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[Battlestar Galactica Online inches toward 10M players, hands out swag for anniversary]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/battlestar-galactica-online-inches-toward-10m-players-hands-out/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/battlestar-galactica-online-inches-toward-10m-players-hands-out/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/battlestar-galactica-online-inches-toward-10m-players-hands-out/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

BSGO
Battlestar Galactica Online has quietly but surely expanded its reach across the cosmos, netting nearly 10 million registered players as the title hits its first anniversary. To celebrate the dual achievement, Bigpoint is dishing out goodies to all of its players over the next week.

From today through May 6th, Bigpoint is handing out in-game gifts and bonuses to players. Players need to log in each day to grab these prizes, however. In addition to distributing freebies, BSGO is increasing the daily merit cap and offering special deals for its item shop.

Bigpoint CEO Heiko Hubertz sees Battlestar Galactica Online's first year as both a success and the beginning of a great run: "We are thrilled with the tremendous growth of BSGO and how the game has performed over the past year. We're excited to move forward with this momentum, celebrate our achievements, and reward all of our players in the community who helped us get to this point."

[Source: Bigpoint press release]

MassivelyBattlestar Galactica Online inches toward 10M players, hands out swag for anniversary originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10-million10-million-playersanniversarybattlestar-galacticabattlestar-galactica-onlinebigpointbonusesbrowserbrowser-basedbsgof2pfree-bonusesfree-goodsfree-swagfree-to-playHeiko-Hubertzsci-fiten-million-playersMon, 30 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: New browser-based converts shine light on issues]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/free-for-all-new-browser-based-converts-shine-light-on-issues/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/free-for-all-new-browser-based-converts-shine-light-on-issues/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/free-for-all-new-browser-based-converts-shine-light-on-issues/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Fiesta Social screenshot
I recently threw out a prediction that within five years, most of our MMO content will be coming through our browsers. To be more specific, I think that most players in the United States will be enjoying their favorite MMOs within a browser. That can mean several things but does not refer to games like Free Realms, a client-based game that is only signed-into at the browser level. As with any discussion about genres, mechanics or styles in the MMO world, I have to be very specific.

It's pretty likely that a very large percentage of the US playerbase is already playing browser-based games. Look at the American market for games like RuneScape, Battlestar Galactica Online, Club Penguin, Drakensang Online, Evony, and Ministry of War and you might just find millions of players.

Next we need to consider that there are more games coming into the browser market. This new batch is essentially a group of standard, client-based MMOs that are porting themselves to the browser. I tend to be a little skeptical about some of these in the short-term, for several reasons.

Continue reading Free for All: New browser-based converts shine light on issues

MassivelyFree for All: New browser-based converts shine light on issues originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>8realmsbattlestar-galactica-onlinebeau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedclub-penguindrakensang-onlineevonyf2pfeaturedffafiesta-onlinefiesta-socialfree-for-allfree-realmsfree-to-playfreemiumftpillyriadjagexministry-of-waropinionrunes-of-magicrunescapetibiavelvet-ropeWed, 25 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Soapbox: If you want to sell special items, just do it already]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/10/the-soapbox-if-you-want-to-sell-special-items-get-to-it-alread/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/10/the-soapbox-if-you-want-to-sell-special-items-get-to-it-alread/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/10/the-soapbox-if-you-want-to-sell-special-items-get-to-it-alread/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Vanguard screenshot
Disclaimer: The Soapbox column is entirely the opinion of this week's writer and does not necessarily reflect the views of Massively as a whole. If you're afraid of opinions other than your own, you might want to skip this column.

I've argued before about the merits of being an honest cash-shop salesperson. You have to be upfront, blunt, and willing to take some heat. Bigpoint is one of my favorite examples of a cash-shop dependent developer simply because it says what it means and means what it says. It sells items, sometimes powerful items, in several different titles. Granted, the studio usually offers a way to get those same items through in-game means, but that doesn't make for as good a story.

We reported on Bigpoint a while ago when its reps essentially said that if a developer is going to make an effort to sell in-game items, it should do it the right way by making those items have a significant impact on the game by being either powerful or desirable. I cannot agree more. Bigpoint is a car lot that sells beautiful luxury automobiles. It also sells junkers and even gives out a lot of cars for free, but its charity once again does not make for a good dramatic write-up. I tend to think that if you you are going to make a cash-shop, depending on the style of game, of course, you as a developer have got to consider just what sort of impact you want that cash-shop to have on your players, and you can't be afraid to push your idea from the beginning.

But just get on with it.

Continue reading The Soapbox: If you want to sell special items, just do it already

MassivelyThe Soapbox: If you want to sell special items, just do it already originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galactica-onlinebeau-hindmanBigpointbsg-onlinecash-shopccpcylonsdark-orbiteditorialeve-onlinefeaturedlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroMicrotransactionsop-edopinionrantrantssoapboxthe-soapboxvirtual-goodsTue, 10 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: Utilizing Windows 8 to help with MMO chores]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/mmobility-utilizing-windows-8-to-help-with-mmo-chores/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/mmobility-utilizing-windows-8-to-help-with-mmo-chores/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/mmobility-utilizing-windows-8-to-help-with-mmo-chores/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Windows 8 preview screenshot
Not so long ago, I told you about my acquisition of an Inspiron Duo netbook, a 10-inch device that was not only a small laptop but also a touchscreen tablet device. It is a very sturdy device, and the flip-around screen works well. The main problem with the device was that it came with Windows 7 while only sporting a dual core processor and two gigs of RAM. The other main issue was that the 10-inch screen has a 1366x768-pixel resolution, meaning that it was often uncomfortable to read on it or play games unless I zoomed in.

Recently Microsoft released the Windows 8 public preview, so I downloaded it after reading that it was really geared for tablet or touchcreen devices. Sure enough, the same 10-inch netbook that was not getting a lot of use around here suddenly became faster and much more friendly to the eyes.

It's perfect timing, as well, especially since I will be starting my "chores" experiment in which I see whether scheduling my gameplay each day will help me with an issue I have been having.

Continue reading MMObility: Utilizing Windows 8 to help with MMO chores

MassivelyMMObility: Utilizing Windows 8 to help with MMO chores originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Mar 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galactica-onlinebeau-hindmanBigpointbsg-onlinecastle-empirechoresdie2niteduof2pfeaturedfree-to-pftpglitchgolden-agegunshineillyriadinspiron-duojagexjunebud-abmilmominitroopersmiramagiamirimagiammobilitymmortsmobilepocket-legendsriotzonerunescaspacetime-studiosstar-legendstouchscreentwinoidFri, 09 Mar 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Bigpoint teases Battlestar Galactica Online carrier ships]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/bigpoint-teases-battlestar-galactica-online-carrier-ships/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/bigpoint-teases-battlestar-galactica-online-carrier-ships/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/bigpoint-teases-battlestar-galactica-online-carrier-ships/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Battlestar Galactica Online - carrier-class ship
Bigpoint has let us know that it's about to kick off what it calls "space trials" for some new carrier-class ships in Battlestar Galactica Online. The craft will be visible on the Kobol beta server today in both Colonial and Cylon variants.

Carriers function as support and supply vessels and can also serve as mobile outposts with repair and recharge capabilities.

What's that? You say you want to pilot one of these shiny new vessels? Well, this is Bigpoint, so you'll need to enter a lottery via the community forum for your chance to jump in the cockpit of BSGO's latest and greatest. If you're not up for that, the ships will be available to all players on all servers after the completion of the trial period at the end of this month. You'll need to be level 40 (and in possession of nearly 500,000 in-game cubits) to get one for yourself.

MassivelyBigpoint teases Battlestar Galactica Online carrier ships originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galacticabattlestar-galactica-onlinebigpointbrowsercarrier-shipscarrierscasualf2pfree-to-playlotterysci-fiFri, 03 Feb 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaderboard: Free-form space combat vs. on-the-rails shooter]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/09/leaderboard-free-form-space-combat-vs-on-the-rails-shooter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/09/leaderboard-free-form-space-combat-vs-on-the-rails-shooter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/09/leaderboard-free-form-space-combat-vs-on-the-rails-shooter/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Leaderboard
If mankind's exploration into outer space has taught us anything at this point, it's that sooner or later we're going to need to strap big guns on our bubbles of life support and blast each other out of the cosmos. It's already a prevailing theme among MMOs, with titles like EVE Online, Star Trek Online, Star Wars: The Old Republic, Black Prophecy, and Battlestar Galactica Online allowing us to jump forward a few hundred years of technological growth so we can have some space shootin' fun.

As of late there seems to be two camps developing regarding MMO space shooters. With the advent of SWTOR, some are warming up to the cinematic on-the-rails style of its space combat game. Tunnel shooters allow for a more scripted -- and potentially more exciting -- experience, and this type of combat has a long history in single-player games dating back to Starfox and before.

Of course, the other camp just loathes rail shooters, much preferring the ability to fly anywhere one wants and engage in combat on one's own terms. The freedom of this style of space combat appeals to the inner individualist who doesn't want to conform to what everyone else is doing.

In which camp have you struck your tent? Are you for free-form space combat or on-the-rails shooters? Let your vote be heard after the jump!

Continue reading Leaderboard: Free-form space combat vs. on-the-rails shooter

MassivelyLeaderboard: Free-form space combat vs. on-the-rails shooter originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galactica-onlineblack-prophecydo-a-barrel-rolleveeve-onlinefeaturedfree-form-flightfree-form-space-combatleaderboardon-the-railson-the-rails-shooterpollpollsrail-shooterspace-combatstar-trek-onlinestar-wars-galaxesstar-wars-the-old-republicstarfoxstoswgswtortunnel-shootervotevotersvotesMon, 09 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Soapbox: Bigpoint's cash-shop policies and why they are OK]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/03/the-soapbox-bigpoints-cash-shop-policies-and-why-they-are-ok/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/03/the-soapbox-bigpoints-cash-shop-policies-and-why-they-are-ok/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/03/the-soapbox-bigpoints-cash-shop-policies-and-why-they-are-ok/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Bigpoint sign
Disclaimer: The Soapbox column is entirely the opinion of this week's writer and does not necessarily reflect the views of Massively as a whole. If you're afraid of opinions other than your own, you might want to skip this column.

I have been tasked with explaining to Massively readers why I am OK with Bigpoint's very public policy on selling "advantages." I imagine that this will not be an easy task. After all, we gamers aren't much different than the rest of humanity in the way we tend to care about things that have little or no effect on us. We all have an opinion on "selling power," but I think it's high time that someone attempts to explain why it really isn't always power that Bigpoint is selling -- and why it would be fair even if it were.

I will attempt to stick to the specific topic of Bigpoint's policies, but much of what I say will probably apply to any game developer that sells practically anything for real world money. Yes, I am talking about those wonderful collector's editions and favorite cash-shop mounts. They all fall under the same category that Bigpoint's ships or special drones do.

Click past the cut and I'll explain why.

Continue reading The Soapbox: Bigpoint's cash-shop policies and why they are OK

MassivelyThe Soapbox: Bigpoint's cash-shop policies and why they are OK originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galactica-onlinebeau-hindmanBigpointbrowserbrowser-basedcash-shopdark-orbitf2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpsoapboxthe-soapboxunityzeus-droneTue, 03 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Win a life-size Cylon statue from Bigpoint and Battlestar Galactica Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/win-a-life-size-cylon-statue-from-bigpoint-and-battlestar-galact/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/win-a-life-size-cylon-statue-from-bigpoint-and-battlestar-galact/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/win-a-life-size-cylon-statue-from-bigpoint-and-battlestar-galact/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Battlestar Galactica Online - life-sized Cylon statueBigpoint's in the news again this week, and for once the company is steering clear of microtransaction controversies. It seems as if there's a giveaway afoot, and Battlestar Galactica Online fans will be pleased to note that they have a chance to win a life-size Cylon statue (settle down guys, it's a Centurion, not a Number Six).

The browser-based sci-fi MMO also features 15 new paint jobs for Cylon and Colonial ships, each of which may be purchased with real money or in-game credits.

Bigpoint says more color schemes are on the way, and oh yeah, if you want a chance at the statue, you'll need to log in at least five times during the month of December. Head to the official BSGO forums for the official contest rules.

MassivelyWin a life-size Cylon statue from Bigpoint and Battlestar Galactica Online originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Dec 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galactica-onlinebigpointbsgbsgoby-your-commandcylon-statuecylonsf2pfree-to-playgiveawayslife-size-cylon-statuepaint-jobspromotionssci-fishipsThu, 08 Dec 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MV Guide: December 5-11, 2011]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/05/mv-guide-december-5-11-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/05/mv-guide-december-5-11-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/05/mv-guide-december-5-11-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Flyff
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: December 5-11, 2011

MassivelyMV Guide: December 5-11, 2011 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Dec 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galactica-onlinebigpointbsgochampions-onlineeqiieverquest-iifantasy-onlinefeaturedgazillionglitchlivestreamlivestreamingmarvelmv-guidemv-tvperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweshsosoeSony-Online-Entertainmentsuper-hero-squad-onlinetiny-specktwitch-tvMon, 05 Dec 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: The rise of the browser]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/07/mmobility-the-rise-of-the-browser/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/07/mmobility-the-rise-of-the-browser/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/07/mmobility-the-rise-of-the-browser/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Glitch screenshot
Over the last week I have been obsessing over Glitch, the new browser-based MMORPG brought to us by Tiny Speck. I will go into details of why in my Rise and Shiny column, but for now, let's just say that I think it is one of the greatest things I have come across in a long time. For the record, I was talking about Glitch before it was popular (that hipster cred should get my a free pair of glasses in Glitch!) and was excited about starting this column because of games like Glitch.

In short, I knew that the browser market was huge, and I knew it was only going to grow bigger. Yes, I know what you're thinking, and yes I am claiming that we are starting to see the end of the heavy-duty client and demand for expensive hardware and upgrades. It's a big prediction, but click past the cut and let me explain.

Continue reading MMObility: The rise of the browser

MassivelyMMObility: The rise of the browser originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 07 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galactica-onlinebeau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedChromeBooksclub-penguinDofusearth-eternalf2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpglitchgoogleillyriadjagged-alliance-onlinekultanmilmoMMObilityorder-and-chaos-onlinepuzzle-piratesrunescapespiral-knightsstar-legendsstar-trek-infinite-spaceufo-onlinewakfuFri, 07 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlestar Galactica Online adding new ships this month, surpasses 5M registered players]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/07/battlestar-galactica-online-adding-new-ships-this-month-surpass/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/07/battlestar-galactica-online-adding-new-ships-this-month-surpass/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/07/battlestar-galactica-online-adding-new-ships-this-month-surpass/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Battlestar Galactica - the fleet
Bigpoint just can't seem to stay out of the news today, and whether its the incendiary pay-to-win remarks of an executive or an update to its Battlestar Galactica browser MMO, there's a lot of interesting buzz swirling around the company of late.

The devs are adding a new line of fleet recon ships to Battlestar Galactica Online, and the craft will enable both Colonial and Cylon players to jump directly to their targets while "in proximity of an erupting battle." The ships will debut in mid-September and are modeled on the Raptor and Heavy Raider craft from the beloved Syfy television series. Bigpoint's latest press release also mentions that the Brimir-class carrier will be "available this fall, though its size, complexity, and impact on game balance must be optimized before its general release."

Finally, the company is trumpeting some new metrics, and the release says that BSGO has surpassed the five million registered player mark.

[Source: Bigpoint press release]

MassivelyBattlestar Galactica Online adding new ships this month, surpasses 5M registered players originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Sep 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5-milliion-registered-playersall-this-has-happened-before-and-it-will-happen-againbattlestar-galacticabattlestar-galactica-onlinebigpointbrimirBrimir-class-carrierbsgbsgocolonialcyloncylon-raiderf2pfilmheavy metalHeavyMetalmetricsnew-shipsplayer-metricspress-releasesci-fiWed, 07 Sep 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: So what else can you get for 150 dollars?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/27/free-for-all-so-what-else-can-you-get-for-150-dollars/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/27/free-for-all-so-what-else-can-you-get-for-150-dollars/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/27/free-for-all-so-what-else-can-you-get-for-150-dollars/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Recently, fans of the upcoming MMO Star Wars: The Old Republic had the pleasure of plopping down 150 clams to pre-order a special collectors edition of their favorite game they have never played. I've seen this before, and have even pre-ordered a few in my day (I'm looking at you, giant Warhammer Online box.) Pre-orders are the oldest form of virtual goods...they were cash-shops before cash-shops appeared in every game. The funnest part is seeing hardcore cash-shop haters gladly paying huge sums of money for a robot pet or a cool looking cape. Somehow, they see it as a different thing altogether than buying a shiny mount or pink dress from in-game.

Still, I understand the impulse. I get it every time I am in the check-out lane and the new flavors of gum have been released. Even worse is when one of my favorite games releases new items in their cash shop. New mounts, housing goods, heck even new weapons or stat-increasing potions...they make me drool.

So, I decided to take a 150 dollar budget and see what I could get for it. Click past the cut and let's look at the list!

Continue reading Free for All: So what else can you get for 150 dollars?

MassivelyFree for All: So what else can you get for 150 dollars? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Jul 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galactica-onlinebeau-hindmanbsg-onlinecash-shopcylonEQ2EverQuest-2everquest-iif2pfeaturedfree-for-allfree-realmsfree-to-playftpillyriadkingsisle-entertainmentlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromabinogiNexonwizard-101wurm-onlineWed, 27 Jul 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlestar Galactica Online unveils new Brimir Class Carrier]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/25/battlestar-galactica-online-unveils-new-brimir-class-carrier/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/25/battlestar-galactica-online-unveils-new-brimir-class-carrier/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/25/battlestar-galactica-online-unveils-new-brimir-class-carrier/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Bigpoint Games has announced that Battlestar Galactica Online will be welcoming a new addition to its fleet of ships this fall. The new arrival comes in the form of the Brimir Class Carrier, a rather hefty tier 4 ship. The ship is a relic of earlier Colonial designs, most of which were eventually replaced by Battlestars.

The Carrier, however, brings its own unique surprises to the table. Its heavy armor allows the Brimir Class Carrier to survive enemy onslaughts while it deploys squadrons of strike craft to overwhelm opposing ships. Whether these strike craft will be controlled by AI or players is to be determined, but players will be able to send their strike craft after specific targets. The novel fleet support vessel will be available for purchase with cubits (in-game currency that can be earned via gameplay or bought with cash) coming this fall.

MassivelyBattlestar Galactica Online unveils new Brimir Class Carrier originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Jul 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galacticabattlestar-galactica-onlinebigpointbigpoint-gamesBrimir-class-carrierbsgbsgof2pfree-to-playnew-shipnew-shipsshipsMon, 25 Jul 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlestar Galactica Online sheds "beta" tag]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/battlestar-galactica-online-sheds-beta-tag/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/battlestar-galactica-online-sheds-beta-tag/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/battlestar-galactica-online-sheds-beta-tag/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Bigpoint announced today that its game Battlestar Galactica Online has dropped its "beta" tag and is now wearing the big-boy pants of a fully launched game. Since its open beta release less than five months ago, the game has garnered over three million registered users, so it's probably safe to say the game is indeed ready to move out of beta.

What does this mean for the future of the game? Well, it's simple really: It means that the BSGO team is shifting its focus away from optimization and patches and will instead be zeroing in on adding new content and features to the game. For more information about Battlestar Galactica Online, or to sign up to give the game a go for yourself, head on over to the official site.

MassivelyBattlestar Galactica Online sheds "beta" tag originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Jul 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galacticabattlestar-galactica-onlinebetabigpointbsgbsgof2pfree-to-playlaunchopen-betaWed, 06 Jul 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlestar Galactica Online launches private 1v1 battles]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/29/battlestar-galactica-online-launches-private-1v1-battles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/29/battlestar-galactica-online-launches-private-1v1-battles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/29/battlestar-galactica-online-launches-private-1v1-battles/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Bigpoint broke all the conventional rules when creating Battlestar Galactica Online as a browser-based MMO. Now, the developers are continuing to improve on this unique title by giving players the ability to challenge other players in PvP matches. These instanced matches can be 1v1 duels or ranked dogfights with members of the same or opposite faction, adding a little bit more excitement in the search for Earth.

If you're into PvP for the pure sport of it, you can duel any consenting player of any faction, rating, ship size, or class in a private 1v1 match. However, if your into the rewards or you want to prove that you are indeed the best, join in the ranked matches. The game's matchmaking system pairs up players of similar arena rating, ship size, and class in their own private portion of space for a battle to the death. The top 100 on the Top Gun Leaderboard will be recognized with a special icon above the pilot and ship name.

And when you're playing BSGO with the three million other registered players, check out the two new star systems in the Veil Sector: Nilfhel and Muspell. These two areas contain high-level NPCs for you and your allies to conquer.

For more information, visit the official website, or better yet, just play the game. It's free!

MassivelyBattlestar Galactica Online launches private 1v1 battles originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 29 Jun 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1v1Battlestar-Galacticabattlestar-galactica-onlineBigpointBSGOinstanced-pvpMuspellNilfhelone-on-onepvpranked-duelsranked-matchesTop-GunVeil-SectorWed, 29 Jun 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: Fifty games for the mobile lifestyle]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/mmobility-fifty-games-for-the-mobile-lifestyle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/mmobility-fifty-games-for-the-mobile-lifestyle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/mmobility-fifty-games-for-the-mobile-lifestyle/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

I like lists. Lists help keep my candy-coated brain functioning. I see so many games, devices, and developers that I need to write things down periodically or become lost. Not so long ago I made a list of 25 games for your shiny new laptop, but I wanted to update it with other devices as well. I'd like to clarify the devices I have, though, especially since it was brought to my attention that a lot of players use laptops as their primary gaming machines. When I refer to a laptop, it is far from a gaming machine and could not run games like EverQuest II or Age of Conan.

So here are some stats: I have an HTC Inspire, an iPhone 3GS, an iPad, a Phenom Triple-core PC desktop with an Nvidia 9800 card, six gigs of ram and onboard sound. My laptop is an HP G62 with an AMD Athlon II P340 dual core processor, three gigs of ram and an AMD graphics chip built in. I also have a more powerful gaming PC, but that is often referred to as "the wife's machine" around here, and it is so packed with her items that I rarely touch it. So most of these games can be run on their native devices, and if they are meant for PC, probably on netbooks as well. When I'm playing on netbooks, resolution is often the major issue. Some games just will not fit on the tiny screens without some slight modding.

Anyway, click past the cut to see the list. The first 11 are my favorites, the ones that I play often, if not every day. The rest are in no particular order, so keep that in mind as well. Remember that this year is going to be an incredible one for mobile, thanks to the new games I found at E3. So this list will change!

Continue reading MMObility: Fifty games for the mobile lifestyle

MassivelyMMObility: Fifty games for the mobile lifestyle originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 Jun 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-mystical-landadventurequest-worldsAnarchy-Onlineasherons-callatmosphirbattlestar-galactica-onlinebeau-hindmanccpcity-of-eternalsClone-Wars-Adventurescrowns-of-powerdark-orbitdark-orbit-gamesdie2niteDofusdomain-of-heroesdragon-fabledungeon-blitzeden-eternaleve-onlineeverquestf2pfeaturedfleckfree-realmsfree-to-playftpfusion-fallgilfors-talesglitchgunshineillyriadkingsisle-entertainmentlinkrealmsmabinogiMapleStorymilmoministry-of-warmiramagiaMMObilitymobilemonkey-questmonster-forestnadirimNexonorder-and-chaos-onlinepets-vs-monsterspirate-galaxypocket-legendspockie-ninjapoptropicapuzzle-piratesrunescapeshin-megami-tensei-imagine-onlineSOEspiral-knightsThreeRingstravianswakfuwizard-101World-of-WarcraftzentiaTue, 21 Jun 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bigpoint and Mail.Ru partnering for global distribution deal]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/14/bigpoint-and-mail-ru-partnering-for-global-distribution-deal/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/14/bigpoint-and-mail-ru-partnering-for-global-distribution-deal/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/14/bigpoint-and-mail-ru-partnering-for-global-distribution-deal/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Bigpoint and Mail.Ru Group have just announced a corporate partnership that aims to bring titles from each publisher to new prospective markets. Bigpoint, a browser MMO specialist most famous for its free-to-play Battlestar Galactica title, will bring its games to Mail.Ru's Russian-speaking audience via the latter's existing portal delivery service.

Similarly, Bigpoint users will find Mail.Ru titles like GodsWar Online accessible via the Bigpoint website. Bigpoint games will also be making their way to Mail.Ru's Odnoklassniki and My World social networking services.

"As successful browser-game providers, Bigpoint.com and Mail.Ru are a match made in heaven. We're happy to expand both our game portfolio and our international network of partners at the same time," said Bigpoint CEO Nils Holger Henning in a recent press release.

MassivelyBigpoint and Mail.Ru partnering for global distribution deal originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 Jun 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galactica-onlinebigpointbrowser-gamesf2pfantasyfree-to-playgodswar-onlinemail.ruOdnoklassnikiodnoklassniki-rupartnershippress--releasepress-releasesci-fisocial-networkingTue, 14 Jun 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: Casey says frak edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/02/the-mmo-report-casey-says-frak-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/02/the-mmo-report-casey-says-frak-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/02/the-mmo-report-casey-says-frak-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

This week's MMO Report is all about Casey's ego. Not one shred of MMO news bullied its way onto the show this week, unless you count a story about Battlestar Galactica Online reaching two million subscribers as news. OK, maybe you can count Age of Conan going free-to-play, or maybe the newest Minecraft update is technically news. Perhaps Perfect World Entertainment buying Cryptic Studios would be considered news, too. But let's not forget: The MMO Report is really about Uncle Casey's Mail Bag. So that is exactly what will fill the rest of this post.

The Mail Bag this week is all about love, love, and memes. Fans share their love for each other, love for Casey, and love for Morgan Webb. Yes, she's been gone for two weeks, but apparently Casey's manly smell has not ousted the memory of the time Morgan hosted the MMO Report. One fan has not forgotten; he was so inspired that he created a meme about it just to show how much he cared.

Jump past the break if you are interested in catching a glimpse of Casey Schreiner's ego. We have the full video ready to go. Maybe you will catch the news that we missed while staring at Casey's incredible beard.

Continue reading The MMO Report: Casey says frak edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: Casey says frak edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Jun 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaocbattlestar-galactica-onlineBigpointbsg-onlinebsgocasey-schreinercryptic-studiosfuncomg4g4tvminecraftmmo-reportmorgan-webbperfect-world-entertainmentthe-mmo-reportuncle-caseys-mailbagThu, 02 Jun 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bigpoint announces two million player mark for Battlestar Galactica Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/25/bigpoint-announces-two-million-player-mark-for-battlestar-galact/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/25/bigpoint-announces-two-million-player-mark-for-battlestar-galact/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/25/bigpoint-announces-two-million-player-mark-for-battlestar-galact/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Bigpoint announced today that its sci-fi MMOG Battlestar Galactica Online, based on the immensely popular Syfy series of the same name, has reached two million registered players in its first three months of service. The free-to-play game has been under constant construction since its launch, with the addition of new ships for both the Colonial and Cylon factions, the introduction of the Merit system (which "enables the purchase of high-value items like nuclear missiles"), and even the ability for players to pilot their factions' trademark capital ships.

What's next for BSGO? Rob Ollett, managing director at Bigpoint International, has this to say: "With BSGO continuing to achieve new benchmarks and receive such a strong positive response from the fans, we're excited to take its development to the next level. At just three-months in we're at a point now where we can shift the majority of our attention to adding new content and addressing the community's wish list."

To join the exciting, paranoia-fueled (ohgodohgodohgod who's a Cylon!?) universe of Battlestar Galactica Online, head on over to the official site.

MassivelyBigpoint announces two million player mark for Battlestar Galactica Online originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 May 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2-million-playersbatlestar-galacticabattlestar-galactica-onlinebigpointbigpoint-internationalbrowserbrowser-basedbsgbsgof2pfree-2-playfree-to-playrob-ollettsci-fisyfyWTFBOOMWed, 25 May 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Battlestar Galactica Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/one-shots-battlestar-galactica-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/one-shots-battlestar-galactica-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/one-shots-battlestar-galactica-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Today's One Shots illustrates something that the MMO world is learning pretty quickly: You can find great-looking games right in your browser window. Dezmo has been enjoying Battlestar Galactica Online:
Dezmo here, checking in from the Beta Antini System. If you haven't had a chance to check out Bigpoint's browser based space game, it would be a great idea if you did. Behind me is a human outpost ship, one of the many moons and the blazing light from a star. My Rhino is in the foreground. It's quite a hearty little ship. Off to make some Cylons pay!
Sci-fi week continues tomorrow: Are you loving Perpetuum? Immersed in Battlestar Galactica Online? Beta testing Black Prophecy? Let your favorite sci-fi game strut its stuff this week by sending a great screenshot to us at oneshots@massively.com. Include your your name, the name of the game, and a description of what we're seeing, and we'll post it up and give you the thanks!

Gallery: One Shots: 2011

MassivelyOne Shots: Battlestar Galactica Online originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Apr 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galactica-onlinebigpointbrowser-basedbsgbsgodezmof2pfree-to-playftpgalleriesgalleryone-shotsscreenshotscreenshotsWed, 27 Apr 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Controlling share in Bigpoint purchased for $350 million]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/26/controlling-share-in-bigpoint-purchased-for-350-million/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/26/controlling-share-in-bigpoint-purchased-for-350-million/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/26/controlling-share-in-bigpoint-purchased-for-350-million/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The prolific MMO developer Bigpoint is answering to couple of new bosses today. According to Gamasutra, Summit Partners and TA Associates have banded together to heavily invest in the company -- and by doing so, to take a controlling share in Bigpoint. The two firms, which are now on the board of directors, have jointly invested $350 million into Bigpoint. These funds will recapitalize the studio and expand its presence worldwide.

Bigpoint founder and CEO Heiko Hubertz, who controls 30 percent of the company, appears optimistic: "The investment by TA Associates and Summit Partners is a validation of Bigpoint's leadership position within the gaming industry, and will give us a huge boost toward becoming one of the most successful gaming companies worldwide."

Bigpoint has a wide portfolio of titles including Battlestar Galactica Online, DarkOrbit, and the upcoming Drakensang Online.

MassivelyControlling share in Bigpoint purchased for $350 million originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Apr 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galactica-onlinebigpointboard-of-directorsbsocontrolling-sharedarkorbitdrakensang-onlinegamasutraheiko-hubertzinvestorssummit-partnerst-and-a-associates-is-a-completely-different-companyta-associatesTue, 26 Apr 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlestar Galactica Online passes one million player milestone]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/battlestar-galactica-online-passes-one-million-player-milestone/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/battlestar-galactica-online-passes-one-million-player-milestone/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/battlestar-galactica-online-passes-one-million-player-milestone/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Bigpoint's browser-based Battlestar Galactica Online is a certifiable hit according to a new press release touting the fact that the title recently surpassed one million registered players. The milestone comes a scant six weeks after the launch of BSGO's open beta period and dovetails nicely with the news that the game is getting an engine upgrade as well as new ship content.

"There is always a risk when you translate a well-known IP into another medium. We built what we believed was a recipe for success; a fantastic gaming experience inspired by an iconic show, with the added benefit of being a free-to-play title," explains Bigpoint CEO Heiko Hubertz.

Head to the official Battlestar Galactica Online website for more info on the game and the new upgrades.

MassivelyBattlestar Galactica Online passes one million player milestone originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 Apr 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1-million-playersBattlestar Galacticabattlestar-galactica-onlineBattlestarGalacticabigpointbrowserbrowser-basedbsgbsg-onlinef2pfree-to-playheiko-hubertznew-shipsone-million-playerspress-releasesci-fiunity-engineupgradesFri, 15 Apr 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlestar Galactia Online gets a face-lift and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/battlestar-galactia-online-gets-a-face-lift-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/battlestar-galactia-online-gets-a-face-lift-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/battlestar-galactia-online-gets-a-face-lift-and-more/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Battlestar Galactica Online has already made headway in the MMO community because of its quality, yet it is completely playable in-browser. In an announcement today, the team at Bigpoint decided to give the players a taste of what is to come in the next update -- and it's all about rewards.

First up, the developers apologized for taking so long with the update; the delay is due to their upgrades to the Unity engine. In the update blog released today, they said, "This was a big step forwards for the game, and Battlestar Galactica Online is now better looking, smoother and more stable than ever before." Unfortunately, as a result of all the time spent on upgrades, not all the big bugs have been addressed, but the team promises to get right on those.

So what was implemented? Merits are the PvP currency for BSGO, and with them you can buy either the Viper Mk VII or the Cylon War Raider. You can also gain the much-desired ability to command a Battlestar or Basestar. Secondly, you may now exchange water for cubits. The team is certain this one will be a hit among players. Lastly, rewards such as XP and loot have been scaled according to player level: higher-level players will now receive fewer rewards for low-level "easy" kills.

For the full story, jump to the developer update on the official website.

MassivelyBattlestar Galactia Online gets a face-lift and more originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Apr 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galacticabattlestar-galactica-onlineBigpointbrowserbrowser-basedbsgof2pfree-to-playftppatchrewardsSyFyupdateThu, 14 Apr 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bigpoint says Battlestar Galactica Online's launch is company's best ever]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/23/bigpoint-says-battlestar-galactica-onlines-launch-is-companys/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/23/bigpoint-says-battlestar-galactica-onlines-launch-is-companys/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/23/bigpoint-says-battlestar-galactica-onlines-launch-is-companys/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Bigpoint's Battlestar Galactica Online is a major hit according to company CCO Nils-Holger Henning. In a new interview at GamesIndustry.biz, Henning relates how BSGO feedback has given developers and executives a read on community reaction to the free-to-play title. "The feedback we've had, the activity inside of the game -- from the user behavior -- shows us that we're building one of the next blockbusters in Bigpoint's portfolio."

What exactly does that mean? Henning defines a Bigpoint blockbuster as having potential revenues of over 1 million GBP (approximately 1.626 million USD) per month.

Henning chalks up BSGO's success to the recognizable brand and the sizable fan base associated with it, as well as the company's efforts to play up the advancements in browser technology. "We've been working with games-related websites more, going for the hardcore gamers, and showing them what's now possible in the browser," he explains. Finally, he cites BSG producer Ronald Moore's involvement as a positive and explains how Moore's stamp of approval allowed Bigpoint to "stay close to the series."

MassivelyBigpoint says Battlestar Galactica Online's launch is company's best ever originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Mar 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galacticabattlestar-galactica-mmobattlestar-galactica-onlinebigpointbigpoint-gamesbrowserbrowser-basedf2pfree-to-playinterviewinterviewsnils-holger-henningronald-mooresci-fiWed, 23 Mar 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bigpoint's Battlestar Galactica Online just the beginning of its master plan]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/10/bigpoints-battlestar-galactica-online-just-the-beginning-of-its/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/10/bigpoints-battlestar-galactica-online-just-the-beginning-of-its/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/10/bigpoints-battlestar-galactica-online-just-the-beginning-of-its/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

In the Battlestar Galactica TV reimagining, the Cylons were infamous for having an overarching plan for their domination of the galaxy. Likewise, Bigpoint's plan for the newly-launched Battlestar Galactica Online is far more than it might first appear. For starters, the SyFy channel -- which is hosting the game on its website -- plans to aggressively run commercials promoting BSGO to the public.

According to Gamasutra, Bigpoint itself is in a state of rapid growth with the recent acquisition of the former employees of Planet Moon for its relatively new San Francisco office. This newly combined workforce numbers over 80, and CEO Heiko Hubertz has them all mostly working on two major IPs: "We didn't acquire the company; we just took over the employees. So almost 40 of them are now working for us, and they're working mainly on Battlestar and The Mummy."

Bigpoint's plan to tackle the North American market diverges from its European strategy by focusing on high-quality, multi-million dollar budget browser titles -- and so far, it's paid off, as the company is in the black. Hubertz thinks this was a smart move: "It was very quick -- the decision, 'Okay, if we want to be successful in the U.S., we have to change our thinking about this industry.' And that's the reason why we developed games here in the U.S., that's the reason why we picked a technology like Unity to develop games of high quality."

You can read up on Bigpoint's plan over at Gamasutra, and don't forget to check out our first impressions of Battlestar Galactica Online.

MassivelyBigpoint's Battlestar Galactica Online just the beginning of its master plan originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Feb 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galacticabattlestar-galactica-onlinebigpointbrowser-basedbsgocylonsheiko-hubertznorth-americaplanet-moonplanet-moon-studiossan-fransiscosyfythe-mummythe-mummy-onlinethis-has-all-happened-beforeThu, 10 Feb 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Bigpoint launches Battlestar Galactica Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/08/bigpoint-launches-battlestar-galactica-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/08/bigpoint-launches-battlestar-galactica-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/08/bigpoint-launches-battlestar-galactica-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

SyFy's Battlestar Galactica odyssey may have ended, but Bigpoint's MMO adaptation of the beloved reboot has just begun. The free-to-play game maker has announced the official launch of Battlestar Galactica Online, a browser-based title set during the latter half of the TV show's second season.

Players can choose to fight for either the Cylons or the Colonials, as both fleets are stranded in uncharted space and in need of repairs and critical supplies. This leads into a contest for nearby resources that involves space combat, exploration, and mission-based play as well as ship unlocks, customization, and market features.

Bigpoint has also made use of assets from the television series including the seminal Bear McCreary musical score and the instantly recognizable ship models. How does all this hold up in a browser game? Pretty well, according to Bigpoint. "We are confident that a new standard has been achieved -- no longer should browser games be considered sub-par to their console or PC-installed counterparts," says CEO Heiko Hubertz.

MassivelyBigpoint launches Battlestar Galactica Online originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 Feb 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galacticabattlestar-galactica-onlinebigpointbrowser-basedbsoby-your-commandcylonsf2pfree-to-playheiko-hubertzhumanslaunchessci-fiviperTue, 08 Feb 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: Newstastic edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/28/the-mmo-report-newstastic-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/28/the-mmo-report-newstastic-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/28/the-mmo-report-newstastic-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Welcome back! This week on The MMO Report, Casey Schreiner and the team at G4TV are serving up a heaping helping of highlights, as the news has been crazy busy during the last week. Up first, Casey points out the sales numbers for DC Universe Online, which has been flying off shelves. From there, it's on to Bigpoint Games' upcoming free-to-play browser-based Battlestar Galactica Online, which will either enthrall space-drama fiends, or just give people a reason to say "frak" a lot. Zipping along, it's on to Eskil Steenberg's LOVE, which went through an upgrade while narrowly avoiding a random Craigslist hookup.

Also included are tidbits on an upcoming short documentary on the making of Minecraft, as well as an interesting piece on the MMORPGRTS alphabet soup of Reverie World Studios' upcoming game Dawn of Fantasy. Finally, this week ends out, as most weeks do, with Casey rifling through the best (or worst; we're not quite sure) to be found in Uncle Casey's Mailbag. For all the excitement and more, you can check out this week's episode of The MMO Report embedded for your ocular and aural pleasure behind the break, or catch it every Thursday on G4TV.

Continue reading The MMO Report: Newstastic edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: Newstastic edition originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 28 Jan 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galactica-onlinebigpointbigpoint-gamesbrowser-basedbsgbsgocasey-schreinerdawn-of-fantasydc-universe-onlinedcuoeskil-steenbergfree-to-playg4tvhumorloveminecraftmmonewsprgreverie-world-studiosrtssillysnarksoesony-online-entertainmentthe-mmo-reportuncle-caseys-mailbagupcoming-gamesvideoFri, 28 Jan 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlestar Galactica gets an open beta date]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/28/battlestar-galactica-gets-an-open-beta-date/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/28/battlestar-galactica-gets-an-open-beta-date/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/28/battlestar-galactica-gets-an-open-beta-date/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Are you ready to step into the world of Battlestar Galactica Online and have a frakkin' good time blowing Cylons into the next century? Perhaps you're more the type of person who feels a certain affinity with the toaster-people and instead would prefer to play on the side of the Cylons themselves? Whatever the case, if you've been waiting for Bigpoint Games' upcoming free-to-play SyFy Channel space dogfighter, then you're in luck. According to a post by Husker on the Battlestar Galactica Online forums, the game's open beta is right around the corner: February 8th, to be exact!

Initially, three servers will be launched for open beta: Caprica for the U.S. West coast, Scorpia for the U.S. East coast, and Tauron for players located in the EU. However, all players will be expected to use English in common chat channels, even on the EU server. The only exception is in Squad and Wing chat, which is left up to players. Any other language used in open channels will cause you to be ganked with a GM banhammer and be sent to appeal on the forums. Bigpoint also states that if more servers are needed, the company will be adjusting accordingly. In the meantime, you can check out Beau's First Impressions of the game or watch the red-hot trailer Bigpoint just released to get an idea of what this very ambitious Unity-engine-based game will be like.

MassivelyBattlestar Galactica gets an open beta date originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 28 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galacticabattlestar-galactica-mmobattlestar-galactica-onlineBigpointbigpoint-gamesbrowser-basedcapricadatedogfighterf2pfree-to-playopen-betaopen-beta-datesci-fiscorpiasyfysyfy networksyfy-channelSyfyNetworktauronunityunity-engineFri, 28 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlestar Galactica fires up its FTLs for an in-game trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/24/battlestar-galactica-fires-up-its-ftls-for-an-in-game-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/24/battlestar-galactica-fires-up-its-ftls-for-an-in-game-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/24/battlestar-galactica-fires-up-its-ftls-for-an-in-game-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

In December of 2003, the SciFi Network (now Syfy) launched a hugely successful re-imagining of the '70s space-opera Battlestar Galactica. Early last year, Bigpoint announced it had procured the license to make a browser-based MMOG set in the same re-imagined universe. Today, we have the first-ever in-game trailer for Battlestar Galactica Online. The press release states that this game is "one of the most ambitious browser-games ever developed," and the trailer features the in-game footage of Cylon Raiders and Colonial Vipers facing off against the Galactica and Basestars. We also get a taste of what actual combat will feel like, with Bear McCreary's musical score as a emotional backdrop. Catch the full, exciting trailer after the break.

Beta applications are being accepted on the game's website, open beta begins sometime soon in Q1, and launch will be shortly after that. When the game launches in the United States, it will be available only through Syfy.com. Stay tuned here for more information. So say we all!

Continue reading Battlestar Galactica fires up its FTLs for an in-game trailer

MassivelyBattlestar Galactica fires up its FTLs for an in-game trailer originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 24 Jan 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galacticabattlestar-galactica-onlineBigpointbigpoint-gamesbrowser-basedbsgbsg-onlinebsgobsoin-game-footagespace-combatsyfytrailervideoMon, 24 Jan 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[First Impressions: Battlestar Galactica Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/18/first-impressions-battlestar-galactica-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/18/first-impressions-battlestar-galactica-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/18/first-impressions-battlestar-galactica-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

There's a pretty universal rule among MMORPG players, although many of them are not aware of it: "Never, ever play a human, an elf, or the 'good side' unless you have no choice. Even then, improvise." I try to follow this rule to the letter. Even when I am asked to try out, preview, or generally mess around with the greatest new game in all of history, I try to avoid playing the good guys. So when I was asked if I could take a look at Battlestar Galactice Online by Bigpoint, I knew exactly what to do.

While I much prefer the older Cylon look and feel (bulkier, rounder ships), and while I did not find myself glued to the TV set to tune into the latter incarnation of the campy series, I did absolutely love how the newer writers and special-effects masters made the space dog-fighting look. It felt, well, real to me. Would I feel the same way about combat inside my browser? What about my character -- how would he feel while walking around inside a station or base?

Follow me past the cut to see what I found.

Continue reading First Impressions: Battlestar Galactica Online

MassivelyFirst Impressions: Battlestar Galactica Online originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Jan 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galactica-mmobattlestar-galactica-onlinebeau-hindmanBigpointbigpoint-gamesbrowserbsgocash-shopccpCCP-Gameseveeve-onlinef2pfirst-person-shooterfpsfree-to-playftplasersmicrotransactionMicrotransactionsmissle launcherMissleLaunchermisslesmmofpsspace-shooterspace-simTue, 18 Jan 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Four games I'm dying to play in 2011]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/22/free-for-all-four-games-im-dying-to-play-in-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/22/free-for-all-four-games-im-dying-to-play-in-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/22/free-for-all-four-games-im-dying-to-play-in-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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

MassivelyFree 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.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-mystical-landankamaankama-gamesbattlestar-galacticabattlestar-galactica-onlinebeau-hindmanBigpointbigpoint-gamesbrowserbrowser-basedbsg-onlineDofusdofus-2.0end-of-the-year-2010featuredfree-for-allfree-to-playftpglitchIndieindie-gamesmobile-gamingSquare-Enixunityunity-enginewakfuWed, 22 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bigpoint vs. BioWare: CEO says The Old Republic will never be profitable]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/07/bigpoint-vs-bioware-ceo-says-the-old-republic-will-never-be-pr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/07/bigpoint-vs-bioware-ceo-says-the-old-republic-will-never-be-pr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/07/bigpoint-vs-bioware-ceo-says-the-old-republic-will-never-be-pr/#commentsFiled under: , ,

As a high-profile MMO, Star Wars: The Old Republic is proving itself to be a big target for attack. Bigpoint, the German game developer that's working on Battlestar Galactica Online, stepped up to take a swing at the as-of-yet-unreleased title.

At the London Games Conference, Bigpoint CEO Heiko Hubertz made the bold prediction that The Old Republic will never see a profit: "If you look at Star Wars from EA and BioWare, they estimated a development budget of over $100 million. This is an online game for many million of subscribers, so the publisher does not understand that a subscription model is not the future. With microtransactions maybe I see the game having a chance but I don't think that EA or BioWare will ever be profitable with this game."

EA BioWare has yet to release a definite pricing plan for TOR, although it is widely believed it will be subscription-based. Earlier this year, Dr. Ray Muzyka said that there will be "more of the traditional business model with maybe some twists as well."

MassivelyBigpoint vs. BioWare: CEO says The Old Republic will never be profitable originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 07 Nov 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galactica-onlinebigpointbiowareea-biowareheiko-hubertzlondong-games-conferenceMicrotransactionsray-muzykastar-wars-the-old-republicsubscription-modelthe-old-republictoryour-jedi-mind-tricks-dont-work-on-meSun, 07 Nov 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO to go: Panasonic designing a handheld online gaming machine]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/mmo-to-go-panasonic-designing-a-handheld-online-gaming-machine/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/mmo-to-go-panasonic-designing-a-handheld-online-gaming-machine/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/mmo-to-go-panasonic-designing-a-handheld-online-gaming-machine/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

While game studios are slowly forging a path to bringing MMOs to established handheld devices like the iPhone, Panasonic is looking to flip that paradigm on its head. Eurogamer reports that the company has been developing a handheld device specifically for MMOs and is poised for a major reveal.

Called "The Jungle," this clamshell unit boasts a high-resolution screen, keyboard, touchpad, directional pad and several input ports. It is rumored to run the Linux OS and could work with MMO titles such as Battlestar Galactica Online and RuneScape, according to the company.

The Jungle's website is scarce on content at the moment, but on its Manifesto page the developers state: "Our mission: Create an ecosystem around online gaming. At the core is a new mobile device concept designed specifically for online gamers. We're also working with leading online game developers to create some exciting new content."

Whether there is a significant demand for such a product is up in the air, but this is intriguing enough to follow for the time being.

MassivelyMMO to go: Panasonic designing a handheld online gaming machine originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 05 Oct 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galactica-onlinebsgoeurogamerhandheldhandheld-deviceshandheld-mmoiphonejunglelinuxmanifestopanasonicrunescapethe-junglewelcome-to-the-jungleTue, 05 Oct 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively.com and GameBreaker.TV: Coming to you live from GDC Online!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/massively-com-and-gamebreaker-tv-coming-to-you-live-from-gdc-on/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/massively-com-and-gamebreaker-tv-coming-to-you-live-from-gdc-on/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/massively-com-and-gamebreaker-tv-coming-to-you-live-from-gdc-on/#commentsFiled under: , ,

GDC Online (formerly GDC Austin) is rapidly approaching, and we here at Massively.com are making sure that we're on the front lines of coverage from the event. We have plenty of interviews lined up with a huge variety of companies, and we're teaming up with our friends at GameBreaker.TV to deliver live coverage of the event via GameBreaker's live show at the Vivox booth!

To get you excited for the coming conference, we've provided the list of companies we're meeting with just after the break! The list isn't fully extensive, as we'll be covering a variety of panels as well, but it will give you an idea of whom we're meeting with. Plus, keep an eye out for a link to the live GameBreaker.TV broadcast on our right-hand sidebar! Their coverage of the event will be starting on Wednesday, October 6th at 12:00 p.m. EDT!

Continue reading Massively.com and GameBreaker.TV: Coming to you live from GDC Online!

MassivelyMassively.com and GameBreaker.TV: Coming to you live from GDC Online! originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 05 Oct 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aikaaika-onlineallodsallods-onlinebattlestar-galactica-onlinebigpointbsg-onlinebsgocity-of-heroescohdc-universe-onlinedcuogala-netgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-onlinegamebreaker-tvgamebreakrgary-gannongdc-onlinelive-coveragelive-videomytheonmythicmythic-entertainmentncsoftpoisonvillesoesony-online-entertainmentultima-onlineuoutv-true-gamesvivoxwargaming.netwarrior-epicworld-of-tankswotTue, 05 Oct 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Black Prophecy wins "Best of Free-to-Play" at Gamescom]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/25/black-prophecy-wins-best-of-free-to-play-at-gamescom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/25/black-prophecy-wins-best-of-free-to-play-at-gamescom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/25/black-prophecy-wins-best-of-free-to-play-at-gamescom/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Gaming publications Gamestar and GamePro were keeping an interested watch on the happenings at Gamescom last week, and earlier this week they handed out their own round of awards.

Gamigo and Reakktor Media received top honors in the free-to-play category for Black Prophecy, beating out several other nominees including Battlestar Galactica Online and Mytheon, another Gamigo game. "We feel quite honored. This award is recognition for all the hard work our team has put in over the past few years," said Kirk Lenke, CEO of Reakktor Media.

The full story can be read on Gamestar's site in the original German or an English translation.

MassivelyBlack Prophecy wins "Best of Free-to-Play" at Gamescom originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Aug 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galactica-onlineblack-prophecybsg-onlinef2pfree-to-playftpgameprogamescomgamescom-2010gamestargamigokirk-lenkemytheonreakktorreakktor-mediaWed, 25 Aug 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[So say we all: Battlestar Galactica Online's blueprints revealed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/22/so-say-we-all-battlestar-galactica-onlines-blueprints-revealed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/22/so-say-we-all-battlestar-galactica-onlines-blueprints-revealed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/22/so-say-we-all-battlestar-galactica-onlines-blueprints-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Whether you're a human, a Cylon, a human working for the Cylons, a Cylon working for the humans, or a slightly off-kilter Massively editor, Battlestar Galactica Online promises to appeal across a wide spectrum. Ten Ton Hammer got in the good graces of Bigpoint at Gamescom this year and smuggled out information vital to the war effort.

While it's not even in the alpha stage as of yet, BSGO is reportedly looking solid, especially for a browser-based title. The primary focus of this space-shooter MMO is the PvP conflict between human and Cylon forces. Players should expect to handle ships from the series (such as the Viper), but Bigpoint is planning on creating new spacecraft unique to the game. Each ship will handle differently, forcing users to adapt on the fly or die.

Although the main stage of the game is the struggle to control systems (and their precious, precious resources), you'll be able to explore areas on foot, such as the titular Galactica, although this is mostly for atmosphere and storytelling. For players worried about the game's microtransactions model, Bigpoint promises that everyone will be able to experience the game from beginning to end without being forced to spend a penny.

MassivelySo say we all: Battlestar Galactica Online's blueprints revealed originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 22 Aug 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galacticabattlestar-galactica-mmobattlestar-galactica-onlinebigpointbrowser-basedbsgocylongamesCOMgamescom-2010i-am-the-sixth-cylonpvpspoiler-earth-is-conquered-by-monkeysten-ton-hammertthviperSun, 22 Aug 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bigpoint announces key characters in Battlestar Galactica Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/14/bigpoint-announces-key-characters-in-battlestar-galactica-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/14/bigpoint-announces-key-characters-in-battlestar-galactica-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/14/bigpoint-announces-key-characters-in-battlestar-galactica-online/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Bigpoint, the creator of upcoming browser-based MMO Battlestar Galactica Online, has revealed a part of the game that fans have been speculating on for a while. The names of key characters have been announced, and you'll certainly see plenty of familiar ones.

These characters will be NPCs, placed in the game to "create a deeper connection to the storyline, provide quests and accentuate the dramatic tension that the series is known for delivering expertly."

On the human side, you'll find William and Lee "Apollo" Adama, Starbuck and Apollo and Galen "Chief" Tyrol. The Cylon roster will be made up of One, Two, Six and Eight. (Sorry guys, no Three.)

Bigpoint CEO Heiko Hubertz is pleased with these additions to the game: "These characters brought to life the story and captured the imaginations of a whole new generation of Battlestar Galactica fans and we felt strongly that they needed to appear in the game."

You can sign up for the game newsletter and receive more updates through the BSG Online site.

[Editor's Note: Whoops, we made a mistake in our list! Fixed that for you. ~Sera]

MassivelyBigpoint announces key characters in Battlestar Galactica Online originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 14 Aug 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galacticabattlestar-galactica-onlinebigpointbrowser-basedbsgbsg-onlineheiko-hubertznpcsyfySat, 14 Aug 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exclusive: New gameplay details and screenshots for Battlestar Galactica Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/22/exclusive-new-gameplay-details-and-screenshots-for-battlestar-g/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/22/exclusive-new-gameplay-details-and-screenshots-for-battlestar-g/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/22/exclusive-new-gameplay-details-and-screenshots-for-battlestar-g/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

When it comes to new MMO titles, a significant portion of the MMO community will hear the the phrase "browser-based" and dismiss the game in question as unworthy without even looking at it.

The folks at Bigpoint have big plans to banish this stereotype with Battlestar Galactica Online. If CEO and founder Heiko Hubertz has his way, turning your nose up at a game because of what you think a browser-based f2p is will become a thing of the past: "Bigpoint's goal is to raise expectations on what can be achieved in a browser-based game. Battlestar Galactica Online is the perfect license to help us elevate the consumer's understanding of this genre of gaming and reach gamers who have never tried a free-to-play game."

Bigpoint shared some exclusive new gameplay information and screenshots with us that give a picture of a much more complex game than you might be expecting.

Follow along after the jump to see what they had to say.

Gallery: Exclusive Battlestar Galactica Online screenshots


Continue reading Exclusive: New gameplay details and screenshots for Battlestar Galactica Online

MassivelyExclusive: New gameplay details and screenshots for Battlestar Galactica Online originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galacticabattlestar-galactica-onlinebigpointbrowser-basedbsgbsg-onlinef2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpscreenshotsThu, 22 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What's your E3 highlight?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/the-daily-grind-whats-your-e3-highlight/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/the-daily-grind-whats-your-e3-highlight/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/the-daily-grind-whats-your-e3-highlight/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Whew! This past week has been a rollercoaster of craziness, a carousel of attractions and a mirror maze of sights from E3. We certainly hope you've enjoyed the coverage here at Massively, from interviews to exclusive peeks to mind-snapping trailers.

As we all continue to sift through the mountains of E3 information, we'd love to know what you consider to be the expo's highlight, your own personal "Best of Show" award. Was it the brand-new trailer of the previously hidden Warhammer 40k: Dark Millennium Online? The exceedingly awesome new SWTOR cinematic? The in-depth look into DC Universe Online? Or perhaps you're a Marvel fanboy and Super Hero Squad Online's gotten you revved up? Could it be the exciting conversations with Final Fantasy XIV's devs? The Agency's PvP side or LotRO's brand-new zone? Or perhaps you found yourself charmed by one of the smaller titles, such as Forsaken World, Taikodom, Swordsman Online, Battlestar Galactica Online and Zentia?

If you were asked -- and hey, we're asking you! -- what's your E3 highlight? Who gets the blue ribbon and who ends up empty-handed?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What's your E3 highlight? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galactica-onlineblue-ribboncinematicdark-millennium-onlinedc-universe-onlinedcuoe3e3-2010e3-highlightsfinal-fantasy-xivforsaken-worldlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroopinionstar-wars-the-old-republicsuper-hero-squad-onlineswordsman-onlinetaikodomtdgterathe-agencythe-daily-grindtortrailerWarhammer-40KzentiaFri, 18 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlestar Galactica Online E3 trailer divides players... literally]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/12/battlestar-galactica-online-e3-trailer-divides-players-litera/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/12/battlestar-galactica-online-e3-trailer-divides-players-litera/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/12/battlestar-galactica-online-e3-trailer-divides-players-litera/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


"Human or Cylon... Man or Machine... who will you choose?" asks the maddeningly vague Battlestar Galactica Online trailer. More of a teaser than anything, this trailer will make the rounds at this month's E3, trying to tempt MMO gamers and Battlestar Galactica fans alike with intergalactic conflict.

Based on the hit SyFy series, Battlestar Galactica Online pits the remnants of humanity against their created "children" -- robot and cyborg Cylons. The browser based game is set during the second season of the show and should be coming out early this fall on SyFy Games' portal. We took a look at this title back at GDC10, and hopefully we'll learn more about the details of BGO from Bigpoint developers at E3. In the meanwhile, hit the jump, check out the trailer and see if it doesn't get your blood pumping for outer space fighter combat!

Continue reading Battlestar Galactica Online E3 trailer divides players... literally

MassivelyBattlestar Galactica Online E3 trailer divides players... literally originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 12 Jun 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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