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[Tamriel Infinium: Elder Scrolls elves are supposed to be ugly]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/tamriel-infinium-elder-scrolls-elves-are-supposed-to-be-ugly/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/tamriel-infinium-elder-scrolls-elves-are-supposed-to-be-ugly/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/tamriel-infinium-elder-scrolls-elves-are-supposed-to-be-ugly/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Tamriel Infinium Elder Scrolls Elves are supposed to be ugly
I don't know if you noticed this, but in the fully rendered trailer for The Elder Scrolls Online, the Aldmeri Dominion elves looked nice. In traditional fantasy lore like Lord of the Rings, elves are some of the most beautiful creatures in the universe. However, I've always seen the Elder Scrolls elves as somewhat alien -- like the grey-men kind of aliens. In fact, the dark elves with their ashy skin really looked like grey men, especially if they were bald. Yet that particular MMO trailer presented a different kind of elf.

Of course, that's just a CGI trailer, and CGI trailers rarely represent what we will see in the game. I can accept that. But more and more screenshots have popped up and more in-game videos have appeared on different websites, and in each of them, it appears to me that the elves -- the "mer" -- have received a makeover. And it's not just the elves; even the Argonians and Khajiit look different. I suspect there's a reason for this.

Continue reading Tamriel Infinium: Elder Scrolls elves are supposed to be ugly

MassivelyTamriel Infinium: Elder Scrolls elves are supposed to be ugly originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 May 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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    ]]>    artbethesdabethesda-softworksbethsoftbump-mappingcharacter-modelscolumnelder-scrollselder-scrolls-onlineesofeaturedgame-enginehero-enginepaul-sagetamrieltamriel-infiniumtesothe-elder-scrollsthe-elder-scrolls-onlinezenimaxzenimax-onlinezenimax-online-studiosFri, 24 May 2013 13:00:00 EST    <![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Does SWTOR's F2P work?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/hyperspace-beacon-does-swtors-f2p-work/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/hyperspace-beacon-does-swtors-f2p-work/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/hyperspace-beacon-does-swtors-f2p-work/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

    Hyperspace Beacon Does SWTOR's F2P work
    Those of us who have played through the middle planets of Star Wars: The Old Republic know that chapter two is rather blasé. And as far as the free-to-play experiment is concerned, I really don't have anything new to report this week, or at least, not enough to fill a whole column. I will certainly have an update for you next week.

    This week, I'd like to talk about SWTOR's free-to-play model in general. Although the design team has received a lot of heat from fans and haters alike, the system does have merit along with legitimate flaws. I do like SWTOR, but I'm not ignorant enough to believe that everything the game designers have done is perfect. I am also not one to hate because the game wronged me a year and a half ago. No matter the game, I understand, given my three years reporting in the industry and many other years playing video games, that there will always be people who hate a game no matter what developers do to appease them. At the same time, there will always be those who love a game no matter what stupid thing the developers do and will see no wrong no matter what you say to try to convince them. I try to put myself somewhere in the middle.

    Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Does SWTOR's F2P work?

    MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Does SWTOR's F2P work? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 May 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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      ]]>      biowarebusiness-modelsdallasdamion-schuberteaelectronic-artsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhyperspace-beaconlucasartsopinionsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubscriberssubscriptionswtorthe-old-republictorTue, 21 May 2013 13:00:00 EST      <![CDATA[Tamriel Infinium: Elder Scrolls Online's factional divides]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/tamriel-infinium-elder-scrolls-onlines-factional-divides/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/tamriel-infinium-elder-scrolls-onlines-factional-divides/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/tamriel-infinium-elder-scrolls-onlines-factional-divides/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

      Tamriel Infinium ESO factional divides
      The Elder Scrolls Online's Tamriel hosts many races that are generally segregated from each other. Nords of Skyrim usually stick to their northern frosty mountains. Argonians settle in their Black Marsh. Khajiit rest in Elsweyr. But we know from playing other Elder Scrolls games that individuals of all races most definitely move around the map, mostly adventurers like our possible TESO characters. It is very possible from a canon perspective that my Redguard will wander through Morrowind. Unlike other faction-based MMOs, TESO has an interesting plan for those players with wanderlust.

      For today's column, I've found a community member who explains some of the implications of factional divides for us. I'm also interested in how you will personally handle some of these factional issues.

      Continue reading Tamriel Infinium: Elder Scrolls Online's factional divides

      MassivelyTamriel Infinium: Elder Scrolls Online's factional divides originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 May 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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        ]]>        bethesdabethesda-softworksbethsoftcolumnCross-Factioncross-faction-communicationelder-scrollselder-scrolls-onlineesofaction-loyaltyfactionsfeaturedrace-choicesracesRichie-Procopiotamrieltamriel-infiniumtesothe-elder-scrollsthe-elder-scrolls-onlinezenimaxzenimax-onlinezenimax-online-studiosFri, 17 May 2013 14:00:00 EST        <![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: SWTOR's customization cash kitty]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/hyperspace-beacon-swtors-customization-cash-kitty/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/hyperspace-beacon-swtors-customization-cash-kitty/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/hyperspace-beacon-swtors-customization-cash-kitty/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

        Hyperspace Beacon SWTOR's customization cash kitty
        It's a hard thing to admit when you're wrong. But I admit that I was wrong about Star Wars: The Old Republic Update 2.1: Customization. Even as late as last night on The Republic, I believed that things like the new Appearance Designer might not cost players Cartel Coins to use, but now that the update has arrived, I admit that is certainly not the case. Had I known that it would cost CCs to so much as use the Appearance Designer, I would be in the camp of players upset about this update containing only Cartel items. If you define an expansion or DLC as additional content that costs money, then that is exactly what this update is.

        I'm not against BioWare making money, and to be completely honest, I'm not upset about the company making money on many of these items. Perhaps through my own misunderstanding, I feel a bit cheated with the update. Let me break down the Update 2.1 items for us. I'll point out the good and the bad, and maybe you will understand my perspective, even if you don't agree.

        Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: SWTOR's customization cash kitty

        MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: SWTOR's customization cash kitty originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 May 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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          ]]>          appearance-designerbiowarecartel-coinscartel-marketcatharcollectionsCollections-uicustomizationeaelectronic-artsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhyperspace-beaconlucasartsopinionsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorupdate-2.1Tue, 14 May 2013 18:30:00 EST          <![CDATA[Tamriel Infinium: Stepping into the world of The Elder Scrolls Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/tamriel-infinium-stepping-into-the-world-of-the-elder-scrolls-o/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/tamriel-infinium-stepping-into-the-world-of-the-elder-scrolls-o/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/tamriel-infinium-stepping-into-the-world-of-the-elder-scrolls-o/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

          Tamriel Infinium Stepping into the world of The Elder Scrolls Online
          Many players in my guild are really looking forward to Elder Scrolls Online. Nearly everyone has signed up for beta. I cannot confirm or deny whether some of them might be in playing right now. When I announced that I was taking on the ESO column for Massively, I could feel their questioning eyes burning through the internet: Why would you want to do a column on the Elder Scrolls? You have said that you were burned out on fantasy. Skyrim gave you trouble because of the first-person view. And there are no playable dwarves. They might have caught me on that last one, but the others are partially true, as well. I have played a lot of fantasy games, but TES bends a lot of the traditions of high fantasy. And thankfully, you can play all of Skyrim in third-person view.

          There are three major factors that have kept me intrigued with the entire world of the Elder Scrolls. Tamriel is full of deep and rich lore. Granted, most of ESO's lore is future-tense, but a good chunk can be applied to the current timeline -- much as in Star Wars: The Old Republic, my other editorial focus. Secondly, Elder Scrolls Online intends to keep the mechanics and the flavor of the franchise within an MMO setting. This includes a PvP system that pits three factions against each other. Although I usually have a take-it-or-leave-it approach to open-world PvP, I have always been fascinated by how three-faction systems work. Lastly, the community is passionate. I enjoy connecting with people who are looking to connect with each other and share their hopes for a game that hasn't even been released yet.

          Those will be the three main focuses of this column. Let me tell you how it will work.

          Continue reading Tamriel Infinium: Stepping into the world of The Elder Scrolls Online

          MassivelyTamriel Infinium: Stepping into the world of The Elder Scrolls Online originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 May 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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            ]]>            bethesdabethesda-softworksbethsoftdaggerfallelder-scrollselder-scrolls-onlineesofactionsfeaturedlawrence-schickmorrowindoblivionpvprvrsandboxskyrimtamrielTamriel-Infiniumtestesothe-elder-scrollsthe-elder-scrolls-onlinethree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvpzenimaxzenimax-mediazenimax-onlinezenimax-online-studiosFri, 10 May 2013 17:00:00 EST            <![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: The SWTOR F2P experiment, group leveling]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/hyperspace-beacon-the-swtor-f2p-experiment-group-leveling/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/hyperspace-beacon-the-swtor-f2p-experiment-group-leveling/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/hyperspace-beacon-the-swtor-f2p-experiment-group-leveling/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

            Hyperspace Beacon The SWTOR F2P experiment, group leveling
            With the last bit of Update 2.1: Customization revealed yesterday, I can talk about an item that will change the free-to-play side of Star Wars: The Old Republic. After the next update, F2P players can withdraw credits from escrow with Cartel Coins. Although I will not have a way to find out whether this will actually affect the prices on the Galactic Trade Market until it goes live, I think it's safe to say that prices will initially go up.

            Let's talk about this and group leveling in this week's SWTOR free-to-play experiment.

            Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: The SWTOR F2P experiment, group leveling

            MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: The SWTOR F2P experiment, group leveling originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 May 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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              ]]>              biowaredc-universe-onlineDCUOeaelectronic-artsescrowexperience-boostf2pf2p-experimentfeaturedfree-to-playfree-to-play-experimentgalactic-trade-networkgtnhyperspace-beaconLaura-Williamslucasartsopinionsci-fiSOESonySony-Online-Entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtortaristhe-old-republictorvoidmynxTue, 07 May 2013 16:00:00 EST              <![CDATA[Dyeing your armor the SWTOR way]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/dyeing-your-armor-the-swtor-way/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/dyeing-your-armor-the-swtor-way/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/dyeing-your-armor-the-swtor-way/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

              Dyeing you armor the SWTOR way
              Let's make a quick list of items Update 2.1 for Star Wars: The Old Republic will bring us: a new species, an appearance designer kiosk, name changes, and armor dyes. It's understandable why this update is named Customization. Details about each about each of these systems are trickling out slowly, and the latest crop of information comes from MMO fansite Dulfy.net.

              Dulfy spoke with BioWare about the armor dye system and scrounged up some very specific details about how it works. After the release of 2.1, players will be able to find a total of 48 different dye modules: 25 from the Cartel Market, 3 from the security key and collector's edition vendors, and 20 made through Artificing. There are three types of dyes modules: one with a primary color, one with a secondary color, and one with both a primary and secondary color. Unfortunately, not all armor with be able to be dyed. BioWare explained that the Knights of the Old Republic-inspired outfits will not have dye slots, so that those costumes can remain true to Star Wars lore. Sorry, no bright pink Bastila Shan outfit for you, sir.

              MassivelyDyeing your armor the SWTOR way originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 May 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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              ]]>              armor-dye-systemarmor-dyesbiowarecustomizationdulfydulfy.netdye-moduleeaelectronic-artsf2pfree-to-playlucasartssci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorupdate-2.1Wed, 01 May 2013 16:00:00 EST              <![CDATA[Name change unlock coming to SWTOR]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/name-change-unlock-coming-to-swtor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/name-change-unlock-coming-to-swtor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/name-change-unlock-coming-to-swtor/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

              Name change service coming to SWTOR
              The customization options continue to grow in Star Wars: The Old Republic. Producer Cory Butler told The Old Republic Roleplay that besides the appearance designer and Cathar coming in Update 2.1, players will also be able to change their characters' names. Finally, Darth LordSnuffleFluff can change his name to Darth LordMegaSnuffleFluff like he always wanted.

              Butler explains that the name-change option will be available on the Cartel Market as an unlock. However, since it is an unlock and not a service through the official website, that means some players will be able to change names with in-game credits via the Galactic Trade Network.

              Congratulations, SWTOR players, you will now be able to change everything about your character except class and gender when GU 2.1 releases.

              MassivelyName change unlock coming to SWTOR originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 May 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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              ]]>              appearance-designerbiowarecharacter-namecory-butlereaelectronic-artsf2pfree-to-playlucasartsname-changename-change-servicename-change-unlocksci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorWed, 01 May 2013 11:00:00 EST              <![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: The SWTOR F2P experiment, Coruscant]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/hyperspace-beacon-the-swtor-f2p-experiment-coruscant/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/hyperspace-beacon-the-swtor-f2p-experiment-coruscant/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/hyperspace-beacon-the-swtor-f2p-experiment-coruscant/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

              Hyperspace Beacon The SWTOR F2P experiment, Coruscant
              I was asked last week why I chose The Ebon Hawk as the server on which to run my Star Wars: The Old Republic free-to-play experiment, especially since it's my home server. Some people believed that the experiment would be flawed because I would have many people to call on to help me out in different areas. This is only partially true. I do have some people to call on if I absolutely need it, but remember that I play on the Imperial side normally; this test character is Republic-side. My guildies and friends do not play Republic characters on a regular basis. And I have already said that I will not take gifts from other characters. The only thing that they can offer me is a partner for leveling, and currently, no one that I know is the same level as my Smuggler. I won't catch up to any of them until I hit level 35.

              Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: The SWTOR F2P experiment, Coruscant

              MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: The SWTOR F2P experiment, Coruscant originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 30 Apr 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                ]]>                bag-slotsbiowarecartel-coinscartel-marketeaelectronic-artsesselesexperience-pointsf2pf2p-experimentfeaturedflashpointfree-to-playfree-to-play-experimentgalactic-trade-networkGTNhyperspace-beaconinventory-managementlucasartsopinionsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-f2p-experimentthe-free-to-play-experimentthe-old-republictorXPTue, 30 Apr 2013 19:00:00 EST                <![CDATA[Camelot Unchained explains stealth]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/camelot-unchained-explains-stealth/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/camelot-unchained-explains-stealth/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/camelot-unchained-explains-stealth/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                Camelot Unchained explains stealth
                There are five days left for Camelot Unchained's Kickstarter program, and it's less than $600,000 away from its lofty $2,000,000 goal. The developers figured that this was a fine time to explain not only how stealth will work in CU but also how stealth failed in past games.

                Mark Jacobs explained in the latest update blog that being killed by a stealther generates the most rage and angry email from players. But with Jacob's "bat-s**t crazy" idea regarding stealth, most of the frustration should be alleviated.

                The idea revolves around the concept of the Veil, which in simple terms is another dimension that exists alongside our own. Players can become VeilWalkers, moving in and out of the Veil and traversing over and through objects undetected by most players. But VeilWalking comes with consequences of its own in the form of VeilStalkers, players who cannot enter the Veil but can pull Walkers out of it by using skills and placing traps.

                Jacobs explained, "The Veil holds mysteries and power, but it comes with a price." What do you think? Is he bat-s**t crazy?

                MassivelyCamelot Unchained explains stealth originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 26 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                ]]>                camelotcamelot-unchainedcity-statecity-state-entertainmentclassescsedev-blogmark-jacobspvprvrstealthveilveilstalkerveilwalkerFri, 26 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST                <![CDATA[The Cathar arrive in SWTOR's next update]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/the-cathar-arrive-in-swtors-next-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/the-cathar-arrive-in-swtors-next-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/the-cathar-arrive-in-swtors-next-update/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

                SWTOR announces Cathar to come in next update
                How long has it been since BioWare announced the new player-species for Star Wars: The Old Republic? Officially, it was a year ago at E3. Today, SWTOR explained via fansites that Cathar will finally come in the next major patch, better known as GU 2.1: Customization.

                Producer Cory Butler explained that Cathar can be unlocked for 600 Cartel Coins on an account for subscribing, preferred, and free-to-play players alike. Previous species unlocks have been per server only. When asked why BioWare implemented the cat-like race, Butler told SWTORFace, "One of the reasons we chose Cathar is because they are new and unfamiliar to many of our players -- in much the same way as Rattataki and Chiss -- but have been well-received by our players."

                Check out the announcement video after the cut.

                Continue reading The Cathar arrive in SWTOR's next update

                MassivelyThe Cathar arrive in SWTOR's next update originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 26 Apr 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                ]]>                biowarecatharcustomizationeaelectronic-artsf2pfree-to-playlucasartsplayer-speciessci-fispeciesstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictortrailerupdate-2.1videoFri, 26 Apr 2013 13:30:00 EST                <![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: The SWTOR free-to-play experiment, week one]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/23/hyperspace-beacon-the-swtor-free-to-play-experiment-week-one/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/23/hyperspace-beacon-the-swtor-free-to-play-experiment-week-one/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/23/hyperspace-beacon-the-swtor-free-to-play-experiment-week-one/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                Hyperspace Beacon The SWTOR freetoplay experiment, week one
                The complaints about free-to-play and Star Wars: The Old Republic have been itching at me. Although I'm sure there are legitimate issues that players have with BioWare's F2P model, but with all the vitriol, it's hard to tell the difference between which problems are caused by BioWare and which are misconceptions generated by a dissatisfied playerbase. So I aim to challenge those perceptions. One way or another, we'll find out which side is telling the truth.

                For this project, I created a new Smuggler on The Ebon Hawk server. However, I made this character on a brand-new account with none of the perks of my real account. I plan to take this character all the way to level 50 without subscribing. Then, to top it off, I plan to play endgame as well, all without playing a dime. I believe it will be difficult, but I don't think it's impossible. My hypothesis: A player can get what he wants to play SWTOR effectively without paying any real money but by using the GTN and other in-game means to get items from the Cartel Market.

                Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: The SWTOR free-to-play experiment, week one

                MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: The SWTOR free-to-play experiment, week one originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                  ]]>                  biowarecartel-marketeaEbon-Hawkelectronic-artsf2pf2p-experimentfeaturedfirst-10-levelsfirst-ten-levelsfree-to-playfree-to-play-experimenthyperspace-beaconlucasartsopinionsci-fismugglerstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-Ebon-Hawkthe-f2p-experimentthe-free-to-play-experimentthe-old-republictorTue, 23 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST                  <![CDATA[World of Tanks' account security compromised]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/world-of-tanks-security-compromised/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/world-of-tanks-security-compromised/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/world-of-tanks-security-compromised/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                  world of tanks compromised
                  If you have a World of Tanks account, you will want to change your password. Developers report that "some personal information may have been compromised due to a security incident." Time to change the locks on your tanks, folks. Thankfully, you gain more than just personal peace of mind by taking the time to change your account security information. Wargaming.net is rewarding each customer with 300 gold when his or her password is successfully updated.

                  Changing your password is simple: Just log into your account management page and fill in the appropriate blanks. Wargaming suggests that your new password consist of capital letters, lowercase letters, and numbers. The devs also say that the longer your password is, the better your protection becomes. This a very important tip considering your Wargaming ID carries across all current and future Wargaming.net games, like the upcoming World of Warplanes.

                  MassivelyWorld of Tanks' account security compromised originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Apr 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                  ]]>                  Account-Securitychange-passwordf2pfree-to-playhistoricalplaneplanespvpsecuritysecurity-compromisedtanktankswarwargaming.netwarplanewarplanesworld-of-tanksworld-of-warplaneswotwowpFri, 19 Apr 2013 14:30:00 EST                  <![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Why I don't do SWTOR's new GSI dailies]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/hyperspace-beacon-why-i-dont-do-swtors-new-gsi-dailies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/hyperspace-beacon-why-i-dont-do-swtors-new-gsi-dailies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/hyperspace-beacon-why-i-dont-do-swtors-new-gsi-dailies/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

                  Hyperspace Beacon I don't do SWTOR's new GSI dailies
                  Nobody likes doing dailies. Dailies are a grind. Dailies are just something game designers use to keep players occupied until new content comes out. I've heard all those phrases before, and if dailies fall into one of those general categories, I don't do them. It is possible, however, that if doing dailies will help me acquire a significant reward (such as credits to buy that lightsaber hilt I've been eyeing), then I might overlook the grind to do the dailies anyway. But the key factor has to be time. In Star Wars: The Old Republic, time is your biggest investment. Despite what some players will tell you, there's a multitude of things to do at endgame. Unfortunately, a single player cannot do all of them all the time. You have to choose, and time to completion (or better yet, time to fun) weighs heavily in the decision-making process.

                  Let me help make one of those decisions for you: Don't do the GSI dailies.

                  Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Why I don't do SWTOR's new GSI dailies

                  MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Why I don't do SWTOR's new GSI dailies originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Apr 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                    ]]>                    biowaredailieseaelectronic-artsexpansionf2pfeaturedfree-to-playGalactic-Solutions-IndustriesGSIguidehutt-cartelhyperspace-beaconlucasartsopinionrise-of-the-hutt-cartelrothcsci-fiseeker-droidstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorTue, 16 Apr 2013 20:00:00 EST                    <![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: SWTOR's Shroud lifted [updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/09/hyperspace-beacon-swtors-shroud-lifted/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/09/hyperspace-beacon-swtors-shroud-lifted/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/09/hyperspace-beacon-swtors-shroud-lifted/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

                    Hyperspace Beacon SWTOR's Shroud lifted
                    I've been covering Star Wars: The Old Republic for going on three years now. My first full-time MMO was Star Wars Galaxies, although I had played a bit of Ultima Online before that. I have also played nearly every major MMO after SWG's launch, ranging from World of Warcraft to Lord of the Rings Online to City of Heroes to DC Universe Online. Although all those games had aspects that I really enjoyed, I was not able to stick with any of those other MMOs for more than a month.

                    But when I first started playing SWTOR regularly during beta, it had me hooked. Sure, there were many aspects that I didn't like; some areas made me question the strength of the game as an MMO, but I continued to play. Some people would say that it's the lightsabers that have kept me there. I would agree the hiss and buzz of a laser sword is part of the appeal. I have played through many of the class stories to a high level, and I've also watched every class story multiple times on YouTube to catch all the endings. I have personally played through the Sith Warrior and the Sith Inquisitor story twice -- not just to level up but to watch the story again. Some of the dialogue is shaky, but in my opinion, there had never been this level of storytelling in an MMO before. And I will continue to play as long as there is still story to experience.

                    Today, BioWare launches the next chapter in the story of Star Wars: The Old Republic, Rise of the Hutt Cartel. The majority of the story takes place on the Hutt-controlled world of Makeb, but we have also been given two major quest that take us all over the galaxy. Today, I would like to talk about one of those: the Shroud.

                    Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: SWTOR's Shroud lifted [updated]

                    MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: SWTOR's Shroud lifted [updated] originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 09 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                      ]]>                      biowareeaelectronic-artsexpansionf2pfeaturedfree-to-playHall-Hoodhutt-cartelhyperspace-beaconlivestreamlucasartsopinionpreviewpreviewsrise-of-the-hutt-cartelrothcsci-fishroudstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstreamstream-teamstreamingstreamteamswtorthe-old-republicthe-shroudtorTue, 09 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST                      <![CDATA[The Soapbox: Game developers actually are rockstars]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/the-soapbox-game-developers-actually-are-rockstars/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/the-soapbox-game-developers-actually-are-rockstars/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/the-soapbox-game-developers-actually-are-rockstars/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                      Soapbox Game developers actually are rockstars
                      Shortly after this column series started, Massively's Shawn "Epic Beard" Schuster planted his feet on the wooden crate to tell us that game developers are not rockstars. And as much as it frightens me to disagree with him, I believe I have a moral obligation to let him know that he was wrong. Sure, his article pointed out that it takes a team to create a spectacular game and that the personalities of the gaming industry cannot do it by themselves. As he put it, even though Sid Meier didn't code all of Civilization and Richard Garriott didn't construct all of Tabula Rasa, their names sat proudly on the box. But just like rockstars, those two names and many more developers' names belong on the covers of their respective games.

                      Rockstars from Aerosmith to Beyonce are more than the faces on the covers of their albums. In college, I used to create CD covers for local recording artists, so I can tell you first-hand that even though there was only one name on the front, there were many names on the inside jacket, just as there are many names in game credits. So how exactly are game developers like superstar musicians? The analogy fits in nearly every single way.

                      Continue reading The Soapbox: Game developers actually are rockstars

                      MassivelyThe Soapbox: Game developers actually are rockstars originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                        ]]>                        adam-gontieraerosmithAscapbeyoncebiowarebungieCivilizationdayzdouble-fineeddie-veddereditorialedmund-mcmillenfeaturedgabe-newellhaloindie-game-the-movieJustin-BieberkickstarterKnights-of-the-Old-RepublicKnights-of-the-Old-Republic-2kurt-cobainLucasArtsmatt-walstmicheal-stipeObsidian-Entertainmentop-edopinionrantrantsRichard-Garriottscott-weilandshawn-schustershroud-of-the-avatarSid-Meiersoapboxstone-temple-pilotssuper-meat-boytabula-rasateam-meatthe-soapboxthree-days-graceTim-Schafertommy-refenesUltima-OnlinevalveTue, 02 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST                        <![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Six reasons Rise of the Hutt Cartel makes SWTOR better]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/hyperspace-beacon-six-reasons-rise-of-the-hutt-cartel-makes-swt/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/hyperspace-beacon-six-reasons-rise-of-the-hutt-cartel-makes-swt/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/hyperspace-beacon-six-reasons-rise-of-the-hutt-cartel-makes-swt/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                        Hyperspace Beacon Six reasons Rise of the Hutt Cartel makes SWTOR better
                        I don't work for BioWare, and I definitely don't believe that Star Wars: The Old Republic is the greatest, most ambitious project in videogame history. However, I do believe that SWTOR is a great game, and its expansion Rise of the Hutt Cartel only makes the game better. It's not because Makeb has waterfalls. (Sure, a concept artist said that, but did that really need to make it into the final promotional video?)

                        I think fans forget that Rise of the Hutt Cartel is not just Makeb. There are multiple additions to the core game, like new armor sets and questlines. Over the past month, I've had the opportunity to play through all of it. And for the first time in a long time, I can't wait to play through the single-player questline. Let me give you the highlights of my experience and what I believe are the best parts of RotHC.

                        Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Six reasons Rise of the Hutt Cartel makes SWTOR better

                        MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Six reasons Rise of the Hutt Cartel makes SWTOR better originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                          ]]>                          biowareeaelectronic-artsexpansionf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhutt-cartelhyperspace-beaconlucasartsmakeboperationopinionraidrise-of-the-hutt-cartelrothcsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstoryswtorthe-old-republicthe-shroudtorTue, 02 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST                          <![CDATA[GDC 2013: James Ohlen on how F2P saved SWTOR]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/gdc-2013-james-ohlen-on-how-f2p-saved-swtor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/gdc-2013-james-ohlen-on-how-f2p-saved-swtor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/gdc-2013-james-ohlen-on-how-f2p-saved-swtor/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                          GDC swtor panel writeup see team email for the assets
                          If you've been following BioWare for any length of time, then you know James Ohlen. When I interviewed him a couple of years back at PAX East and again last year at the Star Wars: The Old Republic guild summit, I could feel his sincere passion for the game. Ohlen joined the SWTOR project at its inception and held the creative director position for well over half a decade. SWTOR is as much his game as anyone's.

                          As is common at the Game Developers Conference, developers speak candidly to other future game-creators about the inner workings of their studios' biggest projects. Sometimes those tales are cautionary; some are inspiring. This time, Ohlen's told the story of SWTOR, the game that currently holds the record as the second largest subscription MMO ever, and how free-to-play turned what could have been a tale of utter failure into a story of success.

                          Continue reading GDC 2013: James Ohlen on how F2P saved SWTOR

                          MassivelyGDC 2013: James Ohlen on how F2P saved SWTOR originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Mar 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                            ]]>                            biowareconconferenceconventioneaelectronic-artseventevent-coverageeventsexpansionf2pfeaturedfree-to-playgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2013gdcgdc-2013greg-zeschukhutt-carteljames-ohlenlucasartsmassively-event-coverageopinionray-muzykarise-of-the-hutt-cartelrothcsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicState-of-the-gameswtorthe-old-republictoryear-oneFri, 29 Mar 2013 09:00:00 EST                            <![CDATA[SWTOR's Jeff Hickman on the expansion and the state of the game]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/27/swtors-jeff-hickman-on-the-expansion-and-the-state-of-the-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/27/swtors-jeff-hickman-on-the-expansion-and-the-state-of-the-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/27/swtors-jeff-hickman-on-the-expansion-and-the-state-of-the-game/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                            Massively Interview SWTOR's Jeff Hickman reveals more about the Cartel expansion
                            The Massively Bothan spy network is at it again; there are just too many unanswered questions about the new Star Wars: The Old Republic expansion. We know the primary focus of Rise of the Hutt Cartel is on the contested world of Makeb, but what about these rumors of additional content? Does this expansion have more to offer? We cornered Executive Producer Jeff Hickman and interrogated him until he spilled the beans. And since our IT-O droid was feeling frisky and our Bavo Six supply was ample, we asked Hickman a couple of question regarding the state of the game blog he posted on the SWTOR website as well.

                            Fortunately, he answered our questions before we were forced to test the firepower of the Massively battlestation on his home planet of Alderaan. Now we can reveal his answers to the whole galaxy.

                            Continue reading SWTOR's Jeff Hickman on the expansion and the state of the game

                            MassivelySWTOR's Jeff Hickman on the expansion and the state of the game originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Mar 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                              ]]>                              biowareeaelectronic-artsexpansionf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhutt-cartelinterviewinterviewsjeff-hickmanlucasartsrise-of-the-hutt-cartelrothcsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorWed, 27 Mar 2013 17:00:00 EST                              <![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: A wretched operation of Scum and Villainy, part 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/hyperspace-beacon-a-wretched-operation-of-scum-and-villainy-pa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/hyperspace-beacon-a-wretched-operation-of-scum-and-villainy-pa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/hyperspace-beacon-a-wretched-operation-of-scum-and-villainy-pa/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

                              Hyperspace Beacon A wretched operation of Scum and Villainy, part 2
                              Thankfully, we can all stop wondering when the expansion for Star Wars: The Old Republic is releasing and get down to the business of preparing our characters for the new content. Part of preparing for Rise of the Hutt Cartel is knowing what you're getting into when it comes to the new operation. A couple of weeks ago, I had the opportunity to run Scum and Villainy with Memories of Xendor, one of the top guilds in the game. You might remember these guys from my Hyperspace Beacon about the tools of the raid. This group created the real-time combat parser that my own guild and I use regularly.

                              Last week, I reported that the first three bosses were just the calm before the storm. That storm begins right away with the Operations Chief, thunders mightily with Olok, gusts onward with the Warlords, then reaches its pinnacle with Dreadmaster Styrak.

                              Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: A wretched operation of Scum and Villainy, part 2

                              MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: A wretched operation of Scum and Villainy, part 2 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Mar 2013 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                ]]>                                biowarecartel-warlordsDreadmaster-Styrakeaelectronic-artsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playguideguideshyperspace-beaconlucasartsmemories-of-xendormoxolokoperationoperations-chiefopinionraidrise-of-the-hutt-cartelrothcsci-fiscum-and-villainystar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorTue, 26 Mar 2013 20:30:00 EST                                <![CDATA[Massively's hands-on with SWTOR expansion Rise of the Hutt Cartel]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/massivelys-hands-on-with-swtor-expansion-rise-of-the-hutt-carte/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/massivelys-hands-on-with-swtor-expansion-rise-of-the-hutt-carte/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/massivelys-hands-on-with-swtor-expansion-rise-of-the-hutt-carte/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

                                A day with the SWTOR expansion Rise of the Hutt Cartel
                                Last week, BioWare invited a crew of gaming journalists to Austin to experience the latest content for Star Wars: The Old Republic. While I couldn't personally make the trip, BioWare invited me to listen in on the presentation given by Executive Producer Jeff Hickman. The journalists in Austin paired up and began their journey on the Hutt-controlled planet of Makeb, while I, having already been testing Rise of the Hutt Cartel for a few weeks, began writing my impressions of what I saw on that planet.

                                Before I begin my report, I would like to lay down a couple of disclaimers. In order for me to tell the story behind Makeb, I will have to give some spoilers about the main game. If you haven't completed it, and you don't want to know how it ends, then you will not want to read the first section after the break. Secondly, if you are looking for Rise of the Hutt Cartel to fix all the issues and emotional setbacks you had with SWTOR in the first place, then you might be a little disappointed. However, if you loved the storytelling and overall gameplay of vanilla TOR, then you will absolutely love this expansion.

                                Continue reading Massively's hands-on with SWTOR expansion Rise of the Hutt Cartel

                                MassivelyMassively's hands-on with SWTOR expansion Rise of the Hutt Cartel originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Mar 2013 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                  ]]>                                  alexander-freedbiowareeaelectronic-artsexpansionExpansionsf2pfeaturedfirst-impressionsfree-to-playhands-onimpressionsjeff-hickmanlucasartsopinionpreviewpreviewsrise-of-the-hutt-cartelrothcsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorMon, 25 Mar 2013 12:30:00 EST                                  <![CDATA[SWTOR's Hutt Cartel expansion launching April 14]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/swtor-hutt-cartel-expansion-launching-april-14/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/swtor-hutt-cartel-expansion-launching-april-14/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/swtor-hutt-cartel-expansion-launching-april-14/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

                                  SWTOR expansion receives a launch date, producer gives us the deets
                                  Many Bothans died to bring you this information: The first expansion for Star Wars: The Republic, Rise of the Hutt Cartel, will launch on April 14th, 2013.

                                  Our spy network tells us that Makeb continues the player's personal story where it left off at the end of the base game. Whether you're a Jedi Knight who just finished an epic battle on the Imperial homeworld of Dromund Kaas or a Sith Lord who has taken her seat with the Dark Council, the next step is the Hutt-controlled planet of Makeb. For the longest time, the Hutts have remained neutral during the whole galactic conflict, yet recently, they have found new boldness.

                                  Besides Makeb, RotHC brings with it a new level cap (up to 55), at least one brand-new ability for each class, multiple new questlines (on and off Makeb), new level-55 flashpoints, a new level-55 operation, and new gear. Additionally, if you pre-order before 7:00 p.m. EDT on April 13th, you will receive three exclusive in-game items: the title Scourge of the Hutts, a Makrin Seedling mini-pet, a Dr. Oggurobb Hutt holostatue.

                                  We've also obtained a short video with Lead Writer Hall Hood and Lead Concept Artist Ryan Dening that you can view after the break.

                                  Gallery: SWTOR Rise of the Hutt Cartel

                                  Continue reading SWTOR's Hutt Cartel expansion launching April 14

                                  MassivelySWTOR's Hutt Cartel expansion launching April 14 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                    ]]>                                    biowareeaelectronic-artsexpansionf2pfree-to-playHall-Hoodlaunchlaunch-datelucasartsMakebrise-of-the-hutt-cartelrothcRyan-Deningsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorMon, 25 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST                                    <![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: SWTOR, a wretched operation of Scum and Villainy, part 1]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/19/hyperspace-beacon-swtor-a-wretched-operation-of-scum-and-villa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/19/hyperspace-beacon-swtor-a-wretched-operation-of-scum-and-villa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/19/hyperspace-beacon-swtor-a-wretched-operation-of-scum-and-villa/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

                                    Hyperspace Beacon SWTOR a wretched operation of Scum and Villainy, part 1
                                    Sometimes it's good to be me. When I mentioned that I had not had a chance to test out the latest operation in Star Wars: The Old Republic Rise of the Hutt Cartel on the public test server, one of my Twitch followers known as Jedi Consular put me in touch with the Memories of Xendor guild. You might remember that guild from my column about the tools of the raid. Its members made the real-time parser that I use all the time. MoX invited me to join a 16-man Scum and Villainy operation last Thursday. When we started the raid, I was shocked to find out that we were running hardmode. My groupmates told me they don't even run storymodes anymore. They skip right to the most difficult.

                                    I want to give a big thank you to Tensa, Jedi Consular, and MoX guild for helping make this article possible. Because of this group of awesome gamers, I experienced the complete raid. From Dash'roode to Dread Master Styrak, we fought every boss.

                                    SWTOR has expanded as a raiding game; each boss has its own merits and shows the game's growth from the previous raids. Read on to get my breakdown. However, I will warn you: There are major mechanics and story spoilers.

                                    Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: SWTOR, a wretched operation of Scum and Villainy, part 1

                                    MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: SWTOR, a wretched operation of Scum and Villainy, part 1 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 Mar 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                      ]]>                                      biowaredash-roodedashroodeeaelectronic-artsendgameexpansionExpansionsf2pfeaturedFirst-Impressionsfree-to-playhyperspace-beaconimpressionsjedi-consularlucasartsmemories-of-xendorMOXoperationopinionpveraidraidingreviewrise-of-the-hutt-cartelrothcsci-fiscum-and-villainystar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtortensathe-old-republicthrashertitan-6titan-sixtorTue, 19 Mar 2013 16:00:00 EST                                      <![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Examining the gear of SWTOR 2.0]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/12/hyperspace-beacon-examining-the-gear-of-swtor-2-0/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/12/hyperspace-beacon-examining-the-gear-of-swtor-2-0/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/12/hyperspace-beacon-examining-the-gear-of-swtor-2-0/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

                                      Hyperspace Beacon Examing the gear of SWTOR 20
                                      The developers at BioWare turned a corner when they redesigned the commendation system for Star Wars: The Old Republic. Most players seem to welcome the simplicity and practicality of the new system coming with 2.0. Reducing the number of comms players have to track allows players to focus on playing the game and not on managing currency.

                                      Unfortunately, the gear progression is a bit more like separating M&Ms, making you wonder why there are more yellows than blues and whether there's really a difference between dark brown and light brown. Not to mention that SWTOR proves once again that MMO designers have no idea how to make a decent helmet. PvP gear also has me wondering what returning players are going to think about having to regrind again so soon after a major change with Update 1.6.

                                      Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Examining the gear of SWTOR 2.0

                                      MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Examining the gear of SWTOR 2.0 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 12 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                        ]]>                                        2.0armorbiowarechartseaelectronic-artsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playgearhyperspace-beaconlucasartsopinionPvEPvPraise-of-the-hutt-cartelrothcsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstatsswtortabletablesthe-old-republictorTue, 12 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST                                        <![CDATA[Learning to Livestream: Aesthetics]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/learning-to-livestream-aesthetics/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/learning-to-livestream-aesthetics/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/learning-to-livestream-aesthetics/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                                        Learning to Livestream Aesthetics
                                        We hear the phrase "you never get a second chance to make a first impression" all the time, right? Unfortunately, our first streams always seem to be the most buggy and give us the most trouble. I know if I had it my way, I'd rather have my audience catch my stream now rather than when I first started. Of course, we don't have that luxury all the time. What can we do to give that first impression an extra boost?

                                        In past Learning to Livestream articles, I've addressed the issues regarding the quality of the stream itself. I won't rehash that. Instead, I will talk about one of my favorite subjects: graphics. The first part of my college and professional career was in graphic design -- mostly for print -- but in today's market, graphic designers cannot help but at least dabble in web and television graphics. It should come as no surprise that I did the same. Before you go thinking that you have to have some outlandish art degree to create graphics for your stream, finish reading the rest of this article. I'll show you a few tips to better your stream's first impression.

                                        Continue reading Learning to Livestream: Aesthetics

                                        MassivelyLearning to Livestream: Aesthetics originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 08 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                          ]]>                                          BioWareDavid-Desidc-universe-onlineDCUOEAfeaturedfree-realmsguideirljasmineJasmine-Hruschaklearning-to-livestreamLiveStreammike-fosteropinionPew-Die-PiepsykopigSOESonySony-Online-Entertainmentstar-wars-the-old-republicstreamingSWTORThe-Stream-TeamWarner-BrosxsplitFri, 08 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST                                          <![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: SWTOR consolidates comms]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/05/hyperspace-beacon-swtor-consolidates-comms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/05/hyperspace-beacon-swtor-consolidates-comms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/05/hyperspace-beacon-swtor-consolidates-comms/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

                                          Hyperspace Beacon SWTOR consolidates comms
                                          Star Wars: The Old Republic's Rise of the Hutt Cartel hit the public test server last week, prompting a lot of players to rush to see the latest changes to this Star Wars MMORPG. Unfortunately, the majority of content slated to come out with this expansion has not been released publicly -- namely, the new planet of Makeb. Fortunately, we did get a sneak peek into the new gear progression as well as the Scum and Villainy operation.

                                          Gear progression is a common subject for this column and with good reason. Although there is skill involved when playing SWTOR, gear is the great equalizer. As in many themepark MMOs, a player's gear greatly determines whether or not he can defeat specific instances or bosses. Because of this, how a player earns gear and which gear happens to be the best at any given moment becomes top priority when new content comes out. With an additional five levels being added with Rise of the Hutt Cartel, gear becomes especially important. Let's examine how everything breaks down.

                                          Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: SWTOR consolidates comms

                                          MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: SWTOR consolidates comms originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 05 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                            ]]>                                            2.0biowarecommendationsdailieseaelectronic-artsf2pfeaturedflashpointsfree-to-playgearguidehyperspace-beaconlucasartsoperationsopinionrise-of-the-hutt-cartelrothcsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorSWTOR-2.0the-old-republictorTue, 05 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST                                            <![CDATA[Learning to livestream: Protips]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/learning-to-livestream-protips/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/learning-to-livestream-protips/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/learning-to-livestream-protips/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                                            Learning to livestream Protips
                                            It's possible that you can download XSplit or Open Broadcaster Software and immediately start streaming. You would be one of the lucky ones. Sure, most of the software is easy to set up initially, but ask anybody who has been streaming for any extended period of time and he'll tell you that no long-term stream goes off without a hitch every time.

                                            Thankfully, Massively has an entire team of long-term streamers. Most of us have been livestreaming for a couple of years. What's amazing is that we are still learning new things. The Stream Team remains in constant communication with each other; we lean on each other for advice and tips. In fact, I'm going to pass on some of these tips to you now in this third edition of Learning to Livestream.

                                            Continue reading Learning to livestream: Protips

                                            MassivelyLearning to livestream: Protips originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 01 Mar 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                              ]]>                                              advicebeau-hindmancomputer-configurationDavid-DesiDylan-TehranifeaturedGGravesguideJasmine-Hruschaklearning-to-livestreamlivestreamopinionprotipspsykopigstream-teamThe-Stream-TeamFri, 01 Mar 2013 14:00:00 EST                                              <![CDATA[SMITE's newest god controls crowds and water]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/27/smites-newest-god-controls-crowds-and-water/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/27/smites-newest-god-controls-crowds-and-water/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/27/smites-newest-god-controls-crowds-and-water/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                                              smite god reveal, see team email
                                              "Release the Kraken!" Yes, it was Zeus who said those words, but it was Poseidon who did the actual releasing. In Hi-Rez Studios' third-person multiplayer online battle arena SMITE, this god of the deep will take center stage in the patch dropping tomorrow.

                                              Poseidon's water-based abilities range from his passive wave-riding movement ability, Changing Tides, to his ultimate, Release the Kraken. Poseidon controls the battle field by slowing or impairing enemy movements. Besides dealing massive damage, his ultimate slows enemies in the blast radius, and his Whirlpool ability draws all enemies in the area toward the center of a raging maelstrom. Those players who enjoy playing support roles will definitely want to give this god a try tomorrow.

                                              Check out the full introductory video after the break.

                                              Continue reading SMITE's newest god controls crowds and water

                                              MassivelySMITE's newest god controls crowds and water originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Feb 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                ]]>                                                championclassescrowd-controlgodhi-rezhi-rez-studiosMOBAmultiplayer-online-battle-arenaposeidonSMITEtrailervideoWed, 27 Feb 2013 21:00:00 EST                                                <![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: The SWTOR awards]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/26/hyperspace-beacon-the-swtor-awards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/26/hyperspace-beacon-the-swtor-awards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/26/hyperspace-beacon-the-swtor-awards/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

                                                Hyperspace Beacon the SWTOR awards
                                                The Oscars were given out two nights ago. Celebrities, actors, and film crews dressed in their red-carpet best to be handed a 13.5-inch golden statue of a naked bald man. As I heard these writers and directors give thanks to various loved-ones and talent agencies, I thought about Star Wars: The Old Republic. (Sad. I know.) SWTOR contains some of the best writing and storytelling in all of MMOs. In my opinion, it's better than some of movies represented on that stage. Sure, it didn't impact the world like Zero Dark Thirty, but it did impact my world, and I'd like to recognize some of the best parts of this MMORPG.

                                                Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: The SWTOR awards

                                                MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: The SWTOR awards originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Feb 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                  ]]>                                                  alexander-freedawardsbest-ofbest-of-swtorbiowarecharles-boyddungeonseaelectronic-artsesselesf2pfeaturedflashpointsfree-to-playhall-hoodhyperspace-beaconimperial-agentinstanceskaraggas-palacelucasartsoperationsOperator-IXopinionpuzzle-bossraidsRishasci-fismugglerstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorwritingTue, 26 Feb 2013 17:00:00 EST                                                  <![CDATA[Learning to livestream: Configuring the software]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/learning-to-livestream-configuring-the-software/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/learning-to-livestream-configuring-the-software/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/learning-to-livestream-configuring-the-software/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                                                  Learning to livestream Configuring the software
                                                  Last week in this Learning to Livestream miniseries, we pulled apart my livestreaming computer, analyzed each part, and explained why I bought the pieces that I did. I loved the comments as well. Different players have differing opinions of which pieces are needed for which purpose. I appreciate the input; it makes us better streamers.

                                                  The one key ingredient that I did not talk about last week was the software. Encoding and uploading software obviously play a key role in how well the stream works and the audience's enjoyment of your broadcast. Currently, the Stream Team uses XSplit for the majority of its broadcasts, so I will spend most of my space today explaining how to set that up. But there are alternatives. What do other pieces of software have to offer, and is there a setup that reduces the CPU lag for older systems? Continue on and we'll get into the nitty-gritty of livesteaming software.

                                                  Continue reading Learning to livestream: Configuring the software

                                                  MassivelyLearning to livestream: Configuring the software originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Feb 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                    ]]>                                                    ElgatofeaturedFFsplitFlash-Media-EncoderFlash-Media-Live-EncoderFMEGameCaptureGameCaptureHdguidelearning-to-livestreamlivestreamlivestream-setuplivestreaminglivestreamsmassively-metamassively-tvmetaMMO-gamingMMO-gaming-setupmv-tvmvtvopinionstreamstream-teamstreamersstreamingstreamteamThe-Stream-TeamTwitchtwitch-tvVHScrCapVidBlastervideo-capturexsplitFri, 22 Feb 2013 19:00:00 EST                                                    <![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: SWTOR reinvents the Ilum wheel]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/19/hyperspace-beacon-swtor-reinvents-the-ilum-wheel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/19/hyperspace-beacon-swtor-reinvents-the-ilum-wheel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/19/hyperspace-beacon-swtor-reinvents-the-ilum-wheel/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

                                                    Hyperspace Beacon SWTOR reinvents the Ilum wheel
                                                    For about a year, Star Wars: The Old Republic fans have been waiting to see how the BioWare design team would reinvent Ilum. The first incarnation discouraged PvP by making the objectives give no PvP incentive. It was easier, faster, and more beneficial for players to just ignore enemy players. The second incarnation failed even harder. At the time, there was a major disparity between the two factions, so the larger faction would easily overpower the smaller faction. This did not actually encourage PvP either because the smaller faction just stopped showing up and only the larger faction benefited from the zone. At that point, BioWare decided to remove all objectives from the area and work on a revamp.

                                                    Last Tuesday, players were introduced to the third incarnation of the Ilum PvP zone. This time around, the zone contains a mix of group-on-group PvP, world bosses, and of course, PvE fetch/kill quests. How does it stack up to the previous incarnations? How does the reputation grind and Gree event fit into this equation? Should former players return to the game to try out the changes?

                                                    Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: SWTOR reinvents the Ilum wheel

                                                    MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: SWTOR reinvents the Ilum wheel originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 Feb 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                      ]]>                                                      biowareeaelectronic-artsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playGreehyperspace-beaconIlumimpressionsin-game-eventk-lor-sluglucasartsopen-world-pvpopinionPvePvPsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorwampaTue, 19 Feb 2013 20:00:00 EST                                                      <![CDATA[Learning to livestream: The ultimate setup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/15/learn-to-livestream-the-ultimate-setup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/15/learn-to-livestream-the-ultimate-setup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/15/learn-to-livestream-the-ultimate-setup/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                                                      Learn to livestream The ultimate setup
                                                      The first incarnation of Massively's Stream Team hit the interwebs almost two years ago. We've learned a lot about livestreaming and working with the different equipment since then. And a common question from the chatroom during our streams is, "What is your set-up?" Recently, I purchased a new computer system with the primary purpose of making my streams look good. If you didn't see my stream this week with Star Wars: The Old Republic, then hop over to our Twitch channel. It looks really smooth, and as I said in the stream, that's not even my whole setup.

                                                      Over the next few weeks, we will explore the ins and outs and the ups and downs of livestreaming MMOs in a new miniseries called Learning to Livestream. This week, I will introduce you to my rig and why I made the choices I made when purchasing the equipment. Then, in the following weeks, I will ask my Stream Teammates how they have set up their systems. It's also important for us to talk about streaming from a less-than-optimal system. I'm sure you'll also be interested in streaming from a console, so we'll cover that too, and then finish up by discussing my area of expertise: graphics.

                                                      First, let me introduce you to my new baby.

                                                      Continue reading Learning to livestream: The ultimate setup

                                                      MassivelyLearning to livestream: The ultimate setup originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                        ]]>                                                        asusElgatofeaturedgeforcegtx-660-tilearning-to-livestreamlivestreamlivestream-setuplivestreaminglivestreamsmassively-metamassively-tvmetaMMO-gamingMMO-gaming-setupmv-tvmvtvnvidiaRAID-drivessolid-state-drivestreamstream-teamstreamersstreamingstreamteamThe-Stream-TeamTwitchtwitch-tvvideo-capturexsplitFri, 15 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST                                                        <![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Making a deal with the Hutts in SWTOR]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/hyperspace-beacon-making-a-deal-with-the-hutts-in-swtor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/hyperspace-beacon-making-a-deal-with-the-hutts-in-swtor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/hyperspace-beacon-making-a-deal-with-the-hutts-in-swtor/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

                                                        Hyperspace Beacon Dealing with the Hutts in SWTOR
                                                        Hutts. When you say that word to a layman, he probably thinks that you're talking about grass-topped houses, but if you say that word to the Star Wars fan, the image that springs to his mind is Jabba the Hutt. The giant green and yellow slug was mentioned all the way back in 1977 when Star Wars was first released. In fact, he was supposed to show up in that movie, but due to budget restraints, the special effects department couldn't mask over the late Declan Mulholland. The scene was later added back in for the special edition, but it really nullified the mystery of Jabba and made the Hutt appear to be more of a joke than the dangerous gangster that he should have been.

                                                        Hutts. In Star Wars: The Old Republic, Nem'ro is the central figure to both the Bounty Hunter and the Imperial Agent storylines for the first 10 levels. On the Republic side, you run into an overarching story on Nar Shaddaa involving Bareesh the Hutt and Republic Ambassador Averdon, one that pits you against warring criminal organizations. These gargantuan blobs are central to both the Republic and Imperial stories on Quesh and the endgame operation for Karagga's Palace. And now, the first SWTOR expansion will center around the Hutts and the planet of Makeb.

                                                        Hutts. Where did they come from? How did they come to power? Are they different in TOR than they are in the movies? Let's take a moment to explore these criminal overlords.

                                                        Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Making a deal with the Hutts in SWTOR

                                                        MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Making a deal with the Hutts in SWTOR originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 12 Feb 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                          ]]>                                                          biowareeaelectronic-artsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhuttballHuttshyperspace-beaconlorelucasartsopinionrise-of-the-hutt-cartelroleplayroleplayingsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstoryswtorswtor-expansionthe-old-republictorTue, 12 Feb 2013 18:00:00 EST                                                          <![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: What would you like added to SWTOR's cash shop?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/05/hyperspace-beacon-what-would-you-like-added-to-swtors-cash-sho/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/05/hyperspace-beacon-what-would-you-like-added-to-swtors-cash-sho/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/05/hyperspace-beacon-what-would-you-like-added-to-swtors-cash-sho/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                                                          Hyperspace Beacon What would you like added to SWTOR's cash shop
                                                          I wondered for a long time whether western MMOs could survive a free-to-play transition, especially since many of them were bent on having both a cash shop and subscription fee. Star Trek Online is a key example of this. You couldn't even play that game without a subscription, and yet it still had a cash shop. Then you also had hybrid models like EverQuest II and Lord of The Rings Online, which didn't require subscriptions but seemed to force players into one. And despite my initial thinking, even these games thrived -- STO especially surprised me. Now, Star Wars: The Old Republic has picked up a similar model, and despite the negativity from the comments on gaming news sites, Electronic Arts says it is pleased with the results. In fact, SWTOR was listed as a major contributor to the company's $185 million in F2P revenue.

                                                          As I've stated before, I don't really spend money in SWTOR's cash shop. But at the same time, I don't have any moral opposition to it. Plus BioWare is giving me 600 Cartel Coins a month thanks to my subscriptions and security key. It's just easier for me to buy items from the Galactic Trade Market, and no item on the Cartel Market has excited me enough to buy it right away. I know that eventually everything will end up on the GTN, so I just wait.

                                                          However, since this model seems to be working well for the game, I thought about where there could be an item that would compel me to immediately buy it from the Cartel Market. I also asked some of my friends whether there are any items that they would immediately buy if they were to appear on the Cartel Market. I received some very interesting results.

                                                          Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: What would you like added to SWTOR's cash shop?

                                                          MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: What would you like added to SWTOR's cash shop? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 05 Feb 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                            ]]>                                                            barber-shopBarbershopbiowarecartel-coinscartel-marketcash-shopcash-shop-itemscharacter-transferdye-kitsdye-setseaelectronic-artsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhood-togglehyperspace-beaconLegacylegacy-weaponslucasartsopinionRace-Changesci-fispecies-changestar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorTue, 05 Feb 2013 11:00:00 EST                                                            <![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Breaking into SWTOR's roleplay community]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/29/hyperspace-beacon-breaking-into-swtors-roleplay-community/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/29/hyperspace-beacon-breaking-into-swtors-roleplay-community/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/29/hyperspace-beacon-breaking-into-swtors-roleplay-community/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

                                                            Hyperspace Beacon Breaking into SWTOR's roleplay community
                                                            I've hit a wall in my personal gameplay. Most people run into it eventually when they are dedicated to one MMO like I am. Sometimes, I will move on to another game. Guild Wars 2 and DC Universe Online are calling me pretty strongly again. The problem I'd face if I did that is that I would be leaving behind my guild and the friends I have in Star Wars: The Old Republic. Not that I'm opposed to playing a game solo, it's just that my guild is the biggest reason I still play SWTOR.

                                                            I still want to play the game, but my fourth alt is near 50, PvP disappoints me because of the Elite War Hero grind, and my raid group seems to be stuck on a single boss fight. It's not that I don't like the game; it's just disappointing at several turns. So how am I going to keep this game interesting? Well, I didn't join a roleplay server so that I can pwn noobs in PvP; I joined because of the community.

                                                            Perhaps some of you are in a similar situation. Maybe you're looking for something else to do in the game, but don't know how to get started. Maybe you've always wanted to break into roleplay, but you weren't sure where to start. If so I have some tips for you.

                                                            Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Breaking into SWTOR's roleplay community

                                                            MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Breaking into SWTOR's roleplay community originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 29 Jan 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                              ]]>                                                              biowarecantina-roleplaycantina-rpcarrick-stationdealers-deneaelectronic-artsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhyperspace-beaconlucasartsnexus-roomopinionroleplayroleplay-basicsroleplayingrprpersRPingsci-fislippery-slopesstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorSWTOR-RPthe-old-republictorvaiken-stationTue, 29 Jan 2013 20:00:00 EST                                                              <![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Givin' SWTOR props]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/22/hyperspace-beacon-givin-swtor-props/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/22/hyperspace-beacon-givin-swtor-props/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/22/hyperspace-beacon-givin-swtor-props/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                                                              Hyperspace Beacon Givin' SWTOR props
                                                              All MMOs could use improvements, but that doesn't negate what they have done right. And despite the negativity, SWTOR is doing well. In fact, in a recent forum post Systems Designer Damion Schubert said that the free-to-play push was working quite well: "The success of the market (and it has been quite successful) has given us the time and resources to do some ambitious things on Makeb and plan some very ambitious things beyond." Without even looking at the specific numbers, I can tell that the Cartel Market cash shop is working really well because of the sheer number of items I see on the Galactic Trade Network (auction house). As much as I hate to admit it, if the Cartel Market does well, so does the rest of the game.

                                                              I also see other hints that BioWare might be changing up its game a little bit. Direct discussion with the community appears to be on the rise, and BioWare has also admitted and is attempting to properly fix its mistakes. In the wake of Stephen Reid's departure, direct communication had become lax, and besides Ilum, I don't remember BioWare ever truly admitting to mistakes.

                                                              Let's take a look at a few of the changes BioWare has already made this year. Maybe it will give us a clue as to where SWTOR is going in the near future.

                                                              Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Givin' SWTOR props

                                                              MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Givin' SWTOR props originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 Jan 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                ]]>                                                                armorbiowarecartel-coinscartel-marketcash-shopdamion-schuberteaelectronic-artsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhyperspace-beaconilumlucasartsopen-world-pvpopinionPvProleplaysci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorTue, 22 Jan 2013 13:00:00 EST                                                                <![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: SWTOR's stunlocked]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/15/hyperspace-beacon-swtors-stunlocked/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/15/hyperspace-beacon-swtors-stunlocked/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/15/hyperspace-beacon-swtors-stunlocked/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

                                                                Hyperspace Beacon SWTOR's stunlocked!
                                                                How many times have you booted up Star Wars: The Old Republic to have a little fun in PvP only to be frustrated by certain mechanics? How many times have you been playing the Alderaan warzone, or worse, the Ancient Hypergate warzone, and you are about to cap the node but are suddenly impeded because your character has fallen asleep? Of course, you know there's an Assassin or Shadow there using Mind Trap or Mind Maze.

                                                                Your first instinct is to set yourself free using your stun break, but it occurs to you that if you use your stun break, then the opponent is just going to use that ability again, and then you won't have any way to break free. However, if you don't break free, then he will cap the node you're supposed to be guarding. It looks to me as if your enemy just hit his I-win button.

                                                                If it isn't already obvious, today I'd like to talk about stuns and other movement-impairing effects in SWTOR. Although it'd be really easy to write these abilities off as broken, I believe that there are some misunderstandings about the resolve system and a couple of simple fixes would make the system more palatable to the average player.

                                                                Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: SWTOR's stunlocked

                                                                MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: SWTOR's stunlocked originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Jan 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                  ]]>                                                                  Austin-Peckenpaughbiowareeaelectronic-artsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhyperspace-beaconlucasartsopinionpvpresolveresolve-barresolve-systemrob-hinklesci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstunlockswtorthe-old-republicthere-is-no-stunlock-in-SWTORtorTue, 15 Jan 2013 19:00:00 EST                                                                  <![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: My top five wishes for SWTOR roleplay]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/08/hyperspace-beacon-my-top-five-wishes-for-swtor-roleplay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/08/hyperspace-beacon-my-top-five-wishes-for-swtor-roleplay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/08/hyperspace-beacon-my-top-five-wishes-for-swtor-roleplay/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                                                                  Hyperspace Beacon My top five wishes for SWTOR roleplay
                                                                  A few weeks back, I was nostalgically asked, "Remember those days when talking about Star Wars: The Old Republic was all about speculation?" Those days might be long gone now, but the beginning of a new year always prompts a resurgence of dreams of the year to come. And although I still love playing SWTOR, I believe there are many areas that could use some touching up.

                                                                  I attended a fantastic roleplay event this past Saturday on The Ebon Hawk server. It was just a social event, but there were added touches like prizes and an in-character scavenger hunt. As a member of the planning crew, I took a look back at what could make an event like this better. The execution of the event could be tightened up, but there are several potential additions to the game itself that would have improved the festivities. This prompted me to think about what improvements could make roleplay better in general.

                                                                  So here it is: my top five wishes for roleplay in Star Wars: The Old Republic.

                                                                  Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: My top five wishes for SWTOR roleplay

                                                                  MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: My top five wishes for SWTOR roleplay originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 Jan 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                    ]]>                                                                    armorbiowarechat-bubbleseaelectronic-artsemoteseventsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playgroup-PvPhyperspace-beaconlucasartsopinionPvProleplayroleplayingRPsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-ebon-hawkthe-old-republictop-5torTue, 08 Jan 2013 13:00:00 EST                                                                    <![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: What does the future hold for SWTOR?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/01/hyperspace-beacon-what-does-the-future-hold-for-swtor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/01/hyperspace-beacon-what-does-the-future-hold-for-swtor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/01/hyperspace-beacon-what-does-the-future-hold-for-swtor/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

                                                                    Hyperspace Beacon What does the future hold for SWTOR
                                                                    I really want Star Wars: The Old Republic to succeed in 2013. On the whole, I believe it's carved out its own niche in the MMO genre. Granted, it's not the niche EA or the developers had hoped for, but I believe it to be solid and stable at this point. Without offering a lot of new content, the current servers have had consistently high populations since the game converted to its free-to-play model. We are also witnessing a new group of fans come to the game, fans who appear to be a little less jaded about the years of pre-launch hype.

                                                                    This week, I want to spend a bit of time discussing the different aspects of SWTOR and give my predictions for the future. The developers of the game like to say that combat, exploration, progression, and story are the four MMO pillars. But as the game has grown over the last year, I have found that the true four pillars are story, PvE, PvP, and social interaction. With each update to the game, these seem to be the biggest focal points of development as well as the four areas the community seems the most divided over.

                                                                    Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: What does the future hold for SWTOR?

                                                                    MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: What does the future hold for SWTOR? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Jan 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                      ]]>                                                                      biowareeaelectronic-artsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playguild-captial-shipsguildshyperspace-beaconlucasartsMMO-pillarsopinionpredictionspvepvproleplayingsame-gender-romance-arcssci-fiSGRSGRASGRAsstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstoryswtorthe-old-republictorTue, 01 Jan 2013 10:00:00 EST                                                                      <![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: A 2012 SWTOR reflection]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/25/hyperspace-beacon-a-2012-swtor-reflection/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/25/hyperspace-beacon-a-2012-swtor-reflection/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/25/hyperspace-beacon-a-2012-swtor-reflection/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                                                                      Hyperspace Beacon A 2012 SWTOR reflection
                                                                      To say that this year has been interesting for Star Wars: The Old Republic would be a major understatement. I think it's safe to say that in the course of this year this game has gone from being one of the most loved games to one of the most hated. Maybe I just like rooting for the underdog, but I still love the game. (There are other reasons, of course.) Love the game or hate it, 2012 has been a wild ride for the game and this column.

                                                                      As this is the last Hyperspace Beacon of the year year, I'd like to take a moment to reflect on some of the past opinions and predictions I held, then test them against my current stance or the truth behind what happened.

                                                                      Before I get into the meat of this column, I want to make mention of an event. The Imperials of The Ebon Hawk server are holding a gala in the name of Darth Nox, commemorating the one-year anniversary of her ascension to the Dark Council. Players are invited to come ready to roleplay and participate in in-character games. Nox will conduct a scavenger hunt, items will be up for raffle and auction, and every participant should walk away with something. If you were looking for an opportunity to get into roleplay or just have some fun, be sure to visit the market area of Dromund Kaas (instance 1, coordinates: 20, 200) at 6:00 p.m. EST on Saturday, January 5th, 2013.

                                                                      Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: A 2012 SWTOR reflection

                                                                      MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: A 2012 SWTOR reflection originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 25 Dec 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                        ]]>                                                                        2012best-ofbiowarebug-fixingeaebon-hawkelectronic-artseventf2pfeaturedfree-to-playguild-bankguild-banksguildshyperspace-beaconjames-ohlenlucasartsopinionPredictionsreflectionroleplaysci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-Ebon-Hawkthe-old-republictorTue, 25 Dec 2012 16:00:00 EST