Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Cryptic introduces Dilithium Mine Outpost to Star Trek Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/18/cryptic-introduces-dilithium-mine-outpost-to-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/18/cryptic-introduces-dilithium-mine-outpost-to-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/18/cryptic-introduces-dilithium-mine-outpost-to-star-trek-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

STO: Dilithium Mine
Earlier this month, Cryptic hinted at some big changes to fleet holding projects in Star Trek Online. Executive producer Daniel Stahl went on the record in the company's Ask Cryptic column and explained that the STO team had something planned involving "dilithium-based mechanics." Today's dev blog finally explained what all that means: Starting soon, fleets will have the option of working on the Dilithium Mine, a brand-new fleet outpost.

The Dilithium Mine features both indoor and outdoor environments and is accessible through the Beta Ursae Block or through an unlockable transwarp. If you play Star Trek Online, those are probably words that make sense to you. The mine's appearance will change as fleet members upgrade its facilities by following its three progression tracks.

Completing the main progression track for the Dilithium Mine will reward fleets with discounts on project dilithium input costs, new construction projects, daily missions, and a daily repeatable that allows fleet members to refine ore beyond their normal cap. The sub tracks offer a variety of bonuses, mostly related to discounts on fleet projects.

Fleets will have access to the Dilithium Mine the moment it goes live but will need to reach the first tier of its main track before being granted access to the physical space.

MassivelyCryptic introduces Dilithium Mine Outpost to Star Trek Online originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Jun 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-studiosdev-blogdilithiumdilithium-mine-outpostf2pfleetfleet-projectsfleet-starbasesfree-to-playfreemiummicrotransactionmicrotransactionsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpremiumpwesci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoTribblesTue, 18 Jun 2013 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Neverwinter to launch with alchemy profession]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/18/neverwinter-to-launch-with-alchemy-profession/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/18/neverwinter-to-launch-with-alchemy-profession/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/18/neverwinter-to-launch-with-alchemy-profession/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Neverwinter Alchemy
Neverwinter formally launches in just two days, but it appears as though the folks at Cryptic aren't quite done adding features to the game. The company has just announced that an entirely new profession, alchemy, will go live at the same time as the game's official launch. This brings the total number of professions in Neverwinter up to six.

Alchemy works in the way you might expect: You use resources gathered from the environment to make potions that enhance your abilities or restore your health. There are also unstable concoctions that provide random buff or debuff effects depending on your luck. Alchemists will be able to create dyes that can be used for color customization.

Alchemy joins endgame PvE and PvP dungeon Gauntlgrym as day-one new content for Neverwinter players. Neverwinter is set for officially official release on June 20th.

MassivelyNeverwinter to launch with alchemy profession originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Jun 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoalchemybetabeta-testbeta-testingcrypticcryptic-studiosdndendgamef2pfantasyfree-to-playfreemiumGauntlgrymlaunchlaunch-daylaunchesmicrotransactionmicrotransactionsneverwinterperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpremiumprofessionspwetestingTue, 18 Jun 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Turn-based MOBA Arena of Heroes enters open beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/17/turn-based-moba-arena-of-heroes-enters-open-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/17/turn-based-moba-arena-of-heroes-enters-open-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/17/turn-based-moba-arena-of-heroes-enters-open-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Arena of Heroes
If your primary complaint about MOBAs is that they move too quickly, Arena of Heroes might be something that lands a bit more in your comfort zone. Developed by Sneaky Games, Arena of Heroes is a turn-based, tactical MOBA that focuses more on strategy than on twitch-clicking hard skills.

Essentially, you and another player square off in an arena (duh), each controlling a team of four heroes in a battle for supremacy. It's your basic MOBA fare, but with a smaller battle zone and a slower, more deliberate pace. You and your opponent receive two minutes each to make your moves, or you can try the game's asynchronous mode and play several games simultaneously, with up to two days being allotted for turns.

Arena of Heroes has officially shifted into open beta, so you're free to check it out at your leisure. You can also read our hands-on with the game for a more detailed look at its inner workings.

The free-to-play game will launch on PC, Mac, iOS, and, at some point, Ouya and Android.

[Thanks to Venova for the tip]

MassivelyTurn-based MOBA Arena of Heroes enters open beta originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 17 Jun 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arena-of-heroesasynchronousbetaf2pfreefree-to-playfreemiumiOSMacmicrotransactionmicrotransactionsmobamultiplayer-online-battle-arenaopen-betaOuyapremiumsneaky-gamestabletMon, 17 Jun 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ultima Forever adjusts store prices based on player feedback]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/14/ultima-forever-adjusts-store-prices-based-on-player-feedback/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/14/ultima-forever-adjusts-store-prices-based-on-player-feedback/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/14/ultima-forever-adjusts-store-prices-based-on-player-feedback/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ultima Forever adjusts store prices based on player feedback
Mythic's been field testing Ultima Forever in the Canadian iOS market, and the studio now says that it's making significant changes to the in-app pricing based on feedback from players. Most of the changes will swing in the players' favor, including lowered repair costs and cheaper storage space increases. The studio is also considering a one-time buyout fee to get rid of all freemium aspects, although this is not a given.

One factor did increase in price, however. The studio raised the cost to loot high-quality chests, as the devs found that once players nabbed the good gear inside, they had less incentive to keep on looting.

Producer Carrie Gouskos said that the changes were necessary to keep from souring players' experiences. "You've got to get people to love your game first," she said, going on to remark that when player loyalty is established, revenue will follow.

[Thanks to Space Cobra for the tip!]

MassivelyUltima Forever adjusts store prices based on player feedback originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 14 Jun 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carrie-gouskoscash-shopeaelectronic-artsfreemiumin-app-pricingin-game-pricingitem-storelockboxmicrotransactionsmythicmythic-entertainmentnewsultima-foreverFri, 14 Jun 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[It's like launch day all over again for RIFT]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/14/its-like-launch-day-all-over-again-for-rift/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/14/its-like-launch-day-all-over-again-for-rift/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/14/its-like-launch-day-all-over-again-for-rift/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It's like launch day all over again for RIFT
If you decided to take advantage of RIFT's new free-to-play status yesterday, you were probably met with a big fat server queue message that may have ruined your entire life (according to the RIFT forums). While this is certainly bad for anyone wanting to play the game, it's an ironically good problem to have for Trion Worlds and the two-year-old MMO.

The team at Trion monitored the situation throughout the day and night, raising server caps and converting the EU Icewatch server to a Trial Only Shard, but commented that opening new clusters today might be a necessity for North American shards.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in!]

MassivelyIt's like launch day all over again for RIFT originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 14 Jun 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Choose My Adventure Firefalling
Well folks, it was an epic battle. The communities of Firefall and Fallen Earth rolled out in force to support their favorite game in last week's Choose My Adventure poll, and the contest came right down to the wire with thousands of votes pouring in from both sides. Most impressively, despite the efforts of a few bad-apple commenters and forum trolls, it was a war fought with courtesy and genuine respect for the passions of the competing community. Well done.

It's true that only one game can win a slot in Choose My Adventure, and this time around Firefall topped the charts. But let's take a moment to recognize the awesome turnout from both groups of fans. Your communities called you to action, and you responded with dedication and enthusiasm. Frankly, that's the type of stuff we love to see.

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: Firefalling

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: Firefalling originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Jun 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-testbeta-testingchoose-my-adventurecmaf2pfallen-earthfefeaturedfirefallfpsfree-to-playfreemiumg1gamersfirsthands-onlivestreammicrotransactionmicrotransactionsmmo-shooteropinionpollpollspost-apocpost-apocalypticpremiumpvpreaders-choicered-5red-5-studiossandboxsci-fishooterstreamstream-teamstreamingstreamteamtestingthird-person-shootervotevotingwarwastelandsWed, 12 Jun 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT is now completely free for everyone]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/12/rift-is-now-completely-free-for-everyone/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/12/rift-is-now-completely-free-for-everyone/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/12/rift-is-now-completely-free-for-everyone/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

RIFT is now completely free for everyone
The game that once denounced free-to-play has gone free-to-play. Trion Worlds' RIFT can now be enjoyed with "no trials, no tricks, and no traps" for anyone who wants to explore the game.

"The aim is to keep free and paid players on the same level - this is not pay-to-win," said Creative Director Bill Fisher. "Players will see key differences between RIFT and other MMOs that have adopted free-to-play: we don't restrict content, and we don't offer pay-to-win items."

To help celebrate the new content in RIFT 2.3 and its new F2P status, Trion has also released a brand new trailer and set of screenshots that can be seen below.

[Source: Trion Worlds press release]

Gallery: RIFT: Core Gallery

Continue reading RIFT is now completely free for everyone

MassivelyRIFT is now completely free for everyone originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Jun 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conquestf2pfantasyfree-to-playfreemiummicrotransactionmicrotransactionspatch-2.3premiumpvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsWed, 12 Jun 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Soapbox: The soft launch scam]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/11/the-soapbox-the-soft-launch-scam/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/11/the-soapbox-the-soft-launch-scam/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/11/the-soapbox-the-soft-launch-scam/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Neverwinter
Back in the golden days of video games, there was no such thing as a soft launch. Nintendo didn't send out test copies of Super Mario World to special "backers," and Sega didn't ship half-finished Sonic games with promises of further content updates. Games, for the most part, were played only after they were finished, printed, packaged, and shipped. Even on PC, beta testing was more of an earned honor exclusive to players that showed dedication to a title and its community.

Here in these modern times of Internets and always-ons, however, things are different. It would seem as though developers need only make enough game content to shoot a reasonably convincing trailer before the publishing team can begin collecting money by slapping a "BETA" sticker on the webpage and offering fans early access.

Over the last few years soft launches have become increasingly common -- especially for creators of online games. The line between "in testing" and "done" is becoming blurred, and publishers are reaping the benefits while players suffer.

Continue reading The Soapbox: The soft launch scam

MassivelyThe Soapbox: The soft launch scam originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Jun 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmobetacash-shopclosed-betacrypticcryptic-studiosdndeditorialf2pfantasyfeaturedfoundersfree-to-playMicrotransactionsneverwinterop-edopen-betaopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwerantrantsroleplayroleplayersroleplayingrpsoapboxsoft-launchstorystoryboardthe-soapboxTue, 11 Jun 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[HEX Kickstarter finishes strong]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/07/hex-kickstarter-finishes-strong/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/07/hex-kickstarter-finishes-strong/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/07/hex-kickstarter-finishes-strong/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

HEX TCG
HEX: Shards of Fate is a trading card game and MMO hybrid created by Cryptozoic, the studio behind the World of Warcraft Trading Card Game. If that sounds like a thing you would like to play, you're not alone: HEX's Kickstarter campaign just coasted to success on the pledges of over 17,750 backers, raising over $2,277,000 and obliterating the team's original goal of $300,000. (And those numbers are still rising!)

Thanks to HEX's massive cash haul, Cryptozoic will be able to add 17 of its 18 stretch goals, including a HEX-themed novel from a "premiere fantasy writer," tablet support, a motion comics game intro, playback support, more particle effects for cards, 10 extra dungeons, and five additional game boards.

Cryptozoic is continuing to accept pledges through its official website -- there are 17 backer tiers available promising access to the game's beta and the usual special backer-type items.

[Update: All backer tiers are now sold out except for the $50 "Slacker Backer." Thanks to Eamil for the tip.]

MassivelyHEX Kickstarter finishes strong originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 07 Jun 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaccgCollectible-Card-Gamecryptozoiccryptozoic-entertainmentf2pfree-to-playfreemiumhexinterviewmicrotransactionmicrotransactionsmmotcgonline-tcgpremiumtcgFri, 07 Jun 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Spacetime Studios celebrates 260 million play sessions with massive infographic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/29/spacetime-studios-celebrates-260-million-play-sessions-with-mass/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/29/spacetime-studios-celebrates-260-million-play-sessions-with-mass/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/29/spacetime-studios-celebrates-260-million-play-sessions-with-mass/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Spacetime Studios Infographic
Spacetime Studios, creator of mobile online titles Arcane Legends, Pocket Legends, and Star Legends, just announced a big milestone: The studio's games have seen over 260 million play sessions to date. To celebrate this feat, Spacetime put together a huge infographic packed with interesting figures related to its games and the community of players who support them.

According to the numbers, players have killed over six billion enemies, completed over 25 million quests, and formed over 13 million parties. They've consumed over 16 million potions and elixirs and opened enough treasure chests to provide one for every person in New York City. Perhaps most importantly, Spacetime's games have been downloaded over 20 million times.

It's all right there in the infographic, featured after the break.

[Source: Spacetime Studios press release]

Continue reading Spacetime Studios celebrates 260 million play sessions with massive infographic

MassivelySpacetime Studios celebrates 260 million play sessions with massive infographic originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 29 May 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcane-legendsf2pfree-to-playfreemiuminfographicmicrotransactionmicrotransactionsmobileNumberspocket-legendspremiumspacetime-studiosstar-legendsWed, 29 May 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Scarlet Blade reveals first major content update]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/29/scarlet-blade-reveals-first-major-content-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/29/scarlet-blade-reveals-first-major-content-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/29/scarlet-blade-reveals-first-major-content-update/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Scarlet Blade reveals first major content update
Though it's a game best-known for removing things (clothing in particular), Scarlet Blade is actually adding something this time around: Aeria Games has announced the free-to-play game's first major content update. Players in Scarlet Blade can now reach level 34 and venture into a new zone called Barbiron. New gear also accompanies the level cap increase, as do new dungeons, including the aptly named Subterranean Factory, which sits underground.

PvP also received attention in this update with the opening of Viledon, an all new open-world zone capable of holding hundreds of combatants. This zone, which contains quests to complete, bosses to fight over, and escort missions to complete or sabotage, can be entered and exited at will.

[Source Aeria Games press release]

MassivelyScarlet Blade reveals first major content update originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 29 May 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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City of Steam: Draug and Riven
Tomorrow (or tonight, depending on your point of view) is patch day for free-to-play, browser-based title City of Steam. Starting at 2 a.m. EDT, the game will be taken offline for four to six hours while Mechanist Games pushes live patch 1.2: The Vault Unsealed.

This new patch adds quite a bit of content to the still-in-development City of Steam, including new quests, the return of the Riven and Draug as playable races, the addition of a new content hub by the name of The Vault and a brand-new Wilderness level known as The Broken Stair. The level cap has also been raised up to 32, and PvP enthusiasts will find a new map and new tournament event in which to slay their fellow players.

Mechanist is promising more details once the servers come back online; in the meantime, you can discuss the patch over at the official City of Steam forums.

MassivelyMechanist launches City of Steam's patch 1.2: The Vault Unsealed originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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HEX The MMOTCG is in the cards
Massively was recently invited to meet with Cory Jones, president and chief creative officer of Cryptozoic, to get some greater insight into HEX, the studio's upcoming MMOTCG -- that is, massively multiplayer trading card game.

At first, I had a difficult time associating a "massively multiplayer" aspect with a trading card game. My two-decade-old memories of very briefly playing Magic: The Gathering simply wouldn't let me get past my initial assumption about the head-to-head nature of these types of games. Even the online version of Magic used essentially the same structure as the offline version, with digital representations of Magic cards and an online challenge ladder.

So imagine my surprise when a well-established box-and-trading-card-game company like Cryptozoic announced it was producing HEX, an MMOTCG using Kickstarter as a funding vehicle.

Continue reading HEX: The MMO is in the cards

MassivelyHEX: The MMO is in the cards originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 May 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaccgCollectible-Card-Gamecory-jonescryptozoiccryptozoic-entertainmentf2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumhexinterviewinterviewsmicrotransactionmicrotransactionsmmotcgonline-tcgpremiumpreviewpreviewstcgtrading-card-gameTue, 28 May 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Uncharted Waters Online discounts Steam packages before a big patch docks]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/uncharted-waters-online-discounts-steam-packages-before-a-big-pa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/uncharted-waters-online-discounts-steam-packages-before-a-big-pa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/uncharted-waters-online-discounts-steam-packages-before-a-big-pa/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Logically speaking even a really cruddy ship would still be ship-shape.
Is your ship in Uncharted Waters Online something less than ship-shape? Perhaps you could put the wind back in your sails with one of the special item packs available for the game on Steam. In anticipation of the game's next major patch arriving on the 28th, Netmarble has lowered the prices on all three packs by 70%, allowing characters to leave port with big boosts for fewer of your hard-earned real money.

The Booster pack is down to just $1.49 and provides faster experience gain, faster ship movement, and the ability to revive fallen sailors away from a port. The Premium pack is only $2.99, offers even faster experience gain, and also sets up you with 200 million ducats (in-game currency) and possibly even a rare ship. Last but not least, the Sea Adventure pack is down to $11.99 and offers the best possible experience boost, 300 million ducats, and several exclusive items. So if you're looking to set sail, a little money now will help you find your fortune.

MassivelyUncharted Waters Online discounts Steam packages before a big patch docks originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 May 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>booster-packsdealsdiscountdiscountsf2pfree-to-playitem-packsmicrotransactionsnetmarblepackspromotionssteamuncharted-waters-onlineuwoWed, 22 May 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Conquer Online 10th anniversary trailer takes the cake]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/conquer-online-10th-anniversary-trailer-takes-the-cake/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/conquer-online-10th-anniversary-trailer-takes-the-cake/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/conquer-online-10th-anniversary-trailer-takes-the-cake/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Conquer Online 10th anniversary trailer takes the cake
Hitting the big 1-0 is certainly a cause for celebration. So how does Conquer Online top its free trip to China offered last year? With a trailer that offers a unique look at the last 10 years and turns attention towards the future. That, and a number of festivities lasting through mid-June that span events, bonuses, and gifts galore. Oh, did we mention another trip to China? This time the trip goes to the supreme champion of the first World Fighting League, a contest open to all new and veteran players spanning all 10 versions of CO.

Launched in 2003, the oriental fantasy game boasting plenty of kung-fu elements has continually added new content over the years, including pirates and more PvP-based activities. This year will see even more expansions, from a new character (the mysterious Kung Fu Master) to a new massive cross-server PvP battle, the Kingdom War. To accommodate new players, Conquer Online has opened two new servers and is giving away special Starter's Packs to aid the newcomers. Veterans have not been forgotten; they'll receive a gift when logging into their original servers.

Want a glimpse at what the future holds for Conquer Online? You'll have to get through the first half of the video to see the preview. Check it out after the cut.

[Source: TQ Digital press release]

Continue reading Conquer Online 10th anniversary trailer takes the cake

MassivelyConquer Online 10th anniversary trailer takes the cake originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 May 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10th-Anniversaryanniversary-giftsCOconquer-onlineeventsf2pfree-to-playfree-tripfree-trip-to-Chinafreemiummartial-artsmartial-arts-mmomicrotransactionmicrotransactionsNetDragonpremiumPvPtq-digitalWorld-Fighting-LeagueFri, 17 May 2013 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Arcane Saga triggers its beta test]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/arcane-saga-triggers-its-beta-test/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/arcane-saga-triggers-its-beta-test/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/arcane-saga-triggers-its-beta-test/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Arcane Saga triggers beta test
The MMO formerly known as Prince, er, Prius Online has gone into beta in preparation for its relaunch. The newly titled Arcane Saga represents a reworking of Prius' old content to include new features and content.

Netmarble Head Project Manager Joe Kim invites you to check out the changes: "With the start of the beta phase today, players will finally get to experience for themselves all of the improvements we've made to the world of Prius over the past year."

Assuming all goes well in the beta, Arcane Saga is scheduled to launch in the next couple of months. In the meantime, check out our interview about the re-launching of this title.

[Source: Netmarble press release]

MassivelyArcane Saga triggers its beta test originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcane-sagabetaf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumindustryinterviewsjoe-kimmicrotransactionmicrotransactionsnetmarblepremiumprius-onlinere-launchre-releaseWed, 08 May 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: MOBA patch week, Star Citizen hits $9 million, and Diablo II ladder reset]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/not-so-massively-moba-patch-week-star-citizen-hits-9-million/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/not-so-massively-moba-patch-week-star-citizen-hits-9-million/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/not-so-massively-moba-patch-week-star-citizen-hits-9-million/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively MOBA patch week, Star Citizen hits $9 million, and Diablo II ladder reset
This week is packed with MOBA news as almost every major title released a new patch. Infinite Crisis introduced new champions Poison Ivy and Gaslight Catwoman and announced that the game's closed beta will start in two days' time on May 8th. SMITE introduced new Norse god Fenrir the Unbound, and League of Legends released a champion spotlight on new Ice Witch champion Lissandra. Dota 2 also released new hero Elder Titan based on the original DotA hero Tauren Chieftain, and Heroes of Newerth released several months of balance changes at once in its colossal version 3.1 update.

Star Citizen celebrated hitting $9 million US in its ongoing crowdfunding campaign, and to celebrate, developers controversially gave all current backers free lifetime insurance on their ships. The title's success has also spurred EVE Online developer CCP Games to show off its own virtual reality dogfighter called EVR that uses the upcoming Oculus Rift headset.

Diablo III's first anniversary is just over a week away; details of any celebrations haven't yet been released. Developers confirmed that the PlayStation 4 version will not be getting mouse and keyboard support and that the PC version won't be getting support for analog controllers. For those of you up for some oldschool dungeon-crawling, Diablo II also announced that its ladder will be reset on May 14th this week and all players will start the game fresh again.

Continue reading Not So Massively: MOBA patch week, Star Citizen hits $9 million, and Diablo II ladder reset

MassivelyNot So Massively: MOBA patch week, Star Citizen hits $9 million, and Diablo II ladder reset originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 06 May 2013 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetbetabeta-testbeta-testingblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcash-shopccpccp-gameschris-robertscompetitive-gamingconsoled3defense-of-the-ancientsdiablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotae-sporte-sportselder-titanesportesportseveeve-onlineevrexploitf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumgothic-fantasyhon-tourhontourice-witchinternet-spaceshipsladderladder-resetleagueleague-of-legendslissandralolmicrotransactionmicrotransactionsmobamultiplayernewsnot-so-massivelynsmoculus-riftonline-multiplayeropinionpatch-1.0.8playstationplaystation-3playstation-4Playstation3premiumps4pvpriotriot-gamesroguelikeround-uprounduprpgsandboxsci-fispreadsheets-onlinetauren-chieftaintestingtrailertrailersvideovideosvirtual-realitywitch-doctorMon, 06 May 2013 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Greed Monger screenshots and video show off tropical climate area]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/greed-monger-screenshots-and-video-show-off-tropical-climate-are/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/greed-monger-screenshots-and-video-show-off-tropical-climate-are/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/greed-monger-screenshots-and-video-show-off-tropical-climate-are/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

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

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>economyenvironmentsf2pfree-to-playfreemiumgreed-mongergreed-monger-partnerskickstartermicrotransactionmicrotransactionsnew-screenshotsplayer-driven-economyplayer-economypremiumsandboxtropical-climatevideoMon, 29 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Second Wind Roundtable: NSFW edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/second-wind-roundtable-nsfw-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/second-wind-roundtable-nsfw-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/second-wind-roundtable-nsfw-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Yes, we know it's spelled
For this edition of the Second Wind Roundtable, I thought it'd be a funny little prank to coerce a couple of my colleagues into playing Scarlet Blade with me. I was wrong. I was so, so very wrong. We lost some good men in there, but those of us who survived to talk about it gathered 'round for some group therapy over hard whiskey and mind-bleach.

Coincidentally, we also transcribed it so that you can learn from our mistakes. Be warned, many screenshots below the cut are explicit, though some have been tastefully censored for the sake of all things holy and sacred. No, really, we are not kidding: This post is not safe for work/children/anyone with a sense of common decency. That being said, you can join us after the cut.

I'm so, so sorry.

Continue reading Second Wind Roundtable: NSFW edition

MassivelySecond Wind Roundtable: NSFW edition originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Apr 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeria-gamesf2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumi-dont-want-to-live-on-this-planet-anymoremicrotransactionmicrotransactionsnsfwopinionpost-launchpremiumre-reviewreviewroundtablescarlet-bladesecond-impressionssecond-looksecond-windsecond-wind-roundtabletranscriptupdated-impressionsFri, 19 Apr 2013 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Trailer shows off China's upcoming Monster Hunters Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/trailer-shows-off-chinas-upcoming-monster-hunters-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/trailer-shows-off-chinas-upcoming-monster-hunters-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/trailer-shows-off-chinas-upcoming-monster-hunters-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Trailer shows off China's upcoming Monster Hunters Online
If you've had the urge to slay dinosaurs, dragons, and even giant beavers, you'll have the chance -- if you live in China. The Monster Hunter franchise is expanding into the Chinese market with a free-to-play version called Monster Hunter Online. Along with the aforementioned giant bosses (and plenty of others), the MMO will add more weapons, monsters, and locales to the series.

Developed by Tencent Games and Capcom, Monster Hunter Online will be powered by CryEngine 3 instead of Capcom's own engine. How big of a difference does that make? Check out the trailer after the cut and see for yourself.

Continue reading Trailer shows off China's upcoming Monster Hunters Online

MassivelyTrailer shows off China's upcoming Monster Hunters Online originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CapcomChinaCryEngine-3f2pfree-to-playfreemiummicrotransactionmicrotransactionsMonster-HunterMonster-Hunter-OnlinepremiumTencentFri, 19 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Second Wind: Spiral Knights]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/second-wind-spiral-knights/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/second-wind-spiral-knights/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/second-wind-spiral-knights/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Spiral Knights
There's something to be said for the rise of browser-based games. What once was an elephant graveyard of bad ideas, low-res graphics, and trite or incomplete game mechanics has now evolved into a veritable playground of new ideas and fun casual titles. Games like City of Steam and Drakensang Online continue to push the boundaries of what's possible in a browser window, delivering engaging experiences with depth and high fidelity.

Browser game represent some of the coolest technological innovations in the MMO niche. They also, often, represent the very worst in predatory monetization schemes and "pay-to-win" exploitation.

Spiral Knights does both. And it does both well.

Continue reading Second Wind: Spiral Knights

MassivelySecond Wind: Spiral Knights originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiummicrotransactionmicrotransactionspost-launchpremiumpuzzle-piratesre-reviewreviewsci-fantasysci-fisecond-impressionssecond-looksecond-windsegaspiral-knightssteamthree-ringsthree-rings-designupdated-impressionsThu, 18 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mythology-inspired The Lost Titans launches open beta today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/mythology-inspired-the-lost-titans-launches-open-beta-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/mythology-inspired-the-lost-titans-launches-open-beta-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/mythology-inspired-the-lost-titans-launches-open-beta-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Mythologyinspired The Lost Titans launches open beta today
The Lost Titans, a free-to-play fantasy game inspired by real Egyptian, Greek, and Roman mythologies launches into open beta tonight with the creation of a brand-new Olympus server. At 10 p.m. EDT, doors open to a revamped beginners' area as well as new mounts, pets, and events. Players can test their luck by spinning Fortuna's Wheel for a chance at prizes or delve deeper into the Core of Aristos to avenge their Titan ruler Hyperion.

Open beta also brings new PvP features, including a dueling system and a battleground where players can mount up and face both bosses and other players simultaneously. For a sneak peek of the action, check out the images in the gallery below and the trailer after the break.

[Source: ZQGAME press release]

Gallery: The Lost Titans

Continue reading Mythology-inspired The Lost Titans launches open beta today

MassivelyMythology-inspired The Lost Titans launches open beta today originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Apr 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfantasyfree-to-playfreemiumgalleriesgallerymicrotransactionmicrotransactionsmountsmythologypetspremiumpvpscreenshotscreenshotsThe-Lost-TitansvideozqgameThu, 18 Apr 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Grimlands heralds Linux and Mac announcement with second video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/12/grimlands-heralds-linux-and-mac-announcement-with-second-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/12/grimlands-heralds-linux-and-mac-announcement-with-second-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/12/grimlands-heralds-linux-and-mac-announcement-with-second-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

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

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

[Source: DRAGO press release]

Continue reading Grimlands heralds Linux and Mac announcement with second video

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingcrowdfundingDRAGODRAGO-entertainmentf2pfree-to-playfreemiumGrimlandsKickstarterKrystian-KofinLinuxLucjan-MikociakMacMac-OSMaking-Of-part-2Making-Of-videomicrotransactionmicrotransactionspalyer-driven-economypost-apocalypticpremiumPvPsci-fivehicklesWiktoryn-ZerebeckiFri, 12 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: How the mobile market is trying to change MMOs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/05/mmobility-how-the-mobile-market-is-trying-to-change-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/05/mmobility-how-the-mobile-market-is-trying-to-change-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/05/mmobility-how-the-mobile-market-is-trying-to-change-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Real Racing 3 screenshot
My brother called me the other day to tell me that he had just beaten me in Real Racing 3, an EA title that has drawn some criticism for its use of microtransactions. I enjoyed the heck out of the game, and it seems that EA is not worried about the criticism thanks to the overall positive response to the title. I asked my brother about the in-game purchases and he didn't really know what I was talking about. It was only more evidence that the rest of the market -- especially the huge mobile market -- doesn't really appear to care about persistent worlds or immersive lore. The fact is that pseudo-MMOs or games that are barely on the edge of MMO are MMO enough for many people, even people like my brother, who is no stranger to MMO gaming and has spent years in and out of World of Warcraft raiding and leveling.

I was going to write about a game called Raft Pirates for this column, but when I started to look at it, I realized that it didn't quite seem like a "real" MMO, and so I asked the developer to define the game for me. The response I got back only added to my confusion about where the mobile market is going. So in today's MMObility, I want to continue the discussion I started last week, but this time I'll like to look at how the mobile market is keeping things muddy.

Continue reading MMObility: How the mobile market is trying to change MMOs

MassivelyMMObility: How the mobile market is trying to change MMOs originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Apr 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-baseddefining-mmosEAfeaturedMicrotransactionsmmobilitymobilemobile-gamingmobile-mmoopinionphoneraft-piratesreal-racing-3smartphoneWorld-of-WarcraftFri, 05 Apr 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2013: The MMO impact of the Webzen and Gala-Net merge]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/03/gdc-2013-the-mmo-impact-of-the-webzen-and-gala-net-merge/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/03/gdc-2013-the-mmo-impact-of-the-webzen-and-gala-net-merge/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/03/gdc-2013-the-mmo-impact-of-the-webzen-and-gala-net-merge/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

GDC 2013 Interview sheds light on Webzen and Gala merge
Acquisition. Though it sounds pretty benign on its own, when used in reference to one developer taking over another, the word can inspire fear in the hearts of gamers. Questions quickly arise about the future of titles that fall on the acquired side of the equation. How will the games and players be affected by the change? Will there even still be a game?

I sat down with Claas Wolter (European PR Manager) and Deanna Peter (Marketing/PR Associate) to discuss just this topic regarding the recent purchase of Gala-Net (the parent company of gPotato) by Webzen and how that acquisition will affect Allods Online, Age of Wulin, Terras Militaris, and the company's other MMORPGs.

Continue reading GDC 2013: The MMO impact of the Webzen and Gala-Net merge

MassivelyGDC 2013: The MMO impact of the Webzen and Gala-Net merge originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Apr 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acquisitionage-of-wulinallodsallods-onlinearctic-combatasiaastrum-nivalchinachinesechinese-mmoclaas-wolterconconferencecontinent-of-the-ninth-sealconventiondeanna-petereventevent-coverageeventsf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumgala-netgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2013gdcgdc-2013gpotatogvginterviewinterviewskidnappingmail-ru-gamesmail.ru-gamesmailru-gamesmartial-artsmassively-event-coveragemergermicrotransactionmicrotransactionsming-dynastymu-onlinepremiumpvpsandboxsevencoresnail-gamessnail-games-usaTerras-Militariswebzen.comwushuwuxiaWed, 03 Apr 2013 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: New Code Electra class sizzles in Elsword trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/massively-exclusive-new-code-electra-class-sizzles-in-elsword/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/massively-exclusive-new-code-electra-class-sizzles-in-elsword/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/massively-exclusive-new-code-electra-class-sizzles-in-elsword/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Massively Exclusive New Code Electra class sizzles in Elsword trailer
If you've wanted more sizzle in your Elsword gaming, you're in luck! Kill3rCombo has revealed Code Electra, the next class in its transformation series. Along with a whole new look, fans of Eve can revel in unleashing powerful electrical attacks and zapping enemies with devastating laser beams.

With the Code Electra class, the queen of a lost robotic race will unlock the El Spectrum ability, allowing her to alter her attacks by switching between multiple modes. Need to scatter the laser beam to hit more enemies? Can do. How about focus the beam for increased damage? Yup. This mode switching will affect all of the various skills available to Eve, offering players a multitude of strategic options.

Check out Eve's new look as Code Electra in the gallery below and watch her new abilities in action in the video after the break.

[Source: Kill3rCombo press release]

Gallery: Elsword Online

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: New Code Electra class sizzles in Elsword trailer

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: New Code Electra class sizzles in Elsword trailer originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Elswordelsword-onlineEveexclusivef2pfree-to-playfreemiumgalleryKill3rCombomassively-exclusivemicrotransactionmicrotransactionsnew-classnewspremiumscreenshotstrailertransformation-classvideoTue, 02 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ascots and crossbows: Hands-on with Renaissance Heroes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/27/ascots-and-crossbows-hands-on-with-renaissance-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/27/ascots-and-crossbows-hands-on-with-renaissance-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/27/ascots-and-crossbows-hands-on-with-renaissance-heroes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Renaissance Heroes
A few months ago, when New Year's resolutions came around, I decided to take broad, sweeping strides outside of my comfort zone -- I decided to play more FPS games. Long have I lingered in the comforting bosom of tab targeting, cast bars, and kill-10-boars. So when Renaissance Heroes, a newly released free-to-play FPS, came to my attention, I thought I might have finally found an FPS game that's more my style, that style being "shoot people in the face with crossbows."

I was not disappointed.

Continue reading Ascots and crossbows: Hands-on with Renaissance Heroes

MassivelyAscots and crossbows: Hands-on with Renaissance Heroes originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Mar 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfeaturedfirst-person-shooterfpsfree-to-playfreemiumGamefusehands-onimpressionslivestreammatthew-lenehanmicrotransactionspreviewpreviewsrenaissance-heroesshooterstreamstreamingvideovideosWed, 27 Mar 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX 2013: Hands-on with Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/pax-2013-hands-on-with-hearthstone-heroes-of-warcraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/pax-2013-hands-on-with-hearthstone-heroes-of-warcraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/pax-2013-hands-on-with-hearthstone-heroes-of-warcraft/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft
Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft is a brand-spankin'-new online collectible card game from Blizzard, announced just yesterday here at PAX East 2013. And since I love you guys soooo much, I took the time to stand in line to take a look for myself. It certainly had nothing to do with the fact that I flock to CCGs like a moth to flame. No sirree.

Of course, this isn't your traditional MMO, so it's difficult to write a traditional review, especially considering I was able to play only a single match (which I won by a landslide, thank you very much), so instead I'm just going to give y'all a rundown of how the game plays and let you draw your own conclusions. Shuffle your cards, cut your decks, and read on for the skinny on Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft.

Continue reading PAX 2013: Hands-on with Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft

MassivelyPAX 2013: Hands-on with Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 23 Mar 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionbetabeta-testbeta-testingblizzardblizzard-entertainmentccgcollectible-card-gameconconventioneventevent-coverageeventsexpof2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumhands-onhearthstonehearthstone-heroes-of-warcraftheroes-of-warcraftjoystiqmassively-event-coveragemicrotransactionmicrotransactionspaxpax-2013pax-eastpax-east-2013penny-arcade-expopremiumpreviewpreviewstcgtestingtrading-card-gamewarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowSat, 23 Mar 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX East 2013: Hands-on with City of Steam]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/pax-east-2013-hands-on-with-city-of-steam/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/pax-east-2013-hands-on-with-city-of-steam/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/pax-east-2013-hands-on-with-city-of-steam/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- City of Steam
I don't know what it is about steam engines, brass goggles, and copious amounts of clockwork mechanisms that excites me so much, but the steampunk genre has a special place in my heart. With that in mind, it should be no surprise that when I discovered that Mechanist Games, the
studio behind upcoming F2P browser MMO City of Steam, was going to be at PAX East, I immediately claimed the assignment.

For the uninitiated, City of Steam is a title that mixes the traditional fantasy flavors of magic, elves, and goblins with steampunk staples of industrialism, clockwork automatons, and airships to create what is described as "industrial age fantasy in a fallen world." During my time at PAX East, I got to spend just under an hour exploring the world of City of Steam and chatting with the game's developers who were milling about the booth. It's a fairly ambitious title that's aiming to bring a high-quality, modern MMO experience to players' browsers, but will it run like clockwork or go up in a cloud of steam?

Continue reading PAX East 2013: Hands-on with City of Steam

MassivelyPAX East 2013: Hands-on with City of Steam originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 23 Mar 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city-of-steamconconventioneventevent-coverageeventsexpof2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgoblinhands-onmassively-event-coveragemechanistmechanist-gamesmicrotransactionmicrotransactionspaxpax-2013pax-eastpax-east-2013penny-arcade-expopreviewpreviewssci-fisteampunkSat, 23 Mar 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[First Impressions: Book of Heroes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/first-impressions-book-of-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/first-impressions-book-of-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/first-impressions-book-of-heroes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

First Impressions Book of Heroes
Within the ever-changing landscape of MMOs, the mobile MMO is a peculiar beast. Not too often will you find any perfect storm of MMO features in one mobile title, but as players, we're instead forced to make do with a game that includes our favorite parts and pieces.

Book of Heroes is a mobile MMO that first launched for Apple devices in November of 2011 and on Android in March of 2012. The game's developer, Venan Entertainment, has most recently produced Chapter 3: Dragonmoor, which puts the game even closer to what one might want from a "true" MMO. It's not even close to being there quite yet, but if you like raiding and battling up the leaderboards with your friends, you might just enjoy this game.

Continue reading First Impressions: Book of Heroes

MassivelyFirst Impressions: Book of Heroes originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Mar 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappbook-of-heroesdroidf2pfeaturedFirst-Impressionsfree-to-playfreemiumhands-oniosmicrotransactionmicrotransactionsmobilepremiumpreviewpreviewsvenanVenan-EntertainmentWed, 20 Mar 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The vampires of Moonlight Online: Global come out March 21st]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/the-vampires-of-moonlight-online-global-come-out-march-21st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/the-vampires-of-moonlight-online-global-come-out-march-21st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/the-vampires-of-moonlight-online-global-come-out-march-21st/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The vampires of Moonlight Online Global come out March 21
If you've got a thirst for a vampire-themed MMO, you're in luck. Starting at 9:30 p.m. EDT on March 21st, you can sink your teeth into Moonlight Online: Global, a new free-to-play game by IGG (which incidentally also made Angels Online). And if you just so happen to be a Twilight fan as well, you're in double-luck: The studio promises players the chance to create their own version of the cast to recreate and live the story themselves.

Can't wait until tomorrow? Then jump on over to the official site, where four different forum events are going on, each offering the chance for prizes such as a newbie gift pack in game, superior weapons, and points. You can try your hand at Lucky Treasure Box, Counting Numbers, Sign Up for Snowballs, and Screen Grab Characters.

[Source: IGG press release]

MassivelyThe vampires of Moonlight Online: Global come out March 21st originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Mar 2013 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfree-to-playfreemiumIGGmicrotransactionmicrotransactionsmoonlight-onlineMoonlight-Online-GlobalpremiumTwilightvampirevampiresWed, 20 Mar 2013 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Champions Online dev blog goes behind-the-scenes of the Lemurian Invasion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/16/champions-online-dev-blog-goes-behind-the-scenes-of-the-lemurian/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/16/champions-online-dev-blog-goes-behind-the-scenes-of-the-lemurian/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/16/champions-online-dev-blog-goes-behind-the-scenes-of-the-lemurian/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Champions Online's Lemurian Invasion
Last week, Champions Online's Lemurian Invasion event hit the live servers, and since then players have been valiantly fighting to defend the world against the alien forces. But as the latest Champions devblog notes, "an invasion force like the Lemurians doesn't come out of nowhere." With that in mind, Cryptic has released a brand-new devblog that takes players behind the curtain for a look at the making of the Lemurian invasion. In the post, Champions Online's new Live Producer, Tom "Lord Gar" Edwards, takes players on a brief tour of the process behind creating a live event.

Edwards details all of the hard work that went into the Lemurian Invasion, from the event's initial conception to 3-D models, animations, and playtesting. But perhaps more importantly, he takes a few paragraphs to talk about the future: "[In] the first half 2013, [Cryptic's] plan is to release several story arcs of a similar scale to the Lemurian invasion." He adds that "each arc will have a lockbox, some smaller missions, and then a larger mission at the end." According to Edwards, each mission will " have its own themed rewards and new items [that will] sometimes focus on character improvements, and some on vehicles." Champions' next arc will involve "gladiatorial combat" and will focus on the aforementioned character improvements.

Edwards promises that more info is coming soon. Until then, how about heading over to the Champions Online devblog for all the tasty Lemurian Invasion details?

[Thanks to Matixzun for the tip!]

MassivelyChampions Online dev blog goes behind-the-scenes of the Lemurian Invasion originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 16 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>behind-the-sceneschampionschampions-onlinechampscocrypticcryptic-studiosdevblogdevblogseventeventsf2pfree-to-playfreemiumin-game-eventin-game-eventslemurian-invasionlive-eventlive-eventsmaking-ofmicrotransactionmicrotransactionsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpremiumpwesuperherosuperheroesSat, 16 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Do PLEX make EVE pay-to-win?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/10/eve-evolved-do-plex-make-eve-pay-to-win/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/10/eve-evolved-do-plex-make-eve-pay-to-win/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/10/eve-evolved-do-plex-make-eve-pay-to-win/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

EVE Evolved title image
Several years ago, the subscription model was king and the mere mention of an MMO selling in-game items for cash was almost enough to cause a virtual riot. RMT was the devil, and players who bought swords or spaceships for cash deserved nothing short of a permanent ban. The past decade of development has changed the MMO landscape and brought in a new generation of gamers with different attitudes. Today's players have grown up with and embraced ideas like the free-to-play business model, microtransaction shops, and perhaps even the idea of buying in-game advantages for cash.

In his latest Free for All column, Massively's Beau Hindman tackled the controversial issue of MMOs selling power for real cash, and his points about EVE Online sparked some pretty interesting discussion in the comments. The crux of the argument was that an EVE player can currently take out his wallet and buy his way into a bigger ship or even pick up a pre-trained veteran character. That's certainly true, but is that the same as buying an unfair advantage and does it necessarily make EVE pay-to-win?

In this week's EVE Evolved, I look at why players find PLEX so much more palatable than direct item sales and ask whether the system fits the definition of pay-to-win.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Do PLEX make EVE pay-to-win?

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Do PLEX make EVE pay-to-win? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 10 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbeau-hindmanccpccp-gameseveeve-evolvedeve-onlinef2pfantasyfeaturedffafree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumgrindgrindingguild-wars-2gw2iskMicrotransactionsncsoftopinionpay-to-winplexrmtsandboxsci-fivelvet-ropeSun, 10 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest, EverQuest II repeal F2P restrictions on class, race, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/07/everquest-everquest-ii-repeal-f2p-restrictions-on-class-race/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/07/everquest-everquest-ii-repeal-f2p-restrictions-on-class-race/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/07/everquest-everquest-ii-repeal-f2p-restrictions-on-class-race/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Georgeson interview reveals removal of F2P restrictions on class, race, and more in EQ, EQ II
What single action could unite all Norrathians in grand celebration? In the words of Mel Gibson's William Wallace: Freeeeeeeeeedoooooooom.

It's no secret that EverQuest and EverQuest II have had fairly restrictive free-to-play models, with severe limitations that unfortunately deterred some players from trying or sticking with the games. Although teased with a wide variety of races and classes, free (once called bronze) and silver players could choose from among only a few without dipping into their wallets. Other restrictions included limited bag slots, little to no shared bank access, and a very low cap on active quests.

But if those restrictions are what put you off, fire up that launchpad again because I've got good news for you: SOE has taken a giant eraser and wiped them right off of the free-to-play matrices. And now is a good time to get back into the games as the EverQuest franchise is set to commemorate its 14th anniversary with celebrations in both games.

In my interview with Dave Georgeson, the man at the helm of all things EQ, I scouted out the specifics of the F2P restrictions that will lift come the middle of next week. Georgeson also revealed some incoming updates for EQ as well as discussed the special events marking the anniversary that will kick off on March 16th. And you just know I tried to slip in a question or two about EQ Next.

Continue reading EverQuest, EverQuest II repeal F2P restrictions on class, race, and more

MassivelyEverQuest, EverQuest II repeal F2P restrictions on class, race, and more originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Mar 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dave-georgesoneqeq-2eq-iieq-nexteq1eq2eqiieqneverquesteverquest-2everquest-iieverquest-nextf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiuminterviewinterviewsmicrotransactionmicrotransactionspremiumremoving-restrictionsrevamping-f2psoesonysony-online-entertainmentThu, 07 Mar 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Interview: Re-launching Prius Online as Arcane Saga]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/massively-interview-re-launching-prius-online-as-arcane-saga/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/massively-interview-re-launching-prius-online-as-arcane-saga/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/massively-interview-re-launching-prius-online-as-arcane-saga/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Arcane Saga Header
Prius Online, a free-to-play, fantasy MMO published by gPotato, launched in North America in 2011. Roughly a year later, the MMO was shut down. Now, another year later, the game's original developer is re-branding, re-visiting and re-launching Prius Online under a new moniker: Arcane Saga.

Curious about how, when, and why a company would choose to re-open a shuttered game, we sat down with Netmarble's Jon-Enée Merriex to ask. Merriex walked us through what it takes to restart a game, why good MMOs sometimes go by the wayside, and how his company plans to iterate and improve on the Prius Online experience that the title's original players enjoyed.

Continue reading Massively Interview: Re-launching Prius Online as Arcane Saga

MassivelyMassively Interview: Re-launching Prius Online as Arcane Saga originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Mar 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcane-sagaf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumgPotatoindustryinterviewinterviewsJon-Enée-Merriexjon-enee-merriexmicrotransactionmicrotransactionsnetmarblepremiumprius-onlinere-launchre-releaseWed, 06 Mar 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[So EA isn't putting microtransactions in every game after all]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/so-ea-isnt-putting-microtransactions-in-every-game-after-all/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/so-ea-isnt-putting-microtransactions-in-every-game-after-all/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/so-ea-isnt-putting-microtransactions-in-every-game-after-all/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

So EA isn't putting microtransactions in every game after allRemember that one time when EA CFO Blake Jorgensen pissed off the entire internet (except for Beau) by intimating that the gaming giant would be building microtransactions into all of its upcoming games?

Well, forget that, because apparently that's not what he meant.

"I made a statement in the conference along the lines of 'we'll have microtransactions in our games' and the community read that to mean all our games," Jorgensen told Polygon. "And that's really not true. All of our mobile games will have microtransactions in them, because almost all of them are going to a world where they are play for free."

Jorgensen goes on to say that EA will likely be putting in-house credit card processing and download support into all of its titles, but that doesn't necessarily mean a mass conversion to the microtransaction model.

MassivelySo EA isn't putting microtransactions in every game after all originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Mar 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Blake-Jorgensenbusiness-modelseaElectronic-Artsf2pfree-to-playmicrotransactionsout-of-contextspinwhoopsWed, 06 Mar 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Conflict launches on Steam]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/star-conflict-launches-on-steam/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/star-conflict-launches-on-steam/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/star-conflict-launches-on-steam/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Star Conflict launches on Steam
It's been a while since we've heard from Star Conflict, the free-to-play PvP-based space sim that entered beta last year. But it didn't completely fall off the face of the, uh, galaxy -- folks who want to take command of a battleship and seek fame and fortune in space can now access the game on Steam. In a setting 3,000 years after colonists left Earth, pilots in Star Conflict take part in an interplanetary skirmish as they vie for their piece of the pie in a remote corner of the galaxy called Sector 1337.

According to Steam, the game has full audio support for both English and Russian and offers three different DLC packs starting at $14.99. Star Conflict can be played on PC or Mac.

[Thanks to Bartillo for the tip!]

MassivelyStar Conflict launches on Steam originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 04 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Firefall Copacabana
As any fan of my streams can tell you, I am not awesome at video games. So when Massively asked me to take a look at Firefall, a twitch-heavy, free-to-play shooter developed by Red 5 Studios, it was only with trepidation that I accepted. Could I really find happiness in a world that relied on reflexes and skill more than clever spell rotations? Or would my incompetence make the game so frustrating that I would end up smashing my keyboard with my face?

After procrastinating for days and hoping that the project would vanish into the night (beta goblins or something), I finally sat down to check the game out. What I discovered is that Firefall is much more than a shooter; it is a vibrant universe packed with fun things to do, intriguing content to explore, and enough character customization to please even the most ardent of tweakers.

Gallery: Firefall battleframe design

Continue reading Bugs, minerals, and jet boots: Hands-on with Firefall's PvE

MassivelyBugs, minerals, and jet boots: Hands-on with Firefall's PvE originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 01 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-testbeta-testingf2pfeaturedfirefallfpsfree-to-playfreemiumgalleriesgalleryhands-onmicrotransactionmicrotransactionsmmo-shooterpremiumpreviewpreviewspvpred-5red-5-studiossci-fiscreenshotscreenshotsshootertestingthird-person-shooterwarFri, 01 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online spotlights ships for players]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/star-trek-online-spotlights-ships-for-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/star-trek-online-spotlights-ships-for-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/star-trek-online-spotlights-ships-for-players/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

There are two types of people: those who see the Ambassador class as an ugly and ungainly fusion of Constitution and Galaxy ships, and those who like ugly ships.
Space -- the final frontier. These are the voyages of the USS Why-In-The-World-Are-You-Flying-That-For-Starfleet. The name's a bit cumbersome, but considering the sheer number of different ships you can pilot in Star Trek Online, we think it's rather apropos. Then again, one look at some of the machines on display in the game's newest spotlight video and it's difficult to feel all that bad about explaining why you're flying a ship that belongs to your faction's sworn enemies.

The spotlight highlights some of the new ships from lockboxes, ships available from Fleet projects, and those available for direct purchase from the game's microtransaction store. It also shows off the ships in space combat because while scanning a planet for life is all well and good, it's not terribly exciting to watch. Take a look at the full video just past the break, and consider whether one of these ships might make your trek across the stars a bit more stylish.

Continue reading Star Trek Online spotlights ships for players

MassivelyStar Trek Online spotlights ships for players originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Feb 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-studiosf2pfleet-projectsfleetsfree-to-playlockboxesmicrotransactionsnewsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpreviewspwesci-fiship-classesship-typesshipsstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestovideovideosFri, 22 Feb 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Path of Exile server upgrades, Dota 2 broadcasters turn to crowdfunding]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/11/not-so-massively-path-of-exile-server-upgrades-dota-2-broadcas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/11/not-so-massively-path-of-exile-server-upgrades-dota-2-broadcas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/11/not-so-massively-path-of-exile-server-upgrades-dota-2-broadcas/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
Path of Exile continued upgrading its servers to cope with the increasing load of new players following its open beta release, closing the servers for three hours this week to add several new database servers. Massively exclusively revealed Blacklight: Retribution's new Safehold and metro maps, and Firefall developer Red 5 Studios explained its development plans for the next quarter.

Rise of Immortals released a spotlight video on its new long-range mage immortal Undine, while Guardians of Middle-Earth showed off its latest two DLC characters Radagast the Brown Wizard and Glóin, father of Gimli.

League of Legends made some balance changes to its Honor system, which rewards players for being nice to each other. Riot also talked to some of Season 3's newest competitive players about what being a professional gamer means to them. Dota 2 finally got its long-awaited team matchmaking system this week, and community broadcaster Beyond The Summit launched a crowdfunding campaign to pay for full-time tournament broadcasting.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Path of Exile server upgrades, Dota 2 broadcasters turn to crowdfunding

MassivelyNot So Massively: Path of Exile server upgrades, Dota 2 broadcasters turn to crowdfunding originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Feb 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoantisocial-behaviorbattle-for-graxiabeyond-the-summitblacklightblacklight-retributionbroadcastersbroadcastingcompetitive-gamingconsolediablodotadota-2e-sporte-sportsesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfpsfree-to-playgimligloingraxiagrinding-geargrinding-gear-gameshonorhonor-systemleague-of-legendslollord-of-the-ringslotrmatchmakingmetromicrotransactionsmiddle-earthmmofpsmobamonolithmonolith-studiosnewsnot-so-massivelynsmpath-of-exileperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpetroglyphpetroglyph-gamesplaystation-networkpoeps3psnpvppweradagastred-5-studiosretributionriotriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsroiround-uproundupSafeholdserverserver-downtimeserversteam-matchmakingtournamenttournamentsundinevalvevideowarner-brosxboxxbox-360xbox-livexbox360Mon, 11 Feb 2013 20:00:00 EST