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[Captain's Log Supplemental: An Exclusive Q&A with STO's Daniel Stahl]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/captains-log-supplemental-an-exclusive-qanda-with-stos-daniel-s/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/captains-log-supplemental-an-exclusive-qanda-with-stos-daniel-s/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/captains-log-supplemental-an-exclusive-qanda-with-stos-daniel-s/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

STO LoR Logo Header
After months of waiting, we can finally say that Star Trek Online's Legacy of Romulus expansion is upon us! After yesterday's launch, it's now possible to play as a member of the new Romulan Republic faction. It's now possible to begin a Klingon faction character from level 1! There's a new adventure zone and a completely overhauled user interface.

We recently had the opportunity to ask Star Trek Online's Executive Producer, Daniel Stahl, some questions regarding the update. We were also given a lot of screenshots of the new material, and all are included in the new gallery below. There was a lot to cover, so let's get to it!

Gallery: Star Trek Online Legacy of Romulus

Continue reading Captain's Log Supplemental: An Exclusive Q&A with STO's Daniel Stahl

MassivelyCaptain's Log Supplemental: An Exclusive Q&A with STO's Daniel Stahl originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 May 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captains-logcrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahlf2pfeaturedfree-to-playinterviewinterviewskdfklingonklingonsneverwinteropinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweQ Aromulanromulanssci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoWed, 22 May 2013 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: More Romulan ships coming in Star Trek Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/captains-log-more-romulan-ships-coming-in-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/captains-log-more-romulan-ships-coming-in-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/captains-log-more-romulan-ships-coming-in-star-trek-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

STO D'Deridex HEADER
Late last week, Star Trek Online community manager Brandon Felczer posted an enormous dev blog delving into the details surrounding the influx of new ships heading into the game the moment the Legacy of Romulus expansion goes live.

So today I'd like to touch on these new ships and the new Legacy Pack and Starter Packs that were announced as being available for Star Trek Online!

Continue reading Captain's Log: More Romulan ships coming in Star Trek Online

MassivelyCaptain's Log: More Romulan ships coming in Star Trek Online originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 29 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-crypticbrandon-felczercaptains-logcrypticcryptic-studiosdaniel-stahlexpansionf2pfeaturedfederationfleet-shipsfree-to-playklingonlegacy-of-romuluslegacy-packneverwinteropinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweromulanRomulanssci-fishipsstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestarter packstoMon, 29 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: A Star Trek Online player uses math]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/01/captains-log-a-star-trek-online-player-uses-math/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/01/captains-log-a-star-trek-online-player-uses-math/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/01/captains-log-a-star-trek-online-player-uses-math/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

STO De'deridex header
On the heels of last week's revelation that Star Trek Online will be releasing its first ever expansion, Legacy of Romulus, many people were apparently waiting for the proverbial shoe to drop so they could rage when their expectations weren't met. That happened within seconds after the release of a special Ask Cryptic blog written by Executive Producer Daniel Stahl last Friday.

Massively received a tip or two informing us that there was a Thread of Rage on the Star Trek Online forums, one that arose after the Ask Cryptic revealed that characters in the upcoming Romulan faction will be forced to choose to ally with either the Federation or the Klingon Defense Force and share in their fleet capabilities instead of developing fleets of their own.

With the help of my accountant husband, I took on the challenge of dissecting this alleged Thread of Rage to determine how many people really did express feelings of rage, anger, or even disappointment with the news. You might be interested in the results of our analysis. If you are, take the jump!

Continue reading Captain's Log: A Star Trek Online player uses math

MassivelyCaptain's Log: A Star Trek Online player uses math originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captains-logcrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahlexpansionf2pfeaturedfederationforumforumsfree-to-playkdfklingonslegacy-of-romulusmathopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentposterspweRAGERomulanssci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestatisticsstoufpMon, 01 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online's Romulan expansion prompts special Ask Cryptic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/star-trek-onlines-romulan-expansion-prompts-special-ask-cryptic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/star-trek-onlines-romulan-expansion-prompts-special-ask-cryptic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/star-trek-onlines-romulan-expansion-prompts-special-ask-cryptic/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Star Trek Online's Romulan expansion prompts special Ask Cryptic
Do you have a burning question about Star Trek Online: Legacy of Romulus? Get in line behind pretty much every single STO player, pal. But while your specific query may not reach the ears of top admirals, Executive Producer Daniel Stahl created a special edition of Ask Cryptic devoted to answering the most common questions out there.

So what's included with the Romulan faction? Stahl says that there are three races (one free, one unlockable or purchasable, and one for subscribers only), adding, "The Romulan Republic was created from the ground up as a complete new faction. They have their own backstory, their own exclusive missions and episode series, exclusive costumes, faction-exclusive social hub, unique playable species, a full ship progression line from level 1 to 50, unique HUD UI, and more."

While Romulans will be an independent faction, Stahl explained that these captains will choose to ally with either the Federation or Klingons for the purposes of storylines, PvP, and starbases.

MassivelyStar Trek Online's Romulan expansion prompts special Ask Cryptic originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Mar 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-crypticbetacommunity-q-and-acrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahlexpansionf2pfactionfree-to-playlegacy-of-romulusperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweq-and-aquestions-and-answersremusromulussci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoFri, 29 Mar 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 234: Star Trek Online interview]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/29/massively-speaking-episode-234-star-trek-online-interview/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/29/massively-speaking-episode-234-star-trek-online-interview/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/29/massively-speaking-episode-234-star-trek-online-interview/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Massively Speaking Episode 234 Star Trek Online interview
It's a very special episode of Massively Speaking, where we learn about puberty and the dangers of drinking! Actually, Teri joins Justin to talk with Star Trek Online's Dan Stahl and Brandon Felczer about the third anniversary of this galactic game. Set phasers to "amused" as we set sail for the podcast frontier!

Have a comment for the podcasters? Shoot an email to podcast@massively.com. We may just read your email on the air!

Get the podcast:
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Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 234: Star Trek Online interview

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 234: Star Trek Online interview originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 29 Jan 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aaage-of-wulinage-of-wushuarche-agearcheageasiabethesdabethesda-softworksbethsoftbrandon-felczerbrantbrianna-roycechinachinesechinese-mmocrypticcryptic-studiosdaggerfalldan-stahldaniel-stahlelder-scrollselder-scrolls-onlineesof2pfactionsfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgpotatogvghumorjet-lijustin-olivettikidnappingmartial-artsmassively-speakingming-dynastymorrowindoblivionopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentplease-dont-suckpodcastpodcastingpodcastspvppwervrsandboxsandparksci-fiskyrimsnail-gamessnail-games-usastar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotamrieltestesothe-elder-scrollsthe-elder-scrolls-onlinethree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvpwushuwuxiaxl-gamesxlgameszenimaxzenimax-mediazenimax-onlinezenimax-online-studiosTue, 29 Jan 2013 10:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 234Massively.com Staff00:53:21podcast<![CDATA[Star Trek Online celebrates two million 'captains']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/28/star-trek-online-celebrates-two-million-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/28/star-trek-online-celebrates-two-million-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/28/star-trek-online-celebrates-two-million-players/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Star Trek Online celebrates two million players
On the verge of its third anniversary, Star Trek Online has good reason to celebrate. In a state of the game post, Executive Producer Dan Stahl says that the title is growing by leaps and bounds: "You may have noticed that more than two million captains are continuing their voyages in Star Trek Online. With sustained increases in daily participation, the game is richer and more alive than ever before."

Stahl looked back over the accomplishments and milestones of 2012, including Star Trek Online's transition to a free-to-play format.

For the game's third anniversary, the team is releasing a featured episode on Thursday that will have a special reward for those who play it between January 31st and February 14th. The reward will be an Ambassador Class (the Enterprise-C model) for Federation players and the Kamarag Class for Klingon fans.

Stay tuned for an on-air interview with Dan Stahl about STO in tomorrow's episode of Massively Speaking!

MassivelyStar Trek Online celebrates two million 'captains' originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 28 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3rd-anniversaryambassador-classanniversarycrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahldev-diaryenterpriseenterprise-cf2pfree-to-playperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentproducers-letterpwesci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestate-of-the-gamestothird-anniversarythree-yearsMon, 28 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online transmits plans for next two seasons, mid-year event]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/11/star-trek-online-transmits-plans-for-next-two-seasons-mid-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/11/star-trek-online-transmits-plans-for-next-two-seasons-mid-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/11/star-trek-online-transmits-plans-for-next-two-seasons-mid-year/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Star Trek Online transmits plans for next two seasons, midyear event
Executive Producer Dan Stahl is hardly shy in tackling the myriad Ask Cryptic questions, and today's Star Trek Online queries proved to be no different for him. While there was a hodge-podge of questions from players, it seemed as though the focus for many was on the future of the game and Season 8 in specific.

Stahl said that Season 8 is due in the first half of the year, possibly in May, although there will be some content arriving this month for the three-year anniversary of the game. He promises that Klingons will "get some love" in Season 8 and hints at the vast wealth of additions coming with the update: "[It] will focus on adding new missions and storyline to the game in the form of a new adventure zone, new episodes, and another big feature, which is yet to be revealed."

Following Season 8, Cryptic will then roll out a mid-year event and Season 9. The mid-year event was compared to the game's current winter event, with the possibility of taking place on Risa.

Stahl is quite pumped for the year in general: "Season 8 and Season 9 are both going to be BIG releases. I'm very much looking forward to them because they represent the first big releases we will have been able to do with the increase to our live team staff."

MassivelyStar Trek Online transmits plans for next two seasons, mid-year event originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 Jan 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-crypticcommunity-q-and-acrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahleventf2pfree-to-playin-game-eventkdfklingonperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweq-and-arisasci-fiseason-8season-9star-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestowinter-eventFri, 11 Jan 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Star Trek Online tweaks Season Seven]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/26/captains-log-star-trek-online-tweaks-season-seven/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/26/captains-log-star-trek-online-tweaks-season-seven/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/26/captains-log-star-trek-online-tweaks-season-seven/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

STO New Romulus Ground
It's been just over two weeks since Season Seven went live in Star Trek Online, and a lot of tweaks to the new reputation systems have already been implemented. Because of what seems to be low turn-out on the Tribble test servers, the team placed its focus on major performance bug squashing and decided to wait to make changes to the system mechanics until after it could get more solid data from the players on the live (Holodeck) server. Once that information was received, the changes were fast and furious.

Star Trek Online's Executive Producer, Daniel Stahl, released two blog posts over the course of the last week, outlining not only the alterations to the Season Seven material but also answers players questions in the November Ask Cryptic. Join me as I go over a few of the changes!

Continue reading Captain's Log: Star Trek Online tweaks Season Seven

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Star Trek Online tweaks Season Seven originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Nov 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask crypticcaptains-logcrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahldilithiumf2pfeaturedfoundryfree-to-playmarksnew romulusopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesci-fiseason-sevenstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestfstostrategic task forcethe-foundryMon, 26 Nov 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[More Season 7 changes beaming to Star Trek Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/21/more-season-7-changes-beaming-to-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/21/more-season-7-changes-beaming-to-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/21/more-season-7-changes-beaming-to-star-trek-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

More Season 7 changes beaming to Star Trek Online
Star Trek Online's Season 7 has been out for a week, but that doesn't mean that everything is said and done. In fact, devs have announced a number of changes that will show up today, and others that will come during next week's update. Included in the changes are adjustments to the Dilithium economy, Reputation Projects, and Omega conversion crates (which can now be opened immediately without achieving T3 in Omega Fleet). The Foundry will also be turned back on today, and personal queues will come back online next week.

As a holiday gift, STO is also offering folks who have missed any feature episodes the chance to play them during the Feature Episode Replay event in December. During this month-long event, all four series with all their limited-time rewards will be available. Then in January, a new Andorian ship will be released.

For a full listing of all the incoming changes, check out the official post. And to read up on more Season 7 news, check out Massively's interview with Executive Producer Daniel Stahl.

MassivelyMore Season 7 changes beaming to Star Trek Online originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Nov 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Andorian-shipcrypticcryptic-studiosDaniel-StahlDilithiumf2pFeature-Episode-ReplayFeature-Episode-Replay-eventfree-to-playnew-shipOmega-conversion-cratesperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesci-fiSeason-7season-7-changesstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoupdateWed, 21 Nov 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Massively: Reviewing and re-reviewing MMOs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/15/ask-massively-reviewing-and-re-reviewing-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/15/ask-massively-reviewing-and-re-reviewing-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/15/ask-massively-reviewing-and-re-reviewing-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

This is pretty much what I think of game reviews.
Back in September, Star Trek Online Producer Daniel Stahl gave an interview that proposed to tell game journalists how to do their jobs. That's only fair; we're always telling developers how to do their jobs, right? Stahl told [a]listdaily,
"The whole game rating business doesn't necessarily do a great justice to MMOs. MMOs are designed to grow over time and get better with every major release. It might be better if sites like Metacritic could find a way to rate MMOs by releases instead of just the initial day one . . . There are plenty of MMOs that have made huge strides since day one and some that have even gotten worse. Until then, we will continue to offer the game for free and ask for people to try it out and decide for themselves."
Quipped Massively reader Matthew12, "If only there were MMO gaming blogs and websites that keep up to date with the MMOs and their updates... oh wait; there are."

Continue reading Ask Massively: Reviewing and re-reviewing MMOs

MassivelyAsk Massively: Reviewing and re-reviewing MMOs originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Nov 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adviceadvice-columnask-massivelybrianna-royce-ask-massivelydan-stahldaniel-stahlfeaturedgame-ratingsgame-reviewgame-reviewshumorimpressionsjournalismmassively-metametametacriticopinionratingratingsreviewreviewsThu, 15 Nov 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch Season 7 trailer of Star Trek Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/13/watch-season-7-trailer-of-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/13/watch-season-7-trailer-of-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/13/watch-season-7-trailer-of-star-trek-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Watch the trailer for Season 7 of Star Trek Online
Just because there are two big expansions releasing today doesn't mean that you should overlook the huge content update warping into Star Trek Online. From Vesta-class starships to new fleet holdings, salt vampires to the Borg, STO's Season 7 is guaranteed to hold at least one thing of interest for each player -- and probably more.

Cryptic's released the official launch trailer for Season 7 for those who would prefer to see a quick visual overview of the update. Additionally, don't miss Massively's interview with Executive Producer Daniel Stahl about all of the new features now in the game.

You can watch the trailer after the jump!

Continue reading Watch Season 7 trailer of Star Trek Online

MassivelyWatch Season 7 trailer of Star Trek Online originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Nov 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>borgcontent-updatecrypticcryptic-studiosdaniel-stahlf2pfree-to-playpatchperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesalt-vampiresci-fiseason-7star-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotrailerupdatevideoTue, 13 Nov 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Q&A with Star Trek Online's Daniel Stahl]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/13/captains-log-qanda-with-star-trek-onlines-daniel-stahl/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/13/captains-log-qanda-with-star-trek-onlines-daniel-stahl/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/13/captains-log-qanda-with-star-trek-onlines-daniel-stahl/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

STO Vesta Class Header
It's finally here! Season Seven has finally made its way to Star Trek Online! Months of waiting have produced the game's single largest ground map filled with new activities for veteran players. A brand-new sector of space with 17 new systems is waiting for exploration and patrols. A new strategic task force mission allows captains to take on the Borg Queen herself, and two new reputation systems will fundamentally alter endgame content for the foreseeable future.

On the cusp of the new release, we took the opportunity to ask Star Trek Online's Executive Producer, Daniel Stahl, some questions about the new content and what we can expect from STO in the coming months. So jump past the break to check out what he said and take a look at some exclusive screencaps of the new material!

Continue reading Captain's Log: Q&A with Star Trek Online's Daniel Stahl

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Q&A with Star Trek Online's Daniel Stahl originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Nov 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captains-logcrypticcryptic-studiosdaniel-stahlf2pfeaturedfree-to-playgalleriesgalleryinterviewinterviewsneverwinteropinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesci-fiscreenshotscreenshotsstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoTue, 13 Nov 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Testing Season Seven in Star Trek Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/05/captains-log-testing-season-seven-in-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/05/captains-log-testing-season-seven-in-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/05/captains-log-testing-season-seven-in-star-trek-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

STO New Romulus from Embassy Steps
Season Seven is closing in on us! According to the most recent State of the Game blog by Star Trek Online Executive Producer Daniel Stahl, the team is aiming for a launch "in the first half of November."

A majority of the new material is already up on Star Trek Online's Tribble test server, and this past weekend, a special Tribble test event was held. Players who signed into the test server and played for at least one hour will be granted a special reward.

I had an opportunity to take a quick run around the new Tau Dewa Sector and the new adventure zone on the planet of Mol'Rihan (New Romulus). I've also had the opportunity to give the new Romulan reputation system a spin. So join me as I go over my first impressions of the material that's coming in Season Seven!

Continue reading Captain's Log: Testing Season Seven in Star Trek Online

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Testing Season Seven in Star Trek Online originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Nov 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captains-logcrypticcryptic-studiosdaniel-stahlf2pfeaturedfree-to-playopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoMon, 05 Nov 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: The state of Star Trek Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/24/captains-log-state-of-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/24/captains-log-state-of-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/24/captains-log-state-of-star-trek-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

STO Regent Class Header
This week saw the release of a new State of the Game blog from Star Trek Online Executive Producer Daniel Stahl. Much of what he said gave players hope for the future of Star Trek Online, including remarks that the game is "thriving at a time when many MMOs have kicked or are about to kick the bucket." The blog also featured some additional comments about the future of the game and how the company planning for 2013 and beyond.

Join me as I discuss his blog post and the poll results that were generated over the past couple of weeks. I'll also take a look at the future of the game, the expanding STO team, The Foundry, and the Klingon Empire.

Continue reading Captain's Log: The state of Star Trek Online

MassivelyCaptain's Log: The state of Star Trek Online originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosask-crypticcaptains-logcrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahlf2pfeaturedfree-to-playneverwinteropinionparagon-studiosperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpollpwesci-fisotgstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlineState-of-the-gamestoMon, 24 Sep 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online producer says game is 'kicking butt']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/21/star-trek-online-producer-says-game-is-kicking-butt/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/21/star-trek-online-producer-says-game-is-kicking-butt/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/21/star-trek-online-producer-says-game-is-kicking-butt/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Star Trek Online producer says game is 'kicking butt'
Star Trek Online Producer Daniel Stahl isn't beating around the bush about the state of the game. According to him, STO has both purpose and a leg-up on much of the industry.

"When you consider what it takes to run an MMO in today's highly competitive marketplace," Stahl writes, "STO has been kicking some butt. Despite what some may think, we have a deliberate path and long-term goals that we've been tracking quite well against. STO has not only survived, but is thriving at a time when many MMOs have kicked or are about to kick the bucket."

Stahl goes on to rally the troops by citing how much the team has accomplished this year and what its focus is on for November's Season 7 update and beyond. The team's biggest priorities are in enriching the foundry, overhauling PvP, buffing up Klingon content, and a possible Romulan faction.

He also mentioned that Cryptic has hired "great talent" from 38 Studios and Paragon Studios to join the team.

MassivelyStar Trek Online producer says game is 'kicking butt' originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 21 Sep 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studioscrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahlf2pfree-to-playkingonsparagonparagon-studiosperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpvppweromulanssci-fiseason-7star-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoFri, 21 Sep 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Star Trek Online's Daniel Stahl's Q&A at Raptr]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/10/captains-log-star-trek-onlines-daniel-stahls-qanda-at-raptr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/10/captains-log-star-trek-onlines-daniel-stahls-qanda-at-raptr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/10/captains-log-star-trek-onlines-daniel-stahls-qanda-at-raptr/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

STO Tholian Header
The past week was met with such interesting Star Trek Online news that I'm postponing my advice series: STO launched a formal affiliation with gaming social media site Raptr, and Cryptic Studios' Executive Producer Daniel Stahl spent a majority of the day answering questions posed to him in the site's community threads. Stahl revealed quite a few tasty tidbits of information and even though the thread can be accessed by non-members members (the link is below in the comments section), I am taking the liberty of reporting on some of his responses. Join me after the break to read what's in store for the future of STO.

Continue reading Captain's Log: Star Trek Online's Daniel Stahl's Q&A at Raptr

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Star Trek Online's Daniel Stahl's Q&A at Raptr originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 10 Sep 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captains-logcrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahlf2pfeaturedfoundryfree-to-playkdfklingonlord-of-the-rings-onlineopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentplayable-romulanpweraptrromulansci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoMon, 10 Sep 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online September Ask Cryptic on future content and cosmetic updates]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/07/ask-cryptic-for-september-addresses-future-content-and-cosmetic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/07/ask-cryptic-for-september-addresses-future-content-and-cosmetic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/07/ask-cryptic-for-september-addresses-future-content-and-cosmetic/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Because nothing says Star Trek like a Tholian watching the sunrise.
It's the start of a new month, and that means a new Ask Cryptic for Star Trek Online. Executive Producer Daniel Stahl answers a wide array of player questions for this month, with questions that range from a timeframe on new KDF content (Season 8 at the earliest) to whether or not the game will do something to commemorate series creator Gene Roddenberry (on the table with the 1000 day veteran rewards coming shortly).

Stahl also addresses the reason that the game's featured episodes vanished for a while. He explains that the team was too short-handed for a long time to develop multiple systems and updates in parallel. As the base behind Star Trek Online has expanded, the developers have moved toward having a more robust and multi-tiered development strategy once again. Players interested in the game can find all these answers and more in the full article.

MassivelyStar Trek Online September Ask Cryptic on future content and cosmetic updates originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 07 Sep 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-crypticcommunity-q-and-acrypticcryptic-studiosdaniel-stahlf2pfree-to-playnewspatchesperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweq-and-aquestions-and-answerssci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoupcoming-patchesupdatesFri, 07 Sep 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Star Trek Online in Las Vegas]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/13/captains-log-star-trek-online-in-las-vegas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/13/captains-log-star-trek-online-in-las-vegas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/13/captains-log-star-trek-online-in-las-vegas/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

STO Las Vegas Header
This weekend, Massively, along with Trek Radio, hosted the formal Star Trek Online Discussion with the Devs panel at the official Star Trek convention in Las Vegas, Nevada. And if I judge by the personal feedback received and the unanticipated (yet much appreciated) turn-out from players who attended the panel, all seems to have been very well received. Join me past the jump to learn more about what the STO developers said in response to questions posed by Massively and those in attendance at the convention and on the game's forums.

Continue reading Captain's Log: Star Trek Online in Las Vegas

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Star Trek Online in Las Vegas originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Aug 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brandon-felczercaptains-logcbs-studiosconventioncreation-entertainmentcrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahldiscussion-with-the-devsf2pfeaturedfoundryfree-to-playjesse-heiniglas-vegasmark-rademakeropinionpanelperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpriority-onepvppwesci-fiseason-eightseason-sevenseason-sixstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestosubspace-radiothe-foundrythomas-marronetrek-radioMon, 13 Aug 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: The state of Star Trek Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/30/captains-log-the-state-of-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/30/captains-log-the-state-of-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/30/captains-log-the-state-of-star-trek-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

STO EV Suits HEADER
This past week, Star Trek Online's developers proved they're listening to community feedback. STO Executive Producer Daniel Stahl has released this month's state-of-the-game letter, Foundry missions are playable again, and a few of the game's developers began preparations for their appearance at the upcoming Discussion with the Devs panel, which will be co-hosted by Massively and Trek Radio at the official Star Trek convention in Las Vegas.

Still, there are some outstanding issues that haven't been addressed by Cryptic or Perfect World, and some players are beginning to wonder whether PvP has been laid to rest in STO. Also, the addition of a new EV suit to the ZEN Store has ruffled quite a few feathers, including mine. Join me while I sift through what happened in STO over the past week!

Continue reading Captain's Log: The state of Star Trek Online

MassivelyCaptain's Log: The state of Star Trek Online originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Jul 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captains-logcrypticcryptic-studiosdan-griffisdan-stahldaniel-stahlf2pfeaturedfoundryfree-to-playlas-vegasopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesci-fisotgstar-trekstar-trek-conventionstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlineState-of-the-gamestothe-foundryMon, 30 Jul 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online's Foundry is back online, sort of]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/27/star-trek-onlines-foundry-is-back-online-sort-of/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/27/star-trek-onlines-foundry-is-back-online-sort-of/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/27/star-trek-onlines-foundry-is-back-online-sort-of/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Star Trek Online
Star Trek Online Executive Producer Dan Stahl has just posted his latest state-of-the-game letter to the official site, declaring that Season Six marks the perfect time for a new player to jump in, thanks to its streamlined mission structure and brand-new starbases.

Here's the juicy bit: Current players know that The Foundry, the game's player-generated content system, has been offline for quite a long time as a result of tweaks made to it by the Season Six patch. Stahl notes that the team is still working on the issues but has finally brought part of the system back online:
Season 6 also introduces some nice improvements for our Foundry. As some may have noticed though, we have yet to turn on these new features yet. The QA team is working diligently as they continue to sort through some specific bugs with previously existing missions. Once those bugs are sorted through, we will then open up the editor - as of today, we have turned on the ability to play existing, republished missions.
Stahl finishes with a quick mention of the dreaded lock boxes, the Star Trek convention in August, and plans for Season Seven. Check out the entire state-of-the-game letter at the official site.

MassivelyStar Trek Online's Foundry is back online, sort of originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 27 Jul 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahlf2pfoundryfree-to-playperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpgcpwesci-fisotgstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlineState-of-the-gamestothe-foundryFri, 27 Jul 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Tholians come to STO and Cryptic's cryptic answers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/09/captain-s-log-tholians-come-to-sto-and-cryptic-s-cryptic-answer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/09/captain-s-log-tholians-come-to-sto-and-cryptic-s-cryptic-answer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/09/captain-s-log-tholians-come-to-sto-and-cryptic-s-cryptic-answer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Tholian header STO
Well, it's about time. Ask most Trekkies who their favorite franchise bad guys are and most will respond with answers like the Romulans, the Borg, or maybe even Q or the Klingons. Rarely will someone respond with the Tholians, but I will.

They have been my favorite Star Trek nemeses since I read the official Star Trek novels set in the Original Series era called Vanguard. Written by veteran Star Trek novelists David Mack, Dayton Ward, Kevin Dilmore, and Marco Palmieri, the seven-book series revolves around a secret lab set on a starbase built in the far-flung reaches of space just as Kirk and gang begin their heralded five-year mission. The Tholians play important roles in the books, and I've been salivating at the thought of having them in Star Trek Online ever since I heard they were being worked on. And now they're here!

Join me after the jump to learn more about what you can expect from an encounter with these very toasty arachnids.

Continue reading Captain's Log: Tholians come to STO and Cryptic's cryptic answers

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Tholians come to STO and Cryptic's cryptic answers originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Jul 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captains-logcrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahldavid-mackdayton-wardf2pfeaturedfree-to-playkevin-dilmoremarco-palmieriopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestar-trek-original-seriesstar-trek-vanguardstotholiantholiansMon, 09 Jul 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: STO's loaded for bear]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/18/captains-log-stos-loaded-for-bear/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/18/captains-log-stos-loaded-for-bear/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/18/captains-log-stos-loaded-for-bear/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Morn Header STO
In continued preparation for the coming release of Season Six, this week Star Trek Online players saw the reemergence of the State of Game letters from STO Executive Producer Daniel Stahl as well as the launch of the new tier five ship, the Armitage class.

We still await the official release date for Season Six; it hasn't been released to the Tribble test server, but Stahl's letter gives additional insight into what players can expect from the new season and gives a few hints at what can be anticipated in Season Seven, due out later this year.

So join me as I go over both the letter and the specs for the new ship!

Continue reading Captain's Log: STO's loaded for bear

MassivelyCaptain's Log: STO's loaded for bear originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 18 Jun 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>akiraal-riveraarmitagebrandon-felczercaptains-logcrypticcryptic-studiosdaniel-stahlf2pfeaturedfree-to-playmornopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesci-fiseason-sevenseason-sixstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotholiantholiansMon, 18 Jun 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: It always floods after a drought in STO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/11/captains-log-it-always-floods-after-a-drought/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/11/captains-log-it-always-floods-after-a-drought/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/11/captains-log-it-always-floods-after-a-drought/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

STO
Over the course of the last week, Star Trek Online fans have been swimming in the flood of information that has been released regarding several missions and features of the game that are expected to be released either just before or as part of Season Six.

We still have no formal release date for Season Six, nor have we been given any hint as to when we will see it appear on the STO test server, Tribble. Yet several announcements have been posted by Cryptic on the STO website, some of which have rejuvenated the deflated playerbase.

Fleets were given even more information on the anticipated release of the fleet advancement system; Foundry authors have been celebrating the tool's first significant patch in over a year; endgame players got some good news about two new five-person team missions, and a couple of promotions have made at least a few players smile. Join me as I attempt to analyze all the new information!

Continue reading Captain's Log: It always floods after a drought in STO

MassivelyCaptain's Log: It always floods after a drought in STO originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Jun 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captains-logcrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahlf2pfeaturedfleetfleet-advancementfleetsfoundryfree-to-playgeoff-tufflilock-boxopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestothe-foundryugcuser-generated-contentMon, 11 Jun 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log Supplemental: An exclusive interview with STO's Daniel Stahl]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/04/captains-log-supplemental-an-exclusive-interview-with-stos-da/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/04/captains-log-supplemental-an-exclusive-interview-with-stos-da/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/04/captains-log-supplemental-an-exclusive-interview-with-stos-da/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

STO Fed SB Header
Following up on our exclusive look at the new fleet starbases and fleet advancement system due to arrive with Season Six of Star Trek Online, we've asked STO's Executive Producer, Daniel Stahl, a few questions about how the starbases will work and how they might affect different kinds of players.

One thing seems certain: Season Six might very well contain the most drastic changes the game has ever seen. So join us as we ask Dan some of the questions that came up after reading about the new system!

Continue reading Captain's Log Supplemental: An exclusive interview with STO's Daniel Stahl

MassivelyCaptain's Log Supplemental: An exclusive interview with STO's Daniel Stahl originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 04 Jun 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captains-logcrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahlf2pfeaturedfree-to-playinterviewinterviewsopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestarbasestoMon, 04 Jun 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: STO's Caitian Carriers and Klingon Kitties]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/captain-s-log-sto-s-caitian-carriers-and-klingon-kitties/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/captain-s-log-sto-s-caitian-carriers-and-klingon-kitties/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/captain-s-log-sto-s-caitian-carriers-and-klingon-kitties/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

STO
Lately I've beginning to wonder whether the wait for Star Trek Online's Season Six has been as interminable for other players as it seems to have been for me. Although the past several weeks have been busy in the real-life side of things, those distractions really haven't been all that good at harboring my frustration about the wait for the new stuff as I would have liked.

Season Six is being readied for a move to STO's test server, Tribble, in the next couple of weeks, according to the most recent Ask Cryptic as answered by the game's Executive Producer, Dan Stahl. The new patch will contain fleet starbases and a new fleet advancement system but not much else in the way of story-based content.

That's not unexpected, however, as not one of the previous Season releases really ever contained story-based content; they've merely been game-technology pushes, and I understand that Season Six will be no different.

However a couple of things have come out to the game in the past few weeks that have ruffled some hard-core Trek-fan feathers: Caitian Carriers and Ferasans.

Continue reading Captain's Log: STO's Caitian Carriers and Klingon Kitties

MassivelyCaptain's Log: STO's Caitian Carriers and Klingon Kitties originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 May 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>caitiancanoncanonitecaptains-logCBScbs-studioscrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahlf2pfeaturedferasanfree-to-playian-richardsloreopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweracessci-fishipsstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoMon, 21 May 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Interview with Star Trek Online's Executive Producer, Daniel Stahl]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/captains-log-interview-with-star-trek-onlines-executive-produ/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/captains-log-interview-with-star-trek-onlines-executive-produ/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/captains-log-interview-with-star-trek-onlines-executive-produ/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Image
Next in this series of interviews conducted on my visit to Cryptic Studios in Los Gatos, California, last month is a chat with Daniel Stahl, Executive Producer of Star Trek Online.

I first asked Stahl to give me an overview of his responsibilities as Executive Producer, as there are many people who are either new to STO (or even to gaming overall) who may not have a clear understanding of his role entails.

He stated his job is "similar to making movies." He has several direct reports, the first being the software person or the person responsible for the team of people who actually create the code for the game. The second is the Content Lead, who is responsible for new missions, new features, and anything to with player experience. Finally, the Quality Assurance team also reports to him.

Continue reading Captain's Log: Interview with Star Trek Online's Executive Producer, Daniel Stahl

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Interview with Star Trek Online's Executive Producer, Daniel Stahl originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captains-logchampions-onlinecrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahlf2pfeaturedfree-to-playinterviewinterviewslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoturbineTurbine-EntertainmentMon, 16 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dan Stahl takes back the captain's chair in Star Trek Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/dan-stahl-takes-back-the-captains-chair-in-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/dan-stahl-takes-back-the-captains-chair-in-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/dan-stahl-takes-back-the-captains-chair-in-star-trek-online/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Star Trek
Remember in Star Trek: The Motion Picture how Kirk returns to the Enterprise and shoehorns his way back into the Captain's chair, leaving the previous job-holder to be absorbed by an interstellar entity that was really a relic of NASA's space program? What a hoot that was, and it's in no way relevant to today's story of former Star Trek Online Executive Producer Dan Stahl resuming his duties from Stephen D'Angelo after vacating the position in 2011.

Stahl left Cryptic in September 2011 for a job at Zynga, at which point D'Angelo assumed the producing role. Interestingly enough, Stahl quickly returned to Cryptic last December but was assigned to heading up the Foundry team. The saga has come full-circle as Stahl returns to executive producing and D'Angelo resumes his command as Cryptic's CTO.

Stahl posted a short re-introduction letter to mark his comeback: "After several eventful away team missions and a desk position training cadets in San Francisco, I'm grateful for the opportunity to be back at the helm of this very important title."

MassivelyDan Stahl takes back the captain's chair in Star Trek Online originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captain-kirkcrypticcryptic-studiosctodan-stahldaniel-stahlexecutive-producerf2pfree-to-playkirkperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwestar-trek-onlinestar-trek-the-motion-picturestephen-dangelostoMon, 13 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Preparing for launch (and farewells)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/captains-log-preparing-for-launch-and-farewells/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/captains-log-preparing-for-launch-and-farewells/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/captains-log-preparing-for-launch-and-farewells/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Star Trek Online screenshot
Hello, computer (and players)! As we are all now aware, the development team at Star Trek Online is busy making its preparations to re-launch the game with a hybrid, free-to-play model. Currently, the Tribble test server has been taken down as a beta build is being prepared for testing. In the meantime, Red Shirt, originally a Closed Beta test sever, has been opened up to current subscribers to continue testing new releases that will occur between now and the F2P launch. While there is still no date set for when this will be happening, many signs point to an October or November launch period.

To add to the craziness that must be going on at Cryptic's headquarters in Northern California, on Tuesday, Dan Stahl, Executive Producer of STO, publicly announced that he would be vacating the Captain's Chair as he moves on to a new endeavor in his career. Effective immediately, Stephen D'Angelo, Cryptic's CTO, will be taking temporary command as the search for a new EP begins. While this came as a shock to many and was completely unexpected even by me, it may not be the "end of the world" as some players are calling it. Let's explore more.

Ensign, warp 10! Set sensors to maximum range as we explore a little bit more about this change...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Preparing for launch (and farewells)

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Preparing for launch (and farewells) originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahldevelopment-teamepescortexecutive-producerfeaturedlivestreampatchperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpvppweredshirtst-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestephen-dangelostotest-servertrek-onlinetribbleThu, 22 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dan Stahl leaving Cryptic, Star Trek Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/dan-stahl-leaving-cryptic-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/dan-stahl-leaving-cryptic-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/dan-stahl-leaving-cryptic-star-trek-online/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Star Trek Online - red shirt captain
Cryptic executive producer Dan Stahl has vacated the Star Trek Online captain's chair, according to a brief farewell message posted on the title's official website.

Details on the departure are slim, with Stahl telling fans that he has "chosen to move on in my career and pursue new challenges." The resignation is the latest development in what has been an eventful summer for STO faithful, as Cryptic Studios was acquired by Perfect World Entertainment and Star Trek Online was subsequently slated to receive the free-to-play treatment.

Stahl goes on to say that he will be answering questions prior to his end-of-the-month beam out, and he indicates that STO will be in good hands thanks to the leadership of former lead programmer and current Cryptic CTO Stephen D'Angelo.

Look for more insight into this move in this Thursday's Captain's Log column.

MassivelyDan Stahl leaving Cryptic, Star Trek Online originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Sep 2011 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boldly-goingcrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahlf2pfree-to-playmmo-industryperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpress-releasered-shirtsci-fistar-trekstar-trek-onlinestephen-dangelostoTue, 20 Sep 2011 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Setting a new course]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/captains-log-setting-a-new-course/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/captains-log-setting-a-new-course/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/captains-log-setting-a-new-course/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Star Trek Online logo
Hello, computer (and players)! Leave your credit cards, er, I mean, Latinum, at the turbolift door -- Star Trek Online has changed course for a new destination... Planet Free-to-Play. As we reported late last week (thanks again to tipster The First Avenger and @Altexist), it was announced during a Perfect World Entertainment earnings call that STO would be adopting a new subscription model before year's end. Little did we know that the plan to make a full-scale announcement had already been in the works and was set to have been released this week, the first inkling of which we saw this past Tuesday.

The press release and new F2P information page that Cryptic has launched on STO's home page contains a lot of information that explains the different benefits that paying and non-paying players will experience. As it did with Champions Online, the development team is planning on being as transparent as possible, listening to feedback, and making adjustments based on closed beta experiences of the new hybrid model. This week's Captain's Log is going to explore some of these benefits, shed some positive light on some worries, share with you exclusive answers to some questions we sent into PR, and let you know some of my overall personal thoughts -- so without further ado, make it so!

Ensign, warp 10! Let's help our readers decide whether they are going to be Silver or Gold members...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Setting a new course

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Setting a new course originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>character-slotscrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studioscustomer-servicedaniel-stahlenergy-creditsf2pfeaturedfeatures-matrixfleetfleetsfoundryfree-to-playkdfklingonklingon-factionlivestreammonthly-stipendperfect-world-entertainmentQ-and-Arespec-tokenst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestipendstothe-foundrytrek-onlineThu, 08 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dan Stahl addresses Star Trek Online F2P concerns]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/dan-stahl-addresses-star-trek-online-f2p-concerns/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/dan-stahl-addresses-star-trek-online-f2p-concerns/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/dan-stahl-addresses-star-trek-online-f2p-concerns/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Star Trek Online
While we're still awaiting official details on the recent announcement of Star Trek Online's free-to-play transition, Executive Producer Daniel Stahl leaped into the forums to help dispel some of the more troubling fears and to shed some light on what is happening.

"There has been a method to all the madness, but first and foremost on my mind has been ensuring that Star Trek Online has a big future ahead of it," Stahl writes. "That has led to some tough decisions and deep analysis of what was critically wrong in STO. The next several months are going to be exciting for STO as you begin to see everything that we've been working on (finally)."

The good news is that the F2P switch will not impact current subscribers (if anything, Stahl says they'll see more benefits), nor will it restrict content access. Cryptic may be lowering prices on some items in the C-Store, and Star Trek Online will be playable to the level cap without requiring money spent on it. Stahl also confirmed that more hardware is on the way for the game's foundation.

At least from his perspective, Stahl sees STO's new owners as a boon to the game's future: "Perfect World has made it very clear that they want to invest in STO because they believe it has great POTENTIAL and they see an investment that can yield an even better game. That to me, is the golden path that this game deserves. It is Star Trek we are talking about!"

MassivelyDan Stahl addresses Star Trek Online F2P concerns originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Sep 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>c-storecrypticcryptic-entertainmentdan-stahldaniel-stahlf2pfree-to-playin-game-storeperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpotential-in-all-capsstahlstar-trek-onlinestoThu, 01 Sep 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[STO's August engineering report on plans for Feature Series 4]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/stos-august-engineering-report-on-plans-for-feature-series-4/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/stos-august-engineering-report-on-plans-for-feature-series-4/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/stos-august-engineering-report-on-plans-for-feature-series-4/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Star Trek Online screenshot
It's that time again, Trekkers and Trekkies -- Star Trek Online's August Engineering Report is upon us.

STO executive producer Daniel Stahl has offered up a post that kicks off with praise for Cryptic's new overlords at Perfect World Entertainment. He goes on to state that subs are up as players stream in to check out the new Ground Combat system and that the team is working extra hard to push out the long-awaited Deep Space 9-themed Feature Series 4. Stahl also outlines the devs' fall plans for the REDSHIRT closed beta server and notes that the upcoming September 22nd update "will be pretty big [...] some might say even bigger than the launch of Season 4."

Finally, the post winds down with a meaty list of game features and bug fixes currently in testing, including tweaks to the Duty Officer system, random Borg encounters, the group-finder tool, lore quests, and more.

MassivelySTO's August engineering report on plans for Feature Series 4 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 22 Aug 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahlengineering-reportpatchperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweredshirtstar-trekstar-trek-onlinestotest-servertribbleMon, 22 Aug 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: The Gospel of Tribble]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/16/captains-log-the-gospel-of-tribble/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/16/captains-log-the-gospel-of-tribble/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/16/captains-log-the-gospel-of-tribble/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Captain's Log, Stardate 64959.3...

Hello, compu... what the... shields up, red alert! Brace for impact! A giant Tribble is on the loose, and its name is Season Four. That's right -- the Star Trek Online public test server, Tribble, sometimes nicknamed the Trouble with Tribble, has finally reopened with the major update that we have all been waiting for. This build was first pushed last Friday but was taken down moments later due to a "major database error." The show-stopping kinks have been worked out now, so it is time to get to testing out all of the new content I have been writing about for the past couple of months.

If you have not seen the release notes for this build, there are dozens of updates that will be altering the way you have come to play the game. Not sure what to test? That is what I am here for. The goal of this week's Captain's Log is to provide you a checklist on what to hit up once you patch your game and get on your test toon. Also, if you have never installed the test server, now is a great time -- Cryptic will soon be announcing a Tribble Test Weekend, during which you can log in and receive an exclusive item on the live server just for helping test.

Ensign, warp 10! Let's share some text from the word of Tribble...

Continue reading Captain's Log: The Gospel of Tribble

MassivelyCaptain's Log: The Gospel of Tribble originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>art-updateassimilationbehind-the-scenesborgcrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahlfeaturedfoundryground-combatground-combat-revampkdfklingonlivestreampvepve-queueqonosseason-4season-fourstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestosto-livestreamtesttest-servertribblevivoxThu, 16 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Priority One podcast interviews Daniel Stahl]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/10/priority-one-podcast-interviews-daniel-stahl/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/10/priority-one-podcast-interviews-daniel-stahl/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/10/priority-one-podcast-interviews-daniel-stahl/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Daniel Stahl, Executive Producer of Star Trek Online, sat down with the guys at Priority One podcast to answer some community-submitted questions and drop some exclusive news about upcoming content. While he also shares a little bit about his leadership style and some inner-workings of his team, he was unable to comment on anything about the Perfect World acquisition of Cryptic. But he answered plenty of other questions!

Are you interested in finding out when the new Enterprise-F will be making it into game? Have you dreamed of learning more about what happens with the Q Continuum? Are you wondering when more minigames are coming? Still upset you have so many Trianium rare samples that are not used for anything? You will definitely want to tune in get answers to these questions and many more!

Priority One is hosted by The Quantum Cafe, a "facebook-like" social network dedicated to STO players. The show comes out weekly, so make sure to tune in to listen to guest developers and to share community-submitted ideas and feedback.

MassivelyPriority One podcast interviews Daniel Stahl originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 Jun 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-studiosdaniel-stahldstahlenterpriseenterprise-fEnterpriseFfacebookperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpriority-onepweQQ-continuumQContinuumquantum-cafestar-trekstar-trek-onlinestothe-quantum-cafetrianiumFri, 10 Jun 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Incoming message... from the future]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/captains-log-incoming-message-from-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/captains-log-incoming-message-from-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/captains-log-incoming-message-from-the-future/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Captain's Log, Stardate 64787.3...

Hello, computer (and players)! Captain Brandon Felczer of the USS Radiance Vesta-class battleship reporting in. While en route to the Gamma Orionis sector block to investigate readings of potential Borg energy signatures, we encountered an unexplained anomaly unlike any we have ever encountered; the computer system could not provide any data to us. As we attempted to break away from its gravitational pull, we lost all control and systems -- the crew lost consciousness. Once we awoke several hours later, we discovered that we had been pulled into its void and somehow propelled 365 Earth days into the future.

While the Prime Directive has required us to stay out of affairs not in our timeline, we managed to record several pieces of data about developments that will happen in the future. There have been some gigantic leaps forward, and I can honestly say I cannot wait for a year from now. After I am finished recording this log, I will send it on subspace frequencies back to Starfleet Command. If you are reading this now, you have received my log one way or another. You must be now asking yourself, "What did we see?"

Ensign, warp 10! Let's report on our findings of what we will see in Star Trek Online soon[TM]...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Incoming message... from the future

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Incoming message... from the future originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Apr 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>academyask-crypticataricrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdan-stahlDaniel-stahlfeaturedfeatured-episodesfeatured-seriesklingonpvpshipsStst-onlineStar-Trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestar-trek-online-gameplaystar-trek-online-newsstosto-academytrek-onlineThu, 14 Apr 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Zinkievich returns to the bridge of Star Trek Online and Cryptic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/zinkievich-returns-to-the-bridge-of-star-trek-online-and-cryptic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/zinkievich-returns-to-the-bridge-of-star-trek-online-and-cryptic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/zinkievich-returns-to-the-bridge-of-star-trek-online-and-cryptic/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

After charting the course to bring Star Trek Online to launch and through its early operation, Craig Zinkievich pulled a Captain Pike and left the game for greener pastures. Those pastures apparently weren't quite so green after all, as a recent interview with Daniel Stahl has confirmed that Zinkievich is back at Cryptic Studios once again as the COO. (The point is made almost as an aside at about 10:30 into the video.)

Fan reaction on the thread has been mixed, to say the least, but Stahl himself chimed in to say once more that he was happy to be working with Zinkievich again and that it should have no effect on the pace of updates. While there have been some fan misgivings, in the COO capacity Zinkievich is likely to have other responsibilities beyond solely overseeing Star Trek Online's continued development. Whether or not fans will join Stahl in welcoming Zinkievich back to the company remains to be seen.

MassivelyZinkievich returns to the bridge of Star Trek Online and Cryptic originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 08 Apr 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>corporatecraig-Zinkievichcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahlindustrymmo-industryst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotrek-onlineFri, 08 Apr 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Setting a course for the future]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/24/captains-log-setting-a-course-for-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/24/captains-log-setting-a-course-for-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/24/captains-log-setting-a-course-for-the-future/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Captain's Log, Stardate 64612.7...

Hello, computer (and players)! First things first: My name is Brandon, and I am your new columnist for Captain's Log! I am thrilled to join you each week with the latest Star Trek Online news, gossip, developer interview recaps, and much, much more! As some of you may know (or now know from clicking on my name above), I am a Trekker from mostly sunny Southern California who is actively involved in the STO universe.

Whether I'm doing my weekly podcast, Priority One, administrating our STO social-network site, The Quantum Café, or writing for you guys, I am having an absolute blast and am so proud of where the game has come one year since its launch. So, as a final piece of my "introduction," this column is dedicated to all the Captains out there -- may all your battles be glorious!

Ensign, warp 10! Let's catch these readers up on the latest STO news...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Setting a course for the future

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Setting a course for the future originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Feb 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-crypticataricrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdan-griffisdan-stahlDaniel-stahlFeaturedshaun-brodieStst-onlineStar-Trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestar-trek-online-gameplaystar-trek-online-newsstar-trek-online-season-threestosto-ask-crypticsto-engineering-reportsto-feature-episodes-series-3trek-onlineThu, 24 Feb 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online marks first anniversary with in-game events, discounts, and new Feature Episode]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/02/star-trek-online-marks-first-anniversary-with-in-game-events-di/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/02/star-trek-online-marks-first-anniversary-with-in-game-events-di/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/02/star-trek-online-marks-first-anniversary-with-in-game-events-di/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Today marks the second straight day that a sci-fi MMO is having a birthday, and Star Trek Online is the title in the spotlight. Cryptic's deep-space extravaganza is celebrating its first anniversary with a new Feature Episode series, discounted C-Store offers (including 20% off lifetime subcriptions), and various in-game events.

Beginning today, members of Cryptic's dev team will be appearing in game to challenge players with trivia questions and give out exclusive rewards. The new episode series, sub-titled Cloaked Intentions, sees players tasked with preventing a civil war between factions of the Romulan Empire. The series spans five episodes, introduces a new ship type to STO, and carries the game's storyline beyond the year 2409. The new content kicks off on February 5th.

Finally, we've managed to beam a new anniversary retrospective video aboard the starship Massively, and you can check it out after the jump.

Continue reading Star Trek Online marks first anniversary with in-game events, discounts, and new Feature Episode

MassivelyStar Trek Online marks first anniversary with in-game events, discounts, and new Feature Episode originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 Feb 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversaryataricrypticcryptic-studiosdaniel-stahlfeatured-episodefirst-anniversaryin-game-eventsromulanssci-fistar-trekStar-Trek-MMOstar-trek-onlinetrailertriviavideoWed, 02 Feb 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Facing the future of Star Trek Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/27/captains-log-facing-the-future-of-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/27/captains-log-facing-the-future-of-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/27/captains-log-facing-the-future-of-star-trek-online/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Welcome to another edition of Captain's Log, the greatest weekly column about Star Trek Online that you'll read on Massively today. I can't believe this, but there's a fairly solid chance that I'm digging myself out of another blizzard at this very moment, so I hope you're having fun reading this instead of freezing to death, shovel in hand. Winter is getting on my nerves.

Next week, STO will celebrate its one-year anniversary, and Captain's Log will celebrate with a half-amazed look back at 12 months of Federation funsauce and Klingon, er... hm. Anyway, we'll look ahead this week to STO's future -- both the future we expect, and the future STO needs to ensure it reaches its second, fifth and tenth anniversaries.

Continue reading Captain's Log: Facing the future of Star Trek Online

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Facing the future of Star Trek Online originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Jan 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Ataricaptains-logcaptains-log-future-of-stocrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdaniel-stahlfeaturedst-onlineStar-TrekStar-Trek-MMOstar-trek-onlinestar-trek-online-futurestar-trek-online-season-3stosto-ask-crypticsto-combatsto-combat-changessto-foundrysto-free-to-playsto-freemiumsto-futuresto-future-featuressto-ground-combattrek-onlineThu, 27 Jan 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Newstime grab bag]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/20/captains-log-newstime-grab-bag/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/20/captains-log-newstime-grab-bag/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/20/captains-log-newstime-grab-bag/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Hey, everybody. I did four things this weekend: I saw True Grit, I saw The Green Hornet, I tried kumquats for the first time and I went on a blind date with a dyspeptic wendigo. I recommend doing only one of those things.

In other news, it's time for another edition of Captain's Log. We covered some helpful resources for creating missions with Star Trek Online's Foundry last week, even as the folks at Cryptic Studios tossed out a whole slew of new information. Dan Stahl and company meted out an update to the feature-episode calendar, a new Engineering Report and the latest Ask Cryptic. So, what'd we learn?

Continue reading Captain's Log: Newstime grab bag

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Newstime grab bag originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 Jan 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-crypticcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdaniel-stahlfeaturedst-onlineStar-TrekStar-Trek-MMOstar-trek-onlinestar-trek-online-season-threestosto-ask-crypticsto-engineering-reportsto-f2psto-feature-episodes-series-3sto-featuredsto-featured-episodessto-featured-series-3sto-featuressto-free-to-playsto-freemiumsto-pvpsto-romulanssto-season-3sto-season-4sto-series-3-cloaked-intentionssto-weekliessto-weekly-episodestrek-onlineThu, 20 Jan 2011 15:00:00 EST