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[The Daily Grind: Have you ever had a last-minute change of heart?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/the-daily-grind-have-you-ever-had-a-last-minute-change-of-heart/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/the-daily-grind-have-you-ever-had-a-last-minute-change-of-heart/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/the-daily-grind-have-you-ever-had-a-last-minute-change-of-heart/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Dungeon Runners
People who know me know I'm a planner when it comes to video games. I'm always planning what type of character I'm going to roll, how I'm going to level, what my goals will be, and so on. It's fun to plan, which sometimes carries with it the benefit of removing stress from making impromptu decisions that can affect your long-term gaming career.

That said, I've certainly not been immune to making last-minute changes. Maybe I'm totally dedicated to rolling a certain class, but once that character creation screen is up there, I trust my gut and go with something different. Or I'll spend months saying that I have absolutely no urge to play an upcoming MMO, but at the 11th hour I break down and buy it.

Has this ever happened to you with MMOs? Have you ever had a last-minute change of heart when it came to a major (or even minor) decision? How did it turn out?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Have you ever had a last-minute change of heart? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>11th-hourchange-of-heartcharacter-creationchoicesclass-choicedungeon-runnerslast-minute-decisionopinionrolltdgthe-daily-grindWed, 14 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX East 2011: Hands-on with Nexon's Dragon Nest and Vindictus]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/11/pax-east-hands-on-with-nexons-dragon-nest-and-vindictus/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/11/pax-east-hands-on-with-nexons-dragon-nest-and-vindictus/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/11/pax-east-hands-on-with-nexons-dragon-nest-and-vindictus/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Nexon spread its wings over much of PAX East's exhibit hall this year, with booths scattered about dedicated to it and its partners' various titles. At the center of the storm lay one of Nexon's hottest new properties, Dragon Nest, which was available for all manner of pokings and proddings.

I sat down to play through a couple of Dragon Nest's dungeons with Dee Lee and Moon Kim, who provided commentary on the various game features we were seeing. At its core, Dragon Nest is a fast-paced dungeon crawler, a mash-up between Dungeon Runners, Diablo and Final Fantasy. Instead of spending time roaming around the world, players will primarily be jumping into multi-stage instances over and over again.

Each dungeon, such as the Forest Sanctuary and the Valley of Mourning, can accommodate between one to four players (or up to eight for raids) as they try to battle their way to the end boss. It's colorful, heavy on clicking, and definitely arcade-like through and through.

Hit the jump to hear the rest of our Dragon Nest impressions as well as a sneak peek at Vindictus' big update coming later this month!

Continue reading PAX East 2011: Hands-on with Nexon's Dragon Nest and Vindictus

MassivelyPAX East 2011: Hands-on with Nexon's Dragon Nest and Vindictus originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>content-updatedark-paladindee-leediablodragon-nestdungeon-runnersepisode-sixexpert-craftingfinal-fantasyforest-sanctuarygalleryjaeho-hwangmoon-kimnexonpaladinpaxpax-2011pax-eastpax-east-2011paxeastpvprochestetrailertrailersupdatevalley-of-mourningvideovideosvindictusFri, 11 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Goodnight, sweet prince]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/01/one-shots-goodnight-sweet-prince/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/01/one-shots-goodnight-sweet-prince/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/01/one-shots-goodnight-sweet-prince/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


With the change in the new year, we bid a fond farewell to Dungeon Runners, which shuffled off the Internets last night. It's always sad to see an MMO go, especially a wacky, fun, free-to-play title. Thankfully, Massively reader Ripper McGee was on-hand last night to capture this screenshot from the final moments. We'll turn it over to Ripper to explain:

Dungeon Runners was shut down for good at midnight last night/this morning. Here [is a shot] from yesterday. [This] is me on my main character next to the bomb Steve Nichols planted in the middle of Townston. All of the players assumed the bomb would go off at midnight, but it was actually just decoration. At midnight, we were all simply disconnected from the server.... Prior to that, though, the server population was completely full (first time in a long time)!

If you have any screenshots from the end of Dungeon Runners -- or indeed any sunsetted MMO -- we'd be glad to feature them here. All you have to do is to email them to us here at oneshots AT massively DOT com along with your name, the name of the game, and a quick description. We'll post it out here and give you the credit!

Gallery: One Shots

MassivelyOne Shots: Goodnight, sweet prince originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 01 Jan 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-mmosdrdungeon-runnersncsoftone-shotsripper-mcgeescreenshotscreenshotssunsettedFri, 01 Jan 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NCsoft responds to City of Heroes speculation]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/ncsoft-responds-to-city-of-heroes-speculation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/ncsoft-responds-to-city-of-heroes-speculation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/ncsoft-responds-to-city-of-heroes-speculation/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


A couple days ago, we had a post detailing some speculation on what City of Heroes: Going Rogue meant for NCsoft West, City of Heroes, and the future of the entire branch of the company. Ryan James, director of corporate communications for NCsoft, took the time to issue a direct response to us regarding that post. We also got an opportunity to ask him a few questions regarding NCsoft's current and future direction, which helps provide some context and some behind-the-scenes information to offset the speculative nature of the aforementioned post.

The official response is as follows:

"We wanted to respond to your post from November 2 on City of Heroes and clarify a few points for you and your readers. In short, the piece offers a rather sensationalist view of NCsoft West and our success thus far.

We're very proud of what we've accomplished here in the West - we have several major MMO franchises, including City of Heroes, Lineage and Guild Wars. And our newest addition to the NCsoft portfolio, Aion, has just seen a very successful launch here in the West. As you point out, we have had to make some tough portfolio decisions, but this is very much par for the course for any major game publisher today. That being said, we remain extremely proud of the Paragon team's accomplishments with the City of Heroes franchise. City of Heroes is still the world's most popular super-powered hero MMO. Even with an increasingly crowded landscape, City of Heroes remains the gold standard for comic book-inspired MMOs - it has stood the test of time and we're excited to be bringing Going Rogue to players next year.

As you note, the author of Vicarious Existence is indeed 'alarmist' in his assessment of NCsoft West and our future. We couldn't agree more. On the contrary, we're optimistic about our future."

Following the statement, Mr. James took the opportunity to answer a few questions about the company's game portfolio and future plans. Take a look at the questions and responses after the break.

Continue reading NCsoft responds to City of Heroes speculation

MassivelyNCsoft responds to City of Heroes speculation originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionaion-the-tower-of-eternitybusiness-modelscity-of-heroescity-of-heroes-going-roguecity-of-villainscohcovcoxdungeon-runnersfeaturedgoing-rogueguild-warsgwinterviewslineage-2lineage-iincsoftncsoft-westopinionrumorsryan-jamesThu, 05 Nov 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Unraveling the mystery of John Deere Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/30/unraveling-the-mystery-of-john-deere-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/30/unraveling-the-mystery-of-john-deere-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/30/unraveling-the-mystery-of-john-deere-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Scott "Lum the Mad" Jennings, well-known blogosphere participant and game designer, has recently been working on a game that is now sadly canceled. This is bad both for the natural sadness of a game having been canceled and the voyeuristic MMO fan impulse to ask, "Well, what was it going to be?" We don't know. The only reference made was to the cryptic in-joke name of John Deere Online. In his own words: "As a condition of my severance I can't discuss a great deal, and anything I say here will most likely be picked up by the MMO news sites (wave, wave!)."

Well, he's right about that last part. But neither waiting for him to change his mind nor camping outside his front door has yielded any new information, so perhaps we can take a look at more pieces of information and speculate? After all, we know of at least two of his co-workers. From them and from the little which Scott Jennings himself has said, we can derive the following bits of information: that they were working for 2K Games, developing an MMO based on an existing franchise, that the game would have been strategy-based, and that it might possibly have had something to do with tractors.

Considering that Jon Jones mentions on his LinkedIn page that he "created a series of low polygon highly optimized building models with a small set of textures that can be reused across that nation's entire series of buildings appropriate to that age," it's difficult to argue with the conclusion that the team was working on a Civilization MMO. But 2K Games also could mean Elder Scrolls projects... which might be pertinent, as both Jon Jones and Matthew Weigel have been working on Dungeon Runners. It's all idle speculation, sadly, and for all we know the game really would have been a massively multiplayer tractor simulator. (In which case it might even be for the best - lawnmowers would probably have been totally overpowered against seeders in PvP.)

MassivelyUnraveling the mystery of John Deere Online originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamescanceled-gamescivilizationdungeon-runnerselder-scrollsjohn-deerejon-joneslum-the-madmatthew-weigelmmo-industrypvprumorsscott-jenningstractorsFri, 30 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dungeon Runners shutting down in January]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/17/dungeon-runners-shutting-down-in-january/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/17/dungeon-runners-shutting-down-in-january/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/17/dungeon-runners-shutting-down-in-january/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


In the No-Surpise-to-Anyone category, we have news that NCsoft's Dungeon Runners will be closing its doors on January 1, 2010. We only say no surprise because of the fact that the game has been running on a handful of devs for quite a long time now, which is a shame, because Dungeon Runners is actually a fun little game.

Staying true to their wonderful sense of humor, Stephen Nichols, DR's Producer and Lead Programmer, released a statement yesterday detailing the closure. He certainly doesn't butter it up at all as he explains that the game just isn't turning a profit, regardless of their efforts over the last year. They're now down to a 3-man team, which is near impossible for any studio to use in maintaining a game.

Luckily, for those currently subscribed to the game, some treats are coming your way, including free City of Heroes Architect Edition and Guild Wars Chapter 1: Prophecies. So if you've never played Dungeon Runners before, you have a little over three months to jump in for free and check it out before the game shuts down for good.

MassivelyDungeon Runners shutting down in January originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnewsclosuredrdungeon-runnersncsoftshutting-downstephen-nicholsThu, 17 Sep 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dungeon Runners updates to Build 162, plans ahead for TURDs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/24/dungeon-runners-updates-to-build-162-plans-ahead-for-turds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/24/dungeon-runners-updates-to-build-162-plans-ahead-for-turds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/24/dungeon-runners-updates-to-build-162-plans-ahead-for-turds/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


It's certainly been quite a while since we last checked in on Dungeon Runners, but it has grabbed our attention once again after updating to Build 162 earlier this week. The humorous free-to-play dungeon-crawler went many months without updates to the live servers, so fans should be happy with this latest addition. Here are some of the patch headlines:

  • No more ads
  • Lots of graphical updates and optimizations
  • Shadows were added
  • A bunch of new items went in
  • PvP is now allowed on all worlds
  • Placeholder artwork was added for the TURD vendors that will go live in (or after) October. Yep, TURD vendors... we could leave it there without any further explanation, but the truth is just as funny. TURD stands for Townston Universally Recognized Dollars and they will be used as Dungeon Runners' version of NCcoins for an item mall.
Hit up the full patch notes to see what else has changed in DR.

[Thanks, Ripper!]

MassivelyDungeon Runners updates to Build 162, plans ahead for TURDs originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 Jul 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>build-162dungeon-runnersnccoinncsoftpatchtownston-universally-recognized-dollarsturdturdsFri, 24 Jul 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Anti-Aliased: Five free to play MMOs that are ahead of the class]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/30/anti-aliased-five-free-to-play-mmos-that-are-ahead-of-the-class/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/30/anti-aliased-five-free-to-play-mmos-that-are-ahead-of-the-class/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/30/anti-aliased-five-free-to-play-mmos-that-are-ahead-of-the-class/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Times are tough, the wallet is tight, and you still need a game to play. But what free games can you wrap your hands around that just don't suck, right? That seems to be the trouble with free to play games -- many selections all with very low quality.

But the market is not as bad as you might think. There are certainly some gems out there in the free to play market, just waiting for you to wrap your hands around them and play. Finding them however, hasn't always been easy, until now.

With the recommendations of my colleagues here at Massively, and my own personal experience, I've complied a list of 5 free to play games that are worthy of your play time. In advance, however, I wish to apologize to Chronicles of Spellborn, Wizard 101, and FusionFall. All three of these games made our favorites list, but I'm skipping them as their focus is more of a "freemium" experience, where massive areas of the games are locked out until a subscription is purchased. This column is only going to concentrate on the free to play, item mall driven games, just to clarify for all of you readers out there.

So which games made the best of the free to play list? Continue reading and you'll find out.

Continue reading Anti-Aliased: Five free to play MMOs that are ahead of the class

MassivelyAnti-Aliased: Five free to play MMOs that are ahead of the class originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 30 Apr 2009 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeria-gamesanti-aliasedcombatdungeon-runnersfeaturedfree-to-playfungood-gamesjoystiqfeaturesncsoftshin-megami-tensei-imaginetop-5Thu, 30 Apr 2009 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dungeon Runners releases Build 153]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/dungeon-runners-releases-build-153/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/dungeon-runners-releases-build-153/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/dungeon-runners-releases-build-153/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Wow, it turns out Dungeon Runners is still alive and kicking. We haven't heard anything from them since the news that the game's staff was cut dramatically, yet it's good to hear something new out of the team over there. Apparently the game is still going strong, as the patch notes for Build 153 have just been released.

With Build 153, players get quite a few new changes. Aside from bug fixes and graphical improvements, PvP rated match have been changed and six new skills have been added to the game: Shadow Words, Fire Shot, Dungeon Inferno, Gosh's Glorious Shower of Gold, Cold Snap and Oh Snap! Check out the complete patch notes for more information.

MassivelyDungeon Runners releases Build 153 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Dec 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dr-build-153dungeon-runnersncsoftpatch-notesThu, 18 Dec 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[First Impressions returns!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/03/first-impressions-returns/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/03/first-impressions-returns/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/03/first-impressions-returns/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


At last check we had identified and indexed well over 250 MMOs of just about every shape, size and color available for gamers from 8 to 80 - and up! Unfortunately, there just aren't enough hours in the day to cover every single game out there as in-depth as we'd like. That said, we are pretty insanely dedicated to MMOs and love to play them... So what's a blog to do?

After kicking the idea around, we've decided to bring back First Impressions for those readers who want to know about more games than just the mainstream. For now, we'll give you a brief look back at some of the staff's favorite past Impressions, as a taste of the fun to come. Be sure to come back next Wednesday and join me as we start a new journey through strange and fantastic worlds of First Impressions!

First Impressions: Dungeon Runners
Dungeon Runners is a game by NCsoft that trades off of the popularity of Blizzard titles WoW and Diablo II, but does it with a sense of humor. More properly, we should really say it does it with a healthy dose of snark and silliness. That's okay, we like it that way.
First Impressions: Jumpgate Evolution
Sometimes we get a ridiculously early look at a game in development. Wondering what Jumpgate Evolution was like in earlier beta days, or perhaps still waiting on your invite? Take a peek behind the scenes with Jennie.

Continue reading First Impressions returns!

MassivelyFirst Impressions returns! originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Dec 2008 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dungeon-runnersfirst-impressionfirst-impressionsflyffjumpgate-evolutionnot-a-reviewperfect-worldrequiem-bloodymaresword-of-the-new-worldWed, 03 Dec 2008 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[David Reid sets the record straight on NC West: Part 3]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/24/david-reid-sets-the-record-straight-on-nc-west-part-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/24/david-reid-sets-the-record-straight-on-nc-west-part-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/24/david-reid-sets-the-record-straight-on-nc-west-part-3/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Dungeon Runners

Massively: Now when you're talking about stepping more in the direction of the triple-A titles, that sort of implies that you're getting away from some of the smaller games that you guys have been working on in the past. We know that the Dungeon Runners team is experiencing some changes - can you talk specifically about that game, and what's going to be happening with those folks?

David Reid: Even before the NC West announcement, the Dungeon Runners team went through some changes. You're probably referring to the announcement of the reduction we had of about 21 people, several weeks before the announcement of NC West, and Dungeon Runners was part of that. And that was about the fact that - yes, we like Dungeon Runners as a service, but there was a decision not to port that product on to other platforms but to keep the game intact as it is right now on the PC platform.

There were a number of other projects that had not been announced that were part of that, and they too were what we'll call lighter and smaller MMO fare, rather than triple-A types of products. Beyond that, Dungeon Runners is as healthy as it's ever been, and is still a vibrant part of the NCsoft portfolio. It's just that it's a different sort of business, and one that is a very successful kind of business overall, it's just not where NCsoft is going to continue investing its product development publishing resources, going forward.

Massively: So it would be fair to say that people who enjoy Dungeon Runners shouldn't expect it to go anywhere, but as far as a ton of new content in the future... that would probably not be the direction that the company would be going in for that product?

David Reid: I'd clarify that answer just a bit. We were thinking seriously about 'should we bring Dungeon Runners to other, alternative platforms?' And that's what a large amount of that team was working on, and other parts of NCsoft. That decision has been: no, we're not going to. I wouldn't read into that anything about the amount of content that the Dungeon Runners team is going to be making on a regular basis. That will continue to go forward.

Console Ports

Massively: You mentioned porting to other platforms a couple of times now. We think it's a little more than a year ago at this point that you announced you had that agreement with Sony to think about doing some stuff for the PS3. We haven't really seen that so far. Is that part of this announcement, sort of refocusing NC West on getting some of Ncsoft's more stable games over to the Playstation 3?

David Reid: Yeah... I can tell you that we do think console development is an incredibly important part of our future. We do think that, you know, you look at companies like... NCsoft today is a PC only company, and we've seen what's happened with some of these formerly PC only (or predominantly PC) companies who have successfully brought their properties to the console.

As a gamer myself, I take a lot of inspiration from what the Tom Clancy series did for UbiSoft, or what Morrowind as a shifted Xbox and PC title did for Bethesda. And we believe that there is a transition like that that NCsoft can have, by taking some of its triple-A properties, and making a great triple-A MMO that works on the console.

"As a gamer myself, I take a lot of inspiration from what the Tom Clancy series did for UbiSoft, or what Morrowind as a shifted Xbox and PC title did for Bethesda."
So yeah, it is true. You can't do everything all the time, and at some level we recognise that the best prize for NCsoft to be focused on is the triple-A space, and that's on the PC platform and on the console platform. But beyond that, I don't have an announcement that I can make for you at this time!

Massively: Not a problem. We just wanted to clarify, because it seems like a natural progression from where you guys are talking about with triple-A titles being your focus.

David Reid: We passionately agree. Absolutely.

Massively: We really appreciate you guys' time. We know that the readers have been... we guess the best word is confused, because as we said, it sort of came out of nowhere. And we're glad we had the chance to talk!

David Reid: You bet! Well, at the end of the day, I hope that for folks who are fans of these giant triple-A games, these big investments in the MMO space with high production quality, there should be no confusion: this is good news for that game. We are going to get back to doing this all day, every day, in a world class way. The lighter side of the business, the free-to-plays and things like that, those are great businesses, but there will be other companies who will be delivering that form. It won't be NCsoft so much, going forward.

Read what David Reid had to say on Tabula Rasa and Guild Wars.

MassivelyDavid Reid sets the record straight on NC West: Part 3 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 24 Sep 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consolesdavid-reiddungeon-runnersinterviewnc-westncsoftWed, 24 Sep 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dungeon Runners announces guilds and player blogs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/24/dungeon-runners-announces-guilds-and-player-blogs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/24/dungeon-runners-announces-guilds-and-player-blogs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/24/dungeon-runners-announces-guilds-and-player-blogs/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Dungeon Runners has just released its newest patch which introduces players to some exciting new features to this free-to-play NCsoft title. Build 147 (Chunk 4) has added posses to the game, which act much like a guild in other games. It's basically described as a persistent group of friends in-game who have their own entry on the social window and their own chat channels. Although this build will officially add this feature to the game, it won't be active for another week or so.

This build also adds a brand new player blog system that tracks events via RSS. These events include login, logout, level up, quest completion, deaths, pvp match results and more. This certainly isn't the end of the new additions though as we get treated to a new dungeon, a wishing well feature, bug fixes, upgrades and even a free trial period for the Bling Gnome. Check out the complete patch notes for more details on this mega-patch.

MassivelyDungeon Runners announces guilds and player blogs originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 24 Sep 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bling-gnomeblogsdrdr-build-147dungeon-runnersncsoftposseWed, 24 Sep 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dungeon Runners is safe, says NCsoft]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/18/dungeon-runners-is-safe-says-ncsoft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/18/dungeon-runners-is-safe-says-ncsoft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/18/dungeon-runners-is-safe-says-ncsoft/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Despite earlier reports that NCsoft's Dungeon Runners was on its way out, in line with the company's recent plans to concentrate on larger triple-A MMO titles, we now hear that the free-to-play cult favorite is not going anywhere just yet. David Reid, NCsoft's VP of Marketing explained that the company will continue to focus on the larger titles, but Dungeon Runners is indeed safe. He does point out though that it's unlikely that the smaller titles will receive the same support and attention they've always had.

Plus, as is the case with so many other MMO publishers and developers these days, NCsoft is expected to pursue its relationship with Sony to bring MMOs to the PS3. "We have a good relationship with Sony and we're excited about it, but there are a lot of good platforms out there," Reid explained.

MassivelyDungeon Runners is safe, says NCsoft originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Sep 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoledavid-reiddungeon-runnersnc-westncsoftsonyThu, 18 Sep 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Official word from NCsoft on the Austin studio layoffs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/13/official-word-from-ncsoft-on-the-austin-studio-layoffs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/13/official-word-from-ncsoft-on-the-austin-studio-layoffs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/13/official-word-from-ncsoft-on-the-austin-studio-layoffs/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We had already sourced information that confirmed layoffs from NCsoft Austin, but formal notification has now gone out of the loss of 21 jobs. David Swofford, Director of Public Relations for NCsoft North America, has provided the following information:

We are announcing that 21 positions are being eliminated in the Austin office of NCsoft in the area of product development. Primarily this is related to products which we have not previously announced and were in prototype phases. We are also cutting some positions on the Dungeon Runners team after deciding not to port the client to other platforms at this time.

Although exact details were not given, we can confirm that 13 out of the 18 Dungeon Runners staff have lost their jobs, following a post by Producer / Lead Programmer Stephen Nichols at the Dungeon Runners forums. Stephen has said that the Dungeon Runners team are 'in shock' at the news.

Continue reading Official word from NCsoft on the Austin studio layoffs

MassivelyOfficial word from NCsoft on the Austin studio layoffs originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Aug 2008 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingdungeon-runnerslayoffsncsoftncsoft-austinrumorsWed, 13 Aug 2008 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[NCsoft Austin sheds staff]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/13/ncsoft-austin-sheds-staff/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/13/ncsoft-austin-sheds-staff/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/13/ncsoft-austin-sheds-staff/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Rumors abound across the manifold tubes of the Internet over just what is (or is not) presently going on at NCsoft Austin. NCsoft's Austin office is presently home to Tabula Rasa, Dungeon Runners, at least one unannounced fantasy MMO, and noticeably fewer developers than last week.

We have some confirmed departures, including staff from Dungeon Runners such as April 'CuppaJo' Burba, and Crickette -- The much-loved April Burba, you may recall was the newly minted Associate Producer for Dungeon Runners, having recently transferred from the Tabula Rasa team. That comes courtesy of Jester of w00tstudios.net, a well known DJ and broadcaster on the MMO scene, via the CoX forums.

Continue reading NCsoft Austin sheds staff

MassivelyNCsoft Austin sheds staff originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Aug 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>april-burbabreakingcoxcrickettedungeon-runnerslum-the-madmmo-industryncsoftncsoft-austintabula-rasaWed, 13 Aug 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: NCsoft Austin, Dungeon Runners to be shut down]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/12/rumor-ncsoft-austin-to-be-shut-down/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/12/rumor-ncsoft-austin-to-be-shut-down/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/12/rumor-ncsoft-austin-to-be-shut-down/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Massively and Joystiq have learned that serious shakeups may be in the future for the Austin game development scene. The closure of Midway's Austin studio came as something of a surprise earlier this week, but we've now learned that the MMO industry may be set to experience turmoil as well. NCsoft Austin, home to the Richard Garriott-lead title Tabula Rasa and the free-to-play romp Dungeon Runners, may be in a precarious position today. In fact, industry insiders have indicated that the NCsoft home offices may be considering closing the Austin studio. Massively has followed the numerous troubles faced by Tabula Rasa, in the face of disappointing sales and subscriber figures and apparent frustration from the company's Korean HQ.

A well-placed source with the company reported the studio's position to Joystiq, confirming similar information provided to Massively by a trustworthy third party. According to our sources, any or all of the following may be in the works:
  • NCsoft Austin will be closed, with work on Tabula Rasa to be moved to the West coast. Dungeon Runners is apparently to be closed. Los Angeles is home to the development-in-the-dark Carbine Studios effort, while the San Francisco area is home to the City of Heroes development team. Seattle, of course, plays host to Arena.net and Joystiq reports that's where TR will be headed.
  • This shakeup is only affecting Austin; the City of Heroes and Guild Wars teams are unaffected, as are the teams based out of the Korean offices.
  • Future collaborations between NCsoft and the Garriott brothers will be very limited in scope, a sign of the frustrations between the Korean executives and the sibling-lead NCsoft North American office.
  • Tabula Rasa may see closure by this time next year, if the team fails to turn the tide of subscribers and expectations.
We freely admit that this is not confirmed information; we attempted to get a response from NCsoft representatives early today, but so far have not received word back. Massively and Joystiq will keep you posted as this story develops, and in the meantime our well wishes go out to the artists, developers, and designers affected by this news.

MassivelyRumor: NCsoft Austin, Dungeon Runners to be shut down originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 12 Aug 2008 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingdrdungeon-runnersncsoftncsoft-austinrumortabula-rasatrTue, 12 Aug 2008 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Dungeon Runners now accepts Paypal]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/18/dungeon-runners-now-accepts-paypal/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/18/dungeon-runners-now-accepts-paypal/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/18/dungeon-runners-now-accepts-paypal/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Just when you thought NCsoft's Dungeon Runners just couldn't get any better, they break out with a new way to pay. Now, Paypal is an option when paying for your premium membership. Of course the free-to-play option is still available, but they just make it so enticing to get that premium membership with extra storage space, better items and freedom from ads.

This Paypal usage does have some restrictions, of course. It only applies to those products purchased from the PlayNC Store and NCcoin purchases. It's also important to note that Paypal is not a payment option for any recurring subscription fee payment plans, only for the premium membership itself.

MassivelyDungeon Runners now accepts Paypal originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Jul 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dungeon-runnersnccoinncsoftpaypalpremium-membershipFri, 18 Jul 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aeria adds Diablo-like Cronous to its library]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/18/aeria-adds-diablo-like-cronous-to-its-library/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/18/aeria-adds-diablo-like-cronous-to-its-library/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/18/aeria-adds-diablo-like-cronous-to-its-library/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

MMO portal Aeria Games has acquired a new game called Cronous, which was originally developed by Lizard Interactive. Cronous' gameplay is similar to that of Diablo, Mythos, or Dungeon Runners. That makes it somewhat unique in Aeria's library, which is otherwise made up mostly of games of a different character such as Dream of Mirror Online and Shaiya.

The game's info page lists most of the usual action-RPG features, plus "nonlinear storytelling" with regards to quests, guild castle building and management, and siege warfare. We don't fully understand the nonlinear storytelling bit, although it's included in the press release as one of the major selling points of the game. It sounds cool up front though.

Sign-ups are already underway for a closed beta test, so if you want to give the game a try, that's probably your best bet.

[Via Ten Ton Hammer]

MassivelyAeria adds Diablo-like Cronous to its library originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Jul 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgaeriaaeria-gamescronousdiablodomodream-of-mirror-onlinedungeon-runnerslizard-interactivemythosnonlinear-storytellingportalshaiyaFri, 18 Jul 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dungeon Runners gets some G4TV love]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/dungeon-runners-gets-some-g4tv-love/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/dungeon-runners-gets-some-g4tv-love/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/dungeon-runners-gets-some-g4tv-love/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


You remember Adam Sessler right? You know that guy who stands next to Morgan Webb during X-Play? Yeah, there is someone else there, we promise. Anyway, in a recent episode of G4TV's The Download, Sessler reviews NCsoft's Dungeon Runners for the masses.

His review doesn't reveal anything new about the game, but it's always nice to see when the larger gaming media covers the games we love so dearly. Plus, in this video, we get to see more of the little Bling Gnome doing his duty, so to speak. What we really find interesting though is the fact that many of the comments seem to revolve around the fact that people haven't heard of this game before. A little publicity never hurt, right?

MassivelyDungeon Runners gets some G4TV love originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Jul 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adam-sesslerdungeon-runnersg4g4tvmorgan-webbncsoftreviewthe-downloadTue, 15 Jul 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NCsoft's upcoming summer tour around the Globe]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/13/ncsoft-s-upcoming-summer-tour-around-the-globe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/13/ncsoft-s-upcoming-summer-tour-around-the-globe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/13/ncsoft-s-upcoming-summer-tour-around-the-globe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,


NCsoft is taking a whirlwind summer tour across the Globe. First stop is in San Diego, California at Comic-Con where games, geeks, and comics will collide on July 23-27. The NCsoft booth (#5920) will feature game stations set up for attendees to play CoX, Exteel, Tabula Rasa and other NCsoft games. Also City of Heroes fanzine artist, Dave Hamann will be present to draw character sketches.

In Europe, during July 29-31 Aion: Tower of Eternity will be playable to western journalists. This will be the first time in a year since the last firsthand look took place. NCsoft Europe is hosting the event at their Brighton England, locale and this is a select press event. However, one of the biggest gaming events is taking place August 20-24 in Leipzig, Germany. NCsoft is headed there and will be present at the Leipzig Games Convention in a big way. Attendants there will find a special surprise in Hall 3 Booth B20, Aion will be setup on several demo kiosks for the public to play, the first time outside South Korea.

Continue reading NCsoft's upcoming summer tour around the Globe

MassivelyNCsoft's upcoming summer tour around the Globe originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 13 Jul 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionarenanetcity-of-heroescomic-concoxdan-hamanndungeon-runnersexteelguild-warsleipzig games conven...leipzig-germanyLeipzigGamesConven...ncsoftncsoft-europepaxpax-2008penny-arcadeseattletabula-rasaSun, 13 Jul 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet to host 2nd annual PAX afterparty]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/05/arenanet-to-host-2nd-annual-pax-afterparty/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/05/arenanet-to-host-2nd-annual-pax-afterparty/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/05/arenanet-to-host-2nd-annual-pax-afterparty/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Once again, NCsoft and ArenaNet will be making an appearance at Seattle's Penny Arcade Expo this year. The NCsoft booth (#642) will be packed full goodies during the weekend of August 29th through the 31st, and they will be showing off some of their new and old favorites, including Exteel, Dungeon Runners, Guild Wars, City of Heroes, Tabula Rasa and the brand new Aion.

As they did last year, ArenaNet will be holding contests where participants can win valuable prizes. Developers will also be on hand to meet and greet with the players. Possibly the most exciting news is the fact that ArenaNet will hold another after-party at the Game Works across the street from the Washington State Convention & Trade Center, as they did last year. This is your chance to meet the folks at ArenaNet in a more casual setting and even challenge a few to an arcade game or two!

MassivelyArenaNet to host 2nd annual PAX afterparty originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 05 Jul 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionarenanetcity-of-heroesdungeon-runnersexteelguild-warsncsoftpaxpax-2008penny-arcade-exposeattletabula-rasawashington-convention-centerSat, 05 Jul 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Staffing shake-up on Tabula Rasa]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/staffing-shake-up-on-tabula-rasa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/staffing-shake-up-on-tabula-rasa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/staffing-shake-up-on-tabula-rasa/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Feelings must be mixed over at NCsoft Austin today, as the Tabula Rasa team is experiencing a bit of a staffing shake-up. April "CuppaJo" Burba, who only a few months ago was promoted from Community Manager to Associate Producer, will be leaving the team to take on the same Associate Producer role with the Dungeon Runners team, who just recently released their first retail box. Dane Caruthers, long-time Tabula Rasa team member, is being promoted from QA Lead to fill CuppaJo's combat boots at Associate Producer. and Neal Johnson will be getting the nod to take Dane's former position.

Just two months ago, Tabula Rasa designer Paul Sage left the team to work on another unspecified project within NCsoft. The flight of their lead designer and associate producer within such a short timespan is worrying, to say the least. We don't think the game is going anywhere or anything dramatic like that, but as gamers it makes us a little uncomfortable to have people we don't know shepherding the team forward. We will, however, be looking forward to Dane's first communiques as Associate Producer.

MassivelyStaffing shake-up on Tabula Rasa originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 Jul 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>april-burbaassociate-producercuppajodane-caruthersdungeon-runnersncsoftncsoft-austinneal-johnsontabula-rasatrWed, 02 Jul 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayNC store expands payment options by adding PayPal]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/01/plaync-store-expands-payment-options-by-adding-paypal/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/01/plaync-store-expands-payment-options-by-adding-paypal/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/01/plaync-store-expands-payment-options-by-adding-paypal/#commentsFiled under: , ,

NCsoft wants to make it easier for their PlayNC shoppers looking to buy one or more of the following MMOGs in their stable: Tabula Rasa, CoX, Guild Wars, and other digital-boxed goods. They've gone so far they are now accepting PayPal as a payment option. PayPal has a variety of different payment and transfer methods linked to one's PayPal account. The new payment option is only available for digital code purchases and not NCcoin or subscriptions. Support for Euros and British pounds will be added tomorrow.

The pay-to-download business is booming, more and more MMOG companies are taking advantage of alternative non-credit card payment options. It sure beats driving down to the local big-box store.

MassivelyPlayNC store expands payment options by adding PayPal originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Jul 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city-of-heroescity-of-villainscredit-carddigital-downloaddungeon-runnersguild-warsmoneynccoinncsoftpay-to-downloadpayment-optionspaypalplayncplaync-storetabula-rasaTue, 01 Jul 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dungeon Runners retail box now available through Amazon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/29/dungeon-runners-retail-box-now-available-through-amazon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/29/dungeon-runners-retail-box-now-available-through-amazon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/29/dungeon-runners-retail-box-now-available-through-amazon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


The Bling Gnome is ready to scarf down items, poop-out gold and help you fight crime in the hood. Say what? There's no other reason to purchase the retail edition of Dungeon Runner's, a cardboard box stuffed with the digital delights. Well okay, we forgot the main reason. Dungeon Runners is the most raucous MMOG ever that is filled with hilarious jokes, witty banter, and pop culture references that will bust any gut with a hearty guffaw.

The retail version also comes packed with a barf o'rama bounty inside by including a six month membership to the game that gives players loads of chunky perks over the free-to-play counterparts. The difference is worth every penny. More, more, more! Members earn more experience; plunder more gold; horde more items; are luckier at finding rare items; and the annoying adverts will disappear and put more foam peanuts on the developer's dinner tables.

Continue reading Dungeon Runners retail box now available through Amazon

MassivelyDungeon Runners retail box now available through Amazon originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 29 Jun 2008 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonbling-gnomecasualdigital-deliverydrdungeon-runnersfree-to-playgamestophumorncsoftretail-boxSun, 29 Jun 2008 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[WRUP: Old is new again edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/27/wrup-old-is-new-again-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/27/wrup-old-is-new-again-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/27/wrup-old-is-new-again-edition/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Seems like every week now on WRUP we've been looking forward -- from Warhammer to APB, we can't wait to get our hands on some of the biggest MMOs still "coming soon." But this week, we think it'd be a good idea to take a step backwards -- this weekend, we recommend you go back and try playing a game that you haven't touched in a while. Maybe it's Lord of the Rings Online with some of that Monster Play, or maybe check in with that creepy Bling Gnome in Dungeon Runners, or even go back and visit Star Wars Galaxies just in time for the anniversary. Why are we spending all of our time waiting for new games when there's so much out there to play right now?

Of course, the post is called "WRUP," not "WTYWWWYTP" (We Tell You What We Want You To Play) so the choice is, as always, yours: What aRe yoU Playing this weekend in the world of MMOs? There's a certain charm in going back and visiting old characters, and you never know -- maybe an update since you left an old game or a little bit of leveling will show you a lot more in the game that you didn't see before and get you interested all over again.

And if not, you can still just wait for Warhammer. It's up to you.

MassivelyWRUP: Old is new again edition originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 27 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apbcoming-soondiscussiondungeon-runnerslord-of-the-rings-onlineoldpollstar-wars-galaxieswhat-are-you-playingwrupFri, 27 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NCSoft (EU) needs you!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/18/ncsoft-eu-needs-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/18/ncsoft-eu-needs-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/18/ncsoft-eu-needs-you/#commentsFiled under:

Live in the UK or willing to move? Have a deep and abiding love for City of Heroes, Tabula Rasa, Dungeon Runners and other NCSoft games? Do you have what it takes to make it in one of the world's very largest developers and publishers of multiplayer games of massive proportions? Well, if that's you, be ready to have your life changed forever, because NCSoft Europe is now looking for an experienced Creaive Services Manager and a Development Studio Technical Liaison. The CSM will manage all aspects of project planning, allocate resources, assign personnel and make the workplace fun and enriching for everyone. No small job, that. The DSTL would be the first contact for IT help for the entire NCSoft Europe development team, and help out with every other IT duty as well.

We're rooting for you. And if you do get the job, send some love back our way, hmm?

MassivelyNCSoft (EU) needs you! originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Jun 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city-of-heroesdungeon-runnersmmo-industryncsoftncsoft-europetabula-rasaWed, 18 Jun 2008 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Bling Gnome in action!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/18/the-bling-gnome-in-action/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/18/the-bling-gnome-in-action/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/18/the-bling-gnome-in-action/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The Bling Gnome will save your ass. Not THAT kind of ass! The kind of ass you ride on -- it won't have to carry you back to town. So you'll be saving it from all that hard work of carting your loot back and forth. Because, really, in he greater scheme of things, who wants trash loot anyway? Players who buy the retail box version of soon-to-be launched satirical fantasy action-adventure MMO, Dungeon Runners, will wonder how they ever did without their very own Bling Gnome to eat up all the trash loot and excrete creamy, golden goodness. After viewing this bling-filled teaser for the Diminutive Master of Bling, you'll wonder how you ever lived life without it. Real life. Heck, there's no need to even go to the store for one, when we're giving them away for free! How's that again? Bling Gnomes for FREE? Watch the clip and sign the slip. Word.

MassivelyThe Bling Gnome in action! originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Jun 2008 07:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bling-gnomecasualdungeon-runnersfantasyfree-to-playgame-mechanicshumorlaunchesWed, 18 Jun 2008 07:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's Dungeon Runner/Bling Gnome giveaway]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/18/massivelys-dungeon-runner-bling-gnome-giveaway/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/18/massivelys-dungeon-runner-bling-gnome-giveaway/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/18/massivelys-dungeon-runner-bling-gnome-giveaway/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

We know you want bling! We've seen you skulking in the shadows, MMO players. Here at Massively.com, we're here to help you. So we have a dozen Bling Gnomes ready and raring to go - all set to pick up gold, scarf magic items and poop out powerful weapons at your command. They're contained within the twelve copies of the Dungeon Runners box (each worth about $20) we have on hand, and will now give away to you. Check out the game's page at Amazon for the full detail on what a box nets you.

Entering to win these things is darn easy. By now I bet you even know the drill. All you have to do is leave a comment on this post telling us why *you* want a Bling Gnome before 7:00 AM EST Thursday, June 19th. You can only enter once per person, and when the contest closes we'll ship out these diminutive firecrackers to twelve randomly selected participants. To win you must be age 18 or up and a resident of the US or Canada (excluding Quebec). For full eligibility details, we suggest you read our official rules. Good luck!

MassivelyMassively's Dungeon Runner/Bling Gnome giveaway originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Jun 2008 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bling-gnomecontestdrdungeon-runnersncsoftWed, 18 Jun 2008 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dungeon Runners announces an EU server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/15/dungeon-runners-announces-an-eu-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/15/dungeon-runners-announces-an-eu-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/15/dungeon-runners-announces-an-eu-server/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


For over a year now we've enjoyed Dungeon Runners without a specific European server. This means that Europeans had to put up with Americans for all that time! We're not sure how they did it either, but NCsoft has announced that their newest server -- World 8 -- is optimized for European players. This doesn't mean anyone else from around the world can't play on it, but they might not enjoy the low ping rates as they've had on the American servers, if they are American.

This eighth world is a PvP world, making it the second such PvP server in addition to World 5. For PvE players, you have several server choices for free players, plus World 2, which is only open to those who pay the $5 monthly membership fee. One of the beautiful parts of the Dungeon Runners server system is the fact that your characters are available on any of the servers, so you can feel free to check out the new-server smell at the European server any time you'd like.

MassivelyDungeon Runners announces an EU server originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 15 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drdungeon-runnerseueuropeaneuropean-serversncsoftpvp-serverserverSun, 15 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dungeon Runners' newest build: It's easy as 123]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/25/dungeon-runners-newest-build-its-easy-as-123/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/25/dungeon-runners-newest-build-its-easy-as-123/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/25/dungeon-runners-newest-build-its-easy-as-123/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


In true Dungeon Runners style, we get treated to the newest patch notes for Build 123, complete with the same snarky goodness we've grown to love. In this newest build, a few important changes were made, most notably to PvP:

  • They adjusted PvP matchmaking to help get matches more quickly. This has been done by accelerating the rating tolerance over time. They also simplified the matching rating to be the average of the group's rating and removed the power, level and group size contributions from the matching system.
  • They've modified the PvP matchmaking system to disallow matches where one side is severely disadvantaged. The following match sizes are no longer allowed: 1v3, 1v4, 1v5, 2v5.
  • They've removed the damage bonus given to disadvantaged players from PvP. Advantaged players still receive a sizable damage nerf.
  • They've also changed the fear and stun immunity time bonus in disadvantages PvP matches. When outnumbered, you now receive a 100% bonus to all stun and fear immunity durations. The advantaged team now receives a 25% nerf to their immunity durations.

There were also some important bug fixes in this patch, including one for our favorite new addition to the game: the Bling Gnome. Database maintenance will also continue to help enable character XML sheets and PvP leaderboards.

MassivelyDungeon Runners' newest build: It's easy as 123 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 25 May 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>builddr-build-123dungeon-runnersncsoftpvpSun, 25 May 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Under The Hood: Colored Segregation]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/24/under-the-hood-colored-segregation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/24/under-the-hood-colored-segregation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/24/under-the-hood-colored-segregation/#commentsFiled under: , ,


There are a lot of different game mechanics, ranging from the downright simple to the ethereal and hard-to-explain. I've talked a lot about the more subjective stuff, such as lore and paradigms and this and that, but only a few times have I hit the nitty gritty. So this week, I'm taking things to a controversial (not really) place. Judging items based on their color and how fantasy MMOs follow the same color patterns for identification, at least to a certain point.

Continue reading Under The Hood: Colored Segregation

MassivelyUnder The Hood: Colored Segregation originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 24 May 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drdungeon-runnersfeaturedfeaturesmythosunder-the-hooduthworld-of-warcraftwowSat, 24 May 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dungeon Runners' retail box unveiled]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/dungeon-runners-retail-box-unveiled/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/dungeon-runners-retail-box-unveiled/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/dungeon-runners-retail-box-unveiled/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Will all the hubbub these days about digital delivery and early access programs, game-makers are really starting to deemphasize the importance of boxed products occupying shelves in a retailer environment. Still, you have to imagine that it's something of a thrill for a smaller developer to see their free product occupy the same shelf as the big boys, and look splendid doing it.

That's why we were happy to see the boys behind Dungeon Runners were finally releasing a retail version of their eminently amusing free MMO just a year after its release. The boxed version comes with 6 months of membership access for the discounted rate of $19.99, the exclusive and oft-talked about Bling Gnome, and an offer to try out Exteel, if you're so inclined. Not a bad deal, all told, and hopefully it'll expand their audience.

MassivelyDungeon Runners' retail box unveiled originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 May 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bling-gnomedigital-deliveryDRdungeon-runnersexteelncsoftretail-boxThu, 22 May 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dungeon Runners Chunk 3 goes live!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/19/dungeon-runners-chunk-3-goes-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/19/dungeon-runners-chunk-3-goes-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/19/dungeon-runners-chunk-3-goes-live/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The folks at NCsoft have dropped another sloppy chunk of content onto the table, with the release of Chunk 3 for Dungeon Runners. We've pretty exhaustively talked about the features in this newest addition - the bling gnome, the quest xp buff, the pvp tweaks. NCsoft wants to make sure that you know about their new membership privileges, and has an entire piece rounding out the details of the plan.

Previously, your $4.99 netted you a nicer server, more potions, a bigger bank, and access to some of the best high end weapons. And, of course, no ads. Now pay customers will actually be leveling faster than their non-paying brethren. They'll get more gold too, and discounts on items to boot. Your dollar goes a lot further after Chunk 3, as DR continues to redefine what the free-to-play concept means.

MassivelyDungeon Runners Chunk 3 goes live! originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 May 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bling-gnomechunk-3drdungeon-runnersncsoftMon, 19 May 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dungeon Runners new build and push for retail box sales]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/dungeon-runners-new-build-and-push-for-retail-box-sales/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/dungeon-runners-new-build-and-push-for-retail-box-sales/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/dungeon-runners-new-build-and-push-for-retail-box-sales/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Well, it's certainly no surprise that NCsoft is pushing the membership program for Dungeon Runners, and this newest build shows this all too well. But to be honest, we think it's about time. Dungeon Runners has been in operation for almost a year now (which will be celebrated next week) and it has been available as a free download with no subscription fees for this entire time. Their optional upgraded membership program has many perks, but has never been necessary.

Well, now with the upcoming retail box release (and Bling Gnome!), NCsoft is providing even more incentive to switch to a membership account. Check out their official patch notes for Build 121 to see some of these membership perks, and the loads of other improvements they've made to the game, including our all-time favorite ode to Stand By Me: the Barf-O-Rama skill!

MassivelyDungeon Runners new build and push for retail box sales originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 May 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bling-gnomedr-build-121dungeon-runnersncsoftstephen-nicholsThu, 15 May 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[NCsoft Audio Director reveals his old-school secrets]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/ncsoft-audio-director-reveals-his-old-school-secrets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/ncsoft-audio-director-reveals-his-old-school-secrets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/ncsoft-audio-director-reveals-his-old-school-secrets/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

He uses an electric razor on a frying pan for a space ship sound. He uses marbles in his mouth to sound like an alien. No, this isn't a low-budget director in a 1950's monster movie, this is the brilliant work of NCsoft's Audio Director Tracy Bush who uses everyday household items to create the unique sound effects we've heard in some of NCsoft's top games of the last 4 years.

If you've ever played Dungeon Runners, you know that along with the wonderful sense of humor in the game, the sound effects are equally as entertaining. The same goes for Tabula Rasa. The Bane drop ships and the horrifying whispers of "Kill them all!" are all part of this wonderfully immersive experience that is just as important as graphics, gameplay or anything else in the game.

So the next time you're playing a North American NCsoft title, listen closely to the sound effects and see if you can guess which household item was used in its creation.

MassivelyNCsoft Audio Director reveals his old-school secrets originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 May 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>austindungeon-runnersncsoftncsoft-north-americasoundsound-effectstabula-rasatracy-bushWed, 14 May 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dungeon Runners heaves its next patch into testing]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/01/dungeon-runners-heaves-its-next-patch-into-testing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/01/dungeon-runners-heaves-its-next-patch-into-testing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/01/dungeon-runners-heaves-its-next-patch-into-testing/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Dungeon Runners "Big Boss Man" Stephen Nichols dropped into the official forums to lay out some detailed patch notes for Build 118, the next "heave" coming to the game. See, big updates are "chunks" and ... right. This title, which at first glance seems so off-the-rack, immediately stands out with witticisms and humor - right there in the patch notes.

Highlights include:
  • The Bling Gnome, which we've previously discussed here on the site. We already knew that the gold-loving companion will only be available to folks who buy the retail box. Nichols let it slip that the package will be hitting shelves in late June. Your gnomish ally will put his bowels to work for you, apparently, 'pooping out' a powerful item every once in a while.
  • Several new skills, including Barf-o-Rama (a poison ability) and I'm Rubber, You're Screwed (a knockdown power).
  • Bonus experience from completing quests. A modifier labeled "15% More Cowbell" will hit your character for 5 minutes after turning in a quest. This modifier increases the experience you gain from killing monsters by 15%, and can stack up to five times after multiple turn-ins.
  • A number of different changes to Dungeon Runners membership privileges, some of which are likely to be highly unpopular with free players. Members now gain experience faster than free players, but this is purely at a cost to free players. In other words, free players have been nerfed out of a percentage of their xp. Members also find gold faster, pay less when buying items, and have a much higher percentage rate of finding valuable loot when it drops.
  • Numerous other changes, including tweaks to PvP, new chat channel options, new quests, skill balancing, adjustments to the way ads are displayed, and more.
The new changes are already on the public test server, and Nichols indicates they plan to have this out on the live servers within a week.

MassivelyDungeon Runners heaves its next patch into testing originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 May 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drdr-build-118dungeon-runnersncsoftpatchThu, 01 May 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Sending Chill Bill to his death]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/23/one-shots-sending-chill-bill-to-his-death/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/23/one-shots-sending-chill-bill-to-his-death/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/23/one-shots-sending-chill-bill-to-his-death/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Normally we wouldn't run a screenshot with UI in it, but this one was so much fun that we couldn't resist. The above screenshot comes to us from Clava, a Mage who loves to play NCsoft's Dungeon Runners:

[Here's a screen] I took in Dungeon Runners, of Chill Bill feeling the heat, as we enter Embercore 5. Note the incorrect popup in the bottom right stating Embercore 4; it's actually a mouseover popup from the door to 4 that was just behind me. Embercore Level 5 doesn't actually have that red tint, but when I spawned in level 5 my camera was actually slightly behind the red "door" that I walked through (actually a set of stairs with a red force field in front of it), causing the ominous red glow. I almost feel bad for sending Bill out to those fire-monsters that are just ahead.

Well, if you were looking for a way to kill Chill Bill, that would certainly do it, we'd think. It's great to see a screen of Dungeon Runners either way.

Do you have some interesting screenshots of your adventures? If not, go snag some (without UI if at all possible, please) and send those in to us at oneshots AT massively DOT com! We love lots of different worlds and would love to see them all.

Gallery: One Shots

MassivelyOne Shots: Sending Chill Bill to his death originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Apr 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clavadungeon-runnersncsoftone-shotsWed, 23 Apr 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dungeon Runners needs your ideas]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/23/dungeon-runners-needs-your-ideas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/23/dungeon-runners-needs-your-ideas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/23/dungeon-runners-needs-your-ideas/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


If you've ever played Dungeon Runners, you may have had some ideas on how to improve it. Actually, this is probably the case with any and all MMOs you've played. We can all conjure suggestions in our minds, but to actually have an organized place to share these suggestions is something we've needed for a long time.

So Stephen Nichols, the producer of Dungeon Runners, has established a new experimental collaboration system for players called IdeaRunners.com. It currently has two major sections to it: Possibly Usable Ideas and Potentially Not Stupid Ideas. In each of these, Stephen has been known to respond to suggestions directly, making it not just an idea dumpsite, but also somewhat interactive.

MassivelyDungeon Runners needs your ideas originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Apr 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dungeon-runnersidearunnersideasncsoftstephen-nicholssuggestionsWed, 23 Apr 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Bling Gnome coming with Dungeon Runners retail box]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/08/bling-gnome-coming-with-dungeon-runners-retail-box/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/08/bling-gnome-coming-with-dungeon-runners-retail-box/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/08/bling-gnome-coming-with-dungeon-runners-retail-box/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

In the latest update to their blog, the Dungeon Runners team has thrown up some new details that we can expect to see in the next Heave, the twisted DR version of a patch. One of the more interesting details (and honestly, when isn't there an interesting detail in a Dungeon Runners update?) to emerge was the announcement of a so-called "Bling Gnome." Having been rumored to be in the works since late last year, the Bling Gnome is a passive ability that grants you a little gnome buddy who runs around and picks up all your gold for you. Unfortunately, he is selective about his company, and will only hang out with people who pick up the retail box, which will be available some time early this summer.

Some of the other changes they're throwing in to get you to pick up the paid version of the game are a decrease in free player experience gains, an increase in the gold found by paid players, a decrease in the amount of gold necessary to buy new items for paid players, and a decrease in the chances that a free player will find rare drops. They seem to be striking the right balance between giving players incentives to pay, and not creating some sort of byzantine player hierarchy, a la Hellgate: London.

MassivelyBling Gnome coming with Dungeon Runners retail box originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 Apr 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bling-gnomedrdungeon-runnersfree-to-playheavencsoftretailthe-blogTue, 08 Apr 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[April Fools' in Dungeon Runners]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/01/april-fools-in-dungeon-runners/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/01/april-fools-in-dungeon-runners/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/01/april-fools-in-dungeon-runners/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


The gang running Dungeon Runners may have been down in the dungeons a bit too long. Weeks go by without much news (except for account issues) and BAM... we get four new "announcements" all in one morning. Lets muddle through them, shall we?

First off is the "announcement" about the new DR expansion pack called Pony Adventure, which "picks up where the original Dungeon Runners left off." It will add an abundance of new quests, dungeons, items and characters. According to Mark Tucker Lead Nutjob, er... Designer for DR: "We've always had a very strong passion for Ponies." Ooooooooook. Dungeon Runners: Pony Adventure will be available for free at some point in the future. Until then check out the preview cover for this disturbing expansion.

In a somewhat related "news item"... players (both members and non-members alike) running around the dungeons can - at this very moment - grab themselves a new pet for their in-game characters. Paancho may be small, but he's a feisty little thing. Act quickly though! You must claim him before the US government does... on April 15 no less.

Continue reading April Fools' in Dungeon Runners

MassivelyApril Fools' in Dungeon Runners originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Apr 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>april-fools-08dungeon-runnersncsoftPaanchoTue, 01 Apr 2008 17:00:00 EST