Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Blizzard congratulates itself on Diablo III's anniversary]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/blizzard-congratulates-itself-on-diablo-iiis-anniversary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/blizzard-congratulates-itself-on-diablo-iiis-anniversary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/blizzard-congratulates-itself-on-diablo-iiis-anniversary/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Blizzard pats itself on the back for one year of Diablo III
Diablo III is a year old, and Blizzard's celebratory anniversary gesture is one of those mile-long infographic things featuring selected statistics designed to make you ooh and ahh.

Said statistics include 67.1 million characters created world-wide, 3.3 trillion monsters killed world-wide, and 22.4 million characters that have killed Diablo. Interestingly, Blizzard left off the number of hours lost to launch server login issues, nor is there any mention of D3's much-maligned real-money auction house. You can see the full graphic after the break.

Continue reading Blizzard congratulates itself on Diablo III's anniversary

MassivelyBlizzard congratulates itself on Diablo III's anniversary originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>action-rpgbattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcash-shopd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-3-anniversarydiablo-3-infographicdiablo-iidiablo-iiifantasygothic-fantasymultiplayeronline-multiplayerroguelikerpgTue, 21 May 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's Dragon's Prophet first impressions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/massivelys-dragons-prophet-first-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/massivelys-dragons-prophet-first-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/massivelys-dragons-prophet-first-impressions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Massively's Dragon's Prophet first impressions
I don't have many fond memories from Runes of Magic. I didn't play it long, and the thing I recall most vividly is being forced to hunt around Runewaker's cash shop for an item that would let me talk in global chat.

Fortunately, negative vibes like that didn't affect my recent hands-on with Dragon's Prophet's beta, which, in case you're wondering, is Runewaker's followup to Runes of Magic. Unfortunately, I don't think the new game in its present state is quite ready for prime time.

Continue reading Massively's Dragon's Prophet first impressions

MassivelyMassively's Dragon's Prophet first impressions originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 May 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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    ]]>    action-combatdragondragonsdragons-prophetdragons-prophet-beta-impressionsdragons-prophet-first-impressionsdragons-prophet-reviewfeaturedhousinginfernuminfernum-productionspreviewpreviewsrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentsoesonysony-online-entertainmentsorcererTue, 21 May 2013 19:00:00 EST    <![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: Character select music]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/jukebox-heroes-character-select-music/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/jukebox-heroes-character-select-music/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/jukebox-heroes-character-select-music/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

    Jukebox Heroes Character select music
    Character select and creation music has always fascinated me. OK, maybe not fascinated; it's interested me. I've always viewed such themes as the overture of the game, the interlude between the title theme and the game proper to come.

    These themes don't tend to be rip-roaring in their presentation because that's not their purpose. They have to be pleasant enough without being annoying when looped endlessly. After all, sometimes players spend a loooong time making their characters or sitting there at the select screen, and the last thing you want is for their ears to become fatigued by the experience.

    So here are six MMO character select and character creation themes that I've enjoyed over the years. And if you saw the title graphic up there and immediately started hearing this song in your head, then you and I probably grew up in the same era.

    Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: Character select music

    MassivelyJukebox Heroes: Character select music originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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      ]]>      carbinecarbine-studioscity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcomposercomposerscovcoxeq-2eq-iieq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfeaturedffff11ffxifinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-xifree-to-playfreedomgame-musicjasper-kydjesper-kydjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettimmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicncsoftopinionparagonparagon-studiossandboxsandparksci-fantasysci-fisoesonysony-online-entertainmentsoundtracksoundtrackssquaresquare-enixsuperherosuperheroestelonthe-chronicles-of-spellbornvanguardvanguard-saga-of-heroesvgwildstarwsTue, 21 May 2013 18:00:00 EST      <![CDATA[MechWarrior Online introduces new map in which players can die painfully]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/mechwarrior-online-introduces-new-map-in-which-players-can-die-p/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/mechwarrior-online-introduces-new-map-in-which-players-can-die-p/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/mechwarrior-online-introduces-new-map-in-which-players-can-die-p/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

      MechWarrior Online introduces new map with allnew ways to die
      MechWarrior Online's newest map, the Canyon Network, is riddled with slot canyons, steep drops, and high plateaus. As part of MWO's latest update, the Canyon Network is meant to provide a playground for snipers and strategic thinkers.

      The Blackjack has been named as the new Mech of the Month, with the Jenner donning the mantle of Champion Mech. As part of the content update, new cobra camo patterns and faction cockpit medallions have been added to the store.

      Skip below the cut to check out videos of the new Canyon Network and the Blackjack in action.

      [Source: MWO press release]

      Continue reading MechWarrior Online introduces new map in which players can die painfully

      MassivelyMechWarrior Online introduces new map in which players can die painfully originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 May 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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        ]]>        blackjackcanyon-networkf2pfree-to-playjennermechmechsmechwarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemwopiranhapiranha-gamessci-fivideovideosTue, 21 May 2013 17:00:00 EST        <![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: Catching crabs in Guild Wars 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/flameseeker-chronicles-catching-crabs-in-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/flameseeker-chronicles-catching-crabs-in-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/flameseeker-chronicles-catching-crabs-in-guild-wars-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

        Flameseeker Chronicles
        My goodness, that lady's bikini is awfully close to body tone from this far away, isn't it?

        If the sun and sandy beaches didn't give it away, I've spent most of the last week or so of Guild Wars 2 time in Southsun Cove. Karka Island! Sunny Orr! Whatever you call it, I hope we can all agree that Southsun Cove is a terrible place filled with awful monsters that nobody in their right mind, in-universe or otherwise, would ever want to visit without the lure of titles and shiny -- literally, one of them glows, and the other glistens -- backpieces.

        Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: Catching crabs in Guild Wars 2

        MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: Catching crabs in Guild Wars 2 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 May 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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          ]]>          anetarenanetbuy-to-playcrab-tossfantasyfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw1gw2karkakarka-islandlost-shoresncsoftopinionsecret-of-southsunsouthsun-covethe-secret-of-southsunTue, 21 May 2013 16:00:00 EST          <![CDATA[EVE Online redesigns radial menu for Odyssey]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/eve-online-redesigns-radial-menu-for-odyssey/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/eve-online-redesigns-radial-menu-for-odyssey/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/eve-online-redesigns-radial-menu-for-odyssey/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

          EVE Online redesigns radial menu for OdysseyIn looking to trim down some of the menu bloat for EVE Online's Odyssey expansion, CCP Games is resurrecting and redesigning the radial menu to be a "silver bullet" for this issue.

          The updated radial menu will be connected to the underutilized left mouse button and is confined to eight segments that will change depending on what the user is clicking. The studio wrote up a blog post on the subject, promising that the redesign is intuitive and will result in faster access to relevant commands.

          Initially, the radial menu upgrade will be for ship flight only, although CCP is willing to expand its domain if players find it useful. This feature is currently available on the test server.

          MassivelyEVE Online redesigns radial menu for Odyssey originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 May 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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          ]]>          ccpccp-gamesdev-blogdev-diaryeveeve-onlineinternet-spaceshipsmenumenusodysseyradial-menusandboxsci-fispreadsheets-onlineTue, 21 May 2013 15:30:00 EST          <![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 249: Captain Grumpypants]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/massively-speaking-episode-249-captain-grumpypants/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/massively-speaking-episode-249-captain-grumpypants/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/massively-speaking-episode-249-captain-grumpypants/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

          Massively Speaking Episode 249
          When a subscription MMO goes free-to-play, there's always a circus atmosphere surrounding it. The studios use it as an excuse to enjoy a "second launch," players pour out opinions on all sides, and new folks wander into the danger zone out of sheer curiosity.

          It's not just about F2P on this week's Massively Speaking; we have game launches, layoffs, previews, and tons of reader mail to cover. Will we have the words to do it? Or will we just end the podcast humming informatively? Jef's on it today, so there definitely will be a song and dance number at some point!

          Have a comment for the podcasters? Shoot an email to podcast@massively.com. We may just read your email on the air!

          Get the podcast:
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          Listen here on the page:



          Read below the cut for the full show notes.

          Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 249: Captain Grumpypants

          MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 249: Captain Grumpypants originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 May 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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            ]]>            brantbrianna-roycecaptain-grumpypantsfeaturedhumorjef-reahardjustin-olivettimassively-speakingopinionpodcastpodcastingpodcastsTue, 21 May 2013 15:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 249Massively.com Staff01:11:15podcast            <![CDATA[RIFT introduces loyalty rewards program for dedicated players]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/rift-introduces-loyalty-rewards-program-for-dedicated-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/rift-introduces-loyalty-rewards-program-for-dedicated-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/rift-introduces-loyalty-rewards-program-for-dedicated-players/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

            RIFT introduces loyalty rewards program for dedicated players
            RIFT is introducing an innovative new program that allows players to get items for free when they spend money or money-substitutes on other items! The new rewards program will give players Loyalty points as those players purchase or spend credits, subscribe as a Patron, or consume REX (RIFT's tradable currency that can be purchased for real-world money). Since REX is tradable between players, a particularly thrifty player could accrue loyalty points without ever spending a real-world dime in RIFT's store.

            Current and former subscribers will be awarded some Loyalty points based on how long they have been subscribed. Players will be able to use Loyalty to unlock exclusive costumes, the ability to change target icons, and unique dimensions.

            This is all part of RIFT's free-to-play initiative and will be going live on June 12th with RIFT 2.3: Empyreal Assault.

            MassivelyRIFT introduces loyalty rewards program for dedicated players originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 May 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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            ]]>            conquesteconomyempyreal-assaultfantasyloyaltyloyalty-rewards-programpatch-2.3pvprewards-programrexriftrift-2.3rift-exchangerift-literift-planes-of-telararvrthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsTue, 21 May 2013 14:30:00 EST            <![CDATA[World of Warcraft patch 5.3 goes live today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/world-of-warcraft-patch-5-3-goes-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/world-of-warcraft-patch-5-3-goes-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/world-of-warcraft-patch-5-3-goes-live/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

            World of Warcraft patch 53 is up and running
            Another World of Warcraft patch day has come upon us. Patch 5.3, Escalation, is hitting the game today, bringing with it a whole host of changes from loot specialization to increased pet battle accuracy. The patch introduces a new Battleground, Deepwind Gorge, as well as a new Arena called The Tiger's Peak. Four new scenarios are being added, plus six new Heroic difficulties. The Escalation quest campaign adds new tasks for Alliance and Horde members as they prepare to remove Garrosh Hellscream from Orgrimmar.

            You can read the exhaustive patch notes on the official site, and you can catch up on all the nitty gritty details on patch 5.3 on our sister site, WoW Insider.

            MassivelyWorld of Warcraft patch 5.3 goes live today originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 May 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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            ]]>            5.3activisionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentescalationfantasypatchpatch-5.3patcheswarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 21 May 2013 14:00:00 EST            <![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 developers share APIs, hopes for the future]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/guild-wars-2-developers-share-apis-hopes-for-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/guild-wars-2-developers-share-apis-hopes-for-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/guild-wars-2-developers-share-apis-hopes-for-the-future/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

            Guild Wars 2 developers share APIs, hopes for the future
            This morning, ArenaNet dropped the price point of Guild Wars 2 by $10 across all available editions. In a follow-up chat about some of the decisions behind that move, Game Director Colin Johanson talked a bit about community support, the game's regular update cadence, and the company's hopes for bringing Guild Wars 2 into new markets.

            While a $10 price drop is not an extreme move, Johanson is confident that the change will bring Guild Wars 2 to new people. The company seems to be currently focused on building up community support. Just yesterday, some APIs were made available to the public for the first time. We've already seen them put to use in real-time WvW tracking and event monitors. Johanson also talked about recent efforts to shore up the support for sPvP and how the additions of custom arenas and spectator mode has led to viewers for sPvP streams "more than doubling" in the last few weeks. The game appears to be moving towards a twice-monthly update schedule. Johanson said that while ArenaNet has "not ruled out" the idea of future expansions, the company is committed to the idea of the living story.

            Johanson mentioned that Guild Wars 2 is sitting solidly at "well over 3,000,000 copies sold" without tapping into the Chinese market. He added that the game just had its first closed beta test in China and that the team is optimistic. ArenaNet hopes to make the Chinese version of the game as similar as possible to the existing one.

            [Source: ArenaNet conference call]

            MassivelyGuild Wars 2 developers share APIs, hopes for the future originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 May 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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              ]]>              anetapiapplication-program-interfacearenanetbuy-to-playcbtchinachinese-betaclosed-betacolin-johansonfantasyguild-wars-2gw2ncsoftpvpspvpTue, 21 May 2013 13:30:00 EST              <![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Does SWTOR's F2P work?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/hyperspace-beacon-does-swtors-f2p-work/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/hyperspace-beacon-does-swtors-f2p-work/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/hyperspace-beacon-does-swtors-f2p-work/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

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

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

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

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

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                ]]>                biowarebusiness-modelsdallasdamion-schuberteaelectronic-artsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhyperspace-beaconlucasartsopinionsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubscriberssubscriptionswtorthe-old-republictorTue, 21 May 2013 13:00:00 EST                <![CDATA[Patch 8.6 brings more balance to World of Tanks, ups SPGs to tier X]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/patch-8-6-brings-more-balance-to-world-of-tanks-ups-spgs-to-tie/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/patch-8-6-brings-more-balance-to-world-of-tanks-ups-spgs-to-tie/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/patch-8-6-brings-more-balance-to-world-of-tanks-ups-spgs-to-tie/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                Patch 86 brings more balance to World of Tanks, ups SPGs to tier 10
                It's time for another update for the WWII-era World of Tanks. Today, Wargaming announced details for 8.6, an update that Producer Mike Zhivets said is "a major step in game balance enhancement and is really going to make SPGs players happy." He continued, "Artillery gameplay is going to feel a lot more balanced with a normal ten tier structure, making advancing through that class of armor more comfortable for players."

                Update 8.6 will push the SPG armor line to tier X by promoting current tier 8's up to the top and then adding new SPGs to the middle tiers. The American, Soviet, French, and German tech lines will all receive new artillery units and the British line gets a new premium tank, the A33 Excelsior. A new Korean-based map will also be introduced.

                [Source: Wargaming.net press release]

                MassivelyPatch 8.6 brings more balance to World of Tanks, ups SPGs to tier X originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 May 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                  ]]>                  A33-Excelsiorf2pfree-to-playhistoricalnew-artilllerynew-tankspvptanktanksupdateupdate-8.6warwargaming.networld-of-tankswotTue, 21 May 2013 12:00:00 EST                  <![CDATA[WolfKnights Online debuts from Kim Hakkyu]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/wolfknight-online-debuts-from-kim-hakkyu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/wolfknight-online-debuts-from-kim-hakkyu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/wolfknight-online-debuts-from-kim-hakkyu/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

                  WolfKnight Online debuts from Kim Hakkyu
                  Kim Hakkyu, former developer of such MMOs as Ragnarok Online and Granado Espada, released several brand new screenshots for a project his team is working on called WolfKnights Online.

                  For fans of IMC Games following along at home, this looks to be what was previously known as Project G2, not to be confused with Project R1, which is an entirely different game being worked on by the same studio.

                  Check out the gallery below and let us know what you think in the comments. Like I even have to tell you that part!

                  Gallery: WolfKnights Online

                  MassivelyWolfKnights Online debuts from Kim Hakkyu originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 May 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                  ]]>                  fantasygallerygranado-espadaimc-gameskim-hakkyuragnarok-onlinewolfknights-onlineTue, 21 May 2013 11:30:00 EST                  <![CDATA[Star Trek Online Legacy of Romulus launch-day roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/star-trek-online-legacy-of-romulus-launch-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/star-trek-online-legacy-of-romulus-launch-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/star-trek-online-legacy-of-romulus-launch-day-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

                  Star Trek Online Legacy of Romulus launchday roundup
                  With today's launch of Star Trek Online's first expansion, Legacy of Romulus, players can boldly go where no one has gone before. (Not to mention it gives us a reason to use that iconic phrase!) From new species and ships to more Klingon content, this next chapter in the STO saga expands the universe for players to explore. Want to captain a new ship as a Romulan or a Reman? Can do. How about adventure in a new zone? Yup. Or maybe just revel in the bounty of new rewards? Go for it.

                  If, however, you're stuck in spacedock and unable to head out yet, you can check out the changes awaiting you in the guides, videos, news briefs, and galleries below.

                  Continue reading Star Trek Online Legacy of Romulus launch-day roundup

                  MassivelyStar Trek Online Legacy of Romulus launch-day roundup originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 May 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                    ]]>                    crypticcryptic-studiosexpansionf2pfree-to-playKlingonslaunchlaunch-day-round-uplaunch-day-rounduplegacy-of-romulusperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweRemansremusRomulansromulussci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoTue, 21 May 2013 11:00:00 EST                    <![CDATA[Neverwinter team offers token of peace for beta mess]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/neverwinter-team-offers-token-of-peace-for-beta-mess/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/neverwinter-team-offers-token-of-peace-for-beta-mess/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/neverwinter-team-offers-token-of-peace-for-beta-mess/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                    Neverwinter team offers token of gratitude for beta mess
                    So Perfect World Entertainment and Cryptic Studios figure that Neverwinter players may not exactly be happy about the list of game-breaking bugs and exploits found in the game's open beta over the last few weeks. To help alleviate that player frustration, the developers are offering up an olive branch of sorts in the form of the Caturday Survivor's Pack full of in-game goodies.

                    For all characters created before 8 a.m. EDT (5 a.m. PDT) on Sunday, May 19th, this pack is waiting in their in-game mailbox. In it, each character will find a Stone of Health, a Dwarven Facemask, five teleport scrolls to the Protector's Enclave, two Adventurer's XP boosters, and a Cape of Catastrophe. Hey, at least they have a sense of humor about it.

                    MassivelyNeverwinter team offers token of peace for beta mess originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 May 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                    ]]>                    action-mmoCaturdaycrypticcryptic-studiosdndf2pfantasyfree-to-playneverwinterperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweTue, 21 May 2013 10:30:00 EST                    <![CDATA[The Soapbox: Diablo III's auction house ruined the game]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/the-soapbox-diablo-iiis-auction-house-ruined-the-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/the-soapbox-diablo-iiis-auction-house-ruined-the-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/the-soapbox-diablo-iiis-auction-house-ruined-the-game/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

                    The Soapbox Diablo III's Auction House ruined the game
                    After his departure from the Diablo III development team, Game Director Jay Wilson released a statement that the introduction of an auction house "really hurt the game." While players predicted doom the moment the Real Money Auction House was announced, Jay argued that the gold auction house was equally to blame for the game's fall from grace following an absolutely stellar launch sales. I don't normally agree with what Jay has to say on Diablo III, but in this case he does have a very valid point.

                    Diablo II was consistently popular for over a decade thanks to its immense replayability. At its core, D2 was a game about building new characters and gearing them up by any means necessary. Every enemy in the game was a loot pinata just waiting to be popped, and players farmed endlessly for a few sought-after unique items. You almost never found an item that was ideal for your particular class and build, but you could usually trade for what you needed via trade channels and forums.

                    Blizzard claimed that the auction house was intended just to streamline this process, but when Diablo III launched, it was clear that the entire game had been designed to make the auction house almost necessary for progress. The fault here lies not just with the concept of an auction house but with the game designers.

                    That's right: I'm here to argue not only that Jay Wilson was right about the auction house ruining Diablo III but also that it was his own damn fault.

                    Continue reading The Soapbox: Diablo III's auction house ruined the game

                    MassivelyThe Soapbox: Diablo III's auction house ruined the game originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                      ]]>                      action-rpgahauctionauction-housebarbarianbattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcash-shopd2d3demon-hunterdiablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiieconomicseconomyeditorialfantasyfeaturedgame-designgameplaygeargearinggothic-fantasyinfernoitem-levelitem-rarityitem-valuejay-wilsonladderladder-resetlegendarylegendary-itemslegendary-weaponsmonkmultiplayernyphuronline-multiplayerop-edopinionopinion-piecepverantrantsrarerare-itemsreal-money-auction-housereal-money-tradingrmahroguelikerpgruinedsoapboxstatsthe-soapboxvaluewitch-doctorwizardTue, 21 May 2013 10:00:00 EST                      <![CDATA[ArenaNet permanently lowers Guild Wars 2's price point]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/arenanet-permanently-lowers-guild-wars-2s-price-point/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/arenanet-permanently-lowers-guild-wars-2s-price-point/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/arenanet-permanently-lowers-guild-wars-2s-price-point/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                      ArenaNet permanently lowers Guild Wars 2's price point
                      ArenaNet has made the call to permanently lower the price point for Guild Wars 2. The game previously sold for $59.99 for the Digital Edition and $79.99 for the Deluxe Edition. Both of those prices are being lowered by $10. This is not a sale, but the new regular price of the game. ArenaNet expects that this change will bring in new players and make the game more accessible.

                      Content releases in Guild Wars 2 continue apace. Since launch, we've seen a handful of special events alongside one-time content, persistent content, and added features. On the other hand, NCsoft recently reported lower sales for this quarter than the previous one, citing "the reduction in Guild Wars 2 package sales" as part of the cause.

                      We're scheduled for a chat with ArenaNet's Colin Johanson later today; we'll be sure to update you with more information as soon as we can.

                      MassivelyArenaNet permanently lowers Guild Wars 2's price point originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 May 2013 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                      ]]>                      anetarenanetbusiness-modelsbuy-to-playeconomyfantasyguild-wars-2gw2ncsoftTue, 21 May 2013 09:30:00 EST                      <![CDATA[Dragon's Prophet blasts beta doors open on May 30th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/dragons-prophet-blasts-beta-doors-open-on-may-30th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/dragons-prophet-blasts-beta-doors-open-on-may-30th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/dragons-prophet-blasts-beta-doors-open-on-may-30th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

                      Dragon's Prophet blasts beta doors open on May 30th
                      If you've been waiting for your chance to capture and tame your very own dragons to ride, then grab your saddle and get ready to mount up because Dragon's Prophet flies into open beta next week. On May 30th, beta doors open to all dragon aficionados who want to enter the world of Auratia and tame, train, and fight alongside -- as well as against -- a variety of dragon-kind. As part of their bonus, founders will have access one day earlier on the 29th. Formal launch is expected later this year.

                      Players can also expect to hear more about the game; as of today, SOE has lifted the closed beta NDA. Current testers can now begin sharing tales of their adventures with family, friends, and random strangers in line at the supermarket. You can also watch some of those adventures this week on Massively TV, with a two-hour show today at 10 a.m. EDT and one featuring a special dev guest on Wednesday at 8:00 p.m. EDT. And check out the video after the cut!

                      [Source: SOE press release]

                      Continue reading Dragon's Prophet blasts beta doors open on May 30th

                      MassivelyDragon's Prophet blasts beta doors open on May 30th originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                        ]]>                        dragondragonsdragons-prophethousinginfernuminfernum-productionsNDA-liftNDA-liftedopen-betarunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentsoesonysony-online-entertainmenttrailertrailersvideovideosTue, 21 May 2013 09:00:00 EST                        <![CDATA[Dawngate beta starts this Friday]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/dawngate-beta-starts-this-friday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/dawngate-beta-starts-this-friday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/dawngate-beta-starts-this-friday/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                        Dawngate beta starts this Friday
                        Last week's kind-of announced MOBA from EA entitled Dawngate is now ready to be a thing that people can clamor over.

                        A new video exclusive at Machinima (also embedded below) shows off a bit of a behind-the-scenes explanation of what Dawngate offers to MOBA fans. Members of the Waystone Games team explain the game's rich lore, unique mechanics such as regenerating towers, resource gathering, RTS-style strategies, and more.

                        Beta testing starts this Friday, and you can head on over to the game's official site to sign up.

                        Continue reading Dawngate beta starts this Friday

                        MassivelyDawngate beta starts this Friday originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 May 2013 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                        ]]>                        betadawngateeamobamultiplayer-online-battle-arenavideowaystone-gamesTue, 21 May 2013 08:30:00 EST                        <![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you think MMO gamemaking is fundamentally broken?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/the-daily-grind-do-you-think-mmo-gamemaking-is-fundamentally-br/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/the-daily-grind-do-you-think-mmo-gamemaking-is-fundamentally-br/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/the-daily-grind-do-you-think-mmo-gamemaking-is-fundamentally-br/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                        Scott Hartsman
                        Buried in the brouhaha that is the latest round of Trion layoffs was the opinion of former RIFT producer Scott Hartsman. The MMO industry veteran offered his sympathies on Twitter and also offered to help affected former employees with job intros and the like.

                        Hartsman also hinted at his views on current industry trends, saying that "this model of gamemaking is so fundamentally broken." Given the limitations of Twitter and fact that Hartsman didn't elaborate, it's hard to know exactly what he meant, though we can extrapolate based on his prior positions on F2P and the context surrounding the Trion situation.

                        What about you, Massively readers? Do you agree with Hartsman? Is this model of MMO gamemaking fundamentally broken?

                        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: Do you think MMO gamemaking is fundamentally broken? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 May 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                          ]]>                          business-modelsdaily-grindf2pfree-to-playopinionscott-hartsmantdgthe-daily-grindunsustainablewhalesTue, 21 May 2013 08:00:00 EST                          <![CDATA[PlanetSide 1 appears to be going free-to-play... eventually]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/planetside-1-appears-to-be-going-free-to-play-eventually/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/planetside-1-appears-to-be-going-free-to-play-eventually/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/planetside-1-appears-to-be-going-free-to-play-eventually/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

                          PS1
                          In a series of tweets earlier this evening, SOE's John Smedley hinted that classic PlanetSide 1 will at some future date be converted into a free-to-play MMO. He wrote,
                          We did a mass grant of anyone who has ever played ps1 or ps2 with free time in ps1. We weren't ready to announce it yet because the database grant is still ongoing and won't be done till tmw morning. So please if you didn't get flagged chill. We are trying to do something cool for everyone and we were going to tell people when it's done. But people saw it and others broadcast the info. Please don't complain :) we aren't raising your taxes we are making a game free. This also gives us more time to make it f2p. So enjoy starting tmw late morning.
                          This news comes just as PlanetSide 1 is celebrating its 10th birthday. Smedley's tweet refers to a new SOE promotion that will grant PlanetSide 2 players six free months of PS1 play.

                          MassivelyPlanetSide 1 appears to be going free-to-play... eventually originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 May 2013 00:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                          ]]>                          classic-mmofpsmmo-shootermmofpsplanetsideplanetside-2psps1ps2sandboxsci-fishootersoesonysony-online-entertainmentTue, 21 May 2013 00:40:00 EST                          <![CDATA[Not So Massively: Cash MOBA tournaments, Diablo III's birthday, and Star Citizen's new website]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/not-so-massively-cash-moba-tournaments-diablo-iiis-birthday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/not-so-massively-cash-moba-tournaments-diablo-iiis-birthday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/not-so-massively-cash-moba-tournaments-diablo-iiis-birthday/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

                          Not So Massively Cash MOBA tournaments, Diablo III's birthday, and Star Citizen's new website
                          Dota 2 celebrated the incredible sales of its world championship interactive compendium with free gifts for all players; the compendium has now sold over 266,000 units, raising the prize fund in The International to over $2,000,000 US. Third-person MOBA SMITE has recently entered the competitive tournament scene with two new weekly $1,000 tournaments. Rise of Immortals also announced its first competitive tournament since the Battle For Graxia update and revealed details of its hilariously-named ranged centaur character Murderhoof.

                          League of Legends revealed the new custom item set feature coming in Patch 3.7 and published a new champion spotlight video on classic ranged carry Ashe. Guardians of Middle-Earth also released its latest paid DLC character, The Mouth of Sauron, based on a character who was originally cut from the cinematic release of The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King.

                          Diablo III celebrated the first anniversary of its release on May 15th with anniversary livestreams and a magic-find bonus for all players. The latest patch also raised the increments in which money can be sold on the Real Money Auction House to ten million in response to massive oversupply. Path of Exile revealed details of its upcoming Patch 0.1.1.0 that will add new party loot options and other features, and Star Citizen showed off its new website with a special e-commerce section in which players can buy ships for cash.

                          Continue reading Not So Massively: Cash MOBA tournaments, Diablo III's birthday, and Star Citizen's new website

                          MassivelyNot So Massively: Cash MOBA tournaments, Diablo III's birthday, and Star Citizen's new website originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                            ]]>                            action-mmoaction-rpganniversaryanniversary-eventashebattle-for-graxiabattlenetbirthdayblizzardblizzard-entertainmentCompendiumcompetitive-gamingconsolecustom-item-setCustom-Item-Setsd3dawngatediablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotadota-2e-sporte-sportsesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgaslightgodgodsgothic-fantasygraxiagrinding-geargrinding-gear-gamesguardians-of-middle-earthinfinite-crisisInteractive-Compendiumisisjokerleague-of-legendslollord-of-the-ringslotrmiddle-earthmobamonolithmonolith-studiosmouth-of-sauronmultiplayermurderhoofnewsnot-so-massivelynsmone-yearone-year-anniversaryonline-multiplayeropinionpath-of-exilepetroglyphpetroglyph-gamesplaystation-networkpoeps3psnpvpriotriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsroiround-uprounduprpgskarasmitethe-jokerthe-mouth-of-sauronthird-personvalvevideovideoswarner-brosxboxxbox-360xbox-livexbox360Mon, 20 May 2013 21:00:00 EST                            <![CDATA[EVE Mobile is coming according to Jon Lander]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/eve-mobile-is-coming-according-to-jon-lander/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/eve-mobile-is-coming-according-to-jon-lander/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/eve-mobile-is-coming-according-to-jon-lander/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

                            Now you can stand next to someone, blow up their ship on your phone, then punch them.
                            If you've ever been involved in a discussion about EVE Online, you've heard it referred to as a sequence of spreadsheets which occasionally let you fly a spaceship. Which certainly has some basis in truth. Certainly it's a game with many possible systems that could be ported to a mobile client, something that CCP's Jon Lander is claiming will be a reality in the near future. Lander has moved from being EVE's executive producer to mobile development, but his new position is clearly still tied to the same game.

                            Rather than simply being a series of spreadsheets for your smartphone, Lander has made it clear that the mobile team wants for the various EVE mobile apps to be functional games in their own right. It's a field that CCP has explored before, stopping either due to technical hurdles or business concerns. But Lander's confident that players will be using the mobile applications by the time next year's Fanfest rolls around.

                            MassivelyEVE Mobile is coming according to Jon Lander originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                            ]]>                            ccpccp-gameseveeve-mobileeve-onlineinternet-spaceshipsjon-landermobilemobile-developmentsandboxsci-fispreadsheets-onlineMon, 20 May 2013 20:30:00 EST                            <![CDATA[Cloud Imperium unveils Star Citizen hangar module]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/cloud-imperium-unveils-star-citizen-hangar-module/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/cloud-imperium-unveils-star-citizen-hangar-module/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/cloud-imperium-unveils-star-citizen-hangar-module/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

                            Star Citizen - Hangar module with Hornet
                            Cloud Imperium has taken the wraps off Star Citizen's hangar module, a standalone app that's scheduled to be released to early adopters later this summer. Pledgers will get a chance to walk through their hangars and ogle their pledge ships, as well as climb inside them and invite their friends over for a spaceship-themed soiree.

                            The hangar module is "about 50 percent fleshed out right now," according to the spiffy Cloud Imperium video tour that you can watch after the cut.

                            [Thanks Eric!]

                            Continue reading Cloud Imperium unveils Star Citizen hangar module

                            MassivelyCloud Imperium unveils Star Citizen hangar module originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                            ]]>                            chris-robertscloud-imperiumcloud-imperium-gamescrowdfundingcry-enginecryenginehangarhangar-moduleinternet-spaceshipskickstartersandboxsci-fispaceshipstar-citizenstar-citizen-hangarvideozomg-do-wantMon, 20 May 2013 20:00:00 EST                            <![CDATA[Gloria Victis pre-alpha screens show forest updates]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/gloria-victis-pre-alpha-screens-show-forest-updates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/gloria-victis-pre-alpha-screens-show-forest-updates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/gloria-victis-pre-alpha-screens-show-forest-updates/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                            Gloria Victis pre-alpha screens show forest updates
                            Black Eye Games updated its Gloria Victis Facebook page over the weekend. The occasion was a pre-alpha feature push that saw plenty of new stuff make its way into the fledgling sandbox.

                            "The forest is now filled with life," the post says, including boars, foxes, wolves, and plenty of raw gatherables like bark, timber, hops, flax, and sunflowers. Black Eye has also enlarged the game world proper and added humanoid mobs. There are screens of all this stuff and more behind the links below. You'll also find some Massively-exclusive screens behind the break.

                            [Thanks to everyone who tipped us!]

                            Continue reading Gloria Victis pre-alpha screens show forest updates

                            MassivelyGloria Victis pre-alpha screens show forest updates originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                            ]]>                            black-eyeblack-eye-gamesfantasygloria-victisgloria-victis-alphapre-alphasandboxMon, 20 May 2013 19:00:00 EST                            <![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 prepares for Southsun showdown]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/guild-wars-2-prepares-for-southsun-showdown/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/guild-wars-2-prepares-for-southsun-showdown/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/guild-wars-2-prepares-for-southsun-showdown/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                            Guild Wars 2 prepares for Southsun showdown
                            The big baddie of Guild Wars 2's recent living story has been called out. He's Canach, a renegade who thinks that that the answer to every urban planning problem is "more monsters." The Sylvari is behind a plot to use the creatures of Southsun to free settlers from the grasp of the Consortium.

                            A showdown with Canach is set to happen when the next chapter of the game's living story rolls out on May 28. The update, titled Last Stand at Southsun, will contain a solo dungeon where players will go mano-a-planto with Canach. ArenaNet says that those who defeat Canach will then open up new group content to tackle.

                            Other changes on deck include a zone-stomping monster and plenty of changes to world-vs.-world content. Southsun living story events, achievements, and rewards will be available until June 11th.

                            MassivelyGuild Wars 2 prepares for Southsun showdown originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                            ]]>                            anetarenanetbuy-to-playcanacheventfantasyguild-wars-2gw2in-game-eventlast-stand-at-southsunliving-storyncsoftsouthsunsouthsun-coveworld-vs-worldwvwMon, 20 May 2013 18:00:00 EST                            <![CDATA[It's a ship in a box in Star Trek Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/its-a-ship-in-a-box-in-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/its-a-ship-in-a-box-in-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/its-a-ship-in-a-box-in-star-trek-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                            Astute observers will note the similarity to the Scimitar.
                            Just because you're playing a Romulan in Star Trek Online's first expansion doesn't mean every other Romulan is your friend. Empress Sela's Tal Shiar are a huge threat not just to the nascent Romulan Republic but to all sentient life throughout the galaxy, epitomized with their insectoid ships that fuse Romulan, Borg, and Elachi technology together. Needless to say, these ships are never good to see on the horizon. Unless you happen to open one in a lockbox, anyhow.

                            Yes, the newest lockbox in the game will give players a chance to earn the strange ships of the Tal Shiar, giving all captains a chance to fly some of the strangest ships yet seen in the game. The ships perform similarly to Romulan crafts with their built-in cloaks, but they exchange some of the active Romulan cloaking power for tactical weapons like Shrapnel Torpedoes. For more details on what awaits in the upcoming lockboxes, take a look at the full rundown of potential prizes.

                            MassivelyIt's a ship in a box in Star Trek Online originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                            ]]>                            crypticcryptic-studiosexpansionf2pfree-to-playlegacy-of-romuluslockboxnew-lockboxnew-shipsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweremusromulussci-fishipsstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoMon, 20 May 2013 17:30:00 EST                            <![CDATA[Elder Scrolls Online elaborates on crafting and exploration]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/elder-scrolls-online-elaborates-on-crafting-and-exploration/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/elder-scrolls-online-elaborates-on-crafting-and-exploration/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/elder-scrolls-online-elaborates-on-crafting-and-exploration/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                            Elder Scrolls Online answers crafting and exploration queries
                            ZeniMax scooped up all of the questions that fans had after seeing The Elder Scrolls Online's crafting and exploration video, and answered several of the most pressing of them in a new post.

                            TESO will feature five crafting professions: weaponsmith, armorsmith, enchanter, alchemist, and provisioner. Of these, players are able to train in two fields so that a robust economy will develop between crafters. While there aren't any recipes in the game, players have multiple avenues to combine ingredients and make the same item. The studio indicated that those who have played previous Elder Scrolls games might have an advantage in knowing familiar plants and crafting ingredients and how they interact.

                            Other topics in the AMA include fishing lures, how big your library can get (there's no limit, basically), the use of Mundus Stones, and the difficulty of lockpicking. "Your lockpicking will automatically improve as you level, gradually making chests that were once very difficult to open a much easier prospect. Though your lockpicking skill will increase as you level, the chests you encounter in higher level areas will also be more difficult," ZeniMax explained.

                            MassivelyElder Scrolls Online elaborates on crafting and exploration originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                            ]]>                            amaask-me-anythingask-us-anythingbethesdabethesda-softworksbethsoftcommunity-q-and-acraftingdaggerfallelder-scrollselder-scrolls-onlineesoexplorationfactionsfishinglockpickingmorrowindoblivionpvpq-and-arvrsandboxskyrimtamrieltestesothe-elder-scrollsthe-elder-scrolls-onlinethree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvpzenimaxzenimax-mediazenimax-onlinezenimax-online-studiosMon, 20 May 2013 17:00:00 EST                            <![CDATA[Leaderboard: Which upcoming fantasy MMO are you looking forward to the most?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/leaderboard-which-upcoming-fantasy-mmo-are-you-looking-forward/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/leaderboard-which-upcoming-fantasy-mmo-are-you-looking-forward/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/leaderboard-which-upcoming-fantasy-mmo-are-you-looking-forward/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

                            Leaderboard Which upcoming fantasy MMO are you looking forward to the most
                            Since last week's Leaderboard went over so well, I figured, why not put up another semi-controversial poll in the hopes that fans of the choices I inadvertently leave off will pepper my inbox with hate mail? Snarkiness aside, I am curious to see the results of today's vote, which pits the big three fantasy MMOs releasing over the next year against one another in a grueling duel to the death.

                            The prize? The coveted title of Most Anticipated 2013/14 Fantasy MMO in the Massively Comments Section, which is going to be really hard to cram onto the trophy. In any case, vote for your favorite after the break.

                            Ever wish that you could put to rest a long-standing MMO debate once and for all? Then welcome to the battle royal of Massively's Leaderboard, where two sides enter the pit o' judgment -- and only one leaves. Vote to make your opinion known, and see whether your choice tops the Leaderboard!

                            Continue reading Leaderboard: Which upcoming fantasy MMO are you looking forward to the most?

                            MassivelyLeaderboard: Which upcoming fantasy MMO are you looking forward to the most? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                              ]]>                              battle-royalleaderboardmost-anticipated-mmoone-on-oneone-vs-oneopinionpollpollsversusvotevotesvotingvsMon, 20 May 2013 16:00:00 EST                              <![CDATA[Chaos Theory: Opinions, facts, and open flames]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/chaos-theory-opinions-facts-and-open-flames/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/chaos-theory-opinions-facts-and-open-flames/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/chaos-theory-opinions-facts-and-open-flames/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

                              Chaos Theory Opinions, facts, and open flames
                              It's not often that my writings take a ranty slant, In fact, I don't believe I have ever expressed anything along those lines here in Chaos Theory -- although I have a time or two elsewhere. Blue moons come and go much more frequently than I don my Massively-standard-issue flame-retardant garb and venture forth. But right here, right now looks to be one of those times, and I'm already suiting up. So what about The Secret World has me riled up enough to flex my woefully underused ranting muscle?

                              Nothing.

                              Seriously, I can't call to mind a single thing in the game deserving of a rant. Sure, TSW isn't perfect; there are flaws and there are things that could use improving, things that are certainly worth discussing. But rant-inducing? Nope. Too bad the same can't be said for people.

                              It doesn't matter how many times I've witnessed it: It never ceases to amaze me when folks trumpet their own opinions as fact while insisting dissenting opinions can't possibly exist. It's like they board the crazy train where the lines between opinion and fact are swirled together like coffee and creamer, where reality and logic are tossed right out the window. So as a public service, I'm going to derail that train.

                              Continue reading Chaos Theory: Opinions, facts, and open flames

                              MassivelyChaos Theory: Opinions, facts, and open flames originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                ]]>                                3-faction3-factionsbuy-to-playchaos-theoryconspiracyconspiracy-thriillerdark-days-are-comingdragonendgamefactionfaction-pvpfantasyfeaturedfuncomhorrorilluminatimythologyopinionopinion-vs-factopinionsrantrantssci-fantasysecret-worldsecret-world-chaos-theoryskill-basedsubscriptionlesstemplarsthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-chaos-theorythree-factionthree-faction-pvpthree-factionstswtsw-chaos-theorytsw-dragonwho-cares-about-endgameMon, 20 May 2013 15:00:00 EST                                <![CDATA[Rhode Island selling 38 Studios' game assets]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/rhode-island-selling-38-studios-game-assets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/rhode-island-selling-38-studios-game-assets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/rhode-island-selling-38-studios-game-assets/#commentsFiled under: , ,

                                Rhode Island selling 38 Studios' IP
                                Do you have a few million on you and a desire to preserve some gaming history? Then pick up the phone and call Rhode Island, as the state is getting ready to sell 38 Studios' assets, including its games.

                                The state is looking to recoup some of it $130 million debt that it fell into once 38 Studios went belly-up. One of Rhode Island's lawyers says there "is interest" in the studio's assets, including concept art, design documents, and computer software. The sale of 38 Studios' IP includes the Amalur franchise, which encompassed the Project Copernicus MMO.

                                The state is also set to begin a lawsuit this week against former 38 Studios execs, including founder Curt Schilling. The suit claims that the executives did not inform the state when they knew that the studio would have a hard time keeping afloat financially. Schilling has asked the judge to dismiss the suit.

                                MassivelyRhode Island selling 38 Studios' game assets originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                ]]>                                38-studiosamaluramalur-mmo-industryassetsconcept-artcurt-schillinggame-assetsipip-assetskingdoms-of-amalur-reckoninglawsuitproject-copernicusrhode-islandriedcsaleMon, 20 May 2013 14:00:00 EST                                <![CDATA[Captain's Log: What to expect in Star Trek Online's Legacy of Romulus expansion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/captains-log-stos-legacy-of-romulus-expansion-launches-tomorr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/captains-log-stos-legacy-of-romulus-expansion-launches-tomorr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/captains-log-stos-legacy-of-romulus-expansion-launches-tomorr/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

                                STO Haakona warbird header
                                It's a little strange to think that it's already been three months since the developers at Star Trek Online first teased us with the Legacy of Romulus expansion with the March Beneath the Raptor's Wings kicker at the end of the anniversary video. Even then there were many of us who sincerely doubted the teaser meant we would finally be able to play a Romulan character, let alone that the Klingon faction would be filled-out.

                                Yet here we are, on the eve of the release of Star Trek Online's first expansion and a flood of new material. Beware, I will be writing spoilers about the new content, but if you're not worried about that, feel free to join me as I touch on most of what we're going to see!

                                Continue reading Captain's Log: What to expect in Star Trek Online's Legacy of Romulus expansion

                                MassivelyCaptain's Log: What to expect in Star Trek Online's Legacy of Romulus expansion originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                  ]]>                                  bird of preyBirdOfPreycaptains-logcrypticcryptic-studiosexpansionf2pfeaturedfederationfree-to-playklingonklingon defense forceklingonslegacy of romulusopinionparadise cityperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentplanet of galactic peacepreviewpreviewspweromulanRomulanssci-fishipsstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestowarbirdMon, 20 May 2013 13:00:00 EST                                  <![CDATA[Aion helps player pop the question]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/aion-helps-player-pop-the-question/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/aion-helps-player-pop-the-question/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/aion-helps-player-pop-the-question/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                                  Aion helps player pop the question
                                  Who says devs only want to beat us with a nerf bat? When a long-time Aion player decided he wanted to ask the most important question of his life using the game he and his beloved shared countless hours in over the years, devs jumped to his aid.

                                  To help make the experience memorable, Aion's devs provided a backdrop of cakes and musicians in Sanctum Square on the Israphel server where both resided. Then as the hopeful groom-to-be dropped to his knee in game, the heartfelt words he recited to her in real life also flashed across the game screen for all to see. When she gave her answer, the sky exploded in fireworks and everyone saw the message, "She said YES!!!"

                                  Congratulations to the happy couple, Jambo and Trishann! We're sure that's a proposal that will not be forgotten. And kudos to NCsoft for having the heart to be a part of one of the greatest moments in its players' lives. You can see more images of the event below.

                                  Gallery: Aion wedding proposal

                                  MassivelyAion helps player pop the question originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                    ]]>                                    aionascensionf2pfantasyfree-to-playncsoftproposaltruly-freeMon, 20 May 2013 12:00:00 EST                                    <![CDATA[The Nexus Telegraph: Still moving in WildStar]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/the-nexus-telegraph-still-moving-in-wildstar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/the-nexus-telegraph-still-moving-in-wildstar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/the-nexus-telegraph-still-moving-in-wildstar/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

                                    Or just stand there and let it reach you, that's cool too.
                                    The downside to writing about WildStar in this stage of the game's lifecycle is that because of the very nature of beta tests, I'm going to be spending a lot of time speculating instead of talking about certainties. Last week, I speculated. I was wrong on some points, as I found out when I got a letter from Carbine clarifying some things that had previously been ambiguous enough for speculation.

                                    The upside to writing about WildStar in this stage of the game's lifecycle is that sometimes I get letters from development staff letting me in on valuable inside information.

                                    Aside from being able to clarify my previous incorrect speculation, I also have for you a number of other important bits of information regarding the game this week, including a brief discussion of whether or not the game will allow for flight on a regular basis. So since that's well worth discussing, let's go ahead and just make this column another dialogue about movement.

                                    Continue reading The Nexus Telegraph: Still moving in WildStar

                                    MassivelyThe Nexus Telegraph: Still moving in WildStar originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                      ]]>                                      areascarbinecarbine-studiosclimatecolumnfeaturedflightflyingflying-mountsloremovementncsoftnexusnexus-telegraphopinionregionssandparksci-fantasysci-fithe-nexus-telegraphtransportwildstarzonesMon, 20 May 2013 11:00:00 EST                                      <![CDATA[Obsidian and Allods team up to create Skyforge]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/obsidian-and-allods-team-up-to-create-skyforge/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/obsidian-and-allods-team-up-to-create-skyforge/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/obsidian-and-allods-team-up-to-create-skyforge/#commentsFiled under: , ,

                                      Obsidian and Allods team up to create Skyforge
                                      If you've ever been curious about what would happen if you mixed the Allods Online team with Obsidian Entertainment, wonder no more! The two forces announced their partnership at the Russian Game Developers Convention where they unveiled their upcoming MMORPG, Skyforge. The game is planned to release for the PC in 2014.

                                      More details are available from the devs themselves in the video after the break, if you speak Russian. For those who don't, you can catch a few snippits of game video between the interviews and a stretch coming just before the seven minute mark.

                                      Continue reading Obsidian and Allods team up to create Skyforge

                                      MassivelyObsidian and Allods team up to create Skyforge originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                      ]]>                                      allodsallods-onlineastrum-nivalf2pfantasyfree-to-playgala-netgpotatomail-ru-gamesmail.ru-gamesmailru-gamesObsidianObsidian-EntertainmentSkyforgeMon, 20 May 2013 10:00:00 EST                                      <![CDATA[The Stream Team: Monocle Day edition, May 20 - 26, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/the-stream-team-monocle-day-edition-may-20-26-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/the-stream-team-monocle-day-edition-may-20-26-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/the-stream-team-monocle-day-edition-may-20-26-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

                                      The Stream Team Monocle day edition, May 20 26, 2013
                                      Two weeks ago, y'all had the chance to select a new holiday to help add some cheer to the otherwise bland weeks in the middle of May. The choices teased and tantalized you, but you're a discriminating crowd. In a race fraught with nail-biting suspense, only one ultimately prevailed. And so it is with further ado we bring to you: Monocle Day!

                                      This Tuesday, May 21st, has been selected to be the auspicious day of this most storied celebration. Why? Because 5/21 splits into 5 + 2 + 1, which of course = 8, and we all know that 8 is just two monocles stacked on top of each other! And as always, Massively TV is here to help you ring in the new holiday, with special shows throughout the entire week. Check out the full schedule of celebratory events hosted by The Stream Team after the break. Then let us know if you'll be wearing your own monocle in honor of the festivities.

                                      Continue reading The Stream Team: Monocle Day edition, May 20 - 26, 2013

                                      MassivelyThe Stream Team: Monocle Day edition, May 20 - 26, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                        ]]>                                        Achaeaaction-mmoactivisionagonanetAnno-Onlinearenanetaventurinebiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrowserbrowser-basedbuy-to-playccpccp-gamescity-of-steamconsoleconsolescrypticcryptic-studiosdarkfalldarkfall-unholy-warsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuodfdndDotA-2dragonDragonrealmsdragonsdragons-propheteaelectronic-artselswordeq-2eq-iieq2eqiieveeve-onlineeverquest-2everquest-iif2pfactionfantasyfeaturedfrfree-realmsfree-to-playfuncomgoblinguild-warsgwhi-rezhi-rez-studioshistoricalhorrorhousinginfernuminfernum-productionsinternet-spaceshipskid-friendlykidskids-mmolivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamslucasartsmassively-metamassively-tvmechanistmechanist-gamesmetamobamultiplayer-online-battle-arenamv-guidemv-tvmvguidemvtvmythologyncsoftneverwinteropen-pvpperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentplaneplanesplaystation-3playstation3pollps3pvppwerunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentsandboxsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldskill-basedSmitesoesonysony-online-entertainmentspreadsheets-onlinestar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsteampunkstreamstream-schedulestream-teamstreamersstreamingstreamteamsubscriptionlesssuperherosuperheroesswtorthe-old-republicthe-secret-worldthe-stream-teamthreshold-rpgtortswtwitchtwitch-tvunholy-warswarwarcraftwargaming.netwarplanewarplanesworld-of-warcraftworld-of-warplaneswowwowpMon, 20 May 2013 09:00:00 EST                                        <![CDATA[The Daily Grind: When are rollbacks and wipes absolutely necessary?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/the-daily-grind-when-are-rollbacks-absolutely-necessary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/the-daily-grind-when-are-rollbacks-absolutely-necessary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/the-daily-grind-when-are-rollbacks-absolutely-necessary/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

                                        When are rollbacks absolutely necessary
                                        In the last few weeks, two big games we cover on Massively have been slammed with exploits that have injured their respective economies: Diablo III and Neverwinter. In Diablo III's case, a gold duping bug apparently pumped insane amounts of cash into the economy. Neverwinter's exploits run the gamut from Foundry abuses to negative auction hall bids that don't consume gold to classes that can one-shot bosses making farming trivial. According to these claims, NW exploiters are making off with thousands of real-life dollars when cashing out their ill-gotten funds.

                                        In both cases, players called for characters wipes and rollbacks, believing each exploit severe enough to merit a clean slate. But in Diablo III's case, while the studio dealt harshly with the exploiters, the developers disagreed with the need for wipes and do-overs, presumably having concluded that such drastic measures would impact the legit playerbase far more than would a dented economy. Neverwinter, on the other hand, chose to roll back the servers, causing widespread uproar.

                                        That brings us to today's question: Which studio was right? How bad does an exploit have to be before character wipes and server rollbacks are absolutely necessary?

                                        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: When are rollbacks and wipes absolutely necessary? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                          ]]>                                          Blizzardbrianna-royce-tdgcharacter-wipecryptic-studiosdaily-grinddiablo-3diablo-iiieconomyexploitexploitsneverwinteropinionperfect-world-entertainmentpwerollbackrollbacksserver-wipetdgthe-daily-grindwipewipesMon, 20 May 2013 08:00:00 EST                                          <![CDATA[Neverwinter returns with seven-hour rollback after exploit]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/neverwinter-returns-with-seven-hour-rollback-after-exploit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/neverwinter-returns-with-seven-hour-rollback-after-exploit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/neverwinter-returns-with-seven-hour-rollback-after-exploit/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

                                          Neverwinter returns with sevenhour rollback after exploit
                                          Over the weekend, a massive exploit plagued Perfect World Entertainment's Neverwinter beta as players discovered a way to make billions off of the auction house and Astral Diamond Exchange.

                                          After initially closing the economy to explore the company's options, PWE decided to do a seven-hour rollback of the servers that affects the progress made between 8:20 a.m. EDT (5:20 a.m. PDT) and 3:20 p.m. EDT (12:20 p.m. PDT) yesterday for all players.

                                          "Rest assured, the issue has been corrected and we have taken appropriate action against all players who took advantage of the bug, including but not limited to enforcing permanent bans," the announcement reads.

                                          [Thanks to everyone who sent this one in!]

                                          MassivelyNeverwinter returns with seven-hour rollback after exploit originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                          ]]>                                          action-mmocrypticcryptic-studiosdndexploitsf2pfantasyfree-to-playneverwinterperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwerollbackMon, 20 May 2013 07:00:00 EST                                          <![CDATA[MMO Week in Review: Trion's tribulations and DUST's launch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/mmo-week-in-review-trions-tribulations-and-dusts-launch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/mmo-week-in-review-trions-tribulations-and-dusts-launch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/mmo-week-in-review-trions-tribulations-and-dusts-launch/#commentsFiled under: , ,

                                          RIFT
                                          At the end of every week, we round up the best and most popular news stories, exclusive features, and insightful columns published on Massively and then present them all in one convenient place. If you missed a big MMO or WoW Insider story last week, you've come to the right post.

                                          This week, Trion Worlds' announcement that RIFT will transition to a free-to-play MMO in less than a month was tempered by news that the studio was forced to lay off a large portion of its staff, though the RIFT team itself was unaffected. Meanwhile, CCP's console shooter DUST 514 officially launched; Massively's Jef Reahard delivered tepid impressions of the game.

                                          Read on for a look at the rest of this week's top MMO stories.

                                          Continue reading MMO Week in Review: Trion's tribulations and DUST's launch

                                          MassivelyMMO Week in Review: Trion's tribulations and DUST's launch originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 19 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                            ]]>                                            featuredjoystiqmassively-metametarounduptop-storiesweek-in-reviewweekly-recapweekly-roundupwow-insiderSun, 19 May 2013 20:00:00 EST                                            <![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Fanfest 2013 video roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/eve-evolved-fanfest-2013-video-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/eve-evolved-fanfest-2013-video-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/eve-evolved-fanfest-2013-video-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

                                            EVE Evolved Fanfest 2013 video roundup
                                            Last month saw the huge tenth anniversary EVE Online Fanfest, a three-day convention packed full of exclusive reveals, behind-the-scenes talks, and community events. This year's Fanfest was the biggest one yet, celebrating EVE's tenth anniversary with special guest speakers from the scientific community, the reveal of a new virtual reality dogfighter, DUST 514's launch, and details of the upcoming Odyssey expansion. Massively was there to bring you coverage of the big news as it happened, and CCP streamed some of the key talks and events live to viewers at home.

                                            This year's Fanfest sold out so quickly that many people who wanted to go didn't get a chance to, and only a select few talks were shown on the public livestream. With such a packed event schedule, even players in attendance couldn't be there for every interesting talk. Thankfully, CCP recorded over 30 of the most anticipated events and has now uploaded the videos to YouTube. Highlights include the Make EVE Real videos, the EVE keynote, the CCP Presents Keynote, and the talks on how DUST 514 integrates with the EVE economy.

                                            In this week's EVE Evolved, I round up all of the EVE Fanfest videos in a handy list.

                                            Continue reading EVE Evolved: Fanfest 2013 video roundup

                                            MassivelyEVE Evolved: Fanfest 2013 video roundup originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 19 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                                              ]]>                                              alliance-panelapocalypseasteroidasteroid-miningasteroidsbattleshipccpccp-gameschinaconcept-artconsoleconventioncrimewatchcsm-paneldustdust-514economyeveeve-evolvedeve-fanfesteve-fanfest-2013eve-is-realeve-onlineeventeventsfanfestfaster-than-lightfeaturedfpsftlgame-designgearinternet-spaceshipskeynotemake-eve-realminingmmofpsodysseyopinionplanetary-conquestplaystationplaystation-3progressionps3pvpsandboxsci-fishooterspace-elevatorspreadsheets-onlineuprisingSun, 19 May 2013 18:00:00 EST