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[Cloud Imperium unveils Star Citizen hangar module]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/cloud-imperium-unveils-star-citizen-hangar-module/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/cloud-imperium-unveils-star-citizen-hangar-module/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/cloud-imperium-unveils-star-citizen-hangar-module/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Star Citizen - Hangar module with Hornet
Cloud Imperium has taken the wraps off Star Citizen's hangar module, a standalone app that's scheduled to be released to early adopters later this summer. Pledgers will get a chance to walk through their hangars and ogle their pledge ships, as well as climb inside them and invite their friends over for a spaceship-themed soiree.

The hangar module is "about 50 percent fleshed out right now," according to the spiffy Cloud Imperium video tour that you can watch after the cut.

[Thanks Eric!]

Continue reading Cloud Imperium unveils Star Citizen hangar module

MassivelyCloud Imperium unveils Star Citizen hangar module originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chris-robertscloud-imperiumcloud-imperium-gamescrowdfundingcry-enginecryenginehangarhangar-moduleinternet-spaceshipskickstartersandboxsci-fispaceshipstar-citizenstar-citizen-hangarvideozomg-do-wantMon, 20 May 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TUG tech video shows off in-house engine]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/tug-tech-video-shows-off-in-house-engine/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/tug-tech-video-shows-off-in-house-engine/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/tug-tech-video-shows-off-in-house-engine/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

TUG concept art
Recently Nerd Kingdom promised more demonstrations of the tech behind its new TUG MMO hopeful. The company has made good with a new video that shows off the in-house engine, and lead programmer Brandon Nelson starts things off with an interesting tidbit about the game's contouring algorithm. "An algorithm like dual contouring gives us the ability to have the same quality of terrain that other games have, but not have to have them generated by level designers," Nelson explains.

There's quite a lot of additional info packed into the clip's six-minute running time, all of which you can see for yourself after the break. You can also learn more about TUG via the project's Kickstarter site.

Continue reading TUG tech video shows off in-house engine

MassivelyTUG tech video shows off in-house engine originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 18 May 2013 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brandon-nelsoncontouring-algorithmcrowdfundingdevelopmentkickstarternerd-kingdomopen-worldopen-world-sandboxsandboxtugtug-videoSat, 18 May 2013 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MMOTCG HEX doubles Kickstarter goal with 3 weeks left]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/mmotdg-hex-doubles-kickstarter-goal-with-3-weeks-left/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/mmotdg-hex-doubles-kickstarter-goal-with-3-weeks-left/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/mmotdg-hex-doubles-kickstarter-goal-with-3-weeks-left/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

MMOTDG HEX doubles Kickstarter goal with 3 weeks left
HEX: Shards of Fate, the MMO trading card game that we first introduced last week, is doing fairly well in its current Kickstarter campaign. How well, you ask? So far the company has raised over $600,000 of the game's $300,000 goal with 21 days still to go! That's thanks to almost 5,000 backers so far.

While these numbers are impressive one week into the campaign, it should be no surprise considering the talent working on this MMOTDG. Cryptozoic Entertainment is a veteran studio that has developed and published several other trading card and board games for The Walking Dead, Lord of the Rings, DC Comics, World of Warcraft, and more.

With the game already funded at this point, it's still worth checking out the game's reward tiers and stretch goals to see if it's something you might be interested in supporting. You have only 21 more days!

[Thanks for the tip, Sounder!]

MassivelyMMOTCG HEX doubles Kickstarter goal with 3 weeks left originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 May 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crowdfundingcryptozoiccryptozoic-entertainmenthexhex-shards-of-fatehsfkickstartermmotcgtdgtrading-card-gameFri, 17 May 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New action combat MOBA Skara begins Kickstarter campaign]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/new-action-combat-moba-begins-kickstarter-campaign/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/new-action-combat-moba-begins-kickstarter-campaign/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/new-action-combat-moba-begins-kickstarter-campaign/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

New action combat MOBA begins Kickstarter campaign
"Imagine an experience with the action of Street Fighter inside a story and land like World of Warcraft, all blended into a fast-paced Call of Duty style arena." That's how 8 Bit Studios describes its newest MOBA Kickstarter project entitled Skara: The Blade Remains.

Skara looks to be high on the action with combat based on actual attack directions and multiplayer combos. This Kickstarter campaign has just begun, but offers some exciting rewards, including a digital copy of the game as low as the £15 tier.

Check out the project page and the informative video -- featuring some pretty sweet dev facial hair -- just after the jump.

[Thanks to Alex for the tip!]

Continue reading New action combat MOBA Skara begins Kickstarter campaign

MassivelyNew action combat MOBA Skara begins Kickstarter campaign originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 May 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>8-bit-studioscrowdfundingkickstartermobamultiplayer-online-battle-arenaskarasweet-stacheFri, 17 May 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do Kickstarter perks put you off from MMOs?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/the-daily-grind-do-kickstarter-perks-put-you-off-from-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/the-daily-grind-do-kickstarter-perks-put-you-off-from-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/the-daily-grind-do-kickstarter-perks-put-you-off-from-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Star Citizen art
Last week, drama swirled around Chris Roberts' Star Citizen pseudo-MMO when he announced and then clarified that certain early crowdfunders will receive lifetime insurance on their ships once the game launches. Potential players rightfully worried that such a move could taint the economy and create a special class of characters with pay-to-win perks that place everyone else at a serious disadvantage.

MMO players are becoming inured to the idea that Kickstarting a game might land them a poster or tattoo or title or even beta access, but non-cosmetic advantages seem to rile everyone up. It's one thing when Camelot Unchained offers special chat and another altogether when it promises big-time donors their own in-game islands. Then again, without such generous Kickstarter pledges, the games might never be made for the rest of us to play at all, so maybe the trade-off is worth it.

What do you think? Does it bother you that gamers with money can buy their way into godhood before a game is even made? Are there Kickstarter perks that put you off from future MMOs?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do Kickstarter perks put you off from MMOs? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 May 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brianna-royce-tdgcamelot-unchainedchris-robertscrowdfundingdaily-grindislandkickstarteropinionpay-to-winship-insurancestar-citizentdgthe-daily-grindwhalesFri, 17 May 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TUG hopes to make guilds more meaningful by not having them]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/tug-hopes-to-make-guilds-more-meaningful-by-not-having-them/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/tug-hopes-to-make-guilds-more-meaningful-by-not-having-them/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/tug-hopes-to-make-guilds-more-meaningful-by-not-having-them/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Being a part of the Solitary Explorer's League was a poor decision.
Guilds are pretty much ubiquitous in MMOs -- they serve as a way to bind players together into a group. But the team behind TUG thinks that all too often guilds come about mostly so you can have a name and a chat channel all to yourself. Which is why the latest design post about the game explains that the designers want to remove that sense of artificially created communities. To strengthen that sense of forming player groups, guilds have to go.

As the post explains, too often guilds become things formed for the purpose of having a guild, placing an artificial limitation on what groups players belong to. Instead, the goal is to get players to form societies and groups organically, creating more freedom by removing arbitrary restrictions. It's an idea with a lot of promise, and as the game's Kickstarter continues you can decide if that promise is something you feel like supporting.

MassivelyTUG hopes to make guilds more meaningful by not having them originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 May 2013 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crowdfundingdevelopment-blogguildguildskickstarternerd-kingdomno-guildsorganizationplayer-organizationspreviewtugWed, 15 May 2013 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Citizen concept art shows off Orion III colony]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/star-citizen-concept-art-shows-off-orion-iii-colony/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/star-citizen-concept-art-shows-off-orion-iii-colony/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/star-citizen-concept-art-shows-off-orion-iii-colony/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Star Citizen - Armitage concept art
This time of night I've only got one thing on my mind, and that's dinner. Seriously, the Massively graveyard shift makes my stomach rumble. Fortunately Cloud Imperium is here to fill it up with some sweet, sweet Star Citizen concept art.

The main course is a trio of gorgeous images from the former colony world of Orion III. Armitage, as the world was also called, was "the site of the farthest human colony from Earth... and one of the first targets of the Vanduul menace."

After you've dined on the establishing aerial artwork, it's time for dessert in the form of some early sketches for specific planetary locations. Feast your eyes at the official Star Citizen website.

MassivelyStar Citizen concept art shows off Orion III colony originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 May 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armitagechris-robertscloud-imperiumcloud-imperium-gamescrowdfundinginternet-spaceshipskickstarterom-nom-nomorion-iiisandboxsci-fispaceshipstar-citizenstar-citizen-artstar-citizen-concept-artTue, 14 May 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Face of Mankind releases from-scratch engine tech demo]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/face-of-mankind-releases-from-scratch-engine-tech-demo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/face-of-mankind-releases-from-scratch-engine-tech-demo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/face-of-mankind-releases-from-scratch-engine-tech-demo/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Face of Mankind releases fromscratch engine tech demo
As part of its in-progress Kickstarter campaign, Face of Mankind is planning for funding beyond its original $50k goal. One of the stretch goals -- at $250k -- is to build an entirely new game engine with brand new art assets. And to help show off what we could expect with that new engine, Nexeon Technologies has released a tech demo video.

The video spotlights an interesting marriage of futuristic sci-fi structures with natural environments, without allowing one style to overcome the other. It also shows the night and day cycles, where Creative Director Marko Dieckmann explains that the contrast between the two will be much more significant than most other MMOs, allowing darkness to provide an "interesting strategy to combat."

With 23 days to go in the Kickstarter campaign, the company is currently at around the halfway mark for their 30-day goal, so we'll be watching this stretch goal with particular interest.

[Thanks to everyone who tipped us on this!]

Continue reading Face of Mankind releases from-scratch engine tech demo

MassivelyFace of Mankind releases from-scratch engine tech demo originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>campaigncrowdfundingengineface-of-mankindkickstartermarko-diekmannnexeon-technologiessci-fitech-demovideoTue, 14 May 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TUG offers design video and new Kickstarter reward tiers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/tug-offers-design-video-and-new-kickstarter-reward-tiers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/tug-offers-design-video-and-new-kickstarter-reward-tiers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/tug-offers-design-video-and-new-kickstarter-reward-tiers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

TUG offers new design video and Kickstarter reward tiers
A couple weeks ago we introduced you to an aspiring sandbox game with a focus on exploring and building that hit Kickstarter. Titled The Untitled Game (a.k.a. TUG), the open-world venue plans on using technology and social sciences to directly involve players in the design. And after listening to community feedback, developer Nerd Kingdom has introduced three new reward tiers for backers as well as a video that spotlights design features such as crafting, companions, and more.

The new tiers offer digital beta or alpha access as well as in-game extras like tattoos on your character and a baby sabre tiger companion. Prices range from $30 to $65. Folks can also get gift packs to share that give bonus copies of the game in addition to the personal copy. Check out all the details on the latest update post. And be sure to watch the design video after the break.

Continue reading TUG offers design video and new Kickstarter reward tiers

MassivelyTUG offers design video and new Kickstarter reward tiers originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 May 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingcrowdfundingcustomizationdesign-videofantasykickstarterNerd-Kingdomnew-reward-tierssandboxThe-Untitled-GameTUGvideoMon, 13 May 2013 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Massively: Trailers, emulators, and 'skill caps']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/ask-massively-trailers-emulators-and-skill-caps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/ask-massively-trailers-emulators-and-skill-caps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/ask-massively-trailers-emulators-and-skill-caps/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Dragon Sword
It's time for a grab bag edition of Ask Massively! A reader named Nicholas is up first:
I was wondering if you could help me remember a game studio that was developing a new Korean action- MMORPG game engine (and it wasn't Bless, Blade and Soul, or ArcheAge). In the tech demo, no environment was being shown; it focused on the combat aspect of the engine. All the combat took place against a white background, and it was combo-based and reactive to hits. I remember a slow motion scene with an NPC being punched in the face and the face distorting. At the time, there were no announced games using the engine; the video was just showing what tech the game studio had developed. If it helps any, I remember the comments saying that the engine was just going to be vaporware.
I think we might! Massively's Lis pegged it as NetEase's Dragon Sword trailer. +1 to Lis.

Continue reading Ask Massively: Trailers, emulators, and 'skill caps'

MassivelyAsk Massively: Trailers, emulators, and 'skill caps' originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 May 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ablegamersadviceadvice-columnage-of-wushuask-massivelybeau-hindmanbrianna-royce-ask-massivelydifferently-ableddisableddmcadragon-swordemulatoreulaeula-violationfeaturedgames-in-developmentguild-wars-2gw2humorin-developmentkickstartermassively-metametaopinionprivate-emulatorsprivate-shardRichie-Procopiotrailertrailersultima-onlineThu, 09 May 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Introducing HEX, the MMOTCG by Cryptozoic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/introducing-hex-the-mmotcg-by-cryptozoic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/introducing-hex-the-mmotcg-by-cryptozoic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/introducing-hex-the-mmotcg-by-cryptozoic/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Hex The MMO TCG by Cryptozoic
Cryptozoic Entertainment has just revealed the Kickstarter for its upcoming MMO trading card game, HEX: Shards of Fate. Cryptozoic is claiming that the game "combines the amazing community and storytelling aspects" of MMOs with the "compelling collectible and strategic game play" of TCGs.

Players will roll a character (from a selection of six classes and eight races), collect gear, explore dungeons and raids, join guilds, and do other stuff that you'd usually associate with an MMORPG. They'll also be able to unlock and utilize more than 350 cards (in the first set), socket those cards for customization, and compete in a manner fairly typical of TCGs. Each card tracks its own leveling bar (the completion of which will transform the card into its foil variant), a trophy case for showing off what you've won while using that card, card-specific achievements, and more. Cards can also be transformed mid-match, giving you the ability to, say, hatch an egg to produce a dragon to help you out during your fight.

The Kickstarter project is trying to reach $300,000. Rewards start as low as beta access at the $10 level and go on up to the "producer tier" for the five people who first choose to throw $10,000 or more into the hat.

MassivelyIntroducing HEX, the MMOTCG by Cryptozoic originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 May 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crowdfundingcryptozoiccryptozoic-entertainmenthexhex-shards-of-fatehsfkickstartermmommotcgshards-of-fatetcgtrading-card-gameWed, 08 May 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Citizen lifetime insurance clarified]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/star-citizen-lifetime-insurance-clarified/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/star-citizen-lifetime-insurance-clarified/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/star-citizen-lifetime-insurance-clarified/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Star Citizen lifetime insurance clarified
After a thank-you post on the Star Citizen site earlier this week clarified how lifetime insurance would work in the highly anticipated space MMO, a follow-up post was needed to further answer many of the fan questions.

With the helpful use of graphs and bullet points, CEO Chris Roberts clarifies that LTI will apply to three different groups: Original backers who pledged before November 26, 2012; Veteran backers who pledged between November 26, 2012 and the launch of the new website; and regular ole backers who will have pledged after the new site launches.

Be sure to check out the entire post by Roberts on his website for more information.

[Thanks to Jon for the tip!]

MassivelyStar Citizen lifetime insurance clarified originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chris-robertscloud-imperiumcloud-imperium-gamescrowdfundinginternet-spaceshipskickstarterlifetime-insurancesandboxsci-fispaceshipstar-citizenWed, 08 May 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Face of Mankind looks to kickstart a better MMO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/face-of-mankind-looks-to-kickstart-a-better-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/face-of-mankind-looks-to-kickstart-a-better-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/face-of-mankind-looks-to-kickstart-a-better-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Face of Mankind looks to kickstart a better MMO
Nexeon Technologies is looking to expand its four-year-old MMO Face of Mankind with a $50,000 Kickstarter campaign this month. Face of Mankind: Fall of the Dominion is said to go beyond what the game has always offered -- "a game built around the concept of player interaction and freedom, owing its limitless potential to the imaginations and passions of the players" -- to offer a more hardcore experience for players.

With this Kickstarter campaign, the team hopes to introduce new mechanics such as a real way for characters to have an impact on the game and no more easy safety net against open PvP. The open-loot, player-created-faction game is focusing on a true rags-to-riches story, where players start with nothing and need to work hard to earn everything. "This may seem unusual in an era polluted by games that spoon feed content," Nexeon says, "turning you into a god of your own little world, but we think it is what will make a truly amazing experience. "

Check out what Face of Mankind is proposing with this round of crowdfunding and be sure to watch the Kickstarter video just after the jump.

[Source: Nexeon Technologies press release]

Continue reading Face of Mankind looks to kickstart a better MMO

MassivelyFace of Mankind looks to kickstart a better MMO originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 May 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crowdfundingface-of-mankindfall-of-the-dominionskickstarternexeonnexeon-technologiesTue, 07 May 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Camelot Unchained secures an additional $3 million in funding [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/02/camelot-unchained-secures-an-additional-3-million-in-funding/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/02/camelot-unchained-secures-an-additional-3-million-in-funding/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/02/camelot-unchained-secures-an-additional-3-million-in-funding/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Camelot Unchained Kickstarter logo
Last night, Camelot Unchained surpassed its $2 million Kickstarter goal, but if you've been following the Kickstarter for the last month, you know that reaching $2 million means a lot more than reaching $2 million. As originally promised when the Kickstarter launched, the game will now receive an additional $3 million in funding, $2 million of which comes from City State co-founder and MMO industry veteran Mark Jacobs. The remainder comes courtesy of unnamed investors.

"The last 30 days have been an incredible journey," Jacobs said via press release. "We believed there's an audience for a highly focused game like ours, which has now been proven. What we didn't expect was how our community would come together so quickly and avidly. Not only is our average pledge off the chart, our backers have been just as intensely supportive in other ways, from providing immense amounts of helpful feedback to translating information into four languages (German, French, Japanese and Korean), and more."

Camelot Unchained will use a proprietary engine optimized for large-scale battles and already battle-tested to the tune of 200-plus frames per second while displaying 1,000 simultaneous characters rendered with 12,000 polygons. The three-faction PvP-focused fantasy MMO also boasts a building-block crafting system that will allow players to construct individual cells and larger segments before assembling them "in nearly limitless ways."

[Source: City State press release]

[Update: We've clarified that the additional funding was promised as a Kickstarter goal from the start.]

MassivelyCamelot Unchained secures an additional $3 million in funding [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 May 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>camelotcamelot-unchainedcamelot-unchained-craftingcamelot-unchained-fundingcity-statecity-state-entertainmentcraftingcsefundingkickstartermark-jacobspvprvrThu, 02 May 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO sandbox TUG launches its Kickstarter]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/mmo-sandbox-tug-launches-its-kickstarter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/mmo-sandbox-tug-launches-its-kickstarter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/mmo-sandbox-tug-launches-its-kickstarter/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

MMO sandbox TUG launches on Kickstarter
If you're the sort of sandbox aficionado who's more into crafting and exploration than griefing, then this post is for you. Brand-new to Kickstarter today is an MMO called, well, The Untitled Game, or TUG for short. Inspired by the likes of Minecraft, Zelda, and EVE Online, TUG promises an immersion-driven, "massive procedurally generated world to explore" along with such features as combat, crafting, building, an organic UI, modding tools, hidden civilizations, animal taming, "logic engineering," day/season cycles, realistic weights, support for roleplayers, and no DRM. Like rival Shroud of the Avatar, TUG will be playable solo, on a private server, and on the official MMO server.

Developer Nerd Kingdom styles itself as "a collective of scientists, researchers, technologists, economists, content creators, artists, modders, and gamers from a variety of disciplines and backgrounds" with a "deep passion for the nerdery of academic sciences, art, and technology," but in spite of its academic background, the studio promises a survival sandbox/multiplayer RPG hybrid without all the associated spreadsheets and number-crunching.

The game is targeting 2015 for launch with an alpha this coming July; the digital download edition of the game can be secured for as little as 10 bucks on Kickstarter now. See whether the videos behind the break don't convince you.

Continue reading MMO sandbox TUG launches its Kickstarter

MassivelyMMO sandbox TUG launches its Kickstarter originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 May 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingcrowdfundingeve-onlinekickstarterminecraftnerd-kingdomprocedural-generationprocedurally-generatedsandboxthe-untitled-gametrailertrailerstugvideovideosWed, 01 May 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively exclusive: Jacobs on Camelot Unchained's Kickstarter home stretch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/massively-exclusive-jacobs-on-camelot-unchaineds-kickstarter-h/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/massively-exclusive-jacobs-on-camelot-unchaineds-kickstarter-h/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/massively-exclusive-jacobs-on-camelot-unchaineds-kickstarter-h/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Camelot Unchained concept art
Camelot Unchained's Kickstarter odyssey is almost complete, and as of press time there's a little over a day remaining. City State's fantasy RvR sandbox stands at just over $1.82 million out of its $2 million goal, so Mark Jacobs has penned a dev diary designed to push the game's funding over the top.

He outlines the many challenges inherent in managing both a Kickstarter campaign and an ambitious MMORPG project, and he hits the highlights of the former which include three faction RvR, Minecraft-style building options, and a custom engine that has easily handled hundreds of simultaneous players at well over 200 frames per second. Finally, Jacobs thanks CU's current backers, whom he says have given unprecedented support to the tune of a $160 average pledge.

Jacobs' full diary is readable after the cut.

Continue reading Massively exclusive: Jacobs on Camelot Unchained's Kickstarter home stretch

MassivelyMassively exclusive: Jacobs on Camelot Unchained's Kickstarter home stretch originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>camelotcamelot-kickstartercamelot-unchainedcamelot-unchained-kickstartercity-statecity-state-entertainmentcsecucu-kickstarterexclusivekickstartermark-jacobspvprvrWed, 01 May 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon's payment systems go kaput, taking Kickstarter with it]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/amazons-payment-systems-go-kaput-taking-kickstarter-with-it/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/amazons-payment-systems-go-kaput-taking-kickstarter-with-it/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/amazons-payment-systems-go-kaput-taking-kickstarter-with-it/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Well, darn.
Were you planning to be the brave soul to bring Camelot Unchained's Kickstarter project to its goal? You might have missed your chance. Amazon Payments, the system which Kickstarter uses to accept pledges from browsers, started having trouble earlier today, meaning that several Kickstarter projects have run into trouble attracting more pledges or processing pledges for otherwise successful funding. That's bad news for anyone looking to make the last few dollars on a project before the project ticks over the last deadline.

There's currently no ETA on service restoration; quite notably, the payment service is currently the only Amazon service listed as having difficulties. Camelot Unchained is put into a particular pickle with this development, as the project is still more than $200,000 away from its goal with less than two days remaining. Hopefully the service errors will be cleared up before several projects start to feel the sting.

[Thanks to Mark for the tip!]

MassivelyAmazon's payment systems go kaput, taking Kickstarter with it originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 30 Apr 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonamazon-paymentsbusiness-modelscamelotcamelot-unchainedcity-statecity-state-entertainmentcrowdfundingcrowdsourcingcsefundingkickstartermark-jacobsnewsoutagespayment-systemspaymentspvprvrservice-outageTue, 30 Apr 2013 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Camelot Unchained unveils new video, Mark Jacobs visits Reddit for AMA]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/camelot-unchained-unveils-new-video-mark-jacobs-visits-reddit-f/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/camelot-unchained-unveils-new-video-mark-jacobs-visits-reddit-f/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/camelot-unchained-unveils-new-video-mark-jacobs-visits-reddit-f/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

City State Entertainment's Mark Jacobs
The Camelot Unchained information deluge continues with the release of a new video and a Reddit AMA by Mark Jacobs himself. The video is a half-hour-long affair in which Jacobs provides fans (and prospective Kickstarter pledgers) with an in-depth look at the lore of Camelot Unchained and the myriad features that the game is bringing to the table. Also, as it happens, you can check it out after the cut.

Meanwhile, on Reddit, Jacobs stopped by /r/IAmA to answer questions from the communit. Suffice it to say, questions range from the standard, "tell us about the progression system" to details on server structure, maximum player population, and much much more. Surprisingly, however, horse-sized ducks don't appear to be mentioned even once. To check the full Q&A session out for yourself, head on through the source link below.

Continue reading Camelot Unchained unveils new video, Mark Jacobs visits Reddit for AMA

MassivelyCamelot Unchained unveils new video, Mark Jacobs visits Reddit for AMA originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 29 Apr 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amacamelotcamelot-unchainedcity-statecity-state-entertainmentcsekickstartermark-jacobspvpredditrvrvideovideosMon, 29 Apr 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Greed Monger screenshots and video show off tropical climate area]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/greed-monger-screenshots-and-video-show-off-tropical-climate-are/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/greed-monger-screenshots-and-video-show-off-tropical-climate-are/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/greed-monger-screenshots-and-video-show-off-tropical-climate-are/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Greed Monger screenshots and video show off tropical climate area
Moving right along after tripling its Kickstarter funding goal back in November, the developers behind Greed Monger have been busy slowly bringing the crafting-centric game to life. A working day/night cycle is already implemented, and over the weekend a chunk of the tropical climate area was imported to the test server, allowing devs to finally meet up in the same space together. The character creation UI and finished models (with armor sets) will be heading in this week. The team is also currently working on avatar animation and making sure controls work.

Want to get a peek at how Greed Monger is coming along? Then check out the brief fly-through video of the tropics climate region after the break. Then head on over to the official site to see the snazzy new in-game screenshots.

Continue reading Greed Monger screenshots and video show off tropical climate area

MassivelyGreed Monger screenshots and video show off tropical climate area originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 29 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>economyenvironmentsf2pfree-to-playfreemiumgreed-mongergreed-monger-partnerskickstartermicrotransactionmicrotransactionsnew-screenshotsplayer-driven-economyplayer-economypremiumsandboxtropical-climatevideoMon, 29 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Citizen's Aurora revealed, Roberts explains further crowdfunding goals]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/27/star-citizens-aurora-revealed-roberts-explains-further-crowdfu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/27/star-citizens-aurora-revealed-roberts-explains-further-crowdfu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/27/star-citizens-aurora-revealed-roberts-explains-further-crowdfu/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Star Citizen - The Aurora
Star Citizen is still fairly early in its development stage, but at least one in-game asset has now officially passed through the entire design process. That element is the Aurora, which is Star Citizen's base ship and one that most players will use to begin their spacefaring careers.

The Aurora was designed by Star Wars and Star Trek concept artist Ryan Church. The Star Citizen website is now chock-full of in-engine images and in-character design specs.

Cloud Imperium is also running a limited promotion focused on a special model Aurora called the LX. CEO Chris Roberts explains the reasoning behind another fundraising initiative over and above his famously successful Kickstarter campaign. "Star Citizen is going to cost approximately $20 million to make. We have this covered already between the incredible funding we've received from you and the commitments from investors," he says. "But here's the truth: I've been holding off on closing investors because your commitment means we won't need as much money as we originally expected. Every dollar we make from crowdfunding means one less we'll take from outside investors."

If you're not up to pledging for the spiffy new Aurora, though, don't worry. "You will be able to earn credits to buy this ship in game once we go live," Roberts writes. "So please do not feel obligated to do anything. Everyone has given more than enough. This is purely a "for the fun" sale/event to hopefully push our funding along."

[Thanks Eric for the tip!]

MassivelyStar Citizen's Aurora revealed, Roberts explains further crowdfunding goals originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 27 Apr 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aurorachris-robertscloud-imperiumcloud-imperium-gamescrowdfundinginternet-spaceshipskickstarterryan-churchsandboxsci-fispaceshipstar-citizenstar-citizen-auroraSat, 27 Apr 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Camelot Unchained reveals building system demo]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/24/camelot-unchained-reveals-building-system-demo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/24/camelot-unchained-reveals-building-system-demo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/24/camelot-unchained-reveals-building-system-demo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Camelot Unchained reveals building system demo
With just a little over one week and $600k left in the Kickstarter campaign, City State Entertainment's Camelot Unchained is consistently pumping out the updates for all fans of the project.

Today's update goes into detail on the game's building system, including a video demo with programmer Tim Mills showing a quick prototype of what you can expect in the game. Mark Jacobs also teases tomorrow's tonight's update where he'll reveal the main lore of Camelot Unchained, including some early concept art and another video.

MassivelyCamelot Unchained reveals building system demo originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 24 Apr 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buildingbuilding-systemcamelotcamelot-unchainedcity-statecity-state-entertainmentcsekickstartermark-jacobspvprvrWed, 24 Apr 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Citizen's Roberts on business models, the PS4, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/23/star-citizens-roberts-on-business-models-the-ps4-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/23/star-citizens-roberts-on-business-models-the-ps4-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/23/star-citizens-roberts-on-business-models-the-ps4-and-more/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Star Citizen - Landing pad concept art
Game Industry interviewed Star Citizen mogul Chris Roberts at last month's GDC 2013, and the resulting read features plenty of interesting nuggets for space sim fans and the Roberts faithful.

He confirms a few things we already knew about SC's playable hangar demo scheduled for August, as well as the dogfighting alpha in December. He also shares how his team's shortened development schedule and modular process is adding up to a tighter, better game than could be made at a AAA studio.

And if Star Citizen's ever-increasing crowdfunding totals are any indication, Roberts' audience is more than OK with the process. "We generated $800,000 in February alone, which is crazy," he said. "We don't even have a campaign going, we're not even selling new ships or anything, and we don't have a game." He goes on to guesstimate that his 150,000-odd early adopters are only five to 10 percent of Star Citizen's post-launch audience. "Ultimately that means I can make the same game for a fifth of the revenue, a fifth of the sales, and I can be more profitable, and I can exist on lower unit sales. I think that's good for gamers, because crowdfunding and digital distribution are enabling more nichey stuff to be viable."

Roberts also hints at the future of SC's business model, likening it to that of World of Tanks. Finally, he has a few kind words for Sony's forthcoming PlayStation 4, and even says he'd consider putting SC on a console under the right circumstances. "The good news is that [the PS4] is essentially a PC, so that means PC owners will get much better ports of console games. I'm not a PC elitist by any means," Roberts explains. "If I could be on the PS4, and they were open, and I could do the updating and all the sort of stuff we're trying to do on Star Citizen, then I would definitely consider putting it on PS4 because it's essentially a PC with a friendlier operating system."

MassivelyStar Citizen's Roberts on business models, the PS4, and more originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chris-robertschris-roberts-interviewcloud-imperiumcloud-imperium-gamesconsolescrowdfundinginternet-spaceshipsinterviewkickstarterplaystation-4ps4sandboxsci-fispaceshipstar-citizenstar-citizen-consolestar-citizen-ps4Tue, 23 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Grimlands' Kickstarter cancelled, devs in talks with investors]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/22/grimlands-kickstarter-cancelled-devs-in-talks-with-investors/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/22/grimlands-kickstarter-cancelled-devs-in-talks-with-investors/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/22/grimlands-kickstarter-cancelled-devs-in-talks-with-investors/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Happy Grimlands avatar
Would you like the good Grimlands news first or the bad Grimlands news first? That's nice, but you're getting the bad news first because this isn't a democracy. The post-apocalyptic shooter's Kickstarter campaign has been cancelled.

The good news is that DRAGO is apparently in talks to secure more substantial funding from an unnamed group of backers. Grimlands' project page updated this morning with the following announcement: "We have been contacted by several investors and are in active discussions to finish the game with them. This would not have been possible without this campaign and without your support! Of course we will keep you up to date on any development!"

[Thanks Zach!]

MassivelyGrimlands' Kickstarter cancelled, devs in talks with investors originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 22 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crowdfundingdragodrago-entertainmentf2pfree-to-playgrimlandsgrimlands-kickstarterkickstartermmo-shooterpost-apocalypticshooterMon, 22 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Stick and Rudder: Why Star Citizen's development model matters]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/21/stick-and-rudder-why-star-citizens-development-model-matters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/21/stick-and-rudder-why-star-citizens-development-model-matters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/21/stick-and-rudder-why-star-citizens-development-model-matters/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Stick and Rudder - Why Star Citizen matters
Chris Roberts' Star Citizen crowdfunding colossus exploded onto the gaming scene late in 2012 with a chip on its shoulder and a certain can-do attitude that resonated with gamers because of its conspicuous absence over the past decade. "I am a PC game, and I am a space sim," the game's trailer defiantly proclaimed.

PC games and space sims, of course, were long past the prime of their 1990s golden years, according to most industry pundits, so how and why did Star Citizen make such a successful splash (over $8.5 million in crowdfunding as of press time, with an additional $5,000 to $10,000 gained on a daily basis)? More importantly why is the title's development model so integral to the future of gaming?

Continue reading Stick and Rudder: Why Star Citizen's development model matters

MassivelyStick and Rudder: Why Star Citizen's development model matters originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 21 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelschris-robertschris-roberts-sxswcloud-imperiumcloud-imperium-gamescrowdfundingfeaturedhardcoreinternet-spaceshipskickstarterniche-gamingpcpc-gamingsandboxsci-fishipspacespace-simspaceshipspacesimstar-citizenstick-and-ruddersxswsxsw-2013sxsw-chris-robertsSun, 21 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[First Guns of Icarus Online adventure mode Kickstarter goal funded]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/first-guns-of-icarus-online-adventure-mode-kickstarter-goal-fund/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/first-guns-of-icarus-online-adventure-mode-kickstarter-goal-fund/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/first-guns-of-icarus-online-adventure-mode-kickstarter-goal-fund/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

First Guns of Icarus Online adventure mode Kickstarter goal funded
Muse Games has issued a press release celebrating the successful Kickstarter campaign for Guns of Icarus Online's new adventure mode. The update will add "large-scale PvE combat, player and ship progression, and much more" to the co-op airship title. Muse is breaking down its ambitious plans into a series of funding pillars, the first of which is the AI director that will enable co-op and solo PvE missions to go along with the game's existing PvP.

Next up is a world map with towns, trade routes, player factions, and a "fully dynamic resource economy." After that, Muse will focus on a set of world-building tools.

Guns of Icarus Online is a steampunk-flavored airship combat game with a buy-to-play business model. You can learn more about the adventure mode goals at the project's Kickstarter page and more about the current live game via Massively's hands-on.

[Source: Muse press release]

MassivelyFirst Guns of Icarus Online adventure mode Kickstarter goal funded originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 17 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airshipscrowdfundingguns-of-icarusguns-of-icarus-adventure-modeguns-of-icarus-kickstarterguns-of-icarus-onlinekickstartermusemuse-gamespvesteampunkWed, 17 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Camelot Unchained makes 11 promises to consumers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/camelot-unchained-makes-11-promises-to-consumers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/camelot-unchained-makes-11-promises-to-consumers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/camelot-unchained-makes-11-promises-to-consumers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Camelot Unchained makes 11 promises to consumers
City State Entertainment President Mark Jacobs has a few promises to make to players -- 11 of them, to be exact. He's put together an updated list of subscriber promises that he and his team will follow when developing and running Camelot Unchained.

The promises include being responsive to players, fighting gold sellers, having the team play the game regularly, eliminating the need for copy protection, protecting player privacy, rewarding players for finding bugs, and never lying to consumers. Most interestingly, Jacobs vows that if Camelot Unchained is ever shut down, then the studio will release the compiled server code to the gamers.

MassivelyCamelot Unchained makes 11 promises to consumers originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Apr 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>camelotcamelot-unchainedcity-statecity-state-entertainmentcsekickstartermark-jacobspromisespvprvrsource-codesubscriber-promisesTue, 16 Apr 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Grimlands heralds Linux and Mac announcement with second video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/12/grimlands-heralds-linux-and-mac-announcement-with-second-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/12/grimlands-heralds-linux-and-mac-announcement-with-second-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/12/grimlands-heralds-linux-and-mac-announcement-with-second-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

If the post-apocalyptic wastelands of Grimlands caught your eye but you didn't think you could play on Linux or Mac systems, think again; DRAGO Entertainment has just announced that the shooter will be developed on both platforms. And players needn't worry about which version they are playing from, as everyone will be on the same servers together. The studio doesn't intend to stop there either: DRAGO's Lucjan Mikociak added, "And there are even more versions planned down the road."

Along with this announcement, DRAGO has released the second installment of the three-part Making Of series. In the video, Wiktoryn Zerebecki details the importance of crafting and the player-driven economy and Krystian Kofin expounds on vehicles. Watch the full video after the break.

[Source: DRAGO press release]

Continue reading Grimlands heralds Linux and Mac announcement with second video

MassivelyGrimlands heralds Linux and Mac announcement with second video originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingcrowdfundingDRAGODRAGO-entertainmentf2pfree-to-playfreemiumGrimlandsKickstarterKrystian-KofinLinuxLucjan-MikociakMacMac-OSMaking-Of-part-2Making-Of-videomicrotransactionmicrotransactionspalyer-driven-economypost-apocalypticpremiumPvPsci-fivehicklesWiktoryn-ZerebeckiFri, 12 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Assembly Required: Your guide to MMO sandboxes in 2013 and beyond]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/12/some-assembly-required-your-guide-to-mmo-sandboxes-in-2013-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/12/some-assembly-required-your-guide-to-mmo-sandboxes-in-2013-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/12/some-assembly-required-your-guide-to-mmo-sandboxes-in-2013-and/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Some Assembly Required - Massively's guide to sandboxes
Welcome to Massively's guide to MMO sandboxes in 2013 and beyond. I've collected the essential details on all the major sandbox titles releasing this year and in the near future in one easy-to-reference article. If you're wondering whether ArcheAge forces you to PvP, or if you can't tell The Repopulation from Origins of Malu, this is your post.

I'll be updating it as game features are added, removed, or revealed, so be sure to use the comments to let me know if I've overlooked a particularly noteworthy item. Finally, I want to point out that this isn't an exhaustive list because of the sheer number of sandbox projects ongoing. For now, I'm choosing to focus on the ones that will be playable in 2013/2014 as well as the projects that have a big-name developer attached.

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: Your guide to MMO sandboxes in 2013 and beyond

MassivelySome Assembly Required: Your guide to MMO sandboxes in 2013 and beyond originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013-sandbox-guide2013-sandboxesaaabove-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiesaction-mmoage-of-wulinage-of-wushuagonarche-agearcheageasiaavataraventurinecarbinecarbine-studioschinachinesechinese-mmochris-robertscloud-imperiumcloud-imperium-gamescrowdfundingcrypticcryptic-studiosdangerousdarkfalldavid-brabendfdndeliteelite-dangerouseqeq-nexteqneverquesteverquest-nextf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfrontierfrontier-developmentsgame-mechanicsgpotatogvginternet-spaceshipinternet-spaceshipskickstarterkidnappinglord-britishmartial-artsmassivelys-sandbox-guideming-dynastyncsoftneverwinteropen-pvpopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpgcplayer-contentplayer-generated-contentpvppwerepopulationrichard-garriottsandboxsandbox-guidesandparksarsci-fantasysci-fishroudshroud-of-the-avatarsnail-gamessnail-games-usasoesome-assembly-requiredsony-online-entertainmentSOTAspacespaceshipspaceshipsstar-citizenthe-repopulationwildstarwswushuwuxiaxl-gamesxlgamesFri, 12 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Camelot Unchained video shows 1,000 players on-screen]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/11/camelot-unchained-video-shows-1-000-players-on-screen/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/11/camelot-unchained-video-shows-1-000-players-on-screen/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/11/camelot-unchained-video-shows-1-000-players-on-screen/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

camelot unchained vid, ks update
City State has updated Camelot Unchained's Kickstarter page with a new video and a technology roadmap. Lead programmer Andrew Meggs is both our guide to the two-minute clip and the author of the textual accompaniment that talks up everything from the demo's level of detail to various goings-on with the CU engine.

Meggs says that the 1,000 characters glimpsed on-screen are only "hitting around six percent CPU load," which gives the team a lot of wiggle room for all of the "prediction, decoding, and lag compensation" tasks it's currently working on. Read the full entry and catch the video at CU's official Kickstarter site.

MassivelyCamelot Unchained video shows 1,000 players on-screen originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 11 Apr 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andrew-meggscamelotcamelot-unchainedcity-statecity-state-entertainmentcsekickstartermark-jacobspvprvrThu, 11 Apr 2013 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New Grimlands video talks free-form progression, huge open world]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/10/new-grimlands-video-talks-free-form-progression-huge-open-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/10/new-grimlands-video-talks-free-form-progression-huge-open-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/10/new-grimlands-video-talks-free-form-progression-huge-open-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

New Grimlands video talks freeform progression, huge open world
DRAGO Entertainment is making a case for its Grimlands MMO on Kickstarter, and the company has released the first part of a behind-the-scenes video that takes viewers through various aspects of the development process.

The post-apocalyptic MMO mixes first- and third-person shooting action with a deep crafting system, a variety of vehicles, and RPG progression set against a large open-world backdrop.

The video features plenty of in-game footage as well as narration by DRAGO's Lucjan Mikociak, who talks at length about Grimlands' free-form character progression. Have a look at the clip, and a list of key Grimlands features, after the cut.

Continue reading New Grimlands video talks free-form progression, huge open world

MassivelyNew Grimlands video talks free-form progression, huge open world originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 10 Apr 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dragodrago-entertainmentf2pfree-to-playgrimlandsgrimlands-kickstartergrimlands-making-ofgrimlands-progressiongrimlands-videokickstarterlucjan-mikociakmaking-of-grimlandsmmo-shooteropen-worldpost-apocalypticsci-fishooterWed, 10 Apr 2013 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Cloud Imperium shows off Star Citizen character motion video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/09/cloud-imperium-shows-off-star-citizen-character-motion-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/09/cloud-imperium-shows-off-star-citizen-character-motion-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/09/cloud-imperium-shows-off-star-citizen-character-motion-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Star Citizen A Chorus Line tryouts
Star Citizen's developers recently wowed us with an extensive look at the game's spaceship customization. Fortunately, the team isn't skimping on the title's character models either. A new video released yesterday demonstrates the range of motion for human avatars, and Cloud Imperium says that this is a good approximation of how characters will function in the finished game.

The company also notes that the clip is "real-time, in-engine movement and not a pre-rendered video." Have a look after the break.

Continue reading Cloud Imperium shows off Star Citizen character motion video

MassivelyCloud Imperium shows off Star Citizen character motion video originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 09 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chris-robertscloud-imperiumcloud-imperium-gamescrowdfundinginternet-spaceshipskickstarterrange-of-motionsandboxsci-fispaceshipstar-citizenstar-citizen-avatarstar-citizen-avatarsstar-citizen-character-videostar-citizen-charactersstar-citizen-videovideoTue, 09 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaderboard: Which Kickstarter project will be the most successful post-launch?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/08/leaderboard-which-kickstarter-project-will-be-the-most-successf/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/08/leaderboard-which-kickstarter-project-will-be-the-most-successf/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/08/leaderboard-which-kickstarter-project-will-be-the-most-successf/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Star Citizen Hornet
There are a lot of game developers on Kickstarter these days, several of which are aiming to make MMOs or MMO-like persistent virtual worlds. Star Citizen's crowd-funding success has been well-documented, and both Shroud of the Avatar and Elite Dangerous are now go for full-scale development as well.

And let's not forget Pathfinder or Camelot Unchained, the former of which has been fully funded and the latter of which is well on its way. For today's Leaderboard, tell us which of these five titles you think will be the most successful post-launch. Vote after the cut!

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

Continue reading Leaderboard: Which Kickstarter project will be the most successful post-launch?

MassivelyLeaderboard: Which Kickstarter project will be the most successful post-launch? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battle-royalcrowdfundingkickstarterleaderboardone-on-oneone-vs-oneopinionpollpollsversusvotevotesvotingvsMon, 08 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Grimlands developer turns to Kickstarter to finish post-apoc shooter]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/08/grimlands-developer-turns-to-kickstarter-to-finish-post-apoc-sho/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/08/grimlands-developer-turns-to-kickstarter-to-finish-post-apoc-sho/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/08/grimlands-developer-turns-to-kickstarter-to-finish-post-apoc-sho/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Grimlands developer turns to Kickstarter to finish post-apoc shooter
Post-apocalyptic shooter Grimlands may have been canceled by publisher gamigo, but development studio DRAGO isn't giving up on the title just yet. The firm has launched a Kickstarter campaign to raise the funds necessary to finish the project and keep it "true to its original vision."

A press release says that Grimlands was canceled because of gamigo's "strategy shift from development to distribution" in spite of the title's five-year development cycle. DRAGO's Lucjan Mikociak says that Kickstarter is necessary to save the game.

"There is no way around it: Big games need big money. Since gamigo stopped funding us in January, we have survived thanks to friends and family support," Mikociak explains. "However, in order to properly finish the game by year's end, we need further funding of $650,000. After talking to several publishers and investors we feel only Kickstarter allows this without compromising our vision."

Grimlands marries shooter gameplay with stealth and cover mechanics as well as character progression and customization. It also features an extensive crafting system wherein nearly every in-game item is made by players. Gameplay includes an open world, dungeons, PvE and PVP options, and upgradeable vehicles.

MassivelyGrimlands developer turns to Kickstarter to finish post-apoc shooter originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingcrowdfundingdragogamigogrimlandsgrimlands-kickstarterkickstarterlucjan-mikociakmmo-shooterpost-apocalypticsci-fishooterskill-basedvehicleswastelandMon, 08 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gloria Victis teases with more screenshots, talk of alpha two]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/07/gloria-victis-teases-with-more-screenshots-talk-of-alpha-two/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/07/gloria-victis-teases-with-more-screenshots-talk-of-alpha-two/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/07/gloria-victis-teases-with-more-screenshots-talk-of-alpha-two/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Gloria Victis screenshot
Black Eye Games' brand-spanking-new MMO Gloria Vicitis is promising a lot; realistic weather effects, day and night cycles, and NPCs that don't just stand there are all on the game's agenda. Although an original attempt to crowdfund the game was unsuccessful, it looks as if the team isn't giving up as testing marches on. Only a small number of testers are currently in the pre-alpha test; test number two is apparently not far beyond the horizon. The developers are also opening up crowd-funding to increase server capacity for even more testers.

The studio is calling its game "paradigm breaking" and "realistic," which seem like pretty heavy words, but a new batch of pre-alpha screenshots does hint at its potential. What do you think?

Gallery: Gloria Victis pre-alpha screenshots

MassivelyGloria Victis teases with more screenshots, talk of alpha two originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 07 Apr 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphabetablack-eye-gamescrowdfundingfacebookgalleriesgallerygloria-victiskickstarterpre-alphascreenshotscreenshotstesttestingSun, 07 Apr 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Shroud of the Avatar is well and truly Kickstarted]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/07/shroud-of-the-avatar-is-well-and-truly-kickstarted/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/07/shroud-of-the-avatar-is-well-and-truly-kickstarted/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/07/shroud-of-the-avatar-is-well-and-truly-kickstarted/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It's nice to see people come together to help the less fortunate have a chance at their dreams
Time has run out for the Kickstarter campaign for Richard Garriott's Shroud of the Avatar. The closing tally for the campaign was $1,919,275, raised over a humble $1,000,000 goal. When you throw in the donations made through the game's site rather than Kickstarter, the whole effort raked in just over two million dollars.

Given that the game hit its funding goal back on March 19th, we realize the success of the campaign was never really in question. The project has enough funding to have unlocked nine or ten stretch goals, including a Tracy Hickman novel and a host of systems and content goodies.

MassivelyShroud of the Avatar is well and truly Kickstarted originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 07 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatarcrowdfundingfantasykickstarterlord-britishrichard-garriottshroudshroud-of-the-avatarSOTAtracy-hickmanSun, 07 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Stick and Rudder: A guide to Star Citizen's community]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/07/stick-and-rudder-a-guide-to-star-citizens-community/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/07/stick-and-rudder-a-guide-to-star-citizens-community/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/07/stick-and-rudder-a-guide-to-star-citizens-community/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Stick and Rudder: Star Citizen community guide
Welcome aboard pilots, privateers, and pillaging pirate queens; you've found Stick and Rudder, the gaming press' first Star Citizen column! I'm putting all pretenses of objectivity aside today because I'm terribly frackin' excited for this game. That's why we're here, now, talking about it way out in front of its release.

With all of this expectation comes the potential for massive disappointment, of course, but the good news is that Cloud Imperium is being pretty open about its development process. This has the added benefit of giving us lots to chew on while we sit through the agonizing months leading up to launch. Anyway, now that some of my fanboy gushing is out of the way, let's get down to brass tacks and carry on the time-honored Massively tradition of kicking off a new game column with a community guide.

Continue reading Stick and Rudder: A guide to Star Citizen's community

MassivelyStick and Rudder: A guide to Star Citizen's community originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 07 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chris-robertscloud-imperiumcloud-imperium-gamescolumncommunitycommunity-guidecommunity-guide-to-star-citizencrowdfundingeric-petersonfeaturedinternet-spaceshipskickstartersandboxsci-fishipspacespaceshipstar-citizenstar-citizen-guidestar-citizen-podcastsstar-citizen-sountrackstick-and-rudderstick-and-rudder-guidesSun, 07 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Camelot Unchained Kickstarter update offers a look at the Tuatha De Danann]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/05/camelot-unchained-kickstarter-update-offers-a-look-at-the-tuatha/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/05/camelot-unchained-kickstarter-update-offers-a-look-at-the-tuatha/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/05/camelot-unchained-kickstarter-update-offers-a-look-at-the-tuatha/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

camelot unchained ks update and new art
Camelot Unchained finally threw its hat into the Kickstarter ring three days ago, garnering a quick outpouring of support from the community in the form of $411K in just four hours. Two days later the amount pledged nearly doubled, jumping to over $815K of a $2 million goal. Last night, Mark Jacobs posted an update that included additional concept art for the Tuatha De Danann race, or TDD. Also included is a short video where lead artist Scott Trolam discussed that early art and demonstrated a 3D version. Check out the art in the gallery below, and head to the official Kickstarter page for a look at the video.

Gallery: Camelot Unchained

MassivelyCamelot Unchained Kickstarter update offers a look at the Tuatha De Danann originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>camelotcamelot-unchainedcity-statecity-state-entertainmentconcept-artcrowdfundingcsegalleryKickstartermark-jacobsnew-concept-artpvpracesrvrScott-TrolamTDDTuatha-De-DanannFri, 05 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Camelot Unchained discusses the trouble with rendering engines]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/03/camelot-unchained-discusses-the-trouble-with-rendering-engines/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/03/camelot-unchained-discusses-the-trouble-with-rendering-engines/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/03/camelot-unchained-discusses-the-trouble-with-rendering-engines/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

THEY'RE COMING FOR YOU.
It's been said multiple times by the Camelot Unchained team that this game is meant to be large. The focus is on large-scale sieges, not a couple of guys banging on the front door of a castle. That means the game needs to be able to handle a huge number of players on the screen at any one time. How do you find an engine that can handle that? According to the latest update on Kickstarter, you build one.

While the engine isn't built entirely from scratch, it isn't based off of an established engine, simply because it's being custom-built to handle the game's specific needs. The attached video allows you to see the engine in action, scaling from a handful of characters up to the moving mob pictured in the header. If you want to know more about what makes the game pretty to look at, this will be very relevant to your interests.

MassivelyCamelot Unchained discusses the trouble with rendering engines originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>camelotcamelot-unchainedcity-statecity-state-entertainmentcrowdfundingcrowdsourcingcseenginegame-enginegraphics-enginekickstarterkickstarter-updatemark-jacobsnewspreviewpvprenderingrvrWed, 03 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Soapbox: Game developers actually are rockstars]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/the-soapbox-game-developers-actually-are-rockstars/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/the-soapbox-game-developers-actually-are-rockstars/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/the-soapbox-game-developers-actually-are-rockstars/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Soapbox Game developers actually are rockstars
Shortly after this column series started, Massively's Shawn "Epic Beard" Schuster planted his feet on the wooden crate to tell us that game developers are not rockstars. And as much as it frightens me to disagree with him, I believe I have a moral obligation to let him know that he was wrong. Sure, his article pointed out that it takes a team to create a spectacular game and that the personalities of the gaming industry cannot do it by themselves. As he put it, even though Sid Meier didn't code all of Civilization and Richard Garriott didn't construct all of Tabula Rasa, their names sat proudly on the box. But just like rockstars, those two names and many more developers' names belong on the covers of their respective games.

Rockstars from Aerosmith to Beyonce are more than the faces on the covers of their albums. In college, I used to create CD covers for local recording artists, so I can tell you first-hand that even though there was only one name on the front, there were many names on the inside jacket, just as there are many names in game credits. So how exactly are game developers like superstar musicians? The analogy fits in nearly every single way.

Continue reading The Soapbox: Game developers actually are rockstars

MassivelyThe Soapbox: Game developers actually are rockstars originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adam-gontieraerosmithAscapbeyoncebiowarebungieCivilizationdayzdouble-fineeddie-veddereditorialedmund-mcmillenfeaturedgabe-newellhaloindie-game-the-movieJustin-BieberkickstarterKnights-of-the-Old-RepublicKnights-of-the-Old-Republic-2kurt-cobainLucasArtsmatt-walstmicheal-stipeObsidian-Entertainmentop-edopinionrantrantsRichard-Garriottscott-weilandshawn-schustershroud-of-the-avatarSid-Meiersoapboxstone-temple-pilotssuper-meat-boytabula-rasateam-meatthe-soapboxthree-days-graceTim-Schafertommy-refenesUltima-OnlinevalveTue, 02 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Raph Koster is open to making another 'worldy MMO']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/raph-koster-is-open-to-making-another-worldy-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/raph-koster-is-open-to-making-another-worldy-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/raph-koster-is-open-to-making-another-worldy-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Raph Koster may make another 'worldy MMO'
On his personal blog, Raph Koster announced that he has left Disney to become an unemployed game developer. The big question is, of course, what's next for the driving force behind Ultima Online and Star Wars Galaxies. The answer is... he doesn't know.

However, Koster does indicate that he is open to working on another traditional MMO, but not one born of Kickstarter. "I suspect that those of you who want this all want me to make a worldy MMO," he writes. "I may yet make one of those in the future, but I don't think that you can raise enough money on Kickstarter to do it justice."

Koster says that he might be doing some consulting, writing, and speaking, but what he wants to do most is to "simply start making games." He claims that GDC inspired him to get back into the game-making business, big-time. He also says contrary to some rumors, he is not working with Richard Garriott on Shroud of the Avatar.

MassivelyRaph Koster is open to making another 'worldy MMO' originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Apr 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>disneygdcgdc-2013kickstartermetaplacemmoraph-kosterrichard-garriottshroud-of-the-avatarstar-wars-galaxiesswgultima-onlineTue, 02 Apr 2013 15:30:00 EST