Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Are you still excited to try RIFT's free-to-play option?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/the-daily-grind-are-you-still-excited-to-try-rifts-free-to-pla/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/the-daily-grind-are-you-still-excited-to-try-rifts-free-to-pla/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/the-daily-grind-are-you-still-excited-to-try-rifts-free-to-pla/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

I don't have any idea what hand I should place this on. It looks kind of gross.
If you'd missed it, RIFT recently announced that the game will go free-to-play on June 12th. Obviously, the hope is to bring in a variety of new players, but the circumstances surrounding the announcement can result in a bit of whiplash when deciding whether or not to count yourself among those getting into the game.

On the one hand, RIFT is making humble promises about the item shop... but on the other hand, the development team also promised the game would never go free-to-play. Trion Worlds did just get hit by layoffs, but it's been said those layoffs don't affect RIFT's staff. It's long had consistent updates, but those updates have dropped off sharply this year.

Is trying the game out a good idea? A bad one? Today, we ask our readers to decide. Carefully weighing all the evidence, are you still excited to try RIFT's free-to-play option? Or do you think you'll be giving it a pass?

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: Are you still excited to try RIFT's free-to-play option? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 18 May 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conquestdaily-grindf2pfantasyfree-to-playopinionpvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrtdgthe-daily-grindthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsSat, 18 May 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT gives a sneak peek at F2P item shop]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/rift-gives-a-sneak-peek-at-f2p-item-shop/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/rift-gives-a-sneak-peek-at-f2p-item-shop/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/rift-gives-a-sneak-peek-at-f2p-item-shop/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

RIFT gives a sneak peek at F2P item shop
What will RIFT's free-to-play version look like? While we won't get to see it in action until the game makes the transition on June 12th, Trion Worlds has posted a screenshot of the new item store and some of its offerings for players to peruse.

The store screenshot includes a preview pane of a character wearing a fancy outfit and a top hat, as well as a list of several items. These include 30-day patron pass, faction changing scroll, character rename scroll, rename guild scroll, transfiguration bauble, rune unsocketing apparatus, and planar essence removal device. Later on in the thread, the studio posted a picture of a different cosmetic outfit being worn by a female character.

To "ensure a successful transition," Trion has sent out surveys to all current subscribers about the free-to-play switch.

MassivelyRIFT gives a sneak peek at F2P item shop originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 May 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cash-shopconquestf2pfantasyfree-to-playitem-storepvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptop-hattriontrion-worldsFri, 17 May 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT goes free-to-play, promises 'no tricks, no traps']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/rift-goes-free-to-play-promises-no-tricks-no-traps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/rift-goes-free-to-play-promises-no-tricks-no-traps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/rift-goes-free-to-play-promises-no-tricks-no-traps/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

RIFT announces freetoplay,
Trion Worlds has just announced that fantasy MMO RIFT will be headed free-to-play on June 12th. Though former studio reps were once adamant that the game would remain a subscription MMO, the team has apparently decided it can better compete in a F2P world by being F2P. The hybrid model will include an optional sub with fully free content like dungeons and questing; consumables, cosmetics, and even gear will make up the cash shop.

We asked Creative Director Bill Fisher to explain the whys and wherefores of this decision. Check out our interview after the jump!

[Updated: The official site has also posted a handy chart to show you what you're getting at different tiers.]

Continue reading RIFT goes free-to-play, promises 'no tricks, no traps'

MassivelyRIFT goes free-to-play, promises 'no tricks, no traps' originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 May 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bill-fisherconquestempyreal-assaultf2pfantasyfree-to-playhybridinterviewinterviewspvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsTue, 14 May 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Defiance bugs invade RIFT]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/defiance-bugs-invade-rift/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/defiance-bugs-invade-rift/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/defiance-bugs-invade-rift/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

And this has somehow happened before Zerg invade Azeroth. I'm speechless.
Adventurers of Telara, you've kind of got a good news/bad news situation taking place here. The bad news is that RIFT is getting invaded, which was already the case. The worse news is that it's now being invaded by the Hellbugs from Defiance, which usually require a great deal of automatic weapons fire to be put down. The good news is that if you can somehow manage to overcome the distinct lack of any firearms and put down the invasion, you can keep a Hellbug around to ride! Wait, that might still be bad news.

Yes, Trion Worlds is kicking off a cross-promotional event with new fire rifts that give players a chance at Defiance-related rewards, most notably the chance to pick up a Hellbug mount. The event is open to all players, even if you're just trying out the game's Lite version. No word on how long the event will last, but it's probably best to assume that it won't be forever -- which is also sort of a good news/bad news situation, unless you wanted to see the game overrun by Hellbugs.

MassivelyDefiance bugs invade RIFT originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 May 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkark-hunterarkfallconquestcross-promotionsdefiancedynamic-eventsfantasyin-game-eventsinvasionsmmo-shooterpromotionspvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrsci-fishootersyfythird-person-shooterthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptpstransmedia-synergytriontrion-worldstvxboxWed, 01 May 2013 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT invites players to move into a new dimension]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/rift-invites-players-to-move-into-a-new-dimension/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/rift-invites-players-to-move-into-a-new-dimension/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/rift-invites-players-to-move-into-a-new-dimension/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

RIFT invites players to move into a new dimension
Budding interior (and exterior) decorators, get out your throw pillows: RIFT has added a brand-new dimension to the game today. Moonshade Pools was chosen by players to be the next housing plot in the game, and features cascading pools with a far-out view. It costs 300 platinum to purchase and starts out with space for 250 items with the option to increase to 1000.

The team will be livestreaming a couple of player-created Moonshade dimensions tomorrow at 4:30 p.m. EDT if you need inspiration for your own masterpiece.

MassivelyRIFT invites players to move into a new dimension originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Apr 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conquestdimensiondimensionsfantasyhousingpatchplayer-dimensionplayer-housingpvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsupdateThu, 18 Apr 2013 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Soggy beginnings]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/14/one-shots-soggy-beginnings/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/14/one-shots-soggy-beginnings/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/14/one-shots-soggy-beginnings/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

One Shots Soggy beginnings
Dungeons and Dragons Online newcomers and veterans alike are quite familiar with the waterlogged Sahuagin and all of their wacky antics. Basically think "level 1 mermaids from hell" and you're right with the rest of us. It's a good thing that the game doesn't have smell-o-vision because the tutorial would be reeking of a fishery, that's all I'm saying.

Reader Sharvis photographed his initial journey through the game and delivered this familiar image of an odd cellar. "Oh great, the Wavecrest Tavern's basement has flooded," he writes. "And who let the Sahuagin in? They're making everything look tacky again!"

We'll get the sump pump working while you check out the rest of today's player-submitted screenshots!

Continue reading One Shots: Soggy beginnings

MassivelyOne Shots: Soggy beginnings originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 14 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>back-to-betabetabiowarebring-back-one-shotsbrowserbrowser-basedcasualconquestddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeaelectronic-artsf2pfantasyflashfree-to-playgalleriesgalleryglitchhipsterlucasartsone-shotspics-or-it-didnt-happenpvpreader-screenshotsreader-submissionsriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrsandboxsci-fiscreenshotscreenshotsstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republicthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptinyspecktortriontrion-worldsturbineturbine-entertainmentultima-onlineunlauncheninguouser-submissionsSun, 14 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT celebrates the arrival of Moonshade dimensions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/11/rift-celebrates-the-arrival-of-moonshade-dimensions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/11/rift-celebrates-the-arrival-of-moonshade-dimensions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/11/rift-celebrates-the-arrival-of-moonshade-dimensions/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Are you totally certain we're not in Azeroth now? I mean, at first glance...
The development team behind RIFT is pretty happy with the new dimension being added to the game next week. In fact, they're so happy that they're kicking off a mini-celebration for players to get in on the dimensional decoration game. They're also giving a pair of ferns to any player who subscribes to the game's email newsletter, allowing you to make your dimension just a little bit prettier. (It's a big place, and there are only two ferns.)

The first celebratory event is being held tomorrow at 4:30 p.m. EDT -- a Dimensional Thunderdome, where three teams compete to see who can make the most lovely dimension possible. At the same time on 4/19, the developers will be holding a special tour of two different takes on the new dimension, showing players just how much you can do with the region. So if you're ready to forge a new landscape to your will, just wait a little while longer.

MassivelyRIFT celebrates the arrival of Moonshade dimensions originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 11 Apr 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conquestculturedeveloper-eventsdimensionsfantasyin-game-eventsnew-dimensionsplayer-housingplayer-structurespvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsThu, 11 Apr 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Bleepity bleep edition, April 8 - 14, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/08/the-stream-team-bleepity-bleep-edition-april-8-14-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/08/the-stream-team-bleepity-bleep-edition-april-8-14-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/08/the-stream-team-bleepity-bleep-edition-april-8-14-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Stream Team Bleepity bleep edition, April 8 14, 2013

It's definitely not a new thing. Throughout the ages, when intense frustration strikes, a colorful epithet can slip past the lips of even the most soft-spoken. Heck, at particularly annoying times, a full string of them has been known fly forth from the most unexpected sources. And we all know that there are plenty of frustration-inducing situations in gaming. So it's not hard to equate swearing with gaming, right?

Of course, we at Massively TV advocate a responsible use of language during our adventures. While there could be a time or a place for the universally known curses, we prefer bursts of creative language skills. And if there's one thing The Stream Team has, it's an abundance of creativity! We've learned it is possible to express frustration while avoiding the censors because censors are mean and carry big, painful sticks! Ouch.

Need proof? Pop into any of the shows scheduled this week or the reruns from last; watch how deftly (or not) our intrepid streamers react to curse-creating incidents. Hope as they might, nothing can go smoothly all the time... or for the very unlucky, at all! A perfect demonstration of this is highlighted in our newest section, a place devoted to showcasing a stream of the week. Catch MJ's colorful repurposing of the English language first-hand in Highlight Reels, then offer your most creative expression in the Outtakes.

Continue reading The Stream Team: Bleepity bleep edition, April 8 - 14, 2013

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Bleepity bleep edition, April 8 - 14, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2la-mystical-landactionaction-mmoactivisionage-of-wulinage-of-wushuaionanetarenanetarkark-hunterarkfallascensionasiabiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrowserbrowser-basedbuy-to-playccpccp-gameschampionschampions-onlinechampschinachinesechinese-mmococonquestconsoleconsolescrypticcryptic-studiosdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuodefianceDinostormdotadota-2e-sporteaelectronic-artseq-2eq-iieq2eqiiesporteveeve-onlineeverquest-2everquest-iif2pfactionfantasyfeaturedfrfree-realmsfree-to-playfuncomgpotatoguild-warsguild-wars-2gvggwgw2heroes-of-newerthhi-rezhi-rez-studioshistoricalhonhorrorinternet-spaceshipskid-friendlykidnappingkidskids-mmolindenlinden-lablivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamslucasartsmartial-artsmassively-metamassively-tvmetaming-dynastymmo-shootermobamultiplayer-online-battle-arenamv-guidemv-tvmvguidemvtvmythologyncsoftperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentplaystation-3playstation3pollps3pvppweraiderzreal-liferiftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrs2s2-gamessandboxScarlet-Bladesci-fantasysci-fisecond-lifesecret-worldshooterskill-basedslSmitesnail-gamessnail-games-usasoesonysony-online-entertainmentspreadsheets-onlinestar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstreamstream-schedulestream-teamstreamersstreamingstreamteamsubscriptionlesssuperherosuperheroesswtorsyfytanktanksthe-old-republicthe-secret-worldthe-stream-teamthird-person-shooterthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptortpstransmedia-synergytriontrion-worldstruly-freetswtvtwitchtwitch-tvVillagers-andheroesvirtual-worldvirtual-worldswarwarcraftwargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-of-warcraftwotwowwushuwuxiaxboxMon, 08 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Fools vs. floppy ears edition, April 1 - 7, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/01/the-stream-team-fools-vs-floppy-ears-edition-april-1-7-201/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/01/the-stream-team-fools-vs-floppy-ears-edition-april-1-7-201/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/01/the-stream-team-fools-vs-floppy-ears-edition-april-1-7-201/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Stream Team Fools vs floppy ears edition, April 1 7, 2013
Though infrequent, it does happen: Once in a while two holidays go toe to toe on the calendar. This year, it just so happens that April Fools' Day rides in on the tail of the Easter Bunny. So what do you do when these very different holidays bump up against each other? You do what any self-respecting Stream Team fan does: You watch more Massively TV! Of course, that's pretty much the answer to everything, isn't it?

Some day these two holidays might actually overlap. If that were the case, who do you think would come out on top in a brawl over celebration rights -- that floppy-eared frolicking rabbit known for leaving chocolate or the fool (with or without a bell-tipped hat) who delights in pranking and tricking? After watching Rise of the Guardians, I think my money is on the bunny. Worst case scenario is they team up together and we end up with trick chocolate.

While contemplating this match-up, join us for a week of intense livestreams with your favorite hosts, playing such classics as Fruit Ninja and Fruity Loops Studio.

Continue reading The Stream Team: Fools vs. floppy ears edition, April 1 - 7, 2013

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Fools vs. floppy ears edition, April 1 - 7, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2lactionaction-mmoactivisionallodsallods-onlineanetApril-Foolsarcane-legendsarenanetastrum-nivalbiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrowserbrowser-basedbuy-to-playccpccp-gamesconquestconsoleconsolesdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuodotadota-2e-sporteaEasterelectronic-artseq-2eq-iieq2eqiiesporteveeve-onlineeverquest-2everquest-iif2pfactionfamilyfantasyfeaturedfrfree-realmsfree-to-playFruity-Loops-Studiofuncomgala-netgpotatoguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw2heroes-of-newerthhi-rezhi-rez-studioshistoricalhonhorrorinternet-spaceshipskid-friendlykidskids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlindenlinden-lablivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamslucasartsmail-ru-gamesmail.ru-gamesmailru-gamesmassively-metamassively-tvmetamobamultiplayer-online-battle-arenamv-guidemv-tvmvguidemvtvmythologyncsoftnew-englandparadoxparadox-interactiveperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpermadeathplaystation-3playstation3pollps3pvppweraiderzreal-liferiftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrs2s2-gamessalemsandboxscarlet-bladesci-fantasysci-fisecond-lifesecret-worldsegaskill-basedslSmitesoesonysony-online-entertainmentspiral-knightsspreadsheets-onlinestar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsteamstreamstream-schedulestream-teamstreamersstreamingstreamteamsubscriptionlesssuperherosuperheroesswtorthe-old-republicthe-secret-worldthe-stream-teamthree-faction-pvpthree-ringsthree-rings-designthree-way-pvptortriontrion-worldstswtwitchtwitch-tvvirtual-worldvirtual-worldswarcraftwizard101world-of-warcraftwowMon, 01 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Cutest creatures]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/the-perfect-ten-cutest-creatures/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/the-perfect-ten-cutest-creatures/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/the-perfect-ten-cutest-creatures/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Perfect Ten Cutest creatures
I vividly remember a conversation I had with my then-girlfriend's parents back in 1996 about the potential of this growing "internet" phenomenon. With my limited understanding, I made it sound downright noble, a Library of Congress available at the fingertips of the average Joe or Jane. What I really should have said that it would be a tool for the distribution of pornography, nerd rage, and cute animal pictures.

I have no idea how big the cute animal picture industry is, but there have got to be millions of aspiring photographers daily who prod little baby critters with encouragement sticks in the hopes of eliciting a few "awws" out of strangers. Even when the serious business of MMOs came a-calling, cuteness infested fantasy lands near and far.

Whenever I see something absurdly cute in an MMO, I always smile because I know that somewhere, some uber-elite, way-too-serious player is developing facial tics from being in the same game world as it. So twitch away, as here are 10 of the cutest critters as seen in-game!

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Cutest creatures

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Cutest creatures originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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RIFT Korea closure announcement
It's been nearly a year since Trion took RIFT overseas, and now it appears that the fantasy title's foray into the Korean market is over. Despite a significant free-to-play conversion last winter, the game will close its doors on April 25th.

MMO Culture reports that despite positive word-of-mouth in the Korean gaming press, RIFT couldn't overcome stiff competition from Blade & Soul and Diablo III. The site also says that refunds will be processed beginning on April 17th while the game's cash shop will cease operations on March 28th.

[Thanks Dengar!]

MassivelyTrion shutting down RIFT in Korea originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conquestfantasypvpriftrift-closing-in-korearift-korearift-literift-planes-of-telararvrthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsWed, 27 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Brand-new souls are in the works for RIFT]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/brand-new-souls-are-in-the-works-for-rift/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/brand-new-souls-are-in-the-works-for-rift/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/brand-new-souls-are-in-the-works-for-rift/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Brandnew souls are in the works for RIFT
New souls may not be that far away for RIFT. Rift Junkies has called attention to a dev post in the game's official forums that states that brand-new souls and other class features are being worked on.

For full context, Daglar the Dev was responding to a complaint that devs weren't paying attention to player feedback. After stating that the issue was about the many demands on dev's time rather than being willfully ignorant of feedback, Daglar followed up with this gem: "I hate talking about things that are not close to being ready, but Kervik and Aillion are pretty busy working on brand-new souls and other class related features for the future right now."

While "the future" is a pretty indefinite term, this is exciting news for folks hoping for new souls to experiment with.

MassivelyBrand-new souls are in the works for RIFT originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Mar 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conquestdaglarfantasypvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrsoulsthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsMon, 25 Mar 2013 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: GDC edition, March 25 - 31, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/the-stream-team-gdc-edition-march-25-31-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/the-stream-team-gdc-edition-march-25-31-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/the-stream-team-gdc-edition-march-25-31-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Stream Team GDC edition, March 25 31, 2013
This week a sizable chunk of the gaming industry descends on downtown San Francisco for the annual Game Developers Convention. And yes, Massively will be there cornering every dev that gets in our sights, convincing them all to answer as many of our burning questions as possible before someone finds and rescues them!

I was even thinking how neat it would be to add these little tête-à-têtes to the Massively TV line up. Alas, I was thwarted; something about "evidence." Ah well, there are still plenty of live shows scheduled and a plethora of reruns to fill out your week while waiting on the GDC news.

If you have any burning questions about your favorite games, add them to the comments below and we'll see how many we can get answers for. And don't miss our two bonus polls at the end.

Continue reading The Stream Team: GDC edition, March 25 - 31, 2013

MassivelyThe Stream Team: GDC edition, March 25 - 31, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Mar 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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RIFT celebrates second anniversary with a freebie weekend and sale
There's nothing quite like a birthday to put a studio in the mood to give things away. Really, if more people thought like that, the world might be a happier place for everyone.

If you've been looking for a chance to get into RIFT, however, your world can be a happier place right now. Starting today and running 'til the 25th, folks can return to Telara for free to celebrate the second anniversary and check out the Carnival of the Ascended. Of course, you can't return to a place you've never been, so what's a newbie to do? Trion hasn't forgotten you: Until the 25th, RIFT's standard and infinity editions are on 25% sale.

MassivelyRIFT celebrates its second anniversary with a freebie weekend and sale originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Mar 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarybirthdaycarnival-of-the-ascendedconquestdealdealsdiscountfantasypvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrsalesalesthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsThu, 21 Mar 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT guild creates Star Wars tableau]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/19/rift-guild-creates-star-wars-tableau/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/19/rift-guild-creates-star-wars-tableau/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/19/rift-guild-creates-star-wars-tableau/#commentsFiled under: , ,

RIFT guild creates Star Wars tableau
No, this isn't Star Wars Galaxies revived from the dead. It's actually one of many screenshots of a Star Wars-themed guild dimension in RIFT, painstakingly created for visitors to enjoy.

We've seen plenty of creative examples of player housing in RIFT since Storm Legion added the feature, but this may take the cake. The dimension, which exists on the EU server of Icewatch, includes an Ewok village with AT-ST, a Dewback, an X-Wing, an AT-AT vs. landspeeder, the Millennium Falcon, a Star Destroyer, and even a little Yoda cave. The detail and ingenuity that's gone into this is impressive... most impressive.

The bar has been raised for housing design. Your move, other players.

MassivelyRIFT guild creates Star Wars tableau originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 Mar 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conquestdimensiondimensionsfantasyguild-dimensionhousingplayer-dimensionplayer-housingpvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrstar-warsstar-wars-galaxiesstorm-legionthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsTue, 19 Mar 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Squandered Daylight Saving edition, March 18 - 24, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/18/the-stream-team-squandered-daylight-saving-edition-march-18/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/18/the-stream-team-squandered-daylight-saving-edition-march-18/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/18/the-stream-team-squandered-daylight-saving-edition-march-18/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Stream Team Squandered Daylight Savings edition, March 18 24, 2013
It's strange, but every year around this time, someone sneaks into my room and manages to snatch an hour away from me, right from under my nose! Sometimes I stay up extra late trying to catch the thief, but he always eludes me. One of these days I am going to nab the scoundrel who pilfers precious time. I want that hour back; I need all of them I can get.

But I guess I have to make do now. My hour is probably being sold from the back of some truck in a dark alley to some desperate fellow as we speak anyway. What? You say it is banked, and I'll get it back? Well if it's in a bank, I expect it returned with interest. I want at least a 5% return on that time, compounded daily, when it's returned. That's right -- you take my time to invest, so you better be paying me the dividends! Wouldn't you agree? Weigh in with your opinion on Daylight Saving Time after the break.

Speaking of investing time, we've got a good place for that right here: Massively TV! Just drop in an hour or two at a time and you can withdraw laughter as needed. The Stream Team has plenty of live opportunities for your investment needs, or you can peruse the reruns section at your leisure. Invest as much or as little as you want, but remember: The more you do, the greater your return.

Continue reading The Stream Team: Squandered Daylight Saving edition, March 18 - 24, 2013

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Squandered Daylight Saving edition, March 18 - 24, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 18 Mar 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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If you're tired of EVE's figurative backstabbing, go planetside and get literal.
DUST 514 doesn't just interact with EVE Online by being set in the same universe. Taking control of territory and planetary surfaces has always been part of the design goals behind the shooter, reminiscent of the interstellar control offered by the older game, and the latest development blog examines how players will go about taking over a planet. It all starts by taking control of a district on a temperate planet, with each habitable world in the game universe harboring anywhere between five and 24 individual districts.

Controlling a district gives you access to military clones, the backbone of your economy and defense force. You can also use the clones to expand into new territory or sell excess stock. Of course, your facilities are vulnerable during clone production, offering rival corporations a chance to swoop in and take control... possibly with the aid of a tactical orbital strike courtesy of allies in starships. It's a multifaceted system that promises to give players plenty of reasons to conduct negotiations solely via sharp bits of metal.

MassivelyTake over DUST 514's planets one piece at a time originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Mar 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesconquestconsolecontrol-spheresdevelopmentdustdust-514eveeve-onlinefpsmmofpsnewspatchesplanetary-conquestplanetary-controlplaystationplaystation-3previewsps3regional-controlsandboxsci-fishooterupcoming-patchesThu, 14 Mar 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Trion's Ffinch talks RIFT's 2013 updates]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/13/trions-ffinch-talks-rifts-2013-updates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/13/trions-ffinch-talks-rifts-2013-updates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/13/trions-ffinch-talks-rifts-2013-updates/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

RIFT - Boss battle party
Trion Senior Design Director Simon Ffinch recently gave an interview at OnRPG.com concerning the future of RIFT. As you're probably aware, the fantasy title just celebrated its second anniversary, and Ffinch was asked about the firm's big plans for 2013 and beyond.

"We do have updates planned out for RIFT well into next year with some really exciting and much requested things for the players to experience," Ffinch said. "We will be expanding on all the features we have in the game right now and exploring a host of new ones."

Ffinch also hinted at some extra-Teleran adventures. "Telara itself will actually enjoy a period of peace and tranquility, but the Ascended will be needed more than ever... uh... elsewhere, to make sure it remains this way. I will just leave it at that," he teased.

MassivelyTrion's Ffinch talks RIFT's 2013 updates originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Mar 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Trion breathes new life into RIFT with Raptr Rewards promotion
Engaging new players and retaining veteran ones is one of the great life goals of every MMO. Trion looked to outside incentive in trying to find ways to revitalize RIFT's playerbase. Partnering with Raptr, Trion came up with a four-tier reward system that gave players everything from a free copy of the game to in-game ranks, mounts, and gear.

The free copy of RIFT was accompanied by a month of game-time and served as the first reward, meant to bring in players of other RPGs. The other tiers were aimed toward veteran-type players. Al the rewards were available from mid-November to the end of January.

How effective were these rewards? RIFT's daily active players on Raptr increased 470% over the length of the promotion, and average daily playtime jumped up from four hours a day to just over six.

It's almost like players like getting stuff.

MassivelyTrion breathes new life into RIFT with Raptr Rewards promotion originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Mar 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conquestfantasypvpraptrraptr-rewardsriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsMon, 11 Mar 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Pot o' gold edition, March 11 - 17, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/the-stream-team-pot-o-gold-edition-march-11-17-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/the-stream-team-pot-o-gold-edition-march-11-17-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/the-stream-team-pot-o-gold-edition-march-11-17-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Stream Team Pot o' gold edition, March 11 17, 2013
It's a magical time: Throughout this week there will be sightings of leprechauns, lucky shamrocks will sprout up everywhere, and folks will be chasing rainbows hoping to find a special treasure. It's also the time I can say "blarney" without everyone looking at me askance! Yup, Saint Paddy's is right around the corner, the day that capstones a week when untold masses find their inner-Irish self. Those brave enough to admit they've adopted the traditions of this time can stand up and be counted in the poll at the end.

Need more to do while awaiting Sunday's revelry and pinch-a-thon? Why not watch a smorgasbord of tomfoolery on Massively TV. You can join your favorite Stream Team hosts in chat or even in game and be a part the trouble they get themselves into! Just check the schedule for the when and the where. You can also catch previous shows at your own convenience and laugh at the crazy antics displayed (and trust us, they are plenty crazy). It's all waiting for you after the break!

Continue reading The Stream Team: Pot o' gold edition, March 11 - 17, 2013

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Pot o' gold edition, March 11 - 17, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Mar 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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hartsman on the future of mmos
We hadn't heard a peep from Scott Hartsman after he left his position as executive producer at Trion Worlds... until now. The former EverQuest II and RIFT lead spoke with Forbes not about where he's going but about where he thinks the MMO industry is heading.

Hartsman sees the increased cost and competition of MMOs becoming a major problem as more time goes by: "Can companies keep up with the expectations and each generation of MMOs costing more and more? It's an arms race that no one can win, it's not sustainable in its current direction."

He also thinks that we've hit a cap on the number of people willing to subscribe and that the newer (read: free-to-play) models are providing attractive, flexible alternatives for a wider playerbase. "It's all about finding business models that serve larger numbers in a fair way," Hartsman said, pointing to League of Legends as an example of how "friction-free" an entry to a game can be.

MassivelyScott Hartsman pontificates on the future of MMOs originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 05 Mar 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelbusiness-modelsconquestdotae-sporteq-2eq-iieq2eqiiesporteverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfree-to-playleagueleague-of-legendslolmobapvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telarariotriot-gamesrvrscott-hartsmansoesonysony-online-entertainmentsub-modelsubscriptionsubscription-modelthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsTue, 05 Mar 2013 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT producer Hanlin leaves Trion for Zynga]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/rift-producer-hanlin-leaves-trion-for-zynga/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/rift-producer-hanlin-leaves-trion-for-zynga/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/rift-producer-hanlin-leaves-trion-for-zynga/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

RIFT producer Hanlin leaves Trion for Zynga
Former Trion producer Hal Hanlin is now Zynga producer Hal Hanlin. RiftScene.com reports that Hanlin leaves after four-and-a-half years with the MMO firm.

"Nothing but love for Trion, but with the maturation of RIFT, there was no urgent demand for my specific skill set," Hanlin said. "This [Zynga] is a huge opportunity for me professionally, and I will be working closely with some good friends."

[Thanks Jordan!]

MassivelyRIFT producer Hanlin leaves Trion for Zynga originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 04 Mar 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Stream Team MLT edition, March 4 10, 2013

It can strike out of nowhere: that random line or twenty from one of the movie greats just rockets out of your mouth. But I'm not talking about some box office smash. Oh no, I'm talking about the truly defining films of our culture -- the cult classics! With their quirkiness, their courage to stretch beyond the boundaries of the industry, and of course those sensationally memorable lines, these films embedded themselves in our psyches and helped shape our social environment.

Wouldn't it be great to have been at the dawning of these bits of history? Well why not be at the start of a budding cult classic? While there are no guarantees, there's certainly a possibility that one of Massively TV's shows will rise up and join the hallowed annals of cult status. You never know, so why deny yourself the opportunity and live with regret?

Check out this week's Stream Team schedule after the cut and be a part of history in the making, all while enjoying the crazy commentary of your favorites hosts as they show off new betas and old standbys alike. Then vote for your favorite movie to MMO conversion in our poll at the end.

Continue reading The Stream Team: Cult fever edition, March 4 - 10, 2013

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Cult fever edition, March 4 - 10, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 04 Mar 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Happy second anniversary, RIFT!
"Once upon a time in a land called Telara, 573 Guardian players were minding their own business in a region called Silverwood. They were frolicking and levelling, and levelling and questing, and looting and laughing, collecting and crafting.... Ah! What a peaceful time it was.

"And then, the world exploded."

That's how former RIFT executive producer Scott Hartsman described the Prince Hylas event from Beta 2, and for me, it will always be one of my favorite MMO memories. Telara was instantly transformed into a hellish quagmire, with invaders stacked on top of each other at every foothold in Silverwood. It's hard to believe that two years have already gone by, but it's even more amazing how the game has evolved since that unforgettable beta event.

Continue reading A look back at RIFT on its second birthday

MassivelyA look back at RIFT on its second birthday originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 01 Mar 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chroniclesconquestember-islefantasyfeaturedinstant-adventurementoringplanar-attunementplanar-invasionspvpriftrift-anniversaryrift-fishingrift-literift-planes-of-telararift-second-anniversaryrift-survivalrift-weddingsrvrstorm-legionthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldszone-eventsFri, 01 Mar 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Celebrate RIFT's second anniversary with 2.2 and the Carnival of the Ascended]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/27/celebrate-rifts-second-anniversary-today-with-carvinal-of-the-a/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/27/celebrate-rifts-second-anniversary-today-with-carvinal-of-the-a/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/27/celebrate-rifts-second-anniversary-today-with-carvinal-of-the-a/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Celebrate RIFT's second anniversary today with Carvinal of the Ascended and 22 update
What's a party without a dragon piñata or two? Luckily, RIFT fans won't have to find out as the annual Carnival of the Ascended will have those and plenty more for revelers joining in the game's second anniversary celebration. But the carnival -- with its games of skill, pie-stomping contests, and special anniversary cape -- is not the only goody in today's 2.2 update. Besides the previously revealed features, PvP gets a tier 2 attunement of war. Want to see what awaits in the update? Watch the trailer after the break.

As an added bonus during the anniversary, from March 21st through April 4th all subscribers will receive a 20% increase to kill XP or planar attunement, prestige, guild XP, dungeon currency, zone event currency, and planarite. And don't forget that players can return for free from March 21st through 25th.

[Source: Trion press release]

Continue reading Celebrate RIFT's second anniversary with 2.2 and the Carnival of the Ascended

MassivelyCelebrate RIFT's second anniversary with 2.2 and the Carnival of the Ascended originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Feb 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversaryanniversary-celebrationAnniversary-eventanniversary-eventsCarnival-of-the-Ascendedconquestfantasypvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsWed, 27 Feb 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Out of the frying pan edition, February 25 - March 3, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/the-stream-team-out-of-the-frying-pan-edition-february-25-ma/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/the-stream-team-out-of-the-frying-pan-edition-february-25-ma/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/the-stream-team-out-of-the-frying-pan-edition-february-25-ma/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Stream Team Out of the frying pan edition, February 25 March 3 2013
And into the fire! Or water, as the case may be.

Have you ever had one of those days when every time you finally extricated yourself from one mess, you just landed smack dab in the middle of another, managing to climb out of a water trap only to have your celebration cut short by falling right into a sheer-sided pit? And all after getting lost in foliage on a mountainside? Well, if you ever do have a day like that, hunker down and watch some Stream Team adventures on Massively TV. Then you can laugh at the misfortunes of your favorite streamers and forget about whatever craziness awaits you in the world at large.

Continue reading The Stream Team: Out of the frying pan edition, February 25 - March 3, 2013

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Out of the frying pan edition, February 25 - March 3, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Feb 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Trion prepping bonuses for RIFT's second anniversary bash
Can you believe that RIFT is almost two years old? It's true, and Trion is marking the occasion with another incarnation of the Carnival of the Ascended. This year's addition features Tier 3 planar attunement, the PvP Wheel of Fate warfront, and the usual collection and quest festivities along with their associated rewards.

If you're not currently subscribing, you can revisit RIFT for free from March 21st through March 25th. If you are a subscriber, you'll get bonus XP, guild XP, prestige, favor, dungeon currency, and more from March 21st through April 4th. Head to the official RIFT website for all the celebration details.

MassivelyTrion prepping bonuses for RIFT's second anniversary bash originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarycarnival-of-the-ascendedconquestfantasypvpriftrift-anniversaryrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsFri, 22 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter at Your Own Rift: Song of a superhero]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/enter-at-your-own-rift-song-of-a-superhero/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/enter-at-your-own-rift-song-of-a-superhero/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/enter-at-your-own-rift-song-of-a-superhero/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Enter at Your Own Rift Song of a superhero
When it comes to fantasy MMOs, we've been there so long and done that so often that we hardly think about the framework that supports these worlds and our assumptions about them. This is doubly the case when it comes to who we are: We are always talented warriors or wizards who are out to do noble good deeds and get all, like, awesome and stuff. But we are mortal. We are people, just the best of people. We have adventuring spirits.

Except that this doesn't quite apply to RIFT. When you really look at it, our characters in RIFT aren't generic adventurers. Who we are is not only clearly stated time and again but made an integral part of the game and its story. It's an important distinction that's worth examining. We are Ascended.

Another word for that is "superhero."

Continue reading Enter at Your Own Rift: Song of a superhero

MassivelyEnter at Your Own Rift: Song of a superhero originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Feb 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ascendedascensionconquestenter-at-your-own-riftexpansionfantasyfeaturedhighlanderimmortalityopinionpvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrstorm-legionsuperherotelarathree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldstropesx-menWed, 20 Feb 2013 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Found Nemo edition, February 18 - 24, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/18/the-stream-team-found-nemo-edition-february-18-24-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/18/the-stream-team-found-nemo-edition-february-18-24-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/18/the-stream-team-found-nemo-edition-february-18-24-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Stream Team Found Nemo edition, February 18 24, 2013
Ironically, I was going to have a "Let it snow edition," but I kept bumping it in favor of focusing on other February frivolity. Good thing, too, as I don't want anyone blaming me for the storm that hit the east. I myself was intimately acquainted with that storm, as it stranded me for two days in various airports while I was trying to get home. The nerve of it -- it even forced me to miss streams. *cries* Nemo was always a troublemaker!

Luckily, that's all behind us now. We have nothing ahead but smooth livestreams. And by smooth, I mean ample opportunities for your favorite hosts to pull crazy stunts and die in spectacular ways! How many interesting and unique ways can The Stream Team members get themselves in trouble this week? Tune into Massively TV and see!

Continue reading The Stream Team: Found Nemo edition, February 18 - 24, 2013

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Found Nemo edition, February 18 - 24, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 18 Feb 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoactivisionage-of-wulinage-of-wushuaionAkaneiroanetarenanetascensionasiabattlestar-galacticabattlestar-galactica-onlinebigpointbiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrowserbrowser-basedbsgobuy-to-playchinachinesechinese-mmoconquestconsoleconsolesdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuodiabloDragons-Calleaelectronic-artseq-2eq-iieq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfactionfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfuncomgpotatogrinding-geargrinding-gear-gamesguild-wars-2gvggw2heroes-of-newerthhi-rezhi-rez-studioshistoricalhorrorInnogamesjagged-alliance-onlinejet-likidnappinglivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamslucasartsmartial-artsmassively-metamassively-tvmetaming-dynastymobamultiplayer-online-battle-arenamv-guidemv-tvmvguidemvtvmythologyncsoftnotoriousnotorious-gamespath-of-exileplaystation-3playstation3poepollpost-apocpost-apocalypticps3pvpremanumriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararoguelikervrsandboxsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldskill-basedSmitesnail-gamessnail-games-usasoesonysony-online-entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstreamstream-schedulestream-teamstreamersstreamingstreamteamsubscriptionlesssuperherosuperheroesswtortanktanksthe-old-republicthe-secret-worldthe-stream-teamthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptorTorchlight-2torchlight-iitriontrion-worldstruly-freetswtwitchtwitch-tvwarwarcraftwargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-of-warcraftwotwowwushuwuxiaxsyonMon, 18 Feb 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 cross-breeds a new PvP map]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/guild-wars-2-cross-breeds-a-new-pvp-map/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/guild-wars-2-cross-breeds-a-new-pvp-map/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/guild-wars-2-cross-breeds-a-new-pvp-map/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Guild Wars 2 crossbreeds a new PvP map
There's a new PvP map coming to the wild lands of the Norn in Guild Wars 2, and it's a smash-up of two popular zones to create a whole new flavor. Spirit Watch combines a capture-the-flag mechanic with a conquest template, all set against dizzying drops of cliffs and crags.

There are three capture points in Spirit Watch that influence the score of the "flag" (in this case, a shiny orb) coming home to roost. Players running the orb have a movement penalty and must make a choice as to which capture point to head toward: Capture points that a team control offer up 30 points per orb, enemy and neutral capture points offer 15 points per orb, and enemy capture points that have an orb tossed into them will be converted to a neutral point.

The Spirit Watch PvP map will come with the hefty update planned for later this month. You can get a quick eyeful of it with a video after the jump, however.

Continue reading Guild Wars 2 cross-breeds a new PvP map

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 cross-breeds a new PvP map originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Feb 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbuy-to-playcapture-the-flagconquestfantasyguild-wars-2gw2ncsoftpatchpreviewpvpspirit-watchtrailerupdatevideoWed, 13 Feb 2013 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Heartbreak Hotel edition, February 11 - 17, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/11/the-stream-team-heartbreak-hotel-edition-february-11-17-20/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/11/the-stream-team-heartbreak-hotel-edition-february-11-17-20/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/11/the-stream-team-heartbreak-hotel-edition-february-11-17-20/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Stream Team Heartbreak Hotel edition, February 11 17, 2013
You knew this week was coming. Whether you dreaded it with the choking feeling of impending doom or blissfully looked forward to it with eyes brimming with anticipation, the cupid infestation is upon us! Regardless of your feelings (or ambivalence), there is no way to fully dodge the trappings of this heart-studded season. But all is not lost: Even if there is no escape, there can be distraction! That's where The Stream Team comes in.

Forget about love, promises, chocolate, and heartbreak (OK, maybe not chocolate) by watching your favorite games played by your favorite hosts on Massively TV. Heck you can even join them in-game. And remember, whatever else happens this week, there are candy conversation hearts and The Stream Team!

Continue reading The Stream Team: Heartbreak Hotel edition, February 11 - 17, 2013

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Heartbreak Hotel edition, February 11 - 17, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Feb 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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One Shots Bring out your dead
Ah, nothing like a pile of rotting stiffs to start your day off right, I always say! So nice of considerate readers to send me such pictures in my email. Maybe it's a somber commentary on the fragility of life and the tragedies that go unnoticed around us daily. Maybe it's somebody trying to gross me out. I'm good either way.

Reader Volska clues us in: "Talk about morbid. Here's a screenshot of some piles of corpses from the Guardian starter area in RIFT. No happy welcoming party here."

With a start like that, what other pictures will we have to share? It's a wild and wooly One Shots, and it all starts after the jump!

Continue reading One Shots: Bring out your dead

MassivelyOne Shots: Bring out your dead originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 10 Feb 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Screenshot -- RIFT
Trion Worlds' RIFT is still a relative newcomer to the MMO space, released a mere two years ago in March 2011, but in that time it's made quite a name for itself as one of the premier AAA titles on the market today. Since the game's release, Trion has built a reputation for putting out frequent, quality updates, and in the time since launch, RIFT has continued to grow with the addition of new features and content.

Last November, Trion released Storm Legion, the game's first expansion pack, which bumped the level cap up to 60, tripled the size of the in-game world, and brought player housing to the masses in the form of dimensions. For my part, I used to be an avid RIFT player, but despite the game's unique soul system, there just wasn't enough to differentiate itself from the myriad other similar MMOs on the market, and I never managed to make it to max-level before I let my subscription lapse out of boredom. So for this edition of Second Wind, I picked myself up a copy of Storm Legion and jumped back into the world of Telara once again to see just how far it has come.

Continue reading Second Wind: RIFT's Storm Legion

MassivelySecond Wind: RIFT's Storm Legion originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 08 Feb 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conquestfantasyfeaturedimpressionsOPINIONpost-launchpvpre-reviewreviewriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrsecond-impressionssecond-looksecond-windstorm-legionthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsupdated-impressionsFri, 08 Feb 2013 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter at Your Own Rift: Goodbye Scott, hello 2.2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/enter-at-your-own-rift-goodbye-scott-hello-2-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/enter-at-your-own-rift-goodbye-scott-hello-2-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/enter-at-your-own-rift-goodbye-scott-hello-2-2/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Enter at Your Own Rift Goodbye Scott, hello 22
If I was to make a list of the top, oh, five or 10 MMO developers whom I admire, Scott Hartsman would be on there. It's not just that I appreciate that he's one of the few human beings who is shorter than I am, but that he's had a remarkable career full of accomplishments that I respect. EverQuest II and RIFT both owe a great debt to the leadership of Hartsman, which is why it was a sad shock to hear that he was leaving Trion Worlds for unknown pastures.

And thus we begin a new year of RIFT, teetering between uncertainty and promise. For as severe as Hartsman's departure will be felt in the development of the game and in its community, we're also looking ahead to the title's third year of operation and a new update that looks to add even more delectable treats on top of this fantasy buffet.

So today we're going to say goodbye to Scott and hello to Update 2.2 as we look at the recent state of the game post.

Continue reading Enter at Your Own Rift: Goodbye Scott, hello 2.2

MassivelyEnter at Your Own Rift: Goodbye Scott, hello 2.2 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Feb 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.22.3archeagebill-fisherconquestdefiancedepartureend-of-nationsenter-at-your-own-rifteq-iieverquest-iifantasyfeaturedopinionpvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrscott-hartsmanstate-of-the-gamestorm-legiontelarathree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsupdate-2.2update-2.3Wed, 06 Feb 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: On the road again edition, February 4 - 10, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/04/the-stream-team-on-the-road-again-edition-february-4-10-201/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/04/the-stream-team-on-the-road-again-edition-february-4-10-201/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/04/the-stream-team-on-the-road-again-edition-february-4-10-201/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Stream Team On the road again edition, February 4 10, 2013
Oh I can certainly wait to get on the road again. Or in my case, the tarmac. Tarmac squatting is not on the top of my list of vacationing highlights.

Yes folks, I am out and about, traveling to and fro, which means that my gaming time is severely curtailed. The agony! Thankfully, I have my trusty laptop and Massively TV to quell my withdrawal symptoms. A daily dose of my favorite games hosted by The Stream Team will help me get through the rough week ahead. A little banter in the chat room, a little watching the livestreamers fall, sprint, and charge to their deaths in a variety of pixeled worlds... yeah, that will definitely brighten things and tide me over!

Continue reading The Stream Team: On the road again edition, February 4 - 10, 2013

MassivelyThe Stream Team: On the road again edition, February 4 - 10, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 04 Feb 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Perfect Ten Memorable marketing campaigns
I took only a single marketing class in college, so by no means am I an instant expert in anything but being on the receiving end of marketers' nefarious experiments to manipulate me so that I buy their stuff. I did take away the lesson that all marketers are professional liars who have no shame or dignity. Pretty much the same as a blogger, so I guess I have a backup career.

Believe it or not, MMOs get off easy when it comes to notorious marketing campaigns. Anything on the following list, good or bad, is a pale shadow of what we've seen in the larger video game industry. Still, there have been plenty of attempts to promote MMOs in ways that make us either applaud or laugh at the studio (and sometimes both at once, which takes coordination).

After doing some staff polling and internal polling, here are 10 memorable marketing campaigns from the era of MMORPGs. Maybe they're all winners in that they got noticed by at least one person, even if they're the most foolish notions in history. Here we go!

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Memorable marketing campaigns

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Memorable marketing campaigns originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionadadsadvertisingadvertizingarcheagebiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentblueholebluehole-studioscivonyclassic-mmoconquestcrypticcryptic-studioscypherseaelectronic-artsen-masseen-masse-entertainmenteq-2eq-iieq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iievonyf2pfantasyfeaturedflash-mobfpsfree-to-playgaglobal agendahi-rezhi-rez-studioshumorlord-britishlucasartsmarketingmmofpsmythicmythic-entertainmentnexonopinionp10perfect-10perfect-tenperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentplay-me-my-lordpvppweriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararounduprvrsandboxsci-fishootersoesonysony-online-entertainmentspy-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstoswtorterathe-old-republicthe-perfect-10the-perfect-tenthird-person-shooterthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptop-10top-10-listtop-tentop-ten-listtortpstriontrion-worldsultimaultima onlineuowarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 24 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT's newest State of the Game teases updates 2.2 and 2.3]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/rifts-newest-state-of-the-game-teases-updates-2-2-and-2-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/rifts-newest-state-of-the-game-teases-updates-2-2-and-2-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/rifts-newest-state-of-the-game-teases-updates-2-2-and-2-3/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

RIFT's newest State of the Game teases updates 22 and 23
As promised in last night's first part of RIFT's State of the Game, tonight's part two is coming to us from Lead Game Designer Bill "Daglar" Fisher. In it, we hear brief word of game updates 2.2 and 2.3, which will bring the Carnival of the Ascended and Dendrome content, respectively.

While 2.3 will remain a mystery for now, Daglar teases new carnival games, new zone events, the expansion of the Planar Attunement system, a few PvP updates, and more with the 2.2 update.

Although this State of the Game is short, it introduces Daglar to the players in this new role and lays the groundwork for what's to come.

MassivelyRIFT's newest State of the Game teases updates 2.2 and 2.3 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Jan 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bill-fishercarnival-of-the-ascendedconquestdaglardendromefantasygame-update-2.2game-update-2.3pvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsWed, 23 Jan 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter at Your Own Rift: Dungeon review, part 1]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/enter-at-your-own-rift-dungeon-review-part-1/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/enter-at-your-own-rift-dungeon-review-part-1/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/enter-at-your-own-rift-dungeon-review-part-1/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Enter at Your Own Rift Dungeon review, part 1
I don't hide the fact that as an MMO gamer, I probably fall into the "casual" category by many of your definitions. Even so, I probably go dungeon diving in RIFT more than in other MMOs because of the game's silky-smooth LFG interface and the generally quick pace of the instance runs themselves. Hitting a dungeon while you've got one or more counters on the reward page is added incentive because you're at least guaranteed a solid loot drop of your very own (or plaques).

I'm still getting a feel for Storm Legion dungeons, but when it comes to the core game, I've run those instances more times than I can count. I figured I might as well share my thoughts on the first four dungeons you're likely to run in the early and mid-game to see if they pass muster. While I'm at it, I might tell a related story or two from my runs. Gather 'round, children, as Papa Olivetti smokes a stogie and tells you a tale you're unlikely to forget.

Continue reading Enter at Your Own Rift: Dungeon review, part 1

MassivelyEnter at Your Own Rift: Dungeon review, part 1 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Jan 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conquestdungeondungeonsenter-at-your-own-riftexpansionfantasyfeaturedinstanceinstancesopinionpvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrstorm-legiontelarathree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsWed, 23 Jan 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Scott Hartsman leaving Trion Worlds]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/22/scott-hartsman-leaving-trion-worlds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/22/scott-hartsman-leaving-trion-worlds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/22/scott-hartsman-leaving-trion-worlds/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Scott Hartsman leaving Trion Worlds
According to a recent post on the RIFT forum, Executive Producer Scott Hartsman has announced his resignation from Trion Worlds.

"It's been an amazing time," Hartsman writes, "Working with some of the best developers anywhere, getting the company's first game off the ground, taking it all the way through a multitude of amazing updates, then to Storm Legion, and even a little bit beyond."

Lead Game Designer Bill "Daglar" Fisher will be continuing with the State of the Game update starting tomorrow, but no word yet if he'll be taking over the Executive Producer role.

[Thanks to Kirk for the tip!]

MassivelyScott Hartsman leaving Trion Worlds originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 Jan 2013 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bill-fisherconquestdaglarfantasypvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrscott-hartsmanthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsTue, 22 Jan 2013 18:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter at Your Own Rift: The burden of leveling]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/09/enter-at-your-own-rift-the-burden-of-leveling/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/09/enter-at-your-own-rift-the-burden-of-leveling/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/09/enter-at-your-own-rift-the-burden-of-leveling/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Enter at Your Own Rift The burden of leveling
I've seen a lot of positive comments about RIFT: Storm Legion so far, many of which are praising the expansion's zone designs, the new classes, and especially the Dimensions housing system. However, it seems that there's another comment that pops up frequently that's not as kind: It takes way too long to level from 50 to 60.

For some of you, this may be moot. You might already be level 60, have multiple 60s, or have been 60 since the day after Storm Legion came out. For others who aren't even level 50 yet, the expansion might sound a bit intimidating because of the hefty XP requirements to move that level marker up one number. In any case, I think that a good number of us can agree that it's definitely a slow process that detracted from rather than added to the experience of Storm Legion.

I've got several thoughts about how leveling in RIFT has become a burden instead of a blessing, how Trion is reshaping the XP game, and what this might portend for the future of the title.

Continue reading Enter at Your Own Rift: The burden of leveling

MassivelyEnter at Your Own Rift: The burden of leveling originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 Jan 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conquestenter-at-your-own-riftexpansionexperiencefantasyfeaturedlevellevelingleveling-curvelevelsopinionpvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrstorm-legiontelarathree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsxpWed, 09 Jan 2013 20:00:00 EST