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[Some Assembly Required: Xsyon picks up speed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/some-assembly-required-xsyon-picks-up-speed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/some-assembly-required-xsyon-picks-up-speed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/some-assembly-required-xsyon-picks-up-speed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Some Assembly Required header
Last year, I had the opportunity to meander around Xsyon for Choose My Adventure. Then, the game was still at the end of its beta phase. Now, with some time under its belt since release, the game continues to grow. And January has seen quite the growth spurt.

I won't complain if the momentum that Xsyon has shown in the last month keeps up. Announcing multiple events and an architecture contest? Not to mention introducing new goodies? You go, game! Though it's small and indie, I am totally rooting for this title to succeed. Why? The main reason is that the game is reliant on player generated content: Instead of developers designing every aspect of the game, they built the world as a foundation and gave players the tools to go from there. This game is one of the few out there that offers many avenues for players to generate their own content and have a visible and lasting impact on the world around them.

And just how is post-apocalyptic Earth shaping up with the players at the helm? This week, Some Assembly Required explores the once-ravaged land to highlight some of that generated content, from events (both player-run and developer sponsored) to small- and large-scale construction.

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: Xsyon picks up speed

MassivelySome Assembly Required: Xsyon picks up speed originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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    ]]>    architecturechoose-my-adventurechoose-my-adventure-xsyonCMAcontestcontestseventsevents-in-gamefeaturedin-game-eventsnew-featuresnotorious-gamesplantingplanting-treesplayer-generated-contentplayer-run-eventssandboxsandbox-experienceSARsome-assembly-requiredterraformingXsyonxsyon-earth-2012Fri, 03 Feb 2012 22:00:00 EST    <![CDATA[MMObility: Let's make a mobile game, part one]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/mmobility-lets-make-a-mobile-game-part-one/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/mmobility-lets-make-a-mobile-game-part-one/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/mmobility-lets-make-a-mobile-game-part-one/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

    Wurm Online screenshot
    I thoroughly enjoy reading your comments, especially when the discussion turns to game design or suggestions for development. I decided it was high time that I sat down and experienced, even if just a little, how the design process goes. I've had plenty of peeks at different studios, but I wanted to know what it is like to actually make a game from basically beginning to end.

    So for the next four weeks, I will be doing something special. I invited indie developer Dave Toulouse, maker of Golemizer and Star Corsairs, to help me in this journey. If you'd like to find out more about Dave, you can visit his official website, follow him on Twitter, or even read an interview I did with him a while ago. He really is the epitome of the indie spirit, and I am so thankful that he volunteered to do this with me.

    The goal is to start with a basic idea and framework, and using input from our discussions and from reader comments, assemble a very basic working mobile MMO. So let's get started!

    Continue reading MMObility: Let's make a mobile game, part one

    MassivelyMMObility: Let's make a mobile game, part one originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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      ]]>      androidbeau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedbrowser-based-mmodave-toulousedie2nitef2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpglitchgolemizerhardcoreillyriadIOSiphoneMMObilitymobilepollpollsstar-corsairswurm-onlineFri, 03 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST      <![CDATA[Perfect World International begins its Descent]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/perfect-world-international-begins-its-descent/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/perfect-world-international-begins-its-descent/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/perfect-world-international-begins-its-descent/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

      It's nice that Ms. Mutant Snake Lady here still has a bared midriff. The alternative would be too awful to contemplate.
      If you're an avid player of Perfect World International, February 15th will be the day that it all goes down. That's the launch date for the game's latest expansion, Descent, which brings along a variety of improvements and upgrades to the game. Despite the low implications of the name, the expansion will be focusing on high-level conflict, with a new zone open to players of level 95 and up to explore. Said zone includes new quest hubs, two new dungeons, and of course several new pieces of equipment.

      Progress through the zone will also bring characters into contact with the three Orders, forcing players to choose between the Orders for special character perks and improvements. Even without membership, however, each class will be gaining some new and unique skills that should alter the current distribution of abilities rather than reinforce existing roles. If this sounds right up your alley, check out the full expansion trailer just past the cut, and mark your calendar in advance.

      Continue reading Perfect World International begins its Descent

      MassivelyPerfect World International begins its Descent originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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      ]]>      descentexpansionexpansionsf2pfree-to-playpatchesperfect-world-entertainmentperfect-world-internationalpwepwipwi-descenttrailertrailersupdatesvideovideosFri, 03 Feb 2012 20:30:00 EST      <![CDATA[Betawatch: January 28 - February 3]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/betawatch-january-28-february-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/betawatch-january-28-february-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/betawatch-january-28-february-3/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

      Betawatch (Brick-Force screenshot)
      This week, TERA revealed the details of its North American and European pre-orders and associated closed beta tests. WAKFU, still in beta but launching at the end of February, likewise unveiled its subscription plans, and Mythos Global officially entered open beta. Again.

      Finally, Brick-Force, a Minecraft-inspired sandbox-shooter pseudo-MMO (say that 10 times fast) from German publisher Infernum, joined our open beta list.

      Read on for the entire Betawatch roundup.

      Continue reading Betawatch: January 28 - February 3

      MassivelyBetawatch: January 28 - February 3 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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        ]]>        alphabest-testbetabeta-testingbeta-testsbetawatchbrick-forceclosed-betafeaturedinfernummassively-metaopen-betaFri, 03 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST        <![CDATA[MechWarrior Online previews BattleMech upgrades and pilot skill trees]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/mechwarrior-online-previews-battlemech-upgrades-and-pilot-skill/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/mechwarrior-online-previews-battlemech-upgrades-and-pilot-skill/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/mechwarrior-online-previews-battlemech-upgrades-and-pilot-skill/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

        Concept Art -- MechWarrior Online
        A couple of days ago, Piranha Games -- the studio behind the upcoming MechWarrior Online -- gave us a look at the role-based warfare and character progression we can expect from the robot-fighting title. As we reported last week, players in MWO will fall into of four roles: scout, assault, defense, or command. Today's update on the game's official site gives us a closer look at the various ways that players can earn XP and on what they can spend it. For instance, every 'Mech will have an upgrade tree, which is divided into tiers. Players must spend experience in order to purchase all of the upgrades on a given tier before they are able to access the subsequent tier.

        To get a look at the various abilities and skill trees through which players will be progressing when they finally find themselves in the cockpit, just click on through the link below to the official MechWarrior Online site.

        MassivelyMechWarrior Online previews BattleMech upgrades and pilot skill trees originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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        ]]>        assaultbattlemechbattletechcharacter-progressioncommandcommanderdefenderdefenseexperiencef2pfree-to-playmechwarriormechwarrior-onlinemodulesmwopiranha-gamesprogressionrolerolesscoutupgradesxpFri, 03 Feb 2012 19:30:00 EST        <![CDATA['Just getting started': Scott Hartsman rallies the RIFT faithful for 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/just-getting-started-scott-hartsman-rallies-the-rift-faithful/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/just-getting-started-scott-hartsman-rallies-the-rift-faithful/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/just-getting-started-scott-hartsman-rallies-the-rift-faithful/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

        RIFT
        "What an amazing year it has been," begins Scott Hartsman in his one-year state of the game report for RIFT. Citing Trion Worlds' ability to "think about MMOs a little bit differently than everyone else," Hartsman recalls the mountain of accomplishments of the previous year, including the seven major content updates leading up to the recent Update 1.7 and the RIFT Lite service.

        The best part? "We're just getting started," he exults.

        Hartsman identifies the "key themes" of the team's 2012 focus, including playing with other people, improving the soul system, leaping forward in PvP, coming up with new ways to interact with the game world, and expanding RIFT's endgame. The interactions theme is intriguing, especially considering his phrasing: "When we say interact, we mean both interacting with the game in non-combat ways, and interacting from out of game entirely."

        The letter dives into more specifics with each of these themes before culminating in a promise of even more surprises to come later this year.

        Massively'Just getting started': Scott Hartsman rallies the RIFT faithful for 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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        ]]>        1.7dev-diaryproducers-letterpvpriftrift-litescott-hartsmansoul-systemstate-of-the-gametriontrion-worldsupdate-1.7Fri, 03 Feb 2012 19:00:00 EST        <![CDATA[BioWare bringing weekly blogs and video guides for Star Wars: The Old Republic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/bioware-bringing-weekly-blogs-and-video-guides-for-star-wars-th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/bioware-bringing-weekly-blogs-and-video-guides-for-star-wars-th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/bioware-bringing-weekly-blogs-and-video-guides-for-star-wars-th/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

        Video guides to being a Sith mostly include a whole lot of pictures of puppies for you to scream at.
        Bringing someone new into the world of an MMORPG can be a difficult task. BioWare is trying to make it easy for MMO newcomers to get into Star Wars: The Old Republic, and to that end the team has launched the first of a series of video guides to playing the game. The first video, narrated by Social Media Coordinator Eric Musco, covers starting fresh in the game, creating a character, and taking part in your first conversations.

        Of course, you might be an old hand at playing the game by now. (If not, the video is embedded just past the cut.) For those players not in need of a helping hand, BioWare has also announced the launch of two weekly features -- a blog post rounding up all developer posts to the forums over the prior week, and a Q&A session that will pull 10 questions from a community thread to be answered each week. So even if you don't need help getting into the game, you can have a little extra guidance about what's going on behind the scenes.

        Continue reading BioWare bringing weekly blogs and video guides for Star Wars: The Old Republic

        MassivelyBioWare bringing weekly blogs and video guides for Star Wars: The Old Republic originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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        ]]>        biowarebioware-mythiccommunitycommunity-blogdevelopmentdevelopment-questionseaea-biowareelectronic-artseric-muscoguidesq-and-astar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorvideovideo-guidevideosFri, 03 Feb 2012 18:30:00 EST        <![CDATA[The Firing Line: Global Agenda year two retrospective]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/the-firing-line-global-agenda-year-two-retrospective/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/the-firing-line-global-agenda-year-two-retrospective/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/the-firing-line-global-agenda-year-two-retrospective/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

        The Firing Line - Global Agenda turns two
        You! Yeah, you! You still haven't played Global Agenda, have you? I know, I know, you're going to get around to it, it's on your list, blah blah and etc. While you've been dilly-dallying about, Hi-Rez Studios' sci-fi shooter has gone and turned two years old!

        That's OK, though, because the game has more options, more content, and more pew-pew than at any time in its history, and thanks to a gaggle of anniversary events, now is the perfect time to saddle up.

        Continue reading The Firing Line: Global Agenda year two retrospective

        MassivelyThe Firing Line: Global Agenda year two retrospective originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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          ]]>          anniversaryf2pfeaturedfiring-linefree-agentfree-to-playglobal-agendahi-rezhi-rez-studiosmmo-shootermmotpsopinionpatchesrecursive-colonyretrospectivesci-fithe-firing-linethird-person-shootertwo-year-anniversaryupdatesyes-it-is-an-mmoFri, 03 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST          <![CDATA[Know your path with this handy SWTOR infographic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/know-your-path-with-this-handy-swtor-infographic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/know-your-path-with-this-handy-swtor-infographic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/know-your-path-with-this-handy-swtor-infographic/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

          Star Wars: The Old Republic leveling chart
          Are you playing Star Wars: The Old Republic? Are you a completionist who wants to ensure that you don't miss a thing? Well, thanks to this handy chart from the folks over at OldRepublic.net, you don't have to worry about that again. The flowchart gives the planetary leveling path for both Empire and Republic players and includes all of the flashpoints currently in-game and at which point in the game they should be tackled. Now you'll never accidentally skip over another flashpoint again (but that won't make Balmorra any less harrowing, unfortunately). For the full chart, just click on through the link below to OldRepublic.net

          MassivelyKnow your path with this handy SWTOR infographic originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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          ]]>          biowarechartdungeonseaelectronic-artsflashpointsinfographiclevelingleveling-chartplayer-vs-environmentpvestar-chartstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorFri, 03 Feb 2012 17:30:00 EST          <![CDATA[Victory: The Age of Racing changes publishers, burns rubber into beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/victory-the-age-of-racing-changes-publishers-burns-rubber-into/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/victory-the-age-of-racing-changes-publishers-burns-rubber-into/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/victory-the-age-of-racing-changes-publishers-burns-rubber-into/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

          Screenshot -- Victory: The Age of Racing
          It's been quite some time since we last heard from Vae Victis regarding its F2P racing MMO, Victory: The Age of Racing. The game was originally slated to be a 1960s Formula One racing title, but over time it has evolved to take place in a distant, post-apocalyptic future when humanity has been reduced to small pockets of survivors. Maybe said survivors held a council meeting to decide what they should be doing with their time: repopulating the earth, planting sustainable crops, scavenging for food... the choices are endless. But apparently one thing was more important than all that: racing.

          Victory was originally picked up to be published by GamersFirst, but after three years of deliberation, Vae Victis decided to self-publish the title "to best fulfill each particular need it will have and finally create the best possible product for our beloved players." The official post goes on to announce the initiation of Victory Beta 1, which is "a new version of the game that offers dozens of new features and fixes," such as the addition of a matchmaking system, achievements, new game modes, the Pro class for experienced players, and much more. For the full details, head on over to Vae Victis' blog, and then click on over to the game's official site to get behind the wheel.

          MassivelyVictory: The Age of Racing changes publishers, burns rubber into beta originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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          ]]>          f2pformula-onefree-to-playgamersfirstpublishingracingracing-gameself-publishingvae-victisvictoryvictory-the-age-of-racingFri, 03 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST          <![CDATA[Champions Online 'ambitiously' re-itemizing the game]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/champions-online-ambitiously-re-itemizing-the-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/champions-online-ambitiously-re-itemizing-the-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/champions-online-ambitiously-re-itemizing-the-game/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

          Champions Online
          As the groundhog pops up to see his shadow, so too do the devs of Champions Online pop up with their monthly UNTIL Field Report, dishing out the plans and proposed future updates for the game. This month's report is rather lengthy and kicks off with a promise about upcoming "ambitious" re-itemization of all items and rewards in Champions.

          Currently in testing and on deck for the near future is a '90s Iron Age costume set, alerts, zone balancing, and a look at why them women folk walk so dang funny (apparently arms and legs are moving out of sync on female characters). Players also have a new travel power -- Distortion Acrobatics -- and specialization trees to look forward to.

          There's also some good information in the report as to why some features and concerns have yet to move from low to high priority, such as the "lukewarm" feedback of team duels and the difficulties of balancing XP gifting.

          As the next update for Champions Online nears, Cryptic promises a more in-depth series of dev diaries detailing the changes.

          MassivelyChampions Online 'ambitiously' re-itemizing the game originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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          ]]>          champions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-studiosdev-diaryf2pfree-to-playiron-ageitemizationpatchpreviewre-itemizationtest-servertestinguntil-field-reportupcoming-patchupdateFri, 03 Feb 2012 16:30:00 EST          <![CDATA[LotRO video rock stars could win fame, glory, and Turbine Points]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/lotro-video-rock-stars-could-win-fame-glory-and-turbine-points/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/lotro-video-rock-stars-could-win-fame-glory-and-turbine-points/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/lotro-video-rock-stars-could-win-fame-glory-and-turbine-points/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

          LotRO
          Do you consider yourself a rock star within your MMO? Do men and women swoon upon your approach? Does a soundtrack ring out exalting your triumphs with every step you take? Do you carry a Sharpie around at all times to autograph body parts? Then you probably have an ego problem or something.

          For everyone else, A Casual Stroll to Mordor is calling on creative talents to come up with fun "I am a rockstar" videos for Lord of the Rings Online -- and the site is willing to pay handsomely for the best efforts. Players are tasked with making a rock star-themed commercial, which can be any shade of serious or funny, and submitting it for a chance to win in-game store cash. Two Turbine Point cards, valued at 2500 and 1500 TP, are up for the first and second place winners.

          Entries for the contest are due by February 17th. There are several rules for prospective video-makers, so head on over to CSTM for the full details.

          MassivelyLotRO video rock stars could win fame, glory, and Turbine Points originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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          ]]>          a-casual-stroll-to-mordorcontestcstmf2pfree-to-playi-am-a-rock-stari-am-a-rockstarlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromake-a-videosharpieturbineturbine-entertainmentvideo-contestFri, 03 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST          <![CDATA[EverQuest II players prepare to pay it forward tomorrow]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/everquest-ii-players-prepare-to-pay-it-forward-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/everquest-ii-players-prepare-to-pay-it-forward-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/everquest-ii-players-prepare-to-pay-it-forward-tomorrow/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

          Pay it Forward
          We here at Massively always have a soft spot in our otherwise cold and calculating hearts for players who take the initiative to help a fellow gamer out in a fun and creative way. So we couldn't let a story slip by about how a group of EverQuest II vets are planning to shower newbies with gifts and goodies in the hopes of fostering a better server community.

          Jayne on EQII's Freeport server is helping to organize the return of the Pay It Forward player event, an activity that apparently got a lot of great responses the last two times around. What is Pay It Forward?
          It's a day when adventurers and crafters come together to donate crafted goods, items rotting away in your bank, plat, rares, masters... you name it... to young adventurers, asking only that they perform some random good deed for a complete stranger in return.
          He's asking that interested participants meet at the crafting area on the Isle of Mara tomorrow, February 4th, at 4:00 pm EST with gifts to hand out to low-level players.

          MassivelyEverQuest II players prepare to pay it forward tomorrow originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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          ]]>          eq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfree-to-playfreeportgiveawaygoodie-bagsin-game-eventisle-of-marajaynepay-it-forwardpay-it-forward-3player-eventsoeSony-Online-Entertainmentthe-man-they-called-jayneFri, 03 Feb 2012 15:30:00 EST          <![CDATA[Conan O'Brien shows off SWTOR same-sex footage]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/conan-obrien-shows-off-swtor-same-sex-footage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/conan-obrien-shows-off-swtor-same-sex-footage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/conan-obrien-shows-off-swtor-same-sex-footage/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

          Yoda and Starkiller
          Leave it to Conan O'Brien to offer up the funniest take on Star Wars: The Old Republic's same-sex relationship controversy (which, incidentally, isn't that much of a controversy until it's actually in the game!).

          The late-night talk show host treated viewers to some "exclusive footage" -- apparently authorized by George Lucas himself (wink, nudge) -- that pairs up Star Wars icons like Darth Vader and Boba Fett and Yoda and Galen Marek (also known as Starkiller). Oh, and wait until the Family Research Council gets a load of Han Solo and Chewbacca. Check it out after the break.

          Continue reading Conan O'Brien shows off SWTOR same-sex footage

          MassivelyConan O'Brien shows off SWTOR same-sex footage originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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          ]]>          biowareconanconan-obrieneaea-biowareElectronic-Artssame-sexsame-sex-controversysame-sex-relationshipssci-fistar-wars-the-old-republicswtorswtor-same-sexthe-old-republictorvideoFri, 03 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST          <![CDATA[Bigpoint teases Battlestar Galactica Online carrier ships]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/bigpoint-teases-battlestar-galactica-online-carrier-ships/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/bigpoint-teases-battlestar-galactica-online-carrier-ships/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/bigpoint-teases-battlestar-galactica-online-carrier-ships/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

          Battlestar Galactica Online - carrier-class ship
          Bigpoint has let us know that it's about to kick off what it calls "space trials" for some new carrier-class ships in Battlestar Galactica Online. The craft will be visible on the Kobol beta server today in both Colonial and Cylon variants.

          Carriers function as support and supply vessels and can also serve as mobile outposts with repair and recharge capabilities.

          What's that? You say you want to pilot one of these shiny new vessels? Well, this is Bigpoint, so you'll need to enter a lottery via the community forum for your chance to jump in the cockpit of BSGO's latest and greatest. If you're not up for that, the ships will be available to all players on all servers after the completion of the trial period at the end of this month. You'll need to be level 40 (and in possession of nearly 500,000 in-game cubits) to get one for yourself.

          MassivelyBigpoint teases Battlestar Galactica Online carrier ships originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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          ]]>          battlestar-galacticabattlestar-galactica-onlinebigpointbrowsercarrier-shipscarrierscasualf2pfree-to-playlotterysci-fiFri, 03 Feb 2012 14:30:00 EST          <![CDATA[Interview confirms World of Darkness dev team, predicts DUST 514 sales]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/interview-confirms-world-of-darkness-dev-team-predicts-dust-514/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/interview-confirms-world-of-darkness-dev-team-predicts-dust-514/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/interview-confirms-world-of-darkness-dev-team-predicts-dust-514/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

          EVE Online title image
          When CCP Games laid off 20% of its worldwide staff back in October of last year, the World of Darkness dev team bore the brunt of the cuts while DUST 514 continued on course for its launch later this year. In an interview over at TenTonHammer today, CCP's new Chief Marketing Officer, David Reid, joined CEO Hilmar Petursson to discuss the development of both games. Hilmar reveals that a team of 60 developers are currently working on WoD, and that DUST 514 will be playable at this year's EVE Online fanfest event in March.

          Despite acknowledging that the entire PlayStation Network comprises a total of 60 million users, Reid asserts that DUST will bring "tens of millions of people that play shooters on PSN into the New Eden universe," going on to make the bold statement that "EVE could be the biggest game in the world at the end of 2012" as a result. Reid also claims that "EVE Online is the only game in the West that has shown consecutive growth year after year," a statement that's sure to upset RuneScape developer Jagex and others. The statement also comes with a slightly bitter note as this year EVE may have lost its record of continual subscription growth during the summer drama.

          MassivelyInterview confirms World of Darkness dev team, predicts DUST 514 sales originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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          ]]>          ccpccp-gamescmoconsoledavid-reiddustdust-514eveeve-onlinef2pfantasyfpsfree-to-playgothichilmar-peturssonhorrorinterviewjagexjagex-games-studiomillionsmmofpsplaystationplaystation-3PlayStation-Networkps3psnrsrunescapesalessandboxsci-fishootersupernaturalvampirevampireswhite-wolfwodworld-of-darknessFri, 03 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST          <![CDATA[Storyboard: You guys must be the party]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/storyboard-you-guys-must-be-the-party/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/storyboard-you-guys-must-be-the-party/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/storyboard-you-guys-must-be-the-party/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

          I always wonder if people read more into these header images than they ought to.
          A couple of weeks back, I wrote an article about dealing with a major ongoing storyline in an MMO. For those of you who neither read the article nor can spare the time to click the link and read it now: It talked about the problems presented by having a storyline and offered a few different solutions for handling such inconsistencies. Of course, as I noted, very few of these problems apply to open-world sandbox games that have no sort of ongoing developer-run story for you to stumble around.

          No, those games have issues entirely their own, starting with the very nature of player-run stories.

          A completely player-driven story has the advantage of not having several issues that can crop up when dealing with an ongoing in-game story, but it also still has some serious problems. There are still issues that you're going to have to have answers for when you're in a game that lets you craft the world to match your whims, and unfortunately the methods for doing so aren't quite as straightforward as the methods for dealing with an in-game storyline.

          Continue reading Storyboard: You guys must be the party

          MassivelyStoryboard: You guys must be the party originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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            ]]>            culturefeaturedopen-worldopinionplayer-driven-storiesroleplayingrpsandboxstoriesstorystoryboardFri, 03 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST            <![CDATA[The MMO Report: EQ was the first MMO edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/the-mmo-report-eq-was-the-first-mmo-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/the-mmo-report-eq-was-the-first-mmo-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/the-mmo-report-eq-was-the-first-mmo-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

            Casey Schreiner
            Casey Schreiner returns with this week's MMO Report, G4TV's weekly newscast about all things massively multiplayer. First up is a shout-out to the newly free-to-play EverQuest, though Ultima Online, Meridian 59, and The Realm players might dispute Casey's notion that EQ "started it all."

            Funcom's new Blue Mountain trailer for The Secret World also gets a mention, as does the Family Research Council's facepalm-inducing reaction to the prospect of same-sex snogging in Star Wars: The Old Republic. TERA's legal troubles are next, and Uncle Casey's mailbag rounds out this week's show. Head past the break to watch it in full.

            Continue reading The MMO Report: EQ was the first MMO edition

            MassivelyThe MMO Report: EQ was the first MMO edition originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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            ]]>            bluehole-studioen-masseen-masse-entertainmenteqeverquestf2pfamily-research-councilfree-to-playfuncommmo-reportstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorterathe-mmo-reportthe-old-republicthe-secret-worldtorvideoFri, 03 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST            <![CDATA[WAKFU puts out a call for (paying) pioneers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/wakfu-puts-out-a-call-for-paying-pioneers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/wakfu-puts-out-a-call-for-paying-pioneers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/wakfu-puts-out-a-call-for-paying-pioneers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

            WAKFU
            With WAKFU's launch rapidly approaching later this month, the information is pouring forth fast and furious from this free-to-play title. One of the biggest questions that players have at this stage is just how a game is going to make its money, and in the case of WAKFU, Ankama is certainly hoping that the experience is fun enough to warrant a regular subscription.

            If you're already on board with the WAKFU philosophy and wish to subscribe for a premium membership, then Ankama has a few great pre-launch offers for you. By signing up for three, six, or 12-month plans, you can net yourself plenty of in-game items as well as the esteemed title of "WAKFU Pioneer."

            Ankama has also published a helpful chart illustrating the differences between the F2P and subscription plans -- such as whether or not you can become an eco-terrorist (we kid you not). Other differences include the ability to own a home vs. set up an in-game shop, how many professions you can master (six vs. 16), and whether or not you can run for office.

            [Thanks to Derek for the tip!]

            MassivelyWAKFU puts out a call for (paying) pioneers originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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            ]]>            ankamabonusbusiness-modeleco-terrorismeco-terroristsf2pf2p-matrixfree-to-playlaunchofficepioneerpoliticspre-launchpre-launch-offerpre-orderpre-order-bonuspre-order-plansubsubscriptionsubscription-bonussubscription-chartwakfuwakfu-pioneerFri, 03 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST            <![CDATA[Study links MMOs to 'problem' game-playing]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/study-links-mmos-to-problem-game-playing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/study-links-mmos-to-problem-game-playing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/study-links-mmos-to-problem-game-playing/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

            Addicted gamer
            Despite the fact that video game addiction lacks both a definition and a diagnosis, "researchers around the world continue to investigate methods of determining, treating, and preventing" it, according to Gamespot.

            The American Psychiatric Association recently rejected a movement to incorporate game addiction into its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, but that hasn't stopped folks at the National Development and Research Institute from publishing the findings from a survey conducted with 3,380 adult gamers.

            The study found that five percent of participants reported "moderate to extreme problem game-playing." Commonly reported problem titles included Call of Duty, the Grand Theft Auto series, online poker games, and World of Warcraft. The team concluded that "there is evidence to suggest that problem game-playing is linked to particular kinds of game genres" and that further research is needed.

            MassivelyStudy links MMOs to 'problem' game-playing originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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            ]]>            addictionamerican-psychiatric-associationgame-addictionmmo-industrynational-development-and-research-instituteresearchresearchers-conclude-that-more-research-is-neededstudysurveyvideo-game-addictionWorld-of-WarcraftwowFri, 03 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST            <![CDATA[The 2800 invade Star Trek Online -- and we have on-the-scenes footage]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/the-2800-invade-star-trek-online-and-we-have-on-the-scenes-fo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/the-2800-invade-star-trek-online-and-we-have-on-the-scenes-fo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/the-2800-invade-star-trek-online-and-we-have-on-the-scenes-fo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

            STO
            "Forge alliances... or all will be lost."

            If those words don't give you chills of anticipation, then perhaps you need to take a gander at the video for the brand-new featured episodes coming soon to Star Trek Online. Titled "The 2800," the video begins by showing an invasion fleet popping out of a wormhole as the Federation and Klingons scramble to respond.

            During this story, the Jem Hadar will be staging a massive attack upon Deep Space Nine, and it's up to players to warp in and save the game.

            The 2800 will debut in the game on Saturday, February 11th, following this weekend's second anniversary celebration. You can watch the full video after the jump!

            Continue reading The 2800 invade Star Trek Online -- and we have on-the-scenes footage

            MassivelyThe 2800 invade Star Trek Online -- and we have on-the-scenes footage originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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            ]]>            crypticcryptic-studiosdeep-space-nineds9f2pfeatured-episodefree-to-playjem-hadarpatchperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpreviewpwestar-trek-onlinestothe-2800trailervideoFri, 03 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST            <![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Are you currently on hiatus from MMOs?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/the-daily-grind-are-you-currently-on-hiatus-from-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/the-daily-grind-are-you-currently-on-hiatus-from-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/the-daily-grind-are-you-currently-on-hiatus-from-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

            National Lampoon's Vacation
            Something fascinates me about many of the more vocal commenters on Massively. No matter what game is launching, re-launching, closing, expanding, or going free-to-play, someone usually has to make it known that he doesn't play MMOs at all anymore. The fact that he's still reading about MMOs on Massively is a compliment to us, but I'm always curious about what drove him away from actually playing.

            So if you're a former MMO player and you still like to keep up with the news, let us know why. What drove you away? What makes you still read about it? Are you holding out for the next big MMO, or is it something more?

            Every morning, the Massively bloggers probe the minds of their readers with deep, thought-provoking questions about that most serious of topics: massively online gaming. We crave your opinions, so grab your caffeinated beverage of choice and chime in on today's Daily Grind!

            MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Are you currently on hiatus from MMOs? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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              ]]>              burnoutgame-discussiongamer-discussionhiatusmmo-discussionmmo-hot-topicsmmo-issuesmmo-topicsmmorpg-discussionmmorpg-hot-topicsmmorpg-topicsopiniontdgthe-daily-grindFri, 03 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST              <![CDATA[This Week in MMO: Gannon-free edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/this-week-in-mmo-gannon-free-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/this-week-in-mmo-gannon-free-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/this-week-in-mmo-gannon-free-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

              The Gamebreaker crew (minus Gary Gannon)
              It's time for This Week in MMO, kids, and no, you don't need to adjust your televisions monitors. That is not Gary Gannon behind the mic this week, but it is Mike Schaffnit, and he's joined by Mike B. and Jason Winter for the customary MMO news roundtable.

              Tops on the agenda is TERA, which went from announcing its launch date to having a potentially launch-affecting lawsuit leveled at it by NCsoft. As the week wore on things got a bit better thanks to pre-order announcements (and the associated closed beta invites), but there's still a bit of a cloud hanging over En Masse's maiden title that our trio discusses at length.

              Other newsy bits include The Secret World's new trailer, World of Planes namechange, and the overbearing nanny-state that is South Korea. Check out the full show after the break.

              Continue reading This Week in MMO: Gannon-free edition

              MassivelyThis Week in MMO: Gannon-free edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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              ]]>              en-masseen-masse-entertainmentfuncomgamebreakergamebreaker-tvlawsuitnanny-statencsoftteratera-lawsuitthe-secret-worldthis-week-in-mmotwimmovideoworld-of-planesThu, 02 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST              <![CDATA[Ask Massively: Thieving on the fast track edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/ask-massively-thieving-on-the-fast-track-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/ask-massively-thieving-on-the-fast-track-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/ask-massively-thieving-on-the-fast-track-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

              These are the markers used to cross our names off the credits. What? It's not the most tenuous connection I've used.
              One of our readers was kind enough to point us to two sites that, once again, were stealing our posts without crediting our authors or anything like that. (I don't mean "this post looks suspiciously similar"; I mean abusing copy and paste.) Unfortunately, while we're aware of these things, there's not a whole lot we can do other than request that the sites get taken down. Sometimes it works, and sometimes it doesn't, but it's all we can do. I guess it's nice to be good enough that your work is worth stealing without credit? That's something.

              This week's installment of Ask Massively isn't going to focus on that, however. Instead, we're going to focus on the recent spate of MMO litigation and the potential for a boxed RIFT expansion. If you have a question you'd like to see answered in a future installment of Ask Massively, mail it along to ask@massively.com or leave a comment in the field below. Questions may be edited slightly for clarity and/or brevity.

              Continue reading Ask Massively: Thieving on the fast track edition

              MassivelyAsk Massively: Thieving on the fast track edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                ]]>                ask-massivelyBethesda-Softworksbottersboxed-expansioncolumncolumnsexpansionfalloutfallout-onlinefeaturedinterplayjagexlawsuitlawsuitslitigationmmo-industryopinionplagiarismriftscrapingsite-scrapingtriontrion-worldsThu, 02 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST                <![CDATA[THQ still planning on WAR40K launch in fiscal 2014]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/thq-still-planning-on-war40k-launch-in-fiscal-2014/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/thq-still-planning-on-war40k-launch-in-fiscal-2014/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/thq-still-planning-on-war40k-launch-in-fiscal-2014/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                Warhammer 40K Dark Millennium Online - derelict concept art
                It seems as if the recent brouhaha over THQ's future was a bit overblown, as were concerns about the fate of the firm's Warhammer 40K: Dark Millennium Online MMO. Our sister site reports that DMO is on track for "fiscal 2014 and beyond" based on a THQ earnings report released today.

                We consulted our corporate-speak decoder rings and determined that fiscal 2014 translates to April 2013, which puts the launch window slightly behind the original target date, according to Joystiq.

                Last month THQ debunked a rumor tweeted by Kevin Dent that had the firm canceling its entire 2014 catalog and prepping for a firesale.

                Gamespot, meanwhile, is reporting that THQ is actively seeking publishing partners for the game.

                MassivelyTHQ still planning on WAR40K launch in fiscal 2014 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                ]]>                dark-millennium-onlinedmorelease-windowsci-fispeculationthqwar40kWarhammer-40Kwarhammer-40k-dark-millennium-onlineThu, 02 Feb 2012 19:00:00 EST                <![CDATA[City of Heroes asks, 'Will you be my super-Valentine?']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/city-of-heroes-asks-will-you-be-my-super-valentine/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/city-of-heroes-asks-will-you-be-my-super-valentine/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/city-of-heroes-asks-will-you-be-my-super-valentine/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                City of Heroes
                It's hard to believe that it's already February and that spring is now within striking distance. City of Heroes feels the season coming on strong, which is why it's bringing back its Spring Fling holiday event from February 8th through the 27th.

                The event this year will be a mix of the old and the new. Returning from the past are tangles with Arachnos, quests to fetch underwear for Eros, and a smackdown of Snaptooth. New for the 2012 season are a couple of additional missions for the restless hopeless romantic in all of us -- Widow in Red and Valentines -- with accompanying badges.

                The former quest will have players looking into the love life of Lord Recluse (Match.com has no entry for "super-villain," much to his dismay), while the latter will send heroes all across the game world looking for valentines to deliver or redirect. The Valentines missions reward players with temporary powers such as Arrows of Romance and Arrows of Jealousy.

                MassivelyCity of Heroes asks, 'Will you be my super-Valentine?' originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                ]]>                city-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcoverosf2pfree-to-playgoing-roguein-game-eventlord-reclusematch.comncsoftparagonparagon-studiosspring-flingspring-fling-2012valentinevalentinesvalentines-dayThu, 02 Feb 2012 18:30:00 EST                <![CDATA[DCUO's game update 9 brings the world together with role-optional alerts and team buffs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/dcuos-game-update-9-brings-the-world-together/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/dcuos-game-update-9-brings-the-world-together/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/dcuos-game-update-9-brings-the-world-together/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                Screenshot -- DC Universe Online
                DC Universe Online's Game Update 9: Assemble For Battle is now live and operational, and it brings with it a few very interesting features, especially for players interested in group content. One of said features is the addition of role-optional alerts. As any MMO player knows, there's often a rather large population disparity between various roles. Generally, there's a ton of DPS with much lower numbers of tanks and healers, which can make finding a group a PITA if you're in the former camp.

                As of this update, all alerts are considered role-optional, which means the longer a group waits in the group-finder for a certain role (such as a tank or a healer), the less picky the group-finder will be about filling that role. For instance, if a healer can't be found after a substantial period of time, the role will be filled by another available role. This is possible thanks to the team buff. Any time three or more group members are within range and line-of-sight of one another, the whole group will gain a buff to compensate for missing roles. For instance, a group missing a tank will get a damage mitigation buff, a group without a healer will get a health regeneration buff, and so forth. The official post notes that "the buffs are by no means a replacement for having the actual role in your group. But with some self-reliance, it will... allow you to complete the Alert successfully." For the full details on the new system, plus other features such as Novice Raids, click on through the link below to the official site.

                MassivelyDCUO's game update 9 brings the world together with role-optional alerts and team buffs originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                ]]>                alertalertsassemble-for-battleclassic-mmoconsoleconsolesdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuof2pfree-to-playgame-update-9player-vs-environmentplaystation-3playstation3ps3pverole-optional-alertssoesony-online-entertainmentsuperherosuperheroesteam-buffThu, 02 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST                <![CDATA[Subscriber numbers lead to a new hope for Electronic Arts stock]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/subscriber-numbers-lead-to-a-new-hope-for-electronic-arts-stock/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/subscriber-numbers-lead-to-a-new-hope-for-electronic-arts-stock/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/subscriber-numbers-lead-to-a-new-hope-for-electronic-arts-stock/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

                Okay, it's more of a continuation of an existing hope. You can live with the play on words, Justin does them all the time.
                It's official: As of yesterday, Star Wars: The Old Republic has 1.7 million active subscribers and has sold 2 million copies. That's good news for fans of the game, but it's also good news for both BioWare and Electronic Arts. Apparently, it's seen as very good news for Electronic Arts, as the company's stock has gone up by 6.1% in the announcement's wake. The stock closed on Wednesday at $18.44 a share and closed today at $19.56, an appreciable gain for the company and a sign of good health.

                This is sharp contrast to some of the early analyst responses before subscriber numbers were released, as well as some suspicions that the game was falling after a few first-patch fumbles. Whether the game will rise further or stabilize where it is remains to be seen, but it's certainly making a strong showing out of the gate, and the financial sector is taking note.

                [Thanks to Robert for the tip!]

                MassivelySubscriber numbers lead to a new hope for Electronic Arts stock originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                ]]>                biowarebioware-mythiceaea-biowareelectronic-artsfinanciallegalmmo-industrystar-wars-the-old-republicstock-marketstockssubscriber-numberssubscribersswtorThu, 02 Feb 2012 17:30:00 EST                <![CDATA[EverQuest II producer handing over the reins]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/everquest-ii-producer-handing-over-the-reins/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/everquest-ii-producer-handing-over-the-reins/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/everquest-ii-producer-handing-over-the-reins/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                CHEEEEEEEEEESE
                EverQuest II players will probably be familiar with the name Smokejumper, the forum handle of the EverQuest franchise's Executive Producer Dave Georgeson. Georgeson has served as Executive Producer for EverQuest, EverQuest II, and the upcoming EverQuest Next while simultaneously filling the role of Producer for EverQuest II. As you might imagine, that's quite a lot of work for a single person. With that in mind, Georgeson announced on the official EQII website today that Holly "Windstalker" Longdale has rejoined SOE in order to take over the position of EverQuest II's Producer.

                Holly also takes the opportunity to introduce herself to the community, remarking that "the opportunity to be a producer on this team is surreal and certainly perfect." She goes on to say that "EverQuest... has had a place in [her] life for well over a decade now," making it clear that she's not just some corporate suit who doesn't care about the game -- she's a player who is passionate about the game and is in-tune with the playerbase. To read the full announcement from Smokejumper as well as the follow-up by Windstalker, just click on through the link below.

                MassivelyEverQuest II producer handing over the reins originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                ]]>                dave-georgesoneq-iieq2everquest-2everquest-iiexecutive-producerf2pfree-to-playholly-longdaleproducerproducerssmokejumpersoesony-online-entertainmentwindstalkerThu, 02 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST                <![CDATA[Play three Nexon MMOs, get this car]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/play-three-nexon-mmos-get-this-car/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/play-three-nexon-mmos-get-this-car/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/play-three-nexon-mmos-get-this-car/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

                Nexon Hat Trick Contest
                Did that grab your attention? Nexon is sure hoping it did, as the company is in the throes of its "Get a Hat Trick!" promotion. For the next month and a half, players who dive into Vindictus, Dragon Nest, and Dungeon Fighter Online and get to level 20 in all three games will have a shot at several nice prizes -- including the above 2012 BMW M3. So, in effect, just by playing MMOs, you could be netting yourself one of the sweetest rides in town.

                While Nexon has already handed out awards for the third and fourth place winners, there are still prizes left for aspiring gamers. First of all, everyone who gets a hat trick (as defined by achieving level 20 in the above three titles) will be treated to $20 worth of in-game items. Additionally, three players will get an Alienware Aurora desktop computer, and 30 people will win $50 "Karma Koins."

                As for the Beemer, the prize will only be unlocked if 30,000 players achieve hat tricks by March 15th -- and even then, only one car will be given away after that. So good luck and may the game be with you!

                MassivelyPlay three Nexon MMOs, get this car originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                ]]>                2012-bmw-m3alienwarealienware-aurorabeemerbmwbmw-m3contestdragon-nestdungeon-fighter-onlinef2pfree-to-playget-a-hat-trickgiveawayhat-trickkarma-koinsnexonnexon-americapromotionvindictusThu, 02 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST                <![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: SWTOR is stealing my (character) identity!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/the-guild-counsel-swtor-is-stealing-my-character-identity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/the-guild-counsel-swtor-is-stealing-my-character-identity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/the-guild-counsel-swtor-is-stealing-my-character-identity/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                SWTOR Jedi Ghost
                Guild leading is often as much about managing personalities as it is about managing the nuts and bolts of the game. In previous columns, we've looked at all sorts of issues that guild leaders have to solve, and at the root of almost all of them is some sort of personality clash. Show me a nice blend of personalities, and I'll show you a happy guild that will stick together for years.

                What makes guild leading so difficult, though, is that unlike real-life leaders, guild leaders need to manage two identities for every member. There's the real-life identity of the player, and then there's the identity of the in-game character, and they aren't always the same. If you talk to a guild that's met at a guild gathering or convention, one of the things you'll always hear is how a particular member is so different from his in-game character. In game, for example, he might be a rough-around-the-edges general, but in real life he's a quiet teddy bear.

                MMOs give us the opportunity to be someone completely different from who we are out of game, and even non-roleplayers will sometimes behave differently when they're playing. But Star Wars: The Old Republic has taken away some of our power to construct our own identities in game. In this edition of The Guild Counsel, Let's look at how that's happened and whether it will affect the way we game.

                Continue reading The Guild Counsel: SWTOR is stealing my (character) identity!

                MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: SWTOR is stealing my (character) identity! originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                  ]]>                  biowarecharacter-identityeaelectronic-artsfeaturedimmersionkaren-bryanlucasartsraph-kosterrichard-bartleRolePlayingsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorswtor+guildsswtor+newsswtorguildsswtornewsthe-guild-counselthe-old-republictorThu, 02 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST                  <![CDATA[PlanetSide 2 website features new Terran Republic lore]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/planetside-2-website-features-new-terran-republic-lore/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/planetside-2-website-features-new-terran-republic-lore/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/planetside-2-website-features-new-terran-republic-lore/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

                  PlanetSide 2 - TR Mosquito
                  It's been a while since we've featured a PlanetSide 2 lore update, mainly because more interesting gameplay info was on offer from Sony Online Entertainment. In the absence of new vehicle screens and Matt Higby Q&A's, though, we'll happily tell about the latest story-centric update to the official site (hey, some PS2 news is better than no PS2 news, amirite?).

                  Last night's blurb features one Tom Connery (presumably no relation to Sean, since it's the year 2640). Connery is prone to making holovid records of his life in the Terran Republic, and his latest is a somewhat harrowing account of a collapsing wormhole and the plight of the 40,000 colonists stuck on the wrong side of it. Click over to the official PS2 website for the full report.

                  MassivelyPlanetSide 2 website features new Terran Republic lore originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                  ]]>                  backstoryfpsloremmo-shootermmofpsplanetside-2ps2sci-fishootersoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstoryterran-republictom-connerytrThu, 02 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST                  <![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: Lime Odyssey premieres the Muris opening cinematic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/massively-exclusive-lime-odyssey-premieres-the-muris-opening-ci/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/massively-exclusive-lime-odyssey-premieres-the-muris-opening-ci/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/massively-exclusive-lime-odyssey-premieres-the-muris-opening-ci/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                  Lime Odyssey
                  When trying to describe the Muris, one of three races for Aeria Games' Lime Odyssey, the phrase "cute as a button" pops into mind more than once. The Muris are a diminutive, "mischievous" people who spread chaos and giggles wherever they go. Players who choose a Muris character will have access to all four of the game's classes, and will begin their journey in the town of Pripet in the Shimmering Island.

                  We have a treat for you today: the world-exclusive premiere of the Muris introductory cinematic as well as several new screenshots of these bite-sized troublemakers!

                  Lime Odyssey is scheduled to release sometime in 2012.

                  Gallery: Lime Odyssey Core Gallery

                  Continue reading Massively Exclusive: Lime Odyssey premieres the Muris opening cinematic

                  MassivelyMassively Exclusive: Lime Odyssey premieres the Muris opening cinematic originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                    ]]>                    aeria-gamesbetacinematicexclusivef2pfree-to-playgallerylime-odysseymassively-exclusivemurismuris-cinematicmuris-raceopening-cinematicscreenshotstrailervideoThu, 02 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST                    <![CDATA[Frogster releases TERA Europe pre-order and beta info, new video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/frogster-releases-tera-europe-pre-order-and-beta-info-new-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/frogster-releases-tera-europe-pre-order-and-beta-info-new-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/frogster-releases-tera-europe-pre-order-and-beta-info-new-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

                    TERA - high elf in combat formal wear
                    Yesterday we told you about TERA's North American pre-order program and the associated closed beta dates. Today Frogster has released similar info for the European version of Arborea. Various Euro media outlets will be distributing beta keys over the next couple of days, and lucky fans will get a sneak peek at the game between 3:00 p.m. CET and midnight this Saturday and Sunday.

                    Euro closed beta tests begin on February 17th, and you can either take your chances by registering on the game's official website, or pre-order and get guaranteed access to all five events. Pre-ordering also gives you head-start access on May 3rd, name reservation privileges, and various special items depending on your retailer of choice.

                    The retail collector's edition features the game soundtrack, a world map, an art book, and more, and you can learn all about it at TERA's European website. Note that En Masse and Frogster are redirecting traffic based on your IP address, so if you're in America and you click on the links below, you'll be taken to the En Masse site. Before you go, click past the cut and have a look at the spiffy new pre-order trailer.

                    Continue reading Frogster releases TERA Europe pre-order and beta info, new video

                    MassivelyFrogster releases TERA Europe pre-order and beta info, new video originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                    ]]>                    arboreabetabeta-accessclosed-betaen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyfrogsterip-redirectpre-orderpre-order-bonusesteratera-betatera-europetrailervideoThu, 02 Feb 2012 11:30:00 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[Play the MMO that never dies with Mythos Global's open beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/play-the-mmo-that-never-dies-with-mythos-globals-open-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/play-the-mmo-that-never-dies-with-mythos-globals-open-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/play-the-mmo-that-never-dies-with-mythos-globals-open-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                      Mythos title image
                      Mythos is the MMO that almost wasn't, then was, then wasn't, and then was again. The free-to-play Diablo-esque MMO was in playable beta as far back as November 2007, but its release was plagued by problems you wouldn't wish on your worst enemies.

                      Mythos has somehow survived its entire original development team being fired, legal battles over the intellectual property rights to the game, and being kicked from publisher to publisher. Now in its third incarnation as Mythos Global, the game will soon relaunch to excited fans, and to curious gamers who didn't play it while it was live.

                      If you didn't snag one of Massively's keys for the closed beta back in December, your chance to play the game starts now! Mythos Global officially entered open beta today, with free registration available via its new publisher T3Fun.

                      MassivelyPlay the MMO that never dies with Mythos Global's open beta originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                        ]]>                        action-rpgback-from-the-deadbetadiablof2pfantasyfree-to-playfrogstergothic-fantasyhanbitsoftmultiplayermythosmythos-globalonline-multiplayeropen-betaredbanarpgt3funThu, 02 Feb 2012 10:30:00 EST                        <![CDATA[World of Tanks invades America in Update 7.2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/world-of-tanks-invades-america-in-update-7-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/world-of-tanks-invades-america-in-update-7-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/world-of-tanks-invades-america-in-update-7-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

                        World of Tanks
                        Watch out America -- your soil is no longer safe from the rampaging treads of World of Tanks! Wargaming.net announced the forthcoming 7.2 update for the game which includes a US twist: an American map called Live Oaks, US tank destroyers, and updates to two of the top-tier American heavy tanks.

                        Update 7.2 will be arriving in the first quarter of this year, and also contains an Italian map (Campania), an integrated tutorial to help newbies get a handle on the game, and 20 new crew skills.

                        Lead Game Designer Mike Zhivets is all aglow over 7.2: "We are always happy to introduce new features and game content to our community. Many more new exciting features are on their way and will be introduced in the nearest updates."

                        You can check out the diesel action in the trailer after the jump!

                        Continue reading World of Tanks invades America in Update 7.2

                        MassivelyWorld of Tanks invades America in Update 7.2 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                          ]]>                          7.27.2-updateamericacampaniaf2pfree-to-playlive-oaksMike-Zhivetspatch-7.2tank-destroyerstrailerupdate-7.2usvideowargaming.networld-of-tankswotThu, 02 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST                          <![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Could you make your own MMO for $30 million?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/the-daily-grind-could-you-make-your-own-mmo-for-30-million/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/the-daily-grind-could-you-make-your-own-mmo-for-30-million/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/the-daily-grind-could-you-make-your-own-mmo-for-30-million/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                          Richard Garriott in space
                          Massively gets a certain amount of grief for writing news stories about Richard Garriott. While it's true that he hasn't made a major contribution to the MMO industry since the 1990s, it's also true that he's something of a touchstone when it comes to geekery and ambition. If a guy can go from being a young astronaut hopeful to having a spare $30 million to burn on a spaceflight, that's got to count for something, doesn't it?

                          While we're on the subject of a spare $30 million, yesterday's Garriott piece got me to thinking about what I would do if I had that kind of pocket change. While spaceflight and a lifetime supply of Hershey's kisses are certainly high on the list, I'd use a good chunk of the money to make my own MMO. What about you, Massively crew? Would you self-finance an MMO if you could, and what would it be like? Would $30 million be enough?

                          Every morning, the Massively bloggers probe the minds of their readers with deep, thought-provoking questions about that most serious of topics: massively online gaming. We crave your opinions, so grab your caffeinated beverage of choice and chime in on today's Daily Grind!

                          MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Could you make your own MMO for $30 million? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                            ]]>                            30-millionfeaturedgame-discussiongamer-discussiongarriottmmo-discussionmmo-hot-topicsmmo-industrymmo-issuesmmo-topicsmmorpg-discussionmmorpg-hot-topicsmmorpg-topicsrichard-garriottself-financed-mmotdgthe-daily-grindThu, 02 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST                            <![CDATA[The Firing Line Extra: Tribes' Todd Harris on class customization and base gameplay]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/the-firing-line-extra-tribes-todd-harris-on-class-customizatio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/the-firing-line-extra-tribes-todd-harris-on-class-customizatio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/the-firing-line-extra-tribes-todd-harris-on-class-customizatio/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

                            Tribes Ascend - Blood Eagle vs. Diamond Sword rock, paper, scissors
                            Today's a big day for fans of Tribes: Ascend, and it's also a big day for Hi-Rez Studios, the Atlanta-based indie firm behind the upcoming online shooter.

                            You see, today is patch day, and while that's not terribly unusual (Hi-Rez has updated the Tribes beta client early and often since the start of closed testing last November), the latest tweak is a bit of fan service that will likely bring smiles to the faces of franchise die-hards waiting in the wings to see what becomes of their baby.

                            Continue reading The Firing Line Extra: Tribes' Todd Harris on class customization and base gameplay

                            MassivelyThe Firing Line Extra: Tribes' Todd Harris on class customization and base gameplay originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                              ]]>                              blood-eagleclass-customizationclassesdiamond-swordexclusivefeaturedfiring-linefpsgame-mechanicsgameplayhi-rezhi-rez-studiosinterviewloadoutsmmo-shooteronline-shootersci-fishazbotshooterskiingthe-firing-linethe-firing-line-extratodd-harristribestribes-ascenduiui-upgradeThu, 02 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST                              <![CDATA[WildStar discusses the exotic and alien human race]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/wildstar-discusses-the-exotic-and-alien-human-race/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/wildstar-discusses-the-exotic-and-alien-human-race/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/wildstar-discusses-the-exotic-and-alien-human-race/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                              Try and read the entry out loud without trying to fit in the word 'shiny' or 'verse' a couple times.
                              Humans are the standard basis for comparison in games that feature non-human races, almost as if said games were being made by humans for other humans. But there's still a distinct flavor to the human race depending on the setting. Case in point, the latest WildStar "interview" with one of the three lore characters from the cinematic trailer gives players a peek at a typical human, and he's a bit different than what you might have been expecting.

                              While the other major characters identify a specific world as "home," humans are portrayed as being a bit more free-forming, having roamed out in space for so long that they're really not bound to a location. The entry also discusses some of the lore behind being an Explorer and some of the perils associated with intentionally venturing into the unknown (it involves lots of things that try to eat you, if you need the short version). If you've been enjoying the flavor of the world Carbine Studios is slowly building, you'll probably enjoy this latest look as well.

                              MassivelyWildStar discusses the exotic and alien human race originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                              ]]>                              backstorycarbine-studioshuman-beingshumanslorelore-charactersnewsnpcsplayer-racesraceswildstarwildstar-wednesdaywsWed, 01 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST