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[The Daily Grind: Do you like having NPCs fight alongside you?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/15/the-daily-grind-do-you-like-having-npcs-fight-alongside-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/15/the-daily-grind-do-you-like-having-npcs-fight-alongside-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/15/the-daily-grind-do-you-like-having-npcs-fight-alongside-you/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

wow
The news that some garrison NPC followers will be able to become your bodyguards and fight alongside you is the first Warlords of Draenor information that's interested me at all. I love such systems in other games, such as companions in Star Wars: The Old Republic and Neverwinter.

It's probably the same reason why I like pet classes: Having a combat NPC there makes me feel less alone and more in charge of a team, even if there's only code on the other end and not an actual human face. (Or so I assume.) Although, as in SWTOR, it might be a little awkward in WoW to see dozens of people running around with the same companion you have.

Do you like it when a game gives you an NPC to be your bodyguard?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do you like having NPCs fight alongside you? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Oct 2014 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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swtor
While not every MMO features companions, there are enough out there that I wager you've played a title or two with a strapping NPC at your side. One of my absolute favorite features of Star Wars: The Old Republic is its companion system. The day that I finally earned my HK-51 was one of the most glorious moments of my life, just narrowly edging out the birth of my children and the return of Arrested Development.

Who is your favorite in-game companion? Did you choose that companion based on personality, looks, or general combat assistance? What is one of your favorite stories involving that character?

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: Who is your favorite in-game companion? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 30 Aug 2014 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>companioncompanionsdaily-grindhk-51opinionstar-wars-the-old-republicswtortdgthe-daily-grindtreekSat, 30 Aug 2014 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIV previews chocobo training]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/07/03/final-fantasy-xiv-previews-chocobo-training/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/07/03/final-fantasy-xiv-previews-chocobo-training/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/07/03/final-fantasy-xiv-previews-chocobo-training/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Good bird! Now you get to eat again.
Your chocobo is your lifelong companion in Final Fantasy XIV, but is he really getting all he can out of life? Does he have the options necessary for a robust avian lifestyle? Is he stuck sitting outside in the cold while you go in and have a few drinks? Are you one of the relentless achievers who has reached max level with the bird and wants to advance past rank 10? Then patch 2.3's chocobo raising system is for you!

Once your free company builds a chocobo stable on its housing plot, you can stable your bird there, allowing him to earn experience and train skills on an hourly basis. Training requires treats, with a special treat allowing your companion to exceed rank 10 (although you're still limited to rank 20 as a maximum). Players will not be able to summon their companion whilst he's stabled. Read the full preview for more details, and get ready to start intimately tending to the needs of your feathered friend.

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XIV previews chocobo training originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 Jul 2014 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>birdbird-is-the-wordbirdschocobochocobo-trainingcompanioncompanionsconsoleconsolesfantasyffff14ffxivffxiv-patch-2.3final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivmountmountsnewsnews-itemspatchpatchessquaresquare-enixupdateupdatesThu, 03 Jul 2014 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Should you subscribe for SWTOR Galactic Starfighter?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/12/03/hyperspace-beacon-should-you-subscribe-for-swtor-galactic-starf/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/12/03/hyperspace-beacon-should-you-subscribe-for-swtor-galactic-starf/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/12/03/hyperspace-beacon-should-you-subscribe-for-swtor-galactic-starf/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Hyperspace Beacon: Should you subscribe for SWTOR Galactic Starfighter?
If our comments are any judge, many gamers do not believe that Star Wars: The Old Republic lived up to its launch hype. These players have been wary about jumping back into the game despite the positive impressions of the latest expansion Galactic Starfighter. Is it worthwhile for them (or anyone else) to jump back in?

BioWare launches its second expansion for SWTOR today. This addition to the game takes us into the thick of the centuries-long struggle between the Galactic Republic and the Sith Empire. Players take command of one of 12 different dog-fighting starships in two possible 12v12 skirmish maps. Far different than the on-rails shooter-minigames the MMO launched with, these maps are completely free-roaming and play more like a flight simulator than StarFox 64. Of course, that alone doesn't necessarily make the expansion worth it. Let's examine the features that could make this expansion worthy of your subscription.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Should you subscribe for SWTOR Galactic Starfighter?

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Should you subscribe for SWTOR Galactic Starfighter? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Dec 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarecompanionseaelectronic-artsexpansionf2pfeaturedfiring-arcfree-to-playgalactic-starfightergunshipshyperspace-beaconlucasartsopinionpvpsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubscriptionswtorthe-old-republictorTue, 03 Dec 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: SWTOR Galactic Starfighter has crew skills, too]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/11/26/hyperspace-beacon-swtor-galactic-starfighter-has-crew-skills-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/11/26/hyperspace-beacon-swtor-galactic-starfighter-has-crew-skills-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/11/26/hyperspace-beacon-swtor-galactic-starfighter-has-crew-skills-t/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

SWTOR Galactic Starfighter has crew skills, too
Last week, I gave you an overview of the next expansion for Star Wars: The Old Republic, Galactic Starfighter. We learned that the 12v12 space battles work independently of the ground game and even eliminate any sort of level requirement in order to begin. Galactic Starfighter commendations are earned only through space battles and work to enhance only starfighter-related skills. In fact, the only tie to the ground game comes in the form of your companions. Companions play a pivotal and fun role in Galactic Starfighter, so much that picking the wrong companion can ruin your impression of the SWTOR expansion altogether.

For each ship loadout, you may pick four companions to give you eight passive abilities and one active ability.The abilities are divided into four categories, as are the companions: defensive, offensive, engineering, and tactical. Your active ability is determined by which of the four companions you choose to be your copilot. It sounds simple enough, right? The complexity begins when choosing which abilities work best for your playstyle.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: SWTOR Galactic Starfighter has crew skills, too

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: SWTOR Galactic Starfighter has crew skills, too originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Nov 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarecompanionscrew-skillseaelectronic-artsexpansionf2pfeaturedfree-to-playgalactic-starfighterguidehyperspace-beaconlucasartsopinionpvpsci-fispacespace-pvpstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorTue, 26 Nov 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What do you want from NPC companions?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/09/29/the-daily-grind-what-do-you-want-from-npc-companions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/09/29/the-daily-grind-what-do-you-want-from-npc-companions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/09/29/the-daily-grind-what-do-you-want-from-npc-companions/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Daily Grind What do you want from NPC companions
More and more MMOs these days are including companion NPCs, it seems. From EverQuest II's mercenaries to Neverwinter's companions, there are plenty of options to party up with the computer and have HAL watch your back in a dicey spot.

So what do you want from NPC companions, if anything? Do you like them around for the company and a person to share a little story with or engage in conversation? Do you want a companion to patch up a weakness in your class' build? Do you show companions off as prestige items to your adoring public? Or perhaps do you just want a poor mule to follow you around and carry all of your junk?

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 want from NPC companions? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 29 Sep 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmocompanioncompanionscrypticcryptic-studiosdaily-grinddndeq-2eq-iieq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfree-to-playneverwinteropinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesoesonysony-online-entertainmenttdgthe-daily-grindSun, 29 Sep 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Neverwinter's companions are real bears (and cats)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/08/01/neverwinters-companions-are-real-bears-and-cats/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/08/01/neverwinters-companions-are-real-bears-and-cats/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/08/01/neverwinters-companions-are-real-bears-and-cats/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Kitty num-nums! Nummers, kitty! Good kitty!
Have you ever found yourself playing Neverwinter and thinking, "This is great, but it'd be way better with an enormous bear mauling things while I cast spells"? Or perhaps you'd prefer a panther, or a hawk, or an enormous spider? Whatever your preferred flavor, the game probably has a companion to match your tastes, and each of them is on display in the new companion trailer embedded just past the cut. Although the idea of a spider companion is kind of really creepy.

This trailer comes along with the addition of a new companion to the cash shop, the Cave Bear. Your ursine companion will obligingly maul your opponents while stealing health and comes with a max rank of 20. There's also a new dye pack, which has very little to do with companions but might help you coordinate your outfit with your feral chums. So check out the full trailer past the break for an idea of what you can do with an animal buddy.

Continue reading Neverwinter's companions are real bears (and cats)

MassivelyNeverwinter's companions are real bears (and cats) originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Aug 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmobearsbears-bears-bearscash-shopcash-shop-itemscompanionscrypticcryptic-studiosdndf2pfantasyfree-to-playgame-mechanicshelpersmicrotransactionsneverwinternpc-companionsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpetspwetrailertrailersursinevideovideosThu, 01 Aug 2013 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[How to claim your Ewok companion in SWTOR]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/08/01/how-to-claim-your-ewok-companion-in-swtor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/08/01/how-to-claim-your-ewok-companion-in-swtor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/08/01/how-to-claim-your-ewok-companion-in-swtor/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Quite possibly the dumbest thing I've seen since Episode I
BioWare has put together a blog post detailing how you can get your hands on Treek the Ewok companion in Star Wars: The Old Republic.

There are two options: the cash shop or in-game credits. For the former, obtaining your Ewok companion is as easy as forking over 2100 Cartel Coins and obtaining a Mercenary Contract quest starter item from the Cartel Market. You'll need to be level 10 to finish the quest and claim your reward.

If you prefer to avoid cash shops, you can still obtain the Mercenary Contract via the astromech Legacy Vendor located on your faction's fleet. You'll need a Legacy level of 40 and a million credits. There's a third option, too, and that is buying the contract from another player via the global auction house. There's a bit more info on the process at the official SWTOR website.

MassivelyHow to claim your Ewok companion in SWTOR originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Aug 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarecartel-marketcompanionseaelectronic-artsewokf2pfree-to-playlucasartssci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictortreekThu, 01 Aug 2013 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Neverwinter test shard gets new zone and more in hefty patch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/07/24/neverwinter-test-shard-gets-new-zone-and-more-in-hefty-patch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/07/24/neverwinter-test-shard-gets-new-zone-and-more-in-hefty-patch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/07/24/neverwinter-test-shard-gets-new-zone-and-more-in-hefty-patch/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Neverwinter test shard gets new zone and more in hefty patch
One of the great things about test servers is a chance to see what's coming up in your favorite games -- that, and hopefully squashing any bugs before going live, of course! And the Preview Shard for Neverwinter got quite a patch with plenty of goodies for players to experience. Want to explore a new zone? There's Sharandar for the level 60 adventuring crowd. How about upgrading a max-ranked companion? For the cost of some Astral diamonds, you've got that, too.

If you prefer to immerse yourself in the Foundry, a whole new suite of assets is coming with the release of Fury of the Feywild, including costumes, encounters, an Elven city interior, maps, objects, and more. The Foundry, however, will be disabled for the first part of the expansion play test.

Other odds and ends of this patch include changing the reset time for daily quests to a standard 6:00 a.m. EDT, new items, and class adjustments along with a fair amount of tweaks and bug fixes. Catch all the details in the full patch notes.

[Thanks to Dengar for the tip!]

MassivelyNeverwinter test shard gets new zone and more in hefty patch originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 24 Jul 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Neverwinter adds ghost and angelsnake companions
Hold on tight to your wallets, kids, because Cryptic's knocking on your door with a couple of new companion offerings for Neverwinter. The studio is releasing the Ghost and Lillend companions, although snagging one is going to require coughing up some cash (or playing the ZEN market smartly).

The Ghost is a former Halfling who's fallen on hard times. She deals necrotic damage and has a neat ability that tosses a DoT onto an enemy while healing allies simultaneously. Lillend is... well, she's interesting. She looks like the cross between a snake and an angel, and as if that didn't give her enough fodder for dinner conversation, she can play the harp. Lillend is the game's first purple-quality healer companion.

While you can buy the Ghost with ZEN, it looks as though Lillend is obtained only as a chance reward for purchasing a professions pack.

MassivelyNeverwinter adds ghost and angel-snake companions originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Jul 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SWTOR adding killer Ewok companion in 2.3
Ewoks may no longer be number one on the list of George Lucas' crimes against humanity -- we'll give that joint honor to Jar Jar Binks and Howard the Duck -- but they're still pretty polarizing amongst fans of a galaxy far, far away.

Naturally, then, BioWare has decided to add a new Ewok combat companion to Star Wars: The Old Republic as part of the forthcoming 2.3 patch. Dulfy.net reports that you'll need to have a level 40 legacy and a million credits to unlock the cuddly little booboo, who also happens to use heavy armor and boasts a heal and tank stance. Dulfy includes plenty of stats and spoilerific cutscene video in the preview article, so click through at your own risk!

[Thanks Dengar!]

MassivelySWTOR adding killer Ewok companion in 2.3 originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 29 Jun 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Neverwinter Days The 14 guides you need to read
I've had a strange start with Neverwinter, to be honest. While I did get in on the 25th with the early-early crowd, shortly thereafter I had to boogie on off to a vacation that canceled out eight days of soft launch gaming time. So even though I got an early start, I'm probably behind many of you -- even those who started on the 30th.

That's OK; I'm not in a rush. I'm not the type to get into a speed race or feel the compulsion to become an instant expert by the end of week one. My experience so far has been feeling out what Neverwinter has to offer, mostly by going through the solo quest line, participating in skirmishes, and queuing up for dungeon runs when time permits. And I'm enjoying myself so far, although I still have that "slightly lost" feeling that comes with exploring a brand-new MMO. I need to learn how to create Foundry missions and I haven't even touched professions yet.

Maybe you're like me. Maybe you assume that everyone already knows the ins and outs of the game as though he's been playing it for years, while you're an ignorant noob wandering the streets. I don't think you're alone if that's the case, and to help both you and me out, I've done some research to find the top 14 most helpful threads, sites, and articles that all fledgling Neverwinter adventurers should at least skim over.

Continue reading Neverwinter Days: The 14 guides you need to read

MassivelyNeverwinter Days: The 14 guides you need to read originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adviceclassescompanionscrypticcryptic-studiosdnddungeons-and-dragonsf2pfantasyfeaturedfoundryfree-to-playguideguideshelpneverwinterneverwinter-daysneverwinter-nightsopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentPGCplayer-generated-contentprofessionspwethe-foundrytiptipstricksWed, 15 May 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR wants to hug every cat-person, including Aric Jorgan]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/16/swtor-wants-to-hug-every-cat-person-including-aric-jorgan/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/16/swtor-wants-to-hug-every-cat-person-including-aric-jorgan/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/16/swtor-wants-to-hug-every-cat-person-including-aric-jorgan/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

SWTOR wants to hug every catperson, including Aric Jorgan
BioWare is reviving its in-depth look at Star Wars: The Old Republic by hosting a look at the grumpiest of Cathar, Aric Jorgan. Jorgan stars in the latest Companions 101 as the author takes a closer look at what makes this Trooper sidekick tick.

Jorgan's personality and history are up front and center in the article, although it does devolve into the issue of personal relationships. As one of the potential romances of SWTOR, Jorgan's has a gruff personality that needs a little finessing to get past. The article gives a few pointers for wooing Jorgan as well as an overview of how he feels about the other companions on the team.

BioWare's also included a look at Jorgan's different visual options and a couple of cool wallpapers if you don't have enough grumpy cats on your computer monitor already.

MassivelySWTOR wants to hug every cat-person, including Aric Jorgan originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 Jan 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aric-jorganbiowarecompanioncompanion-101companionseaelectronic-artsf2pfree-to-playjorganlorelucasartsromancesci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorWed, 16 Jan 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare details SWTOR's Kira Carsen companion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/23/bioware-details-swtors-kira-carsen-companion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/23/bioware-details-swtors-kira-carsen-companion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/23/bioware-details-swtors-kira-carsen-companion/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Star Wars: The Old Republic - Kira Carsen
So, companions. Apparently they're a thing in Star Wars: The Old Republic. They're also a thing in Firefly, but we won't go into that right now. In SWTOR they're a thing that has spawned a web series called Companions 101, which features screenshots, biographical info, customization details, and various and sundry gameplay tips designed to maximize your relationship potential.

The latest entry focuses on one Kira Carsen, whom BioWare describes as anything but your typical Jedi. "Kira disregards authority on multiple occasions. She respects the Jedi Order, but when you are choosing your conversation options remember that she doesn't mind breaking the rules from time to time," BioWare advises.

Check out the full entry and related media on the official SWTOR website.

MassivelyBioWare details SWTOR's Kira Carsen companion originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Oct 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Star Wars: The Old Republic - Kaliyo Djannis
BioWare's shining the spotlight on Star Wars: The Old Republic's NPC companions via a new blog series appropriately named Companions 101. Today's entry features Kaliyo Djannis, who serves as something of a femme fatale for Imperial Agent players.

The dev blog paints Djannis as a complex character who loves to work for the Empire and manipulate her superiors. "When bringing Kaliyo along on missions, keep this in mind. She loves anarchy and respect -- but she will always have an ulterior motive," BioWare says. "Play her at her own game and keep her guessing. The minute Kaliyo becomes bored is the minute she either stabs you in the back or disappears from the ship... with most of your credits."

MassivelyBioWare's Companions 101 series looks at SWTOR's Djannis originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Oct 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarecompanion-101companionseaelectronic-artskaliyo-djannislucasartssci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorthe-old-republictorMon, 01 Oct 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Storyboard: Making character relationships work]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/28/storyboard-making-character-relationships-work/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/28/storyboard-making-character-relationships-work/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/28/storyboard-making-character-relationships-work/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

People staring intently at something, volume twentysomething.
Character interrelationships are the heart of roleplaying. The interesting part of your character isn't his background or his personality; it's what happens when you put him in a room with several other people and let the whole thing move from there. You're trying to create an entirely different person who will build an entirely different set of relationships in an entirely different world.

Unfortunately, some of those relationships can feel a bit... forced -- as if you're trying to find a connection where none exists, or as if you've jumped past some important elements of characterization that would make everything seem clearer. In short, a lot of your relationships feel as if they were cut from the Star Wars prequels.

I harp on verisimilitude a lot in this column, but that's precisely because roleplaying depends on the illusion of reality in each interaction. If your relationships in roleplaying feel real, it does wonders for grounding the characters and their interplay in reality and giving substance to everything else you do. So I think it's worth noting some obvious stumbling points and some ways to help relationships feel more organic.

Continue reading Storyboard: Making character relationships work

MassivelyStoryboard: Making character relationships work originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 28 Sep 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>character-relationshipscharacterscompadrescompanionsenemiesfeaturedfriendshipsloversopinionpeersroleplayroleplayersroleplayingrpstorystoryboardFri, 28 Sep 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars: The Old Republic teases the upcoming HK-51]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/16/star-wars-the-old-republic-teases-the-upcoming-hk-51/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/16/star-wars-the-old-republic-teases-the-upcoming-hk-51/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/16/star-wars-the-old-republic-teases-the-upcoming-hk-51/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Observation: This newspost will contain a great deal of arguing in the comments.
Observation: If you are playing Star Wars: The Old Republic, you have likely accumulated a variety of enemies within the game. Query: Perhaps you would enjoy having some assistance in removing those enemies in a more permanent capacity? Entreaty: Consider employing the coveted HK-51 assassin droid, a mobile platform capable of dispatching even the most stalwart foes when given the proper direction by a master. Aside: Even if said master is a sniveling meatbag.

Anecdote: BioWare first showed off the trailer for the upcoming HK-51 companion during the recently concluded San Diego Comic-Con. Observation: The trailer can now be viewed by players who missed the convention, allowing everyone to see a first glimpse of this special companion. Caveat: It has not yet been revealed how players can acquire their own assassin droids, although hints have been dropped that the process will require a great deal of questing, possibly on both factions. Encouragement: If you aren't daunted at the prospect, by all means, take a look at the trailer and start clearing space on your ship for a new droid.

[Acknowledgement: Thanks to Michael for the tip!]

MassivelyStar Wars: The Old Republic teases the upcoming HK-51 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Jul 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarecompanionseaelectronic-artsfan-favoriteshk-47hk-51lorelucasartsquestssci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorthe-old-republictortrailertrailersupcoming-companionsvideovideosMon, 16 Jul 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Roleplayer's rant]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/hyperspace-beacon-roleplayers-rant/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/hyperspace-beacon-roleplayers-rant/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/hyperspace-beacon-roleplayers-rant/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Hyperspace Beacon: Roleplayer's rant
I don't like to rant. Really! Usually, ranting is full of emotionally charged rhetoric, and oftentimes it's riddled with inaccurate statements. I especially don't like to rant about something that I like a lot. For instance, Star Wars: The Old Republic has, by far, exceeded my personal expectations for any MMO; however, some missteps in production have tainted its perfection. (No, I'm not going to talk about Ilum again.) Of course, we are all looking for our version of perfection in an MMO, right? Unfortunately, no MMO will live up to that expectation. In fact, if I did find my version of MMO perfection, I would probably be the only one playing it. But I do believe I have ideas that those in my community could latch on to. They are also relatively simple. Yes, yes, I know nothing is ever as simple as it seems, but indulge me for a few moments.

As many of you know, I enjoy roleplaying in my MMOs -- character creation, really. I'm not one of those roleplayers who hang out in a pub all day never experiencing any gameplay. Although there's nothing wrong with that, I find it a be a waste of $15 a month.

I have complied what I believe will make the experience of SWTOR more enjoyable for those who enjoy playing the game like I do, and I think that those of you who don't necessarily like to roleplay per se but do like to create unique characters in the MMO space will agree that these are a must. I did set some personal criteria when compiling the list. For instance, I didn't want to break BioWare's general vision for the game. I also wanted to use existing items in the game so that my expectations were realistic -- no guild capital ships or image design system. And all of these items have been mentioned in print someplace before, so I'm not the only one who believes these should be implemented.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Roleplayer's rant

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Roleplayer's rant originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armorBaraslanBioWarechatchat-bubblesclothingcompanionscustomizationEAElectronic-Artsemoteemotesemotingfeaturedgeorg-zoellerLucasArtsroleplayRolePlayingsitting-in-chairsStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicSWTORthe-old-republicTORTue, 24 Jan 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR: Ten things you need to know about companions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/swtor-ten-things-you-need-to-know-about-companions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/swtor-ten-things-you-need-to-know-about-companions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/swtor-ten-things-you-need-to-know-about-companions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

SWTOR Guide to Companions
For those of you who have never played a BioWare RPG before (or any single-player RPG, really), the concept of "companions" may initially strike you as strange. After all, in MMOs we're so used to jaunting off into the wilderness solo without some semi-intelligent NPC tagging along for the ride, so for a game to inform us that we not only will have them but will have to use them all the time may feel odd. If so, we're guessing you've never been into pet classes, either.

Companions are one of the long-standing features of BioWare RPGs; they're both useful fighters who help keep you alive and persistent beings whom you get to know, develop relationships with, and affect in significant ways. In the past, BioWare companions have often been cited as the most memorable parts of the studio's games, from Baldur's Gate II's Minsc to Mass Effect 2's Mordin (to name two of my all-time favorites).

Yet in MMOs, companion NPCs aren't that common, and if you're feeling a little bewildered at the thought of having one at your side at all times in Star Wars: The Old Republic, then we're here to lay out for you 10 reasons why companions are as useful as all get out -- and why you're going to love them like crazy before too long.

Continue reading SWTOR: Ten things you need to know about companions

MassivelySWTOR: Ten things you need to know about companions originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>baldurs-gate-iibiowarebonusbonus-companionscompanioncompanion-listcompanionscraftingcrew-skillsdroideaea-biowareelectronic-artsfeaturedguideguideshk-47hk-51knights-of-the-old-republiclucasartsmass-effect-2petpetspreviewpreviewsromancesci-fiskillsstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstrategy-guideswtorswtor-companionsswtor-gameplay-guideswtor-guideswtor-launch-guidethe-old-republictorMon, 12 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's guide to SWTOR's launch and beyond]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/massivelys-guide-to-swtors-launch-and-beyond/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/massivelys-guide-to-swtors-launch-and-beyond/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/massivelys-guide-to-swtors-launch-and-beyond/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Massively's SWTOR Launch Guide (Original graphic by Larry Everett)
A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away, we first heard mention of a new Star Wars MMO set in the popular Knights of the Old Republic era. Star Wars: The Old Republic, BioWare named it, and we've waited patiently impatiently through months years of hope and hype, fanboys and haters, and at least eight million articles about the fourth pillar of story.

This week, The Old Republic is the new hotness, and the Massively staffers are right there with you, champing at the bit to get in the head start already! But what if you're not an expert on Star Wars lore or TOR's gameplay? What if you don't know the first thing about purple lightsabers, astromechs, and the Kessel Run? What if you can't decide which class to play? When do you get a starship? Can you really romance your companions? How do flashpoints work? And why are there no bathrooms on Coruscant?!

Relax, young Padawan. Put your blast-shield down and let Massively be your guide... literally. We've rounded up a massive collection of helpful introductory guides for each of the eight classes, along with overviews of gameplay mechanics like companions, starships, flashpoints, warzones, and crafting. We've also curated the most illuminating lore essays from our regular SWTOR column, Hyperspace Beacon, in addition to our extensive hands-on previews from the last few years.

Take your first step into a larger world...

Continue reading Massively's guide to SWTOR's launch and beyond

MassivelyMassively's guide to SWTOR's launch and beyond originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advanced-classbiowareclassclassescompanionscraftingeaElectronic-Artsflashpointgameplayguideguidesheadstartlaunchlauncheslorelucasartsmilestonesnewbie-guidepreviewpreviewsroundupsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstarshipsswtorswtor-guideswtor-launch-guidethe-old-republictorwarzoneMon, 12 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter at Your Own Rift: Will RIFT survive the SWTORacolypse?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/23/enter-at-your-own-rift-will-rift-survive-the-swtoracolypse/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/23/enter-at-your-own-rift-will-rift-survive-the-swtoracolypse/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/23/enter-at-your-own-rift-will-rift-survive-the-swtoracolypse/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

RIFT Ember Isle invasion
It's coming. In just a few weeks, Star Wars: The Old Republic will launch, and on every gamer's mind is the subject of how many players it will lure away from other games. It's quite likely that every MMO will suffer a dip in numbers when SWTOR launches -- heck, even World of Warcraft is bracing for impact with a stock downgrade. But as gamers know, a launch is one thing, but how a game does in the months after is more important.

In this week's Enter at Your Own Rift, I'm going to grab that third rail and look at a few ways in which SWTOR and RIFT differ, to see what effect SWTOR's launch might have on the game. Keep in mind that I am a fan of RIFT (hence the regular column), and I also really enjoyed my time in SWTOR's beta, have it pre-ordered, and plan to play the game when it launches. So I'm not saying one is better than the other; rather, I'm looking at differences that might appeal to one playstyle over another.

Continue reading Enter at Your Own Rift: Will RIFT survive the SWTORacolypse?

MassivelyEnter at Your Own Rift: Will RIFT survive the SWTORacolypse? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Nov 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareclassescompanionscomparisoneaElectronic-Artsenter-at-your-own-riftfeaturedkaren-bryanpetsriftsoulsstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictortriontrion-worldsWed, 23 Nov 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lifting the beta curtain: Larry's hands-on with SWTOR's beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/lifting-the-beta-curtain-larrys-hands-on-with-swtors-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/lifting-the-beta-curtain-larrys-hands-on-with-swtors-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/lifting-the-beta-curtain-larrys-hands-on-with-swtors-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Hands-on: Lifting the SWTOR beta curtain
Many of my friends in gaming media have speculated as to why BioWare has allowed some media outlets to report on the heavily veiled Star Wars: The Old Republic beta, but frankly, I don't care. It doesn't matter to me that BlizzCon happens to be tomorrow or that there is a possible connection between the start of that event and the lift of this embargo. All I really care about is that I can finally tell you about actual gameplay for this new Star Wars MMO that I've been personally following for over three years now. However, it will be extremely difficult to contain all my experience of SWTOR within the confines of this one article. However, I will do my darnedest.

Over the past couple of weeks, BioWare allowed us access to the Republic side of this highly anticipated MMO and pretty much set us free. We can report on nearly every gameplay aspect within the first two planets. Two weeks -- that's enough time for me to run more than one class! And that's exactly what I did. Originally, I wanted to run through two classes that weren't going to affect me much when the game goes live. I accomplished this goal with the Jedi Consular. However, when I started to play the Smuggler class, I just could not stop. I was completely engaged in the story.

Jump past the break and I'll tell you all about that -- and more.

Continue reading Lifting the beta curtain: Larry's hands-on with SWTOR's beta

MassivelyLifting the beta curtain: Larry's hands-on with SWTOR's beta originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-previewBioWarecombat-mechanicscompanionsconsularcorso-riggscoruscantEAElectronic-Artsfeaturedfourth-pillarhands-onJedijedi-consularJedi-ShadowLucasArtsord-mantellqyzen-fessscoundrelsmugglerStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorswtor-hands-onthe-old-republictortythonUIThu, 20 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Holocron Files -- Trandoshans]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/hyperspace-beacon-holocron-files-trandoshans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/hyperspace-beacon-holocron-files-trandoshans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/hyperspace-beacon-holocron-files-trandoshans/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Hyperspace Beacon: Holocron Files - Trandoshans
Usually when I talk about lore in the Hyperspace Beacon, I am not always sure whether it will make a huge impact on the games itself, and a lot of the time, my lore topics revolve around well-known pieces of lore. Admittedly over the last year and a half, I did hit a couple of subjects pretty hard, like Jedi, Mandalorians, Jedi, Imperials, Jedi, and Jedi. However, with these Holocron Files, I want to draw on pieces of lore that even devout Star Wars enthusiasts might not know about but that are still important to Star Wars: The Old Republic directly. In the last Holocron File, I talked about the Sith Pureblood because if you play a Sith Warrior, you will be able to choose that species for your character, and they play an important part in Imperial lore. This week, Trandoshans take center stage.

It's an amusing coincidence that Rubi asked about the lore of non-playable races in today's Daily Grind because that's what I'm talking about here. Trandoshans are not playable in SWTOR, but they do play an important role in the story in the game, particularly the Jedi Consular's story, and particularly one Trandoshan: Qyzen Fess.

Beyond the break, let's explore a bit the history of this species, its homeworld, its religion, and its relationship with the rest of the galaxy.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Holocron Files -- Trandoshans

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Holocron Files -- Trandoshans originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWarecompanionsEAElectronic-Artsfeaturedholocron-filesHsskhorjagganath-pointskashyyykloreLucasArtsqyzen-fessStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorswtor-lore-guidethe-old-republicthe-scorekeepertorTrandoshatrandoshanTue, 18 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR dev diary comments on companion control]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/07/swtor-dev-diary-comments-on-companion-control/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/07/swtor-dev-diary-comments-on-companion-control/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/07/swtor-dev-diary-comments-on-companion-control/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

SWTOR companions
A couple of weeks ago, BioWare began a diary outlining the Star Wars: The Old Republic companion. In the second part of the companion developer's diary released today, Senior Game Designer William Wallace tackles the intricate mechanics of companion control. MMO players' opinions vary on how pets should be handled in combat situations. If not handled well, companions can overpower a group sometimes and completely ruin it at others.

Wallace admits that BioWare's vision for companions has been augmented based on how players actually used the NPCs during gameplay. The team added passive and active controls over companions. In fact, if a player only wishes to control some companion actions but not others, BioWare provided ways to do that, too.

We also know that sometimes groups can be split up. Wallace explains how SWTOR works around that:
If a player leaves the group or its proximity, to travel to a vendor for instance, he is able to summon his companion for the journey. Upon reentering proximity of the group, the companion is automatically dismissed. The remaining group can temporarily substitute the missing player with one of their companions if desired.
Companions are a staple in BioWare games. Developers promise to continue to make the companion gaming experience better -- meeting or exceeding your expectations.

MassivelySWTOR dev diary comments on companion control originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 07 Oct 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWarecompanioncompanionsdeveloper-blogdeveloper-diaryEAElectronic-ArtsLucasArtspet-classStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicSWTORthe-old-republicTORwilliam-wallaceFri, 07 Oct 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare releases more SWTOR companion info]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/23/bioware-releases-more-swtor-companion-info/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/23/bioware-releases-more-swtor-companion-info/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/23/bioware-releases-more-swtor-companion-info/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Star Wars The Old Republic - Corso Riggs companion
"Go for the eyes, Boo!"

Er, sorry, wrong BioWare RPG. You'll have to forgive us, though, as the firm's latest dev blog references dear old Minsc in the very first sentence. Yep, it's another treatise on companions in Star Wars The Old Republic, and this time senior game designer William Wallace (really) treats us to a lengthy entry explaining a bit about companion customization and combat.

The latter presentation takes the form of a few short videos showing off the fighting prowess of one Corso Riggs, a heavily armored blaster specialist who functions as one of the Smuggler class companions. Head to the official SWTOR website for all the goods.

MassivelyBioWare releases more SWTOR companion info originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarecompanion-combatcompanion-customizationcompanionscorso-riggscustomizationdev-blogdev-diaryea-biowareelectronic-artsfreeeeeeeeeedomgame-mechanicsgo-for-the-eyes-boominscpetssmugglerstar-warsstar-wars-mmostar-wars-the-old-republicswtorwilliam-wallaceFri, 23 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR companions detailed in new video, interview]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/23/swtor-companions-detailed-in-new-video-interview/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/23/swtor-companions-detailed-in-new-video-interview/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/23/swtor-companions-detailed-in-new-video-interview/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Star Wars The Old Republic - companions
So, who wants to learn about companions? No, not that kind (and more's the pity). We're talking about the traveling chums BioWare is providing for your savior-of-the-galaxy in its upcoming Star Wars The Old Republic science-fantasy opus.

A new video and interview at Gamespot has all the companion-related info that's fit to print -- or compress into a seven-minute clip and throw on a file server, to be more precise -- and game director James Ohlen has a lot to say about companion customization, gameplay mechanics, and the fact that your computer-controlled co-stars "are going to be a significant innovation to MMORPGs."

While the recent brouhaha over same-gender companion romance generated much rancor both in and out of the SWTOR community, BioWare steers clear of the topic here and focuses squarely on the launch-day features. Have a look at the video after the cut, and head to Gamespot for the interview text.

Continue reading SWTOR companions detailed in new video, interview

MassivelySWTOR companions detailed in new video, interview originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Sep 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebrouhahacompanionsgame-mechanicsinnovationinterviewjames-ohlenmmo-industryomg-its-swtorsci-fiscience-fantasystar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorvideoFri, 23 Sep 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR companions will have same-sex romance options... eventually]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/13/swtor-companions-will-have-same-sex-romance-options-eventuall/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/13/swtor-companions-will-have-same-sex-romance-options-eventuall/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/13/swtor-companions-will-have-same-sex-romance-options-eventuall/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

SWTOR screenshot
It's been debated across the MMO blogosphere and casually confirmed in interviews, but today it's been announced formally (and you know it's official because it's in yellow ink): Star Wars: The Old Republic's companion characters will not offer same-sex romance options -- at launch. But such relationships will be making an appearance sometime after launch.

In a statement on the forums, SWTOR Senior Online Community Manager Stephen Reid posted the following:
Due to the design constraints of a fully voiced MMO of this scale and size, many choices had to be made as to the launch and post-launch feature set. Same gender romances with companion characters in Star Wars: The Old Republic will be a post-launch feature. Because The Old Republic is an MMO, the game will live on through content expansions which allow us to include content and features that could not be included at launch, including the addition of more companion characters who will have additional romance options. (Emphasis ours.)
This plan is certainly in line with other BioWare titles while setting it apart from other MMOs. Hopefully this option won't end up in the "never got around to it" bin like housing in a certain other MMO.

MassivelySWTOR companions will have same-sex romance options... eventually originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Sep 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarecompanioncompanionseaElectronic-Artsroleplayromanceromancesrpsame-sex-romancestar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstephen-reidswtortestingthe-old-republictorTue, 13 Sep 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sevencore sci-fantasy MMO reveals English website]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/sevencore-sci-fantasy-mmo-reveals-english-website/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/sevencore-sci-fantasy-mmo-reveals-english-website/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/sevencore-sci-fantasy-mmo-reveals-english-website/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Sevencore - player with mount
Free-to-play publisher gPotato has launched a new English website for Sevencore, an upcoming sci-fi MMORPG developed in Korea by a firm called Noria. The game is described as a "free-riding action MMORPG where technology meets fantasy in a unique post-apocalyptic universe." The website also mentions the usual MMO staples including PvE, PvP, crafting, pets, and "an enhanced mounted air combat" system.

Sevencore just recently entered its Korean closed beta phase, and gPotato plans to bring a closed beta test to Europe sometime in 2012. For now, the new site is sparsely populated with a few screenshots, but there is a bit of closed beta footage floating around on YouTube, and we've collected that for you after the cut.

Continue reading Sevencore sci-fantasy MMO reveals English website

MassivelySevencore sci-fantasy MMO reveals English website originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Aug 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>air-combatbetaclosed-betacompanionsf2pfantasyfree-to-playkorean-betamounted-air-combatnew-titlesnew-websitenoriapetspost-apocalypticsci-fantasysci-fisevencorevideoFri, 19 Aug 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Nuna bites]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/26/hyperspace-beacon-nuna-bites/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/26/hyperspace-beacon-nuna-bites/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/26/hyperspace-beacon-nuna-bites/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

If you happened to be in San Diego this weekend then you may have noticed a large gathering of geekery known as Comic-Con. Usually, this mecca of nerdom focuses on comic book related publications. Although Star Wars: The Old Republic isn't exactly comic book gold, Dark Horse comics rose through the ranks of pulp royalty because of its vast library of Star Wars-related publications. It only seems right that TOR presents itself to this audience.

Besides the panel in Comic-Con proper, BioWare developers hosted three separate question and answer sessions focusing on Star Wars: The Old Republic. As with most Q&As, the majority of questions asked have been answered already in the past. If you were hanging out in Darth Hater's Ventrilo server like I was during the live broadcasts, then you heard a lot of "We knew that already." That being said, there were some pieces of juicy meat tossed to the crowd that we had not heard before. I will call them nuna bites, and you can find your slice after the break.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Nuna bites

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Nuna bites originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Jul 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ACadvanced-classesBioWarecompanionsdallas-dickinsonEAElectronic-Artsendgamefeaturedflashpointgeorg-zoellerHolly-FieldIlumjames-ohlenLucasArtsmountspet-classPvEPvPrich-vogelsan-diegosan-diego-comic-consan-diego-comic-con-2011sdccsdcc-2011Star-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicStephen-Reidswtorthe-old-republictorvehicleTue, 26 Jul 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter at Your Own Rift: Creature comforts]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/enter-at-your-own-rift-creature-comforts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/enter-at-your-own-rift-creature-comforts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/enter-at-your-own-rift-creature-comforts/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

I've got a problem that nine interventions and three bouts of electroshock therapy have yet to cure: I'm hopelessly addicted to collecting non-combat pets (aka vanity pets) in MMOs. I don't know why that is, exactly, although I've always had a fondness for "fluffy" elements on online games. In my opinion, a lot of what we work for in MMOs is cosmetic anyway -- a really good-looking set of armor, a top-of-the-line mount -- with some piddly stats occasionally making a cameo.

(Comment bait? Oh yes, I'm evil that way!)

While adding nothing to my combat power nor helping me advance in the game, pets still hold purpose. They are fun to display, particularly if you have rare critters that others haven't seen, and they can give you a feeling of virtual companionship during your journeys. Unlike many collection items, pets have a use -- you can actually do something with them instead of tucking them away where they'll sit collecting pixelated dust.

I was pretty pleased to discover that RIFT wasn't going to leave us high and dry when it came to non-combat pets, although it's interesting that they're somewhat harder to come by than in, say, World of Warcraft. If you're like I am, you're scouring the game looking to expand your menagerie, so it might be frustrating to be well on your way to 50 with only a paltry pair of pets to your name. Where is everyone getting all of these? How can I snag a few more?

Join me after the jump as we examine six ways to collect crazy critters!

Continue reading Enter at Your Own Rift: Creature comforts

MassivelyEnter at Your Own Rift: Creature comforts originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Jul 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artifactartifact-collectionsascend-a-friendcollectionscompanioncompanionscrittercritter-tearscrittersenter-at-your-own-riftfactionfeaturedharbinger-of-reguloslucky-coinnon-combat-petnon-combat-petspetpetsreputationreputation-vendorriftrift-planes-of-telarariver-of-soulssaga-of-the-endlessscottytelaratriontrion-worldsvanity-petvanity-petswaves-of-madnessworld-eventWed, 06 Jul 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you have an MMO partner?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/13/the-daily-grind-do-you-have-an-mmo-partner/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/13/the-daily-grind-do-you-have-an-mmo-partner/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/13/the-daily-grind-do-you-have-an-mmo-partner/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Everything's always better with a buddy. Sure, you might be having a lot of fun by yourself shooting at everyone in Global Agenda, but it's even better when you know your friend is right there watching your back. And if you decide you don't want to play any longer and move on somewhere new, it's even better to know that your partner is following you as well. You get used to the other person's styles and playing patterns, and you can help compensate for weaknesses.

Some of us have a partner who follows us through several games, some of us have partners in any given game, and some of us go through games like The Man With No Name, without anyone at our back. So where do you fall? Do you have a constant companion, a fairweather friend, or just random acquaintances? And which would you rather have, if the choice were totally yours?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do you have an MMO partner? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 May 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>associatesbackupbuddiescompadrescompanionsfriendsgaming-partnersopinionpalspartnerstdgthe-daily-grindwell-wishersFri, 13 May 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Predictions for The Old Republic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/07/the-perfect-ten-predictions-for-the-old-republic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/07/the-perfect-ten-predictions-for-the-old-republic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/07/the-perfect-ten-predictions-for-the-old-republic/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

I'm going to share with you a deep secret about the Massively staff: Pretty much all of us hate Larry. Oh, as a person he's likable enough, and he showers regularly, so no complaints there. He even saved the President's dog once and earned the Merit of Patriotic Pooches. Women swoon at his feet, and men occasionally throw their billfolds at him just so that he can afford to live the luxurious lifestyle that he obviously deserves.

No, we hate him for a different reason entirely. You see, Larry gets the privilege and honor of being the Star Wars: The Old Republic reporter in these here parts, which has earned him no end of envy from the rest of us. Whenever we're all talking about TOR, Shawn will come in the room and tell all of us to cut it out -- except Larry. "Larry, it's your job to talk about The Old Republic. Keep on truckin', pal! You're the best!"

And then Larry sticks his tongue out at us and makes pretend lightsaber noises for an hour or so while we grit our teeth.

But then I remembered: I have a top ten column! In which I can talk about anything! And if that subject so happened to be TOR, then for one glorious week I could actually talk about BioWare's upcoming MMO without fear of reprisal from upper management! So today is all about my predictions for The Old Republic. Nine of them will come true; one will not. Have fun guessing which one!

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Predictions for The Old Republic

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Predictions for The Old Republic originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebounty-hunterchewiechuck-norriscompanionscraftingea-biowarefeaturedflashpointforce-usergeorge-lucasgreedohan-shot-firsthan-soloimperial-agentjabba-the-huttjawajawa-jedijedikashyyyklarrylarry-everettlightsaberlukemerit-of-patriotic-poochesrancor-pitreturn-of-the-jedisarlaccsmugglerstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictime-traveltortrooperunionswedge-antilleswookieeworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 07 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR says BAM! is the word for today's update]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/swtor-says-bam-is-the-word-for-todays-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/swtor-says-bam-is-the-word-for-todays-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/swtor-says-bam-is-the-word-for-todays-update/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Big news exploded from the Star Wars: The Old Republic camp today. We knew BioWare was going to be at PAX East this year, but we knew nothing of the team's specific plans. In today's updates, the SWTOR devs not only revealed more about the Bounty Hunter profession as we predicted from yesterday's IGN video reveal but also told us that visitors to their PAX booth would be the first of the general public to play the Taral V flashpoint.

The Bounty Hunter page has been overhauled to reflect the advanced classes of Powertech and Mercenary. On the starships page, catch the detailed specs of the Kuat Drive Yards D5-Mantis Patrol Craft -- or the D5-Mantis, for those who think KDYD5MPC is a silly acronym. Mako, the Nar Shaddaa slicer, was officially revealed as a companion for the Bounty Hunter. Also, don't forget the Rattataki species on the inhabitants page.

SWTOR fans who were waiting on endgame reveals will hopefully be going to PAX East this year. You will be able to play a Trooper, Smuggler, Jedi Knight, or Jedi Consular in the Republic Taral V flashpoint, with Lead Designer James Ohlen and Lead Writer Daniel Erickson in the booth to answer all your questions. While you're at booth 912, don't forget to ask for your invitation to the Community Meet and Greet, which starts directly after the booth closes Saturday night -- the event's at the Westin Boston Waterfront hotel right next to the convention center.

Gallery: SWTOR Bounty Hunter reveal

MassivelySWTOR says BAM! is the word for today's update originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Mar 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advanced-classesBioWarebounty-hunterclassclassescompanionsdaniel-ericksonEAElectronic-ArtsFlashpointjames-ohlenLucasArtsPAXPAX-EastPAX-East-2011Star-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstarshipstarshipsswtorTaral-Vthe-old-republictorFri, 04 Mar 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: 2010 Retro!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/28/hyperspace-beacon-2010-retro/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/28/hyperspace-beacon-2010-retro/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/28/hyperspace-beacon-2010-retro/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Wow... 2010 is almost over, and Star Wars: The Old Republic is not released yet. OK, I had speculated at the beginning of this year that we would not see it until 2011. But if you had asked me in October of 2008 (when the official site was launched), I would have told you that the launch was at the end of 2009. There was no way in my mind that a company would launch its website that early. Boy, was I wrong. Little did I know at the time that I would be sitting here at the end of 2010 (the year new life was to begin on Europa), not playing what I hoped would be my favorite game ever. However, this has all given me time to think back about what SWTOR has given us this year.

The year 2010 was the year of SWTOR reveals. Some have questioned whether too much has been revealed -- or rather, hyped. We have had group combat videos, designers switching games, CEOs retiring, opinionated play-throughs, and many other news items. Would you say we have had a plethora of SWTOR news this year? Oh yes, we have had a plethora, El Guapo. I have my favorites and my not-so favorites. Let's explore a few of them in this little retrospective.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: 2010 Retro!

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: 2010 Retro! originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Dec 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010-retrospectivebest-5BioWarecommunity-managerCompanionsEAea-louseend-of-the-year-2010featuredhope-trailerjedi-sageJedi-wizardLucasArtsPAXrelease-datesean-dahlbergSmugglerSpace-on-railsStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicStephen-Reidswtorthe-old-republictop-5torworst-5Tue, 28 Dec 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[King of Kings 3 shows off its world-class menagerie]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/24/king-of-kings-3-shows-off-its-world-class-menagerie/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/24/king-of-kings-3-shows-off-its-world-class-menagerie/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/24/king-of-kings-3-shows-off-its-world-class-menagerie/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

King of Kings 3 recently launched amidst some rather elaborate promises the game may or may not be able to follow up on. (The verdict is out on whether or not it truly is the answer to all our dreams, for instance.) But gamigo's most recent game promises a fair bit of love for a longstanding player favorite: pets. We have a small preview gallery showing off a sample of the variety of pets available in the game, ranging from small helper fairies to class-specific helper pets.

There are three basic categories of pets: imamus, class pets, and mounts. Imamus boost both the character's leveling rate and regeneration rate while serving as a remote vendor for unwanted items. Mounts come in a wide variety of flavors while offering players unspecified buffs, and class pets serve as a boon for several classes -- Sword Mages can conjure an animated sword as a companion, while Bishops get a guardian angel. If the description of the pets of King of Kings 3 interests you, take a peek at the gallery for some samples of the companions in action.

Gallery: King of Kings 3

MassivelyKing of Kings 3 shows off its world-class menagerie originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 24 Nov 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buffscompanion-petscompanionsf2pfree-to-playgalleriesgallerygamigoking-of-kings-3kok3mountsnew-releasesnew-titlespet-classespetsscreenshotscreenshotsWed, 24 Nov 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Managed crafting]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/16/hyperspace-beacon-managed-crafting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/16/hyperspace-beacon-managed-crafting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/16/hyperspace-beacon-managed-crafting/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

As the launch of Star Wars: The Old Republic draws nigh, BioWare and LucasArts have been more and more forthcoming with information about game mechanics. This week, the big reveal was crew skills. This cryptic term is simply another word for crafting. Back at E3 this year, Rich Vogel, a producer for SWTOR, mentioned there would be crafting in the game, but he only gave us a tiny tidbit of news. He simply said that it would be like World of Warcraft's. Then a few months later at PAX Prime, I talked to Blaine Christine, another SWTOR producer. He said, "I think it's a different take on crafting than what people will be expecting. It's not the standard implementation. It's going to be a treat." We have seen that it is definitely not the standard implementation, but whether it's a treat or not is yet to be decided.

Before we begin the rest of this article, I want to make sure you have a bit of research under your belt. You have to know what the crew skill crafting system is like. So you definitely have to read our announcement of this system as well as our interview with Daniel Erickson from last week. This should give you a good understanding of what the whole crew skills system is about.

So now that your homework is done, step over the break, and let's explore the pros and cons of this interesting system.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Managed crafting

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Managed crafting originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWareblaine-christinecompanionscraftingcrew-skillsdaniel-ericksonEAElectronic-ArtsfeaturedLucasArtsrich-vogelStar-Warsstar-wars-galaxiesstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorwhy-crafting-is-going-to-rockwhy-crafting-is-going-to-suckWorld-of-WarcraftTue, 16 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively interviews BioWare on SWTOR's crafting and PvP]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/12/massively-interviews-bioware-on-swtors-crafting-and-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/12/massively-interviews-bioware-on-swtors-crafting-and-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/12/massively-interviews-bioware-on-swtors-crafting-and-pvp/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

This past Wednesday, I had the opportunity to head down to LucasArts in San Francisco to check out the current build of Star Wars: The Old Republic and chat with some of the BioWare developers. While my hands-on with the game won't be out until next month, we can deliver a couple of smaller interviews on two of the recently revealed systems in the game. And I think you'll want to hear what the interviewees have to say!

Join me past the cut as I ask lead writer Daniel Erickson and lead PvP designer Gabe Amatangelo all about the Alderaan Warzone, the PvP reward system, avoiding battleground design pitfalls, companion tradeskilling, player-made gear, and hardcore crafting in SWTOR.

Continue reading Massively interviews BioWare on SWTOR's crafting and PvP

MassivelyMassively interviews BioWare on SWTOR's crafting and PvP originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Nov 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alderaan-warzonebattlegroundbattlegroundsBioWarebioware-eacompanioncompanionscraftingcrafting-systemdaniel-ericksonEAeconomyElectronic-Artsfeaturedgabe-amatangelogearinterviewInterviewsLucasArtspvpStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictortradeskilltradeskillswarzonewarzonesFri, 12 Nov 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Newly "smuggled" information from Star Wars: The Old Republic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/24/newly-smuggled-information-from-star-wars-the-old-republic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/24/newly-smuggled-information-from-star-wars-the-old-republic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/24/newly-smuggled-information-from-star-wars-the-old-republic/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Just when we think there isn't anything more that can be revealed about the smuggler class, BioWare proves us wrong. The Old Republic website just launched a slew of screenshots, advanced class data, and videos about Han Solo's favorite Republic class. Let's see if we can break this down into bite-sized pieces.

First, we know the smuggler's duck-and-cover combat techniques are not new, but we now have an official breakdown of the advanced classes. The scoundrel advanced class is all about sneaking in, hitting hard, then getting out before anyone notices. The stealth belt, med pack, and single blaster are his equipment of choice. The gunslinger advanced class controls the enemies' movement as well as packing a nice DPS punch. All the gunslinger needs is two blasters and perfect aim -- if you bust an enemy's knees or blindshot him, he ain't gonna move.

Secondly, we have one of the smuggler's companions: Bowdaar. This Wookiee is most likely picked up on the Smuggler's Moon, Nar Shaddaa, since he is a gladiator in the arenas there. Although he uses few -- if any -- weapons, this strong-armed companion has never been defeated in battle. This sets him up well to be the tank to the smuggler's healer or crowd control role. Plus, what's a smuggler without a Wookiee partner, right?

Lastly, what would a smuggler be without a starship? The Corellian XS Stock Light Freighter serves at the smuggler's transportation of choice. As with most Corellian-designed vessels, the XS Stock Light is perfect for cargo transportation, crew accommodation, and pirate defense. Everything your smuggler will need to find consistent work throughout the galaxy, plus a few added features to hide not-so-legal items.

Check out more information about this sneaky class on the official site, and don't forget to visit our gallery for some awesome screenshots.

Gallery: Smuggler Class

MassivelyNewly "smuggled" information from Star Wars: The Old Republic originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWareBowdaarclassescompanionsCorellianeaElectronic-ArtsgunslingerLucasArtsprofessionsscoundrelsmugglerspace-shipspaceshipstar-shipStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstarshipswtorthe-old-republictorwookieeXS-stock-light-freighterFri, 24 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR finds a companion for the Jedi knight]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/15/swtor-finds-a-companion-for-the-jedi-knight/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/15/swtor-finds-a-companion-for-the-jedi-knight/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/15/swtor-finds-a-companion-for-the-jedi-knight/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

In SWTOR's Deceived trailer, there was an odd shot of the Jedi leader giving a signal to an astromech droid. Per usual, the writers at BioWare do not put anything into their trailers without a specific reason. This past Friday, that little droid was revealed to be a companion for the Jedi knight class, named T7-O1 (tee seven - oh one). This little bot calls back to both T3-M4 of Knights of the Old Republic and, of course, R2-D2 of the Star Wars movies. In fact, his attitude is very similar to R2-D2's. According to the companion page on SWTOR's official site, he considers his owners to be more like partners and less like masters.

T7-O1 was activated over two centuries before the Treaty of Coruscant and has yet to be memory-wiped in that whole time. He remembers every organic he has ever worked with, from the petty smugglers, to Senator Oodora of Manaan, to Captain Nico Okarr, and to Jedi Master Ven Zallow, whom we witnessed being killed by Darth Malgus in the previously mentioned trailer. For your Jedi knight character, you can expect this droid to be an invaluable source of information. His surveillance, cartography, and data-slicing skills are unmatched.

BioWare has not revealed where your Jedi knight will meet T7-O1, just like every other companion mentioned for this game, but rest assured, he's waiting for you somewhere in that galaxy far, far away.

MassivelySWTOR finds a companion for the Jedi knight originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 15 Aug 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>astromechBioWarebwooocompanioncompanionsdarth-malgusdeceiveddroidEAea-biowareeletronic-artsfan-fridayjedi-knightKnights-of-the-Old-RepublickotorLucasArtsR2-D2Star-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorswtor-fan-fridayt3-m4t7-o1the-old-republictortreaty-of-coruscantven-zallowSun, 15 Aug 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lost Pages of Taborea: Gotta catch 'em all]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/19/lost-pages-of-taborea-gotta-catch-em-all/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/19/lost-pages-of-taborea-gotta-catch-em-all/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/19/lost-pages-of-taborea-gotta-catch-em-all/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

What an incredible expansion Chapter III: The Elder Kingdoms is turning out to be! In addition to the awesomeness of the new two-seated mounts and the new instance, Runes of Magic also received surprisingly large new gameplay features. Yes, I'm talking about the new pet system that seemed to be overshadowed during the advertising of The Warnorken Castle, but is no less exciting than Warnorken Arena, for which the patch was named.

The pet system is so large in scope that it renewed the initial wonder and excitement I had when I first logged in to RoM and saw all the uniquely deep elements it began with. Finding, naming, and caring for pets is an entire game unto itself that bleeds into -- and feeds -- other aspects of RoM as well. It's Pokemon meets Digimon meets MMO, and it's delivered to you by the Easter Bunny. Hop past the jump to reveal all the inner workings of this awesome new system.

Continue reading Lost Pages of Taborea: Gotta catch 'em all

MassivelyLost Pages of Taborea: Gotta catch 'em all originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Jul 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chapter-3companionsdigimoneaster-bunnyfeaturedfeedingfrogsterfrogster-interactiveguidepet-eggspet-loyaltypet-systempetspickachupokemonraisingromrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentthe-elder-kingdomstrainingMon, 19 Jul 2010 16:00:00 EST