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[PAX South 2015: Pox Nora is the coolest online card game you've never heard of]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/pax-south-2015-pox-nora-is-the-coolest-online-card-game-you-ve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/pax-south-2015-pox-nora-is-the-coolest-online-card-game-you-ve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/pax-south-2015-pox-nora-is-the-coolest-online-card-game-you-ve/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

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

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

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arthur-griffithconconventiondesert-owl-gameseventevent-coverageeventsexpof2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumhalf-featurehands-oninterviewinterviewsmassively-event-coveragemicrotransactionmicrotransactionspaxpax-2015pax-southpax-south-2015penny-arcade-expopox-norapoxnorapremiumturn-basedMon, 26 Jan 2015 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX South 2015: Life is Feudal revives the good ol' MMO feel]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/pax-south-2015-life-is-feudal-revives-the-good-ol-mmo-feel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/pax-south-2015-life-is-feudal-revives-the-good-ol-mmo-feel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/pax-south-2015-life-is-feudal-revives-the-good-ol-mmo-feel/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The good ol' MMO feel
When the assignment for Life Is Feudal came to me, I questioned why I was covering a game that really didn't seem to be an MMORPG in my eyes because of its separate servers and the survival feel of the setting. It felt to me initially that I was covering another DayZ, one set in a medieval era and no zombies. But as I found out at this year's PAX South, I was completely wrong.

Interestingly, I didn't find out what kind of mistake I made from the head honcho of Bitbox, Vladimir Piskunov. I found out from someone who has been playing for a long time and was invited to play at the Life Is Feudal booth. His name is Bill, and he's the "superfan" who demoed the game for me. He explained the ins and outs of the mechanics until I started having Ultima Online flashbacks. We discussed the skill system and trekked around the world, and then reminded me that LiF will eventually be an MMORPG. And I could certainly see how. If sandboxes are your thing as they are mine, then maybe this game is up our alley.

Continue reading PAX South 2015: Life is Feudal revives the good ol' MMO feel

MassivelyPAX South 2015: Life is Feudal revives the good ol' MMO feel originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Jan 2015 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conconventioneventevent-coverageeventsexpofeaturedhalf-featureinterviewinterviewslife-is-feudalmassively-event-coverageopen-worldpaxpax-2015pax-southpax-south-2015penny-arcade-expoSandboxvladimir-piskunovMon, 26 Jan 2015 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX South 2015: Moonrise and State of Decay shine at the Undead Labs booth]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/pax-south-2015-moonrise-and-state-of-decay-shine-at-the-undead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/pax-south-2015-moonrise-and-state-of-decay-shine-at-the-undead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/pax-south-2015-moonrise-and-state-of-decay-shine-at-the-undead/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidconconsoleconventioneventevent-coverageeventsexpof2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumhalf-featurehands-oninterviewinterviewsioskindle-firemassively-event-coveragemicrotransactionmicrotransactionsmobilemoonrisepaxpax-2014pax-2015pax-primepax-prime-2014pax-southpax-south-2015penny-arcade-expopokemonpremiumstate-of-decaysteamundead-labsxboxxbox-oneMon, 26 Jan 2015 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX South 2015: Camelot Unchained's proactive approach to community management]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/25/pax-south-2015-camelot-unchaineds-proactive-approach-to-commun/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/25/pax-south-2015-camelot-unchaineds-proactive-approach-to-commun/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/25/pax-south-2015-camelot-unchaineds-proactive-approach-to-commun/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

A different kind of community management
In the crowdfunded independent industry, we are starting to see some ups and downs. Backers have seen some games fail and other games soar. One of those games that seems to be doing very well, at least if you ask its Community Manager Jenesee Grey and its legions of fans, is Camelot Unchained. At this weekend's PAX South, I spoke to Grey about her experience as a CM for a crowdfunded game.

Continue reading PAX South 2015: Camelot Unchained's proactive approach to community management

MassivelyPAX South 2015: Camelot Unchained's proactive approach to community management originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 25 Jan 2015 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Guild Wars 2: Heart of Thorns
ArenaNet's Mike O'Brien and Colin Johanson (and Commander Shepard) took to the PAX South 2015 stage yesterday morning to announce Heart of Thorns, the first-ever expansion for Guild Wars 2. If you're not up to speed, check out our post covering the announcement and the official site to get the broad strokes on the expansion's new zone, new profession, new progression system, and more.

News of the expansion raised many a question from our readers (and our staff!). Massively's Larry Everett and I sat down with O'Brien and Johanson to try to get those questions answered and dive a little deeper into the changes coming to Guild Wars 2's living world.

And no, there isn't a release date.

Continue reading PAX South 2015: O'Brien and Johanson on Guild Wars 2's Heart of Thorns

MassivelyPAX South 2015: O'Brien and Johanson on Guild Wars 2's Heart of Thorns originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 25 Jan 2015 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Untitled Game, better known as TUG, is one of the many recent titles that have earned a small crowdfunding fortune by shouting the word "sandbox" as loud as the internet will allow. The game's initial Kickstarter campaign raised $293,000; launching on Steam's Early Access marketplace helped Nerd Kingdom rake in an unspecified amount of additional dollars. The studio had a bold plan for an open-world, innovative crafting MMORPG, and it appeared as though players were ready to pay for it.

Things haven't gone so swimmingly since then. Funding issues in late 2014 forced the studio to lay off around half of its staff. Many MMO industry followers have been wondering whether the project will ever be released or it's just another crowdfunded pipe dream.

I took a look at TUG on the show floor at PAX South 2015 and talked to COO Brennan Priest about crowdfunding, layoffs, and killing things with axes. The one thing I can say for sure is that there is definitely a game here, and it seems as if it could be a good one.

Continue reading PAX South 2015: The Untitled Game is whatever you want it to be

MassivelyPAX South 2015: The Untitled Game is whatever you want it to be originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 24 Jan 2015 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalpha-testalpha-testingbetabrennan-priestconconventioncrowdfundingeventevent-coverageeventsexpofeaturedfundingfundraisinghalf-featurehands-oninterviewinterviewskickstartermassively-event-coveragenerd-kingdompaxpax-2015pax-southpax-south-2015penny-arcade-exposandboxtestingthe-untitled-gametugSat, 24 Jan 2015 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX South 2015: Garriott and Long talk Shroud of the Avatar]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/24/pax-south-2015-garriott-and-long-talk-shroud-of-the-avatar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/24/pax-south-2015-garriott-and-long-talk-shroud-of-the-avatar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/24/pax-south-2015-garriott-and-long-talk-shroud-of-the-avatar/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

SOTA
In 2013, Ultima Online creator Richard Garriott took to Kickstarter in the hopes of funding an old-school, sandbox-y MMO. Titled Shroud of the Avatar, the new project would be built in Unity and aimed squarely at those MMO fans who longed for the days of player-driven economies, crafting as a focus instead of a side activity, and the ability to impact the game world in a real way.

The plan worked. Shroud of the Avatar pulled $1.9 million on Kickstarter alone, almost doubling its $1 million funding goal. Since then, the team has been hard at work bringing Garriott's vision to life (and keeping backers happy).

I spoke with Garriott on the PAX South 2015 show floor about crowdfunding, loot, and the mistakes of the modern RPG. I also got to play a bit of SOTA with the help of executive producer Starr Long, who kindly did not make fun of me when I was killed by the second mob in the demo.

Continue reading PAX South 2015: Garriott and Long talk Shroud of the Avatar

MassivelyPAX South 2015: Garriott and Long talk Shroud of the Avatar originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 24 Jan 2015 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Elite: Dangerous
Readers of the Choose My Adventure column may remember that I spent the month of September smuggling beer, shooting NPCs, and dodging space rocks in Frontier Developments' Elite: Dangerous. Though the game was in early beta, I found lots to do and lots to love about the space simulator that isn't that other space simulator. Realistic physics, challenging flight controls, and beautiful design work made the game stand out to me as unique and promising (other Massively staffers seem to agree), and I've revisited it since and enjoyed it every time.

Thus, I jumped at the chance to check Elite out again at PAX South 2015, this time with the experience enhanced by a rad HOTAS setup and the ever-so-popular Oculus Rift. Guided by producer Eddie Symons, I bluffed my way through a combat demo and discovered that when it comes to shooting things in space, being able to look and fly separately is a great thing indeed.

Continue reading PAX South 2015: Hangin' with Frontier, playin' Elite on the Oculus Rift

MassivelyPAX South 2015: Hangin' with Frontier, playin' Elite on the Oculus Rift originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Jan 2015 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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planetside 2
Today, PlanetSide 2 has taken another large step for gamerkind by embarking on the closed beta test for its PlayStation 4 version. To help clarify the process of bringing this sci-fi shooter to this console, we sat down with SOE Executive Producer Clint Worley and peppered him with nine eight vital questions.

Massively: Can you go into some of the logistics of adapting PlanetSide 2 to the PlayStation 4?

Clint Worley: PlanetSide 2 has its own identity, and it is important for us to stay true to that, even on the PS4. Our main focus has been on a redesigned user interface that makes navigation easier for players using the Dualshock 4 controller. Player customization, navigation, and organization are all critical elements that require intuitive controls. The team has done a few passes on the user interface, and now it is time to get it in front of the players. We are looking forward to getting player feedback and tuning the experience for the launch of the game.

Continue reading Nine questions for PlanetSide 2's PlayStation 4 closed beta

MassivelyNine questions for PlanetSide 2's PlayStation 4 closed beta originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Jan 2015 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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warcraft
In an interview with 2P.com, Director Duncan Jones said that there are no current plans for a Warcraft movie sequel, but he's open to the possibility if 2016's film does well: "Hopefully, if I have done my job right, people will want to know and see more! There is certainly plenty more to tell!"

Jones discussed how the movie will focus on the tragic first contact between Orcs and Humans, with heroes on both sides. "I think that for a world with so much newness to explain, this was a wise choice, especially when so many people in our audience may not know anything about Warcraft," he said. "It was important that some of our characters would be seeing the world fresh as well, and that the audience could see the situation through their eyes."

When asked about the possibility of a cross-promotional effort between World of Warcraft and the movie, Jones said that there are "many ideas" on the table right now but offered up no specifics.

MassivelyWarcraft movie director open to sequels, hints at WoW cross-promotion originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Jan 2015 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcross-promotionduncan-jonesfantasyinterviewmoviesequelswarcraftwarcraft-movieworld-of-warcraftwowwow-movieWed, 07 Jan 2015 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pathfinder Online's Ryan Dancey on early adopter experience bonuses]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/07/pathfinder-onlines-ryan-dancey-on-early-adopter-experience-bonu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/07/pathfinder-onlines-ryan-dancey-on-early-adopter-experience-bonu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/07/pathfinder-onlines-ryan-dancey-on-early-adopter-experience-bonu/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Pathfinder Online
On yesterday's Massively Speaking podcast, Justin and I discussed Pathfinder Online's plans for granting its earliest and most loyal players what seems to be the ultimate character bonus: an experience edge over everyone else, forever. I'll let the Pathfinder Online dev post Hard is Fun! explain verbatim:
Our game uses a unique real-time based XP system. Characters gain XP through the passage of time, not through being logged in. So the characters that are created in the first month will be the characters with the most XP for all time. A special perk will be in effect that backdates XP to the start of Early Enrollment for the first month so no matter when you purchase an account, if you create a character in Month 1, you'll have that maximum XP.
Usually games with offline experience systems also have either a hard cap or a diminishing returns mechanic to avoid the core "sandbox problem" -- that those who get to the sandbox first perpetually have the most power because they claim all the best toys (and so on). But as written, the Pathfinder Online system seems to exacerbate rather than fix that problem by promising "pioneers" more power in the form of permanently more experience.

Suspecting there was more to the plan, we asked Goblinworks' Ryan Scott Dancey to explain just how it plans to balance its concessions to early backers with its presumed desire to attract newbie players in the more distant future. He's done so, in detail, for us today.

Continue reading Pathfinder Online's Ryan Dancey on early adopter experience bonuses

MassivelyPathfinder Online's Ryan Dancey on early adopter experience bonuses originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Jan 2015 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backerscrowdfundingearly-enrollmentexperiencefantasyfeaturedgoblinworksinterviewinterviewspathfinderpathfinder-onlinepnpryan-danceyryan-scott-danceysandboxsandparkWed, 07 Jan 2015 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[See Ascent's warp effect in action]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/01/see-ascents-warp-effect-in-action/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/01/see-ascents-warp-effect-in-action/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/01/see-ascents-warp-effect-in-action/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

ascent
While it may look like a Photoshop paint smear effect, Ascent's new warp animation is certainly an improvement over nothing at all. The one-man team posted a short video showing various ships going through warp gates and bending the very fabric of reality as they lunge across the universe.

Ascent is fresh off a successful Kickstarter campaign. You can watch the warp video after the jump.

Continue reading See Ascent's warp effect in action

MassivelySee Ascent's warp effect in action originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Jan 2015 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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lotro
Following yesterday's article discussing current research on psychology and MMOs, we have today our conversation with Dr. Rachel Kowert herself, the lead author on the paper that originally prompted these articles. Kowert, unlike many other researchers in her field, has established gamer cred; her earliest experiences were playing basic games on a Tandy computer with her brother, but the first game to really grab her was Super Mario Brothers. Her favorite game of all time is Final Fantasy 6 (Final Fantasy 3 in the US), and most recently she's played Banished and The Sims 4.

Late in Kowert's Master's degree studies, her supervisor told her about an influx of parents expressing concern about their children's gaming habits. Finding information on the topic to help ease concerns proved difficult due to a severe lack of on-point research. This is what prompted her to switch her research focus to game studies.

Continue reading MMOs and gaming psychology, part two: Interview with a researcher

MassivelyMMOs and gaming psychology, part two: Interview with a researcher originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 30 Dec 2014 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alone-togetheremotional-sensitivityfeaturedfor-sciencegame-cultureinterviewinterviewspsychologyrachel-kowertscienceshyshynessSocial-SciencessocializationTue, 30 Dec 2014 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMOs and gaming psychology, part one: The research]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/29/mmos-and-gaming-psychology-part-one-the-research/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/29/mmos-and-gaming-psychology-part-one-the-research/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/29/mmos-and-gaming-psychology-part-one-the-research/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Photographer: Lars Frantzen
Last month, Massively wrote a short article about research on the relationship between shyness and online game friendships. The topic is of interest to me not just because of the MMO connection but because I myself am someone who used to identify myself as shy but believe online games help me cope with and surmount it. Games are what I rely on to help myself meet new people as cultural and language barriers prevent me, an American, from making strong attachments in Japan, the country where I live and work.

In preparing for this two-part article, I spoke to the research paper's lead author, Dr. Rachel Kowert, who helpfully provided me with a reader's digest version of recent research in this subfield of psychology. Tomorrow, we'll tackle our interview with Dr. Kowert herself, but today, we'll have a look at the research to bring us all up to speed.

Continue reading MMOs and gaming psychology, part one: The research

MassivelyMMOs and gaming psychology, part one: The research originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 29 Dec 2014 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>emotional-sensitivityfeaturedfor-sciencegame-cultureinterviewinterviewspsychologyrachel-kowertscienceshyshynessSocial-SciencessocializationMon, 29 Dec 2014 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Shroud of the Avatar's Richard Garriott and Starr Long on how SOTA wins at player-generated content]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/26/garriott-and-long-show-how-shroud-of-the-avatar-wins-at-player-g/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/26/garriott-and-long-show-how-shroud-of-the-avatar-wins-at-player-g/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/26/garriott-and-long-show-how-shroud-of-the-avatar-wins-at-player-g/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Garriott and Long show how Shroud of the Avatar wins at player-generated content
When you sit down to talk with Portalarium's Richard Garriott and Starr Long about Shroud of the Avatar, you hear much more than can possibly fit in just one article! Even though its currently in development, there's a lot to this title. Last week's Some Assembly Required focused on the upcoming sandbox's community aspect; as promised, this week's edition delves into SotA's amazing player-generated content capabilities. It's not surprising that PGC would be so prevalent in-game when these two devs have emphasized the importance of making a living, breathing, immersive world for players. When you get a great community together and then give it tools and freedom to create, what happens is phenomenal. As Long put it, "It's really humbling for me and the team to see what these players are willing to do... what they're doing with what we're giving them."

Read on, my friends, and see why Shroud of the Avatar may very well be the reigning king of the PGC hill even before it actually releases! (There might be a few morsels about upcoming development thrown in as well.)

Continue reading Shroud of the Avatar's Richard Garriott and Starr Long on how SOTA wins at player-generated content

MassivelyShroud of the Avatar's Richard Garriott and Starr Long on how SOTA wins at player-generated content originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 26 Dec 2014 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatarcrowdfundingfantasyfeaturedgame-mechanicsinterviewinterviewskickstarterking-of-pgclord-britishopinionpgcplayer-contentplayer-generated-contentrichard-garriottsandboxsarshroudshroud-of-the-avatarsome-assembly-requiredSOTAstarr-longFri, 26 Dec 2014 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: CM Ryan Collins dishes on Marvel Heroes' X-23 and Venom (who launches tomorrow)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/18/the-stream-team-cm-ryan-collins-dishes-on-marvel-heroes-x-23-a/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/18/the-stream-team-cm-ryan-collins-dishes-on-marvel-heroes-x-23-a/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/18/the-stream-team-cm-ryan-collins-dishes-on-marvel-heroes-x-23-a/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The new heroes (and villains) may be coming too fast for Massively's MJ to keep up, but that won't stop her from checking out every single one in Marvel Heroes! And this time around, she has Creative Designer and Community Manager Ryan Collins to help show the newest additions off. Not only will Collins demonstrate X-23, but he plans to dish some details on Venom as well. Join us live at 7:00 p.m. to revel in the newest heroes and ask those burning Marvel Heroes questions!

Game: Marvel Heroes
Host: MJ Guthrie
Date: Thursday, December 18th, 2014
Time: 7:00 p.m. EST

Enjoy our Stream Team video below.

Continue reading The Stream Team: CM Ryan Collins dishes on Marvel Heroes' X-23 and Venom (who launches tomorrow)

MassivelyThe Stream Team: CM Ryan Collins dishes on Marvel Heroes' X-23 and Venom (who launches tomorrow) originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Dec 2014 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionaction-mmof2pfree-to-playgazilliongazillion-entertainmentinterviewinterviewslivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamsmarvelmarvel-heroesmarvel-universemarvel-universe-onlinemassively-metamassively-tvMJ-Guthrie-livestreammuomv-tvmvtvryan-collinssecret-identitystreamstream-teamstreamingstreamteamsuperherosuperheroesthe-stream-teamtwitchtwitch-tvvideoThu, 18 Dec 2014 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Shroud of the Avatar's Richard Garriott and Starr Long on MMO community]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/18/shroud-of-the-avatars-richard-garriott-and-starr-long-on-mmo-co/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/18/shroud-of-the-avatars-richard-garriott-and-starr-long-on-mmo-co/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/18/shroud-of-the-avatars-richard-garriott-and-starr-long-on-mmo-co/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Some Assembly Required: Garriott and Long interview shows Shroud of the Avatar wins at community
If you've been making a list of sandbox features and checking it twice, chances are you'll find many of those items in Shroud of the Avatar. And if player-generated content and a great community are near the top of that list, then this crowdfunded title might very well be the present you want to get yourself! While still under development, this sandbox has already grown exponentially from its humble beginnings of a chicken in a room to a current state that includes a bevy of features -- with more arriving like clockwork every monthly update. And plenty of those features are tools and systems that allow players to make the game a personalized experience for themselves and others.

What about Shroud of the Avatar makes it so great for player-generated content? What makes the community great? And how has Steam affected the game? I sat down with Portalarium's Richard Garriott and Starr Long to talk about the move to Steam, updates, PGC, and the amazing community that's supporting the game. These guys had so much to share that this is only part one!

Continue reading Shroud of the Avatar's Richard Garriott and Starr Long on MMO community

MassivelyShroud of the Avatar's Richard Garriott and Starr Long on MMO community originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Dec 2014 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalpha-testalpha-testingavatarbetacommunitycrowdfundingfantasyfeaturedinterviewinterviewskickstarterlord-britishpgcplayer-generated-contentplayer-generated-missionsrichard-garriottshroudshroud-of-the-avatarSOTAstarr-longtestingThu, 18 Dec 2014 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Camelot Unchained's Mark Jacobs on the warrior class and development transparency]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/17/camelot-unchaineds-mark-jacobs-on-the-warrior-class-and-develop/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/17/camelot-unchaineds-mark-jacobs-on-the-warrior-class-and-develop/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/17/camelot-unchaineds-mark-jacobs-on-the-warrior-class-and-develop/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Camelot Unchained
City State Entertainment -- an indie studio that's becoming better known to our readers, I imagine, after it ran away with our poll for best studio last week -- has today posted its first class concept reveal. The tentatively named Drengr is the Viking warrior class, and in its long design document, the studio has outlined just how the archetype fits into the proposed Path system that will govern character development in the crowdfunded RvR MMORPG.

We spoke to CSE's Mark Jacobs about the Path system, warrior reveal, and the impact of transparency on the game development process. Enjoy the interview below!

Continue reading Camelot Unchained's Mark Jacobs on the warrior class and development transparency

MassivelyCamelot Unchained's Mark Jacobs on the warrior class and development transparency originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 17 Dec 2014 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>camelotcamelot-unchainedcity-statecity-state-entertainmentcsedevelopmentgame-developmentinterviewinterviewsmark-jacobspvprvrtransparencyWed, 17 Dec 2014 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Landmark's PvE arrives today; SOE shifts to EQ Next full-time in 2015]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/17/landmarks-pve-arrives-today-soe-shifts-to-eq-next-full-time-in/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/17/landmarks-pve-arrives-today-soe-shifts-to-eq-next-full-time-in/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/17/landmarks-pve-arrives-today-soe-shifts-to-eq-next-full-time-in/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

We've waited a long time for the chance to have our faces eaten off by vicious monsters in Landmark, and now that opportunity is almost here! After a bit of delay, the infamous PvE patch is heading into our favorite sandbox today. This is seriously going to be a game-changer. Of all the patches throughout the whole year, this one is the biggest -- surpassing the August PvP update and even the original alpha launch, at least according to Creative Director Dave Georgeson. And he's not kidding! I got to check out Landmark's new mobs, linking and triggering, armors, props, and more with Georgeson and Senior Producer Terry Michaels. I didn't think it was possible to be even more excited for this patch, but I am! Can I hear a squeeeee?!

Oh, and for everyone who is waiting anxiously for EverQuest Next news, here's a tidbit from Georgeson you might enjoy:
When we get to those game mastering systems [after the start of the year] that means we are working on EQN full time. Because those are the systems we need for EQN, and that's what we're building when we're building those game mastering tools. So we're so close to transitioning the team almost entirely to EQN, and then we'll take the elements that we build for EQN and port them over into Landmark, but our focus will shift almost entirely to EQN after the new year.

Continue reading Landmark's PvE arrives today; SOE shifts to EQ Next full-time in 2015

MassivelyLandmark's PvE arrives today; SOE shifts to EQ Next full-time in 2015 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 17 Dec 2014 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eqeq-2eq-iieq-nexteq-next-landmarkeq2eqiieqneqn-landmarkeqnexteqnleverquesteverquest-2everquest-iieverquest-nexteverquest-next-landmarkf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playinterviewinterviewslandmarknorrathnorrathian-notebookopinionpgcplayer-generated-contentsandboxsoesonysony-online-entertainmenttattered-notebookthe-tattered-notebookWed, 17 Dec 2014 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Elite: Dangerous has no offline mode for story reasons]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/15/elite-dangerous-has-no-offline-mode-for-story-reasons/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/15/elite-dangerous-has-no-offline-mode-for-story-reasons/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/15/elite-dangerous-has-no-offline-mode-for-story-reasons/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

These just keep going, huh.
Frontier Developments head honcho David Braben has been working overtime to defend the 11th-hour revelation that Elite: Dangerous will have no offline play option. A recent video interview with Braben includes his response to these issues; he states that it's not off the table, but it's incompatible with the way that the game handles storytelling. The game world is meant to change over time based on player actions, and it wasn't as functional without players being affected by each another.

Braben explains that the game's missions are generated in part by aggregates of player activity; if a majority of players choose to support a rebel faction on a given planet, for example, then that faction becomes more powerful, and the nature of missions related to those rebels changes. Keeping the game online ensures that these changes can be reflected in gameplay, making the experience more dynamic and engaging. The full interview also covers the details of beta testing and control setups, if you're not as interested in the fine details of staying online while playing in single-player mode.

Elite: Dangerous formally launches tomorrow.

MassivelyElite: Dangerous has no offline mode for story reasons originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Dec 2014 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabetasdangerousdavid-brabeneliteelite-dangerousfrontierfrontier-developmentsinternet-spaceshipinterviewinterviewskickstarternewsnews-itemsofflineoffline-playonlineonline-playsandboxsci-fispacespaceshipsMon, 15 Dec 2014 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Experiencing Legends PvE with the DC Universe Online devs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/10/experiencing-legends-pve-with-the-dc-universe-online-devs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/10/experiencing-legends-pve-with-the-dc-universe-online-devs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/10/experiencing-legends-pve-with-the-dc-universe-online-devs/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

DC Universe Online fans who've long wanted Legends PvE learned at SOE Live that the feature was finally on its way to the game. And now patience is about to pay off! Legends PvE is launching with GU43, along with plenty of other goodies like new underwater bases and a new legends character. There's even something for the PvPers: revamped arena award rules. Executive Producer Larry Liberty and Creative Director Jens Andersen recently led a media tour of this upcoming content, showcasing Deathstroke in all his Legends glory along with sharing a few other tidbits of news (like the release window for Amazon Fury Part II). As Liberty put it, "Game Update 43 wound up becoming quite a bit bigger than we initially anticipated."

Continue reading Experiencing Legends PvE with the DC Universe Online devs

MassivelyExperiencing Legends PvE with the DC Universe Online devs originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 10 Dec 2014 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoleconsolesdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuodeathstrokef2pfeaturedfree-to-playgu-43gu43interviewinterviewsJens-AndersenLarry-LibertyLegends-PvEplaystation-3playstation3ps3soesony-online-entertainmentsuperherosuperheroesWed, 10 Dec 2014 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Carbine's Chad Moore on WildStar's fresh focus on lore]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/09/carbines-chad-moore-on-wildstars-fresh-focus-on-lore/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/09/carbines-chad-moore-on-wildstars-fresh-focus-on-lore/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/09/carbines-chad-moore-on-wildstars-fresh-focus-on-lore/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Sure, you could make some jokes about corresponding events, but that just seems like a series of cheap shots.
There's a big focus on WildStar's lore recently. Aside from the big lore drops, dubbed "Loremageddon" by Carbine Studios, the game's official site has begun releasing a series of short stories detailing important moments in the game's history, from the first space voyage of the Cassian people to dealing with the Genesis Prime now. That's a lot of storytelling, the sort that should be continuing on well into next year.

We had a chance to sit down and ask a few questions of creative director Chad Moore regarding what we've seen thus far for the game and what the goals are with this renewed focus on the game's setting and story. If you'd like to know a little more about the setting and what players can expect from the ongoing history lesson, check out the interview just past the break. There's also a new story available today detailing the first contact between the Cassians and the Eldan.

Continue reading Carbine's Chad Moore on WildStar's fresh focus on lore

MassivelyCarbine's Chad Moore on WildStar's fresh focus on lore originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 09 Dec 2014 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backstorycarbinecarbine-studioschad-moorefeaturedfictiongame-historyhalf-featurehistoryinterviewinterviewslorencsoftnewsnews-itemssandparksci-fantasysci-fisetting-historywildstarwsTue, 09 Dec 2014 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Destiny's 10-year plan includes character-hopping to sequels]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/08/destinys-10-year-plan-includes-character-hopping-to-sequels/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/08/destinys-10-year-plan-includes-character-hopping-to-sequels/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/08/destinys-10-year-plan-includes-character-hopping-to-sequels/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

destiny
The strange approach of Destiny that has the game with one foot squarly planted in MMO territory and one firmly in the realm of standard console shooters has never been illustrated as strongly as in this story from IGN.

In the interview, Bungie said that players will be able to save and import characters and progress between Destiny and a proposed sequel while ignoring how MMOs simply build upon game worlds so that importing isn't necessary. One of the devs even expressed the revelation that players tend to form attachments to their avatars: "If you take a look at the way people have played other games for a long period of time, they've had a relationship with the same character for a very long time."

Bungie said it has "a 10-year plan for the expansion and evolution of this franchise."

MassivelyDestiny's 10-year plan includes character-hopping to sequels originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Dec 2014 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bungiecharacter-hoppingconsoledestinydestiny-sequelgame-hoppinginterviewsci-fisequelshooterMon, 08 Dec 2014 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Interview: Marvel Heroes' Magneto makes his mark]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/07/massively-interview-marvel-heroes-magneto-makes-his-mark/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/07/massively-interview-marvel-heroes-magneto-makes-his-mark/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/07/massively-interview-marvel-heroes-magneto-makes-his-mark/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

http://massively.joystiq.com/category/the-stream-team/
Heroes are all well and good, but there is plenty of fan love for the villains. There's just something about those bad boys and girls redeeming themselves that makes those characters so interesting. Gazillion knows this and has responded by releasing Magneto, the latest of the playable villains, to the Marvel Heroes lineup. Fans of Professor Xavier's long-time nemesis/friend can now jump in and command the forces of magnetism to defeat foes and destroy the environment. We chatted with Creative Designer and Community Manager Ryan Collins about this latest addition. We even gleaned a few snippets about the upcoming Axis One-Shots and got a release time-frame for the Spider Girl enhanced costume.

For those who want to see Magneto in action, we've also included his official trailer. You can also tune in to Massively TV on Monday, December 8th, at 9:00 p.m. EST to watch him live.

Continue reading Massively Interview: Marvel Heroes' Magneto makes his mark

MassivelyMassively Interview: Marvel Heroes' Magneto makes his mark originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 07 Dec 2014 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionaction-mmof2pfeaturedfree-to-playgazilliongazillion-entertainmenthalf-featureinterviewinterviewsmarvelmarvel-heroesmarvel-universemarvel-universe-onlinemuoryan-collinssecret-identitysuperherosuperheroestrailertrailersvideovideosSun, 07 Dec 2014 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WoW, Guild Wars 2, and ArcheAge are ZergID users' top games]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/07/wow-guild-wars-2-and-archeage-are-zergid-users-top-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/07/wow-guild-wars-2-and-archeage-are-zergid-users-top-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/07/wow-guild-wars-2-and-archeage-are-zergid-users-top-games/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

ZergID
Back in November, we told you about ZergID, a new social networking website aimed specifically at MMO players who are looking for guilds (or friends from games past) across the MMOverse. We spoke to one of the project's founders, Scott Katz, to get more information on how the service's beta is shaping up.

Massively: How many guilds have signed up since the launch of beta?

Scott Katz, co-founder, Zerg Inc.: We have more than 650 guilds currently signed up for the site, with more joining each day.

Continue reading WoW, Guild Wars 2, and ArcheAge are ZergID users' top games

MassivelyWoW, Guild Wars 2, and ArcheAge are ZergID users' top games originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 07 Dec 2014 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredguildguildsinterviewinterviewsscott-katzsocial-mediazerg-inczergidSun, 07 Dec 2014 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tree of Savior might be getting published here according to an unofficial interview]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/05/tree-of-savior-might-be-getting-published-here-according-to-an-u/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/05/tree-of-savior-might-be-getting-published-here-according-to-an-u/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/05/tree-of-savior-might-be-getting-published-here-according-to-an-u/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

We're big fans! Please let us play the game?
Tree of Savior got a pretty strong showing at G-star 2014, where the staff announced that Nexon will be handling the publishing duties for the game in its native country. But what about worldwide releases? There might be hope yet. A fansite for the game has posted an interview with members of the imcGAMES staff who asked to remain anonymous. These anonymous interviewees state that the company is still looking into worldwide partners and has considered simply publishing the game itself in foreign markets.

Other revelations include the prospect of developing the game for mobile devices in the future and that the game will most likely work as a free-to-play title with a cash shop. The interview also notes that these statements may not reflect the official view of imcGAMES and are subject to change without notice. Still, the full interview is worth a look, even if you need to take everything with an appropriately sized grain of salt.

MassivelyTree of Savior might be getting published here according to an unofficial interview originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Dec 2014 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fantasyimcimc-gamesimcgamesinternationalinterviewinterviewsnewsnews-itemsnexonpublisherspublsihingq-and-atostree-of-saviortree-of-savior-onlineFri, 05 Dec 2014 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Chaos Theory: Hands-on with TSW's Issue #10 before today's release]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/04/chaos-theory-hands-on-with-tsws-issue-10-before-todays-relea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/04/chaos-theory-hands-on-with-tsws-issue-10-before-todays-relea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/04/chaos-theory-hands-on-with-tsws-issue-10-before-todays-relea/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Chaos Theory: A hands-on with TSW's Issue #10 before today's release
Yes, you read that right. When we told you earlier this week that The Secret World's second Tokyo expansion was coming soon, we bet you didn't think it'd be today, did you? Well, neither did we! But that's exactly what Director Joel Bylos shared with me while we we zipping around the newest area of Tokyo during a hands-on tour of Issue #10 Nightmares in the Dream Palace. If all goes according to plan, fans will be able to dig into the new content today -- much sooner than anticipated. And what's awaiting them? That's what this week's Chaos Theory reveals. Don't worry; I promise to warn you of any major spoilers.

Continue reading Chaos Theory: Hands-on with TSW's Issue #10 before today's release

MassivelyChaos Theory: Hands-on with TSW's Issue #10 before today's release originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Dec 2014 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3-faction3-factionsbuy-to-playchaos-theoryconspiracyconspiracy-thriillerdark-days-are-comingDLCdragonfactionfaction-pvpfantasyfeaturedfuncomhands-onhorrorilluminatiinterviewinterviewsIssue-10Issue-10-Nightmares-in-the-Dream-Palacejoel-bylosmythologyNightmares-in-the-Dream-Palaceopinionsci-fantasysecret-worldsecret-world-chaos-theoryskill-basedsubscriptionlesstemplarsthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-chaos-theorythree-factionthree-faction-pvpthree-factionstswtsw-chaos-theorytsw-dragonThu, 04 Dec 2014 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Interview: Burning Dog on Origin of Malu's do-over]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/30/massively-interview-burning-dog-on-origin-of-malus-do-over/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/30/massively-interview-burning-dog-on-origin-of-malus-do-over/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/30/massively-interview-burning-dog-on-origin-of-malus-do-over/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

When last we heard of the the indie sandbox Origins of Malu, Burning Dog Media had gone back to the drawing board for a do-over. The studio switched game engines, effectively starting the development process over again (again). But despite what some fans may fear, that isn't nearly as bad as it sounds! In fact, it's rather good news because players will be getting a far better game, and they won't have to wait very long to get it.

I sat down with Producer Michael Dunham to talk about the changes and get a look at the progress the team has made.

Continue reading Massively Interview: Burning Dog on Origin of Malu's do-over

MassivelyMassively Interview: Burning Dog on Origin of Malu's do-over originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 30 Nov 2014 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burning-dogburning-dog-mediafeaturedinterviewinterviewsmichael-dunhamoomoriginsorigins-of-malurelease-stagessandboxsci-fantasysci-fistagessteamunrealunreal-engineSun, 30 Nov 2014 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2's Leah Hoyer discusses the importance of story]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/26/guild-wars-2s-leah-hoyer-discusses-the-importance-of-story/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/26/guild-wars-2s-leah-hoyer-discusses-the-importance-of-story/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/26/guild-wars-2s-leah-hoyer-discusses-the-importance-of-story/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Story: let's me and you fight.
It's fair to say that Guild Wars 2 sells its story pretty highly, as living world progress and story updates are a major part of its content strategy. Head of narrative Leah Hoyer stated in a recent interview that this is one of the core things that games as a whole need to embrace: Story is important in getting players invested. Hoyer went on to say that while story lacks the central importance in games that it has in media like television, it's still an important element of player investment.

Still, she argues, it's harder to tell a good story in a game than it is in a television show, simply because the latter is focused only on story while the former cannot be. This doesn't mean that it's less important, nor does Hoyer feel that it justifies using lore and background as an excuse for not telling a story; a good story requires immediacy. While she believes that lore is highly important, it should help support storytelling rather than replace it. There's a lot of interesting thoughts in the full interview, so whether you like Guild Wars 2's take on story or not, it's well worth a look.

MassivelyGuild Wars 2's Leah Hoyer discusses the importance of story originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 26 Nov 2014 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbackgroundbackstorybuy-to-playfantasygame-narrativegame-storyguild-wars-2gw2interviewinterviewsleah-hoyerlorenarrativencsoftnewsnews-itemsstoryWed, 26 Nov 2014 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Interview: Designing Neverwinter's Tiamat]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/19/massively-interview-designing-neverwinters-tiamat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/19/massively-interview-designing-neverwinters-tiamat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/19/massively-interview-designing-neverwinters-tiamat/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

neverwinter
Massively: Neverwinter players are already facing off against a fearsome five-headed dragon in the game's newest module, Rise of Tiamat. To find out more about how the titular beast was created, we sat down with Senior Content Designer and Loremaster Randy Mosiondz. Randy, is this module the culmination of the game's story to date?

Randy Mosiondz: Yes, Rise of Tiamat marks the epic conclusion of the Tyranny of Dragons storyline! We introduced some notable figures featured in this plot in the Shadowmantle module. Then we had the rise of the Cult of the Dragon chronicled in the Tyranny of Dragons module with their attempts to build a hoard for Tiamat, as well as the fight with the dragon-worshipping barbarians on the island of Tuern. Finally, with Rise of Tiamat, we go to the Well of Dragons, an ancient dragon burial site where the Cult of the Dragon is attempting to lure Tiamat from the Nine Hells.

Continue reading Massively Interview: Designing Neverwinter's Tiamat

MassivelyMassively Interview: Designing Neverwinter's Tiamat originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 19 Nov 2014 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmocrypticcryptic-studiosdndf2pfantasyfree-to-playinterviewinterviewsmodule-5neverwinterperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweRandy-Mosiondzrise-of-tiamatWed, 19 Nov 2014 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Repopulation devs on the mission system and non-violent gameplay]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/19/the-repopulation-devs-on-the-mission-system-and-non-violent-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/19/the-repopulation-devs-on-the-mission-system-and-non-violent-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/19/the-repopulation-devs-on-the-mission-system-and-non-violent-game/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Blogger Werit has an exclusive Q&A with Above and Beyond, the team behind upcoming sci-fi sandbox The Repopulation. In it, the developers discuss dynamic missions, which are intended to provide "purpose" to players who crave it rather than to serve as the core means of advancement through the sandbox. In fact, you don't have to do the missions at all to advance your skills, and they'll tailor themselves to your character's choices along the way. Tendencies toward greed, shadiness, and crafting, for example, will all be reflected in mission offerings. "There are taming missions, underworld (thievery/assassination/smuggling) missions, crafting and harvesting missions, etc.," say the devs.

As for non-violent gameplay, there's plenty of it:
Our game and its economy are heavily trade skill oriented. Our crafting system is very complex and has a high degree of customization. Moreover crafted equipment is the top of the line. If you never wanted to pick up a gun, it's completely possible for you to just go out and harvest, or buy resources from other players and then do your crafting. I think most players will also do a little fighting, if for no other reason than mobs will jump you while your out harvesting.

But crafting advancement is not coupled in any way with combat advancement. There are other non-combat skills, as well. Things like the entertainment line which provides long-term buffs for players. Taming mobs to be trained as mounts and sold to other players. Diplomatic skills. Different players enjoy doing different types of things. And we've tried to cater to many playing styles, rather than forcing players down a combat oriented path.
Check out the full interview at Werit's Blog.

MassivelyThe Repopulation devs on the mission system and non-violent gameplay originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 19 Nov 2014 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiesinterviewinterviewsrepopulationsandboxsci-fithe-repopulationWed, 19 Nov 2014 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Warcraft vows faster expansion development]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/12/world-of-warcraft-vows-faster-expansion-development/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/12/world-of-warcraft-vows-faster-expansion-development/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/12/world-of-warcraft-vows-faster-expansion-development/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

wow
Many Azerothian eyes are fixed on tomorrow's release of World of Warcraft: Warlords of Draenor, but what happens after that? Will players face a severe content drought as they just did while they wait for expansion #6?

Lead Game Designer Ion Hazzikostas said that the team is pushing to increase the pace of expansion development: "Our goal is certainly to release expansions a little faster than we have been... we've increased the size of our team, and we feel like we're in a place where we should be able to move faster than before." He also fielded the eternal question of a hypothetical World of Warcraft 2, saying that the team would need "a different vision" and mechanics that allowed for new types of gameplay.

To help with your Warlords of Draenor countdown, Blizzard put out a few expansion-themed posters as well as an Age of Iron trailer that you can watch after the break!

Continue reading World of Warcraft vows faster expansion development

MassivelyWorld of Warcraft vows faster expansion development originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Nov 2014 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentdraenorexpansionfantasyinterviewIon-Hazzikostasposterstrailervideowarcraftwarlords-of-draenorwodworld-of-warcraftworld-of-warcraft-2wowwow-2Wed, 12 Nov 2014 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIV's Yoshida on housing, test servers, and post-Fanfest]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/12/final-fantasy-xivs-yoshida-on-housing-test-servers-and-post-f/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/12/final-fantasy-xivs-yoshida-on-housing-test-servers-and-post-f/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/12/final-fantasy-xivs-yoshida-on-housing-test-servers-and-post-f/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Two Massively employees in the same game at once? The world is madness. (No, you get no hints about who.)
Final Fantasy XIV has had a busy year, and it looks to be having a busy next year to boot. The game's first expansion is in the works and planned for a release in spring of 2015, along with another major patch to cap off the game's current patch cycle. And director/producer Naoki Yoshida continues steering the ship, working what I can only assume is a 200-hour week.

I had a chance to ask a few questions of Yoshida around the time of the first two fanfests of the year (the final one is scheduled for December in Tokyo), ranging from housing questions to the promise of public test servers to how hard it will be to establish an Eternal Bond. Jump on past the break to read the full interview!

Continue reading Final Fantasy XIV's Yoshida on housing, test servers, and post-Fanfest

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XIV's Yoshida on housing, test servers, and post-Fanfest originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Nov 2014 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoleconsolesexpansionfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivffxiv-heavenswardffxiv-patch-2.4final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgame-mechanicshalf-featureheavenswardhousinginterviesinterviewmechanicsnaoki-yoshidanewsnews-itemspatch-2.4player-housingsquaresquare-enixWed, 12 Nov 2014 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NCsoft 'sees a future' for WildStar]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/12/ncsoft-sees-a-future-for-wildstar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/12/ncsoft-sees-a-future-for-wildstar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/12/ncsoft-sees-a-future-for-wildstar/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

I also see a future for WildStar. I'm not sure it's the same future.
Eurogamer recently spoke to WildStar Creative Director Chad Moore and Product Director Mike Donatelli to counter concerns that WildStar is a "sinking ship." Fortunately for players, NCsoft, which controls Carbine, apparently doesn't think so. "They specialise in MMOs, that's what they do. And they see a future for WildStar," Donatelli explained. "And as far as NCsoft is concerned, they're going to support us, and I take them at their word for that when they've made a commitment to us for the future, so I feel very comfortable making that statement." Moore noted that Carbine still has "hundreds" of employees in spite of recent layoffs, and while he wouldn't outright condemn negative Glassdoor reviews, he did recommend they be taken "with a grain of salt."

Regarding sales, Donatelli told Eurogamer the game sold "many, many, many times" the hoped-for 250,000 boxes, but he doesn't mention current subs. Back in October, he told Massively that the game had "hundreds of thousands of active players." NCsoft declined to clarify that ambiguous phrasing when asked.

WildStar's Mystery of the Genesis Prime patch launched yesterday.

MassivelyNCsoft 'sees a future' for WildStar originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Nov 2014 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbinecarbine-studioschad-mooreinterviewinterviewsmike-donatellincsoftsandparksci-fantasysci-fiwildstarwsWed, 12 Nov 2014 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Norrathian Notebook: Talking EverQuest II's 10th anniversary with Holly Longdale]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/09/norrathian-notebook-talking-everquest-iis-10th-anniversary-wi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/09/norrathian-notebook-talking-everquest-iis-10th-anniversary-wi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/09/norrathian-notebook-talking-everquest-iis-10th-anniversary-wi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The big 1-0. EverQuest II has just joined the ranks of games in their double digits; today marks the 10th anniversary for the fantasy game. And while that's a pretty impressive feat in itself, just growing older isn't all that has happened to EQII in the past year. There have been plenty of content updates (and a change in how those update occur), holiday celebrations, and major news happenings during the course of the past 12 months.

However, instead of just highlighting the major events and changes of the year in a standard retrospective piece, I'm going to do something a little different this year. On top of wandering down memory lane, I've pulled in Senior Producer Holly Longdale to answer a few questions and address some current concerns on the minds of players. Longdale talks about the high price of both the Altar of Malice Collector's Edition and the new Aerakyn race as well as shares some fun facts about who's been working on the game since the beginning.

Continue reading Norrathian Notebook: Talking EverQuest II's 10th anniversary with Holly Longdale

MassivelyNorrathian Notebook: Talking EverQuest II's 10th anniversary with Holly Longdale originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 09 Nov 2014 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>akil-hooperaltar-of-maliceBrandon-McDonaldcontroveryeqeq-2eq-iieq-nexteq-next-landmarkeq2eqiieqneqn-landmarkeqnexteqnleverquesteverquest-2everquest-iieverquest-nexteverquest-next-landmarkf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playholly-longdaleinterviewinterviewsjohn-smedleylandmarkMaria-Del-Casinonew-contentnorrathnorrathian-notebookopinionretrospectiveSmedsoesonysony-online-entertainmenttattered-notebookthe-tattered-notebookTim-HeydelaarSun, 09 Nov 2014 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Touring DCUO's War of Light Part II before next week's release]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/08/touring-dcuos-war-of-light-part-ii-before-next-weeks-release/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/08/touring-dcuos-war-of-light-part-ii-before-next-weeks-release/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/08/touring-dcuos-war-of-light-part-ii-before-next-weeks-release/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The DC universe is a big one, and DC Universe Online has multiple storylines involving various heroes and villains playing out through its DLC trilogies. So far, however, only the first part of each trilogy has been available to play. But that's all about to change! Starting next week, players finally get to sink their teeth into the continuation of one when the second part of War of Light, which premiered earlier this year, finally releases. Members will be granted early access to War of Light Part II on November 11th while everyone else gets the DLC on the 18th (with the exception of European players who will get it on the 19th). But thanks to a tour with Creative Director Jens Andersen and Assistant Creative Director SJ Mueller, we didn't have to wait until next week to see what's in store.

Continue reading Touring DCUO's War of Light Part II before next week's release

MassivelyTouring DCUO's War of Light Part II before next week's release originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 08 Nov 2014 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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das tal
It's always great to get two things for the price of one, isn't it? Well, that's what you're going to get when you watch today's developer video from Das Tal, as it not only contains an interview with the game's art director but shows the sped-up creation process of one of Das Tal's pieces of concept art.

Art Director Michail Mamaschew discusses his priorities for each day's work, what programs he uses, where he gets his inspiration, and all of the aspects of art that he has to consider as he creates pieces for the team. You can watch the formation of concept art and listen to his interview after the jump!

Continue reading Watch the sped-up creation of Das Tal concept art

MassivelyWatch the sped-up creation of Das Tal concept art originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 Nov 2014 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaartbetaclosed-betadas-taldas-tal-summarydas-tal-videodev-diarydev-vlogfairytale-distilleryfantasyinterviewMichail-Mamaschewpvppvp-sandboxsandboxvideoWed, 05 Nov 2014 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Marvel Heroes' Juggernaut, multi-speccing, and upcoming story content]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/05/marvel-heroes-juggernaut-multi-speccing-and-upcoming-story-co/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/05/marvel-heroes-juggernaut-multi-speccing-and-upcoming-story-co/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/05/marvel-heroes-juggernaut-multi-speccing-and-upcoming-story-co/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

After a bit of a delay, Marvel Heroes fans saw the release of Juggernaut as a playable hero over the weekend. A new hero alone is enough for many players to dive in and try things out, but Juggernaut also comes with a power system unlike that of any other on the game's roster. To learn a little bit more about this villainous hero, we talked with Ryan Collins, Creative Designer and Community Manager of Gazillion, who also dished some details on the much anticipated multi-spec feature a well as upcoming story content.

Continue reading Marvel Heroes' Juggernaut, multi-speccing, and upcoming story content

MassivelyMarvel Heroes' Juggernaut, multi-speccing, and upcoming story content originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 Nov 2014 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionaction-mmof2pfeaturedfree-to-playgazilliongazillion-entertainmenthalf-featureinterviewinterviewsjuggernautmarvelmarvel-heroesmarvel-universemarvel-universe-onlinemulti-specmuonew-heroryan-collinssecret-identitysuperherosuperheroesWed, 05 Nov 2014 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest II's Aerakyn race is spreading its wings November 11th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/04/everquest-iis-aerakyn-race-is-spreading-its-wings-november-11th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/04/everquest-iis-aerakyn-race-is-spreading-its-wings-november-11th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/04/everquest-iis-aerakyn-race-is-spreading-its-wings-november-11th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

A few weeks ago we peeked into EverQuest II's impending Altar of Malice expansion with Senior​ Producer Holly Longdale and Creative Director Akil Hooper. In addition to touring the zones and basking in the beauty of the artwork while weaving through dinosaurs, I also got a glimpse of the newest race coming the game and gleaned a few interesting tidbits about these scaly, winged creatures. Although not technically a part of the expansion, Aerakyn will become available to players for purchase on the same day that AoM goes live for All Access members: November 11th.

Be a dragon!

With a new race incoming, some players are already trying to determine whether they will bump an alt or just buy a new character slot. It's not just the opportunity to be what is arguably the first real dragonkind in the game (sorry Sarnak!) but the chance to experience the game as one of the very few flight-enabled races. The Aerakyn, like the Fae and Arasai introduced in a previous expansion, utilize their wings from day one. Of course, the actual flight mechanic cannot be obtained until the appropriate level (85), but the wings still work and the race can glide around. Unlike the Fae and Arasai, however, the Aerakyn will get to use their personal wings as all three advanced mount types.

Continue reading EverQuest II's Aerakyn race is spreading its wings November 11th

MassivelyEverQuest II's Aerakyn race is spreading its wings November 11th originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Nov 2014 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Aerakynakil-hoopereq-2eq-iieq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfeaturedflightfree-to-playhalf-featureholly-longdaleinterviewinterviewsnew-racesoesonysony-online-entertainmenttourTue, 04 Nov 2014 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ascent squeaks by its Kickstarter funding goal]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/02/ascent-squeaks-by-its-kickstarter-funding-goal/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/02/ascent-squeaks-by-its-kickstarter-funding-goal/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/02/ascent-squeaks-by-its-kickstarter-funding-goal/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

ascent
The race to fund Ascent: The Space Game through Kickstarter came down to the wire, but in the final moments, the community came through and passed its $35,000 AUD goal by $334 AUD.

This is obviously good news for the game's fans and for Fluffy Kittens Studio (and no, we will never get tired of typing that name). The money will be put to good use, says the lead dev: "The $35,000 Kickstarter goal will allow us to add four months to Ascent's development, resulting in a total of eight months of development time. We strongly believe that the added time will allow us to greatly expand the game's user base by polishing the visuals and fixing the user interface."

MassivelyAscent squeaks by its Kickstarter funding goal originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 02 Nov 2014 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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