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 2015 AOL, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Get organized with The Elder Scrolls Online's collections system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/31/the-elder-scrolls-online-outlines-the-details-of-collections/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/31/the-elder-scrolls-online-outlines-the-details-of-collections/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/31/the-elder-scrolls-online-outlines-the-details-of-collections/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Chase the shiny!
So you have a whole lot of stuff in The Elder Scrolls Online. That's great. How are you going to organize it all? With a house? Don't be ridiculous; what you need is the new Collections feature going live in the game's next major update. A new development blog explains how the system will allow players to organize mounts, pets, and costumes through a few tabs and a handful of blood sacrifices. (Mostly the tabs.)

Items that belong in Collections will automatically be moved over when Update 6 goes live, removing any need to worry about inventory space when you need to summon a mount or don a costume. Any new items will also be tossed right in your Collections if they fit the criteria. The Collections also allow you to see vanity pets that you haven't yet obtained, thus giving you all the more reason to hunt down those elusive little critters for your collection-related purposes.

MassivelyGet organized with The Elder Scrolls Online's collections system originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 31 Jan 2015 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>b2pbethesdabethesda-softworksbethsoftbuy-to-playconsoleelder-scrollselder-scrolls-onlineelder-scrolls-online-tamriel-unlimitedesoinventoryitemitemsmountmountsnewsnews-itemspatchpatchespetpetsplaystation-4ps4tamrieltamriel-unlimitedtestesothe-elder-scrollsthe-elder-scrolls-onlinethe-elder-scrolls-online-tamriel-unlimitedupdateupdatesvanityvanity-itemsxbonexbox-onezenimaxzenimax-mediazenimax-onlinezenimax-online-studiosSat, 31 Jan 2015 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[It's time to pilfer Elder Scrolls NPCs' pockets on the PTS]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/30/time-to-pilfer-elder-scrolls-npc-pockets-on-the-pts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/30/time-to-pilfer-elder-scrolls-npc-pockets-on-the-pts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/30/time-to-pilfer-elder-scrolls-npc-pockets-on-the-pts/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Ready to kill and steal your way through Elder Scrolls Online's NPC population? You can thanks to Update 6's recent appearance on the public test server. The justice system is a big part of the patch, but so is the champion system which tweaks endgame progression.

Read all about it on the official ESO site!

MassivelyIt's time to pilfer Elder Scrolls NPCs' pockets on the PTS originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Jan 2015 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>b2pbethesdabethesda-softworksbethsoftbuy-to-playchampion-systemconsoleelder-scrollselder-scrolls-onlineelder-scrolls-online-tamriel-unlimitedesojustice-systemplaystation-4ps4tamrieltamriel-unlimitedtestesothe-elder-scrollsthe-elder-scrolls-onlinethe-elder-scrolls-online-tamriel-unlimitedthievingxbonexbox-onezenimaxzenimax-mediazenimax-onlinezenimax-online-studiosFri, 30 Jan 2015 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Global Chat: Can MMO stories rise above mediocrity?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/28/global-chat-can-mmo-stories-rise-above-mediocrity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/28/global-chat-can-mmo-stories-rise-above-mediocrity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/28/global-chat-can-mmo-stories-rise-above-mediocrity/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

tsw
Players have long debated the importance, relevance, and quality of stories in MMOs. Some have called for an abolishment of dev-driven narrative entirely, some enjoy what's there, and some have pressed for better writing and storytelling techniques. This week we'll hear from one blogger who is struggling with "mediocre" stories in MMOs and what might be done with them.

But wait, that's not all! We'll also hear from writers about MMO inventory systems, aging games, and how pretty much nobody in the world was shocked when Elder Scrolls Online ditched its sub.

Continue reading Global Chat: Can MMO stories rise above mediocrity?

MassivelyGlobal Chat: Can MMO stories rise above mediocrity? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Jan 2015 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allodsallods-onlinearcheageblogbloggersbloggingblogosphereblogscolumnelder-scrolls-onlineesoglobal-chatguild-wars-2gw2inventorylord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrommo-blogmmo-bloggingmmospherenarrativeopinionquotablesstoryWed, 28 Jan 2015 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Here's how to steal from NPCs in Elder Scrolls Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/heres-how-to-steal-from-npcs-in-elder-scrolls-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/heres-how-to-steal-from-npcs-in-elder-scrolls-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/heres-how-to-steal-from-npcs-in-elder-scrolls-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

"Justice is coming to Tamriel," according to ZeniMax's latest website notice. It's probably more accurate to say that criminality is coming to Tamriel, though. More specifically, Elder Scrolls Online's upcoming Update 6 features the justice system which will enable your avatar to participate in a variety of underhanded activities including murder and thievery.

The latter involves relieving hapless NPCs of their valuables while avoiding those pesky town guards, and the former involves assaulting and even killing AI citizens. At some point you'll end up with a bounty on your head, which in turns affects how guards react to your presence. Click through the links below to read the rest of the details.

MassivelyHere's how to steal from NPCs in Elder Scrolls Online originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Jan 2015 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>b2pbethesdabethesda-softworksbethsoftbuy-to-playconsoleelder-scrollselder-scrolls-onlineelder-scrolls-online-tamriel-unlimitedesoeso-justice-systemjusticejustice-systemmurderplaystation-4ps4tamrieltamriel-unlimitedtestesothe-elder-scrollsthe-elder-scrolls-onlinethe-elder-scrolls-online-tamriel-unlimitedthieveryxbonexbox-onezenimaxzenimax-mediazenimax-onlinezenimax-online-studiosMon, 26 Jan 2015 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Elder Scrolls Online answers player questions on its buy-to-play model]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/the-elder-scrolls-online-answers-player-questions-on-its-buy-to/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/the-elder-scrolls-online-answers-player-questions-on-its-buy-to/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/the-elder-scrolls-online-answers-player-questions-on-its-buy-to/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

It's fine. I'm fine. We're fine. Everything is fine.
Even if you were among the many players predicting a business model shift for The Elder Scrolls Online, a change in business models can be kind of disturbing. Suddenly the game doesn't behave according to all of the same rules you've been familiar with since launch. To help alleviate that confusion, the ESO dev team hosted a quick question-and-answer session with players over the weekend to help answer some of the major questions about the change, the next major patch, and balance issues moving forward in the game.

To start with, if you've still got time cards for the game on your desk, fret not; you can still use them after the model transition to add the equivalent amount of subscription time to your account. You might want to use them ahead of time, though, since there are plans to add in a special veteran reward for players who stayed subscribed during the game's entire subscription lifespan. DLC prices are not finalized, but they are intended to be around the normal DLC price points for other games. Take a look through the whole of the answers for more details on balancing and issues like controller support.

MassivelyThe Elder Scrolls Online answers player questions on its buy-to-play model originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Jan 2015 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>b2pbethesdabethesda-softworksbethsoftbusinessbusiness-modelbusiness-modelsbuy-to-playcommunity-q-and-aconsoleelder-scrollselder-scrolls-onlineelder-scrolls-online-tamriel-unlimitedesonewsnews-itemsplaystation-4pricepricespricingps4q-and-atamrieltamriel-unlimitedtestesothe-elder-scrollsthe-elder-scrolls-onlinethe-elder-scrolls-online-tamriel-unlimitedxbonexbox-onezenimaxzenimax-mediazenimax-onlinezenimax-online-studiosMon, 26 Jan 2015 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Think Tank: Analyzing Elder Scrolls Online's B2P model]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/the-think-tank-analyzing-elder-scrolls-onlines-b2p-model/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/the-think-tank-analyzing-elder-scrolls-onlines-b2p-model/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/the-think-tank-analyzing-elder-scrolls-onlines-b2p-model/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Yesterday's reveal that The Elder Scrolls Online will go buy-to-play in March has prompted much speculation about the nature of the cash shop, the ethics of the switchover, the continued viability of the game, and the quality, cost, and frequency of the promised DLC. In today's Think Tank, the Massively staff will discuss the decision. Is B2P the right call for ESO? Was the exceedingly long delay of the console launch a huge mistake? What do we expect from the DLC? And is "Tamriel Unlimited" in fact the worst rebrand ever?

Continue reading The Think Tank: Analyzing Elder Scrolls Online's B2P model

MassivelyThe Think Tank: Analyzing Elder Scrolls Online's B2P model originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Jan 2015 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>b2pbethesdabethesda-softworksbethsoftbrianna-royce-tttbuy-to-playconsoleeditorialelder-scrollselder-scrolls-onlineelder-scrolls-online-tamriel-unlimitedesogroup-editorialmassively-staffmassively-teamopinionopinionsplaystation-4ps4roundtablerounduptamrieltamriel-unlimitedtestesothe-elder-scrollsthe-elder-scrolls-onlinethe-elder-scrolls-online-tamriel-unlimitedthe-think-tankthink-tankxbonexbox-onezenimaxzenimax-mediazenimax-onlinezenimax-online-studiosThu, 22 Jan 2015 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Here's a 23-minute Elder Scrolls Online 'supercut' CG trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/heres-a-23-minute-elder-scrolls-online-supercut-cg-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/heres-a-23-minute-elder-scrolls-online-supercut-cg-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/heres-a-23-minute-elder-scrolls-online-supercut-cg-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

ZeniMax has released a 23-minute "supercut" of its Elder Scrolls Online trailer series. The firm says that the CG production was "over a year in the making," and the final bit -- dubbed The Confrontation -- brings the battle for Imperial City to an end and reveals "a new and horrific threat to Tamriel."

Click past the cut to have a look.

Continue reading Here's a 23-minute Elder Scrolls Online 'supercut' CG trailer

MassivelyHere's a 23-minute Elder Scrolls Online 'supercut' CG trailer originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Jan 2015 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>b2pbethesdabethesda-softworksbethsoftbuy-to-playconsoleelder-scrollselder-scrolls-onlineelder-scrolls-online-tamriel-unlimitedesoplaystation-4ps4tamrieltamriel-unlimitedtestesothe-elder-scrollsthe-elder-scrolls-onlinethe-elder-scrolls-online-tamriel-unlimitedtrailervideoxbonexbox-onezenimaxzenimax-mediazenimax-onlinezenimax-online-studiosThu, 22 Jan 2015 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaderboard: Is time or money more of a hindrance to your MMO habits?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/21/leaderboard-is-time-or-money-more-of-a-hindrance-to-your-mmo-ha/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/21/leaderboard-is-time-or-money-more-of-a-hindrance-to-your-mmo-ha/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/21/leaderboard-is-time-or-money-more-of-a-hindrance-to-your-mmo-ha/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Elder Scrolls Online's forthcoming buy-to-play conversion is a hot topic at the moment, but sadly it doesn't do much for me on a personal level. Even if I hadn't already played and enjoyed ESO for a significant chunk of 2014, I don't have the time for another grindpark, however well made it may be and however well it scratches my IP-related itches. But hey, maybe I'll have time at some point in 2015. I hope so!

What about you, Massively readers? Is time or money more of a hindrance when it comes to your personal MMO habits? Vote after the cut!

Ever wish that you could put to rest a long-standing MMO debate once and for all? Then welcome to the battle royal of Massively's Leaderboard, where two sides enter the pit o' judgment -- and only one leaves. Vote to make your opinion known, and see whether your choice tops the Leaderboard!

Continue reading Leaderboard: Is time or money more of a hindrance to your MMO habits?

MassivelyLeaderboard: Is time or money more of a hindrance to your MMO habits? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Jan 2015 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>b2pbethesdabethesda-softworksbethsoftbuy-to-playconsoleelder-scrollselder-scrolls-onlineelder-scrolls-online-tamriel-unlimitedesoplaystation-4ps4tamrieltamriel-unlimitedtestesothe-elder-scrollsthe-elder-scrolls-onlinethe-elder-scrolls-online-tamriel-unlimitedxbonexbox-onezenimaxzenimax-mediazenimax-onlinezenimax-online-studiosWed, 21 Jan 2015 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Elder Scrolls Online to nuke subs ahead of June 9th console launch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/21/elder-scrolls-online-to-nuke-subs-ahead-of-june-9th-console-laun/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/21/elder-scrolls-online-to-nuke-subs-ahead-of-june-9th-console-laun/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/21/elder-scrolls-online-to-nuke-subs-ahead-of-june-9th-console-laun/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

ESO
ZeniMax has this morning formally announced what the internet has been suspecting for months: The Elder Scrolls is going buy-to-play and dropping its required monthly subscription on March 17th for PC players, the same deal that will go live on June 9th for console players when it launches on PS4 and Xbox One.

Rebranded as The Elder Scrolls Online: Tamriel Unlimited, ESO will still have an optional premium subscription membership called ESO Plus, which will provide "exclusive in-game bonuses, a monthly allotment of crowns to use in the store and access to all DLC game packs."
The Elder Scrolls Online: Tamriel Unlimited includes all the great gameplay from the original PC/Mac game, plus all the updates and content additions, including the exciting new Justice and Champion systems. All existing PC/Mac game accounts, open or closed, will be updated to the Tamriel Unlimited edition in March and former players will be invited back to the game at that time to experience all that is new in the world. New players will make a one-time purchase of the game and play, without restrictions, for as long as they like - without game subscription fees. Tamriel Unlimited will be supported with special, optional downloadable content available for purchase and an in-game Crown Store for convenience and customization items. Regular updates and new gameplay will be offered to all players to enjoy free of additional charges.
The studio will host a livestream at noon EST today to further explain the announcement, but for now, you'll have to be contented with The Confrontation cinematic trailer -- that, and your smug satisfaction if this announcement validated your own hunch.

Continue reading Elder Scrolls Online to nuke subs ahead of June 9th console launch

MassivelyElder Scrolls Online to nuke subs ahead of June 9th console launch originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Jan 2015 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>b2pbethesdabethesda-softworksbethsoftbuy-to-playconsoleconsole-launchconsoleselder-scrollselder-scrolls-onlineelder-scrolls-online-tamriel-unlimitedesooblivionskyrimtamrieltamriel-unlimitedtestesothe-elder-scrollsthe-elder-scrolls-onlinethe-elder-scrolls-online-tamriel-unlimitedzenimaxzenimax-mediazenimax-onlinezenimax-online-studiosWed, 21 Jan 2015 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hungry? Elder Scrolls Online is revamping provisioning]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/20/hungry-elder-scrolls-online-is-revamping-provisioning/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/20/hungry-elder-scrolls-online-is-revamping-provisioning/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/20/hungry-elder-scrolls-online-is-revamping-provisioning/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

ESO
When The Elder Scrolls Online's Update 6 launches later this month, characters with the provisioning skill should go make us a sammich. Just kidding. But if you do decide to make us a sammich, you'll find the process much more streamlined and effective, as ZeniMax is plotting a major overhaul of the profession.

In a dev blog posted last night, the studio explained that it will be reducing the overall number of ingredients in the game, adding new recipes, updating the cooking UI, and giving food additives some oomph. Roleplayers will be happy to learn that lootable food-related objects will soon yield appropriate ingredients (apples from apple baskets, for example), and food buffs will make a bit more sense, like "meat dishes [that] increase your health and fruit dishes [that] increase your magicka."

If you're not actually a cook yourself, all you really need to know is that you should start skinning fish, cows, and chickens for meat and that drink buffs won't suck anymore. Hooray!

MassivelyHungry? Elder Scrolls Online is revamping provisioning originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Jan 2015 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bethesdabethesda-softworksbethsoftcookingdaggerfalldev-blogdev-blogsdev-diariesdev-diarydev-postdev-postsdeveloper-blogdeveloper-blogsdeveloper-diariesdeveloper-diarydeveloper-postdeveloper-postselder-scrollselder-scrolls-onlineesofactionsmorrowindoblivionprovisioningpvprvrskill-basedskyrimtamrieltestesothe-elder-scrollsthe-elder-scrolls-onlinethree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvpzenimaxzenimax-mediazenimax-onlinezenimax-online-studiosTue, 20 Jan 2015 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Elder Scrolls' new Champion Point progression system detailed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/15/elder-scrolls-new-champion-point-progression-system-detailed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/15/elder-scrolls-new-champion-point-progression-system-detailed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/15/elder-scrolls-new-champion-point-progression-system-detailed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Elder Scrolls Online's Update 6 will introduce the Champion System, which is a "new way to continue your character's growth and customization" at endgame. Once you reach Veteran Rank 1, the system unlocks across your account and allows you to gain Champion Points for participating in activities that normally grant experience.

Only VR-level characters can earn the new points, but once earned the points are available to any of your avatars.

There's also a new account-wide mechanic called Enlightenment that builds over time regardless of whether you're logged in or not and grants a bonus to Champion Point progression. More details on the new system are available on the official ESO website.

MassivelyElder Scrolls' new Champion Point progression system detailed originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Jan 2015 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bethesdabethesda-softworksbethsoftchampion-pointschampion-systemdaggerfallelder-scrollselder-scrolls-onlineendgameesoeso-champion-systemfactionsgrindmorrowindoblivionpvprvrskill-basedskyrimtamrieltestesothe-elder-scrollsthe-elder-scrolls-onlinethree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvpzenimaxzenimax-mediazenimax-onlinezenimax-online-studiosThu, 15 Jan 2015 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Elder Scrolls Online boxes continue to vacate store shelves]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/15/elder-scrolls-online-boxes-continue-to-vacate-store-shelves/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/15/elder-scrolls-online-boxes-continue-to-vacate-store-shelves/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/15/elder-scrolls-online-boxes-continue-to-vacate-store-shelves/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

ESO
More Australian retailers have apparently lined up to pull boxed copies of The Elder Scrolls Online from store shelves.

Aussie gaming site Games.On.net reports that both Harvey Norman and JB Hi-Fi have deleted copies of the game from their physical stores. The unnamed Games.On.net source, who said he/she had seen the paperwork confirming the recall, claims that "all game cards and copies were pulled out of Harvey Norman, and the ONLY reason that would happen is because it has become a free product [...] if it was being brought out in a different format, it'd have a price drop, not a recall."

Last week, EB Games in the land down under began destocking ESO boxes, and Microsoft abruptly updated the game's scheduled release on Xbox One to February 24th, 2015. ZeniMax removed long-term subscriptions from the game back in December, claiming that players prefer shorter billing options and prompting widespread speculation about a possible impending business model change.

MassivelyElder Scrolls Online boxes continue to vacate store shelves originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Jan 2015 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiabethesdabethesda-softworksbethsoftdaggerfallelder-scrollselder-scrolls-onlineesofactionsmorrowindoblivionpvprvrskill-basedskyrimtamrieltestesothe-elder-scrollsthe-elder-scrolls-onlinethree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvpzenimaxzenimax-mediazenimax-onlinezenimax-online-studiosThu, 15 Jan 2015 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Elder Scrolls Online tweaks champion points conversion rate]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/10/elder-scrolls-online-tweaks-champion-points-conversion-rate/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/10/elder-scrolls-online-tweaks-champion-points-conversion-rate/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/10/elder-scrolls-online-tweaks-champion-points-conversion-rate/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

eso
The new endgame champion system coming to Elder Scrolls Online in Update 6 is the talk of Tamriel, and ZeniMax is evaluating feedback carefully to make sure that it launches without a hitch. The studio announced on Friday that it will be making a change to how it will convert veteran ranks to champion points.

Originally, the studio was going to give a blanket 30 champion points to any player who had at least one veteran rank on a character. Based on feedback, ZeniMax will now be converting veteran ranks to champion points at the rate of 200,000 XP per point at the moment of Update 6's release, for a maximum of 70 potential champion points for one's entire account.

The studio made it clear that champion points will not cost 200,000 XP after Update 6; this conversion rate is specifically for veteran ranks pre-release.

MassivelyElder Scrolls Online tweaks champion points conversion rate originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 10 Jan 2015 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bethesdabethesda-softworksbethsoftchampion-pointschampion-systemchampions-onlinedaggerfallelder-scrollselder-scrolls-onlineendgameesofactionsfeedbackmorrowindoblivionpvprvrskill-basedskyrimtamrieltestesothe-elder-scrollsthe-elder-scrolls-onlinethree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvpveteran-rankszenimaxzenimax-mediazenimax-onlinezenimax-online-studiosSat, 10 Jan 2015 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: The Elder Scrolls Online console version may be close]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/09/rumor-the-elder-scrolls-online-console-version-may-be-close/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/09/rumor-the-elder-scrolls-online-console-version-may-be-close/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/09/rumor-the-elder-scrolls-online-console-version-may-be-close/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Second verse, same as the first...
Let's just start with the disclaimers, for those who have forgotten: Online retailers do not necessarily know the date of releases any more than you do. They just enter a future date for preorders and go. Amazon's release date for the console launch of The Elder Scrolls Online is still December 31st, 2015, which isn't a prediction so much as a way of keeping it in the system for this year. But Microsoft's listing of the game for Xbox One on February 24th, 2015, does merit at least a little attention.

Sure, it could just be a placeholder date, but it's awfully soon for a placeholder when the store could easily list December. It would also make a certain amount of sense, since the console version was originally slated for last month after its initial delay. So what do you think, readers? Is The Elder Scrolls Online just around the corner for console owners? Or is it just another placeholder date?

While you're munching on that rumor, you can also speculate about the fact that Australian EB Games stores are recalling all boxed copies of the game and all time cards, supposedly as part of a normal post-holiday stock recall. Or as a prelude to free-to-play. You decide.

[Thanks to squidgod2000 for the tip!]

MassivelyRumor: The Elder Scrolls Online console version may be close originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Jan 2015 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>b2pbethesdabethesda-softworksbethsoftbusiness-modelsbuy-to-playconsoleconsolesdaggerfallelder-scrollselder-scrolls-onlineesof2pfactionsfree-to-playmorrowindnewsnews-itemsoblivionpvprumorrumorsrvrskill-basedskyrimspeculationsubscriptionsubscriptionstamrieltestesothe-elder-scrollsthe-elder-scrolls-onlinethree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvpzenimaxzenimax-mediazenimax-onlinezenimax-online-studiosFri, 09 Jan 2015 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Shadow play]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/04/one-shots-shadow-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/04/one-shots-shadow-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/04/one-shots-shadow-play/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

eso
Welcome to a new year -- and the best year of One Shots you'll ever see. I know this because I've been to the future (December 31st, 2015) and spent those precious time-bending moments flipping through all of the One Shots column this year. Amazing stuff, people. Really well done.

Well, we might as well get started with your glorious photo journeys! Our very first pic of the year is from reader Becca, who sends us this groovy bit of shadow play in Elder Scrolls Online: "While waiting for a boss to spawn in a public dungeon, my friend Arkslan and my character Rozyn had some fun with lighting."

Great. Now I know what will be lurking under my bed tonight: a sing-songy bard. Terror knows no name, but it does sing harmony.

Continue reading One Shots: Shadow play

MassivelyOne Shots: Shadow play originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 04 Jan 2015 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Well that's not good.
Players are just a little bit leery of the fact that The Elder Scrolls Online has removed the six-month subscription option from the game. Oh, sure, it seems innocent enough; it's just a change in billing options. But it's also one of those changes that's happened in more than a few other games indicating that the game was removing the need for a subscription... or that the game was no longer going to be playable at all, in the case of Warhammer Online.

The official ZeniMax response on the French forums is simply that players indicated they preferred the shorter billing options, so the six-month option was removed. General sentiment in the thread is that this answer is not entirely credible. If it really is a harbinger of something more to come... well, we'll find out about it in about six months. Maybe five.

[Thanks to Siphaed for the tip!]

MassivelyThe Elder Scrolls Online quietly removes six-month subscriptions originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 30 Dec 2014 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bethesdabethesda-softworksbethsoftdaggerfallelder-scrollselder-scrolls-onlineesofactionsmorrowindnewsnews-itemsoblivionpvprumorrumorsrvrskill-basedskyrimsubscription-optionssubscription-timetamrieltestesothe-elder-scrollsthe-elder-scrolls-onlinethree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvpzenimaxzenimax-mediazenimax-onlinezenimax-online-studiosTue, 30 Dec 2014 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Elder Scrolls Online definitely coming to consoles in 2015]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/24/elder-scrolls-online-definitely-coming-to-consoles-in-2015/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/24/elder-scrolls-online-definitely-coming-to-consoles-in-2015/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/24/elder-scrolls-online-definitely-coming-to-consoles-in-2015/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

ZeniMax has posted a holiday greeting to Elder Scrolls Online fans that also promises a console launch for the fantasy MMO in 2015. "We've released five major updates and tons of improvements and fixes," the blurb reads. "Next year promises to be just as exciting as we introduce the Champion and Justice systems, launch on the PS4 and Xbox One, and continue to release new adventures for you to experience."

MassivelyElder Scrolls Online definitely coming to consoles in 2015 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 24 Dec 2014 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bethesdabethesda-softworksbethsoftconsoleconsolesdaggerfallelder-scrollselder-scrolls-onlineesofactionsmorrowindoblivionpvprvrskill-basedskyrimtamrieltestesothe-elder-scrollsthe-elder-scrolls-onlinethree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvpzenimaxzenimax-mediazenimax-onlinezenimax-online-studiosWed, 24 Dec 2014 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Onigiri MMO coming to consoles next year]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/16/onigiri-mmo-coming-to-consoles-next-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/16/onigiri-mmo-coming-to-consoles-next-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/16/onigiri-mmo-coming-to-consoles-next-year/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

onigiri
The Japanese mythology MMO, Onigiri, is officially on its way to the Xbox One (and PlayStation 4) next year in North America and Europe, Windows Central reports. The title, which is developed by Cyberstep, will be free-to-play and is already live on the Xbox One in Japan.

Onigiri came out on the PC in 2013. The console version may have patches slightly lagging behind the PC version, but it will otherwise be identical in form and function. There will be no cross-over play between platforms.

While Windows Central says that this will be Xbox One's "first MMO," that overlooks the already-released Destiny and The Crew as well as other titles on the way, including Elder Scrolls Online, PlanetSide 2, All Points Bulletin, Neverwinter, The Division, and Warframe.

MassivelyOnigiri MMO coming to consoles next year originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Dec 2014 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>All-Points-Bulletinconsoleconsole-releasecyberstepDestinyElder-Scrolls-Onlinef2pfantasyfree-to-playjapanNeverwinteronigiriPlanetside-2playstation-4ps4The-CrewThe-DivisionWarframexbonexboxxbox-oneTue, 16 Dec 2014 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Perfect Ten: Looking back at the biggest MMO news of 2014]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/13/perfect-ten-looking-back-at-the-biggest-mmo-news-of-2014/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/13/perfect-ten-looking-back-at-the-biggest-mmo-news-of-2014/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/13/perfect-ten-looking-back-at-the-biggest-mmo-news-of-2014/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

landmark
Well, my chums, here we are at the tail-end of 2014, having achieved all of our goals and new year's resolutions. Even better, we've survived what's turned out to be one of the wildest, rockiest, and most exciting years of MMO news in recent memory.

This was the year of high-profile game launches, even more popular expansions, layoffs, and some epic-level studio face-palming decisions. It's easy to sit here and say that we predicted everything that was going to happen this year, but c'mon, you have to admit that you were surprised by at least one or two events in this industry.

It's incredibly difficult to sum up the biggest news of the year without coming to grips with the fact that many stories aren't one-and-done; a lot of what I'm going to be talking about in this list happened over the course of weeks or months and still may not be fully over. That's how news stories are sometimes!

Continue reading Perfect Ten: Looking back at the biggest MMO news of 2014

MassivelyPerfect Ten: Looking back at the biggest MMO news of 2014 originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 13 Dec 2014 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014acac2archeageArenaNetasherons-callasherons-call-2blizzardBlizzConbungieccpclone-wars-adventuresdestinyelder-scrolls-onlineesoeveeve-onlineeverquestfeaturedfree-realmsguild-wars-2gw2humorlandmarkliving-storynews-storiesopinionoverwatchp10perfect-10perfect-tenproject-titanroundupsoethe-perfect-10the-perfect-tentitantop-10top-10-listtop-tentop-ten-listtriontrion-worldsturbinevanguardwarlords-of-draenorwildstarwizardry-onlineworld-of-darknessworld-of-warcraftwowSat, 13 Dec 2014 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Elder Scrolls Online's Undaunted Pledge system promotes daily dungeons]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/11/the-elder-scrolls-online-undaunted-pledge-system-promotes-daily/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/11/the-elder-scrolls-online-undaunted-pledge-system-promotes-daily/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/11/the-elder-scrolls-online-undaunted-pledge-system-promotes-daily/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

ESO
Are you wandering around The Elder Scrolls Online in a post-Update 5 haze, lost on what to do? Wander no more: ZeniMax has released a dev blog today to give you some guidance.

The guide details the pledge system of the Undaunted, whose tasks are reminiscent of daily dungeon quests in other themeparks. Starting at level 45, players can swear themselves to the Undaunted faction, which offers two daily quests to complete dungeons, one veteran and one not. Depending on how well they complete the dungeon and the difficulty of the encounter, players will be awarded reputation with the faction as well as a key to unlock a sweet chest of loot. "The Undaunted chests can contain a variety of helpful loot, from valuable Ornate items and soul gems to unique items sets and attention-grabbing shoulder pieces fashioned from the very brutes you've slain," writes ZOS.

The full guide is on the official site.

MassivelyThe Elder Scrolls Online's Undaunted Pledge system promotes daily dungeons originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 11 Dec 2014 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bethesdabethesda-softworksbethsoftdaggerfalldailiesdailydaily-dungeondev-blogdev-blogsdev-diariesdev-diarydev-postdev-postsdeveloper-blogdeveloper-blogsdeveloper-diariesdeveloper-diarydeveloper-postdeveloper-postselder-scrollselder-scrolls-onlineesofactionsmorrowindoblivionpvprvrskill-basedskyrimtamrieltestesothe-elder-scrollsthe-elder-scrolls-onlinethree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvpundaunted-pledgezenimaxzenimax-mediazenimax-onlinezenimax-online-studiosThu, 11 Dec 2014 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: November 29 - December 5, 2014]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/05/betawatch-november-29-december-5-2014/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/05/betawatch-november-29-december-5-2014/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/05/betawatch-november-29-december-5-2014/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Betawatch Landmark
Landmark's beta is getting PvE in 10 days! Because it's actually a beta! What else is new in the world of MMO testing? We've also purged the heck out of the Betawatch list after the cut thanks in large part to the eagle-eyed observations of Massively reader greaterdivinity. A number of games, including Archlord 2, Argo Online, Eclipse War Online, Face of Mankind, Legend of Silkroad, Legion of Heroes, Margonem, Strife, and Taikodom, have departed or moved around in our list due to changes in their open beta status (most of them soft launches, but some of them, like Argo, have simply disappeared from the internet... again). Many thanks to greaterdivinity!

Continue reading Betawatch: November 29 - December 5, 2014

MassivelyBetawatch: November 29 - December 5, 2014 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Dec 2014 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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eso
The self-imposed six-month delay of Elder Scrolls Online's console release has come and gone, and it looks as though fans will be waiting a while yet to see the title come to Xbox One and PlayStation 4. In a new Road Ahead post, the team admits that the adaptation has been tricky but that progress is being made.

"We have been (and will continue to be) steadily working on the Xbox One and PlayStation 4 versions of ESO. They are playable and fun right now, but there's still some work to do before we can set an official launch date," Game Director Matt Firor said. He mentioned that, among other tasks, the team is designing a new UI from the ground-up and adding voice chat for the consoles.

Firor also discussed Update 6, which is scheduled for January. The update will contain the new champion and justice systems, the latter of which will allow players to pickpocket NPCs and steal from vendors. However, this will be but the first pass for the justice system, as PvP will be integrated at a later date.

MassivelyElder Scrolls Online says there's still 'work to do' on its console version, no launch date yet originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Dec 2014 11:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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eso
Fun fact: Elder Scrolls Online's Update 5 is about a month old at this point and is now able to roll over and distinguish shapes. Among its treasure trove of new features was the introduction of crafting writs. However, in case you are a little confused or curious what these are and how to do them, ZeniMax has crafted (get it?) a new dev diary to walk you through the process.

To be able to take on writs, players will first need to become certified in a desired crafting profession by undertaking a related quest. Once completed, players can accept a task from a writ board to craft specific goods and turn them in for rewards. Each category of writ can only be fulfilled once a day, and completing them can even net you survey reports to point you toward a cluster of harvest nodes.

MassivelyElder Scrolls Online walks you through crafting writs originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Dec 2014 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bethesdabethesda-softworksbethsoftcraftingdaggerfalldev-diaryelder-scrollselder-scrolls-onlineesofactionsmorrowindoblivionpvprvrskill-basedskyrimtamrieltestesothe-elder-scrollsthe-elder-scrolls-onlinethree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvpupdate-5writwritszenimaxzenimax-mediazenimax-onlinezenimax-online-studiosWed, 03 Dec 2014 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you read gaming-related novels?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/18/the-daily-grind-do-you-read-gaming-related-novels/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/18/the-daily-grind-do-you-read-gaming-related-novels/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/18/the-daily-grind-do-you-read-gaming-related-novels/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Stewart Butterfield
No, not the novels posted in our comments. Actual novels. Literary and pulp fiction!

Gamasutra recently ran an article chronicling an author's attempt to publish and market a book aimed squarely at gamers. The writer ran into difficulties, however, because of the publishing industry's insistence that "gamers don't read books." He got his book published, but when marketing fell to him, he couldn't convince gaming outlets to cover it, and even though reviews were positive, sales were poor.

Major MMOs like The Elder Scrolls Online, World of Warcraft, Guild Wars 2, and Star Wars: The Old Republic all released lore-oriented novels, but my suspicion is that such books are made to sell games, not to sell books. What do you think -- do you actually buy and read gaming-related novels?

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 read gaming-related novels? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Nov 2014 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bookbooksbrianna-royce-tdgdaily-grindelder-scrolls-onlinegamersGuild-Wars-2gw2opinionreaderreadingstar-wars-the-old-republicswtortdgthe-daily-grindthe-elder-scrolls-onlineWorld-of-WarcraftwowTue, 18 Nov 2014 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Elder Scrolls unveils its six-month loyalty reward]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/05/elder-scrolls-unveils-its-six-month-loyalty-reward/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/05/elder-scrolls-unveils-its-six-month-loyalty-reward/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/05/elder-scrolls-unveils-its-six-month-loyalty-reward/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

ZeniMax has revealed its six-month subscriber reward for players of The Elder Scrolls Online. The devs are continuing with the vanity pet theme introduced for the three-month reward, only instead of a High Hrothgar Wraith, this time we have the Dwemer Sphere.

Keep in mind that the reward months accumulate whenever you have an active sub, so if you leave for a month or two and then resubscribe in the future, you'll retain your progress in terms of loyalty rewards.

MassivelyElder Scrolls unveils its six-month loyalty reward originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 Nov 2014 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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ZeniMax has published Elder Scrolls Online's Update 5. The patch features improved facial animations, chat bubbles, dungeon and solo-instance scaling, and the Veteran City of Ash.

Speaking of veterans, they'll probably be happy to know that the devs are continuing to roll out the previously announced veteran rank revamp with Update 5. Veteran Ranks are now earned via experience points, and each rank will grant an attribute point and a skill point. It now takes 1,432,550 experience points to earn a VR, and ZeniMax says that it expects "this to reduce the amount of time it takes to gain a Veteran Rank."

[Thanks Matthew!]

MassivelyElder Scrolls Online's Update 5 goes live, reduces VR grind originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 03 Nov 2014 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bethesdabethesda-softworksbethsoftdaggerfallelder-scrollselder-scrolls-onlineelder-scrolls-update-5esoeso-update-5factionsmorrowindoblivionpvprvrskill-basedskyrimtamrieltestesothe-elder-scrollsthe-elder-scrolls-onlinethree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvpupdate-5zenimaxzenimax-mediazenimax-onlinezenimax-online-studiosMon, 03 Nov 2014 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you defend your favorite MMO?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/30/the-daily-grind-do-you-defend-your-favorite-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/30/the-daily-grind-do-you-defend-your-favorite-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/30/the-daily-grind-do-you-defend-your-favorite-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

I think I'm getting old, because there was a time when I'd wade into a forum discussion about my favorite MMO and defend it to the death against all comers. I still catch myself doing that on occasion, but said occasions are getting rarer. The passion hasn't gone anywhere, but I'd rather just go play it than argue about it, you know?

What about you, Massively readers? Do you defend your favorite MMOs?

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 defend your favorite MMO? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 30 Oct 2014 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bethesdabethesda-softworksbethsoftdaggerfalldaily-grindelder-scrollselder-scrolls-onlineesofactionsmorrowindoblivionopinionpvprvrskill-basedskyrimtamrieltdgtestesothe-daily-grindthe-elder-scrollsthe-elder-scrolls-onlinethree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvpzenimaxzenimax-mediazenimax-onlinezenimax-online-studiosThu, 30 Oct 2014 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Elder Scrolls Online is getting some scary monster face hats]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/28/elder-scrolls-online-is-getting-some-scary-monster-face-hats/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/28/elder-scrolls-online-is-getting-some-scary-monster-face-hats/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/28/elder-scrolls-online-is-getting-some-scary-monster-face-hats/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

When Massively newswriters are looking for news to write, they generally look first to the Massively newsroom. The Massively newsroom is a place where editors dump links that can be turned into stories, and more often than not said links are labeled with funny/sarcastic/bitterly angry temporary titles.

The temporary title for the news post you're currently reading was "ESO Hats... you'd think a game this big could manage more than hat teasers on Twitter, but you'd be wrong!"

It's quite a long temporary title as temporary titles go, but that's fine because it really captures the essence of this particular news post. The Elder Scrolls Online is in fact coming out with some new hats. OK, they're actually monster helms and they look pretty badass. You can expect them in Update 5!

MassivelyElder Scrolls Online is getting some scary monster face hats originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Oct 2014 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bethesdabethesda-softworksbethsoftdaggerfallelder-scrollselder-scrolls-hatselder-scrolls-monster-helmselder-scrolls-onlineesoeso-hatsfactionshatsmonster-helmsmorrowindoblivionpvprvrskill-basedskyrimtamrieltestesothe-elder-scrollsthe-elder-scrolls-onlinethree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvpyes-its-a-slow-news-dayzenimaxzenimax-mediazenimax-onlinezenimax-online-studiosTue, 28 Oct 2014 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaderboard: Which 2014 MMO will be the most financially successful?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/22/leaderboard-which-2014-mmo-will-be-the-most-financially-success/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/22/leaderboard-which-2014-mmo-will-be-the-most-financially-success/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/22/leaderboard-which-2014-mmo-will-be-the-most-financially-success/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

2014 is winding down, and when it comes to big triple-A MMO releases, it's basically over already. The Elder Scrolls Online, WildStar, and ArcheAge all debuted this year and apart from their differing premises, mechanics, and reception, they also differed in terms of their business models.

One thing they had in common, though, was expensive production values as well as the pressure of carrying the financial flag for their respective development studios. While it's hard to accurately predict the future, that's exactly what we're going to do in today's Leaderboard. Which of 2014's big three do you think will be the most financially successful in the long run? Vote after the cut and don't forget to explain your vote in the comments!

Ever wish that you could put to rest a long-standing MMO debate once and for all? Then welcome to the battle royal of Massively's Leaderboard, where two sides enter the pit o' judgment -- and only one leaves. Vote to make your opinion known, and see whether your choice tops the Leaderboard!

Continue reading Leaderboard: Which 2014 MMO will be the most financially successful?

MassivelyLeaderboard: Which 2014 MMO will be the most financially successful? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Oct 2014 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archeageBethesda-Softworkscarbineelder-scrollselder-scrolls-onlineesofantasyleaderboardncsoftsandboxsci-fantasysci-fitesothe-elder-scrolls-onlinetriontrion-worldswildstarxl-gameszenimaxzenimax-mediaWed, 22 Oct 2014 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Delve deeper into Elder Scrolls with two new book series]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/21/delve-deeper-into-elder-scrolls-with-two-new-book-series/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/21/delve-deeper-into-elder-scrolls-with-two-new-book-series/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/21/delve-deeper-into-elder-scrolls-with-two-new-book-series/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Why have Elder Scrolls Online only on your gaming machines when you can also have it on your bookshelves? Bethesda has partnered again with Titan Books to create two new series that delve deeper into the world of Elder Scrolls, one focusing on ESO and the other on Skyrim. A March 2015 release date is planned for the first volume of each series.

The Elder Scrolls Online - Tales of Tamriel will be split into two volumes, the first titled The Land and the second, The Lore. Both will expound even further on the lore of the game and feature never-before-seen art.

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim - The Skyrim Library consists of three volumes (The Histories; Man, Mer and Beast; and The Arcane) that moves the all of the game's in-game text to out-of-game print that players can grab and read at their leisure.

MassivelyDelve deeper into Elder Scrolls with two new book series originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 Oct 2014 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bethesdabethesda-softworksbethsoftbooksdaggerfallelder-scrollselder-scrolls-onlineESOfactionsloremorrowindnew-booksoblivionpvprvrskill-basedSkyrimtamrieltesTESOthe-elder-scrollsthe-elder-scrolls-onlinethree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvpzenimaxzenimax-mediazenimax-onlinezenimax-online-studiosTue, 21 Oct 2014 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ZeniMax seeking feedback on Elder Scrolls' Update 5]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/14/zenimax-seeking-feedback-on-elder-scrolls-update-5/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/14/zenimax-seeking-feedback-on-elder-scrolls-update-5/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/14/zenimax-seeking-feedback-on-elder-scrolls-update-5/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Elder Scrolls Online's Update 5 is big. It's so big that ZeniMax is offering test server players a lengthy list of suggestions as to what they should be testing.

More specifically, the dev team is seeking feedback on the veteran City of Ash dungeon as well as on crafting writs and the new crafting tutorials. That's just a partial list, too. You can view the full breakdown on the official ESO forums.

MassivelyZeniMax seeking feedback on Elder Scrolls' Update 5 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 Oct 2014 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city-of-ashcrafting-tutorialscrafting-writselder-scrollselder-scrolls-onlineesoeso-craftingeso-update-5fantasytesothe-elder-scrolls-onlineupdate-5update5Tue, 14 Oct 2014 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild leaders converge for The Elder Scrolls Online's first guild summit]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/02/guild-leaders-converge-for-the-elder-scrolls-onlines-first-guil/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/02/guild-leaders-converge-for-the-elder-scrolls-onlines-first-guil/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/02/guild-leaders-converge-for-the-elder-scrolls-onlines-first-guil/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

We've brought our most dedicated fans here in what is sure to not have any sort of echo chamber effect.
If you weren't invited to The Elder Scrolls Online's current guild summit... well, don't feel bad; only the leaders of 20 guilds and online communities were invited. But it's still kind of nail-biting. What could they be talking about in there? What strange and arcane topics will be brought up? Will special items be handed out? Are there designer cheeses available? Lucky for you, though, the folks at the Tamriel Foundry have taken the time to transcribe what's going down in Maryland so that even those not at the summit can get a sense for what's happening.

The first day of the summit covered combat responsiveness, system design, AvA mechanics, and the Champion system. This means both detailed examinations of where the game is currently lacking and what's coming in the future; the Champion system and the rework of the veteran experience is slated for "when it's done" rather than a specific date. So sit back and take a look at all of the hard details on display, possibly whilst eating some designer cheese of your own.

MassivelyGuild leaders converge for The Elder Scrolls Online's first guild summit originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Oct 2014 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bethesdabethesda-softworksbethsoftchampion-systemdaggerfallelder-scrollselder-scrolls-onlineendgameesofactionsfuture-patchesgame-mechanicsguild-summitmorrowindnewsnews-itemsoblivionpatchpatchespvprvrskill-basedskyrimsummittamrieltestesothe-elder-scrollsthe-elder-scrolls-onlinethree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvpveteran-levelingveteran-rankszenimaxzenimax-mediazenimax-onlinezenimax-online-studiosThu, 02 Oct 2014 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Elder Scrolls Online asks players for a tale of the dead]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/23/the-elder-scrolls-online-asks-players-for-a-tale-of-the-dead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/23/the-elder-scrolls-online-asks-players-for-a-tale-of-the-dead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/23/the-elder-scrolls-online-asks-players-for-a-tale-of-the-dead/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

And I bet someone's wondering why he doesn't write any more.
Aw, jeez. That can't have been happy. There's a story behind that picture, you just know it; people don't just grow spears while sitting down with some wine and cheese. And what is that story, you ask? Well, that's up to you! The Elder Scrolls Online is challenging players to construct yet another tale of the dead, a 500-word story in any format outlining how the unnamed skeleton in this screenshot wound up in this unfortunate predicament.

Players who'd like to participate need only post their entry to the official contest thread before 11:59 p.m. EDT on September 26th. The three winners will each receive a $25 electronic gift certificate to the Bethesda store as well as a free t-shirt. If that sounds good to you and you think you can tell a convincing story about this guy, it's time to crack your knuckles and get writing.

MassivelyThe Elder Scrolls Online asks players for a tale of the dead originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Sep 2014 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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I'll up YOUR Craglorn! I... no, wait, please don't draw your weapons, adventurers. I'm... I'm so lonely. I don't know what I'm saying any more. My life just hurts, and every time I think it's not going to hurt any more it keeps going. I walled myself away so I could live better, but all it did was make me long for contact I don't know how to have. I just want friends. All I need is for you to hear me out, and maybe we - oh. Okay, you can stab me. Maybe it's better this way.
You've been to Craglorn? Pff, that's boring now. Upper Craglorn is where the real action is these days. And by complete coincidence, Upper Craglorn is now open on The Elder Scrolls Online's servers, as the game's fourth major update has just dropped. The zone will wrap up the Celestial storyline as your character takes on the Scaled Court. That also ties into the new trial, Sanctum Ophidia, which is a direct strike against the heart of the Court; players will take on the minions and end up fighting the Celestial Serpent.

The new Dragonstar Arena also debuts with this patch, asking players to fight against waves of oncoming enemies. Plus there's a new crafting trait available, improved grouping mechanics, various bugfixes, the usual assortment. So if you can't wait to go knife up a really important snake and check out the places that all the hip new kids are heading for, go check out the update.

MassivelyThe Elder Scrolls Online pushes players to Upper Craglorn in Update 4 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 17 Sep 2014 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Did you know that Elder Scrolls Online's fourth major content patch came out today? It sure did, and judging by the 1.4.3 notes it's a biggun.

ZeniMax has added the upper region of Craglorn and a new trial called Sanctum Ophidia. The four-player Dragonstar Arena with its 10 stages of monsters is live, too, along with a VR level cap bump to 14. That's not all, so click the links below to read about the additional changes.

MassivelyElder Scrolls ups VR cap, adds upper Craglorn and more originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Sep 2014 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Destiny
Bungie's Destiny launches next week, and since it is by most appearances an MMO (or possibly a fragrance), we've been covering it, albeit lightly since our primary audience is not a console-only audience.

But hasn't Bungie said that Destiny isn't an MMO? That was Massively reader icnoevil's primary objection to our coverage:
So if the devs themselves have said the game is not an MMO, why does it keep showing up on this site?
There's a little thing I repeat to myself every once in a while when studio reps are being pushy about our coverage: I don't work for them. I work for Joystiq.

Continue reading Ask Massively: Destiny is not the boss of me

MassivelyAsk Massively: Destiny is not the boss of me originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Sep 2014 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adviceadvice-columnask-massivelybiasbrianna-royce-ask-massivelydefining-mmosdestinyelder-scrolls-onlinefeaturedgames-journalismguild-warshumormassively-metametammommorpgmobamoba-fatiguemotamovopinionskyrim-onlinetransformers-universeFri, 05 Sep 2014 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ZeniMax, Elder Scrolls Online hit with layoffs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/03/zenimax-elder-scrolls-online-hit-with-layoffs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/03/zenimax-elder-scrolls-online-hit-with-layoffs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/03/zenimax-elder-scrolls-online-hit-with-layoffs/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

eso
ZeniMax has confirmed earlier Twitter rumors of layoffs -- sorry, "adjusted staffing" -- within the Elder Scrolls Online studio with the following statement made to our sister site Joystiq:
As is the norm for games of this type, we had ramped up a large workforce to develop a game of vast scale, and ramped up our customer service to handle the expected questions and community needs of The Elder Scrolls Online at launch. Now that we are nearly 6 months post launch, we have a thriving online community in a game that runs smoothly. We have adjusted staffing to meet the ongoing needs of the studio, which continues to operate with a large work force.

We remain strongly committed to The Elder Scrolls Online, and continue to invest heavily to develop new content for PC players, prepare the game for its console launch, and handle our planned expansion into important international territories. As for customer service, we continue to operate large support centers in Hunt Valley, MD and Galway, Ireland.
Former ESO animator Nate Walpole attributed the apparent layoffs to the team's large size and the unpredictability of the MMO industry:
Large layoffs reported ongoing at #ZeniMaxOnline today. MMO dev coupled with a #huge team size - GL and reach out if you need contacts. :(0
Massively extends its sympathies to those affected.

MassivelyZeniMax, Elder Scrolls Online hit with layoffs originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Sep 2014 12:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Today seems as good a time as any to mention returning to Elder Scrolls Online. I'm not talking personally, mind you, as I've been playing pretty consistently since early access. The winds of MMO change are doing their thing, though, and I'm seeing a bunch of thinking-about-returning-but-have-some-questions threads at my usual ESO forum hangouts.

Maybe this is due to all the fail trolls glomping onto WildStar while eyeing the fast-approaching North American version of ArcheAge. Or maybe it's because ZeniMax has added quite a bit of post-launch tastiness to its ESO recipe.

Continue reading Tamriel Infinium: Five reasons to return to Elder Scrolls Online

MassivelyTamriel Infinium: Five reasons to return to Elder Scrolls Online originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Aug 2014 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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ESO
When The Elder Scrolls Online's fourth update arrives next month, a new type of content will open to players: themed PvE arenas. The first of 10 such arenas, Dragonstar, is the subject of a new developer essay on the official site today.

The Dragonstar Arena is located in Craglorn and will pit a group of four players against five waves of monsters with "escalating intensity," though not necessarily escalating numbers; ZeniMax promises there will be no "cannon fodder" to waste your time. Hazards inside the arena -- like poisonous clouds, lava flows, and immobilizing blizzards -- will further impede groups' progress through the challenges.

ZeniMax says that arenas are intended to provide difficult combat encounters and elite rewards to small, highly skilled groups, but more casual players can skip Veteran mode for normal mode if they choose. We've included the brief Dragonstar arena trailer below.

Continue reading The scoop on Elder Scrolls Online's Dragonstar arena

MassivelyThe scoop on Elder Scrolls Online's Dragonstar arena originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Aug 2014 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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When Elder Scrolls Online's fourth major update lands in September, players will be able to "discover the ruins and delves of the last region of Craglorn," according to a teaser on the fantasy MMO's website. Upper Craglorn holds the key to the mystery of the fallen constellations, apparently, and it also boasts something called "the Serpent Trial" and "treacherous new delves."

ZeniMax has posted a few concept art wallpapers to whet your appetite for the new content.

MassivelyElder Scrolls' fourth major update teased in new concept art originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Aug 2014 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bethesdabethesda-softworksbethsoftcraglorndaggerfallelder-scrollselder-scrolls-onlineelder-scrolls-update-4esoeso-update-fourfactionsmorrowindoblivionpvprvrskill-basedskyrimtamrieltestesothe-elder-scrollsthe-elder-scrolls-onlinethree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvpupper-craglornzenimaxzenimax-mediazenimax-onlinezenimax-online-studiosThu, 28 Aug 2014 11:00:00 EST