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Wakfu releases Monk Island, new teaser

Jef Reahard — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST

Filed under: Fantasy, Trailers, Video, Game mechanics, MMO industry, Patches, News items, Free-to-play, Sandbox, Dungeons

Ankama is updating Wakfu today with a content drop called Monk Island. There's a dev diary on the game's official website that provides a bit of detail, including information about religious fanatics, a new dungeon, and all of the mystery you would expect from a secluded island.

Here's the scoop for those not familiar with Wakfu: It's a fantasy sandbox title that makes up the MMORPG portion of a global cross-media IP. It's based in the same universe as Ankama's Dofus MMO, and it features many of the same classes and professions.

Ankama has released a brief Monk Island teaser trailer that shows the Messaround Monastery as well as a bit of combat action. You'll find it after the cut.

Continue reading Wakfu releases Monk Island, new teaser

Wakfu releases Monk Island, new teaser originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Drink, dice, and debauch with new Wakfu gameplay videos

Matt Daniel — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 13:30:00 EST

Filed under: Fantasy, Video, Classes, News items, Free-to-play

Drinking and gambling go together like peanut butter and jelly, so it's only appropriate that today's new Wakfu gameplay videos set the focus on the Pandawa's Pint and Ecaflip's Coin classes. The Pandawa class, as its name would imply, is a class consisting entirely of anthropomorphic pandas with an affinity for bamboo milk and bar-room brawls. The Pandawa's Pint class "will lift both allies and enemies off their feet," but the distinction lies in how they go about putting them down.

Meanwhile, members of the Ecaflip's Coin class take a page out of Harvey Dent's book and live life by the flip of a coin. Luck is the name of the game for these devoted gamblers, and they're more than willing to let their lives ride on the roll of the dice as long as a chance at victory is still in the cards, and when you make your own luck, it always is.

To see these two classes in the heat of action, just grab a drink, take a seat at the table, and let the dice roll. Or, you know, just click past the cut.

[Source: Ankama Games press release]

Continue reading Drink, dice, and debauch with new Wakfu gameplay videos

Drink, dice, and debauch with new Wakfu gameplay videos originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Previously on MVTV: The week of March 10th

Beau Hindman — Sun, 18 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, Fantasy, Video, Events, real-world, Events, in-game, New titles, Previews, PvP, PvE, Opinion, Free-to-play, Browser, Hands-on, Casual, Humor, Livestream, Miscellaneous, Previously on MV TV

This week was another exciting week for livestreaming. If you missed it, don't worry! I'm here to show off some of the best moments from the previous week. Of course, you could always bookmark our Livestream guide so that you never miss a show again!

This week we have some EVE Online action with Mike, followed by his adventures in RIFT. Richie is back in Guild Wars for some adventures in Kryta. I took a tour of some amazing art spots in Second Life to show just how wonderful the world is for artists and other creative people, then I finally finished my One Piercing Note quest in RuneScape (with the help of the chat room, of course!). Are you curious about Lime Odyssey? I was allowed to be the very first person to stream it live during alpha. I have to say, it sure is a polished alpha. I thought I was playing a released title. Lastly, Psykopig checked out Age of Conan and made us all laugh... he's good at that!

Continue reading Previously on MVTV: The week of March 10th

Previously on MVTV: The week of March 10th originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 18 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Massively Exclusive: Make your nation proud with Wakfu's newest dev diary

Matt Daniel — Mon, 12 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST

Filed under: Fantasy, Video, Game mechanics, News items, Free-to-play, Dev Diaries

Now that Ankama Games' tactical MMORPG Wakfu is live and operational, it's probably about time for players to start getting familiar with the World of Twelve. Thankfully, the fine folks over at Ankama have provided us with a brand-new dev diary to help players to wrap their heads around the nations and territories of Wakfu.

For the uninitiated, the World of Twelve is the shared universe of Wakfu and its predecessor, Dofus. Lots has happened in the World of Twelve since the time of Dofus, however. Most importantly, a daft ogre by the name of Ogrest (presumably the older brother of Ogre and Ogrer) gathered the six primordial Dofus and used their overwhelming power to devastate the world, drowning all but seven major island nations beneath the sea. It's up to players to run these remaining nations and restore the World of Twelve to its former power.

Of course, it can't all be sunshine and butterflies between the seven nations; we need a reason to kill each other! Aside from the seven main islands, there are also a number of smaller islands that contain valuable -- and sometimes exclusive -- resources. The seven nations, of course, all want to claim these precious goods for their own. Players will have to represent their nations in the battle for these minor, resource-rich islands in order to bring prosperity and bragging rights to their respective homelands.

So there you have it, Wakfuians (that's totally a word, we promise). Now click past the cut for the full dev diary video, then get out there and make your countries proud!

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: Make your nation proud with Wakfu's newest dev diary

Massively Exclusive: Make your nation proud with Wakfu's newest dev diary originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Have a bloody good time with Wakfu's Sacrier and Xelor classes

Matt Daniel — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 14:30:00 EST

Filed under: Fantasy, Trailers, Video, Classes, News items, Free-to-play

Ankama Games' quirky tactical MMORPG Wakfu went live about a week ago, but the studio is continuing its steady drip of promotional material. Today Ankama is giving players not one but two new videos highlighting a couple of the game's classes. In the red corner, we have the Sacrier class. These bloodthirsty berserkers channel pain into power and will stop at nothing to ensure that their enemy doesn't make it out alive.

Meanwhile, in the blue corner, we have the Xelor class, which brings the power of chronomancy to the table. Thanks to their ability to expertly manipulate the flow of time, the disciples of Xelor are a force to be reckoned with on the battlefield. To see the Sacrier and Xelor classes in action, check out both new videos after the cut.

Continue reading Have a bloody good time with Wakfu's Sacrier and Xelor classes

Have a bloody good time with Wakfu's Sacrier and Xelor classes originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rise and Shiny: A bit of Wakfu, a smidge of Spiral Knights, and some Lime Odyssey

Beau Hindman — Sun, 04 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, Fantasy, Screenshots, New titles, Previews, PvP, PvE, Opinion, Free-to-play, Hands-on, Casual, Humor, Rise and Shiny, Miscellaneous, Sandbox

This week in Rise and Shiny, things did not go as planned. This sort of thing actually happens often enough to almost be a problem: I pick out a title or am tasked with taking a look at a certain game, but communication lines are crossed and the game I was supposed to give a first impressions-style look at closes down its beta in the middle of the week. Like I said, it does happen, enough to force me to plan out my articles on a month-long calendar. Even then, things can change.

So instead of talking about the game I said I was going to be this week, Seven Souls Online, I decided to go over the three games that I gleefully jumped into over the last few days. This will not be a typical first impression-style piece but instead will hint at the specific adventures I had while playing these games.

These wonderful, wonderful games.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny: A bit of Wakfu, a smidge of Spiral Knights, and some Lime Odyssey

Rise and Shiny: A bit of Wakfu, a smidge of Spiral Knights, and some Lime Odyssey originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 04 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Free for All: How I'm preparing for the release of Wakfu

Beau Hindman — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, Fantasy, Launches, Previews, Opinion, Free-to-play, Casual, Free for All, Sandbox

I'm not your typical fanboy. I get excited about an upcoming game, but generally I will not believe in its greatness until I play it. Usually I can get my hands on the game before it comes out so I can see what the fuss is about, but I never find myself that ramped up until release day. Then, and only then, will I really pay attention.

Wakfu is one of those games I know is going to at least be different from its rivals. I have already played a bit in all of the betas and now know that it is far from your typical MMO. The classes are different and fun; the lore and artwork is amazing. It runs on almost any PC. The game doesn't insult the player with hand-holding and non-stop popups. It really does walk that fine line between a sandbox and a more linear game.

So how am I preparing for the release of this unique game?

Continue reading Free for All: How I'm preparing for the release of Wakfu

Free for All: How I'm preparing for the release of Wakfu originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 29 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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WAKFU puts out a call for (paying) pioneers

Justin Olivetti — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, Fantasy, Business models, Launches, Free-to-play, Sandbox

With WAKFU's launch rapidly approaching later this month, the information is pouring forth fast and furious from this free-to-play title. One of the biggest questions that players have at this stage is just how a game is going to make its money, and in the case of WAKFU, Ankama is certainly hoping that the experience is fun enough to warrant a regular subscription.

If you're already on board with the WAKFU philosophy and wish to subscribe for a premium membership, then Ankama has a few great pre-launch offers for you. By signing up for three, six, or 12-month plans, you can net yourself plenty of in-game items as well as the esteemed title of "WAKFU Pioneer."

Ankama has also published a helpful chart illustrating the differences between the F2P and subscription plans -- such as whether or not you can become an eco-terrorist (we kid you not). Other differences include the ability to own a home vs. set up an in-game shop, how many professions you can master (six vs. 16), and whether or not you can run for office.

[Thanks to Derek for the tip!]

WAKFU puts out a call for (paying) pioneers originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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WAKFU releasing February 29th, stress test coming this weekend

Jef Reahard — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 21:00:00 EST

Filed under: Fantasy, Video, Game mechanics, MMO industry, New titles, News items, Free-to-play, Sandbox

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

WAKFU 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.

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Rise and Shiny recap: Wakfu

Beau Hindman — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, Fantasy, Screenshots, Video, Events, in-game, Previews, Opinion, Free-to-play, Hands-on, Casual, Humor, Rise and Shiny, Livestream, Miscellaneous

In June, I drove down to Austin, Texas, to once again participate in GDC Online. I do it every year if I can, and I love it. It's a smaller event when compared to the larger E3s and other conventions, but it is more personal and up-close. My favorite speaker at this last event had to be David Calvo from Ankama Games. When he first came out barefoot, I was honestly worried that the chat would be all about goofy, "deep" design techniques that had no real use in practice. In the end, his talk was deep but was really just asking developers to have fun and try new things. Yes, I know: new things. Crazy, huh?

If Wakfu is any proof, those design theories are put to practice every day at Ankama. Wakfu, for me, is a breath of fresh air in so many ways. Even though I am somewhat used to the design and art style, thanks in large part to playing the previous title Dofus, I still find myself loving how simply complex much of Wakfu is.

There are issues that come with complexity, however.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Wakfu

Rise and Shiny recap: Wakfu originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 15 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New WAKFU dev diary highlights player freedom, sandbox features

Jef Reahard — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST

Filed under: Fantasy, Video, Economy, Game mechanics, MMO industry, New titles, News items, Free-to-play, Dev Diaries, Sandbox, Crafting

If it's true that MMORPGs have become more linear as the genre has grown, it's also true that Ankama is setting out to do something different with WAKFU. The French development firm has released a new video dev diary titled Power to the Player, and it outlines how the free-to-play game is tackling some of the challenges inherent in sandbox design.

"We really wanted to make WAKFU a game based on freedom, a game which puts the player in control," says Ankama designer Azael. "Most current MMOs create a game and then insert the player. With WAKFU we aimed to create the game around the players."

WAKFU features very few NPCs (and no traditional vendor NPCs at all), and it also boasts mobs that don't drop money. Players create the game's currency themselves by harvesting ores and making use of minting machines, and players are also responsible for seeding the world with monsters since they don't respawn on their own. You can learn more about WAKFU by viewing the video after the break.

Continue reading New WAKFU dev diary highlights player freedom, sandbox features

New WAKFU dev diary highlights player freedom, sandbox features originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The MMO Report: Baby names edition

Brianna Royce — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 20:00:00 EST

Filed under: Video, MMO industry, Opinion, Humor, The MMO Report, Miscellaneous

This week on The MMO Report, Casey discusses the un-disbanding of the Multiverse project and associated Firefly/Buffy IPs, Wakfu's bright and bizarre character classes, DC Universe Online's timely crafting update, and Razer's new Fiona gaming tablet. He also notes that Bethesda came away the clear victor in the Fallout Online settlement. Now, where's our Fallout MMO?

Finally, Casey dips into the mailbag to dispense advice to aspiring game designers and gratitude to a pair of gamers who are planning to name their first child after Casey himself. Says the Beard: "I am equally honored and aghast... I'm just a loudmouth with a camera who reads hit-or-miss jokes about nerd stuff off a teleprompter so that someone can put it on the internet."

Watch Casey blush at the prospect of little baby beardlings in the full MMO Report video tucked behind the break.

Continue reading The MMO Report: Baby names edition

The MMO Report: Baby names edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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MV Guide: January 9-15, 2012

Rubi Bayer — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST

Filed under: Livestream, Miscellaneous, MV Guide

MV Guide is a weekly rundown of the MMO gaming events planned on Massively TV.

Every week, the Massively staff logs in to play various MMOs live and in person, and we'd love for you to drop by the channel and visit. We have a combination of regular weekly games and new surprises, so you'll find a variety of titles to take a look at. During our streamed events, you can participate in the live chat, ask questions to learn about the game, and simply spend some time with Massively staff and readers. (Of course, streaming is subject to the whims of outside forces like server-side gremlins once in a while.)

Follow along after the jump to see what's on this week's schedule!

Continue reading MV Guide: January 9-15, 2012

MV Guide: January 9-15, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Wakfu open beta starts January 4th

Jef Reahard — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, Fantasy, Classes, Game mechanics, MMO industry, New titles, News items, Free-to-play

Ankama and Square-Enix have announced that Wakfu's open beta will begin on January 4th. The date will also mark the release of content update 0.311, which will bring a new achievement tracking tool and the Srams Shadow class to the game. The Shadow is an assassin archetype who comes complete with invisibility mechanics and the ability to dish out considerable melee damage.

The devs will also be wiping the servers for the open beta phase, but contest, promotional items, and holiday event items will persist through the reset. Ankama is also temporarily removing two classes (the Ecaflip and the Rogue) for further balancing. Look for the Rogue and its rival Masqueraider to make their return shortly after Wakfu's February launch.

[Thanks to AterNox for the tip!]

Wakfu open beta starts January 4th originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Wakfu unveils release date trailer

Matt Daniel — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 15:30:00 EST

Filed under: Fantasy, Trailers, Video, Launches, News items

Wakfu, Ankama Games' upcoming tactical MMORPG, has been in beta for quite some time now, and people were beginning to wonder if it would ever get a release date. Well, wonder no more. Ankama has released a rather stylish trailer in order to announce the game's prospective launch window.

You can find the trailer after the cut, but just in case you're terribly impatient, the game is slated to release in February, 2012. Now what are you waiting for? Go watch the trailer. It's adorable.

Continue reading Wakfu unveils release date trailer

Wakfu unveils release date trailer originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Wakfu unveils the nation of Sufokia

Matt Daniel — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 23:30:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, Fantasy, Previews, News items, Free-to-play

Players of the upcoming tactical MMORPG Wakfu will be able to visit all sorts of interesting, exotic places. One such location is the freshly announced Sufokia. The paradisiacal archipelago is not all sunshine and shining seas; it holds its fair share of dangers, like the irritable Albatrocious and the deadly Zordfish.

Sufokia will be available for players to experience in the next beta patch. If you're not in the closed beta and would like to jump in and see what the big deal about this uniquely strategic MMO is, just head on over to the official site and register for an account.

[Source: Ankama Games press release]

Wakfu unveils the nation of Sufokia originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Oct 2011 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ankama releases new Vulkania zone for DOFUS

Jef Reahard — Thu, 07 Jul 2011 13:00:00 EST

Filed under: Fantasy, Dofus, MMO industry, Patches, News items, Free-to-play

DOFUS, the free-to-play fantasy MMO from Ankama, is embarking on a somewhat novel approach to new zone content. The game's newest map area is an archipelago called Vulkania, and it's only available to players during the months of July and August.

The isle features varying terrain including white sand beaches, tropical jungles, craters, and various caverns, not to mention strange wildlife. Among the new monster species are the sauroshell family and a pet/mount called a madreggon. According to an Ankama press release, "Vulkania is also home to Grozilla and Grasmera, two terrors who are back to shake the World of Twelve once more!"

The release also provides a concise summary of what we can expect from Vulkania aside from its monsters, and amenities include 40 new quests, 13 new equipment items, and 3 new titles. Check out the official DOFUS website for more.

Ankama releases new Vulkania zone for DOFUS originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Jul 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Square Enix to host Wakfu panel at Anime Expo 2011

Matt Daniel — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 13:00:00 EST

Filed under: Fantasy, Events, real-world, News items, Free-to-play

Do you like a little tactical strategy in your MMORPG? Are you planning on attending Anime Expo 2011 in Los Angeles? Then boy howdy do we ever have an announcement for you.

Square Enix, publisher of the upcoming turn-based tactical MMO Wakfu, is slated to host a panel at the massive California anime convention. Producer Franko Fonseca will be present at the panel to discuss the upcoming title and reveal new information on the game's development. To top it off, panel attendees will have a chance to win some adorable Wakfu plushies. So if you're looking to attend Anime Expo 2011, be sure to swing by the panel and let us know how it goes (and win us a plushie while you're at it!).

Square Enix to host Wakfu panel at Anime Expo 2011 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Jun 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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DOFUS: Battles available in the App Store

Jef Reahard — Fri, 13 May 2011 12:30:00 EST

Filed under: Fantasy, Dofus, MMO industry, New titles, News items, Free-to-play, Mobile, Casual

What's more fun than using the word DOFUS in a sentence? Using the words DOFUS: Battles, of course. Happily, the devs at Ankama have given us ample reason to do both thanks to the newly released iOS title called, you guessed it, DOFUS: Battles.

The strategy game is available in the App Store today for both iPhones and iPads and is an interesting blend of RPG, RTS, and tower defense mechanics, all tied to the game world of the wildly successful DOFUS MMORPG. Players will manage an army consisting of 12 heroes and a dragon, and the new game borrows 12 classes from its parent MMO and spices things up with 28 levels, three minigames, and more than 170 unique equipment items.

DOFUS: Battles currently comes in four flavors: a free version with battle and class limitations, the full version, and two corresponding HD versions for higher screen resolutions. You can learn more at the game's official site.

DOFUS: Battles available in the App Store originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 May 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Free for All: Gaming with Game of Thrones

Beau Hindman — Wed, 11 May 2011 14:30:00 EST

Filed under: Fantasy, Horror, Culture, Ryzom, Opinion, Free-to-play, Browser, Casual, Humor, Alganon, Free for All, Vindictus

I have really been enjoying the new series Game of Thrones over on the HBO network. In fact, when I recently changed to a faster internet provider, I deliberately added on the exclusive channel just for the series. Even though I have never read the books, a 15-minute preview of the show was enough to convince me to watch it. While I am truly enjoying the break from fantasy that is chock-full of smart-alec modern-day references (all delivered by smirking hipsters with swords), I admit to still being a little afraid that the series will take a turn for the goofy or overly dramatic. If a single vampire shows up in this one, I am going to turn it all off and go on a long vacation.

So far, though, it's been a delightful romp into a cold, realistic world. After I watch a new episode, I avoid the internet for fear of random spoilers or the temptation to look at character bios. I simply do not want to know what's going to happen, so please do not tell me. Since the series has started, I have begun to notice how I enjoy the same basic entertainment in my gaming.

I want political intrigue, amazing landscapes, and the occasional epic, bloody fight. Join me past the cut and let's look at some games that provide those three things.

Continue reading Free for All: Gaming with Game of Thrones

Free for All: Gaming with Game of Thrones originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 May 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Wakfu shows off ecosystem mechanics in newest trailer

Eliot Lefebvre — Tue, 03 May 2011 00:00:00 EST

Filed under: Fantasy, Game mechanics, Previews, News items, Free-to-play

The trailers continue to surface for Wakfu as potential players in the U.S. anxiously await word on an official beta date. For those players in other regions already participating in the beta, that wait is a bit less pressing. But whether you've been enjoying the game for some time in its testing phase or you're just looking forward to finally getting your hands on it, the latest trailer should provide you with plenty of eye-candy and features to look forward to. This time around, the highlight is on the game's ecological systems.

One of the major selling points has always been players having a substantive impact on the game, with the landscape changing and reacting based upon player actions. This ecosystem trailer gives a look at the ways in which players can either help or harm the surrounding environment, providing new life in barren areas or destroying ambient plant life. The latest Wakfu video can be found just past the cut, a worthy diversion for anyone interested in this anticipated strategy MMO.

Continue reading Wakfu shows off ecosystem mechanics in newest trailer

Wakfu shows off ecosystem mechanics in newest trailer originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 May 2011 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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WAKFU offers an overview of unique gameplay

Eliot Lefebvre — Thu, 14 Apr 2011 21:30:00 EST

Filed under: Fantasy, Trailers, Video, Classes, Game mechanics, Previews, News items, Free-to-play

WAKFU, a tactical turn-based sprite-animated free-to-play game from Square-Enix and Ankama, is among the more interesting offerings heading toward launch. It's precisely because of that unique blend of flavor, animation, and stylized design that it's also attracting a fair bit of attention as it approaches release. And while the beta for North American players has been a bit delayed (it's starting elsewhere on April 27th), the new trailer should help salve the pain... or possibly make it even worse.

While it's only a two-minute trailer, this offering gives players a broad overview of how the game will work, from character creation to the customizable battle system and the playstyles of the 14 different character classes. It also talks about the game's ecosystem, a unique feature whereby damaging the landscape will have long-term repercussions. If you're excited to get your hands on WAKFU from what you've seen and heard so far, the trailer is well worth the time it takes to watch.

WAKFU offers an overview of unique gameplay originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Apr 2011 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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DOFUS introduces Rogue and Masqueraider classes

Jef Reahard — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 10:00:00 EST

Filed under: Fantasy, Dofus, Classes, Game mechanics, MMO industry, Patches, News items, Free-to-play

Class-based fantasy games aren't unusual these days; in fact, they're the standard. It's rare that such a title has more than a handful of classes, though. Then there's DOFUS. The six-year-old free-to-play title recently added Masqueraiders and Rogues, bringing the game's class total to a whopping 14.

Rogues function a bit differently than the rascally backstabbers you may be used to from other games. Rogues effectively dictate actions on the battlefield through the use of bombs and walls, which direct enemy movements and function as a form of crowd control.

Masqueraiders take their power from a variety of wearable masks, which allow the player to adopt several fighting styles. Three masks types are available: the cowardly mask (ranged damage), the psychopath mask (close combat damage), and the classic mask (crowd control). Finally, Masqueraiders can also avail themselves of several buff-type spells including plastron, tororuga, and trance. Head to the official DOFUS website for all the details.

DOFUS introduces Rogue and Masqueraider classes originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Apr 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Wakfu's beta delayed in North America, potentially for Rogue activity

Eliot Lefebvre — Thu, 10 Mar 2011 20:00:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, Fantasy, Galleries, Screenshots, Classes, News items, Free-to-play

Wakfu has captured more than a few eyes of late, and for understandable reason. The game features distinctive and detailed sprite graphics, a tactical battle system, and a world that reacts to your actions. Details have just been released on the game's explosive and underhanded Rogue class, specializing in disrupting enemies with a variety of elemental bomb spells while avoiding damage with quick movement.

Unfortunately for players looking forward to the game's beta, it might be a bit further away than it seemed, at least in North America. The international open beta was previously announced to be starting on April 27th, but word has been released that details on open beta in North America will be announced on a later date. While the game is set for a worldwide simultaneous release, if you're here in the US, you might have to wait just a little longer to get your Wakfu on. Fortunately, some brand-new screenshots -- including a couple of roguish ones -- should help ease the pain a little.

Gallery: Wakfu beta screens

Wakfu's beta delayed in North America, potentially for Rogue activity originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Mar 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Wakfu open beta starts April 27th

Jef Reahard — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, Fantasy, New titles, News items, Free-to-play

If you haven't managed to snag a closed beta key to Square-Enix and Ankama's new Wakfu free-to-play opus, don't sweat it. The companies have just announced that open beta is coming in late April (the 27th to be precise), which, given the fact that it's already almost mid-March, will be here before you know it.

Wakfu, which many are referring to as Dofus 2.0, is a turn-based tactical MMO that boasts 14 character classes and three nations that can either work together or go to war, depending on how players choose to proceed. Wakfu also features an in-depth political system complete with a player-occupied governor position as well as the ability to set laws and taxes.

Check out some spiffy new beta screenshots in our gallery below, and head to the official website for more info.

Gallery: Wakfu beta screens

Wakfu open beta starts April 27th originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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We've got more Wakfu closed beta keys for you!

Rubi Bayer — Thu, 24 Feb 2011 13:00:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, Contests, Free-to-play, Giveaways

The Wakfu closed beta is continuing, and the game has captured the attention of quite a few MMO players.

Our recent beta key giveaway highlighted that interest -- we had 1,000 closed beta keys, and they were gone at no time at all. We got in touch with the folks at Square-Enix, who generously provided us with 1,000 more keys to share.

The process is the same as last time -- claim your key at our Wakfu closed beta giveaway page, then visit the game's site (note that these are the NA servers) to create an account. Once you've done that, go to the code entry page, log in, and enter your key.

Once that's done, you are free to install the game and play Wakfu!

We've got more Wakfu closed beta keys for you! originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Feb 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Get into Wakfu with our closed beta key giveaway!

Rubi Bayer — Fri, 18 Feb 2011 20:00:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, Contests, Free-to-play, Giveaways

Wakfu has been generating some buzz both here at the virtual Massively offices and among the general MMO community. Ankama, the creator of Dofus, has teamed up with Square-Enix to bring us this tactical MMO.

The game is currently in closed beta, but don't let that stop you, because we've got a pile of beta keys to share. Check out our Wakfu closed beta giveaway page, then visit the Ankama site to create an account. Once you've done that, go to the code entry page, log in, and enter your key.

Download the client and you're good to go -- enjoy Wakfu's closed beta!

Get into Wakfu with our closed beta key giveaway! originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Feb 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Massively's first impressions of Wakfu

Beau Hindman — Mon, 14 Feb 2011 15:30:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, Fantasy, Galleries, Screenshots, Previews, Hands-on, First Impressions

If you are a fan of Dofus, you might be familiar with my current mania. I was asked to take an early look at Wakfu, the game that could be called "Dofus 2.0," and I was given permission to talk about it. That's right, if it were a horrible menace to my free time, I would be able to tell you. If it didn't run, or if it were nothing but a mess of bugs, I could tell you that as well. Of course, I wasn't forbidden from telling you how much I might have liked it or how confident I was that the game truly felt like a "2.0," so I might just do some of that.

Remember, this is a closed beta I am about to talk about. Let's keep that in mind. OK, OK, I just have to say that -- sort of like an article disclaimer to do away with any responsibility I might have for my opinion. Now, I don't want to give you any spoilers, and I want you to promise to read to the end of the article, but let's just say that, closed beta or not, this game is really tight.

But let's go ahead and click past the cut, mkay? I want to tell you more.

Gallery: Wakfu beta screens

Continue reading Massively's first impressions of Wakfu

Massively's first impressions of Wakfu originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 Feb 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Square and Ankama gear up for Wakfu closed beta

Jef Reahard — Sat, 22 Jan 2011 12:00:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, Fantasy, New titles, News items, Free-to-play

Lest you think Square-Enix is solely committed to sprawling, spikey-haired, single-player productions or much-maligned MMORPGs, we're here to tell you that the famed development firm is gearing up to unleash Wakfu on an unsuspecting gaming populace. The new tactical MMO will be opening the doors of its closed beta on January 31st, and Square is inviting you to check out the game's 14 classes, turn-based combat, and an evolving eco-system in which killing a monster may mean ridding the game world of it for good.

While Square is handling publishing duties for Wakfu, the brains behind the game is a company called Ankama, better known to international MMO fans as the creators of Dofus. Aside from a propensity for wacky titles, Ankama is making a name for itself via the various multimedia projects surrounding the release of Wakfu including comic books, card games, and an animated cartoon.

Square and Ankama gear up for Wakfu closed beta originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 22 Jan 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rise and Shiny recap: Dofus

Beau Hindman — Sun, 02 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST

Filed under: Fantasy, Video, Dofus, Opinion, Free-to-play, Hands-on, Mac, Casual, Rise and Shiny, Livestream

Years ago I had to find a job in my new home state of Texas. Luckily for me, my wife hooked me up with a friend who helped me get hired at Starbucks. At first, I hung my head in shame. Later, though, I enjoyed dealing with customers and the free coffee. I had a co-worker, a real chin-scratching, coffee house wanna-be intellectual who would often spend more time dreaming about some game than about getting people on their breaks. He even brought his Macbook to work to sneak in time in the game.

I glanced over his shoulder one day and was delighted to see an odd-looking, cartoony, turn-based game on his screen. It turned out that the game was Dofus. I tried it immediately and fell in love with it, but that was years ago. I still found time to revisit the game, but once I started working at Massively, most of my time became dedicated to every other game in the world.

Well, it's time to visit it again. During the first part of this week, though, I thought this was going to be a disaster. I stayed strong and battled my way through bot after bot, spam message after spam message, and eventually found the great game I remember. Click past the cut to see exactly what I found!

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Dofus

Rise and Shiny recap: Dofus originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 02 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Free for All: Four games I'm dying to play in 2011

Beau Hindman — Wed, 22 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, Fantasy, Sci-fi, Trailers, Video, New titles, Previews, Opinion, Free-to-play, Browser, Mobile, Casual, Free for All

The year 2010 was a great year in gaming. If anyone tells you any different, look him in the eye -- you've just met a madman. In fact, 2010 did so much for me, personally, that it might be hard to top it for a while. I actually started getting paid to write my blog entries this year, discovered so many wonderful new developers this year, and played more hours than in all of the previous years combined.

As luck would have it, there are already several new games being announced that are making 2011 look like an even bigger year for me. Browser-based technology is only growing more robust and rich, indie gaming is finally starting to get a lot of the respect it deserves, and I now have the ability to contact almost any developer I want for use in my columns. All of this adds up to some exciting times ahead, for sure. All thanks to Massively, of course.

There are four games in particular that I am very excited about. More will come, I'm positive, but these four have already cast huge spells on me. Click past the cut to see what you should be excited about, too!

Continue reading Free for All: Four games I'm dying to play in 2011

Free for All: Four games I'm dying to play in 2011 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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DOFUS brings the holidays to players, then blows them up

Eliot Lefebvre — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 20:00:00 EST

Filed under: Fantasy, Galleries, Video, Dofus, Classes, Events, in-game, News items, Free-to-play

The colorful world of DOFUS seems well-suited to a holiday celebration, especially with the amount of character embedded in the game's graphics. And one is taking place on Kwismas Island, beyond a shadow of a doubt. But there's still something else for players to look for, something that's far less merry than the dungeons of the island (whose merriness is already a rather dubious quality). It's the newest class of the game, the Rogue, a class focused on guns, explosives, and the use of both in tandem.

Capable of summoning a variety of elemental bombs as well as making elementally charged pistol attacks, Rogues are the 13th class in the game, available as a premium feature now. All DOFUS players can enjoy Kwismas Island, however, previewed in our gallery just below. Take a look at the Rogue teaser video past the cut, and consider the possible combination of holiday dungeons and heavy explosives. (It beats fruitcake and caroling.)

Gallery: DOFUS Kwismas Island gallery

Continue reading DOFUS brings the holidays to players, then blows them up

DOFUS brings the holidays to players, then blows them up originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Dec 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Massively's tour of Dofus 2.0

Rubi Bayer — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 18:00:00 EST

Filed under: Fantasy, Dofus

Dofus is a game that's been around for a while now, first in its 1.0 form, and now as Dofus 2.0. It's a tactics-based game (many players have pointed out that it has a Final Fantasy feel about it), and while it's not as flashy as many of the graphics-heavy games on the market today, it's got a fair amount of substance to it. Dofus 2.0 offers a nice variety of combat areas, diverse and specialized classes, even crafting if that's your thing. Recently we were lucky enough to take a tour of Dofus 2.0 with Ankama's own Elissa Dukes. Follow along after the jump to see what we found.

Continue reading Massively's tour of Dofus 2.0

Massively's tour of Dofus 2.0 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Mar 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dofus opens their new version, Dofus 2.0, to simultaneous praise and worry

Seraphina Brennan — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 17:00:00 EST

Filed under: Fantasy, Dofus, Launches, MMO industry, News items, MMORTS

If you're a gamer looking for a tactical approach to MMOs, then you're pretty much going to want to play Dofus. Dofus is the MMO that takes a real-time strategy approach to combat, letting characters move in cells and conduct attacks in turns, very similar to the classic combat system of Final Fantasy Tactics.

Recently, the Dofus team has ripped open the packaging on Dofus 2.0, a huge update that gives the game improved graphics, new areas, gameplay, and much more. However, the update hasn't been released without a fair share of criticism. Ankama Games had made the decision to launch Dofus 2.0 while simultaneously keeping Dofus 1.26, the prior version, online on separate servers.

Continue reading Dofus opens their new version, Dofus 2.0, to simultaneous praise and worry

Dofus opens their new version, Dofus 2.0, to simultaneous praise and worry originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Microsoft partners with Ankama Games to bring Wakfu to Xbox Live Arcade

Seraphina Brennan — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 15:15:00 EST

Filed under: Fantasy, Dofus, MMO industry, New titles, News items, Free-to-play, Wakfu

If you have heard of Dofus or Wakfu, then you've heard of Ankama Games, the people Microsoft has just turned to for a new Xbox MMO-esque game. In their partnership announced today, Ankama will be bringing a new title, Islands of Wakfu, to Xbox Live Arcade late next year. Islands of Wakfu will keep the current cartoon style of Dofus and Wakfu, but utilize a more adventure/beat-'em-up style instead of the top down tactical style. Also, it's going to be more of a team play game, where two players work cooperatively together, rather than a full on MMO. The game promises to be set in the same universe as Ankama's other games and reveal new information about the world itself.

So it's not a full on MMO, but the offer certainly does open the doors of hope. Having a known MMO developer working on Xbox Live Arcade titles with their unique IP may herald other game developers to do the same. Who knows, we might end up with a Wakfu MMO on the arcade anyway!

[via TenTonHammer]

Microsoft partners with Ankama Games to bring Wakfu to Xbox Live Arcade originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Dec 2008 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Better, faster, prettier: Dofus 2.0

Kyle Horner — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 19:00:00 EST

Filed under: Fantasy, Dofus, News items

Have you played or do you currently play Dofus? If so, Ankama games has something they'd like you to see. They've been in the process of completely upgrading the entire game with the Dofus 2.0 update, as you know. However, now they can finally show you what they've been working on with a video and information page! The game code is being rewritten for improved performance all around and the visuals are -- as you can see -- getting a very nice overhaul as well. Our only complaint is that characters in-game are still incredibly small, which is something of a bother for players who love to customize and stare at their avatars for hours on end.

Ankama is promising more information soon, but they did make it clear that no characters will be reset and no servers will be shut down. This is only a visual and internal upgrade, it's like an MMO version of a face-lift only not as painful and probably more effective overall. If you're really jonesing for more information you can check out the Dofus 2.0 devblog.

Better, faster, prettier: Dofus 2.0 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 Jul 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New Wakfu screenshots display more UI palettes

Akela Talamasca — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 16:00:00 EST

Filed under: At a glance, Fantasy, Screenshots, New titles, Previews, News items, Wakfu

We're looking forward to Wakfu, the new 'tactical' MMORPG from Ankama, the makers of Dofus. Exactly how Wakfu will differ from Dofus in gameplay isn't entirely clear just yet, but visually, it's got a gorgeous look, much higher-res than its predecessor. Video of gameplay shows small but noticeable improvements, like grasses swaying in the wind, and water levels advancing and receding.

The latest batch of screenshots on gamershell.com show more user interface elements, including the customary inventory screen, armor and weapons window (with player character included, something new), and others. If you can read (and understand) French, maybe you can puzzle out what's going on in the others. Still no release date for the beta, so let these beautiful shots appease your hunger for now.

New Wakfu screenshots display more UI palettes originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Apr 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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DofusPOCKET to take over cellphones in June

William Dobson — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 15:30:00 EST

Filed under: Fantasy, Dofus, Launches, MMO industry, News items

DOFUS is set to jump into the MMO-wherever-you-go trend, with a recent press release from developer Ankama stating that a cellphone version of the game can be expected in June this year. Called DOFUSPocket, this edition of the game is being tested by a small group of players at the moment, but all DOFUS users should get a chance to try it out before the release.

The CEO of Ankama, Emmanuel Darras, has promised brand new content and features for DOFUSPocket, saying, "We do not wish to simply make a shorter version of DOFUS for mobiles." Some possibilities mentioned in the press release include "user to user" applications between cellphones, and text message alerts for in-game events.

[Via Ten Ton Hammer]

DofusPOCKET to take over cellphones in June originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Apr 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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DOFUS's Livitinems

Akela Talamasca — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 13:00:00 EST

Filed under: At a glance, Fantasy, Dofus, Game mechanics, Tips and tricks, News items

If you're having trouble reading that word, I'll admit that I do too. It's pronounced 'LIH-vih-TIH-nem'. But when my eyes glide over it, I just keep wanting to say 'living items', which must be the point, 'cause that's what they are!

Livitinems are benign critters in the world of DOFUS that live in your clothing items, whose only purpose in life is to change the appearance of your wardrobe. They don't confer bonuses or extra protection, they just sit there on top of you and occasionally comment on your adventures. An interesting thing about Livitinems is that they eat items; capes eat capes, amulets eat amulets, etc. When they've been fed enough, they evolve into a new appearance; Ankama says they can evolve up to 20 unique appearances.

How do you get a Livitinem? Either by subscribing to DOFUS, buying them, or exchanging them with other owners. There are those who may think the idea of a living hat that eats other hats is a little creepy, but just think of it like it's the Minish Cap -- cute! Wait ... they might be trying to say 'live it in 'em' instead. I'll find out and let you know!

DOFUS's Livitinems originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Jan 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dofus embraces permadeath with new hardcore servers

Samuel Axon — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 20:01:00 EST

Filed under: Fantasy, Dofus, Game mechanics, News items, Casual

Richard Bartle once said, "Do you want permadeath or pedophilia? Both seem equally attractive to most players." In other words, permanent death in MMORPGs is pretty much unheard of, and most people who hear the idea are horrified that it should even be suggested. A few MUDs have it, but in the graphical world, there's almost no such thing. The original Lord of the Rings MMO that was developed by Sierra and eventually canceled was going to have it. That's the closest we've gotten to mainstream MMO permadeath.

The developers of Dofus, then, are either completely insane or just very daring. They've announced plans to open up "hardcore" servers in December. On hardcore servers, player characters will receive significantly more experience and gain new items and abilities much faster than on normal servers. But when they die, that's it. They've passed on. They are no more. They have ceased to be. Bereft of life, they rest in peace. They've joined the bleeding choir invisible. They are, in their entireties, ex-Dofus toons.

At various stages in an age-old debate, proponents have suggested that if executed in the right way in a certain kind of game, permadeath could enrich the online gaming experience. Battles would be more intense and PvP would be more meaningful, for example. Will you play on Dofus' hardcore servers, or is permadeath an affront to everything you believe in?

Dofus embraces permadeath with new hardcore servers originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Nov 2007 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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