Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[The Soapbox: Your MMO is going to die, and that's OK]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/the-soapbox-your-mmo-is-going-to-die-and-thats-ok/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/the-soapbox-your-mmo-is-going-to-die-and-thats-ok/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/the-soapbox-your-mmo-is-going-to-die-and-thats-ok/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

City of Heroes
There is no question about it: Bringing games online has fundamentally changed the way we play and interact with one another. Thanks to the web, we can share games with our friends from thousands of miles away. We can hang out with people who live in other countries and learn about human beings who exist in completely different realities. Playing MMOs is an incredible, unique experience that gives players an honest chance at turning their favorite personal hobby into a full-on social engagement.

For any of these experiences to be possible, a game must be connected to the web. Without a server humming away in someone's basement or the cold, dark corridors of an MMO developer's hushed office, the games we talk about here on Massively simply wouldn't exist. The side effect of this online requirement is that every online game, no matter how popular it may be at the moment, has a finite lifespan. Eventually, your favorite game is going to die.

This is a good thing. Here's why.

Continue reading The Soapbox: Your MMO is going to die, and that's OK

MassivelyThe Soapbox: Your MMO is going to die, and that's OK originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 May 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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    ]]>    city-of-heroesclosuresdeatheditorialfeaturedop-edopinionrantrantsriftsoapboxstar-wars-galaxiessunsetsunsetsthe-soapboxWorld-of-WarcraftTue, 07 May 2013 17:00:00 EST    <![CDATA[The Soapbox: My lore problem]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/the-soapbox-my-lore-problem/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/the-soapbox-my-lore-problem/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/the-soapbox-my-lore-problem/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

    Guild Wars 2
    "In the distant forests of El'quen, a dark evil stirs. Marrowgore the Unhunter, imprisoned for a thousand years in Cauldron Lake by the Eye of Son'drak, has broken free. Now, he and his evil BoneSlurpers stage an all-out war on the United Provinces. You, a freshly christened hero known for valorous acts both on and off the battlefield, must take charge of the Sacred Axeblade of Loqtai, harness the power it contains, and send the Unhunter back to his watery prison.

    "But first, can you get me nine wolf pelts?"

    Continue reading The Soapbox: My lore problem

    MassivelyThe Soapbox: My lore problem originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 30 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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      ]]>      alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betacutsceneeditorialfeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesloremassively-metammo-loreop-edopen-betaopinionplotrantrantsroundupsoapboxstorystorytellingtestingthe-soapboxtropesTue, 30 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST      <![CDATA[Second Wind: Spiral Knights]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/second-wind-spiral-knights/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/second-wind-spiral-knights/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/second-wind-spiral-knights/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

      Spiral Knights
      There's something to be said for the rise of browser-based games. What once was an elephant graveyard of bad ideas, low-res graphics, and trite or incomplete game mechanics has now evolved into a veritable playground of new ideas and fun casual titles. Games like City of Steam and Drakensang Online continue to push the boundaries of what's possible in a browser window, delivering engaging experiences with depth and high fidelity.

      Browser game represent some of the coolest technological innovations in the MMO niche. They also, often, represent the very worst in predatory monetization schemes and "pay-to-win" exploitation.

      Spiral Knights does both. And it does both well.

      Continue reading Second Wind: Spiral Knights

      MassivelySecond Wind: Spiral Knights originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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        ]]>        f2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiummicrotransactionmicrotransactionspost-launchpremiumpuzzle-piratesre-reviewreviewsci-fantasysci-fisecond-impressionssecond-looksecond-windsegaspiral-knightssteamthree-ringsthree-rings-designupdated-impressionsThu, 18 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST        <![CDATA[The Soapbox: Dispelling the 'easy' myth]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/the-soapbox-dispelling-the-easy-myth/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/the-soapbox-dispelling-the-easy-myth/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/the-soapbox-dispelling-the-easy-myth/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

        The Easy Myth
        A few weeks ago, I took a nice long look at World of Warcraft: Mists of Pandaria. Then I wrote about it. My impressions, like most things on the internet, were met with both ardent agreement and defiant protest. Everyone has an opinion, especially when it comes to World of Warcraft -- some people love the game, some people hate it, and some give it a resounding "eh."

        I don't mind people disagreeing with me. People react to games differently, and what works for me may not work for you. But there was one specific critique that rose, repeatedly, in the great debate raging in that article's comments section. A critique that, frankly, I cannot abide:

        "World of Warcraft is too easy."

        Continue reading The Soapbox: Dispelling the 'easy' myth

        MassivelyThe Soapbox: Dispelling the 'easy' myth originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Mar 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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          ]]>          Achievementsactivisionaionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcommentersdcuoeditorialfantasyfeat-of-strengthfeaturedop-edopinionrantrantsriftsoapboxthe-soapboxthrone-of-thunderwarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 26 Mar 2013 14:00:00 EST          <![CDATA[Massively Interview: Re-launching Prius Online as Arcane Saga]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/massively-interview-re-launching-prius-online-as-arcane-saga/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/massively-interview-re-launching-prius-online-as-arcane-saga/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/massively-interview-re-launching-prius-online-as-arcane-saga/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

          Arcane Saga Header
          Prius Online, a free-to-play, fantasy MMO published by gPotato, launched in North America in 2011. Roughly a year later, the MMO was shut down. Now, another year later, the game's original developer is re-branding, re-visiting and re-launching Prius Online under a new moniker: Arcane Saga.

          Curious about how, when, and why a company would choose to re-open a shuttered game, we sat down with Netmarble's Jon-Enée Merriex to ask. Merriex walked us through what it takes to restart a game, why good MMOs sometimes go by the wayside, and how his company plans to iterate and improve on the Prius Online experience that the title's original players enjoyed.

          Continue reading Massively Interview: Re-launching Prius Online as Arcane Saga

          MassivelyMassively Interview: Re-launching Prius Online as Arcane Saga originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Mar 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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            ]]>            arcane-sagaf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumgPotatoindustryinterviewinterviewsJon-Enée-Merriexjon-enee-merriexmicrotransactionmicrotransactionsnetmarblepremiumprius-onlinere-launchre-releaseWed, 06 Mar 2013 16:30:00 EST            <![CDATA[Bugs, minerals, and jet boots: Hands-on with Firefall's PvE]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/bugs-minerals-and-jet-boots-hands-on-with-firefalls-pve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/bugs-minerals-and-jet-boots-hands-on-with-firefalls-pve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/bugs-minerals-and-jet-boots-hands-on-with-firefalls-pve/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

            Firefall Copacabana
            As any fan of my streams can tell you, I am not awesome at video games. So when Massively asked me to take a look at Firefall, a twitch-heavy, free-to-play shooter developed by Red 5 Studios, it was only with trepidation that I accepted. Could I really find happiness in a world that relied on reflexes and skill more than clever spell rotations? Or would my incompetence make the game so frustrating that I would end up smashing my keyboard with my face?

            After procrastinating for days and hoping that the project would vanish into the night (beta goblins or something), I finally sat down to check the game out. What I discovered is that Firefall is much more than a shooter; it is a vibrant universe packed with fun things to do, intriguing content to explore, and enough character customization to please even the most ardent of tweakers.

            Gallery: Firefall battleframe design

            Continue reading Bugs, minerals, and jet boots: Hands-on with Firefall's PvE

            MassivelyBugs, minerals, and jet boots: Hands-on with Firefall's PvE originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 01 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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              ]]>              betabeta-testbeta-testingf2pfeaturedfirefallfpsfree-to-playfreemiumgalleriesgalleryhands-onmicrotransactionmicrotransactionsmmo-shooterpremiumpreviewpreviewspvpred-5red-5-studiossci-fiscreenshotscreenshotsshootertestingthird-person-shooterwarFri, 01 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EST              <![CDATA[Second Wind: World of Warcraft]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/second-wind-world-of-warcraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/second-wind-world-of-warcraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/second-wind-world-of-warcraft/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

              World of Warcraft
              When I originally started playing World of Warcraft, things were different. Priests were still waiting on their first big class patch. Regular mounts required level 40; most players couldn't afford the 100ish gold fee without a loan from their guild. Epic mounts were so prohibitively expensive as to be considered rare. Raids required the dedication and skill of 40 players, and only a couple of guilds per realm actually even bothered to run high-end content. WoW was, as they say, srs bsns.

              But that was eight years ago. Since then, World of Warcraft has seen four enormous expansions (Burning Crusade, Wrath of the Lich King, Cataclysm and Mists of Pandaria) and countless minor content updates. Edges have been softened, skills refined, classes reinvented. Subs have ballooned to a peak of over 12 million, waffled up and down for a few years, then fallen most recently to 9.6 million.

              Some would argue that the World of Warcraft of 2013 bears only a passing resemblance to the one we played in 2005. Others would claim it's still the same excellent/terrible game, just gussied up with fresh paint.

              As a longtime WoW lover but recently lapsed subscriber, I ventured into Mists of Pandaria to sort it out for myself.

              Continue reading Second Wind: World of Warcraft

              MassivelySecond Wind: World of Warcraft originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 01 Mar 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                ]]>                activisionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcataclysmexpansionfantasyfeaturedhands-onmistsmists-of-pandariamoppandariapandaspost-launchre-reviewreviewroundtablesecond-impressionssecond-looksecond-windtranscriptupdated-impressionswarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowWrath-of-the-Lich-KingFri, 01 Mar 2013 09:00:00 EST                <![CDATA[Massively Interview: TERA's Patrick Sun on free-to-play]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/11/massively-interview-tera-s-patrick-sun-on-free-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/11/massively-interview-tera-s-patrick-sun-on-free-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/11/massively-interview-tera-s-patrick-sun-on-free-to-play/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                TERA Combat
                Action-MMO TERA officially went free-to-play last week, and with the transition came a number of questions regarding payment tiers, transition plans, and En Masse's vision for the future of the game. Will TERA turn into a "pay-to-win" graveyard, or will it be another shining example of how to do free-to-play just right?

                We sat down with associate producer Patrick Sun to find out.

                Continue reading Massively Interview: TERA's Patrick Sun on free-to-play

                MassivelyMassively Interview: TERA's Patrick Sun on free-to-play originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                  ]]>                  blueholebluehole-studiosen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiuminterviewinterviewsmicrotransactionmicrotransactionspatrick-sunpremiumteraMon, 11 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST                  <![CDATA[The Soapbox: Joy in the little things]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/29/the-soapbox-joy-in-the-little-things/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/29/the-soapbox-joy-in-the-little-things/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/29/the-soapbox-joy-in-the-little-things/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

                  Aion Wings
                  Some people play MMOs because they love the challenge. Some are there for the social aspects. Still others stick with their favorite titles because they're deeply in love with the content or lore. Every single gamer reading this post has a different reason for logging into their MMO of choice instead of watching television, reading a book or choosing any other type of recreation.

                  There is no right way to enjoy a game. Despite the fact that our comments section is often filled with people letting others know what they "should" or "shouldn't" be playing based on their affinity for certain in-game functions, having fun is a very personal experience that depends entirely on your tastes and desires. If you're having a good time in a game, you're doing it right.

                  It's all about the little things.

                  Continue reading The Soapbox: Joy in the little things

                  MassivelyThe Soapbox: Joy in the little things originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 29 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                    ]]>                    activisionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentccpccp-gamescreating-fundesigndetailseditorialeveeve-onlinef2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playhistoricalinternet-spaceshipsop-edopinionpvprantrantssandboxsci-fisoapboxspreadsheets-onlinetanktanksthe-soapboxwarwarcraftwargaming.netwin-conditionsworld-of-tanksworld-of-warcraftwotwowTue, 29 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST                    <![CDATA[Previewing DC Universe Online's Home Turf update]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/25/previewing-dc-universe-onlines-home-turf-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/25/previewing-dc-universe-onlines-home-turf-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/25/previewing-dc-universe-onlines-home-turf-update/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

                    DCUO Header
                    Over the last couple of days, we've seen some pretty cool clips and snippets of DC Universe Online's Home Turf update. Due on January 29, Home Turf brings an innovative system for player housing, new challenges for heroes and villains, and a 1:1 PvP matchmaking system that lets players duke it out in the comfort of their personal lairs. Don't let the focus on housing fool you, though; Home Turf introduces a host of new features that have the potential to change DCUO as you know it.

                    We sat down with creative director Jens Andersen for a closer look at Home Turf and the many ways in which it deepens and expands upon DC Universe Online's existing content. Put simply, this latest batch of DLC offers more than just a place to hang your cape.

                    Continue reading Previewing DC Universe Online's Home Turf update

                    MassivelyPreviewing DC Universe Online's Home Turf update originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 Jan 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                      ]]>                      consoleconsolesdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuof2pfeaturedfree-to-playhome-turfjens-andersenlairsplayer-housingplaystation-3playstation3previewpreviewsps3pvpsoesony-online-entertainmentsuperherosuperheroesFri, 25 Jan 2013 14:00:00 EST                      <![CDATA[Second Wind: Taking another look at TERA]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/25/second-wind-taking-another-look-at-tera/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/25/second-wind-taking-another-look-at-tera/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/25/second-wind-taking-another-look-at-tera/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                      TERA Header
                      I am beautiful. Seriously, I'm the best-looking game character that has ever pretended to live. Not only am I gorgeous, I'm lethal. With my massive lance, heavy shield, and ridiculously tight dress, I can make short work of pretty much any foe with the stones to come at me. I am as dangerous as I am attractive, and that is saying quite a bit.

                      This is TERA. Launched in the west by En Masse Entertainment back in May, the fantasy MMO promised gorgeous graphics, fast-paced action combat and a different way to experience a now-familiar formula. Lured in by pretty trailers and compelling class descriptions, I picked up the collector's edition of the game just before release. I played for a few weeks, streamed it a couple of times, and promptly forgot it existed. When my initial 30 days expired, I never subscribed for more.

                      But now TERA is going free-to-play. And since En Masse was kind enough to give me (and everyone else) a couple of free weeks of playtime before the F2P transition, I figured now was as good a time as any to revisit the title and see if removing my wallet from the equation would be enough to keep me engaged.

                      The answer? Perhaps.

                      Gallery: TERA PAX 2012

                      Continue reading Second Wind: Taking another look at TERA

                      MassivelySecond Wind: Taking another look at TERA originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 Jan 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                        ]]>                        blueholebluehole-studiosen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumhands-onmicrotransactionmicrotransactionspost-launchpremiumPrettyre-reviewroundtablesecond-impressionssecond-looksecond-windteratera-freetranscriptupdated-impressionsFri, 25 Jan 2013 12:00:00 EST                        <![CDATA[Massively Interview: Piranha Games' Russ Bullock talks MechWarrior Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/massively-interview-piranha-games-russ-bullock-talks-mechwarri/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/massively-interview-piranha-games-russ-bullock-talks-mechwarri/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/massively-interview-piranha-games-russ-bullock-talks-mechwarri/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                        Death's Knell
                        Is there anything more fun than massive suits of mechanical armor smashing into one another and firing lasers all over the place? MechWarrior Online, the free-to-play MMO-like set in the MechWarrior universe and developed by Piranha Games, would argue that the answer to that question is pretty obvious.

                        Piranha has just today announced the addition of a new Command Hero Mech, christened Death's Knell. The mech is tiny by MechWarrior standards, weighing in at only 25 tons, but it packs four powerful lasers on each arm and is quite fast to boot. Piranha also confirmed the addition of the familiar Bitching Betty startup sequence, which should give longtime MechWarrior fans a jolt of nostalgia straight through the eardrums.

                        We sat down with Russ Bullock, president of Piranha Games, to talk mechs, MMOs, and the future of MechWarrior Online. Check out the full interview and a video of Death's Knell in action after the break.

                        Continue reading Massively Interview: Piranha Games' Russ Bullock talks MechWarrior Online

                        MassivelyMassively Interview: Piranha Games' Russ Bullock talks MechWarrior Online originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Jan 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                          ]]>                          f2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiuminterviewinterviewsmechmechsmechwarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemicrotransactionmicrotransactionsmwopiranhapiranha-gamespremiumsci-fitrailertrailersvideovideosWed, 23 Jan 2013 15:00:00 EST                          <![CDATA[Why I Play: EVE Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/18/why-i-play-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/18/why-i-play-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/18/why-i-play-eve-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                          EVE Online
                          When I was a child, I was obsessed with space. In elementary school, I'd spend my library time reading books with titles like "The Moon" or "Space for Kids." It wasn't so much that I planned to be an astronaut (poor eyesight and math incompetency quickly blocked this ambition) but that I wanted to know what was out there, among the stars and moons and planets. "It can't," I reasoned as a very precocious second-grader, "be empty."

                          Unfortunately, I never did make it to space. I haven't walked on the moon, flown a starship, or engaged in a series of humiliating and challenging physical conditioning challenges (oh, The Right Stuff, how I love thee). What I did do, however, was discover EVE Online.

                          It's sort of the next best thing. And here's why.

                          Continue reading Why I Play: EVE Online

                          MassivelyWhy I Play: EVE Online originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Jan 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                            ]]>                            ccpccp-gameseditorialeveeve-onlineeve-online-infernoeve-online-retributionfeaturedinternet-spaceshipsmassively-metametanostalgiaop-edopinionsandboxsci-fispreadsheets-onlinewhy-i-playFri, 18 Jan 2013 12:00:00 EST                            <![CDATA[Massively Interview: Dr. Lawrence Sanders on MMO loyalty]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/09/massively-interview-dr-lawrence-sanders-on-mmo-loyalty/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/09/massively-interview-dr-lawrence-sanders-on-mmo-loyalty/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/09/massively-interview-dr-lawrence-sanders-on-mmo-loyalty/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

                            Aion
                            Beyond amazing character design, compelling narratives, and the presence of dragons, there is one thing that all MMOs depend upon for success: player loyalty. Without returning subscribers, a loving community, or folks dropping a few dimes in the cash shop now and again, MMOs simply wouldn't be a feasible way for a games studio to do business. Smart development teams have player retention departments tasked specifically with tracking and analyzing the rise and fall of player allegiances and finding ways to leverage loyalty is becoming an increasingly important aspect of the creation process.

                            Even the non-gaming world is getting in on the fray. Back in November, researchers at the University at Buffalo School of Management published a study tracing the roots of player loyalties in a variety of MMO environments. The study outlined the mentalities of MMO gamers and the things that successfully encouraged them to keep coming back for more looting, more grinding, and more /hugging. Most importantly, the study declared that an MMO that increases loyalty by just 5% can increase profits by 25-95%.

                            We sat down with Dr. Lawrence Sanders, co-author of the study, to dive a little deeper into the researchers' methods, results, and plans for future MMO investigation.

                            Continue reading Massively Interview: Dr. Lawrence Sanders on MMO loyalty

                            MassivelyMassively Interview: Dr. Lawrence Sanders on MMO loyalty originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 Jan 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                              ]]>                              age-of-wulinage-of-wushuaionccpccp-gameschinaclassic-mmoe-loyaltyeaelectronic-artseveeve-onlinef2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgalaxiesgaming-studiesgvghistoricalinternet-spaceshipsinterviewinterviewsjet-lil1Lawrence-Sanderslineagelineage-1lineage-2lineage-iiloyaltyncsoftplayer-eventsplayer-generated-contentpvpsandboxsci-fisoesony-online-entertainmentspreadsheets-onlinestudiestanktankstruly-freeultimaultima onlineuniversity-at-buffalouowarwarcraftworld-of-tanksworld-of-warcraftwotwowwushuWed, 09 Jan 2013 15:00:00 EST                              <![CDATA[2012: The year of the MMO Kickstarter]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/08/2012-the-year-of-the-mmo-kickstarter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/08/2012-the-year-of-the-mmo-kickstarter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/08/2012-the-year-of-the-mmo-kickstarter/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

                              2012 Kickstarters
                              Kickstarter is perhaps the biggest story in the world of gaming since the birth of the home video console or the integration of online components into consumer entertainment. No new product, innovation, or invention has carried with it such immense potential for shifting the way the industry plans, builds, and delivers its products. And with projects covering everything from hardware to companion apps, it's almost impossible now to imagine a gaming world without Kickstarter, even though it was our reality just a few short months ago.

                              The legacy of Kickstarter is one that we're witnessing in real-time. Most of the major successful projects are slated for late 2013/early 2014 releases, giving us plenty of time to speculate on what may or may not go wrong with the crowd-funding model and the products it bears. Over the next year, games will either make it to market or they won't. Developers will squander their budgets or release on time. It's all up in the air.

                              With that in mind, we thought now would be a good time to look back on some of the biggest MMO Kickstarter projects of 2012. The fate of some of these titles is inexorably tied to the fate of Kickstarter as a viable game-creating platform -- and maybe even crowd-sourcing as a whole.

                              Continue reading 2012: The year of the MMO Kickstarter

                              Massively2012: The year of the MMO Kickstarter originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 Jan 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                ]]>                                2012argarg-zombiesastronautastronaut-moon-mars-and-beyondchris-robertscrowdfundingdangerousdark-valedavid-brabeneconomyeliteelite-dangerousfantasyfeaturedforgefree-to-playfrontierfrontier-developmentsfurcadiagoblinworksgreed-mongergreed-monger-partnersguns-of-icarusguns-of-icarus-onlineinternet-spaceshipisland-forgekickstartermobilepathfinderpathfinder-onlineplayer-driven-economyplayer-economypvprecapsandboxsci-fispacespaceshipspaceshipsstar-citizenthe-repopulationTue, 08 Jan 2013 16:00:00 EST                                <![CDATA[MMO Blender: Mike's spaceflight of fancy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/21/mmo-blender-mikes-spaceflight-of-fancy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/21/mmo-blender-mikes-spaceflight-of-fancy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/21/mmo-blender-mikes-spaceflight-of-fancy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

                                MMO Blender
                                You know what I love? Space. Not real space, so much; real space is a vast expanse of horrors that generally confound and cripple the mind if considered too seriously. I'm talking about "space," as in the setting of some of our favorite movies, games, and cancelled television properties.

                                The problem with space, of course, is that it is a setting and not a story. You can't prime an audience by simply shouting, "Space!" The space needs context. Is it "final frontier" space? Is it the space in which your screams go unheard? The greatest space tales have always used the deep black as a backdrop, not a subject.

                                My perfect MMO would almost certainly take place in space, but the way in which the space is used is what makes it worth playing.

                                Continue reading MMO Blender: Mike's spaceflight of fancy

                                MassivelyMMO Blender: Mike's spaceflight of fancy originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 21 Dec 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                  ]]>                                  activisionarmchair-game-designblizzardblizzard-entertainmentccpccp-gameschris-robertsconquestcrowdfundingeveeve-onlinefantasyfavorite-mmofeaturedfpsgame-designgame-mechanicsinternet-spaceshipskickstartermechanicsmmo-blendermmo-mechanicsmmo-mix-tapemmo-mixologymmo-shootermmofpsopinionplanetsideplanetside-2ps2pvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrsandboxsci-fishootersoesonysony-online-entertainmentspaceshipspreadsheets-onlinestar-citizenthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldswarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowFri, 21 Dec 2012 18:00:00 EST                                  <![CDATA[Yup, you're dead: Hands-on with Wizardry Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/27/yup-youre-dead-hands-on-with-wizardry-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/27/yup-youre-dead-hands-on-with-wizardry-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/27/yup-youre-dead-hands-on-with-wizardry-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

                                  Wizardry Online
                                  Wizardry Online, an upcoming fantasy-based MMO from Sony Online Entertainment, is a "hardcore" MMO. I know this because the word "hardcore" shows up on the game's official beta sign-up page no fewer than three times (once in all caps). The website promises that thanks to Wizardry Online's "insane difficulty," my "greatest challenge" will be found somewhere in its universe. Perhaps in one of those "complex mazes" packed with "unrelenting mobs."

                                  Now, I'm not one to back down from a challenge. In fact, I love a good fight, especially if it can potentially end in my suffering an embarrassing and expensive defeat. So I hopped into the brutal world of Wizardry Online to tempt fate and see just what this game was all about.

                                  As it turns out, it's about dungeons, permadeath, and missed opportunities to make either worthwhile.

                                  Gallery: Wizardry Online

                                  Continue reading Yup, you're dead: Hands-on with Wizardry Online

                                  MassivelyYup, you're dead: Hands-on with Wizardry Online originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Nov 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                    ]]>                                    betabeta-testbeta-testingdungeonsf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumgamepothands-onhardcoremicrotransactionmicrotransactionsopen-pvppermadeathpkplayer-killingpremiumpreviewpreviewspvpsir-techsoesony-online-entertainmenttestingwizardrywizardry-onlineTue, 27 Nov 2012 10:00:00 EST                                    <![CDATA[It's all about story: Massively interviews BLESS's Jacob Han]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/21/its-all-about-story-massively-interviews-blesss-jacob-han/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/21/its-all-about-story-massively-interviews-blesss-jacob-han/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/21/its-all-about-story-massively-interviews-blesss-jacob-han/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

                                    BLESS
                                    Upcoming Korean MMO BLESS has been creating quite a stir as of late, what with its gorgeous HD visuals and action-packed "in-game" trailers. But MMO fans, skeptical bunch that they are, have expressed concern over the game, likening it to other Korean games, graphically attractive yet overly grindy experiences. What's to say this isn't just more of the same?

                                    This is exactly the question we posed to Jacob Han, lead producer at Neowiz Games. Han's studio collaborated with Epic Games Korea to build the Unreal 3-based title, and we figured he'd be the perfect person to help give us an idea of what makes this game different from the pack and why MMO fans should take note.

                                    Hop on past the break and see what BLESS has in store.

                                    Gallery: BLESS

                                    Continue reading It's all about story: Massively interviews BLESS's Jacob Han

                                    MassivelyIt's all about story: Massively interviews BLESS's Jacob Han originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Nov 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                      ]]>                                      aionBLESSepic-games-koreafantasyfeaturedgalleriesgalleryImportsinterviewinterviewsJacob-HanKoreakorean-mmoNeoWizNeowiz-BLESS-studioopen-worldscreenshotscreenshotsteraupcomingwesternizationwesternizedWed, 21 Nov 2012 09:00:00 EST                                      <![CDATA[Browser beauty: Hands-on with City of Steam]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/16/browser-beauty-hands-on-with-city-of-steam/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/16/browser-beauty-hands-on-with-city-of-steam/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/16/browser-beauty-hands-on-with-city-of-steam/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

                                      City of Steam
                                      Browser games aren't supposed to be like this. Browser games are supposed to be Flash-based trifles and social "gaming" money printers. They're supposed to have simple graphics, shallow gameplay and zero narrative. Put simply, browser-based games are supposed to be bad.

                                      City of Steam, a free-to-play, browser-based MMO developed by Mechanist Games, isn't content to live in this world of assumed browser-based inferiority. In fact, the game almost feels like a challenge to the industry: If this is what browsers can do, why isn't everyone doing it? City of Steam has the potential to shake the foundation of the MMO world by proving that full, engaging game experiences can be delivered instantly and on-demand, as long as its final execution lives up to its current promise.

                                      From what's been revealed so far, Mechanist appears to be on the right track.

                                      Continue reading Browser beauty: Hands-on with City of Steam

                                      MassivelyBrowser beauty: Hands-on with City of Steam originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Nov 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                        ]]>                                        betabrowserbrowser-basedbrowser-gamecity-of-steamclosed-betaf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgoblinhands-onimpressionsmechanistmechanist-gamespreviewpreviewssci-fisteampunkFri, 16 Nov 2012 13:00:00 EST                                        <![CDATA[League of Legends unveils Zed, the Master of Shadows]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/13/league-of-legends-unveils-zed-the-master-of-shadows/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/13/league-of-legends-unveils-zed-the-master-of-shadows/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/13/league-of-legends-unveils-zed-the-master-of-shadows/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

                                        Zed, the Master of Shadows
                                        According to Riot Games, things are about to get dark and stabby in League of Legends. A new champion has been revealed, and he's very much the sneaky type. Zed, the Master of Shadows, is an energy-based character that relies on dark clones and a pair of rad bracer-daggers to dominate both mid-lane and jungle gameplay.

                                        Zed's abilities show him to be a fellow of ill repute: There's Contempt for the Weak, which does extra damage against wounded targets, and Razor Shuriken, which fires multiple razorblades in the direction of opponents. Zed can also use Living Shadow to make a clone copy of himself -- one he can trade places with or simply use to mimic his attacks for more damage. The creation and manipulation of clones make Zed a major threat, but only if played with a strategic flare.

                                        Have a look at the League of Legends Champion Spotlight after the break for a full preview of what Zed brings to the table.

                                        Continue reading League of Legends unveils Zed, the Master of Shadows

                                        MassivelyLeague of Legends unveils Zed, the Master of Shadows originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Nov 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                        ]]>                                        e-sportesportsf2pFANTASYfree-to-playleague-of-legendsLoLLoL-ChampionsMOBARiotriot-gamestrailertrailersvideovideosTue, 13 Nov 2012 16:00:00 EST                                        <![CDATA[The Soapbox: Remembering that games are games]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/13/the-soapbox-remembering-that-games-are-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/13/the-soapbox-remembering-that-games-are-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/13/the-soapbox-remembering-that-games-are-games/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

                                        RIFT Boss Fight
                                        I think it's safe to assume that we all love games. If we didn't, I wouldn't be in this crowded, noisy coffee shop writing this and you wouldn't be blowing off some sort of important responsibility reading it. We're all here together, engaged in this somewhat-anonymous internet back-and-forth, because games have touched our lives. It sounds corny, but it's true.

                                        For many of us, games have a deeply personal and specific meaning. We like the games we like not so much for their craftsmanship or content but for the way they engage our minds and spirits. Games create incredible, irreplaceable moments infused with emotional resonance, and it's only natural we would feel some sort of personal connection when a piece of digital entertainment syncs just right.

                                        It is precisely this personal connection that leads many of us to act like total morons.

                                        Continue reading The Soapbox: Remembering that games are games

                                        MassivelyThe Soapbox: Remembering that games are games originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Nov 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                          ]]>                                          Call-of-Dutycommentscommunityeditorialeve-onlinefeaturedfriendshipgamingguild-warsGuild-Wars-2hugsInternetop-edopinionpay-to-winrantrantssoapboxSoul-Caliburthe-soapboxwind-wakerwizard101world-of-tanksWorld-of-WarcraftWoWTue, 13 Nov 2012 14:00:00 EST                                          <![CDATA[Blizzard facing class-action lawsuit over Battle.net authenticators]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/09/blizzard-facing-class-action-lawsuit-over-battle-net-authenticat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/09/blizzard-facing-class-action-lawsuit-over-battle-net-authenticat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/09/blizzard-facing-class-action-lawsuit-over-battle-net-authenticat/#commentsFiled under: , ,

                                          Battle.net Authenticator
                                          World of Warcraft creator Blizzard Entertainment is on the receiving end of a class-action lawsuit filed this morning by players who allege that the company is unfairly forcing players to purchase Battle.net authenticators in order to keep their accounts secure.

                                          The two plaintiffs claim that in lieu of providing account security to Battle.net players, Blizzard puts the burden of protection in the hands of the subscriber and encourages the purchasing of authenticators. The suit alleges that the sale of authenticators has earned Blizzard $26 million and that Blizzard is profiting "unjustly" from players looking to secure their accounts.

                                          The suit mentions several examples of Battle.net accounts being compromised, specifically noting the hack of Battle.net that occurred in August and Blizzard's confirmation of a rise in compromises in May. It also notes that the free authenticators for smartphones were compromised, which the plaintiffs say makes buying a physical authenticator the only true way to protect an account from theft.

                                          Activision Blizzard hasn't offered a response as of yet. The two plaintiffs seek damages and an injunction that would prevent Blizzard from adding what the suit describes as "undisclosed fees" to ensure the security of Battle.net accounts (in other words, no more selling of authenticators).

                                          We'll keep you updated as we hear more.

                                          MassivelyBlizzard facing class-action lawsuit over Battle.net authenticators originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Nov 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                          ]]>                                          Activision-BlizzardauthenticatorBattle.netBlizzardblizzard-authenticatorBlizzard-Entertainmentclass-actionFinancelawsuitlegalWorld-of-WarcraftFri, 09 Nov 2012 17:00:00 EST                                          <![CDATA[Why I Play: World of Tanks]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/01/why-i-play-world-of-tanks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/01/why-i-play-world-of-tanks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/01/why-i-play-world-of-tanks/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

                                          Why I Play: World of Tanks
                                          I am not good at video games. It's really no secret -- anyone who's ever tuned in for one of my livestreams can confirm that I spend much more time blown up and in the process of being blown up than triumphantly dominating the battlefield. That's just what happens when I'm responsible for my own survival.

                                          So you'd think that a game like World of Tanks, in which victory is based heavily on your skill with a massive gun, would be a turn-off for me. After all, where's the fun in sitting in a smoldering heap while your team attempts to make up for your buffoonery? What exactly is enjoyable about getting repeatedly reduced to scrap metal?

                                          Sit back a spell and I'll tell you. This is why I play World of Tanks.

                                          Continue reading Why I Play: World of Tanks

                                          MassivelyWhy I Play: World of Tanks originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Nov 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                            ]]>                                            columnf2pfreefree-to-playhands-onhistoricalimpressionsPatchpatchespreviewpvpSci/TechtanktankswarWargaming.netwhy-i-playWorld of Warcraftworld-of-tanksworld-of-tanks-8.0wotThu, 01 Nov 2012 11:00:00 EST                                            <![CDATA[Tossing fireballs and bashing shields: Hands-on with the Forge Beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/23/tossing-fireballs-and-bashing-shields-hands-on-with-the-forge-b/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/23/tossing-fireballs-and-bashing-shields-hands-on-with-the-forge-b/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/23/tossing-fireballs-and-bashing-shields-hands-on-with-the-forge-b/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

                                            Forge Header
                                            Dark Vale's upcoming PvP-centric title, Forge, is an MMO like no other. The game has no PvE content to speak of, instead demanding that players earn their progress by killing one another in timed arena-style deathmatches or objective-based games. It's built in the Unreal Engine, features an over-the-shoulder third-person perspective, and depends heavily on strategy and reflexes as opposed to gear and level. There are no quests to complete, no mobs to grind, and no resources to gather. When Dark Vale says Forge is "Pure PvP," that's exactly what it means.

                                            While some may be skeptical of the appeal of a PvP-only MMO, others will note that there is vast potential here to fill a niche for gamers craving MMO-style combat without all the extra muss and fuss of grinding, gearing, and socializing. The only question is whether Forge will strike a chord with that pocket of players or will be just another "also-ran" in a sea of experimental MMOs.

                                            I took a peek at the Forge beta over the weekend, and what I found was an intense title with a lot of promise, but one that clearly has a lot of ground to cover before being ready for mass consumption.

                                            Gallery: Forge Gallery

                                            Continue reading Tossing fireballs and bashing shields: Hands-on with the Forge Beta

                                            MassivelyTossing fireballs and bashing shields: Hands-on with the Forge Beta originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Oct 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                              ]]>                                              arenabetabrawlerCapture-the-flagDark-Valedark-vale-forgedark-vale-gamesfeaturedForgegalleriesgalleryhands-onhybridpreviewpreviewspvpscreenshotscreenshotsSteamsteam-greenlightTue, 23 Oct 2012 16:00:00 EST                                              <![CDATA[Previewing RIFT: Storm Legion's Dimensions and dungeons]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/22/previewing-rift-storm-legions-dimensions-and-dungeons/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/22/previewing-rift-storm-legions-dimensions-and-dungeons/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/22/previewing-rift-storm-legions-dimensions-and-dungeons/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                                              RIFT Hands-On
                                              We're less than a month from the release of RIFT's first official expansion, Storm Legion. The content add-on promises to dramatically expand on RIFT's existing universe, both in terms of mechanics and story and in terms of the raw size of the game world. With beta in full force and the NDA officially lifted, we hopped on the Storm Legion test server to catch a glimpse of what's on the way for dedicated RIFT fans.

                                              What we discovered was a massive expansion packed with potential and more than enough new content to keep even the most hardcore of RIFT players busy for a while to come.

                                              Here's what you need to know.

                                              Continue reading Previewing RIFT: Storm Legion's Dimensions and dungeons

                                              MassivelyPreviewing RIFT: Storm Legion's Dimensions and dungeons originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 22 Oct 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                ]]>                                                contentDimensionsexodus-of-the-storm-queenexpansionFANTASYfeaturedhands-onplayer-housingpreviewpreviewsRIFTrift-literift-planes-of-telararift-storm-legionstorm-legiontriontrion-worldsMon, 22 Oct 2012 12:00:00 EST                                                <![CDATA[Battle for the high skies: Hands-on with Pirate101]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/15/battle-for-the-high-skies-hands-on-with-pirate101/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/15/battle-for-the-high-skies-hands-on-with-pirate101/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/15/battle-for-the-high-skies-hands-on-with-pirate101/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

                                                Pirate101 Header
                                                Her name is Reckless Roslyn Ramsey, and she is a pirate. She sails a ship, loots treasure, hangs out in seedy bars, and fights anyone who stands between her and the fame and fortune she so rightly deserves. You wouldn't be lying to say that young Ms. Ramsey has swashed a fair few buckles in her time, and the pink and white, panda and crossbones flag under which she and her crew sail is feared the world over.

                                                Such is life in Pirate101, a family-oriented MMO created by KingsIsle Entertainment and due to launch today. Placing you in the role of a young pirate at the beginning of his or her quest for glory, Pirate101 asks you to carve your own path, gather cunning crewmembers, and discover the hidden mysteries of The Spiral (a fantasy world the game shares with smash hit Wizard101).

                                                I hopped in on the Pirate101 head-start over the weekend to get an idea of what this colorful MMO has to offer and to see whether its kid-friendly design hinders its ability to be fun for those of us jaded gamers who expect a little blood with our sword slashes. What I found was an accessible game with a clear slant toward younger players as well as a robust and fun MMO with plenty to offer grown-ups seeking to step away from the grim, dark worlds of more traditional fare.

                                                Continue reading Battle for the high skies: Hands-on with Pirate101

                                                MassivelyBattle for the high skies: Hands-on with Pirate101 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Oct 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                  ]]>                                                  f2pfamilyfamily-friendlyfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumhands-onhead-startimpressionskid-friendlykidskids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlaunchlaunch-daylaunchesmicrotransactionmicrotransactionspiratepirate-shipPirate101piratespremiumpreviewpreviewsskull-islandTurn-basedwizard101yarrMon, 15 Oct 2012 10:00:00 EST                                                  <![CDATA[Cold, tired, and dead: Hands-on with PlanetSide 2's newest continent]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/10/cold-tired-and-dead-hands-on-with-planetside-2-s-newest-contin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/10/cold-tired-and-dead-hands-on-with-planetside-2-s-newest-contin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/10/cold-tired-and-dead-hands-on-with-planetside-2-s-newest-contin/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

                                                  PlaneSide 2
                                                  PlanetSide 2 is a game that's all about huge maps and war on an epic scale. The MMOFPS title's continents are massive -- dozens of times larger than the average first-person-shooter map and packed with structures to dominate, vehicles to crash, and enemy players to kill. For the last few weeks, players have been content to murder one another in the various environments of Indar, the only continent available when the beta went live, but everything changed over the weekend.

                                                  Now, there's a new kid in town: a vast, frozen wasteland that brings new challenges and new stories to the game in a way that Indar perhaps never could. It's called Esamir, and I gave my life (several times) to control and defend it.

                                                  This is my PlanetSide 2 story.

                                                  Continue reading Cold, tired, and dead: Hands-on with PlanetSide 2's newest continent

                                                  MassivelyCold, tired, and dead: Hands-on with PlanetSide 2's newest continent originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 10 Oct 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                    ]]>                                                    betabeta-testbeta-testingcontentesamirf2pfeaturedfirst-person-shooterfpsfree-to-playfreemiumhands-onmmofpsopen-world-pvpPlanetSideplanetside-2planetside-betapreviewpreviewspvpsci-fishooterSOEsonySony-Online-EntertainmentspacetankstestingvehiclesWed, 10 Oct 2012 17:00:00 EST                                                    <![CDATA[Hands-on with World of Tanks' patch 8.0]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/08/hands-on-with-world-of-tanks-patch-8-0/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/08/hands-on-with-world-of-tanks-patch-8-0/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/08/hands-on-with-world-of-tanks-patch-8-0/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                                                    World of Tanks 8.0
                                                    World of Tanks is one of the biggest MMOs in the world, boasting over 40 million registered users and a record peak concurrency of around 500,000 players. The game is simple on its surface: Two teams of tanks head out into a variety of battleground maps, then blow the heck out of each other until a base is captured or one team is obliterated. However, deep tech trees, customizable ammo and supply loadouts and dozens of tanks across five tank types make for an experience with plenty in the way of personalization and flexibility.

                                                    Wargaming.net, the developer of World of Tanks, keeps players engaged with frequent content updates. Most of the time, these updates contain small tweaks. Other times, they reinvent the game from the ground up.

                                                    The recently released patch 8.0 falls into the latter category, so I hopped into World of Tanks to see what changes Wargaming.net hath wrought.

                                                    Continue reading Hands-on with World of Tanks' patch 8.0

                                                    MassivelyHands-on with World of Tanks' patch 8.0 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Oct 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                      ]]>                                                      f2pfeaturedfree-to-playhands-onhistoricalimpressionsPatchpatchespreviewpvptanktankswarWargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-of-tanks-8.0wotMon, 08 Oct 2012 19:30:00 EST                                                      <![CDATA[SOE announces Esamir, PlanetSide 2's new, cold continent [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/04/soe-announces-esamir-planetside-2s-new-cold-continent/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/04/soe-announces-esamir-planetside-2s-new-cold-continent/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/04/soe-announces-esamir-planetside-2s-new-cold-continent/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

                                                      PlanetSide 2 Esamir
                                                      PlanetSide 2, currently in development over at Sony Online Entertainment, is an MMO like no other. The game is a first-person shooter that boasts a persistent online world, strategy-focused gameplay and a skill-based reward system. There are experience points, unlocks, class specializations and customization options, along with piles of guns, numerous vehicles and twitch-heavy skill-based rapid-fire combat. In short, it's everything you might expect to find in a game bearing the MMOFPS moniker.

                                                      The combat in PlanetSide 2 takes place on enormous continents packed with defensible structures and environmental hazards. And while SOE plans to launch the game with three continents total, current beta participants have so far only had access to the canyon/forest/desert terrain of Indar.

                                                      Lucky for those testers ready for a change of scenery, SOE has just announced the addition of Esamir, a second playable continent that promises to bring a host of new challenges along with new visuals and new hidden secrets.

                                                      We sat down with SOE's Leonard Gullo and Tramell Isaac to get an up-close look Esamir and find out what lies in store for those willing to brave its harsh climates.

                                                      Continue reading SOE announces Esamir, PlanetSide 2's new, cold continent [Updated]

                                                      MassivelySOE announces Esamir, PlanetSide 2's new, cold continent [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Oct 2012 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                        ]]>                                                        announcementbetacontentfeaturedfpsLeonard-Gullommo-shootermmofpsPlanetSideplanetside-2planetside-2-launchplanetside-betasci-fiSci/TechSOESONYSony-Online-Entertainmenttestingtramell-isaacvehicleThu, 04 Oct 2012 11:15:00 EST                                                        <![CDATA[Pirate101 head start begins on October 8th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/01/pirate101-soft-launches-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/01/pirate101-soft-launches-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/01/pirate101-soft-launches-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

                                                        Pirate101 Interview
                                                        If you're a fan of family-friendly MMO Wizard101 and can't wait to get a taste of KingsIsle's next project, then this is your lucky week because Pirate101 is set to begin its head start on October 8th. While the game doesn't officially hit digital shelves until October 15th, you can hop in and get to pirating beginning on the 8th by picking up specific membership types or snagging a pre-launch game bundle (beta participants are also invited). Additionally, Pirate101 game cards will be available in retail stores as of October 8th.

                                                        Pirate101 is in many ways the spiritual successor to Wizard101 and marks an ambitious undertaking by KingsIsle to build another engaging and successful MMO that is also family friendly and safe. We talked to producer Jay Gordon and associate producer Mike Stone to get an idea of the challenges the team faced and what may lie in store for those looking to loot and plunder.

                                                        Continue reading Pirate101 head start begins on October 8th

                                                        MassivelyPirate101 head start begins on October 8th originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Oct 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                          ]]>                                                          betabeta-testbeta-testingEntertainmentf2pfamily-friendlyfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiuminterviewinterviewsjay-gordonkid-friendlykidskingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlaunchlaunch-daylaunchesmicrotransactionMicrotransactionsmike-stonepirate101piratespremiumtestingWizardwizard101Mon, 01 Oct 2012 11:00:00 EST                                                          <![CDATA[CCP unveils EVE Online: Retribution, coming this winter]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/29/ccp-unveils-eve-online-retribution-coming-this-winter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/29/ccp-unveils-eve-online-retribution-coming-this-winter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/29/ccp-unveils-eve-online-retribution-coming-this-winter/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

                                                          EVE Online: Retribution
                                                          Earlier this evening at the VETO EVE fan gathering in London, CCP announced EVE Online's 18th expansion: EVE Online: Retribution. Due in December, this latest content overhaul promises to bring some of the biggest changes yet to the space-themed sandbox MMO, which is steadily ramping up for its 10th anniversary next May.

                                                          We sat down with Jon Lander and Kristoffer Touborg, EVE's executive producer and lead designer respectively, to get a first-hand look at some of Retribution's key features as well as the enormous pile of tweaks, updates, and adjustments players might expect with any CCP-helmed update. One thing is certain: After Retribution, the world of internet spaceships will never again be the same.

                                                          Continue reading CCP unveils EVE Online: Retribution, coming this winter

                                                          MassivelyCCP unveils EVE Online: Retribution, coming this winter originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 29 Sep 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                            ]]>                                                            announcementbreakingccpccp-gamescorporationcouncil-of-stellar-managementcrucibleeveeve-apieve-onlineeve-ship-balanceeve-shipsexpansionexpansionsfaction-warfarefeaturedinfernointernet-spaceshipsjon-landerkristoffer-touborgnew-edenpreviewpreviewspvepvpretributionsandboxsci-fisci-techspreadsheets-onlineSat, 29 Sep 2012 16:00:00 EST                                                            <![CDATA[Massively Interview: Bohemia's Matt Lightfoot on DayZ, modding, and zombie survival]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/25/massively-interview-bohemias-matt-lightfoot-on-dayz-modding/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/25/massively-interview-bohemias-matt-lightfoot-on-dayz-modding/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/25/massively-interview-bohemias-matt-lightfoot-on-dayz-modding/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                                                            Massively Interview Bohemia's Matt Lightfoot on DayZ, modding, and zombie survival
                                                            Thanks to viral content, word-of-mouth praise, and a passionate, growing fan base, Arma II mod DayZ has become one of the most talked about games in the industry. We sat down with Bohemia Interactive's Matt Lightfoot to get an idea of how exactly this game came to be, why it has exploded in the way it has, and how he'd attempt to survive a real-life zombie apocalypse:

                                                            Massively: Could you give us some idea as to how DayZ came to be? What was the inspiration for the game?

                                                            Matt Lightfoot: DayZ was created by Dean Hall, a former soldier in the New Zealand Armed Forces. He originally came up with the inclination to make a survival game when he was doing survival training in Brunei. The zombies come from Dean's discussions with his brother Richard, who is a world expert on influenza. Dean created it in his spare time after moving to the Czech Republic to work for Bohemia.

                                                            Continue reading Massively Interview: Bohemia's Matt Lightfoot on DayZ, modding, and zombie survival

                                                            MassivelyMassively Interview: Bohemia's Matt Lightfoot on DayZ, modding, and zombie survival originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 25 Sep 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                              ]]>                                                              armaarma-2bohemia-interactivedayzdayz-gamedayz-moddean-hallfeaturedhorrorinterviewKickstartermatt-lightfootmodmoddingpgcplayer-generated-contentsandboxsci-techsurvivalzombiesTue, 25 Sep 2012 10:30:00 EST                                                              <![CDATA[Massively Interview: Making strengths of weaknesses in RIFT]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/14/massively-interview-making-strengths-of-weaknesses-in-rift/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/14/massively-interview-making-strengths-of-weaknesses-in-rift/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/14/massively-interview-making-strengths-of-weaknesses-in-rift/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                                                              RIFT interview
                                                              RIFT players are currently enjoying the calm before the storm. No, literally -- the Calm Before the Storm patch just launched Wednesday, bringing with it broad changes to factional cooperation and competition and laying the foundation for November's upcoming Storm Legion expansion.

                                                              Massively streamteam member Mike Foster sat down with Trion Producer Adam Gershowitz to bring us up to speed on the patch, the expansion, and what lies beyond for RIFT. Read on!

                                                              Continue reading Massively Interview: Making strengths of weaknesses in RIFT

                                                              MassivelyMassively Interview: Making strengths of weaknesses in RIFT originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 14 Sep 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                ]]>                                                                adam-gershowitzconquestexpansionfantasyfeaturedinterviewinterviewsmike-fosterpvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrstorm-legionthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsFri, 14 Sep 2012 15:00:00 EST