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 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Stepping on tax edition, April 15 - 21, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/15/the-stream-team-stepping-on-tax-edition-april-15-21-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/15/the-stream-team-stepping-on-tax-edition-april-15-21-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/15/the-stream-team-stepping-on-tax-edition-april-15-21-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Stream Team Stepping on tax edition, April 15 21, 2013
'Tis the season! Just... not that season. This isn't one we really want; it's not a season of joyousness and brotherly kindness. No, this one's more akin to scattering LEGOs and thumbtacks all across the floor then dashing barefoot from wall to wall just to hit your head against them over and over. We understand the pain. Truly, we do. And The Stream Team is here for you.

They say nothing's certain in life except death and taxes, but we disagree! We'd totally add Massively TV to that list. Have we ever left you in your times of need? No! And we know you need us now more than ever. We're here to help you, with a full line-up of shows to help ease the pain and take your mind off the traumas that cannot be avoided. So take a load off and check out this week's schedule, catch a few reruns, see the highlight of the week, and take part in our two polls. Then remember, at least this only happens once a year!

Continue reading The Stream Team: Stepping on tax edition, April 15 - 21, 2013

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Stepping on tax edition, April 15 - 21, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Battlestar Galactica Online screenshot
Beauty, they say, is in the eye of the beholder. Keep that in mind before you tell that me the games that fill out the following list of "best-looking browser-based MMORPGs" are ugly as sin. Sure, some of them are an acquired taste, but I wanted to display just how much variety there is now in browser gaming. It's not the delivery system it once was; we have had fancier-looking Flash-based titles for a while, but now with engines like Unity or Silverlight and even HTML5 coding, we have games that look no different from their client-based counterparts.

There are still some ugly-as-sin games out there as well, but they have endearing qualities all the same. So keep that in mind; this is my top 10 list. If you want to suggest your own in the comments section, I would love to hear them!

Now, on to the list, in no particular order...

Continue reading Free for All: The 10 best-looking browser-based MMORPGs

MassivelyFree for All: The 10 best-looking browser-based MMORPGs originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Mar 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-mystical-landarcane-legendsbattlestar-galactica-onlinebeau-hindmanBigpointcity-of-steamdragons-of-atlantisdrakensang-onlineEAf2pfeaturedffafree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiuminnogamesjagexkabamkartugalord-of-ultimamad-otter-gamesmilmoopinionrunescapespacetime-studiosvelvet-ropeWed, 20 Mar 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny: Warstory: Europe in Flames]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/17/rise-and-shiny-warstory-europe-in-flames/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/17/rise-and-shiny-warstory-europe-in-flames/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/17/rise-and-shiny-warstory-europe-in-flames/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Warstory Europe in Flames screenshot
Warstory: Europe in Flames is one of those deceptively simple MMOs that makes me feel a bit lost for most of the week that I look at it for this column. It seems as though I stumbled into a game that features not only a time-limited server but one that is about to restart once the capital city of Berlin is taken by either the Russians (my side) or one of the other Allies. The goal is to race through content until Berlin is finally nabbed. I was even able to roll a new commander on a new server, but that game was far enough along to convince me that I really need to play in a brand-new game to see what happens from the very beginning.

I am getting ahead of myself, though. How about we talk about the gameplay and how it all feels? Then I'll allow myself to scheme about my possible glory.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny: Warstory: Europe in Flames

MassivelyRise and Shiny: Warstory: Europe in Flames originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 17 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allods-onlinebeau-hindmanBigpointf2pfeaturedfree-to-playgpotatohands-onlivestreammassively-tvrise-and-shinystreamtwitchtwitch-tvvideowarstory-europe-in-flamesSun, 17 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: The continued standardization of selling power]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/free-for-all-the-continued-standardization-of-selling-power/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/free-for-all-the-continued-standardization-of-selling-power/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/free-for-all-the-continued-standardization-of-selling-power/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

EVE Online forum screenshot
Selling power is a much quieter controversy than it used to be. I've been in gaming long enough to remember when selling anything desirable at all was taboo. At the same time, it's always been OK to sell some things like subscriptions or special boxed editions, proving that MMO gamers and others are brilliant at segmenting their rage. If it's a cool, special box with a neat virtual item inside, it somehow does not fall under the same umbrella as selling powerful, useful items in game. I think it does. But geeks in general are good at justifying poor behavior if they get what they want; just ask the hackers and file-swappers.

Still, it doesn't matter how we feel about selling power because the industry is already moving in the direction of selling power, lots of power. EA recently announced that every title it produces from now on will feature microtransactions. While that doesn't guarantee the sale of powerful items, I can promise that it will include some. This train ain't stopping. Sure, the console community seems a bit late to the party when it comes to the power-selling controversy, but that's likely because of MMOs' always-on multiplayer mode.

Continue reading Free for All: The continued standardization of selling power

MassivelyFree for All: The continued standardization of selling power originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Mar 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinallods-onlineapbbattlestar-galactica-onlinebeau-hindmanBigpointcliff-bleszinskidead-space-3die2niteeve-onlineeverquestEverQuest-2everquest-iif2pfeaturedffafree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumgamersfirstgears-of-warGears-of-war-2gpotatokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromabinogimass-effect-3mmortsmobileNexonnexon-americaopinionpirate101SOESONYspacetime-studiosTeam-Fortress-2turbinevalvevelvet-ropewakfuwizard101Wed, 06 Mar 2013 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Out of the frying pan edition, February 25 - March 3, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/the-stream-team-out-of-the-frying-pan-edition-february-25-ma/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/the-stream-team-out-of-the-frying-pan-edition-february-25-ma/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/the-stream-team-out-of-the-frying-pan-edition-february-25-ma/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Stream Team Out of the frying pan edition, February 25 March 3 2013
And into the fire! Or water, as the case may be.

Have you ever had one of those days when every time you finally extricated yourself from one mess, you just landed smack dab in the middle of another, managing to climb out of a water trap only to have your celebration cut short by falling right into a sheer-sided pit? And all after getting lost in foliage on a mountainside? Well, if you ever do have a day like that, hunker down and watch some Stream Team adventures on Massively TV. Then you can laugh at the misfortunes of your favorite streamers and forget about whatever craziness awaits you in the world at large.

Continue reading The Stream Team: Out of the frying pan edition, February 25 - March 3, 2013

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Out of the frying pan edition, February 25 - March 3, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Feb 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Stream Team Found Nemo edition, February 18 24, 2013
Ironically, I was going to have a "Let it snow edition," but I kept bumping it in favor of focusing on other February frivolity. Good thing, too, as I don't want anyone blaming me for the storm that hit the east. I myself was intimately acquainted with that storm, as it stranded me for two days in various airports while I was trying to get home. The nerve of it -- it even forced me to miss streams. *cries* Nemo was always a troublemaker!

Luckily, that's all behind us now. We have nothing ahead but smooth livestreams. And by smooth, I mean ample opportunities for your favorite hosts to pull crazy stunts and die in spectacular ways! How many interesting and unique ways can The Stream Team members get themselves in trouble this week? Tune into Massively TV and see!

Continue reading The Stream Team: Found Nemo edition, February 18 - 24, 2013

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Found Nemo edition, February 18 - 24, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 18 Feb 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Bigpoint logo
Bigpoint staff have voted to organize under the banner of the Ver.di trade union, according to GamesIndustry.biz. The move comes after the October layoffs of 80 employees from the free-to-play browser giant's Hamburg, Germany office, and Bigpoint will no longer be able to make staffing cuts "without first consulting the organization."

Bigpoint also issued a press release this week stating that 300 million users have registered across its 65-game portfolio.

MassivelyBigpoint employees vote to unionize, firm trumpets 300 million registered users originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 06 Dec 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bigpointbigpoint-unionbrowsercasualf2pfree-to-playmmo-industryverdiverdi-trade-unionThu, 06 Dec 2012 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Casual is as hardcore does and the daily gaming list]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/31/free-for-all-casual-is-as-hardcore-does-and-the-daily-gaming-li/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/31/free-for-all-casual-is-as-hardcore-does-and-the-daily-gaming-li/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/31/free-for-all-casual-is-as-hardcore-does-and-the-daily-gaming-li/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Dragon Nest screenshot
It's always a lot of fun to compare casual players to hardcore players. We've all seen many articles and had our own discussions on the topic and it never seems to stop being entertaining. After all, how much or how intensely a player plays an MMO can help predict how that player might react to market changes or to new titles, so we can easily see how developers will always be interested in the information even when we tire of it.

For me, personally, I would rather skip the whole discussion and just talk about how I play casually. I can list hours played and titles accessed, but I think it would be a better idea to sketch out a rough but typical day or week in my household to illustrate just how someone who considers himself casual is actually quite committed. Does that mean I am hardcore in certain cases? I don't care anymore, frankly. What I care about is seeing if how I play is completely alien or if there are other players out there who love to do what I do.

Let's call it a cry for help... or at least information.

Continue reading Free for All: Casual is as hardcore does and the daily gaming list

MassivelyFree for All: Casual is as hardcore does and the daily gaming list originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 31 Oct 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galactica-onlinebeau-hindmanBigpointdc-universe-onlinedcuodie2nitef2pfeaturedffafleckforge-of-empiresfree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumglitchgrepolisillyriadillyriad-gamesinnogamesjagexlagooniaopinionparallel-kingdomperblueremanumrise-and-shinyrunescapeself-aware-gamessuper-herosuperheroestiny-speckvelvet-ropeWed, 31 Oct 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bigpoint cutting 120 jobs, abandoning U.S. development]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/23/bigpoint-cutting-120-jobs-abandoning-u-s-development/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/23/bigpoint-cutting-120-jobs-abandoning-u-s-development/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/23/bigpoint-cutting-120-jobs-abandoning-u-s-development/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Bigpoint cutting 120 jobs, abandoning US development
Browser game outfit Bigpoint can be forgiven if it doesn't look fondly on 2012. Last summer the firm noted for Battlestar Galactica Online and an upcoming Game of Thrones spinoff vacated its mobile development business and jettisoned a couple of executives. Now GamesIndustry.biz reports that the free-to-play company is cutting 120 jobs. Bigpoint will shutter its San Francisco development office (approximately 40 jobs) as well as terminate 80 employees at its Hamburg location.

"We have seen that developing games in the U.S. is not really the most efficient way for us at the moment," CEO Heiko Hubertz tells GamesIndustry. "The games that we have developed in the last two years haven't been that successful, and the San Francisco area and Bay Area is quite a competitive market. San Francisco is, after New York, one of the most expensive cities you can live in in the US, so the people are quite expensive."

Hubertz will abdicate his CEO duties for an executive chairman position later this year. Bigpoint has yet to name a replacement. Hubertz also indicated that none of Bigpoint's current titles will be affected and that the company will continue making games.

MassivelyBigpoint cutting 120 jobs, abandoning U.S. development originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Oct 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bigpointbigpoint-layoffsbreakingbusiness-modelsf2pfree-to-playheiko-hubertzlayoffsmmo-industryTue, 23 Oct 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: Finding the fun within the browser]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/05/mmobility-finding-the-fun-within-the-browser/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/05/mmobility-finding-the-fun-within-the-browser/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/05/mmobility-finding-the-fun-within-the-browser/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

RuneScape screenshot
Fun is an odd thing to define. I have to be honest and say that I don't often have fun when playing MMOs. I don't. I enjoy myself, sometimes to an amazing degree, but I don't have what I would call "fun." When I play a game like Wurm Online or Parallel Kingdom, I am not having fun but am having something closer to the feeling you get when you read a good book. You know the feeling: You're breathing deep, lying on the bed, possibly, very relaxed. OK, I understand how dirty that sounds, but you know what I mean. Playing a good MMO is often like playing chess. It's not really fun, but it is still a very good thing.

Browser-based titles can often be enjoyable, but the normally limited graphics and sometimes click-and-wait gameplay means that I get more of a scratch-my-chin sort of feeling when I leap into Illyriad or other games. Of course, in-browser graphics are changing and becoming more and more like standard client-based MMOs. Thanks to Unity and other engines, we can play in immersive, three-dimensional worlds in our browser. Smartphones are becoming more tablet-like, and mobile games are quickly becoming more like standard gaming as well.

So what do we play when we want to have simple fun?

Continue reading MMObility: Finding the fun within the browser

MassivelyMMObility: Finding the fun within the browser originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Oct 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galactica-onlinebeau-hindmanBigpointbrowserbrowser-basedcash-shopfeaturedglitchjagexmmobilitymobilemobile-gamingmobile-mmoopinionphonerunescapesmartphonetiny-speckFri, 05 Oct 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Soapbox: There's no such thing as pay-to-win]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/11/the-soapbox-theres-no-such-thing-as-pay-to-win/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/11/the-soapbox-theres-no-such-thing-as-pay-to-win/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/11/the-soapbox-theres-no-such-thing-as-pay-to-win/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Battlestar Galactica Online 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 hate it when MMORPG players completely misrepresent this hobby. I cringe every time I find myself in the middle of a discussion about "MMOs" when most of the people chatting are pulling only from their experience as a World of Warcraft raider and nothing more. There are hundreds -- actually, thousands -- of MMOs in existence. Discussing MMOs without knowing about as many as possible is really talking about specific titles, not a genre. You wouldn't catch a group of "foodies" basing all of their passions on a few items from a handful of menus. The same should apply to MMO discussions if we ever want the genre to be taken more seriously by outsiders.

MMO players love to pigeonhole titles. What are some of the worst descriptions? "Hardcore" is one. What does that even mean? Does it mean a title is hard to play? In what way is it hard? Does it mean that it takes time to play? How much time equals hardcore? "Facebook game" is another term that drives me crazy, and it's often used by many MMO fans to dismiss all sorts of titles. While I know that the term generally refers to FarmVille-style gaming, using the term literally reflects how little the person knows about the variety of games that actually appear on or are connected to Facebook.

The term that drives me the craziest of all is pay-to-win.

Continue reading The Soapbox: There's no such thing as pay-to-win

MassivelyThe Soapbox: There's no such thing as pay-to-win originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Sep 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allods-onlinebattlestar-galactica-onlinebeau-hindmanBigpointblizzardcash-shopCollectible-Card-Gameeditorialfeaturedgpotatolord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromagic-the-gatheringop-edopinionpay-to-winrantrantssoapboxthe-soapboxturbinewizard101World-of-WarcraftTue, 11 Sep 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Diablo III exploits and competitive tournaments]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/30/not-so-massively-diablo-iii-exploits-and-competitive-tournament/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/30/not-so-massively-diablo-iii-exploits-and-competitive-tournament/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/30/not-so-massively-diablo-iii-exploits-and-competitive-tournament/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
Two major Diablo III exploits were made public this week, allowing Wizards to make themselves invulnerable and Barbarians to kill monsters just by running past them. The exploits have been in the game for at least a month and were hotfixed this week. Path of Exile celebrated its third public testing weekend this weekend and released its major 0.9.11 update, including a complete revamp of the passive skill tree.

In MOBA news, Major League Gaming released details of its $10,000 League of Legends tournament this week, and Riot Games unveiled new champion Diana, Scorn of the Moon. Dota 2 released a whopping three new heroes this week and began preparation for its upcoming tournament The International. Wrath of Heroes introduced a new leaderboard system and newbie quests in game update 0.23 this week, and Bigpoint unveiled its new MOBA, Universal Monsters Online, which lets players take on the mantle of Dracula and Frankenstein's Monster.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Diablo III exploits and competitive tournaments

MassivelyNot So Massively: Diablo III exploits and competitive tournaments originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Jul 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoaction-rpgbarbarianbattlenetbigpointbiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcheatcheatingcheatscompetitive-gamingcurse-gamingd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidianadotadota-2draculae-sporte-sportseaelectronic-artsesportesportsexploitexploitsf2pfantasyfeaturedfrankensteinfrankensteins-monsterfree-to-playgothic-fantasygrinding-geargrinding-gear-gamesheroheroesinvulnerabilityinvulnerableleague-of-legendslolmobamultiplayermythicmythic-entertainmentnewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayerpath-of-exilepoepvpriotriot-gamesround-uprounduprpgteam-solo-miduniversal-monsters-onlineuniversal-studiosvalvevideowarhammerwarhammer-wrath-of-heroeswizardwohwolf-manwrath-of-heroesMon, 30 Jul 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: The indie edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/25/choose-my-adventure-the-indie-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/25/choose-my-adventure-the-indie-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/25/choose-my-adventure-the-indie-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Goonies screenshot, down here
It might be your time up there, but it's my time -- my time -- down here! For this latest edition of Choose My Adventure, I get to hand out a selection of odd little games for you to vote on, and then for the next month and change, I will stumble my way through the title. At your direction and with your help, of course. The trouble is that I have already played darn near everything. I've downloaded and tried so many games that I simply can't remember them all. So, what to do?

Well, I decided to give a mix of games a chance at several weeks coverage here on Massively. I picked out an assortment of browser games, independent titles, and lesser-known client-based MMOs. Hopefully you will steer me the right way, and if I am lucky, I won't even have a horrible time. I chose games that I know have a robust community in the hopes that plenty of voters will turn out. The key is to get the word out there, so if you have a favorite, go tell your community!

But first, click past the cut and vote on the game you would like to see me tackle for the next several weeks. Just don't expect to see triple-A games on the list!

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: The indie edition

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: The indie edition originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Jul 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-quest-worldsallods-onlineankamaaq-worldsbeau-hindmanBigpointchoose-my-adventureClone-Wars-Adventurescmadrakensang-onlinefeaturedgpotatohands-onjeremy-strattonjunebudkingdom-of-loathingkolmabinogimilmoNexonnexon-americaopinionpollpollsreaders-choiceromancerunes-of-magicshawn-schusterSOESONYSony-Online-EntertainmentSquare-EnixvotevotingwakfuzentiaWed, 25 Jul 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Drakensang celebrates end of beta, releases Atlantis trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/20/drakensang-celebrates-end-of-beta-releases-atlantis-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/20/drakensang-celebrates-end-of-beta-releases-atlantis-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/20/drakensang-celebrates-end-of-beta-releases-atlantis-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Drakensang celebrates end of beta, releases Atlantis trailer
There's good news and bad news for Bigpoint. Yesterday we told you about the bad news as the company announced it would be shutting down its mobile games division.

Its bread-and-butter browser MMOs are still alive and kicking, though, none more so than Drakensang Online. The free-to-play hack-and-slash title is celebrating its end-of-beta milestone, and Bigpoint says the game has amassed a whopping nine million registered players. As usual with such stats, we don't know how many of those nine million have actually played (or paid), but it's a big number nonetheless.

The game also boasts a new continent (Atlantis), and Bigpoint has released an accompanying teaser trailer that you can view after the cut.

[Source: Bigpoint press release]

Continue reading Drakensang celebrates end of beta, releases Atlantis trailer

MassivelyDrakensang celebrates end of beta, releases Atlantis trailer originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Jul 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlantisbigpointbrowser-baseddrakensangdrakensang-onlinef2pfantasyfree-to-playtrailervideoFri, 20 Jul 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bigpoint company shake-up includes closing mobile games development]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/19/bigpoint-company-shake-up-includes-closing-mobile-games-developm/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/19/bigpoint-company-shake-up-includes-closing-mobile-games-developm/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/19/bigpoint-company-shake-up-includes-closing-mobile-games-developm/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Bigpoint company logo
German online games publisher Bigpoint, best known for free-to-play and browser games, will be dumping its mobile games development side very soon. Two managing directors, brothers Tobias and Philip Reisberger, and the chief communications officer, Nils Holger Henning, will be exiting the company to pursue work in mobile gaming elsewhere. Bigpoint CEO Heiko Hubertz stated that of the approximately 10 games that were in development, "some of them are finished and will launch in the next few weeks but most of them will be completely closed and shut down."

Bigpoint is not abandoning mobile games completely; it is looking to assist and support external development teams. The company has stated it is focusing on game development and distribution and plans to open more offices globally.

MassivelyBigpoint company shake-up includes closing mobile games development originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Jul 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bigpointbrowserbrowser-basedcompany-changesf2pfree-to-playHeiko-Hubertzmobile-gamingnewsNils-Holger-HenningPhilip-ReisbergerTobias-ReisbergerThu, 19 Jul 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Game of Thrones Seven Kingdoms releases its first trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/11/trailer-available-for-the-upcoming-game-of-thrones-seven-kingdom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/11/trailer-available-for-the-upcoming-game-of-thrones-seven-kingdom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/11/trailer-available-for-the-upcoming-game-of-thrones-seven-kingdom/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Backstabbing sounds a lot more dignified than backarrowing.
We know a little bit about the game, but up until now, nothing has actually been seen of the upcoming Game of Thrones Seven Kingdoms. But the wait is now over, as a trailer for the browser-based game has been unveiled to show off some of what players can expect when the game finally goes live. And if you're hoping for the opportunity to cross swords with rival houses in a massive political battle... well, that does seem to be on the plate.

There's admittedly not too much that can be displayed via a trailer running under a minute long. But the trailer does show off the graphics and some hints of the combat, which looks to be very much a matter of skill. Check out the full trailer just past the break, and keep your eyes open for more information as the game ramps up for more reveals at San Diego Comic-Con.

[Update: George R.R. Martin himself has also posted the video and the original press release. He notes that he'll be at SDCC checking out the game at the Dark Horse booth.]

Continue reading Game of Thrones Seven Kingdoms releases its first trailer

MassivelyGame of Thrones Seven Kingdoms releases its first trailer originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Jul 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agotartplaybigpointbrowserbrowser-basedcomic-concomicconconconventionf2pfantasyfree-to-playgame of thronesgame-of-thrones-mmogame-of-thrones-seven-kingdomsgeorge-martingeorge-rr-martingotgot7khbopvpsan-diegosan-diego-comic-consan-diego-comic-con-2012sandboxsdccsdcc-2012seven-kingdomsskill-basedtrailertrailersvideovideoswesterosWed, 11 Jul 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Drakensang raises Atlantis update from the deeps]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/05/drakensang-raises-atlantis-update-from-the-deeps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/05/drakensang-raises-atlantis-update-from-the-deeps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/05/drakensang-raises-atlantis-update-from-the-deeps/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Drakensang raises Atlantis update from the deeps
Drakensang Online welcomes the citizens of Atlantis to its game world today. The hack-and-slash MMO pushed its largest update ever to the live servers, and it's so big that the ocean itself could not contain it. That's what we call "hyperbole" in the biz.

The Atlantis update is a wonder to behold. It includes a new continent with eight areas, 100 additional quests, and plenty of challenges for experienced players to tackle. The city itself is in ruins following its downfall by the giant snake Gorga. The update also includes a revamped world map that should help adventurers find their way.

In related news, Bigpoint claims that over eight million players have registered for Drakensang Online.

[Source: Bigpoint press release]

MassivelyDrakensang raises Atlantis update from the deeps originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Jul 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlantisbigpointbrowser-basedcontent-patchcontent-updatecontinentdrakensangdrakensang-onlinef2pfantasyfree-to-playgorgapatchupdateThu, 05 Jul 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Game of Thrones MMO announces full name, upcoming trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/02/game-of-thrones-mmo-announces-full-name-upcoming-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/02/game-of-thrones-mmo-announces-full-name-upcoming-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/02/game-of-thrones-mmo-announces-full-name-upcoming-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Game of Thrones MMO announces full name, upcoming trailer
The upcoming MMO by Bigpoint now has a full name: Game of Thrones Seven Kingdoms.

Producer Max Pfaff is relieved to have this major step out of the way: "Selecting a game's title can be quite an arduous process, especially in the free-to-play space where games must be easily discoverable by players around the world. By selecting Game of Thrones Seven Kingdoms, we're confident that we've chosen an identifiable name that will resonate with the global community of diehard Thrones fans."

The project, which is being developed with HBO's cooperation, is set to make its grand entrance at this year's Comic-Con. It's there that the studio will show an exclusive game trailer, which promises to show the Seven Kingdoms' visual aesthetic and gameplay.

If you haven't already, definitely check out our interview with Bigpoint about Seven Kingdoms from this year's GDC!

[Source: Bigpoint press release]

MassivelyGame of Thrones MMO announces full name, upcoming trailer originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Jul 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-combatBigpointbrowsercomic-concomic-con-2012comicondirectional-action-combatf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgame-of-thronesgame-of-thrones-mmogame-of-thrones-seven-kingdomshbomax-pfaffseven-kingdomstrailerMon, 02 Jul 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Soapbox: The death of AAA]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/26/the-soapbox-the-death-of-aaa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/26/the-soapbox-the-death-of-aaa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/26/the-soapbox-the-death-of-aaa/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

38 Studios picture
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 think we're all pretty familiar with the tragic story of 38 Studios by now. If not, take some time to familiarize yourself with it. Essentially it is a tale of massive dreams, botched plans, and hundreds of job losses. I'm not yet sure exactly what went wrong, but I have a feeling that the lackluster response to the studio's stand-alone title might be to blame on top of the poor performance in the high-end of the company. Either way, I have seen many comments exclaiming the end of the big-budget title or at least more trepidation from governments that feel the need to get into a game (no pun intended) they were unfamiliar with.

If we could take a poll of the several million "AAA" MMO players in North America, it's my bet that most of them simply go from one title to the other. The RIFT players who are now enjoying Star Wars: The Old Republic came from World of Warcraft, and before that (if they played MMOs before WoW) they might have been City of Heroes fans and EverQuest players before that. For a long time, large studios held all of the players. Then, AAA started rolling down the steep hill to where it is now.

Continue reading The Soapbox: The death of AAA

MassivelyThe Soapbox: The death of AAA originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Jun 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosAnarchy-Onlinebattlestar-galactica-onlineBigpointBlizzardcity-of-heroeseditorialeverquestfeaturedflyfffree-realmsgemstone-ivglitchillyriadjagexkurt-schillingmabinogiMapleStorymilmominecraftop-edopinionpocket-legendsrantrantsrappelzriftrunescapesecond-lifeSegasoapboxSOESONYSony-Online-Entertainmentspiral-knightsstar-wars-the-old-republicthe-soapboxthree-ringstiny-specktrionvindictuswizard101World-of-Warcraftwowwurm-onlineTue, 26 Jun 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Universal Monsters Online is a thing]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/13/universal-monsters-online-is-a-thing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/13/universal-monsters-online-is-a-thing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/13/universal-monsters-online-is-a-thing/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Screenshot -- Universal Monsters Online
MOBAs seem to be the hot new thing, with games like the indie SmashMuck Champions following in the footsteps of heavy-hitters such as League of Legends and Dota 2. Now we can add another one to the list, as Bigpoint Games has announced an in-development MOBA centered around some unlikely champions: classic Universal Studios movie monsters.

That's right: In the upcoming Universal Monsters Online, players will be able to go head-to-head with one another as iconic movie monsters, including Dracula, the Wolf-Man, Frankenstein's monster (and his bride), and the Creature from the Black Lagoon. Gameplay details are scarce, but if you happen to be in the game's target demographic of classic-horror-movie-buff-slash-MOBA-gamer, head on over to the game's official site and have a gander.

MassivelyUniversal Monsters Online is a thing originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Jun 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bigpointbigpoint-gamesbride-of-frankensteincreature-from-the-black-lagoondraculafrankensteins-monstermobamovie-monstersmultiplayer-online-battle-arenauniversal-monsters-onlineWed, 13 Jun 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Previously on MV TV: The week of June 2nd]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/10/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-june-2nd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/10/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-june-2nd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/10/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-june-2nd/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Previously On banner
So how did you survive E3? Did you get everything that you wanted this year? No? Well, that's OK; there's always next year. In the meantime, be sure to check out all of our E3 coverage in case you missed anything. I know I missed a lot, and I work here! It's easy to forget that the hardcore office-monkies like yours truly stayed behind and continued on as normal. That means we still streamed our favorite titles for you to watch! So what did you miss? Here are some of the highlights!

Mike decided to check out planetary action in EVE Online. We're not sure whether this meant asking a big green orb out on a date, but it sounds interesting! Next, he made a couple of runs through Drakensang Online, stomping newbie PvPers left and right. What a meanie! I jumped into a couple of games for your entertainment, including RuneScape. I wanted to show how the new Runespan worked, and I think I achieved my goal. Lastly I attempted to start a treehouse project in Free Realms, building it up slowly until I had a nice platform to continue from. If you've ever wondered what blank lots were used for in the charming social MMO, check it out past the break!

Continue reading Previously on MV TV: The week of June 2nd

MassivelyPreviously on MV TV: The week of June 2nd originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 10 Jun 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bigpointbrowser-basedccpdrakensang-onlineeve-onlinefeaturedfree-realmsjagexlivestreamingmassively-streamteammassively-tvmv-tvmvtvround-uprounduprunescapeSOESONYSony-Online-Entertainmentstreamstreamersstreamingstreamteamtwitchtwitch-tvvideovideosSun, 10 Jun 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Previously on MV TV: The week of May 12th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/20/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-may-12th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/20/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-may-12th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/20/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-may-12th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Previously On banner
What a week of livestreaming! We've got quite the variety and tons of hours of video to watch. What's that? You had to work and missed half of the cool streams we showed? Don't worry! I gather all of the best streams from the week's collection and list them for you right here. Still, you need to bookmark our livestream page so you can see which videos are going to be shown during the week, but if you miss any, you can check out the recap here. That's why we do it.

This week we had a lot to offer. First we had good old Mike jumping into EVE Online for some space action, then into TERA for some scantily clad combat! He then explores some of the great browser-based game Drakensang Online. MJ brought a ton of goodies to the streaming table, goodies like a run-through in EverQuest II, some base-jumping in City of Heroes, a bit of hardcore survival in Xsyon, and a flight around the beautiful lands of Aion. I rounded out the end by streaming some BatMUD, a cool MUD that has been around since many of you have been in diapers!

Click past the cut and grab some popcorn. Keep the butter light but add some salt. Thanks.

Continue reading Previously on MV TV: The week of May 12th

MassivelyPreviously on MV TV: The week of May 12th originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 20 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionascensionBatMUDBigpointblueholebluehole-studiosbrowser-basedccpccp-gamescity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxdrakensangdrakensang-onlineen-masseen-masse-entertainmenteq-2eq-iiEQ2eqiieveeve-onlineEverQuest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreedominternet-spaceshipslivestreamingmassively-streamteammassively-tvmudmv-tvmvtvnc-softncsoftnotoriousnotorious-gamesparagonparagon-studiospost-apocpost-apocalypticpvpround-uproundupsandboxsci-fantasysci-fiSOEsonySony-Online-Entertainmentspreadsheets-onlinestreamstreamersstreamingstreamteamsuperherosuperheroesteratruly-freetwitchtwitch-tvvideovideosxsyonSun, 20 May 2012 10:00:00 EST<![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[Drakensang Online compares itself to Diablo III and Torchlight II]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/drakensang-online-compares-itself-to-diablo-iii-and-torchlight-i/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/drakensang-online-compares-itself-to-diablo-iii-and-torchlight-i/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/drakensang-online-compares-itself-to-diablo-iii-and-torchlight-i/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Drakensang Online
Bigpoint Games is painting Drakensang Online as the Rocky Balboa of isometric hack-'n'-slash MMOs, and it's stepping into the ring with the upcoming title contenders and swinging away. The company released a comparison chart to show how its scrappy underdog is actually head and shoulders above the developing competition.

According to the comparison chart, Drakensang takes the lead by offering all that its competition has and more. When you've got a game that was developed in less than two years, is free-to-play, and is a full-fledged MMO, why would you ever want to sample the fruits of Blizzard's and Runic Games' trees?

Will Drakensang nip hard enough at Diablo III's heels to hobble the mighty demon as it releases next month? Time will tell, but you can check out our impressions of Drakensang when Mike plays it for you live on Massively TV this Wednesday evening!

[Source: Bigpoint Games press release]

MassivelyDrakensang Online compares itself to Diablo III and Torchlight II originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetbigpointblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrowser-basedcash-shopcomparison-chartd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidrakensangdrakensang-onlinef2pfantasyfree-to-playgothic-fantasylivestreammassively-tvmultiplayeronline-multiplayerrockyrocky-balboaroguelikerpgrunic-gamestorchlighttorchlight-iiTue, 24 Apr 2012 10:00:00 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[GDC 2012: Bigpoint discusses the Game of Thrones MMO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/gdc-2012-bigpoint-discusses-the-game-of-thrones-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/gdc-2012-bigpoint-discusses-the-game-of-thrones-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/gdc-2012-bigpoint-discusses-the-game-of-thrones-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Game of Thrones screenshot
The Game is coming.

It had to be said. And for fans of George R.R. Martin's epic fantasy series A Song of Ice and Fire, that one little phrase elicits some powerful and mixed emotions: excitement (to actually wander about Westeros) and dread (will it actually be Westeros?). There was even a collective cringe among some Massively staff when the announcement was made that Game of Thrones was becoming an MMORPG. Could such a complex world translate well into the virtual realm? It made the transition to television pretty well in HBO's series, but a free-to-play browser-based MMO is a whole other beast.

We're pleased to say that fans of the books and the series can breathe a little easier and even look forward to the upcoming title becuse it's going to be gritty, it's going to be gory, and power will shift like the winds across the Dothraki Sea. Massively was able to sit down with Jorgen Tharaldsen (Producer at Artplant), Alan Dunton (Public Relations Director at Bigpoint), and Rob Ollett (Executive Producer at Bigpoint) to discuss details about what's coming.

Continue reading GDC 2012: Bigpoint discusses the Game of Thrones MMO

MassivelyGDC 2012: Bigpoint discusses the Game of Thrones MMO originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-combatalan-duntonArtplantBigpointbrowserbrowser-gamecash-shopconconferenceconventiondirectional-action-combatfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012game-of-thronesgdcgdc-2012george-r-r-martininterviewinterviewsitem-progressionjorgen-tharaldsenpolitical-systempreviewpreviewspvpRob-Ollettsandboxsiegesiege-systemsiegesFri, 09 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 190: GDC Wednesday]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/massively-speaking-episode-190-gdc-wednesday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/massively-speaking-episode-190-gdc-wednesday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/massively-speaking-episode-190-gdc-wednesday/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Massively Speaking
Massively Speaking Episode 190 brings us another installment of the wild and wacky adventures of Massively's GDC crew. Today the entire ensemble has assembled, with Shawn, Jef, Karen, and MJ hogging the mike and sharing their impressions and experiences from the convention. Also, Karen rules from the Iron Throne, so do not mess with her or she'll send you to the Wall.

Have a comment for the podcasters? Shoot an email to podcast@massively.com. We may just read your email on the air!

Get the podcast:
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Listen here on the page:



Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 190: GDC Wednesday

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 190: GDC Wednesday originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-game-of-thronesbattleshipbattleshipsbigpointbiowarebrantbrianna-royceccpccp-gamesconsoledark-legendsdustdust-514eveeve-onlinef2pfeaturedfpsfree-to-playgame-of-throneshistoricalhumorjustin-olivettimassively-speakingmechmechsmechwarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemmofpsmwoopinionpiranhapiranha-gamesplaneplanesplaystationplaystation-3podcastpodcastingpodcastsps3pvpsci-fishooterspacetime-studiostanktanksthe9triontrion-worldswarwargaming-netwargaming.netwarplanewarplaneswobworld-of-battleshipsworld-of-tanksworld-of-warplaneswotwowpThu, 08 Mar 2012 15:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 190Massively.com Staff00:28:20podcasts<![CDATA[Bigpoint's A Game of Thrones MMO to debut at GDC 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/29/bigpoints-a-game-of-thrones-mmo-to-debut-at-gdc-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/29/bigpoints-a-game-of-thrones-mmo-to-debut-at-gdc-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/29/bigpoints-a-game-of-thrones-mmo-to-debut-at-gdc-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- A Game of Thrones
Brace yourselves; GDC is coming. And with it comes the first ever public demonstration of Bigpoint's upcoming MMO title based on George R.R. Martin's hit fantasy series, A Game of Thrones. For the first time ever, players will be able to get a look at the world of Westeros brought to life in all its browser-based glory.

Bigpoint CEO and founder Heiko Hubertz is understandably optimistic about the title, stating that the devs "intend to build a game that resonates intimately with its diehard community of followers, while also creating an authentic gaming experience that attracts newcomers to the franchise." So if you're heading to GDC 2012 and you want to take a look, just make a trip on over to Bigpoint's booth and see for yourself. What's that? You're not going to GDC this year? Well, then it's a good thing we're going for you! You can look for more info from our impressions coming later next week.

Andremember: When you play the game of thrones, you win or you corpse run.

[Source: Bigpoint press release]

MassivelyBigpoint's A Game of Thrones MMO to debut at GDC 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 29 Feb 2012 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-game-of-thronesagotbigpointbrowserbrowser-basedbrowser-based-gamebrowser-based-mmof2pfree-to-playgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012game-of-thronesgdcgdc-2012george-r-r-martingeorge-rr-martingrrmWed, 29 Feb 2012 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bigpoint goes live with Pirate Storm]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/bigpoint-goes-live-with-pirate-storm/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/bigpoint-goes-live-with-pirate-storm/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/bigpoint-goes-live-with-pirate-storm/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Pirate Storm
Pirate Storm: Death or Glory, a free (you guessed it!) pirate-themed game from Bigpoint, is now live! Hop into the game to act out all your piratical dreams: fighting sea beasties, swash-buckling with the most fearsome of foes, and pursuing that whimsical mistress, fortune.

Pirate Storm has been launched worldwide and is available in more than 24 languages. It's designed to be beginner-friendly while retaining exciting and challenging missions. Bigpoint's team isn't a stranger to making pirate games -- Seafight and Kultan are other titles it's put out in the same genre -- but the company appears to be taking special pride in this new title. The game world boasts12 different maps spread across three regions, customizable ships and armors, and all the interactive fun of buddy lists, groups, and a guild system. So what's your delay? Those sea serpents are waiting.

[Source: Bigpoint press release]

MassivelyBigpoint goes live with Pirate Storm originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrrrBigpointbigpoint-gamesbrowserf2pfree-to-playkultannewspiratepirate-stormseafightTue, 14 Feb 2012 21:00:00 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[Bigpoint surpasses 250 million registered users]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/31/bigpoint-surpasses-250-million-registered-users/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/31/bigpoint-surpasses-250-million-registered-users/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/31/bigpoint-surpasses-250-million-registered-users/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Bigpoint logo
The folks at Bigpoint must be feeling quite nice about themselves about now, as a new press release from the company has announced that the studio's games now have a total of 250 million registered users worldwide. Heiko Hubertz, CEO and founder of the browser-focused MMORPG developer, is quite pleased with the development, claiming that "since 2002, [Bigpoint has] strived to bring high-quality games and experiences to the widest possible audience... and we're not done."

The press release goes on to make the bold claims that "Bigpoint introduced the concept of F2P games" and that "over the past decade, Bigpoint has radically improved the quality of... online games." The statement conclues that "the company is planning a series of new launches in 2012, including new titles that leverage world-class Hollywood intellectual property." We already know that Bigpoint is the studio behind the upcoming MMOs based on A Game of Thrones and The Mummy, but what else does the studio have up its sleeve? We'll just have to wait to find out.

[Source: Bigpoint press release]

MassivelyBigpoint surpasses 250 million registered users originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250-million-registered-usersa-game-of-thronesbattle-star-galactica-onlinebigpointbigpoint-gamesbrowserbrowser-basedbrowser-based-mmosbrowsersbsgof2pfree-to-playheiko-hubertzindustryregistered-usersthe-mummy-onlineTue, 31 Jan 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Bigpoint and gPotato join forces, host contest to celebrate]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/bigpoint-and-gpotato-join-forces-host-contest-to-celebrate/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/bigpoint-and-gpotato-join-forces-host-contest-to-celebrate/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/bigpoint-and-gpotato-join-forces-host-contest-to-celebrate/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

gPotato logo
Two of the big players in the F2P MMO industry, publisher gPotato and Battlestar Galactica Online developer Bigpoint, have teamed up with one another in order to bring Bigpoint's browser-based titles to gPotato's ever-expanding library of titles. Bigpoint titles such as BSGO and more will be available at gPotato's game portal site, and in order to celebrate the arrival of the new games, gPotato is giving away $900 US in prizes. Ten Facebook fans will receive $50 in gPotato currency just for telling the folks at gPotato which new browser titles are their favorites. Five others will win a SUMO beanbag chair or a Razer mouse.

For the full details, check out the link below and head on over to gPotato's official site to try the new game selections for yourself.

[Source: gPotato press release]

MassivelyBigpoint and gPotato join forces, host contest to celebrate originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bigpointbigpoint-gamesbrowserbrowser-based-gamebrowser-based-gamescontestcontestsf2pfree-to-playgpotatopartnershipTue, 24 Jan 2012 14:00:00 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[BioWare: SWTOR could've been a Game of Thrones MMO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/bioware-swtor-couldve-been-a-game-of-thrones-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/bioware-swtor-couldve-been-a-game-of-thrones-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/bioware-swtor-couldve-been-a-game-of-thrones-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Arya Stark reacts to the Bigpoint Game of Thrones announcement
The Force may be with BioWare, but it might interest you to know that the Canadian RPG giant wasn't married to the Star Wars IP when it began discussing its initial foray into the MMO space. According to an article at PC Gamer, everything from the Lord of the Rings, to the Dark Tower, to A Song of Ice and Fire was on the table when the team began drawing up its design documents.

"If we were going to do a Game of Thrones MMO, what kind of rules and what kind of gameplay elements would really bring that world to life? Each [design document] had that, but we always focused on the story at the fore," says BioWare's James Ohlen.

Ultimately, the devs forsook Westeros for the fertile setting they helped create in the Knights of the Old Republic series, and George R. R. Martin fans are left to ponder the differences between a huge BioWare production and a Bigpoint browser title.

MassivelyBioWare: SWTOR could've been a Game of Thrones MMO originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Dec 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-game-of-thronesbigpointbiowaregame-of-thronesinterviewskill-10-lannistersmmo-industrysong-of-ice-and-firestar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorwhyyyyyyyyyWed, 21 Dec 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Bigpoint's DarkOrbit turns five this month]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/13/bigpoints-darkorbit-turns-five-this-month/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/13/bigpoints-darkorbit-turns-five-this-month/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/13/bigpoints-darkorbit-turns-five-this-month/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

DarkOrbit - internet spaceships
If you'd never heard of Bigpoint's browser MMO known as DarkOrbit prior to last month's space drone microtransaction brouhaha, you're not alone.

According to the company, though, lots of people have heard of the game, which launched in 2006 and is currently celebrating its fifth anniversary. Bigpoint claims a community of over 65 million registered players, and a news release says that DarkOrbit is "the most popular and biggest space game worldwide."

DarkOrbit is a 2-D flash game that puts players in control of a spaceship while working for one of three corporations.

[Source: Bigpoint press release]

MassivelyBigpoint's DarkOrbit turns five this month originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>65-million-usersbigpointbrowsercasualdark-orbitdarkorbitfifth-anniversarypress-releasesci-fispaceshipsTue, 13 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Drakensang announces 'massive content updates']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/drakensang-announces-massive-content-updates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/drakensang-announces-massive-content-updates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/drakensang-announces-massive-content-updates/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Screenshot -- Drakensang Online
Bigpoint Games has announced that its free-to-play hack-and-slash title Drakensang Online is receiving a "massive content update." Between now and December 25th, Drakensang players will be receiving a couple of large updates, plus a few smaller changes as well.

The updates will introduce players to the Norlande, which will provide "a dozen new levels, numerous monsters and champions, new bosses, and new character items and equipment." To top it off, a player can experience all of this content as a new class, the agile Ranger. Rangers will also bring with them "a whole new skill system that makes skills easier and better to use, and significantly improves gameplay." To get in on the action, head on over to the game's official site.

[Source: Bigpoint Games press release]

MassivelyDrakensang announces 'massive content updates' originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bigpointbigpoint-gamesclassdrakensangdrakensang-onlinef2pfree-to-playlevel-caplevel-cap-increasenew-classnew-zonenorlanderangerskillskill-systemskillsMon, 12 Dec 2011 19:00:00 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[Bigpoint's €1000 space drone sale clarified]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/28/bigpoints-1000-space-drone-sale-clarified/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/28/bigpoints-1000-space-drone-sale-clarified/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/28/bigpoints-1000-space-drone-sale-clarified/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

DarkOrbit - space droneLast week we told you about Bigpoint's eyebrow-raising sale of a €1,000 virtual space drone. Gamesbrief recently updated its news posting after its readers chimed in with a healthy dose of skepticism regarding the numbers involved in the supposed windfall.

As it turns out, said numbers are likely still impressive, but rather less impressive than the €2 million ($2.7 million) initially surmised. Gamesbrief's correction post states that the drone cannot be bought for real cash, and instead must be purchased with DarkOrbit's Uridium currency, which is available for real money or earned in game. Bigpoint has in fact sold 2,000 of the drones, but not at a direct cost of €1,000 each.

"I no longer think that you can multiply 2,000 10th Drones sold times €1,000 to work out how much revenue Bigpoint made from this single item," Gamesbrief's Nicholas Lovell writes.

MassivelyBigpoint's €1000 space drone sale clarified originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 28 Nov 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bigpointbrowserbrowser-basedbusiness-modelscorrectiondark-orbitdarkorbitdroneexpensive-dronef2pfree-to-playsci-fispace-dronevirtual-itemsMon, 28 Nov 2011 10:00:00 EST