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 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Archlord hosts first combined server guild tournament]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/archlord-hosts-first-combined-server-guild-tournament/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/archlord-hosts-first-combined-server-guild-tournament/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/archlord-hosts-first-combined-server-guild-tournament/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Archlord
Plenty of guilds talk the big talk and DPS the raid meters, but when the chips are down and the final call is uttered, which one guild will stand on top of the mountain of geek corpses and be proclaimed "Champion?" In most MMOs, that would be rhetorical nonsense, but not in Archlord, where guilds will compete in the first World Guild Championship to earn a $10,000 prize and the recognition of their peers.

The game's first combined server guild tournament kicks off on June 11th and features pitched PvP battles between guilds to climb the bracket and claim the big prize. All participants will be given a preset character with standard gear in order to minimize any in-game advantages.

In order to preregister for the tournament, guilds will have to complete a special in-game quest. Registration for the World Guild Championship runs from now through May 30th, with the official brackets announced a few days later on June 4th.

Archlord will be hosting special in-game events and handing out fun prizes for everyone during this time.

MassivelyArchlord hosts first combined server guild tournament originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 May 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archlordbracketchampionshipcontesteventf2pfree-to-playguild-pvpin-game-eventpvppvp-tournamenttournamentwebzenworld-guild-championshipworld-vs-worldThu, 17 May 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Webzen pops the cork on its third anniversary celebration]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/webzen-pops-the-cork-on-its-third-anniversary-celebration/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/webzen-pops-the-cork-on-its-third-anniversary-celebration/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/webzen-pops-the-cork-on-its-third-anniversary-celebration/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Webzen
Good things come in threes, they say, and nobody knows this better than Webzen. In 2009, Webzen came on the scene as a free-to-play publisher and set up an online portal to serve as a nexus for all of its games. Since then, the company has released three MMOs through its service and recently crossed the three-year mark. With all those threes, it's time to celebrate!

To celebrate its third anniversary, Webzen is throwing events in Archlord, MU Online, and Soul of the Ultimate Nation. By participating in these in-game events, players can win an assortment of prizes ranging from an Xbox 360 to in-game currency and items. The third anniversary events will start tomorrow and run through April 18th.

Webzen's Head of Global Publishing, Jihun Lee, reflected on the company's achievements: "With the start of MU Online, Webzen.com has received much support from our users. As a result, in three years we have been able to become one of the leading global game portals. With the service experience of free-to-play online games, we are making all efforts to meet the users' needs and provide better services."

[Source: Webzen press release]

MassivelyWebzen pops the cork on its third anniversary celebration originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3rd-anniversaryanniversaryArchlordeventsf2pfree-to-playin-game-eventJihun-LeeMU-OnlinepromotionSoul-of-the-Ultimate-Nationthird-anniversaryweb-portalwebzenwebzen.comxboxTue, 27 Mar 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Webzen giving away fully geared high-level characters]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/webzen-giving-away-fully-geared-high-level-characters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/webzen-giving-away-fully-geared-high-level-characters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/webzen-giving-away-fully-geared-high-level-characters/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Webzen - free characters promotion
Have you ever played an MMORPG and thought, wow, this would be fantastic if I could ditch the pesky progression?

If so, Webzen has a promotion for you. It's called Skip the Low, Jump to High, and it kicks off today and runs through March 14th. The company is giving away free high-level characters and items in ArchLord, Soul of the Ultimate Nation, and MU Online. ArchLord players will receive level-60 characters that are fully geared, while S.U.N. fans can look forward to level-90 toons with gear and level-up boxes. Last but not least, MU players will get level-220 characters and +9 weapons and armor.

But wait, there's more! MU is offering double XP during the promotion period, and S.U.N. is bringing a new server online.

[Source: Webzen press release]

MassivelyWebzen giving away fully geared high-level characters originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archlordf2pfantasyfree-fully-geared-charactersfree-high-level-charactersfree-to-playgrindmumu-onlineprogressionpromotionsskip-the-low-jump-to-highsoul-of-the-ultimate-nationsunwebzenWed, 15 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Archlord celebrates its second anniversary]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/19/archlord-celebrates-its-second-anniversary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/19/archlord-celebrates-its-second-anniversary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/19/archlord-celebrates-its-second-anniversary/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Archlord
If you haven't guessed by now, we here at Massively love MMO anniversaries. They're always great opportunities to celebrate a game's success and achievements, particularly in a field where it is so hard to get long-lasting titles off the ground. So we raise a glass to Archlord as it marks its second anniversary today.

To celebrate this achievement, Webzen has a few treats in store for its players. Starting off, all Archlord players will enjoy two weeks of double XP, double drops, and double charisma points. If double XP isn't fast enough for you, then you can pop over to the special training server, where characters can be leveled up extremely fast and then transferred back to regular servers if they reach level 40 or higher. This training server will be up for a month, and Webzen is planning to hand out special in-game items for those who take advantage of it.

Archlord has a new raid dungeon in the works for December called Battle Square, and is preparing a new chapter in its storyline that will go live at the same time.

[Source: Webzen press release]

MassivelyArchlord celebrates its second anniversary originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 19 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2nd-anniversaryanniversaryarchlordbattle-squaredouble-xpf2pfree-to-playin-game-celebrationin-game-eventraidsecond-anniversarystorylinetraining-serverwebzenWed, 19 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Check out Webzen's full games lineup with our all-in-one giveaway]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/19/check-out-webzens-full-games-lineup-with-our-all-in-one-giveawa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/19/check-out-webzens-full-games-lineup-with-our-all-in-one-giveawa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/19/check-out-webzens-full-games-lineup-with-our-all-in-one-giveawa/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Everyone loves a good beta key giveaway -- checking out a new game before the general population and helping to improve said game is a tempting pairing. Here at Massively, we've got a beta key giveaway with a twist! Webzen, the company behind MU Online, R2 Online, Archlord, and S.U.N., has given us 1,000 all-in-one beta keys to share with our readers.

A single key will give you access to new content and more in each game. For Archlord, you'll be given a level 100 character, limitless free access to cash items, and access to the new Ascent From Hell expansion -- all on the beta server. In S.U.N., you'll have a special potion which will level your character to 30, a beta key mount and fast level-up, and the ability to create the new Episode 2 class. R2 Online players will be invited to the second user test and will be able to experience the currently-unreleased Siege and Spot Warfare content. Finally, the all-in-one key will give free access to MU Online's Rage Fighter Class.

To participate, all you have to do is pick up your key on our giveaway page, then head to Webzen's All-In-One event page. Create your Webzen account if you haven't already, redeem your key where indicated, and choose the game you want to access first. Enjoy your all-in-one access, and our thanks to Webzen for providing the keys!

[Sorry, all codes have been claimed]

MassivelyCheck out Webzen's full games lineup with our all-in-one giveaway originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 Jul 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-in-onearchlordbeta-keybeta-key-giveawayf2pfree-to-playmu-onliner2-onlines-u-nsoul-of-the-ultimate-nationsunwebzenTue, 19 Jul 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Webzen announces a trio of new titles]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/17/webzen-announces-a-trio-of-new-titles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/17/webzen-announces-a-trio-of-new-titles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/17/webzen-announces-a-trio-of-new-titles/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Korean publisher Webzen is preparing to blitz MMO players with a slew of new titles in 2011. First up is Archlord X: The Chronicles, a sequel of sorts to the company's popular Archlord. Set 100 years after the first game, Archlord X revolves around a feud between Orcs and Humans. Webzen plans to push the MMO into closed beta in South Korea in the first half of this year.

Webzen also announced that it has several brand-new titles that the company is planning to reveal fairly soon, perhaps at G-star. These MMOs include an expansion to MU Online, MU2, and the mysteriously titled Project A.

MU2 is being developed using the Unreal Engine 3 and takes place before the events of MU Online. Project A, on the other hand, is all about large-scale battles in the Middle Ages -- perhaps somewhat like Medieval: Total War.

We'll be keeping an eye on Webzen as it expands its lineup in the coming months!

MassivelyWebzen announces a trio of new titles originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Mar 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archlordarchlord-xarchlord-x-the-chroniclesexpansionhumansmedieval-total-warmumu-onlinemu2orcsprequelproject-asequesequelwebzenThu, 17 Mar 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Archlord reveals 2011 update plans]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/17/archlord-reveals-2011-update-plans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/17/archlord-reveals-2011-update-plans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/17/archlord-reveals-2011-update-plans/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 is shaping up to be a busy year for Archlord, the free-to-play PvP-centric MMO from Webzen. In a press release earlier today, the company announced plans for various updates over the course of the year including a level cap increase, new battlefields, and tweaks to the game's racial balancing.

A new title system is also on the way, as well as a new map for high-level characters (both in the first half of the year). For the second half, Webzen is aiming for new boss monsters and a new Battle Square called the 3rd Challenge where players are pitted against one another with a chance to obtain rare items.

Archlord launched in 2006 in Europe and North America and features a unique crafting system as well as the ability for players to become the Archlord, a singular (and incredibly powerful) ruler who reigns over the server in four-week intervals. Learn more at the official site and check out our new gallery below.

Gallery: Archlord 2011 updates

MassivelyArchlord reveals 2011 update plans originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 17 Jan 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3rd-challengearchlordbattle-squarebattle-square-third-challengebattlefieldsf2pfree-to-playlevel-cap-increasenew-contenttitle-systemtitleswebzenMon, 17 Jan 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Check out Archlord's new Dragon Scion race with our beta key giveaway!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/22/check-out-archlords-new-dragon-scion-race-with-our-beta-key-giv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/22/check-out-archlords-new-dragon-scion-race-with-our-beta-key-giv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/22/check-out-archlords-new-dragon-scion-race-with-our-beta-key-giv/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Archlord's brand-new Dragon Scion race is coming to the game in less than a month, and it will bring all sorts of exciting updates.

We've learned quite a bit about this update, but there is just no substitute for some hands-on playtime -- which we promised you last week. Those keys are ready now thanks to Webzen, so it's time to get yours and prepare to play a Dragon Scion beginning December 1st.

Webzen will have plenty of support and bonuses for budding Scions, including armor and potions for faster leveling. The beta period begins on December 1st, so click below to grab your key and be ready!

MassivelyCheck out Archlord's new Dragon Scion race with our beta key giveaway! originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 22 Nov 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archlordbetabeta-keybeta-key-giveawaybeta-keysdragon-scionf2pfree-to-playftpgiveawayracewebzenMon, 22 Nov 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Archlord preparing to launch new Dragon Scion race]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/18/archlord-preparing-to-launch-new-dragon-scion-race/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/18/archlord-preparing-to-launch-new-dragon-scion-race/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/18/archlord-preparing-to-launch-new-dragon-scion-race/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Archlord's anniversary celebration may be over, but that doesn't mean that things will be stagnating in the game. In fact, things are about to get a lot more exciting.

There is a brand-new playable race coming to Archlord in December: the Dragon Scion. Webzen gave a preview of this race way back in September, so you may be familiar with it and ready to get started. Lucky for you, we here at Massively have a beta key giveaway coming soon to help you jump in and experience the Dragon Scion a little early.

Keep an eye on Massively in the coming weeks for a beta key of your very own, but in the meantime check out the interesting class progression of the Dragon Scion race. The evolution system is unlike any other race in Archlord in that you can't pick your class at the beginning. It's not as restrictive as you might think, because as you learn and advance, new class options open. Check out all the details of the evolution system on the Dragon Scion page!

MassivelyArchlord preparing to launch new Dragon Scion race originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Nov 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archlordbeta-keydragon-scionf2pfree-to-playftpgiveawaygiveawaysraceraceswebzenThu, 18 Nov 2010 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Webzen celebrates Archlord and S.U.N anniversaries]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/21/webzen-celebrates-archlord-and-s-u-n-anniversaries/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/21/webzen-celebrates-archlord-and-s-u-n-anniversaries/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/21/webzen-celebrates-archlord-and-s-u-n-anniversaries/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Noted free-to-play publisher Webzen is celebrating not one, but two MMORPG anniversaries this week. FIrst up is Archlord, the PvP-focused title that offers players the chance to become the titular ruler and indulge in perks such as controlling the server's weather and riding a dragon mount. Webzen has created a special anniversary zone inside the game which will spawn special mobs as well as a gold drop buff for players under level 60.

Soul of the Ultimate Nation (S.U.N.) is also celebrating an anniversary this week, and to mark the occasion, players will receive a 200% XP buff. S.U.N. features hack-and-slash combat, a unique Battle Zone System where players create their own instances, and music by Academy Award-winning film composer Howard Shore.

MassivelyWebzen celebrates Archlord and S.U.N anniversaries originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Oct 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-combataction-MMOanniversaryanniversary-eventsarchlordf2pfree-to-playhack-and-slashsoul-of-the-ultimate-nationsunwebzenThu, 21 Oct 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Why I play free-to-play]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/18/free-for-all-why-i-play-free-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/18/free-for-all-why-i-play-free-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/18/free-for-all-why-i-play-free-to-play/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

I hid in waiting under a soggy sheet of cardboard for the past three days with stale Cheetos as my only nourishment. I had but a single target, who finally exited his house with bleached skin, a red fuzzy head and blurry eyes. As he stood at his front door trying to shoo away the sun like a vampire, I made my move. At last, I thought, Beau's spirit hood will be mine.

By the time I was well into a Keanu Reeves-style flying scissor-kick, I realized an important tactical error. It wasn't the horror-filled eyes of a man who had spent too much time indoors staring at a computer screen that I was looking into, but the fierce come-get-some eyes of a teenager with spiky, dyed hair who was practicing his karate moves.

Had I thought beyond simply looking cool as I made my attack, I would have realized I spent every ounce of energy I had to pull off the insane leap-kick that actually looked more like what you'd expect: a tired, wet, dirty, malnourished geek hop-skipping and shouting gibberish through a yard with a piece of cardboard stuck to his back. The three-day diet of stale Cheetos did not give me enough fuel to defend myself from the brutal pummeling that the pint-sized Bruce Lee gave me.

It turns out Beau lived in the house next door. He had seen my wild display and subsequent beating, so he came out to help me. He invited me into his house to let me clean myself up, extolled the dangers of trying to live out movie fantasies, and offered to let me write his column for a week. It wasn't a spirit hood, but it was a very nice gesture. The dog-shaped cookies were a nice gift too, although I don't know why he snickered every time I ate one.

No. The above tale really didn't happen, but Beau is letting me write his column today so I can tell you why I love to play free-to-play MMOs.

Continue reading Free for All: Why I play free-to-play

MassivelyFree for All: Why I play free-to-play originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archlordcash-shopchoicecreating-storyf2pfeaturedfiesta-onlineflorensiafreefree-for-allfree-to-playjeremy-strattonmicro-transactionsoptionsromrunes-of-magicshaiyazu-onlineWed, 18 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Remembering my first F2P experiences]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/14/free-for-all-remembering-my-first-ftp-experiences/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/14/free-for-all-remembering-my-first-ftp-experiences/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/14/free-for-all-remembering-my-first-ftp-experiences/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

I sit here, racking my brain, trying to think of the very first free-to-play game that I experienced. It's been quite a long time, at least seven years. As a quick history, I started in MMORPGs in '99, by bringing home a box of Ultima Online for my wife to look at. She laughed at me at first, but soon I would return home from work to find her in the middle of a marathon gaming session. We then switched to EverQuest and then to City of Heroes. In between those major choices, I spent a lot of time exploring the internet for new games.

I want to say that one of the first free-to-play games I found was FLYFF, or possibly ROSE Online. It's hard to remember exactly. I searched old emails and found a few references to some games, but I can only verify start dates like February of 2004 for games like There or Second Life. On a side-note, my EVE account started on July 30th, 2004. Regardless, I can remember my first experiences with free-to-play games. I recall the grindy-yet-beautiful worlds I visited, marveling at high-level players who must have played for six months solidly in order to achieve their greatness.

Continue reading Free for All: Remembering my first F2P experiences

MassivelyFree for All: Remembering my first F2P experiences originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Jul 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Anarchy-OnlineArchLordbeau-hindmancash-shopcity-of-heroesCOHeverquestf2pfacebookfeaturedflyfffree-for-allfree-to-playftpmaple-storyrose-onlinesecond-lifethereUltima-OnlineUOWorld-of-WarcraftwowWed, 14 Jul 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Expansion brings new PvP battle systems to Archlord]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/13/expansion-brings-new-pvp-battle-systems-to-archlord/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/13/expansion-brings-new-pvp-battle-systems-to-archlord/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/13/expansion-brings-new-pvp-battle-systems-to-archlord/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Archlord fans can expect a new expansion in the coming weeks, and it will bring some new PvP content to the game. Episode 5: The Grand Cross will bring a new system called The Battle Ground to Archlord.

The Battle Ground will bring race-vs.-race PvP to the game in a massive battle held every Thursday and Saturday. Players will join an army of their race, infiltrate the enemy base, and seek to kill the enemy players and heroes.

Winners will gain not only bragging rights, but a special race spirit ability which will make all members of that race army stronger. Players will also earn Charisma points for kills in battle, which can be used as currency at the Charisma Gate.

Keep an eye on the Archlord site for all the details on The Grand Cross, and check out our gallery for a first look at the expansion.

Gallery: Archlord: The Grand Cross

MassivelyExpansion brings new PvP battle systems to Archlord originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Jul 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archlordbattlegroundexpansionf2pfree-to-playftppvprace-vs-racethe-battle-groundthe-grand-crosswebzenTue, 13 Jul 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Archlord opens new server, adds new incentives]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/archlord-opens-new-server-adds-new-incentives/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/archlord-opens-new-server-adds-new-incentives/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/archlord-opens-new-server-adds-new-incentives/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Archlord has had its share of problems, beginning last September when it was transferred from Codemasters to Webzen. Account creation was shut down for over a month while the transition was made, then Archlord returned with a shiny new class to welcome players back. Things were iffy for a while, and Webzen announced a server merge even as they made plans for new content and support in several different languages.

They're obviously doing something right, because Webzen has announced a brand-new server for Archlord, some great offers for those who take advantage of it, and a few extra additions to the game as well. Beginning tomorrow, North and South American players will be able to join the Grazia server, taking advantage of free character transfers if needed. Not sure if you want to switch? You might change your mind after you see the incentives: the server will be set up to grant +300% EXP as well as 200% drop rates for a month.

Players on Grazia aren't the only ones who will be enjoying extras in the coming days. Archlord is also introducing the buddy system for the entire community. Adding someone to your in-game buddy list will provide a link to that player that gives you both additional rewards for clearing quests and missions.

You can check out all the new information on the Archlord site.

MassivelyArchlord opens new server, adds new incentives originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 26 May 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archlordarchlord-new-serverf2pfree-to-playgraziawebzenWed, 26 May 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Webzen celebrates first anniversary with events in three games]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/13/webzen-celebrates-first-anniversary-with-events-in-three-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/13/webzen-celebrates-first-anniversary-with-events-in-three-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/13/webzen-celebrates-first-anniversary-with-events-in-three-games/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

MMO developers love to celebrate the "birthdays" of their games, but what happens when the developer itself reaches a milestone? In the case of free-to-play MMO portal Webzen, the answer is "throw a party in every game we have." Webzen is celebrating its first anniversary with special updates and events in MU Online, Archlord, and Soul of the Ultimate Nation.

MU Online players will find new content with the game's second major update. New maps, new items and more are being added to the game as well as giveaways of jewels and ZEN. The NPC Leo also has some special gifts for anyone purchasing gold channel tickets before the 18th.

Archlord is celebrating by inviting more people to the party, so to speak. Webzen is adding an American server to the game, and invites players in North and South America to join the fun.

Finally, Soul of the Ultimate Nation wins the prize for the flashiest celebration with the week-long Mayan festival. The event is going on now, with huge XP bonuses for returning players, special items in the shops, and a "matching" program when you purchase W Coins. Check out the event page for all the details, and congratulations to Webzen!

MassivelyWebzen celebrates first anniversary with events in three games originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 May 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ArchLordf2pfree-to-playmu-onlinesoul-of-the-ultimate-nationwebzenwebzen-first-anniversaryThu, 13 May 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Archlord announces server and content updates for 2010]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/14/archlord-announces-server-and-content-updates-for-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/14/archlord-announces-server-and-content-updates-for-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/14/archlord-announces-server-and-content-updates-for-2010/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Since picking Archlord up in October of 2009, Webzen has been busy making plans to take the free-to-play game forward, and we got a peek at those plans today. They announced a server merge, new multi-language client, and brand new content for the game in the form of a dungeon designed to be accessible to players of all levels.

Beginning today, the four existing European servers will be merged into two, and a new realm "Deribelle" will be opened. The merge will increase population on the two "new" serevers, and Deribelle will feature increased EXP and drop rates as well as a "massive cash item giveaway" in order to welcome new players.

February will bring further opportunity for new players to check the game out, in the form of a new multi-language client. The new client will support German, French, Spanish, and Portugese.

Webzen didn't stop there, however. All the effort in reaching out to new players will culminate in March with some brand new content designed to appeal to the entire player base, both new and old. The Chaotic Frontier dungeon features an automatic adjustment to the entering character's level, making the dungeon available to all players.

The first of the new updates arrives today, so if you haven't checked out Archlord yet, this may be an excellent time to start.

MassivelyArchlord announces server and content updates for 2010 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Jan 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ArchLordchaotic-frontierdungeonf2pfree-to-playmulti-language-clientserver-mergewebzenThu, 14 Jan 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Archlord's return heralded by extra buckling of swashes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/09/archlords-return-heralded-by-extra-buckling-of-swashes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/09/archlords-return-heralded-by-extra-buckling-of-swashes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/09/archlords-return-heralded-by-extra-buckling-of-swashes/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Fans of the free-to-play MMO Archlord were probably less than thrilled in September, when the game's North American and European hosts lost the rights to the game. Codemasters was "unable to renew a license agreement" and had to shut down their servers for the game, with players left only with the taunting promise of another distributor picking up the game in the near future.

The near future, however, is apparently right now, with Webzen having returned the game to operation in North America and Europe. The game has also been updated with the Swashbuckler class, an all-female close-melee combat class that sports rabbit ears. (We're not sure if comparisons to the viera were intended, but they seem largely inevitable and perhaps suitable.)

In addition, Webzen is offering a transfer service for all former players of the Codemasters servers, with the transfer scheduled to complete on the 14th of October and offering a small amount of in-game money as an incentive -- that is, the money usually reserved for microtransactions. If you're a fan of the game, this is pretty unambiguous good news. If you aren't, well, now you have a chance to play it again one way or the other, which is always a good thing.

[ via Kotaku ]

MassivelyArchlord's return heralded by extra buckling of swashes originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Oct 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archlordcodemastersf2pfree-to-playnew-classesserver-openingstransferswebzenFri, 09 Oct 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Archlord to transition from Codemasters to Webzen]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/02/archlord-to-transition-from-codemasters-to-webzen/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/02/archlord-to-transition-from-codemasters-to-webzen/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/02/archlord-to-transition-from-codemasters-to-webzen/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Codemasters, while best known for running Lord of the Rings Online in Europe, was never a one-trick pony. While many people have been adventuring through Middle Earth, a brave few gamers were still calling the realm of Chantra, the continent of the archlord, their home. Sadly, however, all things must come to an end as Codemasters will be shutting down their service for Archlord.

However, this is not a game sunset, but a game transition. Codemasters has failed to come to an agreement with NHN, the Korean developers of the game, to continue their service. NHN has transferred operation over to Webzen instead of Codemasters. If the images of Huxley and Soul of the Ultimate Nation just popped into your head, then you have indeed remembered the correct Webzen.

This transition will move all character data over to Webzen's servers, making Webzen the go-to spot for almost everything Archlord related. What hasn't yet been confirmed is if item data will be transported with the characters as well.

Archlord has shut down new account creation until October 2nd, when everything will be transferred over to Webzen. For the full details of the transfer, or if you want to make a new account, check out Webzen for all of the gritty details.

[Thanks, Adam and Doran!]

MassivelyArchlord to transition from Codemasters to Webzen originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agreementarchlordbreakingcodemastersgame-transitionhuxleynhnnhn-gamesoperationserver-transitionservice-transitionsoul-of-the-ultimate-nationwebzenWed, 02 Sep 2009 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Codemasters chief operating officer has left unexpectedly]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/17/rumor-codemasters-chief-operating-officer-has-left-unexpectedly/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/17/rumor-codemasters-chief-operating-officer-has-left-unexpectedly/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/17/rumor-codemasters-chief-operating-officer-has-left-unexpectedly/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Edge Online has picked up a rumor that Tony Williams, the chief operating officer of Codemasters, has unexpectedly left the company while Codemasters has yet to make an official announcement.

Williams was the managing director at Bam! Entertainment, which was responsible for Carmen Sandiego: Secret of the Stolen Drums, Wallace & Gromit in Project Zoo, and various Cartoon Network video game adaptations, until coming on board with Codemasters in 2005. Edge Online has been unable to confirm his absence, as their calls to Codemasters were left unanswered.

Codemasters is responsible for publishing Jumpgate Evolution and Lord of the Rings Online Europe, as well as ArchLord in the United States.

MassivelyRumor: Codemasters chief operating officer has left unexpectedly originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 Mar 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archlordbreakingcodemasterscoojumpgate-evolutionlord-of-the-rings-online-europelotrolotro-europerumortony-williamsTue, 17 Mar 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO / movie mashup wins award, opens in New York]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/25/mmo-movie-mashup-wins-awards-opens-in-new-york/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/25/mmo-movie-mashup-wins-awards-opens-in-new-york/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/25/mmo-movie-mashup-wins-awards-opens-in-new-york/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Some of you may already be aware than an MMO is playing a major part in a motion picture currently seeing release in the New York city indie film scene. The film, entitled Ben X, follows the exploits of a young man dealing with the pressures of ... being a young man. He struggles with bullying and self esteem issues, but does so in a somewhat filmicly-novel way: by playing an MMO. It got a mention at GamePolitics, pointing at a New York Times review of the Flemish movie.

Despite winning an award at a Montreal film festival, the NYT reviewer doesn't seem to think the film is all that great: "However representative of the chaos in his head, the film's relentlessly paranoid aesthetics come off more as a formal exercise in social dissonance than an empathetic study of human suffering." From this bloggers perspective the MMO in question - Archlord - just isn't that great either. So ... good to see an MMO get bigtime recognition on the silver screen, but we'll wait for the World of Warcraft movie.

MassivelyMMO / movie mashup wins award, opens in New York originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 25 Oct 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archlordben-xmovienytSat, 25 Oct 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ArchLord to get expansion ]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/archlord-to-get-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/archlord-to-get-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/archlord-to-get-expansion/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Codemasters Online has released information about its upcoming expansion to the free-to-play ArchLord. Titled Episode 3: Spirits Awakening, the also-free expansion will feature 3 new game zones, over 80 new class skills, new ruling ArchLord abilities, new collectible armor sets, and new monsters and zone bosses.

For those who haven't heard of this title, one of ArchLord's unique properties is that any player can rise to the top and become the ArchLord of their particular server, gaining access to a castle, stronger spells, and a dragon. Needless to say, the title is in constant flux, which provides a great incentive to continue to play. The press release doesn't give specifics for the actual expansion release date other than it's due in a few weeks. Once it arrives, we'll take another look at this MMO.

MassivelyArchLord to get expansion originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Jun 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archlordcodemasters-onlineepisode-3expansionspirits-awakeningMon, 23 Jun 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Codemasters plans to bring MMO development in-house]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/06/codemasters-plans-to-bring-mmo-development-in-house/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/06/codemasters-plans-to-bring-mmo-development-in-house/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/06/codemasters-plans-to-bring-mmo-development-in-house/#commentsFiled under: ,

Well-known European games publisher Codemasters has announced that they plan to move some MMO development in-house. The company currently acts as publisher for a number of Western massively multiplayer games, such as Lord of the Rings Online and Jumpgate Evolution. It also acts as an EU partner for the Korean games and RF OnlineArchlord. Today vice president of Codemasters Online Gaming David Solari has informed GamesIndustry.biz that in-house development was 'always a part of the plan.'

In a lengthy interview with the site, Solari notes that entering the PC MMO marketplace is a daunting task - but they feel they're prepared. The numerous games they've licensed will give them an edge, and has given them a great sense of where the industry is going. His concluding statement is especially interesting, given recent comments by Bobby Kotick in the growing tit-for-tat war between EA and Activision/Blizzard. "I don't think you can compete with Warcraft. In two or three year's there will be something else that will be able to compete with Warcraft but nobody will be able to tell you what that is now. Chucking money at something isn't the answer."

MassivelyCodemasters plans to bring MMO development in-house originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 May 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archlordcodemastersdavid-solaridevelopmentjumpgate-evolutionlord-of-the-rings-onlinemmo-industryrf-onlineTue, 06 May 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Codemasters to reveal new MMO in March]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/16/codemasters-to-reveal-new-mmo-in-march/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/16/codemasters-to-reveal-new-mmo-in-march/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/16/codemasters-to-reveal-new-mmo-in-march/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Codemasters -- the U.K. company that runs DDO, LotRO, RF Online, and ArchLord in the European market -- has announced a coming announcement. Is that anything like having a meeting to talk about having a meeting?

Wisecracks aside, here's what the folks at Codemasters want every one to know: they will be announcing a new MMO at the Connect 2008 event in March. Connect 2008 is Codemasters' own online gaming expo of sorts. It will take place in Birmingham. Oh, and the game will be playable at the event, too. If you're in the U.K. and you're an avid player of one of Codemasters' games, it might be worth a trip.

So mark your calendars for March 14th; then and only then will we know what this mysterious European release is! There's a sign-up sheet for event-related news alerts in case you want to be really, really on top of this, but rest assured that we'll bring you all the info as soon as it comes.

MassivelyCodemasters to reveal new MMO in March originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 Jan 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archlordcodemastersconnect-2008ddodungeons-and-dragons-onlineeuropelord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrorf-onlineukWed, 16 Jan 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[As the Worlds Turn: Land of the Free]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/12/as-the-worlds-turn-land-of-the-free/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/12/as-the-worlds-turn-land-of-the-free/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/12/as-the-worlds-turn-land-of-the-free/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Free. Everyone likes things that are free. Well, except when it involves a free kick to the twig and berries. These days, free things are often accompanied by plenty of small-type that make it anything but free. Requiring you to sever a limb or to sign over half of your first born does not constitute free. However, there has been a glut of free-to-play MMOs emerging on the market. Some of these have been around for a while that somehow lost the desire to charge people and others have come out of the gate with no fees like a naked hippy at an outdoor music festival.

What I'd like to do this week is take a look at some free-to-play games and see what they have to offer in the realm of game design and development. If you're looking for a review or a first-impression on any of these games, you're in the wrong place. There are far more capable people than I who can do just that. So put the wallet away, we're about to go free ... just keep the clothes on.

Continue reading As the Worlds Turn: Land of the Free

MassivelyAs the Worlds Turn: Land of the Free originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Dec 2007 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archlordas-the-worlds-turndungeon-runnersfree-to-playgame-designgame-developmentjoystiqfeaturesncsoftrf-onlineworld-of-warcraftWed, 12 Dec 2007 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[As the Worlds Turn: Neverending Stories]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/06/as-the-worlds-turn-neverending-stories/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/06/as-the-worlds-turn-neverending-stories/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/06/as-the-worlds-turn-neverending-stories/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Ugly Horse!

Imagine, if you will, the following: In a dimly lit boardroom, a collection of men and women, disheveled and sleep depraved, stare blankly at a room filled with wads and scraps of paper. A broad shouldered man sits alone at the head of the table, the only indication he is there is the low red glow of his cigar. Finally someone speaks. "Ok, how about this? There is this ancient evil that lives ... um ... in a castle and ... ah ... there is a good king who lives in another castle and ... he needs heroes to help defeat this big, bad evil king ... dude."

A thick silence falls on the room.

Through a puff of gray smoke, "I love it. Let's pump a couple million into this baby. Let's make sure we set up the billing structure and get me some in-game advertising! Let's roll, people!"

I confess. That might not be entirely accurate but what role does the story play in our lovely MMO games? It serves as the backdrop for all the contextual details of the game but beyond the introduction movie, what importance or what prominence does the story play in MMOs? We're going to look a few of the more popular MMO games out there and how they deliver the backstory. We'll start with the obvious.

Continue reading As the Worlds Turn: Neverending Stories

MassivelyAs the Worlds Turn: Neverending Stories originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 06 Dec 2007 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archlordfeaturedgame-developmentlord-of-the-rings-onlinelorestoryworld-of-warcraftThu, 06 Dec 2007 15:00:00 EST