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[The Guild Counsel: Managing the peaks of success]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/the-guild-counsel-managing-the-peaks-of-success/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/the-guild-counsel-managing-the-peaks-of-success/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/the-guild-counsel-managing-the-peaks-of-success/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Guild Counsel Managing the peaks of success
I'm a Red Sox fan, and if there's ever a team that can exemplify the ups and downs of running a guild, it's the Red Sox. This was supposed to be a rebuilding year for the team, and yet they're near the top of the standings, only a game and a half behind the Team that Shall Not be Named. Managing a guild is also very often about handling the peaks and valleys of day to day life. It's as if the whole guild were manic depressive: You need to downplay the peaks and minimize the valleys.

We've looked at the valleys quite a bit in this column because valleys represent a more urgent problem, but in this week's Guild Counsel, let's look at how to handle the peaks.

Continue reading The Guild Counsel: Managing the peaks of success

MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: Managing the peaks of success originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 May 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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    ]]>    advicefeaturedguildguild-adviceguild-counselguild-leadershipguild-managementguild-moraleguild-victoriesguildsleadershipmanaging-guild-successopinionthe-guild-counselThu, 23 May 2013 16:00:00 EST    <![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: How Stargell stars can help your guild]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/the-guild-counsel-how-stargell-stars-can-help-your-guild/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/the-guild-counsel-how-stargell-stars-can-help-your-guild/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/the-guild-counsel-how-stargell-stars-can-help-your-guild/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

    The Guild Counsel How Stargell stars can help your guild
    When I was a kid, I loved the Red Sox, but I was dying to get a Pittsburgh Pirates baseball cap. It's not that I was a fan of the team; I just loved the unusual look of the hat, with its pillbox shape, gold stripes, and most importantly, rows and rows of gold stars. Those stars were called Stargell stars and were the creative genius of Hall of Famer Willie Stargell.

    It might seem strange to be talking baseball in a guild column, but those Stargell stars played a key role in the Pirates' success, and they serve as a great example of successful guild management. Can a little embroidered star really make a difference? Let's take a look in this week's Guild Counsel.

    Continue reading The Guild Counsel: How Stargell stars can help your guild

    MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: How Stargell stars can help your guild originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 May 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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      ]]>      advicefeaturedguildguild-adviceguild-awardsguild-counselguild-leadershipguild-managementguild-moraleguildsleadershipopinionpittsburgh-piratesstargell-starsthe-guild-counselwillie-stargellThu, 16 May 2013 13:00:00 EST      <![CDATA[MMO Family: First Impressions of World of Trinketz]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/mmo-family-first-impressions-of-world-of-trinketz/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/mmo-family-first-impressions-of-world-of-trinketz/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/mmo-family-first-impressions-of-world-of-trinketz/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

      MMO Family First Impressions of World of Trinketz
      I have to begin this week's column with a disclaimer: I am not a fan of Facebook, and I'm even less a fan of Facebook games. The only one I found enjoyable was Ian Bogost's Cow Clicker because it was a giant middle finger to the bottom-feeding practices so commonly found in Facebook Villes.

      But when I got a Google alert in my inbox about the world's first family-friendly 3-D MMO for Facebook, I had to head back to the blue-and-white wasteland of Facebook and see it firsthand. Could it be that the era of isometric views and mindless clicking is finally over? Have we finally moved on from agriculturally themed games? I decided to check out World of Trinketz to seek some answers.

      Continue reading MMO Family: First Impressions of World of Trinketz

      MassivelyMMO Family: First Impressions of World of Trinketz originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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        ]]>        casualchildrenchildrens-mmoscow-clickerdark-matter-entertainmentfacebookfacebook-gamesfacebook-mmofamilyfamily-friendlyfarmvillefeaturedian-bogostkid-friendlykidskids-gamesmmo-familymonetizationopinionworld-of-trinketzWed, 15 May 2013 20:00:00 EST        <![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: Taking the reins and dealing with discipline]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/the-guild-counsel-taking-the-reins-and-dealing-with-discipline/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/the-guild-counsel-taking-the-reins-and-dealing-with-discipline/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/the-guild-counsel-taking-the-reins-and-dealing-with-discipline/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

        The Guild Counsel Taking the reigns and dealing with discipline
        It's hard enough for any guild leader to enforce rules and take on problem players. But it's even harder for guild leaders who have stepped up to take over for one who has retired. Comparisons are made between how the old leader did things and how the new one is handling it, and some members might challenge a new leader's authority in order to "test" him.

        This week's column is a reply to one Massively reader, who wrote,
        My main commander has retired from the game, and I am struggling filling his role. Our biggest issue is dealing with discipline, either in Teamspeak or in following commands. I read your column on managing mistakes, but I am still finding it hard without being the bad guy. I know it's part of who I am; I am not an aggressive or "Bad Cop" guy. Is there a way I can develop discipline without having to totally change my personality and relationship with the guild?
        This is a great topic because it's a situation that many new leaders find themselves in almost immediately after taking on the role. In this week's Guild Counsel, let's look at some ways to deal with the challenge.

        Continue reading The Guild Counsel: Taking the reins and dealing with discipline

        MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: Taking the reins and dealing with discipline originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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          ]]>          advicefeaturedguildguild-adviceguild-counselguild-leadershipguild-managementguildsleadershipopinionthe-guild-counselThu, 09 May 2013 10:00:00 EST          <![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: Why broken economies hurt guilds]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/02/the-guild-counsel-why-broken-economies-hurt-guilds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/02/the-guild-counsel-why-broken-economies-hurt-guilds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/02/the-guild-counsel-why-broken-economies-hurt-guilds/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

          The Guild Counsel Why broken economies hurt guilds
          I have to admit, I read the recent article by Ramin Shokrizade on the pre-endgame economy of Guild Wars 2 and shrugged. He made a lot of great points, but the problems with GW2's economy are really not that unique. One of the biggest dilemmas is the fact that dropped items, like weapons and armor, really don't have any value prior to the endgame. As in many MMOs, the broker or auction house is flooded with pre-endgame armor and weapons and there's just no demand for it.

          There are several design flaws that play a role in why dropped items, and virtual economies in general, feel stagnant. Let's look at a few common problems in MMOs today and see why broken economies actually hurt guilds as well.

          Continue reading The Guild Counsel: Why broken economies hurt guilds

          MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: Why broken economies hurt guilds originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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            ]]>            adviceeconomieseconomyeqeverquestfeaturedguildguild-adviceguild-counselguild-leadershipguild-managementguild-wars-2guildsgw2leadershipopinionthe-guild-counselThu, 02 May 2013 20:00:00 EST            <![CDATA[MMO Family: Are video games stressing kids out?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/mmo-family-are-video-games-stressing-kids-out/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/mmo-family-are-video-games-stressing-kids-out/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/mmo-family-are-video-games-stressing-kids-out/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

            MMO Family Are video games stressing kids out
            Video games get blamed for all sorts of societal problems, particularly for young children. Violence, obesity, and laziness are just the tip of the iceberg. And a recent article from Amanda Enayati adds one more potential problem: stress.

            Growing up is complicated enough, but are video games making it even harder to be a happy, relaxed kid? Enayati, CNN Health's stress columnist and the technology and stress correspondent for PBS MediaShift, says it's complicated but points to a few studies that argue the pros and cons. Let's take a look at the debate over whether video games might be too stressful for children.

            Continue reading MMO Family: Are video games stressing kids out?

            MassivelyMMO Family: Are video games stressing kids out? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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              ]]>              amanda-enayatibrad-bushmancasualchildrenchildrens-mmoschris-fergusonfamilyfamily-friendlyfeaturedgaming-stresses-out-kidsjane-mcgonigalkid-friendlykidskids-gamesmmo-familyopinionvideo-games-stressWed, 01 May 2013 10:00:00 EST              <![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: Guild leadership isn't a job]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/the-guild-counsel-guild-leadership-isnt-a-job/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/the-guild-counsel-guild-leadership-isnt-a-job/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/the-guild-counsel-guild-leadership-isnt-a-job/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

              The Guild Counsel Guild leadership isn't a job
              Guild leadership is challenging, but as I've written before, sometimes guild leaders shoulder the burden of extraneous responsibilities and make the role harder than it should be. You'll often hear players referring to the leadership role as a job, meaning that it's work rather than fun.

              But while running a guild can be tricky at times, it shouldn't be a job, and there are some important differences between the two that are helpful reminders for guild leaders. In this week's Guild Counsel, let's look why the role of guild leader should remain distinctly separate from that of an employer.

              Continue reading The Guild Counsel: Guild leadership isn't a job

              MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: Guild leadership isn't a job originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                ]]>                advicebossy-guild-leadersfeaturedguildguild-adviceguild-counselguild-dramaguild-leader-jobguild-leadershipguild-managementguild-management-is-workguild-player-managementguildsleadershipopinionthe-guild-counselThu, 25 Apr 2013 19:00:00 EST                <![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: Finding a guild with off-peak playtimes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/the-guild-counsel-finding-a-guild-with-off-peak-playtimes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/the-guild-counsel-finding-a-guild-with-off-peak-playtimes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/the-guild-counsel-finding-a-guild-with-off-peak-playtimes/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                The Guild Counsel Finding a guild with offpeak playtimes
                One of the things that always makes me grumpy about MMOs is the number of game-imposed barriers to players doing things together. Levels, gear, skill points, group and raid caps, and prerequisites are just a handful of common game designs that make it hard to be social. MMOs are getting a little better at removing those hurdles, but one they can't address is the reality of conflicting playtimes. Everyone has real life responsibilities, and that means we sometimes can't be online when our friends are.

                For some players, this is a constant challenge because their work, school, or family responsibilities allow them to log in only during off-peak playtimes. Last week, Massively reader Barachiel1976 brought up this very topic, and it's actually surprisingly common. So in this week's Guild Counsel, let's look at a few options for players who want to be part of a guild but can't play during peak playtimes.

                Continue reading The Guild Counsel: Finding a guild with off-peak playtimes

                MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: Finding a guild with off-peak playtimes originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Apr 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                  ]]>                  advicebuilding-an-off-peak-guildfeaturedgraveyard-shift-guildsguildguild-adviceguild-counselguild-leadershipguild-managementguildshow-to-find-an-off-peak-guildleadershipopinionprime-time-guildsrunning-an-off-peak-guildthe-guild-counselThu, 18 Apr 2013 20:00:00 EST                  <![CDATA[MMO Family: Is it time to regulate MMO cash shops?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/mmo-family-is-it-time-to-regulate-mmo-cash-shops/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/mmo-family-is-it-time-to-regulate-mmo-cash-shops/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/mmo-family-is-it-time-to-regulate-mmo-cash-shops/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

                  MMO Family
                  "I want it now!"

                  We're all familiar with that screechy demand by Veruca Salt in Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. And for those of us raising children, it's an all-too-common request. When kids want something, they'll pull out all the stops, and for many kids, that brand-new video game warrants an Oscar-winning tantrum.

                  MMOs, on the other hand, are a different breed because the bulk of kid-friendly MMOs are now free-to-play and make use of cash shops and a variety of subscription plans in order to generate revenue. In essence, MMOs have to work for their money now rather than rely on the traditional monthly subscription, but that has led to questions about how far studios should go in getting players to part with their money. In some instances, it's led to children (and some adults) spending large amounts of money without fully understanding what they've done. Should there be regulations on marketing practices of game companies?

                  A recent announcement by the U.K.'s Office of Fair Trading regarding web and app-based games might hint at that answer.

                  Continue reading MMO Family: Is it time to regulate MMO cash shops?

                  MassivelyMMO Family: Is it time to regulate MMO cash shops? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 17 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                    ]]>                    casualchildrenchildrens-mmosconsumer-protectionfamilyfamily-friendlyfeaturedkid-friendlykidskids-gamesmmo-familyopinionregulationregulationsWed, 17 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST                    <![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: Jumping from casual to endgame]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/11/the-guild-counsel-jumping-from-casual-to-endgame/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/11/the-guild-counsel-jumping-from-casual-to-endgame/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/11/the-guild-counsel-jumping-from-casual-to-endgame/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                    The Guild Counsel Jumping from casual to endgame
                    It's a classic scenario that's all too common: A guild builds up a solid roster, with enthusiastic members, and decides to make the leap from casual to hardcore. But that leap can sometimes become a free-fall spiral and a potential guild-breaker.

                    How does a guild shift gears and go from easygoing to endgame? Let's look at a few ways to make it work and avoid the growing pains in the process.

                    Continue reading The Guild Counsel: Jumping from casual to endgame

                    MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: Jumping from casual to endgame originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 11 Apr 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                      ]]>                      advicecasual-guildscasual-to-hardcoreendgamefeaturedguildguild-adviceguild-counselguild-leadershipguild-managementguildshardcore-guildsleadershipopinionraidingraiding-guildsthe-guild-counselThu, 11 Apr 2013 11:00:00 EST                      <![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: Managing mistakes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/the-guild-counsel-managing-mistakes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/the-guild-counsel-managing-mistakes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/the-guild-counsel-managing-mistakes/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

                      The Guild Counsel Managing mistakes
                      Despite what some folks say, running a multi-party event (raiding, PvPing, dynamic events) is hard. There are the logistical issues of trying to coordinate many players who are scattered all around the world and rely on only voice chat and typed text to communicate. There's the need to instantly react to changes during the course of battle, and the larger the party, the slower the reaction time. And there are even nuances in how individuals approach various situations, which has a ripple effect on the others. Tank Bob might prefer to pull a boss to a different spot than Tank Susie. Or Sniper Sally might be used to peeling away and taking up a position in a tree while Captain Pete prefers to charge in as one force.

                      Suffice it to say, there are plenty of mistakes that happen any time large numbers of players get together, and it's often difficult to sort out which ones warrant a player's removal from the force and which ones don't. Let's take a look at how to handle mistakes in this week's Guild Counsel.

                      Continue reading The Guild Counsel: Managing mistakes

                      MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: Managing mistakes originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Apr 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                        ]]>                        advicefeaturedguildguild-adviceguild-counselguild-helpguild-leadershipguild-managementguild-mistakesguild-raidsguildsleadershipmanaging-mistakesopinionraid-wipesthe-guild-counselThu, 04 Apr 2013 19:00:00 EST                        <![CDATA[MMO Family: The consequences of kids at conventions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/03/mmo-family-the-consequences-of-kids-at-conventions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/03/mmo-family-the-consequences-of-kids-at-conventions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/03/mmo-family-the-consequences-of-kids-at-conventions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

                        MMO Family The consequences of kids at conventions
                        As I wound down my time at PAX East recently, I couldn't help but notice how different this convention was compared to when I went a couple of years ago. Yes, the exhibition floor was bigger, and there were many more in attendance, but the overall feel was different as well, and part of that was the increased presence of children.

                        We normally don't think of a video game convention as a family activity, and yet the fact that so many adults brought their children is telling. And whether you agree with it or not, there's something to be learned from the presence of kids at game conventions.

                        Continue reading MMO Family: The consequences of kids at conventions

                        MassivelyMMO Family: The consequences of kids at conventions originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Apr 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                          ]]>                          casualchildrenchildrens-mmosconconventioneventevent-coverageeventsexpofamilyfamily-friendlyfeaturedkid-friendlykidskids-and-game-conventionskids-gameslegomassively-event-coverageminecraftmmo-familyopinionpaxpax-2013pax-eastpax-east-2013penny-arcade-exposoe-liveWed, 03 Apr 2013 11:00:00 EST                          <![CDATA[PAX East 2013: Hands-on with Marvel Heroes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/pax-east-2013-hands-on-with-marvel-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/pax-east-2013-hands-on-with-marvel-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/pax-east-2013-hands-on-with-marvel-heroes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

                          PAX East 2013 Handson with Marvel Heroes
                          Gazillion Entertainment made a splash at PAX East, arriving with the big announcement that Marvel Heroes will be launching on June 4th. In addition, the team gave new details about endgame content, PvP, and special "ultimate powers" for each hero.

                          During the convention, Massively had a chance to sit down with VP of marketing Leo Olebe and CEO David Brevik to get a look at the state of the game, including some brand-new content that the devs have just added to Marvel Heroes. What did we see during our hands-on with the game? Let's just say that rampaging dinosaurs and "Hulk Smash" were but the tip of the iceberg.

                          Gallery: Marvel Heroes

                          Continue reading PAX East 2013: Hands-on with Marvel Heroes

                          MassivelyPAX East 2013: Hands-on with Marvel Heroes originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Mar 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                            ]]>                            actionaction-mmoconconventiondave-brevikeventevent-coverageeventsexpof2pfeaturedfree-to-playgalleriesgallerygazilliongazillion-entertainmenthands-oninterviewinterviewsleo-olebemarvelmarvel-heroesmarvel-universemarvel-universe-onlinemassively-event-coveragemuopaxpax-2013pax-eastpax-east-2013penny-arcade-expopreviewpreviewsscreenshotscreenshotssecret-identitysuperherosuperheroesThu, 28 Mar 2013 14:00:00 EST                            <![CDATA[PAX East 2013: SOE's Linda Carlson on the state of the community]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/pax-east-2013-soes-linda-carlson-on-the-state-of-the-community/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/pax-east-2013-soes-linda-carlson-on-the-state-of-the-community/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/pax-east-2013-soes-linda-carlson-on-the-state-of-the-community/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

                            The Guild Counsel SOE's Linda Carlson on the state of the community
                            How many times have you found yourself asking, "Why won't the devs just listen?!" For any loyal MMO fan, it can be extremely frustrating to see feedback seemingly get ignored, and sometimes it feels as if there's a huge wall separating the fans from the developers.

                            Linda Carlson, SOE's Director of Global Community Relations, spoke with Massively at this year's PAX East to talk about SOE's efforts to break down that wall and improve the relationship between players and developers into something that's more collaborative, rather than contentious. Whether you're the most loyal SOE fan or someone who's vowed never to play another SOE game, you might be surprised at what she has to say.

                            Continue reading PAX East 2013: SOE's Linda Carlson on the state of the community

                            MassivelyPAX East 2013: SOE's Linda Carlson on the state of the community originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                              ]]>                              advicecommunityconconferenceconventiondave-georgesoneqeqiieventevent-coverageeventsexpofeaturedfree-realmsgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2013gdcgdc-2013guildguild-adviceguild-counselguild-leadershipguild-managementguildsinterviewinterviewsjohn-smedleyleadershiplinda-carlsonmassively-event-coverageopinionpaxpax-2013pax-eastpax-east-2013penny-arcade-exposoethe-guild-counselThu, 28 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EST                              <![CDATA[PAX East 2013: How video games can save education]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/pax-east-2013-steve-swink-says-video-games-can-save-education/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/pax-east-2013-steve-swink-says-video-games-can-save-education/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/pax-east-2013-steve-swink-says-video-games-can-save-education/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

                              PAX East 2013 Steve Swink says video games can save education
                              Quick! Choose the statement that best describes your high school education:
                              • A) School prepared me perfectly for everything I would experience once I got out into the real world.
                              • B) I feel that high school had one or two useful things to offer but otherwise was pretty useless.
                              • C) I feel that high school was completely pointless and had no bearing on my life today.
                              If you picked B or C, you're in good company, based on the audience panel on games and education at this year's PAX East. During the panel, game developer and teacher Steve Swink gave a talk about both the state of education today and how video games can play a role in saving it.

                              Continue reading PAX East 2013: How video games can save education

                              MassivelyPAX East 2013: How video games can save education originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Mar 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                ]]>                                atlantis-remixedbill-and-melinda-gates-foundationconconferenceconventioneventevent-coverageeventsexpofeaturedmassively-event-coveragepaxpax-2013pax-eastpax-east-2013penny-arcade-expoquest-atlantissteve-swinkvideo-games-and-educationTue, 26 Mar 2013 13:00:00 EST                                <![CDATA[PAX East 2013: Hands-on with The Repopulation]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/pax-east-2013-hands-on-with-the-repopulation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/pax-east-2013-hands-on-with-the-repopulation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/pax-east-2013-hands-on-with-the-repopulation/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

                                PAX East 2013 Handson with the Repopulation
                                Ever since its successful Kickstarter campaign, The Repopulation has been progressing along at an impressive pace. And if PAX East was any indication, the game shows no signs of slowing down as it approaches beta and zeroes in on a launch date.

                                This weekend, I had a chance to speak with lead developer Joshua Halls, who took the time to walk me through the sandbox MMO and give me an update on what's new and what's still in the works.

                                Continue reading PAX East 2013: Hands-on with The Repopulation

                                MassivelyPAX East 2013: Hands-on with The Repopulation originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Mar 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                  ]]>                                  above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiesconconferenceconventioneventevent-coverageeventsexpofeaturedhands-onmassively-event-coveragepaxpax-2013pax-eastpax-east-2013penny-arcade-expopreviewpreviewsrepopulationsandboxsci-fithe-repopulationMon, 25 Mar 2013 16:30:00 EST                                  <![CDATA[PAX East 2013: SOE's Dave Georgeson on EQ Next and the future of online gaming]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/pax-east-2013-soes-dave-georgeson-on-eq-next-and-the-future-of/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/pax-east-2013-soes-dave-georgeson-on-eq-next-and-the-future-of/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/pax-east-2013-soes-dave-georgeson-on-eq-next-and-the-future-of/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

                                  PAX East 2013 SOE's Dave Georgeson talks EQ Next, and the future of online gaming
                                  If there's one pastime that MMO fans share, it's making predictions. Which games will succeed, and which ones will struggle? Which will go free-to-play, merge servers, or even shut down? And will there ever be an MMO that's crowned as the WoW-killer?

                                  But what about the bigger picture of online gaming in general? We've seen it come a long way over the past decades, and it's not always easy to see where it's headed. SOE's director of development of the EverQuest franchise, Dave Georgeson, sat down with Massively at PAX East this year to prognosticate on the future of online gaming. And of course, part of that future includes EQ Next, and while he still can't talk specifics, he did shed some light on the philosophy behind the game's design, with some hints about what players might see when it's revealed at SOE Live this summer.

                                  Continue reading PAX East 2013: SOE's Dave Georgeson on EQ Next and the future of online gaming

                                  MassivelyPAX East 2013: SOE's Dave Georgeson on EQ Next and the future of online gaming originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Mar 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                    ]]>                                    conconferenceconventiondave-georgesoneqeq-2eq-free-to-playeq-iieq-nexteq1eq2eqiieqneventevent-coverageeventseverquesteverquest-2everquest-iieverquest-nextexpof2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playinterviewinterviewsjohn-smedleymassively-event-coveragepaxpax-2013pax-eastpax-east-2013penny-arcade-expopreviewpreviewssoesonysony-online-entertainmentMon, 25 Mar 2013 15:30:00 EST                                    <![CDATA[PAX East 2013: Red 5 on Firefall's new gaming TV channel]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/pax-east-2013-red-5-on-firefalls-new-gaming-tv-channel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/pax-east-2013-red-5-on-firefalls-new-gaming-tv-channel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/pax-east-2013-red-5-on-firefalls-new-gaming-tv-channel/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

                                    PAX East 2013 Red 5 talks Firefall, and reveals a new gaming TV channel
                                    Red 5 Studios' MMOFPS Firefall is probably familiar to the Massively family, but it presentation Friday at PAX East was a chance to get a look behind the curtain at how far it's come and how far it has to go during testing.

                                    CEO Mark Kern and Lead Game Designer Scott Youngblood presented a little history of the game's development so far, with a look to the future. But if that's not enough to get you to gear up and plant a Thumper, maybe their announcement about a brand-new video channel devoted to everything and anything involving gaming will catch your interest.

                                    Gallery: PAX East Firefall

                                    Continue reading PAX East 2013: Red 5 on Firefall's new gaming TV channel

                                    MassivelyPAX East 2013: Red 5 on Firefall's new gaming TV channel originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 23 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                      ]]>                                      alphaalpha-testalpha-testingbetabeta-testbeta-testingconconferenceconventioneventevent-coverageeventsexpof2pfeaturedfirefallfpsfree-to-playgalleriesgallerygame-changersinterviewinterviewsmark-kernmassively-event-coveragemmo-shooterorson-scott-cardpaxpax-2013pax-eastpax-east-2013penny-arcade-expopreviewpreviewsproject-cosplaypvpred-5red-5-studiosrise-of-the-indiessci-fiscott-youngbloodscreenshotscreenshotsshooterstage-5tbtestingthird-person-shooterthumperwarSat, 23 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST                                      <![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: The suggestion box gone wrong]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/21/the-guild-counsel-the-suggestion-box-gone-wrong/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/21/the-guild-counsel-the-suggestion-box-gone-wrong/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/21/the-guild-counsel-the-suggestion-box-gone-wrong/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

                                      The Guild Counsel The suggestion box gone wrong
                                      "Does anyone have any suggestions?"

                                      If there's one question that a guild leader should never ask, it's that one. Don't get me wrong; I believe feedback is an essential part of running a successful guild. But there's a right and a wrong way to solicit it, and having the equivalent of a "suggestion box" is not the best way to get the feedback you need.

                                      In today's Guild Counsel, let's look at how the concept of a suggestion box (or holding open-ended discussions for player feedback) can make guild leadership difficult. And we'll look at some ways to get the suggestions you need to keep things running smoothly in guild.

                                      Continue reading The Guild Counsel: The suggestion box gone wrong

                                      MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: The suggestion box gone wrong originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                        ]]>                                        advicefeaturedguildguild-adviceguild-counselguild-feedbackguild-leadershipguild-managementguild-suggestion-boxguild-suggestionsguildsleadershipmmo-guildsopinionthe-guild-counselThu, 21 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EST                                        <![CDATA[MMO Family: How soon is too soon?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/mmo-family-how-soon-is-too-soon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/mmo-family-how-soon-is-too-soon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/mmo-family-how-soon-is-too-soon/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                                        MMO Family How soon is too soon
                                        You might recognize the pictures above and in the body of the article. The first is from a video of a baby using an iPad while still in a walker. The other is from a viral video that came out a while back showing a baby trying to interact with a magazine as if it were an iPad. A quick search reveals the fact that this is growing more and more common. It's an interesting vignette of how much the digital culture has woven its way into our lives, but it also makes you pause and consider whether it's OK for an infant to already be "plugged in."

                                        There are many questions about how early we should introduce children to the variety of devices out there and how soon we should let them start playing video games. And when it comes to MMOs, the issues become even more complicated. How soon is too soon? Let's explore the topic in this week's MMO Family.

                                        Continue reading MMO Family: How soon is too soon?

                                        MassivelyMMO Family: How soon is too soon? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Mar 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                          ]]>                                          casualchildrenchildrens-mmosfamilyfamily-friendlyfeaturedkid-friendlykidskids-gamesmmo-familymmo-industryopinionvideo-game-addictionvideo-game-aggressionvideo-game-learningvideo-game-therapyvideo-games-and-parentingwowWed, 20 Mar 2013 16:00:00 EST                                          <![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: Signs that it's time for a break]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/14/the-guild-counsel-signs-that-its-time-for-a-break/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/14/the-guild-counsel-signs-that-its-time-for-a-break/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/14/the-guild-counsel-signs-that-its-time-for-a-break/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

                                          The Guild Counsel Signs that it's time for a break
                                          We've all had moments of frustration in MMOs, but if you're part of a guild, that frustration can have a ripple effect that causes real tension. Class balance issues, game nerfs, slow content updates, and game bugs are just a few ways in which MMOs annoy us. Add to that the challenges of being in a guild with other players, and it's no wonder that some players reach their boiling point.

                                          Frustration is normal, but when does it reach a point that it's time to take a break? In this week's Guild Counsel, let's look at when it might be time for a player to consider taking a little hiatus from either the guild or the game.

                                          Continue reading The Guild Counsel: Signs that it's time for a break

                                          MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: Signs that it's time for a break originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                            ]]>                                            advicefeaturedguildguild-adviceguild-counselguild-leadershipguild-managementguildsleadershipopinionthe-guild-counselThu, 14 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST                                            <![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: Dealing with problem players]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/07/the-guild-counsel-dealing-with-problem-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/07/the-guild-counsel-dealing-with-problem-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/07/the-guild-counsel-dealing-with-problem-players/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

                                            The Guild Counsel Dealing with problem players
                                            Whether she's an in-your-face, type A general or a laid-back denmother, no guild leader enjoys dealing with disruptive players. There's enough to manage as it is, and problem members can put the leader in a very difficult position. But if not handled correctly, that member can cause no end of problems in the guild and potentially even destroy it.

                                            It's easy to say, "kick 'em!" but that could backfire and cause even more drama. Dealing with problem players is complicated but not impossible. In today's Guild Counsel, let's look at a few things to consider.

                                            Continue reading The Guild Counsel: Dealing with problem players

                                            MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: Dealing with problem players originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Mar 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                              ]]>                                              advicefeaturedguildguild-adviceguild-counselguild-disruptive-playersguild-dramaguild-leadershipguild-managementguildsleadershipopinionproblem-playersthe-guild-counselThu, 07 Mar 2013 09:00:00 EST                                              <![CDATA[MMO Family: What exactly is a kid-friendly MMO?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/mmo-family-what-exactly-is-a-kid-friendly-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/mmo-family-what-exactly-is-a-kid-friendly-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/mmo-family-what-exactly-is-a-kid-friendly-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

                                              MMO Family What exactly is a kidfriendly MMO
                                              Recently, Massively's Jef Reahard seemed to revisit his inner-child with his Why I Play article on Clone Wars Adventures and a Daily Grind of a similar topic. He summed up perfectly why CWA, a kid-friendly MMO, is a lot of fun for grown-ups too. There are actually many MMOs that are marketed toward a younger audience but are fun and challenging enough to entertain adults. Meanwhile, there are plenty of kids who have no problem holding their own in "grown-up" MMOs.

                                              So what exactly makes an MMO kid-friendly? It might not be as easy to define as we think.

                                              Continue reading MMO Family: What exactly is a kid-friendly MMO?

                                              MassivelyMMO Family: What exactly is a kid-friendly MMO? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Mar 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                ]]>                                                casualchildrenchildrens-mmosclone-wars-adventuresfamilyfamily-friendlyfeaturedflyffkid-friendlykidskids-gamesminecraftmmo-familyopinionpirate101robloxswtorwizard101Wed, 06 Mar 2013 13:00:00 EST                                                <![CDATA[A look back at RIFT on its second birthday]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/a-look-back-at-rift-on-its-second-birthday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/a-look-back-at-rift-on-its-second-birthday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/a-look-back-at-rift-on-its-second-birthday/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                                                Happy second anniversary, RIFT!
                                                "Once upon a time in a land called Telara, 573 Guardian players were minding their own business in a region called Silverwood. They were frolicking and levelling, and levelling and questing, and looting and laughing, collecting and crafting.... Ah! What a peaceful time it was.

                                                "And then, the world exploded."

                                                That's how former RIFT executive producer Scott Hartsman described the Prince Hylas event from Beta 2, and for me, it will always be one of my favorite MMO memories. Telara was instantly transformed into a hellish quagmire, with invaders stacked on top of each other at every foothold in Silverwood. It's hard to believe that two years have already gone by, but it's even more amazing how the game has evolved since that unforgettable beta event.

                                                Continue reading A look back at RIFT on its second birthday

                                                MassivelyA look back at RIFT on its second birthday originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 01 Mar 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                  ]]>                                                  chroniclesconquestember-islefantasyfeaturedinstant-adventurementoringplanar-attunementplanar-invasionspvpriftrift-anniversaryrift-fishingrift-literift-planes-of-telararift-second-anniversaryrift-survivalrift-weddingsrvrstorm-legionthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldszone-eventsFri, 01 Mar 2013 16:00:00 EST                                                  <![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: How to find the right guild for you]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/the-guild-counsel-how-to-find-the-right-guild-for-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/the-guild-counsel-how-to-find-the-right-guild-for-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/the-guild-counsel-how-to-find-the-right-guild-for-you/#commentsFiled under: , ,

                                                  The Guild Counsel How to find the right guild for you
                                                  Each week, no matter what the topic of this column, there are always comments from players who have had a bad experience with a guild or who have sworn off guilds entirely. Unfortunately, there are quite a few guilds that are poorly managed, and they come with their share of drama, stress, and frustration.

                                                  But for those that aren't currently in a guild, I'd like to use this week's column to (hopefully) convince you to rethink things and perhaps give it another try. In this week's Guild Counsel, Let's take a look at why unguilded players are in a great position to find a good match, and what things to look for in order to find that perfect guild.

                                                  Continue reading The Guild Counsel: How to find the right guild for you

                                                  MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: How to find the right guild for you originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Feb 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                    ]]>                                                    advicefeaturedfinding-a-guildguildguild-adviceguild-counselguild-leadershipguild-managementguild-recruitmentguildshow-to-find-the-right-guildleadershiplooking-for-guildopinionthe-guild-counselThu, 28 Feb 2013 15:00:00 EST                                                    <![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: Making guilds fun]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/the-guild-counsel-making-guilds-fun/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/the-guild-counsel-making-guilds-fun/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/the-guild-counsel-making-guilds-fun/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

                                                    The Guild Counsel Making guilds fun
                                                    Last week, we looked at common traps that guild leaders should avoid, and the one word that came up the most in comments was "fun." Let's face it, when people think of guild leadership, the last thing they think of is fun. And the replies echoed that sentiment.

                                                    Guild leadership is often described as a job, although I don't agree with that sentiment. And being in a guild is also seen as work, which I understand, but I don't think that has to be the case. Guilds sometimes take themselves too seriously, and while focus is important for progress, it doesn't mean guilds have to stamp out fun.

                                                    In this week's Guild Counsel, I'd like to look at how guilds can in fact be fun, and why even the most hesitant gamer should consider giving them a try.

                                                    Continue reading The Guild Counsel: Making guilds fun

                                                    MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: Making guilds fun originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Feb 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                      ]]>                                                      advicefeaturedguildguild-adviceguild-counselguild-dramaguild-funguild-gnusguild-leadershipguild-managementguild-mistakesguild-recruitmentguild-regulationsguild-rulesguildsleadershipopinionthe-guild-counselThu, 21 Feb 2013 14:00:00 EST                                                      <![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: Saying goodbye to A Tale in the Desert]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/choose-my-adventure-saying-goodbye-to-a-tale-in-the-desert/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/choose-my-adventure-saying-goodbye-to-a-tale-in-the-desert/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/choose-my-adventure-saying-goodbye-to-a-tale-in-the-desert/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                                                      Choose My Adventure Saying goodbye to A Tale in the Desert
                                                      Last week, you advised me to branch out and explore, and that turned out to be the perfect choice, particularly because this is my final article on A Tale in the Desert for Choose My Adventure. I admit that it caught me off guard, and my six-week stint went a lot more quickly than I expected.

                                                      But before I say goodbye, I have some final highlights from my travels, and I have some overall impressions to share before I turn things over to Eliot next week.

                                                      Continue reading Choose My Adventure: Saying goodbye to A Tale in the Desert

                                                      MassivelyChoose My Adventure: Saying goodbye to A Tale in the Desert originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Feb 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                        ]]>                                                        a-tale-in-the-deserta-tale-in-the-desert-6atitdatitd-old-egyptatitd-wikichariot-routeschoose-my-adventurecmademi-pharaohfeaturedhands-onopinionpollpollsreaders-choicevotevotingWed, 20 Feb 2013 19:00:00 EST                                                        <![CDATA[MMO Family: Lessons learned from parenting and gaming]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/mmo-family-lessons-learned-from-parenting-and-gaming/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/mmo-family-lessons-learned-from-parenting-and-gaming/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/mmo-family-lessons-learned-from-parenting-and-gaming/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                                                        MMO Family Lessons learned from parenting and gaming
                                                        If you look at the past two decades, it's really amazing how fast technology has improved. Not that long ago, dialup was common, 3.5" disks were all the rage (so much better than those archaic 8" floppies!), and people were excited to be able to take digital photos (that also used those flashy 3.5 disks with a camera that was as large as a truck). Kids are growing up in a completely different world than their parents did, and that means there's a tabula rasa feel to the rules on parenting and video games.

                                                        Parenting sites are great at general parenting advice, and gaming sites are great at gaming write-ups, but there aren't too many sites that juggle both. As a result, parents are left with advice that usually falls into one camp or another, and absolutes really don't work well in this challenging area. So this week in MMO Family, I'd like to toss out a few lessons about raising kids in a digital age.

                                                        Continue reading MMO Family: Lessons learned from parenting and gaming

                                                        MassivelyMMO Family: Lessons learned from parenting and gaming originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                          ]]>                                                          casualchildrenchildrens-mmosesrbesrb-ratingsfacebookfamilyfamily-friendlyfamily-game-nightfamily-gaming-tipsfeaturedkid-friendlykidskids-gamesmmo-familymoderating-video-gamesopinionparent-advice-on-video-gamespirate-101twittervideo-games-and-kidsWed, 20 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST                                                          <![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: Three common guild traps to avoid]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/14/the-guild-counsel-three-common-guild-traps-to-avoid/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/14/the-guild-counsel-three-common-guild-traps-to-avoid/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/14/the-guild-counsel-three-common-guild-traps-to-avoid/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

                                                          The Guild Counsel Three common traps to avoid
                                                          Whether you're just starting a guild or you've been running one for a while, there are pitfalls that can easily trap a guild leader and cause all sorts of problems. We've looked at many of these in past columns, but there are some that tend to pop up more often.

                                                          Guild leaders need to cover everything from recruitment and bank management to loot decisions and even maintaining a guild website or voice server. But beneath the nuts and bolts are three common traps, which we'll look at in this week's Guild Counsel.

                                                          Continue reading The Guild Counsel: Three common guild traps to avoid

                                                          MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: Three common guild traps to avoid originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Feb 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                            ]]>                                                            advicefeaturedguildguild-adviceguild-bankguild-counselguild-denmotherguild-leader-doing-too-muchguild-leadershipguild-managementguild-officerguild-officer-appointmentguild-rule-loopholeguild-rulesguild-tyrantguildsleadershipopinionthe-guild-counselThu, 14 Feb 2013 11:00:00 EST                                                            <![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: My tale in the desert takes an unexpected turn]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/choose-my-adventure-my-tale-in-the-desert-takes-an-unexpected-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/choose-my-adventure-my-tale-in-the-desert-takes-an-unexpected-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/choose-my-adventure-my-tale-in-the-desert-takes-an-unexpected-t/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                                                            Choose My Adventure My Tale in the Desert takes an unexpected turn
                                                            Last week, you voted for me to try my hand at making a sculpture in A Tale in the Desert, and I rolled up my sleeves to start the process of rotting flax, spinning twine into rope, and weaving linen. And then my sunny days in the desert were trumped by about two feet of snow. Thanks to the blizzard this past weekend, my opportunity to play was truncated, and while I'm frantically trying to wrap up my sculpture, I wasn't able to finish it in time for this week's column.

                                                            Fortunately, I still have plenty to report.

                                                            Continue reading Choose My Adventure: My tale in the desert takes an unexpected turn

                                                            MassivelyChoose My Adventure: My tale in the desert takes an unexpected turn originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                              ]]>                                                              a-tale-in-the-deserta-tale-in-the-desert-6acroatitdchoose-my-adventurecmafeaturedhands-onopinionpollpollsreaders-choiceriver-plainssandboxsandbox-mmotest-of-the-acrobatvotevotingWed, 13 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST                                                              <![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: Rethinking the dreaded bench]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/07/the-guild-counsel-rethinking-the-dreaded-bench/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/07/the-guild-counsel-rethinking-the-dreaded-bench/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/07/the-guild-counsel-rethinking-the-dreaded-bench/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

                                                              The Guild Counsel Rethinking the dreaded bench
                                                              A while back, I wrote a column that looked at the issue of benchwarming and raiding. It's not fun to have to sit out a raid, and I covered ways to avoid the scenario. The harsh truth, though, is that it's nearly impossible to consistently raid with a full force every night unless you recruit with surplus in mind.

                                                              But having a surplus raid force might not actually be a bad thing, and guild leaders might be wise to build their rosters with the idea of having extra raiders. In this week's Guild Counsel, let's look at why benchwarming might be a good thing for a raiding guild.

                                                              Continue reading The Guild Counsel: Rethinking the dreaded bench

                                                              MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: Rethinking the dreaded bench originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Feb 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                ]]>                                                                advicefeaturedguildguild-adviceguild-counselguild-leadershipguild-managementguildsleadershipopinionraid-benchraid-forceraid-surplusraidingthe-guild-counselThu, 07 Feb 2013 19:00:00 EST                                                                <![CDATA[MMO Family: Failure isn't just an option; it's a requirement]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/mmo-family-failure-isnt-just-an-option-its-a-requirement/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/mmo-family-failure-isnt-just-an-option-its-a-requirement/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/mmo-family-failure-isnt-just-an-option-its-a-requirement/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                                                                MMO Family Failure isn't just an option, it's a requirement
                                                                The other day, I stumbled on an interview of author Paul Tough, who wrote the book called How Children Succeed. He stressed the importance of building grit, curiosity, and character in our children as they grown and learn. In addition, he emphasized the need to let our kids fail as they grow. In an age of helicopter parents and trophies for all, his message is simple but uncommon.

                                                                It's not unusual to hear people debate whether children are getting soft because of the need to protect them from failure. Could video games actually be the answer? This week, let's look at the topic of failure to see whether it might be more than an option -- it might be a requirement.

                                                                Continue reading MMO Family: Failure isn't just an option; it's a requirement

                                                                MassivelyMMO Family: Failure isn't just an option; it's a requirement originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Feb 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                  ]]>                                                                  casualchildrenchildrens-mmoseveeve-onlinefailurefamilyfamily-friendlyfeaturedkid-friendlykidskids-gamesminecraftmmo-familyopinionpaul-toughred-penvideo-games-are-goodvideo-games-failureWed, 06 Feb 2013 19:00:00 EST                                                                  <![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: Learning the ropes in A Tale in the Desert]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/choose-my-adventure-learning-the-ropes-in-a-tale-in-the-desert/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/choose-my-adventure-learning-the-ropes-in-a-tale-in-the-desert/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/choose-my-adventure-learning-the-ropes-in-a-tale-in-the-desert/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                                                                  Choose My Adventure Learning the ropes in A Tale in the Desert
                                                                  So there I was, running through the desert on a personal crusade to find a far away pyramid. I heard that it granted an automatic free level, and who wouldn't want that? The only question was whether I'd run out of interest before I reached it because travel in A Tale in the Desert is challenging, to say the least.

                                                                  I really like the world of ATITD so far, and yet there are things about it that really make me grumpy. And it's usually the things I like the most about the game that also cause me grief. While I failed to find that pyramid, I did learn quite a bit this past week in game.

                                                                  Continue reading Choose My Adventure: Learning the ropes in A Tale in the Desert

                                                                  MassivelyChoose My Adventure: Learning the ropes in A Tale in the Desert originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                    ]]>                                                                    a-tale-in-the-desertatitdatitd-artatitd-ibisatitd-leadershipatitd-river-plainschoose-my-adventurecmafeaturedhands-onopinionpollpollsreaders-choicevotevotingWed, 06 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST                                                                    <![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: Why Jack Sparrow would make a great guild leader]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/31/the-guild-counsel-why-jack-sparrow-would-make-a-great-guild-le/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/31/the-guild-counsel-why-jack-sparrow-would-make-a-great-guild-le/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/31/the-guild-counsel-why-jack-sparrow-would-make-a-great-guild-le/#commentsFiled under: , ,

                                                                    The Guild Counsel Why Jack Sparrow would make a great guild leader
                                                                    Recently, I was watching Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl and remembering how much I enjoyed the weird yet adventurous personality of Jack Sparrow. He's a pirate, a thief, and so dishonest that he's honest about it, but you can't help but cheer for him anyway.

                                                                    When you think about it, the traits that make Jack Sparrow such a popular character are traits that also make for a good guild leader. In this week's Guild Counsel, let's take a light-hearted look at why Jack would make a great guild leader.

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                                                                    MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: Why Jack Sparrow would make a great guild leader originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 31 Jan 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                      ]]>                                                                      advicebuilding-guild-moralefeaturedguildguild-adviceguild-counselguild-leadershipguild-managementguildsjack-sparrowjack-sparrow-guild-leaderleadershipopinionpirates-of-the-caribbeanthe-guild-counselThu, 31 Jan 2013 11:00:00 EST                                                                      <![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: Exploring Egypt in A Tale in the Desert]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/30/choose-my-adventure-exploring-egypt-in-a-tale-in-the-desert/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/30/choose-my-adventure-exploring-egypt-in-a-tale-in-the-desert/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/30/choose-my-adventure-exploring-egypt-in-a-tale-in-the-desert/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

                                                                      Choose My Adventure Exploring Egypt
                                                                      What a week it's been! Last week, you decided that I should build my compound first, and focus on architecture as my first principle to work on. That turned out to be a great selection for me, and I kept myself busy collecting all the materials to pay the tuition and then start construction.

                                                                      But I couldn't help but wander off the path a bit. Every time I turned around, I was bumping into something that made me wonder A) what it was, and B) how it was made. And as helpful as the wiki is, I needed to search out players who could help teach me faster than any wiki could. Did I succeed in making some connections? And did I rip out my hair over the ripping of grass? Check out the highlights of my past week in A Tale in the Desert.

                                                                      Continue reading Choose My Adventure: Exploring Egypt in A Tale in the Desert

                                                                      MassivelyChoose My Adventure: Exploring Egypt in A Tale in the Desert originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 30 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                        ]]>                                                                        a-tale-in-the-deserta-tale-in-the-desert-6atitdatitd-communityatitd-guildsatitd-harmonyatitd-leadershipatitd-principleschoose-my-adventurecmacompound-constructionfeaturedflax-seed-genome-researchhands-onmidland-valleyopinionpollpollsreaders-choiceriver-plainsvotevotingWed, 30 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST                                                                        <![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: The battle for character names]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/24/the-guild-counsel-the-battle-for-character-names/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/24/the-guild-counsel-the-battle-for-character-names/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/24/the-guild-counsel-the-battle-for-character-names/#commentsFiled under: , ,

                                                                        The Guild Counsel The battle for character names
                                                                        Identity is a theme that comes up a lot in The Guild Counsel column. Guild identity shapes a variety of areas, from recruitment policies and guild rules to tone and atmosphere. And for players, everything they do in game shapes their character identity.

                                                                        But one of the first things players select when they make their character is a name, and that's also the first thing that identifies our characters to other players. It sounds simple, but getting a name, and then keeping it, is actually harder than it sounds. And for players, not getting a favorite name can actually take away from enjoyment of the game.

                                                                        How important is a name? And do players have a right to keep it forever even if they aren't necessarily using it on an active character? Let's look at some of the complexities behind a simple name.

                                                                        Continue reading The Guild Counsel: The battle for character names

                                                                        MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: The battle for character names originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Jan 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                          ]]>                                                                          advicecharacter-deletedcharacter-namecharacter-namesfeaturedguildguild-adviceguild-counselguild-leadershipguild-managementguildsidentity-in-mmosleadershiplosing-a-character-namenamenamesopinionserver-mergerthe-guild-counselThu, 24 Jan 2013 12:00:00 EST                                                                          <![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: My tale in the desert begins]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/choose-my-adventure-my-tale-in-the-desert-begins/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/choose-my-adventure-my-tale-in-the-desert-begins/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/choose-my-adventure-my-tale-in-the-desert-begins/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

                                                                          Choose My Adventure My tale in the desert begins
                                                                          Last week's Choose My Adventure poll was a real nail-biter! There were four games that were all within a few votes of each other. In the end, the winner by five votes was A Tale in the Desert, and I'm thrilled to be able to write about this game for my turn at CMA.

                                                                          As much as I like elves and orcs, I'm ready for obelisks, pyramids, and plenty of sand. I created my character over the weekend and began my path to citizenship. Did I make it through, or did flax farming get the better of me? Help me plan my course!

                                                                          Continue reading Choose My Adventure: My tale in the desert begins

                                                                          MassivelyChoose My Adventure: My tale in the desert begins originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Jan 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                            ]]>                                                                            a-tale-in-the-desertatitdchoose-my-adventurecmacraftingegenesisegyptfantasyfeaturedflaxhands-onhistoricalmidland-valleymythologyopinionpollpollsprinciplesreaders-choicesandboxtaletellingvotevotingWed, 23 Jan 2013 17:00:00 EST                                                                            <![CDATA[MMO Family: Why Catfish is a term your kids should know]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/mmo-family-why-catfish-is-a-term-your-kids-should-know/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/mmo-family-why-catfish-is-a-term-your-kids-should-know/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/mmo-family-why-catfish-is-a-term-your-kids-should-know/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                                                                            MMO Family Why Catfish is a term your kids should know
                                                                            By now, everyone's probably heard the strange story of Manti Te'o, the football player who had an online relationship with someone who wasn't really that person. The question that people keep asking is whether or not he was in on the hoax, but I think that's irrelevant. The real question is why people are surprised to begin with.

                                                                            Ironically, gamers probably have a leg up on the Catfish scenario, since there are plenty of examples of players misrepresenting themselves through their in-game avatars. And there's often a grey area when it comes to roleplaying and honesty. In this week's MMO Family, let's look at the lessons of gaming, identity, and social media and what children should learn about all three. (And I promise I won't mention Manti again in this column.)

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                                                                            MassivelyMMO Family: Why Catfish is a term your kids should know originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Jan 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                              ]]>                                                                              a-story-about-a-treecasualcatfishchildrenchildrens-mmosfacebookfamilyfamily-friendlyfeaturedinternet-boogeymaninternet-identitykid-friendlykidskids-gamesmanti-teommo-familyonline-relationshipsopinionraph-kosterrichard-bartletracy-spaighttwitterWed, 23 Jan 2013 11:00:00 EST                                                                              <![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: Everyone's a critic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/17/the-guild-counsel-everyones-a-critic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/17/the-guild-counsel-everyones-a-critic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/17/the-guild-counsel-everyones-a-critic/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                                                                              The Guild Counsel Everyone's a critic
                                                                              If there's one truism about MMOs, it's that not all players are equal. It can be frustrating when you're grouped with someone who isn't that great at playing his class. At the same time, it isn't exactly fun to be on the receiving end of criticism, either. Most people want to play well, but they don't want to be constantly reminded of their shortcomings along the way.

                                                                              In a guild, the fine line between helpful advice and unwanted criticism can often lead to a tense atmosphere and the potential for plenty of drama. "L2p" gets tossed around on forums and in game, but what if someone really does want to get another player to improve? In today's Guild Counsel, let's take a look at some of the factors involved with criticism and explore why this is often a very sensitive subject.

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                                                                              MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: Everyone's a critic originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Jan 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                                ]]>                                                                                advicecriticismfeaturedguildguild-adviceguild-counselguild-leadershipguild-managementguildsl2pleadershiplearn-to-playopinionthe-guild-counselThu, 17 Jan 2013 20:00:00 EST                                                                                <![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: Back into the cave I go]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/16/choose-my-adventure-back-into-the-cave-i-go/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/16/choose-my-adventure-back-into-the-cave-i-go/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/16/choose-my-adventure-back-into-the-cave-i-go/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                                                                                Choose My Adventure Back into the cave I go
                                                                                Time for another turn at Choose My Adventure! It's been a while since my last turn at doing this column, but it certainly was memorable. Halfway through my six-week tour of Pirates of the Burning Sea, SOE was attacked by hackers and sent offline, leaving my pirate in drydock for quite some time. Hopefully this time around, things will be a bit smoother.

                                                                                One thing I'm particularly interested in this time around is getting to know not only the game but the community. Usually one of the first things people ask about a title they're considering playing is what the community is like. I explore a variety of guild and community related topics in my weekly column, so it seems natural to do the same during my adventure.

                                                                                So what will it be, Massively readers? Will I spin my own tale in the desert? Hang around with Poochums? Take a journey to Middle-earth? I look forward to your votes!

                                                                                Continue reading Choose My Adventure: Back into the cave I go

                                                                                MassivelyChoose My Adventure: Back into the cave I go originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 Jan 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                                  ]]>                                                                                  a-tale-in-the-desertchoose-my-adventureClone-Wars-Adventurescmadragon-nestfeaturedhands-onlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroopinionpollpollsreaders-choicerunescapevanguardvotevotingWarhammer-OnlineWed, 16 Jan 2013 13:00:00 EST