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[The Repopulation drops its first patch for the new build]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/03/the-repopulation-drops-its-first-patch-for-the-new-build/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/03/the-repopulation-drops-its-first-patch-for-the-new-build/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/02/03/the-repopulation-drops-its-first-patch-for-the-new-build/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Your hula hoop competition is going very poorly.
It's more possible to play The Repopulation now than it has ever been, and that means the design team is shaking up how it handles updates. Instead of the monthly recaps of the past, the team is putting forth notes for each individual patch, such as the first major one to hit the current testing build. It's focused on improving several areas of the game, starting with a polishing of textures and performance in Plymouth City and a few other smaller points.

Several combat improvements have also been rolled out, although the next patch will hit most of the major combat issues players have brought up. Skill gain rates have also been adjusted, as have the Auction and Work Order systems in hopes of keeping the economy lively. If a few lingering issues had kept you from fully enjoying The Repopulation or you just want a picture of all the changes that have come down the pipe, check out the full walkthrough of the latest patch.

MassivelyThe Repopulation drops its first patch for the new build originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Feb 2015 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiesadjustmentsbalancebalancinggame-mechanicsgraphicgraphicsimprovementsnewsnews-itemspatchpatchesrepopulationsandboxsci-fithe-repopulationupdateupdatesTue, 03 Feb 2015 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Popping back into The Repopulation]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/31/the-stream-team-popping-back-into-the-repopulation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/31/the-stream-team-popping-back-into-the-repopulation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/31/the-stream-team-popping-back-into-the-repopulation/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Sandbox Saturday continues! Massively's MJ loves the freedom of this genre, and The Repopulation definitely has plenty of sand in its box. The hardest part is choosing what to do each time she logs in. Will MJ actually settle on a specific weapon type, or will she just dance the hour away? Maybe she'll grind up her storytelling skill! Heck, MJ might even finally leave the starter area! Join us live 2:00 p.m. for another romp through this sci-fi world.

Game: The Repopulation
Host: MJ Guthrie
Date: Saturday, January 31st, 2015
Time: 2:00 p.m. EST

Enjoy our Stream Team video below.

Continue reading The Stream Team: Popping back into The Repopulation

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Popping back into The Repopulation originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 31 Jan 2015 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiesbetalivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamsmassively-metamassively-tvMJ-Guthrie-livestreammv-tvmvtvrepopulationsandboxsci-fistreamstream-teamstreamingstreamteamthe-repopulationthe-stream-teamtwitchtwitch-tvSat, 31 Jan 2015 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Global Chat: Guild Wars 2's economy is broken]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/20/global-chat-guild-wars-2s-economy-is-broken/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/20/global-chat-guild-wars-2s-economy-is-broken/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/20/global-chat-guild-wars-2s-economy-is-broken/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

gw2
Guild Wars 2's economy remains a hot-button issue even two-and-a-half years after its release. In this week's exploration of the blogosphere, one writer pulls out all the stops to let you know what's broken about this MMO's economy -- and how it can be fixed.

In addition to this thoughtful read, Global Chat will hear some snark on silly hotbar icons, pontificate about poor MMO names, deliver The Repopulation first impressions, and invite you to participate in a grand MUD experiment. Let's get going!

Continue reading Global Chat: Guild Wars 2's economy is broken

MassivelyGlobal Chat: Guild Wars 2's economy is broken originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Jan 2015 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ability-buttonsblogbloggersbloggingblogosphereblogscolumneconomyeliteelite-dangerouseq-2eq-iieq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfirst-impressionsfree-to-playglobal-chatgold-standardguild-wars-2gw2hotbarhumoriconiconsimpressionsmmo-blogmmo-bloggingmmospheremudopinionproject-gorgonquotablesrealms-of-despairrepopulationsoesonysony-online-entertainmentthe-repopulationTue, 20 Jan 2015 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What's your gameplay-vs.-graphics bottom line?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/19/the-daily-grind-whats-your-gameplay-vs-graphics-bottom-line/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/19/the-daily-grind-whats-your-gameplay-vs-graphics-bottom-line/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/19/the-daily-grind-whats-your-gameplay-vs-graphics-bottom-line/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

We've all heard the gameplay-is-more-important-than-graphics cliche, and I'm putting it to the test this week in The Repopulation. I'm quite enjoying the sandbox title for what it allows my character to do, but boy does he look janky doing it.

I know, I know, it's alphabetaearlyaccesswhatever.

In all seriousness, I'm hoping for The Repopulation's success, but the current game raises an interesting personal question and one that I'll ask you, the Massively readers. What's your gameplay-vs.-graphics bottom line? Will you play a game for its mechanics even if its visuals bother you?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What's your gameplay-vs.-graphics bottom line? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Jan 2015 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiesgameplay-over-graphicsgameplay-vs-graphicsgraphics-vs-gameplayrepopulationsandboxsci-fithe-repopulationMon, 19 Jan 2015 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Returning for round two of The Repopulation]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/17/the-stream-team-returning-for-round-two-of-the-repopulation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/17/the-stream-team-returning-for-round-two-of-the-repopulation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/17/the-stream-team-returning-for-round-two-of-the-repopulation/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

The Stream Team: Returning for round two of The Repopulation
Last time, Massively's MJ showed the very beginnings of life in The Repopulation, including character creation and the newbie trainers. This time she's diving head-first into the fray, practicing some combat on the training grounds before heading out into the open world. Since the game's a sandbox, there is no prescribed path for her to follow, so who knows which direction her adventures will take? Will she come across hostile fauna and friendly players or the reverse? Maybe she'll discover some hidden gem, or maybe just gems in general. Join us live at 12:00 p.m. for this second look into the early access.

Game: The Repopulation
Host: MJ Guthrie
Date: Saturday, January 17th, 2015
Time: 12:00 p.m. EST

Enjoy our Stream Team video below.

Continue reading The Stream Team: Returning for round two of The Repopulation

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Returning for round two of The Repopulation originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 17 Jan 2015 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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H1Z1
SOE's zombiebox H1Z1 vaulted into early access on Steam this week against a backdrop of controversy surrounding its PvE servers, launch issues, and potentially pay-to-win game mechanics. What else is new in the world of MMO testing? Our complete Betawatch roundup awaits.

Continue reading Betawatch: January 10 - 16, 2015

MassivelyBetawatch: January 10 - 16, 2015 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Jan 2015 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchblack-desertbrianna-royce-betawatchcamelot-unchainedclosed-betacrowfalleliteelite-dangerousgame-testingh1z1heroes-of-the-stormhotslaunchlaunchesmaestros-of-the-anthymnmaplestory-2massively-metaneverwinternosgothopen-betapantheonroundupskyforgetestingthe-repopulationtree-of-saviorFri, 16 Jan 2015 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively hands-on: Let's talk about The Repopulation]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/16/massively-hands-on-lets-talk-about-the-repopulation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/16/massively-hands-on-lets-talk-about-the-repopulation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/16/massively-hands-on-lets-talk-about-the-repopulation/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Writing about early access games is the suck. I guess it's something I'll have to get over, though, given how early access is now launch, how alpha is the new beta, and how gamers are lining up to pay big money for ideas.

With that out of the way, let's talk a bit about my first steps in The Repopulation. It's an appropriately ambitious sci-fi sandbox from scrappy indie studio Above & Beyond Technologies. As you might expect, it's somewhat rough at the moment. I see it carving out a successful niche for itself in the future, though.

Continue reading Massively hands-on: Let's talk about The Repopulation

MassivelyMassively hands-on: Let's talk about The Repopulation originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Jan 2015 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiesbetabeta-testbeta-testingcraftingfeaturedhands-onmmo-traveloguepreviewpreviewsrepopulationrepopulation-early-accessrepopulation-reviewsandboxsci-fitestingthe-repopulationthe-repopulation-reviewFri, 16 Jan 2015 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Hands-on with The Repopulation's starter experience]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/10/the-stream-team-hands-on-with-the-repopulations-starter-experi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/10/the-stream-team-hands-on-with-the-repopulations-starter-experi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/10/the-stream-team-hands-on-with-the-repopulations-starter-experi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

You've been hearing about The Repopulation for a while -- now see it! Now that early access doors have opened, Massively's MJ is diving into the in-progress sandbox to check things out. Much has changed since she got her first peek at the title at GDC 2012. MJ will show off the customization options of character creation (which includes the clothing) and then take her first steps into the world to see where adventure takes her. Join us live at 1:00 p.m. for this first look into the starter experience thus far.

Game: The Repopulation
Host: MJ Guthrie
Date: Saturday, January 10th, 2015
Time: 1:00 p.m. EST

Enjoy our Stream Team video below.

Continue reading The Stream Team: Hands-on with The Repopulation's starter experience

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Hands-on with The Repopulation's starter experience originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 10 Jan 2015 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologieslivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamsmassively-metamassively-tvMJ-Guthrie-livestreammv-tvmvtvrepopulationsandboxsci-fistarter-experiencestreamstream-teamstreamingstreamteamthe-repopulationthe-stream-teamtwitchtwitch-tvSat, 10 Jan 2015 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Repopulation looks back on December and Early Access]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/05/the-repopulation-looks-back-on-december-and-early-access/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/05/the-repopulation-looks-back-on-december-and-early-access/http://massively.joystiq.com/2015/01/05/the-repopulation-looks-back-on-december-and-early-access/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

You said we were going out for lobster, Tim. I don't see any lobster.
For the first time in testing, The Repopulation didn't quite keep pace with its normal biweekly update schedule for the test client. Why, you ask, were the developers being such lazy bums? Because of the holidays? Or was it because the game was busy launching on Steam as an early access title, thus requiring extra work by the team to make sure that previous backers and newcomers alike were having fun? Mostly the latter, as it happens; not so much with the lazy bums.

Of course, a slight schedule slip doesn't change the fact that the team was hard at work on the game, with the biggest focus being bug fixes (as the new influx of players has resulted in many more bug reports). There are also improvements to the game's missions, with a focus on more challenging variations and the possibility of random fitting rewards from clearing them. Check out the full recap for a picture of everything that's been added or improved over the past month.

MassivelyThe Repopulation looks back on December and Early Access originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Jan 2015 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiesalphaalphasbetabetasbugbug-fixesbugsearly-accessearly-access-titlegame-mechanicsmonthly-recappatchpatchesrecaprepopulationsandboxsci-fisteamtesttest-phasestestingthe-repopulationupdateupdatesMon, 05 Jan 2015 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Make My MMO: December 21 - 27, 2014]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/27/make-my-mmo-december-21-27-2014/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/27/make-my-mmo-december-21-27-2014/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/27/make-my-mmo-december-21-27-2014/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

This week in MMO crowdfunding news, The Repopulation dropped its NDA and thrust itself firmly into the middle of Steam's Early Access conga line. This was a pretty big deal, given how the game is channeling a certain late great sci-fi sandbox and given how many people responded with their alpha tester opinions in the announcement thread.

Some other stuff happened, too. Christmas, for one thing. But, really, this week was all about TR when it comes to crowdfund happenings. If you simply must know what else was up, click past the cut for our roundup.

Continue reading Make My MMO: December 21 - 27, 2014

MassivelyMake My MMO: December 21 - 27, 2014 originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 27 Dec 2014 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiesrepopulationsandboxsci-fithe-repopulationSat, 27 Dec 2014 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Perfect Ten: New MMOs to watch in 2015]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/27/perfect-ten-new-mmos-to-watch-in-2015/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/27/perfect-ten-new-mmos-to-watch-in-2015/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/27/perfect-ten-new-mmos-to-watch-in-2015/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

all the mmos
As I've done for 2013 and 2014, I'm going to use the turn of the year as an excuse to look ahead at what MMO releases we may have to look forward to enjoying in the next 12 months. As always, it's a mixture of research, guesswork, and weeks of anguished ranking to come up with 10 titles that I think will define the new year.

After the huge launch year we had in 2014, 2015 will most definitely be a smaller year for big-name releases. That doesn't mean it will be a complete write-off, but perhaps it will challenge us to look beyond the heavy hitters to find more diamonds in the rough.

A couple of notes before we launch into the list, if you please! First of all, I limited this list to MMOs that at least have a shot of launching in 2015; games that are popular but are definitely not going to make it this year had to be excluded. Second, I am expanding the "honorable mentions" section this year to include more upcoming MMOs and my brief thoughts on them. So you are really getting 50 games for the effort of reading 10! You are welcome.

Continue reading Perfect Ten: New MMOs to watch in 2015

MassivelyPerfect Ten: New MMOs to watch in 2015 originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 27 Dec 2014 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Repopulation is spreading a bit of early Christmas cheer according to the latest news blurb on the sci-fi sandbox's website. In short, the final alpha phase begins this weekend, and you can also pick up the game via Steam's Early Access program. The Steam launch has done away with the NDA, too, so feel free to share your experiences in the comments. Oh, and don't forget to watch the Alpha 4 trailer after the break!

[Thanks Crow!]

Continue reading The Repopulation drops NDA, comes to Steam

MassivelyThe Repopulation drops NDA, comes to Steam originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 22 Dec 2014 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiesrepopulationrepopulation-early-accessrepopulation-trailersandboxsci-fisteamthe-repopulationtrailervideoMon, 22 Dec 2014 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: November 29 - December 5, 2014]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/05/betawatch-november-29-december-5-2014/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/05/betawatch-november-29-december-5-2014/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/05/betawatch-november-29-december-5-2014/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Betawatch Landmark
Landmark's beta is getting PvE in 10 days! Because it's actually a beta! What else is new in the world of MMO testing? We've also purged the heck out of the Betawatch list after the cut thanks in large part to the eagle-eyed observations of Massively reader greaterdivinity. A number of games, including Archlord 2, Argo Online, Eclipse War Online, Face of Mankind, Legend of Silkroad, Legion of Heroes, Margonem, Strife, and Taikodom, have departed or moved around in our list due to changes in their open beta status (most of them soft launches, but some of them, like Argo, have simply disappeared from the internet... again). Many thanks to greaterdivinity!

Continue reading Betawatch: November 29 - December 5, 2014

MassivelyBetawatch: November 29 - December 5, 2014 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Dec 2014 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-wulinalphaalphasarchlord-2argoargo-onlinebetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchblack-desertbrianna-royce-betawatchcamelot-unchainedclosed-betaclosers-onlineconsoleeclipse-war-onlineelder-scrolls-onlineelite-dangerousface-of-mankindgame-testinglandmarklaunchlauncheslegend-of-silkroadlegion-of-heroesluna-moonlight-thievesmargonemmassively-metaopen-betaroundupshards-onlinesoul-master-onlinestrifetaikodomtestingthe-crewthe-repopulationtugFri, 05 Dec 2014 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Repopulation expands alpha and focuses on bots]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/03/the-repopulation-expands-alpha-and-focuses-on-bots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/03/the-repopulation-expands-alpha-and-focuses-on-bots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/12/03/the-repopulation-expands-alpha-and-focuses-on-bots/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

The Repopulation
Above and Beyond has published The Repopulation's end-of-November report, and it's a doozy. The studio discusses the embiggening of its alpha thus far and the addition of new servers to handle the load. The devs have also been working on housing and city locations, a new character versioning system, a new cloning system, nation deeds, facial animations, and tooltips.

Perhaps of most interest to sandbox fans disillusioned with this year's sandbox drama is A&B's focus on its bot detection code. "Our philosophy with bots is that once the game launches it is not really beneficial to ban characters unless they already invested a significant amount of time into the characters, otherwise they can just create a new free account and you need to detect them all over again," the devs wrote. "So we've focused our attention on reducing the benefits of botting. In addition skill gain penalties and stoppage, botters will see their harvesting results capped in quality, and a complete shut off of loot."

Capping off the dev letter are 17,356 words' worth of patch notes. We counted. Check every last one out at the official site.

MassivelyThe Repopulation expands alpha and focuses on bots originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Dec 2014 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiesbotsbottingdev-blogdev-blogsdev-diariesdev-diarydev-postdev-postsdeveloper-blogdeveloper-blogsdeveloper-diariesdeveloper-diarydeveloper-postdeveloper-postspatch-notesrepopulationsandboxsci-fithe-repopulationWed, 03 Dec 2014 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Repopulation devs on the mission system and non-violent gameplay]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/19/the-repopulation-devs-on-the-mission-system-and-non-violent-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/19/the-repopulation-devs-on-the-mission-system-and-non-violent-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/19/the-repopulation-devs-on-the-mission-system-and-non-violent-game/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Blogger Werit has an exclusive Q&A with Above and Beyond, the team behind upcoming sci-fi sandbox The Repopulation. In it, the developers discuss dynamic missions, which are intended to provide "purpose" to players who crave it rather than to serve as the core means of advancement through the sandbox. In fact, you don't have to do the missions at all to advance your skills, and they'll tailor themselves to your character's choices along the way. Tendencies toward greed, shadiness, and crafting, for example, will all be reflected in mission offerings. "There are taming missions, underworld (thievery/assassination/smuggling) missions, crafting and harvesting missions, etc.," say the devs.

As for non-violent gameplay, there's plenty of it:
Our game and its economy are heavily trade skill oriented. Our crafting system is very complex and has a high degree of customization. Moreover crafted equipment is the top of the line. If you never wanted to pick up a gun, it's completely possible for you to just go out and harvest, or buy resources from other players and then do your crafting. I think most players will also do a little fighting, if for no other reason than mobs will jump you while your out harvesting.

But crafting advancement is not coupled in any way with combat advancement. There are other non-combat skills, as well. Things like the entertainment line which provides long-term buffs for players. Taming mobs to be trained as mounts and sold to other players. Diplomatic skills. Different players enjoy doing different types of things. And we've tried to cater to many playing styles, rather than forcing players down a combat oriented path.
Check out the full interview at Werit's Blog.

MassivelyThe Repopulation devs on the mission system and non-violent gameplay originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 19 Nov 2014 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiesinterviewinterviewsrepopulationsandboxsci-fithe-repopulationWed, 19 Nov 2014 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: November 1 - 7, 2014]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/07/betawatch-november-1-7-2014/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/07/betawatch-november-1-7-2014/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/07/betawatch-november-1-7-2014/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Trove
Trove departs the Betawatch list this week, having soft-launched with an open beta destined to go unwiped. Heroes of the Storm will head to closed beta on January 13th. And Blizzard announced Overwatch, a team-based online shooter that'll hit beta in 2015. What else is new in the world of MMO testing?
  • The Repopulation lowered its alpha access pledge prices from $100 to $25.
  • Elite: Dangerous will be emerging from beta and launching on December 16th.
  • Skyforge's first technical beta weekend begins November 13th.
  • MMOTCG HEX dropped its beta key requirement, so it's in open beta, but the studio says it's not in open beta. So yeah.
  • Dawngate announced a sunset while it was still in beta.
  • Korean MMO Echo of Soul immigrates to North America and Europe next year. Beta signups are live.
  • Gigantic will greatly expand its alpha test this fall.
  • Star Citizen passed $60 million in fundraising.
  • Watch two hours of in-beta Civilization Online unfold.
  • Indie MMOFPS Hunternet was revealed; it's currently in alpha.
  • The international version of Journey to the West enters closed beta tomorrow on November 8th.
  • Kingdom Rift began open alpha on November 3rd.
The complete Betawatch roundup is below.

Continue reading Betawatch: November 1 - 7, 2014

MassivelyBetawatch: November 1 - 7, 2014 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 07 Nov 2014 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchbrianna-royce-betawatchcivilization-onlineclosed-betadawngateecho-of-souleliteelite-dangerousgame-testinggigantichexhunternetjourney-to-the-westkingdom-riftlaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betaoverwatchroundupskyforgestar-citizentestingthe-repopulationtroveFri, 07 Nov 2014 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaderboard: Have you tried The Repopulation yet?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/05/leaderboard-have-you-tried-the-repopulation-yet/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/05/leaderboard-have-you-tried-the-repopulation-yet/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/05/leaderboard-have-you-tried-the-repopulation-yet/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

I'm cautiously optimistic about indie sci-fi sandbox The Repopulation. Most of said optimism stems from people I trust comparing it favorably to the late great Star Wars: Galaxies. I haven't played it myself, though, on account of a full gaming plate and an increasing reluctance to throw money at pre-release products not named Star Citizen.

What about you, Massively readers? Assuming you're interested in The Repopulation, have you tested it? Are you going to? Vote after the cut!

Ever wish that you could put to rest a long-standing MMO debate once and for all? Then welcome to the battle royal of Massively's Leaderboard, where two sides enter the pit o' judgment -- and only one leaves. Vote to make your opinion known, and see whether your choice tops the Leaderboard!

Continue reading Leaderboard: Have you tried The Repopulation yet?

MassivelyLeaderboard: Have you tried The Repopulation yet? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 Nov 2014 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiesbattle-royalleaderboardone-on-oneone-vs-oneopinionpollpollsrepopulationsandboxsci-fithe-repopulationversusvotevotesvotingvsWed, 05 Nov 2014 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Repopulation lowers its alpha access pledge prices]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/04/the-repopulation-lowers-its-alpha-access-pledge-prices/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/04/the-repopulation-lowers-its-alpha-access-pledge-prices/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/04/the-repopulation-lowers-its-alpha-access-pledge-prices/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Repopulation
Crowdfunded sci-fi sandbox The Repopulation has today announced a change to its pledge packages that should increase the number of backers -- and testers. The new packages cost $50 and $25; the $50 version grants immediate test access, while the $25 edition will sweep buyers into the alpha starting on November 21st. Above and Beyond says it will be altering its packages at that time to remove perks like housing plots and NPC naming, but the $25 buy-in will still "be the cheapest for awhile."

During the ongoing testing, the studio has vowed to keep the servers up around the clock outside of patch downtime, and it will avoid region locking, though the servers are located in North America. As the test is an alpha, a strict NDA is in place and pre-release wipes are still expected.

[Thanks, dirtyklingon!]

MassivelyThe Repopulation lowers its alpha access pledge prices originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Nov 2014 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiesalphaalpha-testalpha-testingbetabeta-testbeta-testingCrowdFundingrepopulationsandboxsci-fitestingthe-repopulationTue, 04 Nov 2014 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Repopulation tweaked housing, vehicles, and shops in October]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/03/the-repopulation-tweaked-housing-vehicles-and-shops-in-october/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/03/the-repopulation-tweaked-housing-vehicles-and-shops-in-october/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/11/03/the-repopulation-tweaked-housing-vehicles-and-shops-in-october/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Repopulation
The Repopulation's end-of-October report has arrived, and in it, Above and Beyond outlines the significant improvements made to the sandbox over the last month. Of note, player shops and vendors were added, along with a slew of enhancements to the player housing and city systems, like remote shopping and Star Wars Galaxies-style house relocation. Vehicles and mounts, genetic engineering, rogue nations, the interface, and cosmetic styling also received hefty upgrades.

Capping off the update are 15,845 words' worth of build notes. Yes, we counted.

The devs note that backers not yet invited to the alpha should all be gaining access in November.

MassivelyThe Repopulation tweaked housing, vehicles, and shops in October originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 03 Nov 2014 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiesalphaalpha-testalpha-testingbetarepopulationsandboxsci-fitestingthe-repopulationMon, 03 Nov 2014 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: October 18 - 24, 2014]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/24/betawatch-october-18-24-2014/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/24/betawatch-october-18-24-2014/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/24/betawatch-october-18-24-2014/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Camelot Unchained - Betawatch
Camelot Unchained ran a pre-alpha test for backers this past weekend, allowing players to test out character creation and PvP. What else is new in the realm of MMO testing?
  • Justin test-drove Lord of the Ring's Online's in-testing Beorning race/class.
  • Trove has a fully open, no-wipe, everyone-welcome beta test running this weekend.
  • World of Warcraft previewed the creatures of Gorgrond, a zone in the upcoming Warlords of Draenor.
  • The Repopulation discussed its plans for healers and combat medics.
  • Shroud of the Avatar's Release 11 preps players for its Steam debut.
  • MJ pondered what "beta" means for Landmark and what backers' obligations to the game really are.
  • Life is Feudal sold 100,000 copies of its survival MMO in its first month on Steam early access.
  • EverQuest Next devs discussed playable Ogres and Dwarves.
  • Goblinworks defended the FFA PvP design of Pathfinder Online, currently in alpha.
Read on for our complete Betawatch roundup.

Continue reading Betawatch: October 18 - 24, 2014

MassivelyBetawatch: October 18 - 24, 2014 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 Oct 2014 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchbrianna-royce-betawatchcamelot-unchainedclosed-betaeverquest-nextgame-testinglandmarklaunchlauncheslife-is-feudallord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromassively-metaopen-betapathfinder-onlineroundupshroud-of-the-avatarsotatestingthe-repopulationtrovewarlords-of-draenorworld-of-warcraftwowFri, 24 Oct 2014 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Repopulation tweaks healing, creates viable Combat Medics]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/23/the-repopulation-tweaks-healing-creates-viable-combat-medics/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/23/the-repopulation-tweaks-healing-creates-viable-combat-medics/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/23/the-repopulation-tweaks-healing-creates-viable-combat-medics/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Sandbox healers, listen up! The Repopulation released a new featurette this week titled Healing and You.

"Gone is the idea of an unengaged, rear-guard healer with zero choice," the diary explains, before mentioning a new healing ability set, First Aid ability enhancements, and some "support and damage abilities for Medics who want to pack a punch." These and other tweaks lead to "an expansive system that creates viable Combat Medics," according to the post, which also says that these CMs are necessary in both PvE and PvP.

MassivelyThe Repopulation tweaks healing, creates viable Combat Medics originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Oct 2014 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiescombat-mediccombat-medicshealershealingrepopulationrepopulation-healerrepopulation-healingsandboxsci-fithe-repopulationThu, 23 Oct 2014 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: October 4 - 10, 2014]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/10/betawatch-october-4-10-2014/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/10/betawatch-october-4-10-2014/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/10/betawatch-october-4-10-2014/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The Crew
This week, The Crew's launch date was delayed until to December 2nd, ensuring a longer closed beta for the driving MMO. What else is new in the world of MMO testing? Read on for our complete Betawatch roundup.

Continue reading Betawatch: October 4 - 10, 2014

MassivelyBetawatch: October 4 - 10, 2014 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 Oct 2014 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasasker-onlinebetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchblade-and-soulbrianna-royce-betawatchclosed-betadas-talgame-testinglaunchlauncheslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromassively-metanightmare-tideopen-betapathfinder-onlineriftrounduptestingthe-crewthe-repopulationFri, 10 Oct 2014 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Repopulation is focusing on feature completion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/05/the-repopulation-is-focusing-on-feature-completion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/05/the-repopulation-is-focusing-on-feature-completion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/10/05/the-repopulation-is-focusing-on-feature-completion/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

repop
In what its devs are calling a "very busy month," The Repopulation pushed out three major patches in September, not to mention another one this past week. Above and Beyond says is all being done to fill out the game: "We've been pushing hard to get our experimental tweaks and additions out of the way now as we push towards feature completion."

In addition to pages and pages of patch notes, The Repopulation made significant changes to Medics, added a Points of Ingrigue extension to its enemy camp system, and completely overhauled the tutorial. The sandbox title promises that another round of testers will be invited into the game in the middle of October.

MassivelyThe Repopulation is focusing on feature completion originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 05 Oct 2014 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiesalphabetapatchpatch-notesprogress-reportrepopulationsandboxsci-fiseptemberthe-repopulationtutorialSun, 05 Oct 2014 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: September 6 - 12, 2014]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/12/betawatch-september-6-12-2014/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/12/betawatch-september-6-12-2014/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/12/betawatch-september-6-12-2014/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

ArcheAge
We say farewell to ArcheAge this week as it emerges from open beta into its head start period. What else is new in the land of MMO testing? The complete Betawatch roundup lies ahead.

Continue reading Betawatch: September 6 - 12, 2014

MassivelyBetawatch: September 6 - 12, 2014 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Sep 2014 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>albion-onlinealphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchblade-9brianna-royce-betawatchclosed-betadestinyeliteelite-dangerouseverquestgame-testinglandmarklaunchlauncheslegend-of-the-condor-heroeslegend-of-the-condor-heroes-zerolodmassively-metaopen-betapathfinderpathfinder-onlinerounduptestingthe-repopulationtugvaliance-onlineFri, 12 Sep 2014 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Repopulation's new alpha trailer features pets, housing, and the open world]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/09/the-repopulations-new-alpha-trailer-features-pets-housing-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/09/the-repopulations-new-alpha-trailer-features-pets-housing-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/09/the-repopulations-new-alpha-trailer-features-pets-housing-and/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

The Repopulation
Above and Beyond has just released another alpha teaser video for upcoming sci-fi sandbox The Repopulation. The two-minute trailer sweeps through panoramas and highlights riding mounts, dual-wield electricity-sword combat, fishing, pet taming, dancing, and building and decorating houses in the open world, a set of activities no doubt intended to appeal to fans of a certain other sci-fi sandbox -- not that we're complaining.

The team has also promised another live giveaway and question-and-answer session with fans on Twitch coming up this weekend on Saturday at 2:00 p.m. EDT.

The video is below.

Continue reading The Repopulation's new alpha trailer features pets, housing, and the open world

MassivelyThe Repopulation's new alpha trailer features pets, housing, and the open world originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 09 Sep 2014 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiesalphabetarepopulationsandboxsci-fithe-repopulationtrailertrailersvideovideosTue, 09 Sep 2014 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: August 30 - September 5, 2014]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/05/betawatch-august-30-september-5-2014/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/05/betawatch-august-30-september-5-2014/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/05/betawatch-august-30-september-5-2014/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

AA
ArcheAge's open beta, undaunted by what our community has dubbed e-hooligans and their DDoSing ways, officially began yesterday. The official launch is slated for September 16th. What else is new in the land of MMO testing? The complete Betawatch roundup is below.

Continue reading Betawatch: August 30 - September 5, 2014

MassivelyBetawatch: August 30 - September 5, 2014 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Sep 2014 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasarcheagebetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchbrianna-royce-betawatchcamelot-unchainedclosed-betae-hooliganse-thugseliteelite-dangerousgame-testinglaunchlauncheslego-minifigures-onlinemassively-metanightmare-tideopen-betapathfinderpathfinder-onlineriftroundupstar-citizentestingthe-repopulationtribal-wars-2trovewakfuFri, 05 Sep 2014 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Repopulation rolls out open-world housing and tournaments]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/04/the-repopulation-rolls-out-open-world-housing-and-tournaments/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/04/the-repopulation-rolls-out-open-world-housing-and-tournaments/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/09/04/the-repopulation-rolls-out-open-world-housing-and-tournaments/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

'Cause every time we touch, I get this feeling.
The Repopulation is looking back over its updates through the month of August and letting fans and backers alike know how the game is developing. The biggest addition was the rollout of open world housing in PvE regions; the team has changed how plots are placed to allow players more freedom in choosing locations. City plots will see a similar restructuring for contested regions. More people than before will get to try these changes, as well; the price for early access to the game has been dropped to $100 and all of the Round 1 backers should be invited to the game's test by the coming weekend.

Player-created tournaments were also rolled out for testing; while the final version will be available in player-run cities, the current implementation is in a testing instance. The minigame system got its basic implementation, and of course there was the usual array of tweaks, balance changes, and bugfixes. Check out the full update for all of the details if you're watching the game from afar with eager eyes.

MassivelyThe Repopulation rolls out open-world housing and tournaments originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Sep 2014 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiesaccessbetabetascitiesearly-accesshouse-placementhousingnewsnews-itemspatchpatchesplayer-housingplayer-run-citiespverepopulationsandboxsci-fithe-repopulationupdateupdatesThu, 04 Sep 2014 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX Prime 2014: The Repopulation's Josh Halls on beta, fishing, and houses]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/08/30/pax-prime-2014-the-repopulations-josh-halls-on-beta-fishing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/08/30/pax-prime-2014-the-repopulations-josh-halls-on-beta-fishing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/08/30/pax-prime-2014-the-repopulations-josh-halls-on-beta-fishing/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Above & Beyond Technologies Lead Developer Josh Halls has been on a very long journey with The Repopulation, a journey that began back in 2009 and isn't even close to being over yet. I met with Halls at PAX Prime to talk about where this sci-fi sandbox has been and where it's going as it angles for beta testing.

The Repopulation released its Alpha 3 build this past April and will be sticking with that for the duration of alpha testing. Halls told me that there's a pretty dedicated group of testers in the game, with around 1,500 having picked up the title so far and around 20 to 40 playing at any given moment. Those numbers are primed to increase when the game transitions into beta and Steam Early Access later this year.

While it's not terribly sexy, bug tracking and fixing is vital to the development process and foremost on the team's mind. Player feedback during the alpha has helped to refine the game in other ways, such as to make gathering less of a click-fest and more of a community effort. Right now a group of players can work together to enhance a region in order to gather better materials.

Other big to-do items include putting in a fishing minigame and opening the doors (so to speak) for open-world housing. Fishing will pave the way for other possible minigames, and open-world housing is the next step from the game's existing instanced homes.

Halls said that the dozen or so members of the team are hard at work to prepare The Repopulation for the larger gaming public and that the studio is currently operating in the black.

Continue reading PAX Prime 2014: The Repopulation's Josh Halls on beta, fishing, and houses

MassivelyPAX Prime 2014: The Repopulation's Josh Halls on beta, fishing, and houses originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 30 Aug 2014 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiesconconventioneventevent-coverageeventsexpointerviewinterviewsmassively-event-coveragepaxpax-2014pax-primepax-prime-2014penny-arcade-exporepopulationsandboxsci-fithe-repopulationSat, 30 Aug 2014 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Perfect Ten: How to spend $46,750 on MMO crowdfunding purchases]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/08/23/perfect-ten-how-to-spend-46-750-on-mmo-crowdfunding-purchases/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/08/23/perfect-ten-how-to-spend-46-750-on-mmo-crowdfunding-purchases/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/08/23/perfect-ten-how-to-spend-46-750-on-mmo-crowdfunding-purchases/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

sota
Do you ever look at your wallet and say, "Ugh, this thing is too full! It's causing a bruise on my tushie every time I sit, and no gas station ever has change for a thousand-dollar bill!" Are you tired of the endless cycle of purchasing luxury sedans to roll them off cliffs only to realize that the auto industry is making them faster than they can be destroyed?

We here at Massively feel your pain, and just as soon as I finished eating a breakfast of scrambled eggs made from endangered birds, I hopped off the company's gold yacht and got to work tracking down ways that you could relieve yourself of the burden of wealth.

So here is my plan, in 10 simple steps, for you to shed $46,750 of your bank account, all by blowing your enormous disposable income on Kickstarter and other crowdfunding options. No, please don't thank me by sending me a gigantic check. I would only shred it to use in my robo-hamster's cage.

Continue reading Perfect Ten: How to spend $46,750 on MMO crowdfunding purchases

MassivelyPerfect Ten: How to spend $46,750 on MMO crowdfunding purchases originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 23 Aug 2014 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avalon-lordscamelot-unchainedcrowdfundingfeaturedgreed-mongerhumorneos-landopinionp10pathfinder-onlineperfect-10perfect-tenroundupshroud-of-the-avatarstar-citizenthe-perfect-10the-perfect-tenthe-repopulationtop-10top-10-listtop-tentop-ten-listtrials-of-ascensiontroveSat, 23 Aug 2014 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Repopulation looks back at its July test updates]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/08/04/the-repopulation-looks-back-at-its-july-test-updates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/08/04/the-repopulation-looks-back-at-its-july-test-updates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/08/04/the-repopulation-looks-back-at-its-july-test-updates/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The world is big, and so are we.
The end of the month means a new update for those on the outside looking in at The Repopulation, and July brought with it some sizable changes. For example, the game introduced 27 new areas, with several existing areas seeing new improvements and a lot of extra paths opening up. Any explorer has plenty of new stuff to see throughout the game, from new ways to see old regions to old regions just filled with new things.

July also saw the inclusion of the training mechanic, which allows players to spend training points to improve various abilities. Pharmaceuticals, equipment fittings, and music also saw large-scale overhauls for players, and the development team launched a survey to get a better idea of the player types watching the game closely. You can see the full list of patch changes with the official update, along with more details on the overhauls and plans moving forward.

MassivelyThe Repopulation looks back at its July test updates originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 04 Aug 2014 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiesalphaalphasareaareasbetabetasimprovementsnewsnews-itemspatchpatchesregionsrepopulationsandboxsci-fisurveysurveysthe-repopulationupdatezonesMon, 04 Aug 2014 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Repopulation allows you to queue up 100 recipes at a go]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/07/05/the-repopulation-allows-you-to-queue-up-100-recipes-at-a-go/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/07/05/the-repopulation-allows-you-to-queue-up-100-recipes-at-a-go/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/07/05/the-repopulation-allows-you-to-queue-up-100-recipes-at-a-go/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Repopulation
If you consider that The Repopulation will feature crafting so heavily, is it any surprise that the team is working hard to beef up that portion of the game during its alpha test? In its end-of-June update, the devs say that they've added a batching system into the game that allows players to queue up 100 items at once. Even so, doing the job by hand will generate better results, albeit over a longer time frame.

Other changes in the game include improvements to harvesting info and the inquiry system. Players can now use the latter to generate missions to take camps in order to get better resources.

According to the letter, The Repopulation is "getting closer" to transitioning into beta testing.

MassivelyThe Repopulation allows you to queue up 100 recipes at a go originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 05 Jul 2014 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiesbatching-systemcraftingdev-diaryproducers-letterrepopulationsandboxsci-fithe-repopulationupdateSat, 05 Jul 2014 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Repopulation improves abilities and combat in May]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/06/02/the-repopulation-improves-abilities-and-combat-in-may/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/06/02/the-repopulation-improves-abilities-and-combat-in-may/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/06/02/the-repopulation-improves-abilities-and-combat-in-may/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Standing in an open field, just waiting for adventure to come to him, he is John Protagonist.
May has finally come to an end, and The Repopulation comes ever closer to release with a larger pool of testers on both weekends and a regular basis. It also means that more big changes have been rolled out to the game, starting with Ability Enhancements. These slotted tricks fit into abilities similar to item fittings, with a variety of different enhancements available to improve a character's skills. The enhancement slots are limited, however, which forces players to think about how they want to specialize their characters.

Combat has also received a major tuning tweak, with a new off-hand option for those who'd prefer not to dual-wield melee weapons and a number of improved abilities. The refined combat system includes new openings and counter-attack support, which makes the system play nicer in a group setting. You can see the full patch notes and read more details on the official site.

[Thanks to J.C. Smith for the tip!]

MassivelyThe Repopulation improves abilities and combat in May originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Jun 2014 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilitiesability-enhancementabove-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiesalphaalphasbetabetascombat-mechanicsgame-mechanicspreviewrepopulationsandboxsci-fistatus-reporttesttestingthe-repopulationMon, 02 Jun 2014 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: May 3 - 9, 2014]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/05/09/betawatch-may-3-9-2014/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/05/09/betawatch-may-3-9-2014/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/05/09/betawatch-may-3-9-2014/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

wildStar
WildStar officially entered open beta yesterday, upping its level cap and unveiling a new trailer. What else is new in the land of MMO betas?
  • Landmark patched oceans into its ongoing founder beta.
  • Like dinosaurs? Good. Survival MMO The Stomping Land hits Steam early access later this month.
  • Destiny rather casually announced that its beta is coming in July.
  • Heroes & Generals updated with the most massive patch its open beta has seen to date.
  • World of Warcraft took us on a tour of a Warlords of Draenor zone.
  • Elite: Dangerous clarified the timeline for its alpha and premium beta phases.
  • The Repopulation likewise posted its alpha schedule.
  • Shards Online started a mysterious countdown. [Thanks, Aimee!]
Read on for the complete Betawatch roundup!

Continue reading Betawatch: May 3 - 9, 2014

MassivelyBetawatch: May 3 - 9, 2014 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 May 2014 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchbrianna-royce-betawatchclosed-betadestinyelite-dangerousgame-testingheroes-and-generalslandmarklaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betaroundupshards-onlinetestingthe-repopulationthe-stomping-landwildstarWorld-of-WarcraftFri, 09 May 2014 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Repopulation team has squashed a lot of bugs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/05/02/the-repopulation-team-has-squashed-a-lot-of-bugs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/05/02/the-repopulation-team-has-squashed-a-lot-of-bugs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/05/02/the-repopulation-team-has-squashed-a-lot-of-bugs/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

The Repopulation art
Above & Beyond has released its latest monthly recap for crowdfunded sci-fi sandbox MMO The Repopulation. April saw the launch of Alpha 3, and the dev team says that next week they'll start inviting "preview weekenders" to grow the tester numbers yet again.

The team's primary focus right now is bug fixing, as there have been "quite a few new things that we never expected to happen bug-wise." Most of them have been dealt with, though, as the massive list of fixes in the update makes clear. You can read the full report at The Repopulation's official web site.

MassivelyThe Repopulation team has squashed a lot of bugs originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 May 2014 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiesrepopulationsandboxsci-fithe-repopulationFri, 02 May 2014 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX East 2014: The Repopulation's Josh Hall on the future of the game]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/04/12/pax-2014-talking-the-repopulation-with-josh-hall/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/04/12/pax-2014-talking-the-repopulation-with-josh-hall/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/04/12/pax-2014-talking-the-repopulation-with-josh-hall/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Are you not entertained?
If you're looking for Kickstarter success stories, The Repopulation definitely qualifies. While the game hasn't yet been released, it's managed to run not one but two successful campaigns looking to fans for funding, and it's managed its development carefully to keep itself on track for release. The game feels like a well-managed professional affair. And it's been a bit more quiet, but that comes down largely to the focus on getting the game out of its current alpha state and into its first beta.

At this year's PAX East, I sat down to talk with Josh Hall, one of the core team members on the project, about where the game is in development and what it's heading for in the next few months. While the final alpha stage has taken slightly longer than originally planned, the team is on track for launching the first beta phase at some point over the summer, and it's eyeing further release plans.

Continue reading PAX East 2014: The Repopulation's Josh Hall on the future of the game

MassivelyPAX East 2014: The Repopulation's Josh Hall on the future of the game originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 12 Apr 2014 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiescommunityconconventioncrowdfundingdevelopmentdevelopment-featursearly-accesseventevent-coverageeventsexpofeaturedfundinginterviewinvestmentjosh-hallkickstartermassively-event-coveragepaxpax-2014pax-eastpax-east-2014penny-arcade-exporepopulationsandboxsci-fithe-repopulationSat, 12 Apr 2014 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: Talking with The Repopulation's Steven Coltart]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/04/08/jukebox-heroes-talking-with-the-repopulations-steven-coltart/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/04/08/jukebox-heroes-talking-with-the-repopulations-steven-coltart/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/04/08/jukebox-heroes-talking-with-the-repopulations-steven-coltart/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Repopulation
Massively: Even in the far distant future on alien worlds, we'll still need music. This is why it's great that Composer Steven Coltart is providing The Repopulation with an original soundtrack, because otherwise the silence would be too much to bear. So Steven, can you tell us a little about yourself?

Steven Coltart: I'm a full-time professional composer based in the UK and was commissioned to be lead composer on The Repopulation in 2013. Previous projects include Outer Empires, the first MMO of its kind created for iOS, which went on to sell over 200,000 copies and boasted the largest ever network of players online at that time. 2014 has seen me complete the soundtrack for a soon to be announced iOS game, and I'm currently putting the finishing touches to US-based sci-fi film Downward. I've worked incredibly hard to get to this point, but I'm lucky to have what I consider the best job in the world. Writing music for a living and getting to work with talented developers and producers, it doesn't get much better for me!

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: Talking with The Repopulation's Steven Coltart

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: Talking with The Repopulation's Steven Coltart originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 Apr 2014 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiesbetacomposercomposersfeaturedgame-musicinterviewjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettimmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicopinionouter-empiresrepopulationsandboxsci-fisoundtracksoundtrackssteven-coltartthe-repopulationTue, 08 Apr 2014 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[April Fools' Day around the virtual world]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/04/01/april-fools-day-around-the-virtual-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/04/01/april-fools-day-around-the-virtual-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/04/01/april-fools-day-around-the-virtual-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Neverwinter
I was in Guild Wars 2 last night at 10 p.m. PDT when my Asura's head... grew. And wobbled. And bobbled. As did the heads of the not-so-scary-anymore Nightmare Court villains I had been murdering in pursuit of my dailies. Ah, I remembered. It's April Fools' somewhere! Here are some of the MMOs that tried to prank us today:

Continue reading April Fools' Day around the virtual world

MassivelyApril Fools' Day around the virtual world originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Apr 2014 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>april-1stapril-firstapril-foolsApril-fools-dayapril-fools-day-2014dc-universe-onlinedcuodestinyeqnEverQuest-2everquest-iieverquest-nextleague-of-legendslollord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroneverwinterpath-of-exilepoestar-wars-the-old-republicswtorterathe-repopulationworld-of-tanksWorld-of-Warcraftworld-of-warplaneswowwowpTue, 01 Apr 2014 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Repopulation adds adversarial camps, preps for Alpha 3]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/03/repopulation-adds-adversarial-camps-preps-for-alpha-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/03/repopulation-adds-adversarial-camps-preps-for-alpha-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/03/03/repopulation-adds-adversarial-camps-preps-for-alpha-3/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Repopulation concept art
Above & Beyond has released its latest monthly status report on The Repopulation. In February, the design team added the adversarial camps stretch goal to its sci-fi sandbox, which will allow devs to "generate much of the game's content on the fly and help ensure that players do not have a static experience."

Additional work was done on the title's customizable XML-based UI, the harvesting mechanics, and a fitting system for robotic pets. February's "largest changes" came in the form of additional world content, as the dev team is looking forward to adding more testers for Alpha 3 "in a few weeks."

MassivelyThe Repopulation adds adversarial camps, preps for Alpha 3 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 03 Mar 2014 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiesadversarial-campsrepopulationsandboxsci-fithe-repopulationuiUI-customizationMon, 03 Mar 2014 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Make My MMO: Crowdfunding January 26 - February 8, 2014]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/02/08/make-my-mmo-crowdfunding-january-26-february-8-2014/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/02/08/make-my-mmo-crowdfunding-january-26-february-8-2014/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/02/08/make-my-mmo-crowdfunding-january-26-february-8-2014/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The crowdfunding train just keeps rolling right along, with passengers always coming and going. New passengers hop aboard while others hop off at their desired destination. Sadly, some have to disembark early -- such is the case with Universe Rush and Antilia. Although the Kickstarter campaign fell far short of its goal, Antilia does plan to continue development on its own.

On the brighter side of things, some passengers reached their stop; Tales From The Strange Universe reached its goal, and both it and Novus AEterno (which brought in over 3.5 times its initial goal) will now take their places in the funded category. The Repopulation, earning over 175K during this latest Kickstarter run, disembarks at Betawatch station thanks to its ongoing alpha testing. Catch up on all the news for all these titles as they journey through crowdfunding here in Make My MMO.

Continue reading Make My MMO: Crowdfunding January 26 - February 8, 2014

MassivelyMake My MMO: Crowdfunding January 26 - February 8, 2014 originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 08 Feb 2014 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiesandroidAntiliaavatarbrad-mcquaidbrowserbrowser-mmobusiness-modelscamelotcamelot-unchainedchris-robertscitadel-of-sorcerycity-of-heroescity-of-titanscity-statecity-state-entertainmentcliffhangercliffhanger-productionscloud-imperiumcloud-imperium-gamescohcotcrowdfundingcryptozoiccryptozoic-studioscsecyberpunkdivergence-onlineeconomyembers-of-caerusEpic-Spaceever-janefantasygloria-victisgoblinworksgreed-mongergreed-monger-partnershexHot-Rod-Hustleindieinternet-spaceshipsioskickstarterkickstarterslord-britishmacmake-my-mmomark-jacobsmissing-worldsmissing-worlds-mediammo-industrymmotcgmobilemobile-mmoneos-landpantheonpantheon-rise-of-the-fallenpantheon-rotfpathfinderpathfinder-onlineplayer-driven-economyplayer-economypledgepnpprotfpvprepopulationrichard-garriottrise-of-the-fallenrotfrvrsandboxsandparksci-fishadowrunshadowrun-onlineshroudshroud-of-the-avatarSOTAspaceshipstar-citizenStar-Riderstarcraft-universesuperherosuperheroestake-my-moneyTales-From-The-Strange-UniversetcgThe-Mandatethe-repopulationtrading-card-gameUniverse-Rushvisionary-realmswar-of-omensSat, 08 Feb 2014 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Repopulation closes its second Kickstarter with triple funding]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/01/27/the-repopulation-closes-its-second-kickstarter-with-triple-fundi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/01/27/the-repopulation-closes-its-second-kickstarter-with-triple-fundi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2014/01/27/the-repopulation-closes-its-second-kickstarter-with-triple-fundi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Sit down and talk. They're kind of a big deal.
The development team at Above and Beyond Technologies went back to Kickstarter to ask for a little extra funding to develop The Repopulation. The project's goal was set at a very reasonable $50,000. Now the campaign is over, and it turns out that the company's philosophy of starting low and using stretch goals worked out quite well. Funding for this campaign closed out at around $176,000, more than triple what was initially requested.

Despite that high number, not every stretch goal was hit, but that's what happens when the developers build a high ceiling. Still, it means that the game squeaked past the mark needed to unlock gladiatorial arenas in player-run cities. It's good news for the game's developers, backers, and even fans who elected not to back the second campaign.

MassivelyThe Repopulation closes its second Kickstarter with triple funding originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 27 Jan 2014 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiescrowdfundingdevelopmentdevelopment-fundingkickstarternewsnews-itemsrepopulationsandboxsci-fisecond-kickstarterstretch-goalsthe-repopulationMon, 27 Jan 2014 12:30:00 EST