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[Final Fantasy XI brings in equipment sets and flexible skirmishes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/08/05/final-fantasy-xi-brings-in-equipment-sets-and-flexible-skirmishe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/08/05/final-fantasy-xi-brings-in-equipment-sets-and-flexible-skirmishe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/08/05/final-fantasy-xi-brings-in-equipment-sets-and-flexible-skirmishe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

ff11
Final Fantasy XI is preparing to deliver a feast of content for players this month. Square Enix whipped up a post today to share a preview of that upcoming bounty, which includes more story missions, equipment sets, and a new type of skirmish.

The studio promised that it will be moving toward the conclusion of the Seekers of Adoulin storyline with this month's patch. Players will also get to fiddle with equipment sets, which allow characters to have and swap multiple gear loadouts at will.

The big announcement is the addition of Alluvion skirmishes. These take place in "an ever-changing labyrinth" that will reward new customizable weapons to the fortunate. This update will go into effect on August 12th, but in the meanwhile you can check out its trailer after the break!

Continue reading Final Fantasy XI brings in equipment sets and flexible skirmishes

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XI brings in equipment sets and flexible skirmishes originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 05 Aug 2014 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fantasyffff11ffxifinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-xipatchpatch-previewpreviewseekers-of-adoulinskirmishskirmishessquaresquare-enixtrailertrailersupdateupdate-previewvideovideosTue, 05 Aug 2014 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Making mischief with a Protector soldier in LotRO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/01/11/the-stream-team-making-mischief-with-a-protector-soldier-in-lot/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/01/11/the-stream-team-making-mischief-with-a-protector-soldier-in-lot/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/01/11/the-stream-team-making-mischief-with-a-protector-soldier-in-lot/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Stream Team: Making mischief with a protector soldier in LotRO
Last time, Massively's MJ suffered through the unwise antics of her Warrior soldier in Lord of the Rings Online's Thievery and Mischief skirmish. As promised, this go-around she's inviting the tank soldier along. Will there be a significant difference, and if so, will it be for the better or the worst? Will the Protector protect her, or will he exhibit behavior befitting one who's been smacked in the head a few too many times? Join us live at 2:00 p.m. to see how it all plays out.

Game: Lord of the Rings Online
Host: MJ Guthrie
Date: Saturday, January 11th, 2014
Time: 2:00 p.m. EST

Enjoy our Steam Team video below.

Continue reading The Stream Team: Making mischief with a Protector soldier in LotRO

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Making mischief with a Protector soldier in LotRO originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 11 Jan 2014 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfantasyfree-to-playlivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamslord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromassively-metamassively-tvMJ-Guthrie-livestreammv-tvmvtvProtectorprotector-soldierSkirmishskirmishesstreamstream-teamstreamingstreamteamthe-stream-teamturbineturbine-entertainmenttwitchtwitch-tvSat, 11 Jan 2014 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Battling Thievery and Mischief in LotRO's skirmishes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/01/02/the-stream-team-battling-thievery-and-mischief-in-lotros-skir/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/01/02/the-stream-team-battling-thievery-and-mischief-in-lotros-skir/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/01/02/the-stream-team-battling-thievery-and-mischief-in-lotros-skir/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The Stream Team: Battling Thievery and Mischief in LotRO's skirmishes
The quest to run every Lord of the Rings Online skirmish has barely begun! With so many different skirmishes available, Massively's MJ has just scratched the surface, so she's diving back into Middle-earth in order to experience yet another. And wouldn't you know it, Bree is in trouble again! Brigands and ruffians have seized control of the city and MJ will fight to reclaim it. Join us live at 7:00 p.m. for a fight against the everyday evil that threatens Middle-earth in Thievery and Mischief.

Game: Lord of the Rings Online
Host: MJ Guthrie
Date: Thursday, January 2nd, 2014
Time: 7:00 p.m. EST

Enjoy our Steam Team video below.

Continue reading The Stream Team: Battling Thievery and Mischief in LotRO's skirmishes

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Battling Thievery and Mischief in LotRO's skirmishes originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Jan 2014 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfantasyfree-to-playlivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamslord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromassively-metamassively-tvMJ-Guthrie-livestreammv-tvmvtvskirmishskirmishesstreamstream-teamstreamingstreamteamthe-stream-teamTheivery-and-Mishiefturbineturbine-entertainmenttwitchtwitch-tvThu, 02 Jan 2014 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Neverwinter beefs up skirmishes with Call to Arms]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/08/07/neverwinter-beefs-up-skirmishes-with-call-to-arms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/08/07/neverwinter-beefs-up-skirmishes-with-call-to-arms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/08/07/neverwinter-beefs-up-skirmishes-with-call-to-arms/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Neverwinter beefs up skirmishes with Call to Arms
Starting this Friday, Neverwinter is taking its skirmish system and turning up the dial to 10; just 10, that's as high as that dial goes and don't let anyone tell you otherwise.

Neverwinter's new Call to Arms events will be much more inclusive versions of its standard skirmishes, allowing players from level 5 to 60 to join in the fun. This will not only allow players to revisit skirmish areas they have since outleveled but give everyone great incentive to do so with a ton of rewards. Cryptic is handing out companions, dye packs, and transmutation items among other prizes for completing a Call to Arms event.

Joining a Call to Arms is pretty simple, as players can queue up for one just as they can for skirmishes, dungeons, and PvP matches. Cryptic will be rotating through a stable of events, changing up the location and rewards as it does so.

MassivelyNeverwinter beefs up skirmishes with Call to Arms originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Aug 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmocall-to-armscrypticcryptic-studiosdndeventeventsf2pfantasyfree-to-playin-game-eventsneverwinterperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwerewardsskirmishskirmishesWed, 07 Aug 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Allods previews the vehicle-based skirmish of Summerhold]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/25/allods-previews-the-vehicle-based-skirmish-of-summerhold/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/25/allods-previews-the-vehicle-based-skirmish-of-summerhold/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/25/allods-previews-the-vehicle-based-skirmish-of-summerhold/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Take a ride into the danger zone.
Allods Online has always laid claim to having a robust system of vehicle customization with its astral ships. The upcoming skirmish available in the next patch takes that vehicle affection to the next level with the battle of Summerhold. Players who take part in this conflict won't be fighting a PvP objective but will instead be piloting a variety of vehicles to take out a rampaging prototype weapon controlled by a goblin.

The vehicles are each laid out with strengths and a few crucial weaknesses to force players to work as a team; the high-damage artillery unit can't open fire unless the nimble spotter gets up close to the prototype, but of course the spotters will be ripped apart without a defensive line, and so on. Based on how fast the prototype unit is taken down, players will be awarded a variety of medals which can be exchanged for prizes including minipets and vanity items. If you're looking forward to vehicle-based mayhem, take a look at the full rundown for all the details.

MassivelyAllods previews the vehicle-based skirmish of Summerhold originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 25 Oct 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allodsallods-onlineastrum-nivalbattlef2pfantasyfree-to-playgala-netgpotatohighway-to-the-danger-zoneinstanced-battlemail-ru-gamesmail.ru-gamesmailru-gamespatchpatchespreviewpreviewsskirmishvehicle-combatvehicle-fightvehiclesThu, 25 Oct 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Allods Online introduces a new skirmish in Autumn Wind update]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/16/allods-online-introduces-a-new-skirmish-in-autumn-wind-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/16/allods-online-introduces-a-new-skirmish-in-autumn-wind-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/16/allods-online-introduces-a-new-skirmish-in-autumn-wind-update/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Allods Online introduces a new skirmish in Autumn Wind update
Fall is a time of changes, and Allods Online is keeping in the spirit of the season with the Autumn Wind update. Set to launch October 30th, this newest update will not only bring new UI changes and more details to the female avatars, but will also introduce a new PvP skirmish -- Summerhold. The 3.05 patch will also continue to rework and balance crafting to benefit all professions, not just the alchemy and herbalism crafts that were merged into a single profession in the New Horizons expansion.

In celebration of autumn, gPotato has released new screenshots that show off fall colors and the new female character models. Check them out, along with other Allods images, in the gallery below.

[Source: gPotato press release]

Gallery: Allods Online

MassivelyAllods Online introduces a new skirmish in Autumn Wind update originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Oct 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allodsallods-onlineastrum-nivalAutumn-Windf2pfantasyfree-to-playgala-netgpotatomail-ru-gamesmail.ru-gamesmailru-gamesnew-skirmishpatchpatch-3.05skirmishSummerholdupdateTue, 16 Oct 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Allods Online prepares players for patch 3.0.2 with a new mini-site]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/allods-online-prepares-players-for-patch-3-0-2-with-a-new-mini-s/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/allods-online-prepares-players-for-patch-3-0-2-with-a-new-mini-s/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/allods-online-prepares-players-for-patch-3-0-2-with-a-new-mini-s/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Allods Online
Allods Online's mascots are back for another humorous video, as Troll and Crab try their hands (claws) at making potions. It doesn't quite go as expected, but it's hard to blame Crab for what happens (he's just an earnest little guy). This is all to promote the game's newest update, patch 3.0.2, which promises to be a savory concoction for players to quaff. Over the weekend, gPotato opened up a new mini-site to promote the update and has since posted several new articles highlighting the changes.

Some of patch 3.0.2's big selling points include a revamp of the Alchemy profession, the ability for pets to do the looting, a neat-sounding mentor system, a new skirmish called The Deserted Farm, a free-for-all treasure hunting space, a new raid boss, and better questing.

Before you head over to see all of the patch changes, make sure to catch up on the latest episode of Troll and Crab after the break!

[Thanks to Alex for the tip!]

Continue reading Allods Online prepares players for patch 3.0.2 with a new mini-site

MassivelyAllods Online prepares players for patch 3.0.2 with a new mini-site originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3.0.2alchemyallodsallods-onlineastral-spaceastrum-nivalf2pfantasyfree-to-playgala-netgpotatohumormentormentor-systemmini-sitepatchpatch-3.0.2patch-previewpet-lootingpvpskirmishtrailertreasure-hunttroll-and-crabvideoMon, 14 May 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lord of the Rings Online releases Update 7: Shades of the Past]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/lord-of-the-rings-online-releases-update-7-shades-of-the-past/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/lord-of-the-rings-online-releases-update-7-shades-of-the-past/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/lord-of-the-rings-online-releases-update-7-shades-of-the-past/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

LotRO
Lord of the Rings Online's Update 7 is upon us, and it's established itself as taking a step forward... and a step back into the past. Featuring a new skirmish, a revamp of both Moria and the old Fornost instance, and an interesting addition to the legendary item system, Update 7 has a smattering of both endgame and mid-game content for most players to enjoy.

As always, it's worth combing through the notes for the smaller changes. Some of these include new and updated maps, friendlier Elves in Lothlorien who won't shoot you on sight, and Audacity lowering power costs in PvMP.

The official patch notes are up and the game will have the servers patched up by mid-morning. In the meantime, make sure to read up on what we think of the update's big selling points in our recent Road to Mordor column.

MassivelyLord of the Rings Online releases Update 7: Shades of the Past originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfantasyfornostfree-to-playlegendary-itemslord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromines-of-moriamoriapatchpatch-notesshades-of-the-pastskirmishturbineturbine-entertainmentupdateupdate-7update-notesMon, 14 May 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: What Update 7 means for you]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/12/the-road-to-mordor-what-update-7-means-for-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/12/the-road-to-mordor-what-update-7-means-for-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/12/the-road-to-mordor-what-update-7-means-for-you/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

LotRO
Without fail, the second I'm done writing this column for Massively, Turbine releases the big news of a major patch, and I have to wait a whole week to talk about it. In the case of Lord of the Rings Online's Update 7, I'm not that upset. I definitely was underwhelmed by it all initially, but now that I have had a whole week to digest it, read through the test server notes, and scope out the Moria dev diary that was posted, I feel like I'm in a much better position to talk about it.

So what does this game update mean for you? That's a good question, and it really depends on where you are in your leveling journey. New players won't be fazed by it whatsoever, but both mid-game and endgame adventurers are going to have some new (and reworked) content to devour. I am heartened that Turbine doesn't have tunnel-vision for the endgame and is still willing to go back and examine what does and doesn't work about its earlier content.

So let's walk through the major highlights of Update 7: Shades of the Past and give it the ol' Road to Mordor analysis, shall we?

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: What Update 7 means for you

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: What Update 7 means for you originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 12 May 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfantasyfeaturedfornostfree-to-playinventorylegendary-itemlegendary-item-systemlegendary-itemslilord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromoriaopinionroad-to-mordorsapienceshades-of-the-pastskirmishstar-lit-crystalstar-lit-crystalsStorm-on-Methedrasthe-road-to-mordorturbineturbine-entertainmentupdate-7Sat, 12 May 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lord of the Rings Online's Update 7 features new high-level skirmish]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/lord-of-the-rings-onlines-update-7-features-new-high-level-skir/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/lord-of-the-rings-onlines-update-7-features-new-high-level-skir/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/lord-of-the-rings-onlines-update-7-features-new-high-level-skir/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Lord of the Rings Online - Update 7 skirmish
Turbine's been pumping out a bunch of screenshots for its Dungeons and Dragons Online expansion lately, so it's only natural that Lord of the Rings Online gets equal treatment. While Update 7 isn't a full-blown expansion, it is a pretty significant content drop that is focused on revamping Moria and Fornost.

Today's gallery features a look at the update's new skirmish, which pits players against a sorceress named Gwyllion at the southern end of the Misty Mountains. The Storm on Methedras instance supports one to 12 players and is designed for levels 70 to 75.

[Source: Turbine press release]

Gallery: Lord of the Rings Online Core Gallery

MassivelyLord of the Rings Online's Update 7 features new high-level skirmish originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 May 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfantasyfree-to-playgwyllionlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolotro-skirmishlotro-update-7skirmishskirmishesStorm-on-Methedrasturbineturbine-entertainmentTue, 08 May 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO Update 7 to add new skirmish, revamp old content]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/lotro-update-7-to-add-new-skirmish-revamp-old-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/lotro-update-7-to-add-new-skirmish-revamp-old-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/lotro-update-7-to-add-new-skirmish-revamp-old-content/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

LotRO
Even a good anniversary celebration can't delay Turbine from delivering the content through snow, rain, and volcanic ash from Mount Doom. The team has posted an outline of Lord of the Rings Online's next content patch, Update 7, with word that it will go to the test server soon.

Update 7: Shades of the Past promises to add a new endgame skirmish called Storm on Methedras. The skirmish will be free for VIP players and tasks groups of one to 12 players with taking on Saruman's ally, Gwyllion, in the Misty Mountains.

The update will also contain two huge renovations to existing content. Turbine will be divvying up the massive Fornost dungeon into four scalable instances accessible from levels 30 on up. More importantly, the team is renovating great parts of Moria with better graphics and a smoother quest flow.

MassivelyLotRO Update 7 to add new skirmish, revamp old content originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 May 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>content-patchcontent-updatef2pfantasyfornostfree-to-playlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromines-of-moriamoriarevampshades-of-the-pastskirmishStorm-on-Methedrasturbineturbine-entertainmentupdate-7Fri, 04 May 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Allods Online to add new features, anniversary gifts]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/allods-online-to-add-questing-features-new-skirmish-and-raid-b/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/allods-online-to-add-questing-features-new-skirmish-and-raid-b/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/allods-online-to-add-questing-features-new-skirmish-and-raid-b/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Allods Online
Allods Online is barreling down the road toward Patch 3.0.0.02 (the extra decimals denote quality!), with an array of fine features to anticipate. Chief among those is an overall improved questing experience. The patch will give players additional ways to track and find quests, not to mention a new "auto-move" feature that will whisk you away to your desired destination.

Next on the patch's agenda is the game's second PvP skirmish map: Deserted Farm. Deserted Farm will be a 6v6 skirmish where players will struggle to control a central flag. The twist to the map is that a pair of cannon can focus-fire onto this location, so obtaining one or both of these is mandatory for success.

Finally, 3.0.0.02 (the extra decimals are a secret code that tells you gPotato loves you) will add a new raid boss to the Kingdom of Elements. His name is Gen'ul, Lord of the Volcano, and he'll be very pleased to meet and then wipe the floor with you. Multiple raids can attempt to down him at the same time and then squabble over the huge treasure chest that he drops.

The Allods site has also been updated with details on the anniversary celebration and gifts.

MassivelyAllods Online to add new features, anniversary gifts originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 27 Apr 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>6v6allodsallods-onlineastrum-nivalf2pfantasyfree-to-playgala-netGenulgpotatopatchPatch-3.0.0.02patch-previewpvpquestquestingquestsraid-bossskirmishFri, 27 Apr 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Rise of Isengard report card]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/the-road-to-mordor-rise-of-isengard-report-card/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/the-road-to-mordor-rise-of-isengard-report-card/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/the-road-to-mordor-rise-of-isengard-report-card/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

LotRO
It's been a half-year since Lord of the Rings Online's third expansion, Rise of Isengard, opened the doors to Dunland and beyond. It was an interesting expansion compared to what came before in several ways: It finally took us into the pages of The Two Towers, it introduced Rohan and the Rohirrim, and it introduced what I consider to be the most compelling villain this game has seen to date.

While the game's hinted and alluded to Saruman and his White Hand back-up dancers leading up to RoI, the expansion finally unveiled the mastermind behind many of the machinations of Middle-earth's mischief. His was not an overt city-crushing type of evil; instead, he's a crafty politician-type who attempts to woo and seduce minds to his cause. More than the Witch-king of Angmar or Sara Oakheart, Saruman gives us a perfect target for our justified outrage. This is a guy we don't want to see succeed, ever.

So with six months under our belt, I thought it would be a great time to evaluate as much of Rise of Isengard as I've experienced with the ol' report card treatment. Where does it get good marks -- and where does it need tutoring?

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Rise of Isengard report card

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Rise of Isengard report card originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 07 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>evaluationexpansionf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromines-of-moriaopinionpvereport-cardreviewriders-of-rohanrise-of-isengardroad-to-mordorrohanrohirrimsiege-of-mirkwoodskirmishthe-road-to-mordorturbineturbine-entertainmentSat, 07 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine answers burning questions about LotRO's Landscape Soldiers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/turbine-answers-burning-questions-about-lotros-landscape-soldie/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/turbine-answers-burning-questions-about-lotros-landscape-soldie/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/turbine-answers-burning-questions-about-lotros-landscape-soldie/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

LotRO
Coming with next Monday's Update 6 in Lord of the Rings Online is the ability for players to deploy skirmish soldiers in the actual game world. How Turbine was going to handle the balance of this "soldiers on landscape" feature was up in the air until now, as the company has released a Q&A to hit all of the important points.

Basically, players will have to purchase Landscape Soldier tokens with either Turbine Points or a combination of in-game skirmish marks and medallions. A token will grant a player one hour of soldier assistance, although this time can be broken up into non-consecutive blocks at the player's discretion. Soldiers cannot be used in instances and major player hubs (such as cities) at the current time.

Other restrictions for Landscape Soldiers include the disabled personal traits (that offer considerable buffs in skirmishes) and no control panel to order them around, as with Lore-master and Captain pets.

MassivelyTurbine answers burning questions about LotRO's Landscape Soldiers originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfantasyfree-to-playlandscape-soldierslord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroq-and-askirmishskirmish-soldierssoldiers-on-landscapesturbineturbine-entertainmentturbine-pointsupdate-6Thu, 08 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Age of Empires Online readying skirmish mode, new booster pack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/age-of-empires-online-readying-skirmish-mode-new-booster-pack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/age-of-empires-online-readying-skirmish-mode-new-booster-pack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/age-of-empires-online-readying-skirmish-mode-new-booster-pack/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Age of Empires skirmish video
Age of Empires Online is getting a skirmish mode courtesy of the upcoming Skirmish Hall booster pack. The new gameplay will allow players to team up and fight AI opponents in pursuit of experience and loot.

Skirmish mode will pit you and a friend (or computer ally) against four computer-controlled enemies, and each AI can take on a variety of different playstyles. Each style is represented by a unique leader, and there are eight of these to choose from.

Also of note is the fact that skirmish mode unlocks all of the game's units regardless of your overall level. If you want to preview some powerful Age of Empires units that are hidden away behind hours of advancement gameplay, skirmish mode is the way to go. Check out the skirmish mode trailer after the break for more details.

Continue reading Age of Empires Online readying skirmish mode, new booster pack

MassivelyAge of Empires Online readying skirmish mode, new booster pack originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-empiresage-of-empires-onlineaibooster-packcomputer-allycomputer-enemymicrosoftmmortsReal-Time-Strategyrtsskirmishskirmish-hallstrategytrailerunitsvideoWed, 11 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lord of the Rings Online dev diaries discuss new skirmishes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/19/lord-of-the-rings-online-dev-diaries-discuss-new-skirmishes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/19/lord-of-the-rings-online-dev-diaries-discuss-new-skirmishes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/19/lord-of-the-rings-online-dev-diaries-discuss-new-skirmishes/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Turbine has given us a two-for-one deal today with the addition of two new dev diaries. The diaries -- from Turbine's Bob "Maurath" Hess and Joe "jwbarry" Barry -- detail two of the new skirmishes being introduced in Lord of the Rings Online's Update 3. The first skirmish, Attack at Dawn, takes place in the North Downs and sees players dealing with multiple different mechanics simultaneously. The second, The Icy Crevasse, is the first skirmish to take place in Forochel and is described by Barry as "a quick bite-sized romp," with the skirmish taking about 10 minutes to complete.

It's truly an interesting look into not only what the skirmishes themselves entail but the design process that goes into bringing them to players on the live servers. Whether you play LotRO or you're just curious about the work and thought process that goes into these skirmishes, the diaries are certainly a must-read. If you're interested in gaining a new degree of respect for the effort that goes into the game, both dev diaries can be found on LotRO's official site.

MassivelyLord of the Rings Online dev diaries discuss new skirmishes originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 May 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>attack-at-dawnbob-hessdev-diariesdev-diaryf2pfree-to-playicy-crevassejoe-barryjwbarrylord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromaurathskirmishskirmishesthe-icy-crevasseturbineturbine-entertainmentturbine-incThu, 19 May 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: A look back at Volume 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/06/the-road-to-mordor-a-look-back-at-volume-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/06/the-road-to-mordor-a-look-back-at-volume-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/06/the-road-to-mordor-a-look-back-at-volume-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Last year, I spent a column giving my reflections, thoughts, and observations on the entirety of Volume 1 of Lord of the Rings Online's epic storyline, and today I'd like to do the same for Volume 2. Since these stories are at the center of LotRO's player experience, it's important to see how they function and hold up in today's increasingly story-centric MMO environment.

I've gone through Volume 2 twice, once before the "solofication" of the recent update and once after. The second journey was, by far, much more enjoyable since I didn't have to sit there for weeks hoping to find enough players on the same part of the Fellowship portions to continue the tale. Being able to go through it at my own pace was vastly more enjoyable, especially when I could dedicate huge chunks of time to knock out several chapters in one go.

And this is a good thing, as this volume of the epic story not only gives you one of your legendary traits but greatly helps you build reputation toward a faction that will give you another one (the Iron Garrison Guards). As such, Volume 2 will continue to be an important part of any character's journey.

So let's dig into this puppy (not... a literal puppy, you understand) and see what Volume 2 has to offer. If you haven't yet gone through this part of the epic story, beware: Here be spoilers!

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: A look back at Volume 2

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: A look back at Volume 2 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 May 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balrogdwarfdwarveselfelvesepic-storyfeaturedfellowshipfellowship-of-the-ringflashbackflashbacksfrodogandalfiron-garrison-guardslegendary-itemslegendary-traitslord-of-the-rings-onlinelothlorienlotromazgogmines-of-moriamirkwoodsauronsiege-of-mirkwoodskirmishskirmishessoloficationspoilersturbineturbine-entertainmentvolume-1volume-2volume-ivolume-iiwatcherwatcher-in-the-waterFri, 06 May 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Waging WAR: The taboo of cross-realming]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/31/waging-war-the-taboo-of-cross-realming/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/31/waging-war-the-taboo-of-cross-realming/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/31/waging-war-the-taboo-of-cross-realming/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

What happens when you take Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning (which offers arguably the best PvP in any MMO currently available) and mix it with controversy, corruption, and a heaping helping of taboo? Well, for one, you get this week's topic for Waging WAR: cross-realming. Today's issue takes a look at the what, why, and how of it all.

Recently, during a conversation with a guildmate, it was suggested that achieving renown rank 80 was a simple matter, requiring little time or effort. At the time, I was flabbergasted. There I sat, at RR74 (after having spent innumerable months getting there), listening to someone tell me that all my effort was somehow misplaced. It was no coincidence that we were also talking about what my guildmate referred to as "organized dueling." It is my unwavering belief that WAR is not balanced nor designed to be a system of careers and classes based on 1v1 (or similar) odds. Thus, dueling in WAR has always seemed to me to be an effort in futility, and every time the subject comes up in the realm's general chat, I've been outspoken against it. I believe the addition of a duel mechanism would be detrimental to the base concept of RvR, and would inevitably detract from the very essence of group-based, organized combat. Indeed, my vision of dueling in WAR would resemble some sort of fight-club held in one of the old, abandoned Fortresses far away from any keeps, warbands or sieges, as combatants from both realms enter a pit from which only one will emerge as the victor (the other emerging a few moments later, after shaking off the effects of resurrection sickness).

"But Greg," you ask, "doesn't that sound more like cross-realming to you?" Indeed it does. Let's talk more after the break.

Continue reading Waging WAR: The taboo of cross-realming

MassivelyWaging WAR: The taboo of cross-realming originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 31 Jul 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1v1bioware-mythicBlizzardBlizzard-Entertainmentcampaigncross-realmduelingEAea-mythicfeaturefeaturedfeaturespatch-1.3.6pvprenown-rankrvrrvr-campaignrvr-city-siegesskirmishvictory-pointswaging-warwarWarhammer-OnlineWorld-of-WarcraftwowSat, 31 Jul 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Enedwaith Exploration Expo]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/the-road-to-mordor-enedwaith-exploration-expo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/the-road-to-mordor-enedwaith-exploration-expo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/the-road-to-mordor-enedwaith-exploration-expo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


E3 is always an exciting time full of announcements, reveals and hundreds of journalists attempting to leech every last drop of information from crafty studios. It's pretty much insane, and if your head isn't exploding from all of the news, trailers, screenshots and surprises, then I'm going to have to ask you to hand in your gamer card.

For Turbine, this year's E3 has been a crucial moment in the company's history. Not only are we seeing them under the Warner Bros. banner in public, but they had to step up and both defend and build off of the revelation of Lord of the Ring Online's new business model. They were smart not to save the announcement itself for E3, because the gaming public and the press needed a bit of time to both digest the news and get past the initial emotional reaction so they could bring the studio thoughtful questions. Turbine's undoubtedly enjoying its fair share of press coverage at E3 because of this, and that's saying something considering all of the other heavy-hitters like Star Wars: The Old Republic, Final Fantasy XIV and Warhammer 40K that are making appearances.

No matter what your feelings are on the F2P model, Turbine's got a lot more for LotRO gamers than just that -- in fact, they've been bombarding us with so much good new stuff that it's hard to know where to start. So let's take a quick tour through 10 exciting additions and updates to the game that they've revealed.

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Enedwaith Exploration Expo

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Enedwaith Exploration Expo originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dungeon-finderdx11e3e3-2010enedwaithf2pfeaturedfinal-fantasy-xivforochelfree-to-playhobbyhousingisengardlegendary-itemslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromiddle-earthmirkwoodmoriaranger-session-playsarumonskirmishstar-wars-the-old-republicthe-eye-of-sauron-is-nearsightedturbinevolume-3-book-2volume-iii-book-iiwardrobewarhammer-40kwarhammer-40k-onlineWarner-BrosWarner-Bros-Interactiveweatherstockworld-of-warcraftFri, 18 Jun 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2010: Lord of the Rings Online Vol 3 Book 2 preview of Enedwaith [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/e3-2010-lord-of-the-rings-online-vol-3-book-2-preview-of-enedwa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/e3-2010-lord-of-the-rings-online-vol-3-book-2-preview-of-enedwa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/e3-2010-lord-of-the-rings-online-vol-3-book-2-preview-of-enedwa/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Massively sat down today with the Turbine team at E3 in Los Angeles to take a look at the new Lord of the Rings Online free-to-play content that went into closed beta earlier today. Along with the new cash shop, we got a look at the new playable area Enedwaith that will go live with the Volume 2, Book 3 launch this Fall. The blurred version of the new land map is for those of you who don't like spoilers. Full map and all the details about the next patch after the jump!

Continue reading E3 2010: Lord of the Rings Online Vol 3 Book 2 preview of Enedwaith [Updated]

MassivelyE3 2010: Lord of the Rings Online Vol 3 Book 2 preview of Enedwaith [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 Jun 2010 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dx11e3-2010enedwaithfeaturedlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolotro-storeskirmishskirmishesvol3-book2Wed, 16 Jun 2010 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Shopping for your skirmish soldier]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/21/the-road-to-mordor-shopping-for-your-skirmish-soldier/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/21/the-road-to-mordor-shopping-for-your-skirmish-soldier/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/21/the-road-to-mordor-shopping-for-your-skirmish-soldier/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Every Friday, The Road to Mordor brings you the latest in Lord of the Rings Online news, guides and analysis.

Breaking up, as the song goes, is hard to do -- but sometimes very, very necessary. I'll admit that I have recently settled into a bit of a skirmish funk, firing up a session here and there merely for the XP and the privilege of filling my bags with 576 different types of marks (seriously, Turbine, couldn't we switch from this confusing British-like currency to something more streamlined, like the Euro?). When I couldn't find a partner for a skirmish, the sessions seemed like a drag, and even though I dutifully stabbed my way through them, I grew to resent their length and my death-prone Herbalist soldier.

It wasn't until the other day that a friend challenged my choice of soldier, and in so doing, freed me up for a more enjoyable skirmish experience. "Why are you sticking with the Herbalist?" he asked. I shrugged -- I thought that's what you picked when you were DPS-y and lacked a lot of self-heals. After doing a bit of research on the forums, I made the switch from the decaf healbot to 100% caffeinated Archer goodness, and I couldn't be happier. Pew pew, stab stab, win win.

The choice of a soldier companion for skirmishes may be the tipping point between a painful slog and a joyful battle, as it was in my case. If you're still trying to figure out which soldier might work best with your class, then hit the jump and see what other players recommend you try.

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Shopping for your skirmish soldier

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Shopping for your skirmish soldier originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 21 May 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Every Friday, The Road to Mordor brings you the latest in Lord of the Rings Online news, guides and analysis.

Hey dol merry dol, Lord of the Rings Online fans! My name is Justin Olivetti, and I have the pleasure of joining you on this winding, epic road to Mordor. I play a Captain on the Gladden server, and some of my favorite activities in LotRO include wandering accidentally into signature mob camps, exterminating the local fauna in the name of Deeds, and trying to cobble together the perfect pirate costume for show.

So I know that LotRO is one of the best MMORPGs out there, and you know that as well, but with all the newer MMOs bursting out of the gate on what seems like a weekly basis, how can you convince your friends, loved ones and everyone in your social network that a three-year-old title is worth giving a try if they missed it the first time around?

Never fear -- I am on your side, and ready to equip you with ten terrific reasons why the lovechild of Turbine and Tolkien deserve an even greater number of folks exploring the lands of Middle-earth. So hit the jump and let's spread the word!

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: 10 reasons why LotRO is worth picking up over shiny new MMOs

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: 10 reasons why LotRO is worth picking up over shiny new MMOs originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Mar 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cookingfeaturedfishinghobbyhousinglorelotromiddle-earthmonster playMonsterPlayrole-playingrpskirmishtitlestolkienFri, 05 Mar 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO releases new skirmish dev diary for Volume III: Book 1]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/11/lotro-skirmishes-dev-diary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/11/lotro-skirmishes-dev-diary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/11/lotro-skirmishes-dev-diary/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

You'd be hard-pressed to find news on Lord of the Rings Online these days that doesn't talk about skirmishes. Probably the single biggest feature added in Siege of Mirkwood, these scaling dungeon fights are both an excellent way of expanding the game's content availability and a now-integral component of the ongoing epicc story in the game. The first skirmish of the upcoming Oath of the Rangers (Volume III, Book 1) is detailed in a new developer diary on the official site, where Joe Barry of the content design staff walks players through what they can expect.

The Rift of Nûrz Ghâshu is the setting of the new Skirmish, with players guiding the ranger Corunir to the Coliseum at the heart of the molten expanse. Fellowship Manoeuvers are slated to play a major part in the escort, as well as being instrumental in navigating the most deadly encounters with bosses. But that's hardly all coming in the near future -- new raid versions are being added to four Skirmishes, a duo mode is being added, and rewards for taking on the Skirmish as a larger group are being scaled up. Lord of the Rings Online players will want to check out the full diary on the official site, and get ready for even more time in the game's dial-a-dungeon feature.

MassivelyLotRO releases new skirmish dev diary for Volume III: Book 1 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 11 Feb 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>expansionsjoe-barrylord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrooath-of-the-rangerssiege-of-mirkwoodskirmishskirmishesturbineturbine-entertainmentThu, 11 Feb 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[How consistency softens the grind]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/03/how-consistency-softens-the-grind/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/03/how-consistency-softens-the-grind/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/03/how-consistency-softens-the-grind/#commentsFiled under: , ,

"Grind" is on the verge of becoming what "nerf" already is -- a word thrown around so frequently and with such broad possible meaning that it's essentially meaningless. After all, the word now gets used for any part of a game the player finds boring and repetitive, rather than the process of repeating something over and over. It's the latter meaning that Kill Ten Rats discusses with an intersting thesis -- we don't mind a grind so much as we mind one we can't advance without breaks.

Using the Guild Wars Wintersday redux as an example, the point is made that the holiday events are a straight-up grind -- but they're a constant one that you can pick up and start with no downtime, then stop whenever you want. Lord of the Rings Online and World of Warcraft have both taken the same approach with Skirmishes and the Dungeon Finder, taking the slow march to being ready for an instance out of the equation.

It's an interesting idea, that what we really dislike aren't the grinds but being stuck unable to make much progress in them. If you tend to think that grinds are the worst thing in MMOs today, it might be an opportunity to re-examine that stance.

MassivelyHow consistency softens the grind originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Feb 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>downtimedungeon-findergrindguild-warsgwkill-ten-ratslord-of-the-rings-onlnelotronerfprogressskirmishwintersdaywintersday-reduxworld-of-warcraftwowWed, 03 Feb 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Why You Should Be Playing City of Heroes: Content on demand]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/28/why-you-should-be-playing-city-of-heroes-content-on-demand/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/28/why-you-should-be-playing-city-of-heroes-content-on-demand/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/28/why-you-should-be-playing-city-of-heroes-content-on-demand/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


With all the talk about the Skirmish system in Lord of the Rings Online and the World of Warcraft dungeon finder, it's hard to argue that people don't really like having the option to simply pick up and start playing something. Both of these systems thrive on the strength of their pick-up-and-play nature -- you don't have to wait to find a group, you just jump right into content without any slowdown. The obvious question, then, becomes "why didn't someone notice that people like to just jumping in and playing the darn game?"

Of course,the full answer is a bit less obvious but no less true: someone did. Several someones, in fact. Paragon Studios and Cryptic before them both realized how much people like to just pick up and go. That's why City of Heroes currently sports three different systems to allow you or a full team access to content quickly, ranging from reliving your character's greatest triumphs to fighting Nazi vampires on the moon.

Continue reading Why You Should Be Playing City of Heroes: Content on demand

MassivelyWhy You Should Be Playing City of Heroes: Content on demand originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 28 Dec 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxdungeon-finderfeaturedflashbackinstant-contentlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromission-architectncsoftnewspaper-missionopinionparagonparagon-studiosplayer-made-contentpolice-scannerskirmishwowMon, 28 Dec 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New developer chat transcript for Lord of the Rings Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/24/new-developer-chat-transcript-for-lord-of-the-rings-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/24/new-developer-chat-transcript-for-lord-of-the-rings-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/24/new-developer-chat-transcript-for-lord-of-the-rings-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


There's only a little time left until Lord of the Rings Online launches its next expansion, Siege of Mirkwood, but the players still have questions and the developers are thankfully quite happy to answer them. Not so long ago, WarCry had their first developer chat transcript up for fans of the game to digest. A fair bit of new information has come out since then, and so a new chat transcript is available with more information for the playerbase to mull over for the next week. Unfortunately, it's rather negative, since there are an awful lot of questions whose answers just so happen to be "no."

In no particular order: there are no current plans for expanding the housing system, there are no plans to convert Lorien tokens to Mirkwood, no player-created content systems in the works, no way to send mail with more than one attachment. On the other hand, there's more discussion of the Skirmish mechanics and their comparison with Dungeons and Dragons Online's difficulty-tunable instances, talk about how levels and items will be affected, and the expansive amount of content promised within Mirkwood itself. The full transcript is going to be a bit of a read, but it should tide over anticipation for the fast-approaching launch date.

MassivelyNew developer chat transcript for Lord of the Rings Online originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddodeveloper-chatdungeons-and-dragons-onlineexpansionsgame-mechanicsinterviewslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrosiege-of-mirkwoodskirmishskirmishestranscriptturbineturbine-entertainmentTue, 24 Nov 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lord of the Rings Online developer chat transcript available]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/13/lord-of-the-rings-online-developer-chat-transcript-available/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/13/lord-of-the-rings-online-developer-chat-transcript-available/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/13/lord-of-the-rings-online-developer-chat-transcript-available/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


There's a lot of interesting material coming with the Siege of Mirkwood expansion for Lord of the Rings Online, not to mention a large number of player questions and curiosity about where the game is headed. Luckily for the playerbase, WarCry was recently lucky enough to get a chance to chat with the developers, with a full transcript now available for all who missed the live chat. As is par for the course for developer chats, there's the occasional question that seems rather out-of-place or unnecessary, but on the whole it's full of tidbits that should excite the game's fans.

The discussion ranges from the tangible issues with the upcoming expansion such as class upgrades (each class will get one new skill upgrade at level 62), meta-issues (there will be a Skirmish sneak peek coming soon to let players try the new format), and some wholly random bits (the developers will not add your farm on Facebook as a neighbor). It's a weighty and lengthy chat that can't be summarized easily, so it's best to take a look, digest, and start thinking about the first thing you want to do in Lord of the Rings Online when the expansion goes live.

MassivelyLord of the Rings Online developer chat transcript available originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classesdeveloper-chatexpansionsfacebookgame-mechanicslord-of-the-rings-onlinelord-of-the-rings-online-siege-of-mirkwoodlotrosiege-of-mirkwoodskirmishtranscriptturbineturbine-entertainmentFri, 13 Nov 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lord of the Rings Online explains skirmish rewards]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/lord-of-the-rings-online-explains-skirmish-rewards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/lord-of-the-rings-online-explains-skirmish-rewards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/lord-of-the-rings-online-explains-skirmish-rewards/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


"Let's be honest, people play new content for the rewards." Perhaps not the most uplifting or metaphorical way to start off a developer diary, but if nothing else you need to give Lord of the Rings Online credit for being so direct about it. But with the most recent developer diary regarding the Skirmish system coming in the Siege of Mirkwood expansion, they really deserve still more credit than that. One of the larger new features of the upcoming expansion, the Skirmish system has had a number of diaries devoted to it, but this one is focused on exactly what the opening would suggest: the meaty rewards from taking part.

Some of the specifics might seem a bit arcane to people unfamiliar with Lord of the Rings Online, but the short version is that the various bosses and so forth will be devoid of any loot except for what's referred to as skirmish marks. Accumulating them as well as special tokens depending on group size and skirmish difficulty will allow purchases from a wide variety of powerful items. However, the system is balanced so that even consistently solo players can still work toward the highest tier of rewards, although the road will be quite a bit longer. There's only so much we can get across in a quick overview -- it's better to take a look at the actual diary and get ready for one of the more dynamic systems coming with Siege of Mirkwood.

MassivelyLord of the Rings Online explains skirmish rewards originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>developer-diariesdeveloper-diaryexpansionsgame-mechanicsgearlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrorewardssiege-of-mirkwoodskirmishturbineThu, 05 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX 2009: Turbine tells us all about Siege of Mirkwood part 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/08/pax-2009-turbine-tells-us-all-about-siege-of-mirkwood-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/08/pax-2009-turbine-tells-us-all-about-siege-of-mirkwood-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/08/pax-2009-turbine-tells-us-all-about-siege-of-mirkwood-part-2/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Continue reading PAX 2009: Turbine tells us all about Siege of Mirkwood part 2

MassivelyPAX 2009: Turbine tells us all about Siege of Mirkwood part 2 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>combathorsesjeffrey-steefellord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromy-lotromylotropaxpax-2009rohansiege-of-mirkwoodskirmishskirmishesturbineTue, 08 Sep 2009 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PotBS to hold ship skirmish testing event today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/potbs-to-hold-ship-skirmish-testing-event-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/potbs-to-hold-ship-skirmish-testing-event-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/potbs-to-hold-ship-skirmish-testing-event-today/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Today marks a very special event for the players of Pirates of the Burning Sea. Starting at 3:45 PST / 11:45 GMT, a ship skirmish event will take place on the Testbed server to analyze the effectiveness of the ship skirmish system. Named "The Battle of Gull Point", this event will match four teams of twelve players each to battle it out using "all of your ship combat skills to defeat your opponents".

Simply meet up at the Marsh Harbour and the devs will auto-level you to 50 before the actual skirmish starts at 4pm PST / midnight GMT. The spots are first come first serve, but all participants will receive the special title "Gull Point Veteran" once the new patch 1.13 releases on the live servers.

MassivelyPotBS to hold ship skirmish testing event today originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Mar 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flying-labpirates-of-the-burning-seapotbsship-skirmishskirmishtestbedFri, 06 Mar 2009 10:00:00 EST