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 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Blade & Soul is headed west]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/13/blade-and-soul-is-headed-west/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/13/blade-and-soul-is-headed-west/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/13/blade-and-soul-is-headed-west/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Gamescom 2012 Blade & Soul
Gamescom 2012 was not a show of many big surprises. Fans and press alike were mostly given in-depth looks at things to come for existing franchises and games that were announced at E3 or even before that.

But that doesn't mean that there were no exciting little bits of information to be scrounged up here and there. In Cologne, we sat down for a chat with NCsoft's Stephen Levy as he spilled the beans on Korean martial arts MMO Blade & Soul, but we haven't been allowed to talk about it until today. The best part? Blade & Soul is headed west.

Continue reading Blade & Soul is headed west

MassivelyBlade & Soul is headed west originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Sep 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blade-and-soulcologneconconventionfantasyfeaturedgamescomgamescom-2012germanyinterviewinterviewsmartial-artsmartial-arts-mmoncsoftncsoft-koreapreviewpreviewsstephen-levyThu, 13 Sep 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2012: District 187, Hounds, and Monarch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/27/gamescom-2012-district-187-hounds-and-monarch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/27/gamescom-2012-district-187-hounds-and-monarch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/27/gamescom-2012-district-187-hounds-and-monarch/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Gamescom 2012 Coffee with CJ Games
During this year's Gamescom, we met with the folks of CJ Games for a coffee near Cologne's central station, away from the hectic crowds of the show floors, to talk about what the Korean giant has in store for us in the near future. Earlier this year, CJ Games opened its North American subsidiary, which is tasked with bringing some of the company's most popular games to western audiences, and we were curious as to what it's got cooking. Jon-Enée Merriex, producer at CJ Games, talked us through three of the studio's upcoming titles: District 187: Sin Streets, Monarch, and Hounds.

Continue reading Gamescom 2012: District 187, Hounds, and Monarch

MassivelyGamescom 2012: District 187, Hounds, and Monarch originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 27 Aug 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cj-gamescologneconconventiondistrict-187district-187-sin-streetsfeaturedgamescomgamescom-2012germanyhoundsinterviewinterviewsjon-enee-merriexmmofpsmmotpsmonarchpreviewpreviewssin-streetssin-streets-onlineMon, 27 Aug 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2012: Talking Firefall with David Williams]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/23/gamescom-2012-talking-firefall-with-david-williams/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/23/gamescom-2012-talking-firefall-with-david-williams/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/23/gamescom-2012-talking-firefall-with-david-williams/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Gamescom 2012 Talking FireFall with David Williams
Firefall has undergone quite a few changes over time just like most betas. As the size of the testing base slowly grows to massive proportions, more and more input fuels the ideas-machine at Red 5 Studios as it improves an already-impressive game. The immense booth at this year's Gamescom was testament to the amount of ambition the developers have for this free-to-play MMOTPS, and the sheer number of convention-goers in, up, and around the booth revealed no shortage of interest in the game. We were led into a small, air-conditioned room in the undercrofts of this behemoth of a booth so that we could have an intimate chat with Firefall's Lead Class Designer, David Williams, away from the noise of the show floor crowd.

Continue reading Gamescom 2012: Talking Firefall with David Williams

MassivelyGamescom 2012: Talking Firefall with David Williams originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Aug 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cologneconconventiondavid-williamsf2pfeaturedfirefallfirst-person-shooterfpsfree-to-playgamescomgamescom-2012germanyinterviewinterviewsmmo-shootermmofpsmmotpspreviewpreviewspvpred-5red-5-studiossci-fishooterwarThu, 23 Aug 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2012: Behind closed doors with Trion Worlds]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/22/gamescom-2012-behind-closed-doors-with-trion-worlds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/22/gamescom-2012-behind-closed-doors-with-trion-worlds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/22/gamescom-2012-behind-closed-doors-with-trion-worlds/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Gamescom 2012 Behind closed doors with Trion Worlds
Germany is crazy about MMOs. Proof of this was the Gamescom attendance of almost all major players in the genre, showing off what they had in store. Trion Worlds -- known well to fans of RIFT, Defiance, and End of Nations -- was no exception. The studio gave us a closer look at some of what it's got in store for us: RIFT's first real expansion, Storm Legion, and brand-new third-person sci-fi shooter Defiance. Jump past the break to read all about them.

Continue reading Gamescom 2012: Behind closed doors with Trion Worlds

MassivelyGamescom 2012: Behind closed doors with Trion Worlds originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Aug 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkark-hunterarkfallcologneconconquestconventiondefianceend-of-nationseonexpansionf2pfantasyfeaturedfpsfree-to-playgamescomgamescom-2012germanyhands-oninterviewinterviewsmmofpsmmortspetroglyphpetroglyph-gamespvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telarartsrvrsci-fistorm-legionsyfythree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptransmedia-synergytriontrion-worldstvwarwill-cookxboxWed, 22 Aug 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter at Your Own Rift: RIFT's upcoming housing boom]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/22/enter-at-your-own-rift-rifts-upcoming-housing-boom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/22/enter-at-your-own-rift-rifts-upcoming-housing-boom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/22/enter-at-your-own-rift-rifts-upcoming-housing-boom/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Enter at Your Own Rift RIFT's upcoming housing boom
Have no doubt, it's been an absolutely barnburner of a week or so for RIFT. As Trion Worlds chugs toward the unknown release date for Storm Legion, we've seen the reveal of the first new soul (the Harbinger), a special annual subscription offer, a tour of several areas of the expansion from Gamescom, and oh yeah, news that Trion's all but eliminating factional barriers.

And with all that, do you know what everyone's jabbering on about in the forums? Housing. Housing, housing, housing!

It doesn't surprise me; as a long-time proponent of player housing, I know full well the powerful attraction and appeal housing has when done right (emphasis on the last three words there). Housing gives players a sense of attachment to the game world, an outlet for creativity, and a personalized place to socialize. And finally we've heard the first concrete details (with video footage!) of RIFT's dimensions.

There's no avoiding it; there's going to be a huge housing boom in RIFT come this fall. So what will it look like?

Continue reading Enter at Your Own Rift: RIFT's upcoming housing boom

MassivelyEnter at Your Own Rift: RIFT's upcoming housing boom originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Aug 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cologneconconquestconventiondimensiondimensionsenter-at-your-own-rifteq-iieverquest-2everquest-iiexpansionfantasyfeaturedgamescomgamescom-2012germanyhousinglord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroopinionplayer-housingpvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrscripted-eventsstar-wars-galaxiesstorm-legionswgtelarathree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsWed, 22 Aug 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2012: Cryptic's Neverwinter]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/22/gamescom-2012-cryptics-neverwinter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/22/gamescom-2012-cryptics-neverwinter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/22/gamescom-2012-cryptics-neverwinter/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Neverwinter
Neverwinter Nights and Neverwinter Nights 2 are games that live vividly in memories of gamers around the globe, especially those with a passion for Dungeons & Dragons and fantasy RPGs. If you are one of them, rejoice because the next instalment in the series, developed by Cryptic Studios and published by Perfect World, will go massively multiplayer. We were at Gamescom this year to take a closer look at this upcoming free-to-play title, and Craig Zinkievich, Cryptic's COO and executive producer of Neverwinter, was on hand to fill us in on the details.

Continue reading Gamescom 2012: Cryptic's Neverwinter

MassivelyGamescom 2012: Cryptic's Neverwinter originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Aug 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmocologneconconventioncraig-Zinkievichcrypticcryptic-studiosdndf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgamescomgamescom-2012germanyinterviewinterviewsneverwinterperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweWed, 22 Aug 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2012: Hands on with LotRO's Riders of Rohan]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/21/gamescom-2012-hands-on-with-lotros-riders-of-rohan/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/21/gamescom-2012-hands-on-with-lotros-riders-of-rohan/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/21/gamescom-2012-hands-on-with-lotros-riders-of-rohan/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Gamescom 2012 Hands on with LotRO's Riders of Rohan
In a small room at the center of WB Games' business headquarters at Gamescom, Lord of the Rings Online Live Producer Aaron Campbell is sitting with a broad smile behind his 27-inch screen. "I love those orange skies," he says, excited. "It's something new we've put in this expansion. It looks beautiful!" He takes visible pride in his work. It's a contagious cheerfulness that would dominate our entire Gamescom sit-down with Turbine this year as we took a look at LotRO's upcoming fourth expansion, Riders of Rohan.

Continue reading Gamescom 2012: Hands on with LotRO's Riders of Rohan

MassivelyGamescom 2012: Hands on with LotRO's Riders of Rohan originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 Aug 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aaron-campbellbetabeta-testbeta-testingcologneconconventionexpansionf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumgamescomgamescom-2012germanyhands-oninterviewinterviewslord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromicrotransactionmicrotransactionspremiumpreviewpreviewsriders-of-rohanrohanrortestingturbineturbine-entertainmentTue, 21 Aug 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom, GDC EU dates announced for 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/20/gamescom-2013-date-announced/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/20/gamescom-2013-date-announced/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/20/gamescom-2013-date-announced/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Gamescom 2013 date announced
The more than 275,000 attendees of this year's Gamescom in Cologne, Germany, were the first to see the planned date for the 2013 convention -- if they noticed the large banner hanging overhead, that is. Folks wanting to get a headstart on planning for the event can mark their calendars: The fifth annual Gamescom will be held August 21st through the 25th, 2013. To get in on GDC Europe, plan to get to Cologne a few days earlier as this convention will run August 19th through the 21st, 2013.

The 2012 Gamescom saw the introduction of mobile and social titles to the usual line-up of console and PC gaming. Organizers noted that 83 different countries were represented between the exhibitors and trade visitors of the con. GDC EU 2012 broke previous attendance records with over 2,100 game industry professionals attending the event.

For more about this year's conventions that just wrapped up, check out Massively's 2012 Gamescom and 2012 GDC Europe coverage.

MassivelyGamescom, GDC EU dates announced for 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cologneconconventiongamescomgamescom-2012Gamescom-2013gdc-europegdc-europe-2012germanyMon, 20 Aug 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2012: SWTOR will sell statted gear, debating new planet monetization]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/20/gamescom-2012-swtor-will-sell-statted-gear-debating-new-planet/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/20/gamescom-2012-swtor-will-sell-statted-gear-debating-new-planet/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/20/gamescom-2012-swtor-will-sell-statted-gear-debating-new-planet/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

SWTOR will sell statted gear, debating new planet monetization
How do you take a subscription title like Star Wars: The Old Republic and turn it into a free-to-play MMO? According to Executive Producer Jeff Hickman, you do it as carefully as possible. "Give the story away," he explained. "Make the casual player understand what that is. Don't try to monetize that. Monetize all the things around that. I think, actually, as we looked through it, it is not as complex as you think it is. It is very difficult."

While plans for SWTOR's cash shop are not finalized, Hickman did admit that players could use it to purchase gear to help them level up: "I don't want to unbalance the game by putting things out on the store that somebody can walk in on day one, buy and be the winner. Having said that, there will be some things that we put out in the store that do enhance power value in some way, but not at the top end."

Hickman nibbled around the topic of the planet Makeb, which is still under construction. With more story and more systems, he hopes players will be pleased with the final result. However, Hickman could not confirm nor deny that the update will expand the level cap, nor would he go into detail about whether or not BioWare is going to attempt to sell this to subscribers.

[Thanks to Scott for the tip!]

Every summer, the gaming industry descends on Cologne, Germany, for Gamescom, the world's largest trade fair for interactive games and entertainment. Massively's on the scene in 2012, bringing you all the best scoops, impressions, and interviews from the MMOs at the show!

MassivelyGamescom 2012: SWTOR will sell statted gear, debating new planet monetization originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebreakingcologneconconventioneaelectronic-artsgamescomgamescom-2012germanyjeff-hickmanlevel-caplucasartsmakebmonetizationsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorthe-old-republictorMon, 20 Aug 2012 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Is Ubisoft cashing in with Silent Hunter and Anno Online?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/19/the-daily-grind-is-ubisoft-cashing-in-with-silent-hunter-and-an/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/19/the-daily-grind-is-ubisoft-cashing-in-with-silent-hunter-and-an/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/19/the-daily-grind-is-ubisoft-cashing-in-with-silent-hunter-and-an/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The Daily Grind - Is Ubisoft cashing in with Silent Hunter and Anno OnlineLast week's Gamescom saw publishing giant Ubisoft dip its toe into the free-to-play browser game market. It did so with a pair of titles based on ancient, beloved franchises. First up was Silent Hunter Online, a riff on the submarine sim that's been playable on your PC since 1996.

Ubisoft followed that up with Anno Online, a simplified version of the long-running Anno real-time strategy series that debuted in 1998 (if you've never heard of Anno, you might be an American who played it under the Dawn of Discovery moniker).

A cynic might say that Ubisoft is looking to milk the nostalgia factor by taking a couple of complex titles and turning them into accessible MMO-lite affairs. An optimist might say that this is the logical next step if franchises are to remain relevant in the age of casual gaming. What do you think? Is Ubisoft cashing in, or will Silent Hunter Online and Anno Online be worthy of their names?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Is Ubisoft cashing in with Silent Hunter and Anno Online? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 19 Aug 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anno-onlinebrowserbrowser-gamecash-incasual-gamingdaily-grindgamescom-2012nostalgiaopinionsilent-hunter-onlinetdgthe-daily-grindubisoftSun, 19 Aug 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2012: Aion will offer three new classes in 4.0]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/17/gamescom-2012-aion-will-offer-three-new-classes-in-4-0/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/17/gamescom-2012-aion-will-offer-three-new-classes-in-4-0/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/17/gamescom-2012-aion-will-offer-three-new-classes-in-4-0/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Aion will offer three new classes in 40
Atreia is about to become more interesting. After some talk about patch 3.5 and Tiamat at Gamescom 2012, NCsoft let fly the announcement that Aion will offer three brand-new classes in the 4.0 update. This will be the first time the free-to-play fantasy game will introduce new classes beyond the ones the game launched with.

What will these new additions be? While NCsoft isn't revealing too many specifics yet, Daevas wanting to experience something new will be able to choose between wielding a gun or a musical instrument as weapons with two of the classes. Currently, mum's the word on details about the third class, but we'll keep you updated as more information is released.

Every summer, the gaming industry descends on Cologne, Germany, for Gamescom, the world's largest trade fair for interactive games and entertainment. Massively's on the scene in 2012, bringing you all the best scoops, impressions, and interviews from the MMOs at the show!

MassivelyGamescom 2012: Aion will offer three new classes in 4.0 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Aug 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionascensioncologneconconventionf2pfantasyfree-to-playgamescomgamescom-2012germanyncsoftnew-classestruly-freeFri, 17 Aug 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2012: RIFT Storm Legion walkthrough]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/16/gamescom-2012-rift-storm-legion-walkthrough/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/16/gamescom-2012-rift-storm-legion-walkthrough/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/16/gamescom-2012-rift-storm-legion-walkthrough/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

RIFT title image
Fantasy MMO RIFT has been regularly updated with new content since launch, but its upcoming Storm Legion expansion has the potential to blow all previous updates out of the water. The expansion will triple the size of the game world with the two brand-new continents of Brevane and Dusken. Between them, the new continents will launch with 11 new zones, seven new dungeons, three new raids and a new capital city.

At Gamescom 2012 this week, Trion Worlds revealed further details of the new expansion with a full walkthrough. The expansion aims to add even more customisation options to the already expansive game, with one new soul per calling and all existing souls being extended up to the new level cap of 60. Check out the walkthrough video after the cut to see the new Harbinger soul in action and several of the new game zones.

[Thanks to Rehlik for the tip!]

Continue reading Gamescom 2012: RIFT Storm Legion walkthrough

MassivelyGamescom 2012: RIFT Storm Legion walkthrough originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Aug 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cologneconconventiondungeonsfantasygamescomgamescom-2012germanyharbingerriftrift-planes-of-telarasoulstorm-legiontriontrion-worldsvideowalkthroughzonezonesThu, 16 Aug 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2012: Matt Higby sheds light on PlanetSide 2's factions and design]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/16/gamescom-2012-matt-higby-sheds-light-on-planetside-2s-factions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/16/gamescom-2012-matt-higby-sheds-light-on-planetside-2s-factions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/16/gamescom-2012-matt-higby-sheds-light-on-planetside-2s-factions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

And if you're looking to take a joking quote from a designer out of context, I'm sure you can find one in here.
PlanetSide engendered some fierce faction loyalty, which carries over quite naturally to PlanetSide 2. According to Matt Higby in a new interview at Gamescom 2012, every faction's players feel like their faction needs more attention in the early release material. The main challenge of design is keeping all three factions balanced while ensuring that all three are different enough to feel distinct. Higby stresses that the team is trying to push the differences as far as possible without creating balance problems.

Another major issue that Higby brings up is ensuring that new players can get into the game without removing anything that old players enjoyed about the original. That means new mechanics to help players drop in if they've never played before, but the same core design of gathering hundreds of players to accomplish sweeping tactical objectives. Check out the full video after the break for more of Higby's insights into design; the video starts off in German, but the interview itself is in English.

Continue reading Gamescom 2012: Matt Higby sheds light on PlanetSide 2's factions and design

MassivelyGamescom 2012: Matt Higby sheds light on PlanetSide 2's factions and design originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Aug 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cologneconconventiondesignfaction-balancefaction-pridefactionsfpsgamescomgamescom-2012germanymmo-shootermmofpsplanetsideplanetside-2ps2sandboxsci-fishootersoesonysony-online-entertainmentThu, 16 Aug 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2012: CJ Games showcases upcoming games in videos]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/16/gamescom-2012-cj-games-showcases-upcoming-games-in-videos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/16/gamescom-2012-cj-games-showcases-upcoming-games-in-videos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/16/gamescom-2012-cj-games-showcases-upcoming-games-in-videos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Monarch screenshot
Back at E3, Massively had the chance to chat with folks from CJ Games Global about a number of their upcoming games, including the horror-themed shooter Hounds, the medieval strategy game Monarch, and the urban action shooter District 187: Sin Streets (formally called Sin Streets Online). For Gamescom, the company showed two short trailers highlighting some of the in-game action of both Monarch and Hounds.

Hounds will feature five types of gameplay, including endgame raiding and PvP. The game is scheduled for a fourth-quarter release in 2013. Planned for release just before that in Q3 2013, Monarch utilizes soldiers-for-hire to siege opposing territories in large-scale combat.

Check out the in-game footage of both titles in the trailers after the break.

[Source: CJ Games Global press release]

Continue reading Gamescom 2012: CJ Games showcases upcoming games in videos

MassivelyGamescom 2012: CJ Games showcases upcoming games in videos originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Aug 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cj-gamescj-games-globalcologneconconventionFPSgamescomgamescom-2012germanyhorrorHoundsmedievalMonarchshootersiegesstrategystrategy-basedtrailersvideoThu, 16 Aug 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2012: World of Warcraft reveals Mists of Pandaria opening cinematic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/16/gamescom-2012-world-of-warcraft-reveals-mists-of-pandaria-openi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/16/gamescom-2012-world-of-warcraft-reveals-mists-of-pandaria-openi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/16/gamescom-2012-world-of-warcraft-reveals-mists-of-pandaria-openi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

World of Warcraft reveals Mists of Pandaria opening cinematic
Ever since Blizzard announced that the opening cinematic for World of Warcraft's next expansion Mists of Pandaria would be revealed at Gamescom 2012, fans have been patiently waiting to watch the introduction of the Pandaren in the popular fantasy MMORPG. Now the wait is over: Watch as the black and white kung-fu master takes on two warring combatants in the video after the break.

Continue reading Gamescom 2012: World of Warcraft reveals Mists of Pandaria opening cinematic

MassivelyGamescom 2012: World of Warcraft reveals Mists of Pandaria opening cinematic originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Aug 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcinematiccologneconconventionexpansionfantasygamescomgamescom-2012germanymistsmists-of-pandariamopopening-cinematicpandarenpandariapandastrailerwarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 16 Aug 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2012: New LotRO dev diary about warsteeds]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/16/gamescom-2012-new-lotro-dev-diary-about-warsteeds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/16/gamescom-2012-new-lotro-dev-diary-about-warsteeds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/16/gamescom-2012-new-lotro-dev-diary-about-warsteeds/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

LotRO gamescom trailer
Last week we brought you news about Lord of the Rings Online's warsteed mechanic, accompanied by a video with people talking about that mechanic. The time for talk has gone; now is the time for deep chanting, epic music, and glorious in-game footage of warsteeds in action.

Straight from the show floor of Gamescom comes a new video featuring LotRO's mounts for the Riders of Rohan expansion. These mounts come in three armor tiers, have slots for individual armor pieces, and have customizable skills. They also look pretty snazzy as they carry you into battle.

Check out last week's video to learn more about mounts, or skip below the cut to check out this week's video if all you need is the pounding of drums and the thrill of battle.

Continue reading Gamescom 2012: New LotRO dev diary about warsteeds

MassivelyGamescom 2012: New LotRO dev diary about warsteeds originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Aug 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cologneconconventiondev-diaryf2pfantasyfree-to-playgamescomgamescom-2012germanylord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroriders-of-rohantrailertrailersturbineturbine-entertainmentvideo-videosThu, 16 Aug 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2012: FFXIV servers shutting down ahead of relaunch, A Realm Reborn beta planned for this fall]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/16/final-fantasy-xiv-servers-shutting-down-ahead-of-relaunch-a-re/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/16/final-fantasy-xiv-servers-shutting-down-ahead-of-relaunch-a-re/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/16/final-fantasy-xiv-servers-shutting-down-ahead-of-relaunch-a-re/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Final Fantasy XIV servers shutting down ahead of relaunch, beta planned for this fall
Final Fantasy XIV players, take note: Your days are numbered. Er, at least your days spent in the original FFXIV world. When the game's rebirth, called A Realm Reborn, occurs later this year, the game's servers will be taken offline. Rather than overlap the two versions of the game, Square-Enix director/producer Naoki Yoshida says the original servers will be taken offline "some day in the near future," precipitating an alpha and then a beta for the game's relaunch later this year.

"Basically what's going to happen is that the current story is still continuing now, but some day in the near future -- and we'll make sure we tell the players what day that is -- something is going to happen in the story, and at that time, the servers are going to shut down," Yoshida told us in a group interview this morning at Gamescom.

The reason for the shutdown is less thrilling than you might think. "Basically the player data will be taken over into the new game. So, to convert all this new data for the new systems, we need a certain amount of time to do this. There's so much data, so many thousands of characters that we must do this for. And so we have to shut down the servers," he said.

Yoshida was quick to point out that players will have plenty of warning ahead of the shut-down (consider this your first heads-up). He also notes that the original game's userbase will be prioritized in A Realm Reborn's beta queue and that players will "be able to use their current characters in the beta test as well." Though that may not be at the kickoff of the beta, he says, "We're working in a way to try to get it as close to the beginning of the beta test as possible."

A Realm Reborn is headed to both PlayStation 3 and PC later this year.

Every summer, the gaming industry descends on Cologne, Germany, for Gamescom, the world's largest trade fair for interactive games and entertainment. Massively's on the scene in 2012, bringing you all the best scoops, impressions, and interviews from the MMOs at the show!

MassivelyGamescom 2012: FFXIV servers shutting down ahead of relaunch, A Realm Reborn beta planned for this fall originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Aug 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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When Final Fantasy XIV's A Realm Reborn launches later this year on PC and PlayStation 3, each version will represent a scaled version of the game's highest settings. But with talk of next-gen consoles getting louder and louder, does it make sense to stick with the PlayStation 3? Square-Enix producer/director Naoki Yoshida thinks so, but that doesn't mean he isn't prepared for the looming next generation of game consoles.

"The biggest thing is because we promised we'd release on PlayStation 3, and there are still a lot of players out there waiting for us to release a PS3 version. Before we talked about losing the trust of the playerbase with the original release of XIV and getting that trust back. One of the things to get that trust back is to fulfill our promises. That promise being that we'd release on the PlayStation 3," Naoki said in a group interview today at Gamescom. "That doesn't mean we're not looking to the future. We realize that things will be coming, and then making the game compatible for these systems is something we're currently thinking about," he added.

Of course, "Until Sony and Microsoft actually make an announcement," he said, "we can't make an announcement." Yoshida said that his team's flexibility with FFXIV is due to the game's new engine. "With this new engine, it's very scalable. It runs on low-end PCs and high-end PCs. So when new technology comes out, we can easily scale it to that high end."

Yoshida went on to show the game running on a colleague's Sony Vaio laptop sporting a Core i5 processor. While the graphics were scaled down for the lower-end specs, the game still ran smoothly and looked quite impressive. "This is at about 70 percent optimization," he added.

FFXIV's A Realm Reborn will launch on both PC and PlayStation 3 "this year."

Every summer, the gaming industry descends on Cologne, Germany, for Gamescom, the world's largest trade fair for interactive games and entertainment. Massively's on the scene in 2012, bringing you all the best scoops, impressions, and interviews from the MMOs at the show!

MassivelyGamescom 2012: FFXIV's A Realm Reborn will be 'scalable' for next-gen consoles originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Aug 2012 06:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-realm-reborncologneconconsoleconsolesconventionfantasyffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivfinal-fantasy-xiv-a-realm-reborngamescomgamescom-2012germanynaoki-yoshidasquaresquare-enixThu, 16 Aug 2012 06:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2012: Neverwinter shows off lore trailer and prepares for 2013 launch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/15/gamescom-2012-neverwinter-shows-off-lore-trailer-and-prepares-f/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/15/gamescom-2012-neverwinter-shows-off-lore-trailer-and-prepares-f/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/15/gamescom-2012-neverwinter-shows-off-lore-trailer-and-prepares-f/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

I promise a chicken in every pot! Or a chicken skeleton, anyway. You're undead, you don't really want a live chicken, right?
Neverwinter, the upcoming action-based free-to-play title from Cryptic Studios, will be making an appearance at Gamescom 2012 as well as GenCon Indy 2012 and PAX Prime 2012. It will not be making an appearance as a launched game, however, as the official launch date has been pushed back from late 2012 to early 2013. Attendees to these conventions will be able to play an early build of the game, and press members will also be given a tour of the game's player-generated content tool, the Foundry.

For those not able to attend the conventions, the team behind the game has put together a new lore trailer for Ebon Downs, one of the game's many dungeon areas. The short story is that a necromancer is using an artifact to raise an army of undead, but there are more details to be unearthed about the artifact in question and the perils within the barrows. Check out the trailer past the break and new screenshots in our gallery below.

[Source: Perfect World Entertainment press release]

Gallery: Neverwinter

Continue reading Gamescom 2012: Neverwinter shows off lore trailer and prepares for 2013 launch

MassivelyGamescom 2012: Neverwinter shows off lore trailer and prepares for 2013 launch originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmocologneconconventioncrypticcryptic-studiosdndf2pfantasyfree-to-playgallerygamescomgamescom-2012germanylaunchesloreneverwinterperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpreviewspwereleasesscreenshotstrailertrailersupdatesvideovideosWed, 15 Aug 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2012: SOE reveals new PlanetSide 2 trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/15/gamescom-2012-soe-reveals-new-planetside-2-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/15/gamescom-2012-soe-reveals-new-planetside-2-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/15/gamescom-2012-soe-reveals-new-planetside-2-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Gamescom 2012 SOE reveals new PlanetSide 2 trailer
The last PlanetSide 2 trailer was a bit... eh, well, let's not beat around the bush. It was kinda cheesy. Thankfully Sony Online Entertainment has gotten back to what it does best with a rip-roaring romp through the battlefields of Auraxis courtesy of a new clip released at Gamescom.

Galaxies? Check. Ground armor? Check. Infantry, jetpack, and air-to-air combat? Check, check, and check. The new video hits all the sweet spots, so have a look-see after the break!

Continue reading Gamescom 2012: SOE reveals new PlanetSide 2 trailer

MassivelyGamescom 2012: SOE reveals new PlanetSide 2 trailer originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cologneconconventionfpsgamescomgamescom-2012germanymmo-shootermmofpsplanetsideplanetside-2planetside-2-gamescom-trailerps2ps2-trailerps2-videosandboxsci-fishootersoesonysony-online-entertainmenttrailervideoWed, 15 Aug 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2012: End of Nations trailer spotlights customization]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/15/gamescom-2012-end-of-nations-trailer-spotlights-customization/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/15/gamescom-2012-end-of-nations-trailer-spotlights-customization/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/15/gamescom-2012-end-of-nations-trailer-spotlights-customization/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

End of Nations trailer spotlights customization
Whether they're sporting traditional or tie-dye or polka-dots, players meeting on the battlefield in End of Nations won't have to worry about blending in with the crowd thanks to the variety of customization options available in the Armory. Trion Worlds released a trailer at Gamescom 2012 showcasing some of these available customizations in the upcoming free-to-play MMORTS.

The customization in the Armory, however, goes beyond just a colorful outer shell; players also use this feature to set load outs, design and create companies, and modify units. Want different armaments? The Armory is where you get them.

Check out the variety of options as well as some in-game footage in the trailer after the break. And players interested in experiencing the feature for themselves can sign up for the beta on the official site.

Continue reading Gamescom 2012: End of Nations trailer spotlights customization

MassivelyGamescom 2012: End of Nations trailer spotlights customization originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Armorycologneconconventioncustomizationend-of-nationseonf2pfree-to-playgamescomGamescom-2012germanymmortsmodspetroglyphpetroglyph-gamesrtssci-fitrailertriontrion-worldsvideowarWed, 15 Aug 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC Europe 2012: Funcom's Morrison says focus on the why, not the what]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/15/gdc-europe-funcoms-morrison-says-focus-on-the-why-not-the-wha/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/15/gdc-europe-funcoms-morrison-says-focus-on-the-why-not-the-wha/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/15/gdc-europe-funcoms-morrison-says-focus-on-the-why-not-the-wha/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

MMOs as a rule tend to have a focus on providing content for us, the players. It makes sense; they want us to play their games, so they give us as much stuff to do as possible so that we'll keep playing. But why do we want to do that stuff in the first place? Craig Morrison, creative director at Funcom Montreal, posed that question at his GDC Europe talk, saying that MMO design needs to shift to consider that option. Gamasutra covered what he has to say: "Everytime a player logs in, they need a 'why'," noted Morrison. "What we really need to be thinking about is the why -- it's the bit that we don't really consider enough. Players need a reason to be playing it. What is motivating them?"

Referencing both Maslow's hierarchy of needs and Simon Simek's work on motivation, Morrison's talk ranged from discussing how games go wrong by focusing on only one kind of player to encouraging the development and fostering of community. "Unless you expose the players to the community and encourage community interactions, there's not that much difference between your game and a single-player game," he opined.

MassivelyGDC Europe 2012: Funcom's Morrison says focus on the why, not the what originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conconferenceconventioncraig-morrisoneuropeFuncomgamasutragame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012GamescomGamescom-2012gdcgdc-2012gdc-europegdc-europe-2012MaslowsilirrionWed, 15 Aug 2012 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2012: PlanetSide 2 available for hands-on play in Cologne]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/15/planetside-2-available-for-hands-on-play-at-gamescom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/15/planetside-2-available-for-hands-on-play-at-gamescom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/15/planetside-2-available-for-hands-on-play-at-gamescom/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

PlanetSide 2 available for handson play at Gamescom
Players who want to experience PlanetSide 2 but haven't received that coveted beta invite have two hours of opportunity to do so this week... if they happen to be at Gamescom in Germany. Sony Online Entertainment announced that 48 game stations will be available at Booth #B-060j in the ESL CM Storm Arena (Hall 8) to help visitors to take part in battles with each other.

The game stations will be open for PlanetSide 2 play in four blocks of time stretched over two days: tomorrow, August 16th, and Friday, August 17th. On both days, the available times will be 5:45 a.m. to 6:15 a.m. EDT (11:45 a.m. to 12 :15 p.m CET) and 9:45 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. EDT (3:45 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. CET).

Additionally, on Thursday and Friday, Creative Director Matt Higby will take the stage and present a brand-new PlanetSide 2 trailer as well as deliver several game giveaways to those who attend.

[Source: Sony Online Entertainment press release]

Every summer, the gaming industry descends on Cologne, Germany, for Gamescom, the world's largest trade fair for interactive games and entertainment. Massively's on the scene in 2012, bringing you all the best scoops, impressions, and interviews from MMOs at the show!

MassivelyGamescom 2012: PlanetSide 2 available for hands-on play in Cologne originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cologneconconventionfpsgamescomGamescom-2012germanyhands-onMatt-Higbymmo-shootermmofpsplanetsideplanetside-2privacyps2sandboxsci-fishootersoesonysony-online-entertainmentWed, 15 Aug 2012 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2012: New FFXIV 2.0 screenshots released]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/15/new-ffxiv-2-0-screenshots-released/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/15/new-ffxiv-2-0-screenshots-released/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/15/new-ffxiv-2-0-screenshots-released/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

FFXIV 2.0
Gamescom maketh the good things flow. Today saw Square-Enix releasing a double helping of new FFXIV screenshots and artwork as a preview of what awaits fans in the game's 2.0 patch. The long-anticipated update, known as A Realm Reborn, is bringing some pretty significant changes to the game.

The new images show off everything from skill effects and mounts to architecture and NPC dialogue. They serve as a mightily shiny glimpse at what's to come when the patch hits and brings a nearly universal graphical update with it. And chocobo-raising, because what good is a world without chocobo raising?

[Source: Square-Enix press release]

Gallery: Final Fantasy XIV 2.0

Every summer, the gaming industry descends on Cologne, Germany, for Gamescom, the world's largest trade fair for interactive games and entertainment. Massively's on the scene in 2012, bringing you all the best scoops, impressions, and interviews from the MMOs at the show!

MassivelyGamescom 2012: New FFXIV 2.0 screenshots released originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-realm-reborncologneconconsoleconsolesconventionfantasyffff14ffxivffxiv-2.0final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgalleriesgallerygamescomgamescom-2012germanypatchpatch-2.0patchesscreenshotscreenshotssquaresquare-enixupdateupdatesWed, 15 Aug 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2012: DayZ stand-alone to have instanced building [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/15/gamescom-2012-dayz-stand-alone-to-have-instanced-building/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/15/gamescom-2012-dayz-stand-alone-to-have-instanced-building/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/15/gamescom-2012-dayz-stand-alone-to-have-instanced-building/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Gamescom 2012 DayZ standalone to have instanced building
Rock, Paper Shotgun caught up with Arma II modder Dean Hall at this week's Gamescom. The braaaaains behind the zombie-centric DayZ mod revealed that player-driven construction is in the works for the mod's eventual stand-alone client.

Hall says that the feature will probably take the form of underground bases accessed via portals (think a grate in the ground). He's leaning toward having players dig out the space, pour concrete, set up hydroponics, and possibly even have the structure collapse around them if it's a particularly gruesome day.

DayZ's stand-alone client will also feature a revamped Chernarus that features more buildings you can actually enter as well as more detail and "entirely new areas."

[Update: There are also talks of the game coming to consoles.]

Every summer, the gaming industry descends on Cologne, Germany, for Gamescom, the world's largest trade fair for interactive games and entertainment. Massively's on the scene in 2012, bringing you all the best scoops, impressions, and interviews from the MMOs at the show!

MassivelyGamescom 2012: DayZ stand-alone to have instanced building [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arma-2arma-iicologneconconventionday-zdayzdayz-housingdayz-stand-alonedean-hallf2pfree-to-playgamescomgamescom-2012germanyhorrorhousingmoddingmodsplayer-generated-contentplayer-housingsandboxuser-generated-contentzombiesWed, 15 Aug 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2012: Wargaming.net teases World of Warplanes CG trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/15/gamescom-2012-wargaming-net-teases-world-of-warplanes-cg-traile/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/15/gamescom-2012-wargaming-net-teases-world-of-warplanes-cg-traile/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/15/gamescom-2012-wargaming-net-teases-world-of-warplanes-cg-traile/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Gamescom 2012 - Wargaming.net teases World of Warplanes CG trailer
Wargaming.net has released a new CG trailer for its forthcoming World of Warplanes title. If you're an aviation buff or you simply like sleek machines and big explosions, the clip is pure porn that runs for just over a minute.

While there's no gameplay footage, we do get to see a good representation of all the different aircraft up for grabs in the game. Everything from World War II stalwarts like the P-51 Mustang and Messerschmitt Bf-109 to Korean War birds like the F-86 are on display. There's even a glimpse of some World War I-era hardware. See for yourself after the break.

Continue reading Gamescom 2012: Wargaming.net teases World of Warplanes CG trailer

MassivelyGamescom 2012: Wargaming.net teases World of Warplanes CG trailer originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Aug 2012 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Guild Wars 2
It's that special time of year again. There are thousands of people packing bags, boarding trains, and piling into Cologne, Germany. Soon the halls that host Gamescom will be filled with people, the din of dozens of competing booths, and the scent of unwashed masses. What does that mean for you if you're a Guild Wars 2 fan in attendance? It means that along with a weekend with tens of thousands of your best buddies, you get a chance for super-special in-game items.

Every day, ArenaNet staff members in the team's booth will be giving away an in-game goodie to anyone who can tell them the day's password. The passwords for each day will be announced via Twitter, so be sure to keep one eye on the Guild Wars 2 Twitter feed and another on an ArenaNet employee who'll accept said password.

Aside from setting themselves up to be trampled by a seething horde of item-hungry fans, the ArenaNet team members will be chilling in Hall 8, chatting with folks, and generally keeping low-key. They might be saving their energy for something; I hear there's a game of theirs coming out soon.

Every summer, the gaming industry descends on Cologne, Germany, for Gamescom, the world's largest trade fair for interactive games and entertainment. Massively's on the scene in 2012, bringing you all the best scoops, impressions, and interviews from the MMOs at the show!

MassivelyGamescom 2012: Guild Wars 2 giveaway for Gamescom attendees originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 Aug 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetcologneconconventionconvention-season-is-upon-usexpofantasygamescomgamescom-2012germanygiveawayguild-wars-2gw2hall-8ncsofttalk-to-martin-aidan-david-stephane-melanie-or-ramonTue, 14 Aug 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you expect big news from this week's confluence of conventions?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/12/the-daily-grind-do-you-expect-big-news-from-this-weeks-conflue/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/12/the-daily-grind-do-you-expect-big-news-from-this-weeks-conflue/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/12/the-daily-grind-do-you-expect-big-news-from-this-weeks-conflue/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Or maybe you'll just be gaming all of next week and won't realize until Friday that there was stuff going on this week. That might actually be more fun.
GDC Europe, GenCon Indy, and Gamescom all happening at the same time? It'd be completely unbelievable if it weren't happening right now. This week sees three major gaming conventions all taking place, and while all three are focusing on different areas of the gaming world, you can't focus on one while ignoring the others. That means that next week is going to be full of coverage of all three events, and if you've been following the convention calendar, you're no doubt eagerly anticipating this.

But will there be any major news? After all, sometimes these events don't produce news so much as a few interesting footnotes. With so much gaming concentrated in a single week, it would almost make more sense to wait until the ruckus has died down to make any big announcements. So do you expect big news from this week's convention extravaganza? Or do you expect a whole lot of noise and not a lot of signal?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do you expect big news from this week's confluence of conventions? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 12 Aug 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>announcementsconventionsculturedaily-grindgamescom-2012gaming-conventionsgdc-europe-2012gencon-indy-2012major-conventionsnewsopiniontdgthe-daily-grindSun, 12 Aug 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Firefall's new eSports Toolkit allows better viewing of matches]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/10/firefalls-new-esports-toolkit-allows-better-viewing-of-matches/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/10/firefalls-new-esports-toolkit-allows-better-viewing-of-matches/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/10/firefalls-new-esports-toolkit-allows-better-viewing-of-matches/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Firefall's new eSports Toolkit allows better viewing of matches
Red 5 Studios knows that it's not always just about playing Firefall -- it's also about watching matches. Whether you want to check out your friends as they battle in the upcoming free-to-play shooter or you want to get a good look at your competition, the new eSports Toolkit will allow spectators to see the action as it unfolds. It also gives shoutcasters various tools to enhance their broadcasts.

Spectators will be able to watch matches in observer mode in which viewers can utilize an assortment of static cameras, follow players, or even check out the whole map and get a bird's-eye view. Viewers have the added bonus of being able to pause, rewind, fast-forward, and even watch the action in slow motion. Shoutcasters enjoy extra features in the broadcast mode, which will allow for free-flight across the map, the ability to access and display player stats, and the ability to switch between multiple camera views to highlight the best action. Together, these features will improve the spectator's overall experience.

The eSports Toolkit will be featured at the Firefall beta tournament at Gamescom 2012. For a preview of the different modes, check out the video after the break.

[Source: Red 5 Studios press release]

Continue reading Firefall's new eSports Toolkit allows better viewing of matches

MassivelyFirefall's new eSports Toolkit allows better viewing of matches originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 Aug 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eSport-toolkitesportsf2pfirefallfirefall-beta-tournamentfirst-person-shooterfpsfree-to-playgamescom-2012mmo-shootermmofpspvpred-5red-5-studiossci-fishootershoutcastingspectatorswarFri, 10 Aug 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World's first raid debuts at Gamescom]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/09/the-secret-worlds-first-raid-debuts-at-gamescom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/09/the-secret-worlds-first-raid-debuts-at-gamescom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/09/the-secret-worlds-first-raid-debuts-at-gamescom/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World's first raid debuts at Gamescom
Remember that badass CG trailer for The Secret World that featured four of the game's factional NPCs joining forces to duke it out with a big nasty in the remains of New York City? Well, that might be our first clue about TSW's next update.

Funcom's new content initiative continues at next week's Gamescom event as the firm will be releasing details of The Secret World's first raid encounter. According to a report at IncGamers, the raid will "involve a giant monster crawling out of the subway system [and] attacking a partially destroyed New York."

We don't know for sure whether the old trailer is related to the new raid, but there are a lot of similarities (including an errant subway car and what looks like the blasted remains of the Big Apple). See for yourself after the break.

Continue reading The Secret World's first raid debuts at Gamescom

MassivelyThe Secret World's first raid debuts at Gamescom originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 Aug 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SWTOR demoing Ancient Hypergates warzone at Gamescom
If you happen to be heading to Cologne for Gamescom this month and are a fan of Star Wars PvP, you might want to swing by ol' booth B-082 to get your mitts on the Ancient Hypergates warzone. BioWare stated that this upcoming Star Wars: The Old Republic warzone will be playable at the convention.

The studio said that attendees will be able to experience the warzone with either their actual character or a new one rolled on the spot. There's even the possibility that a developer might step in to duke it out alongside players as well.

EA BioWare will be announcing additional details about SWTOR's future at the convention and has announced both prizes and a meet-and-greet for its fans.

Gamescom takes place from August 16th through 19th.

MassivelySWTOR demoing Ancient Hypergates warzone at Gamescom originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 Aug 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ancient-hypergatesbiowaredemoeaelectronic-artseventf2pfree-to-playgamescomgamescom-2012lucasartspvpsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorthe-old-republictorwarzoneWed, 08 Aug 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet posts convention schedule]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/07/arenanet-posts-convention-schedule/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/07/arenanet-posts-convention-schedule/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/07/arenanet-posts-convention-schedule/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

ArenaNet posts convention schedule
With Guild Wars 2's launch mere weeks away, hunting down the ArenaNet team at tradeshows may be the last thing from your mind. Still, there are those inquisitive souls who like to keep tabs on their favorite studio appearances, and for them the company posted a list of shows that it will be attending.

While ArenaNet will have a presence at Gamescom, it will be demo-free and far more casual in tone. The studio will also be making an appearance at the Gamestop Expo on August 29th for five hours. This appearance will feature several demo machines for those still on the fence about Guild Wars 2. Due to the launch, ArenaNet decided not to go to PAX but is instead hosting a party off-site on September 1st to celebrate the game's release.

ArenaNet also commented on why it's sticking with DX9 for GW2 instead of DX11: "Our goal with GW2 has always been to provide a gorgeous fantasy world while at the same time running on a wide range of gaming PCs. Focusing on DX9 allows us to do this, as it's a much wider supported graphics API than DX11 is and we wanted our game to reach as many of our fans as possible. We will be evaluating supporting DX11 post launch."

MassivelyArenaNet posts convention schedule originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Aug 2012 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetconventionsfantasygamescomgamescom-2012gamestop-expogamestop-expo-2012guild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw2ncsoftpaxpenny-arcade-expotrade-showstradeshowsTue, 07 Aug 2012 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Trion showing off RIFT expansion, Defiance PvP at Gamescom]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/07/trion-showing-off-rift-expansion-defiance-pvp-at-gamescom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/07/trion-showing-off-rift-expansion-defiance-pvp-at-gamescom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/07/trion-showing-off-rift-expansion-defiance-pvp-at-gamescom/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Trion showing off RIFT expansion, Defiance PvP at Gamescom
Gamescom is coming next week, and most major publishers are gearing up to make the trip. The latest announcement comes to us from Trion, which is showing its stable of games including RIFT, End of Nations, Defiance, and Warface.

Next week's convention will mark the "consumer debut" of RIFT's Storm Legion expansion, and MMORTS End of Nations will be playable on a massive 24-PC setup. Defiance is bringing "previously unseen PvP gameplay" to the table, while Warface will be presented inside a giant helicopter-themed display arena.

[Source: Trion press release]

MassivelyTrion showing off RIFT expansion, Defiance PvP at Gamescom originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Aug 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkark-hunterarkfallconquestconventionsdefianceend-of-nationseoneventsf2pfantasyfpsfree-to-playgamescomgamescom-2012mmofpsmmortspetroglyphpetroglyph-gamespvpreal-world-eventsriftrift-literift-planes-of-telarartsrvrsci-fisyfythree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptransmedia-synergytriontrion-worldstvwarwarfacexboxTue, 07 Aug 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Neverwinter content on display at Gamescom]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/07/new-neverwinter-content-on-display-at-gamescom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/07/new-neverwinter-content-on-display-at-gamescom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/07/new-neverwinter-content-on-display-at-gamescom/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

New Neverwinter content on display at Gamescom
Perfect World is heading to Gamescom next week, and the company is bringing its highly anticipated Neverwinter MMO along for the ride.

A company press release promises "an exclusive first-look at unseen content with new features being revealed." A public event set in the Black Dagger Ruins will be playable. The event, called Storming the Keep, requires players to join forces and reclaim a fortress that has been overrun by bandits.

Neverwinter was originally designed as a five-player dungeon crawl. Perfect World has since expanded the concept into a full-fledged free-to-play MMO based in Dungeons and Dragons' Forgotten Realms campaign setting.

[Source: Perfect World press release]

MassivelyNew Neverwinter content on display at Gamescom originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Aug 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmocrypticcryptic-studiosdndf2pfantasyfree-to-playgamescomgamescom-2012neverwinterneverwinter-gamescomperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwestorming-the-keepTue, 07 Aug 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Cash prizes, tournaments, and hero spotlights]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/06/not-so-massively-cash-prizes-tournaments-and-hero-spotlights/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/06/not-so-massively-cash-prizes-tournaments-and-hero-spotlights/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/06/not-so-massively-cash-prizes-tournaments-and-hero-spotlights/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
For those with the skills to enter competitive gaming tournaments, there are huge cash prizes to be won. The Major League Gaming League of Legends summer tournament ended this week with $10,000 US going to Azubu Blaze, and Moscow 5 narrowly beat bitter rival CLG.eu to win the $15,000 US top prize in the ECC Poland tournament. Dota 2 continued to update its in-game tournament access and spectator modes in preparation for upcoming major tournaments.

Firefall announced a massive €10,000 EU beta tournament due to take place this month live at Gamescom 2012. If you aren't the competitive gaming type, you might be interested in Blacklight: Retribution's 30 Days of Fight event that lets players win raffle tickets for daily prizes of $1,000 for an entire month.

Console MOBA Guardians of Middle-earth revealed its new champions this week, support mage Galadriel and tanky warrior Uglúk from Lord of the Rings lore. Heroes of Newerth showed off its new melee strength hero Rally, and SMITE revealed Egyptian god Anhur, Slayer of Enemies. Finally, Diablo III released a hotfix to address the rubber-banding problems that have been affecting players recently, and an odd bug has surfaced that could potentially be duplicating items.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Cash prizes, tournaments, and hero spotlights

MassivelyNot So Massively: Cash prizes, tournaments, and hero spotlights originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 06 Aug 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgactivisionanhurazubu-blazebattlenetblacklightblacklight-retributionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbugcashcash-prizesclgclg-eucompetitive-gamingconsolecounter-logic-gamingd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-3-dupediablo-iidiablo-iiidiablo-iii-dupedotadota-2dupeduplicatee-sporte-sportsesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfpsfree-to-playgaladrielgamescomGamescom-2012gothic-fantasyheroes-of-newerthhi-rez-studioshonitem-dupeitem-duplicationleague-of-legendslollord-of-the-ringslotrmiddle-earthmmofpsmobamonolithmonolith-studiosmoscow-5multiplayernewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayerperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentplaystation-networkps3psnpvppwerallyriotriot-gamesround-uprounduprpgs2s2-gamessmiteteam-solo-midtournamentUglúkuglukvalvevideowarcraftwarner-brosworld-of-warcraftwowxboxxbox-360xbox-livexbox360zombie-studiosMon, 06 Aug 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Firefall beta tournament to debut at gamescom]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/03/firefall-beta-tournament-to-debut-at-gamescom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/03/firefall-beta-tournament-to-debut-at-gamescom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/03/firefall-beta-tournament-to-debut-at-gamescom/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Firefall beta tournament to debut at gamescom
What do Firefall, 10,000 euros, and Gamescom have in common? Europe's first Firefall beta tournament! Red 5 Studios is partnering with Electronic Sports League (ESL) to bring attendees of gamescom 2012 the opportunity to participate in this tournament and battle it out for a grand prize of 10,000 euros.

Registration and the tournament qualifiers will start on Thursday, the 16th of August, at the ESL Arena and continue through the 17th. On Saturday the 18th, the qualifying players will compete for the prize money on the ESL stage in front of spectators. Fans who are anticipating the free-to-play shooter but are unable to attend can watch the finals streamed live at www.esl.tv.

[Source: Red 5 Studios press release]

MassivelyFirefall beta tournament to debut at gamescom originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Aug 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Otherland screenshot
Next month, the eyes of the gaming world will turn toward Cologne, Germany, as developers and fans converge at Gamescom 2012. In preparation, Gamigo has announced the line-up of games it will be presenting at this year's convention. Visitors will be able to try their hands at UFO Online and Jagged Alliance Online in the public area. Folks who can't make it to the convention won't have very long to wait to experience these games for themselves; UFO Online is set for open beta testing on August 23rd, while Jagged Alliance Online is scheduled to leave beta shortly after the convention.

Although not open for public play, Otherland, Grimlands, and Black Prophecy Tactics: Nexus Conflict will be available for members of the press to dive into. Keep an eye out for impressions on these titles!

[Source: Gamigo press release]

MassivelyGamigo to bring UFO Online and more to Gamescom 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 Jul 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mists of Pandaria screenshot
Folks attending Gamescom 2012 in Cologne, Germany, will be the first to feast their eyes on the opening cinematic for World of Warcraft's next expansion, Mists of Pandaria.

Blizzard will also be showcasing the game itself as well as Diablo III and StarCraft II: Heart of the Swarm. Players can check out the games and also meet members of the development team. If you happen to be at the convention, be sure to check out the company's booth in Halle 6.1 (B21) at the Koelnmesse.

MassivelyMists of Pandaria opening cinematic will premiere at Gamescom 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Jun 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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