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 2015 AOL, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Diablo III to begin technical testing in China shortly]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/diablo-iii-to-begin-technical-testing-in-china-shortly/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/diablo-iii-to-begin-technical-testing-in-china-shortly/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/diablo-iii-to-begin-technical-testing-in-china-shortly/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Imagine that, a game about going to hell and fighting demons had issues with China's censorship board.
If you're a gamer in China waiting for Diablo III, you have undoubtedly been waiting for a very long time. Given the game's subject matter and the strict censorship policies of the government, it's not a surprise that it's taken a while to get moving. At long last there is a light at the end of the tunnel, however, as distributor Netease has announced that the censorship issues are finally resolved and the game is free to begin technical testing.

The testing phase will begin after the lunar new year is celebrated later this month. While the exact nature of graphical changes has not been disclosed, Netease stresses that the game will still be cool to look at, which could mean... almost anything, really. Still, at this point most of the players who have long waited for the game will just be happy to see it finally available within China.

MassivelyDiablo III to begin technical testing in China shortly originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Feb 2015 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcash-shopcensorshipchangeschinachinesecontent-censorshipd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiifantasygothic-fantasygraphicgraphical-changesgraphicslocalizationmultiplayernewsnews-itemsonline-multiplayerroguelikerpgMon, 02 Feb 2015 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Leak suggests the next WoW expansion is nearly feature-complete]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/30/rumor-blizzard-leak-reveals-next-world-of-warcraft-expansion-to/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/30/rumor-blizzard-leak-reveals-next-world-of-warcraft-expansion-to/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/30/rumor-blizzard-leak-reveals-next-world-of-warcraft-expansion-to/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

What you call feature-complete they call post-launch.
So, ready to jump on the rumor mill? Because it's churning out big stuff about Blizzard today. An anonymous source from inside the company has apparently claimed that World of Warcraft's next expansion has quadrupled its art outsourcing and is nearly feature-complete. The source also claimed that Hearthstone is doing banner business, with its next expansion set to release in April with a heavier PvE focus.

Darker news was revealed for the other franchises under the company's banner. The next part of StarCraft II is done but with no release date. Overwatch is in the midst of debates over business model and payment plans, with the studio pushing for a 2015 release but most likely going for 2016. Meanwhile, Heroes of the Storm has low expectations among the upper management and the Diablo III team has been "completely gutted." It's up to you you believe the rumors, of course, although come April, they might look rather plausible.

MassivelyRumor: Leak suggests the next WoW expansion is nearly feature-complete originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Jan 2015 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgactivisionbattlenetblizzardblizzard-all-starsblizzard-dotablizzard-entertainmentcash-shopccgccgmmod3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiifantasyfirst-person-shootergothic-fantasyhearthstoneheroes-of-the-stormmobamultiplayernewsnews-itemsofpsonline-multiplayeronline-shooteroverwatchroguelikerpgrumorrumorsscsc2sci-fi-superherosciistarcraftstarcraft-2starcraft-iisuperherotcgtcgmmoteam-shootertrading-card-gamewarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowFri, 30 Jan 2015 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CCP talks new EVE destroyer, cash shop SKINs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/20/ccp-talks-new-eve-destroyer-cash-shop-skins/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/20/ccp-talks-new-eve-destroyer-cash-shop-skins/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/20/ccp-talks-new-eve-destroyer-cash-shop-skins/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

CCP released a pair of EVE dev blogs today, one of which focuses on a new tactical destroyer slated for February's Tiamat release. The other entry concerns ship painting, and more specifically Super Kerr-Induced Nanocoatings, or SKINs, if you prefer.

SKINs differ from the paint jobs currently populating EVE's cash shop in that they function as "a license to use a specific design or pattern for a ship. You then apply that license to your character and then your character will be licensed to use that design whenever you wish," according to the blog.

For now, CCP says, SKINs are permanent and cannot be lost even if you're podded.

MassivelyCCP talks new EVE destroyer, cash shop SKINs originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Jan 2015 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cash-shopccpccp-gameseveeve-cash-shopeve-onlineinternet-spaceshipssandboxsci-fispreadsheets-onlineTue, 20 Jan 2015 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Diablo III patches 2.1.2 and ends season one]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/15/diablo-iii-patches-2-1-2-and-ends-season-one/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/15/diablo-iii-patches-2-1-2-and-ends-season-one/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/15/diablo-iii-patches-2-1-2-and-ends-season-one/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

d3
There's a lot happening around the rainbow-and-glitter landscapes of Diablo III, although perhaps the biggest is the implementation of Patch 2.1.2 to the game. This patch adds in powerful ancient items, increases the drop rate for legendary items, and gives players more survivability with additional life and higher life-on-hit percentages.

As Diablo III ushers in the patch, so it too prepares to say goodbye to the first season. The game is preparing to end season one and has posted a guide to aid players as they make the transition to the limbo that exists before season two. Season one is expected to end some time in early February, possibly February 3rd.

Players on both the PC and consoles soon will enjoy an event full of boosts, including additional treasure goblins and higher drop rates. These boosts will begin tomorrow and continue through Friday, January 23rd.

MassivelyDiablo III patches 2.1.2 and ends season one originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Jan 2015 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.1.2action-rpgbattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentboostcash-shopd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiieventfantasygothic-fantasyin-game-eventmultiplayeronline-multiplayerpatchpatch-2.1.2roguelikerpgseason-1season-oneseason-twoweekend-boostsThu, 15 Jan 2015 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Taking a look at the Black Desert cash shop]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/27/taking-a-look-at-the-black-desert-cash-shop/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/27/taking-a-look-at-the-black-desert-cash-shop/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/27/taking-a-look-at-the-black-desert-cash-shop/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Look, we're going to have to decide what we're buying beforehand, and I still vote for underwear.
So what does the inside of Black Desert's cash shop actually look like? Sure, the exact contents aren't going to matter to players who hate having cash shops at all or the players who were going to play the game no matter what, but a good implementation or a bad one could have an impact. Hence a new post on Steparu walking through the options available and giving a loose idea of how the pricing breaks down.

With a $50 budget, some options were simply out of reach on the shop, specifically the limited edition mount armor. A handful of limited-time packs with boosts are already in-place in game, alongside the usual options of dyes, inventory expansions, and makeovers. The cash shop also contains exclusive hairstyles and under-armor options. Check out the full piece for a more comprehensive glance inside of the game's real-money marketplace.

MassivelyTaking a look at the Black Desert cash shop originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 27 Dec 2014 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-desertcash-shopcash-shop-previewcharacter-customizationfantasyhousingitemskoreakorean-mmomakeovermicrotransactionnewsnews-itemspearl-abysssandboxSat, 27 Dec 2014 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaderboard: Would B2P or a sub-only server bring you back to ArcheAge?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/10/leaderboard-would-a-sub-only-server-bring-you-back-to-archeage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/10/leaderboard-would-a-sub-only-server-bring-you-back-to-archeage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/10/leaderboard-would-a-sub-only-server-bring-you-back-to-archeage/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

I've been thinking about ArcheAge a lot this month, and most of what I've been thinking about it is pretty negative. XL's fantasy sandpark has more problems than any single MMO should, but despite all of them I would still enjoy it if it weren't for that godawful cash shop.

Yeah, the bugs are annoying as are some of the more pervasive exploits (flower dance griefing, really?), but underneath all that is a feature-rich virtual world I'd love to keep playing. At this point, though, the only thing that would bring me back is some sort of subscription-only server, or failing that, a buy-to-play-with-a-cosmetic-cash-shop server that doesn't sell labor potions, tax certificates, appraisals, and the like.

What about you, Leaderboard readers and disgruntled ArcheAge expats? Would you come back for a subscription-only server or a less invasive cash shop? Vote after the cut!

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

Continue reading Leaderboard: Would B2P or a sub-only server bring you back to ArcheAge?

MassivelyLeaderboard: Would B2P or a sub-only server bring you back to ArcheAge? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 10 Dec 2014 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aaarche-agearcheagebattle-royalcash-shopf2p-sucksfantasyleaderboardone-on-oneone-vs-oneopinionpollpollspvpsandboxsandparktriontrion-worldsversusvotevotesvotingvsxl-gamesxlgamesWed, 10 Dec 2014 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ArcheAge reinstates APEX purchases]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/09/archeage-reinstates-apex-purchases/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/09/archeage-reinstates-apex-purchases/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/09/archeage-reinstates-apex-purchases/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Just wait for the next issue, because it'll happen.
The time since ArcheAge's launch has been a cycle of allowing cash shop purchases, discovering exploits with those purchases, and disabling those purchases, usually APEX. There have been a variety of other goofs hither and yon, but the important one right now is APEX. After a long period of being unavailable, it can be purchased once more, hopefully without a need to disable it again in the future.

APEX, for those of you unaware, is essentially a way to purchase subscription time and sell it in-game, a la EVE Online's PLEX or WildStar's CREDD. The exploit issues caused by use of APEX items without actually consuming them have led to the items being removed from the store on multiple occasions. Hopefully this reinstatement signals the end of that particular cycle for the game.

MassivelyArcheAge reinstates APEX purchases originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 09 Dec 2014 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aaapexarche-agearcheagecash-shopfantasylarge-shoes-like-those-worn-by-a-clownmicrotransactionmicrotransactionsnewsnews-itemspvpsandboxsandparktriontrion-worldsxl-gamesxlgamesTue, 09 Dec 2014 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Would you have played a Diablo MMO?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/09/the-daily-grind-would-you-have-played-a-diablo-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/09/the-daily-grind-would-you-have-played-a-diablo-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/09/the-daily-grind-would-you-have-played-a-diablo-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Diablo 3
A few weeks ago, Blizzard content designer Kevin Martens admitted that the studio once considered turning the Diablo IP loose on an MMORPG. It's off the table now, but it still got me wistful. I've been strangely attached to the Diablo franchise and its clones for a very long time. Seriously, it's not even possible to pry the Torchlight series or Titan Quest off my harddrive. But Diablo itself just has a compelling, gritty gloom to the world that would make an MMO version a welcome in a genre that's obsessed with bright and happy fantasy worlds.

Massively's Brendan Drain once opined that Path of Exile is the sequel that Diablo II deserved, but is it MMO enough to count here? Would you have played a Diablo MMORPG, and what would you want it to look like?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Would you have played a Diablo MMO? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 09 Dec 2014 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrianna-royce-tdgcash-shopd3daily-grinddiablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidiablo-mmodiablo-mmorpgfantasygothic-fantasymultiplayeronline-multiplayeropinionroguelikerpgtdgthe-daily-grindTue, 09 Dec 2014 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Trion compensates ArcheAge players with cash shop potions, play time]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/04/trion-compensates-archeage-players-with-cash-shop-potions-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/04/trion-compensates-archeage-players-with-cash-shop-potions-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/04/trion-compensates-archeage-players-with-cash-shop-potions-play/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Are you still playing ArcheAge? If so you might be interested in the stuff Trion's giving away as compensation for this week's lengthy server outage brouhaha.

If you're a patron or former patron, you'll be able to claim a patron pack that contains five days of patron time and a bunch of cash shop potions that will help you bypass some of ArcheAge's more annoying gameplay restrictions. And of course they'll whet your appetite for more cash shop potions!

If you've never been a patron, well you get fewer potions and no patron time.

[Thanks David!]

MassivelyTrion compensates ArcheAge players with cash shop potions, play time originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Dec 2014 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aaarche-agearcheagearcheage-compensationcash-shopfantasypvpsandboxsandparktriontrion-worldsxl-gamesxlgamesThu, 04 Dec 2014 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Diablo was once considered for an MMO, but no longer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/10/diablo-was-once-considered-for-an-mmo-but-no-longer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/10/diablo-was-once-considered-for-an-mmo-but-no-longer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/10/diablo-was-once-considered-for-an-mmo-but-no-longer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

At this point it would be shocking enough to have Diablo mentioned consistently. Again.
In many ways Diablo III seemed like the sort of game that would lead naturally into an MMO for the franchise. The online functionality is there, the options are there, and it's not as if Blizzard's big MMO didn't derive quite a bit from the framework of Diablo II, after all. But according to content designer Kevin Martens, there are no current plans to take the franchise into an MMO space, even though there were plans to do exactly that not too long ago.

The original thinking was that Diablo III would be the sort of game that could evolve its setting to a point where an MMO felt organic, natural, and appropriate. However, a shift in corporate culture and overall development focus cut those plans short before they went much further than discussion. Seeing how players enjoy Diablo III and what they like about the game has resulted in a shift in focus with more future content for the game... but no MMO exploration.

MassivelyDiablo was once considered for an MMO, but no longer originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 10 Nov 2014 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcash-shopd3developmentdiablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiifantasyfuturefuture-plansgothic-fantasykevin-martensmultiplayernewsnews-itemsonline-multiplayerroguelikerpgwhat-could-have-beenMon, 10 Nov 2014 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BlizzCon 2014: Diablo III previews Season 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/08/blizzcon-2014-diablo-iii-previews-season-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/08/blizzcon-2014-diablo-iii-previews-season-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/08/blizzcon-2014-diablo-iii-previews-season-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

d3
BlizzCon attendees and remote viewers got a first look at Season 2 for Diablo III, and now it's your turn to do so as well.

The second season, which starts public realm testing "soon," will add new and beefed-up legendary items, a trio of new conquests, and boots and pants for the level 70 Conqueror's transmorgrification set for those willing to reroll a character. Blizzard also announced a new batch of earnable rewards: "Players who participate in the season will also receive an exclusive full banner set, including shape, pattern, sigil, and accent. Each piece of this set is unlocked by acquiring seasonal achievement points."

Like Season 1, Season 2 will not be coming to consoles due to their occasionally offline nature.

MassivelyBlizzCon 2014: Diablo III previews Season 2 originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 08 Nov 2014 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentblizzconblizzcon-2014cash-shopconconventiond3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiievent-coveragefantasygothic-fantasymassively-event-coveragemultiplayeronline-multiplayerpreviewroguelikerpgseason-2Sat, 08 Nov 2014 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BlizzCon kicks off on Friday, virtual tickets still available]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/04/blizzcon-kicks-off-on-friday-virtual-tickets-still-available/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/04/blizzcon-kicks-off-on-friday-virtual-tickets-still-available/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/04/blizzcon-kicks-off-on-friday-virtual-tickets-still-available/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Same venue as last year, then?
If you've been waiting patiently for the next big convention focused entirely around Blizzard's game catalogue, your wait is almost over. BlizzCon 2014 kicks off on Friday, November 7th, with the opening ceremonies starting at 2:00 p.m. EST. There's no chance of attending in person if you don't already have a ticket, but you can still pick up a virtual ticket, and DirecTV customers can also grab a pay-per-view stream that includes a virtual ticket and the associated benefits.

The convention will host a variety of tournaments, including the Hearthstone championships, the StarCraft II championships, and the World of Warcraft Arena championship. There will also be the usual assortment of lore panels, development previews, and reveals for the various games under the Blizzard banner, included the much-anticipated Warlords of Draenor expansion. If you've been on the fence about getting a stream, take a look at the list of festivities and get ready to see what's coming from the studio this weekend.

MassivelyBlizzCon kicks off on Friday, virtual tickets still available originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Nov 2014 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgactivisionbattlenetblizzardblizzard-all-starsblizzard-dotablizzard-entertainmentblizzconblizzcon-2014cash-shopccgccgmmod3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiieventeventsfantasygothic-fantasyhearthstoneheroes-of-the-stormmobamultiplayernewsnews-itemsonline-multiplayerreal-world-eventsroguelikerpgstarcraftstarcraft-2starcraft-iitcgtcgmmotrading-card-gamewarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 04 Nov 2014 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: Gem store scares and lore treats in Guild Wars 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/28/flameseeker-chronicles-gem-store-scares-and-lore-treats-in-guil/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/28/flameseeker-chronicles-gem-store-scares-and-lore-treats-in-guil/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/28/flameseeker-chronicles-gem-store-scares-and-lore-treats-in-guil/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

I heard a lot of speculation about this guy last year, but I'm pretty sure he's just a spider and not a Margonite.
It's Halloween! Well, almost. Close enough. It's always fun to celebrate holidays as an MMO fan because you can party as long as the event runs without ever leaving your house! Oh, I just made myself sad. Let's start over.

Guild Wars 2 is celebrating its third Halloween, and it doesn't seem as though evil ghosts are any more likely to let the destruction of Lion's Arch get in the way of the festivities than the rest of us are. Even though the celebration is a repeat of last year's, there's still quite a bit of news to discuss, so hop past the cut and let's see what ArenaNet dropped in our trick-or-treat bags.

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: Gem store scares and lore treats in Guild Wars 2

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: Gem store scares and lore treats in Guild Wars 2 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Oct 2014 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abaddonanetarenanetbuy-to-playcash-shopfantasyfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesfractals-of-the-mistsgem-storeguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw1gw2halloweenhalloween-2014holidaymicrotransactionsncsoftopinionrewardsTue, 28 Oct 2014 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIV 24-hour patch downtime and cash shop controversy [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/23/final-fantasy-xiv-plans-24-hour-maintenance-for-patch-2-4/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/23/final-fantasy-xiv-plans-24-hour-maintenance-for-patch-2-4/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/23/final-fantasy-xiv-plans-24-hour-maintenance-for-patch-2-4/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Bring it on already.
If you've got any lingering business in Final Fantasy XIV you want to get finished before patch 2.4 launches on Tuesday, you'd better get it taken care of on Sunday. Yes, Sunday. Because of the new wards being added, database maintenance will also be undertaken while the patch is being applied, and it comes down to a 24-hour maintenance downtime from 3:00 a.m. EDT on October 27th until 3:00 a.m. EDT on October 28th. The maintenance might take a bit longer to complete, but players will want to be finished up and logged off before it starts. [Edit: Square-Enix has announced that the maintenance will be extended by one hour until 4:00 a.m. EDT on October 28th.]

Patch 2.4 also introduces to the game the cash shop, which has already provoked extensive player discussion, including requests to keep past seasonal items out of the shop. Opinion on the matter is split, and there has been no official word yet from Square-Enix, although it is possible that there will be more concerns addressed during the London Fanfest this weekend.

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XIV 24-hour patch downtime and cash shop controversy [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Oct 2014 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cash-shopconsoleconsolesdowntimefantasyffff14ffxivffxiv-patch-2.4final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivmaintenancemicrotransactionsnewsnews-itemspatchpatchessquaresquare-enixupdateupdatesThu, 23 Oct 2014 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mog Log: Final Fantasy XIV's post-fanfest shakedown]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/20/the-mog-log-final-fantasy-xivs-post-fanfest-shakedown/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/20/the-mog-log-final-fantasy-xivs-post-fanfest-shakedown/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/20/the-mog-log-final-fantasy-xivs-post-fanfest-shakedown/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Honestly, if the existence of the cash shop is the only rude surprise awaiting us, I'll be happy.
So Final Fantasy XIV players like yours truly have a mouthful of fanfest information to chew on. How did it all shake down, in the final assessment?

Well, I'm not going to lie: My aim was mixed at best. A minority of demo stations covering content I hadn't anticipated, patch 2.4 a week after my prediction, and mentions of 2.5 in brief. But we did get gear details and an expansion announcement. I'd call it a mix and a wash, at the end of the day. You tried, gold star, etc.

But enough about what I did and didn't get right; there's plenty more to talk about from the various panels, the Live Letter, and other revelations. So let's start in on it, kicking off with the elephant in the room that I've already been hearing about for the entirety of the past day for obvious reasons. Yes, it's a cash shop.

Continue reading The Mog Log: Final Fantasy XIV's post-fanfest shakedown

MassivelyThe Mog Log: Final Fantasy XIV's post-fanfest shakedown originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Oct 2014 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelscash-shopclassclassescolumncolumnsexpansionexpansionsfanfestfeaturefeaturedffff14ffxivffxiv-fanfestffxiv-fanfest-2014ffxiv-patch-2.4final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivjobjobsnaoki-yoshidaopinionpatchpatchespreviewsquaresquare-enixsubscriptionthe-mog-logupdateupdatesMon, 20 Oct 2014 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blizzard posts official BlizzCon schedule]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/09/blizzard-posts-official-blizzcon-schedule/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/09/blizzard-posts-official-blizzcon-schedule/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/09/blizzard-posts-official-blizzcon-schedule/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Yes, you're hoping that a secret announcement about the next expansion pack for World of Warcraft is coming. You know what? We'll go with that version of events. It's a nicer story.
You've got your tickets purchased, your hotel arrangements squared away, your bags all packed. You're ready for BlizzCon this year! But leaving aside the fact that you can probably unpack your bags now as you've still got a month to go, what are you actually going to be doing at BlizzCon? That's what you can find out by taking a gander at the official schedule, which tracks the events of the day on both Friday and Saturday for World of Warcraft, StarCraft 2, Hearthstone, and Diablo III.

A floor map is also available so that congoers can get a feel for the layout before arrival, although that's of less interest to fans planning on taking advantage of the streaming options available for the convention. If you're thinking of buying a virtual ticket for the high-quality streams, take a look at the schedule and see if it's stuff you want to watch streaming live. Unless, as we said, you've already got your bags packed to go in person.

MassivelyBlizzard posts official BlizzCon schedule originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 Oct 2014 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgactivisionbattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentblizzconblizzcon-2014cash-shopccgccgmmoconsconventionsd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiifantasygothic-fantasyhearthstonemultiplayernewsnews-itemsonline-multiplayerreal-world-eventsroguelikerpgsc2starcraft-2tcgtcgmmotrading-card-gamewarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 09 Oct 2014 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Diablo III on sale this weekend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/03/diablo-iii-on-sale-this-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/03/diablo-iii-on-sale-this-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/03/diablo-iii-on-sale-this-weekend/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

d3
If you're one of the few holdouts on this here planet Earth who hasn't picked up a copy of Diablo III or its expansion, Blizzard is prepared to make you one tempting offer. From now through Monday, October 6th, Diablo III and the Reaper of Souls expansion is 50% off through the Blizzard store. This puts the core game and the basic expansion at $20 apiece, with the digital deluxe edition of Reaper of Souls marked down to $40.

Diablo III recently patched up to 2.1.1 and announced a month ago that it has sold 20 million units.

MassivelyDiablo III on sale this weekend originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Oct 2014 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcash-shopd3dealdiablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiiexpansionfantasygothic-fantasyhalf-offmultiplayeronline-multiplayerpromotionreaper-of-soulsroguelikerpgsaleFri, 03 Oct 2014 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Diablo III patch improves pets, Greater Rifts, and Witch Doctors]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/24/diablo-iii-patch-improves-pets-greater-rifts-and-witch-doctors/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/24/diablo-iii-patch-improves-pets-greater-rifts-and-witch-doctors/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/24/diablo-iii-patch-improves-pets-greater-rifts-and-witch-doctors/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Making your game experience marginally better, one loot drop at a time.
The latest patch for Diablo III is out now for players in North America, and it's a big one for pets. Area damage now hits pets for less damage than before, some pets have had their health increased, and in general there's a play philosophy focus that pets should be roughly as durable as the class that summoned them in the first place. It's good news if you tend to take part in the game with a companion creature or two.

The update also makes a variety of adjustments to Greater Rifts, altering the behavior of enemies found within the rifts and removing certain maps form the rotation. Witch Doctors have also received a variety of buffs, with several fetishes getting substantially more life and improved functionality. Take a gander at the full patch notes to see how much has changed.

MassivelyDiablo III patch improves pets, Greater Rifts, and Witch Doctors originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 24 Sep 2014 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbalancebalance-changesbattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcash-shopd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiifantasygame-mechanicsgothic-fantasymultiplayernewsnews-itemsonline-multiplayerpatchpatchespetpetsroguelikerpgupdateupdatesWed, 24 Sep 2014 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's ArcheAge launch diary: Day six - P2W and the early verdict]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/18/massivelys-archeage-launch-diary-day-six-p2w-and-the-early-v/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/18/massivelys-archeage-launch-diary-day-six-p2w-and-the-early-v/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/18/massivelys-archeage-launch-diary-day-six-p2w-and-the-early-v/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Is ArcheAge pay-to-win? That's a question I've been asked several times in recent days. Before I answer it, let's get something out of the way up front. And by "out of the way," I mean that this is the most important part of the article and needs to be emphasized in the intro.

Pay-to-win is 100% subjective.

There is no scientific or universally accepted definition of pay-to-win. Some things in this life are absolutes. Pay-to-win is not one of them.

Continue reading Massively's ArcheAge launch diary: Day six - P2W and the early verdict

MassivelyMassively's ArcheAge launch diary: Day six - P2W and the early verdict originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Sep 2014 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aaarche-agearcheagearcheage-cash-shoparcheage-launch-diaryarcheage-pay-to-winbusiness-modelscash-shopf2pfantasyfree-to-playfreemiumhands-onlaunchlaunch-daylaunchesmicrotransactionmicrotransactionsmmo-traveloguep2wpay-2-winpay-to-winpremiumpvpsandboxsandparktriontrion-worldsxl-gamesxlgamesThu, 18 Sep 2014 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BlizzCon offers up virtual tickets]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/05/blizzcon-offers-up-virtual-tickets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/05/blizzcon-offers-up-virtual-tickets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/05/blizzcon-offers-up-virtual-tickets/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Hear in exciting details all of the way that our games will make you angry for another year!
If you really want to check out BlizzCon but can't quite manage a flight out to California, a solution is available. Virtual tickets are now available from Blizzard for $39.99, allowing you to watch the panels, the competitions, and the events live from the comfort of your own home. Sure, you won't get to actually be packed in the convention hall, but this way no one cares whether you're wearing pants or not, so you even come out ahead.

Purchasing a virtual ticket will give you access to bonus in-game goods for World of Warcraft, Diablo III, StarCraft II, Heroes of the Storm, and Hearthstone, although the details are not yet available. All of the streams are also available in high definition and can be re-watched, so you needn't worry about missing something. If you've already purchased a physical ticket, you still have access to a virtual ticket as well, so you can still take advantage of the streaming. Everyone who wants to attend can at least get something like that experience.

MassivelyBlizzCon offers up virtual tickets originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Sep 2014 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgactivisionbattlenetblizzardblizzard-all-starsblizzard-dotablizzard-entertainmentblizzconblizzcon-2014blizzcon-ticketscash-shopccgccgmmoconvention-streamsd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiifantasygothic-fantasyhearthstoneheroes-of-the-stormmobamultiplayernewsnews-itemsonline-multiplayerroguelikerpgstarcraftstarcraft-iistreamingtcgtcgmmotrading-card-gamevirtual-ticketswarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowFri, 05 Sep 2014 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Minifigures Online rolls out a mythological update]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/02/lego-minifigures-online-rolls-out-a-mythological-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/02/lego-minifigures-online-rolls-out-a-mythological-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/02/lego-minifigures-online-rolls-out-a-mythological-update/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

It's not mythical, that would mean it didn't actually exist.
With a month or so to go before LEGO Minifigures Online fully launches, the game has brought forth its biggest update yet. So what does it contain? Nothing less than the new Mythology World, which also brings an increase in the level cap to 25 along with its new areas and monsters. The area also continues the main story if that's more of your thing.

Aside from the new area, the Series 11 minifigures have been added to the game, along with the first batch of cash shop figures that includes the Yeti, the Mountain Climber, and the Pretzel Girl. Players can also find their friends more easily with the addition of a friend code, and the loot system has been overhauled to allow players a chance to build minifigures from loot. Check out the full set of update notes for more detail and get building in the game if it's just what you've been waiting for.

MassivelyLEGO Minifigures Online rolls out a mythological update originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Sep 2014 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>areaareasbetabetascash-shopfamilyfiguresfriendfriend-codefriend-mechanicsfuncomkid-friendlykidslegolego-minifigureslego-minifigures-onlineminifiguresnewsnews-itemsopen-betapatchpatchessocialupdateupdatesworldworldsTue, 02 Sep 2014 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Diablo 2.10 patch releases with week of in-game bonuses]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/08/26/diablo-2-10-patch-releases-with-week-of-in-game-bonuses/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/08/26/diablo-2-10-patch-releases-with-week-of-in-game-bonuses/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/08/26/diablo-2-10-patch-releases-with-week-of-in-game-bonuses/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

d3
It's time for new challenges in Diablo III, as Patch 2.10 crash-landed today to the delights of players and the screams of frustrated hellbeasts. Why won't you stop slaughtering them already?

The big four features that arrive with 2.10 are seasons, greater rifts, leaderboards, and cesspools. Starting today, players can roll up a fresh character for a new season to earn special rewards without assistance from the player's other assets. To celebrate the patch, Diablo III has triggered a week of double gold find and double treasure goblin appearances.

The patch notes are so long that, well, they descend into the deep blackness of the website. If you'd rather not go blind reading all of that, you can check out the patch overview video after the jump. Happy gaming!

Continue reading Diablo 2.10 patch releases with week of in-game bonuses

MassivelyDiablo 2.10 patch releases with week of in-game bonuses originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Aug 2014 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.10action-rpgbattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbonus-goldcash-shopd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiifantasygothic-fantasyin-game-eventmultiplayeronline-multiplayerpatch-2.1patch-2.10patch-notesroguelikerpgseasonseasonsvideoTue, 26 Aug 2014 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What do you buy in MMOs?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/08/20/the-daily-grind-what-do-you-buy-in-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/08/20/the-daily-grind-what-do-you-buy-in-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/08/20/the-daily-grind-what-do-you-buy-in-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

neverwinter
Every so often I like to be nosy and pry into your personal finances. Wow, you blow through a lot of Candy Crush microtransactions, don't you? And your Pez eBay purchases have gotten out of control.

But let's just pretend that I don't have unparalleled access to your checking account and ask you to share what you buy in MMOs with real money. Looking back, probably my biggest purchases from the past six months were a subscription to WildStar, various cosmetic outfits and minipets in Guild Wars 2, the new mission packs in The Secret World, and a ghost companion in Neverwinter.

What do you buy?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What do you buy in MMOs? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Aug 2014 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buycash-shopdaily-grindguild-wars-2item-shopneverwinteropinionpurchasesubscriptiontdgthe-daily-grindthe-secret-worldwildstarWed, 20 Aug 2014 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Diablo III previews the Vault]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/08/18/diablo-iii-previews-the-vault/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/08/18/diablo-iii-previews-the-vault/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/08/18/diablo-iii-previews-the-vault/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

One of them is here because of greed, and the other one is... also here for that reason. Huh. I think we've reached a nadir.
There's nothing worse in Diablo III than seeing a treasure goblin waltz up and snatch a valuable item away from you whilst you're dealing with a pack of monsters. It's endlessly satisfying to catch the little monster and take it down. But what if you could head back to the goblins' base and start taking stuff from them for a change? That's the idea behind the Vault, a new area being added to Diablo III with patch 2.1.

Whenever you take down a treasure goblin in 2.1, there's a chance that a portal to the Vault will spawn. Inside the Vault there's a ton of items pilfered by the treasure goblins, as you'd expect. There's also the Baroness Greed, who doesn't take kindly to having her space invaded and her pilfered goods re-pilfered by someone else. Still, it turns the game on its head; instead of being annoyed when a treasure goblin pinches your loot, now you'll have a chance to get something even better.

MassivelyDiablo III previews the Vault originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 18 Aug 2014 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcash-shopd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidungeondungeonsfantasygothic-fantasylootloremultiplayeronline-multiplayerpatchpatchespreviewroguelikerpgthe-vaulttreasuretreasure-goblinsupdateupdatesMon, 18 Aug 2014 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Warcraft drops another 800k subscribers; Diablo III has sold 20M units]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/08/05/world-of-warcraft-drops-another-800k-subscribers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/08/05/world-of-warcraft-drops-another-800k-subscribers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/08/05/world-of-warcraft-drops-another-800k-subscribers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

WoW
Today's Activision Blizzard earnings call revealed that World of Warcraft has suffered another significant hit to its subscriptions: The game has lost 800,000 subs over the last quarter, bringing the playerbase down to 6.8 million subscribers.

The game announced a loss of 100k last November, a gain of 200k in February, and another loss of 200k in May. WoW has lost over 3 million players in the gap between Mists of Pandaria and Warlords of Draenor.

Blizzard claims that most of the losses were "disproportionately concentrated in the East."

There is some good news for the company: ARPG Diablo III has sold over 20 million copies since its launch in spring 2012.

MassivelyWorld of Warcraft drops another 800k subscribers; Diablo III has sold 20M units originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 05 Aug 2014 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgactivisionbattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcash-shopd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiifantasygothic-fantasymultiplayeronline-multiplayerquarterly-reportroguelikerpgsubsubswarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 05 Aug 2014 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Rob Pardo leaves Blizzard]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/07/03/rob-pardo-leaves-blizzard/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/07/03/rob-pardo-leaves-blizzard/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/07/03/rob-pardo-leaves-blizzard/#commentsFiled under: , ,

No, that's not Pardo, that's Magtheridon. He was a pit lord. Jeez, you think everything is an allegory, huh?
In a rather surprising move, Blizzard's Executive Producer Rob Pardo announced today that he is leaving the company. At this time he has announced no immediate career plans or subsequent goals, although he mentions a desire to spend the summer with his family and consider his next move. Pardo's forum announcement thanks the design teams for all of their hard work and notes that he has immensely enjoyed his time with the company; he expresses great satisfaction at the growth of the company and all of the changes that have come about during his tenure there.

Pardo mentions that he began working with the studio during development of the original StarCraft, having since worked on titles including Diablo III, World of Warcraft, and Heroes of the Storm. He has promised fans that he will attempt to be communicative about his next move via Twitter.

[Thanks to Dystopiq for the tip!]

MassivelyRob Pardo leaves Blizzard originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 Jul 2014 14:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgactivisionbattlenetblizzardblizzard-all-starsblizzard-dotablizzard-entertainmentcash-shopd3departurediablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiifantasygothic-fantasyheroes-of-the-stormleavingmmo-industrymobamultiplayeronline-multiplayerpardorob-pardoroguelikerpgwarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 03 Jul 2014 14:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Diablo III is closing the auction house for good next week]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/06/19/diablo-iii-is-closing-the-auction-house-for-good-next-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/06/19/diablo-iii-is-closing-the-auction-house-for-good-next-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/06/19/diablo-iii-is-closing-the-auction-house-for-good-next-week/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

D3
Diablo III's auction house is on its last leg, giving up its ghost, and seeing a hellish light at the end of the tunnel. As of June 24th, all traces of the controversial feature will be removed from the game for good.

Blizzard sent out a reminder today about the auction house, stating that while its economic functions were disabled in March, the studio left it up for a few months past that to allow players to retrieve items and gold. Any items and gold left unattended will be sucked into the abyss on next Tuesday, so beware!

MassivelyDiablo III is closing the auction house for good next week originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Jun 2014 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgahauction-housebattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcash-shopd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiifantasygothic-fantasymultiplayeronline-multiplayerroguelikerpgThu, 19 Jun 2014 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR devs say Star Cluster prices and rarities are working as intended]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/06/19/swtor-devs-star-cluster-prices-and-rarities-working-as-intended/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/06/19/swtor-devs-star-cluster-prices-and-rarities-working-as-intended/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/06/19/swtor-devs-star-cluster-prices-and-rarities-working-as-intended/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

A minor brouhaha has been, well, brewing in Star Wars: The Old Republic's community since the release of the game's Star Cluster cash shop packs. Players have been complaining about everything from emote unlock prices to item rarities (it's currently unlikely that you'll be able to collect a matching set of the pack's new armor given the scarcity of certain pieces).

BioWare community manager Eric Musco took to the game's forums this morning to clarify the company's stance on the issues. "Those prices are intended. Collections prices are something that is not completely static from one pack to another and can shift," Musco wrote. "Similarly, many of you might notice that in the Star Cluster pack there are different amounts of items at different rarities than normal (more rares, less commons, etc.). With the Star Cluster pack, we were trying out some new things. I can tell you that the team has heard your feedback around both the rarities and the collections pricing and will adjust accordingly in future packs."

MassivelySWTOR devs say Star Cluster prices and rarities are working as intended originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Jun 2014 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarecash-shopcash-shop-pricesclusterfunkeaelectronic-artseric-muscof2pfree-to-playlucasartsraressci-fistar-clusterstar-cluster-raritystar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorThu, 19 Jun 2014 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Diablo III: Reaper of Souls' first update bringing seasonal play]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/06/18/diablo-iii-reaper-of-souls-first-update-bringing-seasonal-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/06/18/diablo-iii-reaper-of-souls-first-update-bringing-seasonal-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/06/18/diablo-iii-reaper-of-souls-first-update-bringing-seasonal-play/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

D3
Diablo III has begun testing its first big update for Reaper of Souls, which will add an updated version of Diablo II's ladder system and more.

Patch 2.1.0 will also add "seasons" to the game. These are a new type of play that requires players to start a fresh character to level up. Why would someone want to do something so obviously crazy? Why, for the exclusive rewards and the chance to climb the leaderboards! There will also be season-only achievements called conquests that will be awarded to the first 1,000 players to get each one.

Once a season is over, the exclusive legendaries will be added to the rest of the game. Patch 2.1.0 will also impliment cesspool levels, combat balance changes, and greater rifts. The latter will have players racing against the clock to kill monsters and try to beat the end boss before time runs out.

MassivelyDiablo III: Reaper of Souls' first update bringing seasonal play originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Jun 2014 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsaction-rpgbattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcash-shopconquestsd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiifantasygothic-fantasygreater-riftsmultiplayeronline-multiplayerpatch-2.1.0reaper-of-soulsroguelikerpgseasonsWed, 18 Jun 2014 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: The strange case of Guild Wars 2's reward system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/06/03/flameseeker-chronicles-the-strange-case-of-guild-wars-2s-rewar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/06/03/flameseeker-chronicles-the-strange-case-of-guild-wars-2s-rewar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/06/03/flameseeker-chronicles-the-strange-case-of-guild-wars-2s-rewar/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Is it cold out there in space, Bowie?
Every now and then I'll hear someone say that Guild Wars 2 has no rewards. They'll say it's extraordinarily grindy, that there's nothing to work toward, and that ArenaNet is intentionally making things harder than they should be so that we'll all give up and buy gems. This is confusing and frustrating to me for two reasons: The first is that all of those things are demonstrably untrue. The second is that I can nevertheless see where those people are coming from to some extent, and it's been difficult to put my finger on why.

GW2 showers players with loot and rewards. In an hour's normal play, I can fill my bags with items and come out of it with a tidy sum of cash; nearly everything in the game is designed to reward players for doing stuff, no matter what that stuff is. Some of it, like Edge of the Mists, is almost ludicrously generous. Even with the changes to the way Queen's Pavilion fights work this time around, it's possible to grab huge numbers of Champion loot bags if you land on an organized megaserver. So why does GW2 feel so stingy?

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: The strange case of Guild Wars 2's reward system

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: The strange case of Guild Wars 2's reward system originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Jun 2014 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbuy-to-playcash-shopfantasyfeaturedfestival-of-the-four-windsflameseeker-chroniclesgame-economygem-storeguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw1gw2ncsoftopinionreward-systemsrewardsTue, 03 Jun 2014 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Origins of Malu will offer F2P with limited lives and permadeath]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/05/15/origins-of-malu-will-offer-f2p-with-limited-lives-and-permadeath/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/05/15/origins-of-malu-will-offer-f2p-with-limited-lives-and-permadeath/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/05/15/origins-of-malu-will-offer-f2p-with-limited-lives-and-permadeath/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Origins of Malu
Origins of Malu has a few interesting ideas regarding its business model that Burning Dog laid out today in a post. The studio prefaced the plan by assuring fans that the title will have "no pay-to-win, no matter what."

The game will offer a hybrid business model, with both subscription and free-to-play options. Sub fees will be "low" and come with bonuses and store currency. If you opt for the free-to-play angle, you'll only have a certain number of lives per day. Spend all of your lives, and you'll either need to stop playing for the day, buy more, or play with the risk of facing permadeath. Free-to-play won't be restricted otherwise, but may contain ads on the loading screen.

Burning Dog said that some of the items that it will sell in its cash shop are housing items, vanity gear, lives, and pets.

MassivelyOrigins of Malu will offer F2P with limited lives and permadeath originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 May 2014 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burning-dogburning-dog-mediabusiness-modelcash-shopf2pfree-to-playitem-shoplimited-livesoomoriginsorigins-of-malupermadeathsandboxsci-fantasysci-fisubsubscriptionThu, 15 May 2014 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaderboard: Do you need to spend money to enjoy Marvel Heroes?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/04/23/leaderboard-do-you-need-to-spend-money-to-enjoy-marvel-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/04/23/leaderboard-do-you-need-to-spend-money-to-enjoy-marvel-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/04/23/leaderboard-do-you-need-to-spend-money-to-enjoy-marvel-heroes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Marvel Heroes' Avengers
I think I might play me some Marvel Heroes. Which is somewhat odd since I'm neither a Diablo nor a Marvel fan. It's not that I have anything against the latter, it's just that I've always read Batman comics and nothing but, so my knowledge of the Marvel-verse is restricted to The Avengers flick and Bryan Singer's old X-Men films.

Anyway, Gazillion's game is of course free-to-play and I'm installing it via Steam as I type. My question for you, though, is should I spring for any of the cash shop bundles or should I just take what the devs are giving away? Which route did you go, and was it the right decision? Vote after the cut!

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

Continue reading Leaderboard: Do you need to spend money to enjoy Marvel Heroes?

MassivelyLeaderboard: Do you need to spend money to enjoy Marvel Heroes? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Apr 2014 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionaction-mmobattle-royalcash-shopf2pfree-to-playgazilliongazillion-entertainmentleaderboardmarvelmarvel-heroesmarvel-universemarvel-universe-onlinemuoone-on-oneone-vs-oneopinionpollpollssecret-identitysuperherosuperheroesversusvotevotesvotingvsWed, 23 Apr 2014 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What convenience items in MMOs will you pay for?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/04/04/the-daily-grind-what-convenience-items-in-mmos-will-you-pay-for/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/04/04/the-daily-grind-what-convenience-items-in-mmos-will-you-pay-for/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/04/04/the-daily-grind-what-convenience-items-in-mmos-will-you-pay-for/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Today's Daily Grind was inspired by a Lifehacker article about paying for real-world conveniences, like vending machines, fast food, and even laundry services. It's a question just as applicable to MMORPGs today, when most are free-to-play or buy-to-play and even the subscription games are loaded with cash shops begging you to spend money to make (often intentionally) disagreeable gameplay more agreeable.

I've seen MMOs offer everything from cheap mounts and skill packs to experience boosters and buff potions, all in the service of making the game more convenient for you at the cost of a few bucks here and there. Some such conveniences can seem exploitative; others don't. But today we're asking you: What convenience items in MMOs are you, personally, willing to pay for?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What convenience items in MMOs will you pay for? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Apr 2014 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brianna-royce-tdgcash-shopconveniencedaily-grindopiniontdgthe-daily-grindFri, 04 Apr 2014 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT opens up player PvP dimensions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/27/rift-opens-up-player-pvp-dimensions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/27/rift-opens-up-player-pvp-dimensions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/27/rift-opens-up-player-pvp-dimensions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

This move is in no way meant to interact with WildStar's Warplots. We don't know what those are. We've never heard of WildStar. In fact, we were out of town. What's new?
Do you like instanced PvP but hate being subject to the PvP maps that the game's designers have put together? Maybe you have an idea for an even better map in RIFT, one that would really give even veteran players a run for their money. Good news, then: Now you can go ahead and make that map a reality with the addition of player PvP dimensions to the game's cash shop.

PvP dimensions are available as part of two-team or three-team Starter Packs, or they can be purchased individually. These maps also give you access to another personal dimension, but their real purpose is letting you build custom maps with the use of scoreboards, damage areas, invisible tiles, and plenty of other tricks to create a truly memorable experience. If you've ever wanted to design an MMO battleground like an old DOOM deathmatch arena, you can go ahead and get started crafting your ideal arena now.

MassivelyRIFT opens up player PvP dimensions originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Mar 2014 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenaarenascash-shopf2pfantasyfree-to-playgame-mechanicshousingmicrotransactionnewsnews-itemsplayer-generated-contentplayer-housingpreviewpvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsThu, 27 Mar 2014 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA's federation bills let you buy discontinued cash shop items]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/26/teras-federation-bills-let-you-buy-discontinued-cash-shop-items/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/26/teras-federation-bills-let-you-buy-discontinued-cash-shop-items/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/26/teras-federation-bills-let-you-buy-discontinued-cash-shop-items/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

This character will relieve you of your TERA federation bills
En Masse has added a new wrinkle to its TERA cash shop. The next time you log into the free-to-play fantasy brawler, you'll receive a pack of five federation bills for your trouble. You'll get five more on each subsequent login "for a limited time," and En Masse will be "introducing more and more ways to get them" in the future.

The bills aren't tradeable, but you can share them across all the characters on your account. They're used at exclusive merchants in towns spread throughout Arborea to purchase "some of those rare items no longer available anywhere else" as well as "plenty of other goodies and treats."

[Thanks Dengar!]

MassivelyTERA's federation bills let you buy discontinued cash shop items originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 26 Mar 2014 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studioscash-shopen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfantasyfederation-billsfree-to-playitem-storeteratera-cash-shoptera-federation-billstera-item-storeWed, 26 Mar 2014 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Diablo III: Reaper of Souls launch day roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/25/diablo-iii-reaper-of-souls-launch-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/25/diablo-iii-reaper-of-souls-launch-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/25/diablo-iii-reaper-of-souls-launch-day-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Diablo 3
Did you stay up late last night to watch the official kick-off stream for Diablo III's Reaper of Souls expansion? Did you wait in long lines at a brick-and-mortar store to buy your copy of the game? No, of course not. You already had it digitally pre-loaded and were playing while those other suckers were out in the cold.

Yes, as of 12:00 a.m. EDT this morning, the Reaper of Souls expansion, complete with its new locations and bosses and class and loot, was officially live. Enjoy our roundup of coverage leading up to the launch, and let us know what you think about the upgrade!

Continue reading Diablo III: Reaper of Souls launch day roundup

MassivelyDiablo III: Reaper of Souls launch day roundup originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 25 Mar 2014 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcash-shopd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiifantasygothic-fantasylaunchlaunch-daylaunch-day-rounduplaunchesmultiplayeronline-multiplayerreaper-of-soulsroguelikerounduprpgTue, 25 Mar 2014 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: The official launches of SMITE and Diablo III's Reaper of Souls]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/24/not-so-massively-the-official-launches-of-smite-and-diablo-iii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/24/not-so-massively-the-official-launches-of-smite-and-diablo-iii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/24/not-so-massively-the-official-launches-of-smite-and-diablo-iii/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

NSM
Welcome back to No So Massively, where every Monday we round up the highlights from the past week in the world of MOBAs, roguelikes, MMOTCGs, and other games that aren't quite MMOs.

Continue reading Not So Massively: The official launches of SMITE and Diablo III's Reaper of Souls

MassivelyNot So Massively: The official launches of SMITE and Diablo III's Reaper of Souls originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 24 Mar 2014 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrianna-royce-nsmcash-shopcompetitive-gamingd3dayzdiablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotadota-2e-sporte-sportselite-dangerousesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgdcgothic-fantasyhearthstoneleague-of-legendslolmobamultiplayernewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayeropinionproject-morpheuspvproguelikeround-uprounduprpgsmitestate-of-decayvideovideosMon, 24 Mar 2014 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blizzard is going on a PAX East road trip]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/17/blizzard-is-going-on-a-pax-east-road-trip/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/17/blizzard-is-going-on-a-pax-east-road-trip/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/17/blizzard-is-going-on-a-pax-east-road-trip/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Blizzard
Blizzard is refueling the company RV and making a mix tape of John Denver and Megadeth for its upcoming cross-country trip to PAX East. The studio announced today that it will have a presence at the convention to show off Hearthstone, Heroes of the Storm, and World of Warcraft: Warlords of Draenor.

Blizzard will be at booth #848 from April 11th through the 13th. Hearthstone will be available to play not only on demo stations but on the iPad as well. Fans can also check out a hands-on demos of Warlords of Draenor, Diablo III for PS4, and Heroes of the Storm with new heroes.

The studio won't just be confined to its booth for the duration of the weekend, as it's planning a presentation on April 11th at 10:30 a.m. EDT about Heroes of the Storm. This presentation will be livestreamed for those who can't make it.

MassivelyBlizzard is going on a PAX East road trip originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 17 Mar 2014 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgactivisionbattlenetblizzardblizzard-all-starsblizzard-dotablizzard-entertainmentcash-shopccgccgmmod3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiifantasygothic-fantasyhearthstoneheroes-of-the-stormmobamultiplayeronline-multiplayerpaxpax-eastpax-east-2014roguelikerpgtcgtcgmmotrading-card-gamewarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowMon, 17 Mar 2014 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch the fury of Diablo III's Crusader in action]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/11/watch-the-fury-of-diablo-iiis-crusader-in-action/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/11/watch-the-fury-of-diablo-iiis-crusader-in-action/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/11/watch-the-fury-of-diablo-iiis-crusader-in-action/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Diablo III
With all of the fun that players seem to be having with the recent Diablo III pre-expansion patch, it might be easy to forget that there's still more to come with Reaper of Souls -- including a new class, the Crusader.

Blizzard hasn't forgotten, of course, and the studio posted a new video today to spotlight the class' mechanics, lore, and visual flair. On paper the Crusader sounds like a near-invincible melee class, but how does it look in action? Check out the video after the break and you tell us.

Continue reading Watch the fury of Diablo III's Crusader in action

MassivelyWatch the fury of Diablo III's Crusader in action originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Mar 2014 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetbetablizzardblizzard-entertainmentcash-shopclassclass-revealcrusaderd3dev-diarydiablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiifantasygothic-fantasyloremultiplayeronline-multiplayerpreviewreaper-of-soulstrailervideoTue, 11 Mar 2014 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Diablo III welcomes you to the Blood Marsh]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/06/diablo-iii-welcomes-you-to-the-blood-marsh/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/06/diablo-iii-welcomes-you-to-the-blood-marsh/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/06/diablo-iii-welcomes-you-to-the-blood-marsh/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Diablo III
Blood Marsh: That doesn't sound too inviting, does it? But it does sound like something that would fit right in with Diablo III's cheery locales. It probably crushed the interview when it applied to be a zone in the game.

Diablo III has a fetid and murky blog post today spotlighting the Blood Marsh region from the upcoming Reaper of Souls expansion. According to Blizzard, the Blood Marsh is "a massive, swampy stretch of land, split by rivers and tributaries often utilized for passage and trade." The theme of "blood," both the red substance and lineage, is integral to the zone's story.

Adventurers in the region will discover signs of an ancient civilization, battle creatures like the bogans and blood golems, and unlock the mysteries of the Ruins of Corvus.

MassivelyDiablo III welcomes you to the Blood Marsh originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 06 Mar 2014 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetbetablizzardblizzard-entertainmentbloodblood-marshcash-shopd3dev-diarydiablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiifantasygothic-fantasyloremultiplayeronline-multiplayerpreviewreaper-of-soulsroguelikerpgThu, 06 Mar 2014 17:00:00 EST