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[Next TERA CBT weekend brings level cap increase, new dungeon, and PvP]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/next-tera-cbt-weekend-brings-level-cap-increase-new-dungeon-an/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/next-tera-cbt-weekend-brings-level-cap-increase-new-dungeon-an/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/next-tera-cbt-weekend-brings-level-cap-increase-new-dungeon-an/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

TERA artwork -- Sinestral Manor
Here we are at the beginning of another week which TERA fans are certain to be anxiously waiting to end because this weekend marks the game's second North American closed beta weekend. During the last test, players got to experience the game's PvE content all the way up to level 22, including the Bastion of Lok instance. Well, this time around En Masse Entertainment is going to be opening up the gates to five additional levels of content, allowing players to progress to level 27. Testers will also gain access to a new dungeon known as Sinestral Manor, and each player will get two character slots per server rather than just one.

Oh, and speaking of servers, we hear there's going to be a new one. Players will be able to test their skills against one another on Valley of Trials, the new PvP server. To top it off, En Masse has also revealed a bit of new information on how PvP combat will work. Open-world combat will be initiated when a player uses an ability known as Outlaw Declaration, which does what it says on the tin: It declares the caster an outlaw, allowing him to attack (and presumably, be attacked by) other players for 60 seconds or until combat is over. But single combat isn't the only way to get your PvP fix. Guilds can also declare war on other guilds by using the item Bahaar's Spark of War Declaration, which can be purchased in capital cities. After war has been declared, members of opposing guilds will be able to attack one another on sight.

So there you have it, folks. That's what we've got to look forward to this next beta weekend. We hope to see you all on the battlefield.

MassivelyNext TERA CBT weekend brings level cap increase, new dungeon, and PvP originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-weekendbeta-weekend-2blueholebluehole-studiocbtcbt-2closed-betaclosed-beta-testclosed-beta-test-2closed-beta-weekendclosed-beta-weekend-2en-masseen-masse-entertainmentplayer-vs-playerpvpsinestral-manorteratera-onlinethe-exiled-realm-of-arboreavalley-of-trialsMon, 20 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA reflects on lessons learned from first CBT weekend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/tera-reflects-on-lessons-learned-from-first-cbt-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/tera-reflects-on-lessons-learned-from-first-cbt-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/tera-reflects-on-lessons-learned-from-first-cbt-weekend/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- TERA (UGH VEKAS)
It's been a week since the first TERA North American beta weekend, and European players are getting their first swing at the game as we speak. But before En Masse Entertainment opens the floodgates to NA players once more next weekend, the studio is taking the opportunity to recap the events of the first closed beta test. Overall, the studio seems quite pleased with the results of the test but notes that "the weekend was not without some hiccups." One such hiccup that beta players will certainly be well acquainted with is the chaos that ensued as dozens of players simultaneously tried to kill the quest mob Vekus, which led some players to actually form organized queues to ensure that everyone got a chance at him. But the studio assures us that we need not worry, as "the En Masse team learned a great deal from CBT1 and will put those lessons to good use as we ramp up for CBT2."

The studio also brings us a couple of interesting statistics from the first beta test. For instance, the most popular race-gender-class combination was the Castanic female Warrior (which we're sure has absolutely nothing to do with the Castanics' apparent aversion to modesty). And of course, beta participants will be very familiar with the basilisk BAMs in Oblivion Woods, which apparently accounted for almost two-thirds of all player deaths over the course of the weekend. Gotta watch out for those bodyslams, guys. They'll getcha.

Ultimately, the studio concludes that "this weekend was a big success both in terms of players getting hands-on time with TERA and for showing the team what they need to refine before the game's May 1 release."

To sign up for the game's future beta tests, just head on over to the game's official site, linked below.

[Source: En Masse Entertainment press release]

MassivelyTERA reflects on lessons learned from first CBT weekend originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beta-weekendbeta-weekend-1beta-weekend-oneblueholebluehole-studiocbtcbt-weekendcbt-weekend-1cbt-weekend-oneclosed-beta-testen-masseen-masse-entertainmentoh-god-vekasrecapteratera-onlinethe-exiled-realm-of-arboreaFri, 17 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Going toe-to-toe with TERA's first beta weekend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/going-toe-to-toe-with-teras-first-beta-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/going-toe-to-toe-with-teras-first-beta-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/going-toe-to-toe-with-teras-first-beta-weekend/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

BAM indeed.
Over the past months, many fans of En Masse Entertainment's upcoming "real action combat" title TERA have been wondering whether the game will ever see the light of day. Between sparse development details and word of legal troubles, TERA's future seemed to be in constant jeopardy as cries of "vaporware!" grew steadily louder. Well, those voices can finally have a bit of a reprieve because over the course of this past weekend, players were able to jump into the world of Arborea and experience TERA's action combat firsthand.

I was among those players, and after a joy-filled romp through TERA's gorgeous landscapes (thanks in no small part to my fabulous guild -- hi Territ!), I'm ready to conjure up some thoughts that will hopefully somewhat resemble my impressions of the closed beta weekend. So if you want to know whether the game's real action combat hits the mark or it's a swing and a miss, follow me past the cut and let's take a look.

Continue reading Going toe-to-toe with TERA's first beta weekend

MassivelyGoing toe-to-toe with TERA's first beta weekend originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionaction-combatbetabeta-testbeta-weekendbeta-weekend-1beta-weekend-oneblueholebluehole-studiocbtcbt-weekendcbt-weekend-1cbt-weekend-oneclosed-betaclosed-beta-testcombaten-masseen-masse-entertainmentfeaturedhands-onhigh-elfimpressionsteratera-onlinethe-exiled-realm-of-arboreawarriorTue, 14 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Soapbox: TERA's rocky road to release]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/the-soapbox-teras-rocky-road-to-release/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/the-soapbox-teras-rocky-road-to-release/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/the-soapbox-teras-rocky-road-to-release/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

TERA - Castanic avatars
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.

What a difference a year makes, eh? February of 2011 found me drooling over my keyboard as I devoured all the screenshots and gameplay footage leaking out of TERA's Korean launch (yes, the westernization process really has been dragging on for a year).

Fast-forward 12 months and the game is losing a little bit of its luster because of certain En Masse decisions and in spite of the fact that the firm has a potentially awesome MMO on its hands.

Continue reading The Soapbox: TERA's rocky road to release

MassivelyThe Soapbox: TERA's rocky road to release originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ad-campaignblueholebluehole-studioelinelin-raceen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyfeaturedfeminismip-blockingip-blocksmarketingmmo-feminismmmo-foncsoftopinionskimpy-armorsoapboxsoapbox-jef-reahardteratera-elintera-ip-blockingtera-lawsuitthe-soapboxTue, 14 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA beta videos show crafting, enchanting, Elin creation]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/tera-beta-videos-show-crafting-enchanting-elin-creation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/tera-beta-videos-show-crafting-enchanting-elin-creation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/tera-beta-videos-show-crafting-enchanting-elin-creation/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

TERA - crafting
TERA's recent closed beta kickoff (and lack of an NDA) brought with it a slew of user-created video content, and as the testing weekends roll on toward the game's May release window, there will be ample opportunities to see just about every part of Arborea via YouTube.

Today we've got a trio of introductory videos that show three different aspects of the game. First up is a clip that features the enchanting process, followed by a brief look at the game's crafting mechanics. Finally, TERA Hispano has uploaded some footage of the controversial Elin race. The video covers almost nine minutes on the character creation screen, and you can find it after the break.

[Thanks to Axel for the tip!]

Continue reading TERA beta videos show crafting, enchanting, Elin creation

MassivelyTERA beta videos show crafting, enchanting, Elin creation originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arboreablueholebluehole-studiocharacter-creationcraftingelinelin-videoen-masseen-masse-entertainmentenchantingfantasygameplay-videoteratera-videovideoMon, 13 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: Elvis invented rock 'n' roll edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/the-mmo-report-elvis-invented-rock-n-roll-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/the-mmo-report-elvis-invented-rock-n-roll-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/the-mmo-report-elvis-invented-rock-n-roll-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The MMO Report
This week on The MMO Report, Casey insists that he's a "wise-cracking superhero with a heart of gold," not a noob who doesn't know his MMO history. "For the record," he says, "I do realize that EverQuest wasn't the first MMO. I was just saying it was the game that brought MMOs mainstream attention... like how Elvis invented rock 'n' roll."

Casey reports on Warhammer 40K: Dark Millennium Online's financial woes, RIFT's new infinite trial, Star Wars: The Old Republic's impressive sales numbers, and TERA's beta plans. Then he dips into Uncle Casey's Mailbag to discuss -- what else -- hot dorf-on-dorf action.

All this and more in the HD MMO Report tucked behind the cut!

Continue reading The MMO Report: Elvis invented rock 'n' roll edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: Elvis invented rock 'n' roll edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebluehole-studiocasey-schreinerdark-millennium-onlinedmodorf-on-dorfeaElectronic-Artselvisen-masseeqeverquestmmo-reportriftrift-literock-n-rollstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorterathe-mmo-reportthe-old-republicthqtortriontrion-worldsvideovideoswar40-dmowar40kwar40k-dark-millennium-onlineThu, 09 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Frogster planning TERA Europe stress test today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/frogster-planning-tera-europe-stress-test-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/frogster-planning-tera-europe-stress-test-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/frogster-planning-tera-europe-stress-test-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

TERA - male Castanic
Ready for another TERA Europe beta test? You're in luck because Frogster is hosting one later today (at 2:00 p.m. EST, to be exact). The Velika server is being stress-tested, and Frogster is raising the player cap in order to see what happens when large numbers of people attempt to log in at once.

TERA Europe community manager Raven says that "you might experience lag or other issues" and that "this test is not intended to offer you a normal gameplay experience." If you're OK with that -- and you feel like volunteering your time -- head to the official forums to learn more (and set your alarms accordingly).

If you're wondering about TERA's American client, En Masse Entertainment sent word that last night's pre-test dress rehearsal "went swimmingly."

MassivelyFrogster planning TERA Europe stress test today originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arboreabetablueholebluehole-studioclosed-betaen-masseen-masse-entertainmenteuropean-betafantasyfrogsterstress-testtera-betatera-europetera-stress-testvelikavelika-serverThu, 09 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA EU gearing up for second system test]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/tera-eu-gearing-up-for-second-system-test/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/tera-eu-gearing-up-for-second-system-test/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/tera-eu-gearing-up-for-second-system-test/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

TERA - high elf sorcerer
TERA's European client will undergo another round of testing today at 2:00 p.m. Central Europe time. According to a post on the official boards, this is another "special functional test of [TERA's] systems," much like the one that went awry over the weekend.

The testing period will run for approximately four hours, and it is open to everyone who has redeemed a sneak peek or pre-order key for the European client. TERA EU community manager Raven says that this test is actually a test, unlike the marketing beta events we've grown accustomed to in recent years. "Remember this is not a test to enjoy the game, but rather to test our server infrastructure," she writes.

MassivelyTERA EU gearing up for second system test originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arboreabetabeta-testblueholebluehole-studioclosed-betafantasyfrogsterpre-orderpre-order-betasneak-peekteratera-europetera-pre-ordertera-sneak-peektest-eventWed, 08 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: EQ was the first MMO edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/the-mmo-report-eq-was-the-first-mmo-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/the-mmo-report-eq-was-the-first-mmo-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/the-mmo-report-eq-was-the-first-mmo-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Casey Schreiner
Casey Schreiner returns with this week's MMO Report, G4TV's weekly newscast about all things massively multiplayer. First up is a shout-out to the newly free-to-play EverQuest, though Ultima Online, Meridian 59, and The Realm players might dispute Casey's notion that EQ "started it all."

Funcom's new Blue Mountain trailer for The Secret World also gets a mention, as does the Family Research Council's facepalm-inducing reaction to the prospect of same-sex snogging in Star Wars: The Old Republic. TERA's legal troubles are next, and Uncle Casey's mailbag rounds out this week's show. Head past the break to watch it in full.

Continue reading The MMO Report: EQ was the first MMO edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: EQ was the first MMO edition originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bluehole-studioen-masseen-masse-entertainmenteqeverquestf2pfamily-research-councilfree-to-playfuncommmo-reportstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorterathe-mmo-reportthe-old-republicthe-secret-worldtorvideoFri, 03 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[En Masse comments on NCsoft TERA lawsuit]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/en-masse-comments-on-ncsoft-tera-lawsuit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/en-masse-comments-on-ncsoft-tera-lawsuit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/en-masse-comments-on-ncsoft-tera-lawsuit/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

TERA - high elf character creation
En Masse Entertainment has commented on a pending lawsuit by NCsoft that seeks to prevent the North American launch of TERA. As you would expect, there is virtually no detail on the proceedings, but En Masse publishing vice president Chris Lee does come out swinging, saying that the firm "outright rejects" NCsoft's position and will fight it to the last.

NCsoft has alleged that former employees stole Lineage 3 code and art assets that were used to make TERA, and the firm has already scored a legal victory in Korea that resulted in jail time for some of the ex-staffers.

How all of this affects TERA's U.S. release is unclear, though Lee says it's business as usual for En Masse and its fans. "This situation has no impact on our continuing efforts to realize the vision we have for our game. We are committed to making TERA awesome and delivering the game to you on time on May 1st," he writes.

MassivelyEn Masse comments on NCsoft TERA lawsuit originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 27 Jan 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiochris-leeen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasylawsuitncsoftncsoft-lawsuitncsoft-tera-lawsuitteratera-lawsuittera-release-dateFri, 27 Jan 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[NCsoft files TERA-related lawsuit against Bluehole and En Masse]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/ncsoft-files-tera-related-lawsuit-against-bluehole-and-en-masse/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/ncsoft-files-tera-related-lawsuit-against-bluehole-and-en-masse/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/ncsoft-files-tera-related-lawsuit-against-bluehole-and-en-masse/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

TERA - Sorcerer vs. BAM
It's been a long road to completion for En Masse Entertainment and its upcoming TERA MMO. If NCsoft has its way in court, it might be even longer. MMO Culture reports that NCsoft filed a lawsuit earlier this month stating that a group of its employees quit the company and went on to found Bluehole Studio (TERA's original Korean developer). In doing so, the former employees allegedly stole "copious amounts of confidential and proprietary NCsoft information, computer software, hardware, and artwork relating to Lineage 3" and used it to produce TERA.

The employees were convicted of stealing trade secrets by a Korean court in 2009, and the convictions were "mostly upheld by an appellate court." NCsoft filed a Korean civil complaint against Bluehole in 2010 and won damages and an injunction, both of which were subsequently overturned by an appellate court.

Despite the fact that both criminal and civil litigation is still pending, Bluehole launched the Korean version of TERA in early 2011. En Masse (Bluehole's American subsidiary) is scheduled to launch the U.S. version in May of 2012.

MassivelyNCsoft files TERA-related lawsuit against Bluehole and En Masse originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 23:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studioen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasylawsuitlegallineage-3ncsoftteratera-lawsuitWed, 25 Jan 2012 23:50:00 EST<![CDATA[New TERA video features Castanic race]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/new-tera-video-features-castanic-race/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/new-tera-video-features-castanic-race/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/new-tera-video-features-castanic-race/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

TERA - male castanic berserker
The excitement surrounding TERA ramped up a few levels with the recent announcement of the title's May 1st release date. The action MMO from Korea's Bluehole Studio has been a long time in the making, and En Masse Entertainment has hinted at more details to come over the next couple of months.

Today the company has partnered with IGN to release a new gameplay video focused on the Castanic race. The clip runs for about a minute and a half, and features a smattering of action vignettes starring our favorite horned warriors. Check it out after the break.

Continue reading New TERA video features Castanic race

MassivelyNew TERA video features Castanic race originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Jan 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoblueholebluehole-studiocastanicen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyteratrailervideoThu, 19 Jan 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA launching May 1st in North America [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/tera-launching-may-1st-in-north-america/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/tera-launching-may-1st-in-north-america/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/tera-launching-may-1st-in-north-america/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

TERA - High elf sorceress
Well, it's officially official. En Masse Entertainment is launching its long-awaited TERA MMO on May 1st in North America. A posting on the game's website confirms the date, and it also mentions both standard and collector's edition offerings, the contents of which will be revealed in February.

In the meantime, En Masse is accepting beta applications, and the company also promises "lots more in store" for the month of January.

TERA was originally developed by Bluehole Studio; the title launched in Korea in early 2011. The game is a high fantasy MMORPG focused around action combat and featuring an endgame political system.

[Update: Frogster has also announced that the EU version of TERA will be available on May 3rd.]

MassivelyTERA launching May 1st in North America [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 Jan 2012 09:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-combatblueholebluehole-studiobreakingen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyfinallylaunchlaunch-datelaunchesteraTue, 17 Jan 2012 09:18:00 EST<![CDATA[New TERA gameplay clips feature dungeons, boss fight, exploration]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/new-tera-gameplay-clips-feature-dungeons-boss-fight-exploratio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/new-tera-gameplay-clips-feature-dungeons-boss-fight-exploratio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/new-tera-gameplay-clips-feature-dungeons-boss-fight-exploratio/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

TERA - New Ellenon landscape
TERA has fallen a bit off the radar due to the lengthy gestation period of its North American client release. The game launched in Korea a year ago, and so far En Masse Entertainment hasn't managed to nail down a definitive launch date for the western version.

Fortunately, there are fan sites to pick up the slack, and Steparu has updated with a trio of TERA gameplay videos sure to warm even the most jaded Arborean heart. The clips are all fairly lengthy, and they feature a Castanic Slayer in various gameplay locales including dungeons, boss fights, and the open world (specifically, the picturesque New Ellenon zone). We should also point out that the main character in all three clips is a female Castanic, so fair warning to those who take offense to skimpy armor.

Continue reading New TERA gameplay clips feature dungeons, boss fight, exploration

MassivelyNew TERA gameplay clips feature dungeons, boss fight, exploration originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arboreablueholebluehole-studiocastanicdungeonsen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyopen-worldslayerteravideoWed, 11 Jan 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA producer's letter discusses new launcher, development progress]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/19/tera-producers-letter-discusses-new-launcher-development-progr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/19/tera-producers-letter-discusses-new-launcher-development-progr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/19/tera-producers-letter-discusses-new-launcher-development-progr/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Screenshot -- TERA
A new holiday edition producer's letter has been published on the official TERA site, and in it Chris Hager announces that he is currently using the studio's new launcher to log in to the game. Why is this such a big deal? Hager explains that it "represents a huge leap for us here at En Masse." He goes on to tell how, over the past year, the team has worked "directly and intimately with the Bluehole development team to... add features that appeal to western gamers."

But why is the new launcher so important? Because it's one of the features that the studio built from the ground up. Hager also notes that the game has been in alpha for "about 4 months" and that this week is the last week of alpha testing. He says the team is also looking forward to "the next step in TERA's journey toward launch next spring." Here's to hoping that next step is a beta test. For the full letter, just click on over to the official TERA site.

MassivelyTERA producer's letter discusses new launcher, development progress originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Dec 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalpha-testingblueholebluehole-studiochagerchris-hagerdevelopmenten-masseen-masse-entertainmentproducer-letterproducers-letterprogressterathe-exiled-realm-of-arboreaMon, 19 Dec 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New TERA videos highlight BAMs, again]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/16/new-tera-videos-highlight-bams-again/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/16/new-tera-videos-highlight-bams-again/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/16/new-tera-videos-highlight-bams-again/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

TERA BAM says release date or stfu
Oh TERA, forever teasing us with new press releases about BAMs in lieu of meaty gameplay details (or heaven forbid, a release date). The latest blurb comes courtesy of Frogster, the fantasy title's European publisher, and it features three new videos that provide a sneak peek at three more of the game's ubiquitous big-ass monsters.

Each video runs for about a minute and each gives future denizens of Arborea a good look at the ovolith, the teralith, and the kumas BAMs in their native environments. Whether you're into creepy spiders, giant rock dudes, or beer-bellied behemoths that shoot death rays out of their stomachs (really), you'll probably find something to your liking in one of Frogster's new clips. Head past the break to see them all.

[Source: Frogster press release]

Continue reading New TERA videos highlight BAMs, again

MassivelyNew TERA videos highlight BAMs, again originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 Nov 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arboreabamsbig-ass-monstersblueholebluehole-studioen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyfrogsterkumasovolithrelease-date-plsterateralithvideoWed, 16 Nov 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[En Masse talks more on Creatures of Magnitudinous Derrieres]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/11/en-masse-talks-more-on-creatures-of-magnitudinous-derrieres/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/11/en-masse-talks-more-on-creatures-of-magnitudinous-derrieres/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/11/en-masse-talks-more-on-creatures-of-magnitudinous-derrieres/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Screenshot -- TERA
Mmmyes, quite. TERA's press onslaught continues in full-force (though still sans release date) as En Masse Entertainment has released some new information regarding -- you guessed it -- Big Ass Monsters. Of particular note in the article is the ovolith, an arachnid BAM that transforms into a cocoon and is capable of spraying players with a lethal venom. Players, of course, can't just rely on the random number generator to save them. They have to actively dodge the poison as well as the monster's quick pincer attacks.

The game's Monster Concept Lead Artist, Junghyun Kim, says there are certain challenges that arise when designing new creatures. Kim states that "The monster's outer shape matters a lot in combat because TERA lets players aim their attacks naturally. Auto-targeting games only need a normal attack with different attack motions, but we have more aspects to consider because the player's character actually gets hit in TERA. But this extra challenge is one of the joys of creating monsters for TERA." Well, that's great, but can we get a release date please? Pretty please?

[Source: En Masse Entertainment press release]

MassivelyEn Masse talks more on Creatures of Magnitudinous Derrieres originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 Nov 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bambamsbig-ass-monstersblueholebluehole-studioen-masseen-masse-entertainmentjunghyun-kimmagnitudinous-derrieresterathe-exiled-realm-of-arboreaFri, 11 Nov 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA wins G-Star 2011's highest honor]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/09/tera-wins-g-star-2011s-highest-honor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/09/tera-wins-g-star-2011s-highest-honor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/09/tera-wins-g-star-2011s-highest-honor/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

TERA - Castanic wallpaper
Things have been looking fairly bleak for TERA fans over the last few months. There have been reports of server merges and general discontent among the Korean playerbase, executive switcheroos at Bluehole Studio, and an American launch date delay to the spring of 2012.

This year's G-Star convention finally provided a ray of sunlight in the form of the prestigious Presidential Award. Yes, TERA won it, and the honor is a pretty big deal in the South Korean gaming community. The country's Ministry of Culture (a government board responsible for gaming industry regulations) chooses the nominees while a pool of journalists, industry veterans, and gamers vote on the winner.

TERA also took home G-Star awards for best sound effects, graphics, and character design.

MassivelyTERA wins G-Star 2011's highest honor originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 Nov 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studioconsconventionsen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyg-starg-star-2011g-star-awardspresidential-awardreal-world-eventsteraWed, 09 Nov 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA's Korean version influenced by Western feedback]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/28/teras-korean-version-influenced-by-western-feedback/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/28/teras-korean-version-influenced-by-western-feedback/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/28/teras-korean-version-influenced-by-western-feedback/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

TERA
While we're still impatiently drumming our fingers waiting for TERA to release in the West, it turns out that our feedback is causing real change in the game's live Korean edition. According to a forum post by Producer Chris Hager, Bluehole Studio has taken several suggestions passed along by En Masse and is incorporating them into the live version of the game. Hager says that this is "just a taste" of how the two developers are interacting and collaborating.

On November 24th, the next big Korean update will hit the servers, and with it come the implemented suggestions from En Masse's fans. This update will include a dungeon finder system, rest XP, group XP bonuses, modified PvP rules, a guild battle system, and "more skill diversity through new master Glyphs." Oh, and there will be the ability to sit because roleplayers would be lost otherwise.

"This is a very exciting time for us as we are starting to see what true collaboration looks like," Hager writes, "and it also shows that you guys do carry a voice with us. The best part is that there is more to come."

MassivelyTERA's Korean version influenced by Western feedback originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 28 Oct 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bluehole-studioChris-Hagercollaborationen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfeedbackguild-battleskoreakoreanrest-xproleplayerssuggestionsterawestwesternFri, 28 Oct 2011 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[En Masse releases October TERA producer's letter]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/10/en-masse-releases-october-tera-producers-letter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/10/en-masse-releases-october-tera-producers-letter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/10/en-masse-releases-october-tera-producers-letter/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Screenshot -- TERA KICK!
It's been a while since we last heard from En Masse Entertainment, but the wait is now over. Chris Hager is back on the scene with the newest TERA producer's letter, and there are a few details that may make fans a bit more excited about the upcoming title.

The studio recently met with a few members of the Bluehole Studio overseas team. The result of this meeting? "A firm alpha/beta/launch schedule" for the upcoming action MMORPG. What is that schedule? Well, we don't know yet. Sorry! The next phase of alpha testing will be taking place soon, though it's important to note that the studio is selecting testers internally. With any luck, this means that beta is just on the horizon. Keep in touch for further updates, which Mr. Hager assures us are coming soon.

MassivelyEn Masse releases October TERA producer's letter originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 10 Oct 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphabetablueholebluehole-studioen-masseen-masse-entertainmentlaunchproducer-letterproducers-letterterathe-exiled-realm-of-arboreaMon, 10 Oct 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's exclusive TERA lore: A day in the life of a Naga Clawrider]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/21/massivelys-exclusive-tera-lore-a-day-in-the-life-of-a-naga-cla/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/21/massivelys-exclusive-tera-lore-a-day-in-the-life-of-a-naga-cla/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/21/massivelys-exclusive-tera-lore-a-day-in-the-life-of-a-naga-cla/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

TERA screenshot
Yesterday, we teamed up with En Masse Entertainment to unveil TERA's Naga Clawrider and Naga Bloodscale, two "big ass monsters" that players will face off against come the game's launch in the U.S. next year. Today, we'll give one of those baddies a bit more character with a tale spun by one of TERA's own writers. This exclusive day-in-the-life story is told from the perspective of Silvatuhr, a typical Naga Clawrider -- one of the elite Naga soldiers who do battle from the backs of massive crabs. Silvatuhr explains the extreme risks he took with his own offsprings' lives in order to become a Clawrider, and then he cavalierly outlines the penalties he doles out to those who disrespect his race and his order.

Don't take our word for it -- skip past the cut and let Silvatuhr himself fill you in.

Continue reading Massively's exclusive TERA lore: A day in the life of a Naga Clawrider

MassivelyMassively's exclusive TERA lore: A day in the life of a Naga Clawrider originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bambamsbig-ass-monsterbig-ass-monstersblueholebluehole-studioclawriderday-in-the-lifeen-masseen-masse-entertainmentexclusivelorenaganaga-clawriderscreenshotscreenshotsteraWed, 21 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA unleashes serpentine BAMs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/tera-unleashes-serpentine-bams/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/tera-unleashes-serpentine-bams/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/tera-unleashes-serpentine-bams/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

TERA screenshot
The Naga is more than just an awesome gaming mouse or a deity of the Indian subcontinent, although the latter likely inspired the En Masse devs responsible for today's reveal of yet another pair of TERA BAMs. Massively's scored a look at two "big ass monsters" of the Naga variety, both the Naga Clawrider and the Naga Bloodscale. Clawriders, you'll be unsurprised to learn, are proficient at riding enormous clawed crabs that spit steam and kick butt. Should his skills fail him, the Clawrider dies the same death as his mount. Bloodscales, on the other hand, trample each other's bloodied corpses in their quest to be chosen to undergo what has to be the worst skin graft operation of all time. Then again, wouldn't you let a priest scrape off all your skin to make you thrice as powerful? Yeah, maybe not.

Check out the gallery below for the visuals, and head past the cut for the official descriptions of these two baddies.

Gallery: TERA

Continue reading TERA unleashes serpentine BAMs

MassivelyTERA unleashes serpentine BAMs originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Sep 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Screenshot -- TERA
At this year's PAX, I had the distinct pleasure of being able to get a hands-on preview of TERA at En Masse's own studio (which has the most amazing view I've ever seen, by the way). After a short presentation featuring TERA's healer trailer, we (Rubi, another journalist, and I) were tossed into the boots of a variety of DPS characters. I took on the role of the Sorceress, with Rubi with me on the back lines as an Archer.

The devs told us we'd be facing a pair of BAMs as a 5-man group. After a good deal of japes regarding whose fault it is in the case of a wipe (for the record, it's totally the healer's), we jumped right into the dungeon. And then, chaos. I had hardly any time to read my abilities' tooltips, so for the first couple of pulls I was just spamming buttons and praying for the best. How did the rest of the dungeon play out for my poor, inexperienced self? Follow me after the cut and I'll tell you allllll about it.

Continue reading PAX 2011: Hands-on with TERA

MassivelyPAX 2011: Hands-on with TERA originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 31 Aug 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiodungeonen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfeaturedhands-onkaidunpax-2011pax-prime-2011penny-arcade-expo-2011penny-arcade-expo-prime-2011previewterathe-exiled-realm-of-arboreaWed, 31 Aug 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: A peek into TERA's beauty]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/28/one-shots-a-peek-into-teras-beauty/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/28/one-shots-a-peek-into-teras-beauty/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/28/one-shots-a-peek-into-teras-beauty/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

TERA landscape
It's all about TERA in this edition of One Shots, with reader Philip describing the feelings he gets from this gorgeous shot:
While questing in the vast world of TERA Online, I was led into this little area by a specific quest line. This area was full of simply gorgeous horses and vibrant colors. The water glimmered, and I had goosebumps from the sheer beauty of this area and its landscape. Hopefully, you will be able to enjoy the elegance the game provides, like I did.
We're looking at the best MMO environments all this week, but next week we'll be revisiting another old favorite of One Shots: bug week. Whether it's unwanted guests in cutscenes, funny graphic glitches, or a prank you played on a buddy, we want to see. Send your screenshots in to oneshots@massively.com and we'll feature them in next week's One Shots!

Gallery: One Shots: 2011

MassivelyOne Shots: A peek into TERA's beauty originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 28 Aug 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bluehole-studioen-masse-entertainmentgalleriesgalleryone-shotsphilipscreenshotscreenshotsteratera-onlineSun, 28 Aug 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's exclusive TERA lore: A day in the life of Gernakul the Dracoloth]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/massivelys-exclusive-tera-lore-a-day-in-the-life-of-gernakul-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/massivelys-exclusive-tera-lore-a-day-in-the-life-of-gernakul-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/massivelys-exclusive-tera-lore-a-day-in-the-life-of-gernakul-t/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

TERA - dracoloth
Welcome, TERA fans, to another installment of Massively's exclusive A Day in the Life lore series. The recent news of TERA's spring 2012 launch delay may have dampened your spirits (or perhaps bolstered them if you're of the release-it-when-it's-ready mentality), but En Masse is here to tide us over with another interesting story snippet from the world of Arborea.

This time around we're treated to the tale of Volorius, a devan soldier who makes a pact with an unlikely ally named Gernakul. Gernakul is a dracoloth, and as you can tell from the screenshot above, he's not to be messed with. Aside from decimating a camp of heavily armored soldiers and snacking on a overconfident sorcerer, Gernakul is possessed of a treacherous and nasty disposition, as Volorious soon learns. Read about his fate after the cut.

Continue reading Massively's exclusive TERA lore: A day in the life of Gernakul the Dracoloth

MassivelyMassively's exclusive TERA lore: A day in the life of Gernakul the Dracoloth originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 26 Aug 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-day-in-the-lifearboreablueholebluehole-studiodracolothen-masseen-masse-entertainmentexclusivefantasyfeaturedfran-stewartgernakulgernakul-the-dracolothlorenew-titlesteratera-onlinevoloriusFri, 26 Aug 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA devs talk guild housing and more in Twitter chat]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/23/tera-devs-talk-guild-housing-and-more-in-twitter-chat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/23/tera-devs-talk-guild-housing-and-more-in-twitter-chat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/23/tera-devs-talk-guild-housing-and-more-in-twitter-chat/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

TERA - concept art
In case you missed it, En Masse is hosting a TERA production chat via Twitter on the third Friday of every month. The transcript of last Friday's session is now live on the official TERA website, and there were a few noteworthy nuggets dropped by producer Brian Knox and community manager Evan Berman during the course of the event.

Among the interesting blurbs on display are the fact that guild housing is back on the dev team's radar, and the feature may yet make it into the game's spring 2012 launch. Also of note are a couple of general numbers relating to the size of the dev team (70 at En Masse and over 200 at Korea's Bluehole Studio, where the game is originating). Finally, there was a bit of a teaser for a big TERA-related announcement at next week's PAX community event, so keep your eyes and ears peeled!

MassivelyTERA devs talk guild housing and more in Twitter chat originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Aug 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-combataction-mmoarboreabluehole-studiodev-chatdev-team-sizeen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyguild-housingpax-community-eventteratera-onlineTue, 23 Aug 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA introduces new healer trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/tera-introduces-new-healer-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/tera-introduces-new-healer-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/tera-introduces-new-healer-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

TERA screenshot
Healers are the unsung heroes of fantasy worlds, protecting the valiant warriors of the realm and receiving none of the glory. Well, En Masse Entertainment is looking to change that, and to start it off the team has released a new cinematic trailer thathighlights the healers of TERA.

Our healer host for the trailer, a female Castanic, provides us with a bit of backstory via voiceover as monsters ravage the land. The heroes of TERA won't take that sitting down, of course, and soon enough our Castanic friend and her allies make a grand entrance and take down a legion of foul creatures, only to find themselves face-to-face with one Big-Ass Monster. For all of the action-fueled excitement, hop on past the cut for the full trailer.

Continue reading TERA introduces new healer trailer

MassivelyTERA introduces new healer trailer originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiocastaniccinematiccinematicsen-masseen-masse-entertainmenthealerterathe-exiled-realm-of-arboreatrailertrailersvideovideosMon, 15 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: TERA's Korean development director resigns]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/01/rumor-teras-korean-development-director-resigns/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/01/rumor-teras-korean-development-director-resigns/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/01/rumor-teras-korean-development-director-resigns/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

If the rumors are true (and we'd like to stress that these are simply rumors as of press time), Bluehole Studio is undergoing something of a shakeup following the less-than-stellar showing of its TERA MMORPG in Korea.

Hyun-Kyu Park, TERA's executive director, has reportedly left the development firm due to an as-yet undetermined internal conflict. Our sources in Korea tell us that Park locked horns with other senior Bluehole executives due to his desire to postpone the game's open beta earlier this year. At the time, Park stepped down from his role as TERA's chief producer to become a producer on a forthcoming Bluehole title but is now rumored to have left the firm entirely.

TERA launched in Korea on January 25th and Bluehole began merging servers earlier this summer. Massively has contacted En Masse Entertainment, TERA's North American publisher, and is awaiting a response.

MassivelyRumor: TERA's Korean development director resigns originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoblueholebluehole-studioen-masseen-masse-entertainmentexecutivesfantasyhyun-kyu-parkmmo-industryrumorrumorsteraMon, 01 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA shows off two new BAMs: the forestwalker vulcan and vulcan juggernaut]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/18/tera-shows-off-two-new-bams-the-forestwalker-vulcan-and-vulcan/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/18/tera-shows-off-two-new-bams-the-forestwalker-vulcan-and-vulcan/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/18/tera-shows-off-two-new-bams-the-forestwalker-vulcan-and-vulcan/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Raise your weapons, TERA fans, because today we've got another pair of BAMs for you to contend with. This month we're stepping away from the icy wendigos to the hulking vulcans, which act as servants to the mysterious cult of Lok.

The spotlight shines first on the vulcan juggernaut, which -- as the name implies -- is a gargantuan creature more than capable of tearing your arms off and bludgeoning you to death with them, and more than willing to do just that. Between fireballs, foot-stomping earthquakes, and a general sense of unbridled malice, the vulcan juggernaut is a force to be reckoned with.

Next is the juggernaut's distant cousin (twice-removed), the forestwalker vulcan. Though these vulcans aren't as large as their juggernaut counterparts, they make up for it with their enormous and deadly horns. Facing off with a forestwalker vulcan is a lot like the running of the bulls, only your chances of survival are even lower!

Continue reading TERA shows off two new BAMs: the forestwalker vulcan and vulcan juggernaut

MassivelyTERA shows off two new BAMs: the forestwalker vulcan and vulcan juggernaut originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 18 Jul 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Our last look at TERA took us inside a day in the life of the wendigo Uchamba. Today, a new video from En Masse takes us inside the hallowed halls of the ominous Dark Cathedral instance. The short gameplay video features a group of adventurers taking on quite a few of the Cathedral's denizens, and its visuals are quite stunning to watch.

It also gives players a look at TERA's "real action combat," which requires players to actively dodge and block in response to enemy attacks. If hot chicks, handsome men, and adorable panda creatures beating the ever-loving crap out of huge monsters sounds like your idea of a good time, head on past the cut for the full video.

Continue reading New TERA video takes players inside the Dark Cathedral

MassivelyNew TERA video takes players inside the Dark Cathedral originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Jul 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bamblueholebluehole-studiodark-cathedraldungeonen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfanserviceinstanceteratrailertrailersvideovideosThu, 07 Jul 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive TERA lore: Day in the life - Uchamba]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/27/massively-exclusive-tera-lore-day-in-the-life-uchamba/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/27/massively-exclusive-tera-lore-day-in-the-life-uchamba/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/27/massively-exclusive-tera-lore-day-in-the-life-uchamba/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

TERA fans, it's time for another treat! A few days ago, we got our first look at the fearsome wendigos of TERA. Today, we delve even further into the culture of these clever creatures with a day in the life of Uchamba, the leader of the wendigo clan that guards the Thysrivvar -- known to the mortal races of TERA as the Azurice Shrine.

Unlike the wendigos of many other MMORPGs, which are often portrayed as yetis or other abominable-snowman-esque creatures, TERA's wendigos are massive, crystalline creatures with a penchant for equally massive, crystalline weapons. Also unlike their traditionally savage and dim-witted counterparts, these wendigos seem to be presented as clever, honorable, and brave creatures fighting not for pleasure, but for their very survival. For the full story of Uchamba and his clan's struggle for survival against their mortal enemies, the giants, click on past the cut.

Gallery: TERA screenshots

Continue reading Massively Exclusive TERA lore: Day in the life - Uchamba

MassivelyMassively Exclusive TERA lore: Day in the life - Uchamba originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 27 Jun 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bambig-ass-monsterblueholebluehole-studioday-in-the-lifeen-masseen-masse-entertainmentgalleriesgallerylorescreenshotscreenshotsteratera-loretera-onlineuchambawendigowendigosMon, 27 Jun 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA E3 recap video explains political system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/tera-e3-recap-video-explains-political-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/tera-e3-recap-video-explains-political-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/tera-e3-recap-video-explains-political-system/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

E3 2011 is a distant memory, but En Masse is still getting a bit of mileage out of the event thanks to a newly released TERA video compilation. The trailer shows off portions of the closed-doors media presentation from this month's trade show, and the footage is heavy on action combat and lush sequences featuring the game's gorgeous visuals.

The clip also devotes a good portion of its running time to the recently announced political system, and producers Chris Hager and Stefan Ramirez fire off some pretty tantalizing soundbytes relating to player interaction and the possibility of affecting the game world. "That means getting votes, buying votes, smearing your opponent, taking out your competition, raising taxes, making tons of cash money, controlling your province, putting players in prison, running your own events, managing your own towns, and just doing whatever you want," Ramirez says.

Staying in power to continue doing whatever you want is the trick, of course, and the video spends a good amount of time detailing ways to maintain control over your province. While it all sounds pretty spectacular, it also raises plenty of questions (like, how is all of that going to matter in an MMO that lacks serious consequences in terms of a death penalty or gear/stat loss?). Whatever the answers, we can't wait to learn more. Check out the full video after the cut.

Continue reading TERA E3 recap video explains political system

MassivelyTERA E3 recap video explains political system originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Jun 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiochris-hagerconsequencese3e3-2011e3-2011-recape3-recapen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyplayer-jailpolicy-pointspolitical-systempoliticsstefan-ramirezteratera-onlinetrailervanarchvanarch-missionsvideoThu, 23 Jun 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA composers discuss musical themes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/20/tera-composers-discuss-musical-themes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/20/tera-composers-discuss-musical-themes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/20/tera-composers-discuss-musical-themes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

As game budgets grow, production values usually do as well, and this is pretty apparent in the spate of high-quality musical scores surrounding many modern MMORPGs. Titles as diverse as Guild Wars, Age of Conan, and Lord of the Rings Online boast cinema-style ear candy and instantly recognizable theme music, and TERA is gearing up to become the latest MMORPG to follow suit.

Renowned composers Inon Zur (Dragon Age, Fallout 3) and Rod Abernethy (RAGE, Dead Space) have been working on TERA's score since 2009, and the duo has made use of the Northwest Sinfonia Orchestra and world-class production and mixing facilities to bring the music of Arborea to life.

Zur and Abernethy are interviewed in a new piece over at ZAM, and clicking on the link will bring you discussion on regional and racial musical content as well as personal insights from both men regarding their work on Bluehole Studio's action MMO.

MassivelyTERA composers discuss musical themes originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Jun 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studioen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyinon-zurinterviewmusicrod-abernethyscoresoundtrackteraMon, 20 Jun 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2011: En Masse interview delves into TERA's political system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/08/e3-2011-en-masse-interview-delves-into-teras-political-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/08/e3-2011-en-masse-interview-delves-into-teras-political-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/08/e3-2011-en-masse-interview-delves-into-teras-political-system/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Let's get political! Today at E3, our very own Shawn Schuster got the chance to talk to the fine folks at En Masse and about their upcoming action MMORPG TERA and its groundbreaking new political system. En Masse's Associate Producer Stefan Ramirez said of the political system, "If TERA's action makes the combat fun and engaging, then the political system brings a whole new depth to player engagement." How exactly are the folks at En Masse going to accomplish this new level of engagement? Well, follow along with us and we'll tell you.

First and foremost, it's important to note that TERA's political system is entirely player-driven. There is no script and no plan, and it's entirely up to the game's populace to decide how the politics on each server will play out. The player's overarching goal within the political system is to become a Vanarch, the leader of a province. The benefits of becoming a Vanarch are many, and in the words of Mr. Ramirez, Vanarchs "have a shit-ton of power, a shit-ton of money, and a shit-ton of fame."

Continue reading E3 2011: En Masse interview delves into TERA's political system

MassivelyE3 2011: En Masse interview delves into TERA's political system originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 Jun 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studioe3e3-2011en-massefeaturedfrogsterinterviewinterviewspolitical-systempoliticspreviewsteraWed, 08 Jun 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA's PvP features light death penalty]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/06/teras-pvp-features-light-death-penalty/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/06/teras-pvp-features-light-death-penalty/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/06/teras-pvp-features-light-death-penalty/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The TERA news beat has fairly quiet recently. Aside from the Korean server merges, there hasn't been a whole lot new to report regarding the exiled realm of Arborea. Fansite TERAPvP to the rescue, then, courtesy of an interview with En Masse community manager Evan "Scapes" Berman.

The interview is brief, and if you've been the following the game closely, you've probably heard most of this before. For casual fans, or those just getting wind of all things TERA, there are a few interesting PvP nuggets that might be worth your time.

First up is the question of character transfers between PvE and PvP servers. TERAPvP points out the balance issues inherent in allowing players to level (and gear up) their characters on a PvE server before moving them to a PvP shard. Berman doesn't give a definitive answer as to whether this will be allowed or not, saying that it's something En Masse will "have to evaluate for TERA." Friendly fire is also a no-go in TERA's PvP combat, and there is no experience loss or item degradation. As Scapes says, "items in TERA do not have a durability mechanic."

MassivelyTERA's PvP features light death penalty originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 06 Jun 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiodeath-penaltydurabilityen-masseen-masse-entertainmentevan-bermanexperience-lossfriendly-fireinterviewpvpscapesteratera-onlineMon, 06 Jun 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: TERA Korean servers merging [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/rumor-tera-korean-servers-merging/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/rumor-tera-korean-servers-merging/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/rumor-tera-korean-servers-merging/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Bluehole Studio's TERA action MMORPG is gearing up for its second round of Korean server merges since launch according to a blurb at MMO Culture. The fantasy title, which is currently being prepared for a North American release by En Masse Entertainment, is scheduled to trim its list of 35 shards to 15 this week.

Despite more upbeat news of fresh content in the offing, the merges come amid reports of lower-than-expected financial performance according to publisher NHN Korea. TERA launched in Korea last February and is gearing up for a Japanese beta on July 1st. No North American or European beta dates have been announced.

[Update]: TERA's main Korean website does provide both official confirmation of server merges as well as time projections.

MassivelyRumor: TERA Korean servers merging [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 Jun 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoblueholebluehole-studioen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyfrogsterfrogster-interactivekorean-server-mergesmmo-culturenhn-korearumorrumorsserver-mergesteratera-koreatera-onlineWed, 01 Jun 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA fly-through video shows off southern Shara]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/24/tera-fly-through-video-shows-off-southern-shara/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/24/tera-fly-through-video-shows-off-southern-shara/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/24/tera-fly-through-video-shows-off-southern-shara/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

It's been a while since we've seen a proper TERA fly-through video and even longer (maybe ever) since we've seen one that features frosty, forbidden landscapes piled high with ice and snow.

Enter a new clip from Frogster (TERA's European publisher) that we recently sighted on YouTube. The trailer runs north of two minutes and whisks us through the wilds of southern Shara on a whirlwind journey from icy snowscapes to sprawling cities then onward through psychedelic forests and quaint fantasy villages.

Despite the scenic splendor that takes up most of the screen time, TERA's unique combat mechanics aren't completely ignored. A brief and violent action montage punctuates the clip and serves to whet our appetites for more from the world of Arborea. Feast your eyes after the cut.

Continue reading TERA fly-through video shows off southern Shara

MassivelyTERA fly-through video shows off southern Shara originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 May 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-combatbluehole-studioen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyfly-throughfly-through-videofrogsterfrogster-interactivescenerysharasouthern-sharateratrailervideoTue, 24 May 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[En Masse confirms TERA for E3, hints at crafting systems [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/10/en-masse-confirms-tera-for-e3-hints-at-crafting-systems/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/10/en-masse-confirms-tera-for-e3-hints-at-crafting-systems/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/10/en-masse-confirms-tera-for-e3-hints-at-crafting-systems/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

En Masse has officially confirmed TERA's presence at this year's E3, and the company has also just released a gaggle of screenshots and a new dungeon-crawl video designed to tease fans in the lead up to various convention reveals scheduled for June 7th through June 9th.

TERA's crafting game gets a brief mention in today's press release as well, with En Masse trumpeting the fact that the tradeskill system features "more than a thousand items to create, use, and sell." Crafting is also presented as "more than clicking a button," with the collection of blueprints and mythic elements -- as well as the use of forges -- highlighted in today's news blast.

En Masse also hints at TERA's equipment customization, enchanting, and glyph systems. Read all about it via the full press release after the cut. Don't forget to check out the new screens in the gallery below while you're at it.

[Updated with a video of the Pirate Grotto dungeon, after the break!]

Gallery: TERA screenshots

Continue reading En Masse confirms TERA for E3, hints at crafting systems [Updated]

MassivelyEn Masse confirms TERA for E3, hints at crafting systems [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 May 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiocraftinge3e3-2011en-masseen-masse-entertainmentenchantingfantasygalleryglyphspirate-grottoscreenshotsteratera-onlinetrailervideoTue, 10 May 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New TERA dev diary looks at genre-bending]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/06/new-tera-dev-diary-looks-at-genre-bending/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/06/new-tera-dev-diary-looks-at-genre-bending/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/06/new-tera-dev-diary-looks-at-genre-bending/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The folks at En Masse assert in their latest dev diary that perhaps MMORPG isn't the best acronym to describe their upcoming game TERA. Instead, they suggest MMOACRPG, or Massively Multiplayer Online Action Combat Roleplaying Game.

The dev diary goes into detail over how TERA is unlike the typical MMORPG on the market today. It explains how each class requires "timing, aim, and precision to excel" and how "dodging, blocking, and movement play a big part in your survival," which is quite a jump from the usual target-and-begin rotation outlook we see in most games.

The full dev diary contains further information, including a small tidbit on the game's political system. If you're keeping an eye on TERA as it makes its way to the west, we recommend you take the time to read the full entry!

MassivelyNew TERA dev diary looks at genre-bending originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 May 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionblueholebluehole-studiocombaten-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyreally-long-acronymsteraFri, 06 May 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA producer: Getting to endgame doesn't take a lot of time]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/05/tera-producer-getting-to-endgame-doesnt-take-a-lot-of-time/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/05/tera-producer-getting-to-endgame-doesnt-take-a-lot-of-time/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/05/tera-producer-getting-to-endgame-doesnt-take-a-lot-of-time/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Episode three of the official TERA podcast is a wrap, and community director Jason "BrotherMagneto" Mical sits down with En Masse producers Brian Knox and Chris Hager to talk voice acting, E3 2011, and the recently concluded community play event. There's also a few interesting blurbs related to TERA's endgame, both in terms of reaching it and what it entails.

Hager discusses the challenges of recording "greet and goodbye" dialogue snippets for quest-givers as well as more involved cinematic presentations that will occur throughout the TERA progression experience.

Knox jumps right to fan concerns about TERA's leveling curve, saying that it doesn't have much in common with your typical grindfest. "We're putting a lot of focus on adding more content to the endgame and making sure there's lots to do at max level. Getting to max level in TERA, it doesn't take a lot of time. We've made sure that progress is fast and efficient," Knox explains. So what is there to do at endgame? Knox says that dungeons and boss fights will play a significant role, and En Masse will be tweaking the difficulty levels to continually challenge players.

MassivelyTERA producer: Getting to endgame doesn't take a lot of time originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 May 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoblueholebluehole-studiobrian-knoxbrother-magnetobrothermagnetochris-hagere3e3-2011en-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyjason-micalteravoice-actingThu, 05 May 2011 18:00:00 EST