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 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[ArenaNet president defends microtransactions and in-game RMT in Guild Wars 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/guild-wars-2-president-defends-microtransactions-and-in-game-rmt/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/guild-wars-2-president-defends-microtransactions-and-in-game-rmt/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/guild-wars-2-president-defends-microtransactions-and-in-game-rmt/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Guild Wars 2
MMOs have to make money; that's a fact of life (and of business) ArenaNet President Mike O'Brien knows quite well. In an interview with VentureBeat, O'Brien explained how the studio is handling the monetization for Guild Wars 2 and blasts RMT companies for their practices.

O'Brien addressed why Guild Wars 2 is being offered not as a straight free-to-play title but as a retail product with an up-front cost. "The answer is we're really focused on creating the highest-quality MMO, not the lowest-cost MMO," he replied. "I think Guild Wars 2 is one of the best values in gaming, period. Where else can you get this many hours of enjoyment, of content, of polish, of replayability, for $60?"

He also took the opportunity to expand upon his own blog post covering microtransactions from a few weeks ago. "Creating a microtransaction system that doesn't upset or alienate your player base is straightforward, once you clearly define what's in-bounds and what's out-of-bounds," O'Brien stated. He says that ArenaNet wants to be "open and honest" with players regarding the in-game store options and promises that these will be "non-essential additions to the game and convenience services" only.

O'Brien also had strong words about the shady practices of RMT companies, practices that ArenaNet is trying to combat by offering its own in-game RMT system. "Where there's a real profit incentive, someone out there in the world will lie, cheat, and steal to make that profit, " he said. "By letting players trade directly with each other, we take the power away from RMT companies and give it to the entire playerbase."

MassivelyArenaNet president defends microtransactions and in-game RMT in Guild Wars 2 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 May 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbetabusiness-modelbusiness-modelscash-shopfantasyguild-wars-2gw2in-game-storeinterviewitem-shopmicrotransactionMicrotransactionsmike-o-brienmike-obrienmonetizationncsoftreal-money-tradingrmtventurebeatTue, 22 May 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Spirit Tales launching Crisis of Jade Forest next week]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/spirit-tales-launching-crisis-of-jade-forest-next-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/spirit-tales-launching-crisis-of-jade-forest-next-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/spirit-tales-launching-crisis-of-jade-forest-next-week/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Diabeetus.
It's really hard to imagine anything in the saccharine world of Spirit Tales being properly termed a crisis, but the game's newest update is aiming in that direction. The Crisis of Jade Forest goes live on May 23rd, giving players a chance to tackle an extra-difficult version of the normal Jade Forest area with extra boss-enriched goodness. Successful players have plenty of motivation, however, as the reward for completion involves a chest that could contain items normally reserved for the game's item mall.

Groups of up to five players can enter the battle once per day, which fills the area with deadly monsters and 10 special bosses. Successfully defeating all of these bosses will grant the chance to earn both rewards that would normally cost real money as well as other little trinkets. it's also meant to be a great way to level up, so if you're already in the open beta, you may want to consider a look at the dungeon.

MassivelySpirit Tales launching Crisis of Jade Forest next week originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 May 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animedungeondungeon-contentf2pfree-to-playkoramgamekoramgame-ltdmicrotransactionsnew-contentpatchespreviewsspecial-contentspirit-talesupdatesThu, 17 May 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online adds a new flavor of cat people]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/star-trek-online-adds-a-new-flavor-of-cat-people/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/star-trek-online-adds-a-new-flavor-of-cat-people/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/star-trek-online-adds-a-new-flavor-of-cat-people/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Yo dawg, I heard you like cats, so I put some cats next to your cats so you can fight cats with your cats.
Do you like cats? Hopefully you do, as Star Trek Online has just seen the felinoid Ferasan added to the C-Store. But wait, didn't the game already add Caitians? Yes, but the Caitians are a Federation race, while the Ferasan are exclusive to the KDF, thereby allowing you to play as a kitty on whichever faction you choose. The Ferasan are related to the Caitians but apparently are not quite the same species (presumably akin to the Romulans and Vulcans).

The Ferasan possess only one specific trait, Predatory Instincts, which increases jump height, melee damage, exploit damage, stealth, and perception. Unlocking the race costs 480 Cryptic Points and also unlocks new customization options for Caitian characters on the Federation side. On the other hand, if you just want to have one on the bridge, you can place a requisition for a Ferasan bridge officer for 400 Cryptic Points. So if you've felt that there's a distinct lack of feline members in the KDF, you've now got an option to rectify that situation.

MassivelyStar Trek Online adds a new flavor of cat people originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 May 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bridge-officersc-storecaitiancatscrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfelinoid-racesferasanfree-to-playkittiesmicrotransactionsnew-itemsnew-racesperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoTue, 15 May 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 gem store goes (partially) online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/guild-wars-2-gem-store-goes-partially-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/guild-wars-2-gem-store-goes-partially-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/guild-wars-2-gem-store-goes-partially-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Guild Wars 2
One of the more controversial aspects of the upcoming Guild Wars 2 is its microtransaction system, the details of which were tightly under wraps until the recent NDA-free public beta weekend. Now that the public's had a look-see, ArenaNet brought its gem store out into the open for all to see.

The browser version of the store, which is also available in the game itself, is only partially functional at the moment. While it does list the categories, items, and icons for its wares, it's lacking any prices, descriptions, or ability to purchase.

It's worth a look if you want a first-hand view of the goods that ArenaNet hopes will power Guild Wars 2's profitability, of course. The categories include style, consumable, support, account, boosts, and minis.

[Update: The gemstore has since been taken down.]

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 gem store goes (partially) online originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbetacash-shopfantasygemgem-storegemsguild-wars-2gw2item-shopitem-storejemmicrotransactionsncsofttruly-truly-outrageous-ooohFri, 04 May 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Walk softly and carry a big stick with City of Heroes' new Staff Fighting powerset]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/walk-softly-and-carry-a-big-stick-with-city-of-heroes-new-staff/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/walk-softly-and-carry-a-big-stick-with-city-of-heroes-new-staff/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/walk-softly-and-carry-a-big-stick-with-city-of-heroes-new-staff/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Screenshot -- City of Heroes
In the high-fantasy-laden MMO space, staves have long been relegated to the realm of things-for-spellcasters-to-hold-while-finger-wiggling, but what happened to the good ol' days of just bludgeoning the daylights out of someone with a big stick? Well, thanks to City of Heroes, those days are back courtesy of the new Staff Fighting powerset, though there's no word as to whether it will also allow you to walk softly.

What it will allow you to do, though, is fight in one of three different forms (Body, Mind, or Soul), each of which provides you with a unique stacking buff that can then be consumed to execute the powerful Eye of the Storm and Sky Splitter abilities. The new powerset is available for the Brute, Scrapper, Stalker, and Tanker archetypes, and would-be kung-fu masters can pick it up from the Paragon Market for 800 Paragon Points.

MassivelyWalk softly and carry a big stick with City of Heroes' new Staff Fighting powerset originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxf2pfree-to-playfreedommicrotransactionmicrotransactionsncsoftparagonparagon-marketparagon-studiospowersetpowersetsstaffstaff-fightingstaffsstavessuperherosuperheroesTue, 17 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A Mild-Mannered Reporter: Positive charge]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/a-mild-mannered-reporter-positive-charge/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/a-mild-mannered-reporter-positive-charge/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/a-mild-mannered-reporter-positive-charge/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

A Mild-Mannered Reporter header by A. Fienemann
PAX East this past weekend was indeed filled with revelations, but none of them had to do with City of Heroes or any other NCsoft game, really, so I can't even complain about one getting all the love while the others were ignored. And while I could probably try to spin a thousand words out of wanting to insert a Rock Band Blitz-style minigame into the game under discussion, I have the feeling I'd get some odd looks and a rejected column.

What I did have opportunity to consider, however, is how pretty much the only thing I've brought up in regard to the Paragon Market has been the many, many choices made regarding it that I consider debatable. The Super Pack and the numerous power sets both have been targets for negativity, and I honestly haven't said anything corresponding about the positives. This seems unfair on many levels. Sure, I think the implementation is sometimes dicey, but there are a lot of parts of the market that are great, and I happily doff my hat to the team for them. So instead of burying the shop, let's praise it.

Continue reading A Mild-Mannered Reporter: Positive charge

MassivelyA Mild-Mannered Reporter: Positive charge originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-mild-mannered-reportercash-shopcity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxf2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreedommarketingmerchmerchandisemicrotransactionsmild-mannered-reporterncsoftopinionparagonparagon-studiossalessellingsuperherosuperheroesWed, 11 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Soapbox: If you want to sell special items, just do it already]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/10/the-soapbox-if-you-want-to-sell-special-items-get-to-it-alread/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/10/the-soapbox-if-you-want-to-sell-special-items-get-to-it-alread/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/10/the-soapbox-if-you-want-to-sell-special-items-get-to-it-alread/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Vanguard screenshot
Disclaimer: The Soapbox column is entirely the opinion of this week's writer and does not necessarily reflect the views of Massively as a whole. If you're afraid of opinions other than your own, you might want to skip this column.

I've argued before about the merits of being an honest cash-shop salesperson. You have to be upfront, blunt, and willing to take some heat. Bigpoint is one of my favorite examples of a cash-shop dependent developer simply because it says what it means and means what it says. It sells items, sometimes powerful items, in several different titles. Granted, the studio usually offers a way to get those same items through in-game means, but that doesn't make for as good a story.

We reported on Bigpoint a while ago when its reps essentially said that if a developer is going to make an effort to sell in-game items, it should do it the right way by making those items have a significant impact on the game by being either powerful or desirable. I cannot agree more. Bigpoint is a car lot that sells beautiful luxury automobiles. It also sells junkers and even gives out a lot of cars for free, but its charity once again does not make for a good dramatic write-up. I tend to think that if you you are going to make a cash-shop, depending on the style of game, of course, you as a developer have got to consider just what sort of impact you want that cash-shop to have on your players, and you can't be afraid to push your idea from the beginning.

But just get on with it.

Continue reading The Soapbox: If you want to sell special items, just do it already

MassivelyThe Soapbox: If you want to sell special items, just do it already originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galactica-onlinebeau-hindmanBigpointbsg-onlinecash-shopccpcylonsdark-orbiteditorialeve-onlinefeaturedlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroMicrotransactionsop-edopinionrantrantssoapboxthe-soapboxvirtual-goodsTue, 10 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Meet Diablo III's demon hunter]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/not-so-massively-meet-diablo-iiis-demon-hunter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/not-so-massively-meet-diablo-iiis-demon-hunter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/not-so-massively-meet-diablo-iiis-demon-hunter/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
With five weeks left until Diablo III launches, Blizzard started its pre-launch marketing campaign this week with a new series exploring each of the five classes. This week kicks off with a preview of the Demon Hunter. Meanwhile, Torchlight II revealed details of a new charge bar mechanic designed to keep a rapid pace of action, and dungeon crawler Path of Exile started gearing up for release with some tempting pre-order packages.

Penny Arcade made a guest appearance in League of Legends this week with a special comic introducing upcoming champion Varus. Riot also revealed the next champion due for release, armoured spectral warrior Hecarim. Rise of Immortals got the Penny Arcade treatment this week too when joke character Karapyss the Crabomancer was actually released. Bloodline Champions launched an Easter egg painting contest this week and asked players whether grades should be reset for the current competitive season.

Blacklight: Retribution officially launched this week and celebrated with the release of its first new gun, the heavy assault rifle. Finally, Wrath of heroes released its first hero spotlight video this week, introducing hybrid damage-dealer Nethys.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Meet Diablo III's demon hunter

MassivelyNot So Massively: Meet Diablo III's demon hunter originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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CCP's Tori Frans Olafsson
CCP has been pretty quiet on the subject of microtransactions since last summer's monoclegate and the ensuing Jita protests. EVE Online creative director Torfi Frans Olafsson recently spoke up about the trendy new business model, and while he acknowledged that it is popular, he also said that CCP is "very reluctant to do that in EVE because it's so established. It's like changing the DNA of a living organism after it's born. That didn't work in Blade Runner," he tells PC Gamer.

Olafsson also repeats the anti-pay-to-win mantra that comes standard in just about every developer interview these days. He says that CCP will sell cosmetic items in EVE, including makeovers for your avatar, ship, and starbase. Given the fact that players will be purchasing weapons and gear in DUST 514 (which will interface directly with EVE's pre-existing economy), we've no doubt it will be interesting to see how CCP maintains that delicate balance.

"I think we have to be very careful in introducing such mechanics into EVE. And I personally think that we shouldn't be doing it in the near future," Olafsson says, "because it's such a vulnerable little flower in a vulnerable little ecosystem. You make minor changes to an ecosystem and you can introduce hostile things and the whole system breaks down."

Check out the video interview after the cut.

Continue reading CCP reiterates anti-pay-to-win stance for EVE microtransactions

MassivelyCCP reiterates anti-pay-to-win stance for EVE microtransactions originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Apr 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesccp-torfifransconsoledustdust-514economyeveeve-fanfesteve-fanfest-2012eve-microtransactionseve-onlineeve-rmtfanfest-2012fpsinternet-spaceshipsinterviewmicrotransactionsmmofpsnew-edenplaystationplaystation-3ps3sandboxsci-fishootertorfi-frans-olafssonvideoTue, 03 Apr 2012 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Cash rules everything around Pathfinder Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/cash-rules-everything-around-pathfinder-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/cash-rules-everything-around-pathfinder-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/cash-rules-everything-around-pathfinder-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Hey, pretend money is pretend money.
The latest in the series of Pathfinder Online developer diaries has just recently gone live, and this time it's covering something near and dear to the heart of many gamers: money. Even if you don't play an MMO specifically for the size of your bankroll, everyone likes having cash to spend and money in the bank. The diary explains that the heart of the game's economic system will be a currency known simply as coin, which is meant to be the driving force behind the virtual economy in-place.

Beyond the basics of the game's economic theory, however, the entry also reveals something of the game's business model, explaining that players will also be able to spend real money to purchase Skymetal Bits. These Bits work as microtransaction currency, running the gamut of the usual microtransaction services (skill training, cosmetic items, special content, and so forth). If you've been following the game along thus far, you'll probably want to see what information the latest entry is providing.

MassivelyCash rules everything around Pathfinder Online originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Vanguard screenshot
With the recent announcement from Sony Online Entertainment that Vanguard: Saga of Heroes will be going free-to-play sometime this summer, questions immediately began to surface. How will it effect current players? Will it be anything like the other free-to-play titles that SOE runs? Well, we were as curious as anyone else, so we fired off a few questions to SOE in the hopes of snagging some more insight into the transformation.

We received our answers from Andy Sites, Director of Development, and the ever-familiar Salim Grant, Creative Director.

It's an exciting time to be a Vanguard player, but will putting a free title on a game that has struggled in the past make any difference? Time will tell. In the meanwhile, click past the cut to check out what SOE had to say!

Continue reading SOE answers Vanguard free-to-play questions

MassivelySOE answers Vanguard free-to-play questions originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Super Hero Squad Online
If you've ever gone shopping with kids, you know how much of a nightmare-inducing proposition it can be. Everywhere from toy stores to department stores to seemingly innocuous grocery stores, there's a battle raging between parents and their children, which usually ends with tears, grey hairs, and the infamous word, "Pleeeeeease??" (Pleeeeeease should actually have its own entry in the Oxford Dictionary because it has a completely different meaning from its polite cousin, "please").

The only thing that helps parents get through it is the knowledge that they get a respite once they get home. Not so anymore, though, because there's a second front that's opened, and the new battleground is taking place on our computer screens. Those high-pitched appeals that echo throughout the store aisles are now filling our family rooms, kitchens, and dining rooms. And while many people are singing the praises of the free-to-play model in MMO games, it's actually the biggest contributor to the begging-battles at home. Let's take a look at why free-to-play and kids MMOs are not a match made in heaven.

Continue reading MMO Family: Is free-to-play bad for kid-friendly MMOs?

MassivelyMMO Family: Is free-to-play bad for kid-friendly MMOs? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualchildrenchildrens-mmosfamilyfamily-friendlyfeaturedfree-to-playjesse-schellkaren-bryankid-friendlykidskids-gameslead-genmicrotransactionsmmo-familyopinionWed, 21 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Soapbox: The hidden perils of Guild Wars 2's microtransactions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/the-soapbox-the-hidden-perils-of-guild-wars-2s-microtransactio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/the-soapbox-the-hidden-perils-of-guild-wars-2s-microtransactio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/the-soapbox-the-hidden-perils-of-guild-wars-2s-microtransactio/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Guild Wars 2 screenshot
Disclaimer: The Soapbox column is entirely the opinion of this week's writer and does not necessarily reflect the views of Massively as a whole. If you're afraid of opinions other than your own, you might want to skip this column.

The ArenaNet post about microtransactions in Guild Wars 2 reveals that the "gems" currency will be bought with real money and be available for purchase with in-game gold in GW2. But people seem to have forgetten that Runes of Magic's cash shop operated this way three years ago. I've been playing RoM since closed beta, and the cash shop is one of the reasons RoM is so different from other F2P MMOs of its era.

Frogster eventually removed the ability to buy diamonds with gold because of fraud, so I'm curious to see how ArenaNet handles that issue. My time in RoM has shown me that there are other issues involved here, issues of security, players gaming the system, botting, and pay-to-win debates. In other words, there's more at stake here than whether cash shops sell gear or items toward gaining power.

Continue reading The Soapbox: The hidden perils of Guild Wars 2's microtransactions

MassivelyThe Soapbox: The hidden perils of Guild Wars 2's microtransactions originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetauction houseauction-housecash-shopdiamondseditorialf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactivegemsguild-wars-2gw2item-shopjeremy-strattonmicro-transactionsmicrotransactionsncsoftop-edopinionpay-to-winrantrantsreal-money-tradingrmtromrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentselling-powersoapboxtaboreathe-soapboxWed, 21 Mar 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Free-to-play shopping strategies]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/the-perfect-ten-free-to-play-shopping-strategies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/the-perfect-ten-free-to-play-shopping-strategies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/the-perfect-ten-free-to-play-shopping-strategies/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Perfect Ten
"Nothing is ever truly free," my grizzled Uncle Trigger once told me. "So you got to pay for that there air! Pony up, boy!"

While Uncle Trigger was overlooking a few aspects of this philosophy, the sentiment is an important one to grasp, especially when it comes to the growing wave of free-to-play MMOs. Even though the first word is "free," it should be followed up with several paragraphs of tiny lawyer disclaimers that basically say, "Nevertheless, the studio is going to look for other ways to tempt you out of your hard-earned cash." F2P is often funded by microtransactions, which offer players some variety in how they customize their game experience at the expense of a subscription's simplicity. It's often not better or worse; it's just different.

Because nothing is ever truly free, and because F2P is loaded with more shopping options than a Walmart supercenter, being a savvy customer is more vital than ever. Anyone who's waded into a F2P store probably has experienced buyer's regret due to a hasty or uninformed purchase, not to mention those who end up going broke because of poor impulse control. So today I'm going to get downright practical and offer up 10 strategies that will safeguard and strengthen your F2P shopping trips (also, random plug for Beau's Free For All column in the hopes that he doesn't get mad I'm treading on his territory here!).

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Free-to-play shopping strategies

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Free-to-play shopping strategies originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelcash-shopcash-storecryptic-pointsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhumorin-game-storeitem-shopitem-storelord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromicrotransactionsopinionp10perfect-10perfect-tenrise-of-isengardroundupshopping-strategiessoestation-cashthe-perfect-10the-perfect-tentop-10top-10-listtop-tentop-ten-listturbineturbine-pointsThu, 08 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A Mild-Mannered Reporter: That's really super, Super Pack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/a-mild-mannered-reporter-thats-really-super-super-pack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/a-mild-mannered-reporter-thats-really-super-super-pack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/a-mild-mannered-reporter-thats-really-super-super-pack/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

A Mild-Mannered Reporter header by A. Fienemann
So, the Super Pack is out. Not a whole lot has changed in City of Heroes as a result. The skies have not been raining fire any more than they already do on a regular basis (superheroes, you know the deal). People still log in and play and enjoy themselves. And my enormous ranting diatribe still sits in the archives for anyone who missed it the first time or just wants to take a second look for posterity.

My feelings haven't changed. But while launching into a full-on rant was certainly cathartic and managed to hit a lot of good points, there were a lot of good points brought up in the comments that I simply hadn't touched on. So it's time to address some of the those ideas and complaints, both the good and the bad. (Although under the circumstances, it's pretty much all bad in varying flavors.)

Continue reading A Mild-Mannered Reporter: That's really super, Super Pack

MassivelyA Mild-Mannered Reporter: That's really super, Super Pack originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-mild-mannered-reportercity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxculturef2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreedommicrotransactionsmild-mannered-reporterncsoftopinionparagonparagon-studiossuper-packsuperherosuperheroeswhat-is-this-i-cant-evenWed, 07 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DUST 514 will be F2P and free to download]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/04/dust-514-will-be-f2p-and-free-to-download/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/04/dust-514-will-be-f2p-and-free-to-download/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/04/dust-514-will-be-f2p-and-free-to-download/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

DUST 514 - vehicle fitting screen
CCP may not be jumping on the free-to-play bandwagon with EVE Online, but the company has told Eurogamer that it is making use of the new payment model for its EVE-based MMOFPS called DUST 514.

If you're scratching your head because you thought this had been announced already, here's the skinny: The firm initially intended to charge between $10 and 20$ to download DUST over the PlayStation network. There was some sort of confusing payment scheme in the works by which the original cover charge would be converted to in-game credits that could then be spent in the cash shop. Now, though, DUST will be fully free-to-play (and download), with optional microtransactions on the side.

CCP executive producer Brandon Laurino tells Eurogamer that DUST isn't cut from the standard pay-to-win cloth, either. "It's the classic microtransaction dynamic of 'I can pay and get this item' or 'I can invest my time and get this item.' But neither of those options will give me an unfair advantage over the other," he explains.

There's more to the article, including some bits about the types of cash shop items on offer. Head to Eurogamer for the full report.

MassivelyDUST 514 will be F2P and free to download originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 04 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brandon-laurinocash-shopccpccp-gamesconsoledustdust-514eveeve-onlinefpsmicrotransactionsmmo-shootermmofpspay-to-winplaystationplaystation-3ps3sandboxshooterSun, 04 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lord of the Rings Online lets you add a game wallet by lightening your real wallet]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/03/lord-of-the-rings-online-lets-you-add-a-game-wallet-by-lightenin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/03/lord-of-the-rings-online-lets-you-add-a-game-wallet-by-lightenin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/03/lord-of-the-rings-online-lets-you-add-a-game-wallet-by-lightenin/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Well, it's no sparklepony.
If you're a Lord of the Rings Online veteran, you've probably accumulated a large number of different barter items for various upgrades. Skirmish tokens, regional tokens, festival tokens... all vital to getting various gumballs, all clogging up inventory space that could go toward other items. The development team has heard your cries for a solution, and thus, the improved barter wallet has come into existence. Unfortunately, this upgrade comes at a price -- just about $10, specifically.

Needless to say, some players and subscribers will be rather galled by the fact that this feature is being sold. On the other hand, player testimonials indicate that the upgrade works wonderfully, and it's a single account-wide purchase for all of your past, present, and future characters. Whether or not you prefer to grab the account-wide upgrade or wish to abstain on matters of principle is a personal decision, but there's no denying that the freed inventory spaces are certainly appealing.

MassivelyLord of the Rings Online lets you add a game wallet by lightening your real wallet originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 03 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>barter-walletf2pfantasyfree-to-playgame-featuresitemslord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromicrotransactionspremium-walletstorestore-itemsturbineturbine-entertainmentturbine-storewalletSat, 03 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaderboard: Lockboxes yea vs. lockboxes nay]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/leaderboard-lockboxes-yea-vs-lockboxes-nay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/leaderboard-lockboxes-yea-vs-lockboxes-nay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/leaderboard-lockboxes-yea-vs-lockboxes-nay/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Leaderboard
While the concept of lockboxes -- or gift boxes, or super packs, or whatever nomenclature you prefer -- is certainly not new to MMOs, it seems like they're finally making headway into some of the biggest free-to-play titles as of late. From Star Trek Online to Lord of the Rings Online to City of Heroes, games are making beaucoup bucks from hosting these mystery treasure chests that cost real-world money to acquire or unlock.

Some players love them and some despise them, but the truth is that they're incredible moneymakers for companies. But money isn't what Leaderboard is about; we're in search of public opinion. Do lockboxes have an acceptable place in MMOs? Not only would finances seem to suggest so, but the psychology of these goodie bags offers euphoric rushes that normal monster looting does not provide. Sure, maybe it's gambling, but nobody's forcing you to buy them -- and if you do, you're guaranteed to get something somewhat useful if not incredibly rare.

Should lockboxes be shunned and boycotted in all MMOs? Are they ruining the reputation of F2P? Are they representative of the worst mentality this business model has to offer? Do lockboxes kill koala bears and deforest Brazil? Has a lockbox been the cause of one or more breakups in your dating life?

Let's put it to a vote: lockboxes yea or lockboxes nay? Keep in mind that if you've spent money on one or more in a game, then you don't want to come across as hypocritical in this poll!

Continue reading Leaderboard: Lockboxes yea vs. lockboxes nay

MassivelyLeaderboard: Lockboxes yea vs. lockboxes nay originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 27 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cardassian-lock-boxescity-of-heroescohf2pfeaturedfree-to-playleaderboardlock-boxeslockboxeslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromicrotransactionsmystery-boxesopinionpollstar-trek-onlinestosuper-packssurveyMon, 27 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Comparing the payment models of RuneScape and Illyriad]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/free-for-all-comparing-the-payment-models-of-runescape-and-illy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/free-for-all-comparing-the-payment-models-of-runescape-and-illy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/free-for-all-comparing-the-payment-models-of-runescape-and-illy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Illyriad and RuneScape maps
Last week, I introduced you to two of my favorite free-to-play or freemium payment models. Payment models are endlessly fascinating because so many players normally didn't think about them until free-to-play and freemium models stopped being something that only came from foreign shores. Now, everyone has an opinion about which payment model is the best. I tend to love simple ones, as close to simple as I can get. If a game is truly wonderful, however, I don't care if the developers ask players to cut off their right arms. I've paid my fair share and continue to do so.

In fact, in one of the most disturbing trends of the last few years, players have begun bemoaning the lack of a free version of their favorite game. I see it all the time: players publicly wishing for the time that their favorite game will go free-to-play so they can return without paying a dime. Sure, I can understand being strapped for cash and needing an easy way to get back to an old title, but come on... those titles might not be around much longer if players do not support them in the first place. I am not a fan of free-to-play because I am cheap or because I need to avoid paying developers what they deserve. I have said it before, and I will say it again: I am a fan of free-to-play because it lets me decide when I want to spend my money. There's a big difference.

So let's chat about two of my favorite game's payment models.

Continue reading Free for All: Comparing the payment models of RuneScape and Illyriad

MassivelyFree for All: Comparing the payment models of RuneScape and Illyriad originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedcash-shopeve-onlinef2pfeaturedffa-pvpfree-for-allfree-to-playftpillyriadillyriad-gamesjagexjames-niesewandMicrotransactionspayment-modelspvprunescapeWed, 15 Feb 2012 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Comparing the payment models of Glitch and Ryzom]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/free-for-all-comparing-the-payment-models-of-glitch-and-ryzom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/free-for-all-comparing-the-payment-models-of-glitch-and-ryzom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/free-for-all-comparing-the-payment-models-of-glitch-and-ryzom/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Ryzom screenshot
I thought it might be a cool idea to do a comparison of free-to-play models for my next few articles. As free-to-play has become more and more popular, cash shops and tiers of service have become much more important to how a player might enjoy or interact with a game. While the standard free-to-play model, the most popular one by far, is one that allows players to download a free client, has no subscription at all, and tacks on a cash-shop, the freemium variant is quickly becoming widespread. Freemium seems to be the model of choice for many Western games that were previously subscription-only.

The problem is that I do not really like the freemium model. I'm old-school, I guess. I enjoy the model that was imported to the States maybe eight years ago. A free client with a cash shop on top is all I need to steer my fun by. I'd rather skip any sort of tiered service as well.

There are exceptions to the rule, of course.

Continue reading Free for All: Comparing the payment models of Glitch and Ryzom

MassivelyFree for All: Comparing the payment models of Glitch and Ryzom originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowsercash-shopf2pfallen-earthfeaturedfree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumftpgamersfirstglitchMicrotransactionsRyzomSandboxtiny-speckWed, 08 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Battle.net Balance boots up]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/battle-net-balance-boots-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/battle-net-balance-boots-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/battle-net-balance-boots-up/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Battle.net
Diablo III may not be out yet, but that's no good reason not to be filling up your virtual coffers for the day that it hits the streets! Blizzard has thrown the switch on Battle.net Balance, activating its online payment service that allows players to charge up their Battle.net funds to purchase various Blizzard game services.

The new Balance system can be used to buy World of Warcraft game time (although you can't set up a recurring subscription with it), in-game pets and mounts, paid account services in WoW such as character transfers, digital copies of Blizzard titles, and the opportunity to buy and sell items on Diablo III's auction house. It's important to note that not all regions will be able to participate in Diablo III's real-money transactions, however.

Once real money has been funneled into Battle.net Balance, it cannot be converted back into cash. Blizzard does state that in some regions, players will have an option to get cash back on Diablo III auction sales via PayPal. The company also mentioned that there is a cap on how much any player can have in his or her Balance account and that there are potentially region-specific expiration dates for Balance funds.

MassivelyBattle.net Balance boots up originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battle.netbattle.net-balancebattlenetd3diablo-3diablo-iiidiiigame-timemicrotransactionsmountmountspaypalpetpetsreal-money-tradingreal-money-transactionsrmtsubscriptionsvirtual-walletworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 07 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Looking for experiences, not challenges]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/free-for-all-looking-for-experiences-not-challenges/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/free-for-all-looking-for-experiences-not-challenges/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/free-for-all-looking-for-experiences-not-challenges/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Wurm Online screenshot
When I was around 20, I used to watch my girlfriend's younger brother play Nintendo games. It was a pretty intense scenario. He would become so angry when a boss fight took away one of his lives or when a leap at a moving platform would fail that he often chucked that poor controller at the wall. It happened again years later after we'd graduated to the internet and PC gaming. The strangest thing is that he would return to the challenge over and over until it either broke his will or his device or he finally conquered the challenge. I never quite got it. Surely such frustration sucked any enjoyment out of the entire process?

I tend to be more lazy when it comes to my digital adventure. I hate to repeat content, and I would rather leave the raiding and boss fights to those with more patience or to those who simply have a desire to win that matches their tolerance for frustrating situations. I would rather become a trader, crafter, roleplayer, explorer, or even adventurer in certain titles.

Just spare me the overwhelming challenges while I game.

Continue reading Free for All: Looking for experiences, not challenges

MassivelyFree for All: Looking for experiences, not challenges originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmancash-shopcode-clubf2pfeaturedffafree-for-allfree-to-ftpjagexMicrotransactionsraidingrolf-janssonrunescapevindictuswizard-101wizard101wurm-onlineWed, 25 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE VP talks microtransactions and the future]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/soe-vp-talks-microtransactions-and-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/soe-vp-talks-microtransactions-and-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/soe-vp-talks-microtransactions-and-the-future/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

EverQuest II - Kylong Plains flying mount
If you're a fan of Sony Online Entertainment and curious as to how free-to-play and RMT will affect its stable of MMOs in the future, ZAM's got a new interview that's worth a read.

The piece features Laura Naviaux, senior VP of global sales and marketing for SOE, and she shares an interesting nugget relating to digital currency and real-money player markets. "I think everybody gets excited about potentially being able to create user-generated content to sell it to their peers, etc. There are a lot of different ways to slice and dice that, and it's something that we're watching," Naviaux says.

She also speaks to the success of EverQuest II thanks to its free-to-play switch, as well as some of the more popular cash shop items (mounts currently account for approximately 25% of the game's revenue). Finally, Naviaux acknowledges the challenges inherent in the business model going forward, and how they stem in large part from knowing how much is too much. "I don't think that anybody wants a game where you can outright buy power that makes the game unfair and un-fun, and that is a line we don't want to cross. But there are a lot of shades of grey in there, and that's something we want the players to determine," she explains.

MassivelySOE VP talks microtransactions and the future originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cash-shopeq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfree-to-playinterviewlaura-naviauxmicrotransactionsplayer-contentplayer-generated-contentrmtsoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstation-exchangeuser-generated-contentTue, 24 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony, CCP 'negotiating PS3 virtual item policy' for DUST 514]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/23/sony-ccp-negotiating-ps3-virtual-item-policy-for-dust-514/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/23/sony-ccp-negotiating-ps3-virtual-item-policy-for-dust-514/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/23/sony-ccp-negotiating-ps3-virtual-item-policy-for-dust-514/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

DUST 514 - planetary concept art
DUST 514 is somewhat revolutionary in that it's attempting to tie together two separate games (on two separate platforms) that take place in the same fictional universe. CCP is also innovating on the backend according to a new article at Develop.

The upcoming EVE Online MMOFPS tie-in will establish universal PlayStation Network microtransaction rules according to CCP CEO Hilmar Petursson. Petursson told Develop that the ongoing CCP/Sony negotiations will ultimately result in the establishment of price tiers for virtual items as well as the revenue split between Sony and third-party devs.

CCP is also exploring retail options for DUST 514, despite early reports that the title would only be available as a digital download. Finally, Petursson tells Develop that the PlayStation Vita version of DUST will "give people access to more asynchronous parts of the game." While he doesn't commit one way or the other, it's possible that the portable version of the game will connect to both the PlayStation 3 and PC versions via EVE's universal ISK currency.

MassivelySony, CCP 'negotiating PS3 virtual item policy' for DUST 514 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelscash-shopccpccp-gamesdustdust-514dust-514-retaileveeve-onlinef2pfpsfree-to-playhilmar-peturssonitem-storemicrotransactionsmmo-shootermmofpsmobilenew-edenplaystation-3playstation-networkplaystation-vitaps3retailsandboxsci-fishootersonyvirtual-item-policyvitaMon, 23 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: A second look at Fallen Earth's free model]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/18/free-for-all-a-second-look-at-fallen-earths-free-model/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/18/free-for-all-a-second-look-at-fallen-earths-free-model/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/18/free-for-all-a-second-look-at-fallen-earths-free-model/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Fallen Earth screenshot
I used to be head-over-heels in love with Fallen Earth. I was on an immersion kick and had even designed a set of rules that dictated how my character would "live" in the world. Fallen Earth provided me with a lot of great tools to become immersed, and it was the type of game that really stuck out from the pack. Of course, it also sported uglier character models than Lord of the Rings Online and was more brown than a bakery at the earlier levels, but it was neat.

I gave up on the title after a while and became too busy with other games to return. Then, the free-to-play version of the title came out. I still ignored it because of scheduling, but recently I have been returning to it. I am finding a lot of bugs and an overall lack of polish that I had forgotten about, but it's still a really cool game.

So how does the free version stack up to the subscription model? How free is it? Let's take a look.

Continue reading Free for All: A second look at Fallen Earth's free model

MassivelyFree for All: A second look at Fallen Earth's free model originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmancash-shopddodungeon-and-dragonseq2eqiiEverQuest-2everquest-iif2pfallen-earthfefeaturedfree-for-allfree-to-playftpg1gamersfirstlord-of-the-rings-onlineMicrotransactionspost-apocalypticsandboxwizard101Wed, 18 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Silkroad-R R-elaunches]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/18/silkroad-r-r-elaunches/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/18/silkroad-r-r-elaunches/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/18/silkroad-r-r-elaunches/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Silkroad-R
Don't let the fancy title fool you: Silkroad-R (the R is for "rebirth") isn't a completely new game but an updated version of Joymax's previous Silkroad. Brought into the shop for some body work and a new paint job, Silkroad-R is back and better than ever.

Silkroad-R will exist on its own servers, seperate from its Silkroad ancestor. Joymax is particularly proud of a "buffed-up" cash shop, as CEO Nam-chul Kim explains: "There's many aspects of Silkroad-R that we changed or improved based on user feedback, and we took a long time investigating the cash shop and evaluating each item."

To celebrate the relaunch, Joymax is sponsoring a string of giveaways through February 7th. Players who reach specific levels have a chance at Amazon gift cards and in-game boosts and items. Other launch events include a special XP-boosting NPC and a player-submitted wallpaper/greeting card contest.

You can check out the official trailer for Silkroad-R after the jump!

[Source: Joymax press release]

Continue reading Silkroad-R R-elaunches

MassivelySilkroad-R R-elaunches originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Jan 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cash-shopcontestf2pfree-to-playin-game-eventitem-shopjoymaxlaunchmicrotransactionsNam-chul-Kimrelaunchsilkroadsilkroad-rxp-boostWed, 18 Jan 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What would you pay for a fancy ride?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/08/the-daily-grind-what-would-you-pay-for-a-fancy-ride/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/08/the-daily-grind-what-would-you-pay-for-a-fancy-ride/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/08/the-daily-grind-what-would-you-pay-for-a-fancy-ride/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

My carpet brings all the girls to the yard. Darn right it's better than yours.
World of Warcraft set the bar at $25 for a shiny horse. EverQuest II followed suit. You can imitate Marty McFly or Aladdin in City of Heroes for about $7.50. And for various amounts of cash in Star Trek Online, you can pimp out your spaceship with all sorts of shiny new nacelles -- or you can ride in a ship with some famous modifications. It's certainly cheaper than a sports car in the real world, but it's still part of a trend of real-world cash buying you a new vehicle. (Or carpet.)

So the question should be obvious -- what would you pay for a fancy in-game ride? Are you willing to drop sparklepony money? Would you not pay more than a dollar for something that doesn't have any functional benefit over other in-game options? Or would you drop even more money on something sufficiently shiny, perhaps a horse-car that could be seen from orbit?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What would you pay for a fancy ride? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 08 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cash-shopmicrotransactionsmountsopinionridessparkleponytdgthe-daily-grindvanity-itemsvanity-mountsvanity-ridesvehiclesvisualvisual-upgradesSun, 08 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: It's bigger on the inside edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/22/the-mmo-report-its-bigger-on-the-inside-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/22/the-mmo-report-its-bigger-on-the-inside-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/22/the-mmo-report-its-bigger-on-the-inside-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

The MMO Report
This week on The MMO Report ("where everyone is legally obligated to be filled with Yuletide"), Casey and the crew interview two of the minds behind the inbound Doctor Who-flavored MMO. Doctor Who: Worlds in Time's Robert Nashak and Max Engel sat down to discuss the game, which is a platform-independent, Flash-based browser MMO with a unique 2-D graphic-novel style that aims to appeal to fans of both the franchise and sci-fi games in general. Nashak and Engel promise iconic locations and enemies along with a Matt Smith-inspired Doctor and a customizable gadget (sonic screwdriver, anyone?) to reflect each character's abilities.

The game will be F2P; ideally, players can wade through the game "without spending a penny," although naturally you can purchase faster mission completion and customization of your "home-space on the Tardis." Yes, it's bigger on the inside.

The game launches in March of 2012, but for now, you can check out the entirety of The MMO Report's interview just past the break.

Continue reading The MMO Report: It's bigger on the inside edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: It's bigger on the inside edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Dec 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedcasey-schreinerdigital-entertainmentdoctor-whodoctor-who-mmoDoctor-who-worlds-in-timef2pflashfree-to-playinterviewinterviewsits-bigger-on-the-insidematt-smithmax-engelMicrotransactionsmmo-reportrobert-nashaktardisthe-mmo-reportvideovideosThu, 22 Dec 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the Mask: A way to improve microtransaction consumables]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/behind-the-mask-a-way-to-improve-microtransaction-consumables/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/behind-the-mask-a-way-to-improve-microtransaction-consumables/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/behind-the-mask-a-way-to-improve-microtransaction-consumables/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

A couple of weeks ago, I lamented the existence of grab bags in Champions Online and how they could be made more worthwhile. Although I made quite a few suggestions on what could be changed, the main concern was that the consumables placed in the grab bags were simply not worth anything.

Improving the value of C-Store consumables won't appease the vocal minority whose sense of entitlement tells them that they deserve the ultra-rare grab bag items. These people only see the grab bags as chances for costume unlocks, so making the consumables worth the 80 CP ($1 US) won't matter to them. For the general public, though, making the consumables worth the gamble makes the grab bag items much more desirable.

This week on Behind the Mask, we'll look at the C-Store consumables and weigh in on whether they're worth the money. If they're not, we'll look at what could be done to fix it!

Continue reading Behind the Mask: A way to improve microtransaction consumables

MassivelyBehind the Mask: A way to improve microtransaction consumables originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>behind-the-maskboost-enhancerc-storechampions-onlinecoconsumablescrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhealth-potionsmana-potionsMicrotransactionsperfect-world-entertainmentpweThu, 15 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blizzard's Battle.net Balance boasts big business]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/09/blizards-battle-net-balance-boasts-big-business/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/09/blizards-battle-net-balance-boasts-big-business/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/09/blizards-battle-net-balance-boasts-big-business/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Battle.net
Choo choo -- the Blizzard Micotransactrain is leaving the station! Whether or not you're aboard with Blizzard's increasing fixation on monetizing all aspects of its games, this train is certainly picking up steam. Its next station is called Battle.net Balance, and with it comes a whole new paradigm for the Blizzard empire. (Many apologies for using the word "paradigm.")

In effect, Battle.net Balance is a virtual wallet where players can purchase -- or "charge up" according to Blizzard's parlance -- points to then spend on items and services in World of Warcraft, Diablo III, and elsewhere. Diablo III players who earn Battle.net currency in-game can save those points through the service to spend later. The system can also be used to pay for WoW gametime.

However, the system comes with an important caveat: Once you've converted real-world money into Battle.net Balance, there's no getting it back as cash. So if you've got plans to make a living playing Diablo III, you might want to think again (although "certain regions" will be able to cash out via PayPal).

Battle.net Balance is heading our way in the near future, and if this affects your game, you might be interested to read the informative FAQ that goes into more detail.

MassivelyBlizzard's Battle.net Balance boasts big business originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Dec 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battle.netbattle.net-balancebattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcurrencyd3diablo-3diablo-iiidiiimicrotransactionsmicrotransactrainpaypalreal-money-tradingrmtuniversal-currencyworld-of-warcraftwowFri, 09 Dec 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Shopping for your favorite free-to-play fanatic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/free-for-all-shopping-for-your-favorite-free-to-play-fanatic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/free-for-all-shopping-for-your-favorite-free-to-play-fanatic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/free-for-all-shopping-for-your-favorite-free-to-play-fanatic/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Free Realms screenshot
Well, November is officially over. You know what that means: The shopping season is upon us. While you might or might not celebrate any one of the numerous holidays that are coming up over the next several weeks, you are probably quite aware of the sales and seasonal happenings in your area. Times have changed, though. It only takes one trip to the local game shop to see how boxed MMOs are not as common as they once were. Digital delivery, faster internet speeds, free-to-play payment models and many more titles to choose from have all encouraged developers to skip the boxes for the most part.

So what is there to get for the free-to-play fanatic in your life? There's plenty, fortunately. It can be quite a trip to navigate the muddy waters of cash-shop goods and virtual money, and the last thing you would want to do is buy something that is not needed or wanted.

Click past the cut and I'll give you some suggestions for gift giving this season!

Continue reading Free for All: Shopping for your favorite free-to-play fanatic

MassivelyFree for All: Shopping for your favorite free-to-play fanatic originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 30 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmancash-shopcash-shop-buying-guideClone-Wars-Adventurescrucialdream-of-mirror-onlinef2pfeaturedfree-for-allfree-realmsfree-to-playftpgamersfirstlord-of-the-rings-onlineMicrotransactionsNexonrunes-of-magicultimate-gamer-cardwizard101Wed, 30 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Champions Online archetype available in regular and controversial editions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/23/new-champions-online-archetype-available-in-regular-and-controve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/23/new-champions-online-archetype-available-in-regular-and-controve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/23/new-champions-online-archetype-available-in-regular-and-controve/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

In this screenshot, everyone is still on fire, but it's purple. Color is special.
It might seem a little late for a demonic archetype, but Champions Online has still rolled one out into the store. The Scourge is a new ranged archetype focused on poisoning and debuffing the target, with less durability and melee power to balance its slow ranged ramp-up. Like all archetypes, it's free to subscribing players and available for free players in the cash store. But it's also tied to a new grab bag offered in the cash store, which is provoking a few player concerns.

The Cursed Grab Bag, among other things, contains a special token to unlock the Cursed archetype, which is essentially a color-shifted version of the Scourge archetype. Some players are a little concerned about the slippery slope being established here, as the Cursed archetype is not free to subscribers (although color-shifting powers is). As a result, concerns have been raised about what this cosmetic change might mean for future archetypes being released, although as others point out, you can always just change the color if you subscribe to begin with.

MassivelyNew Champions Online archetype available in regular and controversial editions originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Nov 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archetypesbusiness-modelsc-storecash-shopchampionschampions-onlinecocommunitycontroversycrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-storecryptic-studiosf2pfree-to-playmicrotransactionsWed, 23 Nov 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hangame MMO accidentally deleted, shut down forever]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/hangame-mmo-accidentally-deleted-shut-down-forever/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/hangame-mmo-accidentally-deleted-shut-down-forever/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/hangame-mmo-accidentally-deleted-shut-down-forever/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

M2
There's a good chance you've never heard of M2, a small free-to-play MMO developed by Japanese company Sankando and operated by Hangame, and if it wasn't for a major misstep last month, your ignorance might've gone on indefinitely. Due to a recent accident, the MMO was deleted and won't be coming back. Ever.

The story goes like this: On October 21st, M2 suffered a critical server issue and the game was taken offline to check it out. Unfortunately, the problem was widespread and the company could not restore the game's data from whatever backups it did or did not have. With no other option but to declare the title dead on arrival, Hangame posted an announcement that it somehow deleted an entire MMO and could not -- or would not -- restart it from scratch.

Hangame has since apologized and is offering conditional refunds to affected players, who were undoubtedly miffed when the money they spent on M2's microtransactions went poof during one October night.

MassivelyHangame MMO accidentally deleted, shut down forever originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Nov 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accidentaccidental-deletionbackupbackupscritical-server-failuredeletedf2pfree-to-playhangamem2microtransactionsSankandosavesave-gameserver-failureshutdownTue, 15 Nov 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online opens up testing for the dilithium exchange]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/star-trek-online-opens-up-testing-for-the-dilithium-exchange/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/star-trek-online-opens-up-testing-for-the-dilithium-exchange/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/star-trek-online-opens-up-testing-for-the-dilithium-exchange/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

If you could transfer it back into real money, you could sell a starship and buy a pizza.
The economy of free-to-play games can be a tricky business. Usually, they're managed by keeping a strict distinction between in-game currency and purchased currency, but Star Trek Online is taking a slightly different approach. The upcoming overarching currency dilithium can be traded for Cryptic Points via the new dilithium exchange service, which has just gone live on the Tribble server for players to test. But the trade isn't a straight one, instead working on an auction-type system.

The newest Path to F2P blog outlines the means for players to use the exchange system, which works both ways -- players can look to buy dilithium or Cryptic Points and are able to browse the overall market and see what other players are offering or asking. It's not quite as simple as being able to swipe your credit card and then grab some in-game money, but it's certainly blurring the lines between real currency and game money.

MassivelyStar Trek Online opens up testing for the dilithium exchange originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studioscurrencycurrency-exchangecurrency-systemsdilithiumf2pfree-to-playmicrotransactionsst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotrek-onlineThu, 03 Nov 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest introduces pegasuses (pegasi?) to the Marketplace]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/everquest-introduces-pegasuses-pegasi-to-the-marketplace/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/everquest-introduces-pegasuses-pegasi-to-the-marketplace/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/everquest-introduces-pegasuses-pegasi-to-the-marketplace/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Screenshot -- EverQuest pegasus
Citizens of Norrath, have you ever wanted to soar about the land on the back of a horse that, inexplicably, has wings? If you answered yes, then you think about some awfully specific things. Also, you're in luck.

Sony Online Entertainment has announced that your dreams can now come true, as a number of pegasus mounts have been added to EverQuest's Marketplace. Yeah, that's right, it's going to cost you a bit of cash, but isn't it worth it to fly around on a frilly little equine-avian hybrid? Of course it is, now hush and go look at the pictures in the gallery below.

Gallery: EverQuest Pegasus mount

MassivelyEverQuest introduces pegasuses (pegasi?) to the Marketplace originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eqeverquestmarketplacemicrotransactionmicrotransactionsmountmountspegasipegasussoesony-online-entertainmentwhat-is-the-pluralWed, 12 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT introduces Ashes of History edition game upgrade [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/rift-introduces-ashes-of-history-edition-game-upgrade/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/rift-introduces-ashes-of-history-edition-game-upgrade/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/rift-introduces-ashes-of-history-edition-game-upgrade/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Screenshot -- RIFT
Did you miss out on the RIFT collector's edition? Are you jealous of all the people riding around on their fancy tartagon mounts? Of course you aren't, because they look dumb. You could grab the collector's edition for an extra $10, but maybe you'd like to one-up those people and their testudine rides. Or perhaps you just want to grab a few extra goodies to help you out in Telara. Well, boy-howdy are you in luck.

Trion Worlds has introduced the new RIFT: Ashes of History edition. This new upgrade, available for $10, includes a new spindrel mount, a portable banker, and a faction tabard for each of your characters, making the upgrade perfect for those looking for a little extra convenience and cosmetic enhancement, but not-so-perfect for the arachnophobic. If you want to shell out a bit for some fancy swag, the Ashes of History edition upgrade can be purchased at RIFT's official site.

[Thanks to Scott for the tip!]

[Update: Trion has also announced a freebie weekend starting tomorrow, October 13th, and running through Monday morning. How's that for incentive to buy the upgrade?]

MassivelyRIFT introduces Ashes of History edition game upgrade [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Oct 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ashes-of-historyew-spidersmicrotransactionsriftrift-planes-of-telaratriontrion-worldsturtle-mounts-are-dumbupgradeWed, 12 Oct 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DUST 514 to be the 'biggest multiplayer FPS on the market']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/10/dust-514-to-be-the-biggest-multiplayer-fps-on-the-market/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/10/dust-514-to-be-the-biggest-multiplayer-fps-on-the-market/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/10/dust-514-to-be-the-biggest-multiplayer-fps-on-the-market/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Dust 514 - concept art
"In terms of scale, depth and volume of content, DUST 514 will easily be the biggest multiplayer FPS on the market," says CCP executive producer Brandon Laurino.

That's a fairly bold claim given the sheer number of multiplayer shooters already in existence, not to mention the staggering sales figures many of them achieve. Laurino's talking world maps and content, though, and when it comes to the ginormous sci-fi universe of New Eden, size does matter. "You're looking at a conflict taking place across thousands of planets, so we're not just talking a dozen maps -- we're talking an entire universe of planets and areas of engagement within them," Laurino told Eurogamer.

Such scale doesn't come cheaply, though, and the only thing bigger than Dust 514's galaxy map is its in-game store. Laurino says that CCP has thousands of microtransaction items ready to be purchased over the PlayStation network, and Sony's willingness to work with the CCP devs is noted as the primary reason for the upcoming shooter's console exclusivity. Laurino also mentions that Dust's beta will be something of an exclusive rollout called Private Trials, but no date-related info is available as of yet.

MassivelyDUST 514 to be the 'biggest multiplayer FPS on the market' originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 10 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabusiness-modelsccpccp-gamesdustdust-514eveeve-onlinef2pfree-to-playinterviewmicrotransactionsmmo-shootermmofpsnew-edenplaystation-3private-trialsps3rmtsandboxsci-fishootersonyMon, 10 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CCP Games CEO issues letter of apology to EVE Online players]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/ccp-games-ceo-issues-letter-of-apology-to-eve-online-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/ccp-games-ceo-issues-letter-of-apology-to-eve-online-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/ccp-games-ceo-issues-letter-of-apology-to-eve-online-players/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EVE Online title image
Just over three months ago, fans of EVE Online looked on in disbelief as the game they loved faced its biggest crisis of confidence since 2007's T20 developer scandal. The long-awaited Incarna expansion was pushed live with no multiplayer environments and only one race of captain's quarters. Players were forced to use the feature every time they docked, and it seemed that its only purpose was as a display case for overpriced cash-shop clothing. While players debated the controversial cash shop prices, a leaked company newsletter titled "Greed is Good" and a leaked memo from CCP Games CEO Hilmar Veigar Pétursson threw additional fuel on the flames.

In a letter to the EVE Online community today, Hilmar delivered a humble apology for everything that happened. "The estrangement from CCP that many of you have been feeling of late is my fault, and for that I am truly sorry," he began. "In short, my zeal for pushing EVE to her true potential made me lose sight of doing the simple things right. I was impatient when I should have been cautious, defiant when I should have been conciliatory and arrogant when I should have been humble."

The letter goes on to tackle everything from the removal of ship spinning and the release of the captain's quarters as a full expansion to CCP's plans for the future. In an accompanying devblog, CCP Zulu provided an impressive list of in-space features aimed for the winter development period. The list includes the long-awaited hybrid weapon balance changes, assault ship bonus reworks, capital ship rebalancing, and even iteration on faction warfare.

MassivelyCCP Games CEO issues letter of apology to EVE Online players originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 Oct 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apologyarnar-gylfasonCaptains-quartersccpccp-eveccp-gamesccp-zulucommunicationeveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlineexpansionexpansionsexpectation-managementfearlesshilmarhilmar-peturssonhilmar-veigar-peturssonincarnaleakleaked-memomacrotransactionsMicrotransactionsmiscommunicationmonoclemonocle-gatemonoclegatenewsnewsletternexnoble-exchangewinterWed, 05 Oct 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Divine Souls is taking a time out]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/divine-souls-is-taking-a-time-out/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/divine-souls-is-taking-a-time-out/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/divine-souls-is-taking-a-time-out/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Divine Souls Steam Ogre Boss
It's not you; it's them. Specifically, it's the development team behind Divine Souls. The game has been out for only a little while, but the team is apparently unhappy with the reception thus far, not to mention the game's bugs and other instabilities. So without any major notice, the game has been essentially put on hiatus, going offline so that the team can put it back on the drawing board for more refinements and adjustments.

While the game has already been taken down, there's no set timeframe for when it will come back online; the closure notice acknowledges that it may be some time before the bug fixes and refinements are complete. Players will receive a partial refund for any in-game currency purchase since the game's launch, with the amount refunded dependent on how close to the closure it was purchased. It's not an ending, just a pause, but it's still sad news for the game.

[Thanks to Paul for the tip!]

MassivelyDivine Souls is taking a time out originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>divine-soulsf2pfree-to-playgrandprixhiatusmicrotransactionsoutsparkshutdowntemporary-shutdownTue, 04 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Brian Clayton on the City of Heroes Freedom launch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/28/brian-clayton-on-the-city-of-heroes-freedom-launch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/28/brian-clayton-on-the-city-of-heroes-freedom-launch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/28/brian-clayton-on-the-city-of-heroes-freedom-launch/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The Circle of Thorns has apparently improved its equal opportunity employment status.
City of Heroes has launched its free-to-play hybrid model at long last, and all that remains for players to do is enjoy all of the options that City of Heroes Freedom provides. Well, and possibly wonder what the game's development schedule will look like from here on out, maybe ask a few questions about the pricing in the store, debate which player options have the most value, and so forth. Come to think of it, there are a lot of things to still be done.

We had the opportunity to ask a few questions of executive producer Brian Clayton about what's going on behind the scenes of City of Heroes Freedom. Jump on past the break for a postmortem of the launch, discussions of what's to come in the store from here on out, and more information about what VIPs can expect from future updates.

Continue reading Brian Clayton on the City of Heroes Freedom launch

MassivelyBrian Clayton on the City of Heroes Freedom launch originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Sep 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brian-claytonbusiness-model-launchbusiness-modelscash-shopcash-storecity-of-heroescity-of-heroes-freedomcity-of-villainscohcovcoxf2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreedom-launchinterviewinterviewslaunchmicrotransactionsmodel-launchncsoftparagonparagon-studiospatchespricingstoreupdatesWed, 28 Sep 2011 20:30:00 EST