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[Vindictus EU update features two new raid bosses]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/vindictus-eu-update-features-two-new-raid-bosses/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/vindictus-eu-update-features-two-new-raid-bosses/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/vindictus-eu-update-features-two-new-raid-bosses/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Vindictus - Glas Gobbledegook something or other
This must be the day for sexy MMO news. On the heels of one risque announcement, we have a trailer for the latest Vindictus EU update that features a scantily clad lass named Succubus and a demonic colossal called Glas Ghaibheleann. Succubus is, well, a succubus, and she's also a raid boss who will challenge players like no other.

Except for maybe Glas Ghaibheleann. He's also a raid boss. While he's not quite as attractive as his partner-in-crime, he's equally deadly. Nexon says that the pair will awe players with their appearance and unique abilities. Get a load of the latest Vindictus EU update in the video after the cut.

[Source: Nexon Europe press release]

Continue reading Vindictus EU update features two new raid bosses

MassivelyVindictus EU update features two new raid bosses originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 May 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playglas-ghaibheleannnexonnexon-americanexon-entertainmentnexon-europeraidraidingraidssuccubustrailervideovindictusvindictus-euvindictus-europevindictus-raid-bossvindictus-raid-bossesMon, 21 May 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MapleStory celebrates its seventh anniversary with experience bonuses and cake monsters]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/maplestory-celebrates-its-seventh-anniversary-with-experience-bo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/maplestory-celebrates-its-seventh-anniversary-with-experience-bo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/maplestory-celebrates-its-seventh-anniversary-with-experience-bo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

MapleStory 7th Anniversary
Do you feel lucky, MapleStory players? You should, because Nexon is celebrating the game's lucky seventh anniversary, and the studio is passing the good fortune on to the players with a series of in-game events and double experience weekends.

For the duration of the month, players will be treated not only to double experience and drops every weekend, but they'll also be able to take part in events such as the Maple Rising Star Contest, which requires players to complete tasks to show support for their favorite NPC contestant. And of course, no anniversary would be complete without a visit from the deliciously vicious Cake Boss monster, which combines a challenging battle and a tasty treat into one mutant monstrosity. To put the icing on the proverbial cake, Nexon has released a short anniversary trailer that recaps the major MapleStory events of the past year, so put on your party hats and join the festivities after the cut.

[Source: Nexon America press release]

Continue reading MapleStory celebrates its seventh anniversary with experience bonuses and cake monsters

MassivelyMapleStory celebrates its seventh anniversary with experience bonuses and cake monsters originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 May 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7th-anniversaryanniversarydouble-experience-weekenddouble-xpdouble-xp-weekenddouble-xp-weekendseventsf2pfantasyfree-to-playin-game-eventin-game-eventsmaplestorynexonnexon-americanexon-koreaseventh-anniversarytrailertrailersvideovideosFri, 11 May 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nexon grows in Korea and China, 'underwhelms' in America]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/nexon-grows-in-korea-and-china-underwhelms-in-america/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/nexon-grows-in-korea-and-china-underwhelms-in-america/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/nexon-grows-in-korea-and-china-underwhelms-in-america/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Nexon logo
Free-to-play is generating big bucks for Nexon. Who knew, right? The Korean gaming giant's profitability is profiled in a brief blurb at Gamasutra that focuses on Q1 2012 results.

Nexon exceeded its first-quarter performance projections on the strength of F2P growth in the Korean and Chinese gaming markets. These gains were "slightly offset by an underwhelming performance for its games [in] North America," which was blamed on "certain operational challenges."

Though Nexon's monthly active user count declined from 86.2 million to 82.8 million, its paying user rate increased (from 8.3 to 10.9 percent in year-over-year comparisons).

MassivelyNexon grows in Korea and China, 'underwhelms' in America originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 May 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>duhf2pfinancial-newsfinancialsfree-to-playnexonnexon-americanexon-koreaThu, 10 May 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MapleStory proclaims Alliance Eternal this week]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/maplestory-proclaims-alliance-eternal-this-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/maplestory-proclaims-alliance-eternal-this-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/maplestory-proclaims-alliance-eternal-this-week/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

MapleStory
With this week's Alliance Eternal patch in MapleStory, Nexon has returned the balance of the classes to where it should be. The final update in the Alliance trilogy focuses on Cygnus Knights and Explorer classes, retuning them and bringing their power levels back up to par with the classes that received developer love with the previous updates.

Alliance Eternal has a few other fun surprises for players. Level 120 characters can hop through a Dimensional Schism and take on the sinister-sounding Arkarium, while Cygnus Knights level 110 or above have new quest chains to investigate.

Nexon's also looking forward to the coming months. MapleStory will hit its seven-year anniversary in May, and players should expect a big bash when that happens. The devs also teased a "big summer content release" on the horizon with two new characters including the Phantom hero.

MassivelyMapleStory proclaims Alliance Eternal this week originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alliance-eternalalliance-eternal-patchalliance-eternal-updatebalanceCygnus-Knightexplorerf2pfantasyfree-to-playmaplestorynexonnexon-americanexon-koreapatchrebalancingupdateMon, 23 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's Easter event roundup: 2012 edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/massivelys-easter-event-roundup-2012-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/massivelys-easter-event-roundup-2012-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/massivelys-easter-event-roundup-2012-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Bunnies at church
Whether you're an Easter traditionalist or you simply need an excuse to eat a chocolate bunny, it's that time of year again. It's also time for a few of our favorite MMO devs to don their silly hats and introduce all manner of egg hunts and contests into games like RuneScape, Runes of Magic, and World of Warcraft.

That's just the tip of the Easter event iceberg; you'll find several more festively inclined titles in our roundup after the cut. Before you hop on over, have a look at the two bunnies above and repeat after us: d'awww.

Continue reading Massively's Easter event roundup: 2012 edition

MassivelyMassively's Easter event roundup: 2012 edition originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 07 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoactivisionanetarenanetatlanticaatlantica-onlineblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrowserbrowser-basedclassic-mmodragon-nesteastereaster-2012easter-eventseaster-roundupeq-2eq-iieq2eqiieventseverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactiveguild-warsgwholiday-roundupin-game-eventsjagexjagex-games-studioncsoftnexonnexon-americanexon-entertainmentnexon-korearomrounduprsrunes-of-magicrunescaperunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentsandboxscarlet-legacysoesonysony-online-entertainmenttaboreatactical-mmovindictuswarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowSat, 07 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MapleStory gets political, players respond with bewilderment]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/maplestory-gets-political-players-respond-with-bewilderment/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/maplestory-gets-political-players-respond-with-bewilderment/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/maplestory-gets-political-players-respond-with-bewilderment/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Pictured: MapleStory. Not pictured: political acumen.
It's an election year in the United States, and that means that it's time to start polling for opinions across the country. If the country goes the path of MapleStory, the incumbent President has nothing to worry about. A survey of 1,655 random MapleStory players was conducted this past weekend, with 47.79% claiming that Barack Obama had made the most positive impact out of the current candidates. The runner-up? Abject confusion. More than 20% of respondents did not recognize any of the names involved.

The respondents were also polled on the most important issue facing the presidential candidates, with unemployment taking the top spot (40%) and the gap between rich and poor taking second place (28%). It's not necessarily indicative of much, but even though it's an informal poll conducted by Nexon America of a fairly random playerbase, there's a staggering degree of confusion at work. Or MapleStory players really like President Obama, one or the other.

MassivelyMapleStory gets political, players respond with bewilderment originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>culturef2pfantasyfree-to-playmaplestorynexonnexon-americanexon-koreapolitical-pollpoliticssurveysurveyswhat-is-this-i-cant-evenTue, 27 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Vindictus brings out a dragon with accompanying ink]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/vindictus-brings-out-a-dragon-with-accompanying-ink/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/vindictus-brings-out-a-dragon-with-accompanying-ink/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/vindictus-brings-out-a-dragon-with-accompanying-ink/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

In any fantasy game, downing a dragon is what you want. Sure, there might be other monsters that are technically stronger, but nothing else has quite the feel of straight-up slaying a dragon. Nexon realizes this, which is why the strongest foe in Vindictus' latest game update, is the massive dragon Elchulus. Players will need to have quite the team to bring down this massive foe, as a full raid of 24 characters at level 40 are required to slay the beast.

The update also adds a lower-level raid for levels 20 and 30 as well as some brand-new tattoos to help signify your battle against the scaly menace. You can buy new tattoos, or you can face off against the new bosses and have a chance at winning one for free. Not quite convinced? Then take a look at the dragon in action just past the break, and see if you don't have a sudden urge to put a flying lizard in its place.

Continue reading Vindictus brings out a dragon with accompanying ink

MassivelyVindictus brings out a dragon with accompanying ink originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmobossesdragonsf2pfantasyfree-to-playgame-updatesinternet-dragonsnexonnexon-americanexon-entertainmentpatchesraidstrailertrailersupdateupdatesvideovideosvindictusFri, 23 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Atlantica Online clocks its millionth player]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/atlantica-online-clocks-its-millionth-player/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/atlantica-online-clocks-its-millionth-player/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/atlantica-online-clocks-its-millionth-player/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Atlantica Online
After a big push for players to rope in their friends, Nexon is finally able to announce that Atlantica Online has reached the one million player mark -- and there's no looking back from here.

The millionth player was DevilsRuler of Sikyon, and he or she will receive a million NX (item shop currency) and a title that comes with a substantial attack and XP boost. As if a million people to have picked up Atlantica Online wasn't enough, Nexon is boasting a few other impressive stats. To date, over 2.2 million characters have been created, 1.6 million "friend pairs" created, and 18,866 homes built.

To celebrate this substantial milestone, Nexon is hosting Atlantica Day on Saturday, March 25th. Players who log in between 5:00 and 5:10 p.m. EDT will be granted a "Time's Witness" title that can be triggered for an attack power and defense buff.

[Source: Nexon press release]

MassivelyAtlantica Online clocks its millionth player originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlanticaatlantica-dayatlantica-onlinef2pfantasyfree-to-playin-game-eventmilestonemillion-playersmillionth-playernexonnexon-americanexon-koreaone-million-playerstactical-mmoFri, 23 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MapleStory allies against aliens]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/maplestory-allies-against-aliens/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/maplestory-allies-against-aliens/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/maplestory-allies-against-aliens/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

MapleStory
It's a bad day to be an alien in MapleStory -- and a good day to be a player. Nexon has released its latest major update for the game, Alliance Unbound, and it's placing a bounty on every E.T. and Klingon you can find. Nasty space critters are causing town-demolishing earthquakes in the area, and what's worse is that their technology is somewhat more advanced than swords or clubs.

While a majority of the content for Alliance Unbound is for high-level characters, there's still plenty for lowbies to do as well. The main update quest line opens up at level 15 and offers both a high- and low-level version.

The update has plenty of meat to it in other ways. A gigantic 31-part quest chain has been added to Ellin Forest for level 95s in which players will jump back in time and explore the making of one of the key regions in the game. There's also a nifty and powerful alien socket system that grants players the ability to upgrade weapons. Finally, Nexon's got plenty of new Event Cards and a collection system to keep players busy.

MassivelyMapleStory allies against aliens originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alienaliensalliance-unboundEllin-Forestetevent-cardsf2pfantasyfree-to-playklingonmaplestorynexonnexon-americanexon-koreapatchupdateweapon-modificationFri, 16 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Winner of Mabinogi's Merchant of Venice contest highlighted]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/winner-of-mabinogis-merchant-of-venice-contest-highlighted/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/winner-of-mabinogis-merchant-of-venice-contest-highlighted/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/winner-of-mabinogis-merchant-of-venice-contest-highlighted/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Mabinogi screenshot
If you are familiar with the Mabinogi-hosted contest from November called The Merchant of Venice, California, then you know that the popular free-to-play developer and publisher Nexon asked players to participate in order to win a free trip to the company's California studios to play, relax and discuss the new content. The event celebrated the release of the Merchant of Venice update. The addition gave players the ability to literally transport goods across the lands of Mabinogi. Players gain levels, earn in-game cash that can be used to buy special items and weapons, and gain access to better items to be traded. All expansions in the popular free-to-play title are free.

Sayre, a player from the Mari server, was invited to meet the developers, tour the office and even give some advice about how to make the game better. He received a free Alienware computer, 500 USD in cash and three nights in a hotel right on Venice Beach! In order to qualify for the contest drawing, players were required to have reached merchant level 9 in each of the game's towns.

Click past the cut to watch an exclusive preview of the tour!

Continue reading Winner of Mabinogi's Merchant of Venice contest highlighted

MassivelyWinner of Mabinogi's Merchant of Venice contest highlighted originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmancontestexpansionf2pfree-to-playftpmabinogimerchant-of-venicenexonnexon-americavideoTue, 07 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Studios join forces to form Gamer Safety Alliance]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/studios-join-forces-to-form-gamer-safety-alliance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/studios-join-forces-to-form-gamer-safety-alliance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/studios-join-forces-to-form-gamer-safety-alliance/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Gamer Safety Alliance logo
This week is Gamer Safety Week, and before you laugh at the thought of getting injured while playing your favorite MMO, we should point out that the safety has more to do with your accounts than your person.

Nine major game companies have joined forces to form the Gamer Safety Alliance, an organization that seeks "to break down traditional competitive barriers and share information and best practices within the computer and video game industry."

Participating firms include Electronic Arts, Microsoft, Turbine, NCsoft, Nexon, Square Enix, Sony Online Entertainment, MindCandy, and En Masse Entertainment. SOE leads things off with a lengthy article on how to protect yourself from account fraud.

MassivelyStudios join forces to form Gamer Safety Alliance originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>account-safetyaccountseaelectronic-artsen-masseen-masse-entertainmentgamer-safety-alliancemerchant-risk-councilmicrosoftmind-candymindcandyncsoftnexonnexon-americasoeSony-Online-Entertainmentsquare-enixturbineTurbine-EntertainmentTue, 07 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Play three Nexon MMOs, get this car]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/play-three-nexon-mmos-get-this-car/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/play-three-nexon-mmos-get-this-car/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/play-three-nexon-mmos-get-this-car/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Nexon Hat Trick Contest
Did that grab your attention? Nexon is sure hoping it did, as the company is in the throes of its "Get a Hat Trick!" promotion. For the next month and a half, players who dive into Vindictus, Dragon Nest, and Dungeon Fighter Online and get to level 20 in all three games will have a shot at several nice prizes -- including the above 2012 BMW M3. So, in effect, just by playing MMOs, you could be netting yourself one of the sweetest rides in town.

While Nexon has already handed out awards for the third and fourth place winners, there are still prizes left for aspiring gamers. First of all, everyone who gets a hat trick (as defined by achieving level 20 in the above three titles) will be treated to $20 worth of in-game items. Additionally, three players will get an Alienware Aurora desktop computer, and 30 people will win $50 "Karma Koins."

As for the Beemer, the prize will only be unlocked if 30,000 players achieve hat tricks by March 15th -- and even then, only one car will be given away after that. So good luck and may the game be with you!

MassivelyPlay three Nexon MMOs, get this car originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012-bmw-m3alienwarealienware-aurorabeemerbmwbmw-m3contestdragon-nestdungeon-fighter-onlinef2pfree-to-playget-a-hat-trickgiveawayhat-trickkarma-koinsnexonnexon-americapromotionvindictusThu, 02 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: The still-satisfying world of action MMOs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/free-for-all-the-still-satisfying-world-of-action-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/free-for-all-the-still-satisfying-world-of-action-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/free-for-all-the-still-satisfying-world-of-action-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Vindictus screenshot
Look, I'm a red-blooded American gamer. I even call it 'Merica. So it should be no surprise when I feel like getting down with a melee-based chop-'em-up or have the desire to leap, jump and bounce my way through countless levels. In other words, action. We 'Mericans love our action games. I have my particular favorites, for sure, and within that list are my favorites of favorites that get the nod for different reasons. Honestly I'm not into action-based games just for the challenge. I don't need to make repeated attempts at downing a boss to have fun. I enjoy the immediate response that an action game gives me. I love to click the mouse button and see my character's sword swing or gun fire. It's satisfying.

Of course, action games can have their drawbacks. Not only do they tend to produce a euphoric haze that can only be described as "stoner glare" and an open-mouthed state of hypnosis, but they can take a toll on delicate, drum-beaten wrists like mine as well. I take the good with the bad, I guess. Click past the cut and I'll let you know my favorite F2P action MMOs.

Continue reading Free for All: The still-satisfying world of action MMOs

MassivelyFree for All: The still-satisfying world of action MMOs originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionaction-mmobeau-hindmabrowser-baseddragon-nestdungeon-fighter-onlinef2pfeaturedffafpsfree-for-allfree-to-playftpjef-reahardjunebud-abmericanmilmommofpsNexonnexon-americaperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentrusty-heartsSide-scrollerspiral-knightsthe-firing-linethree-ringsvindictusWed, 11 Jan 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: Dungeon Fighter Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/25/rise-and-shiny-recap-dungeon-fighter-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/25/rise-and-shiny-recap-dungeon-fighter-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/25/rise-and-shiny-recap-dungeon-fighter-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Dungeon Fighter Online screenshot
I'm glad that over the last week I found the time to finally get me some Dungeon Fighter Online by Nexon. I knew that it has quite the following, and I knew that it's supposed to be a blast, sort of like an 8bit Vindictus, but I was still surprised at a few things while I played. The game isn't what I thought it would be in several ways. NPCs have voices and hand out actual quests, the world is more open than I thought it would be, and the graphics feel snappy and fluid despite their primitive nature.

Don't get me wrong -- there is plenty that needs to be tweaked or fixed before the game smells of anything near perfection. Much of it is beyond the ability of the developers, but many of the problems with the game could be fixed relatively easy.

Click past the cut and I'll tell you what I thought during my time fighting in dungeons... online!

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Dungeon Fighter Online

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Dungeon Fighter Online originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 25 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>8bitbeau-hindmandungeon-fighter-onlinef2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpmabinogiMapleStorymin-kimNexonnexon-americarise-and-shinySide-scrollervindictusSun, 25 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragon Nest celebrates the holidays with Scarlet Snow]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/dragon-nest-celebrates-the-holidays-with-scarlet-snow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/dragon-nest-celebrates-the-holidays-with-scarlet-snow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/dragon-nest-celebrates-the-holidays-with-scarlet-snow/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Dragon Nest
The weather is cooling down, and it's the season for fresh, white, beautiful snow. Dragon Nest, however, wants to turn that snow red with its upcoming update, Scarlet Snow. The new patch, coming sometime in December, will raise the game's level cap to 40. And of course, a raised level cap means new challenges for players to conquer. Saint's Haven will play host to two new nests and dungeons, and there will be plenty of seasonal events for players to see. For more information, check out the post on the game's official website.

MassivelyDragon Nest celebrates the holidays with Scarlet Snow originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Dec 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimson-snowdndragon-nestdungeondungeonseventsf2pfree-to-playholidayholiday-eventsin-game-eventsnestnestsnexonnexon-americapatchpatchesWed, 07 Dec 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: Revisiting Mabinogi]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/04/rise-and-shiny-recap-revisiting-mabinogi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/04/rise-and-shiny-recap-revisiting-mabinogi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/04/rise-and-shiny-recap-revisiting-mabinogi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Mabinogi screenshot
If you've kept up with my columns for a while, it should be no secret that I think Mabinogi is still one of the best games out there. While it does have its issues, the game simply presents more sandboxy goodness to players (while keeping those systems coming) than almost any game I can think of. In fact, the game has added so much since I started this column that a returning player can get confused. A new player might even become lost.

I like to officially dip my toes into old, familiar games once in a while. Checking back on these games from my past is a great way for me to get my gamer's bearings and see how my opinions might have changed. Mabinogi has been calling to me for a while because I haven't really jumped into it for that long over the past few months. I figured now is the time.

Click past the cut!

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Revisiting Mabinogi

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Revisiting Mabinogi originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 04 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmaneve-onlinef2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpLiveStreammabinogimin-kimNexonnexon-americarise-and-shinytwitch-tvvanguardVanguard-Saga-of-HeroesvindictusSun, 04 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nexon's Min Kim on the 'Free2pocalypse']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/02/nexons-min-kim-on-the-free2pocalypse/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/02/nexons-min-kim-on-the-free2pocalypse/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/02/nexons-min-kim-on-the-free2pocalypse/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Nexon logo
Nexon bigwig Min Kim recently checked in with Gamasutra for a brief interview regarding the state of the company's global free-to-play initiative. In short, business is booming, and while MapleStory was viewed as an oddity when it launched with a F2P model eight years ago, it's now much closer to the norm. "A lot of people laughed at the business model, and now a lot of companies are starting to try to understand it or experiment with it. We've been calling it 'the free2pocalypse.' Every company is looking at it; the market is just way larger," Kim explains.

He also talks a bit about Nexon's new Live Games division, which consolidates the company's operations, marketing, and communications groups into a single entity under his direction. Finally, Kim explains the logic behind the decision to remove Nexon's name from its uber-successful retail store game cards. In a nutshell, the benefits of unifying the virtual item currencies across a diverse selection of games outweighed the name recognition afforded by the Nexon banner.

MassivelyNexon's Min Kim on the 'Free2pocalypse' originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Dec 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelsf2pfree-to-playfree2pocalypsegame-cardsinterviewskarma-koinkarma-koinslive-gamesmin-kimMiscellaneousnexonnexon-americaretail-store-cardsFri, 02 Dec 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: Ten terrific titles for this nifty new netbook]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/mmobility-ten-terrific-titles-for-this-nifty-new-netbook/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/mmobility-ten-terrific-titles-for-this-nifty-new-netbook/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/mmobility-ten-terrific-titles-for-this-nifty-new-netbook/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Inspiron Duo picture
I mentioned this new gaming toy of mine last week, and it finally arrived. I immediately loved how it felt and weighed. Sure, there are lighter netbooks, but many of them feel more fragile. This Inspiron Duo has a rubberized edging to it, and the flip-screen feels snappy but firm. I was happy right away. It's a higher-quality netbook with a decent-quality tablet included.

After I tweaked it and purged it of bloatware, I had to get some games going on it, and not just casual Facebook games but real MMOs. I spent a few days going through my list of titles to see which ones would work on the netbook and how many will work well with the touchscreen. I wanted games that would give a normal netbook fits but not lag excessively. Note that my netbook's screen is 1366x768, while the cheapest ones out there are normally 1024x600. Adjustments might need to be made there. I came up only with 10 games for now, but expect more in the future.

Click past the cut to see the list!

Continue reading MMObility: Ten terrific titles for this nifty new netbook

MassivelyMMObility: Ten terrific titles for this nifty new netbook originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-mystical-landbeau-hindmanf2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpglitchgolden-agegunshineillyriadinspiron-duomabinoginadirimnetbooknetbook-gamesnetbook-mmosNexonnexon-americapuppet-guardianpuzzle-piratestechnologyUltima-Onlinewizard101Fri, 04 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Atlantica Online celebrates three years with in-game events]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/atlantica-online-celebrates-three-years-with-in-game-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/atlantica-online-celebrates-three-years-with-in-game-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/atlantica-online-celebrates-three-years-with-in-game-events/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Atlantica Online
Atlantica Online, Nexon's quirky tactical MMORPG, has been running for three whole years now. You know what that means, right? Anniversary celebration time! From now until November 16th, players can celebrate Atlantica's third anniversary by participating in a variety of in-game events.

For starters, there's the Hunt for the Warlord's Poem. Players have to hunt down monsters that have stolen fragments of Khun Phaen's poetry. Completing this task will net players "Khun Phaen's Carrier Pigeon, a Title: People's Champion, Khun Phaen Skill Books, and other essentials."

If you'd rather put your combative skills to the test, you can take part in the third anniversary Grand Championship Battle Royale, which will take place on October 31st at 6:00 a.m. EDT and again at 6:00 p.m. EDT. The top four players will receive a prize of precious NX Credit.

Lastly, Nexon is asking players to take a picture of either themselves or their avatars with a sign reading "Happy Anniversary Atlantica!" Players who submit such a picture will be entered into a drawing for 20,000 NX.

For the full details, head on over to Atlantica Online's official site.celebrates three years with in-game events

MassivelyAtlantica Online celebrates three years with in-game events originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3rd-anniversaryanniversaryatlanticaatlantica-onlinebirthdayeventeventsf2pfree-to-playin-game-eventin-game-eventsnexonnexon-americanexon-entertainmentthird-anniversaryTue, 18 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Dragon Nest videos show off Saint's Haven, new abilities]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/new-dragon-nest-videos-show-off-saints-haven-new-abilities/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/new-dragon-nest-videos-show-off-saints-haven-new-abilities/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/new-dragon-nest-videos-show-off-saints-haven-new-abilities/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Dragon Nest
Nexon's dungeon-crawling beat-'em-up MMO Dragon Nest is gearing up for its launch in just a couple of days, and the company has released a pair of videos to help pump up some excitement for the official release. The first trailer welcomes players to Saint's Haven, the new city to which players will be able to venture once the game officially goes live. The city provides players with a whopping 10 new dungeons as well as over 500 new quests.

But what good are all those dungeons if you don't have the mad skills to clear 'em out? Don't worry, Nexon has you covered. Video number two focuses on all the fancy new abilities players will be granted when the game launches on the 28th. So whether you're a nimble Acrobat, a brutal Mercenary, or a zealous Paladin, you'll have plenty of new tricks up your sleeve to help turn the tide of battle.

But less babble, more bashing, am I right? Head on past the cut for the full videos.

Continue reading New Dragon Nest videos show off Saint's Haven, new abilities

MassivelyNew Dragon Nest videos show off Saint's Haven, new abilities originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Sep 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilitiesabilitydragon-nestf2pfree-to-playlaunchnexonnexon-americaofficial-launchofficial-releasereleasesaints-havenskillskillsvideovideosMon, 26 Sep 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Take to the skies with MapleStory Ascension]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/take-to-the-skies-with-maplestory-ascension/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/take-to-the-skies-with-maplestory-ascension/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/take-to-the-skies-with-maplestory-ascension/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- MapleStory
Rise up, MapleStory players! The new Ascension update is coming on September 28th, and it's bringing players a wealth of new features to enjoy. Warriors, Magicians, and Bowmen are all receiving class revamps that update the classes with "new strength and new looks."

Players can also band together to take on the challenges of Spiegelmann's Monster Park, which grants an extra 50% experience for parties as well as higher drop rates. For the lovebirds in the crowd, the team is implementing new wedding quests. Meanwhile, team players are being given three new party quests as well as six updated ones, and the rewards from party quests are "more lucrative than ever." To top it all off, a new event calendar has been added to the game, so players will always be up to date on current events.

To get in on all the Ascension action, head on over to the official site and register for an account.

MassivelyTake to the skies with MapleStory Ascension originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ascensionclass-updateclassesf2pfree-to-playmaplestorymonster-parknexonnexon-americaparty-questsspiegelmanns-monster-parkwedding-questsweddingsThu, 22 Sep 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MapleStory Adventures scores 3 million players -- before it even launches]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/maplestory-adventures-scores-3-million-players-before-it-even/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/maplestory-adventures-scores-3-million-players-before-it-even/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/maplestory-adventures-scores-3-million-players-before-it-even/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

MapleStory Adventures
The Facebook spin-off of MapleStory has hit a big milestone today -- a very big one indeed. Nexon announced that MapleStory Adventures crossed the three million registered player threshold. This feat is more incredible when you consider that the game is still in open beta.

MapleStory Adventures is Nexon's first Facebook game, and it is soon to be joined by the company's second: Wonder Cruise. Nexon's been making strategic moves into the social gaming market this year, including a recent partnership with developer 6waves Lolapps. The company saw an impressive 59% increase in revenue last quarter.

MapleStory was an obvious choice for a Facebook conversion, considering that the title was already in 2-D and has a mass-market appeal. While MapleStory Adventures is similar in many ways to its predecessor, some elements have been simplified for the platform, such as the number of classes and skill trees.

MassivelyMapleStory Adventures scores 3 million players -- before it even launches originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Sep 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3-million6waves-Lolappsclassesfacebookmaplestorymaplestory-adventuresnexonnexon-americaskill-treessocial-gamingwonder-cruiseMon, 19 Sep 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nexon concludes MapleStory's Chaos series with loads of new content]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/nexon-concludes-maplestorys-chaos-series-with-loads-of-new-cont/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/nexon-concludes-maplestorys-chaos-series-with-loads-of-new-cont/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/nexon-concludes-maplestorys-chaos-series-with-loads-of-new-cont/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

MapleStory's Chaos series of updates is ending with a bang with the Age of Triumph, which according to Nexon, is "a huge update that brings unique content exclusively to those players who traverse Maple World on Global MapleStory servers."

So what does the final update have in store for Maple World? Well, for starters it brings an all-new storyline titled The Silent Crusade. The storyline quests are available for players in the incredibly broad level range of 37-110, and they introduce players to a force that specializes in the elimination of Master Monsters (a new faction of enemies). Alongside the new storyline, the update will also introduce PvPers to the new Capture the Flag mode. And lastly, players will find in their inventory a Crusader Codex, which is essentially an encyclopedia of the monsters of Maple World. Each page can be filled with Monster Cards, which drop from various enemies. Once a page is completed, the page will display the monster's information such as levels, locations, and item drops, and players will receive unique prizes such as medals. For some new screenshots of the upcoming update, check out the gallery below.

Gallery: MapleStory

MassivelyNexon concludes MapleStory's Chaos series with loads of new content originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Aug 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capture-the-flagchaoschaos-updatechaos-update-serieschaos-updatescrusader-codexctff2pfree-to-playmaple-storymaplestorymsnexonnexon-americathe-silent-crusadeFri, 05 Aug 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: Elsword Online community Q&A, part deux]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/28/massively-exclusive-elsword-online-community-qanda-part-deux/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/28/massively-exclusive-elsword-online-community-qanda-part-deux/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/28/massively-exclusive-elsword-online-community-qanda-part-deux/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

KOG Studios, developer of free-to-play hack'n'slash MMO Elsword, has unleashed the second round of an ongoing series of Massively-exclusive community Q&A segments for your enjoyment. A bit of backstory for the uninitiated: Elsword is a popular Korean side-scrolling MMO that saw its North American launch in May. The game puts players in the role of one of three characters as they face off against legions of manga-styled enemies, or against one another.

This second Q&A session covers questions from the Elsword community regarding the hilarious mishaps of localizing the game for North American launch, the team's preferred style of play, and what games the team plays when they're not working (or playing) on Elsword. For the full Q&A, jump on past the cut!

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: Elsword Online community Q&A, part deux

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: Elsword Online community Q&A, part deux originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Jul 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beat-em-updev-diaryelswordf2pfree-to-playhack-n-slashKOG-studiosnexonnexon-americaside-scrollerside-scrollingsidescrollersidescrollingThu, 28 Jul 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragon Nest open beta date announced]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/30/dragon-nest-open-beta-date-announced/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/30/dragon-nest-open-beta-date-announced/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/30/dragon-nest-open-beta-date-announced/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Action RPG fans, rejoice! Nexon has announced that the newest member of its MMO stable, Dragon Nest, will be entering open beta on July 26th. You may remember that we had some hands-on impressions with the game at this year's E3, but what exactly should players expect from Dragon Nest?

From the looks of things, players should expect equal parts adrenaline-pumping action and good old-fashioned dungeon crawling. Players get to take on the role of one of four (gender-locked) classes -- Cleric, Sorceress, Archer, or Warrior -- and dive headlong into some combo-based hack-and-slash combat in search of phat loot and all that jazz. If this sounds like your proverbial cup of tea, head on over to the official site to register.

MassivelyDragon Nest open beta date announced originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 30 Jun 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbetadragon-nestdungeon-crawlerdungeon-crawlingf2pfree-to-playhack-and-slashhack-n-slashnexonnexon-americaopen-betaopen-beta-dateThu, 30 Jun 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragon Nest closed beta launches this week]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/13/dragon-nest-closed-beta-launches-this-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/13/dragon-nest-closed-beta-launches-this-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/13/dragon-nest-closed-beta-launches-this-week/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

If you've been anxiously awaiting the closed beta test for Nexon's new Dragon Nest MMO, you're in the home stretch. A new posting on the game's official website spills the beans on the closed beta date and promises a look at "the fastest moving MMO you've ever seen."

Nexon has high hopes for Dragon Nest, and the company expects the free-to-play title to be its third major American market success (after Vindictus and Dungeon Fighter Online) when it finally launches later this year. The closed beta was delayed last month (ostensibly to polish the overall experience), and you can view the fruits of Nexon's labor beginning on June 15th. That's assuming you've signed up for the beta, of course. You can also get a preview of the game courtesy of our hands-on at last week's E3 event.

MassivelyDragon Nest closed beta launches this week originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Jun 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaclosed-betadragon-nestdungeon-crawlerdungeonsf2pfantasyfree-to-playnexonnexon-americaMon, 13 Jun 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2011: Dragon Nest is not a cartoony Vindictus]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/09/e3-2011-dragon-nest-is-not-a-cartoony-vindictus/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/09/e3-2011-dragon-nest-is-not-a-cartoony-vindictus/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/09/e3-2011-dragon-nest-is-not-a-cartoony-vindictus/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

If you've played Nexon's action- and physics-based MMO Vindictus, you have experienced Dragon Nest. Well, somewhat. Both of the games feature over-the-top graphics and combat, but Dragon Nest is definitely a separate product. You know it when you hit your first mob, and it just feels different. At this year's E3, we were invited to try the game out while tethered to another player in an instanced group.

Unfortunately for us, our partner didn't seem to have ever played a video game in her life, but luckily we were able to press random buttons and try out different menus while we waited for her to catch up. We fought our way through an instanced dungeon, one that felt similar to Vindictus' dungeons in its mechanics. We killed some monsters, avoided some kind of gassy traps, and waited for our partner at the familiar red portals that would bring us to the next stage in the dungeon. The experience was much too short, but it did provide a good look into this newest Nexon title.

Click past the cut for more details!

Gallery: E3 2011: Dragon Nest

Continue reading E3 2011: Dragon Nest is not a cartoony Vindictus

MassivelyE3 2011: Dragon Nest is not a cartoony Vindictus originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 Jun 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmandragon-neste3e3-2011f2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpgalleriesgalleryhands-onNexonnexon-americascreenshotscreenshotsvindictusThu, 09 Jun 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dungeon Fighter Online's Thief class steps from the shadows with new trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/dungeon-fighter-onlines-thief-class-steps-from-the-shadows-with/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/dungeon-fighter-onlines-thief-class-steps-from-the-shadows-with/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/dungeon-fighter-onlines-thief-class-steps-from-the-shadows-with/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Stealth, subtlety, and sabotage: These are the three tenets that govern the modus operandi of Dungeon Fighter Online's new Thief class. Beginning this summer, players of Nexon's DFO will be able to take up the daggers of the deadly Thief and stalk the shadows of Arad.

Descended from the Dark Elves of Noire Ferra, the Thief wields the arts of subterfuge and dark magic and melds them together with lethal efficiency. As the Thief grows in experience, he can choose to specialize further into the one of two paths: the Rogue, who specializes in the use of stealth and assassination, or the Necromancer, a powerful summoner endowed with the powers of of the ominously named Spider Prince.

For some lovely new artwork of this deadly class and a brand-spanking-new trailer to boot, jump on past the cut.

Gallery: Dungeon Fighter Online

Continue reading Dungeon Fighter Online's Thief class steps from the shadows with new trailer

MassivelyDungeon Fighter Online's Thief class steps from the shadows with new trailer originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 May 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classdfodungeon-fighter-onlinegalleriesgallerynexonnexon-americanexon-entertainmentpatchscreenshotscreenshotsthieftrailervideoMon, 23 May 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Vindictus version 1.28 introduces new raid boss]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/18/vindictus-version-1-28-introduces-new-raid-boss/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/18/vindictus-version-1-28-introduces-new-raid-boss/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/18/vindictus-version-1-28-introduces-new-raid-boss/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Tired of putting those fine, heroic weapons and spells to use just to kill some rats? With the Vindictus 1.28 patch, you're in luck! Now you can kill human-sized rats that just so happen to be wielding tridents! Nexon's most recent update to its action MMORPG sends players down into the sewers (how lovely) to quell an uprising of anthropomorphized rats and lizard-men. Sounds easy enough, right? Well, it would be if you didn't have a lizardman "god" to contend with. The new raid boss Thor seems to be some kind of multi-mawed lightning lizard and will certainly challenge even the most stalwart of heroes.

Also included in the update are a smattering of new skills for all three characters. On top of this, three new sets of armor are being introduced to further enhance players' chances against their new enemies. The last new feature of the patch is the introduction of campfire buffs, allowing players to receive a variety of different buffs by resting their tired heads beside a campfire for just a bit before they head off into the dungeons of Vindictus. For more information on all of this plus new cash shop items and a few bug fixes, check out the official post, and head on past the cut for a trailer of the aforementioned Thor.

Continue reading Vindictus version 1.28 introduces new raid boss

MassivelyVindictus version 1.28 introduces new raid boss originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 May 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfree-to-playmulti-mawed-lightning-lizardnexonnexon-americapatchpatch-1.28thortrailerversion-1.28videovindictusWed, 18 May 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Gaming with Game of Thrones]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/11/free-for-all-gaming-with-game-of-thrones/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/11/free-for-all-gaming-with-game-of-thrones/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/11/free-for-all-gaming-with-game-of-thrones/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

I have really been enjoying the new series Game of Thrones over on the HBO network. In fact, when I recently changed to a faster internet provider, I deliberately added on the exclusive channel just for the series. Even though I have never read the books, a 15-minute preview of the show was enough to convince me to watch it. While I am truly enjoying the break from fantasy that is chock-full of smart-alec modern-day references (all delivered by smirking hipsters with swords), I admit to still being a little afraid that the series will take a turn for the goofy or overly dramatic. If a single vampire shows up in this one, I am going to turn it all off and go on a long vacation.

So far, though, it's been a delightful romp into a cold, realistic world. After I watch a new episode, I avoid the internet for fear of random spoilers or the temptation to look at character bios. I simply do not want to know what's going to happen, so please do not tell me. Since the series has started, I have begun to notice how I enjoy the same basic entertainment in my gaming.

I want political intrigue, amazing landscapes, and the occasional epic, bloody fight. Join me past the cut and let's look at some games that provide those three things.

Continue reading Free for All: Gaming with Game of Thrones

MassivelyFree for All: Gaming with Game of Thrones originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 May 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-game-of-thronesa-song-of-ice-and-firealganonankamaAtysbeau-hindmanbrowser-basedf2pface-of-mankindfeaturedfree-for-allfree-to-playftpgame-of-thronesgeorge-martingeorge-r-r-martingotillyriadmin-kimmmortsnexonnexon-americaryzomsean-beanSquare-Enixvindictuswakfuwinter-is-comingWorld-of-WarcraftWed, 11 May 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragon Nest closed beta delayed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/09/dragon-nest-closed-beta-delayed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/09/dragon-nest-closed-beta-delayed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/09/dragon-nest-closed-beta-delayed/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Nexon's Dragon Nest team announced today that the 3-D brawler's closed beta is being pushed back until June. While this may seem like bad news for fans anticipating the chance to get their hands on the game, Nexon assures us the team felt the decision necessary in order "to provide a polished and positive experience for our players, fans, and testers."

The game -- described by Nexon CEO Daniel Kim as "an action MMO that the company is trying to position as the third point in the 'Triangle of Awesome,' along with Vindictus and Dungeon Fighter Online" -- is a dungeon-crawler wherein the player chooses one of four classes (Warrior, Archer, Cleric, or Sorceress) and ventures with others into a variety of instanced dungeons to take part in fast-paced, combo-based combat against all manners of enemies.

Until the final date for the closed beta is announced, check out Massively's hands-on impressions of the game from PAX East and -- if you haven't already -- head to the Dragon Nest official site to sign up for beta.

MassivelyDragon Nest closed beta delayed originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 May 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beat-em-upbetabrawlerclosed-betadaniel-kimdelaydragon-nestdungeon-crawlerf2pfree-to-playnexonnexon-americaMon, 09 May 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: So how DO they make their money?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/free-for-all-so-how-do-they-make-their-money/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/free-for-all-so-how-do-they-make-their-money/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/free-for-all-so-how-do-they-make-their-money/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Each and every article I write will have at least a few comments from different points of view on the subject of free-to-play profits and cash-shop uses. Once again my wonderfully unique position as a writer for a large gaming website gives me some general insight into the mind of today's modern MMO gamer -- at least the type of gamer who comes to Massively for his information. As with any group, there are a lot of myths that are passed around, as well as many truths. Figuring out which is which takes time.

I decided to continue with this fascinating look at payment models by gathering even more information. Already I have collected some of my favorite comments from many of you for possible future use in a column, but I love asking questions for you to answer. This week I thought it would be fun to examine some of the different "truths" about free-to-play that get passed around.

For example: How do free-to-play publishers make their money? Do most free-to-play players really pay more than a typical subscription price? Do free-to-play games sell power?

Click past the cut and let's look into some of these items.

Continue reading Free for All: So how DO they make their money?

MassivelyFree for All: So how DO they make their money? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 May 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanBigpointcash-shopeverquestf2pfeaturedffafree-for-allfree-to-playftplevelingmabinogiNexonnexon-americaSOESony-Online-EntertainmentvanguardVanguard-Saga-of-HeroesWed, 04 May 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nexon America posts 59% revenue growth in first quarter]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/nexon-america-posts-59-revenue-growth-in-first-quarter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/nexon-america-posts-59-revenue-growth-in-first-quarter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/nexon-america-posts-59-revenue-growth-in-first-quarter/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Nexon America, publisher of various microtransaction-based games such as MapleStory and Dungeon Fighter Online, has announced that its revenue gain for the first quarter is up by 59%. The press release notes that, typically, "first quarter sales tend to decline seasonally compared to the rest of the year, making the enormous jump in revenues particularly notable."

What's Nexon's secret to success? According to Daniel Kim, CEO of Nexon America, the key lies in its "ability to deliver engaging content that our players find valuable, whether they are playing for free or purchasing items in our game." As if business wasn't already booming for Nexon, it is presently planning to release its newest game, Dragon Nest, and will be taking its first foray into social gaming with MapleStory Adventures for Facebook sometime this summer.

MassivelyNexon America posts 59% revenue growth in first quarter originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 May 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daniel-kimdragon-nestDragonNestf2pfree-to-playmaplestorymicrotransactionsnexonnexon-americaWed, 04 May 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: A week of scheduled playtimes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/13/free-for-all-a-week-of-scheduled-playtimes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/13/free-for-all-a-week-of-scheduled-playtimes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/13/free-for-all-a-week-of-scheduled-playtimes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

After a loose week of playing scheduled games, I can say that I have a lot of work to do to perfect my system. Once again, Tim and Jon from the Van Hemlock podcast are my inspiration. They are both dedicated to the art of playing games, to "finishing" games, almost to the point of obsession. It's certainly not for everyone, but they seem to maintain a real balance while skipping around. Perhaps the podcast they host helps them with this balance? I've hosted several podcasts over the years, so maybe putting my weekly gaming thoughts into audio form is necessary to keeping my sanity?

In reality, what I need to do is just stick it out and stay the course. I am not sure of many things in this world, but I am positive that repetition and scheduling are more powerful than almost any plan. Humans are habitual creatures, even with their gaming. Especially with their gaming. Over this last week, I started to settle into the role of a scheduled player and even looked forward to it each night.

Click past the cut and I'll let you know how it went.

Continue reading Free for All: A week of scheduled playtimes

MassivelyFree for All: A week of scheduled playtimes originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Apr 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alganonbeau-hindmaneq2eq2xeqiieverquest-2everquest-2-extendedf2pfeaturedfree-for-allfree-to-playftpmabinoginexonnexon-americaonetoofree-abonetwofree-abquest-onlineryzomsoeSony-Online-Entertainmentvan-hemlockwinch-gatewinch-gate-property-limitedwurm-onlineWed, 13 Apr 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: Atlantica Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/10/rise-and-shiny-recap-atlantica-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/10/rise-and-shiny-recap-atlantica-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/10/rise-and-shiny-recap-atlantica-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Is it possible to be simultaneously annoyed and enchanted by an MMORPG? I think it just might be, now that I've spent several days and hours with Atlantica Online, now published by Nexon. It might not make sense to a lot of you, but the overwhelming and possibly overly complicated UI and systems of gathering basic information ("where's the bank?") filled me with a sense of wonder and even awe. There was so much to learn and see -- or was it just that the poorly designed UI gave me way too much information in too many ways?

For example, if I wanted to locate the bank, I would open up an information window, go into a few more selections until I found the city and then the bank, then either try to find my way there or click on auto-walk to get there. Once there, I would have to join the bank then ask why the bank didn't allow me to store items in addition to money. Then I would find out that the only city with item storage is Rome, so then I'd need to open up the information book to find Rome, only to discover that I had no way of getting there until level 20.

So then I would need to find an NPC through the book, auto-path to him or her to sell the goods that were taking up way too much room in my inventory, then double-click on the quest so I could double-click and auto-path my way top the NPC who gave me the quest (since the quest's mobs were not linked in the book), then continue on with my quests that would result in my bags becoming full again. Phew.

Click past the cut and let me tell you all about it.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Atlantica Online

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Atlantica Online originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 10 Apr 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlanticaatlantica-onlinebeau-hindmancrimecraftf2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpImmersionndoorsnexonnexon-americarise-and-shinyTurn-basedSun, 10 Apr 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[First Impressions: Divine Souls]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/07/first-impressions-divine-souls/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/07/first-impressions-divine-souls/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/07/first-impressions-divine-souls/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Divine Souls, published by Outspark, reminds me of Vindictus in far too many ways. I only question which came first and whether more fighting games like the two are coming in the future. While I have had a lot of love for Vindictus since its release, I also have had enough issues with it that I had to stop playing it much at all. While I will save that for another article, I can use the popular Nexon release to illustrate what is wrong and right about Divine Souls. More of Massively's readers are probably familiar with Vindictus, so that will be a good point of comparison.

Think of Divine Souls as Vindictus' uglier little cousin. Granted, Vindictus is a supermodel, so that makes Divine Souls just an average beautiful person, but it should still be noted. Also, both games pit players against hordes of enemies -- massive swarms of baddies that die in spectacular ways. Well, spectacular when you see them for the first few times. After that it becomes pretty repetitive.

Join me past the cut and let's talk about what I liked and didn't like about Divine Souls. Don't worry, there are no baddies to jump you.

Continue reading First Impressions: Divine Souls

MassivelyFirst Impressions: Divine Souls originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Apr 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionAction-RPGbeau-hindmancash-shopdivine-soulsdungeon-crawlerf2pfeaturedfirst-impressionfirst-impressionsfree-to-playftphands-onlaunchlaunchesnew-releasesNexonnexon-americaoutsparkpreviewvindictusThu, 07 Apr 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Would I play RIFT for free?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/free-for-all-would-i-play-rift-for-free/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/free-for-all-would-i-play-rift-for-free/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/free-for-all-would-i-play-rift-for-free/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Today I got the email informing me that my RIFT subscription had expired. I bought it when it came out and enjoyed the beta, but suddenly the hard decision was upon me. Was I going to subscribe to the game? Was I going to pay 15 dollars a month for basic access to the wonderful world that Trion has created?

There is a lot that goes into a decision like subscribing to a game, even when that decision feels easy. A subscription is really a vote of confidence, especially considering that we have no idea what the game might become or where it might go in the future. That automatic payment says so much about our trust in a company and its product, even though lately it seems more and more people are not trusting it like they once did.

Click past the cut and let's discuss, and I'll tell you whether or not I subscribed.

Continue reading Free for All: Would I play RIFT for free?

MassivelyFree for All: Would I play RIFT for free? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Apr 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmancash-shopdiscountf2pfeaturedflyfffree-for-allfree-to-playftpmabinogiNexonnexon-americarappelzriftrift-planes-of-telararose-onlinetriontrion-worldsWed, 06 Apr 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: Monster Forest]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/20/rise-and-shiny-recap-monster-forest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/20/rise-and-shiny-recap-monster-forest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/20/rise-and-shiny-recap-monster-forest/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Monster Forest, brought to us by Asiasoft, is a deceptive little game. First of all, it feels so freshly translated that there are still bits of foreign language clinging to quest text and character speech. But the sheer amount of little games and systems involved makes me feel like I am revisiting Mabinogi for the first time. If you took a collectible pet game, a farming system, turn-based combat, a stock market, and several other major systems and wrapped them in a cartoony skin, you would get Monster Forest. Heck, we did get Monster Forest.

Also, the GMs from Asiasoft are insane. Now, I am fully aware of the cultural differences between West and East. I respect them and always remember to avoid applying any stereotypes to any one group. But let's face it, North American game developers would never ask their GMs to dress up like the person in this video to film a game guide. It just wouldn't happen, unless the North American crew was attempting to be silly. To the lady in the video, this is just another day at the office.

Anyway, let's find out some more details -- click past the cut!

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Monster Forest

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Monster Forest originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 20 Mar 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asiasoftbeau-hindmancollectible-card-systemcollectibleseve-onlinef2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpmabinogimonster-forestNexonnexon-americapet-fightingPokemonrise-and-shinystock-marketSun, 20 Mar 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: Dragonica]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/06/rise-and-shiny-recap-dragonica/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/06/rise-and-shiny-recap-dragonica/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/06/rise-and-shiny-recap-dragonica/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

I was so glad to get back to normal this week, logging into a new (well, newish) game to enjoy and to write about. Dragonica, from what I remember, had been shut down some time ago. Somehow, magically, the announcement of its return slipped past my eyes, but here it is. It seems gPotato EU is going to be publishing it, considering that that's where I found it. I know, I know -- I work at Massively.com, the worlds' coolest and most reliable source for all things MMO, so how did this news get past me? I have no idea.

Still, I was glad to see it sitting on my hard drive, waiting to be played. I never gave it much of a chance before, mainly because side-scroller combat games were normally good for just a weekend jaunt or two. I hate repetition, generally, and sometimes the combat in these kinds of games can be boring at best. I was pretty surprised, though, once I gave the game a chance and learned some of my moves. It grew on me really, really fast. Also, it ran like a dream and was adorable to the point of nosebleed, which always helps.

Still, there's more. Click past the cut and find out!

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Dragonica

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Dragonica originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 06 Mar 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionbeau-hindmancash-shopdragonicadragonica-onlinef2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpgpotatogpotato-euhousingMapleStorymario-brosmario-brothersNexonnexon-americaSide-scrollerside-scrollingSun, 06 Mar 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2011: Nexon's future is so bright, it's gotta wear shades]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/05/gdc-2011-nexons-future-is-so-bright-its-gotta-wear-shades/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/05/gdc-2011-nexons-future-is-so-bright-its-gotta-wear-shades/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/05/gdc-2011-nexons-future-is-so-bright-its-gotta-wear-shades/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not only are Nexon's revenues on the way up with no sign of slowing, but the company's famed "Nexon iNitiative" is already producing hearty results. Unlike the Dharma Initiative, the Nexon iNitiative is a force for good, as the company is funding promising indie developers and their pet projects. Last year, Antic Entertainment and one2tribe both received a chunk of the $1 million funding to make games that would be published worldwide by Nexon, and a similar program is underway for 2011.

At GDC we sat down with Nexon America CEO Daniel Kim to talk about the future direction of the company. Nexon's in its 17th year and considers itself the most accomplished global provider of online games. Whether or not you agree with that statement, the fact that the company has over 30 titles under its belt in over 71 countries is impressive, and that's not even looking at the way Nexon casually drops how many hundreds of millions of players check out its titles daily.

Interesting Nexon tidbit: The name comes from the company's philosophy, to look for the "next online" trend. Now you have something to say during awkward silences at dinner parties.

Hit the jump to hear about some of the future projects and developments of this online pioneer, including MapleStory and Dragon Nest!

Continue reading GDC 2011: Nexon's future is so bright, it's gotta wear shades

MassivelyGDC 2011: Nexon's future is so bright, it's gotta wear shades originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 05 Mar 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antic-entertainmentcash-shopcash-storeconsoledaniel-kimdragon-nestdungeon-fighter-onlinef2pfacebookfeaturedfree-to-playgame-developers-conferencegdcgdc-2011item-shopitem-storekartriderkartrider-rushmaplestorymaplestory-adventuresmicrotransactionsnexonnexon-americanexon-initiativeone2tribetriangle-of-awesomevideoSat, 05 Mar 2011 12:00:00 EST