Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[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.

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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<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: The movers and shakers of 2010]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/30/the-perfect-ten-the-movers-and-shakers-of-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/30/the-perfect-ten-the-movers-and-shakers-of-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/30/the-perfect-ten-the-movers-and-shakers-of-2010/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Even though MMOs are the products of great teams of talented workers -- from sound artists to writers -- it's inevitable that a few of the people behind the curtain step out into the limelight. It's a smart move, really; it provides a personal face for people to associate with the game, it keeps messages consistent, and it draws any potential hate onto one person instead of the team at large.

It stands to reason that these public figures end up being some of the major movers and shakers in the industry because of their high-profile positions. From CEOs to community managers, these are the people with power to make decisions, the voice to change opinions, and the personalities to inspire millions.

Oh, that last sentence is pure poetry. Let's re-read it again, shall we?

So in our last Perfect Ten of the year, I've asked the Massively team to compile a list of the 10 biggest MMO movers and shakers of this year. All of these people now owe us cupcakes of gratitude. (Legal Disclaimer: This does not signify a binding cupcake-blogger contract.)

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: The movers and shakers of 2010

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: The movers and shakers of 2010 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 30 Dec 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>30-studiosage-of-conanaocarenanetask-crypticbiowarebioware-mythicbree-profred-this-tgachampionschampions-onlinechris-caocoocraig-morrisoncraig-zinkievichcrypticcryptic-studioscupcakecupcake-contractcurt-schillingdan-ericksondan-stahldaniel-ericksondaniel-stahldark-side-of-the-forcedc-universe-onlinedcuoddodungeon-fighter-onlinedungeons-and-dragons-onlineea-biowareend-of-the-yearend-of-the-year-2010engineering-reportseq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfourth-pillarfree-to-playfuncomguild-warsguild-wars-2jack-emmertkate-paizlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromabinogimaplestorymike-obrienmin-kimneverwinternexonnexon-nanexon-north-americapaizperfect-10perfect-tenrhode-islandriftrift-planes-of-telarascott-hartsmanstar-trek-onlinestar-wars-the-old-republicstoswtorthe-old-republicthe-perfect-tentortriontrion-worldsturbinevindictusworld-of-warcraftThu, 30 Dec 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Star Trek Online's year in review]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/30/captains-log-star-trek-onlines-year-in-review/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/30/captains-log-star-trek-onlines-year-in-review/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/30/captains-log-star-trek-onlines-year-in-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Welcome back, Capsloggers! (Note: professional nicknamer here, available for all your mascot-imagining, brand-revamping needs.) I hope you've all had a merry merry and a happy happy so far. And if you haven't, then keep it to yourself, because Massively is no place to be sad.

Now the calendar's just one page, and of course I am excited. Tomorrow is New Year's Eve, and the end of the year means end-of-the-year lists! As we all know, 2010 has been a big year for Star Trek Online, from its release in February to the introduction of Season 3 just this month. Skip away with me down the Memory Brick Road as we recall the biggest STO stories of the year!

Continue reading Captain's Log: Star Trek Online's year in review

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Star Trek Online's year in review originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 30 Dec 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captains-logcraig-Zinkievichdaniel-stahlfeaturedjack-emmertst-onlineStar-Trek-MMOstar-trek-onlinestar-trek-online-diplomatic-corpsstar-trek-online-gameplaystar-trek-online-season-onestar-trek-online-season-threestar-trek-online-season-twostosto-2010-newssto-2010-roundupsto-f2psto-featuredsto-featured-episodessto-foundrysto-foundry-betasto-free-to-playsto-freemiumsto-futuresto-looking-backsto-season-2sto-season-3sto-season-4sto-season-onesto-season-threesto-season-twosto-user-contentsto-user-generated-contentsto-year-in-reviewtrek-onlineThu, 30 Dec 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Nine months of Star Trek Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/11/captains-log-nine-months-of-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/11/captains-log-nine-months-of-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/11/captains-log-nine-months-of-star-trek-online/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Guess who's nine months old? Think red shirts, warp coils and forehead ridges. Think of your favorite Cryptic Studios-published space MMO.

That's right! Star Trek Online is celebrating a birthday this week. (OK, it actually happened last week, but who's counting? You there -- stop counting!) We here at Massively like to check in on our games every few months to reminisce about the past, recap the present and ruminate on the future. Let us away!

Continue reading Captain's Log: Nine months of Star Trek Online

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Nine months of Star Trek Online originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 11 Nov 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craig-Zinkievichcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdaniel-stahlfeaturednine-months-of-star-trek-onlineStar-TrekStar-Trek-MMOstar-trek-onlinestar-trek-online-free-to-playstosto-anniversarysto-foundrysto-nine-monthssto-season-2sto-season-3sto-season-4sto-season-onesto-season-one-common-groundsto-season-twosto-stfssto-ugcsto-ugc-systemsto-ugc-toolssto-user-contentsto-user-generated-contenttrek-onlineThu, 11 Nov 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: A glimpse of Cryptic's free-to-play philosophy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/04/captains-log-a-glimpse-of-cryptics-free-to-play-philosophy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/04/captains-log-a-glimpse-of-cryptics-free-to-play-philosophy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/04/captains-log-a-glimpse-of-cryptics-free-to-play-philosophy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Welcome to another edition of Captain's Log, everybody. I hope y'all enjoyed the weekend's festivities, both in-game and real-world. I've only just woken up from my sugar coma to discover a bright new November Thursday, so I guess it's Star Trek Online time!

The folks at Cryptic Studios dropped a big ol' bomb last week. A free-to-play bomb! Sometime soon, Champions Online -- y'know, Cryptic's other MMO, the one about superheroes -- will adopt a fabulously free-ish payment model. What does that mean for the future of STO? Let's speculate!

Continue reading Captain's Log: A glimpse of Cryptic's free-to-play philosophy

MassivelyCaptain's Log: A glimpse of Cryptic's free-to-play philosophy originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Nov 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>champions-onlinechampions-online-free-to-playcrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdaniel-stahlf2pfeaturedfree-to-playshannon-posniewskist-onlineStar-TrekStar-Trek-MMOstar-trek-onlinestar-trek-online-free-to-playstosto-f2psto-foundrysto-freemiumsto-ugcsto-ugc-systemsto-ugc-toolstrek-onlineThu, 04 Nov 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Anticipating STO's future in user-generated content]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/14/captains-log-anticipating-stos-future-in-user-generated-conte/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/14/captains-log-anticipating-stos-future-in-user-generated-conte/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/14/captains-log-anticipating-stos-future-in-user-generated-conte/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Hey there, folks! Welcome back to another edition of Captain's Log, Massively's rarely-coherent-but-always-fun look at Star Trek Online. I have had just the busiest darn week, you betcha. I spent all weekend at New York Comic Con, where I saw more than a few folks dressed to the nines in Star Trek gear, and then I started a shiny new day job on Monday. Phew!

I've been thinking a lot about user-generated content lately. In a recent interview, STO Executive Producer Daniel Stahl offers a few details on the subject, in which we learn a bit about the forthcoming system's abilities and limitations. What do we know about STO's UGC tools? What do we still not know -- mainly, when can we get in there and start crafting our own missions? Why, follow me past the jump to find out.

Continue reading Captain's Log: Anticipating STO's future in user-generated content

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Anticipating STO's future in user-generated content originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Oct 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-crypticcaptains-logcataclysmcrypticcryptic-cbscryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdaniel-stahlfeaturedklingon-pveklingon-pvpklingonsplayer-createdplayer-created-contentst-onlineStar-TrekStar-Trek-MMOstar-trek-onlinestar-trek-online-gameplaystosto-cbssto-season-3sto-season-4sto-season-5sto-season-foursto-season-threesto-starship-interiorssto-state-of-the-gamesto-ugcsto-ugc-systemsto-ugc-toolssto-user-contentsto-user-generated-contenttrek-onlineuser-generated-contentuser-generated-missionsThu, 14 Oct 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Ask Cryptic raises questions about STO's future]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/07/captains-log-ask-cryptic-raises-questions-about-stos-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/07/captains-log-ask-cryptic-raises-questions-about-stos-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/07/captains-log-ask-cryptic-raises-questions-about-stos-future/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The future of Star Trek Online comes up a lot in Captain's Log. Whether imagining cool new features or picking apart comments by Executive Producer Daniel Stahl, I ponder STO's tomorrows fairly frequently.

But, hey, it's not my fault the folks at Cryptic Studios talk about the game's near and far future so much, right? Especially with their monthly Ask Cryptic feature, the developers address the game's, er, development all the time. This month's extra-hefty Ask Cryptic offers players a lot of tasty food for thought -- but a forum post I missed last week has given me indigestion.

Continue reading Captain's Log: Ask Cryptic raises questions about STO's future

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Ask Cryptic raises questions about STO's future originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Oct 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-crypticcaptains-logcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdaniel-stahlfeaturedspecial-task-forcespecial-task-force-missionsst-onlineStar-TrekStar-Trek-MMOstar-trek-onlinestosto-ask-crypticsto-breensto-craftingsto-deferisto-endgamesto-endgame-changessto-expansionsto-featured-episodessto-ground-combatsto-mac-editionsto-memory-alphasto-memory-alpha-changessto-memory-alpha-improvementssto-memory-alpha-overhaulsto-overhaulssto-player-housingsto-season-2sto-season-3sto-season-4sto-season-foursto-season-threesto-set-itemssto-state-of-the-gamesto-stfssto-tholianssto-weekly-episodestrek-onlineThu, 07 Oct 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Cryptic answers the 29 most pressing STO questions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/02/cryptic-answers-the-29-most-pressing-sto-questions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/02/cryptic-answers-the-29-most-pressing-sto-questions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/02/cryptic-answers-the-29-most-pressing-sto-questions/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Star Trek Online's monthly Ask Cryptic features are always something for fans to look forward to reading, but this month even more so as executive producer Dan Stahl goes well beyond the normal handful of queries to accumulate 29 questions and answers to some of the hottest topics among the community.

Included in this Q&A session is a sneak peek at the work-in-progress Tholian race (above left), the revelation that Season 4 will primarily focus on retooling repeatable end game content, fleet starbases, passive bridge officer abilities, Season 3 item sets, Memory Alpha improvements, sector space expansion and much, much more. Stahl even explains why he picks the questions he does to answer -- basically, he likes to get into topics that aren't repeatedly touched upon in interviews.

Those hoping for a full-fledged STO expansion shouldn't start holding their breath, however: "It is unclear if we will ever produce a paid expansion as the market is leaning away from expansions and more towards smaller microtransactions. However, if we ever did release a paid expansion, it would be a significant update and add some new functionality to the game that would be deemed worth the price of the release."

MassivelyCryptic answers the 29 most pressing STO questions originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 02 Oct 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-crypticbridge-officerscrypticdan-stahldaniel-stahlend-gameexpansionfleet-starbasememory-alphaq-and-aseason-3season-4star-trek-onlinestotholianSat, 02 Oct 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Wrapping up STO's first series of weekly episodes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/captains-log-wrapping-up-stos-first-series-of-weekly-episodes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/captains-log-wrapping-up-stos-first-series-of-weekly-episodes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/captains-log-wrapping-up-stos-first-series-of-weekly-episodes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Welcome back to another installment of Captain's Log, your weekly dose of -- y'know what, could you guys hang on for a bit? Glee is on as I write this. Britney can take a flying leap, but John Stamos is somethin' else, amirite?

Ahem. So anyway, Star Trek Online's very first series of weekly episodes wrapped up this past Saturday. We covered the introduction of weekly episodes a few weeks ago, and I promised we'd get back to them in due time. So did the Breen win? What can we expect from the next series of episodes? And are STO's weekly episodes all they're cracked up to be?

Continue reading Captain's Log: Wrapping up STO's first series of weekly episodes

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Wrapping up STO's first series of weekly episodes originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 30 Sep 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captains-logcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdaniel-stahlfeaturedGleest-onlineStar-TrekStar-Trek-MMOstar-trek-onlinestar-trek-online-gameplaystar-trek-online-season-twostosto-ambassador-surahsto-breensto-breen-bridge-officersto-cold-callsto-cold-casesto-cold-case-asteroid-rubblesto-cold-case-cave-wallsto-cold-case-puzzlesto-cold-comfortsto-cold-storagesto-deferasto-deferisto-deferi-sectorsto-devidianssto-featuredsto-featured-episodessto-featured-series-1sto-featured-series-onesto-out-in-the-coldsto-season-2sto-season-2-patchsto-season-twosto-thot-trelsto-transto-weekliessto-weeklysto-weekly-episodessto-weekly-series-1sto-weekly-series-onetrek-onlineThu, 30 Sep 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Is the state of the game good, bad or ugly?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/23/captains-log-is-the-state-of-the-game-good-bad-or-ugly/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/23/captains-log-is-the-state-of-the-game-good-bad-or-ugly/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/23/captains-log-is-the-state-of-the-game-good-bad-or-ugly/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Newsflash! This just in: Star Trek Online has endured a turbulent life so far. You had no idea, right? Except for the part where Captain's Log has discussed that very topic for the past two weeks -- and who here doesn't hang on my every word? (Don't answer that.)

STO's rocky road also features prominently in the latest state of the game letter from Cryptic Studios. Executive Producer Daniel Stahl offers some visions for the future of the game and drops some hints of what to expect in coming updates. He also comes this close to sharing frank information about STO's performance. So what does Stahl's vaguenesses imply, and what does Cryptic have in store for STO?

Continue reading Captain's Log: Is the state of the game good, bad or ugly?

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Is the state of the game good, bad or ugly? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Sep 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-storecryptic-studiosdaniel-stahlfeaturedjumping-to-conclusions-for-fun-and-profitklingonklingonsper-characterst-onlineStar-TrekStar-Trek-MMOstar-trek-onlinestar-trek-state-of-the-gameState-of-the-gamestosto-business-modelsto-c-storesto-c-store-troublesto-futuresto-future-featuressto-improvementssto-lifetime-subssto-microtransactionssto-new-shipssto-state-of-the-gamesto-subscriberssto-subscriptionstrek-onlineunbridled-speculationThu, 23 Sep 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online rethinks microtransactions in the latest State of the Game]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/star-trek-online-rethinks-microtransactions-in-the-latest-state/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/star-trek-online-rethinks-microtransactions-in-the-latest-state/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/star-trek-online-rethinks-microtransactions-in-the-latest-state/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Upbeat but still working hard: That is the motto of Star Trek Online's Dan Stahl in the latest state of the game. STO's executive producer strikes a positive note by saying that the game is enjoying a "healthy subscriber base" as well as an increase in the number of lifetime subs. The team is also proud to be releasing more frequent content in the form of weekly episodes.

Stahl then tackled three of STO's biggest complaints: the microtransaction shop (C-Store), ground combat and skimpy Klingon content. For players who are rankled that some of the better ships can only be purchased via the C-Store, Stahl reports that this will be changing: "I'm happy to say that we have been evaluating your feedback and looking at our internal resources and finding ways to ensure that coveted items such as ships can be be obtained in game as well as via micro-transaction."

Improvements to both ground combat and the Klingon faction are on their way, he promised, stating that the team has struggled with the Klingon's "identity crisis" since the first day of the game. While the faction's content will grow to become more robust, Stahl admits that the team doesn't have the resources to beef up the Klingon side to be on par with the Federation, especially since only a fraction of the playerbase fight on that side. You can read the full state of the game on the official STO site.

MassivelyStar Trek Online rethinks microtransactions in the latest State of the Game originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Sep 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>c-storecrypticcryptic-storecryptic-studiosdaniel-stahldeveloperexecutive-producerfederationground-combatitem-shopklingonmicrotransactionsstar-trek-onlinestate-of-the-gamestosubscriberstrouble-with-tribbles-and-microtransactionsThu, 16 Sep 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Five features STO should "borrow" from other MMOs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/captains-log-five-features-sto-should-borrow-from-other-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/captains-log-five-features-sto-should-borrow-from-other-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/captains-log-five-features-sto-should-borrow-from-other-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Hi, everybody! (Hi, Dr. Nick!) Thanks for tuning in to another edition of Captain's Log, where we laud and lament the finer points of Star Trek Online each and every Thursday. Last week sure was fun, wasn't it? Nothing gets the comments pumping like defending the work of Cryptic Studios, amirite?

This week, I feel like having a little more fun. These are exciting times for MMO-lovers, and I admit my eye -- and my playing time -- have gone a-wanderin' of late. So I got to thinking this week about which features from other MMOs I would most like to see implemented in STO. Keep reading, because I'm going to tell them to you! And then I'm going to demand that you suggest your own features in the comments!

Continue reading Captain's Log: Five features STO should "borrow" from other MMOs

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Five features STO should "borrow" from other MMOs originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-crypticcity-of-heroesCOHcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdaniel-stahldc-universe-onlinedcuoeve-onlineeverquestfeaturedffxivfinal-fantasy-xivfun-with-imaginationlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromind-grapesmission-architectmonster-playPokemonromrunes-of-magicsehlatst-onlineStar-Trekstar-trek-gaghStar-Trek-MMOstar-trek-onlinestar-wars-galaxiesstar-wars-the-old-republicstosto-craftingsto-diplomacysto-featuressto-future-featuressto-non-combatsto-qsto-tribblesstupid-stupid-dinosaur-planetswgswtortargtrek-onlineunbridled-speculationWorld-of-WarcraftwowThu, 16 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Weekly episodes (finally) begin with a bang]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/captains-log-weekly-episodes-finally-begin-with-a-bang/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/captains-log-weekly-episodes-finally-begin-with-a-bang/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/captains-log-weekly-episodes-finally-begin-with-a-bang/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Well, well, well. If it isn't our new friend, Mr. Weekly Episode. You sure took your sweet time getting here. What happened, you get stuck in traffic on the intergalactic turnpike or something? This is why you don't warp anywhere near Bajor during rush hour.

It's true: Cryptic Studios has released the first of Star Trek Online's long-awaited weekly episodes. The shiny new mission, titled Cold Call, introduces new races, new faces and new places. It's new! Read on, intrepid explorers, as Captain's Log plays through our first weekly episode, and we learn whether it was worth the wait.

Continue reading Captain's Log: Weekly episodes (finally) begin with a bang

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Weekly episodes (finally) begin with a bang originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdaniel-stahlfeaturedst-onlineStar-Trekstar-trek-deep-space-nineStar-Trek-MMOstar-trek-onlinestar-trek-online-season-twostosto-ambassador-surahsto-breensto-cold-callsto-cold-comfortsto-deferasto-deferisto-dominionsto-featured-episodessto-orellius-sectorsto-out-in-the-coldsto-preserverssto-season-2sto-season-2-patchsto-season-twosto-weekliessto-weeklysto-weekly-episodestrek-onlineThu, 02 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Say hello to my minigames]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/26/captains-log-say-hello-to-my-minigames/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/26/captains-log-say-hello-to-my-minigames/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/26/captains-log-say-hello-to-my-minigames/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

C'mon, no Whammies, no Whammies, STOP! Argh, I got a swirly thing and some squigglies. That means I, uh... won two bars of gold-pressed latinum? I wish the Dabo girl would stop flirting with that Klingon -- I have no Bajorly clue what I'm doing.

Hiya, readers! Pull up a barstool and get comfy. This week's Captain's Log, your Thursday fix of Star Trek Online news and views, is all about minigames. With the recent release of Season 2: Ancient Enemies, the folks at Cryptic Studios introduced a pair of minigames to STO, and they say they have more in the works. I thought it might be fun to check out the new diversions and maybe suggest a few of our own for future updates.

Continue reading Captain's Log: Say hello to my minigames

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Say hello to my minigames originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Aug 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anomaly-gatheringcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdaniel-stahldrozanafeaturedgold-pressed-latinumno-whammy-no-whammypress-your-luck-referencesst-onlineStar-Trekstar-trek-3d-chessstar-trek-deep-space-ninestar-trek-dom-jotstar-trek-domjotStar-Trek-MMOstar-trek-onlinestar-trek-online-dabostar-trek-online-minigamesstar-trek-online-season-twostosto-3d-chesssto-anomaliessto-craftingsto-dabosto-dabo-girlssto-dabo-minigamesto-dartssto-dom-jotsto-ds9sto-gamblingsto-latinumsto-leetasto-memory-alphasto-minigamessto-pokersto-quarkssto-resourcessto-scan-anomalysto-season-2sto-season-2-patchsto-season-twosto-starship-interiorssto-waveform-minigametrek-onlineThu, 26 Aug 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Starship interiors and hints of the future]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/19/captains-log-starship-interiors-and-hints-of-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/19/captains-log-starship-interiors-and-hints-of-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/19/captains-log-starship-interiors-and-hints-of-the-future/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Oh, hi there, readers! You'll have to excuse me; I was just enjoying a little quiet time in my quarters. My starship quarters. Inside my starship. Because I have those now.

Yes, among many other features, Season 2: Ancient Enemies introduced starship interiors to Star Trek Online. Continuing from last week's discussion of diplomacy, one of Season 2's other big additions, I thought we'd spend this edition of Captain's Log examining ship interiors. Plus, we'll take a special side trip into the future to consider what else STO fans can look forward to -- in the future!

Continue reading Captain's Log: Starship interiors and hints of the future

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Starship interiors and hints of the future originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Aug 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-crypticcraig-Zinkievichcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdaniel-stahlengineeringfeaturedfederationklingonklingon-empirelisbeth-salander-pwns-facemain-engineeringst-onlineStar-TrekStar-Trek-MMOstar-trek-onlinestar-trek-online-season-twostar-trek-online-ship-interiorsstarship-interiorsstosto-bridgesto-crew-decksto-customizable-interiorssto-futuresto-improvementssto-season-2sto-season-2-patchsto-season-twosto-seasone-two-patchsto-ship-interiorssto-shipssto-starship-interiorssto-user-contentsto-user-generated-contenttrek-onlineunbridled-speculationThu, 19 Aug 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Cryptic discusses user-generated content and future improvements for STO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/10/cryptic-discusses-user-generated-content-and-future-improvements/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/10/cryptic-discusses-user-generated-content-and-future-improvements/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/10/cryptic-discusses-user-generated-content-and-future-improvements/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

As Star Trek Online concludes its shakedown cruise of the recent Season 2.0 update, players have turned their eyes to the future and pondered, "What's next?" Coming to their aid is STO's executive producer Dan Stahl, who fields a large number of questions about upcoming features and works in progress in the latest Ask Cryptic article.

One of the inquiries covered was user-generated content, which Stahl confirmed would be coming -- at least in beta form -- with Season 3. "We aren't discussing our specific plans just yet, but we do want the tools to be easy to use so that players can begin to create their own missions and episodes," he said. "This may or may not be the big secret project we are working on."

Other questions into the future development of Star Trek Online included customizable ship interiors, the PvP system, bridge officer promotions, expanding the Sol System, the ability to play as a holographic character, and bridge officer voices. And for those standing at the edge of their captain's chairs, eager to sit down, don't fret: Cryptic is hard at work on the long-awaited "sit in chairs" feature. You can read the full Ask Cryptic over at STO's website.

MassivelyCryptic discusses user-generated content and future improvements for STO originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 Aug 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-crypticbetabig-secret-projectbridge-officerscrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahlholographic-charactermeet-interesting-new-races-and-shoot-to-killpvpseason-2season-2.0season-3ship-interiorssit-in-chairssol-systemstar-trek-onlinestouser-generated-contentTue, 10 Aug 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Pros and cons of Season 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/05/captains-log-pros-and-cons-of-season-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/05/captains-log-pros-and-cons-of-season-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/05/captains-log-pros-and-cons-of-season-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Hail and well met, fellow travelers! Welcome to another edition of Captain's Log, your weekly helping of Star Trek Online infopiniontainment. The past few weeks have been a little crazy around here, between the C-Store kerfuffle and the game's six-month anniversary. Oh, and did I mention Season 2 went live?

Yep, the corking chaps at Cryptic Studios released STO's latest super-patch on July 27, introducing a bevy of new content. Now that most players have had a chance to sink their teeth into Season 2: Ancient Enemies, I thought we'd discuss some of the major new features, as we did when Season 1 hit the scene four months ago.

Continue reading Captain's Log: Pros and cons of Season 2

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Pros and cons of Season 2 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Aug 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Grab a party hat and some confetti, because it's time for an extra-special edition of Captain's Log. This week, we put aside recent tribble-ations in favor of some celebration: Star Trek Online is six months old!

Can you believe Cryptic Studios' STO went live half a year ago? This Monday marks the big anniversary, and it sure has been a bumpy ride getting here. Awash in new content, and occasionally mired in controversy, STO is older and wiser now. So let's scoop up the sands of time with our beach pail of reminiscence, as we fondly recall the past six months of STO.

Continue reading Captain's Log: Six months of Star Trek Online

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Six months of Star Trek Online originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Jul 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversary-roundupcaptains-logcraig-Zinkievichcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdaniel-stahlfeaturedklingonsst-onlineStar-TrekStar-Trek-MMOstar-trek-onlinestosto-6-monthssto-crafting-changessto-diplomacysto-ground-combatsto-improvementssto-mission-typessto-new-level-capsto-season-2sto-season-onesto-season-twosto-ship-interiorssto-six-month-anniversarysto-six-monthstrek-onlinevice-admiralThu, 29 Jul 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Our interview with Star Trek Online's executive producer Dan Stahl]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/26/our-interview-with-star-trek-onlines-executive-producer-dan-sta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/26/our-interview-with-star-trek-onlines-executive-producer-dan-sta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/26/our-interview-with-star-trek-onlines-executive-producer-dan-sta/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

There's a lot going on with Star Trek Online at the moment. Not only does the game have a major update fast approaching and the occasional microtransaction controversy popping up, but it's also recently been given a new executive producer. Daniel Stahl has had the reins for a little under a month, but that's still enough time to have a notable influence on both the direction of the upcoming update and the overall direction of the game.

We recently had a chance to sit down and talk with the new executive producer about his work on Star Trek Online, the game's strengths and weaknesses, and where development is headed for the future. There's a new direction in store for the game, or perhaps it'd be more apt to say a new focus. If you're interested in the game's past and future, or even just in the various rumors that started flying about the game going free-to-play, take a look past the break for the full interview.

Continue reading Our interview with Star Trek Online's executive producer Dan Stahl

MassivelyOur interview with Star Trek Online's executive producer Dan Stahl originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Jul 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahlfeaturedinterviewslevel-pathlevelingmemory-alphapatchesseason-2st-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotrek-onlineupdatesMon, 26 Jul 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: The C-Store and the perils of going freemium]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/15/captains-log-the-c-store-and-the-perils-of-going-freemium/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/15/captains-log-the-c-store-and-the-perils-of-going-freemium/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/15/captains-log-the-c-store-and-the-perils-of-going-freemium/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Welcome to another installment of Captain's Log, in which we explore -- and sometimes complain about -- the uncharted depths of Star Trek Online. This is your captain speaking from behind a rickety card table in a basement somewhere in the murky New Jersey Nebula. Isn't moving the worst?

Last week, we learned a little bit about Daniel Stahl, the brand new executive producer on STO. But not enough to prepare us for the crazy truth bomb with which he torpedoed the official forums. On Sunday, Stahl suggested that he could see STO going free-to-play. Seriously. I had planned to discuss the Cryptic Store this week anyway, and this fits in nicely, given micro-transactions' importance to the free-to-play model.

Would Cryptic Studios' switching STO from subscriptions to an F2P model be a godsend or a hellish nightmare? (Hint: It would wind up somewhere in the middle.)

Continue reading Captain's Log: The C-Store and the perils of going freemium

MassivelyCaptain's Log: The C-Store and the perils of going freemium originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Jul 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allods-cash-shopallods-onlineask-crypticcaptains-logchampions-onlinecryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdaniel-stahlddoddo-storeddo-unlimiteddungeons-and-dragons-onlinef2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumkhaaaaanlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroobscure-manfred-mann-referencesrmtst-onlineStar-TrekStar-Trek-MMOstar-trek-onlinestosto-c-storesto-f2psto-freemiumsto-microtransactionstrek-onlineunbridled-speculationThu, 15 Jul 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[More details on weekly episodes in Star Trek Online's Season 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/14/more-details-on-weekly-episodes-in-star-trek-onlines-season-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/14/more-details-on-weekly-episodes-in-star-trek-onlines-season-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/14/more-details-on-weekly-episodes-in-star-trek-onlines-season-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

If you're playing Star Trek Online, odds are good that you've come by your affection for the game via a prior love of the series. While we haven't had a new show on television in several years, almost every fan has fond memories of sitting down each week for the latest installments of the story. According to a new 10-question interview with Daniel Stahl, that's exactly what the team hopes to replicate (pun intended) with the weekly episodes that are coming along with Season 2. Each one is meant to give players something new to look forward to on a weekly basis, ranging from first contact with an alien race to placing your ship in perilous situations.

Speaking of first contact, there's more information on diplomatic missions, which seem as if they'll not simply be standalone ventures but also components of existing content. (The once-dreaded planetary aid missions, for example, fall under their aegis.) One of the rewards for progressing through the diplomatic ranks is the chance to make first contact and define the first impression the Federation makes -- something that any fan of the series will tell you is an important event. Star Trek Online players eager for more information on Season 2 can read the full list of questions, which include a preliminary target of the last week in July.

MassivelyMore details on weekly episodes in Star Trek Online's Season 2 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Jul 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdaniel-stahldiplomacydiplomatic-missionsinterviewinterviewspatchpatchesrelease-datesseason-2st-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotarget-releasetrek-onlineupdatesweekly-episodesWed, 14 Jul 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Is Star Trek Online due for Turbine's business model?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/12/rumor-is-star-trek-online-due-for-turbines-business-model/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/12/rumor-is-star-trek-online-due-for-turbines-business-model/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/12/rumor-is-star-trek-online-due-for-turbines-business-model/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Back in early June, Turbine surprised everyone -- for the second time in a year -- by announcing that Lord of the Rings Online would be moving to a free-to-play model akin to Dungeons and Dragons Online. It seems like a somewhat risky move on one level, but also quite understandable given the success the latter has enjoyed. Now we're hearing potential rumblings of another game heading in that direction -- specifically, from Star Trek Online's new Executive Producer Daniel Stahl.

In the midst of a thread rather unhappy with some of the answers from the most recent Ask Cryptic outing, Stahl chimed in about Star Trek Online going free-to-play. Stahl mentions that he could easily see Cryptic's game adopting a similarly hybrid model, with the option for a subscription as well as the option to pay as you play. While he stops far from saying that it's in the plan, he does say the success enjoyed by Turbine is well worth taking note. Alternative subscription plans are gaining momentum, and with gamers complaining about the C-Store prices combined with a subscription fee, the idea might not be so far-fetched after all.

[Thanks to Alexander for the tip!]

MassivelyRumor: Is Star Trek Online due for Turbine's business model? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Jul 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelsc-storecrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdaniel-stahlddodungeons-and-dragons-onlinef2pfree-to-playlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromicrotransactionsrumorrumorsst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotrek-onlineturbineturbine-entertainmentMon, 12 Jul 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Pondering Star Trek Online's executive shakeup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/08/captains-log-pondering-star-trek-onlines-executive-shakeup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/08/captains-log-pondering-star-trek-onlines-executive-shakeup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/08/captains-log-pondering-star-trek-onlines-executive-shakeup/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Lieutenant, take the helm! It's time for another edition of Captain's Log, our regular foray into the farthest reaches of Star Trek Online. The big bombshell of the week -- no, not that one -- has left your humble captain with a serious case of the vapors, so allow me a moment to collect myself.

Unless you've been hiding on the holodeck for days -- a wise choice, given the circumstances here on Earth -- you surely have heard the news: STO Executive Producer Craig Zinkievich is gone, baby, gone. According to Zinkievich's farewell letter, Daniel Stahl, formerly a producer on STO, has taken the helm in his place.

I thought we'd briefly discuss Zinkievich's departure before moving on Stahl's recent video interview with the STOked podcast crew, where he dropped some delicious hints about future content and provided insight into his mindset as STO's head honcho.

Continue reading Captain's Log: Pondering Star Trek Online's executive shakeup

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Pondering Star Trek Online's executive shakeup originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craig-Zinkievichcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdaniel-stahlfeaturedklingonspodcastst-onlineStar-TrekStar-Trek-MMOstar-trek-onlinestar-trek-online-gameplaystosto-daniel-stahlsto-executive-producersto-management-changessto-playable-factionssto-season-twosto-stoked-podcaststo-zinkievich-leavesstokedtrek-onlinevideo-podcastThu, 08 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[STOked video podcast to release first interview with Daniel Stahl]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/06/stoked-video-podcast-to-release-first-interview-with-daniel-stah/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/06/stoked-video-podcast-to-release-first-interview-with-daniel-stah/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/06/stoked-video-podcast-to-release-first-interview-with-daniel-stah/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

It's been several days since Daniel Stahl took over the Star Trek Online Executive Producer position, and the STO fans are already eager to see what this means for their game.

We're going to find out from the man himself, thanks to the STOked video podcast -- they'll be releasing the very first interview with Daniel Stahl today. Episode 41 will feature his plans for the future of the game and his thoughts on fan reactions to his new position. The video will also include general STO news and a community feedback feature.

The newest episode of STOked can be found on the official site.

MassivelySTOked video podcast to release first interview with Daniel Stahl originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 Jul 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-studiosdaniel-stahlpodcaststar-trek-onlinestostokedvideo-podcastTue, 06 Jul 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Craig Zinkievich leaving Star Trek Online's bridge]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/01/craig-zinkievich-leaving-star-trek-onlines-bridge/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/01/craig-zinkievich-leaving-star-trek-onlines-bridge/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/01/craig-zinkievich-leaving-star-trek-onlines-bridge/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

We'll take "things we didn't see coming" for 5000, Alex. What would that be? Well, in a nutshell, Craig Zinkievich, Executive Producer on Star Trek Online and seven-year vet of Cryptic Studios, has announced his plans to step down. The long open-letter posted on the Star Trek Online official site is titled "What you leave behind" and indicates that his intent is to "take a break" allowing him to enjoy "hanging out with [his] kids over the summer, walking [his] goat more and taking care of [his] bees."

As to just what his plans for the future are, and whether or not they may involve a return to Cryptic Studios in the future, he does not say. In the meantime, Daniel Stahl will step into his position as Star Trek Online's new Executive Producer. According to both Zinkievich's note and Stahl's own profile on the STO site, the game's future trajectory appears to be in capable hands. We wish Zinkievich the best with his children and his goaty kids -- and may he especially never wind up covered in bees.

MassivelyCraig Zinkievich leaving Star Trek Online's bridge originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Jul 2010 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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