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[WildStar and Guild Wars 2 boost NCsoft profits]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/08/14/wildstar-and-guild-wars-2-boost-ncsoft-profits/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/08/14/wildstar-and-guild-wars-2-boost-ncsoft-profits/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/08/14/wildstar-and-guild-wars-2-boost-ncsoft-profits/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

ncsoft
The second quarter of 2014 was a very good time indeed for NCsoft, as the publisher announced today that revenues and profits are up thanks to WildStar's launch and Guild Wars 2's move into China.

In today's earnings report, NCsoft shows that sales went up 20% and operating profit increased 46% from the previous quarter. The company said that it saw a marketing expense increase due to WildStar and that Lineage "recovered meaningfully" during this period.

As for sales per game, Lineage is still at the top with 32.2%. Following that is WildStar (15.9%), Guild Wars 2 (12.6%), Blade and Soul (10.8%), Aion (10.4%), and Lineage II (7.7%).

MassivelyWildStar and Guild Wars 2 boost NCsoft profits originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Aug 2014 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionascensionblade-and-soulearnings-reportf2pfantasyfinancesfinancialsfree-to-playguild-wars-2gw2lineagelineage-2lineage-iincsofttruly-freewildstarThu, 14 Aug 2014 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NCsoft launches Lineage II's Ertheia expansion today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/07/30/ncsoft-launches-lineage-iis-ertheia-expansion-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/07/30/ncsoft-launches-lineage-iis-ertheia-expansion-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/07/30/ncsoft-launches-lineage-iis-ertheia-expansion-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

L2
Lineage II's latest expansion, Ertheia, launches today, bringing with it a new race (the Ertheia), two new classes (Ertheia Fighter and Ertheia Wizard), a new racial skill (Alchemy), new stats (Charisma and Luck), a level 99 instance (The Dimensional Barrier), and two new hunting zones for -- you guessed it -- Ertheia characters.

Former players can take advantage of a welcome-back promotion that includes a pack of goodies for veteran characters and a free mount for freshly rolled toons.

We've included some concept art as well as videos describing the lore and new classes below.

Continue reading NCsoft launches Lineage II's Ertheia expansion today

MassivelyNCsoft launches Lineage II's Ertheia expansion today originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 30 Jul 2014 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ertheiaf2pfantasyfree-to-playgalleriesgallerylineagelineage-2lineage-iincsoftscreenshotscreenshotstrailertrailersvideovideosWed, 30 Jul 2014 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Lineage II's new expansion to launch on July 30]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/07/16/lineage-iis-new-expansion-to-launch-on-july-30/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/07/16/lineage-iis-new-expansion-to-launch-on-july-30/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/07/16/lineage-iis-new-expansion-to-launch-on-july-30/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Lineage II
NCsoft has announced today that its classic fantasy MMO Lineage II will be launching its next expansion on July 30. Entitled Ertheia, this free expansion brings new hunting zones, new adventures, and reveals the lore that explains the arrival of the Ertheia race.

"As the last of Einhasad's four original races (Elves, Orcs, Dwarves, and Ertheia) enters the playing field, they will join forces with the other races and Heroes of Aden to save their world, all a part of the continuing saga within Lineage II's epic storyline," according to an NCsoft press release.

Check out the video after the cut for more information on Lineage II's Ertheia.

[Source: NCsoft press release]

Continue reading Lineage II's new expansion to launch on July 30

MassivelyLineage II's new expansion to launch on July 30 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 Jul 2014 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Ertheiaf2pfantasyfree-to-playlineagelineage-2lineage-iincsoftWed, 16 Jul 2014 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lineage II expands to Ertheia this summer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/06/09/lineage-ii-expands-to-ertheia-this-summer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/06/09/lineage-ii-expands-to-ertheia-this-summer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/06/09/lineage-ii-expands-to-ertheia-this-summer/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Lineage II
NCsoft's popular Lineage II MMO announces a new expansion coming later this summer. Entitled Ertheia, this expansion brings with it a new race (the Ertheia), new hunting zones, and more.

"Ertheia, born of the wind, were created by the god Sayha," the game's lore states. "Renowned for their beauty, everyone longed to keep them near. But like the wind itself, they never wanted to stay in one place for very long, and suffered if they were confined. For ages, the Ertheia made their home in the Wind Spirit Realm, away from interaction with the Material Realm. But a catastrophic event has thrust Faeron Village into Aden. And now these graceful, deadly warriors find themselves engaged in a life-or-death battle against Shilen in a strange place."

Lineage II recently celebrated its 10th anniversary in North America and features NCsoft's Truly Free business model. You can find out more on the exmapsion by watching the video included after the cut.

Continue reading Lineage II expands to Ertheia this summer

MassivelyLineage II expands to Ertheia this summer originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Jun 2014 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Ertheiaexpansionf2pfantasyfree-to-playlineagelineage-2lineage-iincsoftMon, 09 Jun 2014 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lineage II classic server detailed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/05/29/lineage-ii-classic-server-detailed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/05/29/lineage-ii-classic-server-detailed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/05/29/lineage-ii-classic-server-detailed/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Lineage 2
Lineage II will be opening a classic server to appease those players who miss the original version of the popular MMO.

This classic server will be a hybrid of C1 and C2, offering everything from the old inventory system to the old party system to the old skill system, and more. The open beta for this classic server is going on now for Korean players and will end on June 3. After beta, the classic server will be pay-to-play.

MassivelyLineage II classic server detailed originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 May 2014 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classic-serverf2pfantasyfree-to-playkorealineagelineage-2lineage-iincsoftThu, 29 May 2014 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Fried calamari]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/05/04/one-shots-fried-calamari/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/05/04/one-shots-fried-calamari/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/05/04/one-shots-fried-calamari/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

CoH
Good games require memorable villains, I've always said. And while suave, well-dressed British masterminds are good in a pinch, nothing can top 150 tons of ticked-off gigantopus. So rest in peace, City of Heroes, and be content that you will be remembered for haunting the darkest dreams of superheroes for all time.

"Here is my squid (a Kheldian Peacebringer in Nova form) as part of a team vs. a larger squid. This is the giant octopus Lusca, frequently seen in Independence Port," reader Ben sent in.

Seriously, that thing is like an elder god taking a steam bath. It's going to react to your puny eye beams and frost blasts by warping all of reality with a sneeze. Speaking of warped reality, get a load of our other player-submitted screenshots after the break!

Continue reading One Shots: Fried calamari

MassivelyOne Shots: Fried calamari originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 04 May 2014 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bring-back-one-shotscity-of-heroescohgalleriesgallerylineage-2lineage-iilord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroone-shotspics-or-it-didnt-happenreader-screenshotsreader-submissionsscreenshotscreenshotsuser-submissionswildstarSun, 04 May 2014 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lineage II turns 10 years old in North America]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/04/28/lineage-ii-turns-10-years-old-in-north-america/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/04/28/lineage-ii-turns-10-years-old-in-north-america/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/04/28/lineage-ii-turns-10-years-old-in-north-america/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

L2
NCsoft's Lineage franchise has a lot to celebrate this week as the North American version of Lineage II turns 10 years old. Says the company,
During the past decade, millions of players have joined the fight to defend the realm of Aden from Shilen, the evil Goddess of Destruction, and her dark forces. During that time, players have experienced 21 free expansions, defeated more than 350 raid bosses, explored 450 unique zones, mastered 2,200 plus unique skills, and interacted with (meaning "killed") more than 10,000 unique NPCs and monsters, making Lineage II one of the largest MMOs in the world based on content alone.
The in-game celebrations will boast veteran packs and the Carnival of Aden, which includes login events, collection quests, special weapons, and weekend bosses. Happy birthday, Lineage II, and welcome to the short list of MMOs older than a decade!

[Source: NCsoft press release]

MassivelyLineage II turns 10 years old in North America originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 28 Apr 2014 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarybirthdayf2pfantasyfree-to-playlineagelineage-2lineage-iincsoftMon, 28 Apr 2014 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NCsoft relents on Lineage II's hero coin prices]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/04/02/ncsoft-relents-on-lineage-iis-hero-coin-prices/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/04/02/ncsoft-relents-on-lineage-iis-hero-coin-prices/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/04/02/ncsoft-relents-on-lineage-iis-hero-coin-prices/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Lineage II
The outrageous -- and expensive -- Lineage II hero coin program is receiving a nerf in favor of the players. NCsoft announced today that it has reduced prices on "top-tier prizes" in the hero coin store by 40% or more. As an example, the Dark Amaranthine Weapon Pack has been reduced from 375,000 hero coins to 100,500 as a result of this change.

NCsoft also said that it will be giving players a hand with affording these items: "For those of you who might still be lamenting your inability to afford the reward items of your choice, take heart. We'll be introducing some special promotions both this month and in the future designed to help you increase your hero coin balance."

The launch of the hero coin program earlier this year was met with strong resistance and criticism for its exorbitant nature. Hero coins is a bonus currency that is given whenever a player spends real money in the game's store.

MassivelyNCsoft relents on Lineage II's hero coin prices originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 Apr 2014 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>economyf2pfantasyfree-to-playhero-coinhero-coinslineagelineage-2lineage-iincsoftnerfpatchupdateWed, 02 Apr 2014 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: Top 40 MMO themes, #10-1]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/18/jukebox-heroes-top-40-mmo-themes-10-1/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/18/jukebox-heroes-top-40-mmo-themes-10-1/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/18/jukebox-heroes-top-40-mmo-themes-10-1/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

We're finally here: my top 10 MMO theme tracks. I anticipate that out of all of the weeks, this will be the most controversial, since not only am I proclaiming the 10 best, but you'll realize which of your favorite games I've left out of the top 40 entirely.

A final reminder as to my self-imposed rules for this list: I limited myself to just one theme from a particular title, even if there were multiple themes in a game. Entries had to be a main theme or the closest equivalent of that; they had to be from MMOs, not from MOBAs; and I had to divorce my weighting of the track itself from the popularity of and my experience with that game. So there were no points added or subtracted based on my love of the game. I'm counting down the best music, period.

If you missed earlier parts of this series, check out themes #40-31, #30-21, and #20-11. Otherwise, hit that continue button and get listening already!

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: Top 40 MMO themes, #10-1

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: Top 40 MMO themes, #10-1 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Mar 2014 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city-of-heroescohcomposercomposerseq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iifeaturedfirefallgame-musicjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettilego-universelineage-2lineage-iilord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrommo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicopinionromrunes-of-magicsoundtracksoundtracksstar-trek-onlinestoultima-onlineuoWorld-of-WarcraftwowTue, 18 Mar 2014 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's Valentine's Day roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/02/14/massivelys-valentines-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/02/14/massivelys-valentines-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/02/14/massivelys-valentines-day-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

When a mob hits your eye with a big sharpened spike... that's not really amore! In fact, it's downright painful. But it's February -- a time when love is in the air, hearts are aflutter everywhere, and pink and red festoon your favorite MMOs. So in the spirit of the season, go ahead and give that mob an extra-hard love tap, right from... er, to the heart! And don't forget to collect whatever treasures it had for you because we all know Valentine's Day isn't all about the love; no, it's about the loot!

Want to know where to get your hands on something special for this holiday? There are plenty of celebrations throughout the MMOverse offering a plethora of events and goodies. Check out some of the various Valentine's events and specials going on now.

Continue reading Massively's Valentine's Day roundup

MassivelyMassively's Valentine's Day roundup originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 14 Feb 2014 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionage-of-wulinage-of-wushuaionanno-onlineascensionasiablade-and-soulblizzardblizzard-entertainmentblueholebluehole-studiosbrowserbrowser-basedchampionschampions-onlinechampschinachinesechinese-mmoclassic-mmococonsoleconsolescrypticcryptic-studiosdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuodotae-sporten-masseen-masse-entertainmenteqeq-2eq-iieq1eq2eqiiesporteventseverquesteverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivforsaken-worldfpsfree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactivegameforgegameforge-berlingpotatogvgholidayin-game-eventsjagexjagex-games-studiokidnappingleagueleague-of-legendslineagelineage-2lineage-iilolmartial-artsmartial-arts-mmoming-dynastymmo-shootermmofpsmobancsoftncsoft-koreaperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentplanetsideplanetside-2playstation-3playstation3ps2ps3pvppweriftrift-literift-planes-of-telarariotriot-gamesromrsrunes-of-magicrunescaperunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentrvrsandboxsci-fantasysci-fisegashootersnail-gamessnail-games-usasoesonysony-online-entertainmentspiral-knightssquaresquare-enixsteamsuperherosuperheroestaboreaterathree-faction-pvpthree-ringsthree-rings-designthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldstruly-freeValentines-DayValentines-Day-2014warcraftworld-of-warcraftwowwushuwuxiaFri, 14 Feb 2014 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NCsoft boosts numbers in Q4 2013 while Nexon names new CEO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/02/13/ncsoft-boosts-numbers-in-q4-2013-while-nexon-names-new-ceo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/02/13/ncsoft-boosts-numbers-in-q4-2013-while-nexon-names-new-ceo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/02/13/ncsoft-boosts-numbers-in-q4-2013-while-nexon-names-new-ceo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

NCsoft
NCsoft is thanking its lucky Blade & Soul these days, as revenues from the game's popularity in China have helped to boost its financial status.

In the recently released Q4 2013 earnings report, NCsoft announced that sales, operating profit, pre-tax income, and net income were up over Q3 2013. Overall, 2013 was profitable for the company as its income went up year-over-year. NCsoft credited a growing Lineage and a "strong" and "solid" Guild Wars 2 for this effort, as well as cost savings initiatives. While sales in Korea improved from 2012 to 2013, those in Japan, Europe, and North America all declined over the same time period.

Lineage is by far NCsoft's biggest earner, followed by Guild Wars 2, Aion, and Blade & Soul. The company said that WildStar is on track to launch in mid-2014 and that the key GW2 focus is not on an expansion but with bringing the game to China.

Meanwhile, NCsoft's biggest investor, Nexon, just named Owen Mahoney as its new president and CEO, replacing Seungwoo Choi. Nexon also announced a revenue and income increase in 2013 and acknowledged that it is underperforming in Japan and the West.

MassivelyNCsoft boosts numbers in Q4 2013 while Nexon names new CEO originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Feb 2014 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionascensionblade-and-soulearnings-reportf2pfantasyfree-to-playguild-wars-2gw2lineagelineage-2lineage-iincsoftnexonOwen-MahoneySeungwoo-Choitruly-freewildstarThu, 13 Feb 2014 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: Elf music]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/02/11/jukebox-heroes-elf-music/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/02/11/jukebox-heroes-elf-music/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/02/11/jukebox-heroes-elf-music/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

LotRO
As probably many of you know, I am no fan of the Elven menace. I won't rehash the reasons n this space, but I mention that because I do try to be a fair man. When I'm not trying to eradicate any pointy-eared immortal know-it-all tree-hugger in sight, I have been known to appreciate the Elves' musical culture. That doesn't make me a hypocrite. It just gives me slight pause before ganking the next Drizzt or Legolas.

For whatever reason, Elves bring out the magic and talent in MMO composition. Elven themes are quite often among the best that a particular OST has to offer, particularly if you like airy, magical, ethereal tracks that are big on imagination and almost devoid of percussion. I've been noting the trend of excellent Elf music for years and figured I might as well devote a week to it here before going back to my Elf-bashing ways.

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: Elf music

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: Elf music originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Feb 2014 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archeagecomposercomposerselfelf-musicelsword-onlineelvenelveseverquesteverquest-iifeaturedgame-musicjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettilineage-iilord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrommo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicopinionromrunes-of-magicsoundtracksoundtracksteravanguardworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 11 Feb 2014 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lineage II's Hero Coin rewards program debuts to firestorm]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/01/20/lineage-iis-hero-coin-rewards-program-debuts-to-firestorm/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/01/20/lineage-iis-hero-coin-rewards-program-debuts-to-firestorm/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/01/20/lineage-iis-hero-coin-rewards-program-debuts-to-firestorm/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Lineage II just rolled out Hero Coins, a new rewards system designed to give players who purchase items from the cash shop a little something extra. But the devil is in the details, and players in the official thread have expressed that the illicit RMT deals look sweet in comparison.

Here's how the program works: Players earn Hero Coins whenever they make qualifying purchases from the L2 Store or the L2 Galleria, with coins awarded retroactively for all purchases since November 30th, 2011. Sounds decent so far, right? But this is where the program loses its appeal for some players.

Hero Coins are not account-wide; they're bound to whichever character received the purchased item. On top of that, all Hero Coins expire at the end of every calendar year at 3:01 a.m. EST January 1st, so players can't accumulate them until they can make a decent purchase. And accumulate they must: There are items in the rewards program that equate to over $35K, but can be found on the black market for approximately $2K. For really big spenders, the top item converts to spending over $200K in cash in the store -- in a single year.

[Thanks to Ville for the tip!]

MassivelyLineage II's Hero Coin rewards program debuts to firestorm originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Jan 2014 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfantasyfree-to-playhero-coin-rewards-programHero-Coinslineagelineage-2lineage-iincsoftrewards-programRMTMon, 20 Jan 2014 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's winter holidays MMO roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/12/21/celebrate-the-holidays-throughout-the-mmoverse/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/12/21/celebrate-the-holidays-throughout-the-mmoverse/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/12/21/celebrate-the-holidays-throughout-the-mmoverse/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The holidays are here! That means the hustle and bustle of the season is in full swing, with gifts to get, treats to taste, deals to nab, and plenty of festivities to partake in -- and that's just in the MMOverse! Yes folks, there's a plethora of holiday celebrations out there -- so many, in fact, that it can be hard to keep track of them all, let alone participate to them!

If you're trying to catch everything in your favorite games, we're here to help. We've got a round up of the various winter celebrations across the gaming sphere all bundled together right here for you. If something catches your eye, hop in and join in the festivities!

Continue reading Massively's winter holidays MMO roundup

MassivelyMassively's winter holidays MMO roundup originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 21 Dec 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acactionaction-mmoactivisionage-of-wulinage-of-wushuagonaionallodsallods-onlineanarchy-onlineanetaoArcane-Legendsarenanetascensionasherons-callasiaastrum-nivalaventurinebattle-commandBattle-Dragonsbattle-of-the-immortalsbiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentblueholebluehole-studiosboibrowserbrowser-basedbuy-to-playcamelotccpccp-gameschampionschampions-onlinechampschinachinesechinese-mmochristmaschristmas-2013classic-mmococode-clubconsoleconsolescrypticcryptic-studiosdaocdark-age-of-camelotdarkfalldarkfall-unholy-warsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuodfdnddotadragondragonsdragons-prophete-sporteaelectronic-artsen-masseen-masse-entertainmenteqeq-2eq-iieq1eq2eqiiesporteveeve-onlineeverquesteverquest-2everquest-iif2pfactionfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivfpsfree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactivefuncomgala-netgameforgegameforge-berlingpotatoguideguild-wars-2gvggw2holidayhorrorhousinginfernuminfernum-productionsinternet-spaceshipsjade-dynastyjagexjagex-games-studiokidnappingleagueleague-of-legendslineagelineage-2lineage-iilollord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolucasartsmail-ru-gamesmail.ru-gamesmailru-gamesmartial-artsmartial-arts-mmoming-dynastymmo-shootermmofpsmobamythicmythic-entertainmentmythologyncsoftneverwinteropen-pvpperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentperfect-world-internationalplanetsideplanetside-2playstation-3playstation3Pocket-legendsps2ps3pvppwepwiraiderzriftrift-literift-planes-of-telarariotriot-gamesromrsrunes-of-magicrunescaperunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentrvrsandboxsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldsegashooterskill-basedsnail-gamessnail-games-usasoesonysony-online-entertainmentspiral-knightsspreadsheets-onlinesquaresquare-enixstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsteamsubscriptionlesssuperherosuperheroesswtortaboreaTarloks-Wrathterathe-old-republicthe-secret-worldthree-faction-pvpthree-ringsthree-rings-designthree-way-pvptortriontrion-worldstruly-freetswturbineturbine-entertainmentunholy-warswar-of-the-immortalswarcraftwinter-2013winter-holidaywinter-holidayswinter-holidays-2013woiworld-of-warcraftwowwurmwurm-onlinewushuwuxiazhu-xianSat, 21 Dec 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lineage 2 launching Valiance expansion December 11th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/12/02/lineage-2-launching-valiance-expansion-december-11th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/12/02/lineage-2-launching-valiance-expansion-december-11th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/12/02/lineage-2-launching-valiance-expansion-december-11th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Though the Goddess of Destruction failed to obliterate Aden, that doesn't mean all was destined to stay peaceful and quiet in Lineage II. On the contrary, on December 11th, old threats (including four returning raid bosses) will resurface and new challenges will arise when L2's newest expansion, Valiance, launches.

Beyond the evolving storyline, this expansion brings an assortment of new goodies for players to experience, including updated raiding systems, almost 80 new raid bosses, a new ability system, a skill system overhaul, and the return of the Gracia hunting grounds. Get a glimpse of what's to come next week in the new screenshots below.

[Source: NCsoft press release]

MassivelyLineage 2 launching Valiance expansion December 11th originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Dec 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>expansionexpansion-launch-datef2pfantasyfree-to-playgalleriesgallerylineagelineage-2lineage-iincsoftscreenshotscreenshotsValianceValiance-launchValiance-launch-dateMon, 02 Dec 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Check out Lineage II's newest race, the Ertheia]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/11/19/check-out-lineage-iis-newest-race-the-ertheia/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/11/19/check-out-lineage-iis-newest-race-the-ertheia/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/11/19/check-out-lineage-iis-newest-race-the-ertheia/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Lineage II
Lineage II fans will have more than just a virgin continent and additional raids to contend with after the game expands with Valiance; they'll also have a brand-new race called the Ertheia to play next year.

NCsoft officially revealed the Ertheia today, showing the fleet-footed "mystical" people to the entire world. So who are the Ertheia? Let's go to the official press release for help on that: "While a lot is still unknown about Ertheia and the impact they will have on the world, it can be rightly assumed that they will be quickly drawn into the ongoing conflict in Aden." Wait, that's no help at all.

The Ertheia won't be released until next year to coincide with Lineage II's 10th anniversary in North America. You can watch the reveal trailer after the jump.

[Source: NCsoft press release]

Continue reading Check out Lineage II's newest race, the Ertheia

MassivelyCheck out Lineage II's newest race, the Ertheia originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 Nov 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaErtheiaexpansionf2pfantasyfree-to-playlineagelineage-2lineage-iincsoftracerace-revealtrailerupskirtvaliancevideoTue, 19 Nov 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Raiders feel the love in Lineage II's Valiance expansion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/11/06/raiders-feel-the-love-in-lineage-iis-valiance-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/11/06/raiders-feel-the-love-in-lineage-iis-valiance-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/11/06/raiders-feel-the-love-in-lineage-iis-valiance-expansion/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Raiders feel the love in Lineage II's Valiance expansion
Raiders have a lot to look forward to in Lineage II's next expansion, which is due to release later this year. Valiance is heavy on additions and updates to the raid systems, including the addition of nearly 80 new level 88-98 raid bosses, updated drop lists for Dragon Raid bosses, a new raid boss summoning system, and a new Adena distribution system for after the raids. The open field raid bosses have also gotten a revamp, as has the raid point ranking system. Did you miss Beleth, Darion, Lilith, and Anakim? Players will be able to once again face these four returning raid bosses. And on top of all that, The Seed of Destruction and Infinity hunting grounds in Gracia have been revamped and changed to instance zones.

But wait, there's more! You can head into these new battles in style with a new hairstyle from the beauty shop. Then, when all your slaughtering is done, you can kick back in a new clan hall or relax with the revamped fishing system. Get a peek at all these changes in the gallery below.

[Source: NCsoft press release]

MassivelyRaiders feel the love in Lineage II's Valiance expansion originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Nov 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clann-hallscustimizationexpansionf2pfantasyfishingfree-to-playgalleriesgallerylineagelineage-2lineage-iincsoftnew-clan-hallsnew-hairstylesraid-bossesraidningraidsscreenshotscreenshotsValianceWed, 06 Nov 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist: Classic MMOs in October]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/10/26/the-game-archaeologist-classic-mmos-in-october/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/10/26/the-game-archaeologist-classic-mmos-in-october/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/10/26/the-game-archaeologist-classic-mmos-in-october/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The Game Archaeologist Classic MMOs in October
You think your fancy modern MMOs have the patent on Halloween? Mister, classic games own this holiday. They were out picking pumpkins and decapitating spooks long before you were a twinkle in the character creator's eye.

Halloween's back in many of our older titles this month, and for those of you who have been away from a beloved classic, it may just be the best time to return for another go. Anarchy Online not only has the return of Uncle Pumpkinhead but some pretty good subscription deals right now. EverQuest has the Haunting of Norrath, Pixel Pirates is offering seasonal items in the store, Guild Wars probably toggled its Halloween 2013 switch, RuneScape's got a brand-new questline, and Dark Age of Camelot is up to its standard tricks with the Pumpkin Moon.

Of course, October wasn't just about trick-or-treating; plenty of other events have happened to the classic MMO collective. From a record-setting expansion to invasions to a very happy birthday, this month kept hopping (and growling, slithering, and lurking). Let's check it out!

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist: Classic MMOs in October

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist: Classic MMOs in October originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 26 Oct 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acac2asherons-callasherons-call-2classicclassic-mmosclassicsdaocdark-age-of-cameloteverquestfeaturedgame-archaelogisthalloweenhalloween-2013holidaylineage-2lineage-iineocronnostalgiaopinionthe-game-archaeologistultima-onlineuoSat, 26 Oct 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NCsoft announces Valiance, Lineage II's next expansion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/10/16/ncsoft-announces-valiance-lineage-iis-next-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/10/16/ncsoft-announces-valiance-lineage-iis-next-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/10/16/ncsoft-announces-valiance-lineage-iis-next-expansion/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Lineage II
NCsoft has just announced Valiance, a new content expansion for Lineage II set for launch at some point before the end of the year. According to the company, the new content includes a storyline that "wreaks havoc across the lands" and brings big mechanics changes and skill updates.

Valiance marks the return of the Hellbound zone, which has been upgraded with new areas and hunting parties. NCsoft has added 25 new skills to the game, tweaked a number of existing skills, and entirely reworked the core skill system. Additionally, the studio is implementing an abilities system that allows players to customize skills to make characters more specialized. Some of Lineage II's most popular raid bosses are also on deck to return.

More information should be forthcoming as Valiance edges toward launch. Lineage II just celebrated its 10th anniversary in Korea; April 2014 marks 10 years of Lineage II in the west.

[Source: NCsoft press release]

MassivelyNCsoft announces Valiance, Lineage II's next expansion originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 Oct 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>announcementexpansionf2pfantasyfree-to-playfreemiumhellboundlineagelineage-2lineage-iimicrotransactionmicrotransactionsncsoftoverhaulpremiumskill-systemValianceWed, 16 Oct 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: Lineage II's soundtrack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/10/08/jukebox-heroes-lineage-iis-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/10/08/jukebox-heroes-lineage-iis-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/10/08/jukebox-heroes-lineage-iis-soundtrack/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes Lineage II's soundtrack
Once again, I must begin this column by advising you to jettison your attitude toward an MMO when it comes to evaluating its music. Lineage II doesn't have the rabid following in the West that it seems to overseas, and I've heard a lot of negativity thrown its way (some of it quite deserved, but this is me jettisoning). However -- and I don't say this lightly -- its musical score is absolutely superb. It's right up there with the best of the industry and deserves to be heard.

Its many soundtrack albums have a small army of composers powering them: Bill Brown, Jamie Christopherson, Inon Zur, Hyobum Lim, Chihwan Kim, Junyup Lee, Junghwan Park, Junghye Hong, and Changbeom Kim. Collaboratively, these folks have assembled a sizable body of work that spans a decade of video game music.

The Lineage II soundtrack is, at times, cinematic, tranquil, lovely, and exciting. Check out these six tracks for a taste of the best, and if that interests you, you might want to listen to my recent Battle Bards podcast in which we dissect this score.

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: Lineage II's soundtrack

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: Lineage II's soundtrack originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 Oct 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bill-BrownChangbeom-KimChihwan-Kimcomposercomposersf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgame-musicHyobum-LimInon-ZurJamie-Christophersonjukeboxjukebox-heroesJunghwan-ParkJunghye-HongJunyup-Leejustin-olivettilineagelineage-2lineage-iimmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicncsoftopinionsoundtracksoundtracksTue, 08 Oct 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist: Classic MMOs in August]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/08/31/the-game-archaeologist-classic-mmos-in-august/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/08/31/the-game-archaeologist-classic-mmos-in-august/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/08/31/the-game-archaeologist-classic-mmos-in-august/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Game Archaeologist Classic MMOs in August
How few players do you need to have before operating an MMO becomes ridiculously unprofitable and in need of closing? In the case of The Matrix Online, we found out that the magic number was 500. I wouldn't have even guessed that so few people were in that game when its shutdown was announced, especially considering the vocal anguish that arose when SOE lowered the boom.

I guess it goes to show that we're often quite clueless what goes on behind the curtain. There's always this balance between the number-crunchers (who need players and money to justify continued operations) and the passionate creators (who are often developers putting in the effort because they simply love the game and its community). If nothing else, it reinforced my belief that SOE does bend over backwards to keep these games running as long as possible, much longer than some other studios would in a similar situation.

So what other news regarding classic MMOs happened this past month? It's time for another one of my patented roundups, complete with archaeological commentary!

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist: Classic MMOs in August

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist: Classic MMOs in August originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 31 Aug 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acanarchy-onlineaoasherons-callcall-of-the-forsakenclassicclassic-mmoclassic-mmosclassicsddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeaelectronic-artseqeq1everquestf2pfantasyfeaturedfpsfree-to-playfuncomgame-archaelogistlineagelineage-2lineage-iilord-britishmmofpsmxomythicmythic-entertainmentncsoftnostalgiaopinionplanetsidepsps1sandboxsci-fishadowfall-conspiracyshadowfell-conspiracysoesonysony-online-entertainmenttelonthe-game-archaeologistthe-matrix-onlineturbineturbine-entertainmentultimaultima onlineuovanguardvanguard-saga-of-heroesvgSat, 31 Aug 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NCsoft looking ahead to Lineage Eternal beta, WildStar launch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/08/15/ncsoft-looking-ahead-to-lineage-eternal-beta-wildstar-launch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/08/15/ncsoft-looking-ahead-to-lineage-eternal-beta-wildstar-launch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/08/15/ncsoft-looking-ahead-to-lineage-eternal-beta-wildstar-launch/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

NCsoft looking ahead to Lineage Eternal beta, WildStar launch
A couple of additional tidbits came out of this week's NCsoft earnings call that are relevant to fans of Lineage and WildStar. The studio said that it is preparing to roll out the beta schedule of Lineage Eternal, the third title in the series, by the end of this year. Lineage Eternal was announced in 2011, but we've heard precious little about the game since.

The publisher also said that it's taking a close look at the performance of WildStar's closed beta testing and will use testing results to shape its plans for the launch. Previously, Carbine Studios said that it's aiming for a 2013 launch window for the title if all went well in the beta.

MassivelyNCsoft looking ahead to Lineage Eternal beta, WildStar launch originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Aug 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betacarbinecarbine-studiosclassic-mmoearnings-callf2pfantasyfree-to-playl1lelineagelineage-1lineage-2lineage-3lineage-eternallineage-iilineage-iiincsoftsandparksci-fantasysci-fiwildstarwsThu, 15 Aug 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Former Lineage II/TERA dev starts new game studio]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/07/16/former-lineage-ii-tera-dev-starts-new-game-studio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/07/16/former-lineage-ii-tera-dev-starts-new-game-studio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/07/16/former-lineage-ii-tera-dev-starts-new-game-studio/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Lineage II/Tera dev starts new game studio
What do you do when your parent company wants to focus on mobile gaming and you don't? If you are Yonghyun Park, you start your own studio. Once a developer on both Lineage II and TERA, Park created a new company called NAT Games from LADA Studios, which was dismissed from Netmarble Korea over the aforementioned difference in market focus.

NAT Games plans on creating the next big blockbuster MMORPG, according to Steparu.com, who found the fledgling studio's recruitment webpage and application. Unfortunately, not much more is known about this proposed game in the works, but we'll keep you informed as information comes in.

MassivelyFormer Lineage II/TERA dev starts new game studio originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Jul 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiosen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfantasyfree-to-playLADA-Studioslineagelineage-2lineage-iiNAT-GamesncsoftnetmarbleNetmarble-KoreateraYonghyun-ParkTue, 16 Jul 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Do you always dress like that?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/16/one-shots-do-you-always-dress-like-that/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/16/one-shots-do-you-always-dress-like-that/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/16/one-shots-do-you-always-dress-like-that/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

One Shots Do you always dress like that
Here's a tip from your friendly One Shots coordinator: If you send in a screenshot from a game that hardly ever gets featured in this column, there's a better-than-average chance that I'm going to bump it right up to the top of the pack. Case in point: this groovy shot from Lineage II.

Reader Johnny said he played this game back in 2007: "Behind me we can see the endgame, the Baium Raid Boss. Baium resides on the 13th floor of a the Tower of Insolence, a massive, non-instanced hunting ground with 13 fully accessible and monster-packed floors. The weapon I am holding is a Flaming Dragon Skull, an A-grade blunt weapon."

Be prepared for A-grade awesome screenshots and B-grade commentary as you forge on in this week's repository of player-submitted pictures!

Continue reading One Shots: Do you always dress like that?

MassivelyOne Shots: Do you always dress like that? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 16 Jun 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bring-back-one-shotsddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlinef2pfantasyfree-to-playgalleriesgallerylineagelineage-2lineage-iilord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroncsoftone-shotspics-or-it-didnt-happenreader-screenshotsreader-submissionsscreenshotscreenshotstabula-rasaturbineturbine-entertainmentuser-submissionsSun, 16 Jun 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lindvior touches down in Lineage 2 today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/29/lindvior-touches-down-in-lineage-2-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/29/lindvior-touches-down-in-lineage-2-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/29/lindvior-touches-down-in-lineage-2-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Lindvior touches down today in Lineage 2
Today's the day that the goddess Shilen unleashes her fury on the world of Aden in the form of her champion, the dragon Lindvior, Lord of the Western Winds. But Lineage II's latest update, Lindvior Goddess of Destruction, brings more than just this epic dragon boss to test the mettle of players. It also adds more Awakened classes (bringing the total from eight to 34), three new zones, and plenty of new armor and weapons. On top of that, players will have a new character customization system with over 100 new looks.

Gon Namkung, L2's development director, stated, "This is by far the most intricate challenge that players have ever faced in Lineage II throughout its long and storied history. The entire Lineage II development team is proud of this achievement and we are confident only the best players will defeat Lindvior." He continued, "We issue this challenge to all our players, who will defeat Lindvior first!?"

[Sourse: NCsoft press release]

MassivelyLindvior touches down in Lineage 2 today originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 29 May 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Awakened-classesexpansionf2pfantasyfree-to-playGon-NamkungLindviorLindvior-Goddess-of-Destructionlineagelineage-2lineage-iincsoftnew-raid-bossnew-zonesraidWed, 29 May 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NCsoft sales down from last quarter, up from last year]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/12/ncsoft-sales-down-from-last-quarter-up-from-last-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/12/ncsoft-sales-down-from-last-quarter-up-from-last-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/12/ncsoft-sales-down-from-last-quarter-up-from-last-year/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

NCsoft sales down from last quarter, up from last year
A recent earnings report suggests that NCsoft's sales have slipped from Q4 2012 to Q1 2013, although the studio is quick to point out that the showing was "solid" particularly when compared to sales from a year ago. While sales were down 35% and net income was down 49% from the last quarter, sales were up 31% and net income was up 322% year-over-year.

Guild Wars 2 accounted for 21% of sales in the first quarter, in addition to Blade and Soul's 9%, Aion's 16%, and the usual Lineage cavalcade (Lineage 1 represented 38% of sales alone with its subscriptions).

While 64% of NCsoft's sales were in Korea, only 13% were in North America and 8% in Europe. The decrease in NA and EU contributions was due to "the reduction in Guild Wars 2 package sales," according to the report. All of NCsoft's subsidiaries posted drops in sales from last quarter except for NC Taiwan.

[Update: Also of note in the earnings call is the news that NCsoft's Nah Seong Chan says the company is "preparing an expansion pack" but has yet to decide when it might launch. Very interesting news indeed as ArenaNet said as recently as March that it was not working on an expansion. Thanks to Mike and Robert for the tips!]

MassivelyNCsoft sales down from last quarter, up from last year originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 12 May 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1q-2013aionanetarenanetascensionblade-and-soulbuy-to-playclassic-mmoearnings-reportf2pfantasyfree-to-playguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw2l1lineagelineage-1lineage-2lineage-iimartial-artsmartial-arts-mmoncsoftncsoft-koreaq1-2013truly-freeSun, 12 May 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Assembly Required: Community as content]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/some-assembly-required-community-as-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/some-assembly-required-community-as-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/some-assembly-required-community-as-content/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Some Assembly Required Community as content
Not too long ago, I had the opportunity to cover an occasion during which an in-game community came together and created a new player-run annual event. Born as an anniversary follow-up to a service event for the young terminally ill player Ribbitribbit, the new tradition focused on celebrating that very community that pulled together to create him a dream playground within EverQuest II. If the game lacked a sense of community in the game before that original project, it certainly didn't after.

After tugging at my heartstrings for a while, that experience made me reflect on how much our communities are really a cornerstone of player-generated content. How often have you attended or participated in an event or run a mission created by someone other than yourself? And yet, when discussing important tools and elements needed to support player-generated content, we often overlook the necessity of a vibrant community. It's like trying to bake a cake without adding the flour. Or how about this analogy: You can give folks a giant tool box full of a shiny implements and tell them to build a house, but not much will happen without the actual wood and materials! So to foster PGC, games need to foster building communities.

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: Community as content

MassivelySome Assembly Required: Community as content originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 26 Apr 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionascensionbuy-to-playcommunitycommunity-buildingcommunity-building-toolseaelectronic-artsendless-trialeq-2eq-iieq2eqiieveeve-fanfesteve-fanfest-2013eve-onlineeve-online-fanfesteve-online-fanfest-2013eventevent-coverageeverquest-2everquest-iif2pfactionfanfestfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfuncomgame-mechanicshorroricelandin-game-calendarlineagelineage-2lineage-iimassively-event-coveragemythicmythic-entertainmentmythologyncsoftopinionpgcplayer-contentplayer-generated-contentpvprekyjavikrvrsandboxsarsci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedsoesome-assembly-requiredsonysony-online-entertainmentsubscriptionlessthe-secret-worldtruly-freetswwarwarhammerwarhammer-onlineFri, 26 Apr 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lineage II releases Lindvior update trailer, announces PvP tourney]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/lineage-ii-releases-lindvior-update-trailer-announces-pvp-tourn/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/lineage-ii-releases-lindvior-update-trailer-announces-pvp-tourn/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/lineage-ii-releases-lindvior-update-trailer-announces-pvp-tourn/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Lineage II releases Lindvior update trailer, announces PvP tourney
Before Lineage II's big Lindvior update hits servers in May, players can participate in an inter-server PvP competition for a chance at some impressive prizes, including piles of adena, R99-Grade eternal armor sets, weapons, wigs, and more. During the month of April, up to 32 different teams will fight for the title of greatest PvPers in the 2013 Battle Tournament.

Unlike many PvP tourneys, this one will be focusing on skill by removing gear discrepancies; all participants will set up with a premade level 99 character on a special event server. Folks who use any items or skills that differ from the premade settings will be disqualified along with their entire team. To qualify for this event, all players on a team must be from the same server, at least level 85, and from a different Awakened classes. All qualified teams must also pay an entry fee of 350 million adena.

For complete details on how to enter, check out the official rules and requirements. And you can watch trailers for both the Battle Tournament and the upcoming Lindvior update after the break.

[Thanks to FizzyFreeze for the tip!]

Continue reading Lineage II releases Lindvior update trailer, announces PvP tourney

MassivelyLineage II releases Lindvior update trailer, announces PvP tourney originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Battle-Tournamentf2pfantasyfree-to-playLindviorlineagelineage-2lineage-iincsoftPvPPvP-tourneytrailertrailersupdatevideosThu, 04 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist: When sequels attack!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/the-game-archaeologist-when-sequels-attack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/the-game-archaeologist-when-sequels-attack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/the-game-archaeologist-when-sequels-attack/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Game Archaeologist When sequels attack!
Sequels are both the bane of and a fact of life for movies and video games. Well, "bane" is a strong word, and you're probably thinking of Batman right now anyway, but personally, I'm always willing to give the benefit of doubt to any continuation of a favorite franchise. While we don't see sequels pop up as often in MMOs, they do exist and have significant effects upon the original title that bears the same name.

It's here that MMOs diverge from movies and other video games. With those, the original is not in any sort of danger, other than the perception of having its legacy dragged down into the muck (Caddyshack II, anyone?) and perhaps overstaying its welcome. An MMO sequel, on the other hand, can cause serious consequences to its ancestor.

Here at Game Archaeologist, we look at classic games that have often seen their time come and go. But what happens to one of these titles when a sequel attacks? Almost anything, it turns out.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist: When sequels attack!

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist: When sequels attack! originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 23 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acac2agonanetarenanetasherons-callasherons-call-2aventurinebrowserbrowser-basedbuy-to-playclassicclassic-mmoclassic-mmosclassicsconsoleconsolesdarkfalldfeqeq-2eq-iieq1eq2eqiieverquesteverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivfpsfree-to-playgagame-archaelogistglobal agendaguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw2hi-rezhi-rez-studiosjagexjagex-games-studiojumpgatejumpgate-evolutionl1lineagelineage-1lineage-2lineage-iimmofpsncsoftneocronneocron-2nostalgiaopen-pvpopinionpvprsrunescapesandboxsci-fishootersoesonysony-online-entertainmentspy-fisquaresquare-enixthe-game-archaeologistthird-person-shootertpsturbineturbine-entertainmentultima-online-2ultima-x-odysseySat, 23 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lineage II offering augmented Adenian underwear promo]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/lineage-ii-offering-augmented-adenian-underwear-promo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/lineage-ii-offering-augmented-adenian-underwear-promo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/lineage-ii-offering-augmented-adenian-underwear-promo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Lineage II augmented underwear promo
While wading into virtual battle in your skivvies may invite the wrath of the PC police, doing so in the world of Lineage II will give you substantial stat bonuses.

NCsoft is running a Choose Your Underwear promotion from now through March 13th. The unmentionables in question are broken down into five cash shop sets, each of which grants the wearer base stat bonuses in the form of +35 to physical defense, +15 to magical defense, +7 to speed, and +15 to elemental attributes (fire, water, wind, etc.). The garments can be augmented with additional stats and skills via life stones and gem stones.

Lineage II's business model relies completely on the cash shop, as 100% of the game's content is available to all players for free.

[Thanks to everyone who tipped us!]

MassivelyLineage II offering augmented Adenian underwear promo originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Feb 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adenian-underwearcash-shopf2pfantasyfree-to-playlineagelineage-2lineage-2-underwearlineage-iincsoftrighteous-indignationskimpy-armorunderwearThu, 28 Feb 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NCsoft earnings report shows healthy growth]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/05/ncsoft-earnings-report-shows-healthy-growth/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/05/ncsoft-earnings-report-shows-healthy-growth/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/05/ncsoft-earnings-report-shows-healthy-growth/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

NCsoft earnings report shows healthy growth
NCsoft just released its fourth quarter 2012 earnings report, and things are looking pretty good across the board for the multi-MMO company. NCsoft's earnings are up both quarter-over-quarter and year-over-year due to the releases of Blade & Soul and Guild Wars 2, not to mention "record-breaking annual revenues" from Lineage.

Guild Wars 2 accounted for 45% of the company's sales in Q4, followed by Lineage (24%) and Blade & Soul (10%). ArenaNet's newest game increased the North American market from 16% in Q3 to 25% in Q4.

It's not completely sunshine and roses, however. Lineage II and Aion both experienced declines during the period. NCsoft's net income was in the red for the quarter and its stock has slid since September, losing half of its value in the process.

[Thanks to Paul for the tip!]

MassivelyNCsoft earnings report shows healthy growth originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 05 Feb 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionanetarenanetascensionblade-and-soulbuy-to-playclassic-mmoearnings-reportf2pfantasyfree-to-playgrowthguild-wars-2gw2l1lineagelineage-1lineage-2lineage-iimartial-artsmartial-arts-mmoncsoftncsoft-koreaq4q4-2012truly-freeTue, 05 Feb 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lineage II looks back at 2012 and forward to 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/24/lineage-ii-looks-back-at-2012-and-forward-to-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/24/lineage-ii-looks-back-at-2012-and-forward-to-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/24/lineage-ii-looks-back-at-2012-and-forward-to-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Not included in next year's updates are add-on packs for your armor spikes to give you additional spikes.
Lineage II went free-to-play last year, and according to the newest state of the game letter, that conversion went very well indeed. The letter points out that more than one and a half million new accounts were created in 2012 alone, an impressive number for any game and doubly so for a game approaching its ninth anniversary. Over 800,000 store items have been sold, solidifying the game's performance and moneymaking capabilities. In other words, if you were worried the game wasn't doing well, you can stop worrying.

But what about the future? Well, there's another major installment of the Goddess of Destruction series due out. The development team is also looking into a variety of improvements for players including tradeable shop items, methods of gifting microtransaction currency, and more options to pay for your cash shop purchases. There's also discussion of more events and tournaments for everyone to enjoy, showing that the title is aging but still has quite a lot of life left.

MassivelyLineage II looks back at 2012 and forward to 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Jan 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coming-attractionscoming-patchescoming-updatesf2pfantasyfree-to-playlineagelineage-2lineage-iilooking-forwardncsoftsotgstate-of-the-gameupcoming-updatesyear-in-advanceThu, 24 Jan 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Interview: Dr. Lawrence Sanders on MMO loyalty]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/09/massively-interview-dr-lawrence-sanders-on-mmo-loyalty/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/09/massively-interview-dr-lawrence-sanders-on-mmo-loyalty/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/09/massively-interview-dr-lawrence-sanders-on-mmo-loyalty/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Aion
Beyond amazing character design, compelling narratives, and the presence of dragons, there is one thing that all MMOs depend upon for success: player loyalty. Without returning subscribers, a loving community, or folks dropping a few dimes in the cash shop now and again, MMOs simply wouldn't be a feasible way for a games studio to do business. Smart development teams have player retention departments tasked specifically with tracking and analyzing the rise and fall of player allegiances and finding ways to leverage loyalty is becoming an increasingly important aspect of the creation process.

Even the non-gaming world is getting in on the fray. Back in November, researchers at the University at Buffalo School of Management published a study tracing the roots of player loyalties in a variety of MMO environments. The study outlined the mentalities of MMO gamers and the things that successfully encouraged them to keep coming back for more looting, more grinding, and more /hugging. Most importantly, the study declared that an MMO that increases loyalty by just 5% can increase profits by 25-95%.

We sat down with Dr. Lawrence Sanders, co-author of the study, to dive a little deeper into the researchers' methods, results, and plans for future MMO investigation.

Continue reading Massively Interview: Dr. Lawrence Sanders on MMO loyalty

MassivelyMassively Interview: Dr. Lawrence Sanders on MMO loyalty originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 Jan 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-wulinage-of-wushuaionccpccp-gameschinaclassic-mmoe-loyaltyeaelectronic-artseveeve-onlinef2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgalaxiesgaming-studiesgvghistoricalinternet-spaceshipsinterviewinterviewsjet-lil1Lawrence-Sanderslineagelineage-1lineage-2lineage-iiloyaltyncsoftplayer-eventsplayer-generated-contentpvpsandboxsci-fisoesony-online-entertainmentspreadsheets-onlinestudiestanktankstruly-freeultimaultima onlineuniversity-at-buffalouowarwarcraftworld-of-tanksworld-of-warcraftwotwowwushuWed, 09 Jan 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: City of Heroes' soundtrack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/27/jukebox-heroes-city-of-heroes-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/27/jukebox-heroes-city-of-heroes-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/27/jukebox-heroes-city-of-heroes-soundtrack/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes City of Heroes' soundtrack
Really, how could it be anything else this week? By the first of December, a major MMO influence on my life will be gone for good. We will talk about it in the past tense with wistful tones, remembering the superheroic escapades and villainous schemes. It will be given a place of honor in many of our memories, and I truly believe that City of Heroes will echo throughout the industry and community for years to come.

One of those echoes is the game's score, which will endure, as does every MMO's soundtrack. When I first started playing City of Heroes in 2004, the music made a big impression on me. It painted a picture of the game's locale and atmosphere perhaps better than anything else. Heck, you could play the game with your eyes closed and know which zone you were in by the music cues. That's how integral the score was to the game.

So this is my final send-off to City of Heroes: a look at the highlight from its soundtrack from the launch through Freedom. Goodbye, City of Heroes... I'm going to really miss you. I won't miss the whine from the force field bubble, but I'll miss almost everything else.

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: City of Heroes' soundtrack

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: City of Heroes' soundtrack originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Nov 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>champions-onlinecity-of-heroescity-of-heroes-freedomcity-of-heroes-going-roguecity-of-villainscohcomposercomposerscovcoxf2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreedomgame-musicgoing-roguehuxleyinvader-zimjason-gravesjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettiKevin-Riepllineage-iimichael-henrymmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicncsoftopinionparagonparagon-studiossoundtracksoundtracksstar-trek-onlinesunsunsetsunsettingsuperherosuperheroesTue, 27 Nov 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NCsoft releases Lineage II 'vision' trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/21/ncsoft-releases-lineage-ii-vision-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/21/ncsoft-releases-lineage-ii-vision-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/21/ncsoft-releases-lineage-ii-vision-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

NCsoft releases Lineage II 'vision' trailer
Remember Lineage II? Yeah, we know it's been nearly a decade since it released in the States, but it still boasts some of the best PvP in the MMO space. Now, NCsoft has released a 10-minute monstrosity of a trailer that offers a "glimpse of a possible future."

If you haven't played the game in a while (or if you've never played), much of the trailer's narrative will be lost on you. That's OK, though, because fantasy ultraviolence rarely needs an explanation. According to NCsoft's YouTube verbiage, the developers are considering some sort of server wars concept, too, so there's that. The clip is all yours after the cut.

[Thanks to WarElf for the tip!]

Continue reading NCsoft releases Lineage II 'vision' trailer

MassivelyNCsoft releases Lineage II 'vision' trailer originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Nov 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blood-alliance-conflictf2pfantasyfree-to-playlineagelineage-2lineage-2-blood-alliance-conflictlineage-iincsofttrailervideoWed, 21 Nov 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA Producer Chris Hager leaves En Masse]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/05/tera-producer-chris-hager-leaves-en-masse/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/05/tera-producer-chris-hager-leaves-en-masse/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/05/tera-producer-chris-hager-leaves-en-masse/#commentsFiled under: , ,

TERA Producer Chris Hager leaves En Masse
TERA Producer Chris Hager has left the fields of action combat and big-ass monsters, according to the studio. A PR rep released the following statement to Massively: "Yes, we can confirm Chris Hager is no longer with En Masse Entertainment. We wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors."

Bluehole Studios' Harns Kim first made mention of Hager's departure on his Twitter feed.

It is unclear whether Hager left of his own volition or was let go. Prior to working for En Masse, Hager was with NCsoft, developing titles like Guild Wars, Lineage II, and Aion.

[Thanks to Maniac for the tip!]

MassivelyTERA Producer Chris Hager leaves En Masse originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Nov 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionblueholebluehole-studiobluehole-studioschris-hageren-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyfiredguild-warshards-kimlayoffleftlet-golineage-iincsoftteraMon, 05 Nov 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lineage II releases Glory Days update]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/24/lineage-ii-releases-glory-days-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/24/lineage-ii-releases-glory-days-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/24/lineage-ii-releases-glory-days-update/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Lineage II releases Glory Days update
Hallelujah, the Glory Days are here! NCsoft released the update for Lineage II today, which is certainly one of the most sizable the game's ever seen. The publisher said that the patch was directly influenced by player suggestions and comments.

Glory Days adds a something for the whole family of gamers. The update includes new raids, zone overhauls, a nifty clan wars PvP system, dual classes, subclasses, zombie quests, and a whole mess of smaller changes and improvements. If this is your game, then you will want to clear about a half-hour or so to read through all of the patch notes.

We've got the soul-stirring trailer for Glory Days after the jump!

Continue reading Lineage II releases Glory Days update

MassivelyLineage II releases Glory Days update originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 24 Oct 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clan-warsf2pfantasyfree-to-playgloryglory-daysglory-days-updatelineagelineage-2lineage-iincsoftpatchpvpraidraidstrailerupdatevideoWed, 24 Oct 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Worst expansion names of all time]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/11/the-perfect-ten-worst-expansion-names-of-all-time/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/11/the-perfect-ten-worst-expansion-names-of-all-time/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/11/the-perfect-ten-worst-expansion-names-of-all-time/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Perfect Ten Worst expansion names of all time
When SOE announced that EverQuest's 19th expansion would be titled Rain of Fear, I instantly found myself tripping over the name. I shouldn't have -- it's a few simple words that are first round picks for spelling contests -- but it defied the traditional naming conventions for MMO expansions. Many people I talked to kept wanting to write "reign" instead because "rain" seemed like a deliberate misspelling by some intern in Smedley's empire.

Homophones aside, Rain of Fear is hardly the worst expansion title I've ever seen. The industry has had its share of bad names, from the confusing to the downright unpronounceable. Sure, we get used to these titles, and perhaps it's nit-picky to lug them out at such a late point in many of their lifespans, but petty is my middle name. My first name is Tom. And these are 10 poorly named expansions. Deal with it.

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Worst expansion names of all time

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Worst expansion names of all time originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 11 Oct 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anarchy-onlineaoccpccp-gamescity-of-heroescity-of-villainsclassic-mmocohconquestcovcoxddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeaelectronic-artseqeq-2eq-iieq1eq2eqiieveeve-onlineeverquesteverquest-2everquest-iiexpansionf2pfantasyfeaturedffff11ffxifinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-xiforgotten-realmsfree-to-playfreedomFreyafuncomgalaxiesgeorge-lucasgoing-roguehumorinternet-spaceshipsjohn-smedleylineagelineage-2lineage-iilord-britishmenace-of-the-underdarkmythicmythic-entertainmentncsoftopinionp10paragonparagon-studiosperfect-10perfect-tenpvprage-of-the-wookieesrain-of-fearred-moon-risingriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararounduprvrSamurai-Empiresandboxsarah-palinsci-fisoesonysony-online-entertainmentspreadsheets-onlinesquaresquare-enixstar-warsstar-wars-galaxiesstom-legionsuperherosuperheroesswgswgoThe-Legacy-of-Ykeshathe-notum-warsthe-perfect-10the-perfect-tenThe-Splitpaw-Sagathree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptop-10top-10-listtop-tentop-ten-listTreasures-of-Aht-Urhgantriontrion-worldsturbineturbine-entertainmentultimaultima onlineunderdarkuoThu, 11 Oct 2012 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Lineage II launches a teaser site for Glory Days [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/10/lineage-ii-launches-a-teaser-site-for-glory-days/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/10/lineage-ii-launches-a-teaser-site-for-glory-days/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/10/lineage-ii-launches-a-teaser-site-for-glory-days/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

She's honestly pretty tired of watching adventurers explode in golden light. It's gotten boring.
Another update for Lineage II is approaching, and this one promises to be full of glory. Days of it, even. But if you weren't sure about what the Glory Days update will offer for players, you can now stop at a handy teaser site that contains all of the upcoming features and expansions to Lineage II's existing gameplay. And there's a lot in there.

High-level players can venture to the Isle of Souls for solo or small-party play, take on Pagan's Temple for solo or group play, make a small team to infiltrate Nornil's Cave, or take part in the daily instanced raid of Nornil's Garden. Meanwhile, all players can enjoy the revised Mentoring and Reputation system, while players with a Subclass can enjoy special dual-class abilities as well as a free subclass level reset. And there's a whole revamped system of Clan Wars coming, complete with contestable halls. Really, if you're an avid Lineage II player, you might want to just look at the site.

[Update]: Glory Days will launch on October 24th.

MassivelyLineage II launches a teaser site for Glory Days [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 10 Oct 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>expansionsf2pfantasyfree-to-playglory-dayslarge-patcheslarge-updateslineagelineage-2lineage-iimini-expansionsncsoftnewspatchesupdatesWed, 10 Oct 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NCsoft seeks to correct Lineage II rebalancing changes with player feedback]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/21/ncsoft-seeks-to-correct-lineage-ii-rebalancing-changes-with-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/21/ncsoft-seeks-to-correct-lineage-ii-rebalancing-changes-with-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/21/ncsoft-seeks-to-correct-lineage-ii-rebalancing-changes-with-play/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

NCsoft seeks to correct Lineage II rebalancing changes with player feedback
Change is inevitable in any MMO, but in a letter to players Lineage II Development Director Gon Namkun acknowledged that not all change is good. As Lineage II has developed over the years, classes have been added and then changed around and stripped of many of their distinctive characteristics in the name of balance. And NCsoft wants to bring some of the diversity back to the classes.

Gon Namkun explains the need for diversification and offers four possible solutions. However, instead of just forging ahead with changes, the development team wants player feedback: Players can vote on their preferred method through a poll on the official site. This poll, open until September 26th, 2012, is specifically for Western players as the Korean market poll has already been completed.

MassivelyNCsoft seeks to correct Lineage II rebalancing changes with player feedback originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 21 Sep 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>class-balanceclass-diversificationclass-diversityf2pfantasyfree-to-playGon-Namkunlineagelineage-2lineage-iincsoftplayer-pollFri, 21 Sep 2012 12:00:00 EST