Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Diablo III shows signs of release]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/not-so-massively-diablo-iii-shows-signs-of-release/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/not-so-massively-diablo-iii-shows-signs-of-release/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/not-so-massively-diablo-iii-shows-signs-of-release/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
Diablo III saw its clearest signs of release ever this week after a succinct tweet from Jay Wilson and the announcement that PvP is being cut from release in favour of getting the game out sooner. Firefall revealed its plans for attending events and trade shows this year and showed off its world-building tools and talent in an awesome new video devblog. Blacklight: Retribution continued its open beta with the release of a new map set in a laboratory during a virus outbreak. Developers also revealed the game's newest hero, Grendel the heavy weapons and explosives specialist.

It's been a slow week for news in the MOBA world, with developers pulling out all the stops for GDC 2012 and planning for upcoming events at PAX East 2012 and beyond. This week League of Legends announced that several of the game's classic skins will soon be retired and are available temporarily for a 75% discount. Riot Games detailed plans for its upcoming events at PAX East, and the IntelEM tournament finals went off without a hitch. The latest Dota 2 patch added a new passive bot difficulty mode that forces bots to stay in their lanes and introduced a series of balance tweaks.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Diablo III shows signs of release

MassivelyNot So Massively: Diablo III shows signs of release originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgaibattlenetbetablacklightblacklight-retributionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbotscompetitive-gamingcontainmentd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotae-sporte-sportsesportesportseventeventsf2pfantasyfeaturedfpsfree-to-playgothic-fantasygrendelheavy-weaponsjay-wilsonleague-of-legendslolmapmatt-danielmatt-dewaldmmofpsmobamorgan-rominemultiplayernewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayerpax-eastpax-east-2012perfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpvppwered-5-studiosriotriot-gamesround-uprounduprpgsign-of-releasevideoMon, 12 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WAKFU releasing February 29th, stress test coming this weekend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/wakfu-releasing-february-29th-stress-test-coming-this-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/wakfu-releasing-february-29th-stress-test-coming-this-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/wakfu-releasing-february-29th-stress-test-coming-this-weekend/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

WAKFU - lots of players
It's a big weekend for WAKFU fans. The free-to-play fantasy sandbox from Ankama has announced the worldwide release date (February 29th) in a posting on the game's official website. The team picked the leap year date on purpose as a way of cementing WAKFU's reputation for doing things "that little bit differently."

The devs have also released a new video diary focusing on the game's monsters and PvE gameplay.

Finally, there's a stress test going on this weekend to help Ankama prepare for the upcoming launch. Make sure you log in on Saturday and Sunday to help out (and to get your apprentice cloak bonus item)!

Continue reading WAKFU releasing February 29th, stress test coming this weekend

MassivelyWAKFU releasing February 29th, stress test coming this weekend originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 27 Jan 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aiankamadev-diaryf2pfantasyfree-to-playmonsterspverelease-datesandboxsquaresquare-enixstress-testvideowakfuFri, 27 Jan 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[League of Legends update bringing sharper AI, new bots]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/league-of-legends-update-bringing-sharper-ai-new-bots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/league-of-legends-update-bringing-sharper-ai-new-bots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/league-of-legends-update-bringing-sharper-ai-new-bots/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- League of Legends
League of Legends is well known for its challenging team-based gameplay and its rather steep learning curve, leading many users to play co-operatively against AI in order to hone their skills. In addition, co-op vs. AI is "the primary game mode for a surprisingly large percentage of users" according to senior producer Mark Norris. In light of this, Riot Games is bringing a huge new update to League of Legends' AI matches.

For starters, Riot will be introducing AI bots for a whopping 40 of the game's champions, allowing players to test their mettle against a wider variety of opponents. In addition, the AI itself is in for an update that will allow bots to behave more like their human counterparts by utilizing predictive targeting for skillshots (such as Ashe's ultimate) and employing a great deal more strategy than the current bots. Of course, there are still some things that bots can't do (such as intelligent jungling), but Norris suggests "that's actually a huge advanced area that we do want to look at and get into, that we're in the the real rudimentary stages of trying to figure out right now."

For the full details on what awaits players in the upcoming AI update, just click on through the link below and read the full story.

MassivelyLeague of Legends update bringing sharper AI, new bots originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aiartificial-intelligencebotsco-opco-op-vs-botsco-operativecooperativef2pfree-to-playleague-of-legendslolmark-norrismobamultiplayer-online-battle-arenapatchpatchesriotriot-gamesupdateupdatesTue, 24 Jan 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mortal Online announces a new expansion called Awakening]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/13/mortal-online-announces-a-new-expansion-called-awakening/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/13/mortal-online-announces-a-new-expansion-called-awakening/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/13/mortal-online-announces-a-new-expansion-called-awakening/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

All that brilliant architecture left no budget for paint.
Mortal Online has already launched one expansion, but the game's second expansion in its two years of operation will soon join the first. Awakening has just been announced and is set to bring a variety of improvements to the game. The centerpiece is the introduction of Tindrem, the eponymous Tindremic capital and the home of the Emperor. The sprawling city encompasses several districts, but there's more to the city than the orderly facade it presents to travelers.

The expansion will provide more than simply a new city, however. It offers improved artificial intelligence and a better user interface to players, along with new dungeons in which players can test their skills against improved enemy intelligence. There's also a new set of special Trade Brokers in the cities, dyes for clothing and armor, and several other improvements that should be cheered by every Mortal Online player.

[Thanks to James for the tip!]

MassivelyMortal Online announces a new expansion called Awakening originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 Jan 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aiareasartificial-intelligenceawakeningcitiesexpansionsmomortal-onlinemortal-online-awakeningnew-areasnew-citiesnewspatchesstar-vaultuiupdatesuser-interfaceFri, 13 Jan 2012 19:30:00 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[The Daily Grind: What's your favorite MMO pet class?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/02/the-daily-grind-whats-your-favorite-mmo-pet-class/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/02/the-daily-grind-whats-your-favorite-mmo-pet-class/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/02/the-daily-grind-whats-your-favorite-mmo-pet-class/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

EQII Beastlord
If you started playing MMOs at the beginning of the genre, you may be saddled with a prejudice against pet classes. In early Ultima Online, an Animal Tamer's pets, usually dragons, had a way of getting their master into notoriety trouble. In EverQuest, if ever a pull went awry, blame was placed on the Necromancers and Magicians, deserved or not -- obviously, those classes just had poor pet control. Even City of Heroes' Masterminds, implemented only in 2005, have a bad reputation for reckless behavior (not to mention for blocking party members' movement).

Pet AI has come a very long way over the last decade and a half, though, and pet classes continue to be popular, perhaps because they allow players to micromanage a group without actually having to be in one. And some games, like Star Wars: The Old Republic, have made all classes pet classes by virtue of companions. Are you a fan of pet classes, and if so, what's your favorite implementation across the genre?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What's your favorite MMO pet class? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aianimal-tamerbeastlordbiowarebrianna-royce-tdgcity-of-heroesCity-of-VillainsclassclassescohcovcoxeaElectronic-ArtseqEQ2EQIIeverquestEverQuest-2everquest-iimagicianmastermindncsoftnecromanceropinionparagon-studiospetpet-aipet-classpet-classespetssoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstar-wars-the-old-republicswtortdgthe-daily-grindthe-old-republictorultima-onlineuoMon, 02 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Assembly Required: Diving into details of Origins of Malu with an exclusive interview]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/some-assembly-required-diving-into-details-of-origins-of-malu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/some-assembly-required-diving-into-details-of-origins-of-malu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/some-assembly-required-diving-into-details-of-origins-of-malu/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Some Assembly Required header image
"This will be the world's best game ever ever ever!" -Michael Dunham. You tell 'em!

Honestly, we have heard it before: MMORPG feature lists that promise what our sandbox-loving hearts desire. Try as we might, we cannot escape those sneaky tendrils of hope that find the chinks in our +10 jaded armor of cynicism as we read about the return of a true virtual where actions have consequences, personal choices dictate gameplay, and individuality is a matter of principle.

Sadly, time and time again those hopes are dashed by titles that either cannot deliver on their promises or never even survive until launch. The same is true for the developers at Burning Dog Media; they too have ridden the roller coaster of sandbox dreams and harbored in their hearts a vision of their ultimate game if only they had the wherewithal to produce it. The difference between them and us is... they do!

Welcome to issue #6 of Some Assembly Required -- an exclusive interview with Michael Dunham and Dave Cruikshank -- Lead Developer and Art Director of Burning Dog Media, respectively -- who are in the midst of developing the new sci-fi/fantasy MMORPG Origins of Malu. Originally called just Origins (the change was to help avoid confusion with other projects that were cropping up with similar titles), this game previously teased sandbox aficionados with a glimpse at some hope-stirring features. Today, we have the privilege of expounding on "coming soon" and revealing more features that not only are planned but are for the most part implemented.

So why should we check out Origins of Malu? And what tantalizing tidbits of sandboxy goodness can we expect? Grab onto that hope and dive past the cut -- if you dare -- to see what Michael and Dave have to share.

Gallery: Origins of Malu

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: Diving into details of Origins of Malu with an exclusive interview

MassivelySome Assembly Required: Diving into details of Origins of Malu with an exclusive interview originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Sep 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AIburning-dogburning-dog-mediacharacter-customiationcraftingdave-cruikshankduelingduelseconomyexclusivefactionsfantasyfeaturedharvestinghousinginterviewmassively-exclusive-interviewsmichael-dunhamnew-titlesoriginsOrigins of Maluorigins-mmoOrigins-of-MaluOriginsOfMalupermadeathpvpsandboxsandbox-mmosci-fiscifisome-assembly-requiredFri, 16 Sep 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Origins website hints at lofty sandbox goals]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/origins-website-hints-at-lofty-sandbox-goals/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/origins-website-hints-at-lofty-sandbox-goals/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/origins-website-hints-at-lofty-sandbox-goals/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Origins
"Let's face it. MMO companies have found a cookie cutter formula," boasts the new Origins website. "It's time for something new." That something is a sandbox title shrouded in a fair bit of secrecy but bold enough to make some lofty claims as to its genre-changing design.

The title is the brainchild of Burning Dog Media, a Canadian development firm founded by Michael Dunham and Dave Cruikshank. While specific gameplay details are left to our fertile imaginations, the newly revealed website does hint at a feature set downloaded directly from the minds of starving sandbox fans everywhere. No classes? Check. The ability to change the game world? Check. A conspicuous lack of scripted boss fights? Check. And would you believe mob AI that stalks players over a period of several days, waiting for the right time to attack?

The world itself seems to be a mixture of fantasy and sci-fi, and the Origins website contains its share of screenshots, concept art, and bestiary info.

[Thanks to James for the tip!]

MassivelyOrigins website hints at lofty sandbox goals originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 10 Aug 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aiburning-dog-mediadave-cruikshankfantasyfreedommichael-dunhammmo-industrymob-ainew-titlesno-classesoriginsorigins-mmoorigins-of-maluplayer-freedomsandboxsci-fiWed, 10 Aug 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Storybricks: Opening the Pandora's box of MMO design]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/storybricks-opening-the-pandoras-box-of-mmo-design/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/storybricks-opening-the-pandoras-box-of-mmo-design/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/storybricks-opening-the-pandoras-box-of-mmo-design/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Storybricks pre-alpha
"I could make a better game than this!"

At one point or another, we've all said this, usually in disgust after we've become fed up with another tired MMO trope or lazy quest design. Unfortunately, most of us don't have the good fortune to work for a major game studio and thus will never see our brilliant ideas come to fruition.

Except that this may no longer be true. Enter Namaste Entertainment's Storybricks, a bold and intriguing concept aimed at putting game design in the hands of Joe and Jane Gamer. Namaste is a small startup that began in 2010 when its team members got tired of derivative titles and mechanics in the industry. Storybricks is the team's first project, and while it's still in its infancy, it's already started to capture the imaginations -- and excitement -- of gamers everywhere.

At this past week's GenCon, I caught up with Brian "Psychochild" Green and the rest of the Namaste crew as they publicly demoed Storybricks to the gaming crowd. Hit the jump as we look at why this program may just be the answer to a question you've never fully asked.

Continue reading Storybricks: Opening the Pandora's box of MMO design

MassivelyStorybricks: Opening the Pandora's box of MMO design originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aibrian-greencity-of-heroescohfeaturedgencongencon-2011gencon-indyinterviewinterviewskelly-heckmanlegoliz-danforthnamastenamaste-entertainmentneverwinter-nightsnpcnwnpgcplayer-created-contentplayer-generated-contentpsychochildsecond-lifestar-trek-25th-anniversarystar-trek-onlinestostorybrickswastelandMon, 08 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gods & Heroes: Rome Rising releases new combat trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/gods-and-heroes-rome-rising-releases-new-combat-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/gods-and-heroes-rome-rising-releases-new-combat-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/gods-and-heroes-rome-rising-releases-new-combat-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

There's a new Gods & Heroes: Rome Rising video in town, and it's taking no prisoners. The new one-minute clip is centered on the game's combat mechanics, and there's plenty of whirling, slashing, stomping, and even a nifty hey-get-off-of-my-back move to whet your violent appetites.

Though the clip is short, there's a good sampling of PvE mobs on display, all of them with a distinctly mythological flavor and all of them waiting to meet the business end of your weapon. You'll also get a glimpse of the game's minions (the Gods & Heroes version of the traditional MMORPG pet mechanic) as well as some nice-looking environments. The game has been selling well since its June launch, and you can check out the new trailer after the cut.

Continue reading Gods & Heroes: Rome Rising releases new combat trailer

MassivelyGods & Heroes: Rome Rising releases new combat trailer originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Jul 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aicombatfantasygods-and-heroesgods-and-heroes-rome-risingheatwaveheatwave-interactiveminionsmobsmythologynpcspetsroman-mythologytrailervideoWed, 06 Jul 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Funcom teases new Age of Conan group dungeons]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/03/funcom-teases-new-age-of-conan-group-dungeons/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/03/funcom-teases-new-age-of-conan-group-dungeons/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/03/funcom-teases-new-age-of-conan-group-dungeons/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The city of Paikang is getting a bit of an update in the next few weeks, and players of Funcom's Age of Conan should be pleased to note that the Imperial capital will soon be the home of two new level-80 instances.

The dungeons are designed for elite groups and take place in two outdoor zones that were recently profiled at MMORPG.com. The Ai District features an expansive playfield along with two "set-piece" boss encounters and "the odd secret to be revealed from careful investigation."

The Tian'an District is quite different in that it features six boss fights as well as a race against the clock to clear them all. Funcom has deliberately elevated the challenge level in this district, and Tian'an will reportedly require a skilled (and coordinated) group to claim its rewards. While Funcom hasn't revealed those rewards in detail, it has hinted that they will be on par with the existing Kara Korum dungeon drops.

MassivelyFuncom teases new Age of Conan group dungeons originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 May 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaiai-districtaocboss-fightsbossesdev-blogdev-diaryfantasyfuncomgroup-dungeongroup-instanceinstanceskhitainew-contentpaikangpverise-of-the-godslayertianantianan-districtTue, 03 May 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA shows off Centaur lore and tactics]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/07/tera-shows-off-centaur-lore-and-tactics/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/07/tera-shows-off-centaur-lore-and-tactics/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/07/tera-shows-off-centaur-lore-and-tactics/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The official TERA website has updated with a look at one of the mobs players will likely encounter in their journeys around Arborea. Centaurs are found primarily in the Fey Forest region and look to challenge adventurers with spear attacks, hoof attacks, and their ability to sidestep player combos.

The new entry also reveals a bit of centaur lore, noting that the legendary creatures are "presently allied with the fey creatures of northwestern Arcadia province in an uprising against woodcutters, whose drastic logging practices are in danger of denuding the forest in order to fulfill lumber orders from Velika."

Tactically, centaurs are prone to rapidly closing the distance to a target as well as coming to the aid of nearby faeries and other centaurs. Check out all the details, as well as a couple of new screens, at the TERA website.

MassivelyTERA shows off Centaur lore and tactics originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Apr 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aiarboreaarcadiablueholebluehole-studiocentaurcentaurscreaturesen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyfey-forestgameplayloremeleemobsteratera-onlinewoodcuttersThu, 07 Apr 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Darkfall activity report highlights game-changing revamps, recent patch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/04/darkfall-activity-report-highlights-game-changing-revamps-recen/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/04/darkfall-activity-report-highlights-game-changing-revamps-recen/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/04/darkfall-activity-report-highlights-game-changing-revamps-recen/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The March 31st patch was a big step for Darkfall, with everything from skill gain rates to the meditation system to the alignment and crafting systems on the receiving end of some developer love. Aventurine is just warming up, though, and the latest activity report illustrates what's next for sandbox PvP fans all over the world.

Work continues on racial area revamps; the Mirdain and Alfar sections of Agon are nearly complete. Aventurine's Tasos Flambouras also hints at some exciting PvE updates, including trap doors and various gameplay physics tweaks designed to delight Agonian dungeoneers. There's also a good bit of info on NPC and monster AI revamps and re-population, new player character and armor models, and a mention of new sound, lighting, and GUI systems, all of which are building toward the game-changing revamp that Aventurine has mentioned previously. Check out all the details on the Darkfall epic blog.

MassivelyDarkfall activity report highlights game-changing revamps, recent patch originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 04 Apr 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aialfaraventurinedarkfalldarkfall-2.0darkfall-epic-blogdarkfall-relaunchdev-blogdev-diaryfantasymirdainmobsnpcpatchespvepvpre-populationrelaunchrevampsandboxtasostasos-flambourasupdatesMon, 04 Apr 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's exclusive TERA lore: Day in the Life - Kumas]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/17/massivelys-exclusive-tera-lore-day-in-the-life-kumas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/17/massivelys-exclusive-tera-lore-day-in-the-life-kumas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/17/massivelys-exclusive-tera-lore-day-in-the-life-kumas/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Yesterday we got a glimpse of two new BAMs courtesy of En Masse Entertainment. Intrepid explorers ranging far and wide across the vast reaches of Arborea will no doubt run across a Naga or a Kumas in their travels, and today En Masse brings us a new Day in the Life lore snippet focused on the latter.

Penned by Stacey Jannsen, Day in the Life -- Kumas takes you inside the one-track mind of the titular creature as he attempts to make a meal out of a wayward Popori and finds himself face to face with another (equally hungry) BAM with a similar goal. Head past the cut for more, and don't forget the three new screenshots in our TERA gallery.

Gallery: TERA screenshots

Continue reading Massively's exclusive TERA lore: Day in the Life - Kumas

MassivelyMassively's exclusive TERA lore: Day in the Life - Kumas originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Mar 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-day-in-the-lifeaiarboreabamBAMsbig-ass-monstercreaturesen-masseen-masse-entertainmentexclusivefantasyfeaturedgallerykumasloremobsnpcsscreenshotsteratera-onlineThu, 17 Mar 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Darkfall blog details PvE tweaks, hints at big PvP changes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/14/darkfall-blog-details-pve-tweaks-hints-at-big-pvp-changes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/14/darkfall-blog-details-pve-tweaks-hints-at-big-pvp-changes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/14/darkfall-blog-details-pve-tweaks-hints-at-big-pvp-changes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Exciting things are afoot in the world of Agon, and Aventurine's weekly Darkfall activity report is here to fill you in on all the grisly details. Whether you're keen on seeing one of your personal weapon designs imported into the game or curious about the ongoing PvE and AI updates, this week's entry makes for interesting reading.

To kick things off, Aventurine's Tasos Flambouras gives us the low-down on grungrocs, and these gnarly boar-like bipeds are bent on ruining every adventurer's day. There's also talk of boss fight tweaks, and Flambouras writes that there are "significant changes" coming to high-end PvE content including damage cap adjustments, fight tuning, and loot table changes.

Darkfall's PvP is getting some love as well, and new land-based objectives (similar to the game's sea fortresses) are in the works. Flambouras also hints at a new "Arena" project and "a lot more we're doing with PvP" that will be revealed at a later date. Finally, all Darkfall accounts have been gifted with 25,000 meditation points (the game's offline leveling currency) to celebrate the title's second anniversary. Check out the full presentation on the Darkfall Epic Blog.

MassivelyDarkfall blog details PvE tweaks, hints at big PvP changes originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 Mar 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activity-reportaiaventurineaventurine-saboss-fightscontestdarkfalldarkfall-design-a-weapon-contestdarkfall-onlinedesign-a-weapon-contestepic-bloggrungrocmobsnpcpvepvpsandboxtasostasos-flambourasupdatesMon, 14 Mar 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aventurine expanding Darkfall, development team]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/20/aventurine-expanding-darkfall-development-team/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/20/aventurine-expanding-darkfall-development-team/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/20/aventurine-expanding-darkfall-development-team/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

As much as many in the MMO community love to hate on Darkfall, the game soldiers on, and if recent reports coming out of Aventurine are any indication, it's actually growing a little bit. Producer Tasos Flambouras recently posted a lengthy development update on the game's official forums. In it, he discusses the ongoing server issues before moving on to more interesting news bits like the upcoming expansion, lore updates, and tweaks to various smaller aspects of the game's operation such as the online help and download sections of the website.

Aventurine's main task these last few weeks has been polishing the new expansion, and Flambouras has lots to say on the matter. The team has redesigned many of the new dungeons, added new quests, monsters, and rewards, and continued working on terrain improvements. "I have to repeat what a monumental task this has been: the entire world has been repainted, all textures have been redone from scratch, there are no texture seams anymore or stretching," Flambouras writes.

Finally, Aventurine looks to be expanding not just the world of Agon but the team constructing it. In addition to welcoming back a former member of the world-building team, Aventurine has hired two new programmers and one designer, and is currently interviewing more programmers in order to bring its future Darkfall plans to fruition.

MassivelyAventurine expanding Darkfall, development team originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aiaventurineaventurine-sadarkfallexpansionlore-updatemonster-updatesproducer-updatepvepvptasostasos-flambourastexture-updatesMon, 20 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Darkfall details expansion mob AI]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/21/darkfall-details-expansion-mob-ai/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/21/darkfall-details-expansion-mob-ai/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/21/darkfall-details-expansion-mob-ai/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

One of the things that makes Darkfall unique is its mob and NPC AI. Unlike traditional MMORPGs, the creatures in the world of Agon use the same skills that players use and also drop appropriate loot (for example, killing a goblin will likely net you his sword and armor, and boars don't drop coin).

With the upcoming free expansion, the developers at Aventurine are further tweaking the game's PvE elements by adding additional monster skills to specific creatures. Laenih, Aventurine's community liaison, has all the details in a new post on the game's official forums. "Some existing monsters as well as new ones have already received their own abilities which we'll leave for you to discover. Additionally there will be more strategic interaction between monsters that spawn together," he writes.

You can get a glimpse of one of the new monster teams in the form of a video that showcases the Gorra Dar and Gorra Slaves. Check it out after the cut or on YouTube.

Continue reading Darkfall details expansion mob AI

MassivelyDarkfall details expansion mob AI originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Jul 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agonaiaventurinedarkfallexpansiongorra-dargorra-slavemob-ainpc-aipvepve-expansionvideoyoutubeWed, 21 Jul 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Perfect World Entertainment talks about delay on Battle of the Immortals]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/21/perfect-world-entertainment-talks-about-delay-on-battle-of-the-i/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/21/perfect-world-entertainment-talks-about-delay-on-battle-of-the-i/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/21/perfect-world-entertainment-talks-about-delay-on-battle-of-the-i/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

We recently brought you the news that the closed beta for Battle of the Immortals has been delayed until mid-April. Several reasons were cited, including details such as Windows 7 support, revising the item shop and the AI behavior, and so on. The Perfect World Entertainment team took some time to expand on those reasons for us this week.

Continue reading Perfect World Entertainment talks about delay on Battle of the Immortals

MassivelyPerfect World Entertainment talks about delay on Battle of the Immortals originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 21 Feb 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aibattle-of-the-immortalsboicash-shopdelayed-betaf2pfree-to-playGrinditem-shopperfect-world-entertainmentPWEsoul-gearSun, 21 Feb 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth dev diary focuses on introducing new players to PvP]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/07/fallen-earth-dev-diary-focuses-on-introducing-new-players-to-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/07/fallen-earth-dev-diary-focuses-on-introducing-new-players-to-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/07/fallen-earth-dev-diary-focuses-on-introducing-new-players-to-pvp/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Fallen Earth is one of three post-apocalyptic massively muliplayer online games currently in development that are a far cry from the fantasy titles which have proven most popular in the MMO world. IGN scored an exclusive two part developer diary from Fallen Earth writer and content developer Wes Platt who discusses creating the PvP starter town of Terance. Namely, he explains how and why the Fallen Earth team has been putting so much work into Terance and the challenges and pitfalls faced in differentiating the PvP-centric area from other more standard towns in the game.

The first part is "Building the Town of Terance". It paints a picture of a post-apocalyptic aftermath setting where a psychotic artificial intelligence, long since sealed away underground by its corporate progenitors and forced into a century of dormancy, is woken with dire consequences. Now powered up, the AI -- TETRAX -- prepares once again to work towards the extermination all human beings in its vicinity. Human beings in Terance may find themselves on the run, hunted by AI-directed zombies called Diggers, as well as mutants and vermin.

Continue reading Fallen Earth dev diary focuses on introducing new players to PvP

MassivelyFallen Earth dev diary focuses on introducing new players to PvP originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Apr 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aidev-diarydeveloper-diarydiggersfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcgame-designgame-mechanicsignmissionsmutantspost-apocalypticpvpquestssci-fistarter-townstarter-zonesstorylinetetraxverminwes-plattTue, 07 Apr 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's Apocrypha expansion hands-on: The Sleepers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/massivelys-apocrypha-expansion-hands-on-the-sleepers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/massivelys-apocrypha-expansion-hands-on-the-sleepers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/massivelys-apocrypha-expansion-hands-on-the-sleepers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


The Sleepers

The inhabitants of these uncharted solar systems may take offense to your encroachment upon their territory, however. The Sleepers, an ancient race of NPCs known for their mastery of virtual reality and cryogenics, will provide the greatest PvE challenges players have ever faced in EVE Online through their guardian drones. Their AI is far beyond what players are used to going up against in PvE. The Sleepers will have varying levels of strength and adaptation to player threats. They do seem to have a particular hatred for their creators at CCP, given their ultra-violent response to Ward's arrival at a structure the Sleeper drones constructed in space. They move in on him, dishing out *all* damage types: beams sizzle for EM and Thermal damage; warheads obliterate for Kinetic and Explosive damage. Fortunately Ward's Proteus is set up to deal with this ("I'm going to put on a GM shield extender, or when we go through there I'm going to get wasted!") making his ship virtually impossible to kill, letting us witness the Sleeper offensive in safety.

Continue reading Massively's Apocrypha expansion hands-on: The Sleepers

MassivelyMassively's Apocrypha expansion hands-on: The Sleepers originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Mar 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aiapocryphaartificial-intelligencebackstoryccp-gameseve-onlineexpansionsloremassively-hands-onmassively-interviewsnoah-wardracessci-fisingularitysleepersthe-sleeperstony-gonzalesFri, 06 Mar 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online developer explains new AI for the Sleeper race]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/23/eve-online-developer-explains-new-ai-for-the-sleeper-race/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/23/eve-online-developer-explains-new-ai-for-the-sleeper-race/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/23/eve-online-developer-explains-new-ai-for-the-sleeper-race/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


One of the major new features to EVE Online's forthcoming Apocrypha expansion is the introduction of an ancient race of NPCs called the Sleepers. They're a breed apart from any NPCs ever seen in EVE, largely because of their AI. They react intelligently to threats, focusing fire on primary targets but diverting their attacks to counter whatever else they're faced with. They can 'spider tank' or protect and even repair one another as combat ensues. Added to their tactics is evasive maneuvering, making the Sleepers even deadlier.

We recently showed you video footage of the Sleepers in action and while taking them on will, in some cases, be a daunting experience, this is not to say that they can't be defeated. EVE developer CCP Incognito wrote on the forums, "If you try to use the same-old, same-old tactics against Sleepers then you will have problems. Think out of the box and you will win." CCP Incognito's comments were in the context of his dev blog on the new AI, which discusses the challenges that the Sleepers will pose for players seeking fragments of their advanced technology. More than anything, the AI revamp is designed to make PvE more like PvP. Anyone planning to venture through EVE's wormholes should abandon their mission-centric ship setups and be prepared for PvP; that's what fighting the Sleeper NPCs will be like -- fighting other players.

Continue reading EVE Online developer explains new AI for the Sleeper race

MassivelyEVE Online developer explains new AI for the Sleeper race originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Feb 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aiapocryphaartificial-intelligenceccp-gamesccp-incognitodev-blogeveeve-onlineexpansionsexplorationforumsgame-mechanicsnpcspvepvpracessci-fisleepersteam-epicwormholesMon, 23 Feb 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online to introduce new NPC race with Apocrypha expansion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/eve-online-to-introduce-new-npc-race-with-apocrypha-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/eve-online-to-introduce-new-npc-race-with-apocrypha-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/eve-online-to-introduce-new-npc-race-with-apocrypha-expansion/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


PvE gameplay in EVE Online can be profitable, but blasting apart NPC ships can also get repetitive after a while. Anyone who's run a solid week of missions knows this all too well, and the combat dynamic between players and NPCs is something CCP Games will start remedying in the next game expansion: Apocrypha.

EVE dev CCP Ytterbium's dev blog "When Evolution Leaps Forward" has some big news about what's in store for players as of March 10th in Apocrypha. The devs tasked with revamping the game's PvE experience are making some substantial changes to the distribution of bigger and badder NPCs. They're also introducing a new NPC race to New Eden: the Sleepers, an ancient race with technology beyond what is currently available to players, but whose secrets can potentially be unlocked.

Continue reading EVE Online to introduce new NPC race with Apocrypha expansion

MassivelyEVE Online to introduce new NPC race with Apocrypha expansion originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Jan 2009 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aiapocryphabattleshipbreakingccpccp-gamesccp-ytterbiumdev-blogeveeve-onlineexpansionsexplorationgame-mechanicslorenew-edennpcpvesci-fisleepersspawnstech-3wormhole-explorationThu, 29 Jan 2009 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[MMOGology: Braindead]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/25/mmogology-braindead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/25/mmogology-braindead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/25/mmogology-braindead/#commentsFiled under: , ,


You tiredly trudge up the cliff-side path, the rhythmic squish of your soaked boots beating a slow dirge. Cresting the ridge of the trail you see the full moon shining over Bloodstone's harbor where several galleons rot in their moorings. It almost looks like a peaceful town from up above the sweat and fish-soaked stench of the city. You sigh. It's been an exhausting trip dodging banshees and hollow men through the slime of Wraithmarsh. All you can think about is a mug of ale, a warm bed in the inn and perhaps a little company to take your mind off things. Bloodstone is known for its "hospitable" women after all. With a renewed sense of purpose you pat your faithful dog on the head and take the sloping trail down into town.

As you reach the outskirts of Bloodstone the rancid smell of a fish merchant's stall nearly slaps your nose off your face. You vainly wave your hand to clear the air.

"Wot's a matta gov?" the merchant asks, sneering. "Can't 'andle a little fresh fish?"

"That fish is as fresh as my feet," you reply. The short tempered merchant draws a rusty cutlass and grimaces. Several ruffians milling about sense an impending fight and begin to circle you.

"If ya don't like it, you and that mangy dog can bugger off!" he responds, kicking your dog in his hinder. Your dog whimpers and sits next to you, tail between his legs. The bolder members of the encircling crowd brandish knives and mock you and your dog. They see a tired traveler and easy pickings. As tired as you are, you can't help but laugh to yourself and shake your head. Your eyes begin to glow a soft white hue. The humid air of Bloodstone begins to crackle. Time to teach these lowlifes a lesson.

Continue reading MMOGology: Braindead

MassivelyMMOGology: Braindead originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 25 Nov 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aiartificial intelligenceArtificialIntelligencefable-2featuredjoystiqfeaturespeter-molyneuxTue, 25 Nov 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TR's Deployment 13 introduces new Command System]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/26/trs-deployment-13-introduces-new-command-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/26/trs-deployment-13-introduces-new-command-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/26/trs-deployment-13-introduces-new-command-system/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Tabula Rasa's Deployment 13 has just hit the Public Test Server, and we think you might be excited to hear about the new Command System being implemented with it. Previously referred to as the Minion System, this enhancement gives better control over AI pets and controllable NPCs, also called subordinates, in the game.

Subordinates now have better control features where you can set their aggressiveness or defensiveness, assign an anchor point, order them to attack or heal a particular target or set them to simply follow you. All of these commands are done through a set of easy commands and hotkeys. To find out more info on the complete Command System, check out today's Feedback Friday.

MassivelyTR's Deployment 13 introduces new Command System originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 26 Sep 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aicommand-systemcompanionsdestination-gamesnc-westncsoftpetspublic-test-serversubordinatestabula-rasatrtr-deployment-13Fri, 26 Sep 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gen Con 08: Turbine tells us what's in store for AC, Part 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/gen-con-08-turbine-tells-us-whats-in-store-for-ac-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/gen-con-08-turbine-tells-us-whats-in-store-for-ac-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/gen-con-08-turbine-tells-us-whats-in-store-for-ac-part-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Given that the game has been around for so long, do you see this addition of modern MMO features as something that the player base is really clamoring for, or are you sort of scaling that against what other games have right now?

Really, it's what the players are asking for. That's one of the things we pride ourselves on: listening to the players. Feedback and player concerns are very important to us.

Continue reading Gen Con 08: Turbine tells us what's in store for AC, Part 2

MassivelyGen Con 08: Turbine tells us what's in store for AC, Part 2 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 Aug 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>100th-patch100th-updateacaiandy-cataldoartificial-intelligenceasherons-callcommunity-managerexpansionfactionsgen-congen-con-2008gen-con-indygencongencon-2008gencon-indyindianapolisinterviewpatchpvpquest-trackingquestssocietiesturbineupdateTue, 19 Aug 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gen Con 08: Turbine tells us what's in store for Asheron's Call]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/gen-con-08-turbine-tells-us-whats-in-store-for-asherons-call/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/gen-con-08-turbine-tells-us-whats-in-store-for-asherons-call/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/gen-con-08-turbine-tells-us-whats-in-store-for-asherons-call/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

At Gen Con, we spoke with Turbine's Andy Cataldo, the Community Manager for Asheron's Call, about the future of this historic game. Cataldo told us a lot about AC's epic 100th update. The update is coming within the next few weeks, and it's a doozy. According to Cataldo, AC players will get a whole new faction system, three land areas to battle over, tons of new loot and spells, and various other improvements to the game, particularly to enemy AI.

In addition to working its regular monthly event and patch schedule, Turbine is attempting to respond to player demand for a variety of new features in the 100th and all future updates. Particular emphasis is being placed on adding features common in modern MMOs, such as a quest tracking menu. AC has been around for almost ten years, so it has some catching up to do!

Learn more about Turbine's big push to modernize the game, add lots of new content, and more in the interview after the break.

Continue reading Gen Con 08: Turbine tells us what's in store for Asheron's Call

MassivelyGen Con 08: Turbine tells us what's in store for Asheron's Call originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 Aug 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>100100th-updateacaiandy-cataldoartificial-intelligenceasherons-callcommunity-managerexpansionfactionsfeaturedgen-congen-con-2008gen-con-indygencongencon-2008gencon-indyindianapolisinterviewjoystiq-featuresmassively-featurespatchpvpquest-trackingquestssocietiesturbineupdateTue, 19 Aug 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Interview: Stargate Worlds aims high with artificial intelligence]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/07/interview-stargate-worlds-aims-high-with-artificial-intelligenc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/07/interview-stargate-worlds-aims-high-with-artificial-intelligenc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/07/interview-stargate-worlds-aims-high-with-artificial-intelligenc/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

MMORPG has posted its second video interview with the folks working on Stargate Worlds. Last time, it connected with Howard Lyon to talk about customization the game's user interface. This time, studio head Dan Elggren tells the site a little bit about the artificial intelligence that guides the actions of Stargate Worlds' hostile entities.

Elggren explains that there are different types of AI behaviors -- personalities, if you will. An aggressive enemy might throw caution to the wind and charge the player with a knife, while a defensive one will play it safe behind cover. Elggren hopes this will make combat more dynamic in Stargate Worlds than it is in other MMOs. He also said that enemies might run away or retreat for the sake of self-preservation. Of course, enemies do that in plenty of MMOs already, but hopefully it's a bit more complicated than the "run at 15% health" trigger that we're used to seeing.

MassivelyInterview: Stargate Worlds aims high with artificial intelligence originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Aug 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aiartificial-intelligencecheyenne-mountaincheyenne-mountain-entertainmentcombatdan-elggrenfireskyinterviewjon-woodmmorpgsgwstargatestargate-worldsvideoThu, 07 Aug 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Early Stargate Worlds combat video shows off enemy AI]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/04/early-stargate-worlds-combat-video-shows-off-enemy-ai/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/04/early-stargate-worlds-combat-video-shows-off-enemy-ai/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/04/early-stargate-worlds-combat-video-shows-off-enemy-ai/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Jon Wood at MMORPG recently put up a hands-on video of gameplay in Stargate Worlds. This latest footage gives us an early look at combat in Stargate Worlds. Primarily, it shows the importance of using cover to survive.

Wood seems to like what he's experienced of the game so far, particularly in terms of the AI in Stargate Worlds."Getting taken off-guard by AI opponents does not happen very often. But when it does, it's just fantastic. It gets your heart going, causes you to panic," he says. The comments related to the video are drawing comparisons with Tabula Rasa but keep in mind this footage is from an alpha stage of testing. That being said, what do you think about how Stargate Worlds is shaping up?

MassivelyEarly Stargate Worlds combat video shows off enemy AI originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 04 Aug 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aialphacheyenne-mountaincmecombatfireskyjon-woodmmorpgpreviewpvergtrsgwstargate-worldstabula-rasavideoMon, 04 Aug 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A day in the life of an Age of Conan designer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/30/a-day-in-the-life-of-an-age-of-conan-designer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/30/a-day-in-the-life-of-an-age-of-conan-designer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/30/a-day-in-the-life-of-an-age-of-conan-designer/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Joe Hegarty is an AI Designer for Funcom's Age of Conan project. And, it appears, he loves his job. In a 'Day in the Life' article at TenTonHammer, Hegarty describes the sheer enjoyment he gets from breathing life into the inhabitants of Hyborea. From street preachers to wayward children, all the way up to Conan himself, his work makes the NPCs we'll be interacting with on launch day all the more meaningful.

The designer gives several examples of where you'll see his work in action, and even describes some of the behind-the-scenes mechanics driving the NPC's decisions. The designers at Funcom have a series of tools at their disposal, from in-house software to theoretical constructs. Hegarty mentions Maslow's hierarchy of needs as one of these supporting constructs; NPCs essentially have a priority list of needs, ensuring that you'll see them doing a variety of activities as you move through a given area.

Fascinating stuff, and with the Open Beta kicking off tomorrow, something we'll all be experiencing very soon.

MassivelyA day in the life of an Age of Conan designer originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaiaocartificial-intelligenceday-in-the-lifedesignerfuncomWed, 30 Apr 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[AI hits Second Life]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/11/ai-hits-second-life/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/11/ai-hits-second-life/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/11/ai-hits-second-life/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Edd the AI AvatarResearchers from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have created an artificial intelligence to drive an avatar in Second Life. Currently their AI has the smarts of a typical four-year old child, but it is capable of listening to what is "said" (in text) in Second Life and reacting to it appropriately as well as moving the avatar and typing its own replies.

Whilst a four-year old might not sound like much to the uninitiated, Professor Bringsjord, leader of the project and head of the Cognitive Sciences Department points out that to fully mimic adult behaviour would take a super-computer. As well as learning about creating AIs, the team are able to test theories about the development of the human mind. There is a (rather large) video of Edd the AI demonstrating that he can't put himself in the mind of another person (something typical of 4 year olds), and chatting briefly to two "normal" avatars available.

MassivelyAI hits Second Life originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Mar 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AIArtificial-IntelligenceCognitive-SciencesRensselaer-Polytechnic-InstituteSecond-LifeSelmer-BringsjordTue, 11 Mar 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TTH video shows new TR AI changes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/27/tth-video-shows-new-tr-ai-changes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/27/tth-video-shows-new-tr-ai-changes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/27/tth-video-shows-new-tr-ai-changes/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


The good people over at Ten Ton Hammer have a video up showing some of the new changes that the Destination Games crew has made to the artificial intelligence of a number of common Bane enemy units in Tabula Rasa. Narrated by a developer, they explain how encounters with Thrax Pistol Soldiers, Lightbenders, and Juggernauts will be different than players are accustomed to, as each unit has gained a skill that will require tactics and quick-thinking to avoid. Thrax Pistol Soldiers now drop a small robot when they die which will blow up nearby corpses, Lightbenders now have a blinding attack which will momentarily incapacitate anybody who gets too close, and Juggernauts have gained a Reality Ripper-esque ability to pull players to within their preferred firing range.

These new attacks, brought into the game in patch 1.5, will definitely throw a wrench in the ways that players are accustomed to approaching encounters. Lightbenders and Thrax Pistol Soldiers are among the most common units in the game, so this fix should be evident almost as soon as logging in. The video also makes mention of the new AFS mech attacks that we showed you a few days ago. It's my hope that in the next round of AI upgrades, they make the typical AI grunt slightly more formidable, as it's becoming increasingly common to see them set up by Tree Lurkers and ticks

MassivelyTTH video shows new TR AI changes originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Feb 2008 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aidestination-gamesjuggernautslightbenderspatch-1.5tabula-rasaten-ton-hammerthrax-pistol-soldierstrvideoWed, 27 Feb 2008 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Jumpgate's A.I. evolves]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/18/jumpgates-a-i-evolves/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/18/jumpgates-a-i-evolves/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/18/jumpgates-a-i-evolves/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


More details have emerged from the jumpgate via Steve Hartmeyer's Dev Journal over on MMORPG.com. Steve is a programmer at NetDevil working on the hotly anticipated (at least it is for many of us here at Massively) space combat MMO, Jumpgate Evolution.

Steve's latest entry, AI System: Nuts & Bolts, takes us on an amazing detailed journey through the evolution of Jumpgate's artificial intelligence system. He explains how it morphed from "simply" populating space and simulating everyday tasks of an immense number of AI ships to a system that ultimately allows players to react to and participate in spontaneous events originated by the AI itself! Uh... holy crap! No wonder the dev team is so stoked about this game's AI system.

Between the comparison to X-wing games we heard about yesterday, and now learning of the off the charts Intelligence Quotient of the AI... the needle just done popped off my Hot Meter! But there's more to it then the pure glee of such a cool game on the horizon. When you realize the capabilities of today's gaming AI (not just in JE, but where gaming AI is at right now and where it will likely lead), it all actually gets a bit creepy-cool in the "Wow, this sounds a lot like the theoretical beginnings of the Matrix or Cyberdyne Systems' development of Skynet" sort of way.

Things that make ya go hmmm...

MassivelyJumpgate's A.I. evolves originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Jan 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AIartificial-intelligenceDev-journalintelligence-quotientIQJumpgateJumpgate-EvolutionMMORPG.comNetDevilSteve-HartmeyerFri, 18 Jan 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Player vs Punk]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/03/the-daily-grind-player-vs-punk/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/03/the-daily-grind-player-vs-punk/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/03/the-daily-grind-player-vs-punk/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


As a mechanic, PvP is meant to give players the ultimate challenge. No matter how tough you make an AI enemy, an actual person will always pose a more interesting/challenging threat due to their unpredictability. The essential issue is that people -- while anonymous -- are often complete and utter punks.

A good deal of initial player experience with PvP is pretty close to someones first experience with a root canal. It's also similar in the sense that if you've never had that experience you're probably better off for it. Lastly, one other way they're similar (to me, at least) is my firmly held belief that every player is like a spawn of Steve Martin from Little Shop of Horrors. It fits quite well, a lot of the people who enjoy PvP take great amounts of pleasure in pummeling heads into the ground. So what do you think dear reader? Is all PvP bad, or are there games out there that you think have or will remedy the issue?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Player vs Punk originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 Jan 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aifeaturedplayer-vs-playerpvpthe-daily-grindThu, 03 Jan 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lead producer of Jumpgate Evolution writes Developer Journal on AI]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/21/lead-producer-of-jumpgate-evolution-writes-developer-journal-on/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/21/lead-producer-of-jumpgate-evolution-writes-developer-journal-on/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/21/lead-producer-of-jumpgate-evolution-writes-developer-journal-on/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Lead producer of Jumpgate Evolution Herman Peterscheck has posted a developer journal at MMORPG.com about the artificial intelligence used in the upcoming space MMO. Peterscheck describes how the AI in Jumpgate Evolution is employed to craft a universe that will feel alive to players.

At the most basic level, Peterscheck tells how the AI should be able to do anything that a player does -- mining, trading, combat, etc. On top of that, the NPCs will have behaviors, like patrolling, decisions on if they like you or want to blast you out of space, and when to chicken out of a fight. The aspect that he believes is perhaps one level above what you might see in a lot of other games, however, is the way that the AI will react to situations occurring in the world.

Continue reading Lead producer of Jumpgate Evolution writes Developer Journal on AI

MassivelyLead producer of Jumpgate Evolution writes Developer Journal on AI originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Nov 2007 11:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aiartificial-intelligencedeveloper-journalherman-peterscheckjumpgatenetdevilpeterscheckWed, 21 Nov 2007 11:50:00 EST