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[Guild Wars 2 sells out of digital editions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/guild-wars-2-sells-out-of-digital-editions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/guild-wars-2-sells-out-of-digital-editions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/guild-wars-2-sells-out-of-digital-editions/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Guild Wars 2
With Guild Wars 2's beta weekend event poised to start today, many procrastinating players may be rushing to the official site to prepurchase their copy of the game and secure a spot in the beta. Those who do so, however, will be in for a rude awakening, as both the standard and deluxe digital versions of Guild Wars 2 are listed as "sold out" on the site for North America.

While it may seem head-scratching that a company can sell out of a digital product, ArenaNet says that this was done to ensure enough server capacity for the event. The good news is that GameStop and Best Buy are still accepting prepurchase orders, and it looks as though ArenaNet will resume taking orders through the website once the beta weekend is underway:
We limit sales to ensure we have enough capacity for our customers. We're likely to have capacity available after the initial crunch at the start of the weekend. Players who purchase when we're able to resume digital sales at buy.guildwars2.com will still be able to play for the remainder of the weekend.
The team has also announced that world transfers will be free and unrestricted during this beta event.

[Thanks to FlyinBuddha for the tip!]

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 sells out of digital editions originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 27 Apr 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbest-buybetabeta-weekendbeta-weekend-eventdigital-deluxe-editiondigital-editionfantasygamestopguild-wars-2gw2ncsoftprepurchaseprocrastinationsold-outstandard-editionFri, 27 Apr 2012 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 adds Best Buy to CE pre-purchase retailer list, releases new video [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/best-buy-us-stocks-up-on-guild-wars-2-collectors-editions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/best-buy-us-stocks-up-on-guild-wars-2-collectors-editions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/best-buy-us-stocks-up-on-guild-wars-2-collectors-editions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Best Buy
Preparing to run out and snag your Guild Wars 2 Collector's Edition tomorrow? For avid fans in the US, you used to have only one option: Gamestop. However, now it appears that ArenaNet is shipping the coveted CEs to Best Buy as well.

According to the ArenaNet-authored pre-purchase retailers list on the Guild Wars 2 wiki, Best Buy has joined Gamestop, which makes them the only two brick-and-mortar outlets in the US that are selling physical copies of the standard edition and Collector's Edition. US players also have the option of pre-purchasing a boxed standard edition through Amazon.

ArenaNet will open the doors for Guild Wars 2's pre-purchases and pre-orders tomorrow, April 10th, and will post the pre-purchase list on the official website at that time. President Mike O'Brien recently clarified some of the finer points regarding the pre-purchase program.

[Thanks to Ravious for the tip!]

[Updated: ArenaNet has also released a Collector's Edition video to celebrate the impending pre-purchase date! We've embedded it after the cut.]

[Updated on April 10th: Tipster Mcguffn has pointed us to a thread in which Best Buy representatives posted that the retailer will not be participating in the promotion, but ArenaNet has since Tweeted that "Best Buy is participating in the pre-purchase program, and will have copies soon. Forum poster was misinformed." We'll update this post if we learn more.]

Continue reading Guild Wars 2 adds Best Buy to CE pre-purchase retailer list, releases new video [Updated]

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 adds Best Buy to CE pre-purchase retailer list, releases new video [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonamazon.comanetarenanetbest-buybetacecollectors-editionfantasygamestopguild-wars-2gw2ncsoftpre-orderpre-purchasestandard-editiontrailertrailersvideovideosMon, 09 Apr 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gaikai: Delivering instant MMOs to your browser]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/gaikai-delivering-instant-mmos-to-your-browser/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/gaikai-delivering-instant-mmos-to-your-browser/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/gaikai-delivering-instant-mmos-to-your-browser/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Gaikai
Imagine that you're reading up on an MMO on a site such as Massively (far-fetched, but stay with us on this). The words intrigue you and you think it might be worth checking out. You make a mental note to do so in the future -- to head over to the game's site, see if there's a trial, download it, set up an account, and give it a whirl -- but time gets away from you and none of that actually happens.

Now imagine that right after you read that article there was a single button or link. Clicking on it, a Java window opens up on top of your screen and tells you that you're now playing a trial of the game. There's no wait, no download, no lengthy form to fill out -- just click and play, right away. You go from interested to inside the game within mere seconds, your computer specs (mostly) aren't an issue, and your curiosity is immediately sated.

This isn't a far-fetched dream but the here-and-now reality. This is cloud-streaming MMOs brought to you by Gaikai. And it just might be the future of MMOs as we know it.

Continue reading Gaikai: Delivering instant MMOs to your browser

MassivelyGaikai: Delivering instant MMOs to your browser originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2moonsacclaimactivisionage-of-conanage-of-conan-unchainedaocaoc-unchainedbest-buyblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrowser-mmochronicles-of-spellborncloudcloud-streamingconandave-perryddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeaea-originearthworm-jimf2pfamilyfantasyfree-to-playfuncomgaikaigaikai-inchyboriaipadkid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrostreaming-mmothe-darknessturbineturbine-entertainmentunchainedwalmartwarcraftwbwizard101world-of-warcraftwowyoutubeWed, 14 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA brings more pre-order customers into the beta process]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/tera-trying-to-get-pre-order-customers-into-the-beta-process/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/tera-trying-to-get-pre-order-customers-into-the-beta-process/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/tera-trying-to-get-pre-order-customers-into-the-beta-process/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Test how swordproof that thing is!
TERA has hit a few snags of late, including some woes with the whole system of getting pre-order beta access for appropriately pre-ordered customers. Luckily for some fans of the game, it looks like things are moving forward for players hoping to get into beta testing this weekend. An official announcement on the forums earlier today confirmed that GameStop has received valid beta codes and should be distributing said codes to customers via receipt or via phone.

Any players who preordered from Amazon or Best Buy and still haven't received a code are asked to send in a letter to the customer service staff before 9:00 a.m. PST on February 10th. Players are all warned that the game's download is currently clocking in at 17 GB, which means that you'll need plenty of time to get the client installed on your computer. A lengthy download is preferable to ambiguity as to whether or not you'll even get your beta access, though.

MassivelyTERA brings more pre-order customers into the beta process originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonamazon.combest-buybetabeta-accessbeta-testen-masseen-masse-entertainmentgamestoppre-orderteratera-onlineweekend-betaThu, 09 Feb 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[APB Reloaded finally comes to retail]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/23/apb-reloaded-finally-comes-to-retail/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/23/apb-reloaded-finally-comes-to-retail/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/23/apb-reloaded-finally-comes-to-retail/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

APB Reloaded - mexican standoff
Back in early December, GamersFirst announced the impending retail availability of APB Reloaded. As it turns out, the announcement was premature and the actual date has remained a mystery.

Until today.

The free-to-play shooter is now on sale at Best Buy, and the box features more than $50 worth of in-game items. Thirty days of premium access are part of the package, and you'll get faster rep and XP gains, more currency rewards, and a 20% discount in the game's cash shop for your trouble. You'll also take home 500 G1 credits, a faction-specific Z180 sports car, and a Magnum ACT-44 handgun available to all the characters on your account.

Finally, GamersFirst says each retail edition comes with a "super-secret bonus permanent weapon."

[Source: GamersFirst press release]

MassivelyAPB Reloaded finally comes to retail originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Jan 2012 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbapb-reloadedBest-Buycrimef2pfree-to-playgamersfirstretailretail-boxretail-editionsan-paroMon, 23 Jan 2012 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: My week in mobile]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/mmobility-my-week-in-mobile/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/mmobility-my-week-in-mobile/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/mmobility-my-week-in-mobile/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Calendar picture
I love exploring the mobile gaming world. I also really enjoy window-shopping on different websites, looking at the latest mobile technologies. If I really let my imagination run, I can picture society in only a dozen or more years: people walking around while constantly being connected to their family and friends, playing games while video chatting.

Of course, I also wonder whether this would be a good thing or not, but I forget the concern as soon as I spy the latest patch for one of my favorite MMOs. The last week was an eventful one, and as usual I was all over the digital map. Why don't you click past the cut and see what happened? I promise I'll skip the parts about what I had for breakfast (always two pieces of toast, a cup of tea, and a fruit smoothie) and will get right to the better digital parts.

Continue reading MMObility: My week in mobile

MassivelyMMObility: My week in mobile originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Aug 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanBest-Buychrome-oschromebookeve-onlinef2pfeaturedfree-to-playftplaptopMMObilitymobilenetbookouter-empirespuzzle-piratesTue, 16 Aug 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist and the Forbidden RuneScape: The highlights]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/30/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-forbidden-runescape-the-highligh/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/30/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-forbidden-runescape-the-highligh/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/30/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-forbidden-runescape-the-highligh/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Game Archaeologist is a lazy adventurer-slash-professor who dons his trademark cap for a weekly expedition through some of the most famous MMOs of the past few decades. Each month he chooses a different title to examine its highlights, talk with its developers, and invite its fans to share their experiences.

I don't know about you, but when I first heard of RuneScape a few years back, it was sold to me as "the poor person's World of Warcraft." In fact, I knew several teens who couldn't afford a monthly WoW subscription and had to "make do" with RuneScape as an alternative, and so I mentally filtered the title as being outside of my sphere of interest and moved on with my life.

That was when I started to crochet. All adventurers should know how to crochet as a survival trait.

In retrospect, I should've ignored the stigma and checked it out for myself, because while the above may be true for some, RuneScape deserved a lot better than to be blown off by a dismissive comment. No matter how some have pigeon-holed it as being less than worthy of proper MMO status, RuneScape is a behemoth of a game in both size, features and playerbase. In fact, as of right now, RuneScape holds the #2 spot for players, boasting a population well into the eight digits.

So as of this month, we shall endeavor to put away any ignorant stances as we explore one of the most popular and longest-running MMOs of our time. Join me after the jump as I share RuneScape's greatest highlights -- and exactly why none of us should underestimate this game again.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist and the Forbidden RuneScape: The highlights

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist and the Forbidden RuneScape: The highlights originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 30 Nov 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accountsactive-playersandrew-gowerbandwidthbest-buybrowserbusiness-modelsdellf2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumgameboyguinness-world-recordshighlightshistoryhousingi-miss-farscapejagexpaul-gowerplayer-owned-housingpohrunescaperunescape-2runescape-classicskill-basedskill-based-mmosskillsthe-game-archaeologistWorld-of-WarcraftwowTue, 30 Nov 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth and Best Buy team up for Blood Sports discount]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/29/fallen-earth-and-best-buy-team-up-for-blood-sports-discount/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/29/fallen-earth-and-best-buy-team-up-for-blood-sports-discount/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/29/fallen-earth-and-best-buy-team-up-for-blood-sports-discount/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Icarus Studios has a Halloween deal for you in the form of a $10 discount on copies of Fallen Earth. Head to your local Best Buy or visit online to pick up your box copy of the game. The discount runs for a limited time -- October 31st through November 27th, to be exact -- so don't delay.

Blood Sports features the latest game client version including the titular update that added a ton of new PvP content to the wasteland. Head over to the official website for more details, and don't forget to check out all of our previous Fallen Earth coverage to see what you've been missing.

MassivelyFallen Earth and Best Buy team up for Blood Sports discount originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Oct 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-buyblood-sportsclient-discountdiscountfallen-earthfallen-earth-llchalloween-promotionicarusicarus-studiospromotionretail-boxFri, 29 Oct 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragonica Online kicks off 2,500 dollar gift card contest]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/18/dragonica-online-kicks-off-2-500-dollar-gift-card-contest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/18/dragonica-online-kicks-off-2-500-dollar-gift-card-contest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/18/dragonica-online-kicks-off-2-500-dollar-gift-card-contest/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

We know what you're thinking. You're thinking that Dragonica Online is offering you a 2,500 dollar gift card to their own game. Well, that's what we thought too, but we were wrong. 100% wrong!

The Dragonica Online Water Series Game Card Sweepstakes (hereafter referred to as "the contest" because that's one huge name) is offering new players and old players a chance at a very sweet 2,500 dollar gift card to Best Buy, allowing you to stock up on all of your electronic needs! All you need to do to enter is simple -- simply sign up for a THQ*ICE passport, download Dragonica Online, and then log into the game before January 31st. Really, it's that simple. If you're already a Dragonica Online user, simply logging in will enter you into the contest.

Five first place winners will be grabbing a $25 limited edition Dragonica Online Water Series Game Card while 10 second place winners will find themselves the proud owner of a $10 limited edition Dragonica Online Water Series Game Card. We don't know what's so "limited edition" about them, but who wants to turn down game credit for logging in?

Remember, the contest only runs until January 31st, so make sure to log in to participate! Also, THQ*ICE runs the North American version of Dragonica, so sorry in advance to our friends overseas -- this one's not for you guys.

MassivelyDragonica Online kicks off 2,500 dollar gift card contest originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 18 Jan 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-buycontestdragonica-onlinegift-cardnorth-americasweepstakesthq-iceMon, 18 Jan 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Best Buy offers Guild Wars Trilogy for $14.99 -- why you need to buy it]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/17/best-buy-offers-guild-wars-trilogy-for-14-99-why-you-need-to/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/17/best-buy-offers-guild-wars-trilogy-for-14-99-why-you-need-to/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/17/best-buy-offers-guild-wars-trilogy-for-14-99-why-you-need-to/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

In case you haven't heard, Best Buy is offering the Guild Wars Trilogy at a serious discount this week. $14.99 for Guild Wars: Prophecies, Factions, and Nightfall. Since the game is free-to-play, a one-time price of $15 for all three games is a powerful incentive to check out the game as a new player. But what if you're a longtime player who loves a bargain? Are you staring at the offer, thinking "Oh man, $14.99. I really don't NEED another account, but..." Never fear, for we are here to help justify your purchase with our "ten things to do with an extra Guild Wars account."


1. PvP against yourself.
2. Hide all your stuff until the hacking issue is sorted out.
3. Pick up more presents from Nicholas the Traveler.
4. More Xunlai tournament points...wait, never mind.
5. Lots of extra storage at a fraction of the price.
6. Got friends in two different guilds and torn on which one to stick with? Put an account in both!
7. Lend yourself three more heroes if you're feeling particularly antisocial.
8. Run your alts places.
9. Use up all of those great character names that you thought up but didn't have the character slots for.
10. Do Tihark Orchard and Chahbek Village on even MORE characters.

We're sure you can think up even more reasons to make the purchase -- if it helps, they even offer a "Great Financing Offer" if you need to spread your payments over 18 months. So pick up a little Christmas gift for yourself. Enjoy!

MassivelyBest Buy offers Guild Wars Trilogy for $14.99 -- why you need to buy it originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenanetbest-buyguild-warsguild-wars-factionsguild-wars-nightfallguild-wars-propheciesguild-wars-trilogyThu, 17 Dec 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Champions Online open beta dated, preorder bonuses detailed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/25/champions-online-open-beta-dated-preorder-bonuses-detailed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/25/champions-online-open-beta-dated-preorder-bonuses-detailed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/25/champions-online-open-beta-dated-preorder-bonuses-detailed/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Champions Online is only five weeks away and with it being so very close, Cryptic has finally announced their preorder bonus plans and partners. If that isn't exciting enough, you'll be happy to know they've also announced August 17th as day one of open beta. Keep in mind that preorders from any of the officially listed retail partners will guarantee access to the beta.

Looking over the preorder bonuses, which you can find after the break, there's some tough choices to be made. If you're the type of person who doesn't like to wait any longer than they have to, then you'll need to go with Gamestop in order to get early access. In addition to that ever-so-tempting early access, GameStop customers will have the chance to "battle an alien menace" and collect exclusive in-game items -- sounds like a world event to us.

However, Amazon is offering both three exclusive in-game items (Harlequin Headpiece, Black Knight Helmet, and Grenade Chest Strap) as well as five extra Cryptic points to be used for what we're assuming are cosmetic purchases. There's also Best Buy and Wal-Mart variations to consider, so choose wisely. We've got them listed after the break with links to the product pages for your convenience.

Continue reading Champions Online open beta dated, preorder bonuses detailed

MassivelyChampions Online open beta dated, preorder bonuses detailed originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 25 Jul 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonataribest-buybreakingchampionschampions-onlinecrypticcryptic-studiosgamestopopen-betapreorderwal-martSat, 25 Jul 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CrimeCraft's box art unveiled]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/11/crimecrafts-box-art-unveiled/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/11/crimecrafts-box-art-unveiled/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/11/crimecrafts-box-art-unveiled/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


The box art for the gang warfare MMO CrimeCraft has been revealed, showing an interesting blend of the game's art style and in-game screenshots on the front of the box. The top of the box is dominated by this image, while the bottom blends in a screenshot of the game's gang based action.

What we have above is just a small sampling of the game's front cover, but if you're intrigued by the thought of seeing the full version then go on ahead and jump over to the picture at MMORPG.com.

CrimeCraft's action packed gameplay will be unleashed on the masses next month on August 25th, but you can certainly pre-order the game over at Best Buy or apply for the closed beta to keep your destructive tendencies in check until then.

MassivelyCrimeCraft's box art unveiled originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 11 Jul 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artbest-buybox-artclosed-betacrimecraftfront-covermmofpspersistent-shooterpre-orderscreenshotsSat, 11 Jul 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CrimeCraft to be sold exclusively for North America at Best Buy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/crimecraft-to-be-sold-exclusively-for-north-america-at-best-buy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/crimecraft-to-be-sold-exclusively-for-north-america-at-best-buy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/crimecraft-to-be-sold-exclusively-for-north-america-at-best-buy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


One of the titles gamers can look forward to this summer is CrimeCraft, a hybrid of a shooter and urban MMO from Vogster Entertainment, to be published by THQ Inc. in August. Vogster and THQ have taken a somewhat surprising step towards distribution of CrimeCraft in North America; the title will be sold exclusively at Best Buy, either in-store or online.

The exclusivity of this deal may bring some perks to CrimeCraft players. The official release states: "Consumers who purchase CrimeCraft at Best Buy will receive two months of free play time and a number of exclusive in-game items, including two in-game t-shirts from acclaimed real-world fashion labels and a combat backpack for their avatar. Gamers will also receive a virtual Best Buy discount card that allows them to purchase in-game items at a reduced cost. Those gamers pre-ordering CrimeCraft via Best Buy retail stores or online at www.bestbuy.com, will additionally receive virtual in-game shoes from Ecko Unltd., created by fashion icon Marc Ecko, access to play the pre-release version of the game during beta, and three days' head start at the game's launch."

Pre-orders begin on May 31st (online) or on June 7th (in stores). CrimeCraft is still slated for an August 25th launch.

Gallery: CrimeCraft

MassivelyCrimeCraft to be sold exclusively for North America at Best Buy originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 May 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-buybusiness-modelscrimecrimecraftlaunchesmarc-eckommo-industrymmofpsnorth-americapre-ordersretailshooterthird-person-shooterthqvogster-entertainmentFri, 29 May 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Midnight launch parties herald the Lich King's wrath]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/13/midnight-heralds-the-lich-kings-wrath/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/13/midnight-heralds-the-lich-kings-wrath/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/13/midnight-heralds-the-lich-kings-wrath/#commentsFiled under: ,

Wrath of the Lich King launched in numerous locations across the USA at midnight (albeit much of the rest of the world needed to wait until business hours). People queued outside Best Buy and Gamestop stores for hours beforehand (though 7-11 broke the street date and were selling copies a couple days early, we hear).

Several locations were particularly magical. A Best Buy in New York City and a Gamestop in San Francisco both sported particularly carnival atmospheres. Eurogamer says it was the UK's biggest launch and from the photos that's easy to believe. The French also had a blast with huge crowds and costumes.

All of the celebrations made one thing abundantly clear: We can all get in and enjoy our favorite MMOG with each-other -- even when we're not actually playing it. What the heck is gaming, if you can't celebrate it?

Gallery: Wrath of the Lich King Midnight Launch

Player in line at Los Angeles Midnight LaunchFangirl at Los Angeles Midnight LaunchSignage at Los Angeles Midnight LaunchFront of store at Los Angeles Midnight LaunchHot Dog on a Stick truck at Los Angeles Midnight Launch

MassivelyMidnight launch parties herald the Lich King's wrath originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Nov 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7-11best-buygamestopmidnight-launchworld-of-warcraftwowwrath-of-the-lich-kingThu, 13 Nov 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Shopping list: Milk, bread, MMO game time cards...]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/28/shopping-list-milk-bread-mmo-game-time-cards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/28/shopping-list-milk-bread-mmo-game-time-cards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/28/shopping-list-milk-bread-mmo-game-time-cards/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,


Let's face it, getting time cards for your favorite game is a necessity. It's up there with the milk, bread, and eggs that you need for your daily survival. We have enough stories about MMO withdrawal to fill a shopping cart, so why not sell our addiction where we can easily grab it?

NCsoft got the message and is pushing their time cards out to the masses by partnering up with Target, Rite Aid, and Best Buy. Now you too can literally walk down the street to the drug store and pick up your favorite addiction -- more play time. More importantly, if you're a subscriber to City of Heroes/Villains, grab yourself a time card because it will unlock an in-game jet pack for you to use.

The approach isn't anything new, as Nexon has already been providing their cash cards to customers of 7-Eleven convenience stores for some time now. What all of this does show is a marketing push by more game companies to get their cards into the mainstream market of consumer products.

Lastly, as a friendly reminder, when you're running out to get those "essentials" at Rite-Aid or Target before that "big storm" hits, remember your desktop computer doesn't work when the power is out.

MassivelyShopping list: Milk, bread, MMO game time cards... originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 28 Jul 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7-117-elevenbest-buycash-cardcity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovexteell2lineagelineage-2maple-storyncsoftnexonrgtrrite-aidseven-eleventabula-rasatargettime-cardtime-cardstrMon, 28 Jul 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Chaos, Panic, Disorder: WAR CE pre-order rundown]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/02/chaos-panic-disorder-war-ce-pre-order-rundown/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/02/chaos-panic-disorder-war-ce-pre-order-rundown/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/02/chaos-panic-disorder-war-ce-pre-order-rundown/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


As tumultuous as the delay has been for the Warhammer Online fan community, an even bigger headache has loomed in the minds of many. One of the biggest details to come from the announcement of the Collector's Edition and its myriad of goodies was that those who put in a pre-order for the CE would get early access to the Open Beta and a head start on the rest of the Warhammer fanatics when it finally comes time for release sometime this fall.

That's all well and good, but who could have anticipated the sheer number of discrepancies and problems that have arisen from these simple perks? Different retailers are handling the distribution of codes differently, there are gaping holes in the system that allow for exploitation, players are reporting on bunk codes, orcs and dwarves living together, mass hysteria! Having navigated this minefield ourselves in the quest for that delicious artbook, we thought we'd give you a bit of a rundown on the situation.

Continue reading Chaos, Panic, Disorder: WAR CE pre-order rundown

MassivelyChaos, Panic, Disorder: WAR CE pre-order rundown originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 Apr 2008 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonbest-buycollector's-editionea-mythicea-storeebgamesfeaturedgamecrazygamestopgogamerjoystiqfeaturesmythicpre-orderretailersswagWARwarhammer-onlineWed, 02 Apr 2008 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Did you give the gift of a hacked account this Christmas?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/17/did-you-give-the-gift-of-a-hacked-account/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/17/did-you-give-the-gift-of-a-hacked-account/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/17/did-you-give-the-gift-of-a-hacked-account/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Do you even know? Many digital photo frames sold at Best Buy, Target, Costco and Sam's Club have a particularly insidious trojan embedded in them - one designed to thieve your account information for a variety of online games.

One of the primo geek gifts of 2007, variations of these devices were bundled with darn near everything gadgety during the holidays. Some percentage of these contain a professionally written and very stealthy little gremlin that Computer Associates has dubbed Mocmex that is apparently capable of robustly concealing itself from many detection engines. This isn't an amateur-night special, by all reports. This is professional nastiness, with multiple variants.

Continue reading Did you give the gift of a hacked account this Christmas?

MassivelyDid you give the gift of a hacked account this Christmas? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 17 Feb 2008 00:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-buybreakingcomputer-associatescostcoinsigniamaxtormocmexsams-clubsansseagatetargettrojanuniekvirusSun, 17 Feb 2008 00:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Maple Story invites retailers into the game world]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/04/maple-story-invites-retailers-into-the-game-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/04/maple-story-invites-retailers-into-the-game-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/04/maple-story-invites-retailers-into-the-game-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,



Hot on the heels of the announcement that Nexon's MapleStory would be invading 7-11s, the company has passed on word that retailers are now being invited into the game world. In a twist that sounds almost too hilarious to be true, Nexon is going to be sending Maple players to virtual versions of the mega-retailers on themed quests that will promote both the retailers and the availability of Nexon Game Cards in these stores. The special quests will prompt users to complete various tasks and visit any of these chains to earn their own virtual Nexon Game Card, which will provide Maple Points, the in-game currency of MapleStory.

"We're now able to provide a new and unique avenue for major businesses to reach consumers," said John H. Chi, CEO and president of Nexon America. "Nexon creates the exclusive, branded content, retailers receive a powerful, direct line of communication and our players get a new, rewarding gameplay experience. High visibility through new content and interactive rewards makes it a win for everyone!"

While this may seem something like a joke, this is definitely news worth taking seriously. Best Buy and Target don't just hand around their brands to anybody; it's a testament to Maplestory's growing cachet here in the US that this partnership is going forward. For more on Nexon's virtual sales practices, Min Kim's keynote at this year's Austin Games Conference might be helpful. Next Generation has a close look at the American approach to Nexon's business model. The technical term? Microtransactions.

MassivelyMaple Story invites retailers into the game world originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Dec 2007 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7-11advertisingbest-buymaplestorymicrotransactionsrmttargetTue, 04 Dec 2007 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Black Friday: where's the love?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/11/black-friday-wheres-the-love/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/11/black-friday-wheres-the-love/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/11/black-friday-wheres-the-love/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

In case you haven't noticed lately, we're already over a week into November. And you know what that means -- Black Friday is just around the corner. Whether you're one of the deal-lovers who camps out in front of the store a day beforehand with a stocked tent and provisions, or whether you're merely a casual spectator, drawn in by the chaos and the promise of excellent people watching, it pays to know what kind of situation you're getting into beforehand. We've stumbled upon a list of leaked Black Friday ads, and pulled out all the MMO deals for your convenience. We're just nice like that.

Sadly, the pickings are slim, as they say. The only retailer that's really being sporting to the MMO enthusiast is Best Buy, offering Guild Wars, World of Warcraft, and Lord of the Rings Online for a paltry $10 a piece. That's a savings of $30, $10, and $20 respectively. It's probably also worth mentioning that because these are "leaked" advertisements, it's entirely possible that they were either faked or will be changed before arriving on your doorstep, so tread carefully.

Can't say I'm not a little disappointed that there aren't any more knock-out deals for us this holiday season. Where's the love, retailers?

MassivelyBlack Friday: where's the love? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 11 Nov 2007 09:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-buyblack-fridayguild-warslord-of-the-rings-onlineworld-of-warcraftSun, 11 Nov 2007 09:13:00 EST