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[Gamer drops $16,000 on Age of Wulin virtual sword]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/29/gamer-drops-16-000-on-age-of-wulin-virtual-sword/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/29/gamer-drops-16-000-on-age-of-wulin-virtual-sword/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/29/gamer-drops-16-000-on-age-of-wulin-virtual-sword/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Age of Wulin - auction winner
Quick, what's the most you've ever paid for an MMO microtransaction? If you said $16,000, you might be the guy in the photo above. The Escapist reports that this unnamed gamer dropped a huge chunk of change for a virtual sword exclusive to Age of Wulin, an upcoming free-to-play sandpark MMO from Snail Games.

He wasn't alone in throwing large sums of money at an unreleased game, as the devs also auctioned off a spear sheath for $2,500 and something called a Hook of Departure for $1,600.

Age of Wulin is currently undergoing a Chinese beta test, and gPotato has plans to bring the game to European audiences sometime in the future.

MassivelyGamer drops $16,000 on Age of Wulin virtual sword originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>16000-age-of-wulinage-of-wulinauctionfantasyfree-to-playgpotatomartial-artsmicrotransactionsandboxsandparksnail-gamesThu, 29 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blizzard auctioning off retired WoW servers for charity]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/blizzard-auctioning-off-retired-wow-servers-for-charity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/blizzard-auctioning-off-retired-wow-servers-for-charity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/blizzard-auctioning-off-retired-wow-servers-for-charity/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

World of Warcraft server
What do you do when you upgrade your MMO's servers and end up with a bunch of hardware you don't need any longer? If you said, "Hold the world's geekiest garage sale," then you're absolutely right.

Recently Blizzard upgraded its fleet of World of Warcraft servers and has decided that instead of mothballing the old ones, it will auction them off and donate the proceeds to a worthy charity. The auctions will be handled by eBay, as any interested parties can place a bid on the actual server shard that hundreds of thousands of players used for years.

Each of the auctioned server blades is a self-contained unit and will have the World of Warcraft logo emblazoned across it, with a plaque attached detailing the server's usage dates and the signatures of the development team. Bidding will begin on October 17th and proceed through November 14th as Blizzard auctions the dozens of HP p-Class server blades off in groups, and the winnings will be given to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, which helps combat pediatric cancer and other diseases that affect young kids.

If the thought of owning a piece of MMO history appeals to you -- or if you're looking for an interesting Christmas present for that WoW friend of yours -- then check out the auction dates on eBay.

MassivelyBlizzard auctioning off retired WoW servers for charity originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcharityebaygarage-saleserverserver-bladeserver-bladesserversst-judesst-judes-childrens-hospitalst-judes-childrens-research-hospitalworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 13 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Bloodline Champions gets a revamp]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/not-so-massively-bloodline-champions-gets-a-revamp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/not-so-massively-bloodline-champions-gets-a-revamp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/not-so-massively-bloodline-champions-gets-a-revamp/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
Welcome to Not So Massively, our weekly roundup of the top news from popular multiplayer online battle arenas (MOBAs) and other multiplayer online games that aren't quite MMOs. Published every Monday, the column covers games such as League of Legends, Heroes of Newerth, Rise of Immortals, Bloodline Champions and more.

The big news for MOBA fans this week is the release of Bloodline Champions' colossal Dawn of the Relics update, which has breathed new life into the impressive indie title. Rise of Immortals reveals details of its first post-launch Immortal Trovoc this week, and he's a great big freakin' dragon. In addition to releasing a champion spotlight on Riven, Riot Games this week published new information on how minions will feature in League of Legends: Dominion's point-capturing gameplay.

Blizzard revealed this week that PayPal will be handling sales in Diablo III's controversial real-money auction house. In preparation for opening the D3 beta to the public, Blizzard also released a series of new class pages and a Diablo III skill calculator. Fans of the Tribes series will be glad to know that its online multiplayer sequel Tribes: Ascend has officially started accepting applications to join the upcoming closed beta.

Skip past the cut for details of this week's biggest news from the world of MOBAs and other online games that aren't quite MMOs.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Bloodline Champions gets a revamp

MassivelyNot So Massively: Bloodline Champions gets a revamp originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Sep 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionauction-housebetabetasbloodline-championsdiablodiablo-3diablo-iiidiablo-iii-betafeaturedhi-rez-studiosleague-of-legendslolmobanewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-gameonline-gamespaypalpetroglyphrise-of-immortalsrmtroitribestribes-ascendvideoMon, 19 Sep 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: The reverse slingshot effect]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/captains-log-the-reverse-slingshot-effect/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/captains-log-the-reverse-slingshot-effect/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/captains-log-the-reverse-slingshot-effect/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Captain's Log, Stardate 65056.3...

Hello, computer (and players)! The slingshot effect is a maneuver, shown throughout the Star Trek franchise, which allowed starships to move back through the time continuum. By traveling at a high warp factor towards a star with a large gravitational pull, the ship would whip around it and time travel. While this seemed to only exist within the realms of the IP, it looks as though Star Trek Online's Executive Producer Dan Stahl took us on a reverse slingshot course, giving us a glimpse into the future of the game. Before we returned to the original timeline, he made sure to write up everything we saw along the way for those who couldn't make the trip.

In layman's terms, for those of you who missed the news earlier this week, July's Engineering Report has been released. While this is a monthly publication that contains the development pipeline for STO, including some items that have been featured in past issues, there are always a few bullet points added that seem to spark a healthy amount of debate -- one of these includes the ability to auction off your in-game Emblems, a form of currency, for C-Store points that have been paid for with real money. For information on this, including a response from Cryptic's PR department, and more, read ahead past the jump for this week's Captain's Log entry.

Ensign, warp 10! Let's pull a slingshot maneuver of our own...

Continue reading Captain's Log: The reverse slingshot effect

MassivelyCaptain's Log: The reverse slingshot effect originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Jul 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>academyauctionbugsc-storecaptains-logcaptainslogcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studioscstore pointsCstorePointsdan stahldan-stahldaniel stahlDanielStahlDanStahldevelopmentdine with the devsdine-with-the-devsDineWithTheDevsemblemsengineering reportengineering-reportEngineeringReportexplorationfeaturedfleet starbasefleetsFleetStarbasefoundryklingonlivestreammicrotransactionpatchesplutoQAseason-fiveseason-fourshipsslingshotsolsol planetsSolPlanetsspeciesst-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestarbasesstarfleetstfstoterritory controlTerritoryControltime travelTimeTraveltrek-onlinetribblewarpThu, 21 Jul 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the Mask: Being resourceful with resources]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/07/behind-the-mask-being-resourceful-with-resources/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/07/behind-the-mask-being-resourceful-with-resources/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/07/behind-the-mask-being-resourceful-with-resources/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Most of the time, we look at MMORPGs and talk about features, gameplay, community, content, and other things like that. We rarely look at an MMO's economy unless we're actually hardcore players, and almost invariably players think the economy is messed up in one way or the other.

Champions Online is really no different. People complain about overinflated auction house prices all the time, about how transaction fees and auction limits ruin the economy, and how the value of certain super-rare items has plummeted.

Overall, I'm very happy with CO's economy. Even though the AH interface is horribly broken (and I'm sure the devs are aware), many people use the AH and most goods are available for sale (even the elusive buttcape). Because the cash-shop items can be traded and sold, there's a certain strangeness in the market, but this is largely a good thing.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: Being resourceful with resources

MassivelyBehind the Mask: Being resourceful with resources originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Apr 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionauction-housebehind-the-maskbuttcapec-storechampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosdemonflameeconomyf2pfeaturedfree-to-playglobal-is-a-stupid-name-for-a-currencyglobal-resourcesgold-making-guidemarketmarket-pvpmicrotransactionsserpent-lanternsl-blues-are-too-goodThu, 07 Apr 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CCP auctioning off a special studio tour for charity]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/05/ccp-auctioning-off-a-special-studio-tour-for-charity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/05/ccp-auctioning-off-a-special-studio-tour-for-charity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/05/ccp-auctioning-off-a-special-studio-tour-for-charity/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Are you heading to Iceland for the EVE Online Fanfest coming up at the end of this month? Have some spare cash that you'd like to see go to a great cause? As part of its charity events at Fanfest this year, CCP is offering a super-special VIP tour of its studios -- a tour that is currently being auctioned off via a silent email auction. All proceeds from the auction will be going to benefit Get Well Gamers, a charity that helps provide games and consoles to the childrens' ward at many hospitals.

The lucky winner will get a personal dev tour into the inner sanctum of CCP HQ in Reykjavík led by CEO Hilmar Veigar Pétursson (aka CCP Hellmar). Along with the tour, the winner will be treated to lunch with the developers of EVE Online and given what the company describes as "a bunch of cool goodies." If you'd like to get a bid in, head over to the EVE Online site and read up on what you'll need to do to enter the silent auction. Good luck!

MassivelyCCP auctioning off a special studio tour for charity originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 05 Mar 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionccpccp-gamesccp-hellmarcharityeveeve-onlineget-well-gamersHilmar-Veigar-PeturssonSat, 05 Mar 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Drivers wanted on Planet Calypso]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/11/drivers-wanted-on-planet-calypso/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/11/drivers-wanted-on-planet-calypso/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/11/drivers-wanted-on-planet-calypso/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Planet Calypso is an odd sort of virtual world, a free-to-play game that allows players to exchange in-game money for real cash. It's gearing up for the auction of the new Medusa's Head islands, which contain a variety of services and species for the enterprising landowner. And in anticipation of just that, a new update has offered the perfect vehicles for running through an unspoiled tropical paradise -- high-powered combat tanks, helicopters, and warboats bristling with deadly armaments.

Along with three new Nordic-named vessels -- the Megingjord tank, the Naglfar boat, and the Gungnir helicopter -- the update brings with it a variety of updates to the use of vehicles. Commissioning has been removed, and a weapon mounting system has been added to help facilitate the addition of aforementioned deadly armaments. Even if they're not planning on bidding on the brand-new islands, Planet Calypso players should be able to enjoy the environment in their vehicles of choice.

MassivelyDrivers wanted on Planet Calypso originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 11 Dec 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionentropia-universef2pfirst-planet-companyfree-to-playgame-property-auctionpatchpatchesplanet-calypsoproject-entropiareal-world-moneyvehicle-patchvehicle-weaponsvehiclesSat, 11 Dec 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Changes incoming for the markets of Final Fantasy XIV]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/29/changes-incoming-for-the-markets-of-final-fantasy-xiv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/29/changes-incoming-for-the-markets-of-final-fantasy-xiv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/29/changes-incoming-for-the-markets-of-final-fantasy-xiv/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Even if you're a fan of Final Fantasy XIV, you're probably not enamored of the way that selling items among players is currently handled. It's not that the market wards aren't useful, they're just a really slow way of finding items in a game where nearly every single item is crafted by players rather than found or purchased. So it's good news for the game that the development team is aware of the issue, and adjustments are incoming within the relatively near future.

The first slated update will sort the market districts by items sold, thereby allowing players to zero in on exactly what they're looking for rather than the current ambling search. There are also plans for further refinement and specialization to the wards, along with plans to better facilitate hiring and employing multiple retainers at once. Whether or not the system will ever be replaced or supplemented with the often-requested auction house has not been stated, although there are no hints that such a system is incoming for Final Fantasy XIV. Even so, the promised updates should make finding items a good sight easier.

MassivelyChanges incoming for the markets of Final Fantasy XIV originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 29 Sep 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionauction-housecoming-updatescrafted-goodscrafted-itemscraftingffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivmarket-districtmarket-wardsmarketspending-updatespurchasingsellingsquaresquare-enixWed, 29 Sep 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Earth Eternal facing the prospect of shutdown]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/08/earth-eternal-facing-the-prospect-of-shutdown/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/08/earth-eternal-facing-the-prospect-of-shutdown/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/08/earth-eternal-facing-the-prospect-of-shutdown/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

There's incredibly bad news today about Earth Eternal, the free-to-play browser-based MMO from Sparkplay Media. Or we should say formerly from Sparkplay Media, as it appears that hard times have hit the company with resounding force. In an extremely sad letter, CEO Matt Mihaly has informed players that Sparkplay Media has been all but shut down, with only two remaining employees (including himself) taking care of closing down the company and trying to sell the game to another service provider.

Although the game is not currently being shut down, Mihaly is frank about its prospects: it entirely depends on whether or not another company will pick up the hosting costs of running Earth Eternal. For the time being, the game has made all of its microtransaction items free for all players, in hopes that whatever the game's ultimate fate, players can enjoy it for a little while longer. Our consolations go out to the team behind the game, and we offer our sympathies for what has no doubt been a painful process for the entire staff.

MassivelyEarth Eternal facing the prospect of shutdown originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 08 Aug 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionbreakingbreaking-newsbrowser-basedbrowser-mmoclosureearth-eternaleef2pfree-to-playlayoffsmatt-mihalypossible-shutdownshutdownsparkplaysparkplay-mediaSun, 08 Aug 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DAoC scavenges the dead for The Infernal Auction]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/03/daoc-scavenges-the-dead-for-the-infernal-auction/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/03/daoc-scavenges-the-dead-for-the-infernal-auction/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/03/daoc-scavenges-the-dead-for-the-infernal-auction/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Hot on the heels of the recent Infernal Awakenings is another Developer Live Event for Dark Age of Camelot players called The Infernal Auction. Reportedly, the DAoC team was pleased by the response of the first Live Event and is striving to bring them more often to the game.

The Infernal Auction is the result of enterprising salesmen who have scoured the battlefields following the demon invasion, and who are now bringing their questionable loot to the citizens of each realm. The merchants will not only be selling party-appropriate material (fireworks! booze!) but will hold a grand auction on August 19th where players can bid on unique and powerful items.

Players who were a key part of the Infernal Awakenings battle also should speak to NPC Jonda Dawn for a special reward for their efforts. You can read the full details of this new DAoC Live Event over at the Camelot Herald.

MassivelyDAoC scavenges the dead for The Infernal Auction originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Aug 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionbioware-mythicboozecamelot-heralddaocdark-age-of-camelotea-mythicfireworksinfernal-auctioninfernal-awakeningsjonda-dawnlive-eventmythicmythic-eaMythic-EntertainmentTue, 03 Aug 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Money money money! Money!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/25/the-daily-grind-money-money-money-money/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/25/the-daily-grind-money-money-money-money/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/25/the-daily-grind-money-money-money-money/#commentsFiled under: ,

Money: it makes the world go 'round. It's also one of those necessary staples to keep your character happy and well-outfitted. Whether used to get that sweet piece of loot on the auction house, fund a mount, pay for skills and repairs, or just to feel (for once) like a billionaire, it doesn't hurt to amass as much money in game as possible.

So what's your trick, your technique for raking in the dough? Are you a minimal earner, vendoring all of your loot and just getting by? Do you farm crafting components to auction off, or are you a crafty crafter who makes high-demand products? Do you complete every quest possible -- not for the XP, but for the cold, hard cash? Have you tip-toed down the dark side of RMT for easy gold?

We'd love to hear your secret for becoming an in-game Scrooge McDuck. So how do you make your money?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Money money money! Money! originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 25 May 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionauction-housecashfarminggoldgold-farminglootmoneyopinionsynonyms-for-moneytdgthe-daily-grindTue, 25 May 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Crystal Palace Space Station auction tops 330,000 US dollars]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/29/crystal-palace-space-station-auction-tops-330-000-us-dollars/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/29/crystal-palace-space-station-auction-tops-330-000-us-dollars/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/29/crystal-palace-space-station-auction-tops-330-000-us-dollars/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Remember a while back when we mentioned that the Crystal Palace Space Station went up for sale in Planet Calypso, marking the start of another insane bidfest to claim what could be a very real source of income? Well, the auction is over and the winner has been declared -- Buzz "Erik" Lightyear has taken control of Crystal Palace for the very, very hefty sum of 3,300,000 PED. For those of you who want to know the real world value, you're looking at a cool 330,000 dollars.

While this seems insane (and it probably is, to some degree), Mr. Lightyear will be looking at revenue coming in from the hunting conducted on the space station, plus the purchases made there. In short, this space station is a walking money generator, especially as it's the only place to find alien body parts used to make high-end armor. All Buzz has to do is let the station run, set a decent tax rate, keep it stocked with things to hunt, and he can take all the PED he earns and translate it into cold, hard cash.

For all of the bidding insanity, check out the full coverage of the auction over at Entropia Planets.

MassivelyCrystal Palace Space Station auction tops 330,000 US dollars originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 29 Dec 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionbreakingcrystal-palace-space-stationentropia-universemindarkplanet-calypsoreal-money-tradermtspace-stationTue, 29 Dec 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Who wants to buy a virtual spacestation?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/08/who-wants-to-buy-a-virtual-spacestation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/08/who-wants-to-buy-a-virtual-spacestation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/08/who-wants-to-buy-a-virtual-spacestation/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

You sir! Can I interest you in this pristine virtual space station? No? Ma'am! Over here ma'am! How would you like to live amongst the stars in a brand new virtual space station?

If you think this post is a silly post, then think again. Planet Calypso (formerly Entropia Universe) really is auctioning off one of their virtual space stations to their players, making this the third time that a major piece of Calypso property has been auctioned off to a private party. This time it's the Crystal Palace Space Station that's up for auction, one of Calypso's long time prime off-world hunting grounds.

What makes this auction so newsworthy is the fact that it will be conducted through Planet Calypso's auction systems using PED (Project Entropia Dollar), which basically makes the virtual space station worth real money, as the PED needs to be purchased by the player with real world currency.

Continue reading Who wants to buy a virtual spacestation?

MassivelyWho wants to buy a virtual spacestation? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctioncrystal-palace-space-stationentropia-universeeventhuntinglandownershipPEDplanet-calypsoproject-entropiareal-world-currencyretailspacestationTue, 08 Dec 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Making/Money: Auctioneer Wishlist]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/13/making-money-auctioneer-wishlist/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/13/making-money-auctioneer-wishlist/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/13/making-money-auctioneer-wishlist/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

WARNING - MATH AHEAD!

A few weeks ago, a reader e-mailed me with questions about some Auctioneer data that they have been collecting. Though the question was regarding trying to determine inflation patterns on their server, it got me to thinking about what Auctioneer actually captures. And what other data points would be most helpful in making evaluations of item pricing or looking into economic trending.

While I'm not about to go through all of Auctioneer's algorithm rules, I would recommend that anyone who uses this mod check them out on Norganna's Wiki. They explain where the recommended prices come from. Basically, it's a comparison of the historical data accumulated from all of your auction house scans and the most recent snapshot data. The market value ends up being either the median of historical or recent data, flavored with the user-set preferences for markup or markdown.

Continue reading Making/Money: Auctioneer Wishlist

MassivelyMaking/Money: Auctioneer Wishlist originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Oct 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionauction-houseauctioneerdatafeaturedinflationjoystiqfeaturesmaking-moneymathmodspricepricesstatisticsworld-of-warcraftMon, 13 Oct 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CCP Games supports Child's Play, offers tour of HQ]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/24/ccp-games-supports-childs-play-offers-tour-of-hq/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/24/ccp-games-supports-childs-play-offers-tour-of-hq/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/24/ccp-games-supports-childs-play-offers-tour-of-hq/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


The Child's Play charity, brainchild of the Penny Arcade creators, is a community-based children's charity that benefits from generosity within the game industry -- both from the companies that make games, and the gamers themselves. Child's Play aims to help sick children, both in North America and abroad, and to that end has raised over $2 million worth of donations. Their official site paints an encouraging picture of the kind of positive change they're effecting in the lives of children, and how you -- as gamers -- can get involved.

The other half of the success story of Child's Play is the involvement of the game companies, themselves. CCP Games, the creators of sci-fi MMO EVE Online, is continuing its past support of Child's Play in conjunction with EVE Fanfest 2008. The main item to bid on is a private tour of CCP's Reykjavik HQ, where the highest Child's Play bidder will get to see how the game is run, and will get to meet the staff that keeps New Eden alive. See CCP's announcement and the 2008 silent auction page for the full details about how you can get the guided tour while benefitting sick children. It's a win-win situation for any EVE fan with deep pockets. Bidding in the CCP-Child's Play silent auction starts at $1000 (USD), with bidding already open as of today. Bidding ends October 22, and of course multiple (increasing) bids are possible and encouraged. The tour itself will be given to the highest bidder on November 5th, in advance of EVE Fanfest 2008. However, the charity auction isn't limited to the Reykjavik HQ tour. Additional items will be auctioned off for Child's Play during Fanfest, and will be given to the highest contributors on the spot.

MassivelyCCP Games supports Child's Play, offers tour of HQ originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 24 Sep 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionccpccp-gamescharitychildrenchilds-playeveeve-onlinefanfestfanfest-2008kidsmmo-industryreal-lifereykjaviksci-fisilent-auctionWed, 24 Sep 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Making/Money: Virtual Red Paperclips]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/making-money-virtual-red-paperclips/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/making-money-virtual-red-paperclips/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/making-money-virtual-red-paperclips/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

A few years ago now, I heard a news story about a man who traded one red paperclip for a house. There were several intermediate trades, but the basic gist of it was that he started with a paperclip and traded up from there until, eventually, he was offered a house in Saskatchewan in exchange for a movie role.

I remember thinking then what an interesting concept it was (and wishing I had thought of it first). He really did not need any particular skills except maybe negotiation. He did not need any money. In the early stages, he probably didn't even need a lot of buzz. Just some connections and a dream.

In more recent times, I have seen similar things done in games. Using the auction house and connections with guildies, friends, or just willing participants in the streets, it is entirely possible to trade your way to fame and fortune without ever picking up a trade or completing a quest.

Continue reading Making/Money: Virtual Red Paperclips

MassivelyMaking/Money: Virtual Red Paperclips originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Jun 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanarbitrageauctionbuybuyingcity-of-heroesconsignment-houseexperiencefeaturedgoldinfluencejoystiqfeaturesmoneynpcspaperclipred-papercliprunescapesellsellingtradeworld-of-warcraftzero-xpFri, 20 Jun 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Fanfest 2008 to have first public preview of Ambulation]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/eve-fanfest-2008-to-have-first-public-preview-of-ambulation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/eve-fanfest-2008-to-have-first-public-preview-of-ambulation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/eve-fanfest-2008-to-have-first-public-preview-of-ambulation/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Massively previously announced some of the details of the upcoming EVE Online Fanfest 2008, but CCP Games has just updated their site dedicated to the annual capsuleer pilgrimage. The three-day event (November 6-8) will be filled with a PvP Tournament; presentations by CCP devs to showcase upcoming game features; roundtable discussions between players and devs; and a silent auction of EVE collectibles with proceeds to benefit sick children.

If any of that sounds enticing to you, it actually gets better. EVE Fanfest 2008 will feature a hands-on demo of Ambulation. CCP states: "You'll be able to sit down and interact with character avatars live at FanFest. This will be the first public demonstration of EVE with Walking in Stations and we expect this experience to be a huge draw." To help pack in the crowds, CCP Games is offering travel packages for reduced rates on airfare and hotel stays, and they've expanded the travel package offerings to more countries since their initial Fanfest announcement. Check out CCP's Fanfest '08 site for the full details on what's the most anticipated annual event for EVE Online fanatics (and a few Massively writers as well).

MassivelyEVE Fanfest 2008 to have first public preview of Ambulation originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ambulationauctionbreakingccpccp-gamesdeveveeve-fanfesteve-onlinefanfesticelandpvppvp-tournamentreykjavikFri, 20 Jun 2008 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Making/Money: My value chains are broken]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/27/making-money-my-value-chains-are-broken/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/27/making-money-my-value-chains-are-broken/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/27/making-money-my-value-chains-are-broken/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

There's a person out there who claims that all they need to know about business can be learned from World of Warcraft. A fine sentiment, to be sure, but I take issue with its accuracy. Today we are discussing the first of their eleven business topics: value chains - and why they don't work.

In brief, value chain analysis states that for any good requiring multiple stages of production (meaning you don't just rip it out of your backyard and eat it), value is added at each level of refinement. Therefore the price should increase along its path to becoming a finalized product.

Continue reading Making/Money: My value chains are broken

MassivelyMaking/Money: My value chains are broken originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 27 Apr 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionauction-houseblacksmithingcrafted-itemscraftingdebateeconomicseconomyfeaturedgatheringgoodsmaterialsmoneyproductionprofessionsvaluevalue-chainsworld-of-warcraftSun, 27 Apr 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Player vs. Everything: Maxed out and bored]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/25/player-vs-everything-maxed-out-and-bored/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/25/player-vs-everything-maxed-out-and-bored/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/25/player-vs-everything-maxed-out-and-bored/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Congratulations! You've hit level 70 (or whatever max level is in your favorite game), and you're officially a badass. For many players, this is a goal they've been striving towards for months -- even years in some cases. The feeling of having that first max level character is immensely invigorating. It's like putting the finishing touches on a long-term project or getting to the last page of a monstrous novel. What an accomplishment! However, after basking in the glow of your newly maxed out character for a few days, you quickly realize you have a small problem: What do you do with yourself now?

The answer to that question is going to depend heavily on what game you play. For most people, it's going to be PvP, raiding, or a nice mix of both. You'll probably continue collecting gear for your character or working on your skills. Depending on the game, you might be able to work on some sort of alternate advancement or achievement system for your character -- maybe even hunt down some unique titles. All of this is pretty standard fare for endgame content. Sooner or later, you'll probably get a little bored of it. Don't fret, though! There's a whole host of other interesting things you can do to keep yourself entertained at maximum level that go beyond the planned content. Read on for a few suggestions.

Continue reading Player vs. Everything: Maxed out and bored

MassivelyPlayer vs. Everything: Maxed out and bored originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 Apr 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activitiesauctionboredcollectingeverquesteverquest-2everquest-iifeaturedgankinggriefinglevel-caplord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromarketplaceplayer-vs-everythingrole-playingroleplayingthings-to-dotradeskillsworld-of-warcraftFri, 25 Apr 2008 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Making/Money: Newbs at Auction]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/13/making-money-newbs-at-auction/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/13/making-money-newbs-at-auction/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/13/making-money-newbs-at-auction/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

... And we're not talking about selling accounts on eBay.

One of the most frustrating aspects of being a new player in an established game, to my mind, is the cost of start-up crafting materials. Hit up any public market area, auction house, trade square or similar as a newbie and you will see what I mean. Even low-level items of any use (i.e. not vendor trash) are sold for seemingly absurd amounts given the time that would be required at early levels in order to generate the money. It can make the start of a new character infuriating and the game too taxing (pun fully intended) to continue. Why does this happen? What makes these things so costly? Why can't we all just get along...? (Oh wait, that's another column entirely)

Continue reading Making/Money: Newbs at Auction

MassivelyMaking/Money: Newbs at Auction originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 13 Apr 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>altsauctionauction-houseauctionscomponentscrafted-itemscraftingeconomicseconomyfeaturedinflationlord-of-the-rings-onlinelow-levellowbiemaking-moneymaterialsmoneyrmtstartingtradeskilltradeskillsworld-of-warcraftSun, 13 Apr 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Character copy function introduced to PotBS' test server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/04/character-copy-function-introduced-to-potbs-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/04/character-copy-function-introduced-to-potbs-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/04/character-copy-function-introduced-to-potbs-test-server/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The folks at Flying Lab Software have realized that they're probably not getting all the feedback that they could from their Pirates of the Burning Sea Testbed server, simply due to the fact that people have to level up a new character there. Testing out high level content from unreleased builds is left only to the most hardcore testers with this setup, so to remedy this, a "Character Copy" function has been implemented, allowing players to copy their live characters across to the Testbed. We are told that the tool will only be available for a limited time, so if you're likely to want a character copied to Test at any point, now's the time to act.

To copy a character across, players need to log in to the official PotBS site, and then visit the character copy page. Auction listings, in-game mail sent while logged out, landmark unrest and society associations will not be copied over. As well as this, at the time of posting an issue has been identified that is causing live characters to have their auctions delisted when they are copied. A fix should be coming soon, and the items are able to be relisted again in the meantime.

MassivelyCharacter copy function introduced to PotBS' test server originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Apr 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionauction-listingscharacter-copyflsflying-labpotbstest-servertestbedtestingFri, 04 Apr 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Second Life's Caledon celebrates New Year's Eve across the globe]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/30/second-lifes-caledon-celebrates-new-years-eve-across-the-globe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/30/second-lifes-caledon-celebrates-new-years-eve-across-the-globe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/30/second-lifes-caledon-celebrates-new-years-eve-across-the-globe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


For those of you unwilling or unable to travel to a friend's home for a New Year's Eve bash, or too tired just thinking about holding one yourself, spend it in Second Life in the Independent State of Caledon! Beginning at 4 AM SLT (Second Life Time, which is Pacific Standard Time), and running right up to 1 AM the following New Year's Day, you can enjoy "Many Midnights", A Gilded Age Masqued Charity Ball!

The schedule of activities runs thusly:
* 4:00AM - 6:00AM SLT - Sydney/Melbourne New Year's Eve Ball
* 2:00PM - 3:00PM SLT - Live Charity Auction
* 3:00PM - 5:00PM SLT - London New Year's Eve Ball
* 8:00PM - 10:00PM SLT - New York New Year's Eve Ball
* 10:00PM - 11:00PM SLT - Live Charity Auction
* 11:00PM - 1:00AM SLT - San Francisco New Year's Eve Ball

The event hosts are donating all auction proceeds to "Gardens of Hope", an organization that builds greenhouses, tree nurseries, and more in Lesotho, Africa. These gardens are then used as a source of food, firewood, and income for several communities in this Southern African nation.

For more information, visit Better World Island in-world, or go here on the Webternet. Don't forget your masque!

[Thanks, Saffia!]

MassivelySecond Life's Caledon celebrates New Year's Eve across the globe originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 30 Dec 2007 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctioncaledongardens-of-hopelesotho-africamany-midnightsnew-years-evesecond-lifeSun, 30 Dec 2007 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[For NCsoft, spreading joy is Child's Play]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/20/for-cox-brightening-the-holidays-is-childs-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/20/for-cox-brightening-the-holidays-is-childs-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/20/for-cox-brightening-the-holidays-is-childs-play/#commentsFiled under: ,

NCsoft has a reputation for focusing on both the human element as well as the metahuman in their games, and their corporate culture is no different. This year, the City of Heroes team is auctioning off a poster signed by the development team, a signed City of Villains Collector's Edition game box, and a City of Villains Lord Recluse statue, with all of the proceeds benefitting the Seattle-based Child's Play charity. Whether you frequent Paragon City or make your lair in the Rogue Isles, it's Child's Play to help yourself to some CoX goodness this holiday season, and to help out children in need at the same time.

MassivelyFor NCsoft, spreading joy is Child's Play originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 Dec 2007 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AuctionCharityChilds-PlayCity-of-HeroesCity-of-VillainsCoHCoVCoXeBayLord-RecluseThu, 20 Dec 2007 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bid to become a Tabula Rasa NPC, it's for charity!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/18/bid-to-become-a-tabula-rasa-npc-its-for-charity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/18/bid-to-become-a-tabula-rasa-npc-its-for-charity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/18/bid-to-become-a-tabula-rasa-npc-its-for-charity/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The fine folks over at Destination Games are throwing their lot into the charity ring this holiday season with a few auctions full of Tabula Rasa goodies sure to make any gamer's non-denominational season celebration all the sweeter. The proceeds will be going to the charity of champions -- Child's Play. If you aren't already aware, Child's Play is a charity originally organized by the guys over at Penny Arcade to buy toys (video games and more traditional fare) for sick kids in partner hospitals across the country.

On the docket:
  • Two separate auctions (found here and here) for a copy Tabula Rasa signed by Richard Garriott w/ TR dog tags from E3 '06, a developer Tabula Rasa challenge coin, an AFS clearance card, and a picture of Richard Garriott in his goofy magician's outfit.
  • An NPC named after the auction winner to be placed in the Tabula Rasa world. Assuming the winner owns Tabula Rasa, they will also be escorted to the NPC bearing their name by none other than General British himself.
Even if you're not interested in these auctions, we urge you to check Child's Play out. In the interest of not being a huge hypocrite, this writer just plugged his credit card number in and bought a game for a sick kid. It's easy, fast, and it'll make you feel good about yourself!

MassivelyBid to become a Tabula Rasa NPC, it's for charity! originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Dec 2007 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctioncharitychild's-playchristmasdestination-gamesNPCrichard-garriottabula-rasatoystrTue, 18 Dec 2007 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Hotfix applied to TR]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/14/hotfix-coming-to-tr-tomorow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/14/hotfix-coming-to-tr-tomorow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/14/hotfix-coming-to-tr-tomorow/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


The gang over in the wonderful world of Tabula Rasa are fully aware of the problems with the brand spanking new Military Surplus auctions displaying as "none." A fix was dropped this morning as a matter of fact. The fix was published during the maintenance window somewhere between 4AM - 6AM, Central Time. Additionally, they fixed the attack speed/damage for staff, and whatever was causing the Palisades escort missions not to complete.

The folks at NCsoft and Destination Games want to extend a hearty "thanks" to the player's for their patience as they feverishly worked to resolve these pesky issues.

You may new resume fragging Bane with extreme prejudice.

MassivelyHotfix applied to TR originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 14 Dec 2007 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctiondestination-gameshotfixncsoftpatchrichard-garriotttabula-rasaTRFri, 14 Dec 2007 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MySLproject.com up for sale]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/01/myslproject-com-up-for-sal/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/01/myslproject-com-up-for-sal/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/01/myslproject-com-up-for-sal/#commentsFiled under: ,

MySLProject.comMySLproject.com, a Second Life freelancer-project linking site is up for sale on ebay.Bidding closes at just before 6pm SL Time tomorrow. We have, of course, covered the launch of MySLProject already, about 8 months ago.

Although details are scant, PK O'Toole, the person behind MySLProject, is offering to stay with the purchaser for long enough to give a smooth handover.

MassivelyMySLproject.com up for sale originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 01 Dec 2007 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionebaymyslproject.comsaleSecond-LifeSat, 01 Dec 2007 11:00:00 EST