Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2015 AOL, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[So long, Massively, and thanks for all the fish]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/03/so-long-massively-and-thanks-for-all-the-fish/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/03/so-long-massively-and-thanks-for-all-the-fish/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/03/so-long-massively-and-thanks-for-all-the-fish/#commentsFiled under: , ,

lotro
A little under five years ago, I answered the call for a wonderful opportunity to write at Massively. In many ways, it was an unbelievable dream come true. It married my passion for MMOs with my love of blogging while taking all of that to the next level. The first night after I got hired, I set my phone to deliver team emails ASAP so that I wouldn't miss out on a moment (I quickly turned that off so I could actually sleep). Since then, it's been a rollercoaster of wild news, personal projects, out-of-state conventions, long discussions, and general excitement over what the next day will bring.

And now it's over.

Oh, the MMOs are still going strong and 2015 is shaping up to be one mighty interesting year. Personally, I'll keep writing about these games on Bio Break and talking about them (we're taking the Massively Speaking podcast with us as a last-minute gesture of defiance against our former corporate overlords). Past that, I don't know what the future will hold. I guess I have to be content with not knowing. But before I bow out of the site completely, I have a few things to say to you all.

Continue reading So long, Massively, and thanks for all the fish

MassivelySo long, Massively, and thanks for all the fish originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Feb 2015 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>massively-metaopinionsunsetTue, 03 Feb 2015 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Norrathian Notebook: Landmark celebrates Year 0 anniversary]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/03/norrathian-notebook-landmark-celebrates-year-0-anniversary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/03/norrathian-notebook-landmark-celebrates-year-0-anniversary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/03/norrathian-notebook-landmark-celebrates-year-0-anniversary/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

I've got to admit, it's a bit weird to be celebrating an anniversary before an actually launch; you can't exactly say "Happy first birthday!" if it hasn't been born yet! But Landmark found a way to make it work, celebrating Year Zero with fans this past weekend. The sandbox opened its alpha doors on January 31st, 2014; all that players could do at that point was gather and build a bit. Since then, the game has expanded its features, adding more building stuff, water and caves, combat, deeper caverns and mobs to fill them, and still more building stuff. Development has definitely come a long way in the last 12 months, so there is certainly reason to revel in the festivities. Of course there's still much more work to be done, but why not take a moment and party in honor of Landmark's progress. Who doesn't like a party?

Continue reading Norrathian Notebook: Landmark celebrates Year 0 anniversary

MassivelyNorrathian Notebook: Landmark celebrates Year 0 anniversary originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Feb 2015 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Daybreak-Game-Companyeqeq-2eq-iieq-nexteq-next-landmarkeq2eqiieqneqn-landmarkeqnexteqnleverquesteverquest-2everquest-iieverquest-nexteverquest-next-landmarkf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playlandmarknorrathnorrathian-notebookopinionpgcplayer-generated-contentsandboxsoesonysony-online-entertainmenttattered-notebookthe-tattered-notebookTue, 03 Feb 2015 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: This is not the end]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/03/the-daily-grind-this-is-not-the-end/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/03/the-daily-grind-this-is-not-the-end/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/03/the-daily-grind-this-is-not-the-end/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

I hate goodbyes, so this one is going to be short. And really, it's not even going to be a goodbye goodbye. But wait, I've said too much!

Anyway, thanks. Thanks for reading and commenting. Thanks for playing MMORPGs and making them worlds worth escaping to (and, OK, sometimes from). Mostly, though, thanks for allowing me to do this job. Ahh never mind, here's a quote.

"I find myself more and more convinced that I had more fun doing news reporting than in any other enterprise."

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: This is not the end originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Feb 2015 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daily-grindopiniontdgthe-daily-grindthis-is-not-the-endTue, 03 Feb 2015 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Marvel Heroes team-ups, League of Legends soundtrack, last bits from PAX South]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/not-so-massively-marvel-heroes-team-ups-league-of-legends-soun/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/not-so-massively-marvel-heroes-team-ups-league-of-legends-soun/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/not-so-massively-marvel-heroes-team-ups-league-of-legends-soun/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Say goodbye? It's never goodbye.
Welcome back to No So Massively, where every Monday we round up the highlights from the past week in the world of MOBAs, roguelikes, MMOTCGs, and other games that aren't quite MMOs.

Do you feel as if you're getting everything you can out of your team-up companions in Marvel Heroes? The developers don't really feel you are, hence why the team-up system is getting a pretty big overhaul over the next year. Your amazing friends will be more amazing than ever.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Marvel Heroes team-ups, League of Legends soundtrack, last bits from PAX South

MassivelyNot So Massively: Marvel Heroes team-ups, League of Legends soundtrack, last bits from PAX South originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Feb 2015 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionaction-mmobrianna-royce-nsmcompetitive-gamingcrowdfundingdotae-sporte-sportsesportesportsf2pfantasyfree-to-playgazilliongazillion-entertainmentkickstarterleagueleague-of-legendslolmarvelmarvel-heroesmarvel-universemarvel-universe-onlinemobamoonrisemuonerd-kingdomnewsnot-so-massivelynsmopinionpox-norapvpriotriot-gamesround-uproundupsandboxsecret-identitysuperherosuperheroesthe-untitled-gametugundead-labsvideovideosMon, 02 Feb 2015 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: We, the drowned]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/choose-my-adventure-we-the-drowned/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/choose-my-adventure-we-the-drowned/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/choose-my-adventure-we-the-drowned/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Choose My Adventure
By now you're more than aware that Massively, WoW Insider, and Joystiq are not long for this world. Thanks to the type of organizational reshuffling we've so often covered on these very pages, AOL's enthusiast blogs have eaten the sharper end of an axe. We're upset. You're upset. But the core reality is that sometimes bad things happen. All we can do is pick ourselves up, steady our breathing, and leap into the void.

I've been with Massively since 2011. I started as a streamer, evolved into a news/features writer, and finished as the steward of Choose My Adventure. Every moment has been a privilege. Every day exciting.

And it's you I have to thank.

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: We, the drowned

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: We, the drowned originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Feb 2015 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>choose-my-adventurecmafeaturedhands-onopinionpollpollsreaders-choicevotevotingMon, 02 Feb 2015 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Seven things I learned while writing about SWTOR]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/hyperspace-beacon-seven-things-i-learned-while-writing-about-sw/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/hyperspace-beacon-seven-things-i-learned-while-writing-about-sw/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/hyperspace-beacon-seven-things-i-learned-while-writing-about-sw/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

This travel through hyperspace cannot be compared to anything else. Not many people get an opportunity to work on something they love professionally, like my writing about Star Wars: The Old Republic. With Massively as we know it coming to an end, it's time to say goodbye to this passenger.

Before I actually say my final farewell to Massively, I'd like to leave you, fans of Massively and the Hyperspace Beacon, with a list of things that I've learned from writing this column.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Seven things I learned while writing about SWTOR

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Seven things I learned while writing about SWTOR originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Feb 2015 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaelectronic-artsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playgoodbyehyperspace-beaconlucasartsopinionsavejoystiqsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorMon, 02 Feb 2015 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: Alas, and so we go]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/flameseeker-chronicles-alas-and-so-we-go/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/flameseeker-chronicles-alas-and-so-we-go/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/flameseeker-chronicles-alas-and-so-we-go/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Change is inevitable. But it SUCKS.
Everyone heard the earth-shattering roar that shook Tyria this past weekend, right? No, it wasn't another Elder Dragon awakening; I'm talking about the fan response to ArenaNet's presentation at PAX South in which CEO Mike O'Brien and Lead Developer Colin Johanson revealed what Heart of Thorns means for Guild Wars 2. Yes, Virginia: It's an expansion pack.

The irony is a little too much, to be honest. Heart of Thorns is the most exciting thing to happen to GW2 since launch, but I won't be able to cover it in this column. I'm going to get all maudlin if I dwell on that, so let's cap things off by talking about the game. And since I want to end my last FSC on a happy note, I'm going to talk about all of the things I'm tremendously excited for in HoT. Once more past the cut, dear friends!

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: Alas, and so we go

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: Alas, and so we go originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Feb 2015 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetauf-wiedersehenbuy-to-playfantasyfarewellfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesgoodbyeguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw1gw2heart-of-thornsncsoftopinionso longMon, 02 Feb 2015 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mog Log Extra: End of an era]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/the-mog-log-extra-end-of-an-era/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/the-mog-log-extra-end-of-an-era/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/the-mog-log-extra-end-of-an-era/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Tell us why, given life, we are meant to die?
By now you know.

I wrote my first column of The Mog Log almost exactly five years ago. I've been writing it for the entirety of Final Fantasy XIV's run now. I've been talking about the online Final Fantasy games since before I was married, and it's been a wonderful experience. I had every intention of continuing to do so for another decade. As long as there was a place to talk about it here, I was going to make use of it.

This isn't just a farewell for the column; it's a farewell for something that's made up a huge portion of my life and changed my life in huge ways. As the fall comes to Eorzea, it also comes to us, and I wanted -- insisted -- that I would at least get to have one final chance to say goodbye. So let's take one last look together before we say farewell.

Continue reading The Mog Log Extra: End of an era

MassivelyThe Mog Log Extra: End of an era originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Feb 2015 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>answersconsoleconsolesfantasyfarewellfeaturedffff11ff14ffxiffxivfinalfinal-columnfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xifinal-fantasy-xivfinalitygoodbyemog-logopinionretrospectivesquaresquare-enixsquenixsunsetthe-mog-logMon, 02 Feb 2015 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Does aggravation make you fight better in MMOs?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/the-daily-grind-does-aggravation-make-you-fight-better-in-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/the-daily-grind-does-aggravation-make-you-fight-better-in-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/02/the-daily-grind-does-aggravation-make-you-fight-better-in-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

I've got to admit, after this week (and you know what kind of week it was) I was actually looking forward to a fight when I logged into H1Z1 for some post-apocalyptic adventure. I was anticipating duking it out with some ferocious zombies, not to mention more than willing to engage in some PvP. And if you know me, you know I am not usually thirsty for player blood. Of course I wasn't about to initiate a fight, but with my elevated aggravation levels I was hoping someone would start something so I could just lay into him with all my hatchet-wielding might.

Interestingly, I noticed that because my mindset switched from always-defensive mode to a little more offensive, my awareness, my reflexes, skills, and (dare I say) enjoyment of a battle was more pronounced. So tell me, Massively readers, do you fight better -- be it mobs or people -- when you are just a little bit miffed?

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: Does aggravation make you fight better in MMOs? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Feb 2015 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aggravationdaily-grindopiniontdgthe-daily-grindMon, 02 Feb 2015 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: The end of EVE Evolved]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/01/eve-evolved-the-end-of-eve-evolved/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/01/eve-evolved-the-end-of-eve-evolved/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/01/eve-evolved-the-end-of-eve-evolved/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

¥ title image
By now, you will have heard that Massively is being shut down along with Joystiq and countless other blogs run by AOL. That unfortunately means this will be my final article for Massively and marks an end to the nearly seven-year run of the EVE Evolved column, which now holds over 350 articles on topics ranging from ship fittings and opinion pieces to guides and expansion breakdowns. I'd like to take this opportunity to thank all of you for your readership and to express just how much playing EVE Online and writing for you really have impacted my life.

I've been asked by so many people over the years for tips on breaking into the games industry as a journalist or MMO blogger, but the truth is that I lucked into this gig. When a post on the EVE Online news page said that some site called Massively was hiring an EVE Online columnist, I almost didn't bother applying. I was a prolific forumgoer back then and had written some guides for EON Magazine and my own blog, but I wanted to get into game development and had very little confidence in my writing ability.

What I didn't know then was that writing for Massively would help improve my writing skills immeasurably and even help give me the confidence to launch my own game development studio. Massively gave me a platform on which to talk about EVE Online and an eager audience to share my game experiences with, but it turned into something much more profound. There have been low points dealing with trolls and organised harassment and tough times with budget cuts, but there have also some incredible experiences like attending the EVE Online Fanfest, investigating monoclegate, watching CCP redeem itself in the eyes of players, and collaborating with some of the best writers in the games industry.

In this final edition of EVE Evolved, I look back at the start of the EVE Evolved column, break down my top ten column articles of all time, and try to put into words how much this column has meant to me over the years.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: The end of EVE Evolved

MassivelyEVE Evolved: The end of EVE Evolved originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 01 Feb 2015 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brendan-drainccpccp-gamesclosurecolumnconsoledustdust-514endeoneon-magazineeveeve-evolvedeve-onlinefeaturedfly-safefpshistoryjames-eganjoystiqloremassively-metammofpsno-i-have-something-in-my-eyenyphuropinionopinion-pieceplaystationplaystation-3predestinationps3rantrantssandboxsavejoystiqsci-fishawn-schustershootershutdownsoapboxsunsetthe-soapboxtop-tenSun, 01 Feb 2015 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Why do you love your favorite game?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/01/the-daily-grind-why-do-you-love-your-favorite-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/01/the-daily-grind-why-do-you-love-your-favorite-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/01/the-daily-grind-why-do-you-love-your-favorite-game/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

I can also describe it in many sentences.
Yes, we know what's coming. But we don't want the next few days to be a cavalcade of sorrow because this is a site and a community built around our shared love of MMOs. So let's spread some cheer today. Why do you love your favorite game?

I make no secret about my affection for Final Fantasy XIV, obviously. It's a great game that fuses progress organically with stuff that you'd have fun doing anyway and gives you no shortage of freedom in what you want to do in the game. It's a great time.

But my favorite game might not be yours. So let's share. No bashing, no whining, no complaining; let's make this a positive time for everyone. Why do you love your favorite game, be it a critical darling or a title you feel doesn't get nearly enough love?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Why do you love your favorite game? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 01 Feb 2015 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-game-everdaily-grindenjoymentfavoritefavoritesfunhappinessjoyopiniontdgthe-daily-grindSun, 01 Feb 2015 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 331: The long goodbye]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/31/massively-speaking-episode-331-the-long-goodbye/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/31/massively-speaking-episode-331-the-long-goodbye/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/31/massively-speaking-episode-331-the-long-goodbye/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Recent events call for a total podcast party, dontcha think? Join us for one last episode (or is it?) as the entire crew recounts favorite Massively memories and says goodbye (for the moment!) to our wonderful listening audience.

NSFW warning: The stinger on the end is not safe for work or children.

Get all of our opinions and analysis on the most important stories of the past week right here on Massively Speaking, the industry's leading MMO podcast. And if you have a comment, question, or topic for the podcasters, send an email to podcast@massively.com. We may just read your email on the air!

Get the podcast:
[RSS] Add Massively Speaking to your RSS aggregator.
[MP3] Download the MP3 directly.
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Listen here on the page:



Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 331: The long goodbye

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 331: The long goodbye originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 31 Jan 2015 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brantbrianna-royceconconventioneventevent-coverageeventsexpofeaturedhumorjustin-olivettimassively-event-coveragemassively-speakingopinionpaxpax-2015pax-southpax-south-2015penny-arcade-expopodcastpodcastingpodcastsSat, 31 Jan 2015 16:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 331Massively.com Staff01:19:03podcast<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you make tributes to the lost?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/31/the-daily-grind-do-you-make-tributes-to-the-lost/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/31/the-daily-grind-do-you-make-tributes-to-the-lost/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/31/the-daily-grind-do-you-make-tributes-to-the-lost/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

I'm not sorry I met you.
There are games I will remember for the rest of my life, even though they're gone. I still have all of my screenshots from the vigil in Atlas Park when City of Heroes was on the chopping block. I have documents I wrote up for defunct guilds in games I no longer play. My wife and I wrote up stories about the ultimate fates of our characters in Star Wars: The Old Republic when we realized we were probably never going back.

Some goodbyes are more permanent than others, but for some people, goodbye is a chance to move on and never look back. For others, even though you say goodbye, you keep a piece of it with you. You make a tribute. So what about you, readers? Do you make tributes to the games, online friends, guilds, and even periods of time that are gone forever? Or are you the first to say out with the old, in with the new?

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: Do you make tributes to the lost? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 31 Jan 2015 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daily-grindfictiongoodbyesmemoriesnostalgiaopinionshutdownssunsetstdgthe-daily-grindtributetributesSat, 31 Jan 2015 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively-that-was]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/30/massively-that-was/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/30/massively-that-was/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/30/massively-that-was/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

I'ma let you finish, but Star Wars Galaxies was the best MMO of all time.
I have sad news for the Massively staff and community today, news most of you already knew was coming.

This week, we learned our AOL overlords have decided that they no longer wish to be in the enthusiast blog business and are shutting all of them down. This mass-sunset includes decade-old gaming journalism icon Joystiq, and therefore, it includes us. February 3rd, 2015, will be the final day of operation for Massively-that-was.

Continue reading Massively-that-was

MassivelyMassively-that-was originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Jan 2015 14:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-massivelybrianna-royce-ask-massivelyeditorialfeaturedmassively-metametaop-edopinionworking-as-intendedFri, 30 Jan 2015 14:10:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What do you love about MMOs?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/30/the-daily-grind-what-do-you-love-about-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/30/the-daily-grind-what-do-you-love-about-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/30/the-daily-grind-what-do-you-love-about-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , ,

lotro
Being critical and even cynical is part of any "serious" fandom, although we must never lose sight of the passion and wonder that made us fall for this hobby. Today, I invite all of us to put aside our gripes and jeers, and instead focus on what drew us into online gaming.

So.

What do you love about MMOs?

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 do you love about MMOs? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Jan 2015 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daily-grindopiniontdgthe-daily-grindFri, 30 Jan 2015 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Think Tank: Repairing the 'social' in MMORPGs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/29/the-think-tank-repairing-the-social-in-mmorpgs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/29/the-think-tank-repairing-the-social-in-mmorpgs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/29/the-think-tank-repairing-the-social-in-mmorpgs/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Our writeup of the Why aren't MMOs more social? panel from PAX South last weekend racked up almost 500 comments, and for good reason: Interaction is at the heart of making MMOs more sticky. But is it going away, and if so, why, and how do we get it back? That's the subject of this week's Think Tank.

Continue reading The Think Tank: Repairing the 'social' in MMORPGs

MassivelyThe Think Tank: Repairing the 'social' in MMORPGs originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Jan 2015 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brianna-royce-ttteditorialgroup-editorialmassively-staffmassively-teamopinionopinionsroundtableroundupthe-think-tankthink-tankThu, 29 Jan 2015 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist travels to Nexus: The Kingdom of the Winds]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/29/the-game-archaeologist-travels-to-nexus-the-kingdom-of-the-wind/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/29/the-game-archaeologist-travels-to-nexus-the-kingdom-of-the-wind/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/29/the-game-archaeologist-travels-to-nexus-the-kingdom-of-the-wind/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

nexus
I confess that I have a particular fascination for MMOs that came into existence in the 1990s. It's not only the fact that I was oblivious to them at the time (er, wild college days?) but that practically each and every one of them were true pioneers in their own fashion. And while your standard MMO fan might think that there were only three such games in that decade (four, if they are gracious and include Meridian 59), the truth is that there were far more of them.

Today we are going to look at one of the most important MMOs to emerge from that time period, Nexus: The Kingdom of the Winds, although its influence was primarily located in Korea while being vastly downplayed in North America. Still, here's a successful MMO that not only beat Ultima Online out of the door by a year but has since won a Guinness World Record for longevity!

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist travels to Nexus: The Kingdom of the Winds

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist travels to Nexus: The Kingdom of the Winds originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Jan 2015 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archeagebaramclassicclassic-mmosclassicsfeaturedgame-archaelogistguiness-world-recordshistoryjake-songkruKRU-Interactivelineagenexonnexusnexus-the-kingdom-of-the-windsnexus-tknexustknostalgiaopinionthe-game-archaeologistultima-onlinexlgamesThu, 29 Jan 2015 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Chaos Theory: These are a few of my favorite Secret World things]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/29/chaos-theory-these-are-a-few-of-my-favorite-secret-world-things/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/29/chaos-theory-these-are-a-few-of-my-favorite-secret-world-things/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/29/chaos-theory-these-are-a-few-of-my-favorite-secret-world-things/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Chaos Theory: These are a few of my favorite Secret World things
There's a lot about The Secret World to like. So much so, in fact, that you just can't name it all in once place! I've had to split talking about the best parts of this conspiracy-laden masterpiece into a number of different Chaos Theorys, from my favorite first moments to amazing NPCs to fabulous places to favorite missions. Even Massively's Justin Olivetti chimed in with his favorite characters. But not even that can cover it all. That means today I'll tackle another topic: my favorite things. TSW has a plethora of little gems scattered throughout the game that enhance the play experience and attest to the level of detail put into development. And I'll totally go all Julie Andrews and sing their praises, hilltop or not. I only have so much room, however, so these are my top choices; be sure to add your own in the comments below!

Continue reading Chaos Theory: These are a few of my favorite Secret World things

MassivelyChaos Theory: These are a few of my favorite Secret World things originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Jan 2015 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3-faction3-factionsbuy-to-playchaos-theoryconspiracyconspiracy-thriillerdark-days-are-comingdragonfactionfaction-pvpfantasyfavorite-thingsfeaturedfuncomhorrorilluminatimy-favorite-thingsmythologyopinionsci-fantasysecret-worldsecret-world-chaos-theoryskill-basedsubscriptionlesstemplarsthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-chaos-theorythree-factionthree-faction-pvpthree-factionstswtsw-chaos-theorytsw-dragonThu, 29 Jan 2015 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Perfect Ten: My top 10 top 10 lists]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/29/perfect-ten-my-top-10-top-10-lists/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/29/perfect-ten-my-top-10-top-10-lists/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/29/perfect-ten-my-top-10-top-10-lists/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

futurama
I've been doing top 10 lists here at Massively for well over four years now, mostly as a public service to make you feel good when I forget something that should really, truly belong on a particular countdown. On a biweekly basis I got to plaster the front page of the site with garish cartoon pictures -- and my editors never said boo about it.

Some of my lists were tongue-in-cheek, some were heavy-duty research, and some were off-the-top-of-my-head-because-I-had-a-deadline crazy. As I look back over the field of weird and wonderful lists that I've made, I can pick out a few of my favorites. So today let's look at my top 10 top 10 lists here on Massively with a little color commentary.

Continue reading Perfect Ten: My top 10 top 10 lists

MassivelyPerfect Ten: My top 10 top 10 lists originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Jan 2015 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredhumoropinionp10perfect-10perfect-tenroundupthe-perfect-10the-perfect-tentop-10top-10-listtop-tentop-ten-listThu, 29 Jan 2015 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What's the ideal guild size in an MMO?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/29/the-daily-grind-whats-the-ideal-guild-size-in-an-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/29/the-daily-grind-whats-the-ideal-guild-size-in-an-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/29/the-daily-grind-whats-the-ideal-guild-size-in-an-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Last week, a Massively commenter mentioned that he was in a 700-person guild in The Elder Scrolls Online. Yep, you read that number right! He inspired an impromptu discussion about the problems inherent in a guild of that size, such as the difficulties of managing it, the potential for dozens of smaller cliques, and the frequently negative impact a big mob of people can have on a server community and a game's development.

Personally, I found that a 50-person guild was a real challenge to lead well; I prefer a much smaller group, 20 members or so, just enough that I feel I know everyone well and there aren't competing cliques of people creating drama. Conveniently, that's the kind of guild I'm in, too. How about you? What's the ideal guild size in an MMO?

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's the ideal guild size in an MMO? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Jan 2015 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brianna-royce-tdgdaily-grindguildguild-sizeguildsopiniontdgthe-daily-grindThu, 29 Jan 2015 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaderboard: When did you start reading Massively?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/28/leaderboard-when-did-you-start-reading-massively/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/28/leaderboard-when-did-you-start-reading-massively/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/28/leaderboard-when-did-you-start-reading-massively/#commentsFiled under: ,

This site has been around a while. Not as long as some, but still a while. For today's Leaderboard, tell us how long you've been around Massively. Assuming it's more than a week or so, you already know that there's a poll just past the cut.

Continue reading Leaderboard: When did you start reading Massively?

MassivelyLeaderboard: When did you start reading Massively? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Jan 2015 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battle-royalleaderboardmassivelyone-on-oneone-vs-oneopinionpollpollsthis-is-not-the-endversusvotevotesvotingvsWed, 28 Jan 2015 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Global Chat: Can MMO stories rise above mediocrity?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/28/global-chat-can-mmo-stories-rise-above-mediocrity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/28/global-chat-can-mmo-stories-rise-above-mediocrity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/28/global-chat-can-mmo-stories-rise-above-mediocrity/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

tsw
Players have long debated the importance, relevance, and quality of stories in MMOs. Some have called for an abolishment of dev-driven narrative entirely, some enjoy what's there, and some have pressed for better writing and storytelling techniques. This week we'll hear from one blogger who is struggling with "mediocre" stories in MMOs and what might be done with them.

But wait, that's not all! We'll also hear from writers about MMO inventory systems, aging games, and how pretty much nobody in the world was shocked when Elder Scrolls Online ditched its sub.

Continue reading Global Chat: Can MMO stories rise above mediocrity?

MassivelyGlobal Chat: Can MMO stories rise above mediocrity? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Jan 2015 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allodsallods-onlinearcheageblogbloggersbloggingblogosphereblogscolumnelder-scrolls-onlineesoglobal-chatguild-wars-2gw2inventorylord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrommo-blogmmo-bloggingmmospherenarrativeopinionquotablesstoryWed, 28 Jan 2015 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What long-running bugs are you dying to see fixed?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/28/the-daily-grind-what-long-running-bugs-are-you-dying-to-see-fix/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/28/the-daily-grind-what-long-running-bugs-are-you-dying-to-see-fix/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/28/the-daily-grind-what-long-running-bugs-are-you-dying-to-see-fix/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

swtor
There are few things more aggravating than long-running bugs that impact you daily and have never been fixed by the team. That picture right up there? That's one of the very few screenshots that Star Wars: The Old Republic has allowed me to take due to an inconsistent glitch that goes practically back to the launch of the game. Since it's been around for so long, I have severe doubts that it will ever be addressed at this point.

I'm sure that this is not the only long-running bug out there that annoys players, so let's give free rein to our petty gripes today! Which ones would you love to see fixed?

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 long-running bugs are you dying to see fixed? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Jan 2015 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugbugsdaily-grindopiniontdgthe-daily-grindWed, 28 Jan 2015 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: The quieter side of LotRO's soundtrack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/27/jukebox-heroes-the-quieter-side-of-lotros-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/27/jukebox-heroes-the-quieter-side-of-lotros-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/27/jukebox-heroes-the-quieter-side-of-lotros-soundtrack/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

lotro
Yes, I'm kind of nuts about the Lord of the Rings Online soundtrack. It could be because I've played this MMO more than most any other at this point, but I like to think that it's also due to a really well-done score that does more for world-building than most soundtracks.

Even though I've talked about the soundtrack as a whole, interviewed Composer Chance Thomas, discussed my favorite housing themes, and reviewed both the Riders of Rohan and Helm's Deep scores, there's still more that I wanted to cover.

Today, I want to share with you exactly why I love this soundtrack: for the quiet moments. There are a select few tracks that are nearly ambient but are also perfectly immersive. I can't help but get kicked in the feels every time one of these comes on, and I know that for years to come I'll have fond memories of LotRO whenever I play them. Let's get a little mellow and hear the whispers of Middle-earth today.

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: The quieter side of LotRO's soundtrack

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: The quieter side of LotRO's soundtrack originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Jan 2015 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>composercomposersf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgame-musicjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettilord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrommo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicopinionsoundtracksoundtracksturbineturbine-entertainmentTue, 27 Jan 2015 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Examining SWTOR's producer letter]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/27/hyperspace-beacon-examining-swtors-producer-letter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/27/hyperspace-beacon-examining-swtors-producer-letter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/27/hyperspace-beacon-examining-swtors-producer-letter/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Hyperspace Beacon: Let's take apart SWTOR's producer letter
At the community cantina that Star Wars: The Old Republic held this past weekend at PAX South, community manager Eric Musco said that the community team was going to do something different in 2015 during the cantinas. He said that he wanted to reveal some tidbit at each and every event. And this cantina yielded us an early look at Producer Bruce Maclean's roadmap letter to the community.

In the letter, he talks about where the SWTOR story will take us, what's on the horizon for flashpoints, personal stories, planets, and the outfit designer. But what is all this new stuff, and should it get people excited about the coming year? Unfortunately, there is no easy answer for that. If you play for similar reasons as I do, then there is plenty to be excited about. However, there are certain players, like PvPers, who might be a little frustrated by what they are seeing and not seeing in the letter.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Examining SWTOR's producer letter

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Examining SWTOR's producer letter originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebruce-macleanconconventioneaelectronic-artseric-muscoeventevent-coverageeventsexpofeaturedhyperspace-beaconlucasartsmassively-event-coverageopinionoutfit-designerpaxpax-2015pax-southpax-south-2015penny-arcade-expopvpsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorziostTue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Are there any MMO dailies that don't make you cringe?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/27/the-daily-grind-are-there-any-mmo-dailies-that-dont-make-you-c/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/27/the-daily-grind-are-there-any-mmo-dailies-that-dont-make-you-c/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/27/the-daily-grind-are-there-any-mmo-dailies-that-dont-make-you-c/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

GTA Online
You know what I don't think MMOs need more of? Dailies. I think most core MMO gamers are tired of a mechanic that exists, transparently and unashamedly, to keep us completing repetitive tasks on a daily basis and keep us logging in, and in some cases, paying our subs. Even a well-constructed daily achievement system and totally benign daily login rewards can be irritating.

But out on the fringes of the MMO space, gamers are just discovering the allure of the daily. VG247 pubbed an editorial last week arguing that GTA Online ought to copy -- wait for it -- Destiny's "intrinsic" dailies and rewards; without them, the writer opined, players are "reminded that the grind is most certainly real."

Call me jaded, but I say themepark dailies are usually just as grindy as whatever formless grind they're meant to replace, and I suspect the players who need something to do at the "end" of online co-op shooters would probably be happier with a sandboxier MMORPG to begin with. But surely there's some sort of dailies that we do like. Are there any MMO dailies that don't make you cringe? Which game can boast the best? (And can we tell GTA Online to copy those, please?)

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: Are there any MMO dailies that don't make you cringe? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Jan 2015 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brianna-royce-tdgco-op-shootercoop-shooterdailiesdailydaily-grinddestinygta-onlinemmofpsonline-shooteropinionsandboxshootertdgthe-daily-grindthemeparkTue, 27 Jan 2015 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: The pseudo-MMOs of PAX South 2015]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/not-so-massively-the-pseudo-mmos-of-pax-south-2015/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/not-so-massively-the-pseudo-mmos-of-pax-south-2015/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/not-so-massively-the-pseudo-mmos-of-pax-south-2015/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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

This past weekend was PAX South 2015, the first PAX held in San Antonio, and our reporters covered not-so-massive online games in addition to MMORPGs, including Star Citizen, Elite: Dangerous, Shroud of the Avatar, Gigantic, Moonrise and State of Decay, Pox Nora, and TUG. Here's what else the week brought not-so-massive fans.

Continue reading Not So Massively: The pseudo-MMOs of PAX South 2015

MassivelyNot So Massively: The pseudo-MMOs of PAX South 2015 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Jan 2015 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>borderlands-onlinebrianna-royce-nsmcompetitive-gamingconconventiondayzdestinydotae-sporte-sportseliteelite-dangerousesportesportseventevent-coverageeventsexpof2pfeaturedfree-to-playgigantichearthstoneheroes-in-the-skyheroes-of-newerthhonleague-of-legendslolmarvel-heroesmassively-event-coveragemobamoonrisenewsnosgothnot-so-massivelynsmopinionpath-of-exilepaxpax-2015pax-southpax-south-2015penny-arcade-expopoepox-norapvpround-uproundupshards-of-warshroud-of-the-avatarsotaspace-engineersstar-citizenstate-of-decaythe-crewthe-witcher-battle-arenatugvideovideoswarframeworld-of-speedworld-of-warshipswowsMon, 26 Jan 2015 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mog Log: Final Fantasy XIV 2.5 dungeons]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/the-mog-log-final-fantasy-xiv-2-5-dungeons/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/the-mog-log-final-fantasy-xiv-2-5-dungeons/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/the-mog-log-final-fantasy-xiv-2-5-dungeons/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Being the champion after all.
I mentioned a while back that it was kind of neat how the whole setup of Final Fantasy XIV had come full circle. At the start of the 2.0 patch cycle we were scurrying away from tonberries and bashing our heads against Demon Wall; in the final patch, we're back to both of those spots, along with the oft-seen and never-explored Keeper of the Lake in the midst of Mor Dhona's wreckage. It's a neat counterpoint.

Having played through all of the dungeons now, well, you get to rescue tonberries. That alone makes the last set of dungeons worthy.

As in every set of dungeons, there are winners and losers amidst the bosses, good points and bad ones. The dungeons as a whole are very reluctant to let you do much speeding through, with pulls being pretty aggressively gated. So let's talk mechanics, let's talk atmosphere, and let's carefully coach you through the process of kicking the crap out of your final expert roulette competitors.

Continue reading The Mog Log: Final Fantasy XIV 2.5 dungeons

MassivelyThe Mog Log: Final Fantasy XIV 2.5 dungeons originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Jan 2015 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoleconsolesdungeondungeon-guidedungeon-mechanicsdungeonsendgameendgame-dungeonsfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivguideguidesmog-logopinionsquaresquare-enixsquenixthe-mog-logMon, 26 Jan 2015 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Did you get anything out of PAX South?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/the-daily-grind-did-you-get-anything-out-of-pax-south/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/the-daily-grind-did-you-get-anything-out-of-pax-south/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/the-daily-grind-did-you-get-anything-out-of-pax-south/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

PAX South came and went, and outside of the jumpgate and mobiglass UI reveals for Star Citizen, none of the news coming from the con really interested me. What about you, Massively readers? Did you get anything out of this year's PAX South?

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: Did you get anything out of PAX South? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Jan 2015 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daily-grindopiniontdgthe-daily-grindMon, 26 Jan 2015 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Burnout: Engineers in spaaace]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/25/mmo-burnout-engineers-in-spaaace/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/25/mmo-burnout-engineers-in-spaaace/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/25/mmo-burnout-engineers-in-spaaace/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

I missed the whole Minecraft craze. I was stupidly grinding my virtual life away in various MMORPGs, plus I couldn't get past Minecraft's so-fugly-it's-hip aesthetic. No matter, though, because Space Engineers takes Minecraft's core concepts and dolls them up with pleasing visuals, a nifty near future sci-fi setting, and addictive gameplay that's much more than the sum of its parts.

Continue reading MMO Burnout: Engineers in spaaace

MassivelyMMO Burnout: Engineers in spaaace originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 25 Jan 2015 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burnoutco-opfeaturedjef-reahardmmo-alternativesmmo-burnoutopinionprivate-serverssandboxsci-fisingle-playerspace-engineersSun, 25 Jan 2015 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Which MMO devs cause you to follow a project?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/25/the-daily-grind-which-mmo-devs-cause-you-to-follow-a-project/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/25/the-daily-grind-which-mmo-devs-cause-you-to-follow-a-project/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/25/the-daily-grind-which-mmo-devs-cause-you-to-follow-a-project/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Raph Koster's involvement with Crowfall has increased my interest in the game. I still doubt the title is for me, but given Koster's role at the forefront of my two favorite MMORPGs, I kinda have to pay attention.

What about you, Massively readers? Are there any MMO devs whose involvement causes you to follow a project?

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: Which MMO devs cause you to follow a project? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 25 Jan 2015 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crowfalldaily-grindopinionraph-kostertdgthe-daily-grindSun, 25 Jan 2015 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Norrathian Notebook: Five reasons to support EQ Next and Landmark]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/24/norrathian-notebook-five-reasons-to-support-eq-next-and-landmar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/24/norrathian-notebook-five-reasons-to-support-eq-next-and-landmar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/24/norrathian-notebook-five-reasons-to-support-eq-next-and-landmar/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

I like Landmark and am looking forward to EverQuest Next. There, I said it. It should be no surprise. And as such, I certainly have a vested interest in how these games fare throughout their development and launch. I want to see them succeed. But the thing is, so should you -- whether or not you actually want to play them.

Unfortunately, it seems all too fashionable lately for folks to tear something down instead of build it up. So often when I'm following the discussions about EQ Next and Landmark, I hear plenty of reasons why folks don't like the games, and the reasons frequently have nothing to do with the games themselves. Detractors are going on about longstanding gripes and grudges instead of judging the games on their own merits (a practice that the whole world could certainly do without). Amid all the scathing comments I've heard directed at SOE for slights real and imagined, one recently gave me pause and made me reflect on the reasons that supporting these two MMO endeavors is worthwhile.

Continue reading Norrathian Notebook: Five reasons to support EQ Next and Landmark

MassivelyNorrathian Notebook: Five reasons to support EQ Next and Landmark originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 24 Jan 2015 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classic-mmoeqeq-2eq-iieq-nexteq-next-landmarkeq2eqiieqneqn-landmarkeqnexteqnleverquesteverquest-2everquest-iieverquest-nexteverquest-next-landmarkf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playl1landmarklineagelineage-1ncsoftnorrathnorrathian-notebookopinionsandboxsoesonysony-online-entertainmenttattered-notebookthe-tattered-notebookSat, 24 Jan 2015 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What's your favorite archer class?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/24/the-daily-grind-whats-your-favorite-archer-class/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/24/the-daily-grind-whats-your-favorite-archer-class/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/24/the-daily-grind-whats-your-favorite-archer-class/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

camelot unchained
I've never been one to gravitate toward bow-and-arrow classes in MMOs, although I've dabbled in them from time to time. I guess I fear that archers and their ilk are far too popular and feature mindless, straight-forward mechanics (shoot... one arrow at a time! Now two at a time! Now a whole bunch rapidly!).

But if I had to pick a favorite, it would have to be Dungeons and Dragon Online's Bard. I equipped her with a heavy repeating crossbow, and being able to man the medieval equivalent of an automatic rifle was strangely satisfying. Plus, crossbows do not get a lot of play in MMOs for some reason.

Do you have a favorite archer class, and if so, what was it?

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's your favorite archer class? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 24 Jan 2015 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archerbardbowbow-and-arrowclassclassescrossbowdaily-grindddodungeons-and-dragonshunteropinionrangedtdgthe-daily-grindSat, 24 Jan 2015 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Working As Intended: The MMOs we lost in 2014]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/23/working-as-intended-the-mmos-we-lost-in-2014/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/23/working-as-intended-the-mmos-we-lost-in-2014/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/23/working-as-intended-the-mmos-we-lost-in-2014/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Almost exactly a year ago, I wrote about how Vanguard's early stumbles foreshadowed the changing MMORPG industry. In January 2007, when Vanguard lurched its way to launch, the genre was barely a decade old; it was booming, and it had never suffered hardship on a massive scale. In the west, we'd seen only three "major" MMOs sunset (Motor City Online, Earth and Beyond, and Asheron's Call 2), and only one MMO, Anarchy Online, had "gone F2P," though we hadn't yet thought to call it yet because it was such a rare and new thing. In fact, it wasn't until 2008's first big wave of AAA, post-World of Warcraft MMOs launched and mostly flopped that MMORPG players gave much thought to the future of the genre and how WoW had reshaped (and possibly broken) it. Maybe not even then.

Here in 2015, sunsets are commonplace, and the vast majority of modern MMOs have adopted some sort of subscriptionless model. Last year, we lost more than a dozen MMOs, including Vanguard itself, all of them wiped from the face of the earth (at least until someone decides to resurrect them), and several more under development were canceled, leading to concern among industry watchers like those of us who pen for Massively. Let's try to get some perspective and revisit the MMOs we lost in 2014.

Continue reading Working As Intended: The MMOs we lost in 2014

MassivelyWorking As Intended: The MMOs we lost in 2014 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Jan 2015 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-empires-onlineclone-wars-adventurescwadawngatedoctor-who-worlds-in-timeeditorialfeaturedfree-realmslegend-of-eddalegend-of-silkroadlord-of-ultimaluniamythic-entertainmentop-edopinionproject-titanrantrantsrusty-heartsstar-wars-attack-squadronsstar-wars-clone-wars-adventuressunsetsunsetstransformers-universeultima-forevervanguardwizardry-onlineworking-as-intendedworld-of-darknessFri, 23 Jan 2015 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What's the most exciting bit of MMO news you've heard lately?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/23/the-daily-grind-whats-the-most-exciting-bit-of-mmo-news-youve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/23/the-daily-grind-whats-the-most-exciting-bit-of-mmo-news-youve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/23/the-daily-grind-whats-the-most-exciting-bit-of-mmo-news-youve/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Wednesday's blurb about Star Citizen's release schedule caught me a bit off guard. I guess I lost track of time because the thought of getting to see the game's persistent universe this year took me aback. It makes sense, though, since Star Citizen boasts a big dev team and an even bigger developmental warchest, and they've been going at it in some form or fashion since 2012!

So that's a bit of exciting and unexpected MMO news for 2015, at least in my book. What about you, Massively readers? What MMO news has tickled your fancy of late?

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's the most exciting bit of MMO news you've heard lately? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Jan 2015 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chris-robertscloud-imperiumcloud-imperium-gamescrowdfundingdaily-grindinternet-spaceshipskickstarteropinionsandboxsci-fispaceshipstar-citizentdgthe-daily-grindFri, 23 Jan 2015 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Think Tank: Analyzing Elder Scrolls Online's B2P model]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/the-think-tank-analyzing-elder-scrolls-onlines-b2p-model/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/the-think-tank-analyzing-elder-scrolls-onlines-b2p-model/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/the-think-tank-analyzing-elder-scrolls-onlines-b2p-model/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Yesterday's reveal that The Elder Scrolls Online will go buy-to-play in March has prompted much speculation about the nature of the cash shop, the ethics of the switchover, the continued viability of the game, and the quality, cost, and frequency of the promised DLC. In today's Think Tank, the Massively staff will discuss the decision. Is B2P the right call for ESO? Was the exceedingly long delay of the console launch a huge mistake? What do we expect from the DLC? And is "Tamriel Unlimited" in fact the worst rebrand ever?

Continue reading The Think Tank: Analyzing Elder Scrolls Online's B2P model

MassivelyThe Think Tank: Analyzing Elder Scrolls Online's B2P model originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Jan 2015 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>b2pbethesdabethesda-softworksbethsoftbrianna-royce-tttbuy-to-playconsoleeditorialelder-scrollselder-scrolls-onlineelder-scrolls-online-tamriel-unlimitedesogroup-editorialmassively-staffmassively-teamopinionopinionsplaystation-4ps4roundtablerounduptamrieltamriel-unlimitedtestesothe-elder-scrollsthe-elder-scrolls-onlinethe-elder-scrolls-online-tamriel-unlimitedthe-think-tankthink-tankxbonexbox-onezenimaxzenimax-mediazenimax-onlinezenimax-online-studiosThu, 22 Jan 2015 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Perfect Ten: My mobile MMO experiment, part 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/perfect-ten-my-mobile-mmo-experiment-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/perfect-ten-my-mobile-mmo-experiment-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/perfect-ten-my-mobile-mmo-experiment-part-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

hello hero
Last week on Perfect Ten I began an experiment to "taste test" a batch of mobile MMOs to see if there's anything out there that's worth playing in this day and age (apart from the often-recommended Order & Chaos Online and Spacetime Studio's lineup). For the record, I would absolutely love a great mobile online RPG, but it would need to be a game that's tailored to such devices and offers a compelling experience beyond trying to clone a generic MMO.

Let me sum up my adventures so far: While I did discover a couple of interesting titles, there was nothing in the first five games that made me want to keep them on my smartphone. Let's hope that this week's group brings out the big guns because I will be despondent if this experiment is in vain!

Continue reading Perfect Ten: My mobile MMO experiment, part 2

MassivelyPerfect Ten: My mobile MMO experiment, part 2 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Jan 2015 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avabelavabel-onlinedawn-of-the-immortalsdragon-agefeaturedhello-heroheroes-of-dragon-agehumorimomobilemobile-mmoopinionp10perfect-10perfect-tenroundupthe-perfect-10the-perfect-tenthe-world-of-magictop-10top-10-listtop-tentop-ten-listtwomThu, 22 Jan 2015 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Will you play Elder Scrolls Online once it's B2P?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/the-daily-grind-will-you-play-elder-scrolls-online-once-its-b2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/the-daily-grind-will-you-play-elder-scrolls-online-once-its-b2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/22/the-daily-grind-will-you-play-elder-scrolls-online-once-its-b2/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Yesterday's news that The Elder Scrolls Online is going buy-to-play in time for its console launch surprised... well, not many of Massively's readers. You pretty much saw it coming. Some folks around here said this move was a certainty even before launch and consequently refused to buy it, deciding that patience would pay off. (And it did!)

But what about now? I admit I'm much more tempted by a game that isn't charging an unwarranted fee and isn't abusing a cash shop. B2P is a great model for gamers, especially when they avoid lockbox crap (yay!). How about you? If you didn't play ESO when it launched last April, will you give it a try in March when it's down to just a box fee, a mild cash shop, and more traditional DLC?

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: Will you play Elder Scrolls Online once it's B2P? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Jan 2015 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battle-royalbrianna-royce-tdgdaily-grindleaderboardone-on-oneone-vs-oneopinionpollpollstdgthe-daily-grindversusvotevotesvotingvsThu, 22 Jan 2015 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: A bit of TERA sightseeing]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/21/choose-my-adventure-a-bit-of-tera-sightseeing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/21/choose-my-adventure-a-bit-of-tera-sightseeing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/21/choose-my-adventure-a-bit-of-tera-sightseeing/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

TERA
There's no question that TERA is one of the most beautiful MMOs on the market. Its open world features gorgeous terrain, cool set pieces, and lots of variation for the screenshot-obsessed. So when Choose My Adventure's voters elected to send me exploring last week, I was more than happy to oblige. I wouldn't accomplish much Fate of Arun stuff, but at least I'd get to see some sights!

I also, somehow, learned a bit more about the Warrior class and how to effectively deploy it in combat. It's been a long, hard crawl, but I think I'm finally starting to get the hang of my combo abilities and my evasion techniques. I'm definitely dying less and even occasionally having moments when I feel totally in control of the actions my character is taking and the reasoning behind them. I almost feel... good.

Until the next BAM smacks me down, of course.

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: A bit of TERA sightseeing

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: A bit of TERA sightseeing originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Jan 2015 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studioschoose-my-adventurecmaen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfantasyfate-of-arunfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumhands-onmicrotransactionmicrotransactionsopinionpollpollspremiumreaders-choiceteravotevotingWed, 21 Jan 2015 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: Aion entices returning players, removes reviled manastone mechanic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/21/wings-over-atreia-aion-introduces-exclusives-for-returning-pla/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/21/wings-over-atreia-aion-introduces-exclusives-for-returning-pla/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/21/wings-over-atreia-aion-introduces-exclusives-for-returning-pla/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

If you haven't checked back into Aion in a while, now might be the time to start plotting your return. Next week on January 28th NCsoft is introducing a special new experience for those who have been away from the game for more than 30 days; it includes special zones called Abbeys that provide exclusive bonuses as well as quests and gear upgrades. Even better, if one of the reasons you left was the frustration involved in losing all your equipment's manastones when you failed to socket a final stone, you'll be even happier to learn that that particular mechanic is being removed from the game! That's right: Aion players will no longer risk losing already successfully socketed manastones when trying to put another one in (a much needed change that I championed years ago!).

We've got the scoop on these new changes from Associate Product Manager Sean Orlikowski -- along with news of an upcoming Shugo event instance and the breakthrough system that raises enchantment levels -- in this special return of Wings Over Atreia.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: Aion entices returning players, removes reviled manastone mechanic

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: Aion entices returning players, removes reviled manastone mechanic originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Jan 2015 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionascensionf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playncsoftopinionSean-Orlikowskitruly-freewings-over-atreiaWed, 21 Jan 2015 12:00:00 EST