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[First Impressions: A second look at APB on launch day]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/06/first-impressions-a-second-look-at-apb-on-launch-day/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/06/first-impressions-a-second-look-at-apb-on-launch-day/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/06/first-impressions-a-second-look-at-apb-on-launch-day/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

APB Relaunch day
On June 29th, 2010, Realtime Worlds launched All Points Bulletin, an MMO that was highly anticipated for its character customization options, open-world "gang warfare" PvP, and similarity to the wildy popular Grand Theft Auto series of video games. In fact, the original APB's lead designer was David Jones, creator of such classics as Lemmings and the original Grand Theft Auto.

But six weeks later, Realtime Worlds entered administration, which essentially means that the company was having financial troubles but was allowed to continue running while looking for a new owner. That new owner didn't materialize quickly enough, forcing the company to announce the game's closure during what may be the shortest MMO lifespan of all time.

But who should come to save the day on November 11, 2010? None other than K2 Network, parent company of free-to-play publisher GamersFirst, which swooped in to rescue the game under the new title APB: Reloaded.

Today marks the official re-launch of the crime MMO on Steam, and I've been spending entirely too much time with the game, rediscovering why I both loved and hated the original version. Follow along after the cut for our second look at a First Impressions of APB.

Continue reading First Impressions: A second look at APB on launch day

MassivelyFirst Impressions: A second look at APB on launch day originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 Dec 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-reloadedapbapb-reloadedapbrcrimef2pfirst-impressionsfree-to-playg1gamersfirsthands-onk2-networkrealtime-worldsrelaunchsecond-chanceTue, 06 Dec 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The story of saving APB]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/the-story-of-saving-apb/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/the-story-of-saving-apb/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/the-story-of-saving-apb/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

APB
While many of us are aware of the basics behind the rise, fall, and re-rise of All Points Bulletin, it's only been from a partial, fragmented perspective. GamesIndustry.biz conducted an in-depth investigation into the story of how GamersFirst swooped in to save the drowning APB, which barely had 130,000 registered users at the time of its shutdown last year.

As the game and company went into administration, GamersFirst sent in a team to assess the title and see what could be done. The company decided to purchase it and convert it to a free-to-play model, although Bjorn Book-Larsson said that the price tag for the company was higher than initially anticipated: "It ended up not being a cheap deal for us, but obviously a lot cheaper than the initial development."

In restructuring the development team, GamersFirst reduced the number of developers by 90% to make it more agile, often recruiting former Realtime Worlds employees who showed promise. "Our production designer used to be the lead QA person. He'd spent years taking notes on how things should have been different. Essentially, when I met him the first time he rattled off a huge list of what he thought should have been different. Just an insane amount. We just said, maybe we should just hire you as a designer," Larsson said.

So far, it looks as though the restructuring and new focus is paying off, as APB Reloaded's beta is currently seeing five times as many players as those who registered for the box product last year.

MassivelyThe story of saving APB originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 31 Oct 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbapb-reloadedbetaBjorn-Book-Larssonclosed-betaf2pfree-to-playgamers-firstgamersfirstgamesindustry.bizinterviewopen-betaqarealtime-worldsrestructuringMon, 31 Oct 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GamersFirst states All Points Bulletin had huge future plans]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/31/gamersfirst-states-all-points-bulletin-had-huge-future-plans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/31/gamersfirst-states-all-points-bulletin-had-huge-future-plans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/31/gamersfirst-states-all-points-bulletin-had-huge-future-plans/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

APB: Reloaded the future
By now, we are all familiar with the sad story of All Points Bulletin by Realtime Worlds. RTW's closing down shop ended not just APB as it was but also the future plans for the game as well. According to GamersFirst, which picked up and relaunched the failed title, Realtime Worlds had ambitious plans for the future of the game that ultimately lead to design issues. As GamersFirst Public Relations Manager Darek Connole stated to VideoGamer.com:
I can't give you too much detail because I'm not a coder. But as I understand it they were looking to make APB the entry level to this whole series of games. So like you'd go into the APB district, and the social district would take you to other games and from my world you could take your APB car and drive it into my world and shoot things. They had all these crazy cool ideas that was just very ambitious.
But don't get excited just yet. Connole also stated that GamerFirst would not be pursuing that content. However, because APB: Reloaded does not have the extraneous code, the developers can make a smooth, more streamlined game.

MassivelyGamersFirst states All Points Bulletin had huge future plans originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 31 Aug 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinAPBapb-reloadeddarek-connolegame-designGame-MechanicsgamersfirstRealtime-WorldsRTWWed, 31 Aug 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[All Points Bulletin slays lag and improves matches]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/all-points-bulletin-slays-lag-and-improves-matches/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/all-points-bulletin-slays-lag-and-improves-matches/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/all-points-bulletin-slays-lag-and-improves-matches/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Car flight, however, remains.
The relaunch of All Points Bulletin has brought with it quite a bit more buzz than the game had during its first go-around, but there are still issues to be addressed and kinks to be worked out. Fortunately for the devoted players of the game, the team behind the shooter has been working diligently to try and hammer things out as fast as possible. That starts with the ugly issue of server-side lag, which the most recent developer post claims to have slain for good. That's in addition to NVidia SLI support, a good thing for players who want to run the game at truly breathtaking settings.

Beyond the technical side, however, there have been some adjustments and re-examination of the game's threat level system. The rating system is meant to ensure that players fight against other players of roughly equal skill, but due to some issues with the data the average players wound up being pushed into a handful of tiers, resulting in a few tiers with huge variances in levels. The blog entry outlines the changes being put into place to fix the issue, as well as future updates for the game in its current incarnation.

MassivelyAll Points Bulletin slays lag and improves matches originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 10 Aug 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbapb-reloadedf2pfree-to-playgamersfirstlagmatchingmatchmakingrealtime-worldsserver-issuesserver-lagthreat-levelsWed, 10 Aug 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GamersFirst hires Dave Jones as APB Reloaded advisor]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/12/gamersfirst-hires-dave-jones-as-apb-reloaded-advisor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/12/gamersfirst-hires-dave-jones-as-apb-reloaded-advisor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/12/gamersfirst-hires-dave-jones-as-apb-reloaded-advisor/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Raise your hand if you saw this one coming: Dave Jones is back on the All Points Bulletin team. The former Realtime Worlds boss and the brains behind APB's original incarnation (as well as Crackdown and the first two Grand Theft Auto games) has joined GamersFirst "in an advisory role and will share his vast game design experience during critical design stages" according to a new press release.

Jones has flown under the radar since the meltdown of Realtime Worlds and appears to be excited to get back on the development horse. "The game was my passion back when I was developing it with Realtime Worlds, and I'm extremely excited to be able to participate in fulfilling the long term vision for the title," he said. Jones also goes on to praise GamersFirst's free-to-play vision for San Paro.

APB Reloaded is currently winding down its closed beta stage, with open beta scheduled for May 18th.

MassivelyGamersFirst hires Dave Jones as APB Reloaded advisor originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 May 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-reloadedapbapb-reloadedbetaclosed-betacrimedave-jonesf2pfree-to-playgamersfirstmmo-designmmo-industrypress-releaserealtime-worldssan-paroThu, 12 May 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[APB Reloaded character migration now live]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/05/apb-reloaded-character-migration-now-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/05/apb-reloaded-character-migration-now-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/05/apb-reloaded-character-migration-now-live/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

We talked earlier this week about APB Reloaded's impending open beta date. Thrown into the mix was a mention of character restoration services for those veterans of the original (i.e., Realtime Worlds) version of the game. Today we're happy to report that the service is live in Reloaded's closed beta.

A brief blurb on the official APB forums outlines all the details. Players will need to have an open character slot on their G1 accounts as well as their old RTW login credentials (the process involves logging into the RTW account to initiate the transfer).

GamersFirst notes that this is not a comprehensive restoration. "The main items being restored are clothing and symbols. Please understand that no progression, APB cash, RTW Points, Action Time, weapons, or vehicles will be restored," says the post. Also, only two outfits are being restored due to technical issues (though any symbols and clothing items used in other outfits will still exist on your character). Check out the APB forums for more.

MassivelyAPB Reloaded character migration now live originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 May 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbapb-reloadedbetabetascharacter-restorationclosed-betacrimecustomizationsf2pfree-to-playgamersfirstold-charactersoutfitsrealtime-worldssymbolsThu, 05 May 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GamersFirst opening studio in Scotland]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/gamersfirst-opening-studio-in-scotland/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/gamersfirst-opening-studio-in-scotland/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/gamersfirst-opening-studio-in-scotland/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The GamersFirst team is feeling pretty confident about the work put into APB: Reloaded -- so much so that the company is planning another studio in Edinburgh, Scotland.

The studio will employ at least 22 people at first with an eye toward expansion later, says Bjorn Book-Larsson: "Our hope is to expand the Scottish presence and increase the size of the team over time as we add more creative game projects as part of our global MMO development efforts."

Michael Boniface, former IT director for Realtime Worlds, has been hired as the general manager for the new studio and will be handling recruitment and overseeing development. APB: Reloaded is currently preparing for open beta.

MassivelyGamersFirst opening studio in Scotland originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Mar 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbapb-reloadedBjorn-Book-Larssonf2pfree-to-playftpgamersfirstMichael-bonifacerealtime-worldsrtwThu, 24 Mar 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GamersFirst to preserve old APB customizations]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/17/gamersfirst-to-preserve-old-apb-customizations/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/17/gamersfirst-to-preserve-old-apb-customizations/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/17/gamersfirst-to-preserve-old-apb-customizations/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Good news is in the offing for APB fans, above and beyond the fact that their favorite game is rising from the dead. GamersFirst CEO Bjorn Book-Larsson has checked in with his weekly APB Reloaded blog entry, and while the piece is shorter than what we've become accustomed to over the last couple of months, the discussion is quite interesting.

First up is an official confirmation of the fact that the new version of APB will let players keep all of their customizations from the Realtime Worlds version of the game. Book-Larsson acknowledges the fact that this might lead to some weird pairings (i.e., players may have items that fall outside of the new progression systems), but he supposes that most veterans will be OK with that. "You will basically be unique thanks to you having played the game "back in the day," and our goal is to make sure your many gazillion hours of investment do not go to waste," he writes.

The second item up for discussion is endgame PvP. Book-Larsson indicates that this is an ongoing challenge for the GamersFirst devs, and as such, the new system(s) probably won't show up in the closed beta. The goal is to give high-level players something to do after they've survived the grind and to eventually turn APB Reloaded "in to a platform for many different unique experiences."

MassivelyGamersFirst to preserve old APB customizations originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 17 Jan 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-gameapbapb-reloadedBjorn-Book-Larssoncrimecustomizationsdev-blogdev-diaryendgame-pvpf2pfree-to-playgamersfirstmeaningful-pvppvprealtime-worldssan-paroMon, 17 Jan 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GamersFirst to resurrect APB: Reloaded as a free-to-play title]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/16/gamersfirst-to-resurrect-apb-reloaded-as-a-free-to-play-title/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/16/gamersfirst-to-resurrect-apb-reloaded-as-a-free-to-play-title/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/16/gamersfirst-to-resurrect-apb-reloaded-as-a-free-to-play-title/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The saga of All Points Bulletin has become one of the dominating MMO stories of 2010, with its buggy launch, premature shutdown, hunt for a new owner, and rescue by free-to-play publisher GamersFirst last week. Displaced APB fans who are wondering what plans GamersFirst has in store for the game should find themselves bouncing with glee today: The publisher is definitely planning to bring back the game, now entitled APB: Reloaded, as a F2P version.

GamersFirst's Bjorn Book-Larsson sees the move as a win-win for both the publisher and players: "APB was a game that had several exceptional features and some brilliant ideas, even though it was plagued by some initial balance and monetization issues. We want to take all the unique features of this title, such as its unparalleled character, weapon and car customization systems, and convert the game to a true free-to-play game. We are deep into the planning and early execution stages for this next chapter of APB and we will share more details in the near future."

The purchase of APB's assets means good news for ex-Realtime Worlds employees, who will now receive any outstanding wages and promised holiday pay.

APB: Reloaded should be coming back online in the first half of 2011.

MassivelyGamersFirst to resurrect APB: Reloaded as a free-to-play title originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Nov 2010 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbapb-reloadedbjorn-book-larssonbreakingclosuref2pfree-to-playgamersfirstgamersfirst-owns-this-cityinterviewjoystiqpurchaserealtime-worldsrelaunchsaleTue, 16 Nov 2010 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Codemasters denies picking up APB]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/07/codemasters-denies-picking-up-apb/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/07/codemasters-denies-picking-up-apb/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/07/codemasters-denies-picking-up-apb/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

If you were holding out hope that the defunct urban crime MMO All Points Bulletin would be resurrected courtesy of the folks at Codemasters, Eurogamer has a little bit of cold water to throw on your fire. David Solari, Codemasters Online general manager, minces no words in a recent interview.

"We have not picked up APB, I can answer you definitively," he said.

Rumors circulated that the publisher might be picking up the pieces of the shuttered MMO, left scattered by the closing of Realtime Worlds, when former RTW community manager Ben Bateman updated his LinkedIn profile to reflect his new job at Codemasters. Epic Games has also been rumored as a potential salvager, and Solari says that someone will inevitably pick up APB's assets, if only for the innovative tech. "If they don't pick up the game then they will pick up the technology for sure, because the avatar and character customisation technology is incredible. Something will definitely be done to preserve that," he muses.

MassivelyCodemasters denies picking up APB originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 07 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-gameapbben-batemancodemastersdefunctepic-gamesgame-closingmmo--industryRealtime-WorldsRealTimeWorldsrumorstechnologySun, 07 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ben Bateman details the fall of Realtime Worlds and APB]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/02/ben-bateman-details-the-fall-of-realtime-worlds-and-apb/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/02/ben-bateman-details-the-fall-of-realtime-worlds-and-apb/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/02/ben-bateman-details-the-fall-of-realtime-worlds-and-apb/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Interested in an insider's view of the fall of All Points Bulletin and its development studio Realtime Worlds? Eurogamer takes a look at the last days of the now-defunct MMOFPS in a lengthy article that focuses on former community manager Ben Bateman.

If you're looking for an in-depth exposé of why the game failed and who is responsible, you won't find that here, as the piece is heavy on the human interest angle and light on actual details beyond the plush (by game industry standards) working conditions. Still, it's worth a read, both for Bateman's perspective and his relentless positivity in the face of a uniformly bad situation.

"They essentially said, 'here are the 50 people that we want to keep on. Please go to room X.' It was tough," says Bateman, recalling the Begbies Traynor administration meeting that sealed the company's fate.

MassivelyBen Bateman details the fall of Realtime Worlds and APB originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Nov 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-gameapbben-batemaneurogamerRealtime-WorldsRealTimeWorldsshutdownTue, 02 Nov 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: APB buyout apparently nearing the "light at the end of the tunnel" [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/24/rumor-apb-buyout-apparently-nearing-the-light-at-the-end-of-th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/24/rumor-apb-buyout-apparently-nearing-the-light-at-the-end-of-th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/24/rumor-apb-buyout-apparently-nearing-the-light-at-the-end-of-th/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

"It's looking like there might be light at the end of the tunnel for APB. The end of the administration process is apparently close and there appears to be a buyer for the game."

Fans of the beleaguered and quickly shuttered All Points Bulletin may have something to celebrate soon, as the above message recently popped up in the game's patch notes. While the website has been taken down, the patcher is still delivering news. Earlier this month, the message went out that there still may be hope for APB, as the October 7th patch notes reported: "The negotiations continue! Still many groups in the fray, still hope that APB will rise again."

While the patcher address appears to be a little sketchy, APB's Ben Bateman, one of the former community managers for the title, has retweeted the address of the patch notes in order to spread the word.

There is no indication which company may be angling to take over -- and perhaps re-open -- the enforcers-vs-criminals MMO, although last we heard, Epic Games was a contender. We'll bring you more on this as it develops.

UPDATE: Ben Bateman works for Codemasters, according to his LinkedIn. Did Codemasters buy APB? Commence speculation!

[Thanks to Notturno for noticing the tweet and Mike for the LinkedIn profile!]

MassivelyRumor: APB buyout apparently nearing the "light at the end of the tunnel" [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 24 Oct 2010 23:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbbreakingcriminalsenforcersepic-gameslight-at-the-end-of-the-tunnelpatch-notesRealtime-WorldsrumorSun, 24 Oct 2010 23:15:00 EST<![CDATA[GDCO 2010: APB's Executive Producer talks about what went wrong]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/10/gdco-2010-apbs-executive-producer-talks-about-what-went-wrong/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/10/gdco-2010-apbs-executive-producer-talks-about-what-went-wrong/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/10/gdco-2010-apbs-executive-producer-talks-about-what-went-wrong/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

It may feel like the dead horse has been beaten enough, but APB's Executive Producer Josh Howard sat down with Gamebreaker at GDC Online this week to talk about the game's failure.

Josh's perspective feels like that of both a player and an insider, which gives him the ability to explain what the developer and publisher each wanted -- and why it didn't work. The interview is almost 45 minutes long, and Josh is very open about how it all went, why he left, and much more.

The interview was streamed live, but a recorded version is available for those interested in a detailed "post-mortem."

MassivelyGDCO 2010: APB's Executive Producer talks about what went wrong originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 10 Oct 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbfeaturedgame-developers-conferencegamebreakergamebreaker-tvGDCgdc-online-2010gdcogdco-2010interviewInterviewsjosh-howardRealtime-WorldsrtwvideoSun, 10 Oct 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Taking a parting shot]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/19/one-shots-taking-a-parting-shot/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/19/one-shots-taking-a-parting-shot/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/19/one-shots-taking-a-parting-shot/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Will it live again? Will it remain shut down? At this point, it is anyone's guess as to precisely what the future holds for All Points Bulletin. But whatever occurs, there was still a group of players who were sad to see it go, such as this group above. Today's All Points Bulletin shutdown party image comes to us from Super Judge, who writes in to give us the specifics: "It's been a while since I've seen an APB district so full. It was pretty chaotic -- and a lot of fun. At one point we all headed over to the cruise ship in the Waterfront District to take a group picture, but decided it was too dark indoors and moved the whole affair outdoors in front of this statue. Despite its many flaws, APB was a wild ride at times, and it will be missed. Anyway, here's a nice group photo to remember some of the looneys on the LaRocha server. Thanks everyone!"

One Shots is all about the reader experience, but without submissions, we're left to dig through our own screenshot folders. If you'd like to help out, then send your images in to us here at oneshots@massively.com along with your name, the name of the game, and a brief description. Your screenshot could be one of the next ones we feature!

Gallery: One Shots: Gallery II

MassivelyOne Shots: Taking a parting shot originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 19 Sep 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbeaelectronic-artsone-shotsRealtime-Worldsrtwscreenshotscreenshotssuper-judgeSun, 19 Sep 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Life after APB: Global Agenda woos displaced players with special offer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/19/life-after-apb-global-agenda-woos-displaced-players-with-specia/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/19/life-after-apb-global-agenda-woos-displaced-players-with-specia/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/19/life-after-apb-global-agenda-woos-displaced-players-with-specia/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

It's been a sad week for APB fans, that's for sure, but Hi-Rez Studios wants to help take some of the sting out of APB's cancellation with a special offer. Citing MMO shooter brotherhood, executive producer Todd Harris offered sympathy by saying, "We honor their effort and innovation, and greatly mourn the game's closing."

While APB's future fate -- and any possible resurrection -- looks bleak, Hi-Rez has a word of advice for that game's players: come over and give Global Agenda a try. To facilitate this, the studio is providing a decent discount on the purchase of Global Agenda through September 24th. GA will cost just $20.99 during this time period, and that fee covers both the cost of the MMO and unlimited play. Not too shabby, eh? Prospective purchasers will need to buy through Global Agenda's online store and use the code "LongLiveShooterMMOs" to take advantage of this special.

Whether you see Hi-Rez as being merely opportunistic or splendidly gracious (or, hey, both), this deal may be too good for MMO shooter fans to resist. You can read the full letter and offer over at Global Agenda's site.

MassivelyLife after APB: Global Agenda woos displaced players with special offer originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 19 Sep 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbfly-my-prettiesfpsgaglobal-agendahi-rezmmofpsrealtime-worldsshooter-mmospecialspecial-offerSun, 19 Sep 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Epic Games in talks to buy APB]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/17/rumor-epic-games-in-talks-to-buy-apb/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/17/rumor-epic-games-in-talks-to-buy-apb/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/17/rumor-epic-games-in-talks-to-buy-apb/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Could the Gears of War folks be the knight in shining armor that doomed APB desperately needs? According to BBC, Epic Games is possibly interested in scooping up Realtime Worlds' MMO, although nothing is confirmed at this point. Realtime Worlds abruptly announced yesterday that APB was to be shut down today, sending shockwaves through the community.

While Epic Games is not commenting on any possible negotiations, a spokesperson confirmed that Epic's CEO, Mark Rein, is a fan of the game. "Mark absolutely loves APB, and everyone here loved what they saw. We've got our hands full of Gears of War 3, Bullet Storm and the recently announced Project Sword. If any talks like that are going on, then they would be confidential," Dana Cowley, Epic's spokesperson, said. Rein was outspoken about his enjoyment of the game at PAX last year.

Epic Games may also have a vested interest in the technology powering APB. We'll be keeping our ears to the ground on this one if anything further develops.

MassivelyRumor: Epic Games in talks to buy APB originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Sep 2010 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbbbccancellationdana-cowleyepic-gamesgears-of-warmark-reinpaxpax-2009project-swordRealtime-WorldsrumorFri, 17 Sep 2010 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What will you miss about APB?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/17/the-daily-grind-what-will-you-miss-about-apb/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/17/the-daily-grind-what-will-you-miss-about-apb/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/17/the-daily-grind-what-will-you-miss-about-apb/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It's never enjoyable when a game or game company goes belly-up, and MMO fans have had no shortage of depressing news over the years. Whether it was Earth and Beyond, The Matrix Online, Tabula Rasa, or (now) All Points Bulletin, many of our favorite games burned twice as bright but lasted half as long.

The case of All Points Bulletin is even more aggravating due to its peerless character creation system, a unique take on music, and a payment model that attempted to blend the best of subscription-based and F2P titles. While we're the first to admit the game had its problems, it also had its charms and will be missed.

That leads us to our question of the day, Massively readers. What will you miss about APB?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What will you miss about APB? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbclosurecustomizationearth-and-beyondgame-closureopinionrealtimeRealtime-WorldsRealTimeWorldstabula-rasatdgthe-daily-grindthe-matrix-onlineFri, 17 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: No mo' power rangers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/one-shots-no-mo-power-rangers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/one-shots-no-mo-power-rangers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/one-shots-no-mo-power-rangers/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

While we knew Realtime Worlds was in trouble, we're not entirely sure even the company's remaining employees were expecting All Points Bulletin to go offline quite this fast. That's why, despite this screenshot not technically being big enough for a normal One Shots, we simply couldn't resist running it anyway, as it is the lone, last All Points Bulletin image in our One Shots mailbox, showing off yet another example of the crazy costuming people pulled off in the game. This image comes to us from KCG, who writes in: "[This is] me (green ranger) and my criminal bros decked out in ranger gear causing crimes in the Waterfront District. GO GO POWER RANGERS!" If you've got any hours left (as some of our staff members do), you'd best get in-game and burn 'em quick. Perhaps you'll see these three rangers there.

If you're playing an MMO -- or played, in the case of sunsetted games -- we'd love to see screenshots from you. Gather up some of your favorites and email them in to us here at oneshots@massively.com along with your name, the name of the game, and a description of what we're seeing. We'll post your images out here and give you the credit.

Gallery: One Shots: Gallery II

MassivelyOne Shots: No mo' power rangers originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Sep 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbdeadeaelectronic-artsKCGone-shotsrealtime-worldsRealtime-Worlds-Ltd.rtwscreenshotscreenshotssunsettedThu, 16 Sep 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Realtime Worlds announces the closure of APB [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/realtime-worlds-announces-the-closure-of-apb/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/realtime-worlds-announces-the-closure-of-apb/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/realtime-worlds-announces-the-closure-of-apb/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


It's an announcement that no MMO fan likes to see, but it hits even harder when it comes from a game with such potential.

APB Community Officer Ben Bateman broke the news just a short while ago: "APB has been a fantastic journey, but unfortunately that journey has come to a premature end. Today we are sad to announce that despite everyone's best efforts to keep the service running; APB is coming to a close."

The announcement is followed by statements from many members of the APB team, and while there is not a specific shutdown time at the moment, Ben says that the servers are currently up and invites everyone to come say goodbye.

We at Massively wish everyone at Realtime Worlds and APB the best of luck in the future.

[Thanks Brian for the tip!]

[Update: We've learned that the the game is expected to be taken offline within the next 24 hours. We'll keep you posted as the story develops!]

MassivelyRealtime Worlds announces the closure of APB [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Sep 2010 12:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbapb-closingbreakingrealtimeRealtime-WorldsThu, 16 Sep 2010 12:12:00 EST<![CDATA[APB PureSkill patch incoming [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/apb-pureskill-patch-incoming/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/apb-pureskill-patch-incoming/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/apb-pureskill-patch-incoming/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


All Points Bulletin's frenetic multiplayer combat is about to get a substantial facelift in the form of the PureSkill ruleset. The new rules, which remove all upgrades except for ammo carrier, go into effect with today's 1.4.2 patch and will be available in specific districts that are chosen via the instance tab on the game's district select screen. The new ruleset is intended to bring tactics and player skill to the forefront of APB's competitive criminal versus enforcer matches, rather than leaving players at the mercy of the traditional MMO RNG.

In addition to the PureSkill additions, Realtime Worlds has also tweaked post-processing effects, color grading, and depth of field, and a number of exploits and bugs have been squashed with today's update. Take a gander at the full patch notes on the official website for more details.

[Update: And, apparently, APB is dying. Whoops.]

MassivelyAPB PureSkill patch incoming [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Sep 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbpatch-1.4.2pureskillpureskill-patchRealtime-WorldsRealTimeWorldsThu, 16 Sep 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Realtime Worlds' MyWorld purchased, APB still in limbo]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/03/realtime-worlds-myworld-purchased-apb-still-in-limbo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/03/realtime-worlds-myworld-purchased-apb-still-in-limbo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/03/realtime-worlds-myworld-purchased-apb-still-in-limbo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Develop, a European-based games industry trade magazine, has revealed the sale of Project MyWorld from troubled studio Realtime Worlds to an unnamed American company. In a story released on its website earlier today, the publication stated that the purchase has split Realtime Worlds into at least two separate entities, each of which is being eyed by several potential buyers.

The fate of the 23 developers recently re-hired by administrating firm Begbies Traynor is currently unknown, as is the ultimate fate of Realtime Worlds' more famous creation, the $100 million MMOFPS known as All Points Bulletin. Develop's confirmation of a U.S.-based purchaser for Project MyWorld would seem to invalidate speculation that the anonymous buyers are Realtime Worlds heads Dave Jones and Ian Hetherington.

You can view all the details at Develop's website.

MassivelyRealtime Worlds' MyWorld purchased, APB still in limbo originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Sep 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>administrationall-points-bulletinapbbegbies-traynor-groupdave-jonesian-hetheringtonmyworldproject-myworldrealtime-worldsRealtime-Worlds-Ltd.Fri, 03 Sep 2010 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[This week on the MMO Report]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/03/this-week-on-the-mmo-report/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/03/this-week-on-the-mmo-report/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/03/this-week-on-the-mmo-report/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

We can't always get the warm security of the familiar, and this week the MMO Report drives that home with a special guest host. Yes, Casey Schreiner is off for the week, which leaves Blair Herter to fill in on a summary of the week's important MMO news. And going into a weekend with two major conventions that promises to be filled with news, it's probably for the best that you have a roundup of what you should be angry about before it happens.

This week's edition covers the newest information to come out of The Secret World, the massive brouhaha that Final Fantasy XIV stirred up with the open beta and fatigue system, and ongoing woes of Realtime Worlds. There's also the Guild Wars 2 necromancer reveal, the announcement of The Bible Online, and the usual dip inside of the mailbag. If you can steel yourself against separation anxiety, you can find the newest episode with its guest host past the cut. As always, stay tuned for a new installment each week from G4tv and Massively.com.

Continue reading This week on the MMO Report

MassivelyThis week on the MMO Report originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Sep 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blair-herterff14ffxivfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivg4tvguild-wars-2gw2mmo-newsmmo-reportmovienews-summaryrealtime-worldsrtwtbothe-bible-onlinethe-mmo-reportthe-secret-worldtswvideoFri, 03 Sep 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Analysis: What happened to Realtime Worlds?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/27/analysis-what-happened-to-realtime-worlds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/27/analysis-what-happened-to-realtime-worlds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/27/analysis-what-happened-to-realtime-worlds/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

While still very much an ongoing concern for the parties involved, the events surrounding Realtime Worlds and APB are beginning to die down for the rest of the MMO community.

Many people are beginning to look at the overall situation to try and figure out what happened. APB was a very promising game, and there was more than a little surprise when things began to go south.

Kris Graft at GameSetWatch.com published a detailed editorial exploring RTW's past, as well as some of the company's goals and thoughts, and how it all led to the current situation. It's a must-read for anyone who's been following the company over the past few months.

MassivelyAnalysis: What happened to Realtime Worlds? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 27 Aug 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbeditorialeditorialsgame-set-watchkris-graftlegalRealtime-WorldsrtwFri, 27 Aug 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ex-APB devs take shots at Realtime Worlds]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/25/ex-apb-devs-take-shots-at-realtime-worlds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/25/ex-apb-devs-take-shots-at-realtime-worlds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/25/ex-apb-devs-take-shots-at-realtime-worlds/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The sordid saga of All Points Bulletin continues, this time via the comments of ex-Realtime Worlds developers who have decided to air their grievances in public. Luke Halliwell, a six-year veteran of the company who worked on both APB and the seminal Xbox 360 open-world actioner Crackdown, minced few words on his personal blog. "There had been mounting discontent internally about the competence of our top management -- and what better proof could you need than this. How they could keep operating the company when they couldn't even pay this month's wages, I don't know. Presumably they continued to think we had a chance somehow; the behaviour of a deluded, greedy, addicted gambler," he writes.

Not to be outdone, an anonymous poster claiming to be a former APB dev posted in the comments of a Rock, Paper, Shotgun article about the studio's implosion, pinning the blame on Realtime Worlds' business model as well as "fairly directionless creative leadership."

Halliwell also mentions APB's troubles as they relate to the onslaught of free-to-play titles flooding the marketplace. "Then a few things happened. Facebook. Farmville. The iPhone. Nintendo's resurgence. Casual gaming. Free-to-play. It started to feel like Realtime Worlds was a massive dinosaur, building these massive things that nobody wanted," he said.

MassivelyEx-APB devs take shots at Realtime Worlds originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Aug 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbbusiness-modelsdeveloper-bloglayoffsluke-halliwellmmofpsrealtime-worldsRealtime-Worlds-Ltd.rock-paper-shotgunWed, 25 Aug 2010 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[This week on The MMO Report]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/20/this-week-on-the-mmo-report/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/20/this-week-on-the-mmo-report/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/20/this-week-on-the-mmo-report/#commentsFiled under: , ,

This week's MMO Report was filled with awesome, thanks in large part to the news coming out of Gamescom.

Casey kicked things off with Age of Empires' pending arrival to the MMO world, and then moved on to the SWTOR space combat video, which Casey loved just as much as the rest of the SWTOR fanbase. To quote: "If you aren't bouncing up and down in your chair at this very moment, you have no soul."

The latest news from Realtime Worlds was up next, followed by TERA's new cinematic and a cautionary tale about messing with Blizzard.

As always, you can check out The MMO Report every week on G4TV.

MassivelyThis week on The MMO Report originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Aug 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-empiresblizzardcasey-schreinerg4g4tvrealtime-worldsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorterathe-mmo-reportFri, 20 Aug 2010 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Realtime Worlds re-hires 23 MyWorld employees]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/20/realtime-worlds-re-hires-23-myworld-employees/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/20/realtime-worlds-re-hires-23-myworld-employees/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/20/realtime-worlds-re-hires-23-myworld-employees/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The saga of Realtime Worlds continues, this time with a happy ending for 23 employees of the MyWorld project that were laid off earlier this month. In a press release from business restructuring firm Begbies Traynor, administrator Ken Pattullo lays out the details. "As a smaller entity, MyWorld is attracting considerable interest from potential buyers and 23 members of the team who had been working on the project clearly add value to it as a standalone business," Patullo said.

In addition to MyWorld, a platform for creating social games announced earlier this summer, Realtime Worlds will continue to operate All Points Bulletin even as it looks to finish restructuring with an eye towards creating a company that can support the urban crime MMOFPS.

MassivelyRealtime Worlds re-hires 23 MyWorld employees originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Aug 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>administrationall-points-bulletinapbbegbies-traynor-groupKenPattullommofpsmyworldrealtime-worldsrestructuringrtwsocial-gaming-platformFri, 20 Aug 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Realtime Worlds continues working toward recovery]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/19/realtime-worlds-continues-working-toward-recovery/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/19/realtime-worlds-continues-working-toward-recovery/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/19/realtime-worlds-continues-working-toward-recovery/#commentsFiled under: , ,

News surrounding Realtime Worlds is coming at a rapid-fire pace these days, in a sometimes-confusing mix of dire and hopeful.

Develop-Online reported a rumor earlier this week that RTW's North American office was closing, citing a "variety" of unnamed sources, but other events point to a potentially brighter outlook.

Earlier this week we brought you the news that Realtime Worlds has entered administration, spurring Activision to send a recruitment team to Dundee. The good news in this is that the administration process will keep RTW on its feet -- and APB up and running -- until the company completes restructuring and finds a buyer for the game.

APB's upcoming Patch 1.4.1 is another potential bright spot. The patch notes include a promise that "this isn't just another set of bug fixes; this is the beginning of some of the most fundamental changes to date." The patch brings new content and some gameplay changes, and also addresses several issues that were causing players a fair amount of grief.

Will these efforts mean good things for Realtime Worlds? Keep an eye on Massively for future updates.

MassivelyRealtime Worlds continues working toward recovery originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Aug 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionadministrationall-points-bulletinapbapb-patch-1.4.1legalRealtime-WorldsrtwrumorsThu, 19 Aug 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[[Updated] Realtime Worlds enters administration]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/17/realtime-worlds-enters-administration/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/17/realtime-worlds-enters-administration/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/17/realtime-worlds-enters-administration/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


APB and Realtime Worlds have been receiving a fair amount of attention in the past few days, and it looks like they are about to get even more from another quarter.

Gamesindustry.biz is reporting that Realtime Worlds is "entering administration," a legal process that essentially allows insolvent companies to continue operating while they try to recover. A third-party company, the Begbies-Traynor Group, will be involved to try to help RTW get back on its feet.

What this means for the future of APB at this point is unclear. There hasn't been a statement regarding this development from anyone at Realtime Worlds, but we'll certainly keep watch for one. In the meantime, you can read the full story at Gamesindustry.biz.

[Update: WorldsInMotion.biz is reporting that Activision has sent a team to Dundee to recruit Realtime Worlds staffers who have lost or may be losing their jobs.]

Massively[Updated] Realtime Worlds enters administration originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 Aug 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>administrationall-points-bulletinapbbreakinglegalrealtime-worldsTue, 17 Aug 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Realtime Worlds lays off staff, puts APB up for sale [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/13/rumor-realtime-worlds-lays-off-staff-puts-apb-up-for-sale/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/13/rumor-realtime-worlds-lays-off-staff-puts-apb-up-for-sale/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/13/rumor-realtime-worlds-lays-off-staff-puts-apb-up-for-sale/#commentsFiled under: , ,

One of the most recent MMOs to hit the market is already in deep trouble, according to multiple reports popping up over the internet. According to unconfirmed rumors, Realtime Worlds has fired the entirety of its MyWorld team, made drastic cuts and layoffs elsewhere, and might be putting APB up for sale. Announced last month, MyWorld was to be a social gaming experience scheduled for a 2011 launch.

If these rumors are true, then Realtime Worlds is mired in financial trouble and is scrambling to keep from going under. A VG247 source reported, "As of 11:30 GMT Realtime Worlds have put a large proportion on their workforce on gardening leave ranging from 4-8 weeks. APB's staff will be reduced to admin and a skeleton staff of devs and artists to keep it running and do general updates, but this looks like the end of RTW."

A developer on the APB European forums briefly addressed the situation by saying, "As we''ve announced we had to restructure the company to make it so that we can focus totally on APB. APB is still going strong and we fully intend to support 100%."

We do know that Realtime Worlds fired several employees last month in an effort to restructure the company. Massively has contacted Realtime Worlds for comment, and we will update you as soon as we hear anything.

[Update: Realtime Worlds has issued a statement confirming that some MyWorld employees, though not all, have been made "redundant," but that APB itself remains intact. "APB continues to be our primary development focus, and we remain fully committed to the game and its players." According to 1UP, Colin Macdonald emphasized that Realtime Worlds has "got the whole team working on making APB as good as it can be. It's a shame things haven't turned out the way we had envisaged them, but then the beauty of online gaming is that we can address problems and keep on improving experiences. We're completely behind APB, it's got huge potential, and we'll continue to make new content for it." Stay tuned for more updates!]

MassivelyRumor: Realtime Worlds lays off staff, puts APB up for sale [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 Aug 2010 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbcutseurogamerfinanceslayoffsmyworldrealtime-worldsrestructuringrumorsalevg247Fri, 13 Aug 2010 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[APB weapon and mission changes incoming]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/apb-weapon-and-mission-changes-incoming/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/apb-weapon-and-mission-changes-incoming/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/apb-weapon-and-mission-changes-incoming/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


All Points Bulletin's 1.3.1 patch is nearly upon us, and the forthcoming update will bring about significant changes to both weapons and missions. The patch, currently scheduled for August 10th, addresses problems with continuous, full auto-fire on both the N-Tec and the OCA-EW automatic weapons. Each gun has had its base accuracy lowered in addition to several other balance-related tweaks.

Realtime Worlds' lead system designer JerichoNA, posting on the official forums, pre-emptively addresses concerns players might have regarding the testing and implementation of weapon tweaks such as these. "It''s not simply as a concession to people raising concerns on the forums. When weapon balance issues come up, we correlate these with feedback from our QA department and from team members who play regularly on the live service," he writes.

In addition to the weapon tweaks, criminal vs. criminal matchmaking has been disabled, as have been system-generated bounties. The full patch notes will be available this Tuesday. In the meantime, check out the details on the official forums.

MassivelyAPB weapon and mission changes incoming originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Aug 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbjerichoNAmission-changesn-tecoca-ewpatchpatch-1.3.1Realtime-WorldsRealTimeWorldsweapon-changesFri, 06 Aug 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[APB's Human Avatar project is complete]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/03/apbs-human-avatar-project-is-complete/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/03/apbs-human-avatar-project-is-complete/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/03/apbs-human-avatar-project-is-complete/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Josh the Free Runner is loose on the streets of San Paro.

Early in July, APB introduced The Human Avatar, a project designed to show off one of the game's most promoted features: character customization. Realtime Worlds describes APB's customization options as "almost limitless," and what better way to show that off than to take a real person, let fans give him a full makeover, and turn him into an in-game avatar?

Fans voted for Josh, a Free Runner from London, and subsequent votes gave him a startling transformation. Josh got a new hairstyle, snout ring, tattoo, steampunk-inspired clothing, and finally a new doppelganger in the form of an identical APB avatar.

Take a look at the results in the video after the jump, and check out the Human Avatar site to see the entire project.

Continue reading APB's Human Avatar project is complete

MassivelyAPB's Human Avatar project is complete originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Aug 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbEAhuman-avatarRealtime-Worldsthe-human-avatarTue, 03 Aug 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Kilroy was (not) here]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/19/one-shots-kilroy-was-not-here/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/19/one-shots-kilroy-was-not-here/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/19/one-shots-kilroy-was-not-here/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

If you're fighting your way through Realtime Worlds' shiny new MMO, All Points Bulletin, and seek to stake your claim on a particular area, one of the ways you can let rival gang members (and police) know is by tagging signs around town. However, if you're trying to do it by yourself on a heavily populated map, it's a great way to wind up dead. After all, anyone can come along and shoot you while you're busy "spraypainting" your graffiti up. Today, we have a screenshot of a pair who managed to find an open spot and successfully pull off getting their design in place. This image comes to us courtesy of Brad, also known as Nemesis on the Zombie server, who writes in:

"This screenshot was taken after a long shoot out in the waterfront district. A fellow clan member and I held out on a rooftop and happened upon a blank billboard. We decided that the waterfront district needed to know who we were."

One Shots needs more screenshots! If you're playing an MMO -- from large to small -- we'd love to see one from you. All you have to do is email a screenshot to us here at oneshots@massively.com along with your name, the name of the game, and a description of what we're seeing. We'll post it out here and give you the credit.

Gallery: One Shots: Gallery II

MassivelyOne Shots: Kilroy was (not) here originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Jul 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbbradeaelectronic-artsgraffitinemesisone-shotsrealtime-worldsscreenshotscreenshotstagMon, 19 Jul 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[APB to overhaul driving and combat]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/13/apb-to-overhaul-driving-and-combat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/13/apb-to-overhaul-driving-and-combat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/13/apb-to-overhaul-driving-and-combat/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

"We're looking at almost every aspect of combat - how it looks, feels and sounds, as well as weapon characteristics and tactics," proclaims Realtime Worlds spokesman Neil Castle in a refreshingly frank post on All Points Bulletin's official website.

The post certainly says all the right things regarding upcoming tweaks to the newly released urban crime MMOFPS. Whether Realtime Worlds can make good on the lengthy list of updates and reverse some of the negative buzz generated by less than favorable launch reviews will bear watching over the next few months.

Castle's post touches on a number of complaints that various reviewers and gamers have had with the new title, from sloppy vehicle handling, to catching and punishing cheaters, to the addition of new rulesets and matchmaking functionality. "It's our goal to involve the community as much as is practical when tackling most of these areas - as we''ve said all along, and hopefully demonstrated throughout beta, RTW's goal is to grow APB into the game that its players want it to be," Castle says.

MassivelyAPB to overhaul driving and combat originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Jul 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbcontrol-tweaksdrivingneil-castlepatchRealtime-WorldsrevampshootingTue, 13 Jul 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Bet you didn't see this coming]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/11/one-shots-bet-you-didnt-see-this-coming/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/11/one-shots-bet-you-didnt-see-this-coming/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/11/one-shots-bet-you-didnt-see-this-coming/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

One of the things you're guaranteed to see with any high-powered character creator is characters from known worlds, costumes, or other things we recognize zooming around. Then there are cases like today's All Points Bulletin One Shots, where we get a fun mashup of different things we may know and love. This image comes to us from Crabtree on the Zombie server, who writes in to explain the spectacular Mod-Squad(ish)-meets-Star-Trek image we see above:

"A handful of my friends and I have been enjoying APB thus far, despite some of the negative things that can be said about the game. Above all, it has delivered some amazing creation and customization tools, and we simply haven't been able to pass up the opportunity to create some iconic characters using custom full-body tattoos and/or clothing. Among some of our creations are imitations of Deadpool, Waldo (Where is...?), and most recently a group of Star Trek: The Next Generation characters, equipped with their very own Enterprise Star Truk. We have wondered if our creations might stir up some copyright concerns, but we figure the hilarity and recognition is worth the risk."

If you've pulled off a creative mashup thanks to a high-powered character creator in your favorite MMO, we'd love to see what you dreamed up. Send those screenshots in to us here at oneshots@massively.com along with your name, the name of the game, and a description of what we're seeing. We'll post them out here and give you the credit for sending it in!

Gallery: One Shots: Gallery II

MassivelyOne Shots: Bet you didn't see this coming originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 11 Jul 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbeaelectronic-artsfunnymod-squadone-shotsrealtime-worldsscreenshotscreenshotsstar-trekSun, 11 Jul 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Realtime Worlds restructuring to provide "total support" for APB]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/07/realtime-worlds-restructuring-to-provide-total-support-for-apb/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/07/realtime-worlds-restructuring-to-provide-total-support-for-apb/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/07/realtime-worlds-restructuring-to-provide-total-support-for-apb/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

APB's Dave Jones said he expected mediocre reviews from the media immediately after launch. Be that as it may, the Realtime Worlds team obviously feels that the game is a success, according to today's press release.

The press release announced that the APB staff will increase, and Realtime Worlds will actually be pulling resources from an unnamed second project as well in order to give full support to APB. This will mean 24/7 live support, more content updates, and generally a more active future for the game.

CEO Gary Dale explained that the decision is a reflection of the game's successful launch and Realtime's expectation of continued success in the future: "APB experienced a very smooth launch for an online dedicated game along with a great reception from consumers and we're immensely proud of the game the team has produced. We now have to focus our efforts and resources on running APB as a 24/7 online live operation, creating new content and services for the future and ensuring the best possible experience for the players." Check out the press release for all the details.

MassivelyRealtime Worlds restructuring to provide "total support" for APB originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Jul 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbdave-jonesgary-dalepress-releaseRealtime-WorldssupportWed, 07 Jul 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[APB's Human Avatar brings character customization to real life]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/06/apbs-human-avatar-brings-character-customization-to-real-life/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/06/apbs-human-avatar-brings-character-customization-to-real-life/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/06/apbs-human-avatar-brings-character-customization-to-real-life/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you've played APB at all, you know that one of its standout features is the character customization. You could easily treat character customization as a game in itself. The only thing that would make it more fun is if you could do it in real life, right?

Okay, you probably weren't thinking that, but the Realtime Worlds team is, and they're going to make it happen with your help. The Human Avatar is a three-week-long project that begins with players voting on the real-life subject, then continuing the process by voting on his customization: hair, piercings, clothing, even tattoos.

You'll watch the event happen through photo and video updates, and at the end, the subject will be recreated in APB. it's an interesting concept and will certainly merit watching in the coming weeks. Check out all the details -- and get a first look at the candidates for customization -- at the Human Avatar site.

MassivelyAPB's Human Avatar brings character customization to real life originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbcharacter-creationcustomizationhuman-avatarRealtime-Worldsthe-human-avatarTue, 06 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[APB needs partner to make console version, but willing]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/05/apb-needs-partner-to-make-console-version-but-willing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/05/apb-needs-partner-to-make-console-version-but-willing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/05/apb-needs-partner-to-make-console-version-but-willing/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The idea of console MMOs is nothing new. After all, EverQuest Online Adventures, Final Fantasy XI, and the Phantasy Star titles have managed to successfully publish on consoles. With that said, it seems as if there's been a trend with recent MMOs to say they were going to console like Age of Conan and Champions Online, only to change their minds later. That's why we weren't surprised to see that David Jones, Creative Director of Realtime Worlds, sat down with Eurogamer and discussed the potential of a console port for his company's recent release, All Points Bulletin.

What we did find interesting was that, despite knowledge of consoles from working on the first two Grand Theft Auto titles and Realtime Worlds being partnered with EA for distribution, there has been no discussion between the two companies regarding porting All Points Bulletin to consoles. Jones notes that the team at Realtime Worlds will remain focused on working on the PC version, as opposed to shifting into trying to build a console version, or trying to "shop around" for a partner. That said, he certainly sounds willing to discuss a deal if the right distribution partner for consoles were willing to contact them. Be sure to pop over to Eurogamer if you're wondering what else Jones may have in mind for All Points Bulletin.

MassivelyAPB needs partner to make console version, but willing originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Jul 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbconsoleconsole-portdave-jonesdavid-joneseaelectronic-artspublisherrealtime-worldsrtwMon, 05 Jul 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[APB's Dave Jones expected mediocre reviews]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/03/apbs-dave-jones-expected-mediocre-reviews/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/03/apbs-dave-jones-expected-mediocre-reviews/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/03/apbs-dave-jones-expected-mediocre-reviews/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Realtime Worlds' Dave Jones may have created something of a self-fulfilling prophecy when he predicted that game reviewers would be less than kind to All Points Bulletin. The recently released MMOFPS hasn't exactly torn up the scoring charts on the major review sites since its debut last month.

"It's always hard when you create something new as it requires a natural learning curve. Also because APB is online multiplayer focused, it's best played as intended, with 60 to 100 people in the city with you. For these same reasons I expect the reviews to be mixed," Jones told CVG.

While Massively has a long-standing policy against reviewing MMORPGs, you can read our first impressions to get a general feel for the game's open beta as well as its long-term potential.

MassivelyAPB's Dave Jones expected mediocre reviews originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 03 Jul 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbdave-jonesgame-reviewsrealtime-worldsreviewsSat, 03 Jul 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Anti-Aliased: When playing a bad game is just so good]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/02/anti-aliased-when-playing-a-bad-game-is-just-so-good/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/02/anti-aliased-when-playing-a-bad-game-is-just-so-good/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/02/anti-aliased-when-playing-a-bad-game-is-just-so-good/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

This week's Anti-Aliased is great for two reasons. One, it's the antithesis to last week's topic, and two, it's completely relevant to this week's events. In short, it's about All Points Bulletin.

Did I just call APB a bad game after spamming screenshots from it, hosting an event in it, and offering people what basically amounts to free DLC for their game? Yes, yes I did. Does that make me a complete hypocrite? Well, yes and no. You see, I'm having conflicting beliefs over this game. The reviewer in me wants to punt it over the Seattle Space Needle, but the gamer in me wants to sit down and play the hell out of it some more.

Look, this all makes sense, ok? Just come with me after the break (yes, I'm luring you with my double-sided, purposefully vague statements) and we'll get this all settled out.

Continue reading Anti-Aliased: When playing a bad game is just so good

MassivelyAnti-Aliased: When playing a bad game is just so good originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Jul 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinanti-aliasedapbfeaturedfungood-vs-badopinionrealtime-worldsreviewreviewsFri, 02 Jul 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Secure the streets of APB with Massively, win our in-game "Bandwagon Van" and t-shirts!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/30/secure-the-streets-of-apb-with-massively-win-our-in-game-bandwagon-va/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/30/secure-the-streets-of-apb-with-massively-win-our-in-game-bandwagon-va/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/30/secure-the-streets-of-apb-with-massively-win-our-in-game-bandwagon-va/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

San Paro is a tough place. It's infested with crime, and we need your help to clean it up! (Or, at the very least, cause some havoc in the name of justice.)

That's right everyone, we're organizing an in-game play session to celebrate the launch of APB! Tomorrow night (Thursday, to be exact) you can join us in-game and help us take on the criminals of San Paro as an Enforcer. Or, if you don't wish to do some good for the city, you can attempt to work against us as Criminals. The choice is entirely up to you!

Plus, we have lots of goodies to give away, including in-game Massively.com t-shirts for you guys to wear and a chance to win the Massively.com "Bandwagon," an in-game soccer-mom van with some kick.

Need details? Follow along after the break for all the juicy information.

Continue reading Secure the streets of APB with Massively, win our in-game "Bandwagon Van" and t-shirts!

MassivelySecure the streets of APB with Massively, win our in-game "Bandwagon Van" and t-shirts! originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 30 Jun 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbenforcereventin-gamein-game-eventlaunch-eventmassively-mobmassively-mob-scenerealtime-worldsWed, 30 Jun 2010 18:00:00 EST