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[The Daily Grind: Did you participate in the Guild Wars 2 beta weekend?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/the-daily-grind-did-you-participate-in-the-guild-wars-2-beta-we/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/the-daily-grind-did-you-participate-in-the-guild-wars-2-beta-we/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/the-daily-grind-did-you-participate-in-the-guild-wars-2-beta-we/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Charr ftw
For those who pre-purchased Guild Wars 2, participated in previous beta weekends or were lucky enough to be the handful selected from previous sign-ups, this last weekend meant you got your hands on the highly anticipated MMO in (most of) its shiny glory. That is, if you were able to log in.

While it's pretty apparent that most (but not all!) of us on the Massively team are in love with Guild Wars 2, that's inevitably not always the case when opinions come into play.

So we want to know what you liked or didn't like about the game. If it was your first time playing, was it everything you expected? For those playing again, did your opinion change at all? Were you even able to get past the log-in screen? Let us know!

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Did you participate in the Guild Wars 2 beta weekend? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Apr 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenanetbeta-eventbeta-weekenddaily-grindguild-wars-2gw2opinionpre-purchase-isnt-preordertdgthe-daily-grindMon, 30 Apr 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 resumes digital sales, addresses denied accounts]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/29/guild-wars-2-resumes-digital-sales-addresses-denied-accounts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/29/guild-wars-2-resumes-digital-sales-addresses-denied-accounts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/29/guild-wars-2-resumes-digital-sales-addresses-denied-accounts/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Guild Wars 2
Beta weekends are no strangers to rocky and unexpected events, as Guild Wars 2 can now attest. While many players are currently testing the heck out of the game, some have been shut out due to an error code on their account while others have been unable to pre-purchase the game due to halted sales of the digital product. ArenaNet has addressed both of these issues to help players resolve the matters and get into the beta.

The error code (9:4:5:1093:101) that some are getting signifies that the account is not flagged for the beta event. According to ArenaNet, this is either because the players used a pre-order instead of a pre-purchase code and accidentally received an invite email to the event or that a credit card was flagged during the pre-purchase order. In the case of the former, ArenaNet will honor the mistaken emails and allow all recipients into the remainder of the event.

The studio also announced that it has increased capacity for the beta event and thus has begun selling digital standard and digital deluxe pre-purchases of Guild Wars 2 once more.

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 resumes digital sales, addresses denied accounts originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 29 Apr 2012 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbetabeta-eventbeta-event-weekendbeta-weekenddigital-deluxe-editiondigital-salesdigital-standard-editionerror-9error-codefantasyguild-wars-2gw2ncsoftSun, 29 Apr 2012 09:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 briefs players on next weekend's beta event]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/guild-wars-2-briefs-players-on-next-weekends-beta-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/guild-wars-2-briefs-players-on-next-weekends-beta-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/guild-wars-2-briefs-players-on-next-weekends-beta-event/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Guild Wars 2
Excited about next weekend's Guild Wars 2 beta event? We're right there with you, which is why we uttered a sigh of relief to hear some concrete details about the hows and whys of the nitty-gritty details from ArenaNet's mouth.

The event will take place from Friday, April 27th, at 3:00 p.m. EDT until Monday, April 30, at 3:00 a.m. While there are various ways to obtain a key for the weekend (such as having gone to PAX East), the only 100% surefire way of getting in the event is to have pre-purchased the game. All event attendees will be emailed next week with instructions about the client download.

The beta event will allow players to choose from three races (Charr, Human, and Norn) and all eight classes, to experience PvP and PvE content, and to see Lion's Arch for the very first time. ArenaNet assured us that this will not be the final beta weekend prior to launch and delivered the good news that this event will not be hampered by an NDA of any sort.

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 briefs players on next weekend's beta event originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Apr 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbetabeta-eventbeta-keybeta-weekendbreakingclient-downloadfantasyguild-wars-2gw2instructionslions-archncsoftpre-purchasepvpworld-vs-worldwvwThu, 19 Apr 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 announces first beta weekend for April 27th to 29th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/guild-wars-2-announces-first-beta-weekend-for-april-27th-to-29th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/guild-wars-2-announces-first-beta-weekend-for-april-27th-to-29th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/guild-wars-2-announces-first-beta-weekend-for-april-27th-to-29th/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- Guild Wars 2
Guild Wars 2 fans, prepare to rejoice; the time has nearly come to throw open the floodgates. ArenaNet has taken to Twitter to announce that the first public Guild Wars 2 beta weekend event will be taking place the weekend of April 27th. Other details are scant at the moment, but the team promises that a blog post with further information will be going up tomorrow.

If you want to get in on the fun but don't have a beta key, don't fret. The tweet also reminds players that prepurchasing the game will grant instant beta event access for this weekend and others to follow. So that's it, folks: You've got a little over a week to call in sick, stock up on the most dangerously caffeinated beverages you can find, and kiss your sleep schedule goodbye. We'll see you in Tyria.

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 announces first beta weekend for April 27th to 29th originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbetabeta-eventbeta-weekendbeta-weekend-eventbeta-weekendsfantasyguild-wars-2gw2ncsoftWed, 18 Apr 2012 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Did you participate in TERA's first beta weekend?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/the-daily-grind-did-you-participate-in-teras-first-beta-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/the-daily-grind-did-you-participate-in-teras-first-beta-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/the-daily-grind-did-you-participate-in-teras-first-beta-weekend/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

TERA centaur vs. Baraka Sorceror
I guess you could say that TERA is one of the most highly anticipated MMOs of 2012. We love the game every time we get our hands on it, but some recent legal and technical problems have cast some doubt in the minds of many potential fans.

This last weekend was the first of five closed beta tests for pre-order customers. While our requests for beta keys went ignored, those on the Massively team who did pre-order were plagued by technical problems in the patcher, making the beta weekend unplayable.

So as we sit here cursing the fact that we're not able to write about this particular weekend, we're curious about your thoughts. Did you enjoy yourself? Was it more or less than what you expected? There's no NDA, so spill the beans!

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Did you participate in TERA's first beta weekend? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beta-eventbeta-weekendclosed-betaen-massefrogstergame-discussiongamer-discussionmmo-discussionmmo-hot-topicsmmo-issuesmmo-topicsmmorpg-discussionmmorpg-hot-topicsmmorpg-topicsopiniontdgterathe-daily-grindMon, 13 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Eden Eternal rides into open beta today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/eden-eternal-rides-into-open-beta-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/eden-eternal-rides-into-open-beta-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/eden-eternal-rides-into-open-beta-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It's been mere days since Eden Eternal kicked off its closed beta, but they say that rolling stones gather no digital moss, so Aeria Games is shifting the game into open beta status starting today. The servers should be open later today at 10:00 p.m. EDT, although eager-beaver players can go ahead and patch up the game now.

The open beta will be accompanied by a new patch, although the devs won't have open beta rewards added to the game until next week. To help get the word out about the beta, Aeria Games is sponsoring an Eden Eternal Signature Invasion that could net you some nifty in-game items if you participate.

So far, this colorful MMO has proven popular in the beta circuit, so if you're curious what we thought about it, make sure to check out our first impressions from last week!

Gallery: Eden Eternal

MassivelyEden Eternal rides into open beta today originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Jun 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeriaaeria-gamesbetabeta-eventbeta-eventsclosed-betadisapproving-alpacadrama-llamaeden-eternalf2pfree-to-playin-game-eventopen-betasignature-invasionWed, 15 Jun 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hellgate beta videos show off character creation, gameplay]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/05/hellgate-beta-videos-show-off-character-creation-gameplay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/05/hellgate-beta-videos-show-off-character-creation-gameplay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/05/hellgate-beta-videos-show-off-character-creation-gameplay/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Horror fans and MMOFPS aficionados have been setting their clocks back a few years courtesy of this weekend's Hellgate closed beta event. You may recall the original Hellgate: London as something of a dud when it originally debuted in the winter of 2007.

Not to worry, though, since HanbitSoft and T3Fun have revived the franchise and converted it to a new free-to-play title called Hellgate Global. MMO Culture has a trio of videos chronicling this weekend's event, and you can glimpse character creation as well as a bit of the shooter's demon-slaying gameplay.

Hellgate intrigued us with its blend of action-horror and apocalyptic stylings the first time around, and we're just as curious for chapter two. Have a look at the videos after the break and share your thoughts on the beta while you're at it.

Continue reading Hellgate beta videos show off character creation, gameplay

MassivelyHellgate beta videos show off character creation, gameplay originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 05 Jun 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionbetabeta-eventclosed-betaf2pfantasyfree-to-playhanbitsofthellgatehellgate-globalhellgate-londonhellgate-tokyohorrormmofpsshootert3-funt3funSun, 05 Jun 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Down to the wire: Trion announces exact time of RIFT's head start]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/21/down-to-the-wire-trion-announces-exact-time-of-rifts-head-star/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/21/down-to-the-wire-trion-announces-exact-time-of-rifts-head-star/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/21/down-to-the-wire-trion-announces-exact-time-of-rifts-head-star/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

With three days to go until RIFT's head start kicks off (and a week until the official launch), excited players may be forgiven for running in circles in an attempt to speed up the passage of time. While Trion Worlds can't make Thursday come any quicker, the studio did finally reveal on Facebook the hour that the head start will go live: 1:00 p.m. EST (10:00 a.m. PST, 6:00 p.m. GMT).

RIFT just completed its six-day open beta event, and developer Zann has promised more details on the head start as the week progresses (including, presumably, server names): "For everyone who is asking about the head-start client, we will post all the information and instructions before the event kicks off!"

To get in the game on February 24th instead of March 1st, you'll need to pre-order RIFT either online or at a retailer. In the meantime, why not check out our guide to pre-launch preparations?

MassivelyDown to the wire: Trion announces exact time of RIFT's head start originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Feb 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-eventguidehead-startlaunchopen-betaopen-beta-eventpre-orderriftrift-planes-of-telaratriontrion-worldszannMon, 21 Feb 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter at Your Own Rift: Pre-launch checklist]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/16/enter-at-your-own-rift-pre-launch-checklist/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/16/enter-at-your-own-rift-pre-launch-checklist/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/16/enter-at-your-own-rift-pre-launch-checklist/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

I'll just come out and say it: The month or so right before the launch of a highly anticipated MMO is simultaneously ecstasy and agony, full of love and loathing. The waiting sucks, but the anticipation is delicious. The enthusiasm from the community is electric, but the heated emotions can be toxic. The discussion is fascinating, but the know-it-alls are annoying.

Personally, I kind of wish we could be at launch-plus-one month right now, just so that the frenzy of insane opinions will have died down and we can just, y'know, play the game without feeling as though we were in the middle of a verbal rugby match. Like any MMO, RIFT's going to have its positives and negatives, but I feel that this launch is going to be something we haven't seen in a long time: a solid, stable MMO that offers up a complete package. That pleases the Justin.

Since I can't whip out my magic remote control and fast-forward to April, I propose we do the next best thing. Let's open up our imaginary quest logs and run down a checklist of seven "To Dos" and a few "To Don'ts" to help us prepare for RIFT's release. Planning can be fun! Shut up, it can be!

Continue reading Enter at Your Own Rift: Pre-launch checklist

MassivelyEnter at Your Own Rift: Pre-launch checklist originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 Feb 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archetypebetabeta-eventbuildbuildschecklistdefiantenter-at-your-own-riftexpectationsfeaturedforumsfoundersfounders-subscriptionguardianguildlaunchnvidiaofficial-forumsopen-betapitfallpitfallsplease-the-justinpre-orderpre-releasequest-logreading-rainbowriftrift-planes-of-telarasoulsoul-calculatorsoul-treesoul-tree-calculatortake-a-look-its-in-a-booktelaratriontrion-worldsWed, 16 Feb 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The home stretch: Trion posts RIFT's beta 7 patch notes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/the-home-stretch-trion-posts-rifts-beta-7-patch-notes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/the-home-stretch-trion-posts-rifts-beta-7-patch-notes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/the-home-stretch-trion-posts-rifts-beta-7-patch-notes/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Today marks the beginning of the end: the final beta event for RIFT, which also happens to be the first open beta as well. To kick off this six-day event, Trion Worlds posted another set of lengthy patch notes as the team feverishly works to refine the product before its February 24th head start. From new emotes to UI improvements, there's a little something for everyone here.

Probably the largest change overall is with the souls; a good deal of the game's 32 PvE souls received tune-ups and adjustments. Guild features were given a few passes as the team added a few new perks and replaced a number of guild banners. Trion also implemented in-game Twitter functionality, allowing players to tweet their in-game statuses and screenshots to the world.

And for the always-vain Dwarves, well, it looks as though RIFT finally got that latest shipment of Botox: "Male Dwarves no longer look so... weathered. Current male Dwarf characters will probably appear to have lost a few years off their face somewhere."

You can read the full patch notes on the official forums.

MassivelyThe home stretch: Trion posts RIFT's beta 7 patch notes originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Feb 2011 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-7beta-7-patch-notesbeta-eventbotoxdwarvesemotesguild-perksguildsopen-betapatchpatch-notesriftrift-planes-of-telarasoulstelaratwitteruiupdate-notesTue, 15 Feb 2011 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[City of Heroes offering a sneak peek of Issue 20 content]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/city-of-heroes-offering-a-sneak-peek-of-issue-20-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/city-of-heroes-offering-a-sneak-peek-of-issue-20-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/city-of-heroes-offering-a-sneak-peek-of-issue-20-content/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The team at Paragon Studios is talking a pretty big game for Issue 20 of City of Heroes. We've already seen a preview of one of the major additions of content, which will also herald several new features to the game, including an auto-team queueing function. Not sure how it will be implemented? Then jump on in for the special sneak preview event on Wednesday, starting at 7:00 p.m. EST, when players on the test server will get to try out the upcoming Behavioral Adjustment Facility for themselves.

As this event is taking place on the test servers, the usual caveats that content may change significantly before release do apply. That being said, it's an opportunity to put the major new systems into play, giving players a chance to test out the queue system as well as the League setup, and of course, the Incarnate trial. If that's not incitement enough, the development team will be on-hand to answer questions and take part in the experience. City of Heroes players with a bit of free time on Wednesday are encouraged to head over and adjust some behaviors with extreme prejudice.

MassivelyCity of Heroes offering a sneak peek of Issue 20 content originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Feb 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-eventbeta-testingcity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcontent-patchescovcoxi20in-game-eventissue-20major-patchesncsoftparagonparagon-studiospatchpatch-testingpatchestest-servertesting-eventupdate-testingupdatesTue, 15 Feb 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Scott Hartsman wraps up the sixth beta event for RIFT]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/10/scott-hartsman-wraps-up-the-sixth-beta-event-for-rift/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/10/scott-hartsman-wraps-up-the-sixth-beta-event-for-rift/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/10/scott-hartsman-wraps-up-the-sixth-beta-event-for-rift/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

With the open beta less than a week away, now is the time for Trion Worlds to step up and address the lingering issues RIFT has before it starts being available for general consumption. Fortunately for the development team, it's a task it's proven quite accomplished at, and the newest wrap-up for the sixth event proves that there's still a lot going on behind the scenes. Scott Hartsman takes the opportunity in the last pre-open beta wrap-up to discuss PvP in the open world, damage tuning, and the difference in raid sizes for endgame content.

As Hartsman puts it, some of the anti-PvP measures put into place will be removed on PvP servers, meaning weaker guards around hubs and destroyable wardstones. Damage levels seem to be in a fairly good place across the board from the development perspective, but they're something that will be watched closely during the open event. Hartsman also touches more on the late-game rift content and what it will mean for the game's balance and the availability of content. RIFT players should take a gander at the full rundown and get ready for the open beta starting on Tuesday next week.

MassivelyScott Hartsman wraps up the sixth beta event for RIFT originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Feb 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-eventbeta-testingdamagedamage-balancedamage-tuningdynamic-contentendgameendgame-contentopen-betapvpriftrift-beta-6rift-beta-sixscott-hartsmantriontrion-worldsThu, 10 Feb 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Beta 5 patch notes posted for RIFT]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/beta-5-patch-notes-posted-for-rift/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/beta-5-patch-notes-posted-for-rift/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/beta-5-patch-notes-posted-for-rift/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

If you've been following RIFT closely over the past few weeks, you know that the fifth beta event has just begun. That means it's time for a new batch of updates, and the staff at Trion Worlds has come through. The notes for the newest event have been posted, and they contain an exhaustive number of changes, including a much-requested public grouping system and a number of UI improvements. There's also the usual collection of bugfixes and changes based on testing feedback.

Many players had requested some sort of open grouping system to coincide with the game's dynamic events, and the new public group system facilitates just that. Although the system still requires clicking a few buttons and flagging yourself as open for public groups, it streamlines the process of getting everyone organized and cooperative during a rift battle. RIFT testers and fans should take a look at the full list of changes before diving into the newest event.

MassivelyBeta 5 patch notes posted for RIFT originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 25 Jan 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-eventbeta-event-5beta-testingdynamic-eventsgroupingin-game-eventpatchpublic-eventspublic-groupingriftrift-beta-5rift-planes-of-telaratesting-eventtriontrion-worldsupdatesTue, 25 Jan 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT beta 5 introduces public grouping, will be "twice as big" as beta 4]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/24/rift-beta-5-introduces-public-grouping-will-be-twice-as-big-a/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/24/rift-beta-5-introduces-public-grouping-will-be-twice-as-big-a/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/24/rift-beta-5-introduces-public-grouping-will-be-twice-as-big-a/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ready for their fifth taste of RIFT this week, beta testers will find a host of changes and improvements waiting their assessment. Chief among these is a much-requested feature: public grouping. Because so much of RIFT's dynamic content revolves around spontaneous zone events, players have clamored for a way to quickly group up instead of spending precious time spamming the chat channels. Two UI additions now allow players to connect with public groups as efficiently and quickly as possible.

This news comes from Scott Hartsman, who posted a lengthy preview of RIFT's beta 5 event on the official forums today. Announcing that beta 5 will be "twice as big" as the previous beta event, Hartsman revealed that the team is increasing the number of servers from 18 to 32, which should allow for up to double the amount of players.

Other changes in store for players this week include a better organization of planar currencies, Rogue energy fixes, ranged sound improvements and "significant love" for invasion mechanics. Hartsman also revealed a few items that the team is working on for future updates, such as better racial abilities and master looting. You can read his full announcement here.

MassivelyRIFT beta 5 introduces public grouping, will be "twice as big" as beta 4 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 24 Jan 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-4beta-5beta-eventclosed-betacurrenciesinvasionmaster-lootingplanar-currencypublic-grouppublic-groupingpublic-groupsracial-abilitiesriftrift-and-rewardrift-planes-of-telararoguescott-hartsmanserverssoundstriontrion-worldsuiuser-interfaceMon, 24 Jan 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Warfronts star in the RIFT beta 4 patch notes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/07/warfronts-star-in-the-rift-beta-4-patch-notes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/07/warfronts-star-in-the-rift-beta-4-patch-notes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/07/warfronts-star-in-the-rift-beta-4-patch-notes/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

As you may or may not have heard, Trion Worlds is unleashing the fourth RIFT beta event today, an event that spans the entire weekend. And as Uncle Ben used to tell us, with great beta events come great patch notes -- so what do players have to look forward to with this update?

The most significant change to RIFT's beta is the increase of the level cap -- to 27 -- and the unlocking of the Stonefield and Gloamwood zones. In the prior three events, players were limited to a maximum of level 20 and confined to the two starter areas. This round, players looking for more PvE dungeon goodness should enjoy the Darkening Deeps and Deepstrike Mines, while PvPers will rejoice at the inclusion of Warfronts (Black Garden for level 10 and above, The Codex for level 20 and above). Warfronts are like World of Warcraft's battlegrounds or Warhammer Online's scenarios -- instanced PvP areas where (hopefully) evenly matched teams can go at it under special conditions.

There are several quality-of-life improvements rolled into this patch as well. The skill soft queue has been upgraded to a full next ability queue, more hotbars are available, and many of the souls are getting tweaked. You can read the full patch notes here.

MassivelyWarfronts star in the RIFT beta 4 patch notes originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 07 Jan 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlegroundsbetabeta-4beta-eventbeta-event-4black-gardenclosed-betadarkening-deepsdeepstrike-minesgloamwoodhotbarspatchpatch-notesriftrift-planes-of-telarascenariosskill-queuestonefieldthe-codextriontrion-worldsuncle-benupdateupdate-noteswarwarfrontswarhammer-onlineworld-of-warcraftwowFri, 07 Jan 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DC Universe Online closes its beta with a bang]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/05/dc-universe-online-closes-its-beta-with-a-bang/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/05/dc-universe-online-closes-its-beta-with-a-bang/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/05/dc-universe-online-closes-its-beta-with-a-bang/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

With release just a scant week away, DC Universe Online has a loose end to tie up -- specifically, the still-ongoing beta test. In the grand tradition of betas, of course, it won't be with a simple message to buy the game and a server shutdown. No, players will get to take part in something epic in the tradition of the source material, with a grand battle involving iconic characters of the universe as well as player characters.

Each of the closing events involve two iconic DC figures going head-to-head -- either Superman against Lex Luthor or The Joker versus Batman. Players will have the opportunity to fight alongside the iconic villain or hero depending on character alignment, with times varying based on the server. And in the event that you can't attend, the team will be helpfully posting status updates on each iconic battle, as well as possibly introducing a few new wrinkles to complicate the event. DC Universe Online testers should still do their level best to be present for the battles -- after all, who wouldn't want to close off a beta by teaming up with Batman?

Gallery: DCUO -- End of Beta Event

MassivelyDC Universe Online closes its beta with a bang originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 Jan 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmanbattle-royalebetabeta-eventdcdc-comicsdc-universe-onlinedcuoend-of-betaend-of-beta-eventin-game-eventlex-luthorsoesony-online-entertainmentspecial-eventsupermantesting-eventthe-jokerWed, 05 Jan 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT beta events: Impressions from the staff]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/rift-beta-events-impressions-from-the-staff/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/rift-beta-events-impressions-from-the-staff/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/rift-beta-events-impressions-from-the-staff/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Trion Worlds' RIFT has become the talk of the town in MMO-land lately. Since the NDA dropped a few weeks ago, every MMO blogger, journalist, and fan is spewing his impressions of the game. We had our own impressions from Karen Bryan after the first beta weekend, but now we'd like to present you with thoughts from the rest of us who played. As you might imagine, not all of us agreed on the game's quality.

Follow along after the jump for our staff impressions of RIFT after the third beta weekend event.

Continue reading RIFT beta events: Impressions from the staff

MassivelyRIFT beta events: Impressions from the staff originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Jan 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beta-eventimpressionsopinionriftrift-planes-of-telarastaff-rounduptriontrion-worldsTue, 04 Jan 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gardening gone bad: RIFT's Runic Descent revealed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/gardening-gone-bad-rifts-runic-descent-revealed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/gardening-gone-bad-rifts-runic-descent-revealed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/gardening-gone-bad-rifts-runic-descent-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

As RIFT beta testers are sharpening their knives and stringing their bows in anticipation of this weekend's PvP beta event, Trion Worlds continues to reveal the true scope of Telara. The team is proud to present the latest RIFT dungeon: Runic Descent.

Runic Descent challenges teams of five players to band together and cull the bad weeds of a twisted garden that sits beside the ancient Dwarven city of Hammerknell. In so doing, the players will aid the Dwarves' attempt to reclaim their heritage while uprooting world-corrupting magic. And if there's madcap looting in the process? Nobody will complain.

As it has with all of RIFT's other dungeon and zone reveals, Trion isn't skimping on the backstory either. Hit the jump for the tale of Runic Descent, as well as a few brand-new screenshots of the instance.

Continue reading Gardening gone bad: RIFT's Runic Descent revealed

MassivelyGardening gone bad: RIFT's Runic Descent revealed originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Jan 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beta-eventclosed-betaDeathtouchdungeondwarfdwarvesfaerieshammerknellinstanceloremoonshadepreviewpvepvpregulosriftrift-planes-of-telararunic-descenttelaraTue, 04 Jan 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Trion announces next RIFT beta event, showcasing warfronts]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/03/trion-announces-next-rift-beta-event-showcasing-warfronts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/03/trion-announces-next-rift-beta-event-showcasing-warfronts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/03/trion-announces-next-rift-beta-event-showcasing-warfronts/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Hot on the heels of its year-end beta event, Trion has announced the dates for the next round of beta for RIFT. From Friday, January 7th, at 10 a.m. PST until Monday, January 10th, at 10 a.m. PST, players invited to beta can participate in the next event, which features PvP Warfronts. In addition, players can now explore content from levels 1-25, which means an extra five levels and more points to spend on the soul trees.

Players who participate in a Warfront are also eligible to win an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 460 video card. Visit the official RIFT website for details on the event as well as information on Warfronts.

MassivelyTrion announces next RIFT beta event, showcasing warfronts originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 03 Jan 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-eventclosed-betadefiantguardianpvprifttelaratriontrion-worldswarfrontMon, 03 Jan 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Four hours over Telara: RIFT beta three event extended]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/31/four-hours-over-telara-rift-beta-3-event-extended/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/31/four-hours-over-telara-rift-beta-3-event-extended/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/31/four-hours-over-telara-rift-beta-3-event-extended/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Four hours may not seem like a huge deal in the grand scheme of things, but for RIFT beta testers enjoying the third event this holiday weekend, it's a welcome boon. After all, how much extra carnage can one squeeze into that time frame? If you're a smart player, the answer is "a lot!"

Community Manager Abigale came on the forums yesterday to announce that this week's beta event would be extending a little longer than planned:

"Thank you for your feedback and for your patience as our team keeps working to prepare Rift for future betas and release. We'd like to show our appreciation by extending the beta for another 4 hours! Servers will be open until Friday, 2 p.m. (PST) ."

RIFT's third beta event is featuring the 1-20 zones for both Guardian and Defiant factions. Players testing the game have access to two dungeons and the mass rift invasions that are becoming the keystone of the PvE experience.

MassivelyFour hours over Telara: RIFT beta three event extended originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 31 Dec 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abigalebetabeta-3beta-eventbeta-threebreakingdefiantguardianinvasionpveriftrift-invasionrift-planes-of-telaratriontrion-worldsFri, 31 Dec 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT beta 3 patch notes show major soul changes and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/28/rift-beta-3-patch-notes-show-major-soul-changes-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/28/rift-beta-3-patch-notes-show-major-soul-changes-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/28/rift-beta-3-patch-notes-show-major-soul-changes-and-more/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

RIFT's third beta event kicks off today, and Trion Worlds has the novel-sized patch notes to prove that the team's been busy. Many fan sites rushed to repost the beta forum notes, which is allowed now that the NDA has dropped.

The biggest change that previous players will see concerns the much-ballyhooed soul system, RIFT's flexible character builder. Previously, players would get only one of three souls at the start, with another at level five, and gain soul points at the rate of one per level. With Beta 3, this has been changed so that you can pick from all of your archetype's souls at the start and will leave the beginner area with three souls instead of two. In addition, Trion is handing out an extra soul point every third level, bringing the total number of soul points for a level 50 character up to 66.

Of course, souls aren't the only focus of this patch. Among the many changes are the inclusion of the rest system, the ability to rename your pets, a preview of the soul trees before you purchase them, and a number of new invader boss encounters for both sides. Read up on the patch notes here, and we'll see you on the battlefield!

MassivelyRIFT beta 3 patch notes show major soul changes and more originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Dec 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archetypebeta-3beta-eventbeta-threeinvader-bosspatchpatch-notespetsrest-systemriftrift-planes-of-telarariftssoulsoul-pointssoul-systemsoul-treesoulstriontrion-worldsTue, 28 Dec 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[First Impressions: Pandora Saga beta event]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/23/first-impressions-pandora-saga-beta-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/23/first-impressions-pandora-saga-beta-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/23/first-impressions-pandora-saga-beta-event/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

When I was asked to check out Atlus Games' Pandora Saga in its new form, I was slightly excited. Only slightly, though. See, I've taken a look at it before and found a lonely game with nothing but grinding to offer -- at least at first. So I hoped that the game had changed some, perhaps matured a bit for this newer offering for a newer audience. I didn't know it back then, but the game I was playing was not really the North American release. I just signed up and played it, and I didn't pay attention to any warnings that "This is not the North American version!" if there were any.

As it goes, this new version is really just a more localized and tweaked version of the previous game. The big difference for me came not in the form of quests and content, but in playerbase. The game space was flooded with players, most of them pining to hit level 30 first or run off to reported huge PvP matches. Again, I kind of felt left behind. Yes, I was given some handy experience potions and stat-increasing aids, but normally I play a First Impressions game a few hours a day for five to seven days. I had this game for only about three days.

Click past the cut and I'll tell you more.

Continue reading First Impressions: Pandora Saga beta event

MassivelyFirst Impressions: Pandora Saga beta event originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Dec 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Atlusatlus-gamesbeau-hindmanbetabeta-eventbeta-eventsfeaturedFirst-Impressionsgalleryhands-onopinionpandora-sagascreenshotscreenshotsso-much-runningThu, 23 Dec 2010 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ten levels of RIFT: A guide to your first day in Telara]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/22/ten-levels-of-rift-a-guide-to-your-first-day-in-telara/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/22/ten-levels-of-rift-a-guide-to-your-first-day-in-telara/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/22/ten-levels-of-rift-a-guide-to-your-first-day-in-telara/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

With two RIFT beta events under my belt, I was given the supreme honor of creating a guide to the first 10 levels of the game. Naturally, I fell apart under the stress, assumed the fetal position for a couple days while whimpering about "frame rates," and then was prodded into action by our editors. That's quite literally "prodded," mind you -- Massively purchased a pair of cattle prods last year at a police auction. It's going to be years until the scorch marks fade from my spine.

The purpose of this guide is two-fold. First, we want to give anyone who's interested in RIFT but couldn't get into the beta a chance to vicariously experience RIFT's newbie path. Second, while RIFT is careful to hold your hand during your first steps into Telara, there are always a lot of things that can be easily missed while one is partaking in the wonders of a new virtual world. So this guide is here to share a few tips and pointers that beta testers may have missed.

What are you waiting for? Roll up a new character by hitting the jump!

Continue reading Ten levels of RIFT: A guide to your first day in Telara

MassivelyTen levels of RIFT: A guide to your first day in Telara originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Dec 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievement-systemachievementsarchetypeArchetypesbeginner-zonebeginner-zonesbeginners-guidebetabeta-eventcattle-prodcautiouscharacter-creationcharacter-creatorclassclericclosed-betacritter-tearsdeathdeath-penaltydefianteq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iifirst-ten-levelsguardianguideleveling-guidemagenewbie-experiencenewbie-guidenewbie-zonesporticulum-masterracial-abilitiesracial-bonusesracial-traitsriftrift-planes-of-telararoguesoulsoul-attunementsoul-systemsoul-travelsoul-vitalitysoulstelaratriontrion-worldsuiwarriorWed, 22 Dec 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT beta powow with Scott Hartsman]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/22/rift-beta-powow-with-scott-hartsman/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/22/rift-beta-powow-with-scott-hartsman/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/22/rift-beta-powow-with-scott-hartsman/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

This is, by any measure, a busy week for RIFT. Fresh off the second beta event, Trion Worlds has dropped the NDA for the game and announced a third beta to take place over the holidays. As the process speeds exponentially faster toward launch, Scott Hartsman and his team have a white-knuckled grip on RIFT for all the bumps, shimmies, dips and hills that such a high-profile title offers.

Even with a heaping amount of work on its plate, the team has been willing to share its passion for RIFT with the press and community. During this slight lull between betas two and three, Hartsman sat down with us over the phone to jaw about lessons learned from the beta, why Trion has dropped the NDA, how RIFT's already made history, and when we might be seeing this game on the shelves.

Hit the jump and let's do this thing. As Hartsman is fond of saying about the game, "S**t just got real."

Continue reading RIFT beta powow with Scott Hartsman

MassivelyRIFT beta powow with Scott Hartsman originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artifactsbetabeta-eventbeta-onebeta-threebeta-twocharacter-wipecollectionsdirectxdungeonsexpert-dungeonsfeaturedin-game-eventinstancesinterviewinvasioninvasionsiron-tomblfglfg-toolndanon-disclosure-agreementoptimizationprince-hylas-aelfwarquicksilver-collegerealm-of-the-faeriftrift-planes-of-telarariftssanctumscott-hartsmansilverwood-foresttriontrion-worldswysiwygzone-wide-invasionsWed, 22 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Put the pedal to the metal with a beta key for Test Drive Unlimited 2's beta event this weekend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/22/put-the-pedal-to-the-metal-with-a-beta-key-for-test-drive-unlimi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/22/put-the-pedal-to-the-metal-with-a-beta-key-for-test-drive-unlimi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/22/put-the-pedal-to-the-metal-with-a-beta-key-for-test-drive-unlimi/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

You know, we don't get many racing games around these parts. Need For Speed World was one of the first games, for sure, but there was another game before that -- Test Drive Unlimited.

Test Drive Unlimited is back with a sequel, and this time it's coming to the PC crowd in addition to the consoles. TDU2 will be taking place on the beautiful Mediterranean island of Ibiza. Just like before, your single-player and multiplayer experiences are blended together in TDU's "always online" M.O.O.R state (Massively Open Online Racing), so you'll pass/meet other players, even if you're choosing to play the single-player mode.

This version of TDU also finally allows you to get outside your car and walk around as an avatar, buying clothing and customizing your look. And, if you missed not being able to form your own social cliques in the last game, no worries! This sequel features the ability to create "clubs" -- groups of drivers racing for power and profit.

This weekend is a special beta event for the game, and we here at Massively are holding 1,500 keys to give away! Be the first to check out the new Test Drive Unlimited by jumping past the break for your key and the full instructions on how to get into the beta weekend!

Continue reading Put the pedal to the metal with a beta key for Test Drive Unlimited 2's beta event this weekend

MassivelyPut the pedal to the metal with a beta key for Test Drive Unlimited 2's beta event this weekend originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Oct 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ataribeta-eventbeta-keybeta-key-giveawaybeta-weekendmassively-open-online-racingmoorracingtdutdu2tdu2-betatest-drive-unlimitedtest-drive-unlimited-2test-drive-unlimited-2-betaFri, 22 Oct 2010 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Aika's end of CB2 siege event video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/04/aikas-end-of-cb2-siege-event-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/04/aikas-end-of-cb2-siege-event-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/04/aikas-end-of-cb2-siege-event-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

As part of its closed beta 2 ending, Aika -- developed by HanbitSoft and JoyImpact and published via the gPotato portal -- recently held a big PvP event that turned out to be a smash hit with the community. There's a short video showcasing some of the action, which you can find after the break. It's short, but there's a lot going on so a second or third viewing may be a worthwhile idea.

The large PvP battles and city siege features of Akia help it to stand out amongst the ever growing crowd of free-to-play titles, but don't take our word for it because open beta is right around the corner. We'll be interested to see what the wider MMO community thinks of the game.

Continue reading Aika's end of CB2 siege event video

MassivelyAika's end of CB2 siege event video originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Mar 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aikabetabeta-eventcb2closed-betaf2pfree-to-playgpotatohanbitsoftjoyimpactopen-betapvptrailervideoThu, 04 Mar 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fantasy Earth Zero beta beginning March 3rd]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/28/fantasy-earth-zero-beta-beginning-march-3rd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/28/fantasy-earth-zero-beta-beginning-march-3rd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/28/fantasy-earth-zero-beta-beginning-march-3rd/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


It's been a long and winding road getting Fantasy Earth Zero over to western markets, but the wait gets shorter every day. The game was announced not too long ago as being due for our shores, and the release is even closer than we might have guessed. Not only is the beta beginning on March 3rd with the client now available for download, players can look forward to a variety of in-game events to celebrate the participants.

The most obvious benefit is that testers in the open beta will receive a code for a special weapon, done up in gold and silver with turquoise inlays. A contest is also being held for the "best" bug report, with the top prize worth $30 in the unfortunately-named potcash and a special hat. As if that weren't enough, there will be special GM-hosted battle events and question-and-answer sessions with the GMs, offering assistance in learning how to play and how to get the most from the game. Gamepot is throwing quite a bit behind the launch of the game, so if you're looking for a new free-to-play title you may wish to give Fantasy Earth Zero's beta a go.

[ Thanks to Evan for the tip! ]

MassivelyFantasy Earth Zero beta beginning March 3rd originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 28 Feb 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-eventbetasbug-reportsbugscontestsfantasy-earth-zerofezgamepotgamepot-usagm-battlepotcashsquaresquare-enixSun, 28 Feb 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Europe getting Aion beta and keys]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/europe-getting-aion-beta-and-keys/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/europe-getting-aion-beta-and-keys/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/europe-getting-aion-beta-and-keys/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Aion is huge and it's not even out here yet, but that doesn't mean this WoW-killer doesn't have a massive fan base. Well European fans are in for a treat as gaming site Rock, Paper, Shotgun are offering keys to any gamer who emails them.

The Aion beta will be taking place between 5-7th June and will allow participants to get a taste of the game by leveling an Elyos (the angel types) to twenty and explore the most-recently revealed zone of Eltnen. The only catch being that you must be in Europe to enter the beta, so I'm guessing the keys will only activate if the servers confirm your IP address is within the EU.

So what are you waiting for, EU folks? Get emailing now before all the keys are gone!

MassivelyEurope getting Aion beta and keys originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 May 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionaion-betaaion-eu-betaaion-the-tower-of-eternityaion-tower-of-eternitybeta-eventelyosFri, 29 May 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Win a chance to play Age of Conan PvP [updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/09/win-a-chance-to-play-age-of-conan-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/09/win-a-chance-to-play-age-of-conan-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/09/win-a-chance-to-play-age-of-conan-pvp/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


So would you like to play some Age of Conan PvP non-stop starting on April 18th and going through to the 20th? If so then Funcom, Eidos and GameSpot have just the beta event for you -- with a catch. You've got to go through the GameSpot website to sign up for the chance to be one of 15,000 lucky winners, which means you also need to have a GameSpot account to sign up in the first place. We're not all too happy about the GameSpot side of this awesome beta event, but read on to find out why we think it's still very much worth it to sign up.

Update: It looks like the sign-up page is having technical issues that are being worked on.

Continue reading Win a chance to play Age of Conan PvP [updated]

MassivelyWin a chance to play Age of Conan PvP [updated] originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 Apr 2008 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaocaprilbetabeta-eventbreakingeidosfuncomgamespotpvpWed, 09 Apr 2008 20:15:00 EST