Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[The Summoner's Guidebook: Improving your game through spectator mode]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/the-summoners-guidebook-improving-your-game-through-spectator/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/the-summoners-guidebook-improving-your-game-through-spectator/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/the-summoners-guidebook-improving-your-game-through-spectator/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

League of Legends screenshot
I love spectator mode. Since the patch introducing it to League of Legends, I've had the opportunity to observe top-level players and even my own friends. If you ever wanted to learn how to play like a pro, you now have your chance. High-level games of Summoner's Rift are just a few mouse clicks away, and if you're a little mentally fatigued from playing the game, you can sit back and enjoy some high-level play. It was one of the best updates thus far for League.

Watching high-level streams or spectating high-level games can dramatically improve your game if you know what to look for. This week, we're going to cover some of the ways you can improve your game by stealing strategies and techniques from top players.

Continue reading The Summoner's Guidebook: Improving your game through spectator mode

MassivelyThe Summoner's Guidebook: Improving your game through spectator mode originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 May 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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    ]]>    f2pfeaturedfree-to-playleagueleague-of-legendslolmobaopinionpro-playersriotriot-gamesspectatingspectating-matchessummoners-guidebooksummoners-riftthe-summoners-guidebooktop-playersvideosThu, 24 May 2012 11:00:00 EST    <![CDATA[The Summoner's Guidebook: Putting together a good team composition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/the-summoners-guidebook-putting-together-a-good-team-compositi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/the-summoners-guidebook-putting-together-a-good-team-compositi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/the-summoners-guidebook-putting-together-a-good-team-compositi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

    Pro League of Legends team Dignitas
    Although it would be nice to win all our games on the merits of skill alone, a lot of matches of League of Legends are won or lost at the character select screen. While individual champion balance is always in flux, the synergies between champions matters far more.

    This week in the Summoner's Guidebook, I'll give you some advice on picking characters that complement your team's strengths. Remember that a champion is only as good as you can play him or her, and a better champion doesn't ensure victory -- it just makes victory more likely. This is League of Legends, though, and we should take every advantage we can get.

    Continue reading The Summoner's Guidebook: Putting together a good team composition

    MassivelyThe Summoner's Guidebook: Putting together a good team composition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 May 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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      ]]>      attack-speed-buffsbuffscrowd-controlsdignitasf2pfeaturedfree-to-playget-over-here-and-help-the-teamleagueleague-of-legendslolmobaopinionriotriot-gamesskillshotskillshotsslowssnaresstop-chasing-killsstunssummoners-guidebookteam-compositionteam-compositionsteam-playerteam-playingthe-summoners-guidebookThu, 17 May 2012 19:00:00 EST      <![CDATA[The Summoner's Guidebook: Getting out of Elo hell]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/the-summoners-guidebook-getting-out-of-elo-hell/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/the-summoners-guidebook-getting-out-of-elo-hell/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/the-summoners-guidebook-getting-out-of-elo-hell/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

      League of Legends screenshot
      "Elo hell" is a term that gets thrown around a lot in League of Legends. If you're actively working to improve your skill at the game, either you've been in Elo hell or you are still there. The term comes from the Elo rating system that League of Legends uses for its matchmaking. Because matchmaking has to deal with three or five players on each side, there's a lot of potential for a bad match. In Elo hell, this is exacerbated by players who have inflated ratings due to wins they probably didn't deserve.

      At the higher ratings, matches tend to improve in overall quality despite the smaller pool of players. It is virtually impossible to maintain 1600 Elo or above (top 10%) without being somewhat decent at the game. While weaker players can occur in any matchmaking level, they are still two advanced players who know the game. At 1300 Elo (top 50%), there's a very large chance that a matchup inequality is an intermediate player battling an opponent who has no clue what he is doing.

      Elo hell is extremely frustrating because nothing worse is having your chance at winning taken out of your hands and put in the hands of a terrible player.

      Continue reading The Summoner's Guidebook: Getting out of Elo hell

      MassivelyThe Summoner's Guidebook: Getting out of Elo hell originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 May 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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        ]]>        bad-playerselo-hellf2pfeaturedfeedersfeedingfree-to-playgetting-out-of-elo-hellimprove-eloleagueleague-of-legendslolmobaopinionpracticepractice-makes-perfectriotriot-gamesuncle-ryze-wants-you-to-surrenderThu, 10 May 2012 20:00:00 EST        <![CDATA[Why I Play: Global Agenda]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/why-i-play-global-agenda/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/why-i-play-global-agenda/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/why-i-play-global-agenda/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

        Global Agenda screenshot
        Among the Massively staff, I'm known as the obsessive competitor who plays every game in a hardcore fashion. It's no surprise that I gravitate toward high-skill, difficult games that test skill instead of the typical MMO grinds. But it should be a bit of a surprise that I don't really like competitive shooters. Shooters take a lot of the elements I really love about competition such as mindgames and positioning and marginalize them in favor of raw aiming and twitch reflexes. I'm fond of saying "You must be this tall to ride this ride" when it comes to shooters that are very twitch-based.

        Global Agenda is a different beast than other shooters, though. The competitive shooter market is saturated with class-based shooters whose emphasis is more on teamwork than on aiming, and Global Agenda really takes it to eleven. Aiming is still important, but it's hardly the most important skill in the game, and every class has a way of minimizing the need for aiming skill. In fact, most of the more effective builds in GA don't require aiming. The emphasis in GA is on teamwork, mobility, and good decision-making. Even though it's a shooter, I find it really easy to spend far too much of my time playing it. It's just great fun.

        Continue reading Why I Play: Global Agenda

        MassivelyWhy I Play: Global Agenda originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 May 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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          ]]>          competitioncompetitive-gamingcompetitive-shootereditorialf2pfeaturedfpsfree-to-playgaglobal agendahi-rezhi-rez-studiosjetpacksjetpacks-are-awesomemassively-metametammofpsnostalgiaop-edopinionsci-fishooterspy-fithird-person-shootertpswho-doesnt-like-flyingwhy-i-playWed, 09 May 2012 21:00:00 EST          <![CDATA[The Summoner's Guidebook: Dealing with rage and bad players]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/the-summoners-guidebook-dealing-with-rage-and-bad-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/the-summoners-guidebook-dealing-with-rage-and-bad-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/the-summoners-guidebook-dealing-with-rage-and-bad-players/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

          League of Legends screenshot
          Like any competitive multiplayer game, League of Legends induces its fair share of rage. People hate to lose. When your team is only three to five people, each contributor has a distinct identity, making it very easy to single out that feeding Ezreal. Compared to a game like Global Agenda, where teams are very large and individual contribution is harder to measure, League of Legends makes blame very easy to assign.

          This week in the Summoner's Guidebook, we're going to talk about the effects of nerdrage on your team and how to deal with those violent emotions in a more productive manner.

          Continue reading The Summoner's Guidebook: Dealing with rage and bad players

          MassivelyThe Summoner's Guidebook: Dealing with rage and bad players originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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            ]]>            anger-managementf2pfeaturedfree-to-playleagueleague-of-legendslolmobanerdrageopinionrageriotriot-gamesThu, 03 May 2012 18:00:00 EST            <![CDATA[The Summoner's Guidebook: Improving our skillshot dodging skills]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/the-summoners-guidebook-improving-our-skillshot-dodging-skills/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/the-summoners-guidebook-improving-our-skillshot-dodging-skills/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/the-summoners-guidebook-improving-our-skillshot-dodging-skills/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

            League of Legends screenshot
            Although the term "skillshot" was a new word for me when I started playing League of Legends, the concept of avoidable attacks is something that is very intuitive for even novice gamers. Skillshot is just a fancy term that roughly means "dodgable attack" in MOBA games. Although the official terminology sometimes differentiates between ground-targeted AoE and true skillshots (which are generally projectiles or groups of projectiles), that distinction is not really necessary for us. If it can be evaded, we'll call it a skillshot.

            Dodging skillshots is something that is fairly easy to develop skill for. It takes only a little bit of mental effort to dramatically improve your ability to evade them. It's also a skill that can always be improved with practice. We can always react to them faster or predict them more reliably. This makes it a good area to improve on because we can always get better.

            Continue reading The Summoner's Guidebook: Improving our skillshot dodging skills

            MassivelyThe Summoner's Guidebook: Improving our skillshot dodging skills originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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              ]]>              agh-nidalee-spear-in-my-facedodgingdodging-nidalee-spearsdodging-skillshotsdodging-spearsdominionf2pfeaturedfree-to-playfrench-maid-nidalee-is-pretty-hotguideguidesleagueleague-of-legendslolmobanidaleeopinionriotriot-gamesskillshotskillshotssummoners-guidebooksummoners-riftthe-summoners-guidebookyorick-versus-nidaleeThu, 26 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST              <![CDATA[The Summoner's Guidebook: Yes, I've seen your bear Tibbers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/the-summoners-guidebook-yes-ive-seen-your-bear-tibbers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/the-summoners-guidebook-yes-ive-seen-your-bear-tibbers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/the-summoners-guidebook-yes-ive-seen-your-bear-tibbers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

              League of Legends screenshot
              Annie is a very popular champion in the lower skill ranks of League of Legends. This is especially true of the Classic gametypes, where she is one of the more common choices for the solo mid lane. Additionally, she is a fearsome enemy even when played by the AI. Horror stories of Annie Bot wrecking whole teams have been going on since the dawn of the game.

              Because Annie is so popular and deadly, she's an ideal character to spotlight on the Guidebook. She's fun, easy to play, and oh-so-very cute. When you go up against her, it's good to know exactly what to expect.

              Continue reading The Summoner's Guidebook: Yes, I've seen your bear Tibbers

              MassivelyThe Summoner's Guidebook: Yes, I've seen your bear Tibbers originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                ]]>                annieannie-the-dark-childap-carrycasterf2pfeaturedfree-to-playguideguideshave-you-seen-my-bear-tibbersleagueleague-of-legendslittle-girllollolimagemobaopinionpyromaniariotriot-gamesteddyteddy-beartibbersThu, 19 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST                <![CDATA[Champions Online's On Alert launches, we interview Rob Overmeyer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/rob-overmeyer-discusses-new-changes-coming-for-champions-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/rob-overmeyer-discusses-new-changes-coming-for-champions-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/rob-overmeyer-discusses-new-changes-coming-for-champions-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                Champions Online screenshot
                There's been a big buzz for the latest update to Champions Online. The entire game is undergoing a significant overhaul for the newest expansion, On Alert, which has just gone live today. The developers are adding in talent trees for player heroes as well as a dramatic overhaul of the way equipment works.

                We sat down with Rob Overmeyer, executive producer for Champions, and asked him a few questions about the update and what it will mean for Millennium City's superhero population. Naturally, he had a lot to say!

                Continue reading Champions Online's On Alert launches, we interview Rob Overmeyer

                MassivelyChampions Online's On Alert launches, we interview Rob Overmeyer originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                  ]]>                  alertalertschampionschampions-onlinechampscocrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfeaturedfree-to-playinterviewinterviewson-alertperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwerob-overmeyersuperherosuperheroesFri, 13 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST                  <![CDATA[The Summoner's Guidebook: Upping my kill-death ratio]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/the-summoners-guidebook-upping-my-kill-death-ratio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/the-summoners-guidebook-upping-my-kill-death-ratio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/the-summoners-guidebook-upping-my-kill-death-ratio/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                  League of Legends screenshot
                  Those of you who have been reading WRUP know that I've been playing a lot of Kassadin lately. He's an assassin with a very high skill cap, and he's ridiculously powerful in Dominion. Kassadin is also kind of hard to play. He has a lot of strange mechanics, and his powerful tricks are somewhat unintuitive. Recently, I had a small epiphany that dramatically improved my skill. This improvement improved more than just my Kassadin game; it boosted my overall skill level with every champion in League of Legends.

                  Before I made this development, I was performing terribly. I ended up playing a lot of bot matches because I felt my execution with Kassadin was really awful, and every time I went back to PvP games, I felt more and more behind. Suddenly, after a string of bad decisions cost me a match, I realized something I was doing wrong and went on to begin dominating. I went from getting focused down early every fight to utterly demolishing teams and causing enemy players to second-guess fighting me 1v1 even with both of us full on life. What's the secret, you ask? I'd like to tell you, so read on!

                  Continue reading The Summoner's Guidebook: Upping my kill-death ratio

                  MassivelyThe Summoner's Guidebook: Upping my kill-death ratio originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Apr 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                    ]]>                    adviceassassinf2pfeaturedfree-to-playguidekassadinleagueleague-of-legendslearn-to-playlearning-from-your-mistakeslolmobaopinionriftwalkriotriot-gamesstrategysummoners-guidebookthe-summoners-guidebookThu, 12 Apr 2012 19:30:00 EST                    <![CDATA[The Summoner's Guidebook: Practice makes perfect]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/the-summoners-guidebook-practice-makes-perfect/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/the-summoners-guidebook-practice-makes-perfect/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/the-summoners-guidebook-practice-makes-perfect/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                    League of Legends screenshot
                    If you haven't noticed from previous editions of The Summoner's Guidebook, I emphasize practicing new techniques a lot. Practice is the only thing separating novice League of Legends players from experts. Talent can help speed up the process, but the best summoners are those who work hard to improve their skills. No pro player got to where he is today by playing only one or two games a day.

                    However, merely playing a lot of games doesn't make you a good player. In fact, the wrong kind of practice builds bad habits that are hard to break. When I first got into League of Legends, I knew quite a few people who also played the game. Although a few (who are semi-pro players) are still much better than I am, I became vastly better than the rest of my peers in a very short amount of time. Want to know my secrets? Read on!

                    Continue reading The Summoner's Guidebook: Practice makes perfect

                    MassivelyThe Summoner's Guidebook: Practice makes perfect originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                      ]]>                      crystal-scardominionf2pfeaturedfree-to-playl2pl2pvpleagueleague-of-legendsleague-of-legends-dominionlearning-to-playlolmobaopinionpracticepractice-makes-perfectriotriot-gamessummoners-guidebooksummoners-riftthe-summoners-guidebookThu, 05 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST                      <![CDATA[The Summoner's Guidebook: I hate Jack-in-the-boxes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/the-summoners-guidebook-i-hate-jack-in-the-boxes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/the-summoners-guidebook-i-hate-jack-in-the-boxes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/the-summoners-guidebook-i-hate-jack-in-the-boxes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                      League of Legends screenshot
                      Out of all of the characters in League of Legends, Shaco is probably the least fun character to fight against. His traps are highly annoying, fearing you and poking you with damage. He is extremely slippery and hard to kill, striking out of nowhere and disappearing just as quickly. Just when you think you have him, it turns out that was actually his clone and it explodes, netting Shaco yet another kill.

                      "Annoying" is the first word I'd use to describe him, and this is what Shaco wants you to think. He doesn't want you to know his weaknesses, so he keeps you on your toes, constantly afraid of jack-in-the-box traps and invisible backstabs. However, he has weaknesses, and this week, we're going to talk about how to put the killer clown back in his toybox.

                      Continue reading The Summoner's Guidebook: I hate Jack-in-the-boxes

                      MassivelyThe Summoner's Guidebook: I hate Jack-in-the-boxes originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Mar 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                        ]]>                        cant-sleep-clowns-will-eat-meclownf2pfeaturedfree-to-playi-hate-clownsi-hate-jack-in-the-boxesleagueleague-of-legendslolmobaopinionpaper-tigerriotriot-gamesshacosummoners-guidebookthe-summoners-guidebooktraptrapsThu, 29 Mar 2012 13:00:00 EST                        <![CDATA[The Summoner's Guidebook: Carrying Dominion games]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/22/the-summoners-guidebook-carrying-dominion-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/22/the-summoners-guidebook-carrying-dominion-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/22/the-summoners-guidebook-carrying-dominion-games/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                        League of Legends
                        One of the best things about League of Legends' Dominion mode is that individual bad players can't ruin games quite as much as they can on Summoner's Rift. It's true that a bad player is still not going to be as valuable as a good player, but in Classic, a single bad player is often worse than an AFK. It's never fun to lose a game when there's absolutely nothing you can do about Tryndamere feeding the top lane.

                        In Dominion, single players don't contribute quite as much, in general. However, there is an exception: the bottom lane. You'll be hearing me talk about the bottom lane in Dominion a lot. In most games, it's the most important element of the entire map. One player generally holds and controls the lane solo, and his ability to do this job well has more of an outcome on the game than any other individual's skill. A team that wins the bottom lane usually wins the game.

                        Continue reading The Summoner's Guidebook: Carrying Dominion games

                        MassivelyThe Summoner's Guidebook: Carrying Dominion games originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                          ]]>                          bottom-lanecounter-pushingdominionf2pfeaturedfree-to-playleagueleague-of-legendslolmobaopinionpushpushingriotriot-gamessummoners-guidebookthe-summoners-guidebookThu, 22 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST                          <![CDATA[The Summoner's Guidebook: Dominion isn't ready for ranked]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/the-summoners-guidebook-dominion-isnt-ready-for-ranked/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/the-summoners-guidebook-dominion-isnt-ready-for-ranked/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/the-summoners-guidebook-dominion-isnt-ready-for-ranked/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                          League of Legends
                          I'm a huge fan of League of Legends' Dominion gametype. One of the complaints I hear regularly is that Dominion doesn't have a ranked mode. Right now, Dominion's highly skilled summoners must choose between "curbstomping pubbies" in blind pick mode or waiting for a year in queue for draft pick mode. A ranked mode would solve these issues, as players would be encouraged to play more and would be able to see improvements in their gameplay.

                          A lot of people don't think that Dominion is ready for ranked. Most of the arguments along these lines have something to do with poor champion balance. What do they mean by "bad balance?" I have a suspicion that many of the complaints stem from a lack of counter-knowledge more than any fault of the developers.

                          Continue reading The Summoner's Guidebook: Dominion isn't ready for ranked

                          MassivelyThe Summoner's Guidebook: Dominion isn't ready for ranked originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                            ]]>                            cassiopeiadominionelo-ratingf2pfeaturedfree-to-playkassadinleagueleague-of-legendslolmobaopinionrammusrankedranked-matchesriotriot-gamessummoners-guidebookthe-summoners-guidebookThu, 15 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST                            <![CDATA[The Summoner's Guidebook: The game without a meta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/the-summoners-guidebook-the-game-without-a-meta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/the-summoners-guidebook-the-game-without-a-meta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/the-summoners-guidebook-the-game-without-a-meta/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                            It should be no shocker that the Crystal Scar is my favorite League of Legends map. Dominion is a more frantic and dynamic gametype, and it rewards tactical, free-thinking play more than the Classic game mode. The Classic maps reward technical skill and strategic thinking, but they aren't my preferred battlefield. I know a lot of you dear readers feel the same way.

                            Dominion is weird because it doesn't have a real, established metagame. Although cries of "4 top, 1 bottom" can be heard in virtually every match, they rarely hold up for more than a few minutes, and the four top players can be seen running backdoors, ganking bottom, or solo jungle roaming as the game progresses.

                            This is my first attempt at a Dominion overview, but the honest truth is that even the hardcore analyst-types like yours truly struggle to define exactly what wins Dominion games. There's a lot of room for discussion on this one, so let's get started.

                            Continue reading The Summoner's Guidebook: The game without a meta

                            MassivelyThe Summoner's Guidebook: The game without a meta originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                              ]]>                              backdoorbackdooringcontrol-pointscrystal-scardominionf2pfeaturedfree-to-playleagueleague-of-legendslolmobaopinionriotriot-gamesthe-crystal-scarthe-summoners-guidebookThu, 08 Mar 2012 13:00:00 EST                              <![CDATA[The Summoner's Guidebook: It's time to get serious!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/the-summoners-guidebook-its-time-to-get-serious/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/the-summoners-guidebook-its-time-to-get-serious/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/the-summoners-guidebook-its-time-to-get-serious/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                              One of the things that was baffling for me as a League of Legends noob was the overall tempo of PvP games. In bot matches, I got used to staying in my lane, and I was never sure when it was a good time to meet up with my team or go for objectives. I actually didn't really understand what "mid game" and "late game" actually meant.

                              However, on Summoner's Rift, those terms actually have real meaning. You have different goals in the early, mid, and late game, and if you try to continue laning when you're in the midgame, you're going to run into huge problems, as the entire enemy team is probably ganging up to come and kill you. This week, we're going to talk about the flow of the game on Summoner's Rift, and when you should be switching up your game to accomplish different things.

                              Continue reading The Summoner's Guidebook: It's time to get serious!

                              MassivelyThe Summoner's Guidebook: It's time to get serious! originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                ]]>                                blue-buffdragonf2pfeaturedfree-to-playgankingganksgold-farmingguideguidesjunglejunglerjunglingleague-of-legendslolmobared-buffriotriot-gamesshyvana-is-not-a-neutral-creepsummoners-riftteamfightingtempotime-managementtower-divingThu, 01 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST                                <![CDATA[The Summoner's Guidebook: Get back, get back!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/the-summoners-guidebook-get-back-get-back/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/the-summoners-guidebook-get-back-get-back/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/the-summoners-guidebook-get-back-get-back/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                                Last week, I said I would avoid doing articles on the situational "soft skills" in League of Legends. Well, this week kind of ruins that already. Today we're going to talk about lane positioning, zoning, and harassment. These things are not something I can just give you blanket tips on. There are a lot of nuances involved in good positioning, and every single matchup is completely different. You do not stand in the same places laning against Cassiopeia as you do against Kennen, and those positions change depending on which character you're playing, too.

                                Even though there is a lot of matchup-specific knowledge involved in lane positioning, there are some general tips I can provide. This week I'm going to only teach you about the basics of lane safety but give you some dirty mindgame tricks that will absolutely ruin your opponents. Interested? Read on!

                                Continue reading The Summoner's Guidebook: Get back, get back!

                                MassivelyThe Summoner's Guidebook: Get back, get back! originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                  ]]>                                  aioncounter-logic-gamingcounterpushingcurse-gamingdoppler-effectf2pfeaturedfree-to-playgankingganksguideharassmentkorealane-harassmentlaninglast-hittingleague-of-legendslollolpromobaopinionpatrick-is-a-beast-at-image-editingpeak-concurrent-userspushpushingriotriot-gamesshureliastarcraft-2starcraft-brood-warsudden-attacksummoners-guidebookteam-dignitaszone-controlzoningThu, 23 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST                                  <![CDATA[The Summoner's Guidebook: I suck at last-hitting]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/the-summoners-guidebook-i-suck-at-last-hitting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/the-summoners-guidebook-i-suck-at-last-hitting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/the-summoners-guidebook-i-suck-at-last-hitting/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

                                  Given all of the fansites dedicated to League of Legends, you might wonder what kind of content I have planned for The Summoner's Guidebook to set it apart. Fortunately, there are quite a few little niches to cover.

                                  Our focus with the column will be on the beginner to intermediate players and improving key elements of lower-level play. While I do recognize and admire the pro League scene, websites like SoloMid.net and Curse Gaming's new LoLPro.com have tons of advice to push your gameplay from the expert levels of play to the master and professional levels.

                                  This week, we're going to start with the basics of laning well. While there are dozens of guides on how to do this, I want to cover them in the Guidebook because their importance can't be stressed enough. Laning fundamentals are something you should practice in every game, even as you learn new strategies or tactics. If you can commit yourself to constantly improving in this area, you'll see dramatic leaps in your ability to play. These tricks are the hardest skills in the game to improve on, so getting better at them gives you a significant edge over most opponents. If you want to take the first steps to improve your LoL game, you'll have to read on.

                                  Continue reading The Summoner's Guidebook: I suck at last-hitting

                                  MassivelyThe Summoner's Guidebook: I suck at last-hitting originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                    ]]>                                    curse-gamingf2pfeaturedfree-to-playguideleague-of-legendslollolpromobaopinionriotriot-gamessummoners-guidebookteam-solo-midThu, 16 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST                                    <![CDATA[The Summoner's Guidebook: A community guide to League of Legends]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/the-summoners-guidebook-a-community-guide-to-league-of-legends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/the-summoners-guidebook-a-community-guide-to-league-of-legends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/the-summoners-guidebook-a-community-guide-to-league-of-legends/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                                    Greetings, summoners, and welcome to the first installment of the Summoner's Guidebook! For a new player, the Guidebook is a one-stop-shop to gaining familiarity with the various elements of League of Legends. For the more advanced players, we'll also be covering ways to improve on weak areas of your play and how to deal with the toughest of matchups.

                                    I was a new player once, and I remember being extremely daunted by the number of things I needed to learn to be competitive in LoL. Although the journey from newbie to expert was long and difficult, I learned a lot about common mistakes and how to reduce them. If you're looking to step up your game or if you're just getting into the League, the Summoner's Guidebook is the place for you to learn without being treated like you're a noob.

                                    This week, we're going to cover the community resources available to you. There are a lot of websites dedicated to League of Legends, and it would be foolish to assume that this column is the only place to get advice on the game. If there's something I haven't covered yet or there's a topic I'm unfamiliar with, you can be sure that one of these places will have the info you're looking for. This article can't possibly cover all the League fansites on the internet (there are probably hundreds), but I can focus on the ones with the best information.

                                    Continue reading The Summoner's Guidebook: A community guide to League of Legends

                                    MassivelyThe Summoner's Guidebook: A community guide to League of Legends originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                      ]]>                                      counter-logic-gamingf2pfacebookfansitesfeaturedforumsfree-to-playguideleague-of-legendslolmobamobafireofficial-websiteriotriot-gamessummoners-guidebookteam-solo-midtribunalyoutubeThu, 09 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST                                      <![CDATA[Behind the Mask: The real state of the game]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/behind-the-mask-the-real-state-of-the-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/behind-the-mask-the-real-state-of-the-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/behind-the-mask-the-real-state-of-the-game/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                                      Although Champions Online's most recent State of the Game has been out for a while, I sort of avoided talking about it in previous editions of Behind the Mask. The main reason was because I really wanted to cover the new powersets. However, that doesn't mean I don't have any comments on it.

                                      If you look at the history of the State of the Game and Ask Cryptic entries, they fluctuate quite a bit between good information and annoying PR. The January SOTG was full of annoying PR, and it bothered me greatly. It felt dishonest. I saw a lot of hype on little things that no one wanted and very little on what people really wanted.

                                      This week, I'm going to talk about the real state of the game: where CO is and where it needs to go. I'll also talk about some of the future stuff that Robobo mentioned in the SOTG. Is it good or bad? We'll see!

                                      Continue reading Behind the Mask: The real state of the game

                                      MassivelyBehind the Mask: The real state of the game originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                        ]]>                                        Archetypesbehind-the-maskchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosfeaturedopinionperfect-world-entertainmentpwesotgState-of-the-gameThu, 02 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST                                        <![CDATA[Behind the Mask: Throwing stones at their glass houses]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/behind-the-mask-throwing-stones-at-their-glass-houses/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/behind-the-mask-throwing-stones-at-their-glass-houses/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/behind-the-mask-throwing-stones-at-their-glass-houses/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

                                        This week on Behind the Mask, we're going to take an in-depth look at Champions Online's new Earth powerset. It took me quite a while to review Wind, and Earth is relatively new. Why the time disparity?

                                        The real answer is that I looked at Wind long before last week, but I didn't really find anything fun or exciting at a first look. Earth is a lot different. Earth has a lot of potential for combining powers between the set; it can Stagger enemies and then exploit that Stagger for damage or bonus effects. Because a lot of the Earth tricks eat your Stagger stacks, you have to choose between keeping Stagger on your targets for the debuff or eating it for the bonus power effects. On top of that, it has the first viable Brick archetype heal, making the Mountain the second reliable Archetype tank. Earth is a lot of fun.

                                        Continue reading Behind the Mask: Throwing stones at their glass houses

                                        MassivelyBehind the Mask: Throwing stones at their glass houses originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                          ]]>                                          by-your-powers-combinedchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosearthearth-powersearth-powersetf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhealingperfect-world-entertainmentpwesupporttankingThu, 26 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST                                          <![CDATA[Behind the Mask: Scarlet Weather Rhapsody]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/behind-the-mask-scarlet-weather-rhapsody/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/behind-the-mask-scarlet-weather-rhapsody/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/behind-the-mask-scarlet-weather-rhapsody/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                                          Champions Online released two powersets recently, and I finally got time to sit down and crunch numbers on the new Wind powers. Wind has been live for a few weeks now, and the Squall archetype uses its powers to push enemies around the battlefield and rock the damage charts.

                                          Wind has been one of the most frequently requested powersets since Heavy Weapons hit the game, and I was excited to play around with the set. Does the Wind powerset meet the expectations players had for it? This week on Behind the Mask, I set out to find the answer to that question.

                                          Continue reading Behind the Mask: Scarlet Weather Rhapsody

                                          MassivelyBehind the Mask: Scarlet Weather Rhapsody originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                            ]]>                                            behind-the-maskchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosfeaturedlightning-and-windlightning-boltperfect-world-entertainmentpwestormstormbringersuper-heroweather-controlwindwind-and-waterwind-poweredThu, 19 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST                                            <![CDATA[Behind the Mask: The dangers of roleplaying as an outlet]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/behind-the-mask-the-dangers-of-roleplaying-as-an-outlet/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/behind-the-mask-the-dangers-of-roleplaying-as-an-outlet/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/behind-the-mask-the-dangers-of-roleplaying-as-an-outlet/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                                            Recently, I've run into some troubling developments while roleplaying in Champions Online. I've encountered quite a few "troll characters" who seem designed soley to irritate and annoy other people. The characters in question are often played by otherwise-good roleplayers, which makes me wonder: Why would someone do this?

                                            This is as much a topic for Storyboard as it is for Behind the Mask, but because it is very common among Champions Online roleplayers, I feel it deserves extra consideration. This article isn't going to finger-point at bad roleplayers and say why they're wrong. Rather, the point of this column is to inform good roleplayers about elements of RP that can quickly ruin people's fun.

                                            Continue reading Behind the Mask: The dangers of roleplaying as an outlet

                                            MassivelyBehind the Mask: The dangers of roleplaying as an outlet originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                              ]]>                                              behind-the-maskchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosdisruptive-roleplayingfeaturedhow-to-win-friends-and-influence-peopleinfluencing-peopleperfect-world-entertainmentpweroleplayingrpsocial-skillstroll-roleplayingwinning-friendsThu, 12 Jan 2012 19:00:00 EST                                              <![CDATA[Behind the Mask: Angels and Devils]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/behind-the-mask-angels-and-devils/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/behind-the-mask-angels-and-devils/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/behind-the-mask-angels-and-devils/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                                              Last week on Behind the Mask, we talked about the basic dimensional structure of the Champions universe and its parallels with the Kabballah. This week, we take you a bit deeper into the mythos of Champions Online. We'll take a look at the Astral Plane, or Yetzirah, and the key places that exist there. I'll be focusing heavily on the Quaternion -- a series of four planar zones within the Lower Astral Plane that embody most fantasy elements critical to the Champions Universe.

                                              If you have ever wondered about demons and angels, this is a must-read. The Vibora Bay story arc paints a very unusual picture about the nature of these planes, and we'll be covering just what Heaven and Hell are in respect to that story. We'll also be covering faeries, elves, dwarves, and other popular fantasy elements. If you're planning on creating a roleplaying character who fits into a fantasy subtype, travels through dimensions, or just uses magic, this information will be critical to you!

                                              Continue reading Behind the Mask: Angels and Devils

                                              MassivelyBehind the Mask: Angels and Devils originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                ]]>                                                angelsbehind-the-maskchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosdemonsdimensionsdragonsdwarveselvesfaeriesfeaturedheaven-or-hell-lets-rockloreperfect-world-entertainmentpweThu, 05 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST                                                <![CDATA[Behind the Mask: Between this world and the next]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/29/behind-the-mask-between-this-world-and-the-next/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/29/behind-the-mask-between-this-world-and-the-next/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/29/behind-the-mask-between-this-world-and-the-next/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                                                One of the exciting things about writing about Champions Online is that there is a huge amount of lore and backstory behind the game. Although Behind the Mask has a definite focus on concrete game information (that's just how I roll), the lore is always something I'm excited to cover. It offers a look into Champions that can't be experienced with just the online game.

                                                This week we're going to look at alternate dimensions in the Champions universe. I was going to take a more indepth look at the background behind the war between Heaven and Hell, but unfortunately there is so much information that paints necessary frameworks for those story elements. It's unfortunate, but the information I have to go over this week is pretty crazy stuff.

                                                Before you go through this, you may want to check out some of my other lore articles, including my magic lore article and my general lore primer. I do restate all the necessary stuff here, but having a broader understanding of what's going on can do nothing but help. A lot of the information here is from The Mystic World sourcebook, but there's also a fair bit of stuff cobbled together from ingame lore and some other sourcebooks. Definitely check them out if you want more information on these subjects.

                                                Continue reading Behind the Mask: Between this world and the next

                                                MassivelyBehind the Mask: Between this world and the next originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Dec 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                  ]]>                                                  alternate-dimensionsalternate-universealternate-universesanother-dimensionbehind-the-maskchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosdimensional-travelfeaturedloreperfect-world-entertainmentpweThu, 29 Dec 2011 20:00:00 EST                                                  <![CDATA[Behind the Mask: The Force Unleashed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/22/behind-the-mask-the-force-unleashed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/22/behind-the-mask-the-force-unleashed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/22/behind-the-mask-the-force-unleashed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                                                  Now that The Old Republic has hit the shelves, it seems like everyone has something to say about it. Cryptic seems to acknowledge it in its own unusual way: by lampshading it.

                                                  Enter the Unleashed, Champions Online's newest free archetype. No, you're not misreading me here; the Unleashed is not a gold archetype. If you make an account right now, you can play the Unleashed from the moment you enter the character select screen, without spending a dime. Since it's the ninth free archetype, you'd think that he'd be a stable, bread-and-butter class. However, the Unleashed is nothing but. His wackiness approaches the Impulse, but where the Impulse is kind of ineffectual, the Unleashed is deadly efficient.

                                                  Interested in a sword-wielding knight who slings force blasts? Hit the jump and we'll see what Cryptic's take on a Jedi can do.

                                                  Continue reading Behind the Mask: The Force Unleashed

                                                  MassivelyBehind the Mask: The Force Unleashed originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                    ]]>                                                    archetypebehind-the-maskbrawlerchampionschampions-onlinechampscocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosfeaturedforce-unleashedjedilightsaberlightsabersmelee-dpsperfect-world-entertainmentpwesithstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicthe-old-republicThu, 22 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EST                                                    <![CDATA[Behind the Mask: A way to improve microtransaction consumables]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/behind-the-mask-a-way-to-improve-microtransaction-consumables/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/behind-the-mask-a-way-to-improve-microtransaction-consumables/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/behind-the-mask-a-way-to-improve-microtransaction-consumables/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                                                    A couple of weeks ago, I lamented the existence of grab bags in Champions Online and how they could be made more worthwhile. Although I made quite a few suggestions on what could be changed, the main concern was that the consumables placed in the grab bags were simply not worth anything.

                                                    Improving the value of C-Store consumables won't appease the vocal minority whose sense of entitlement tells them that they deserve the ultra-rare grab bag items. These people only see the grab bags as chances for costume unlocks, so making the consumables worth the 80 CP ($1 US) won't matter to them. For the general public, though, making the consumables worth the gamble makes the grab bag items much more desirable.

                                                    This week on Behind the Mask, we'll look at the C-Store consumables and weigh in on whether they're worth the money. If they're not, we'll look at what could be done to fix it!

                                                    Continue reading Behind the Mask: A way to improve microtransaction consumables

                                                    MassivelyBehind the Mask: A way to improve microtransaction consumables originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                      ]]>                                                      behind-the-maskboost-enhancerc-storechampions-onlinecoconsumablescrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhealth-potionsmana-potionsMicrotransactionsperfect-world-entertainmentpweThu, 15 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EST                                                      <![CDATA[Behind the Mask: What does unbalanced even mean?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/behind-the-mask-what-does-unbalanced-even-mean/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/behind-the-mask-what-does-unbalanced-even-mean/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/behind-the-mask-what-does-unbalanced-even-mean/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                                                      One of the major criticisms of Champions Online is a lack of game balance. People claim that the phrase "your own hero, your own story" doesn't cover the fact that your hero might be a gimp compared to someone else's. Although archetypes have their own balance issues (even among themselves), this complaint most commonly leveled at the freeform game where there are millions of possible characters.

                                                      However, I think that most armchair game theorists have a terrible understanding of what "balance" even means. Decades of competitive gaming (yeah, I'm that old) have given me a comprehensive understanding of what the term means, and I think it's worth looking at how CO stacks up.

                                                      Continue reading Behind the Mask: What does unbalanced even mean?

                                                      MassivelyBehind the Mask: What does unbalanced even mean? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                        ]]>                                                        balanceBehind-the-Maskchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosf2pfeaturedfree-to-playgame-balanceimbalanceopoverpoweredperfect-world-entertainmentpvp-balancepwestreet-fighter-2-came-out-a-long-time-agosuper-herounbalancedThu, 08 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST                                                        <![CDATA[Behind the Mask: Are grab bags a scam?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/01/behind-the-mask-are-grab-bags-a-scam/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/01/behind-the-mask-are-grab-bags-a-scam/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/01/behind-the-mask-are-grab-bags-a-scam/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                                                        Everyone's heard of the "gift box" phenomenon. It's a common theme in F2P MMOs to release an item that doesn't have guaranteed contents and instead has a random selection from a pool of items. Sometimes there are rare bonus items inside; other times there are things the buyer didn't really want. Champions Online has taken its second foray into this territory with the Service and Cursed Grab Bags, a pair of C-Store items that grant a chance at a variety of tradable goodies.

                                                        Gift box items sell to a variety of people. Some find the idea of chance more fun, and others absolutely must have the rare items and will spend lots of money trying to get them. Are the grab bags a scam, though? After the jump, we'll look at just why that is and hopefully give you enough information to come to your own conclusion.

                                                        Continue reading Behind the Mask: Are grab bags a scam?

                                                        MassivelyBehind the Mask: Are grab bags a scam? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                          ]]>                                                          behind-the-maskc-storecash-shopchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosf2pfeaturedfree-to-playgift-boxgift-boxesgrab-bagluck-of-the-drawperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwerandom-number-generatorscamThu, 01 Dec 2011 18:30:00 EST                                                          <![CDATA[League of Legends discusses jungling changes in patch preview]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/26/league-of-legends-discusses-jungling-changes-in-patch-preview/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/26/league-of-legends-discusses-jungling-changes-in-patch-preview/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/26/league-of-legends-discusses-jungling-changes-in-patch-preview/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                                                          League of Legends
                                                          If you've been following the recent updates on League of Legends, you know that the Riot Games staff has been working to diversify the current metagame with updates to the mastery tree and a complete overhaul of the dodge mechanic.

                                                          The Riot team is now looking to continue the trend toward improving jungling with the Volibear patch. A whole slew of changes aimed at lowering the skill and rune requirements for jungling and making jungling decisions more complex are slated for the next patch. In addition, the dev team is planning a total rework of Sivir (probably at least partially because of the planned dodge changes). Check out the video after the jump for more specifics!

                                                          Continue reading League of Legends discusses jungling changes in patch preview

                                                          MassivelyLeague of Legends discusses jungling changes in patch preview originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 26 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                            ]]>                                                            f2pfree-to-playjunglejungle-buffsjunglingleague-of-legendslolmobaranged-carryriotriot-gamessivirvideovideosSat, 26 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST                                                            <![CDATA[Behind the Mask: Charging to maximum]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/24/behind-the-mask-charging-to-maximum/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/24/behind-the-mask-charging-to-maximum/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/24/behind-the-mask-charging-to-maximum/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                                                            Once upon a time before the Champions Online beta, I was introduced to the idea of charged attacks. The concept seemed pretty cool; you had your basic attack, and charging the attack would do something neat and special. Unfortunately, CO kind of fell short on my expectations. Energy is used for all attacks, rather than just special or charged attacks, and it builds much too quickly. The choice to charge an attack is not as much of a tactical decision and mostly hinges on how much health the enemy has left.

                                                            This week on Behind the Mask, we're going to cover charge powers. Although some of this may seem obvious or simple, there is a lot of nuance to be understood. I won't treat you guys like noobs or idiots when it comes to these mechanics; we're going to look at the in-depth reasons why charging powers isn't the best idea in CO.

                                                            Continue reading Behind the Mask: Charging to maximum

                                                            MassivelyBehind the Mask: Charging to maximum originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Nov 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                              ]]>                                                              behind-the-maskchampions-onlinecharged-attackschargingcharging-powerscocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosee-han-timingfeaturedimma-chargin-ma-lazerperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpower-chargingpwetiming-attacksThu, 24 Nov 2011 18:00:00 EST                                                              <![CDATA[Behind the Mask: Comparing the archetype bruisers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/17/behind-the-mask-comparing-the-archetype-bruisers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/17/behind-the-mask-comparing-the-archetype-bruisers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/17/behind-the-mask-comparing-the-archetype-bruisers/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                                                              A lot of people seem to get the wrong idea about Champions Online's Gold archetypes. For the most part, the Gold archetypes are simply different options to play with. As I mentioned previously, the Master is kind of an exception, since it's the only dedicated archetype tank. However, this does not mean that the Master is the beat-all-end-all or that Gold archetypes are outright superior to Silver ones. For the most part, the Silver archetypes are better at their focused roles than the comparable Gold archetypes.

                                                              This week, we're going to look at the damage-soaking tanky archetypes and compare them. I'll also give a quick comparison between these bruisers and a comparable freeform hero. There's quite a few to cover, so let's get to it!

                                                              Continue reading Behind the Mask: Comparing the archetype bruisers

                                                              MassivelyBehind the Mask: Comparing the archetype bruisers originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                ]]>                                                                archetypearchetypesbehemothbehind-the-maskchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosfeaturedfighterglaciermastermelee-archetypenot-a-tank-article-this-timeperfect-worldpwesavagespecialistThu, 17 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST                                                                <![CDATA[Behind the Mask: How tanking got easier]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/behind-the-mask-how-tanking-got-easier/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/behind-the-mask-how-tanking-got-easier/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/behind-the-mask-how-tanking-got-easier/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                                                                I've mused for a long time about the problems with tanking in Champions Online, since it's my preferred PvE role. Gold members can build freeform characters with everything one would need for a tank, leaving only skill as a requirement. On the other hand, Silver members have been left out in the cold. It's unfortunate, but there has simply been no decent archetype tank.

                                                                This all changed with the launch of the Master, a martial arts-themed melee fighter with everything needed to compete in the toughest lairs. Although he isn't a perfect tanking package, he is completely functional and does his job well. He's the Mind of tanking archetypes: He soaks damage, he owns face, and he isn't reliant on a healer for sustainability. I think I'm in love.

                                                                Although he is not a free archetype, unlocking the Master is a one-time purchase. If you're into the tank playstyle but you're not into a subscription, this archetype is for you.

                                                                Continue reading Behind the Mask: How tanking got easier

                                                                MassivelyBehind the Mask: How tanking got easier originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Nov 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                  ]]>                                                                  championschampions-onlinechampscocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosf2pfeaturedfree-to-playkung-fukung-fu-mastermartial-artistmartial-artsmasterperfect-world-entertainmentpweshurikens-and-lightningtanktank-archetypetankingtanksThu, 10 Nov 2011 21:00:00 EST                                                                  <![CDATA[Behind the Mask: How freeforms work]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/behind-the-mask-how-freeforms-work/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/behind-the-mask-how-freeforms-work/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/behind-the-mask-how-freeforms-work/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                                                                  This week on Behind the Mask, we'll be looking at freeform characters and how they work. This is more of a primer for players who are interested in the Gold subscription and would like to know more about how freeform characters differ from archetypes. I'm also spotlighting it to show just how archetypes are built poorly and some ways they could be improved.

                                                                  Freeform characters differ dramatically from archetypes. However, they follow a concrete set of rules on how they must be built. A hero can't just select Gigabolt, Ego Storm, or other high-level powers right from the start; there's a list of power restrictions that must be selected first. The power restrictions basically correlate to level restrictions, although there are some ways around that too.

                                                                  While this may be familiar to Gold players, it will serve as a primer for those who are not experts at maneuvering around the power selection process.

                                                                  Continue reading Behind the Mask: How freeforms work

                                                                  MassivelyBehind the Mask: How freeforms work originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                    ]]>                                                                    buildingbuildschampions-onlinecharacter-customizationcocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosfeaturedfreeformfreefprm-character-progressionopen-character-customizationperfect-world-entertainmentpweThu, 03 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST                                                                    <![CDATA[Behind the Mask: The choice of team support]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/behind-the-mask-the-choice-of-team-support/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/behind-the-mask-the-choice-of-team-support/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/behind-the-mask-the-choice-of-team-support/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                                                                    Champions Online screenshot
                                                                    Last week's Behind the Mask covered Champions Online's super team support solo monster, the Mind, but I thought it would be prudent to cover the other ways a player can support a team. Some of this will tread existing ground, as I've already talked about the Mind and Grimoire archetypes in previous editions, and both have one of the four team support options.

                                                                    I'll be covering the Mind's passive in more detail, taking a brief look again at the Grimoire's passive as well as covering the other two options, Seraphim and Medical Nanites. While we don't have a Celestial archetype just yet, it is only a matter of time before Cryptic adds one, so this will give a bit of a preview for what a Celestial healer plays like.

                                                                    Continue reading Behind the Mask: The choice of team support

                                                                    MassivelyBehind the Mask: The choice of team support originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                      ]]>                                                                      aura-passivebehind-the-maskchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosdefensef2pfeaturedfree-to-playhealerhealershealingperfect-world-entertainmentpweteam-supportThu, 27 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST                                                                      <![CDATA[Behind the Mask: Mind over matter]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/behind-the-mask-mind-over-matter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/behind-the-mask-mind-over-matter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/behind-the-mask-mind-over-matter/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                                                                      Champions Online
                                                                      I have been hounded a bit lately for more coverage on the free aspects of Champions Online and the options available to free players. Fortunately, even before I wrote last week's article on the penultimate freeform tank, I was planning to cover the Mind archetype next.

                                                                      The Mind is the Silver answer to a dedicated support character, and it is perhaps by accident that she is also the most interesting and powerful archetype in the game. She combines team support, healing, survivability, DPS, and self-sustainability into one neat package that is literally unrivaled by any other archetype, free or otherwise.

                                                                      Unlike other archetypes, the Mind is too complex to be summarized by one article. She's an exceptionally varied creature with many options. Because the essential advantages in her build are pretty loose, she can get all of her key powers with a minimum of sacrifice. Hit the jump and I'll show you how playing the Mind is more like playing a freeform character and less like playing an archetype.

                                                                      Continue reading Behind the Mask: Mind over matter

                                                                      MassivelyBehind the Mask: Mind over matter originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 Oct 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                        ]]>                                                                        archetypebehind-the-maskchampions-onlineclassclass-discussioncocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosf2pfeaturedfree-archetypefree-players-dont-have-it-that-badfree-to-playhealerhealer-archetypementalistmindperfect-world-entertainmentpsionicpsionic-healerpwesilver-archetypeThu, 20 Oct 2011 20:30:00 EST                                                                        <![CDATA[Behind the Mask: Practical indestructibility]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/behind-the-mask-practical-indestructibility/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/behind-the-mask-practical-indestructibility/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/behind-the-mask-practical-indestructibility/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                                                                        Champions Online screenshot
                                                                        It's not very commonplace to showcase a single build on Behind the Mask. In fact, aside from the Archetypes, I've never directly addressed any of the millions of build options in Champions Online. However, one build in particular has garnered a lot of attention lately. It's infamous for its incredible survivability, and many people consider it the benchmark of all builds. The main permutation of the build is Invul/dodge, but the core idea is using layered defenses to ramp up survivability to ridiculous levels.

                                                                        This week, we'll cover what Invul/dodge is, how it works, and some popular variants. We'll also discuss its limitations and counters. While Invul/dodge is probably the most situationally durable build in the game, it has its weaknesses. Some players might delude you into thinking that Invul/dodge is good at everything, but that couldn't be further from the truth.

                                                                        Continue reading Behind the Mask: Practical indestructibility

                                                                        MassivelyBehind the Mask: Practical indestructibility originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Oct 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                          ]]>                                                                          champions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosdodgef2pfeaturedflavor-of-the-monthfotmfotm-doesnt-mean-imbafree-to-playidfinvulnerabilitylayered-defensesperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwetanktankingThu, 13 Oct 2011 19:00:00 EST                                                                          <![CDATA[Behind the Mask: The separation of newbie and expert]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/behind-the-mask-the-separation-of-newbie-and-expert/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/behind-the-mask-the-separation-of-newbie-and-expert/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/behind-the-mask-the-separation-of-newbie-and-expert/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                                                                          Champions Online screenshot
                                                                          Last week on Behind the Mask, we got into a little discussion about why Champions Online's Elite difficulty needs to be buffed (and possibly also the very hard difficulty as well). This led to a discussion of whom Elite would be tailored for. I'm sure this is a big issue over at Cryptic right now. If Elite is increased in difficulty, whom should it be designed to suit?

                                                                          I was asked this burning question a few times, and I've made my opinion clear: that Elite should be for the top tier, the tip of the iceberg of player ability. Don't take that to mean Gold players only. There is a sharp divide between an expert Silver player and a poor Gold player. In fact, the poor Gold player is likely to be worse than a bad Silver player. How good is good enough? This week, we'll find out.

                                                                          Continue reading Behind the Mask: The separation of newbie and expert

                                                                          MassivelyBehind the Mask: The separation of newbie and expert originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 06 Oct 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                            ]]>                                                                            casualcasual-playerchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosdifficulty-leveldifficulty-slidereliteelite-difficultyelitistfeaturednoobnoviceperfect-world-entertainmentpvewe-love-casualsThu, 06 Oct 2011 20:00:00 EST                                                                            <![CDATA[Behind the Mask: Elite doesn't mean casual]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/behind-the-mask-elite-doesnt-mean-casual/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/behind-the-mask-elite-doesnt-mean-casual/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/behind-the-mask-elite-doesnt-mean-casual/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                                                                            Back in the early days of Champions Online, there was no difficulty slider. We got stuck playing the same stuff regardless of player or character ability, and often that meant high-skill players and their nigh-invincible god characters smashed through insignificant minions like freight trains. When Serpent Lantern launched, Cryptic added in difficulty settings, beginning at the base normal difficulty and ending at very hard. Later on, the devs added an Elite difficulty, touted to be even tougher than VH.

                                                                            Since then, high-powered heroes have had a way to challenge themselves... sort of. When Serpent Lantern first launched, doing it on VH was reasonably challenging due to the many annoyances (mostly pulson guns) placed in it by the dev team. When players rightfully complained that the pulson guns ripped through well-statted tanks, the devs nerfed the guns and the difficulty became mostly a joke. Normal difficulty is still mostly synonymous with "cakewalk," while Elite is more like "sorta dangerous, maybe."

                                                                            Continue reading Behind the Mask: Elite doesn't mean casual

                                                                            MassivelyBehind the Mask: Elite doesn't mean casual originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                              ]]>                                                                              behind-the-maskchallengechampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosdifficulty-leveldifficulty-slidereliteelite-difficultyf2pfeaturedfree-to-playperfect-world-entertainmentpulson-guns-suckedpweThu, 29 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST                                                                              <![CDATA[Behind the Mask: Science, technology and fantasy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/behind-the-mask-science-technology-and-fantasy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/behind-the-mask-science-technology-and-fantasy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/behind-the-mask-science-technology-and-fantasy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                                                                              Champions Online screenshot
                                                                              Last week's Behind the Mask generated quite a bit of controversy over fantasy and the suspension of disbelief. This week, I'm going to follow up. We'll cover how the Champions Online universe deals with fantasy in its lore and why realism is important.

                                                                              We'll also cover how fantasy elements can use realism to expand -- rather than subtract -- your options for roleplaying. Last week, we only covered weapons technology, but there's a lot more to any fictional setting than just weapons. Everything from communications and transportation to food production is important to discuss, and while we can't touch on everything, we can look at the hows and whys of the superhero genre.

                                                                              Continue reading Behind the Mask: Science, technology and fantasy

                                                                              MassivelyBehind the Mask: Science, technology and fantasy originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                                ]]>                                                                                behind-the-maskchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosf2pfantasy-sci-fifeaturedfree-to-playits-magic-and-i-dont-got-to-splainloreroleplayingsciencescience-fantasyscience-fictionsuper-heroThu, 22 Sep 2011 19:00:00 EST                                                                                <![CDATA[Behind the Mask: Fictional guns are lame]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/behind-the-mask-fictional-guns-are-lame/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/behind-the-mask-fictional-guns-are-lame/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/behind-the-mask-fictional-guns-are-lame/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                                                                                Champions Online screenshot
                                                                                Out of all my issues with modern roleplaying, the inaccurate portrayal of firearms is very near and dear to my heart. Champions Online is a pretty big offender in this regard. One of the most important things that we forget to realize about games in modern settings is that in the real world, guns are tremendously destructive.

                                                                                Although this is more of a general roleplaying issue and not limited to CO, I feel it's worth touching on. Is it so weird to wonder why superpowered groups like VIPER or UNTIL use energy blasters instead of firearms? Hit the jump and we'll talk about why the U-KTF blaster rifles don't hold a candle to things that exist in the real world.

                                                                                Continue reading Behind the Mask: Fictional guns are lame

                                                                                MassivelyBehind the Mask: Fictional guns are lame originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                                                                  ]]>                                                                                  .50-caliber-bmg20mm-anti-materiel-riflebehind-the-maskbulletschampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosenergy-weaponsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playgunslasers-are-dumbloreThu, 15 Sep 2011 19:00:00 EST