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[The Stream Team: An EverQuest Two-sday afternoon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/03/the-stream-team-an-everquest-two-sday-afternoon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/03/the-stream-team-an-everquest-two-sday-afternoon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/03/the-stream-team-an-everquest-two-sday-afternoon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

What day is it? Well besides that; we're so not going there right now. It's EverQuest Two-sday! That means Massively's MJ is going to go spend time in the great land of Norrath doing Norrathian things. The only question is, which thing? With so much to actually do, MJ might have a hard time picking where to start. It could be a really good time to jump into a new dungeon courtesy of Altar of Malice, or maybe just explore the nooks and crannies of those newest zones. Or perhaps instead she'll go on tour of the many amazing houses players have decorated. Heck, why doesn't she just try to do ALL THE THINGS? Join us live at 1:00 p.m. to spend a not-so-leisurely afternoon poking about one of the genre's most long-lasting games.

Game: EverQuest II
Host: MJ Guthrie
Date: Tuesday, February 3rd, 2015
Time: 1:00 p.m. EST

Enjoy our Stream Team video below.

Continue reading The Stream Team: An EverQuest Two-sday afternoon

MassivelyThe Stream Team: An EverQuest Two-sday afternoon originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Feb 2015 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eq-2eq-iieq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfree-to-playlivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamsmassively-metamassively-tvMJ-Guthrie-livestreammv-tvmvtvsoesonysony-online-entertainmentstreamstream-teamstreamingstreamteamthe-stream-teamtwitchtwitch-tvTue, 03 Feb 2015 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Norrathian Notebook: Landmark celebrates Year 0 anniversary]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/03/norrathian-notebook-landmark-celebrates-year-0-anniversary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/03/norrathian-notebook-landmark-celebrates-year-0-anniversary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/03/norrathian-notebook-landmark-celebrates-year-0-anniversary/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

I've got to admit, it's a bit weird to be celebrating an anniversary before an actually launch; you can't exactly say "Happy first birthday!" if it hasn't been born yet! But Landmark found a way to make it work, celebrating Year Zero with fans this past weekend. The sandbox opened its alpha doors on January 31st, 2014; all that players could do at that point was gather and build a bit. Since then, the game has expanded its features, adding more building stuff, water and caves, combat, deeper caverns and mobs to fill them, and still more building stuff. Development has definitely come a long way in the last 12 months, so there is certainly reason to revel in the festivities. Of course there's still much more work to be done, but why not take a moment and party in honor of Landmark's progress. Who doesn't like a party?

Continue reading Norrathian Notebook: Landmark celebrates Year 0 anniversary

MassivelyNorrathian Notebook: Landmark celebrates Year 0 anniversary originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Feb 2015 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Daybreak-Game-Companyeqeq-2eq-iieq-nexteq-next-landmarkeq2eqiieqneqn-landmarkeqnexteqnleverquesteverquest-2everquest-iieverquest-nexteverquest-next-landmarkf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playlandmarknorrathnorrathian-notebookopinionpgcplayer-generated-contentsandboxsoesonysony-online-entertainmenttattered-notebookthe-tattered-notebookTue, 03 Feb 2015 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Trove shows off its wonders for January]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/03/trove-shows-off-its-wonders-for-january/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/03/trove-shows-off-its-wonders-for-january/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/03/trove-shows-off-its-wonders-for-january/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

It turns out that Minecraft is a thing that exists.
Do you like seeing all of the creative projects that people can put together in Trove? The team behind the game certainly does, since one of the cornerstones of design is to get creative. Which is why there's a new post detailing some of the wonders to be found in the game from the month of January, Club Worlds that offer visual flair and a unique perspective.

Some of the worlds are mostly just visual treats, others are functional spots that allow you to ride along special tracks to hear music or take part in a high-speed pinata-cracking festival. If you want an idea about what new worlds to visit during your next play session, you could do worse than hopping into the game and taking a gander at what's on display.

MassivelyTrove shows off its wonders for January originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Feb 2015 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>8-bitculturef2pfantasyfree-to-playnewsnews-itemsplayer-creationsplayer-housingsandboxtriontrion-worldstrovevoxelTue, 03 Feb 2015 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Marvel Heroes team-ups, League of Legends soundtrack, last bits from PAX South]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/not-so-massively-marvel-heroes-team-ups-league-of-legends-soun/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/not-so-massively-marvel-heroes-team-ups-league-of-legends-soun/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/not-so-massively-marvel-heroes-team-ups-league-of-legends-soun/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Say goodbye? It's never goodbye.
Welcome back to No So Massively, where every Monday we round up the highlights from the past week in the world of MOBAs, roguelikes, MMOTCGs, and other games that aren't quite MMOs.

Do you feel as if you're getting everything you can out of your team-up companions in Marvel Heroes? The developers don't really feel you are, hence why the team-up system is getting a pretty big overhaul over the next year. Your amazing friends will be more amazing than ever.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Marvel Heroes team-ups, League of Legends soundtrack, last bits from PAX South

MassivelyNot So Massively: Marvel Heroes team-ups, League of Legends soundtrack, last bits from PAX South originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Feb 2015 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionaction-mmobrianna-royce-nsmcompetitive-gamingcrowdfundingdotae-sporte-sportsesportesportsf2pfantasyfree-to-playgazilliongazillion-entertainmentkickstarterleagueleague-of-legendslolmarvelmarvel-heroesmarvel-universemarvel-universe-onlinemobamoonrisemuonerd-kingdomnewsnot-so-massivelynsmopinionpox-norapvpriotriot-gamesround-uproundupsandboxsecret-identitysuperherosuperheroesthe-untitled-gametugundead-labsvideovideosMon, 02 Feb 2015 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Seven things I learned while writing about SWTOR]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/hyperspace-beacon-seven-things-i-learned-while-writing-about-sw/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/hyperspace-beacon-seven-things-i-learned-while-writing-about-sw/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/hyperspace-beacon-seven-things-i-learned-while-writing-about-sw/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

This travel through hyperspace cannot be compared to anything else. Not many people get an opportunity to work on something they love professionally, like my writing about Star Wars: The Old Republic. With Massively as we know it coming to an end, it's time to say goodbye to this passenger.

Before I actually say my final farewell to Massively, I'd like to leave you, fans of Massively and the Hyperspace Beacon, with a list of things that I've learned from writing this column.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Seven things I learned while writing about SWTOR

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Seven things I learned while writing about SWTOR originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Feb 2015 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaelectronic-artsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playgoodbyehyperspace-beaconlucasartsopinionsavejoystiqsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorMon, 02 Feb 2015 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Making the most of Marvel Heroes Midtown Madness]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/the-stream-team-making-the-most-of-marvel-heroes-midtown-madnes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/the-stream-team-making-the-most-of-marvel-heroes-midtown-madnes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/the-stream-team-making-the-most-of-marvel-heroes-midtown-madnes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Marvel Heroes: that place where Midtown Madness and buffs make levels rain down on characters so fast you can't even keep up. Massively's MJ going to test exactly how fast she can level there in one hour. Starting with a nothing but a few buffs on a never-before used hero or villain and a clear inventory (no, really!), she'll take on Midtown and soak up all the XP and loot she can. Join us live at 3:00 p.m. to see how far she flies up the leveling ladder.

Game: Marvel Heroes
Host: MJ Guthrie
Date: Monday, January 2nd, 2015
Time: 3:00 p.m. EST

Enjoy our Stream Team video below.

Continue reading The Stream Team: Making the most of Marvel Heroes Midtown Madness

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Making the most of Marvel Heroes Midtown Madness originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Feb 2015 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionaction-mmof2pfree-to-playgazilliongazillion-entertainmenthow-fast-can-she-golevel-challengelivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamsmarvelmarvel-heroesmarvel-universemarvel-universe-onlinemassively-metamassively-tvmidtown-madnessMJ-Guthrie-livestreammuomv-tvmvtvsecret-identitystreamstream-teamstreamingstreamteamsuperherosuperheroesthe-stream-teamtwitchtwitch-tvMon, 02 Feb 2015 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Smedley announces SOE is no more, becomes Daybreak Game Company]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/smedley-announces-soe-is-no-more-becomes-daybreak-game-company/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/smedley-announces-soe-is-no-more-becomes-daybreak-game-company/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/smedley-announces-soe-is-no-more-becomes-daybreak-game-company/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


In a surprising move, CEO John Smedley just announced on Reddit that Sony Online Entertainment is leaving behind its Sony roots and becoming Daybreak Game Company after being acquired by the investment firm Columbus Nova. This change allows the company to publish online games on multiple gaming platforms, including the XBox. Smedley also assured players via Twitter that all of the games in the company's portfolio are staying and will continue to be a part of the new company. Here's the full announcement plastered on the official forums of each of the company's games:
Dear Players, Partners and Friends,

Today, we are pleased to announce that we have been acquired by Columbus Nova, an investment management firm well known for its success with its existing portfolio of technology, media and entertainment focused companies. This means that effective immediately SOE will operate as an independent game development studio where we will continue to focus on creating exceptional online games for players around the world, and now as a multi-platform gaming company. Yes, that means PlayStation and Xbox, mobile and more!

As part of this transition, SOE will now become Daybreak Game Company. This name embodies who we are as an organization, and is a nod to the passion and dedication of our employees and players. It is also representative of our vision to approach each new day as an opportunity to move gaming forward.

So what exactly does this mean for you? It will be business as usual and all SOE games will continue on their current path of development and operation. In fact, we expect to have even more resources available to us as a result of this acquisition. It also means new exciting developments for our existing IP and games as we can now fully embrace the multi-platform world we are living in.

Our games and players are the heart and soul of our organization, and we are committed to maintaining our portfolio of online games and pushing the limits of where we can take online gaming together.

Thank you for your continued support. See you in game!

The Team at Daybreak

MassivelySmedley announces SOE is no more, becomes Daybreak Game Company originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Feb 2015 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acquisitionclassic-mmoColumbus-NovaconsoleconsolesDaybreak-Game-Companydc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuodragondragonsdragons-propheteqeq-2eq-iieq-nexteq1eq2eqiieqneverquesteverquest-2everquest-iieverquest-nextf2pfantasyfpsfree-to-playh1z1housinginfernuminfernum-productionsjohn-smedleymmo-shootermmofpsopen-pvpplanetsideplanetside-2playstation-3playstation3post-apocpost-apocalypsepsps1ps2ps3pvprunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentsandboxsci-fishootersmedsoeSOE-is-no-moresonysony-online-entertainmentsuperherosuperheroeszombiesMon, 02 Feb 2015 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Neverwinter details the Oathbound Paladin]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/neverwinter-details-the-oathbound-paladin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/neverwinter-details-the-oathbound-paladin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/neverwinter-details-the-oathbound-paladin/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The grace, the power, the devotion, the relentless use of Detect Evil.
Paladins are sort of a thing in any setting you claim to name. The very name conjures images of a fiercely devout warrior with heavy armor, heavy weaponry, and boundless dedication to a cause. Neverwinter's next class, the Oathbound Paladin, is certainly meant to play off of that image. It's a class that can specialize in tanking or healing based on the Paragon path it chooses, and it mechanically centers around helping allies without thought for itself.

The central mechanic of the Oathbound Paladin is Divine Call, an ability that gathers energy passively and through certain Paladin actions. When used, it can taunt foes or offer big area healing. The more regular abilities for the class allow it to aura-buff the party, place damage shields on fellow party members, and absorb damage only to unleash it upon enemies shortly thereafter. Find out more about the class with the official preview.

MassivelyNeverwinter details the Oathbound Paladin originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Feb 2015 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoclassclass-mechanicsclassescrypticcryptic-studiosdndf2pfantasyfree-to-playgame-mechanicsneverwinternew-classnew-classesnewsnews-itemsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwespecializationsupdateupdatesMon, 02 Feb 2015 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest producer's letter looks to the year ahead]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/01/everquest-producers-letter-looks-to-the-year-ahead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/01/everquest-producers-letter-looks-to-the-year-ahead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/01/everquest-producers-letter-looks-to-the-year-ahead/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

New year, new-ish year, same diff.
The luster on 2015 has come off at least a little bit by now, but that doesn't mean that it's too late for the EverQuest team to start looking to the year ahead, and it's going to be a big one for this classic MMO. The most recent producer's letter looks to the upcoming year, starting with Erollisi day to serve as a suspiciously similar substitute to Valentine's Day. You know how these things work.

Moving along through the year, the development team is looking forward to celebrating the game's 16th anniversary, along with an improved looting system and a stream of steady updates to the game. There's a lot of life left in the original EQ, even with the next big installments of the series just around the corner. If you'd like to see what the next year will hold, read the full letter.

MassivelyEverQuest producer's letter looks to the year ahead originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 01 Feb 2015 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eqeq1eventeventseverquestf2pfantasyfree-to-playin-game-eventsnewsnews-itemspatchpatchesplanspreviewpreviewsproducer-lettersoesonysony-online-entertainmentupdateupdatesSun, 01 Feb 2015 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR dishes out punishment for a major exploit]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/31/swtor-dishes-out-punishment-for-a-major-exploit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/31/swtor-dishes-out-punishment-for-a-major-exploit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/31/swtor-dishes-out-punishment-for-a-major-exploit/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Ravagers
Last last week, BioWare community manager Eric Musco wrote a detailed post regarding a recent exploit that's plagued the PvE endgame for Star Wars: The Old Republic, explaining the planned punishments and the team's reasoning behind them.

"We didn't take these actions lightly," Musco posts, "and reviewed every account to determine where we could be lenient. From our end, this was a no win situation. We feel responsible for allowing the exploit to occur and remain in the game for an unreasonable length of time, but we also cannot and will not condone cheating."

Penalties applied to the affected accounts ranged from a warning and one day ban to even full and permanent suspensions. Musco finished up the post by encouraging players to continue to report potential exploits as soon as they are found.

MassivelySWTOR dishes out punishment for a major exploit originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 31 Jan 2015 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaelectronic-artsendgameeric-muscoexploitf2pfree-to-playlucasartsoperationspveraidsravagerssci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorSat, 31 Jan 2015 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Trove adds pirates and promotes pets]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/29/trove-adds-pirates-and-promotes-pets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/29/trove-adds-pirates-and-promotes-pets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/29/trove-adds-pirates-and-promotes-pets/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

trove
Yesterday was a fairly important update for the blocky world of Trove, as the new patch introduced genuine, bonafide pirates to the game. Players can now hunt down pirate ships to plunder them for goods while looking forward to future sea-themed updates.

Also notable in the patch is that player pets have been promoted to allies. It's not just a name change, either; allies have "extra special powers" that can be used to help players in their journeys. Check out the patch notes for the full details.

MassivelyTrove adds pirates and promotes pets originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Jan 2015 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>8-bitalliesf2pfantasyfree-to-playpatchpatch-notespetspiratessandboxtriontrion-worldstrovevoxelThu, 29 Jan 2015 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Otherland plans a second closed beta test for February]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/29/otherland-plans-a-second-closed-beta-test-for-february/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/29/otherland-plans-a-second-closed-beta-test-for-february/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/29/otherland-plans-a-second-closed-beta-test-for-february/#commentsFiled under: , ,

otherland
After hints and rumors, the Otherland dev team is finally prepared to confirm that a second closed beta test is indeed on the way -- and it will be happening next month.

"Otherland is starting into the second CBT in February. We don't have an exact date yet and it can be delayed, but we don't want to tease you anymore. We polished a lot of stuff and put a lot of effort in it to provide you with more content, more quests and new features," the team said on the forums.

The next closed beta test will include crafting, the auction house, storage, and vendors. Those who didn't get in the first time around can take heart in knowing the team will be handing out more beta keys than the last round.

MassivelyOtherland plans a second closed beta test for February originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Jan 2015 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaclosed-betacyberpunkdragodrago-entertainmentf2pfree-to-playgamigogrimlandsimeime-gmbhotherlandrealusci-fitad-williamsvirtual-worldvirtual-worldsThu, 29 Jan 2015 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Marvel Heroes plans for a more awesome team-up system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/29/marvel-heroes-plans-for-a-more-awesome-team-up-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/29/marvel-heroes-plans-for-a-more-awesome-team-up-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/29/marvel-heroes-plans-for-a-more-awesome-team-up-system/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

marvel heroes
While it's all groovy to have a sidekick to run around with your superhero in Marvel Heroes, apparently the team and the community felt as though the team-up system needed more work. That's why Gazillion has a major revamp of team-ups planned for Q1 2015.

According to a new dev diary on the subject, the revamp will cover a range of improvements to the system. Team-up characters will see more customization, expanded power trees, a level cap of 60, increased survivability, synergy bonuses, and new powers on top of improvements to old powers. Players will also gain more control over what their team-up companions do on the battlefield.

In addition to the developer diary, there's also a forum FAQ to deliver even more information on the planned revamp.

MassivelyMarvel Heroes plans for a more awesome team-up system originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Jan 2015 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionaction-mmodev-diaryf2pfree-to-playgazilliongazillion-entertainmentmarvelmarvel-heroesmarvel-universemarvel-universe-onlinemuosecret-identitysuperherosuperheroesteam-upteam-upsThu, 29 Jan 2015 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sail to Tyrant's Throne with RIFT 3.1]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/29/sail-to-tyrants-throne-with-rift-3-1/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/29/sail-to-tyrants-throne-with-rift-3-1/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/29/sail-to-tyrants-throne-with-rift-3-1/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

rift
RIFT's Patch 3.1: Storm at Sea came out yesterday, building upon the water-based madness that came with last fall's Nightmare Tide expansion.

The biggest addition to the Plane of Water is the Tyrant's Throne zone (which is so very fun to say six times fast), which includes five new story quests that cover the tale of Crucia's horrible experiments. The patch also adds three zone events, more planar attunement levels, a new nightmare rift type, a new chronicle, and improvements to the minion, dimension, and crafting UI systems.

MassivelySail to Tyrant's Throne with RIFT 3.1 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Jan 2015 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3.1f2pfantasyfree-to-playpatchpatch-3.1patch-notespvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrstorm-at-seathree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsupdateThu, 29 Jan 2015 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Skycastles coming to TERA on February 24]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/29/skycastles-coming-to-tera-on-february-24/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/29/skycastles-coming-to-tera-on-february-24/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/29/skycastles-coming-to-tera-on-february-24/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Have you recently come home to TERA? OK, maybe you never left. Either way, En Masse is betting you'll get excited about the Skycastle guild housing system that's heading your way on February 24th.

The castles float above major cities and are available "to the top-ranking guilds on each server via two new ongoing four-week guild competitions that track guild points earned from dungeons, battlegrounds, and guild-vs.-guild battles," according to an En Masse press blurb.

The patch will also include a new dungeon set aboard the Sky Cruiser Endeavor as well as a hard-mode version of Bathysmal Rise.

[Source: En Masse press release]

MassivelySkycastles coming to TERA on February 24 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Jan 2015 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiosen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfantasyfree-to-playguild-housinghousingsky-castlesskycastlesteratera-housingThu, 29 Jan 2015 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Accessing Aion's Abbeys]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/28/the-stream-team-accessing-aions-abbeys/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/28/the-stream-team-accessing-aions-abbeys/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/28/the-stream-team-accessing-aions-abbeys/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

As Aion just opened the new Abbeys (a place for returning players to grab some bonuses before heading out into the wilds of Atreia), now is the perfect time for Massively's MJ to unfold her wings and dive back in! She'll be dusting off her Elyos Cleric and setting out to explore the familiar lands -- and maybe even poking into a few new places. Join us live at 8:00 p.m.to check out this new permanent feature.

Game: Aion
Host: MJ Guthrie
Date: Wednesday, January 28th, 2015
Time: 8:00 p.m. EST

Enjoy our Stream Team video below.

Continue reading The Stream Team: Accessing Aion's Abbeys

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Accessing Aion's Abbeys originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Jan 2015 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abbeysaionascensionf2pfantasyfree-to-playlivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamsmassively-metamassively-tvMJ-Guthrie-livestreammv-tvmvtvncsoftstreamstream-teamstreamingstreamteamthe-stream-teamtruly-freetwitchtwitch-tvWed, 28 Jan 2015 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Get your free League of Legends soundtrack now]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/28/get-your-free-league-of-legends-soundtrack-now/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/28/get-your-free-league-of-legends-soundtrack-now/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/28/get-your-free-league-of-legends-soundtrack-now/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

lol
You know what's awesome? Free stuff. Free stuff is awesome. And League of Legends is notable for giving away free goodies over the years, so we're not surprised to see that Riot's put the game's brand-new soundtrack album up on the site as a free download -- before it's going to be sold elsewhere.

So if you want to get 15 generally excellent tracks (we know; we've listened to it), then head on over and snag it now!

MassivelyGet your free League of Legends soundtrack now originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Jan 2015 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dotae-sportesportf2pfantasyfree-to-playleagueleague-of-legendslolmobamusicriotriot-gamessoundtrackWed, 28 Jan 2015 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Firefall video previews Amazon Warzone]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/27/firefall-video-previews-amazon-warzone/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/27/firefall-video-previews-amazon-warzone/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/27/firefall-video-previews-amazon-warzone/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

firefall
Listen up grunts, did you honestly think you'd live forever? Well, you won't. No sir, you're going to head back to the front lines of Firefall with its upcoming patch and probably die. Then we're going to drag your corpse back to the base, jolt it with enough juice to make you glow in the dark, and send your reanimated wimpering frame into even more harm.

But that's the fun, eh?

Firefall's posted a new video that highlights the big upcoming patch. Features incoming include the Amazon Warzone, the big game hunt, the reputation system, and improvements to loot and ranged weapon modules.

Continue reading Firefall video previews Amazon Warzone

MassivelyFirefall video previews Amazon Warzone originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Jan 2015 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfirefallfpsfree-to-playmmo-shooterpatchpatch-notespvpred-5red-5-studiossci-fishooterthird-person-shootertrailertrailersupdateupdate-notesvideovideoswarTue, 27 Jan 2015 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: The quieter side of LotRO's soundtrack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/27/jukebox-heroes-the-quieter-side-of-lotros-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/27/jukebox-heroes-the-quieter-side-of-lotros-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/27/jukebox-heroes-the-quieter-side-of-lotros-soundtrack/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

lotro
Yes, I'm kind of nuts about the Lord of the Rings Online soundtrack. It could be because I've played this MMO more than most any other at this point, but I like to think that it's also due to a really well-done score that does more for world-building than most soundtracks.

Even though I've talked about the soundtrack as a whole, interviewed Composer Chance Thomas, discussed my favorite housing themes, and reviewed both the Riders of Rohan and Helm's Deep scores, there's still more that I wanted to cover.

Today, I want to share with you exactly why I love this soundtrack: for the quiet moments. There are a select few tracks that are nearly ambient but are also perfectly immersive. I can't help but get kicked in the feels every time one of these comes on, and I know that for years to come I'll have fond memories of LotRO whenever I play them. Let's get a little mellow and hear the whispers of Middle-earth today.

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: The quieter side of LotRO's soundtrack

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: The quieter side of LotRO's soundtrack originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Jan 2015 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>composercomposersf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgame-musicjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettilord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrommo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicopinionsoundtracksoundtracksturbineturbine-entertainmentTue, 27 Jan 2015 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: The pseudo-MMOs of PAX South 2015]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/not-so-massively-the-pseudo-mmos-of-pax-south-2015/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/not-so-massively-the-pseudo-mmos-of-pax-south-2015/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/not-so-massively-the-pseudo-mmos-of-pax-south-2015/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

NSM - Gigantic
Welcome back to No So Massively, where every Monday we round up the highlights from the past week in the world of MOBAs, roguelikes, MMOTCGs, and other games that aren't quite MMOs.

This past weekend was PAX South 2015, the first PAX held in San Antonio, and our reporters covered not-so-massive online games in addition to MMORPGs, including Star Citizen, Elite: Dangerous, Shroud of the Avatar, Gigantic, Moonrise and State of Decay, Pox Nora, and TUG. Here's what else the week brought not-so-massive fans.

Continue reading Not So Massively: The pseudo-MMOs of PAX South 2015

MassivelyNot So Massively: The pseudo-MMOs of PAX South 2015 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Jan 2015 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>borderlands-onlinebrianna-royce-nsmcompetitive-gamingconconventiondayzdestinydotae-sporte-sportseliteelite-dangerousesportesportseventevent-coverageeventsexpof2pfeaturedfree-to-playgigantichearthstoneheroes-in-the-skyheroes-of-newerthhonleague-of-legendslolmarvel-heroesmassively-event-coveragemobamoonrisenewsnosgothnot-so-massivelynsmopinionpath-of-exilepaxpax-2015pax-southpax-south-2015penny-arcade-expopoepox-norapvpround-uproundupshards-of-warshroud-of-the-avatarsotaspace-engineersstar-citizenstate-of-decaythe-crewthe-witcher-battle-arenatugvideovideoswarframeworld-of-speedworld-of-warshipswowsMon, 26 Jan 2015 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: This Marvel Heroes event is for the cows]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/the-stream-team-this-marvel-heroes-event-is-for-the-cows/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/the-stream-team-this-marvel-heroes-event-is-for-the-cows/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/the-stream-team-this-marvel-heroes-event-is-for-the-cows/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Anyone who has played Marvel Heroes for more than 30 minutes knows that this game is big on events because there is always an event going on! And the latest event has really gone to the cows. That's right, cows: many, many cows. Having never been to Bovenheim before, Massively's MJ ventured forth this weekend with other Minions to see what all the heifer hoopla was about. It's no joke when the first explamation heard upon entering was, 'Holy cow!" You seriously have to see this place to believe it. So join MJ and the Minions at 8:00 p.m. for their second trip into the land of moo, moo, quack?

Game: Marvel Heroes
Host: MJ Guthrie
Date: Monday, January 26th, 2015
Time: 8:00 p.m. EST

Enjoy our Stream Team video below.

Continue reading The Stream Team: This Marvel Heroes event is for the cows

MassivelyThe Stream Team: This Marvel Heroes event is for the cows originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Jan 2015 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionaction-mmoBovenheimcowsf2pfree-to-playgazilliongazillion-entertainmentin-game-eventin-game-eventslivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamsmarvelmarvel-heroesmarvel-universemarvel-universe-onlinemassively-metamassively-tvMJ-Guthrie-livestreammuomv-tvmvtvsecret-identitystreamstream-teamstreamingstreamteamsuperherosuperheroesthe-stream-teamtwitchtwitch-tvMon, 26 Jan 2015 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX South 2015: Pox Nora is the coolest online card game you've never heard of]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/pax-south-2015-pox-nora-is-the-coolest-online-card-game-you-ve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/pax-south-2015-pox-nora-is-the-coolest-online-card-game-you-ve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/pax-south-2015-pox-nora-is-the-coolest-online-card-game-you-ve/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Pox Nora
Pox Nora is a game that's hard to categorize. It's like Hearthstone, you see, because it's an online card game. But it's also like Civilization because it uses turn-based combat on a variety of maps with terrain that affects the battle. And maybe it's like Minecraft as well because it was built by a tiny team and developed incrementally through the feedback of a passionate fan base.

Pox Nora was free-to-play before free-to-play was a thing. It's gone from tiny little indie to SOE-backed product and back again. And through its eight years, it's managed to fly quietly under the radar while its developers continually churn out content, implement community ideas, and expand its possibilities.

At PAX South over the weekend, I sat down with Arthur Griffith, CEO of Desert Owl Games and co-creator of Pox Nora, to learn more about the game and its latest content additions.

Continue reading PAX South 2015: Pox Nora is the coolest online card game you've never heard of

MassivelyPAX South 2015: Pox Nora is the coolest online card game you've never heard of originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Jan 2015 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arthur-griffithconconventiondesert-owl-gameseventevent-coverageeventsexpof2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumhalf-featurehands-oninterviewinterviewsmassively-event-coveragemicrotransactionmicrotransactionspaxpax-2015pax-southpax-south-2015penny-arcade-expopox-norapoxnorapremiumturn-basedMon, 26 Jan 2015 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online starts its fifth anniversary celebration]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/star-trek-online-starts-its-fifth-anniversary-celebration/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/star-trek-online-starts-its-fifth-anniversary-celebration/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/star-trek-online-starts-its-fifth-anniversary-celebration/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

sto
It was five years ago February 2nd that Star Trek Online came mewing into the MMO world, bringing with it final frontiers, infinite diversity, and canon-approved lockboxes. Cryptic's so excited to share this milestone that it's starting the celebrations a little early with a daily giveaway from today through Thursday, beginning with a free research and development pack.

The real special treat is more than just casual freebies, however. The team's introducing a brand-new featured episode, Dust to Dust, starring Garrett Wang as Harry Kim. Q is also returning with his annual events, although this time around he's adding an Omega Particle minigame to the mix.

Completing both the featured episode and Q events will earn tokens to spend on various rewards (including a Kobali Samsar Cruiser) and fragments that can be assembled for an Omega upgrade kits.

MassivelyStar Trek Online starts its fifth anniversary celebration originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Jan 2015 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarycelebrationcrypticcryptic-studiosdelta-risingdust-to-dusteventf2pfeatured-episodefifth-anniversaryfree-to-playgarrett-wanggiveawayharry-kimin-game-eventminigameperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweqsci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestovoyagerMon, 26 Jan 2015 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX South 2015: Moonrise and State of Decay shine at the Undead Labs booth]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/pax-south-2015-moonrise-and-state-of-decay-shine-at-the-undead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/pax-south-2015-moonrise-and-state-of-decay-shine-at-the-undead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/pax-south-2015-moonrise-and-state-of-decay-shine-at-the-undead/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Undead Labs
Most media appointments at an event like PAX South 2015 work like this: You meet the person you're supposed to meet, that person shows you the game her studio is working on, and then you rush off to the next booth on your list while cursing yourself for not scheduling time for a snack. Undead Labs handled my PAX appointment a bit differently, sitting me down for back-to-back play sessions with brand-new tablet game Moonrise and a remastered version of State of Decay, the zombie survival game that put the studio on the map.

It was a little jarring to go from adorable pet battles to being torn in half by a zombie, but the two-for-one session provided a nice glimpse of where Undead Labs has been and where it intends to go.

Continue reading PAX South 2015: Moonrise and State of Decay shine at the Undead Labs booth

MassivelyPAX South 2015: Moonrise and State of Decay shine at the Undead Labs booth originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Jan 2015 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidconconsoleconventioneventevent-coverageeventsexpof2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumhalf-featurehands-oninterviewinterviewsioskindle-firemassively-event-coveragemicrotransactionmicrotransactionsmobilemoonrisepaxpax-2014pax-2015pax-primepax-prime-2014pax-southpax-south-2015penny-arcade-expopokemonpremiumstate-of-decaysteamundead-labsxboxxbox-oneMon, 26 Jan 2015 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX South 2015: Slaying giants in Motiga's Gigantic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/25/pax-south-2015-slaying-giants-in-motiga-s-gigantic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/25/pax-south-2015-slaying-giants-in-motiga-s-gigantic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/25/pax-south-2015-slaying-giants-in-motiga-s-gigantic/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Gigantic
Motiga's Gigantic is one part Team Fortress, one part Dota, and one part Monster Hunter. The basic match structure will sound familiar to MOBA lovers -- two teams of five slug it out for superiority by controlling resources, leveling up, and killing one another -- but the skill-based mechanics, multiple maps, and shifting strategy priorities make the game more than a three-lane farm fest. Gigantic isn't about last-hitting or memorizing meta. Instead, it's about slaying giants and aiming true.

I hopped in on a quick Gigantic match with some other press folks this afternoon at PAX South 2015, and in the midst of delivering an absolute drubbing to the scrubs (kidding!) on the other side of the table, I was able to get a feel for the game's combat system, characters, and the way its massive guardians change the way battles play out.

Continue reading PAX South 2015: Slaying giants in Motiga's Gigantic

MassivelyPAX South 2015: Slaying giants in Motiga's Gigantic originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 25 Jan 2015 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalpha-testalpha-testingbetaconconventioneventevent-coverageeventsexpof2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumgame-mechanicsgigantichalf-featurehands-onmassively-event-coveragemicrotransactionmicrotransactionsmobamotigamovementnew-titlespaxpax-2015pax-southpax-south-2015penny-arcade-expoplay-mechanicspremiumtestingtrailertrailersvideovideosSun, 25 Jan 2015 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Norrathian Notebook: Five reasons to support EQ Next and Landmark]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/24/norrathian-notebook-five-reasons-to-support-eq-next-and-landmar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/24/norrathian-notebook-five-reasons-to-support-eq-next-and-landmar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/24/norrathian-notebook-five-reasons-to-support-eq-next-and-landmar/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

I like Landmark and am looking forward to EverQuest Next. There, I said it. It should be no surprise. And as such, I certainly have a vested interest in how these games fare throughout their development and launch. I want to see them succeed. But the thing is, so should you -- whether or not you actually want to play them.

Unfortunately, it seems all too fashionable lately for folks to tear something down instead of build it up. So often when I'm following the discussions about EQ Next and Landmark, I hear plenty of reasons why folks don't like the games, and the reasons frequently have nothing to do with the games themselves. Detractors are going on about longstanding gripes and grudges instead of judging the games on their own merits (a practice that the whole world could certainly do without). Amid all the scathing comments I've heard directed at SOE for slights real and imagined, one recently gave me pause and made me reflect on the reasons that supporting these two MMO endeavors is worthwhile.

Continue reading Norrathian Notebook: Five reasons to support EQ Next and Landmark

MassivelyNorrathian Notebook: Five reasons to support EQ Next and Landmark originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 24 Jan 2015 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classic-mmoeqeq-2eq-iieq-nexteq-next-landmarkeq2eqiieqneqn-landmarkeqnexteqnleverquesteverquest-2everquest-iieverquest-nexteverquest-next-landmarkf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playl1landmarklineagelineage-1ncsoftnorrathnorrathian-notebookopinionsandboxsoesonysony-online-entertainmenttattered-notebookthe-tattered-notebookSat, 24 Jan 2015 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX South 2015: SWTOR reveals its plans for this year]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/24/pax-south-2015-swtor-reveals-its-plans-for-this-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/24/pax-south-2015-swtor-reveals-its-plans-for-this-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/24/pax-south-2015-swtor-reveals-its-plans-for-this-year/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Pax South 2015: SWTOR reveals its plan for the year
When Eric Musco, the Star Wars: The Old Republic community manager, took the stage at the Community cantina last night at PAX South, he revealed that in 2015 the team wants to do something a bit different with this and future cantina crawl events. In the past, it has been policy not to reveal anything at the cantinas; they were intended to be social events where players could get some face-time with the developers of the game that they both enjoyed. However, going forward, the community and development teams have decided that each cantina will reveal that had not been mentioned before.

The reveal at this weekend's cantina came in the form of the yet-to-be-published producer's letter by Bruce Maclean. The completely made-up story is that it was stolen from his computer while he wasn't looking and printed out to share with us at the cantina.

After the break, you'll find a copy of that letter as it was dictated to cantina goers. The caveat, of course, is that this is not the final version of the letter that will appear on the official site in two weeks, so everything is subject to change.

Continue reading PAX South 2015: SWTOR reveals its plans for this year

MassivelyPAX South 2015: SWTOR reveals its plans for this year originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 24 Jan 2015 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebruce-macleancommunity-cantina-tourconconventioneaelectronic-artseric-muscoeventevent-coverageeventsexpof2pfeaturedfree-to-playlucasartsmassively-event-coveragepaxpax-2015pax-southpax-south-2015penny-arcade-expoproducers-lettersci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorSat, 24 Jan 2015 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Marvel Heroes hands out free cows and plans team-up revamp]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/23/marvel-heroes-hands-out-free-cows-and-plans-team-up-revamp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/23/marvel-heroes-hands-out-free-cows-and-plans-team-up-revamp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/23/marvel-heroes-hands-out-free-cows-and-plans-team-up-revamp/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

marvel heroes
The Cow King is on the move in Marvel Heroes, and a call is going out for all supers to join the most ridiculous battle in the universe. During the weekend Cowtastrophe event, players will get an 40% XP bonus and a portal to the game's bovine levels, where they can slaughter beef for better loot. Marvel Heroes is even giving out a free mini-cow pet for any players who log in on Saturday.

In other Marvel Heroes news, one of the next big projects for Gazillion is a revamp of the team-up system. While all of the details of this revamp are not clear as of yet, we do know that the revamp will allow players to customize team-up's power pools much like main characters.

MassivelyMarvel Heroes hands out free cows and plans team-up revamp originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Jan 2015 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionaction-mmobovine-levelcowcow-levelcowtastropheeventf2pfree-to-playgazilliongazillion-entertainmenthumorin-game-eventmarvelmarvel-heroesmarvel-universemarvel-universe-onlinemuosecret-identitysuperherosuperheroesteam-upteam-upsFri, 23 Jan 2015 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape's sub fee hike goes into effect March 1st]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/23/runescapes-sub-fee-hike-goes-into-effect-march-1st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/23/runescapes-sub-fee-hike-goes-into-effect-march-1st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/23/runescapes-sub-fee-hike-goes-into-effect-march-1st/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

RuneScape
Jagex announced a sub rate hike for long-running sandbox RuneScape back in November, and this week, the studio has declared that the new fees will go into effect beginning March 1st. While the game is still free-to-play, the optional sub will increase from $8 US to $9.49 US; the official site includes a conversion chart for the international community and multi-month subbers. For existing Premier Club customers, Jagex posted a reminder about grandfathering in the old rates as long as the sub is maintained:
Don't forget - as long as you're a member and don't lapse out for more than 14 days, you're eligible to keep your current rate of membership. Subscribe now to secure access to all of RuneScape's members' content at current prices.
The studio is also talking up its inbound ports expansion; there's a fresh trailer on the mechanic after the cut.

Continue reading RuneScape's sub fee hike goes into effect March 1st

MassivelyRuneScape's sub fee hike goes into effect March 1st originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Jan 2015 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedclassic-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studiopatchportportspremier-clubrsrunescapesandboxsubsubscriptionFri, 23 Jan 2015 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT's 3.1 Storm at Sea arrives next week -- with capes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/23/rifts-3-1-storm-at-sea-patch-previewed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/23/rifts-3-1-storm-at-sea-patch-previewed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/23/rifts-3-1-storm-at-sea-patch-previewed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

There's a preview of RIFT's new Tyrant's Throne content on the game's official website. On January 28th, Trion says, players will see some "titanic zone events" as well as a new 20-player raid, a 2-player chronicle, and more.
The journey into RIFT 3.1 Storm at Sea is nearly at hand. On January 28, players will make landfall at the harbor of Tyrant's Throne - just in time for titanic zone events that bring ancient akvan lumbering out of the abyss! Ascended will have one week to wipe them from the island before the opening of Tyrant's Forge, a new 20-player raid pitting the strongest Guardians and Defiant against the Dragon Queen of Air.
The most important bit, of course, is capes. Yes, capes. "New capes debut for all," says the studio.

MassivelyRIFT's 3.1 Storm at Sea arrives next week -- with capes originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Jan 2015 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfantasyfree-to-playpvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrstorm-at-seathree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsFri, 23 Jan 2015 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Red 5 tweaking Firefall's reputation system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/red-5-tweaking-firefalls-reputation-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/red-5-tweaking-firefalls-reputation-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/red-5-tweaking-firefalls-reputation-system/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Firefall's latest news blurb concerns reputation. It's not all about grind and 20 different currencies that will clog up your inventory, though. In fact, Red 5 says that the work-in-progress rep system will ultimately feature reputation points that function like experience. Which, OK, is still about grind. But yay for inventory space!

The devs are also enthused about the future of the rep system, which they say will make use of Firefall's NPC corporations that "aren't much more than flavor" in the current build. You can read all about rep at the official Firefall website.

MassivelyRed 5 tweaking Firefall's reputation system originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Jan 2015 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfirefallfpsfree-to-playgrindmmo-shooterpvpred-5red-5-studiosrep-grindreputationreputation-grindsci-fishooterthird-person-shooterwarThu, 22 Jan 2015 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Echo of Soul unveils new NA website]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/echo-of-soul-unveils-new-na-website/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/echo-of-soul-unveils-new-na-website/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/echo-of-soul-unveils-new-na-website/#commentsFiled under: , ,

echo of soul
Echo of Soul is quickly becoming known around these parts as a title that is talking big talk prior to its North American debut, and now the Korean fantasy game has a new website to match these boasts.

The US version of the website has now gone live, with information, art, community hub, and the vitally important beta sign-up button. It also has a short section on the game's mobile app that will feature access to chat and trading. Echo of Soul's North American beta test is planned for sometime this spring.

[Source: Aeria Games press release]

MassivelyEcho of Soul unveils new NA website originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Jan 2015 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeria-gamesbetabeta-signupbeta-signupsbeta-testbeta-testingclosed-betaecho-of-souleosf2pfantasyfree-to-playjunhyung-jungnew-titleteaserteaser-trailertestingwebsiteThu, 22 Jan 2015 18:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Take a tour of DCUO's Amazon Fury raid with the devs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/take-a-tour-of-dcuos-amazon-fury-raid-with-the-devs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/take-a-tour-of-dcuos-amazon-fury-raid-with-the-devs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/take-a-tour-of-dcuos-amazon-fury-raid-with-the-devs/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

dcuo
Coming soon to DC Universe Online is the Amazon Fury Part II DLC, because Amazons are not known to be timid, quiet souls. All about the fury, they are. Anyway, part of this upcoming patch is the new Halls of Hades raid, and the devs are inviting you to go along with them on a tour of this intimidating experience.

We've got a 43-minute video of the Halls of Hades with devs and test center players after the break if you want to get a good feel for what's going to be faceplanting your heroes in the near future.

Continue reading Take a tour of DCUO's Amazon Fury raid with the devs

MassivelyTake a tour of DCUO's Amazon Fury raid with the devs originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Jan 2015 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazon-furyamazon-fury-part-iiconsoleconsolesdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuodev-tourf2pfree-to-playhalls-of-hadesplaystation-3playstation3ps3raidsoesony-online-entertainmentsuperherosuperheroestourvideoThu, 22 Jan 2015 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pre-orders for Marvel Heroes' Winter Soldier are now open]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/pre-orders-for-marvel-heroes-winter-soldier-are-now-open/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/pre-orders-for-marvel-heroes-winter-soldier-are-now-open/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/pre-orders-for-marvel-heroes-winter-soldier-are-now-open/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

On the one hand, the Winter Soldier is cool. On the other hand, now we are legit wondering when Uncle Ben gets his angsty cyborg reboot.
After years of being mostly notable for being supposedly dead, Bucky Barnes turns out to have actually been kept alive as an elite assassin known as the Winter Soldier. You know, as comics do. The important things to note about the character for our purposes are the fact that he's coming to Marvel Heroes and you can pre-order him right now. You can also hear David Hayter voicing him as a closely related cousin of Solid Snake in the video past the cut, but that probably shouldn't influence your purchase.

The hero pack is at a 10% discount before the character is released and includes the character himself, two costumes for Bucky (comic and MCU incarnations), an extra hero-specific inventory, six Fortune cards, and a retcon token. With the discount, it's just a hair over $16; if that sounds like a bargain for playing a mildly psychotic unfrozen Hydra assassin, you can pick it up now.

Continue reading Pre-orders for Marvel Heroes' Winter Soldier are now open

MassivelyPre-orders for Marvel Heroes' Winter Soldier are now open originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Jan 2015 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionaction-mmocharactercharactersf2pfree-to-playgazilliongazillion-entertainmentmarvelmarvel-heroesmarvel-universemarvel-universe-onlinemuonewsnews-itemspre-orderpre-purchasepurchasesecret-identitysuperherosuperheroestrailertrailersvideovideoswinter-soldierThu, 22 Jan 2015 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR Q&A mentions 12x, soloable flashpoints]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/swtor-qanda-mentions-12x-soloable-flashpoints/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/swtor-qanda-mentions-12x-soloable-flashpoints/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/swtor-qanda-mentions-12x-soloable-flashpoints/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Werit has posted a Q&A with Star Wars: The Old Republic's community team. It touches on the well-received 12x experience boost, which BioWare says it will be discussing "later this year." There's also a bit about making older flashpoints soloable and while BioWare says it doesn't want to make all group content accessible to single players, it does have "some major story moments that [it] would like every player to see."

MassivelySWTOR Q&A mentions 12x, soloable flashpoints originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Jan 2015 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaelectronic-artsf2pfree-to-playgrindlucasartssci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorThu, 22 Jan 2015 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[APB: Reloaded coming to PS4 and Xbox One in Q2 2015]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/apb-reloaded-coming-to-ps4-and-xbox-one-in-q2-2015/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/apb-reloaded-coming-to-ps4-and-xbox-one-in-q2-2015/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/apb-reloaded-coming-to-ps4-and-xbox-one-in-q2-2015/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

apb
Last fall we heard that APB: Reloaded was reportedly working on bringing the crime spree MMO to consoles but was struggling with the companies to make that happen. Fortunately, it seems as though all of the details have been paved out, as APB is gearing up for its console debut in the latter part of the second quarter of this year.

APB: Reloaded will be coming to both the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One as a free-to-play title, although it will require Xbox owners to be part of the Xbox Live Gold service. The console adaptation is being handled by a joint effort between Reloaded Games, Deep Silver, and The Workshop.

The Workshop CEO Peter Akemann says that the title will shine on the new hardware: "Because APB is such a technically complex game, featuring thousands of destructible objects and heavily customized players and vehicles in every scene, we are thrilled to help make APB a reality on these brand new high performance hardware platforms."

To date, APB has had five million PC downloads since 2011.

[Source: Reloaded Games press release]

MassivelyAPB: Reloaded coming to PS4 and Xbox One in Q2 2015 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Jan 2015 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-reloadedapbapb-reloadedapbrconsolecrimedeep-silverf2pfree-to-playg1gamersfirstpeter-akemannplaystation-4pvpreloaded-gamesthe-workshopxboxxbox-gold-livexbox-oneThu, 22 Jan 2015 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape opens RuneLabs for player suggestions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/runescape-opens-runelabs-for-player-suggestions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/runescape-opens-runelabs-for-player-suggestions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/runescape-opens-runelabs-for-player-suggestions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

runescape
If you have a terrific idea that you'd like to get implemented into an MMO, then RuneScape's your best bet these days. The ever-creative MMO recently launched RuneLabs as a formal structured suggestion process that will take the best player ideas and make them an in-game feature.

RuneLabs works like this: Players will make a pitch to that month's studio-assigned criteria. If it gets enough community support, it will be reviewed by Jagex and (barring a studio veto) voted on by fellow players. The winner of the poll will go from concept to reality.

You can watch an amusing video explaining RuneLabs after the break!

Continue reading RuneScape opens RuneLabs for player suggestions

MassivelyRuneScape opens RuneLabs for player suggestions originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Jan 2015 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedclassic-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studioplayer-suggestionsrsrunelabsrunescapesandboxtrailertrailersvideovideosThu, 22 Jan 2015 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Skyforge unveils the Gunner]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/skyforge-unveils-the-gunner/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/skyforge-unveils-the-gunner/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/skyforge-unveils-the-gunner/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Mmm, what you say, ooh, that you only meant well, well of course you did
The Beatles once opined that happiness is a warm gun. Skyforge's Gunner class has a warm gun that also transforms into different modes and allows the class to call down orbital strikes, so one can only conclude that it is a very happy class indeed. Its opponents are somewhat less so. You can see the class in action in the video just past the break, or you can read through the reveal page to get a better idea of how this multi-mode class will play.

The cannon has three main modes as well as a variety of sub-firing options, allowing gunners to mow down targets at long range with missile barrages or take out hardened targets with bursts of plasma. Since it's meant to stay at range, the class also sports a variety of defensive tricks like teleporting back and forth. It's exactly the sort of class for you if you like having a big gun, even more so if you want that big gun to shoot all sorts of different stuff.

Continue reading Skyforge unveils the Gunner

MassivelySkyforge unveils the Gunner originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Jan 2015 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allods-teamclassclass-previewclassesf2pfree-to-playgame-mechanicsmy.comnewsnews-itemsobsidianobsidian-entertainmentsci-fantasysci-fiskyforgetrailertrailersvideovideosThu, 22 Jan 2015 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DDO trumpets the start of its Winter Games]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/ddo-trumpets-the-start-of-its-winter-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/ddo-trumpets-the-start-of-its-winter-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/ddo-trumpets-the-start-of-its-winter-games/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

ddo
Just because we're in the heart of winter in the northern hemisphere doesn't mean that we can't enjoy snow-themed festivities! That's the attitude of Dungeons and Dragons Online, which has started a slew of activities under its Winter Games umbrella.

For starters, there's the Midwinter Festival in the Forgotten Realms which includes speed skating, snowflake collecting, and vole smashing. Meanwhile in Eberron, the ever-popular Risia Ice Games are back with more ice sliding action. Then there's an ice skating rink in the harbor, an ice jump off a cliff, and a frozen half-pipe in the Bogwater Tavern. Participation in all of these activities will not only result in embarassing fun, but rewards from the various tokens won.

MassivelyDDO trumpets the start of its Winter Games originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Jan 2015 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeventf2pfantasyfree-to-playice-skatingin-game-eventrisia-gamesturbineturbine-entertainmentwinter-festivalwinter-gamesThu, 22 Jan 2015 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Forsaken World's Freedom Falls expansion coming February 4]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/21/forsaken-worlds-freedom-falls-expansion-coming-february-4/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/21/forsaken-worlds-freedom-falls-expansion-coming-february-4/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/21/forsaken-worlds-freedom-falls-expansion-coming-february-4/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Forsaken World's upcoming expansion is called Freedom Falls. When, exactly, is it upcoming? That would be February 4th, according to a Perfect World press release.

Said release also tells us that Freedom Falls features a new playable race and class as well as a new high-level progression path called Apotheosis which allows players to "join the ranks of the gods of Forsaken World." New zones include the Land of Origination and the Polar Borderlands region.

[Source: Perfect World press release]

MassivelyForsaken World's Freedom Falls expansion coming February 4 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Jan 2015 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>expansionf2pfantasyforsaken-worldfree-to-playfreedom-fallsperfect-world-entertainmentpweWed, 21 Jan 2015 21:00:00 EST