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[Guild Wars 2, Torchlight 2 slash box prices for Halloween]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/30/guild-wars-2-torchlight-2-slash-box-prices-for-halloween/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/30/guild-wars-2-torchlight-2-slash-box-prices-for-halloween/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/30/guild-wars-2-torchlight-2-slash-box-prices-for-halloween/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

gw2
If you're looking for a subscription-free MMO to spend Halloween in, ArenaNet has an offer for you: The studio's slashed the price on Guild Wars 2's digital edition by 50%, making the cheapest version of the game just under 20 bucks.

If OARPGs are more your style, then check out Torchlight and Torchlight II; both are half off until November 3rd, Runic announced this afternoon.

We included a bunch of other Halloween-related sales in this morning's MMO Halloween roundup, and we expect more to keep rolling in today and tomorrow. Most games with cash shops are running some sort of promotion... just remember, you're a person, not a wallet.

MassivelyGuild Wars 2, Torchlight 2 slash box prices for Halloween originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 30 Oct 2014 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NSM
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.

It's been a week of launches in the MOBA and multiplayer ARPG world!

Continue reading Not So Massively: Diablo III's expansion, LoL's team builder, and the Oculus Rift acquisition

MassivelyNot So Massively: Diablo III's expansion, LoL's team builder, and the Oculus Rift acquisition originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 31 Mar 2014 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brianna-royce-nsmcompetitive-gamingd3dayzdiablo-iiidotae-sporte-sportsesportesportsf2pfacebookfeaturedfree-to-playheroes-of-the-stormhotsinfinite-crisisleagueleague-of-legendslolmobanewsnosgothnot-so-massivelynsmoculus-riftopinionprime-worldpvpround-uprounduprunic-gamesshadowrun-onlinesmitestate-of-decaysupermantorchlighttorchlight-2torchlight-iityraelvideovideoswarfacewarframeMon, 31 Mar 2014 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Founders leave Torchlight developer Runic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/27/torchlight-founders-leave-runic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/27/torchlight-founders-leave-runic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/27/torchlight-founders-leave-runic/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Torchlight gameplay
Runic Games co-founders Travis Baldtree and Erich Schaefer have departed the studio responsible for Torchlight and its sequel. Baldtree announced the decision on the Runic forums, and wrote that he's "super-stoked" to return to indie development and the ability to wear many hats at once.

"I should say from the outset that this is an amicable departure, that I consider the amazing team at Runic my friends and family, and that it is a privilege that they've let me get away with running the place for this long," he explained.

VG247 reports that Erich Schaefer's brother Max, a fellow Blizzard North alum, is staying on as Runic's CEO.

MassivelyFounders leave Torchlight developer Runic originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Mar 2014 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>erich-schaeferfantasyfree-to-playrunicrunic-foundersrunic-gamestorchlighttorchlight-2travis-baldreeThu, 27 Mar 2014 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Star Citizen's hangar module, Elite's black markets, and the Dota 2 world championship]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/08/05/not-so-massively-star-citizens-hangar-module-elites-black-ma/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/08/05/not-so-massively-star-citizens-hangar-module-elites-black-ma/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/08/05/not-so-massively-star-citizens-hangar-module-elites-black-ma/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Game title image
Star Citizen fired a shot across the bow of game publishers this week as it hit $15 million US in crowdfunding. The game's hangar module has now entered code lockdown and will soon be available to owners of every ship type except the cutlass. Elite: Dangerous teased players with details of trading and black markets in a massive new development newsletter, and revealed two new luxury passenger liner style ships.

Dota 2 kicked off its third annual world championship tournament, The International, with a record-breaking prize pool of $2.8 million and growing! League of Legends' smaller but still incredibly popular $100,000 EU LCS Summer Split tournament also got underway this week ahead of the colossal upcoming patch 3.10. The patch will include nerfs to champions Elise and Twisted Fate, and the removal of the popular Runic Bulwark item.

Diablo III's gold economy showed further signs of runaway inflation as developers increased the size of gold stacks on the real money auction house from 10 million for $0.25 to 50 million for the same price. Blizzard also asked players for feedback on the idea of adding a Diablo II style ladder system, and announced that it has big news about the game to be revealed in Gamescom later this month. And Path of Exile showed off its new Reave skill for Shadow characters ahead of upcoming patch 0.11.4.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Star Citizen's hangar module, Elite's black markets, and the Dota 2 world championship

MassivelyNot So Massively: Star Citizen's hangar module, Elite's black markets, and the Dota 2 world championship originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Aug 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoaction-rpgbalancebattlenetblack-marketblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrabencloud-imperiumcompetitive-gamingcrowdfundingd3david-brabendexteritydiablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotadota-2e-sporte-sportseconomyEliseeliteesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfrontierfrontier-developmentsgoldgothic-fantasygrinding-geargrinding-gear-gamesintelligenceleague-of-legendslolmillion-dollarsmobamultiplayernerfnewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayerpatchpath-of-exilepirate-basepirate-basesplanetplanet-generationplanetspoepvpreal-money-auction-housereal-money-tradingreal-money-transactionsreaveriotriot-gamesrmahrmtround-uprounduprpgrunic-gamessandboxsci-fishadowskillspacespace-simspace-simluatorstar-citizenthe-internationalthe-international-2013tournamenttradingtwisted-fatevalvevideowingmans-hangarMon, 05 Aug 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Jumping on the MOBA bandwagon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/08/not-so-massively-jumping-on-the-moba-bandwagon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/08/not-so-massively-jumping-on-the-moba-bandwagon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/08/not-so-massively-jumping-on-the-moba-bandwagon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
It seems as if everyone is jumping on the MOBA bandwagon lately and trying to cut a slice of the action for himself. Creative Assembly announced that the next game in the Total War series will be a MOBA with RTS elements named Total War: Arena. MMO developer Turbine has also thrown its hat in the ring, teaming up with Warner Bros. and DC comics to develop a MOBA based on the Infinite Crisis DC storyline.

League of Legends continued its plans to revamp old characters with overhauls to Sejuani and Trundle. Developers also revealed upcoming Ice Witch champion Lissandra, a crowd-controlling mage who can cast some of her spells mana-free. Guardians of Middle-Earth finally released Frodo Baggins as a DLC character, and Heroes of Newerth announced that the $60,000 grand final of HonTour Season One will take place later this month in Las Vegas.

In a new Diablo III developer journal, Blizzard discussed its efforts to get players into multiplayer and public games, including some gameplay improvements and a new matchmaking tag system. Path of Exile's Patch 0.10.5 went live today, adding three powerful new support gems, four new unique items, and several balance changes and bug-fixes. And Torchlight II gave modders a huge gift this week by releasing its in-house development tools to the public and officially adding Steam Workshop support to the game.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Jumping on the MOBA bandwagon

MassivelyNot So Massively: Jumping on the MOBA bandwagon originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Apr 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Customizable for maximum ZERKIN.
If you're a Torchlight II fan, you've got GUTS now. As does the rest of the community. The game's latest patch doesn't just add new armor sets, pets, and tilesets, it also adds the game's primary modding tool known as GUTS. And this isn't just a halfhearted implementation, as the modding functionality extends through the game to the very core.

Playing the game through Steam? It's integrated through Steam Workshop. Want to play a multiplayer game with your favorite mod? There's full multiplayer support and the ability to see which mods are enabled in a given game. Want to start modding but have no idea where to start? There's a whole wiki filled with documentation on how to get started.

Don't own the game but love the idea of modding a multiplayer game? That's cool, too. The game is on sale until April 8th for $9.99 to celebrate the release of the modding tools. So if this sort of thing tickles your fancy, you've got almost no reason not to check it out.

MassivelyModding tools released for Torchlight II originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Apr 2013 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diablo-clonegutsmoddingmodding-toolsmodificationsmodspatchpatchesrunic-gamestl2tliitorchlighttorchlight-2torchlight-iiuser-modificationszerkinMon, 01 Apr 2013 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Second Wind Roundtable: Torchlight II]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/15/second-wind-roundtable-torchlight-ii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/15/second-wind-roundtable-torchlight-ii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/15/second-wind-roundtable-torchlight-ii/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Torchlight II
Welcome to the first ever installment of this "roundtable" edition of Second Wind, where the best and brightest (or barring that, whoever's available) here at Massively get together for an evening to act stupid in video games and then talk about it. For our first trip down the rabbit hole, Bree, Eliot, Lis, and I decided to give our mouse-clickin'-fingers a workout by way of Runic Games' Torchlight II.

Our intrepid party of fearless adventurers was made up of Viase the Engineer (played by Eliot), ZERKIN the Berserker (played by Bree, and yes the caps are necessary), and a pair of Embermages played by Lis and me because it was the only class neither of us had played yet. We spent a few hours hacking and slashing our way through the first couple of zones of TL2's campaign, and much hilarity ensued. Click on past the cut for our full, insanity-fueled conversation on the ups and downs of our joint Torchlight II experience.

Continue reading Second Wind Roundtable: Torchlight II

MassivelySecond Wind Roundtable: Torchlight II originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Not So Massively title image
Blizzard revealed this week that Diablo III will be coming to both the PlayStation 3 and Sony's new PlayStation 4 console and will be shown off at PAX. Torchlight II developer Runic Games announced that the game will soon be localised to Japanese and Chinese for its upcoming release in Asia; a free DLC is on the way with three new Asian-themed pets. Path of Exile revealed the schedule for its first full season of ladder-style race events and announced new account security options along with its new policy to never restore items from hacked accounts.

League of Legends unveiled its new champion duo, Quinn and Valor, a dynamic pair of characters that work together as a single champion to dominate teamfights. Heroes of Newerth revealed its own new hero with a video spotlight on Saloman, a melee support hero who gains power from movement and can heal and shield his allies.

Dota 2 added a new Hero Build feature to its beta this week, giving players access to community-produced skill and item builds for all heroes. Console MOBA Guardians of Middle-Earth showed off its new goblin DLC character Snaga, and online FPS Blacklight: Retribution detailed its upcoming Onslaught expansion, which comes with three new game modes.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Path of Exile events, Diablo III coming to PS4, and huge MOBA updates

MassivelyNot So Massively: Path of Exile events, Diablo III coming to PS4, and huge MOBA updates originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Feb 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Torchlight 2 has sold more than a million copies
If you're the proud (or maybe humble; that's OK too) owner of a copy of Torchlight 2, you're far from alone; Runic Games recently announced that over a million copies of the game have been sold.

If you're not the proud (or maybe humble) owner of a copy of Torchlight 2 but have been toying with the possibility, this is a pretty good time to pick it up. Steam, known for its annual wallet-eating sales, has marked the game down to $9.99 (or 50% off). You can also pick up Torchlight for a measly $3.74 if you're the kind who likes to test out the original.

MassivelyTorchlight 2 has sold more than a million copies originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Jan 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dealdealsnot-so-massivelynsmrunicrunic-gamessalesalessteamsteam-saletltl2torchlighttorchlight-2torchlight-iiTue, 01 Jan 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Of Hobbits and space ships]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/17/not-so-massively-of-hobbits-and-space-ships/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/17/not-so-massively-of-hobbits-and-space-ships/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/17/not-so-massively-of-hobbits-and-space-ships/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
David Braben released a new update on the development of upcoming sci-fi sandbox game Elite: Dangerous, while the success of the game's Kickstarter campaign still remains uncertain. Star Citizen's developers revealed several of the game's ships; developer Chris Roberts made the bold claim that the studio will "compete with any AAA game out there."

To celebrate the recent cinema release of The Hobbit, console MOBA Guardians of Middle-Earth revealed its Hobbit-themed DLC that lets you play as Bilbo Baggins and includes a new playable map of The Shire. Dota 2 revealed its own new DLC with the impressive winners of its fan-designed hero skin contest and passed the 200,000 peak concurrent user mark despite still being officially in beta. Likewise, despite having just entered beta itself, Rise of Immortals announced that its first official winter tournament is scheduled for next month. League of Legends also celebrated the winter holiday with an adorable gingerbread baking contest.

Blizzard has been catching some flack for the lack of promised PvP features in Diablo III, and now it looks as if we won't even be getting information on the patch until next year. Blizzard has also unofficially got a version of the game running on non-PC hardware, which could signal a possible upcoming console release. Path of Exile continued to gear up for its January release with load-testing events and a series of new ladder events. And Torchlight II's developers round out the year with a look back at the game's development and some hints as to what might come next for the franchise.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Of Hobbits and space ships

MassivelyNot So Massively: Of Hobbits and space ships originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 17 Dec 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Time puts Guild Wars 2 as top video game of 2012
What's the best video game of 2012? If you're Time magazine or are looking at the headline of this article, chances are you probably know the answer. Time's website counted down the year's top 10 video games, putting Guild Wars 2 at the top of the list.

The author seems taken with the game's dynamic event system: "All those events and hundreds more play out in real-time -- with, as Bono would say, or without you -- lending Guild Wars 2 the feel of a living world, and the sort of compulsive anywhere-you-go playability other MMOs only dream of."

Torchlight II also made it into the list at the number 10 spot, with the author saying that it delivered the same action-RPG rush of Diablo III at a third of the price.

MassivelyTime names Guild Wars 2 the top video game of 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 07 Dec 2012 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Torchlight II might take some inspiration from Minecraft down the road
You like Torchlight II, right? Pummeling your way through waves of baddies, reducing those baddies to nothing more than piles of gold and items -- it's exhilarating, isn't it? But what if you could do more? Maybe like building a little house or planting a field of wheat?

Max Schaefer, designer extraordinaire, hinted in a recent interview that that's the sort of future addition he'd like for Torchlight II. He said that his personal hope for the game would be "to get the building and resource aspects of Minecraft and put them into an ARPG, just so it's a little more than just wandering from one monster to the next and hitting them."

Schaefer is a fan of this idea as a way to lend a sense of permanence to the game and a way for players to add to their game world. However, he's not the only person at Runic Games, which means his idea is just one of many possibilities for the future of Torchlight II. "We're a long way from exhausting the possibilities," he added.

To hear about power creep, player mods, and how awesome a Minecraft-Torchlight II fusion would be, hit up the full interview.

MassivelyTorchlight II might take some inspiration from Minecraft down the road originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 24 Oct 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arpgbuildingindie-game-magazine-radiointerviewmax-schaeferminecraftresource-managementresourcesrpsrunic-gamestltl2torchlighttorchlight-2torchlight-iiWed, 24 Oct 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Torchlight II free demo, Diablo III's Ubers revealed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/24/not-so-massively-torchlight-ii-free-demo-diablo-iiis-ubers-re/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/24/not-so-massively-torchlight-ii-free-demo-diablo-iiis-ubers-re/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/24/not-so-massively-torchlight-ii-free-demo-diablo-iiis-ubers-re/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
It's been a long time coming, but Torchlight II is finally here, and you can play a demo version of it completely free. Diablo III fansite Diablofans has been digging around in the test realm patch files to find out how the game's new Uber bosses works and what awesome rewards can be found by fighting them. Path of Exile celebrates its fourth successful public stress test weekend and looks at an interesting character build that lets players kills monsters by setting themselves on fire.

League of Legends released details of its next champion this week, the stealthy insectoid Kha'Zix, who can evolve his abilities in the middle of a game. Dota 2 officially released classic champion Meepo The Geomancer this week, and upcoming MOBA Prime World announced an odd new "PvEvP" game mode. Upcoming FPS Firefall came under fire from some beta testers this week for the unpolished state of its current beta client, and Blacklight: Retribution released the winning video of its bolt-action rifle montage contest.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Torchlight II free demo, Diablo III's Ubers revealed

MassivelyNot So Massively: Torchlight II free demo, Diablo III's Ubers revealed originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Torchlight MMO might be a long time coming
Even with Torchlight II newly released, people are already wondering what's in store for Runic Games in the future. A handful of questions about what comes next popped up in a recent Runic Games AMA, and Rock, Paper, Shotgun sat down with CEO Max Schaefer to talk about the future.

If there is to be a Torchlight MMO, it will look radically different from most MMOs out there today. "We don't just want to make the standard MMO in the Torchlight universe. We want to change up the genre and put a unique stamp on it," said Schaefer of the Runic dev team. While the possibility of a new and different sort of MMO in the Torchlight universe exists, that's not what the team has its sights set on yet. Schaefer said that the devs "might be so tired of making Torchlight that we're kind of burned out" and may very well choose to do something outside of the Torchlight world entirely for now.

MassivelyTorchlight MMO might be a long time coming originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 Sep 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>max-schaefermmopossible-mmorock-paper-shotgunrpsrunic-gamestl2torchlighttorchlight-2torchlight-iiThu, 20 Sep 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Torchlight II launches today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/20/torchlight-ii-launches-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/20/torchlight-ii-launches-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/20/torchlight-ii-launches-today/#commentsFiled under: , ,

YAY TORCHLIGHT 2
Happy birthday to Torchlight II -- like, the actual day of its birth, not a commemoration of the date after the fact. Games have a rather longer gestation period than humans, but they can be every bit as cute and loveable when they come out. The game's already been available for pre-purchase on Steam, but now it'll also be available as a digital download from Runic Games, Perfect World, GamersGate, GameFly, and GameStop. Torchlight II is up for a mere $20.00, which is made possible by the digital distribution and is meant to make the game easily accessible to a wider community.

If you're already a fan of the game or hop in and realize you love the music, consider picking up the soundtrack. You can get it totally free (and totally legally). We visited with the Runic Games folks at PAX Prime and got our hands on the game, so if you're looking for a vicarious introduction to the game before deciding to buy it, we can help.

As far as post-launch plans, the Runic Games team confirmed in an AMA that its next project likely won't be another Torchlight sequel or the Torchlight MMO that has long been on the table.

MassivelyTorchlight II launches today originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 Sep 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>perfect-world-entertainmentrunic-gamesTorchlight-2torchlight-2-launchtorchlight-iiThu, 20 Sep 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Torchlight II gives away its full soundtrack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/18/torchlight-ii-gives-away-its-full-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/18/torchlight-ii-gives-away-its-full-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/18/torchlight-ii-gives-away-its-full-soundtrack/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you listen to the soundtrack and start playing Diablo III at the same time, you get a Cease and Desist from Blizzard.
Can you not wait for Torchlight II's release on Thursday? Do you need some form of the game right now before you lose your mind? If that's the case, you may wish to seek professional help, as that's not a normal level of excitement. But you can also sate that urge by downloading the game's full soundtrack right now completely for free off the official site, all 28 tracks mastered in professional quality for anyone who wants them.

If you'd rather have a physical disc in an attractive jewel case, well, that's an option as well. The download contains a high-resolution booklet that you can print out and assemble at your leisure. The 120mb download might be a bit onerous for anyone still on a dialup connection, but everyone else should be able to nab the full soundtrack in a matter of moments. Completely for free. Who says we can't have nice things?

MassivelyTorchlight II gives away its full soundtrack originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Sep 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>freefree-goodsfree-stuffgame-musicgame-soundtrackmusicpromotionsrunic-gamessoundtracksoundtrackstl2tliitorchlighttorchlight-2torchlight-iiTue, 18 Sep 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Diablo III world-first level 100 and PAX wrap-up videos]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/10/not-so-massively-diablo-iii-world-first-level-100-and-pax-wrap/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/10/not-so-massively-diablo-iii-world-first-level-100-and-pax-wrap/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/10/not-so-massively-diablo-iii-world-first-level-100-and-pax-wrap/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
The League of Legends North American regional tournament concluded this week with Team Solo Mid, Team Dignitas, and Counter Logic Gaming securing spots in October's World Championship games. Riot Games also revealed its new livestream portal this week; it supports popular livestreamers with news coverage and even prizes to give away to viewers. Wrath of Heroes released its new ranged Dwarven Engineer hero Durrig, and we heard that upcoming Korean free-for-all MOBA Core Masters Online may be getting an English-language release.

As game developers around the world recover from PAX 2012, videos are starting to surface showing highlights from the event. Firefall developer Red 5 Studios laid the whole PAX experience bare in a three-part video series covering the tense week of preparation for the event and its final execution. Torchlight II developer Runic Games posted its own PAX wrap-up video and its official release trailer this week, pre-empting the game's launch in just under two weeks time.

Upcoming free-to-play action RPG Path of Exile released its 10th video in the popular Build of the Week series. Diablo III celebrates its first player to reach paragon level 100, and developers published a new journal entry on upcoming changes to the game's crowd control mechanics.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Diablo III world-first level 100 and PAX wrap-up videos

MassivelyNot So Massively: Diablo III world-first level 100 and PAX wrap-up videos originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 10 Sep 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoaction-rpgAlkaizerbarbarianbattlenetbehind-the-scenesbiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbuild-of-the-weekcccompetitive-gamingcrowd-controld3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotadurrige-sporte-sportseaelectronic-artsesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedffafree-for-allfree-to-playgothic-fantasygrinding-geargrinding-gear-gamesinfernokoreakoreanleague-of-legendslolmobamultiplayermythicmythic-entertainmentnewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayerparagonparagon-100paragon-levelparagon-level-100paragon-studiospath-of-exilepaxpax-2012poepvpred-5-studiosriotriot-gamesround-uprounduprpgrunic-gamessoft-big-bangvideowarhammerwarhammer-wrath-of-heroeswohwrath-of-heroesWyatt-ChengMon, 10 Sep 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Million-dollar tournaments, PAX 2012, and the Battle for Graxia]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/03/not-so-massively-million-dollar-tournaments-pax-2012-and-the/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/03/not-so-massively-million-dollar-tournaments-pax-2012-and-the/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/03/not-so-massively-million-dollar-tournaments-pax-2012-and-the/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
MOBA Rise of Immortals revealed details of its massive Battle For Graxia relaunch this week and made all immortals free to play until the patch arrives. The finals of Dota 2's world championship tournament The International took place this weekend, with last year's winner Na'Vi facing off against Chinese team Invictus Gaming in the final to fight over the $1,000,000 US grand prize. League of Legends' incredible $5,000,000 US competitive season is now just over a month from completion, with regional championships leading up to a spectacular $2,000,000 grand final in October.

Torchlight II fans were treated to hands-on gameplay demos and a final release date this week at PAX 2012 while Firefall used the event to announce its pre-purchase founder packs. Upcoming action RPG Path of Exile released details of patch 0.9.12 and showed off a hilarious unarmed fighter build nicknamed "Mike Tyson." Diablo III developers weighed in on a puzzling stat discrepancy this week, and Blacklight: Retribution launched a new video podcast series digging into all the game's new updates, maps, and items. Finally, upcoming console MOBA Guardians of Middle-earth revealed four new characters this week: Sauron, Hildifons, Arathon, and Runsig.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Million-dollar tournaments, PAX 2012, and the Battle for Graxia

MassivelyNot So Massively: Million-dollar tournaments, PAX 2012, and the Battle for Graxia originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 03 Sep 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoaction-rpgbattle-for-graxiabattlenetblacklightblacklight-retributionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcompetitive-gamingconsoled3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotadota-2e-sporte-sportsesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfpsfree-to-playgothic-fantasygrinding-geargrinding-gear-gamesguardians-of-middle-earthleague-of-legendslolmike-tysonmmofpsmobamonolithMonolith-Productionsmultiplayernewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayerpath-of-exilepax-2012perfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpetroglyphpetroglyph-gamesPlayStationplaystation-3poepvppweriotriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsroiround-uprounduprpgrunic-gamesthe-internationalthe-international-2012valvevideoXbox-360Mon, 03 Sep 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX Prime 2012: Up close and personal with Torchlight II]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/01/pax-prime-2012-up-close-and-personal-with-torchlight-ii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/01/pax-prime-2012-up-close-and-personal-with-torchlight-ii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/01/pax-prime-2012-up-close-and-personal-with-torchlight-ii/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Torchlight II
Torchlight II is marching toward its September 20th launch date. Actually, it's probably skipping joyously with a little ferret or adorable puppy trailing along behind it. Is your clicking-finger ready? We took some time at PAX to dabble our toes in the game and splash around a bit. Now we have damp toes and a hands-on experience with Torchlight II.

Continue reading PAX Prime 2012: Up close and personal with Torchlight II

MassivelyPAX Prime 2012: Up close and personal with Torchlight II originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 01 Sep 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conconventiondungeon-crawlerexpofeaturedhands-onhans-onpaxpax-2012pax-primepax-prime-2012penny-arcade-expopreviewpreviewsrunicrunic-gamesrunicgamestorchlighttorchlight-2torchlight-iiSat, 01 Sep 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Torchlight II launches on September 20th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/31/torchlight-ii-launches-on-september-20th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/31/torchlight-ii-launches-on-september-20th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/31/torchlight-ii-launches-on-september-20th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Torchlight II launches on September 20th
The hoped-for dukeroo between Diablo III and Torchlight II never quite materialized, mainly because Runic didn't manage to ship its dungeon-crawler in time to compete with the Blizzard behemoth's launch.

Torchlight II is still coming, though, and according to a new post on the game's official site, it's coming on September 20th. Runic CEO Max Schaefer provides us with the requisite PR soundbyte. "We worked incredibly hard to make sure we could release Torchlight II before summer's official end. Development will continue right up until we ship, and we couldn't be happier to be putting the finishing touches on a great game. We want to get it to the fans as quickly as possible. Honestly, we can't wait."

MassivelyTorchlight II launches on September 20th originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 31 Aug 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgf2pfantasyfree-to-playmax-schaeferrunicrunic-gamestorchlight-2torchlight-2-launchtorchlight-2-launch-datetorchlight-iitorchlight-ii-launchFri, 31 Aug 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: D3's legendary effects revealed, Torchlight II launch date imminent]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/27/not-so-massively-d3s-legendary-effects-revealed-torchlight-ii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/27/not-so-massively-d3s-legendary-effects-revealed-torchlight-ii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/27/not-so-massively-d3s-legendary-effects-revealed-torchlight-ii/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
Diablo III's patch 1.0.4 arrived this week, bringing with it 100 new Paragon levels and a whole series of new legendary items. Players have been hunting for the new legendaries since the patch went live, and one player has put together a video showing some of the new legendary proc effects in action. Torchlight II developers revealed that they are still aiming for a summer release and will announce the exact launch date next week at the start of PAX Prime 2012.

Dota 2's $1.6 million US tournament The International got underway this week with the preliminary rounds to determine who will make it to next week's final in Seattle. League of Legends released new champion Rengar this week and announced that nerfs are on the way for Diana, Corki, Graves, and Ezreal. Guardians of Middle-earth developers gave a behind-the-scenes look at the development process this week in a new documentary video featuring some of North America's top competitive MOBA players.

Finally, Bloodline Champions released patch 2.6 this week to kick off competitive season six, and Wrath of Heroes released patch 0.24 with its new ornament customisation system and announced upcoming hero Master Albodi.

Continue reading Not So Massively: D3's legendary effects revealed, Torchlight II launch date imminent

MassivelyNot So Massively: D3's legendary effects revealed, Torchlight II launch date imminent originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 27 Aug 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetbiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbloodline-championscompetitive-gamingconsolecorkid3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidianadotadota-2e-sporte-sportseaelectronic-artsesportesportsEvelynnezrealf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfuncomgothic-fantasygravesjay-wilsonleague-of-legendslegendarieslegendarylegendary-itemslegendary-weaponslollord-of-the-ringslotrmaster-albodimiddle-earthmobamonolithmonolith-productionsmonolith-studiosmultiplayermythicmythic-entertainmentnewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayerparagonparagon-studiospatchpatch-1.0.4patch-1.04playstation-networkps3psnpvprengarriotriot-gamesround-uprounduprpgrunic-gamesstunlockstunlock-studiosthe-internationaltournamentvalvevideowarhammerwarhammer-wrath-of-heroeswarner-broswohwrath-of-heroesxboxxbox-360xbox-livexbox360Mon, 27 Aug 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Torchlight exec on MMO: 'It may be radically different']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/09/torchlight-exec-on-mmo-it-may-be-radically-different/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/09/torchlight-exec-on-mmo-it-may-be-radically-different/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/09/torchlight-exec-on-mmo-it-may-be-radically-different/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Torchlight exec on MMO plans 'It may be radically different'
Runic Games' Max Schaefer is preparing for the release of Torchlight II, but that didn't stop him from looking to the future for the franchise. In an interview, Schaefer teased that the eventual MMO may be "radically different" from what some are expecting.

Schaefer did admit that the MMO isn't a solid lock as of yet. When asked about the next step after Torchlight II, he said, "We don't know what we're doing in the MMO next or ever or what. That's kind of the big plan is to keep expanding the Torchlight world."

He did confirm that a Torchlight MMO would be an action RPG and not a standard MMO setup. "We would not want to do a traditional at all," Schaefer said. "We'd adapt it in many ways to Torchlight. It'd be an MMO in so far as everyone's playing in the world of Torchlight, but it may radically different. I think it would keep our creativity alive, not just to do traditional MMO."

MassivelyTorchlight exec on MMO: 'It may be radically different' originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 Aug 2012 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgarpginterviewmax-schaeferrunic-gamestorchlighttorchlight-2torchlight-iitorchlight-mmoThu, 09 Aug 2012 09:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Battle of the online action RPGs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/23/not-so-massively-battle-of-the-online-action-rpgs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/23/not-so-massively-battle-of-the-online-action-rpgs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/23/not-so-massively-battle-of-the-online-action-rpgs/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
Blizzard addressed Diablo III's poor launch in an open letter to the community this week and detailed plans for development going forward. If you're stuck in the magic find grind, an impressive new guide also surfaced this week to demystify the hunt. Upcoming free-to-play action RPG Path of Exile released a video of its updated passive tree this week, demonstrating some of the game's incredible character customisation options. Torchlight II developer Runic Games also released some statistics this week showing just how big the game is compared to its predecessor.

In MOBA news, League of Legends released updated champion spotlight videos for its recently overhauled champions Evelynn and Twitch, and Heroes of Newerth surprised players by releasing all of its heroes for free to every player. Dota 2 added classic hero Naga Siren and updated the spectator UI with a much-requested gold-per-minute table.

Hi-Rez Studios released a new SMITE video featuring Hindu demon Bakasura, a character who can eat enemies to regain health and later vomit them up on the battlefield. Wrath of Heroes also revealed ranged assassin Korith Bitterborn this week, and Guardians of Middle-Earth published its first battle profile video showing some of Gollum's and Gandalf's attacks.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Battle of the online action RPGs

MassivelyNot So Massively: Battle of the online action RPGs originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Jul 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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One Shots
Conventional wisdom holds that snow zones in games and movies make for a featureless, monochrome eyesore that bores onlookers, and yet both Star Wars Galaxies and Star Wars: The Old Republic couldn't resist the allure of Hoth. Today's One Shots from reader Brooks reveals his character resting above an imposing crevasse on the notorious ice planet as depicted in SWTOR:
Surrounded by the harsh beauty of ice and stone, Jedi Knight Omiko Kell takes a meditative moment to reflect on the weight of her responsibility to the native people and Republic forces struggling for freedom and survival on the desolate and unforgiving planet of Hoth. Does she sway from her primary mission set forth by her Order and help others, or will she let them stand alone in their fight against the Empire, pirates, and mercenaries while she focuses on her Masters' directive?
Whichever one gives you the most legacy points, of course. Brooks' full screenshot and a few others are beyond the cut!

Continue reading One Shots: A big white blur

MassivelyOne Shots: A big white blur originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 22 Jul 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareblueholebluehole-studiosbrianna-royce-oneshotsbring-back-one-shotscity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxeaelectronic-artsen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfantasyfree-to-playfreedomgalleriesgallerylucasartsncsoftone-shotsparagonparagon-studiospics-or-it-didnt-happenreader-screenshotsreader-submissionsroguelikerunic-gamessci-fiscreenshotscreenshotsstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feesuperherosuperheroesswtorterathe-old-republictortorchlighttorchlight-2user-submissionsSun, 22 Jul 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Chinese MMO developer accused of plagiarizing Torchlight backs down]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/19/chinese-mmo-developer-accused-of-plagiarizing-torchlight-backs-d/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/19/chinese-mmo-developer-accused-of-plagiarizing-torchlight-backs-d/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/19/chinese-mmo-developer-accused-of-plagiarizing-torchlight-backs-d/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Torchlight
Faced with ongoing allegations that it stole assets from Torchlight, Chinese developer EGLS has now agreed to modify "some parts" of its mobile MMO, Armed Heroes Online. Our sister site Joystiq reports that while the mobile company continues to deny any wrongdoing, it will alter the game "rather than go on arguing." In a formal statement, EGLS said:
"We did great efforts to do each modeling, mapping, bone construction and action by our own on our self-developed 3D engine . . . We want to make clear, if necessary, that we would like to submit the documents, files, and other materials related to the game developing to Apple to prove the originalities of the game and the efforts we devoted into the game developing."
Torchlight developer Runic Games appears mollified by the outcome though not convinced of EGLS's innocence. "We're really just trying to get the thing pulled down from the App Store and to have them use their own assets," studio president Travis Baldree told Joystiq. (Apple has apparently removed the game already.)

In happier news, Runic announced that oft-delayed Torchlight II is still slated for a summer launch, though Baldree joked, "The end of summer is September 25th or something like that, right?"

MassivelyChinese MMO developer accused of plagiarizing Torchlight backs down originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Jul 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ahoappleapple-applestoreArmed-Heroes-Onlinedramaeglsmobile-mmoplagiarismroguelikerunicrunic-gamesthefttltl2torchlighttorchlight-2torchlight-iitravis-baldreeThu, 19 Jul 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Torchlight assets allegedly stolen by Chinese MMO [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/18/torchlight-assets-allegedly-stolen-by-chinese-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/18/torchlight-assets-allegedly-stolen-by-chinese-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/18/torchlight-assets-allegedly-stolen-by-chinese-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Torchlight images
There are times when things in one game seem eerily similar to another game, and then there are times when the items are actually the same. While watching the announcement video for the Chinese MMO Armed Heroes Online, Runic Games President Travis Baldree noticed that many of the assets used in that game seemed to come directly from Torchlight.

Baldree brought the asset theft to light in an allegation posted in a forum discussion. He stated, "All of the monster assets and every dungeon tileset, as well as voices, and most sound effects, are direct rips from Torchlight... I didn't see ANY monsters that weren't ours." A side-by-side comparison of many models made by another forum member demonstrates the likenesses.

Baldree also provided more evidence including the fact that many of Torchlight's sound file names are identical to Armed Heroes', including typos. Instead of seeking monetary damages or royalties, Baldree is simply asking that Armed Heroes Online be removed from Apple's app store in Canada and not appear in the US stores.

[Update: An alleged employee of EGLS, the maker of AHO, has denied the theft and suggested the similarities are a result of similar source material.]

MassivelyTorchlight assets allegedly stolen by Chinese MMO [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Jul 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Armed-Heroes-Onlineasset-theftplagiarismRunic-Gamessteamthefttorchlighttorchlight-2Travis-BaldreeWed, 18 Jul 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: League of Legends' balance patch and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/16/not-so-massively-league-of-legends-balance-patch-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/16/not-so-massively-league-of-legends-balance-patch-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/16/not-so-massively-league-of-legends-balance-patch-and-more/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
It's been a big week for League of Legends, with a major balance update and new champion Zyra being released. Sona, Malzahar, and Xin Zhao received major buffs, while Evelynn and Twitch were both completely reworked as part of a plan to balance persistent stealth. Dota 2 released new hero Templar Assassin and revealed a limited edition microtransaction key that is needed to open a rare chest. Heroes of Newerth also released its own new hero this week, a ranged damage-dealer called Prophet, who thrives on teamwork.

Blizzard revealed a few details on Diablo III's upcoming legendary item buffs, and players manually recreated the game's Diamond Gates of Heaven area in Minecraft. Path of Exile continued to show its impressive character customisation options in its latest Build of the Week video and offered a sneak peek at the new passive skill tree layout. Finally, the Torchlight II crew announced that it will be at PAX Prime at the end of August and will be running a Torchlight cosplay contest while there.

Continue reading Not So Massively: League of Legends' balance patch and more

MassivelyNot So Massively: League of Legends' balance patch and more originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Jul 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoaction-rpgbalancebattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbuffcompetitive-gamingd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotadota-2e-sporte-sportsesportesportsevelynnf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgothic-fantasygrinding-geargrinding-gear-gamesheroes-of-newerthhonleague-of-legendslegendarylegendary-itemslolminecraftmobamultiplayernerfnewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayerpatchpatch-previewpath-of-exileplant-magepoeprophetpvpriotriot-gamesround-uprounduprpgrunic-gamess2s2-gamestemplar-assassintwitchvalvevideozyraMon, 16 Jul 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Max Schafer claims Diablo III was originally an MMO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/15/max-schafer-claims-diablo-iii-was-originally-an-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/15/max-schafer-claims-diablo-iii-was-originally-an-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/15/max-schafer-claims-diablo-iii-was-originally-an-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

World of Diablocraft.
It always requires you to be online. It lets friends drop in, often without warning, to take part in whatever you're doing. It has an elaborate auction house, complete with microtransactions. Diablo III isn't an MMO, but in the eyes of many fans, it certainly seems to be aping the style of MMOs, and whether or not that's a good thing depends on your point of view. But according to recent statements from Runic Games co-founder Max Schafer, that's no accident, as many years ago, the game was an MMO.

Schafer states that prior to his departure, the team was essentially aiming at doing for the Diablo franchise what World of Warcraft did to the Warcraft franchise. Changes in upper management prompted Schafer's departure, and his current studio Runic Games is known for its very Diablo-like Torchlight franchise. While it's been a long time since development on a Diablo MMO was in the cards, it seems some of those roots wound up making it to launch after all.

MassivelyMax Schafer claims Diablo III was originally an MMO originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 Jun 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcash-shopd3developmentdiablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiifantasygothic-fantasymax-schaefermmo-developmentmultiplayernewsonline-multiplayerretrospectiveroguelikerpgrunic-gamestorchlightFri, 15 Jun 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Diablo III vs. Torchlight II: Battle of the dungeon-crawlers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/diablo-iii-vs-torchlight-ii-battle-of-the-dungeon-crawlers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/diablo-iii-vs-torchlight-ii-battle-of-the-dungeon-crawlers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/diablo-iii-vs-torchlight-ii-battle-of-the-dungeon-crawlers/#commentsFiled under: , ,

ROUND ONE: FIGHT!
We know you're all still enthralled by Blizzard's latest blockbuster, Diablo III, but it's important to remember that it's not the only major dungeon-crawler hitting the market this year. Runic Games' Torchlight II is also slated for release, and it's sure to offer plenty of dungeon-delving, loot-gathering goodness as well.

But the real question is, how do the two games stack up against one another? The Ancient Gaming Noob has decided to pit the two titles against each other in a no-holds-barred Thunderdome deathmatch to see which game emerges victorious!

On one hand, you have Diablo III's simplified method of character progression utilizing runes and a number of skill combinations, and on the other hand, there's Torchlight II's more traditional talent trees and attribute points. Atmosphere (bright and colorful vs. dark and dreary is a battle for the ages), story, and gameplay are all matters of contention between the two, and each category receives ample coverage, providing a detailed look at the similarities and contrasts between the titles. If you're unsure which dungeon-crawler you want to swear allegiance to, head on over and give the full piece a read for a bit of help in the decision-making process.

MassivelyDiablo III vs. Torchlight II: Battle of the dungeon-crawlers originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 May 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcash-shopcomparisond3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiifantasygothic-fantasymultiplayeronline-multiplayerroguelikerpgrunic-gamestorchlighttorchlight-2torchlight-iiWed, 23 May 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: D3 approaches, HoN reveals MidWars game mode]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/not-so-massively-d3-approaches-hon-reveals-midwars-game-mode/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/not-so-massively-d3-approaches-hon-reveals-midwars-game-mode/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/not-so-massively-d3-approaches-hon-reveals-midwars-game-mode/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
With just over a week to go until Diablo III is released, Blizzard revealed the final details of the real money auction house, released some fantastic new class wallpapers, and launched a TV advertising campaign. Meanwhile, Torchlight II showed off the impressive final result of its earlier armour design contest and encouraged players to produce armour mods when the game is released.

Heroes of Newerth released a brand-new community-inspired MidWars game map this week to lend official support to the popular unofficial game mode. League of Legends revealed upcoming champion Varus with a full run-down of his abilities and a great art spotlight video. Dota 2 fixed some bizarre bugs and introduced classic hero Phantom Lancer. Rise of Immortals revealed details of its upcoming immortal Nauria, the Angel of Agony. Finally, Wrath of Heroes announced the controversial addition of health potions to its microtransaction store.

Continue reading Not So Massively: D3 approaches, HoN reveals MidWars game mode

MassivelyNot So Massively: D3 approaches, HoN reveals MidWars game mode originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 May 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetbiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcompetitive-gamingd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidominiondotae-sporte-sportseaelectronic-artsesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgothic-fantasyheroes-of-newerthhonleague-of-legendslolmid-warsmidwarsmobamultiplayermythicmythic-entertainmentnewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayerpetroglyphpetroglyph-gamesphantom-lancerpvpreal-money-auction-housereal-money-tradereal-money-tradingreal-money-transactionsriotriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsrmahrmtrmt-ahrmtahroiround-uprounduprpgrunic-gamess2s2-gamesvideowarhammerwarhammer-wrath-of-heroeswohwrath-of-heroesMon, 07 May 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Hero spotlights and Diablo III confirms PvP arenas in 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/not-so-massively-hero-spotlights-and-diablo-iii-confirms-pvp-ar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/not-so-massively-hero-spotlights-and-diablo-iii-confirms-pvp-ar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/not-so-massively-hero-spotlights-and-diablo-iii-confirms-pvp-ar/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
This week, League of Legends revealed plans to buff support tanks in the Varus patch and change several ability power items. Riot also plans to buff Master Yi and nerf Ryze's ability to tank and deal damage at the same time. Dota 2 released an updated user interface designed to take all the pain out of using the courier, and Bloodline Champions revealed its massive $10,000 DreamHack Summer 2012 tournament.

Diablo III revealed the Witch Doctor this week, giving Diablo II necromancer fans a peek at the closest replacement they'll get in the upcoming title. Blizzard's Jay Wilson also confirmed that PvP arenas will be released long before the end of the year. Heroes of Newerth released its new support hero Ellonia, an ice mage whose abilities focus around a stacking slow debuff. Rise of Immortals released a new immortal spotlight video on popular area-effect damage-dealer Netheurgist and encouraged players to start guilds with a contest to win 1,000 prestige points for every guild member.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Hero spotlights and Diablo III confirms PvP arenas in 2012

MassivelyNot So Massively: Hero spotlights and Diablo III confirms PvP arenas in 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgAlistarAmumubattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbloodline-championsbuffcompetitive-gamingcourierd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotadreamhackdreamhack-2012dreamhack-summerdreamhack-summer-2012e-sporte-sportsElloniaesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfuncomgothic-fantasyguildsheroes-of-newerthhonjay-wilsonleague-of-legendsLeonalolmaster-yimobamultiplayernerfNetheurgistnewsnot-so-massivelynsmNunuonline-multiplayerpatchpetroglyphpetroglyph-gamespvppvp-arenasriotriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsroiround-uprounduprpgrunic-gamesryzes2s2-gamesstunlockstunlock-studiosTarictorchlight-2torchlight-iivalvevarusvideoMon, 30 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Get into the Neverwinter beta by pre-ordering Torchlight II]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/get-into-the-neverwinter-beta-by-pre-ordering-torchlight-ii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/get-into-the-neverwinter-beta-by-pre-ordering-torchlight-ii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/get-into-the-neverwinter-beta-by-pre-ordering-torchlight-ii/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Neverwinter
Synergy and cross-promotion are what make the corporate world go 'round, so try not to boggle too much as you read the following sentences. Perfect World and Runic Games have teamed up to give you a unique way to access the Neverwinter beta. All you need to do is to pre-order Torchlight II.

The closed beta access comes with a couple provisions. You'll have to specifically pre-order through Perfect World to get beta access, as a Steam pre-order won't reap the same results. Also, it's important to note that Runic Games says that the "exact date of [beta] access will vary."

Runic Games is a subsidiary of Perfect Worlds, which also owns Cryptic Studios.

We found ourselves incredibly impressed with Neverwinter after getting our hands on it at PAX East, so it's great to have a guaranteed path into the beta. Make sure to read up on our impressions of this upcoming title from Cryptic.

[Thanks to Jay for the tip!]

MassivelyGet into the Neverwinter beta by pre-ordering Torchlight II originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 27 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Treasure chests. Sweet, sweet treasure chests.
With all the buzz around a certain well-known third installment of a franchise, you could be forgiven for momentarily forgetting about Torchlight 2. However, the game is now available for pre-purchase on Steam, which should serve as something of a reminder. The game doesn't yet have a firm release date other than this summer, but you can still drop your $20 and have the game ready to play on launch day.

The original Torchlight was hailed by many as the spiritual sequel to Diablo II (and some assumed it would also be the closest we'd ever get to an actual sequel). Torchlight 2 boasts more character customization, more pet customization, improved fishing and pet management, a new set of classes, and of course all of the same hack-and-slash gameplay that the first game featured. If you're a fan of the genre, that third installment likely has your eye for the moment, but you might want to see how the other half lives as well.

MassivelyTorchlight 2 available for pre-purchase on Steam originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>launchesnew-titlespre-orderpre-purchaserunic-gamessteamtltl2torchlighttorchlight-2upcoming-titlesWed, 25 Apr 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Drakensang Online compares itself to Diablo III and Torchlight II]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/drakensang-online-compares-itself-to-diablo-iii-and-torchlight-i/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/drakensang-online-compares-itself-to-diablo-iii-and-torchlight-i/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/drakensang-online-compares-itself-to-diablo-iii-and-torchlight-i/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Drakensang Online
Bigpoint Games is painting Drakensang Online as the Rocky Balboa of isometric hack-'n'-slash MMOs, and it's stepping into the ring with the upcoming title contenders and swinging away. The company released a comparison chart to show how its scrappy underdog is actually head and shoulders above the developing competition.

According to the comparison chart, Drakensang takes the lead by offering all that its competition has and more. When you've got a game that was developed in less than two years, is free-to-play, and is a full-fledged MMO, why would you ever want to sample the fruits of Blizzard's and Runic Games' trees?

Will Drakensang nip hard enough at Diablo III's heels to hobble the mighty demon as it releases next month? Time will tell, but you can check out our impressions of Drakensang when Mike plays it for you live on Massively TV this Wednesday evening!

[Source: Bigpoint Games press release]

MassivelyDrakensang Online compares itself to Diablo III and Torchlight II originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetbigpointblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrowser-basedcash-shopcomparison-chartd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidrakensangdrakensang-onlinef2pfantasyfree-to-playgothic-fantasylivestreammassively-tvmultiplayeronline-multiplayerrockyrocky-balboaroguelikerpgrunic-gamestorchlighttorchlight-iiTue, 24 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Runic not ready for Torchlight MMO anytime soon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/runic-not-ready-for-torchlight-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/runic-not-ready-for-torchlight-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/runic-not-ready-for-torchlight-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Torchlight 2 gameplay
So when's that Torchlight MMO coming out? When it's ready, and when Runic can muster the money and resources needed to properly handle the long-term commitment that an MMO represents, according to CEO Max Schaefer.

"An MMO is a hell of a commitment," Schaefer tells Rock, Paper Shotgun. "It means we're gonna be doing that for a few years at least prior to release and then committing years of support for it afterward. So it's a decision we take very, very seriously."

RPS says that a Torchlight MMO has always been Runic's end goal, but given the fact that the 30-man company is still fiddling with Torchlight II, we suspect the massively multiplayer version remains a ways off.

MassivelyRunic not ready for Torchlight MMO anytime soon originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diablo-clonedungeon-grinderf2pfree-to-playmax-schaeferrunicrunic-gamesrunic-mmotorchlight-2torchlight-mmoThu, 19 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Meet Diablo III's demon hunter]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/not-so-massively-meet-diablo-iiis-demon-hunter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/not-so-massively-meet-diablo-iiis-demon-hunter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/not-so-massively-meet-diablo-iiis-demon-hunter/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

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

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

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoaction-rpgbattlenetbiowareblacklightblacklight-retributionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbloodline-championschampionchampionscomiccompetitive-gamingcrabomancercrabomancyd3demon-hunterdiablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotae-sporte-sportseaeasterelectronic-artsesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfpsfree-to-playfuncomgothic-fantasygrinding-geargrinding-gear-gamesheavy-assault-riflehecarimkarapysskarapyss-the-crabomancerleague-of-legendslolMicrotransactionsmmofpsmobamultiplayermythicmythic-entertainmentnethysnewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayerpath-of-exilepenny-arcadeperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpetroglyphpetroglyph-gamespoepvppweriotriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsroiround-uprounduprpgrunic-gamesstunlockstunlock-studiosvanusvideowarhammerwarhammer-wrath-of-heroeswohwrath-of-heroeswrath-of-the-lich-kingMon, 09 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Diablo III's competitors speak up and LoL reveals Lulu]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/not-so-massively-diablo-iiis-competitors-speak-up-and-lol-reve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/not-so-massively-diablo-iiis-competitors-speak-up-and-lol-reve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/not-so-massively-diablo-iiis-competitors-speak-up-and-lol-reve/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
The big announcement we've all been waiting for has finally arrived: Diablo III has a release date! This week the beta was wiped to prepare for launch, and Blizzard's Jay Wilson responded to questions about the cash auction house in hardcore mode. Competing title Path of Exile continued development toward its own release, and Torchlight II gave players a unique look under the hood of the game with a breakdown of item drop statistics. Runic Games congratulated the Diablo team on its release date announcement and published an open letter to fans urging them to just wait a little longer for their Torchlight fix.

In MOBA news, League of Legends revealed its next champion, Lulu, and explored the game's rapidly growing German community. Dota 2 added classic DotA hero Shadow Demon and performed some much-needed tweaks to bots, and Rise of Immortals released the official Azcadelia immortal spotlight. Heroes of Newerth released Gunblade, an original ranged agility carry hero that was been met with some strong disapproval in the community. Blacklight: Retribution's open beta updates continued this week with the release of its Vertigo map, a battleground set in the roofspaces of a sprawling industrial complex.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Diablo III's competitors speak up and LoL reveals Lulu

MassivelyNot So Massively: Diablo III's competitors speak up and LoL reveals Lulu originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoaction-rpgauction-houseAzcadeliabattlenetblacklightblacklight-retributionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcompetitive-gamingd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotadungeon-crawlere-sporte-sportsesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfpsfree-to-playgermangermanygothic-fantasygrinding-geargrinding-gear-gamesgunbladehardcorehardcore-modehcheroes-of-newerthhonleague-of-legendslollulummofpsmobamultiplayernewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayerpath-of-exileperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpetroglyphpetroglyph-gamespoepvppweriotriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsrmahrmtroiround-uprounduprpgrunic-gamess2s2-gamesshadow-demontorchlightvertigovideoMon, 19 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Diablo III expectations, polishing Torchlight II]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/not-so-massively-diablo-iii-expectations-and-polishing-torchli/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/not-so-massively-diablo-iii-expectations-and-polishing-torchli/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/not-so-massively-diablo-iii-expectations-and-polishing-torchli/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
This week Diablo III's Bashiok caused a stir over a cheeky forum post asking a fan to lower his expectations of the upcoming title. He continues posting rampantly to the forum this week to defend recent game design decisions. Dota 2 delivered its first test build using its new deployment system, and Gaming With Gizmoh raised over $1,000 US for Child's Play with a 24-hour marathon of the beta. League of Legends took a look at its Filipino playerbase, while Heroes of Newerth was struck by a massive exploit that saw the European servers taken offline for days.

Web show Extra Credits teamed up with Red 5 Studios to offer its support for the studio's ambitious development plans for Firefall. The month-long Blacklight: Retribution open beta started today, with the introduction of three beta events with prizes and a new video tutorial for the Heavy Metal map. Rise of Immortals celebrated its first anniversary of unveiling the game to the public this week and offered a sneak peek of its creepy new Immortal Azcadelia. Finally, Torchlight II developer Patrick Blank talks about polishing content and delivers an update on where the team is in development.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Diablo III expectations, polishing Torchlight II

MassivelyNot So Massively: Diablo III expectations, polishing Torchlight II originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 27 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbashiokbattlenetblacklightblacklight-retributionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcompetitive-gamingd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotae-sporte-sportsesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfpsfree-to-playgothic-fantasyheroes-of-newerthhonleague-of-legendslolmmofpsmobamultiplayernewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayerpatrick-mackeyperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpetroglyphpetroglyph-gamespvppwered-5-studiosriotriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsroiround-uprounduprpgrunic-gamess2s2-gamessteamvalvevideozombie-studiosMon, 27 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Diablo III's rune system and new MOBA heroes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/not-so-massively-diablo-iiis-rune-system-and-new-moba-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/not-so-massively-diablo-iiis-rune-system-and-new-moba-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/not-so-massively-diablo-iiis-rune-system-and-new-moba-heroes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
League of Legends discussed the Chinese community this week as part of its World Tour series. Dota 2 delivered three weeks worth of beta updates at once, including a new single draft game mode and matchmaking system. Heroes of Newerth released its latest hero this week, the fire-breathing dragon Draconis, who has massive farming capabilities. Rise of Immortals launched its latest immortal Kaos, a seemingly mortal US Marine lost in the game's fantasy land.

Diablo III took another step toward release this week by finalising a replacement for the scrapped rune stone system and cutting socketable runes from the list of potential features at the same time. Torchlight II teased players with six new screenshots, and Path of Exile discussed the design process behind the game's unique items. Finally, Blacklight: Retribution announced its public open beta, which is due to start next week.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Diablo III's rune system and new MOBA heroes

MassivelyNot So Massively: Diablo III's rune system and new MOBA heroes originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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League of Legends revealed Nautilus this week, continued its world tour with a look at the community in Singapore and Malaysia, and announced impending nerfs to Sona, Soraka and Vladimir. Dota 2 fans faced yet another week without updates as Valve was busy this week installing new servers. Bloodline Champions released a gameplay video of its new bloodline, Headhunter, and Rise of Immortals revealed that its next character will unexpectedly be a US marine. Upcoming FPS Firefall tackled the question of whether it's an MMO this week, while futuristic FPS Blacklight: Retribution released a new Intel Report video on its Piledriver map.

Diablo III revealed further details of the game's difficulty modes this week, confirmed a Q2 2012 release target, and launched the Battle.Net Balance service. We also discovered new map restrictions coming to the beta that will stop players from playing with the map permanently open. Torchlight II's website was overhauled this week, and Runic Games revealed that the game's beta will be starting soon. Dungeon crawler Path of Exile continued its own beta this week with patch 0.9.6 and showed just how complicated its passive skill tree is with a new calculator.

Continue reading Not So Massively: MOBAs, shooters, and dungeon crawlers

MassivelyNot So Massively: MOBAs, shooters, and dungeon crawlers originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoaction-rpgbattlenetblacklightblacklight-retributionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbloodline-championscompetitive-gamingd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotae-sporte-sportsesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfpsfree-to-playfuncomgothic-fantasygrinding-geargrinding-gear-gamesleague-of-legendslolmark-kernmax-schaefermmofpsmobamultiplayernewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayerpath-of-exileperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpetroglyphpoepvppwered-5-studiosriotriot-gamesround-uprounduprpgrunic-gamesstunlockstunlock-studiosvalvevideozombie-studiosMon, 13 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST