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[Massively's Guide to Dragon*Con 2011]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/massivelys-guide-to-dragon-con-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/massivelys-guide-to-dragon-con-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/massivelys-guide-to-dragon-con-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Dragon*Con Logo
PAX Prime is freshly finished and Gamescom 2011 is a distant memory, but con season isn't over yet! Not by a long shot, in fact. Dragon*Con is just around the corner, and we have undertaken the monumental task of putting together a what's-what for all of our adoring MMO fans.

Now, just because Dragon*Con isn't as internationally renowned as Gamescom or as well-publicized as Penny Arcade's brainchild doesn't mean you should write it off by any means. There's still a whole truckload of events for MMO players at Dragon*Con. From Q&As to panels (including one on MMO podcasting that includes our very own Shawn Schuster!) and more, there's a little something for every MMO player at Dragon*Con.

So whether you're attending or just want to see what kind of news you have to look forward to coming out of Dragon*Con (news that will, of course, be covered right here on Massively), jump on past the cut and see what the Atlanta-based con has in store.

Continue reading Massively's Guide to Dragon*Con 2011

MassivelyMassively's Guide to Dragon*Con 2011 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Sep 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventurequest-worldsatlantaccpccp-gamesdc-universe-onlinedcuodragon-condragon-con-2011dragoncondragoncon-2011eventeventsglobal-agendaguidehi-rezhi-rez-studioskingdom-of-loathingmassively-guidemassivelys-guide-to-dragonconmmo-trackoxhornpanelsriftsoesony-online-entertainmentthe-guildtrion-worldsThu, 01 Sep 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CCP Games expanding US presence, hiring 150 additional staff]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/24/ccp-games-expanding-us-presence-hiring-150-additional-staff/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/24/ccp-games-expanding-us-presence-hiring-150-additional-staff/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/24/ccp-games-expanding-us-presence-hiring-150-additional-staff/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Icelandic game development studio CCP Games began life as a handful of employees in a small Reykjavik building. The ongoing success of its flagship game EVE Online has fueled the company's expansion into a global entity with offices in Iceland, the United States, China and the United Kingdom. In addition to working on EVE Online, CCP's offices house people working on the upcoming console MMOFPS Dust 514 and the announced World of Darkness MMO.

CCP announced today that its American headquarters are to be relocated to a new area in Atlanta. The new office space will provide some much-needed room for the company to expand, allowing it to create up to 150 new jobs over the next three years. Many of these jobs will be filled by local colleges and universities, which offer comprehensive courses relating heavily to work in the games industry.

Mike Tinney, President of CCP North America, was positive about the move. "Decatur offers the perfect blend of big city accessibility with a hometown feel that we were looking for," he said. "Georgia's financial climate combined with Decatur's social climate provide the ideal conditions for continued growth."

MassivelyCCP Games expanding US presence, hiring 150 additional staff originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Feb 2011 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlantaccpccp-eveccp-gamesdust-514eveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlinegeorgiajobjobsmike-tinneymmo-industryworld-of-darknessThu, 24 Feb 2011 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Woop woop, that's the sound of the space police: Meet CCP's "Permaband"]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/06/woop-woop-thats-the-sound-of-the-space-police-meet-ccps-per/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/06/woop-woop-thats-the-sound-of-the-space-police-meet-ccps-per/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/06/woop-woop-thats-the-sound-of-the-space-police-meet-ccps-per/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Now normally when we talk about EVE Online, it's about a scandal, or some theft, or just the general talk on how to pilot your virtual spaceship better. This, however, is certainly not one of those EVE Online stories.

So what is this story about? Well it's a story about what happens when you add rap to CCP. And what would happen if CCP made a rap video and got many members of their staff to star in it... because they did. The guy in the top? No, he's not some aspiring white rapper (although he might be after this) -- he's Sveinn Kjarval, EVE's lead game master. The girls on his left and right? That's EVE's marketing director on the left and the CEO's assistant on the right.

Now before you go running off to find this golden video of awesome, we need to warn you, it's seriously not safe for work. (Except it's safe for CCP's work, because it's CCP's offices, so it's ok to watch this video if you work at CCP.) We'd love to embed it here for ya, but sadly, due to explicit lyrics (and a techno viking), we can't. But if you're ok with some NSFW content, then do we have the link for you.

MassivelyWoop woop, that's the sound of the space police: Meet CCP's "Permaband" originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 Oct 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlantabreakingccpcrowd-control-productionseveeve-onlineicelandmusic-videonsfwrapshanghaiTECHNO-VIKINGTue, 06 Oct 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragon*Con 2009: A look back at the mayhem]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/11/dragon-con-2009-a-look-at-the-mayhem/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/11/dragon-con-2009-a-look-at-the-mayhem/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/11/dragon-con-2009-a-look-at-the-mayhem/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Some of us go for the excellent panels featuring stars like William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy, Terry Gilliam, Adam Savage, and so many more. Others of us go for the fun events like concerts by Arc Attack, Faith & The Muse, or the kilt-blowing by Jennie Breeden. Amongst all the comic, fantasy, sci-fi, and other sundry forms of nerditry, there is a steadily growing MMO and video game presence at Dragon*Con.

For the last three years, Massively and our sister site WoW.com have been on the ground helping grow this East coast gaming presence either as panelists or staff. Some of the highlights for this year included:

So if you missed the fun, here's a gallery of some of the random images from D*C this year. If you're East coast and looking for something fun to do on Labor Day weekend next year, perhaps we'll catch you at Dragon*Con 2010!

Gallery: Dragon*Con 2009: General convention gallery


[Thanks to Ian W., Michael McG., Scott B., Shawn Schuster, and especially Tiffiany M. for contributing pictures!]

MassivelyDragon*Con 2009: A look back at the mayhem originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlantacosplaycostumecostumesdc-2009dragon-condragoncon-2009fan-conventionfeaturedgalleryFri, 11 Sep 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragon*Con 2009: Costumes, the parade and more!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/10/dragon-con-2009-costumes-the-parade-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/10/dragon-con-2009-costumes-the-parade-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/10/dragon-con-2009-costumes-the-parade-and-more/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Didn't get a chance to check out the costumes at Dragon*Con this year? No problem! We spent the last weekend grabbing literally hours of video footage to stuff into a small, digestible 10-minute chunk for our readers. We have some footage of the costumes around the hotels, the mass of people outside and of course, the epic parade that is held every year.

Follow along after the jump for just a tidbit of our favorite moments from Dragon*Con 2009, and look for a photo gallery of even more wonderful imagery coming soon.

Continue reading Dragon*Con 2009: Costumes, the parade and more!

MassivelyDragon*Con 2009: Costumes, the parade and more! originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Sep 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlantacosplaycostumesdragoncondragoncon-2009videoThu, 10 Sep 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hi-Rez Studios to host all-night Global Agenda LAN party at Dragon*Con]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/30/hi-rez-studios-to-host-all-night-global-agenda-lan-party-at-drag/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/30/hi-rez-studios-to-host-all-night-global-agenda-lan-party-at-drag/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/30/hi-rez-studios-to-host-all-night-global-agenda-lan-party-at-drag/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Are you interested in checking out the sci-fi MMOFPS Global Agenda, but didn't get accepted into beta? The team at Hi-Rez Studios has good news for anyone who's going to be in Atlanta during Dragon*Con 2009. They're going to have an all-night LAN party for Global Agenda which anyone can crash, even if you don't have a Dragon*Con pass. Hi-Rez Studios bills this as an "all-you-can play, hands-on experience with the upcoming game, Global Agenda. There will be PvE missions, PvP death matches, and your chance to get an inside look" at the game.

Interested? You can check out the details on the Global Agenda site, but the gist of their announcement is that the LAN party will be held on Friday September 4th in the Digital Gaming Area of the Hilton. The Hi-Rez event will be on the 3rd floor, conference rooms 309-312. There's no cost of admission, food and drinks will be provided so gluttony is encouraged, and again you won't even need a Dragon*Con pass to get in. This sounds like a great chance to play the game well in advance of launch.

UPDATE: LAN party attendees will, in fact, need a Dragon*Con pass to enter the Digital Gaming Area.

MassivelyHi-Rez Studios to host all-night Global Agenda LAN party at Dragon*Con originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 30 Aug 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlantabetasdragon-condragon-con-2009eventsglobal-agendahi-rez-studioslan-partymmo-industrymmofpssci-fispy-fiSun, 30 Aug 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CCP Games CEO to announce new project in GDC Europe keynote]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/11/ccp-games-ceo-to-announce-new-project-in-gdc-europe-keynote/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/11/ccp-games-ceo-to-announce-new-project-in-gdc-europe-keynote/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/11/ccp-games-ceo-to-announce-new-project-in-gdc-europe-keynote/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Hilmar Pétursson, the CEO of CCP Games, will keynote Game Developers Conference Europe 2009 in Cologne, Germany. The event runs from August 17 through the 19th at the Cologne Congress Center East. Hilmar's keynote will focus on how CCP Games rose from being a small Reykjavik-based studio with an obscure niche title to becoming a success story in the MMO industry with the growing popularity of EVE Online, now running studios in Atlanta and Shanghai, as well as their hometown of Reykjavik.

Perhaps the biggest news here is the reveal hinted at in the CCP Games press release: "As a testament to the industry's potential for growth despite widespread economic turmoil and as an inspiration for up-and-coming independent studios, Pétursson will give an exclusive first look at the company's latest project, which is currently in pre-production." We can only assume this is the World of Darkness MMO, but it could very well be a closer look at Walking in Stations or any of the other projects CCP announced at last year's Fanfest. Regardless of what this new project is, we won't know for sure until August.

MassivelyCCP Games CEO to announce new project in GDC Europe keynote originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 11 Jun 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlantaccp-gameschinaeveeve-onlinefpsgame-developers-conference-europegdcgdc-europegdc-europe-2009hilmar-peturssonhilmar-v-peturssonicelandkeynotemmo-industryreykjavikshanghaiwalking-in-stationsworld-of-darknessThu, 11 Jun 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hi-Rez Studios VP Stew Chisam on what to expect from Global Agenda]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/02/hi-rez-studios-vp-stew-chisam-on-what-to-expect-from-global-agen/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/02/hi-rez-studios-vp-stew-chisam-on-what-to-expect-from-global-agen/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/02/hi-rez-studios-vp-stew-chisam-on-what-to-expect-from-global-agen/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


The people at Hi-Rez Studios are the creators of Global Agenda, a 'spy-fi' mix of massively multiplayer online game and a shooter. Although Global Agenda is still a ways off from a release date, fan sites have already been established, notably Global Agenda Mission Control. The Mission Control community recently posed some questions to the Global Agenda creators, and Stew Chisam, Hi-Rez Studios Vice President of Game Operations, was happy to respond. Chisam provides updates on Global Agenda's fiction, which is fleshed out in two stories so far -- The Utopian and The Cure for Life.

He states that Global Agenda's lore will be there to establish backstory, but the game experience isn't necessarily story-driven. "You'll see that the players themselves drive the drama and action inside of the game," he says. "It's their interactions with each other and the alliances they choose to make that really create the 'history' inside the game and drive your progression forward as a character."

Continue reading Hi-Rez Studios VP Stew Chisam on what to expect from Global Agenda

MassivelyHi-Rez Studios VP Stew Chisam on what to expect from Global Agenda originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 02 May 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlantafictiongame-mechanicsgame-operationsglobal-agendaglobal-agenda-mission-controlhi-rez-studiosinterviewsloresci-fispy-fistew-chisamvice-presidentSat, 02 May 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CCP Games boosts productivity with agile development]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/21/ccp-games-boosts-productivity-with-agile-development/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/21/ccp-games-boosts-productivity-with-agile-development/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/21/ccp-games-boosts-productivity-with-agile-development/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


When CCP Games developed the Apocrypha expansion for EVE Online, it wasn't only the first time that all three studios -- Atlanta, Reykjavik, and Shanghai -- worked in concert on single project, they also created the game's largest expansion to date in record time.

EVE Online's lead designer Noah Ward recently explained how CCP was able to accomplish this in an interview with Gamasutra's Christian Nutt and Chris Remo. The company switched from its waterfall development model to agile methods where the game was developed through the collaboration of small teams that showcase their progress to the rest of the developers frequently. Ward says, "Now that we've switched over, we don't have these huge waterfall phases anymore, it's just iterative, agile two week sprints, and we have a demo day at the end [...] and it's just amazing to see how much is actually produced in those two weeks."

Continue reading CCP Games boosts productivity with agile development

MassivelyCCP Games boosts productivity with agile development originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 Apr 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agileatlantaccp-gameschris-remochristian-nutteveeve-onlinegamasutrainterviewsmmo-industrynoah-wardreykjaviksci-fishanghaiwaterfallwhite-wolfTue, 21 Apr 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Telling more engaging stories in EVE Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/19/telling-more-engaging-stories-in-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/19/telling-more-engaging-stories-in-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/19/telling-more-engaging-stories-in-eve-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


One of the greatest strengths of EVE Online is its lore, which chronicles generations of struggle between New Eden's races and their continual political and ideological upheavals. Not everyone will agree with that opinion, of course, just as not all players seek out immersion in New Eden. For those who do, EVE has been building up short stories to flesh out the lore over the past six years -- all nicely collected on their site -- gritty tales of New Eden's technological heights and moral depths. It's already led to a novel titled Empyrean Age authored by Tony Gonzales, which will hopefully lead to a follow-up work.

Given all the attention CCP Games has given to adding these dimensions and layers to the game's backstory, the truth is that EVE is as much a virtual setting as it is a game; as such, there's always a need to expand and refine that setting. A solid backstory is important but it's equally important to EVE's players to be able to interact with it, feel like they're really a part of New Eden in some way. Live events and storyline missions (quests) have been used in the past to this end. However, in the case of missions, a player's role in New Eden's story hasn't quite matched up with what many feel it could be. CCP's efforts to make EVE Online's storylines more engaging is the focus of their latest dev blog, titled "Telling Stories: Evolution of the Atlanta Content Team".

Continue reading Telling more engaging stories in EVE Online

MassivelyTelling more engaging stories in EVE Online originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 19 Apr 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apocryphaatlantabackstoryccp-technobabbledev-blogdev-blogsempyrean-ageepic-mission-arcseveeve-onlineexpansionsfictiongame-mechanicsimmersionloremission-runningmissionsnew-edenquestssci-fitony-gonzalesSun, 19 Apr 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online developers discuss Apocrypha expansion's impact on the game]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/07/eve-online-developers-discuss-apocrypha-expansions-impact-on-th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/07/eve-online-developers-discuss-apocrypha-expansions-impact-on-th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/07/eve-online-developers-discuss-apocrypha-expansions-impact-on-th/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


EVE Online's recent deployment of the Apocrypha expansion brought major changes to the game. Apocrypha is the largest expansion they've released to date, incorporating wormhole exploration and modular ship designs, in addition to a new NPC race into the fabric of the game as we know it.

BattleClinic, a site best known for its player-built tools, guides, and as a hub for sharing and commenting upon ship setups, caught up with CCP Games at GDC 2009. They spoke with Halldór Fannar Guðjónsson, CTO at CCP Games, and Gabe Mahoney, VP of Engineering. Given how significant Apocrypha has been from the standpoint of the players and CCP alike, the interview focuses on the expansion.

Continue reading EVE Online developers discuss Apocrypha expansion's impact on the game

MassivelyEVE Online developers discuss Apocrypha expansion's impact on the game originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Apr 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apocryphaatlantabattleclinicccp-gamesepic-mission-arcseveeve-onlineexpansionsgabe-mahoneygame-mechanicsgdc-2009halldor-fannarinterviewinterviewsnew-player-experiencereykjaviksci-fishanghaiTue, 07 Apr 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively goes to Dragon*Con: Monday events]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/massively-goes-to-dragon-con-monday-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/massively-goes-to-dragon-con-monday-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/massively-goes-to-dragon-con-monday-events/#comments All times Eastern. Post will be updated as schedule changes, so be sure to bookmark this and check back! Also of note: frosty adult beverages will be on sale at all night-time ballroom events.

Athens Room:

10:00 AM
 Anarchy Online: Q&A with Funcom
Jorgen Tharaldsen and Terri Perkins from Funcom will answer your questions about Anarchy Online and show you that Rubi-ka is very much alive and well.
11:30 AM
 Gaia Online: Q&A with Gaia Interactive
Gaia is hosting a special Gaia Online gathering where Gaia Online members can meet each other and hang out while making new friends. Come get to know your fellow Gaian's on a personal level. In addition to hanging out, all attendees will receive a special prize!
1:00 PM
 Free MMOGs you should check out
Want to play MMOs, but are on a tight budget? This is the place for you! Krystalle Voecks from Massively discusses some interesting MMOs on the 'net that cost absolutely nothing to play.
2:30 PM
 Post MMOrtem / Survivor's gathering
Don't miss your chance to take a parting shot at our staff and let them know what went wrong (or right) this year. If we missed a game that you wanted to see, this is your best chance to let us know about it. Bring coffee... and donuts... and anything else that might cure a hangover.

MassivelyMassively goes to Dragon*Con: Monday events originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlantaconventiondc-2008dragon-condragonconevent-coverageeventsmmo-trackmmogmmorpgpanelsplanningscheduleswow-insiderTue, 26 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively goes to Dragon*Con: Sunday events]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/massively-goes-to-dragon-con-sunday-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/massively-goes-to-dragon-con-sunday-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/massively-goes-to-dragon-con-sunday-events/#comments All times Eastern. Post will be updated as schedule changes, so be sure to bookmark this and check back! Also of note: frosty adult beverages will be on sale at all night-time ballroom events.

Athens Room:

10:00 AM
 Star Wars Galaxies: Q&A with SOE
In MMO parlance, "A long time ago..." is 5 years, and "...a galaxy far, far away" means "on the Internet." Join Alan "Brenlo" Crosby for a look at Sony Online Entertainment's version of George Lucas' universe.
11:30 AM
 AQ Worlds
How do you fit a massively multiplayer game in a web browser? Meet the friendly team from Artix Entertainment and find out! They are the creators of popular (and slightly campy) web games AdventureQuest, DragonFable and MechQuest. Join them and see how they are making their way through building their first MMO. Battle on!
1:00 PM
 Maintaining Wife (or Husband) faction
Tired of fighting your worst battles after the raid is over? Come and join Kevin Stallard and Krystalle Voecks from Massively as they discuss how to keep your significant other happy while still having time to play your favorite games.
2:30 PM
 Age of Conan: Q&A with Funcom
Come chat with Jorgen Tharaldsen and Terri Perkins from Funcom, as they discuss upcoming changes and take your questions.
4:00 PM
 Champions Online: Q&A with Cryptic
Meet Sam Clifford, Senior Designer at Cryptic Studios and developer of the Superhero MMORPG "Champions Online," as he shows off some of the features of this upcoming game and answers your questions.
5:30 PM
 Second Life: Games within the metaverse
Just what is Second Life and how do I use it to have fun? You have questions, this panel has answers. A brief overview of SL will no doubt devolve into discussions of the building, the scripting, fashion, the currency, and the games within Linden Lab's virtual world.
12:00 AM
 Late Night Machinima
In the finest traditions of "Late Night Kung Fu Theater" and "The Late Late Late Movie", we present the lighter side of Machinima. Join Christina "Romily" Rollins for some of the finest fan-made films using characters from your favorite MMO games.

Augusta Room:

10:00 AM

 Legal and ethical Issues in MMO gaming (The gold-farming panel)
Back by popular demand, come and let your "Inner Johnny Cochran" out for an hour. If the gold is farmed, who gets harmed? Who really owns all that stuff that you work (play) so hard to get or make? If you came to Dragon*Con seeking legal advice, you should probably seek professional (psychiatric) help. If, however, you want to come and get into a good discussion, then this is the place to be.
11:30 AM

 EverQuest: Q&A with SOE
Join us for a chat with Alan "Brenlo" Crosby as we discuss one of the oldest and most popular MMORPGs of all time. From the Kunark expansion to Living Legacy, EQ has come a long way.
1:00 PM
 EverQuest II: Q&A with SOE
Alan Crosby (Brenlo) will talk about what Sony has planned for EQ2 and will answer your questions.
2:30 PM
 So you'd like to work in the MMO industry?
Scott Holden from CCP Games (EVE Online). Mark Capps (Unreal), and Mark Crump will answer your questions about how to get into the Massively Multiplayer Online Gaming industry. If you're an artist, designer, programmer, writer, or just a fan of the genre, join us for an inside look at how it all happens.
4:00 PM
 WoW Add-ons
MMORPGs in general, and World of Warcraft in particular, never seem to have a user interface that does everything we want it to. There are millions of add-ons out there that promise to do everything from dress you appropriately to cast your spells for you with a simple click of the mouse. How do you find them? What is dangerous? What's coming in Wrath?? Krystalle Voecks and Mark Crump have some answers that may help.
5:30 PM
 Tabula Rasa: Player Gathering
Come and meet your fellow Tabula Rasa players. Share some war stories of fighting the Bane, hoist a cold beverage or two, and have a good time.

Capital Ballroom:

7:00 PM


MMO Trivia contest
We have prizes up for grabs -- but this game isn't about loot; It's about bragging rights. Everyone plays, anyone can win. You can pre-register as a team on the DC MMO website or catch up with the D*C MMO staff in person at any of our panels during the weekend. The only "charge" to play is that you have fun!
10:00 PM

 World of Warcraft: An evening with WoW Insider & Massively
Here it is. The one you've all been asking for since last year, when we packed not one, but two rooms and had to turn away 300 more people because we couldn't cram anyone else in the door. The WoW party is back with a vengeance. Come and represent the Alliance or the Horde in a battle of epic partying. We're going to punt gnomes, nerf warlocks, and make last year's get together look like a tea party. Oh, and we'll have some schwag too. You know, if you're into that kind of thing.

MassivelyMassively goes to Dragon*Con: Sunday events originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlantaconventiondc-2008dragon-condragonconevent-coverageeventsmmo-trackmmogmmorpgpanelsplanningscheduleswow-insiderTue, 26 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively goes to Dragon*Con: Saturday events]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/massively-goes-to-dragon-con-saturday-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/massively-goes-to-dragon-con-saturday-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/massively-goes-to-dragon-con-saturday-events/#comments All times Eastern. Post will be updated as schedule changes, so be sure to bookmark this and check back! Also of note: frosty adult beverages will be on sale at all night-time ballroom events.

Athens Room:

10:00 AM
 [Updated] Free Realms: Demo / Q&A with SOE
Join us as Sony Online Entertainment's Alan "Brenlo" Crosby shows us this upcoming free-to-play MMO offering. Free Realms marks an exciting new direction for SOE, sure to interest gamer kids and parents! Get a look before the beta!
11:30 AM
 Force of Arms: Q&A with Wardog Studios
This talk will cover the history, strategies, methods of developing Force of Arms along with features and an insider look at this Sci-fi mech MMOG. Also included will be a look at creating a MMO as an independent entity, both in the technical and business aspects.
1:00 PM
 Pirates of the Burning Sea: Q&A with Flying Lab
Yarr, matey! Come and meet the motley crew from Flying Lab as they answer your questions about Pirates of the Burning Sea.
2:30 PM
 Champions Online: Q&A with Cryptic
Meet Sam Clifford, Senior Designer at Cryptic Studios and developer of the Super-hero MMORPG Champions Online. Sam will be showing off some of the features of this upcoming game and answering your questions.
4:00 PM
 WAAAGH! Tales from the Warhammer Online beta
The Dragon*Con staff has managed to get an inside look at Mythic's upcoming title, Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning, and they're going to tell you all about it. Join us.
12:00 AM
 Late Night Machinima
Come join Christina "Romily" Rollins for more gaming machinima than you even knew was out there. Feature both award-winning artists and up-and-coming names in the machinima scene!

Augusta Room:

11:30 AM

 Stargate Worlds: Sneak preview
Sure, D*C has a Stargate track, but what about the upcoming game? Join some of the D*C crew for discussion and a look at this hot new title.
1:00 PM

 City of Heroes/City of Villains: Player meet-up
Pulchritudinous people of Paragon City, and rambunctious rabble of the Rogue Isles -- come and meet your fellow fearless friends at the City of Heroes and Villains gathering. Share your war stories and meet some old friends, or make some new ones.
2:30 PM
 WoW Drama (aka Schadenfreude 101)
World of Warcraft? Drama? Nooooooo. Join WoW Insider and Massively as we look at some of the things we've seen and heard from the forums, commenters, and more. Bring your own tales of epic lulz to share in this free-form style panel!
4:00 PM
 The Future of Machinima
We've all seen the exploits of Leeroy Jenkins and Red vs. Blue. Machinima is now turning into an art form, Hollywood production tool, and a new type of media in its own right. Join Christina "Romily" Rollins and her special guests, including Matt Kelland, for a look at Machinima today and where it's headed next.
5:30 PM
 Lord of the Rings Online: Player gathering
Are you a tricksy Hobbit? Are you a Dwarf who has been tossed one time too many? Are you an Elf having a really bad (or good) hair day? This is the place for you. Come and meet your fellow LotRO players and swap some tales from the online version of Middle-earth.

Sheraton Capitol Ballroom:

4:30 PM


MMO Costume Contest check-in
Come one, come all! From basic costumes, to highly detailed, entries are welcome from any and all MMOs! Just have a notecard/piece of paper/scrap of bar napkin with your name, the game your costume is from, and a quick description. Note: Contestants for the MMO costume contest must check in no later than 5:00 PM.
5:30 PM

 MMO Costume Contest
Last year, we had an idea, 2 weeks notice, and landed a packed house and a full overflow room. This year, we're ready to do it even bigger, and with even more awesome prizes! Come watch - or dress as your favorite MMO character and join in as Krystalle Voecks from Massively hosts the 2nd Annual MMORPG Costume Contest. Special guest star judges include Jorgen Tharaldsen from Funcom and Alan "Brenlo" Crosby from Sony Online Entertainment.
7:00 PM

 Age of Conan: Demo and Q&A with Funcom
Join us for a chat with Jorgen Tharaldsen and Terri Perkins from Funcom as we discuss what is right, what is wrong, and what is changing with Age of Conan.

Marriott Atrium Ballroom (A601 & A602):

10:00 PM


General MMO Meet & Greet / Mingle
Looking for something to do? Want to make new friends and meet other MMO players? This is the place to be! All MMO players from all games are welcome!

MassivelyMassively goes to Dragon*Con: Saturday events originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlantaconventiondc-2008dragon-condragonconevent-coverageeventsmassivelymmo-trackmmogmmorpgpanelsplanningscheduleswow-insiderTue, 26 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively goes to Dragon*Con: Friday events]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/dragon-con-scheduling-friday-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/dragon-con-scheduling-friday-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/dragon-con-scheduling-friday-events/#comments
All times Eastern. Post will be updated as schedule changes, so be sure to bookmark this and check back! Also of note: frosty adult beverages will be on sale at all night-time ballroom events.

Athens Room:

10:00 AM -
11:30 AM
 DC MMO quest registration
Be an NPC or PC, it's up to you. If you would like to be an NPC for the weekend-long Dragon*Con MMO quest, sign up to receive your instructions. Participation is free!
1:00 PM
 Best of MMO videos
It's like America's Funniest Home Videos, only for gaming videos. Well, slightly more snarky than AFHV and with significantly less Bob Saget. Hosted by Krystalle Voecks.
2:30 PM
 EVE Online: Q&A with CCP
Meet Scott Holden, Lead Mission Designer for EVE Online. Come discuss all the goings on in New Eden!
4:00 PM
 Vanguard: Q&A with SOE
Alan "Brenlo" Crosby and the good folks at Sony Online Entertainment will be here to answer your questions about Vanguard: Saga of Heroes. Come and meet the folks who make it all possible.
5:30 PM
 Achievements in Machinima
What is the current state of the art in Machinima? Christina "Romily" Rollins presents some of the best award-winning machinima from around the globe. Including winners from the Machinima Festival Europe '07, these cutting edge, avant-garde pieces are turning heads and blazing new trails for future machinimists.
12:00 AM
 Machinima Feature: BloodSpell
BloodSpell is Strange Company's first feature length project and is written and directed by Machinima pioneer, Hugh Hancock. Join Christina Rollins (aka Romily) to see BloodSpell, the first feature-length Machinima animated film made using the game Neverwinter Nights. Don't miss this pioneering machinima epic!

Augusta Room:

1:00 PM

 Stargate Worlds: Sneak preview
Sure, D*C has a Stargate track, but what about the upcoming game? Join some of the D*C crew for discussion and a look at this hot new title. [This panel repeats on Saturday at 11:30 AM in the Athens room.]
2:30 PM

 Herding cats 101 (aka Guild Management)
Sometimes the largest challenge in an MMO isn't the raiding; it's getting a group together in the first place. Find out how leaders of successful large guilds get things done - and manage to stay sane.Trevor Legg from <Lost Order of Akalabeth> and Michael McGreevy from <Children of Midian> share their tips and tricks.
4:00 PM
 Guild Wars player gathering
Come meet your fellow Guild Wars players. Make some new friends, and share some dreams for GW2!
5:30 PM
 MMO Etiquette School
Join Mark Crump, Kevin Stallard and Krystalle Voecks (and any other industry folk who decide to pop by) for an old fashioned raucous roundtable of MMOG war stories. Laugh along as the panel and audience swap tales of horror, hilarity and honor in MMOs. For those of you new to MMOGs, this is a great (and funny) object lesson on just what not to do.

Sheraton Capital Ballroom:

7:00PM


World of Warcraft Q&A and Wrath of the Lich King preview
Join Massively and WoW Insider as we answer questions on everything from "old school" raiding to the latest Wrath of the Lich King information in a "no marketing-speak allowed" throw-down. We will also be showing video footage of your first steps as a Death Knight from the current WotLK beta. Note: big fat Wrath spoilers!
10:00 PM

 Funcom's Age of Conan party
According to Conan, the best things in life involve crushing enemies and "der lamentations of der vomen". We can't promise any of that, but we can promise good music, good fun, and good times with the Funcom crew. Come to this hot Hyborean party for prize giveaways, music, contests, and more.

MassivelyMassively goes to Dragon*Con: Friday events originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlantaconventiondc-2008dragon-condragonconevent-coverageeventsmmo-trackmmogmmorpgpanelsplanningscheduleswow-insiderTue, 26 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively goes to Dragon*Con: Panels and planning]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/massively-goes-to-dragon-con-panels-and-planning/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/massively-goes-to-dragon-con-panels-and-planning/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/massively-goes-to-dragon-con-panels-and-planning/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Planning to attend Dragon*Con this year, but not sure what's going on? Don't worry -- we here at Massively (and our sister site WoW Insider) have been working diligently with the MMORPG track director (and the author of our very own "Ask Massively" column here) Kevin Stallard to create a fantastic track full of all manner of MMOG news and insider views. Of course, this is all in addition to all that awesome gaming, those fantastic panels with stars of stage and screen, writers' workshops, the dealer rooms, the comic book and fantasy artists... You get the idea. We've been assured that it is largely impossible for a geek to not have fun at Dragon*Con. From being involved last year, to the lineup we've helped plan this year, we'd have to agree with that.

So those of you headed for Hotlanta for four days of geeky fun, fire up your printer, grab a cup of coffee and get those highlighters. (Or just bookmark us on your Blackberry, general smartphone, or iPhone!) We're going to run down a listing of the events on the MMOG track for this year so you have the most up-to-the-minute schedule information available. All you have to do is join us after the break for a full run-down of panels. Also be sure to check both this post (and the comments, we're sure) for some great tips and tricks from Dragon*Con veterans on how to make the most of your D*C 2008 experience.

Continue reading Massively goes to Dragon*Con: Panels and planning

MassivelyMassively goes to Dragon*Con: Panels and planning originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlantaconventiondc-2008dragon-condragonconfeaturedjoystiqfeaturesmmo-trackmmogmmorpgTue, 26 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Lead Content Creator discusses new missions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/13/eve-lead-content-creator-discusses-new-missions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/13/eve-lead-content-creator-discusses-new-missions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/13/eve-lead-content-creator-discusses-new-missions/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


The Empyrean Age expansion has been a significant content update to EVE Online for players interested in factional warfare. Of course, many players aren't willing to enlist in a militia and be under a constant wardec by their factional enemies, and simply prefer to mission run for their agents. CCP Games announced that new content was in the works, back in June, but the latest EVE Online Newsletter has an updated announcement on this from Lead Content Creator, Scott Holden.

CCP is getting closer to releasing new PvE mission content, Holden says, with Content Creation now based in Atlanta. This will be sped up by new staff on the Content Creation team in addition to the existing freelance writers already turning out EVE mission content. Holden says that new types of missions are coming to New Eden, and hints at 'epic mission arcs'.

Continue reading EVE Lead Content Creator discusses new missions

MassivelyEVE Lead Content Creator discusses new missions originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Aug 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlantacapsuleerccpccp-gamescontentcontent-creationdevdev-blogempyrean-ageeveeve-onlineexpansionfactionfactional-warfaremilitiamissionmission-arcsmission-runnermission-runningnew-edennewsletternewslettersnpcpilotpiratepvesci-fiscott-holdenwhite-wolfWed, 13 Aug 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CCP Games outlines GM hierarchy in EVE Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/ccp-games-outlines-gm-hierarchy-in-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/ccp-games-outlines-gm-hierarchy-in-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/ccp-games-outlines-gm-hierarchy-in-eve-online/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


The latest EVE Online dev blog comes from GM Zhainius, who writes about customer support at CCP Games. Over the 5 years EVE Online has been running, the GM staff has answered millions of petitions in addition to writing articles and guides. But their work is typically in the background; it's the devs that really get the attention. GM Zhainius felt like writing to clarify the inner workings of CCP Games in terms of customer support, and to give players a clearer picture of what happens when they file a petition.

GM Zhainius dispels rumors that Game Masters at CCP are volunteers. They're all paid employees, some of whom have been doing their job for years. He also cites a low turnover among CCP's GM staff; in fact, a number of them have been with EVE before the game even launched. The GMs work from four locations worldwide: Reykjavik, Atlanta, Düsseldorf, and Shanghai. He lays out the company's entire customer support structure and the groups or 'cells' the support team is divided into. The EVE dev blog is an interesting look behind-the-scenes into how CCP customer support is handled, and whether or not you're a satisfied customer, it's always good to know that at least someone is reading those ship reimbursement petitions.

MassivelyCCP Games outlines GM hierarchy in EVE Online originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Jun 2008 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlantaccpccp-gamescustomer-supportdevdev-blogdusseldorfeveeve-onlinegmgm-zhainiuspetitionreykjaviksci-fishanghaisupportvolunteersFri, 20 Jun 2008 19:30:00 EST