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[Massively Speaking Episode 201: No more secrets]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/massively-speaking-episode-201-no-more-secrets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/massively-speaking-episode-201-no-more-secrets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/massively-speaking-episode-201-no-more-secrets/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World
Massively Speaking Episode 201 gets into all of your dirty little secrets -- not to mention Funcom's, as well! We're joined by Jef, who gives us the full scoop on The Secret World now that the NDA's come tumbling down. Will this be another Failcom or possibly a Fabulouscom? Only Jef knows, and he's highly resistant to torture and bribery.

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

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Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 201: No more secrets

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 201: No more secrets originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionanetarenanetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrantbrian-greenbrian-psychchild-greenbrianna-roycebricksbrowserbrowser-basedddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineearthrisef2pfactionfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfuncomguild-wars-2gw2historicalhorrorhumorjustin-olivettilord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromassively-speakingmastheadmasthead-studiosmythologynamastenamaste-entertainmentnamaste-incncsoftnew-englandopinionparadoxparadox-interactivepermadeathpgcplayer-generated-contentpodcastpodcastingpodcastspsychochildsalemsandboxsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldskill-basedstorybricksthe-secret-worldtswturbineturbine-entertainmentvirtual-worldwarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 15 May 2012 16:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 201Massively.com Staff01:03:33podcasts<![CDATA[German studio SilentFuture resurrecting Earthrise]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/german-studio-silentfuture-resurrecting-earthrise/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/german-studio-silentfuture-resurrecting-earthrise/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/german-studio-silentfuture-resurrecting-earthrise/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Earthrise
Fans of Masthead Studios' late sandbox MMO, Earthrise, have cause to rejoice today. The Wuppertal, Germany-based studio SilentFuture announced in a press release today that it will be taking over development and operation of the title, which was shut down in February earlier this year.

According to the press release, the studio is currently working on a complete overhaul of the game, from backstory to gameplay to technology. SilentFuture plans to have the game up and running again sometime in the fourth quarter of this year. Earthrise will return as a free-to-play title in which players "no longer find themselves in a post-apocalyptic world" but rather are "part of the apocalypse itself." Sounds promising! Hopefully we can look forward to more details in the coming weeks, but at least we know one thing for sure: Earthrise is back!

[Source: SilentFuture press release]

MassivelyGerman studio SilentFuture resurrecting Earthrise originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>earthrisef2pfantasyfree-to-playmastheadmasthead-studiosoverhaulrebootrelaunchrevampsci-fantasysci-fisilentfutureThu, 10 May 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Earthrise website jumps to life with new countdown timer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/05/earthrise-website-jumps-to-life-with-new-countdown-timer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/05/earthrise-website-jumps-to-life-with-new-countdown-timer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/05/earthrise-website-jumps-to-life-with-new-countdown-timer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Earthrise - website timer
Remember Earthrise, the post-apocalyptic sci-fi sandbox from Masthead Studios? The fledgling title shut down last February after a tumultuous year that included a rough launch and lukewarm (or worse) reviews.

Masthead originally intended to convert the subscription-based game to a free-to-play business model but opted to pull the plug entirely due to a lack of investor interest. As of today, though, there's a countdown timer on the official Earthrise website (as well as a new background graphic that shows off the game's sci-fi battle action).

Has Masthead found an investor after all, and is Earthrise making a comeback? We'll see in a little over five days, but feel free to speculate in the comments!

[Thanks to IMN for the tip!]

MassivelyEarthrise website jumps to life with new countdown timer originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 05 May 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>earthriseearthrise-countdownearthrise-relaunchearthrise-timerf2pfantasyfree-to-playmastheadmasthead-studiossci-fiSat, 05 May 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: Chocolate makes you fat edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/the-mmo-report-chocolate-makes-you-fat-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/the-mmo-report-chocolate-makes-you-fat-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/the-mmo-report-chocolate-makes-you-fat-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The MMO Report
This week on The MMO Report, Casey delivers a Valentine's Day rant before moving on to the latest news -- namely, The Secret World's release date rumors, Wakfu's PvP, and the sunset of sci-fi sandbox Earthrise. He also rounds up the latest Blizzard headlines, noting the lawsuit against Valve, World of Warcraft's recent sub losses, and the "valiant and pointless exercise" of rebuilding Azeroth in Minecraft.

Finally, Uncle Casey's Mailbag provides a forum for the debate over just how we're supposed to pronounce "SWTOR." All this and more in the video behind the break!

Continue reading The MMO Report: Chocolate makes you fat edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: Chocolate makes you fat edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>azerothblizzardBlizzard-Entertainmentcasey-schreinerchocolatedotadota-2earthrisefuncomlawsuitminecraftmmo-reportnewsopinionpvpstar-wars-the-old-republicsub-lossessunsetswtorthe-mmo-reportthe-secret-worldtswvalentines-dayvalvevideovideoswakfuThu, 16 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 186: Polysyllabic daydreams]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/massively-speaking-episode-186-polysyllabic-daydreams/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/massively-speaking-episode-186-polysyllabic-daydreams/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/massively-speaking-episode-186-polysyllabic-daydreams/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Massively Speaking Episode 186 is the episode that fans will forever decry as the one that jumped the shark. In our defense, the shark was just sitting there in the Massively office parking lot and we were looking for an excuse to try out our new dirt bike anyway.

This week we're joined by Jeremy Stratton, who provides expert analysis on the perks and pitfalls of free-to-play. He was also the first to clear the shark without major blood loss, so bully for him!

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

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

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 186: Polysyllabic daydreams

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 186: Polysyllabic daydreams originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diablo-iiiearthrisefeaturedfinal-fantasy-xivfirefallfree-to-listenfree-to-playmassively-metamassively-speakingpodcastriftstar-trek-onlinetwitterTue, 14 Feb 2012 09:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 186Massively.com Staff01:03:18podcasts<![CDATA[Earthrise shutting down today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/earthrise-shutting-down-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/earthrise-shutting-down-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/earthrise-shutting-down-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Bye bye Earthrise
Bulgarian developer Masthead Studios has announced that it's shutting down the servers for its post-apocalyptic sandbox MMO, Earthrise. Said Atanas Atanasov, Director of Masthead Studios:
"One year after the launch of the game, we have decided to stop the Earthrise servers. Earthrise was released too early and did not meet the expectations of its fans. We did our best to revive the game in 2011, but the time was not enough to keep up with the user requirements. There is a huge interest in high quality open world sandbox MMORPGs, unfortunately the big publishers do not show any interest in the genre. It is unfortunate that low budget companies like ours are trying to bring innovativeness in the already saturated MMO market. I hope that one day an independent studio will be able to release the long anticipated open world sandbox MMO, which everyone is talking about, but no one is making. We tried, but did not succeed. We would like to apologize to those who were disappointed from Earthrise and to thank everyone who supported us during the years."
The studio does mention that the planned free-to-play version for this year may still launch if any investor interest is shown, but there has been no word on this yet.

[Source: Masthead Studios press release]

MassivelyEarthrise shutting down today originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Atanas-Atanasovbreakingnewsbye-byeclosingclosureearthrisemastehead-studiospost-apocalypticsandboxserver-closesunsetThu, 09 Feb 2012 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Earthrise killing subscriptions, going free-to-play in 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/earthrise-killing-subscriptions-going-free-to-play-in-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/earthrise-killing-subscriptions-going-free-to-play-in-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/earthrise-killing-subscriptions-going-free-to-play-in-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Earthrise
The struggling sci-fi sandbox Earthrise is no longer interested in competing in the subscription market, and is instead veering toward a free-to-play model in 2012. As of December 1st, all players will be able to experience the game without a monthly charge as Masthead Studios prepares for a F2P version.

Masthead CEO Atanas Atanasov says that the move is an effort to retain customer trust while the developers shore up the game's weaknesses: "We decided to let all our players unlimited gaming experience until we all are satisfied with the experience in our game. At the moment Earthrise features one of the best visuals, content, and gameplay of all sci-fi MMOs on the market. However, it is missing polish and has annoyances that spoil the fun in the game. We are learning from our experience and that is why we will remove monthly charges until we bring the game to a quality state that is satisfactory to us and our players."

Once the title is brought up to par, Masthead will transition it to a true F2P model, although Atanasov assures players that it will not incorporate pay-to-win purchases. Until Earthrise goes F2P, new accounts will be invitation-only as Masthead restricts the number of incoming players. All current subscribers will be able to invite a few of their friends during the transition, however.

[Source: Masthead Studios press release]

MassivelyEarthrise killing subscriptions, going free-to-play in 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Nov 2011 07:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012Atanas-Atanasovbusiness-modelearthrisef2pfree-to-playmastheadmasthead-studiospay-to-winqualitysubscriptionsTue, 15 Nov 2011 07:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Earthrise releases vehicle patch, reactivates old accounts]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/earthrise-releases-vehicle-patch-reactivates-old-accounts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/earthrise-releases-vehicle-patch-reactivates-old-accounts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/earthrise-releases-vehicle-patch-reactivates-old-accounts/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Masthead Studios has just informed us of the latest patch for Earthrise. There's good news for former players too, as the company is re-upping all inactive accounts for a free 14-day trial period.

The patch itself includes new vehicles that can be obtained via quest lines, player crafters, or in-game vendors. The mounts are called hoovers, and when coupled with Earthrise's physics model, they allow players to perform drifts, jumps, and various stunts. Speed is a major factor as well, and Masthead says that explorers will appreciate the new vehicles when checking out the various nooks and crannies across the world of Enterra.

Finally, the patch includes "large numbers of strong monsters" designed to provide more of a challenge for PvE players as well as provide greater loot rewards. You can learn more about Earthrise at the game's official website. Also, don't forget to check out the new vehicle concept art in our gallery.

Gallery: Earthrise



[Source: Masthead press release]

MassivelyEarthrise releases vehicle patch, reactivates old accounts originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 21 Oct 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>earthriseenterragalleryhoovermastheadmasthead-studiosmountspatchespress-releasepvesandboxsci-fiscreenshotsvehiclesFri, 21 Oct 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: What is this I don't even]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/choose-my-adventure-what-is-this-i-dont-even/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/choose-my-adventure-what-is-this-i-dont-even/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/choose-my-adventure-what-is-this-i-dont-even/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Even the Doctor doesn't know what's happening
Where am I? What's going on? How did I get here? I'm so confused! Oh, uh, hi there. I'm Matt, or as most of you probably know me, the new guy. It looks like I'm next on the chopping block for Choose My Adventure, and I am contractually obligated to say that I was in no way coerced, blackmailed, or threatened into doing this column.

Now that that's out of the way, let's get on with it. A bit about my MMO history: I've played everything. All right, super. That being said, I don't always play everything a whole lot, and right now I'm what you call "between games." That's where y'all come in. Help me out of my MMO slump by forcing me at gunpoint to play a game of your choosing. It's that simple! My playstyles vary wildly, and I can easily go from carebear PvE to hardcore PvP to melodramatic RP depending on which game I'm unceremoniously thrust into. So do your worst, Massively readers. If you're interested in knowing the logic behind the games I chose for the poll, read on past the cut. Otherwise, skip straight to the voting bit and be sure to get your votes in by 11:59 p.m. EDT on October 14th. I'll see y'all again next week!

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: What is this I don't even

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: What is this I don't even originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanage-of-conan-unchainedanarchyanarchy-onlinechoose-my-adventurecity-of-heroescity-of-villainscmacohcovcoxdc-universe-onlinedcuoearthriseeqeq-2eq-IIeq2eqIIeverquesteverquest-2everquest-iiff14ffxivfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivfuncomgaglobal-agendahi-rezhi-rez-studiosmastheadmasthead-studiosncsoftparagon-studiospollpollssoesony-online-entertainmentsquare-enixsquenixvotevotingWed, 12 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Assembly Required: Is the sandbox dead?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/02/some-assembly-required-is-the-sandbox-dead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/02/some-assembly-required-is-the-sandbox-dead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/02/some-assembly-required-is-the-sandbox-dead/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Some Assembly Required - header with plans
Let's face it, folks, 2011 has been a fairly bad year for sandbox MMORPGs. Whether we're talking about the premature (and, ahem, forced) demise of Star Wars Galaxies, EVE Online's public relations disasters and its capitulation to the cash-shop-in-a-sub-based game fad, or Earthrise's rough launch, there hasn't been a lot to celebrate for fans of non-linear MMO gameplay in quite a while.

I've even had several friends ask me point blank: Is the sandbox dead? The short answer is not just no, but hell no. Join me after the cut for a few bright spots as we look to the future, take stock of the present, and try to forget about the past.

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: Is the sandbox dead?

MassivelySome Assembly Required: Is the sandbox dead? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Sep 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-tale-in-the-desertasherons-callavataravatar-creationsaventurinecraftingdarkfalldawntideearthriseemergent-gameplayeveeve-onlinefeaturedis-the-sandbox-deadmastheadmasthead-studiosopinionperpetuumplayer-contentplayer-generated-contentsandboxsandbox-optionssome-assembly-requiredstar-wars-galaxiesswgturbineultimaultima-onlineuoworking-as-intendedwurmwurm-onlinexsyonFri, 02 Sep 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: No job too big, no job too small]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/02/one-shots-no-job-too-big-no-job-too-small/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/02/one-shots-no-job-too-big-no-job-too-small/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/02/one-shots-no-job-too-big-no-job-too-small/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Earthrise is center stage for today's One Shots with a screenshot of a pretty impressive group effort. Earthrise players aren't limited to large structures, though. Knar, the reader character in the foreground, is also sporting some player-created items:
This is the first base built in Earthrise since the Territory War feature was implemented. All structures and walls in the base are player made, as well as the armor and weapon my character has equipped. It has a such a nice view of the mutated wasteland!
Now it's your turn to show off your items. This week's theme is Some Assembly Required -- a little nod to the newest addition to our column lineup. Some Assembly Required covers player-created content, so we want to see the best of what you've created.

Whether you've built a farm or village in Wurm Online, a particularly impressive ride in Fallen Earth, or something even bigger and better in any MMO, we want to see! Grab a screenshot, tell us a bit about what it is, and send it to oneshots@massively.com. We'll be featuring the best of these all week.

Gallery: One Shots: 2011

MassivelyOne Shots: No job too big, no job too small originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Aug 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>earthrisegalleriesgallerymastheadone-shotsplayer-created-contentsandboxscreenshotscreenshotsTue, 02 Aug 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Earthrise's subscription price (earth)lowered]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/27/earthrises-subscription-price-earth-lowered/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/27/earthrises-subscription-price-earth-lowered/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/27/earthrises-subscription-price-earth-lowered/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Have you been wanting to take sandbox MMO Earthrise out for a spin, but just don't have the creds to shell out for it? Well, today may be your lucky day. Masthead Studios announced today that they had lowered the prices of Earthrise's game client and subscription fees in order to "greatly improve the in-game economy and... also make Earthrise a lot more fun for both new and old members."

So what are the new prices? Well, if you're in the US, the game client itself will cost you $14 (a rather sizeable 60% discount), while your subscription options will be: $14 for one month, $30 for three months, or $50 for five months. European players, on the other hand, will have to shell out 12 Euro for the client, and the subscription options will be: 12 Euro for one month, 25 Euro for three months, and 46 euro for five months. Whether or not this move will reinvigorate the game as planned, we'll just have to wait and see.

MassivelyEarthrise's subscription price (earth)lowered originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Jul 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>discountearthrisemastheadmasthead-studiospriceprice-loweredprices-loweredsandboxsubscriptionsubscription-feesubscription-fee-loweredWed, 27 Jul 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Masthead releases first Earthrise expansion, reactivates old accounts]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/13/masthead-releases-first-earthrise-expansion-reactivates-old-acc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/13/masthead-releases-first-earthrise-expansion-reactivates-old-acc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/13/masthead-releases-first-earthrise-expansion-reactivates-old-acc/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Today marks a significant milestone for Earthrise, the indie sci-fi sandbox from Masthead Studios. A rather large patch has made its way to the live servers, and the changes are so numerous that Masthead's press release labels the update as Earthrise's first expansion.

The big kahuna in terms of new content is the Territorial Wars functionality, and the patch notes mention new zones with bases ripe for the capturing as well as the ability for guilds to construct various economic and military structures. Speaking of guilds, leaders can now make use of a new ranking and permission system, and Earthrise now sports both friend and ignore lists in addition to improved client performance.

The patch also brings a laundry list of weapon effect changes, combat re-balancing, and bug fixes, all of which are viewable via the patch notes on the official Earthrise forums. If all that's not enough to whet your appetite, consider that Masthead has reduced the initial client cost by 40% as well as gifted all previous account holders with 10 days of free play.

MassivelyMasthead releases first Earthrise expansion, reactivates old accounts originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Jul 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>account-reactivationscombat-changesdiscountsearthriseexpansionexpansionsfriends-listignore-listmastheadmasthead-studiospatchpatchessandboxsci-fiterritorial-warsterritory-warsupdateupdatesweapon-effectsWed, 13 Jul 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Earthrise goes on sale, looks ahead to expansion [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/earthrise-goes-on-sale-looks-ahead-to-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/earthrise-goes-on-sale-looks-ahead-to-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/earthrise-goes-on-sale-looks-ahead-to-expansion/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Big things are afoot in Earthrise, which is now going worldwide as publisher Iceberg Interactive has launched the English language version in all territories. To tempt players into giving it a try, Iceberg's digital launch will be offered at a hefty 40% discount, bringing the title to $29.99.

Even bigger than that is the news of Earthrise's first free expansion: Territorial Warfare. This content update promises to double the size of the current game world and will let players take over territory, build bases, and fight against opposing forces. These bases can even provide players with resources to further expand their power.

The price drop and expansion will apply to European boxed copies as well. The boxed versions also include a map and poster.

Masthead Studios has been pursuing aggressive updates and fixes to the game as of late, and with the expansion there should be plenty of additional content for players to enjoy.

[Updated: Changed the price to reflect US sales price.]

MassivelyEarthrise goes on sale, looks ahead to expansion [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 Jun 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boxed-versioncontent-updatedealdiscountearthriseexpansionicebergiceberg-interactivemapmastheadmasthead-studiosposterpromotionretailretail-versionsaleterritorial-warfareupdateWed, 01 Jun 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Huge Earthrise patch brings major combat tweaks, bug fixes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/12/huge-earthrise-patch-brings-major-combat-tweaks-bug-fixes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/12/huge-earthrise-patch-brings-major-combat-tweaks-bug-fixes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/12/huge-earthrise-patch-brings-major-combat-tweaks-bug-fixes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

There are patches and then there are patches, and the most recent Earthrise update was definitely the latter. Masthead Studios has dropped approximately one gigabyte worth of changes on the world of Enterra thanks to the 18143 patch, and if the preliminary discussion thread is any indication, players seem to be happy with the tweaks.

Many of the changes are found in the game's combat engine, with adjustments to core and special weapon damage as well as weapon ranges and substantial updates for assault rifles, precision rifles, flamers, melee weapons, and shotguns. AI line-of-sight issues have also been fixed, and several UI and party-related bugs have been squashed.

There's also an interesting blurb in the patch notes regarding territorial warfare. Specifically, the notes say that "all bases and the environment around them are complete and standing by." While Masthead hasn't publicly confirmed that Earthrise's warfare system is complete and ready for prime time, it's encouraging to see some official progress.

MassivelyHuge Earthrise patch brings major combat tweaks, bug fixes originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 May 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1814318143-patchearthriseenterramastheadmasthead-studiospatchpatch-notespatchessandboxsci-fiterritorial-controlterritorial-warfareupdateupdatesweapon-changesweapon-damageweapon-rangesThu, 12 May 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Win a copy of Earthrise from Massively and Masthead Studios!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/05/win-a-copy-of-earthrise-from-massively-and-masthead-studios/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/05/win-a-copy-of-earthrise-from-massively-and-masthead-studios/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/05/win-a-copy-of-earthrise-from-massively-and-masthead-studios/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Earthrise developers may be taking their time and making sure every detail is just right on upcoming patches, but they've promised fans it's going to be worth the wait.

If you've been following the game's progress since launch and thinking about giving it a try, we've got just the thing for you! Masthead Studios has given us three digital copies of Earthrise to pass on to some lucky readers.

Already an Earthrise player? No problem -- we've got you covered too! We've also got 10 spiffy Earthrise t-shirts to share. All you need to do to enter is leave a comment here before noon EDT on Saturday, May 7th. Let us know which prize you'd like to have (specify large or extra large if you're entering for a t-shirt), and Saturday afternoon we'll draw 13 winners!

As always, take a look at our contest rules. Best of luck!

OFFICIAL RULES

MassivelyWin a copy of Earthrise from Massively and Masthead Studios! originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 May 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestcontestsearthrisegiveawaygiveawaysmastheadmasthead-studiost-shirtThu, 05 May 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Earthrise patch coming soon, roadmap features delayed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/earthrise-rise-patch-coming-soon-roadmap-features-delayed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/earthrise-rise-patch-coming-soon-roadmap-features-delayed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/earthrise-rise-patch-coming-soon-roadmap-features-delayed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Fans of Masthead Studios' Earthrise MMORPG have waited a long time between patches. According to producer Atanas Atanasov, the wait is almost over. A new post on the official Earthrise boards details what players can expect when the new version goes live toward "the end of this week, or early next week at the latest."

The patch will include fixes for the inventory stacking bug and the problems with party experience gain. The game's shadow renders are also being tweaked, and AI attacks through walls and other solid objects are being addressed. Atanasov also tells us that the previously reported development roadmap has undergone a few revisions, and most of the items on that particular list are being delayed in favor of improving Earthrise's graphical performance.

"Due to changes in our priority list you can expect [a] delay of some roadmap features such as vehicles, inverse kinematics, quest hints on the minimap, and item painting," Atanasov explains. "Our expectations are that you will see them in game in June/July 2011."

MassivelyEarthrise patch coming soon, roadmap features delayed originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 May 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Atanas-Atanasovatanas-atansovbugsdevelopment-roadmapearthrisegraphical-performanceitem-paintingmastheadmasthead-studiospatchpatchesperformanceroadmapsandboxsci-fivehiclesWed, 04 May 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Masthead releases Earthrise vehicle concept art]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/20/masthead-releases-earthrise-vehicle-concept-art/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/20/masthead-releases-earthrise-vehicle-concept-art/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/20/masthead-releases-earthrise-vehicle-concept-art/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

What's Masthead Studios been up to lately? Aside from bug-fixing and putting out fires on the forums of its newly released sci-fi sandbox called Earthrise, the studio is finding time to iterate on future features for the world of Enterra.

Player vehicles have been an oft-requested addition since the game's early beta days, and if two new pieces of concept art are any indication, the cries haven't gone unnoticed. Masthead has just published preliminary models for two types of single-occupant vehicles, both bearing the sexy lines and sleek stylings of a futuristic hover-bike, swoop, or insert-sci-fi-motorcycle-analog-here.

While there's no word on when we'll see these new pieces of awesome in the game, we'll keep our eyes (and ears) peeled for further details. In the meantime, check out both images in our gallery below.

Gallery: Earthrise

MassivelyMasthead releases Earthrise vehicle concept art originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>concept-artearthrisegalleriesgalleryhoverbikemastheadmasthead-studiosmotorbikemotorcyclepress-releasesandboxsci-fiscreenshotsswoopvehiclesWed, 20 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Masthead releases two-month Earthrise roadmap]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/masthead-releases-two-month-earthrise-roadmap/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/masthead-releases-two-month-earthrise-roadmap/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/masthead-releases-two-month-earthrise-roadmap/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

It's been nearly two months since the launch of Earthrise, and Masthead Studios is moving forward with long-term development plans for the sci-fi sandbox MMORPG. In a press release this morning, the Bulgaria-based dev team laid out a list of new features planned for integration in April and May.

Citizens of Enterra will be getting some direction in the form of minimap quest hint indicators, alleviating the confusion that often results when searching for various objectives. Earthrise crafters will be able to produce paint that can be used on armor, weapons, and vehicles, and guild diplomacy mechanics will give leaders the ability to both declare war and cultivate allies.

As a result of the February Choose Your Game Feature voting, resurrection mechanics will be coming to Earthrise, and player parties will also be able to share battle points and karma from defeated enemies. Finally, various technical and performance-related tweaks are in the offing, including customizable chat windows, a friends/ignore list, AI improvements, and shadow enhancements.

MassivelyMasthead releases two-month Earthrise roadmap originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 31 Mar 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chatchat-functionalitychat-windowchoose-your-game-featurecraftingcustomizationearthriseenterrafriends-listignore-listmastheadmasthead-studiosminimappaintperformance-tweakspress-releasequest-hintsresurrectionsandboxsci-fiThu, 31 Mar 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Masthead adds exploration rewards to Earthrise, hints at player-crafted vehicles]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/14/masthead-adds-exploration-rewards-to-earthrise-hints-at-player/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/14/masthead-adds-exploration-rewards-to-earthrise-hints-at-player/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/14/masthead-adds-exploration-rewards-to-earthrise-hints-at-player/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

It's patch time for Earthrise, and the sci-fi sandbox from indie developer Masthead Studios is looking to put the hurt on a few of its early-release gremlins. The patch notes for version 17045 indicate that players should notice a substantial reduction in lag and an overall increase in server and client performance. The patch has also added keybinding functionality to the world of Enterra as well as animation tweaks for strafing and walking.

Exploration rewards have also arrived in Earthrise, and players "will now be able to salvage materials and use them for either crafting or personal advantage." The dev team isn't stopping there, though, and producer Atanas Atanasov drops a couple of tasty hints regarding upcoming updates. "We are actively taking player feedback and requests into consideration for future releases, and have extensive developments planned for completion in the next few months, including the addition of territorial conquests and player crafted vehicles," he said via press release.

Gallery: Earthrise

MassivelyMasthead adds exploration rewards to Earthrise, hints at player-crafted vehicles originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 Mar 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Atanas-Atanasovbugsdesyncearthriseexplorationexploration-rewardsgallerieslagmastheadmasthead-studiospatchperformanceperformance-fixesplayer-vehiclessandboxsci-fiscreenshotsserver-lagstabilityterritory-controlupdateMon, 14 Mar 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2011: ARGO Online pits nature against technology]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/07/gdc-2011-argo-online-pits-nature-against-technology/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/07/gdc-2011-argo-online-pits-nature-against-technology/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/07/gdc-2011-argo-online-pits-nature-against-technology/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

If imaginative fiction has taught us anything, it's that the fun doesn't really begin until the world ends. Post-apocalyptic games are all the rage these days, from Earthrise to Fallen Earth, so it's not surprising to see another company throw its hat into the ring. Burda:ic may not be a household name, but it's hoping that its upcoming MMO, ARGO Online, will be.

Achim Kaspers, the managing director at burda:ic, was overflowing with information about ARGO's unique look and business model. ARGO is planned to be a free-to-play title, although Kaspers is well aware of the stigma that typically goes along with that. He admits that many F2P games are lacking in content or are grind-heavy, fates he hopes ARGO will avoid with thousands of quests, fluid combat animation and plenty of places to explore.

Billed as a "post-apocalyptic steampunk MMO," ARGO features a futuristic Earth divided between nature and technology. The Noblians are all over cool-looking steampunk devices and vehicles, while the Floresslah have united with nature to become its champions. We've been following ARGO since last year, so we're excited to hear that the title is scheduled to start its open beta tomorrow.

Hit the jump for more of the good word on ARGO from GDC as well as a special treat for Massively readers!

Gallery: ARGO Online

Continue reading GDC 2011: ARGO Online pits nature against technology

MassivelyGDC 2011: ARGO Online pits nature against technology originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 Mar 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Achim-Kaspersargoargo-onlineburda-icburdaiccraftingdaocdark-age-of-camelotdarkness-fallsearthrisef2pfallen-earthfeaturedfishingfree-to-playgalleriesgallerygame-developers-conferencegdcgdc-2011professionspvpsteampunkvideoMon, 07 Mar 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: It's not all brown]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/17/one-shots-its-not-all-brown/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/17/one-shots-its-not-all-brown/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/17/one-shots-its-not-all-brown/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

When someone says "post-apocalyptic" to people, it can conjure up the idea of an irradiated, desolate landscape full of twisted wreckage and more shades of brown than you thought were possible. However, if you're one of the people enjoying Earthrise, you have a lush future full of all manner of flora. Never mind that a good chunk of it wants to go all Audrey II on you and chomp your face off. Today's lovely Earthrise One Shots comes to us from Atanas M., who didn't write much of a note other than to comment "cool area."

Whatever kind of MMO you love, we're always on the lookout for great screenshots. Players like you make this column possible! So capture an image in your favorite game and email it in to us here at oneshots@massively.com along with your name, the name of the game, and a description of what we're seeing. Your image could be the next one we post here on Massively!

Gallery: One Shots: 2011

MassivelyOne Shots: It's not all brown originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Feb 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Atanas-mearthriseMastheadMasthead-studiosone-shotspost-apocalypsepost-apocalypticscreenshotscreenshotsThu, 17 Feb 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Global Chat: Behind the scenes edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/13/global-chat-behind-the-scenes-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/13/global-chat-behind-the-scenes-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/13/global-chat-behind-the-scenes-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Welcome to this week's Global Chat! We love hearing what you have to say at Massively, and we love it even more when we can share the best comments with all of our readers. Massively staffers will be contributing some of their favorite comments every week, so keep an eye out every Sunday for more Global Chat!

This week much of the community's focus was on what goes on behind the scenes. Our readers chatted about development decisions from launch onward; from the brand-new Earthrise to the reincarnated Gods & Heroes, "how it's done in MMO development" came under scrutiny.

Each discussion of individual games branched into interesting insights regarding MMO development and mechanics in general, so follow along after the jump to see what everyone had to say this week!

Continue reading Global Chat: Behind the scenes edition

MassivelyGlobal Chat: Behind the scenes edition originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 13 Feb 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chatcommenterscommentsearthriseeyeball2452feedbackFFXIVglobal-chatgods-and-heroesnucleonopinionreader-commentsreadersreal65rcnconSun, 13 Feb 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The P-word: Earthrise first impressions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/11/the-p-word-earthrise-first-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/11/the-p-word-earthrise-first-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/11/the-p-word-earthrise-first-impressions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Prior to taking the plunge with Masthead Studios' new Earthrise MMORPG, ask yourself the following questions: Do you have patience? Do you like to read? If the answer to either one of those questions is no -- regardless of whether you consider yourself a sandbox fan -- the game's current incarnation probably isn't for you.

Earthrise is a post-apocalyptic sci-fi MMORPG featuring two human factions struggling to rebuild in the aftermath of a third world war. In this distant, dystopian future, nanotech, quantum engineering, and cloning are commonplace technologies, and that's a good thing for you since you'll be dying. A lot.

If you're pre-disposed to sandboxes, excited by complexity, and not averse to a little ganking, the game might just tickle your fancy despite its rough-around-the-edges presentation and sub-par performance. We previewed the game a few weeks back over livestream, but today we add to that with a full hands-on with the game post-launch. Join me after the cut for my first impressions after 10-plus hours of gameplay.

Gallery: Earthrise

Continue reading The P-word: Earthrise first impressions

MassivelyThe P-word: Earthrise first impressions originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 Feb 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>combatcraftingearthriseenterrafeaturedffa-pvpFirst-Impressionsgallerieshands-onlaunchlaunchesmastheadmasthead-studiosopen-pvpopinionpvepvpsandboxsci-fiscreenshotssubscriptionFri, 11 Feb 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Earthrise launch day arrives, sandbox title available for purchase]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/04/earthrise-launch-day-arrives-sandbox-title-available-for-purcha/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/04/earthrise-launch-day-arrives-sandbox-title-available-for-purcha/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/04/earthrise-launch-day-arrives-sandbox-title-available-for-purcha/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Zomg it's a sci-fi sandbox! You'll have to forgive our somewhat subjective enthusiasm on this one, as it's an increasingly rare occasion when we're able to announce the launch of something other than a themepark with classical fantasy elements. Yes, Earthrise is here to (hopefully) save the day for the sandbox die-hards in the audience, and Masthead Studio's skill-based title is available for purchase in both a retail edition (which features a poster and map) and a digital download from Direct2Drive (which comes with exclusive Overdrive armor).

"Our team has channeled years of dedication and hard work into Earthrise, and we are thrilled for those fans who have been following us this entire time, as well as those who are just now checking us out, to experience the world of Enterra. We are already working on updates and expansion packs to be integrated within the next few months, and are excited to continue to develop and enhance the world," says Masthead producer Atanas Atanasov.

As of press time, the server has not come up, and a couple of us have been unable to enter our activation keys into the account page on the Earthrise website. Fear not though, as we've got plenty for you to do while you're waiting impatiently to check out the world of Enterra. Join us after the break for a launch-day roundup of all the recent Earthrise news, interviews, and videos to get yourself up to speed and ready for action.

Continue reading Earthrise launch day arrives, sandbox title available for purchase

MassivelyEarthrise launch day arrives, sandbox title available for purchase originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Feb 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Atanas-Atanasovdigital-downloadearthriseenterrafeaturedgalleriesgallerylaunchlaunch-daylaunch-day-round-uplaunchesmastheadmasthead-studiosoverdrive-armorretail-boxretail-releaseround-uproundupsandboxsci-fiscreenshotsFri, 04 Feb 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MV Guide: January 31 - February 7, 2011]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/31/mv-guide-january-31-february-7-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/31/mv-guide-january-31-february-7-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/31/mv-guide-january-31-february-7-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


MV Guide is a weekly rundown of the MMO gaming events planned on Massively's Livestream channel.

Every week the Massively staff logs in to play various MMOs live and in person, and we'd love for you to drop by the channel and visit. We have a combination of regular weekly games and new surprises, so you'll find a variety of games to take a look at. During Livestream events, you can participate in the live chat to learn about the game, ask questions, and spend some time with Massively staff and readers.

If you missed out some of our Livestream events from last week, check out our on-demand videos to catch up at your leisure. We had a busy week! Karen and her guild did some raiding in EverQuest II, Rubi and the Massively Overpowered guild did some damage in Guild Wars' Factions campaign, Larry played some DCUO, Krystalle took to the skies in Black Prophecy, Beau treated us to some Asheron's Call, and Shawn explored some of the awesome features of Champions Online.

Do you have a game you'd love to see on our Livestream channel? Let us know in the comments section. For now, if you're looking to check out some new games or see your favorite game from a new perspective, follow along after the cut for this week's installment of MV Guide!

Continue reading MV Guide: January 31 - February 7, 2011

MassivelyMV Guide: January 31 - February 7, 2011 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 31 Jan 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allodsallods-onlinearenanetdc-universe-onlinedcuoearthriseeq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iigpotatoguild-warsgwlivestreammastheadmasthead-studiosmv-guidencsoftRagnarokragnarok-onlineSOESony-Online-EntertainmentstreamMon, 31 Jan 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[[Update] Get a head start on Earthrise with our closed beta key giveaway!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/29/get-a-head-start-on-earthrise-with-our-closed-beta-key-giveaway/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/29/get-a-head-start-on-earthrise-with-our-closed-beta-key-giveaway/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/29/get-a-head-start-on-earthrise-with-our-closed-beta-key-giveaway/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

[UPDATE: All keys have been claimed -- good luck in beta!]

If you follow Massively on Twitter or Facebook, you've probably noticed our oh-so-casual mention of some Earthrise beta keys. The February 4th launch date is looming, and we've been waiting patiently for the go-ahead from Masthead Studios to distribute our stock of keys.

With the green light given this morning, we're happy to present 1,000 closed beta keys for you, all located on our handy giveaway page! Redeeming the key is pretty simple. Once you have your code, go to Earthrise's beta page and create an account. Then download the torrent using this link, install, and enjoy.

Thanks for your patience, and we'll see you in Earthrise!

Massively[Update] Get a head start on Earthrise with our closed beta key giveaway! originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 29 Jan 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beta-key-giveawayclosed-beta-keyclosed-beta-key-giveawayearthriseearthrise-betaearthrise-beta-keysearthrise-closed-betamastheadmasthead-studiosSat, 29 Jan 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Linked to the future]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/28/one-shots-linked-to-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/28/one-shots-linked-to-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/28/one-shots-linked-to-the-future/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

With the NDA down on Earthrise's beta and the game set to launch on February 4th, we're somewhat surprised that we haven't gotten a great flood of Earthrise screenshots for One Shots yet. Thankfully, Cavadus has stepped up and decided to give those of us who didn't make it into beta a little sample of what we can expect to see in-game. He writes in: "[This screenshot is part of] a virtual tour of Sal Vitas, capital of Enterra and the Continoma faction. It's really quite beautiful. I hope you enjoy the picture!" He also enclosed a link to a gallery of the other tour images, if you'd like to check those out.

Are you in the mood to show off something cool you've seen recently? Perhaps you're also in a beta whose NDA is down? If you'd like to share, then email your screenshot to us here at oneshots@massively.com along with your name, the name of the game, and a quick description. We'll post it out here for everyone to enjoy and give you the credit for sending it in. Couldn't be easier!

Gallery: One Shots: 2011


MassivelyOne Shots: Linked to the future originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 28 Jan 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betacavadusearthrisefpsmastheadmasthead-studiosone-shotspost-apocalypticsandboxsci-fiscience-fictionscreenshotscreenshotsFri, 28 Jan 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[[Updated] Earthrise launch roadmap reveals a commitment to continued development]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/earthrise-launch-roadmap-reveals-a-commitment-to-continued-devel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/earthrise-launch-roadmap-reveals-a-commitment-to-continued-devel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/earthrise-launch-roadmap-reveals-a-commitment-to-continued-devel/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

We've known for some time that Masthead Studios' upcoming single-server sci-fi sandbox Earthrise was planned for retail release on February 4th. Until now, however, we haven't known exactly what would be in that initial release and what features won't make the final cut. In an announcement today, Masthead Studios revealed not only a list of key features they'll be guaranteeing to provide at launch, but also a roadmap for further development and releases throughout the year. The announcement confirms Earthrise's release in less than two weeks time on February 4th, with a substantial commitment to continued development on specific features in the following months.

The list of key features promised for launch is as follows:
  • A unique post-apocalyptic setting where the cloned remnants of mankind battle to survive and rebuild.
  • Highly customizable characters with over 100 different skills, abilities and tactics.
  • No artificial imposed "class" restrictions.
  • Fast-paced, action-packed combat featuring dynamic targeting, adaptive power armor and hundreds of high-tech weapons.
  • Sophisticated player-versus-player (PvP) mechanics that let players fight for the established order, join the revolutionary underground, or carve their own bloody path as an independent criminal.
  • Character progression that keeps players advancing in their development with no limits.
  • An advanced market-based economy with in-game supply and demand based on player activities and interactions.
  • Deep crafting mechanics that enable players to design and manufacture unique items from blueprints and raw resources.
Skip past the cut for a look at Masthead's development schedule for 2011 and a first look at what we can expect to be introduced throughout the coming year.

Continue reading [Updated] Earthrise launch roadmap reveals a commitment to continued development

Massively[Updated] Earthrise launch roadmap reveals a commitment to continued development originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 25 Jan 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingdevelopmentearthrisefeaturedfebruarylaunchlaunchesmastheadmasthead-studiosmountspatchespvpreleaserelease-datesandboxsci-fiterritorial-controlvehiclesTue, 25 Jan 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Earthrise shows off the feel of the game in a new cinematic trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/20/earthrise-shows-off-the-feel-of-the-game-in-a-new-cinematic-trai/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/20/earthrise-shows-off-the-feel-of-the-game-in-a-new-cinematic-trai/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/20/earthrise-shows-off-the-feel-of-the-game-in-a-new-cinematic-trai/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


The feeling of personal possession, of place. A sense that your character's goals are your own. A wide-open world to explore and make a place in. Anything we're forgetting about the intended feeling of Earthrise? Well, we're sure it'll come to us eventually. In the meantime, Masthead Studios has released a brand-new cinematic trailer for the game, showing off the elements that players can expect from the sandbox game slated for release on February 4th.

Putting the viewer right in the heat of events, the trailer follows a young man with a high-powered shotgun speeding across a wasteland with a keen eye toward his destination. The trailer is only a couple minutes long, but it nicely captures the feel of a sandbox game, even with only a few lines of dialogue and the barest exploration of the game's backstory. If Earthrise can deliver the feel it advertises in the trailer just past the break, there are going to be a lot of happy sandbox players next month.

Continue reading Earthrise shows off the feel of the game in a new cinematic trailer

MassivelyEarthrise shows off the feel of the game in a new cinematic trailer originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 Jan 2011 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cinematiccinematic-trailerearthrisemastheadmasthead-studiosopen-pvppreviewpvpsandboxsandbox-gamesandbox-mmotrailervideoThu, 20 Jan 2011 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Masthead Studios reveals Earthrise's European box art]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/17/masthead-studios-reveals-earthrises-european-box-art/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/17/masthead-studios-reveals-earthrises-european-box-art/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/17/masthead-studios-reveals-earthrises-european-box-art/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


It's almost here! It's almost here! Ma, get the kids in the cellar! Pa, grab that shotgun and prepare for the apocalypse! Lassie, Timmy's stuck in a well, so... get on that already!

That's right -- Earthrise's February 4th release date is right around the corner, and we're betting that quite a few of you sci-fi sandbox fans are eagerly waiting for its launch. While we cannot speed up the flow of time (yet -- Shawn is working on that, but he's a busy man), we do have one new tidbit to share with you: the European Earthrise box art.

While the centerpiece of the box is the same saucy blue/white-haired lady looking over her shoulder as if to say, "I saw you looking at my... guns," it's interesting to note that the background silhouette seems to resemble an atomic cloud.

Indulge in a bit of culture today by visiting the Earthrise art museum after the jump.

Continue reading Masthead Studios reveals Earthrise's European box art

MassivelyMasthead Studios reveals Earthrise's European box art originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 17 Jan 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atomic-bombatomic-cloudbox-artearthriseeuropean-box-artgalleryiceberg-interactivelaunchmastheadmasthead-studiosMon, 17 Jan 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Masthead reveals new Earthrise beta video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/14/masthead-reveals-new-earthrise-beta-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/14/masthead-reveals-new-earthrise-beta-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/14/masthead-reveals-new-earthrise-beta-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Launch date for Earthrise is drawing near, and those curious about Masthead Studios' sci-fi sandbox now have a bit more information to chew on thanks to the release of a new beta video. The clip features PvE and PvP gameplay, and also offers a glimpse into several locations around the world of Enterra, including the Cascade Mountains, Seyenand, and Sal Vitas square. New equipment is also on display during the combat portions of the video, and you'll be able to see a T5 core flamer, a shielding bubble, and other equipment in action.

The Earthrise beta is also taking on new testers according to Masthead CEO Atanas Atanasov, so head over to the official website to sign up if you haven't already. "We are adding new testers every day, and our team continues to take all the feedback and suggestions from players into consideration as we progress toward launch in February," Atanasov said.

Continue reading Masthead reveals new Earthrise beta video

MassivelyMasthead reveals new Earthrise beta video originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 14 Jan 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Atanas-Atanasovatanas-atansovbetabeta-videocascade-mountainsearthrisegameplay-videolaunchmastheadmasthead-studiospvepvpreleasesal-vitassandboxsci-fitrailervideoFri, 14 Jan 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you recycle character names?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/13/the-daily-grind-do-you-recycle-character-names/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/13/the-daily-grind-do-you-recycle-character-names/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/13/the-daily-grind-do-you-recycle-character-names/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

So the next couple of months are shaping up to be rather busy here at the Massively offices (that aren't really offices). Aside from the usual news gathering, column writing, and convention prepping, there's a veritable smorgasbord of MMOs releasing in short order that are going to be demanding lots of our collective attention. Between now and March 1st, we've got DC Universe, Earthrise, RIFT, and Xsyon, and if there's ever been a swath of games that cater to a wide variety of tastes releasing one after the other like this, we'd love to hear about it.

With new games comes new characters and for some of us, that represents a bit of a conundrum apart from class or skill choices. Character names are all-important, and for folks that play a lot of MMOs, it might be easier to simply pick one and use it across multiple games. Roleplayers, on the other hand, probably shudder at the thought of recycling character names (and possibly personalities) from game to game.

What about you, Massively folk? Do you have an MMORPG handle that you're prone to using in each new title, or are your character names unique?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do you recycle character names? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>character-namesdc-universe-onlinedcuoearthrisegame-discussiongamer-discussionmmo-discussionmmo-hot-topicsmmo-issuesmmo-topicsmmorpg-discussionmmorpg-hot-topicsmmorpg-topicsnamesnamingriftrift-planes-of-telaratdgthe-daily-grindxsyonxsyon-earth-2012xsyon-preludeThu, 13 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Earthrise server located on US east coast]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/10/earthrise-server-located-on-us-east-coast/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/10/earthrise-server-located-on-us-east-coast/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/10/earthrise-server-located-on-us-east-coast/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The folks behind the Earthrise sci-fi sandbox made headlines a couple weeks ago with announcements that the game would launch on February 4th and that players would be grouped together on a single worldwide shard. As it turns out, the server is located on the east coast of the United States, which is a somewhat surprising move given the European pedigree of the game's parent company and the title's Europe-centric retail plans.

Masthead Studios community manager Kuliani has compiled a short list of frequently asked questions about the impending release and published it on the game's official forums. In addition to the server location announcement, he confirms that the Earthrise digital download will be available via the game's official website (as opposed to third parties like Steam or D2D) and that new forums will be introduced on launch day.

MassivelyEarthrise server located on US east coast originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 10 Jan 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betadigital-downloadearthrisekulianilaunch-daymastheadmasthead-studiosrelease-datesandboxsci-fiserver-locationMon, 10 Jan 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Masthead prepping new Earthrise beta client, additional beta keys]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/06/masthead-prepping-new-earthrise-beta-client-additional-beta-key/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/06/masthead-prepping-new-earthrise-beta-client-additional-beta-key/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/06/masthead-prepping-new-earthrise-beta-client-additional-beta-key/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Launch day for Earthrise is closing fast, and Masthead Studios is gearing up for the throng of sci-fi sandbox fans looking to make a new home on the game's single worldwide server. Masthead is also pushing a new version of the beta client to the game's test servers and will be distributing more beta invites in the very near future.

The new client features combat and tactical tweaks, changes to crafting skills and item insurance, and revamped graphics and animations. "The development team has been working around the clock to continually add new gameplay functions and we are thrilled for our community of testers to become further immersed and share their thoughts with us," says Masthead CEO Atanas Atanasov. As for getting your hands on that elusive beta key, you'll want to head to the official site and sign up for your chance to win.

MassivelyMasthead prepping new Earthrise beta client, additional beta keys originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 06 Jan 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Atanas-Atanasovatanas-atansovbetabeta-keysbeta-signupsearthriselaunchmastheadmasthead-studiosrelease-datereleasessandboxsci-fisingle-serverThu, 06 Jan 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Masthead confirms Earthrise digital release date, system requirements]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/28/masthead-confirms-earthrise-digital-release-date-system-require/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/28/masthead-confirms-earthrise-digital-release-date-system-require/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/28/masthead-confirms-earthrise-digital-release-date-system-require/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The team at Masthead Studios has nailed down a definitive launch date for Earthrise. The sci-fi sandbox MMORPG will be available via digital distribution on February 4th, with a European retail box and exclusive content to follow. "We have worked incredibly hard to make Earthrise the best sandbox MMORPG on the market, and we can't wait for players to fully experience all of our hard work and become immersed in Enterra," said Masthead's Atanas Atanasov in a press release dated this morning.

In addition to last week's announcement that players will gather on a single worldwide server, the studio has also detailed the game's system requirements:
  • OS: Windows XP SP2, Windows Vista SP1, Windows 7
  • Free hard drive space: 20 GB
  • CPU: 2.4+ GHz Single Core Processor
  • RAM: 2 GB
  • Video Card: NVIDIA 7800GT+ or ATI Radeon 9800 SE 256-bit
  • High bandwidth internet connection (DSL, Cable)

MassivelyMasthead confirms Earthrise digital release date, system requirements originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Dec 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Atanas-Atanasovatanas-atansovdigital-distributionearthriselaunchlaunch-datelaunchesmastheadmasthead-studiosrelease-datesandboxsci-fiTue, 28 Dec 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Earthrise going with single server worldwide]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/22/earthrise-going-with-single-server-worldwide/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/22/earthrise-going-with-single-server-worldwide/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/22/earthrise-going-with-single-server-worldwide/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The team at Masthead Studios has provided a bit more information about Earthrise's recently announced February release date. While Monday's press release revealed that the sci-fi sandbox is coming to European retail in a few short weeks, it conspicuously left out any mention of an American launch or an American server.

As it turns out, this is because Earthrise will feature a single shard for gamers all over the world according to a forum post sighted yesterday on the official boards. "There will be one global server for Earthrise when the game goes live in February. There is one server for all players, no matter where in the world they are located," says Kuliani, Masthead's community manager.

MassivelyEarthrise going with single server worldwide originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Dec 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>earthriseicebergiceberg-interactivemastheadmasthead-studiosnew-titlesreleaserelease-datesandboxsci-fisingle-serversingle-shardWed, 22 Dec 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Earthrise announces European publishing deal, February release date]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/20/earthrise-announces-european-publishing-deal-february-release-d/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/20/earthrise-announces-european-publishing-deal-february-release-d/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/20/earthrise-announces-european-publishing-deal-february-release-d/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Bulgaria-based Masthead Studios has just announced a partnership with Iceberg Interactive to publish the sci-fi sandbox MMORPG Earthrise. The agreement covers the whole of Europe, and a press release on Iceberg's official website says that the game will be coming to European retail in February 2011. The release also hints at "exclusive extra content for boxed version buyers" as well as plans for localized versions to be announced at a later date.

Earthrise is a post-apocalyptic sci-fi game set in the 21st century that features open PvP, a complex crafting system, skill-based advancement, and a player-driven economy.

MassivelyEarthrise announces European publishing deal, February release date originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Atanas-Atanasovatanas-atansovearthriseicebergiceberg-interactivemastheadmasthead-studiosreleaserelease-datesandboxsci-fiMon, 20 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[This week on The MMO Report: Sansha Sansha Revolution]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/this-week-on-the-mmo-report-sansha-sansha-revolution/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/this-week-on-the-mmo-report-sansha-sansha-revolution/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/this-week-on-the-mmo-report-sansha-sansha-revolution/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Sure, we know him for his wit and way with words -- but this week Casey Schreiner shows that he's got hotter moves than a level 85 fire mage. And of course, there's that MMO Report thing he does, in which he takes a look at the week's news. This week's targets topics include CrimeCraft's Bleedout expansion, which will offer new episodic content including goodness from artists like Ben Templesmith, Howard Chaykin, Tim Bradstreet, and many others. There's also more on Forsaken World, which is moving towards release by ramping up its teaser trailers.

Also on the radar is today's opening of Rift's closed beta, Earthrise's broken beta button and video, and of course, the first bit of EVE Online's three-part Incursion expansion. Speaking as an EVE Online player, I can say that the windowed mode is awesome, but the bit about anti-aliasing being added in this last patch is pretty awesome too. Now we capsuleers can enjoy the finest basics that Windows can offer while the Sansha swoop down on us. Finally, he wraps everything up by taking us on a magical mystery tour through Uncle Casey's Mailbag, in which we find out that sending him your cosplay pictures probably isn't the best idea -- although sending charity notes is.

You can catch all the hilarity here every week, or over on G4TV.com.

Continue reading This week on The MMO Report: Sansha Sansha Revolution

MassivelyThis week on The MMO Report: Sansha Sansha Revolution originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Dec 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casey-schreinercrimecraftearthriseeve-onlineforsaken-worldG4G4TVriftthe-mmo-reportFri, 03 Dec 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Masthead shows off Earthrise beta video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/30/masthead-shows-off-earthrise-beta-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/30/masthead-shows-off-earthrise-beta-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/30/masthead-shows-off-earthrise-beta-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Earthrise fans are waking up to an early Christmas present this morning in the form of a lengthy new closed beta gameplay video available on the official website. While developer Masthead Studios has provided a steady stream of screenshots (and even a few interviews) over the last several months, footage of the sandbox title in action has been extremely hard to come by.

No longer.

Thanks to the five minute clip, we now have a clearer picture of the game's UI as well as an idea of how the PvP and PvE plays out. The footage also shows off various locales around the world of Enterra including Arcology, Autonomy, the Blasted Region, the Borderland zones, and the Hatchery. "The Masthead team is thrilled to finally offer more of our fans a window into the Earthrise beta testing environment. Our developers have been working exhaustively to fine-tune all of the game's features to deliver a uniquely captivating gaming experience, and we are very anxious for all of our fans to see it," says producer Atanas Atanasov.

Check it out at the official Masthead website and let us know what you think in the comments.

MassivelyMasthead shows off Earthrise beta video originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 30 Nov 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcologyAtanas-Atanasovatanas-atansovautonomybetaborderland-zonesclosed-betaearthrisefootagemastheadmasthead-studiospvepvpsandboxsci-fithe-hatcheryvideoTue, 30 Nov 2010 10:00:00 EST