Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://massively.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[Massively surveys WildStar's Scientist and Settler paths, the Esper class, and the crazy things Jeremy Gaffney says]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/massively-surveys-wildstars-scientist-and-settler-paths-the-es/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/massively-surveys-wildstars-scientist-and-settler-paths-the-es/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/massively-surveys-wildstars-scientist-and-settler-paths-the-es/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

WildStar -- hells yeah
So who wants to hear some cool stuff about WildStar? Thought so!

Massively's Gavin Townsley recently attended a WildStar media event in San Francisco, at which he was treated to a hands-on look at the upcoming sci-fantasy MMORPG's Scientist path and Esper class. He also chatted with Carbine Studios executive producer Jeremy Gaffney, who pulls a Gaffney (I'm coining that) and can't resist leaking a bit of new info about tradeskills while filling Gavin in on how endgame will work, why we should play the Settler path, and whether talent trees are passé. If you think making 10 pairs of cotton space pants sounds boring, then yeah -- you're going to like what he's got to say.

Enjoy all three articles plus the brand-new path videos we've embedded past the cut!
Hands-on with WildStar's Scientist path and Esper class
There is something exciting about taking your first steps into the mysteries of a new planet. I was anxious to mingle with the locals, analyze artifacts, and even pick a few plants -- that is, until I saw a flower burst from the ground as a giant vine-like beast.
WildStar's Jeremy Gaffney on the Settler path
WildStar's Settlers don't just build bonfires for sappy Explorers to sing around; these titans of construction will save you time in dungeons, establish bigger outposts, and open up new realms of quests for everyone.
WildStar's Jeremy Gaffney on progression, tradeskills, and endgame
Jeremy Gaffney divulges the beautiful details on essential parts of the game: character progression, tradeskills that don't suck, and life in the elder game.

Continue reading Massively surveys WildStar's Scientist and Settler paths, the Esper class, and the crazy things Jeremy Gaffney says

MassivelyMassively surveys WildStar's Scientist and Settler paths, the Esper class, and the crazy things Jeremy Gaffney says originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 May 2013 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbinecarbine-studioselder-gameendgameesperhands-onhousinginterviewinterviewsjeremy-gaffneyncsoftpathpathspreviewpreviewssandparksci-fantasysci-fiscientistsettlertrailertrailersvideovideoswildstarwsWed, 22 May 2013 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WildStar's Jeremy Gaffney on progression, tradeskills, and endgame]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/wildstars-jeremy-gaffney-on-progression-tradeskills-and-endga/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/wildstars-jeremy-gaffney-on-progression-tradeskills-and-endga/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/wildstars-jeremy-gaffney-on-progression-tradeskills-and-endga/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Interview Wildstar's Jeremy Gaffney on Progression, Tradeskills, and Endgame
In the first part of our interview with Carbine Studios executive producer Jeremy Gaffney, we discussed everything we could about the Settler path. In this followup interview, he divulges the beautiful details on essential parts of the game: progression, tradeskills, and the elder game.

WildStar has been setting a fun tone with each new video that's released. As it turns out, that same philosophy extends to nearly every corner of the game.

Continue reading WildStar's Jeremy Gaffney on progression, tradeskills, and endgame

MassivelyWildStar's Jeremy Gaffney on progression, tradeskills, and endgame originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 May 2013 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbinecarbine-studioscraftingelder-gameendgamefeaturedinterviewinterviewsjeremy-gaffneyncsoftpreviewpreviewsraidingsandparksci-fantasysci-fitradeskillswildstarwsWed, 22 May 2013 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WildStar's Jeremy Gaffney on the Settler path]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/wildstars-jeremy-gaffney-on-the-settler-path/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/wildstars-jeremy-gaffney-on-the-settler-path/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/wildstars-jeremy-gaffney-on-the-settler-path/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Wildstar's Settler Class An interview with Jeremy Gaffney
In a world full of potential and chaos, WildStar's factions will succeed on the planet Nexus on the backs of the Settlers. The Settlers don't just build bonfires for sappy Explorers to sing around; these titans of construction will save you time in dungeons, establish bigger outposts, and open up new realms of quests for everyone.

At a recent media event, Carbine Studios executive producer Jeremy Gaffney was only too happy to explain how the Settler path opens up the world, intersects with housing, and even plays a part in PvP.

Continue reading WildStar's Jeremy Gaffney on the Settler path

MassivelyWildStar's Jeremy Gaffney on the Settler path originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 May 2013 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Handson with Wildstar's Scientist Path, Esper class, and more
There is something exciting about taking your first steps into the mysteries of a new planet. I was anxious to mingle with the locals, analyze artifacts, and even pick a few plants -- that is, until I saw a flower burst from the ground as a giant vine-like beast. As it chewed up the slinky Aurin next to me, I decided to leave the flowers for the next Scientist.

So began my hands-on experience with WildStar, the exciting and often comical new MMO from NCsoft and Carbine Studios. The half-day event gave me time to play the Esper class, build some structures on the Settler path, and hurtle myself through the air in the name of science. There is so much to talk about!

Except plants. 'Cause allergies. *ahem*

Continue reading Hands-on with WildStar's Scientist path and Esper class

MassivelyHands-on with WildStar's Scientist path and Esper class originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 May 2013 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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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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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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Unicorn poop, beer cans, and housing dungeons WildStar's Jeremy Gaffney preps us for closed beta 2
"This is going to be the best game most of us have built in our lives," Carbine Studios Executive Producer Jeremy Gaffney said bluntly.

The game in question, of course, is WildStar, and it represents Gaffney's 10th or so trip through the beta development chute on the way to release. There's an undeniable note of pride and calm confidence in his voice as he talks about the baby that's growing inside Carbine's womb right now, and he was definitely not shy in opening up about all of the decisions and work the team's made as WildStar heads into its second trimester... er, closed beta test.

Before that, however, Gaffney provided a recap of the first closed beta test. He said that it was pretty limited, with only 2,000 players testing out the lowbie Exile zones. The team moved some of the elder game content down in level so that people could test it out, and developers spent some time doing impromptu Q&A sessions with players in the field. As a result, Carbine is ready to shift over to the Dominion side and greatly expand the beta in size and content. Read on for the full scoop on what the next step will entail.

Continue reading Unicorn poop, beer cans, and housing dungeons: WildStar's Jeremy Gaffney preps us for closed beta 2

MassivelyUnicorn poop, beer cans, and housing dungeons: WildStar's Jeremy Gaffney preps us for closed beta 2 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 May 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>addonsbetabeta-testbeta-testingcarbinecarbine-studioscb2closed-betaclosed-beta-2dominiondungeonfeaturedhousinghoustoninterviewinterviewsjeremy-gaffneymodsncsoftplayer-housingpreviewpreviewssandparksci-fantasysci-fitestingwildstarwsWed, 15 May 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A tour of DC Universe Online's new Origin Crisis DLC]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/a-tour-of-dc-universe-onlines-new-origin-crisis-dlc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/a-tour-of-dc-universe-onlines-new-origin-crisis-dlc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/a-tour-of-dc-universe-onlines-new-origin-crisis-dlc/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

DC Universe Online screenshot
DC Universe Online's latest DLC, Origin Crisis, allows players to fill the shoes of some of their favorite -- and not so favorite -- heroes and villains and fight to keep reality as it is. Thanks to yesterday's update, players will actually be traveling through time in order to stop a chain of events that might result in entirely new universes and timelines. You'll be bamming and powing your way through content in the hopes that history remains intact.

We sat down with Jens Andersen, Creative Director of DC Universe Online, to discuss this special DLC, a pack that has been in planning since the game's conception.

Continue reading A tour of DC Universe Online's new Origin Crisis DLC

MassivelyA tour of DC Universe Online's new Origin Crisis DLC originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternate-realitybeau-hindmandcdc-universe-onlinedcuoDLCfeaturedjens-andersenorigin-crisispreviewpreviewstrailertrailersvideovideosWed, 15 May 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pantsless: First impressions of Neverwinter's open beta headstart]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/pantsless-first-impressions-of-neverwinters-open-beta-headstar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/pantsless-first-impressions-of-neverwinters-open-beta-headstar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/pantsless-first-impressions-of-neverwinters-open-beta-headstar/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Pantsless First impressions of Neverwinter's open beta
Neverwinter's launch into open beta began last week, and through the grace of my press account, my Great Weapon Fighter was lucky enough to begin her digital life alongside players who forked over $199.99 for the Hero of the North Founder's Pack. I lack any of the Founders Pack bonuses, so off my plucky human character went, surrounded on her first day almost exclusively by panther-having Drow.

Justin's been serving up a delicious helping of launch diary goodness, but he's relaxing on a cruise ship this week, so you're stuck with me! Join me as we sally forth into my launch-but-not-really-launch-it's-open-beta-okay-guys-but-we-aren't-deleting-characters-anymore-no-really-it's-still-open-beta-look-it-says-so-in-this-blog-post impressions! The first section is about thighs.

Continue reading Pantsless: First impressions of Neverwinter's open beta headstart

MassivelyPantsless: First impressions of Neverwinter's open beta headstart originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 30 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Flameseeker Chronicles It's time for some retribution
Another patch day is upon us. Among other things, Guild Wars 2's Flame and Frost: Retribution is bringing in a new living story dungeon and some much-needed structured PvP improvements. Over the weekend, members of the press were invited to preview some of the incoming content. I'd like to talk about it with you, so be warned that there are spoilers for the living story dungeon ahead.

Something that I found particularly interesting about all of this is that the Molten Weapons Facilities dungeon is going to be available for less than two weeks. The dungeon is due to exit on May 12th. I had expected it to be time-limited, of course, but I think I was expecting a little more time than that. Anyway, let's dive right into it.

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: It's time for some retribution in Guild Wars 2

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: It's time for some retribution in Guild Wars 2 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 30 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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EVE Fanfest 2013 day two World of Darkness, Odyssey, and EVE Virtual Reality with the Oculus Rift
EVE Online's tenth anniversary Fanfest promised to be its biggest yet, with over 1,400 players packed into Iceland's Harpa convention centre to find out the latest on EVE Online, DUST 514, and World of Darkness. The first day focused mainly on DUST and its link with the EVE universe, but today the focus largely switched back to internet spaceships. There were plenty of roundtable discussions, and the CSM and Alliance panels were as awesome as ever, but it was the EVE Keynote that really blew the crowd away.

The day got off to a good start with the highly anticipated World of Darkness talk. Most fans were probably expecting to see more airy game design ideas and another shiny trailer, but this year CCP just came out and put all its cards on the table. We saw that the game is still firmly in pre-production, with much of the previous work going into developing the engine and cool content creation tools and shaders. While I was initially disappointed at the lack of gameplay progress or shiny cinematics, I found this approach of being open and direct with fans very refreshing. As I told WoD art director Thomas Holt, honest beats shiny every time.

Read on for a full run-down of the EVE reveals from the second day of EVE's tenth anniversary Fanfest, including in-depth details of the Odyssey expansion's features.

Continue reading EVE Fanfest 2013 day two: World of Darkness, Odyssey, and EVE Virtual Reality with the Oculus Rift

MassivelyEVE Fanfest 2013 day two: World of Darkness, Odyssey, and EVE Virtual Reality with the Oculus Rift originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 26 Apr 2013 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversaryarchaeologyarcheologyccp-soundwavediscovery-scannereveeve-fanfesteve-fanfest-2013eve-onlineeve-online-fanfesteve-online-fanfest-2013eventevent-coverageevtfanfestfeaturedgraphicshackinghilmarhilmar-peturssonhilmar-veigar-peturssonicelandisotopesjon-landerjump-effectjumpingkeynotemassively-event-coverageminingoculus-riftodysseyorepreviewpreviewsprobeprobesprobingpvepvprekyjavikscan-probesscannerscanningstarbase-fuelstargatestargatesten-yearsthomas-holtvideovideoswodworld-of-darknessFri, 26 Apr 2013 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's Neverwinter early access launch diary: Day one]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/massivelys-neverwinter-early-access-launch-diary-day-one/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/massivelys-neverwinter-early-access-launch-diary-day-one/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/massivelys-neverwinter-early-access-launch-diary-day-one/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Massively's Neverwinter launch diary Day one
Neverwinter's launch isn't so much a launch as a gradual roll-out that's happening in several phases and operating under the code-name of "open beta." While the doors won't be open for the general public until April 30th, purchasers of the founder's packs are able to get in a few days early. Cryptic's invited the media to join the day one festivities alongside of those who've plunked down $200 for a Hero of the North package, which is how I'm able to bring to you a day-by-day account of the first week of Neverwinter live.

While I've participated in two of the beta weekend events and have been following Neverwinter for a few months now as part of my column coverage, much of the game is virgin territory to me. I like going into a launch relatively unspoiled (or as unspoiled as a writer who covers MMOs can be), so this launch diary isn't going to be the voice of great experience. It's going to be the voice of experiences. See what I did there?

Noon on April 25th finally arrived... and we were off to the D&D races!

Continue reading Massively's Neverwinter early access launch diary: Day one

MassivelyMassively's Neverwinter early access launch diary: Day one originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 26 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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EVE Fanfest 2013 day one roundup DUST 514, wormholes, lowsec PvP and Retribution
The 10th anniversary EVE Online Fanfest is beyond massive, with over 1,400 players piling into Reykjavik's Harpa building for three days of intense internet spaceshippery. Players fly from across the world to meet their corpmates and chat with other players as passionate about EVE as they are. CCP runs a packed schedule of game design presentations, reveals, and roundtable discussions with players, but for many attendees, the event is about being a part of a tight-knit community that usually exists only inside a game server.

CCP made the bold statement to the press team this morning that its goal is "to create virtual worlds more meaningful than real life," and with so many people flying across the world to meet other players face to face, I'd say the studio has succeeded. Today saw talks on EVE's hugely successful Retribution expansion, ship rebalancing, map generation in DUST 514, and lowsec PvP, and of course, we attended the DUST 514 keynote speech. There were also some hilarious shenanigans with the wormhole roundtable room filling to bursting and a guest science lecture on the possibility of faster than light travel in real life.

Continue reading EVE Fanfest 2013 day one: DUST 514, wormholes, and lowsec PvP

MassivelyEVE Fanfest 2013 day one: DUST 514, wormholes, and lowsec PvP originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Finding the 'world' in Prime World
Welcome to my Prime World castle! Enjoy the mountain air, the multiple residential buildings, the fountain and bench I decided I had room for, and the general atmosphere. No, really, enjoy them now because you sadly can't even see them in the game. While a few of my mates and I had the pleasure of experiencing Prime World via the English client on the live Russian server, there were a few oddities that popped up during our prime-binge, and I'm not referring to my Russian comrades.

For those who haven't heard of Prime World, let me giver you a primer: It's set in a fantasy world where a new material called "prime" has revolutionized both the scientific and natural world. Players are tasked with building their own little base to gather resources, make friends, hire heroes, and fight for more prime against the other faction (unless your side currently heavily outnumbers the other faction, in which case the game allows you the option to fight other people of your faction in order to speed up the queues). Really, it's like StarCraft and League of Legends had a baby and asked Facebook to raise the kid, except that you needn't make use of the Facebook integration to play the game and can opt to use an email address instead. However, you'll still find a need for a social network when it comes to the non-MOBA part of the game.

Continue reading Finding the 'world' in Prime World

MassivelyFinding the 'world' in Prime World originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredhands-onnivalpreviewpreviewsprime-worldrussiarussian-launchTue, 23 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: April's Guild Wars 2 patch brings custom arenas, spectator mode, and a living story dungeon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/23/flameseeker-chronicles-aprils-guild-wars-2-patch-brings-custom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/23/flameseeker-chronicles-aprils-guild-wars-2-patch-brings-custom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/23/flameseeker-chronicles-aprils-guild-wars-2-patch-brings-custom/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

It's time for some retribution.
It is time to start talking about Guild Wars 2's April update for reals. I've got some serious knowledge to drop on you regarding the Flame and Frost: Retribution update, so let's get right to it.

Retribution will be the final installment of the Flame and Frost living story arc. To tie everything off, we're getting a new story dungeon that'll take us deep underground into the Molten Weapon Facilities. Structured PvP is getting some love in the form of custom PvP arenas and spectator mode. Guilds are getting more missions and new rewards. The gem store will be getting new stuff.

Let's dive in and look at some specifics, shall we?

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: April's Guild Wars 2 patch brings custom arenas, spectator mode, and a living story dungeon

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: April's Guild Wars 2 patch brings custom arenas, spectator mode, and a living story dungeon originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetapril-patcharenanetbrahambuy-to-playcustom-arenasfantasyfeaturedflame-and-frostflame-and-frost-retributionflameseeker-chroniclesguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw1gw2living-storyncsoftopinionpatchpreviewpreviewspvpretributionroxspectator-modespvpupdateTue, 23 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: Neverwinter pre-launch interview, part two]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/20/massively-exclusive-neverwinter-pre-launch-interview-part-two/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/20/massively-exclusive-neverwinter-pre-launch-interview-part-two/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/20/massively-exclusive-neverwinter-pre-launch-interview-part-two/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Massively Exclusive Neverwinter prelaunch interview, part two
We're back with Cryptic Lead Producer Andy Velasquez to continue our discussion of Neverwinter's beta lessons, launch preparations, and post-launch plans. We also touch on some of the comments and concerns that players had for the title and how Cryptic is addressing them.

If you missed the first part of this interview, make sure you check it out before continuing!

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: Neverwinter pre-launch interview, part two

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: Neverwinter pre-launch interview, part two originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 20 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoandy-velasquezbalancebehind-the-scenesbetabeta-testingchampions-onlineclassescrypticcryptic-studiosdndexclusivef2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playinterviewinterviewslaunchlaunch-daylaunchesneverwinterperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpreviewpreviewspwestar-trek-onlineupdate-1update-2Sat, 20 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with Arena of Heroes' turn-based gameplay]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/hands-on-with-arena-of-heroes-turn-based-gameplay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/hands-on-with-arena-of-heroes-turn-based-gameplay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/hands-on-with-arena-of-heroes-turn-based-gameplay/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Handson with Arena of Heroes' turnbased gameplay
During the last week, I've witnessed two excellent unions: My good friend married his college sweetheart, and a MOBA reached out to the ranks of turn-based gaming. Sure, the former had an open bar, but no amount of free booze can quench my desire for something new within the MOBA genre. Enter Arena of Heroes, a new turn-based free-to-play MOBA that can be played on PC, Mac, iPad, and eventually, on Ouya, iOS, and Android.

I spent the morning with Sneaky Games CEO David Godwin and Zattikka Director of Product Alexandra Tinsman to find out why this game will make me bring my iPad everywhere I go.

Continue reading Hands-on with Arena of Heroes' turn-based gameplay

MassivelyHands-on with Arena of Heroes' turn-based gameplay originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alexandra-tinsmanandroidarena-of-heroesdavid-godwinfeaturedhands-onMOBAouyapcpreviewpreviewssneaky-gameszattikkaFri, 19 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch Might and Magic: Duel of Champions' producer destroy Massively]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/watch-might-and-magic-duel-of-champions-producer-destroy-massi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/watch-might-and-magic-duel-of-champions-producer-destroy-massi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/watch-might-and-magic-duel-of-champions-producer-destroy-massi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Might and Magic Duel of Champions screenshot
Might and Magic: Duel of Champions is a new collectible card game brought to us by Ubisoft Quebec. Some folks might say that trading card games are a dime a dozen and that once you've played one, you've played them all. But I think the genre is always moving forward and expanding, introducing new designs and interesting ways to play, which is true of Might and Magic's latest go at the TCG market. During my tour, I found myself up against producer Stephane Jankowski. Unfortunately for me, he is no stranger to the game. He takes it quite seriously, going so far as to "go easy" on me so that I was not embarrassed. Little did he know that I am a noob at every game out there, so no harm was done.

Might and Magic: Duel of Champions is a great game for those who want not only more strategy but also a faster pace. The tutorial walked me through some of the basics, but I learned more in the hour I played with Stephane than I had playing during the previous week. Click past the cut to watch the livestream and read up on what makes this one stand out.

Continue reading Watch Might and Magic: Duel of Champions' producer destroy Massively

MassivelyWatch Might and Magic: Duel of Champions' producer destroy Massively originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanccgCollectible-Card-Gamefeaturedhands-onLiveStreammight-and-magicmight-and-magic-duel-of-championspreviewpreviewsstephane-jankowskistreamstream-teamstreamingstreamteamtcgtrading-card-gametrailertrailerstwitchtwitch-tvvideovideosFri, 19 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: Neverwinter pre-launch interview, part one]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/massively-exclusive-neverwinter-pre-launch-interview-part-one/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/massively-exclusive-neverwinter-pre-launch-interview-part-one/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/massively-exclusive-neverwinter-pre-launch-interview-part-one/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Massively Exclusive Neverwinter prelaunch interview
Andy Velasquez has seen his fair share of MMO launches, but that doesn't make a new one any less exhilarating or terrifying. As lead producer, he's the captain of the Neverwinter ship and must make sure it's seaworthy before slipping out of drydock and heading into the unknown waters of release. Metaphor or no, it's a daunting job with little downtime, especially in this final week leading up to the soft launch of open beta.

Velasquez took a half-hour out of his busy schedule to sit with us and talk about the preparations being made for Neverwinter's big moment. Read on for his candid insights into beta stories, launch day, and making tough calls when tough calls had to be made.

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: Neverwinter pre-launch interview, part one

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: Neverwinter pre-launch interview, part one originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoandy-velasquezbalancebehind-the-scenesbetabeta-testingchampions-onlineclassescrypticcryptic-studiosdndexclusivef2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playinterviewinterviewslaunchneverwinterperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpreviewpreviewspwestar-trek-onlineupdate-1update-2Fri, 19 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest's Shadow of Fear lets you hear the voice of Luclin]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/everquests-shadow-of-fear-lets-you-hear-the-voice-of-luclin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/everquests-shadow-of-fear-lets-you-hear-the-voice-of-luclin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/everquests-shadow-of-fear-lets-you-hear-the-voice-of-luclin/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Shadow of Fear screenshot
EverQuest's Shadow of Fear just launched; it's the update and second part to the Rain of Fear expansion that released in November. Yes, you read that right: This is the old-school MMO's 19th expansion. If that's not impressive enough for, the list of content that comes with the patch should hold over vets for a long time. If you're level 100, you'll be able to enjoy new zones and content and brand-new mechanics.

The essence of fear is literally raining down in the form of crystalline shards. While players fight to restore balance, an ancient city has been resurrected with no explanation. Mysteries? New content? New spells, items, missions, raids quests, and storylines to discover? Yeah, we wanted in on that. We hung out with producer Thom Terrazas, lead designer Jonathan Caraker, assistant lead designer Julie Burness, and assistant lead game designer and Douglas Cronkhite for a video tour of the new update. Read on to hear what we thought and catch the brand-new trailer too.

Gallery: EverQuest Shadow of Fear expansion screenshots

Continue reading EverQuest's Shadow of Fear lets you hear the voice of Luclin

MassivelyEverQuest's Shadow of Fear lets you hear the voice of Luclin originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Douglas-Cronkhiteeqeq1everquestexpansionf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playftpgalleriesgalleryJonathan-Carakerlaunchlaunch-daylaunchesluclinpreviewpreviewsscreenshotscreenshotsshadow-of-fearSOEsonySony-Online-EntertainmenttrailertrailersvideovideosThu, 18 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MechWarrior Online devs talk Update 15, new UI, new mechs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/mechwarrior-online-devs-talk-update-15-new-ui-new-mechs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/mechwarrior-online-devs-talk-update-15-new-ui-new-mechs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/mechwarrior-online-devs-talk-update-15-new-ui-new-mechs/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

MechWarrior Online screenshot
Mechwarrior Online is about to hit its fifth month of open beta, with promises of a late summer launch. With that launch comes continued production, new content, plenty of bug fixes, and tweaks. With all of the new content -- said to be delivered on a regular schedule -- comes plenty of challenges for the developer team.

We sat down with Piranha Games' creative director, Bryan Ekman, and president, Russ Bullock, to talk about how things have been going and where they're going in the future. Not only did we get the scoop on the next community-designed Mech to be released, but we also found out about new HUD improvements, aid for players who suffer from high ping, and much more. Click past the cut for all the details!

Continue reading MechWarrior Online devs talk Update 15, new UI, new mechs

MassivelyMechWarrior Online devs talk Update 15, new UI, new mechs originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbryan-ekmanf2pfeaturedfree-to-playinterviewinterviewsmechmechsMechWarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemwopiranhapiranha-gamespreviewpreviewsruss-bullocksci-fiTue, 16 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: SWTOR's Shroud lifted [updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/09/hyperspace-beacon-swtors-shroud-lifted/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/09/hyperspace-beacon-swtors-shroud-lifted/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/09/hyperspace-beacon-swtors-shroud-lifted/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

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

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

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaelectronic-artsexpansionf2pfeaturedfree-to-playHall-Hoodhutt-cartelhyperspace-beaconlivestreamlucasartsopinionpreviewpreviewsrise-of-the-hutt-cartelrothcsci-fishroudstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstreamstream-teamstreamingstreamteamswtorthe-old-republicthe-shroudtorTue, 09 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia Exclusive: Aion 4.0 launches in June!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/06/wings-over-atreia-exclusive-aion-4-0-launches-in-june/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/06/wings-over-atreia-exclusive-aion-4-0-launches-in-june/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/06/wings-over-atreia-exclusive-aion-4-0-launches-in-june/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Wings Over Atreia Exclusive Aion 40 launches in June!
Good news! (Well, at least for my police record.) As it turns out, I didn't have to resort to kidnapping to convince someone from NCsoft to talk to me about Aion at this year's GDC. I swear, Sean Orlikowski, the game's associate producer, came willingly.

It does, however, appear that in the fine print of the meeting proposal, I agreed to be outfitted with a special electronic device that would send massive jolts of electricity through my system if I tried to speak about something I shouldn't. So let's see how much I can share with you before this apparatus leaves me unconscious.

Can I tell you that Aion has a special celebration planned for the first anniversary of the Truly Free conversion? So far, so good, folks. Hmm... can I add that the next big expansion has a North American launch date planned without going unconscious... oh, appears so! OK, let's push this a little further: How about if I happened to mention that 4.0 will hit servers in June 2013 -- would I be zapped? Nope! So there you have it, folks: 4.0 is indeed going live in just two short months!

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia Exclusive: Aion 4.0 launches in June!

MassivelyWings Over Atreia Exclusive: Aion 4.0 launches in June! originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 06 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AethertechaionAion-4.0Aion-4.0-patchascensionconconferenceconventioneventevent-coverageeventsexpansionf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2013gdcgdc-2013Gunslingerinterviewinterviewsmassively-event-coveragemassively-ExclusiveMassively-exclusive-interviewncsoftnew-classesopinionpreviewpreviewsSean-OrlikowskiSong-Weavertruly-freewings-over-atreiaSat, 06 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2013: City of Steam demo showcases crafting and other streamlined features]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/05/gdc-2013-city-of-steam-demo-showcases-crafting-and-other-stream/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/05/gdc-2013-city-of-steam-demo-showcases-crafting-and-other-stream/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/05/gdc-2013-city-of-steam-demo-showcases-crafting-and-other-stream/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

GDC 2013 City of Steam demo showcases crafting and other streamlined features
It may seem like a while has passed since we last experienced City of Steam, the fantasy steampunk MMORPG that fits in your browser. That's because it has! The game's last closed beta testing round was back in December, and fans have been eagerly waiting to get back into the city-state of Nexus. Of course there has been some news to tide us over in the meantime while developers have been turning all of that beta feedback into fixes and updates, but that's not the same; people want to play. Luckily, it's GDC to the rescue!

While the rest of the world won't actually get to access City of Steam until it launches open beta (which is anticipated to be within the next two months!), I was able to dive in and explore the fruits of the devs' winter labors. And let me tell you, they've put their time to good use! I met with Communications Manager Gabriel Laforge and Operations Director Andrew Woodruff from Mechanist Games who showed off all the work that has gone into the game since the beta closed, from graphics to crafting to airships. They also highlighted the game's cash shop and revealed numerous rewards players can earn simply by playing the game.

Continue reading GDC 2013: City of Steam demo showcases crafting and other streamlined features

MassivelyGDC 2013: City of Steam demo showcases crafting and other streamlined features originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Apr 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city-of-steamconconferenceconventioneventevent-coverageeventsfantasyfeaturedgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2013gdcgdc-2013goblinhands-oninterviewinterviewsmassively-event-coveragemechanistmechanist-gamespreviewpreviewsR2-gamessci-fisteampunkFri, 05 Apr 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2013: Hands-on with Vendetta Online on the iPad]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/03/gdc-2013-hands-on-with-vendetta-online-on-the-ipad/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/03/gdc-2013-hands-on-with-vendetta-online-on-the-ipad/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/03/gdc-2013-hands-on-with-vendetta-online-on-the-ipad/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

GDC 2013 Handson with Vendetta Online on the iPad
When we talk about getting our hands on a game at GDC for a little playtime, we don't usually get to literally grasp said game in our fingers. But that's exactly what happened when I tested out Vendetta Online on an iPad 3; instead of just relating to the space-based sandbox through the standard accessories like mouse, keyboard, or joystick, I held the entirety of the game universe in the palms of my hands. My own 10 digits were the only accessories. And the experience impressed me!

I had the opportunity to sit down with John Bergman, Founder and CEO of Guild Software, to talk about the new iOS platform for Vendetta Online while doing my best Goose impersonation (he's way better than Maverick) playing it.

Continue reading GDC 2013: Hands-on with Vendetta Online on the iPad

MassivelyGDC 2013: Hands-on with Vendetta Online on the iPad originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Apr 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conconferenceconventioneventevent-coverageeventsfeaturedgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2013gdcgdc-2013hands-oninterviewinterviewsiOSiPadmassively-event-coverageMassively-interviewmobilemobile-mmopreviewpreviewstabletVendetta-OnlineWed, 03 Apr 2013 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2013: World of Warplanes keeps flying toward the horizon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/01/gdc-2013-world-of-warplanes-keeps-flying-toward-the-horizon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/01/gdc-2013-world-of-warplanes-keeps-flying-toward-the-horizon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/01/gdc-2013-world-of-warplanes-keeps-flying-toward-the-horizon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

It's what it says on the tin, really.
World of Warplanes is still in testing, but it's been playable at a few events now and has staked its claim as a distinct entity from World of Tanks. Wargaming.net's CEO Victor Kislyi and global operations director Vlad Beloserov were at GDC recently showing off more highlights from the game, which promises to deliver exactly the sort of high-energy dogfights you would hope for.

As it stands now, the game has about 10 maps and 100 planes. Each of the planes can be fully customized, while each map is meant to play differently rather than just being different background scenery -- some maps are foggy, some have skyscrapers or mountains, some are set at different times of day, and so forth.

Actual gameplay has continued to receive polish tweaks; the game retains both easy and expert control modes, with the latter playing more like a flight simulator and the former allowing you to simply point your mouse in the direction you want to fly. Enemy planes and your own can be riddled with holes that show the sky through your shredded wings, and the UI allows you to track your plane's optimal speed and altitude to maximize performance in combat.

One extra tidbit revealed on the show floor was that players of both World of Tanks and World of Warplanes can reap extra benefits from both games, as experience earned in the former can be used to improve in the latter. While there's no set release date for the game at this time, the game continues to impress and will be flying into more open testing as soon as Wargaming.net's teams are happy with its performance in smaller test venues.

Gallery: World of Warplanes



Massively sent its ace reporters to San Francisco to bring you back the biggest MMO news from this year's GDC, the largest pro-only gaming industry con in the world! Whether it's EVE Online or Star Wars: The Old Republic or that shiny new toy you've got your eye on, we're on the case, so stay tuned for all the highlights from the show!

MassivelyGDC 2013: World of Warplanes keeps flying toward the horizon originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Apr 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conconferenceconventioneventevent-coverageeventsf2pfree-to-playgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2013gdcgdc-2013historicalmassively-event-coverageplaneplanespvpvictor-kislyivlad-beloserovwarwargaming.netwarplanewarplanesworld-of-warplaneswowpMon, 01 Apr 2013 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Your guide to Guild Wars 2's Super Adventure Box]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/31/your-guide-to-guild-wars-2s-super-adventure-box/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/31/your-guide-to-guild-wars-2s-super-adventure-box/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/31/your-guide-to-guild-wars-2s-super-adventure-box/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Guild Wars 2's Super Adventure Box
April is almost upon us, which means that the first day of April is almost upon us, which means that April Fools' Day is almost upon us. In the past, the folks at ArenaNet have proven themselves fond of celebrating this occasion, which has given fans high hopes for continued trolling in the world of Guild Wars 2. Since March's patch, strange things have been appearing that all seem to hint at some sort of April Fools' joke: Super Adventure Box achievements on the hero panel, mysterious Continue Coins falling out of chests, and a new range of weapon skins added to the sPvP weapon pane.

Of course, it's been pointed out to me that perhaps the most delicious joke of all would be to put in all those clues and then have no actual prank. I can almost taste the rage of fans who had compulsively run characters through jumping puzzles for days in an attempt to stock up on Continue Coins that suddenly turned out to be worthless.

Fortunately (or not, depending on your sense of humor), that's not the case at all. The Super Adventure Box is real, and it's almost time for you to start playing it. Let's talk about it, shall we?

Continue reading Your guide to Guild Wars 2's Super Adventure Box

MassivelyYour guide to Guild Wars 2's Super Adventure Box originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 31 Mar 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetapril-foolsapril-fools-2013april-fools-dayarenanetbuy-to-playfantasyfeaturedgalleriesgalleryguild-wars-2gw2hands-onholo-solidhumorjokemotoncsoftpreviewpreviewssabscreenshotscreenshotssuper-adventure-boxtrailertrailersvideovideosSun, 31 Mar 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX East 2013: A second hands-on with WildStar's Draken Stalker]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/30/pax-2013-a-second-hands-on-with-wildstars-draken-stalker/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/30/pax-2013-a-second-hands-on-with-wildstars-draken-stalker/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/30/pax-2013-a-second-hands-on-with-wildstars-draken-stalker/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- WildStar
Everyone at the completely fictional Massively office seems to have some kind of schoolgirl crush on Carbine Studios' quirky upcoming sci-fi title WildStar, and I can understand why. The setting is fresh, melding some aspects of our favorite sci-fi properties (cough Firefly cough) with a a healthy dose of fantasy and a not insignificant amount of witty comedy, and the list of features the game boasts is rather extensive. I mean, did you even see that housing trailer? Holy wow, guys.

In spite of all of that, though, I was still a little cautious about giving in to the hype. After all, I'm sure there's not an MMO fan in existence who hasn't gotten super excited about a game and become a devoted fanboy only to have his hopes and expectations shattered when the game didn't live up to the hype. So I let myself be excited, but reservedly so, until I could get my hands on the game for myself to complement Eliot's earlier PAX hands-on with the game. As it so happens, on the last day of PAX East, I got to do just that. Though it was only a short 25-minute demo (thank goodness -- otherwise the lines would have circled the convention center), I think I was able to get a pretty solid idea of what we can expect from WildStar, and let me tell you right now, we can expect some great things.

Continue reading PAX East 2013: A second hands-on with WildStar's Draken Stalker

MassivelyPAX East 2013: A second hands-on with WildStar's Draken Stalker originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 30 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbinecarbine-studiosconconventioneventevent-coverageeventsexpofeaturedhands-onmassively-event-coveragencsoftpaxpax-2013pax-eastpax-east-2013penny-arcade-expopreviewpreviewssandparksci-fantasysci-fiwildstarwsSat, 30 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2013: PlanetSide 2's new app and the future of Forgelight]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/gdc-2013-isaac-on-planetside-2s-new-app-forgelights-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/gdc-2013-isaac-on-planetside-2s-new-app-forgelights-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/gdc-2013-isaac-on-planetside-2s-new-app-forgelights-future/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

GDC 2013 Scrolling through PlanetSide 2's new app with Tramell Isaac
On Tuesday, SOE shared a trailer highlighting its Forgelight engine. The proprietary engine not only runs PlanetSide 2 but will also be the foundation for all the studio's future games, including EverQuest Next. The same press release also introduced the upcoming PS2 app. Although it won't be available to the public for a a bit, I had a chance to sit with senior art director Tramell Issac to see the app in action as well as discuss the Forgelight engine and what's coming up for PS2.

The app provides easy access to a ton of gameplay info, from personal stats to weapon information to real-time in-game map updates, and consequently there could be a marked decrease in workplace productivity in store for PS2 fans!

Continue reading GDC 2013: PlanetSide 2's new app and the future of Forgelight

MassivelyGDC 2013: PlanetSide 2's new app and the future of Forgelight originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Android-appconconferenceconventioneventevent-coverageeventsfeaturedforgelightforgelight-enginefpsgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2013gdcgdc-2013interviewinterviewsiPad-appmassively-event-coveragemmo-shootermmofpsplanetsideplanetside-2pppreviewpreviewsps2ps2-roadmapsandboxsci-fishootersoesonysony-online-entertainmentstats-at-your-fingertipsTramell-IsaacFri, 29 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2013: Age of Wushu's world is your playground]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/gdc-2013-age-of-wushus-world-is-your-playground/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/gdc-2013-age-of-wushus-world-is-your-playground/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/gdc-2013-age-of-wushus-world-is-your-playground/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

GDC 2013 Age of Wushu
As Age of Wushu is just a couple of weeks away from launch at this point, catching up with Snail Games at GDC this year was one of our highest priorities. We tagged and bagged Associate Producer Colin Miller for a brief interview about the latest pre-launch decisions and preparations that the team is making.

Miller had a lot to say about the tweaks and improvements that have been done to this martial arts sandbox. A huge amount of work has been poured into cleaning up the localization over the beta period, not to mention the interface. "Most of our feedback was pretty negative on the UI that we had in place, so we've been trying to rework that a bit," he said. "Hopefully there's going to be some improvements there."

All systems are go for an April 10th launch, Miller assured us. Keep reading after the break for more on what Snail Games plans for Age of Wushu after it goes live.

Continue reading GDC 2013: Age of Wushu's world is your playground

MassivelyGDC 2013: Age of Wushu's world is your playground originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Mar 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-wulinage-of-wushuart-of-wushuchinachinesechinese-mythologycolin-millercolumnconconferenceconventioneventevent-coverageeventsfeaturedgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2013gdcgdc-2013interviewinterviewskung-fumartial-artsmassively-event-coveragepreviewpreviewssandboxsnail-gamessnail-games-usawushuwuxiaThu, 28 Mar 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX East 2013: Hands-on with Marvel Heroes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/pax-east-2013-hands-on-with-marvel-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/pax-east-2013-hands-on-with-marvel-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/pax-east-2013-hands-on-with-marvel-heroes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

PAX East 2013 Handson with Marvel Heroes
Gazillion Entertainment made a splash at PAX East, arriving with the big announcement that Marvel Heroes will be launching on June 4th. In addition, the team gave new details about endgame content, PvP, and special "ultimate powers" for each hero.

During the convention, Massively had a chance to sit down with VP of marketing Leo Olebe and CEO David Brevik to get a look at the state of the game, including some brand-new content that the devs have just added to Marvel Heroes. What did we see during our hands-on with the game? Let's just say that rampaging dinosaurs and "Hulk Smash" were but the tip of the iceberg.

Gallery: Marvel Heroes

Continue reading PAX East 2013: Hands-on with Marvel Heroes

MassivelyPAX East 2013: Hands-on with Marvel Heroes originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Mar 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionaction-mmoconconventiondave-brevikeventevent-coverageeventsexpof2pfeaturedfree-to-playgalleriesgallerygazilliongazillion-entertainmenthands-oninterviewinterviewsleo-olebemarvelmarvel-heroesmarvel-universemarvel-universe-onlinemassively-event-coveragemuopaxpax-2013pax-eastpax-east-2013penny-arcade-expopreviewpreviewsscreenshotscreenshotssecret-identitysuperherosuperheroesThu, 28 Mar 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2013: Dragon's Prophet demo and hands-on]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/gdc-2013-dragons-prophet-demo-and-hands-on/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/gdc-2013-dragons-prophet-demo-and-hands-on/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/gdc-2013-dragons-prophet-demo-and-hands-on/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

GDC 2013 Dragon's Prophet demo and handson dishes up details
Last fall, Runewaker and SOE announced Dragon's Prophet, a free-to-play fantasy game focused on -- you guessed it -- dragons. Since then, we've been treated to various videos detailing the classes, the starter zones, and other gameplay. Just last week the game entered closed beta in North America, allowing select folks the chance to get in and test out the current stage of the game.

This week, I joined those folks in-game during my hands-on and demo at this year's GDC. I was also able to talk with senior producer Todd Carson and associate producer Rod Haza as they demonstrated different aspects of the game at the convention. What delectable tidbits of information about classes, housing, and (of course) dragons did I uncover? The answer awaits after the break.

Gallery: Dragon's Prophet

Continue reading GDC 2013: Dragon's Prophet demo and hands-on

MassivelyGDC 2013: Dragon's Prophet demo and hands-on originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Mar 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>character-customizationconconferenceconventiondragondragon-tamingdragonsdragons-propheteventevent-coverageeventsfeaturedgalleriesgallerygame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2013gdcgdc-2013hands-onhousinginfernuminfernum-productionsinterviewinterviewsmassively-event-coveragepreviewpreviewsPvPRAPTOR-COW-DRAGONSrod-hazarunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentscreenshotscreenshotssoesonysony-online-entertainmenttodd-carsonThu, 28 Mar 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ascots and crossbows: Hands-on with Renaissance Heroes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/27/ascots-and-crossbows-hands-on-with-renaissance-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/27/ascots-and-crossbows-hands-on-with-renaissance-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/27/ascots-and-crossbows-hands-on-with-renaissance-heroes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Renaissance Heroes
A few months ago, when New Year's resolutions came around, I decided to take broad, sweeping strides outside of my comfort zone -- I decided to play more FPS games. Long have I lingered in the comforting bosom of tab targeting, cast bars, and kill-10-boars. So when Renaissance Heroes, a newly released free-to-play FPS, came to my attention, I thought I might have finally found an FPS game that's more my style, that style being "shoot people in the face with crossbows."

I was not disappointed.

Continue reading Ascots and crossbows: Hands-on with Renaissance Heroes

MassivelyAscots and crossbows: Hands-on with Renaissance Heroes originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Mar 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GDC 2013 DUST 514 Uprising update bringing planetary conquest and more May 6th
Although DUST 514 is still in open beta, a big update will soon deliver some significant changes to the game, changes that will bring it more in-line with the CCP's vision for this MMOFPS companion to EVE Online. During a presentation at GDC 2013, Thor Gunnarsson (VP of business development) and Halldor Fannar (CTO) shared more details about this update, dubbed Uprising after a merc revolt in the title's lore.

Fannar explained that Uprising focuses on two main themes. "The first theme we are calling 'making it matter.' It's about creating a more meaningful connection between DUST 514 and EVE." While the Caldari Prime event was the first step on that journey (20,000 battles took place on the ground), the planetary conquests system in this update will introduce features that will further intertwine the two games. "The other theme is basically visual improvements," Fannar explained, "making the graphics look better, making the graphics run faster, and also adding more graphics." Players will get to see for themselves exactly how these themes play out when the updates releases on May 6th. In the meantime, enjoy our impressions from GDC.

Continue reading GDC 2013: DUST 514's Uprising update conquers your PS3 on May 6

MassivelyGDC 2013: DUST 514's Uprising update conquers your PS3 on May 6 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Mar 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betacaldari-primeccpccp-gamesconconferenceconsoleconventiondustdust-514eveeve-onlineeventevent-coverageeventsfeaturedfpsgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2013gdcgdc-2013Halldor-Fannarinternet-spaceshipsinterplanetary-travelmassively-event-coveragemmofpsplaystationplaystation-3previewpreviewsps3sandboxsci-fishooterspreadsheets-onlinestar-mapsThor-GunnarssonuppdateUprisingvisual-upgradesWed, 27 Mar 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX 2013: Hands-on with Smashmuck Champions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/pax-2013-hands-on-with-smashmuck-champions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/pax-2013-hands-on-with-smashmuck-champions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/pax-2013-hands-on-with-smashmuck-champions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Smashmuck Champions
MOBAs are all the rage these days, with dozens of the things cropping up like weeds in my neglected back yard. As a result, it can be hard for me to pay attention to all of them, and with new ones being announced on what seems like a monthly basis, it's hard to figure out which ones are worth keeping an eye on and which ones can be safely relegated to the realm of ignorance, so as a result I tend to just shrug and say, "Oh, another MOBA," and carry on with my life.

But then came Smashmuck Champions. The bizarrely named game was probably my surprise hit of this year's PAX East convention, largely because I had absolutely no expectations when I walked up to the booth. "Another MOBA," I figured, "that's going to play the exact same as every other one (and that I'm going to suck at, also just like every other one)." Yawn. Man, was I wrong (about the first bit, anyway). Kiz Studios, the studio behind this new entry into the multiplayer online battle arena... well, arena, has taken the tower-attacking, top-mid-bottom-ganking, minion-farming genre made famous by games such as DotA and League of Legends and turned it on its head. Sure, the general MOBA feel is still there, but it's definitely not like any MOBA I've seen before. But as we all know, "different" doesn't necessarily equate to "good," so why don't you click past the cut and find out whether Smashmuck Champions is worth your time?

Continue reading PAX 2013: Hands-on with Smashmuck Champions

MassivelyPAX 2013: Hands-on with Smashmuck Champions originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Mar 2013 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PAX East 2013 Handson with the Repopulation
Ever since its successful Kickstarter campaign, The Repopulation has been progressing along at an impressive pace. And if PAX East was any indication, the game shows no signs of slowing down as it approaches beta and zeroes in on a launch date.

This weekend, I had a chance to speak with lead developer Joshua Halls, who took the time to walk me through the sandbox MMO and give me an update on what's new and what's still in the works.

Continue reading PAX East 2013: Hands-on with The Repopulation

MassivelyPAX East 2013: Hands-on with The Repopulation originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Mar 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiesconconferenceconventioneventevent-coverageeventsexpofeaturedhands-onmassively-event-coveragepaxpax-2013pax-eastpax-east-2013penny-arcade-expopreviewpreviewsrepopulationsandboxsci-fithe-repopulationMon, 25 Mar 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX East 2013: SOE's Dave Georgeson on EQ Next and the future of online gaming]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/pax-east-2013-soes-dave-georgeson-on-eq-next-and-the-future-of/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/pax-east-2013-soes-dave-georgeson-on-eq-next-and-the-future-of/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/pax-east-2013-soes-dave-georgeson-on-eq-next-and-the-future-of/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

PAX East 2013 SOE's Dave Georgeson talks EQ Next, and the future of online gaming
If there's one pastime that MMO fans share, it's making predictions. Which games will succeed, and which ones will struggle? Which will go free-to-play, merge servers, or even shut down? And will there ever be an MMO that's crowned as the WoW-killer?

But what about the bigger picture of online gaming in general? We've seen it come a long way over the past decades, and it's not always easy to see where it's headed. SOE's director of development of the EverQuest franchise, Dave Georgeson, sat down with Massively at PAX East this year to prognosticate on the future of online gaming. And of course, part of that future includes EQ Next, and while he still can't talk specifics, he did shed some light on the philosophy behind the game's design, with some hints about what players might see when it's revealed at SOE Live this summer.

Continue reading PAX East 2013: SOE's Dave Georgeson on EQ Next and the future of online gaming

MassivelyPAX East 2013: SOE's Dave Georgeson on EQ Next and the future of online gaming originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Mar 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alexander-freedbiowareeaelectronic-artsexpansionExpansionsf2pfeaturedfirst-impressionsfree-to-playhands-onimpressionsjeff-hickmanlucasartsopinionpreviewpreviewsrise-of-the-hutt-cartelrothcsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorMon, 25 Mar 2013 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX 2013: Hands-on with Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/pax-2013-hands-on-with-hearthstone-heroes-of-warcraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/pax-2013-hands-on-with-hearthstone-heroes-of-warcraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/pax-2013-hands-on-with-hearthstone-heroes-of-warcraft/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft
Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft is a brand-spankin'-new online collectible card game from Blizzard, announced just yesterday here at PAX East 2013. And since I love you guys soooo much, I took the time to stand in line to take a look for myself. It certainly had nothing to do with the fact that I flock to CCGs like a moth to flame. No sirree.

Of course, this isn't your traditional MMO, so it's difficult to write a traditional review, especially considering I was able to play only a single match (which I won by a landslide, thank you very much), so instead I'm just going to give y'all a rundown of how the game plays and let you draw your own conclusions. Shuffle your cards, cut your decks, and read on for the skinny on Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft.

Continue reading PAX 2013: Hands-on with Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft

MassivelyPAX 2013: Hands-on with Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 23 Mar 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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It's always hard for me to pull myself away from this booth.
When you start following a game, you always worry that it won't live up to your expectations.

It's inevitable, really. I didn't fall in love with WildStar after years of playing; I fell in love based upon a trailer and a design philosophy that appealed to me. The game itself could be far removed from my first impressions, or it could be a cocktail of half-finished systems and unsatisfying gameplay. Without some personal experience in Nexus, all I could to do was wait for the game and hope that it matched my hopes.

Of course, WildStar hit the ground running at PAX East 2013. I wrote on Friday about my experiences with the new housing video and some of the game's zones, but that's no substitute for playing the game. So it was with a slight sense of apprehension that I found myself standing behind the demo station controls and jumping in for the first time at PAX. Would I be satisfied, or would this turn out to be a love affair that didn't survive contact with the game itself?

Continue reading PAX East 2013: Hands-on with WildStar's Spellslinger and Warrior

MassivelyPAX East 2013: Hands-on with WildStar's Spellslinger and Warrior originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 23 Mar 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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