studio visit reveals]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/21/earthrise-launch-q2-2010-studio-visit-reveals/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/21/earthrise-launch-q2-2010-studio-visit-reveals/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/21/earthrise-launch-q2-2010-studio-visit-reveals/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


                                                                                When we cover the news surrounding the post-apocalyptic MMO Earthrise, a question often asked in the comments is, "When will it launch?". It's been a question we've been hard pressed to answer with any degree of certainty considering it's still in an early phase of testing, and the game was originally slated for a late 2009 launch. Now it seems we're looking at a Q2 2010 launch for Earthrise, according to Klassa (Bulgarian newspaper) reporter Mihail Rangelov. Closed beta testing will take place in February and March of 2010, and the game's developer Masthead Studios is expecting between 70-80,000 initial subscribers.

                                                                                In an article that's a follow-up to his Masthead Studios visit one year prior, Rangelov notes that the game's setting is very open -- there's a feeling of having a great deal of terrain and open space around you. Still, he notes, "The game goes at almost 60-70 frames per second on the huge terrain for mass combats. Moreover, it is played on a two-year old computer."

                                                                                Continue reading Earthrise launch Q2 2010, studio visit reveals

                                                                                MassivelyEarthrise launch Q2 2010, studio visit reveals originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Dec 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                                  ]]>                                                                                  atanas-atanasovbetasbulgariaearthriseGNilaunchesmasthead-studiosnew-titlespost-apocalypticsci-fiserversMon, 21 Dec 2009 19:00:00 EST