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[Free for All: F2P and microtransactions at GDCO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/13/free-for-all-f2p-and-microtransactions-at-gdco/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/13/free-for-all-f2p-and-microtransactions-at-gdco/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/13/free-for-all-f2p-and-microtransactions-at-gdco/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Last week I wondered about how free-to-play would be discussed at GDC Online. After attending the event -- it was all a blur -- and listening back to my audio notes, it seems that free-to-play has reached some sort of level as a standard pricing option for a modern world. It could have been the fact that many of the developers at the event are making browser-based, iPhone or Facebook social games, but the word "subscription" came up rarely.

Blended models seemed to be the runner-up. It appears that all the older companies -- the Turbines, SOEs and other western companies -- just cannot let go of that sweet, sweet subscription cash-flow. Can you blame them? It's a good deal for many, and it could be argued that without that subscription, many players would be turned off.

Does all this talk of free-to-play and microtransactions signify some sort of change in quality or style of game? No, not really. It's my argument that things are different in only one way: quality has gone way, way up.

Continue reading Free for All: F2P and microtransactions at GDCO

MassivelyFree for All: F2P and microtransactions at GDCO originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Oct 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmancash-shopf2pfeaturedfree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumftpgame-developers-conferenceGDCgdc-2010gdc-onlinegdc-online-2010gdco-2010micro-transactionmicro-transactionsMicrotransactionsWed, 13 Oct 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDCO 2010: Panel and interview roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/12/gdco-2010-panel-and-interview-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/12/gdco-2010-panel-and-interview-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/12/gdco-2010-panel-and-interview-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


As you may have noticed if you're following our GDC Online 2010 coverage, we were there in full force. Karen Bryan, blogger and podcaster extraordinaire, covered the event along with our own Beau Hindman. As a wrapup to her interview articles, Karen gives this final impressions piece on the panels of GDC Online 2010.

I had a busy week at GDC Online, seeing some great panels and speaking with some enthusiastic developers. Since not all of you could attend this Austin, Texas event, we've done our best to bring you the highlights. Follow along after the jump for a quick rundown of what I saw, as well as the big takeaway from each.

Continue reading GDCO 2010: Panel and interview roundup

MassivelyGDCO 2010: Panel and interview roundup originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 12 Oct 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>austinBigpointbigpoint-gamesBioWarebioware-mythicccpCCP-Gamescow-clickerdc-universe-onlinedcuoeqEQ2EQIIevent-coverageeverquestEverQuest-2everquest-iifacebookfarmvillefeaturedfree-realmsgame-developers-conferenceGDCgdc-2010gdc-online-2010gdcogdco-2010karen-bryanopinionSOESony-Online-Entertainmentstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republicTue, 12 Oct 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDCO 2010: Bigpoint's Alan Dunton on the next-gen of browser MMOs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/12/gdco-2010-bigpoints-alan-dunton-on-the-next-gen-of-browsers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/12/gdco-2010-bigpoints-alan-dunton-on-the-next-gen-of-browsers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/12/gdco-2010-bigpoints-alan-dunton-on-the-next-gen-of-browsers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Bigpoint has had a very successful run as a multi-game publisher over the last few years. If you're familiar with Seafight or Dark Orbit, then you have played some of the company's games. Of course, those titles -- plus the many others -- are just not enough for the devs at Bigpoint. They wanted to host, create and specify a game for the North American market. What they ended up with are a few titles -- The Mummy Online, Battlestar Galactica, and Ruined Online -- all crafted in the same amazing Unity browser engine.

What this will do is allow for more flexibility, accessibility, and possibility. Bigpoint's background in free-to-play and microtransaction-based games will also help to monetize the titles -- a delicate science in itself. We were able to meet up with Alan Dunton, and he explained to us what Ruined Online meant for the company and for the future of Battlestar and The Mummy.

Continue reading GDCO 2010: Bigpoint's Alan Dunton on the next-gen of browser MMOs

MassivelyGDCO 2010: Bigpoint's Alan Dunton on the next-gen of browser MMOs originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 12 Oct 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alan-duntonbattlestar-galacticabeau-hindmanBigpointborderlandsbrowserbrowser-basedbrowser-gamesbsgbsg-onlinebsgof2pfeaturedfpsfree-to-playfreemiumftpgame-developers-conferenceGDCgdc-2010gdc2010gdcogdco-2010mmofpspost-apocalypticshooterTue, 12 Oct 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GDCO 2010: gPotato's Tara Einis on Iris Online and Allods' cash shop]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/11/gdco-2010-gpotatos-tara-einis-on-iris-online-and-allods-cash/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/11/gdco-2010-gpotatos-tara-einis-on-iris-online-and-allods-cash/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/11/gdco-2010-gpotatos-tara-einis-on-iris-online-and-allods-cash/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

When I heard that I had landed an interview with Tara Einis of gPotato (publisher of Allods Online, the upcoming Iris Online, and many others), I immediately began daydreaming about poring over hours and hours of audio and transcribing hard-hitting interviews filled with fiery give-and-takes. Instead, I found myself calmly wanting to know about gPotato's general cash-shop practices, long history in free-to-play, and reaction to Allods' perceived "debacle."

I also found evidence for my theory that the company is, yes, still publishing games and still excited for the future. It should be no surprise, though -- gPotato has maintained a hefty presence in the world of free-to-play for longer than most. So, what are we going to see next? What did gPotato have planned for the future? Turns out quite a lot.

Continue reading GDCO 2010: gPotato's Tara Einis on Iris Online and Allods' cash shop

MassivelyGDCO 2010: gPotato's Tara Einis on Iris Online and Allods' cash shop originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Oct 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allodsallods-onlinebeau-hindmanf2pfeaturedflyfffree-to-playfreemiumftpgame-developers-conferenceGDCgdc-2010gdc-online-2010gdcogdco-2010gpotatogpotato-euinterviewInterviewsiris-onlineluna-onlinetara-einisMon, 11 Oct 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDCO 2010: UTV True Games wows with three new titles]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/11/gdco-2010-utv-true-games-wows-with-three-new-titles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/11/gdco-2010-utv-true-games-wows-with-three-new-titles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/11/gdco-2010-utv-true-games-wows-with-three-new-titles/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

One of the most thrilling aspects of this job is visiting game studios. It's essentially like stepping into a toy factory, complete with strange noises and funny personalities. Nerf guns are a staple, and each desk or station is decorated with all types of toys, posters, and other trophies from Nerd-dom. UTV True Games is no different, so when we were asked to sit down with three (count 'em, three) different teams to preview some new titles, we knew we were in for a good time.

Of course, our professionalism prevented us from actually clapping and going "sqqquuueeeee!" every time a new product was shown, but it's very possible that the teams would not have cared anyway. So what did we see? What do we have to look forward to from the same people that brought us Mytheon? Well, click past the cut and let's take a look!

Continue reading GDCO 2010: UTV True Games wows with three new titles

MassivelyGDCO 2010: UTV True Games wows with three new titles originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Oct 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsAppStorebeau-hindmancash-shopeve-onlinef2pfaxionfaxion-onlinefeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumftpgame-developers-conferenceGDCgdc-2010gdc-online-2010gdc10gdcogdco-2010interviewInterviewsipadiphonemicro-transactionmicro-transactionsMicrotransactionsmobilemobile-gamesmobile-gamingmy-bruteMyBruteplanet-crasherspvpsky-legendssnoopy-flying-aceTrue-Gamesutv-true-gamesMon, 11 Oct 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GDCO 2010: Spacetime Studios' Cinco Barnes talks mobile design]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/10/gdc-online-2010-spacetime-studios-cinco-barnes-talks-mobile-de/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/10/gdc-online-2010-spacetime-studios-cinco-barnes-talks-mobile-de/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/10/gdc-online-2010-spacetime-studios-cinco-barnes-talks-mobile-de/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Spacetime Studios, the developer of the popular mobile MMO Pocket Legends, was started back in 2005 to create large-scale MMOs. Its founders decided to make a mobile platform MMO upon seeing the obvious marketing opportunity that the iPhone provided. After all, the players would already be connected and would be accustomed to microtransactions through exposure to iTunes and the app store.

Of course, development could prove disastrous if the wrong game plan were followed, so Spacetime decided to keep it simple. How simple? Cinco Barnes of Spacetime was on hand at GDC Online to explain how his team members did it. What they found was a chance to do more than they'd initially planned on -- and an audience ready to gobble up everything the studio could create.

Continue reading GDCO 2010: Spacetime Studios' Cinco Barnes talks mobile design

MassivelyGDCO 2010: Spacetime Studios' Cinco Barnes talks mobile design originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 10 Oct 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>app storeAppStorebeau-hindmancash-shopEQ2EQIIEverQuest-2everquest-iif2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumftpgame-developers-conferencegdc-2010gdc-onlinegdc-online-2010guild-warsGuild-Wars-2guild-wars-nightfallgw2instancingipadiphonemicrotransactionMicrotransactionsmobilemobile-mmomobile-mmorpgnightfallpocket-legendsspacetime-studioszoningSun, 10 Oct 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Got cons?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/10/the-daily-grind-got-cons/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/10/the-daily-grind-got-cons/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/10/the-daily-grind-got-cons/#commentsFiled under: , ,

So the New York Comic Con is in full swing, and the fact that it's here already reminds us of just how many game-related cons there are scattered throughout the calendar year. Whether it's NYCC, Dragon Con, E3, GDC, or the various flavors of PAX, there always seems to be something just around the corner that calls for hotel reservations and airline tickets. More often than not, the next convention on the circuit sneaks right up on us before we manage to shake the jet lag from the last one.

While we'd like nothing better than to shirk responsibilities and tour the world of gaming and pop culture conventions for a year, work must occasionally intrude, and most of us have to pick and choose our events. What about you Massively readers? Did you attend NYCC this weekend, and are you a regular on the gaming convention circuit?
Every morning, the Massively bloggers probe the minds of our 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 The Daily Grind!

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Got cons? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 10 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airfareconsconvention-circuitconventionsdragon-cone3e3-2010gdc-2010hotelsnew-york-comic-connyccnycc-2010opinionPAXpax-2010pax-east-2010pax-prime-2010tdgthe-daily-grindtravelSun, 10 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlestar Galactica Online E3 trailer divides players... literally]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/12/battlestar-galactica-online-e3-trailer-divides-players-litera/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/12/battlestar-galactica-online-e3-trailer-divides-players-litera/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/12/battlestar-galactica-online-e3-trailer-divides-players-litera/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


"Human or Cylon... Man or Machine... who will you choose?" asks the maddeningly vague Battlestar Galactica Online trailer. More of a teaser than anything, this trailer will make the rounds at this month's E3, trying to tempt MMO gamers and Battlestar Galactica fans alike with intergalactic conflict.

Based on the hit SyFy series, Battlestar Galactica Online pits the remnants of humanity against their created "children" -- robot and cyborg Cylons. The browser based game is set during the second season of the show and should be coming out early this fall on SyFy Games' portal. We took a look at this title back at GDC10, and hopefully we'll learn more about the details of BGO from Bigpoint developers at E3. In the meanwhile, hit the jump, check out the trailer and see if it doesn't get your blood pumping for outer space fighter combat!

Continue reading Battlestar Galactica Online E3 trailer divides players... literally

MassivelyBattlestar Galactica Online E3 trailer divides players... literally originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 12 Jun 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-edward-pwns-twilight-edwardbattlestar-galacticabattlestar-galactica-onlinebsocylone3e3-2010gdc-2010syfysyfy-gamesSat, 12 Jun 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA class trailer available on YouTube]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/25/tera-class-trailer-available-on-youtube/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/25/tera-class-trailer-available-on-youtube/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/25/tera-class-trailer-available-on-youtube/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

We here at Massively are unabashedly looking forward to TERA, the forthcoming fantasy action MMORPG from Bluehole Studio and En Masse Entertainment. For those of you who were unable to attend this year's GDC10, En Masse has helpfully released the teaser trailer (that originally debuted at the conference way back in March) on YouTube.

The two-minute video focuses on the game's eight classes, and was created using in-game footage. Taking center stage are the Slayer, the Archer, the Lancer, the Warrior, the Sorcerer, the Berserker, the Priest and the Mystic, each featuring a few moments of gameplay footage interspersed with some brief concept art shots. Check out the trailer embedded after the cut or over on YouTube.

Continue reading TERA class trailer available on YouTube

MassivelyTERA class trailer available on YouTube originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 25 May 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BlueHolebluehole-studioclass-trailerclassesen-masseen-masse-entertainmentgdc-2010teratera-onlinetrailervideoyoutubeTue, 25 May 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Austin's GDC opens 2010 registration under new name]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/25/austins-gdc-opens-2010-registration-under-new-name/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/25/austins-gdc-opens-2010-registration-under-new-name/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/25/austins-gdc-opens-2010-registration-under-new-name/#commentsFiled under: ,

Registration has begun for Austin's Game Developers Conference 2010, but you won't find it under the "GDC Austin" banner this year. The conference is now known as GDC Online to reflect the focus on online gaming. GDC "has always chiefly been themed around online games, reflecting the local importance of MMOs and online games, thanks to pioneering Austin-based developers like Origin (Ultima Online), and current studios like BioWare Austin (Star Wars: The Old Republic) and Sony Online Entertainment (DC Universe Online)," and the new name is more accurate in light of that.

Ticket prices are at a 40% early registration discount until September 1st, with a 55% alumni discount for those who attended last year. Five different pass options and prices are available on the GDC site.

MassivelyAustin's GDC opens 2010 registration under new name originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 25 May 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>GDCgdc-2010gdc-austingdc-online-2010gdc-registrationTue, 25 May 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA["Icelandic Model" is ideal for small MMO start-ups, says Alexander Gianturco]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/20/icelandic-model-is-ideal-for-small-mmo-start-ups-says-alexand/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/20/icelandic-model-is-ideal-for-small-mmo-start-ups-says-alexand/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/20/icelandic-model-is-ideal-for-small-mmo-start-ups-says-alexand/#comments When Iceland isn't belching volcanic ash that brings sky travel to its knees, it's kicking butt in the MMO world. EVE Online is widely seen as one of the greatest MMO success stories -- a small yet incredibly complex title from a small-fry studio (CCP) that's seen steady growth over the years instead of the typical rise, crest and fall of most other titles.

In a recent chat with Gamasutra, Alexander "The Mittani" Gianturco followed up his talk at GDC 2010 by outlining just why CCP's business model may be the Rosetta Stone for future games to follow. According to Gianturco, the crash-and-burn of many MMOs is due to the insistence that their games stick to the "Big Content" model (à la World of Warcraft), which requires a huge amount of resources and time before launch. He says that this is "near suicidal" for most studios to pursue.

Continue reading "Icelandic Model" is ideal for small MMO start-ups, says Alexander Gianturco

Massively"Icelandic Model" is ideal for small MMO start-ups, says Alexander Gianturco originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 May 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-tale-in-the-desertalexander-gianturcobig-contentccpccp-find-out-what-you-mean-to-meeveeve-onlinegamasutragdc-2010icelandicelandic-modelreinvest-profitsthe-mittanivolcanoworld-of-warcraftThu, 20 May 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC10: En Masse's Patrick Wyatt talks MMO security]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/31/gdc10-en-masses-patrick-wyatt-talks-mmo-security/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/31/gdc10-en-masses-patrick-wyatt-talks-mmo-security/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/31/gdc10-en-masses-patrick-wyatt-talks-mmo-security/#commentsFiled under: ,

Security concerns in MMOs are nothing new. We all know the drill -- Don't share your account, avoid suspicious emails and sites, change your password regularly and so on. We go through all of that to keep our personal accounts safe, but what about the bigger picture?

Patrick Wyatt from En Masse looked over this very thing at GDC this year, explaining how issues like gold farming, account theft and even plain old griefing affects the MMO community at large. He began looking at the other side of the equation: the people causing these problems in the first place and what motivates them. Money is the main motivator, of course, but there is no shortage of attackers who are just doing it for kicks.

So as long as you protect your own account, it doesn't affect you, right? Wyatt addressed that false assumption as well, outlining the affect of each type of attack on the general gaming community and the game in question itself. Any event that affects the game and the community at large will of course affect every member of the community. So what's to be done? Game developers never stop working to stay ahead of "the enemy", and Wyatt illustrates quite a few possible solutions.

This slideshow certainly isn't only for those in the industry. It's very informative for any MMO player, so head over to playnoevil.com and take a look at the slideshow for yourself!

MassivelyGDC10: En Masse's Patrick Wyatt talks MMO security originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>account-securityen-masse-entertainmentgdc-2010gdc2010patrick-wyattplaynoevilWed, 31 Mar 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars wants to know: will you obey or dismantle?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/guild-wars-wants-to-know-will-you-obey-or-dismantle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/guild-wars-wants-to-know-will-you-obey-or-dismantle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/guild-wars-wants-to-know-will-you-obey-or-dismantle/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Daniel Dociu's panel and interview weren't the only things keeping Guild Wars fans interested at GDC recently. A few days ago, fans began posting here and there that they'd received some intriguing flyers at both GDC and Emerald City ComicCon. The flyers read "OBEY" (in support of the White Mantle) or "DISMANTLE" (backing the Shining Blade), depending on which you received. Each carried an image indicating support of the White Mantle or the Shining Blade and a QR code, which at the moment leads only to an image of the flyers on the official Guild Wars site.

Given that the Guild Wars 2 site began with a simple image, it's probably a very good idea to keep a close eye on these two pages. Guild Wars will celebrate its fifth birthday in just over a month and this may well be our first hint at new content. In the meantime, it wouldn't hurt to start choosing a side. Just don't forget: the Shining Blade has Livia. The White Mantle has this.

[Via Kill Ten Rats]

MassivelyGuild Wars wants to know: will you obey or dismantle? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Mar 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenanetdismantlegdc-2010guild-warsguild-wars-2ncsoftobeyshining-bladewhite-mantleTue, 23 Mar 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC10: A first glimpse at The Secret World]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/gdc10-a-first-glimpse-at-the-secret-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/gdc10-a-first-glimpse-at-the-secret-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/gdc10-a-first-glimpse-at-the-secret-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

I bet you thought we were done with news from GDC 2010, right? Well, not exactly. The embargo on our demo of The Secret World lifts today and we're oh-so eager to tell you all about what we saw.

While Creative Director Ragnar Tørnquist's team at Funcom has been doing an excellent job of teasing us with just enough information to keep us excited (although they'll deny the websites are from them), there are still many aspects of the game we have yet to discover. This GDC demo doesn't even scratch the surface on what we can expect from the released game, but it gives us quite a bit more to chew on until that time comes.

Follow along after the jump for our impressions of what we saw in the game's combat, in-game cinematics, storyline and a brief Q&A with Ragnar himself. Plus, be sure to check out the screenshot and concept art galleries below for some gorgeous eye candy.

Gallery: The Secret World

Gallery: The Secret World Art

Continue reading GDC10: A first glimpse at The Secret World

MassivelyGDC10: A first glimpse at The Secret World originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Mar 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demoevent-coveragefuncomGDCgdc-2010gdc10opinionRagnar-Tornquistthe-secret-worldtswTue, 23 Mar 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: A look at the concept art of Guild Wars 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/22/flameseeker-chronicles-a-look-at-the-concept-art-of-guild-wars/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/22/flameseeker-chronicles-a-look-at-the-concept-art-of-guild-wars/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/22/flameseeker-chronicles-a-look-at-the-concept-art-of-guild-wars/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Guild Wars community, as always, is anxious for any and all news of Guild Wars 2, and the information coming from ArenaNet is increasing on a regular basis. (Hopefully this means we won't have to resort to anything drastic to get news.) GDC was the most recent source of new information thanks to our chat with artist Daniel Dociu, and his panel discussion showed off enough concept art both old and new to keep the community buzzing for weeks. Even better -- or worse, depending on how impatient you are -- they're releasing it to the general public via Youtube in a four-part slideshow to make it last longer.

As we mentioned the other day, it's important to keep in mind that concept art is just that: concept art. It's an idea of how the artists see the world of Guild Wars 2, a way to get a feel for things rather than something concrete saying "you will definitely be able to get 'x' item in 'x' town, and here is exactly what it will look like." We can learn a lot from ideas and sketches though, so follow along after the jump for a closer look at some of the concept art.

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: A look at the concept art of Guild Wars 2

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: A look at the concept art of Guild Wars 2 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 22 Mar 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daniel-dociudaniel-dociu-gdcfeaturedgdc-2010guild-warsGuild-Wars-2Mon, 22 Mar 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare talks Warhammer Online's forthcoming expansions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/19/bioware-talks-warhammer-onlines-forthcoming-expansions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/19/bioware-talks-warhammer-onlines-forthcoming-expansions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/19/bioware-talks-warhammer-onlines-forthcoming-expansions/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

In a recent GDC 2010 interview with UGO, BioWare's Dr. Ray Muzyka said of Warhammer Online, "Right now it's [a] really profitable business unit within my group." Muzyka went on to say they've actually seen more people come into the game since enacting the free-to-play model on the game's earlier levels, and that he personally felt they were working.

In fact, by the sounds of it, Warhammer Online is due for some interesting announcements in the future. Another of Muzyka's comments on the title was, "We have new content planned and all kinds of cool expansions for it." We don't know how much more clear cut a message can be than that. And hey, it's good news! We're looking forward to our playable Skaven and Lizardmen, Mythic and BioWare.

MassivelyBioWare talks Warhammer Online's forthcoming expansions originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Mar 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareea-gamesea-mythicea-warhammerea-warhammer-onlineelectronic-artsgdcgdc-2010gdc10greg-zeschukmythicmythic-eamythic-entertainmentray-muzykatracey-johnugowarwar-eawarhammerwarhammer-eawarhammer-onlinewarhammer-online-eaFri, 19 Mar 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC10: A look into Age of Conan's Rise of the Godslayer expansion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/18/gdc10-funcom-preps-rise-of-the-godslayer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/18/gdc10-funcom-preps-rise-of-the-godslayer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/18/gdc10-funcom-preps-rise-of-the-godslayer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

We here at Massively are unabashed fans of Robert E. Howard's Conan mythos, so naturally we jumped at the chance to sit down and talk with Funcom's Craig Morrison at this year's Game Developer's Conference. Morrison, executive producer and game director for the Norwegian game maker's Age of Conan MMORPG, gave a presentation on the forthcoming Rise of the Godslayer expansion and then took a few of our questions about the additions in store for the sword and sorcery title.

First things first: the eye-catching title refers to the expansion's place in Howard lore, and the game makes use of the events in The Tower of the Elephant, one of the most highly regarded Howard short stories. In a nutshell, twenty years prior to the setting of original game, a young thief named Conan managed to slay the god Yag-Kosha. Unaware of the god's role as a protector of the lands of Khitai, the barbarian unwittingly loosed a tide of dark forces on the eastern lands which have coalesced into a threat to the modern day Aquilonian kingdom, which of course is now ruled by King Conan.

Players will be swept up in the story of Khitai as they travel to the far east and attempt to deal with the dangers presented by the evil that has been corrupting the lands for the last two decades.

Follow along after the cut for our expansion impressions, highlights from our Q&A with Craig Morrison, and the teaser trailer. Finally, don't forget to check out the gallery below

Gallery: GDC10: Rise of the Godslayer

MassivelyGDC10: A look into Age of Conan's Rise of the Godslayer expansion originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Mar 2010 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conaneventsexpansionfantasyfeaturedfuncomgdc-2010previewspvprise-of-the-godslayerThu, 18 Mar 2010 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC10: The expo in pictures]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/17/gdc10-the-expo-in-pictures/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/17/gdc10-the-expo-in-pictures/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/17/gdc10-the-expo-in-pictures/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We have a saying around the Massively offices -- "When we go to a show, our readers go to the show." We hope you guys have really enjoyed our crazy coverage of GDC10 as much as we enjoyed running around the show like crazy people grabbing all of that information.

But, while we were running around, we got some great photos from the show for you! Now you too can live the experience of running from booth to booth, passing legions upon legions of companies explaining their newest technologies and how they can improve your gaming experience.

So come along with us for a whirlwind trip through GDC! Trust us, it's exciting.

Gallery: GDC10: Pictures from the floor

The Moscone CenterCrashing into the DIRTCrafting from your iPhone: The Fallen Earth appThe Crysis BoothThe Virtual Hamster

MassivelyGDC10: The expo in pictures originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionar-dronecareer-pavillioncryengine-3crytekexpofrogstergamebreakrgdc-2010intelmoscone-centermoscone-center-photosncsoftneuroskynintendonvidiaphotosplaystation-movesonytamatWed, 17 Mar 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC10: Massively's picks for the best of GDC]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/17/gdc10-massivelys-picks-for-the-best-of-gdc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/17/gdc10-massivelys-picks-for-the-best-of-gdc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/17/gdc10-massivelys-picks-for-the-best-of-gdc/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


GDC 2010 has come and gone and as we recover from the insanity a bit, we thought it would be the perfect time to reflect on our favorites from last week. Although the Game Developer's Conference isn't usually made to be as flashy as E3 or PAX, it is mostly catered towards students looking to break into the industry, panels and summits interesting to only other developers and a few demos.

This in mind, we compiled a short list of what made the biggest impact on us, pertaining to MMOs. Although there were plenty of other exciting demos, booths and panels, we're keeping these awards strictly to MMO-related topics. Follow along after the jump for our complete list.

Continue reading GDC10: Massively's picks for the best of GDC

MassivelyGDC10: Massively's picks for the best of GDC originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-ofddofernando-paizgdcgdc-2010gdc10star-wars-the-old-republicterathe-secret-worldvindictusvivoxWed, 17 Mar 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC10: ArenaNet's Daniel Dociu discusses the art of Guild Wars 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/16/gdc10-arenanets-daniel-dociu-discusses-the-art-of-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/16/gdc10-arenanets-daniel-dociu-discusses-the-art-of-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/16/gdc10-arenanets-daniel-dociu-discusses-the-art-of-guild-wars-2/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Daniel Dociu, Senior Art Director for Guild Wars 2, was one of the panelists at last week's GDC, and Massively was fortunate enough to sit down and chat with him about the art coming up in Guild Wars 2. The information on this highly-anticipated game is starting to increase bit by bit, and Daniel had some interesting things to say about designing art for Guild Wars and Guild Wars 2. As a bonus feature, we've got a video slideshow of some of the gorgeous concept art featured at his panel at GDC. Keep your eyes peeled -- you might just see something you've not seen before. (Check Youtube for the HD version as well.) Follow along after the jump, and enjoy!

Continue reading GDC10: ArenaNet's Daniel Dociu discusses the art of Guild Wars 2

MassivelyGDC10: ArenaNet's Daniel Dociu discusses the art of Guild Wars 2 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Mar 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenanetconcept-artdaniel-dociudaniel-dociu-gdcgdc-2010guild-warsGuild-Wars-2guild-wars-2-artTue, 16 Mar 2010 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC10: Erebus hands-on impressions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/16/gdc10-erebus-hands-on-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/16/gdc10-erebus-hands-on-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/16/gdc10-erebus-hands-on-impressions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

This year's Game Developer's Conference featured a ton of free-to-play titles, and one of the most intriguing was Erebus: Travia Reborn, a classically inspired dungeon crawler with retro graphics and a distinctive Diablo-esque feel. We sat down for a hands-on demo with the developers from Outspark and came away enthused about trying the full version of the game when it releases later this year.

This free-to-play MMORPG, as its subtitle suggests, is inspired by the Korean game known as Travia, but has been heavily modified for western audiences. "We've updated the graphics, changed game play, added in faction warfare, new classes and skills, and rebalanced the game, making a ton of changes. Erebus is a really unique dungeon crawler for North American and European audiences," said the Outspark team.

Hit the jump for our impressions as well as the teaser trailer.

Continue reading GDC10: Erebus hands-on impressions

MassivelyGDC10: Erebus hands-on impressions originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Mar 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dungeon-crawlererebusf2pfree-to-playgdc-2010impressionsoutsparkpvpTue, 16 Mar 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Catching that All Points Bulletin fever]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/16/the-digital-continuum-catching-that-all-points-bulletin-fever/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/16/the-digital-continuum-catching-that-all-points-bulletin-fever/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/16/the-digital-continuum-catching-that-all-points-bulletin-fever/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

I knew it would happen. GDC 2010 came and went, leaving behind a brand new trial of All Points Bulletin information that's making me want to play it more than ever before. I've written about the game a few times before, each instance knowing a little bit more about the title. This year's GDC brought us hands-on reports, interviews, the news of a North American beta and even a nine minute video presentation via shakeycam.

Now my knowledge feels mostly complete and aside from actually playing the game I've got a pretty good idea of why it's potentially going to be something no videogame fan -- let alone MMO fan -- will want to miss. So, let me share a few of them with you.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Catching that All Points Bulletin fever

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Catching that All Points Bulletin fever originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Mar 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-gameapb-eaapb-gameea-all-points-bulletinea-apbea-gameselectronic-artselectronic-arts-all-points-bulletinfeaturedgdc-2010gdc10opinionthe-digital-continuumTue, 16 Mar 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC10: Our chat with Echo Bazaar's Alexis Kennedy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/16/gdc10-our-chat-with-echo-bazaars-alexis-kennedy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/16/gdc10-our-chat-with-echo-bazaars-alexis-kennedy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/16/gdc10-our-chat-with-echo-bazaars-alexis-kennedy/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

We caught up with Echo Bazaars's Alexis Kennedy to ask him about the wildly successful Facebook style game. It's hard to describe, easy to pick up and addictive to play. Picture an underground city populated by murderers, spies and all types of shady characters, add in a unique story and Twitter functionality and you wind up with this little gem.

"It's more of a single player experience than I'd like." said Alexis, who is the Chief Narrative Officer for the game. "We are always looking at ways to make it more social, we want to give more direct ways to interact with other people. I want to get as much variety in there as possible. But it's finding the right balance of making somebody's experience unique to them without going crazy trying to cater at every possible stage." But how to combat a player feeling as though his or her experience is devalued by seeing the same thing come up in their friend's streams? "The way to deal with that, really, is just to write more content."

Continue reading GDC10: Our chat with Echo Bazaar's Alexis Kennedy

MassivelyGDC10: Our chat with Echo Bazaar's Alexis Kennedy originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Mar 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alexis-kennedyecho-bazaarfacebookFacebook gamesFacebookGamesfallen-londonfeaturedgdc-2010twittertwitter-gameTue, 16 Mar 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nexon MMOs not coming to Mac or consoles any time soon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/15/nexon-mmos-not-coming-to-mac-or-consoles-any-time-soon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/15/nexon-mmos-not-coming-to-mac-or-consoles-any-time-soon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/15/nexon-mmos-not-coming-to-mac-or-consoles-any-time-soon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

There's been quite a bit of talk coming out of Nexon from the time of the GDC -- revealing two games, more news on the venerable MapleStory, and even a developer initiative announced shortly before the conference. But if you were waiting for the other shoe to drop, there is one after a fashion, because the company still has no plans to develop anything for the Mac or for consoles. Both Vindictus and Dragon Nest are apparently popular choices for players to request on consoles, but according to Nexon America vice president Min Kim, neither one is planned for development for the console platform.

Kim went on to explain that his company's base of operations in Korea meant that Mac support was a distant afterthought at best -- the market for non-PC games in Korea is minimal. Of course, in both cases he said that the support is something they would like to expand to eventually, but for now there's just not enough reason to expand. Which is sad news if you're one of the many users who prefer a fruit-based computer, especially with more and more games expanding to be playable on any platform.

[Thanks Tracey!]

MassivelyNexon MMOs not coming to Mac or consoles any time soon originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Mar 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>console-mmoconsolesdevelopmentdevelopment-plansdragon-nestgdc-2010koreamacmac-mmomaplestorymin-kimnexonnexon-americavindictusMon, 15 Mar 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC10: Dragon Nest hands-on]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/15/gdc10-dragon-nest-hands-on/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/15/gdc10-dragon-nest-hands-on/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/15/gdc10-dragon-nest-hands-on/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Ever since the Diablo franchise hit it big with gamers across the world, competing companies have attempted to replicate Blizzard's addictive click-and-loot gameplay with varying degrees of success. There's just something satisfying on a primal level when you wipe out entire armies of monsters with a mere 2,142 mouse clicks. Mega-MMO publisher Nexon (Mabinogi, Dungeon Fighter Online) is bringing over another contender in Dragon Nest, a fast and furious dungeon crawler (minus the Vin Diesel, unfortunately).

At GDC 2010, we were fortunate enough to nab a hands-on with Dragon Nest, a title could almost be considered a sibling of Nexon's Vindictus. Both games are action-oriented, twitch-based and include cutting through swaths of enemies for the glory of your inventory. However, while Vindictus is serious in tone and looks, Dragon Nest goes for a "cuter" feel. In markets where Dragon Nest and Vindictus exist simultaneously, such as Korea, each can co-exist peacefully while not undercutting one another.

Of course, Dragon Nest is more than a cute face and a mouse waiting to be worn out -- hit the jump after the gallery to chew through this colorful game with us.

Gallery: Dragon Nest

Continue reading GDC10: Dragon Nest hands-on

MassivelyGDC10: Dragon Nest hands-on originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Mar 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgdiablodragon-nestGDCgdc-2010hands-onmin-kimNexonphantasy-star-onlinevindictusMon, 15 Mar 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC10: Hands-on with TERA Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/15/gdc10-hands-on-with-tera-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/15/gdc10-hands-on-with-tera-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/15/gdc10-hands-on-with-tera-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

New MMOs are becoming a dime a dozen. We here at Massively are constantly flooded with press releases claiming that Company A's new game is not only an MMO, but it's the best darn MMO you've ever seen. Despite this, we try to hold back the cynicism and keep a sharp eye open for the true diamonds in the rough.

At GDC 2010, we saw what could be considered at least an emerald in the rough. TERA had a huge presence at the conference, with fliers everywhere you looked and an impressive demo booth with four playable stations. Since Seraphina and I both spent some quality time with the game, including a developer demo, we decided to pool our thoughts for one big article on what we saw. Follow along for our impressions of TERA.

Continue reading GDC10: Hands-on with TERA Online

MassivelyGDC10: Hands-on with TERA Online originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Mar 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BlueHolebluehole-studioen-masse-entertainmentfeaturedgdcgdc-2010gdc10hands-onimpressionsteratera-onlineMon, 15 Mar 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[APB impressions from Joystiq at GDC]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/15/apb-impressions-from-joystiq-at-gdc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/15/apb-impressions-from-joystiq-at-gdc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/15/apb-impressions-from-joystiq-at-gdc/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Our friends over at Massively's sister site Joystiq have weighed in with their impressions of Realtime Worlds' forthcoming All Points Bulletin MMORPG, recently demoed at last week's Game Developer's Conference in San Francisco. The article drops a few interesting nuggets, including the fact that APB will not feature hand-to-hand combat on release day, as well as observations on the vehicle customization tools, enforcer versus criminal PvP, mission types, and other items shown at GDC by studio founder (and Grand Theft Auto creator) David Jones.

"I have to admit that the concept of a "GTA MMO" was never one that seemed like it would "work." After seeing APB in action, though, with its multitude of customization options and spectacular shootouts, my feeling has definitely changed. It really could work," Joystiq concludes.

MassivelyAPB impressions from Joystiq at GDC originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Mar 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbdavid-jonesgdc-2010impressionsjoystiqrealtime-worldsMon, 15 Mar 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC10: Hands-on with Star Wars: The Old Republic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/15/gdc10-hands-on-with-star-wars-the-old-republic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/15/gdc10-hands-on-with-star-wars-the-old-republic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/15/gdc10-hands-on-with-star-wars-the-old-republic/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

I could easily spend this article telling you about the amazing LucasArts Presidio compound, its history and the incredible relics of the Star Wars universe adorning the walls and hallways. But I won't. I could also easily go on and on about how George Lucas and Star Wars inspired my childhood, and how even setting foot in the presence of such greatness was a bit overwhelming. But I won't.

Instead, I will focus on the only reason you're reading this: my first impressions of Star Wars: The Old Republic and the Trooper class.

Once we arrived at LucasArts HQ, we were introduced to a few members of the LucasArts and BioWare crew, then we each sat down to our very own computer with our very own Trooper class character set up to run through our very own test mission. Although we weren't playing together in the game, we were all set up in the same location to run the same mission.

Interestingly enough, we weren't really given an overview of the game or an intro to the gameplay. They sat us down and told us to have fun. There was a print-out of a small cheat-sheet for help with the mission if needed, but I was honestly stuck to the monitor from the second I sat down.

Continue reading GDC10: Hands-on with Star Wars: The Old Republic

MassivelyGDC10: Hands-on with Star Wars: The Old Republic originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWarefeaturedGDCgdc 2010gdc-2010gdc2010hands-onLucasArtspresidiostar-wars-the-old-republicswtorswtor-demoswtor-hands-onswtor-screenshotsMon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC10: First look at Divine Souls]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/14/gdc10-first-look-at-divine-soul/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/14/gdc10-first-look-at-divine-soul/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/14/gdc10-first-look-at-divine-soul/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

What, you've never heard of Divine Souls? You Philistine! Actually, it's not the public school system that has failed you here -- Divine Souls is only now crossing the waters of the Pacific (and Atlantic) in its worldwide debut. Created by Korean development studio Game Prix under the title of St. Soul, the renamed Divine Souls is being brought over to North America and Europe through an agreement with publisher Outspark.

Divine Souls's makeup is part steampunk, part brawler, part co-op, and part traditional MMORPG, so don't expect the normal routine in this one -- it actually feels more of a hybrid of several MMOs. Massively sat down with the game at last week's GDC to put this title through its paces.

Channel your inner Karate Kid, and hit the jump for the full scoop!

Continue reading GDC10: First look at Divine Souls

MassivelyGDC10: First look at Divine Souls originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 14 Mar 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allods-onlinebrawlercombosdivine-souldivine-soulsdungeonfeaturedfightergatheryngdcgdc-2010gdc2010guild-warssteampunkworld-of-warcraftSun, 14 Mar 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC10: Torfi Frans Olafsson gives details on Tyrannis, Incarna and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/14/gdc10-torfi-frans-olafsson-gives-details-on-tyrannis-incarna-a/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/14/gdc10-torfi-frans-olafsson-gives-details-on-tyrannis-incarna-a/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/14/gdc10-torfi-frans-olafsson-gives-details-on-tyrannis-incarna-a/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

For the last few weeks, EVE Online players have been getting excited about the up-coming Tyrannis expansion with its Planetary Interaction feature. We received our first taste of what Tyrannis will hold last month when the expansion was announced and since then we've speculated on how its planetary interaction feature might work. Although CCP haven't answered our interview questions on Tyrannis yet, we caught up with EVE Senior Producer Torfi Frans Olafsson at GDC 2010 to get the inside scoop. Torfi was keen to point out that a lot of what CCP are doing in Tyrannis is laying the foundation for future updates and expansions. He calls Tyrannis "a stepping stone toward something even bigger."

In addition to providing some inside info on the upcoming Tyrannis and Incarna expansions, Torfi revealed that there are more people working on EVE today than ever before. In contrast to MMOs that cut down their development team sizes once the game is out, CCP's ranks have been increasing at a huge rate in recent years. The ever-increasing revenue generated by EVE subscribers allows them to fund a large development team dedicated to making the game better for EVE players. "We've never had as many subscribers as we have today", says Torfi, "330,000 subscribers, like actual paying subscribers, not counting trials." It's thanks to all those subscribers that CCP are beginning to realise dreams they were never able to achieve when the game was less popular.

Skip past the cut to see what Torfi Frans Olafsson had to say about Tyrannis, Incarna and more.

Continue reading GDC10: Torfi Frans Olafsson gives details on Tyrannis, Incarna and more

MassivelyGDC10: Torfi Frans Olafsson gives details on Tyrannis, Incarna and more originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 14 Mar 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ambulationccpccp-eveccp-gamesdeveloperdeveloperseveeve-ccpeve-gateeve-mmorpgeve-onlineexpansionExpansionsexplorationfeaturedgdc-2010incarnaindustrymanufacturingminingmmo-industrynew-edenplanetplanetssocialsocial-networksocial-networkingtorfi-frans-olafssontyranniswalking-in-stationswormholesSun, 14 Mar 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC10: gPotato talks PvP and open beta for Aika]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/13/gdc10-gpotato-talks-pvp-and-open-beta-for-aika/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/13/gdc10-gpotato-talks-pvp-and-open-beta-for-aika/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/13/gdc10-gpotato-talks-pvp-and-open-beta-for-aika/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Aika, the upcoming free-to-play game from gPotato, is one that's been attracting quite a bit of attention lately at Massively. The free-to-play MMO arena is rapidly losing the stigma of shallow, uninteresting games, and Aika is shaping up to be a perfect example of that. Innovative features such as the Pran -- the fairy familiar that is proving to be one of the most popular parts of the game -- and an intricate PvP system have given Aika a solid seat in the "one to watch" category.

We recently took a look at Aika in First Impressions, and enjoyed a talk with Community Manager Christina Kelly during Aika's second round of closed beta testing. Now the game is on the verge of open beta (which will bring some fun new features to the game), and the Aika team was very busy at GDC this week, but Christina found some time to sit down and chat with us again.

Follow along after the jump as we delve into the PvP and politics of Aika, as well as what we have to look forward to in open beta and launch.

Continue reading GDC10: gPotato talks PvP and open beta for Aika

MassivelyGDC10: gPotato talks PvP and open beta for Aika originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 13 Mar 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aikaaika-onlinechristina-kellyfeaturedgdc-2010gpotatointerviewSat, 13 Mar 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's Heroes of Three Kingdoms closed beta key giveaway]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/13/massivelys-heroes-of-three-kingdoms-closed-beta-key-giveaway/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/13/massivelys-heroes-of-three-kingdoms-closed-beta-key-giveaway/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/13/massivelys-heroes-of-three-kingdoms-closed-beta-key-giveaway/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


While our fearless road crew have been hard at work, bringing you all the latest and greatest from GDC 2010, they've also managed to grab a bunch of beta keys to give away to you. And we're not talking just a handful -- no, we have a ton of keys for the newly-announced Perfect World Entertainment title called Heroes of Three Kingdoms ready for you to snag.

Based on one of the greatest battles in Chinese history, Heroes of Three Kingdoms features some pretty interesting things such as motion-captured combat, 18 types of weapons, historical battles, an achievement system, and more. For those who prefer their MMOs a little more bloodthirsty, the game will also include PvP battlegrounds and a "kingdom war system" allowing the three armies to face off against each other in a struggle for power.

If this sounds like your kind of thing, then be sure to pop on over to our beta code giveaway page and pick up a code for yourself. Keep in mind that the game will be entering closed beta in April, so don't be surprised when you can't immediately download it. If you'd like some more details on some of the specifics of the game mentioned above, we've included a breakdown of different, interesting points behind the cut.

Continue reading Massively's Heroes of Three Kingdoms closed beta key giveaway

MassivelyMassively's Heroes of Three Kingdoms closed beta key giveaway originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 13 Mar 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beta-codebeta-code-giveawaysbeta-codesclosed-betafree-beta-codesgdc-2010heroes-of-three-kingdomshotkperfect-world-entertainmentpweSat, 13 Mar 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC10: Massively's day 4 roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/13/gdc10-massivelys-day-4-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/13/gdc10-massivelys-day-4-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/13/gdc10-massivelys-day-4-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Day four of the Game Developer's Conference is in the books, and was one for the books as well. Massively managed to score a number of interviews, hands-on features, and we even got our mug in front of the cameras at one point during all the craziness. As you're aware by now, there is still much more to come from our trip to San Francisco, so take this opportunity to catch up on any stories you may have missed.

Be sure to check back tomorrow for our final day coverage as well as a wrap up of all our favorites from the show.

MassivelyGDC10: Massively's day 4 roundup originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 13 Mar 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionblack-prophecychampions-onlinecrypticcryptic-studiosdc-universe-onlinedcuoddodungeons-and-dragons-onlineevent-coveragegdc-2010monty-sharmancsoftnexonreakktorroundupsoesony-online-entertainmentvindictusvivoxSat, 13 Mar 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC10: Massively's interview with DC Universe Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/12/gdc10-massivelys-interview-with-dc-universe-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/12/gdc10-massivelys-interview-with-dc-universe-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/12/gdc10-massivelys-interview-with-dc-universe-online/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

GDC continues in San Francisco this week, and today we were fortunate enough to get some time with Michael Daubert, the Studio Art Director for Sony Online Entertainment. We chatted about upcoming MMO DC Universe Online, and Daubert had some pretty interesting things to say about the game. Follow along after the jump to see what's in store for DC Universe Online.

Continue reading GDC10: Massively's interview with DC Universe Online

MassivelyGDC10: Massively's interview with DC Universe Online originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Mar 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc-universe-onlinedcuofeaturedgdc-2010interviewSOEsony-online-entertainmentFri, 12 Mar 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC10: NCSoft speaks out on Aion 1.9]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/12/gdc10-ncsoft-speaks-out-on-aion-1-9/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/12/gdc10-ncsoft-speaks-out-on-aion-1-9/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/12/gdc10-ncsoft-speaks-out-on-aion-1-9/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

We've covered a lot of newly released (and as yet unreleased) games this week at GDC 2010, so it's always good to check in with an MMORPG that's been around for awhile to see what's coming down the pipe. Today we caught up with NCSoft's Andrew 'Tamat' Beegle, North American Community Manager for Aion, and asked him all sorts of questions about Aion's big 1.9 patch.

The update, already live on the game's Korean servers, will be coming to the States and Europe in short order, so read along after the jump to get a taste of what NCSoft has in store for it's loyal Daevas.

Continue reading GDC10: NCSoft speaks out on Aion 1.9

MassivelyGDC10: NCSoft speaks out on Aion 1.9 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Mar 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionaion-1.9aion-2.0aion-visionandrew-beegleenergy-of-salvationfeaturedgdc-2010interviewsncsoftpatchestamatFri, 12 Mar 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC10: Vivox's Monty Sharma interviewed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/12/gdc10-vivoxs-monty-sharma-interviewed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/12/gdc10-vivoxs-monty-sharma-interviewed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/12/gdc10-vivoxs-monty-sharma-interviewed/#commentsFiled under: , ,

While often overlooked among gamers due to the prevalence of Ventrilo and Teamspeak, integrated MMORPG voice chat is a service that is steadily gathering steam, and leading the charge is Vivox, Inc. Founded in 2005 and headquartered in Framingham, Massachusetts, Vivox has pioneered integrated voice technology in games as diverse as EVE Online, EverQuest II, and Second Life.

We sat down with Monty Sharma, Vice President of Product Management and Marketing at this week's Game Developer's Conference to talk about the company's past, present and future.

Hit the jump for the full interview.

Continue reading GDC10: Vivox's Monty Sharma interviewed

MassivelyGDC10: Vivox's Monty Sharma interviewed originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Mar 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosBigpointfeaturedgdc-2010global-agendainterviewmmo-voice-chatmonty-sharmavivoxvivox-voice-chatvoice-chatFri, 12 Mar 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC10: Nexon's Vindictus revealed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/12/gdc10-nexons-vindictus-revealed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/12/gdc10-nexons-vindictus-revealed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/12/gdc10-nexons-vindictus-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

I'll admit to being somewhat of a Nexon fanboy, and someone that considers them to be in the toy business rather than in the MMO business. They manufacture joy in my eyes. Bright, shiny joy. But the recent announcement of their new title "Vindictus" shows us a game that we are not used to seeing from Nexon. While it will follow the same business model that other Nexon games do, it promises to be a "sexy" game: a game that will make players feel like a hero. It promises to be more of an action game, or as Nexon America's Vice President Min Kim put it when he sat down with us for an interview, "an mmoACTIONrpg, epic, fierce and intense."

Want to know more? Want to see the killer trailer? Join us after the jump.

Gallery: GDC10: Vindictus

Continue reading GDC10: Nexon's Vindictus revealed

MassivelyGDC10: Nexon's Vindictus revealed originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Mar 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionaction-mmofeaturedfree-to-playftpgdc-2010mabinogimin-kimNexonphysicssourcesource-enginevindictusFri, 12 Mar 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC10: An in-depth look at Black Prophecy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/12/gdc10-an-in-depth-look-at-black-prophecy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/12/gdc10-an-in-depth-look-at-black-prophecy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/12/gdc10-an-in-depth-look-at-black-prophecy/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Space: the final frontier. Space: in it, no one can hear you scream. Space: it's been looking at us the wrong way lately, so let's take a laser cannon to it and readjust its attitude.

If you haven't been feeling a ball of growing excitement in your tummy over Black Prophecy's development (over four years at this point), then we feel pity for you. It might be another spaceship MMO, but while EVE Online has a heavy focus on the economy and political intrigue, and Star Trek Online boasts a slower, tactical approach to combat, Black Prophecy is all about fast, sweaty, double-fisted fighter action in the depths of the cosmos. And it doesn't look half bad while doing it, either.

At GDC, Massively got under the hood of this title with Black Prophecy's Falko Böcker to find out all we could about this promising free-to-play MMO. Check your oxygen levels and then hit the jump to hyperspace for more!

Continue reading GDC10: An in-depth look at Black Prophecy

MassivelyGDC10: An in-depth look at Black Prophecy originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Mar 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-prophecyBreakingeve-onlineFalko-BöckerfeaturedGDCgdc-2010gdc10gdc2010reakktor-mediastar-trek-onlineFri, 12 Mar 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC10: Massively's interview with Dungeons and Dragons Online, part 1]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/12/gdc10-massivelys-interview-with-dungeons-and-dragons-online-p/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/12/gdc10-massivelys-interview-with-dungeons-and-dragons-online-p/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/12/gdc10-massivelys-interview-with-dungeons-and-dragons-online-p/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Nine short months ago, Dungeons and Dragons Online was "the forgotten MMO": "a game that really doesn't jump to the forefront of the MMO market, but stays quietly in the background, chugging away with a loyal fanbase and consistent content updates." The timing of that story on Massively was uncanny, because ten days later Turbine dropped the news on the gaming community that Dungeons and Dragons Online was going free-to-play. Opinion on the decision was sharply divided, with many players saying they'd take a look at the game and a small but vocal minority declaring this to be the death knell of DDO.

Today, the numbers speak for themselves. Their revenue is up 500%, they've had over one million new players, and you'll be hard-pressed to find anyone who would refer to the game as "forgotten." Turbine has arguably set the standard for a hybrid free-to-play business model, and it's paid off very well. However, it wasn't always a sure thing and it certainly wasn't a snap decision. Follow along after the jump for our interview with Executive Producer Fernando Paiz at GDC as he explores the thoughts behind the business model and where it's taken Turbine.

Continue reading GDC10: Massively's interview with Dungeons and Dragons Online, part 1

MassivelyGDC10: Massively's interview with Dungeons and Dragons Online, part 1 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Mar 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddodungeons-and-dragons-onlinefeaturedfernando-paizgdc-2010InterviewsturbineFri, 12 Mar 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC10: Massively's day 3 roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/12/gdc10-massivelys-day-3-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/12/gdc10-massivelys-day-3-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/12/gdc10-massivelys-day-3-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

We're back with the latest edition of our GDC10 roundup. Yesterday was another big day in the world of MMORPG news, and Massively staffers were working overtime to bring you fresh scoops on the latest projects from your favorite developers. As always, there's a lot more to come as the Game Developer's Conference rolls on, but take a moment to check out these stories you may have missed.

Stick around as we're gearing up to bring you interviews with Bioware, En Masse, Gamigo, and The Secret World's Ragnar Tornquist later in the week.

MassivelyGDC10: Massively's day 3 roundup originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Mar 2010 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingcrypticcryptic-studiosevent-coveragegdc-2010land-of-chaos-onlinerunes-of-magicstar-trek-onlinevirtual-fairgroundFri, 12 Mar 2010 10:30:00 EST