Massively

Not So Massively: Elite's launch, Transformers' sunset, and SMITE's $2M prize pool

Brianna Royce — Mon, 22 Dec 2014 20:00:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, Super-hero, Trailers, Video, Business Models, Classes, Events (Real-World), Events (In-Game), Game Mechanics, Launches, Patches, PvP, News Items, Free-to-Play, Marvel Heroes, Mobile, Consoles, Crime, MMOFPS, Miscellaneous, Not So Massively, MechWarrior Online, MOBA, League of Legends, Crowdfunding, Destiny, Star Citizen, Elite: Dangerous, Infinite Crisis, Hearthstone, E-sports, OARPG

Welcome back to No So Massively, where every Monday we round up the highlights from the past week in the world of MOBAs, roguelikes, MMOTCGs, and other games that aren't quite MMOs.

Jagex announced that it plans to shut down the Transformers Universe MOBA in January.
Elite: Dangerous launched this week. We compared it to EVE Online and drooled over a ridiculously cool Elite-centered PC rig.
SMITE explored Awilix in depth, kicked off Saturnalia, and announced a $2,000,000 prize pool for its World Championships. SMITECentral named it the 5th highest prize pool in e-sports history. [Thanks, Sorenthaz!]
Star Citizen released Arena Commander 1.0.
League of Legends issues a royal welcome to one and all to its Snowdown 2014 celebration.
Hearthstone formally launched worldwide on Android devices.
Marvel Heroes adds Venom and put almost everything in the game on sale for 50% off.
MechWarrior Online patched in a 64-bit client.
War Thunder's Steel Generals expansion beta is live.
A Destiny player beat the expansion's new content solo.
Riot Games tried to beat League of Legends hackers by hiring them.
Undead Labs answered player questions about Moonrise.
DayZ is adding a bunch of new themed items for the holidays. The team also posted an anniversary video.
Infinite Crisis released playable Swamp Thing.
MOBA Shards of War introduced new sentinel Bastion.
After much delay, GTA Online will be getting heists next year.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Elite's launch, Transformers' sunset, and SMITE's $2M prize pool

Not So Massively: Elite's launch, Transformers' sunset, and SMITE's $2M prize pool originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 22 Dec 2014 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

MechWarrior Online patches in 64-bit client

Justin Olivetti — Thu, 18 Dec 2014 18:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-Fi, Patches, PvP, Free-to-Play, MechWarrior Online, MOBA

If you want to hang with the cool kids, you're going to want to ditch that creaky 32-bit client and get with the sleek 64-bit crowd! It worked for the Nintendo 64, and it's now working for MechWarrior Online.

As part of the big patch rolling out today, MechWarrior Online is offering an "experimental release" of its new 64-bit client. This client supposedly uses all available RAM for better performance, but can be only handled by 64-bit versions of Windows.

Other changes with the patch include several UI improvements that will make it easier to see who is queueing up for matches and which side is winning certain territories.

MechWarrior Online patches in 64-bit client originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Dec 2014 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Not So Massively: HEX gets new cards, Dota 2 cancels Christmas, and Hearthstone lands on Android (sorta)

Brianna Royce — Mon, 15 Dec 2014 20:00:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, Trailers, Video, Expansions, Game Mechanics, MMO Industry, Patches, PvP, News Items, Free-to-Play, MMOFPS, MOBA, Crowdfunding, Destiny, Elite: Dangerous, Path of Exile, HEX, Hearthstone, E-sports, OARPG

Welcome back to No So Massively, where every Monday we round up the highlights from the past week in the world of MOBAs, roguelikes, MMOTCGs, and other games that aren't quite MMOs.

Bungie's been banhammering Destiny players with modded consoles. The Dark Below, the game's first DLC, launched last week, but crazy people beat the raid within just a few hours and went back to mocking the Paul McCartney video.
Hearthstone players struggled to buy the right expansion packs. But there's good news for (some) Android gamers: The game soft launched today on Google Play in Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.
HEX released a new card set expansion, Shattered Destiny.
Dota 2's engine updates forced Valve to cancel Frostivus events.
Elite: Dangerous launches tomorrow.
Marvel Heroes now features a female Wolverine.
Path of Exile went live with its update 1.2 PvP revamp. It also released a video of Leo Redmane, Master of the Arena.
Star Citizen's latest patch added another ship and the all-important drunk effects.
The Crew corrected a bug that was accidentally erasing player stats.
King of Wushu got new PS4 trailers at the Shanghai PS4 conference.
SMITE doled out five videos full of advice on breaking into the games industry. There's also a new dev blog on Awilix, Goddess of the Moon.
MechWarrior Online entered beta testing for Community Warfare.
MMOFPS Dizzel formally launched.
NetEase announced the English version of 3-D MOBA Wildfire.
Shadowrun Online's December 17 update includes bigger parties, skill trees, co-op, and new missions.

Continue reading Not So Massively: HEX gets new cards, Dota 2 cancels Christmas, and Hearthstone lands on Android (sorta)

Not So Massively: HEX gets new cards, Dota 2 cancels Christmas, and Hearthstone lands on Android (sorta) originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Dec 2014 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Betawatch: December 6 - 12, 2014

Brianna Royce — Fri, 12 Dec 2014 20:00:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, Business Models, Events (Real-World), MMO Industry, New Titles, News Items, Betawatch, Miscellaneous

Glitch might be gone, but thanks to the generosity of the dev team and the hard work of players, the game lives on in at least two incarnations, one of which, Eleven, entered alpha this week. What else is new in the realm of MMO testing?

Elite: Dangerous leaves gamma 2 and launches on Tuesday; no more wipes are planned.
H1Z1 announced early access for January 15th.
MechWarrior Online opened beta testing for Community Warfare.
Gloria Victus' pre-alpha loaded up a new weather system.
World of Warships and Age of Ascent are both running test events this weekend.
Black Desert unleashed multiple videos ahead of its Korean beta.
Skyforge previewed one of its locations, Naori Island.
Shards Online's Kickstarter is expected to end tonight, a wide success.
Origins of Malu is angling for Steam greenlighting.
MMOFPS Dizzel formally launched out of early access beta.
Bless Online added mounts to its closed beta.
Oort Online polled players about its alpha direction.

The complete Betawatch roundup is below.

Continue reading Betawatch: December 6 - 12, 2014

Betawatch: December 6 - 12, 2014 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Dec 2014 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

MechWarrior Online enters beta testing for Community Warfare

Eliot Lefebvre — Fri, 12 Dec 2014 10:00:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, Sci-Fi, Expansions, Patches, News Items, Free-to-Play, MMOFPS, MechWarrior Online

There's a lot of stuff packaged in with MechWarrior Online's Community Warfare update: Clan 'Mechs and hardware, the new Invasion gameplay mode, new maps, the dropship mechanic allowing players to get back into the action if their 'Mechs are destroyed. But you don't have to take our word for it. The update has entered open beta, so anyone who wants to start taking part in the conflict of the Inner Sphere against the marauding Clans can do so at his or her leisure.

Piranha Games has also made an update to the way that the game handles units. Previously, "disbanded" units were frequently just being remade under a different leader or faction, but the game's structure meant that keeping the same identifying marks required the intervention of customer service. This update removes disbanded units in one swoop, allowing players who wish to disband and remake a unit to do so with greater ease. Check out the full update for the fine details and the corner cases.

MechWarrior Online enters beta testing for Community Warfare originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Dec 2014 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Not So Massively: Overwatch's reveal, Hearthstone's expansion, and Dawngate's sunset

Brianna Royce — Mon, 10 Nov 2014 20:00:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, Fantasy, Sci-Fi, Super-hero, Trailers, Video, Business Models, Events (Real-World), Game Mechanics, Lore, New Titles, Patches, Previews, PvP, News Items, War, Free-to-Play, Mobile, Trading Card Games, Consoles, MMOFPS, Miscellaneous, Not So Massively, MOBA, League of Legends, Diablo III, Destiny, Elite: Dangerous, HEX, Hearthstone, The Division, OARPG, Overwatch

Welcome back to No So Massively, where every Monday we round up the highlights from the past week in the world of MOBAs, roguelikes, MMOTCGs, and other games that aren't quite MMOs.

Blizzard announced online team-shooter Overwatch at BlizzCon. Chris Metzen says Blizzard is trying to build a more representative game with less hypersexualization.
Hearthstone is launching in December and getting a new expansion: Goblins vs. Gnomes.
EA's MOBA Dawngate is shutting down in three months.
League of Legends introduced Kalista, the Spear of Vengeance.
MMOTCG HEX dropped its beta key requirement but denied that it is in open beta.
Heroes of the Storm's closed beta starts January 13th. It's also getting a sweet Diablo III-themed map.
Diablo III previewed its upcoming season. According to content designer Kevin Martens, Diablo was once considered for an MMO, but no longer.
David Braben says Elite: Dangerous' December 16th launch date is "sensible."
Star Citizen passed $60 million in fundraising.
Quirky indie MMOFPS Hunternet boasts 700-player battles.
World of Tanks' 9.4 patch added Stalingrad map and tweaked strongholds.
The Crew hinted at a new "PvP mode" and season passes.
MechWarrior Online's latest dev vlog covered inner sphere quirks and faction switching.
Ubisoft said that The Division's PC experience won't suffer because of consoles.
Some jerk swatted a Bungie/Destiny exec; the internet demands prison time for said jerk.
The latest World of Speed vid features nearly four minutes of gameplay.
Bigpoint's Shards of War introduced a new sentinel, Vox.
Undead Labs discussed balance in Moonrise.
Dota is now the subject of a course at Chongqing Energy College in China.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Overwatch's reveal, Hearthstone's expansion, and Dawngate's sunset

Not So Massively: Overwatch's reveal, Hearthstone's expansion, and Dawngate's sunset originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 10 Nov 2014 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

MechWarrior dev vlog talks inner sphere quirks, faction switching

Jef Reahard — Wed, 05 Nov 2014 20:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-Fi, Video, Game Mechanics, MMO Industry, PvP, News Items

If you're a MechWarrior Online fan and you've got a spare 20 minutes, you might want to catch up with the game via the ninth installment of the MWO Dev Vlog. Piranha president Russ Bullock is interviewed regarding the changes to the inner sphere quirk system, while lead designer Paul Inouye updates us on community warfare -- including the ability to switch factions.

Click past the cut to watch the full dev vlog!

Continue reading MechWarrior dev vlog talks inner sphere quirks, faction switching

MechWarrior dev vlog talks inner sphere quirks, faction switching originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 Nov 2014 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Not So Massively: Hearthstone's expansion fee, Elite's console potential, and Destiny's mobile app

Brianna Royce — Mon, 14 Jul 2014 20:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-Fi, Business Models, Game Mechanics, New Titles, PvP, News Items, Mobile, MMOFPS, Miscellaneous, Not So Massively, MOBA, Diablo III, Crowdfunding, Destiny, Star Citizen, Elite: Dangerous, Infinite Crisis, Path of Exile, Buy-to-Play, Hearthstone

Welcome back to No So Massively, where every Monday we round up the highlights from the past week in the world of MOBAs, roguelikes, MMOTCGs, and other games that aren't quite MMOs.

Dota 2's The International tournament is underway.
Hearthstone's Curse of Naxxramas expansion will cost $24.99 to unlock fully.
The folks behind Elite: Dangerous explained its price structure, console ideas, and beta build.
Real-world mobile MMO Ingress formally launched on iOS.
We took a look at two dino-survival pseudo-MMOs: Beasts of Prey and The Stomping Lands.
League of Legends is developing new ways to appeal to newbies.
Path of Exile is getting a comic book and a new expansion.
Square-Enix is revising the Nosgoth founders program.
Diablo III is headed to China.
Star Citizen's crowfund broke the $48 million mark.
Infinite Crisis is revamping its new player system.
Gearbox has a new first-person MOBA en route; it's called Battleborn.
Marvel Heroes introduced new playable hero Mr. Fantastic.
MechWarrior Online plotted its own multi-part revamp.
Heroes of Newerth announced a $10,000 map-making contest,
CliffyB is making a new F2P shooter with MMO giant Nexon.
Finally, Destiny is getting a mobile app. Check out a video walkthrough below.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Hearthstone's expansion fee, Elite's console potential, and Destiny's mobile app

Not So Massively: Hearthstone's expansion fee, Elite's console potential, and Destiny's mobile app originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 Jul 2014 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

MechWarrior Online vid talks upcoming changes

Justin Olivetti — Mon, 14 Jul 2014 11:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-Fi, Video, Interviews, Previews, Free-to-Play, Community Q&A, MechWarrior Online, MOBA

In a new MechWarrior Online video, members of the dev team take time to discuss the upcoming overhaul to the module system, gameplay updates, community warfare, and new maps. One of the neat features coming to the game is the match rejoin feature, which will give players a grace period to get back into a match and get rewards if they are disconnected for some reason.

There's a ton of preview drops in this 13-minute video, and it's all yours to enjoy after the jump!

Continue reading MechWarrior Online vid talks upcoming changes

MechWarrior Online vid talks upcoming changes originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 Jul 2014 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Not So Massively: GTAO's update, Hearthstone's tourney, and LoL's Summoner's RIFT revamp

Brianna Royce — Mon, 23 Jun 2014 20:00:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, Sci-Fi, Video, Business Models, Game Mechanics, New Titles, Patches, PvP, News Items, Mobile, Consoles, MMOFPS, Community Q&A, Post-Apocalyptic, Not So Massively, Sandbox, MOBA, League of Legends, Diablo III, Firefall, Destiny, Star Citizen, Elite: Dangerous, Infinite Crisis, Path of Exile, Hearthstone, The Division

Welcome back to No So Massively, where every Monday we round up the highlights from the past week in the world of MOBAs, roguelikes, MMOTCGs, and other games that aren't quite MMOs.

Diablo III's new patch will add leaderboard seasons. The auction hall officially closes this week.
The Dreamhack Hearthstone tournament was shaded by cheating allegations.
Grand Theft Auto Online's I'm Not a Hipster hipster update went live, but heists have been delayed.
Heroes of the Storm expanded its alpha to more countries.
Elite: Dangerous released a dev blog and info on its next premium beta.
Firefall continued its march to relaunch.
Path of Exile removed snapshotting.
Chris Roberts talked up Star Citizen's work-in-progress flight model.
Robert Morris University has formed an official League of Legends athletic team.
State of Decay is releasing a skin pack for Minecraft.
Beasts of Prey began early access on Steam. It's a dinosaur-themed survival sandbox.
Destiny's alpha testers have played 6,461,871 games.
MechWarrior Online launched the Clan Invasion
Supergirl joined the cast of Infinite Crisis; the video is below.
Finally, League of Legends is revamping its Summoner's Rift map. The developer preview video is also embedded below.

Continue reading Not So Massively: GTAO's update, Hearthstone's tourney, and LoL's Summoner's RIFT revamp

Not So Massively: GTAO's update, Hearthstone's tourney, and LoL's Summoner's RIFT revamp originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Jun 2014 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

MechWarrior Online launches the Clan Invasion

Justin Olivetti — Wed, 18 Jun 2014 17:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-Fi, Events (In-Game), Previews, Free-to-Play, MechWarrior Online, MOBA

MechWarrior Online has moved forward the internal game timeline to the year 3049, and with the change of date comes a long awaited event: the Clan Invasion.

This fictional event in the BattleTech universe will now play out in the online game, as players will fight in notable battles with new 'Mechs on different planets.

With the Clan Invasion begun, the team has begun work on creating Units for the game. Units are MWO's version of guilds and will include ranks and chat channels when they arrive in the game proper.

MechWarrior Online launches the Clan Invasion originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Jun 2014 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

MechWarrior Online video blog answers game balance questions

Justin Olivetti — Mon, 16 Jun 2014 19:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-Fi, Video, Free-to-Play, Dev Diaries, MechWarrior Online, MOBA

MechWarrior Online has just released its fifth dev vlog, in which the team answers questions about the title in an eight-minute video. Some of the topics up for discussion today are clan battlemech cockpits, general game balance, and updates on the matchmaking system.

You can check out the full video after the break to see if your pressing concerns got addressed!

Continue reading MechWarrior Online video blog answers game balance questions

MechWarrior Online video blog answers game balance questions originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Jun 2014 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Not So Massively: Destiny's pre-orders, The Division's delay, and Heroes of the Storm's Murky

Brianna Royce — Mon, 26 May 2014 20:00:00 EST

Filed under: Game Mechanics, MMO Industry, New Titles, PvP, News Items, Massively Meta, Not So Massively

Welcome back to No So Massively, where every Monday we round up the highlights from the past week in the world of MOBAs, roguelikes, MMOTCGs, and other games that aren't quite MMOs.

Destiny announced pre-orders and pre-loading on the PS3 and PS4 and claimed to be reinventing the first-person shooter.
The Division team explained the game's delay into 2015.
Hearthstone's Americas Qualifier prize pool is a quarter of a million bucks. The game also unveiled a new Rebirth card.
Disney shuttered Star Wars Attack Squadrons.
Crytek revealed new MOBA Arena of Fate.
Perfect World is expanding its Arc platform to host Path of Exile and All Points Bulletin Reloaded.
League of Legends is getting a sound overhaul; the Daily Dot put together interesting stats on winning ranked matches.
Heroes of the Storm snagged a gigantic patch and a new playable hero: Murky. His vid's below!

Continue reading Not So Massively: Destiny's pre-orders, The Division's delay, and Heroes of the Storm's Murky

Not So Massively: Destiny's pre-orders, The Division's delay, and Heroes of the Storm's Murky originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 May 2014 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

MechWarrior Online introduces new Champion and Hero mechs

Shawn Schuster — Wed, 21 May 2014 21:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-Fi, Video, Patches, Free-to-Play, MechWarrior Online

MechWarrior Online has introduced two new mechs this week: the Firestarter Champion Mech and the Loup de Guerre Hero Mech.

The Firestarter sports five medium lasers, twin AMS, and jump kets, while the Loup de Guerre trebuchet features jump jets that allow it to leap over walls, medium pulse lasers, SSRMs, and more.

Both mechs are now available in the MWO store, and you can check out the Loup de Guerre in action via the video embedded after the cut.

Continue reading MechWarrior Online introduces new Champion and Hero mechs

MechWarrior Online introduces new Champion and Hero mechs originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 May 2014 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

MechWarrior vlog talks achievements, the Banshee, and more

Jef Reahard — Tue, 25 Mar 2014 20:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-Fi, Video, Classes, Game Mechanics, MMO Industry, PvP, News Items, Free-to-Play, Dev Diaries, MechWarrior Online

Interested in MechWarrior Online? Got a spare 11 minutes and 43 seconds? Then you'll want to watch the latest Ask the Devs vlog which covers a wide range of topics relating to the sci-fi MMO's ongoing development.

Topics include recent jump-jet changes, the game's achievement system, design challenges on the Banshee, and more. The full video clip is embedded after the cut. If you're unable to view it, there's a transcript on the official MWO forums via the links below.

Continue reading MechWarrior vlog talks achievements, the Banshee, and more

MechWarrior vlog talks achievements, the Banshee, and more originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 25 Mar 2014 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Take a peek at MechWarrior Online's UI 2.0 upgrade

Mike Foster — Sun, 19 Jan 2014 14:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-Fi, Video, Patches, PvP, News Items, War, Free-to-Play, MMOFPS, MechWarrior Online

Piranha Games recently conducted a public test of the changes it is planning for MechWarrior Online's UI 2.0 upgrade, and No Guts No Galaxy's Phil Langenberg managed to snag a lengthy video of the new UI in action. According to Piranha, UI 2.0 is "a complete rework of the existing UI" designed to streamline mech customization and MWO's social features. The redesign is set for release February 4th.

Check out the VOD of the stream after the break to get a closer look, with commentary, of what MWO will look like post-2.0.

Continue reading Take a peek at MechWarrior Online's UI 2.0 upgrade

Take a peek at MechWarrior Online's UI 2.0 upgrade originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 19 Jan 2014 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

MechWarrior Online's Bullock on golden mechs and future content

Beau Hindman — Thu, 19 Dec 2013 14:30:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-Fi, Video, Business Models, Interviews, PvP, Free-to-Play, MMOFPS, Post-Apocalyptic, MechWarrior Online

Pirahna Game's president Russ Bullock is listening to the playerbase of MechWarrior Online. He is very aware of the number of complaints that have come in after a recent announcement of the pre-order sell of Clan 'Mechs, with prices ranging from under $30.00 to $500.00 for a gold-plated version. Although the complaints come from a range of topics, many concentrate on the timing of the announcement. After all, the developers only recently announced the Project Phoenix pre-order program. Some players see this new DLC pre-order only as a chance to make more money in lieu of producing more content.

Other complaints stem from the prices of the pre-orders, and it's easy to see why. When we sat down with him recently, Bullock explained the costs in a few ways. First, the highest-priced items are simply collector's items. They look cool and do not have extras that go along with them that give them an advantage during combat. Second, all of the 'Mechs on the list can be paid for with in-game funds once released, minus some of the non-combat bonuses attached, meaning that any player who wants to can continue to pay nothing at all.

Bullock wanted to emphasize that despite all of this, he knows that what the playerbase is really asking for is community-based features.

Continue reading MechWarrior Online's Bullock on golden mechs and future content

MechWarrior Online's Bullock on golden mechs and future content originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Dec 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

MechWarrior Online's clan warfare bundles now available for pre-order

Mike Foster — Mon, 16 Dec 2013 15:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-Fi, PvP, News Items, War, Free-to-Play, Post-Apocalyptic, MechWarrior Online

MechWarrior Online's implementation of clan warfare is scheduled for Soon TM, and Piranha Games is celebrating by making clan mechs available for pre-order in the form of special bundles. Each bundle includes one or more clan mechs with variants, XP boosts, and other exclusive items.

Piranha also unveiled the Gold Khan collection of mechs, which have gold skin and are priced to match at $500 each. Non-gold variants of the mechs will be available for in-game currency at a later date. According to the official collection website, pre-ordering ensures you receive the collection by June 17th.

[Source: Piranha Games press release]

MechWarrior Online's clan warfare bundles now available for pre-order originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Dec 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

MechWarrior Online looks forward to the next month

Eliot Lefebvre — Thu, 10 Oct 2013 19:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-Fi, Game Mechanics, Patches, Previews, News Items, Free-to-Play, MMOFPS, MechWarrior Online

Are you ready for another month of MechWarrior Online? The team behind the game certainly is. Creative Director Bryan Ekman took to the forums to outline what players can expect from the next month of updates, including items for players who purchase one of the game's Phoenix packages (aside from the Saber tier) before October 15th. That includes bugfixes, new content, and of course new 'Mechs to enjoy.

Slated for release this month are the Locust, the Hero Atlas, and the Champion Spider, along with the Shadow Hawk, Thunderbolt, and Battlemaster 'Mechs for Phoenix package owners. The game will also drop a new map and a new paint pattern. Meanwhile, the team is working hard on optimizing game performance and UI accessibility. The letter closes by examining where several proposed pieces of the Community Warfare are in the development process. Dedicated MechWarriors will want to take a careful look at what's coming up next and probably start blasting away in preparation.

MechWarrior Online looks forward to the next month originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Oct 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

MechWarrior Online launch-day roundup

MJ Guthrie — Tue, 17 Sep 2013 10:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-Fi, Launches, News Items, Free-to-Play, MechWarrior Online

Many mech pilots may have already been duking it out on the battlefield during the soft launch open beta. But if anyone was waiting for MechWarrior Online to officially launch before getting really serious, today's the day. From here on out, MWO loses the beta tag and forges ahead as a fully launched title. Will that fact make the battles any more intense? You'll have to be the judge of that, so slip into your favorite mech and take to the battlefield to find out. And to help you gear up for those battles, we've assembled a collection of updates, tutorials, trailers, interviews, and hands-on experiences here for you.

Continue reading MechWarrior Online launch-day roundup

MechWarrior Online launch-day roundup originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 Sep 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

MechWarrior Online adds Protector Orion and new tutorial

Justin Olivetti — Wed, 04 Sep 2013 17:00:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, Sci-Fi, Trailers, Video, Patches, Free-to-Play, MechWarrior Online, MOBA

Are you amped up for this month's official launch of MechWarrior Online -- or will it not really change anything for you whatsoever? Perhaps we can get you more excited about a new content update that went live today and features an improved tutorial and a new hero 'mech.

The update adds the first of several announed tutorials that will help players acclimate to the to the unique challenges of piloting a 'mech. Today's tutorial is just about the basics of movement and combat, but that's what tutorials are for, right?

The Protector Orion hero 'mech has come online today as well, a hard-hitting, tough-as-nails machine that's got a nice array of weapon choices. The Protector Orion comes with a 30% boost to C-bill acquisition and can be spotted in the trailer after the break.

[Source: Piranha Games press release]

Continue reading MechWarrior Online adds Protector Orion and new tutorial

MechWarrior Online adds Protector Orion and new tutorial originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 Sep 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

MechWarrior Online announces launch party, new Project Phoenix loyalty rewards

Jef Reahard — Sun, 18 Aug 2013 16:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-Fi, Launches, MMO Industry, New Titles, News Items, Free-to-Play, MechWarrior Online

If you're a MechWarrior fan and you'll be in San Francisco on September 26th, you might want to enter Piranha Games' launch event ticket lotto. "Tickets are strictly limited, each person must apply below for your chance to be to selected to attend this exclusive once-in-a-lifetime event," says the MWO website.

Festivities include a tournament, developer meet-and-greets, upcoming feature sneak peeks, and more. Piranha has also announced new loyalty rewards as part of its Project Phoenix package program. The rewards will be unlocked as more packages are purchased. So far, players have managed to unlock the phase one Phoenix colors reward.

[Thanks Dire Phoenix!]

MechWarrior Online announces launch party, new Project Phoenix loyalty rewards originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 18 Aug 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Robots by the dozen: 12v12 goes live in MechWarrior Online

Mike Foster — Tue, 13 Aug 2013 15:00:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, Sci-Fi, Trailers, Video, New Titles, Patches, PvP, Free-to-Play, MMOFPS, MechWarrior Online

If you've played MechWarrior Online and thought to yourself, "This is fun and all, but I wish there were even more giant robots shooting my face off," today's news from Piranha Games might be what you've been waiting to hear. The studio announced that 12v12 battles are now live on MWO servers, bringing new strategies and opportunities for sharp tactical minds.

Along with 12v12 matches comes a new hero mech by the name of Golden Boy and the Terra Therma map. Terra Therma is a volatile environment that features tectonic and volcanic activity that must be considered when developing attack and defense plans.

MechWarrior Online is still in "beta," set for release on September 17th. In the meantime, check out the new game mode and mech in the trailers after the break.

[Source: Piranha Games press release]

Continue reading Robots by the dozen: 12v12 goes live in MechWarrior Online

Robots by the dozen: 12v12 goes live in MechWarrior Online originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Aug 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

MechWarrior Online, Sarah's Jenner pull in $100k for cancer research

Jef Reahard — Mon, 12 Aug 2013 18:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-Fi, Culture, MMO Industry, News Items, Free-to-Play, MechWarrior Online

A while back we reported on Piranha Games' decision to honor MechWarrior Online fan Sarah Parries with with Sarah's Jenner. Sarah, age five, favored the Jenner while playing MWO with her father, so when she succumbed to cancer, Pirahna decided to sell a special version of her favorite ride and donate all of the proceeds to the Canadian Cancer Society in her name.

Game Informer reports that the event has brought in $100,000, with more to come since Sarah's Jenner remains on sale through August 20th. "The response from the MechWarrior community and from the games industry at large has been overwhelming," said Piranha creative director Bryan Ekman. "We can't thank everyone enough for unifying in this effort to raise money for the Canadian Cancer Society and cancer research."

[Thanks SpaceCobra!]

MechWarrior Online, Sarah's Jenner pull in $100k for cancer research originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Aug 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Piranha Games on why MechWarrior Online is getting a third-person mode

Eliot Lefebvre — Wed, 07 Aug 2013 16:00:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, Sci-Fi, Game Mechanics, News Items, Free-to-Play, MMOFPS, MechWarrior Online

Sometimes you find yourself railing against something at one point only to support it later on. That's the process that Piranha Games president Russ Bullock went through regarding a third-person viewing mode in MechWarrior Online. Bullock addresses player concerns about the inclusion by detailing his own experience with the project and how he went from vehemently opposing a third-person view to arguing that its inclusion is necessary for the long-term health of the game.

One of the key elements to understand about movement in MechWarrior Online is that your machine moves more like a bipedal tank with an independently rotating torso. Bullock states that he's watched new players trying the game in first-person and third-person modes, and being able to see how 'Mechs move on the screen instantly translates to better play. He also remains adamant that the inclusion of this new view mode is not meant to unbalance the game by allowing players to see things outside of their normal fields of vision.

[Thanks to Dire Phoenix for the tip!]

Piranha Games on why MechWarrior Online is getting a third-person mode originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Aug 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

MechWarrior Online discusses the state of the game and the road to launch

Eliot Lefebvre — Thu, 01 Aug 2013 13:00:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, Sci-Fi, Game Mechanics, Patches, Previews, News Items, Free-to-Play, MMOFPS, MechWarrior Online

MechWarrior Online has already gone into open beta with a functional cash shop, but the game still isn't officially launching until September. So how's the road to launch looking so far? According to creative developer Bryan Ekman, it's going quite well. Despite summer traditionally being one of the slowest times for games like MWO, the community has been strong and growing. The development team is also thrilled that response to the game's first charity drive was immensely positive, with Sarah's 'Mech raising over $40,000 for the Canadian Cancer Society on the first day of release.

So what comes next? According to Ekman, the development is currently split into two teams, one focused upon major features and the other on content. A revamped UI and the Community Warfare system are the two biggest elements for the feature team, while a new map, Terra Therma, is set to debut next week. Third-person mode is also in testing for those who prefer to see their multi-ton death machines from the outside. Players would be well-served to look at the full letter for more dispatches about the game's future as September creeps closer.

MechWarrior Online discusses the state of the game and the road to launch originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Aug 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

MechWarrior Online launches Sarah's Jenner in honor of 5-year-old cancer victim

Eliot Lefebvre — Tue, 23 Jul 2013 15:30:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-Fi, Culture, News Items, Free-to-Play, MMOFPS, Promotions, MechWarrior Online

Five-year-old Sarah Parries loved the Jenner in MechWarrior Online. She and her father would sit and play the game, with Sarah loving the streak SRM variant so that she could lock on and move quickly. Unfortunately, Sarah was a victim of cancer, but her story made an impact on the developers of MechWarrior Online and led to the creation of a new champion 'Mech crafted in her image, the appropriately named Sarah's Jenner.

Sarah's Jenner will set you back $10, but the team at Piranha Games won't be seeing a nickel of it. Minus sales tax, all of the proceeds from the sale of this 'Mech will be donated to the Canadian Cancer Society, supporting others suffering from the same ailment as the girl who inspired this decor. You can take a look at the machine in action just past the break, and if you're an experienced 'Mech pilot you should consider picking up a special machine to honor an unfortunate victim.

[Source: Piranha Games press release]

Continue reading MechWarrior Online launches Sarah's Jenner in honor of 5-year-old cancer victim

MechWarrior Online launches Sarah's Jenner in honor of 5-year-old cancer victim originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Jul 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

MechWarrior Online runs the numbers and announces a launch date

Eliot Lefebvre — Wed, 03 Jul 2013 10:30:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-Fi, Culture, Launches, News Items, Free-to-Play, MMOFPS, MechWarrior Online

There are a lot of people stomping around in MechWarrior Online right now. More than one million, according to a recent dispatch by Piranha Games, which puts the total number of registered accounts at about 1.1 million. These players have collectively logged 9.6 million hours to the game, destroyed a total of 46 million 'Mechs consisting of 80 billion tons of metal, and fired more than 12.6 billion missiles alone. It's a bit of a violent game, in short.

It's also a game about to finally shed the open beta title. Piranha Games has announced an official launch of September 17th, 2013. How much will actually change versus the current open beta is up for debate, but it's good to see a game fixing a launch date and sticking to it. So if you're a die-hard MechWarrior Online fan, get out there and start raising those destructive totals one 50-ton target at a time.

[Source: Piranha Games press release]

MechWarrior Online runs the numbers and announces a launch date originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Jul 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

The Daily Grind: What's your pre-order spending limit?

Jef Reahard — Thu, 27 Jun 2013 08:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-Fi, Business Models, MMO Industry, New Titles, News Items, Free-to-Play, MechWarrior Online

I was paging through the comments for our recent MechWarrior Online Phoenix Project post yesterday, and it struck me as somewhat nutty that Piranha has basically been operating the game for a year, has already offered a $120 founder's program, and is now offering what amounts to another pre-order program on top of that.

I get that companies need to make money, but I'm also glad that MechWarrior isn't one of those IPs I care enough about to drop hundreds of dollars on a beta and various avatar skins! So, how about it, Massively readers? What's the most you'd spend -- or have spent -- on an MMO pre-order program for a game or a franchise that you really love?

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!

The Daily Grind: What's your pre-order spending limit? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Jun 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

MechWarrior Online reveals Project Phoenix pre-order program

Jef Reahard — Tue, 25 Jun 2013 21:00:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, Sci-Fi, MMO Industry, New Titles, News Items, Free-to-Play, Promotions, MechWarrior Online

If you're one of those peeps who loves pre-ordering video games, and you've got a soft spot for the MechWarrior IP, you'll probably want to look into MechWarrior Online's limited edition pre-launch Battlemechs.

Project Phoenix offers fans "the chance to nab rare, beloved, and perk-wielding 'Mechs" at prices ranging from $20 to $80. Package purchasers will take delivery on October 15th, and Piranha Games says that the special edition rides with custom exteriors and camo schemes will never be available again following the completion of the pre-order sale. You learn more about all of the available 'Mechs on MWO's official website.

[Source: Piranha Games press release]

MechWarrior Online reveals Project Phoenix pre-order program originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 25 Jun 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Quickdraw added to MechWarrior Online's hangar

Eliot Lefebvre — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 19:30:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-Fi, Video, Patches, News Items, Free-to-Play, MechWarrior Online

It can be hard to get close to someone. Especially in MechWarrior Online, where the people you want to get close to are riding walking battle tanks designed to vaporize you at long range. But the newly added Quickdraw is all about getting in close, at which point it can unleash the full might of its short-range missile launchers and medium lasers. Which is probably why people don't want to get close to one another in the first place, really.

Fortunately for Quickdraw pilots, the machine is quick, jump-capable, and generally very able to get in close and unleash its payload. This new 'Mech is available in three variants alongside the new Champion Hunchback, and you can take a look at the precise loadouts in the patch notes. Or you can take a gander at the preview video for the machine embedded just past the cut.

[Source: Piranha Games press release]

Continue reading Quickdraw added to MechWarrior Online's hangar

Quickdraw added to MechWarrior Online's hangar originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Jun 2013 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

MechWarrior Online brings out the Firebrand

Justin Olivetti — Tue, 04 Jun 2013 16:30:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-Fi, Trailers, Video, Patches, Free-to-Play, MechWarrior Online, MOBA

MechWarrior Online's latest update is burning up the charts (or really anything else it comes in contact with), as the game has introduced the Firebrand version of the JagerMech for players to try out. This new hero 'mech is all about dual weapons and long-range damage. It's also water-resistant -- or at least we assume from the video.

This patch includes several other little odds and ends, including a World War 2-themed Sherman tank pattern for 'mechs that want to hunker down and pretend that they're a totally innocent hill. Players also have an even larger library of trial 'mechs to test, including the Spider, Hunchback, and Atlas.

You can watch the Firebrand trailer after the jump!

Continue reading MechWarrior Online brings out the Firebrand

MechWarrior Online brings out the Firebrand originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Jun 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

MechWarrior Online introduces new map in which players can die painfully

Elisabeth Cardy — Tue, 21 May 2013 17:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-Fi, Video, Patches, News Items, War, Free-to-Play, MechWarrior Online

MechWarrior Online's newest map, the Canyon Network, is riddled with slot canyons, steep drops, and high plateaus. As part of MWO's latest update, the Canyon Network is meant to provide a playground for snipers and strategic thinkers.

The Blackjack has been named as the new Mech of the Month, with the Jenner donning the mantle of Champion Mech. As part of the content update, new cobra camo patterns and faction cockpit medallions have been added to the store.

Skip below the cut to check out videos of the new Canyon Network and the Blackjack in action.

[Source: MWO press release]

Continue reading MechWarrior Online introduces new map in which players can die painfully

MechWarrior Online introduces new map in which players can die painfully originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 May 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

The Stream Team: MLT edition, May 13 - 19, 2013

MJ Guthrie — Mon, 13 May 2013 09:00:00 EST

Filed under: Massively Meta, Livestream, Miscellaneous, The Stream Team

Nothing beats an MLT, especially when the tomato is nice and ripe! Except maybe Massively TV. MMmm mmmm. Now there's something you can really sink your teeth into -- the wild and crazy antics of your favorite Stream Team hosts! And they've got a menu for all tastes this week, from space adventures to dragons to WWII planes. Of course, it all comes with a side of reruns and a dessert highlight to complete your meal.

So pull up a chair and grab yourself a helping or two... or 10. Hey, there's no limit here; enjoy as much as you like! While you're enjoying the spread, be sure to join in the after-dinner chat in Outtakes.

Continue reading The Stream Team: MLT edition, May 13 - 19, 2013

The Stream Team: MLT edition, May 13 - 19, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

MechWarrior Online introduces the Misery with Update 15

Justin Olivetti — Tue, 07 May 2013 15:30:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-Fi, Video, Patches, Free-to-Play, MechWarrior Online, MOBA

Misery loves company, they say (look it up), but will people actually go seeking it? Piranha Games hopes players will, as it has introduced the Misery 85-ton 'mech into MechWarrior Online. The metal beast has an armament that includes plenty of lasers, a Gauss rifle, and an SRM-6 (again, look it up).

The new update goes beyond the debut of the Misery. There are four additional trial 'mechs to test out, color customization for Hero 'mechs, and a crazy Buccaneer premium pattern.

Read up on our preview of Update 15 and don't miss out on the video showing off the Misery in action after the jump!

Continue reading MechWarrior Online introduces the Misery with Update 15

MechWarrior Online introduces the Misery with Update 15 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 May 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

The Stream Team: Seis de Mayo edition, May 6 - 12, 2013

MJ Guthrie — Mon, 06 May 2013 09:00:00 EST

Filed under: Polls, Massively Meta, Miscellaneous, The Stream Team

You have to agree, May is one month that's full of holidays. The first week alone contains May Day, (unofficial) Star Wars Day, and Cinco de Mayo. But the party doesn't stop there! Following quickly on the heels of these is perhaps one you are less familiar with: Seis de Mayo.

Not unlike its cousin the day before, Seis de Mayo is a day of celebration; however, this celebration centers on freedom from boredom via visual entertainment. No, really! And to commemorate the day, we're releasing an all-new Massively TV schedule, giving you the means to celebrate the whole week through with The Stream Team. If you can't celebrate live, just tune into a rerun and party whenever.

Well, even if you don't believe us, you can still commemorate the occasion with us. Just check out the past the cut for a heaping helping of daily festivities.

Continue reading The Stream Team: Seis de Mayo edition, May 6 - 12, 2013

The Stream Team: Seis de Mayo edition, May 6 - 12, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 06 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

MechWarrior Online devs talk Update 15, new UI, new mechs

Beau Hindman — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, Sci-Fi, Game Mechanics, Interviews, Previews, PvP, War, Free-to-Play, Post-Apocalyptic, MechWarrior Online, Player-Generated Content

Mechwarrior Online is about to hit its fifth month of open beta, with promises of a late summer launch. With that launch comes continued production, new content, plenty of bug fixes, and tweaks. With all of the new content -- said to be delivered on a regular schedule -- comes plenty of challenges for the developer team.

We sat down with Piranha Games' creative director, Bryan Ekman, and president, Russ Bullock, to talk about how things have been going and where they're going in the future. Not only did we get the scoop on the next community-designed Mech to be released, but we also found out about new HUD improvements, aid for players who suffer from high ping, and much more. Click past the cut for all the details!

Continue reading MechWarrior Online devs talk Update 15, new UI, new mechs

MechWarrior Online devs talk Update 15, new UI, new mechs originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Look forward to MechWarrior Online updates through April

Eliot Lefebvre — Wed, 03 Apr 2013 19:30:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-Fi, Game Mechanics, Patches, Previews, News Items, Free-to-Play, MMOFPS, MechWarrior Online

If you thought that April would bring an overhaul of MechWarrior Online that turned the game into a robust farming simulator... well, no. Why would you even think that? But it will bring a whole lot of other updates to the game as outlined in a new letter from the game's creative director, starting with improved team functionality and UI improvements. That goes along nicely with the addition of air strike and artillery consumables, allowing players (especially scouts) to bring down a little extra firepower in a match.

The development team is also introducing a new class of special 'Mech, the Champions, which are custom configurations that sport a permanent 5% experience boost. That's in addition to improvements to the game's overall performance and more community events for MechWarrior Online players the world over. So that's a no on farming, but a yes on several improvements that should make your days of stomping around in an enormous walking tank more enjoyable.

Look forward to MechWarrior Online updates through April originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Apr 2013 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

PAX East 2013: Say hello to MechWarrior Online's new trailer

Elisabeth Cardy — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 08:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-Fi, Trailers, Video, News Items, War, Free-to-Play, Events (Massively's Coverage), MechWarrior Online

There's nothing quite like convention season for bringing out a bumper crop of new videos and trailers. Today we're bringing you MechWarrior Online's new PAX East 2013 trailer, which shows off some new gameplay and highlights the title's newest features and perks.

MechWarrior Online went into open beta late in 2012 and has had six major content patches since then. New testing grounds, cockpit items and consumables, a whole passel of UI and user control updates, and new 'mechs and maps have been added to the game since the open beta launch. March will also see several in-game events going on, which folks are invited to sign up to enjoy.

Skip below the cut to check out the newest trailer.

Continue reading PAX East 2013: Say hello to MechWarrior Online's new trailer

PAX East 2013: Say hello to MechWarrior Online's new trailer originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Mar 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

MechWarrior Online adds Jagermech, Tourmaline Desert map

Justin Olivetti — Wed, 20 Mar 2013 15:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-Fi, Patches, PvP, Free-to-Play, MOBA

MechWarrior Online's March patch has dropped, and with it came a few tons of new hardware and an inhospitable map with which to play around.

The new 'Mech is the heavy Jagermech, a stout piece of machinery with impressive statistics. Whether or not you pick up the Jagermech, Piranha Games has added a ton of new options for all pilots, including gas pedals, better joystick controls, a new consumables system, and more cosmetics for the cockpit.

The new map is the Tourmaline Desert, an arid map that's mostly rock, giant crystals, and abandoned BattleMechs. Heat management and possible sniper attacks are two of the biggest challenges that this map presents for players.

MechWarrior Online adds Jagermech, Tourmaline Desert map originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Mar 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments