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[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[Rumor: WAR40K canceled, THQ readying itself for sale [Updated; rumor debunked]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/15/rumor-war40k-canceled-thq-readying-itself-for-sale/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/15/rumor-war40k-canceled-thq-readying-itself-for-sale/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/15/rumor-war40k-canceled-thq-readying-itself-for-sale/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Warhammer 40: Dark Millennium Online - giant robot thing
It's been a rough couple of years for Warhammer MMORPG fans, and if the rumors are true, it's about to get a bit bleaker.

Kotaku reports on a tweet by games industry insider Kevin Dent that indicates that THQ has "canceled its entire 2014 slate of releases to position the company for sale." This would include Warhammer 40K: Dark Millennium Online, which Dent referred to as "the Games Workshop MMO" on his Twitter page.

We'll keep you posted as we learn more.

[Update: THQ's Australian PR department has issued a statement asserting that the company has not in fact canceled its 2014 lineup and "has not made any decisions" regarding WAR40K.]

MassivelyRumor: WAR40K canceled, THQ readying itself for sale [Updated; rumor debunked] originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 15 Jan 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingcanceledcancellationdark-millennium-onlinemmo-industrynew-titlesrumorsci-fithqwar40k-dark-millenium-onlinewarhammerwarhammer-mmoSun, 15 Jan 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA opens the door for beta sign-ups [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/tera-opens-the-door-for-beta-sign-ups/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/tera-opens-the-door-for-beta-sign-ups/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/tera-opens-the-door-for-beta-sign-ups/#commentsFiled under: , ,

TERA
Just when you thought the day would never come, En Masse has put out the call far and wide: TERA testers are needed! Come one, come all, bring your huddled masses yearning for true action combat, and enjoy life, liberty, and the pursuit of epic loot!

As of today, TERA is accepting applications for closed beta testing in North America. What must you do to be part of this exciting event? Will you be forced to slay dragons, mail En Masse your life savings, or promise your firstborn child? Nay, my friend -- all you need to is head over to the site and enter your email address. That's it.

TERA closed beta testers will be invited randomly and via special giveaways, but everyone who signs up at any point will automatically be included in the open beta test later on down the road.

[Update: The EU beta for TERA is undergoing a similar sign-up process: "Those who register by 11:30 CET tomorrow will go into the draw to win one of 1000 keys that will give 'em access to the whole testing period," a Frogster rep told us.]

MassivelyTERA opens the door for beta sign-ups [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-sign-upbeta-testbeta-testersbeta-testingbreakingclosed-betaen-masseen-masse-entertainmentopen-betasign-upssignupsteraThu, 12 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Diablo III heading to a gaming console near you [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/diablo-iii-heading-to-a-gaming-console-near-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/diablo-iii-heading-to-a-gaming-console-near-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/diablo-iii-heading-to-a-gaming-console-near-you/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Diablo III logo
For some time, the Diablo franchise has been touted by PC-gaming purists as one of the landmark reasons that PC gaming is superior to all others. Well, not anymore! Though Blizzard has made numerous statements that they were "seriously considering" a console version of the title, CM Bashiok tweeted today that the upcoming Diablo III would be making the jump to consoles, giving us our first official confirmation. Josh Mosqueira, who has worked on such titles as Company of Heroes and Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War, is heading the charge as the console version's lead designer. Aside from those small details, however, we know absolutely nil about the title's console version (or to which consoles it will be coming, for that matter), but now that the news is out and about, we imagine that Blizzard will be making an official announcement very soon, so keep your eyes peeled and we'll bring you the latest as it comes.

[Update: Blizzard is saying that Josh Mosqueira's tweet was not, in fact, official confirmation.]

MassivelyDiablo III heading to a gaming console near you [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bashiokblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbreakingconsoleconsolesd3diablodiablo-3diablo-iiijosh-mosqueiraTue, 10 Jan 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[God save the green: Deal makes Jagex a US company]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/09/god-save-the-green-deal-makes-jagex-a-us-company/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/09/god-save-the-green-deal-makes-jagex-a-us-company/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/09/god-save-the-green-deal-makes-jagex-a-us-company/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Jagex
Jagex is trading up the Union Jack for the Stars and Stripes, as controlling interest in the studio has changed hands to a US firm.

Insight Venture Partners, a venture capital firm from the US, completed a deal last year to increase its ownership to 55% of the UK-based company. Previously, the firm had 35% interest in Jagex. Now that the scales have tipped to the new ownership, this technically makes Jagex a US-controlled company and has US investors leading its board of directors.

While revenues were up 2% for Jagex in 2011, both operating and net profits were significantly down from the previous financial year. Jagex is a major player in the MMO free-to-play market, with RuneScape, Transformers Universe, and 8Realms as part of its project portfilio.

Develop reports that the controlling interest was made possible by Jagex co-founder Andrew Gower selling off his ownership claims to the firm for $115.65 million. As part of the deal, Jagex paid $3.85 million in expenses. The studio will remain in Cambridge while its controlling firm is in NYC.

MassivelyGod save the green: Deal makes Jagex a US company originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>8realmsandrew-gowerboard-of-directorsbreakingcontrolling-interestdealinsight-venture-brothersinvestorsjagexjagex-game-studiosprofitprofitsrevenuerevenuesrunescapetakeovertransformers-universeukusMon, 09 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Trion Worlds customer database hacked, 'no evidence' credit card info stolen]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/22/trion-worlds-customer-database-hacked-no-evidence-credit-card/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/22/trion-worlds-customer-database-hacked-no-evidence-credit-card/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/22/trion-worlds-customer-database-hacked-no-evidence-credit-card/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Trion Worlds
Trion Worlds has become the latest in a long string of MMO studio security breaches this year, as the company reported an intrusion into its customer database. At risk of compromise were customers' user names, passwords, birthdates, email and billing addresses, and partial credit card info. However, the company states that "there is no evidence" that full credit card numbers were stolen at this time.

In a message posted on the Trion Worlds website, the company promises that it is both researching the intrusion and taking steps to increase security. As part of this, all RIFT players will be asked to change passwords and security questions, and their mobile authenticators will need to be reconnected.

The company urges customers to watch their bank statements for questionable activity, and provides customers with resources to get a free credit report and putting a freeze on credit reports.

To compensate customers for the issue, Trion is providing all RIFT players with three extra days of gaming time and a Moneybags' Purse that increases all money looted by 10% in-game.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in!]

MassivelyTrion Worlds customer database hacked, 'no evidence' credit card info stolen originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Dec 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>authenticatorbreakingcompensationcredit-card-infocredit-cardscustomer-databasedatabasehackhackedhackersintrusionmobile-authenticatormoneybags-pursepasswordsriftsecuritysecurity-breachtriontrion-worldsThu, 22 Dec 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online senior producer stepping down]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/22/eve-online-senior-producer-stepping-down/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/22/eve-online-senior-producer-stepping-down/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/22/eve-online-senior-producer-stepping-down/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

CCP Zulu
Big changes are in the works for EVE Online's management team, as senior producer Arnar "CCP Zulu" Gylfason is stepping down. In a brief blog post on the game's official website, Zulu describes EVE's past 18 months as "an incredibly intense time" filled with "quite a few harsh lessons."

Taking over for Zulu is Jon "CCP Unifex" Lander, who has been playing EVE since 2005 and heading up CCP's Carbon technology team since 2009. Lander spends his introductory post outlining the challenges in the offing for CCP's sci-fi sandbox, and he also mentions that the dev team currently numbers close to 200 people. In a nutshell, it looks like EVE is heading back to basics, as Lander says that the team "will be concentrating on those features we already have in the game after eight years of development."

Finally, all capsuleers who have an active subscription on December 31st will have their character names and images launched into space aboard a high-altitude balloon (yes, really). Head to the official website for more.

MassivelyEVE Online senior producer stepping down originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arnar-gylfasonbreakingccpccp-gamesccp-unifexccp-zuludevelopmenteveeve-onlinejon-landersandboxsci-fiThu, 22 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars: The Old Republic opens up pre-loading for early players [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/star-wars-the-old-republic-opens-up-pre-loading-for-early-playe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/star-wars-the-old-republic-opens-up-pre-loading-for-early-playe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/star-wars-the-old-republic-opens-up-pre-loading-for-early-playe/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Wait in line politely, everyone will have a chance.
It's almost the time that many players have been waiting for -- the opening of the gates for Star Wars: The Old Republic. According to the most recent news posts, mail will be sent out starting on December 13th to notify players of when their early access period will begin. But why wait that long when you can download the client now, making sure that you're patched up and ready to go when your early access goes live?

The pre-order page for player accounts now includes a link to download and install the client, assuming that you've entered the code you received when you ordered. Curiously, this latest announcement says that players can receive up to seven days of early access, although that may well be a typo. If you'd missed previous announcements, players who took part in a beta weekend prior to November 24th will need to reinstall the game, so go ahead and download the updated client and get ready for the early launch in a few days.

[Update: Darth Hater has collected several forum and Twitter posts that confirm the December 13th date is not a typo and is "different from previously advertised." Early-early-access, here we come!]

MassivelyStar Wars: The Old Republic opens up pre-loading for early players [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Dec 2011 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebreakingea-biowareearly-accesselectronic-artsnewspre-loadpre-orderpreloadpreorderstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswswtorthe-old-republictorWed, 07 Dec 2011 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Dan Stahl beams back aboard Cryptic Studios]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/01/dan-stahl-beams-back-aboard-cryptic-studios/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/01/dan-stahl-beams-back-aboard-cryptic-studios/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/01/dan-stahl-beams-back-aboard-cryptic-studios/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Star Trek Online - captain and bridge officer
Dan Stahl couldn't stay away from Star Trek Online for long, and now the former executive producer is back in the fold to head up the Foundry team for Cryptic Studios and parent company Perfect World Entertainment.

Stahl, who left STO for Zynga in September, posted on the o-boards earlier this evening announcing his return. "There is something magical going on at Cryptic these days and I'm very happy to be back working on the MMOs that I personally love to play," he said.

The Foundry is Cryptic's suite of user-generated content tools that is currently available in Star Trek Online and slated to appear in the company's upcoming Neverwinter title.

MassivelyDan Stahl beams back aboard Cryptic Studios originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingcrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahlfoundrymmo-industryperfect-world-entertainmentplayer-generated-contentpwestar-trekstar-trek-onlinestothe-foundryuser-generated-contentzyngaThu, 01 Dec 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DUST 514 community manager CCP Shadow steps down]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/27/dust-514-community-manager-ccp-shadow-steps-down/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/27/dust-514-community-manager-ccp-shadow-steps-down/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/27/dust-514-community-manager-ccp-shadow-steps-down/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

DUST 514 community manager post image
In February of last year, Massively writer James Egan joined developer CCP Games as a community representative for EVE Online under the name CCP Shadow. He went on to become the community manager for upcoming MMOFPS DUST 514 and an integral part of CCP's customer relations department. In a lengthy post on EVE's off-topic forum, James let everyone know today that he will be leaving CCP at the end of this month. His replacement as DUST 514 community manager has already been picked from the existing team, and James will be taking a much-needed break before deciding whether to return to writing or take a new career direction.

In the forum thread, James remembers the good times he's had over the years thanks to the EVE Online community, both as a writer for Massively and as a community representative for CCP. While he wasn't part of the recent 20% staff layoffs, he relates that many of his friends were. While James will no longer be present under the name CCP Shadow, he will still be playing EVE Online on his normal character with the goal of killing everyone in sight. Everyone here at Massively would like him the best of luck in whatever career he decides to pursue.

MassivelyDUST 514 community manager CCP Shadow steps down originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 27 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingccpccp-eveccp-gamesccp-shadowcommunity-managerdust-514eveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlinejamesjames-eganmmofpsnewsSun, 27 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online's Crucible expansion coming Nov 29th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/eve-onlines-crucible-expansion-coming-nov-29th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/eve-onlines-crucible-expansion-coming-nov-29th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/eve-onlines-crucible-expansion-coming-nov-29th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

EVE Online - Crucible nebula background
CCP's feel-good post count has been building to a fever pitch in recent weeks, and today the company has announced the ultimate win-back promotion in the form of EVE Online's 15th major expansion. The content drop is called Crucible, and it's currently scheduled to debut on November 29th.

"Crucible evolves the graphics, interface, and game mechanics with over three dozen updated and improved features based on feedback and challenges put forth by its players. This is EVE re-forged," CCP says on the expansion's teaser page. The web portal also provides a handy collated list of the aforementioned developer updates, and in spite of what was unquestionably the rockiest summer in the sci-fi sandbox title's eight-year existence, the future is looking pretty bright.

MassivelyEVE Online's Crucible expansion coming Nov 29th originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Nov 2011 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingccpccp-gamescrucibleeveeve-crucibleeve-onlineexpansionexpansionsflying-in-spacenew-contentnew-edennew-shipsTue, 15 Nov 2011 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Bigpoint working on Game of Thrones MMO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/09/bigpoint-working-on-game-of-thrones-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/09/bigpoint-working-on-game-of-thrones-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/09/bigpoint-working-on-game-of-thrones-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

A golden crown
Winter is coming, and according to USA Today, so is a rogue's gallery of games based on George R.R. Martin's trendy Song of Ice and Fire IP. In addition to the recently released A Game of Thrones: Genesis strategy title, the lands of Westeros will be featured in an upcoming single-player RPG, a social networking game, and an MMO.

The massively multiplayer entry is being developed by Bigpoint, a German browser-game specialist known for its Battlestar Galactica game and its love of selling in-game advantages.

Whether you're excited about the prospect of killing 10 Lannisters or slitting your wrists over the inevitable MMOification of another beloved fantasy world, the next few months should be interesting to watch.

MassivelyBigpoint working on Game of Thrones MMO originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 Nov 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-game-of-thronesa-song-of-ice-and-firebreakingbrowserbrowser-basedf2pfantasyfree-to-playgame-of-thronesgeorge-r-r-martinkill-10-lannistersmmo-industrymmoificationnooooooooosong-of-ice-and-firetrendyvalar-morghuliswesterosWed, 09 Nov 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Senior Titan designer laid off by Blizzard]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/rumor-senior-titan-designer-laid-off-by-blizzard/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/rumor-senior-titan-designer-laid-off-by-blizzard/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/rumor-senior-titan-designer-laid-off-by-blizzard/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Blizzard logo
The recent spate of MMO industry layoffs isn't discriminating in terms of company size if the latest rumors are true. We've just been informed that one of Blizzard's golden boys has been served his walking papers, joining hundreds of devs from the likes of NCsoft, GamersFirst, GameForge, and CCP in recent weeks.

John Staats, the senior level designer on Blizzard's secretive Titan project, has been let go, according to our tipster. Staats has been with the company for over a decade and is responsible for some of World of Warcraft's most celebrated content including all the raid dungeons, Blackrock Mountain and Booty Bay, and numerous other instanced dungeons.

Staats was also described by Jeff Kaplan as the "hero of the WoW dev team."

[Thanks to Steve for the tip!]

MassivelyRumor: Senior Titan designer laid off by Blizzard originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 Nov 2011 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardblizzard-titanbreakingfantasyjeff-kaplanjohn-staatslayoffsmmo-industryrumorrumorssci-fititanwowMon, 07 Nov 2011 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[MechWarrior Online announced]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/mechwarrior-online-announced/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/mechwarrior-online-announced/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/mechwarrior-online-announced/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

No BattleTech game is complete without a solid 100 tons of Atlas.
In the future, battles will be fought via BattleMechs -- enormous walking tanks covered in weapons, waging war for control of the region of known space called the Inner Sphere. Sound familiar? It's the premise behind the BattleTech series of games, including the popular MechWarrior franchise. And apparently, in late 2012, players will have the chance to get inside a 'Mech of their own in a new online installment to the series, MechWarrior Online, announced by Piranha Games.

The announcement comes with a slew of questions and answers for expectant players, including information about customizing one's 'Mech, which of the classic designs will be seen in the game, and of course details about the world and timeline that the game takes place. There are no details regarding a beta at the moment, but the team seems quite insistent that the game will launch in 2012. It's certainly going to make next year interesting for all life-long MechWarrior fans.

MassivelyMechWarrior Online announced originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 31 Oct 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>announcementsbreakingf2pfree-to-playmechwarriormechwarrior-onlinemwonew-titlespiranha-gamesupcoming-titlesMon, 31 Oct 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DC Universe Online to go free-to-play on November 1st]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/dc-universe-online-to-go-free-to-play-on-november-1st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/dc-universe-online-to-go-free-to-play-on-november-1st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/dc-universe-online-to-go-free-to-play-on-november-1st/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Free and clear. In terms of payments, anyway. This scene is kind of a mess.
It was promised and now it's come true. Yesterday, we were promised that today would see the revelation of the date for DC Universe Online's business model switch, but now we're here, and all the tortured chronological phrasing doesn't change the fact of the matter. On Tuesday, November 1st, the game will be launching its hybrid business model, according to the live webcast taking place at the time of this announcement.

As reported previously, the game will be moving into a tiered model, allowing players to access the game with no subscription requirement. Current subscribers who continue to maintain the monthly fee will gain access to a variety of perks, starting (obviously) on November 1st, but if you've always been curious about the game, get ready to jump in and dress up the day after Halloween. Expect further details to be available from Sony Online Entertainment in the near future.

MassivelyDC Universe Online to go free-to-play on November 1st originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 20:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbusiness-modeldcdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuof2pfree-to-playsoesony-online-entertainmentThu, 27 Oct 2011 20:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: GamersFirst lays off 32 staffers, CFO [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/rumor-gamersfirst-lays-off-32-staffers-cfo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/rumor-gamersfirst-lays-off-32-staffers-cfo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/rumor-gamersfirst-lays-off-32-staffers-cfo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

GamersFirst logo
If the rumors are true, today has not been the best of days for MMO industry staffers. Hot on the heels of our NCsoft layoff story comes distressing news for fans of GamersFirst, as we've just received an anonymous tip concerning the apparent dismissal of 32 people from the firm's west coast office.

According to our tipster, "Most of the APB team was let go. A lot of the support staff was let go. The development team was not, to my knowledge, so the game is still being developed in Scotland." We've also been told that GamersFirst's CFO was let go.

We've reached out to G1 for clarification on this story, and as of press time there is no official word on the staffing decisions or how the shake-up will affect Fallen Earth and the rest of the company's free-to-play lineup.

[Updated: Reader alacritythief let us know that GamersFirst's Revoemnag and TechMech have responded to the layoffs in regard to APB's future. Their comments are just behind the break.]

Continue reading Rumor: GamersFirst lays off 32 staffers, CFO [Updated]

MassivelyRumor: GamersFirst lays off 32 staffers, CFO [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingf2pfallen-earthfantasyfree-to-playg1gamers-firstgamersfirstlayoffsmmo-industrypost-apocalypticrestructuringrumorrumorssci-fiThu, 27 Oct 2011 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Layoffs hit NCsoft's North American offices]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/layoffs-hit-ncsofts-north-american-offices/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/layoffs-hit-ncsofts-north-american-offices/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/layoffs-hit-ncsofts-north-american-offices/#commentsFiled under: , ,

NCsoft logo
Earlier this morning Massively received an anonymous tip that NCsoft terminated an undisclosed number of employees at its Austin, Brighton, and Seattle offices earlier this month. According to our tipster, "many operations jobs are leaving Austin and being contracted back to Seoul," and there were further layoffs in the quality assurance and billing departments, with "with many more put on 60-day notice."

We contacted NCsoft for an official comment and received the following reply:

"In an effort to put a greater focus on the success of the Western-developed games from NCsoft, and the long-term services MMOs require, we announced a global restructuring to our Western publishing team. To optimize the streamlining efforts, limited functionality is moving to our headquarters in Seoul, and some publishing support has been reduced. As a result, there has been a reduction in force that has impacted less than 2 percent of our global workforce. We remain committed to fully support the development of games from ArenaNet, Carbine Studios and Paragon Studios."

We'll keep you up to date on the situation as it develops and as we learn more.

MassivelyLayoffs hit NCsoft's North American offices originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenanetbreakingcarbine-studioslayoffsmmo-industryncsoftncsoft-westparagon-studiospress releasestaff-reductionThu, 27 Oct 2011 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[CCP layoffs affect 20% of worldwide staff, company focusing on EVE]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/19/ccp-layoffs-affect-20-of-worldwide-staff-company-focusing-on-e/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/19/ccp-layoffs-affect-20-of-worldwide-staff-company-focusing-on-e/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/19/ccp-layoffs-affect-20-of-worldwide-staff-company-focusing-on-e/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

CCP logo
Reporting on game industry layoffs is never fun, so we're a bit sobered this morning as we bring you news of CCP's downsizing. The development firm behind EVE Online, DUST 514, and the World of Darkness MMO has just issued a press release stating that it will be trimming approximately 20% of its staff worldwide.

According to CCP Manifest, most of the layoffs will occur in the company's Atlanta, Georgia offices, with select positions at the Reykjavik, Iceland camp also affected.

Manifest says that EVE expansions, DUST, and WoD have stretched CCP's resources too thin, and the company will now "sharpen our focus." In the short term, this means more attention for EVE Online and DUST 514, while World of Darkness will "continue development with a significantly reduced team." Finally, the press release attempts to head off the doomsayers by pointing out the fact that EVE's subscriber numbers are higher than they were this time last year.

[Thanks to everyone who tipped us!]

MassivelyCCP layoffs affect 20% of worldwide staff, company focusing on EVE originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 19 Oct 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbusiness-modelsccpccp-gamesccp-manifestdustdust-514eveeve-onlinelayoffsmmo-industryrefocusworld-of-darknessWed, 19 Oct 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Square-Enix announces end of Final Fantasy XIV's free play and roadmap for next year]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/14/square-enix-announces-end-of-final-fantasy-xivs-free-play-and-r/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/14/square-enix-announces-end-of-final-fantasy-xivs-free-play-and-r/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/14/square-enix-announces-end-of-final-fantasy-xivs-free-play-and-r/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Just the tip of the iceberg.
The latest patch for Final Fantasy XIV brought some major changes with it, but there are more coming. In a new series of announcements, Square-Enix announced that the unbilled period of the game will be coming to a close between late November and early December in recognition of the large-scale work done by Naoki Yoshida and the game's team. But the announcement was more far-reaching than that -- no, the entire game is going to undergo a major process of changes well through next year, including a graphical engine and UI overhaul as well as major changes to the game's maps.

Several design documents have been posted along with this update, making it clear that the changes will be observed and influenced by players taking part in content during this time period. And these changes will be massive -- the new UI will not only look much cleaner but also be able to support player add-ons. With a promised redesign of maps, changes to the landscape, the upcoming PlayStation 3 version, and major updates to the battle system and armoury system, it's going to be very busy over the next few months as Final Fantasy XIV moves toward version 2.0.

MassivelySquare-Enix announces end of Final Fantasy XIV's free play and roadmap for next year originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 14 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>add-onsbreakingbreaking-newsfeesffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivin-game-eventsmajor-updatesmechanical-changesnewsplaystation-3ps3squaresquare-enixsubssubscription-feesuiui-changesupdatesversion-2.0version-changesFri, 14 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars: The Old Republic accidentally taunts potential testers [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/star-wars-the-old-republic-accidentally-taunts-potential-tester/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/star-wars-the-old-republic-accidentally-taunts-potential-tester/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/star-wars-the-old-republic-accidentally-taunts-potential-tester/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Neither the writer of this post nor our SWTOR columnist are currently in the beta, for the record.
What's the worst thing that can happen when you're waiting for a chance to play a highly anticipated game? Being inadvertently taunted about the fact that you aren't in the beta. Star Wars: The Old Republic recently sent out a short survey asking for beta testers to take part, in the hopes of improving the overall testing experience. The only problem was that it wasn't sent out to testers... it was sent out to everyone who had signed up to potentially be a tester.

A thread on the official forums has already reached absurd length, causing server hiccups and intermittent inability to properly access all areas of the site. It's unknown how BioWare will apologize for this mishap (aside from a mention on their Facebook page) -- certainly it's not hurting anyone, but it's probably the last thing that most people not involved in the current beta would like to see. And if you see this message in your email, rest assured, it's no scam... just poor cross-pollination of mailing lists.

[Update: BioWare has officially confirmed that the emails were sent in error. "We can't apologize enough for getting your hopes up. Sorry again. Those responsible will endure a thousand years in the Sarlacc Pit," said Stephen Reid over Twitter.]

MassivelyStar Wars: The Old Republic accidentally taunts potential testers [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Sep 2011 22:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accidentsbetabeta-testingbiowarebioware-austinbioware-eabreakingea-biowareelectronic-artshumorsnafusstar-wars-the-old-republicswtortest-experiencetesting-surveysthe-old-republictorThu, 29 Sep 2011 22:15:00 EST<![CDATA[City of Heroes Freedom goes live]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/27/city-of-heroes-freedom-goes-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/27/city-of-heroes-freedom-goes-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/27/city-of-heroes-freedom-goes-live/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Freedom is no longer the future; Freedom is the right now
City of Heroes is not what it used to be as of today. It's something more, in fact, with the launch of City of Heroes Freedom. While the launch of the game's hybrid subscription model was announced some three months back, today is the day that the gates are open and players can begin enjoying the game's content as a paid subscriber or a free player. This comes on the heels of the head start program, bringing in new content, zones, and story arcs for players to enjoy.

If you're a returning veteran, you can enjoy all of the content for the game that you had previously purchased, as well as existing veteran rewards. Meanwhile, new players can just log in and start enjoying all of the game's seven years of content and updates. Whether you're an old or new player, however, you can take a look at the launch trailer just after the jump for a glimpse at what awaits everyone within City of Heroes Freedom at launch.

Continue reading City of Heroes Freedom goes live

MassivelyCity of Heroes Freedom goes live originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbusiness-modelscity-of-heroescity-of-heroes-freedomcity-of-villainscohcovcoxf2pfree-to-playncsoftparagonparagon-studiospatchespremiumsubscription-optionalupdatesveteranvipTue, 27 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: SOE's John Smedley reveals F2P model for DC Universe Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/massively-exclusive-soes-john-smedley-reveals-f2p-model-for-dc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/massively-exclusive-soes-john-smedley-reveals-f2p-model-for-dc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/massively-exclusive-soes-john-smedley-reveals-f2p-model-for-dc/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

DC Universe Online - Batman and Robin PvP
For those of us who lack Batman's financial resources, maintaining several monthly MMO subscriptions can be a challenge. Sony Online Entertainment recognizes this, and as a result, the company has just announced that DC Universe Online will be officially joining the freemium revolution toward the end of October.

The new business model will feature a familiar tiered access plan with three membership levels. The Free, Premium, and Legendary plans feature full access to the current game while offering different levels of "convenience and flexibility." Free players will be limited to two character slots, and new "downloadable game packs/updates, additional character slots, powers, and more" will be available for purchase via microtransactions.

Premium players, i.e., folks who have spent at least $5 US on the game (including former subscribers and in-game item purchasers), will receive additional character slots, inventory slots, and higher cash limits. Legendary players will take home "maximum features and benefits" including free DLC, more than 15 character slots, and more than 80 inventory slots, all for the regular $14.99 monthly fee. DCUO will also continue to be available on SOE's Station Pass (and subscribing to the monthly all-in-one service nets you Legendary status in DCUO as well as access to all of SOE's MMORPGs).

Finally, Massively sat down with SOE president John Smedley and producer Lorin Jameson to chat about the new model, and you can find that transcription after the break.

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: SOE's John Smedley reveals F2P model for DC Universe Online

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: SOE's John Smedley reveals F2P model for DC Universe Online originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Sep 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmanbreakingbusiness-modelcash-shopcomicsconveniencedc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuoexclusivef2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumgotham-citygreen-lanterninterviewitem-shopitem-storejohn-smedleylegendarylorin-jamesonmassively-exclusivemetropolismicrotransactionsnon-recurring-paymentplaystion-3premiumps3rmtsoesony-online-entertainmentsuperherosupermantiered-accesswonder-womanMon, 19 Sep 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2011: The Secret World launching April 2012 [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/gamescom-2011-the-secret-world-launching-april-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/gamescom-2011-the-secret-world-launching-april-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/gamescom-2011-the-secret-world-launching-april-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The Secret World
The secret is out: Funcom announced today at Gamescom that it will launch The Secret World in April 2012.

The highly anticipated title revolves around secret societies, real-world conspiracies, urban legends, and tricky mysteries. This launch will put the title in a head-to-head battle with TERA, which releases next spring as well.

Funcom also said that it will be inviting players to register starting August 26th for the upcoming beta. The invitation process will be made through "an interactive social media campaign," keeping with the title's fondness for ARGs and viral campaigning.

We'll be keeping an eye on Funcom this week to see what the company has to say about its launch plans.

[Updated: Hit the jump to watch the newest trailer for The Secret World!]

Gallery: The Secret World: GDC 2011

Continue reading Gamescom 2011: The Secret World launching April 2012 [Updated]

MassivelyGamescom 2011: The Secret World launching April 2012 [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Aug 2011 10:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>april-2012betabeta-applicationbreakingclosed-betafuncomgamescomgamescom-2011launchreleaseterathe-secret-worldtswTue, 16 Aug 2011 10:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Biggest EVE Online scam ever recorded nets over a trillion ISK]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/biggest-eve-online-scam-ever-recorded-nets-over-a-trillion-isk/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/biggest-eve-online-scam-ever-recorded-nets-over-a-trillion-isk/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/biggest-eve-online-scam-ever-recorded-nets-over-a-trillion-isk/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

EVE title image
Of all the stories that come out of EVE Online's colossal sandbox, it's the tales of criminality and dirty dealings that grab our attention the most. Thefts and scams would be cause for account closure in most MMOs, but they form a legitimate and dark part of the EVE universe. The famous Guiding Hand Social Club heist of 2005, Ricdic's EBank scandal and last year's massive 800 billion ISK Titans4U scam are just a few of the most high-profile thefts and scams to hit the EVE community over the years.

Today the biggest scam ever recorded hit thousands of EVE Online players like a brick in the face, netting a record one trillion ISK in final takings. Proving that old ideas still work, Eddie Lampert and Mordor Exuel pulled off a simple Ponzi scheme on a massive scale. Promising unprecedented returns of 5% per week on invested ISK, the duo convinced over 4,000 players to open accounts in their Phaser Inc. investment scheme. Many initially dubious players were eventually convinced to invest by real testimonials from their friends and corpmates.

Over 1,831.67 billion ISK was invested, 345.18 billion of which was paid out as interest and 452.72 billion of which was withdrawn by wary investors. When the business closed up earlier today its owners collected the remaining 1,034 billion ISK. To put that massive number in perspective, it's enough to buy 2,953 30-day time codes worth a total of $51,677.50.

MassivelyBiggest EVE Online scam ever recorded nets over a trillion ISK originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Aug 2011 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingccpccp-eveccp-gamesEddie-Lamperteveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlineMordor-Exuelphaser-incponziscamtheftFri, 12 Aug 2011 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[The winds, they are a-changin' in Guild Wars]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/07/the-winds-they-are-a-changin-in-guild-wars/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/07/the-winds-they-are-a-changin-in-guild-wars/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/07/the-winds-they-are-a-changin-in-guild-wars/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

It's time for another major event in Guild Wars, one that's been heavily anticipated by the players -- the next installment in Guild Wars Beyond, centering around the lands of Cantha. There are changes afoot for the land, as evidenced by the title of the new multi-part event, Winds of Change. And if you want to start taking part in the history that will shape Guild Wars 2, now is a fine time to see what those winds are bringing.

Players can start their newest adventure by speaking with Initiate Zei Ri at Kaineng Center, setting them down the road following the events of Guild Wars Factions. (Needless to say, you have to have finished Factions to take part in the new missions.) As was the case for the previous installment, the update brings with it new costumes for players to purchase so that the battle for Cantha's future can be done in style. Guild Wars players should get to work seeing all that the update has to offer, because the change starts now... and who knows how much will be different when all is said and done.

MassivelyThe winds, they are a-changin' in Guild Wars originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Jul 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarena-netarenanetbreakingcostumesguild-warsguild-wars-beyondgwloremajor-updatesncsoftnewspatchesupdateswinds-of-changeThu, 07 Jul 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CCP partners with Nexon to release EVE Online in Japan [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/07/ccp-partners-with-nexon-to-release-eve-online-and-dust-514-in-ja/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/07/ccp-partners-with-nexon-to-release-eve-online-and-dust-514-in-ja/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/07/ccp-partners-with-nexon-to-release-eve-online-and-dust-514-in-ja/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The Japanese games market can be difficult for western companies to break into, with accurate client localisation and translation acting as a huge potential roadblock. In an unexpected press release today, EVE Online developer CCP Games announced a strategic partnership with Japan-based MMO publisher Nexon to bring both EVE Online and DUST 514 to the Japanese market. EVE is currently available in English, German and Russian, and Japanese players have so far found considerable difficulty in playing the game.

Unlike EVE's Chinese release, the Japanese client will connect to the main Tranquility game server. Nexon will add the game to its portal website and use its own billing system for Japanese subscribers. As we've seen with EVE's sizeable Russian playerbase, it's likely that entire alliances and communities will build up within the game once it hits the shelves in Japan. While the language barrier between players from different parts of the world can limit social interaction, it turns out that everyone understands the language of smashing internet spaceships to bits with lasers. The PC release of EVE Online in Japan will appear later this year.

[Update: CCP has informed us that this deal with Nexon does not apply to anything DUST-related.]

MassivelyCCP partners with Nexon to release EVE Online in Japan [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Jul 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingccpccp-eveccp-gamesdust-514eveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlinejapanjapanesenewsnexonpartnershipserenityservertranquilityThu, 07 Jul 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape's Clan Citadels puts game design in the hands of players]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/07/runescapes-clan-citadels-puts-game-design-in-the-hands-of-playe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/07/runescapes-clan-citadels-puts-game-design-in-the-hands-of-playe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/07/runescapes-clan-citadels-puts-game-design-in-the-hands-of-playe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Last week, we brought you the news that browser-based fantasy MMO RuneScape would be introducing clan citadels in its next expansion. We heard that these customisable castles in the sky would feature a tier-based progression system, but until now we didn't know what the actual castles would look like or if any kind of new gameplay would come with them. Jagex has just revealed that the expansion's gameplay element is potentially as huge and revolutionary as their massive Dungeons of Daemonheim update.

The new floating castles act as meeting places for clans, and will contain exclusive skill-training areas for woodcutting, mining and other skills. Working on the clan's skill plots will add resources to upgrade the castle and pay for its upkeep, but may provide slightly less experience gain than traditional skill-training areas.

Customisable clan battlefields provide a sandbox map editor tool, letting clans design and build their own battlegrounds and minigames. Players will be able to design their own arenas and gameplay for the first time in RuneScape's ten year history, creating anything from capture the flag style matches and monster hunts to basic clan versus clan PvP battles. Perhaps the most exciting part of the feature is the ability for clan members to invite other players to try their games and challenge rival clans to competitive battleground matches. The expansion launches on 26th July.

Skip past the cut to watch the official clan citadel trailer and get a sneak peek at the castle's in-game visuals.

Continue reading RuneScape's Clan Citadels puts game design in the hands of players

MassivelyRuneScape's Clan Citadels puts game design in the hands of players originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Jul 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefieldsbattlegroundsbreakingclanclan-battlefieldsclan-citadelsclan-warsclansexpansionguildguild-hallguild-hallsguildsjagexmap-editornewsplayer-developersrunescapesandboxvideoThu, 07 Jul 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Age of Conan's hardcore PvP ruleset releasing tomorrow]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/age-of-conans-hardcore-pvp-ruleset-releasing-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/age-of-conans-hardcore-pvp-ruleset-releasing-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/age-of-conans-hardcore-pvp-ruleset-releasing-tomorrow/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

What's a good encore for the week following a huge, game-altering freemium revamp? How about a new and much-anticipated server ruleset. Yep, Funcom is gearing up to release Age of Conan's hardcore Blood and Glory PvP shards tomorrow according to an update on the official boards.

The American and European servers are scheduled to receive four hours of maintenance, after which time two new shards, Deathwish (US) and Rage (EU), will be brought online. These aren't just any servers, either. The Blood and Glory ruleset features free-for-all PvP throughout the game world, corpse-looting, and one character per account.

Age of Conan's PvP community has been very vocal in its disdain for the game's turn towards the PvE side of the MMO street in recent years, and the new ruleset will finally give the die-hards an opportunity to put their money where their mouth is. For more on the ruleset, check out our exclusive interview with Funcom's Craig Morrison as well as our Blood & Glory opinion piece.

[Thanks to Blasius for the tip!]

MassivelyAge of Conan's hardcore PvP ruleset releasing tomorrow originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Jul 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanage-of-conan-unchainedaocaoc-unchainedblood-and-glorybreakingcorpse-lootingcraig-morrisondeathwisef2pfantasyffa-pvpfree-to-playfuncomhardcorehardcore-pvppvp-serverspvp-shardsrageunchainedWed, 06 Jul 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online press conference answers vital questions, transcript inside]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/eve-online-press-conference-answers-vital-questions-transcript/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/eve-online-press-conference-answers-vital-questions-transcript/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/eve-online-press-conference-answers-vital-questions-transcript/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

After what should have been the celebrated release of the long-awaited Incarna expansion last week, the EVE Online community erupted into flames. The controversy began when players realised that the vanity clothing items in the game's new cash shop were ridiculously overpriced. The $68 monocle became a centerpiece that the media latched onto, in the same way that World of Warcraft made the headlines when Blizzard had the audacity to sell a $25 mount.

The story should have ended there as a piece about a crazy Icelandic game company selling virtual clothing for more than real clothing. Unfortunately, some conveniently timed leaks from inside CCP caused this simple issue to escalate to the point of panic, causing in-game riots and a significant number of subscription cancellations. The company's silence on the simple question of whether non-vanity microtransactions would be introduced was seen as an admission that gameplay-affecting items would end up in the cash shop.

CCP flew the Council of Stellar Management, EVE's democratically-elected player representative body, out to Iceland for an emergency meeting last week. The result of the meeting was a joint statement between CCP and the CSM addressing all of the major concerns players had. Last night, CCP ran two press conferences over Skype to give EVE fansites and the gaming media a chance to ask additional questions that weren't covered in the official statement. Skip past the cut for our in-depth three-page transcript from the gaming media press conference, including answers to several pressing questions sent in by Massively readers and some great issues raised by other participating members of the press. Comments can be posted on page 3.

Continue reading EVE Online press conference answers vital questions, transcript inside

MassivelyEVE Online press conference answers vital questions, transcript inside originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Jul 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingCaptains-quartersccpccp-eveccp-gamescommunicationcontroversycqeveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlineeve-radioexpansionexpansionsexpectation-managementfearlessfeaturedincarnainterviewleakleaked-memomacrotransactionsmeetingMicrotransactionsmiscommunicationmmo-industrymonoclemonocle-gatemonoclegatenewsnewsletternexnoble-exchangepresspress-conferencesci-fitranscriptWed, 06 Jul 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CCP responds to monoclegate, reaches consensus with players]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/02/ccp-responds-to-monoclegate-reaches-consensus-with-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/02/ccp-responds-to-monoclegate-reaches-consensus-with-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/02/ccp-responds-to-monoclegate-reaches-consensus-with-players/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

This has been a difficult week for EVE Online developer CCP Games, with massive controversy hitting the media surrounding what should have been a momentous expansion release. The first stage of the eagerly awaited Incarna expansion went live this month, bringing with it the new captain's quarters. Unfortunately, simple complaints over some very overpriced microtransactions soon escalated into outright panic and even in-game riots with the release of an internal company newsletter and subsequent internal email casting doubt on the game's vanity-only microtransaction policy and its development direction in general.

A devblog released in response to the issue only served to make things worse, so CCP opted to fly the game's democratically elected Council of Stellar Management to Iceland for a series of emergency meetings to get a handle on the situation. Those meetings were concluded yesterday, and both the CCP and CSM made statements today to clarify the decisions reached. During the meeting, the CSM negotiated on behalf of the playerbase to hammer out an agreement on EVE's microtransaction policy, overheating issues with the captain's quarters, and other recent hot topics.

Skip past the cut to watch the video accompanying the statement, and head over to the EVE devblog to read the official statements. If you have any further complaints or issues relating to the recent controversy, please mail them to brendan@massively.com or leave them in a comment and I'll do my best to ask the CSM delegates or pose your questions to CCP at Tuesday's upcoming press conference.

Continue reading CCP responds to monoclegate, reaches consensus with players

MassivelyCCP responds to monoclegate, reaches consensus with players originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 02 Jul 2011 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingccpccp-eveccp-gamesccp-zulucontroversycouncil-of-stellar-managementcsmeveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlinemacrotransactionsmicrotransactionsmonoclemonocle-gatemonoclegatenewsvideovideosSat, 02 Jul 2011 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Age of Conan: Unchained (aka F2P) starts tomorrow [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/30/age-of-conan-unchained-a-k-a-f2p-starts-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/30/age-of-conan-unchained-a-k-a-f2p-starts-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/30/age-of-conan-unchained-a-k-a-f2p-starts-tomorrow/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Yeah, you read that headline right. Age of Conan: Unrated is now Age of Conan: Unchained according to a new Craig Morrison interview over at PC Gamer. Oh, and that free-to-play launch date we've been asking for? It's tomorrow today.

Funcom is inviting both new and old players to check out a good portion of its Hyborian content on the house, and the company will also be unveiling its cash shop (complete with a new "temptress" pet that helps the title live up to its mature rating).

Unchained also marks the release of new content in the form of the Forgotten City and The Breach solo instances. As we told you last month, these new dungeons scale to your level and offer an experience designed to relieve the monotony of the well-traveled Noble District villas. Stick with Massively all weekend as we bring you the latest AoC: Unchained news and impressions, and don't forget to check out the Unchained launch trailer after the break.

[Update]: Funcom has also posted its traditional monthly dev update, which focuses on all of the new content coming soon to AoC (and there is a lot of it). In addition to the two dungeons debuting today with Unchained, players can look forward to the long-awaited House of Crom dungeon (no, really!), new tier four raids, the Savage Coast of Turan stuff, and of course, Blood and Glory.

[Update 2]: AoC 2.6, and F2P, is in fact going live today -- June 30th -- and the game launcher is currently down for patching. Funcom's Glen "Famine" Swan confirms as much on the official forums, and we'll link the patch notes as soon as they're available.

Continue reading Age of Conan: Unchained (aka F2P) starts tomorrow [Updated]

MassivelyAge of Conan: Unchained (aka F2P) starts tomorrow [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 30 Jun 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanage-of-conan-unchainedblood-and-glorybreakingbusiness-modelsconancraig-morrisonf2pfaminefantasyforgotten-cityfree-to-playfreemiumfuncomhouse-of-cromhybrid-business-modelinterviewsmmo-industrysavage-coast-of-turansilirrionsolo-dungeonsthe-breachthe-house-of-cromtrailerunchainedvideoThu, 30 Jun 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Exclusive: Smedley on the sunsetting of Star Wars Galaxies [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/24/exclusive-smedley-on-the-sunsetting-of-star-wars-galaxies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/24/exclusive-smedley-on-the-sunsetting-of-star-wars-galaxies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/24/exclusive-smedley-on-the-sunsetting-of-star-wars-galaxies/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

When I penned this week's Soapbox about Star Wars Galaxies and the NGE, I had no idea what was in store for MMO gamers today. In fact, I was so confident that the pre-eminent MMO sandbox was going to be around forever (or at least another eight years) that I reassured commenters that there was no need to fear Star Wars: The Old Republic. The two games might both feature the Star Wars IP, but their goals are so dramatically different -- one being a dialogue-driven themepark, the other being a player-driven sandbox -- that they shouldn't conflict unduly. Surely Star Wars fans could play both indefinitely and enjoy both types of gameplay.

Unfortunately, on Thursday we learned that just won't be so. Sony Online Entertainment has announced that Star Wars Galaxies will be shutting down on December 15th of this year, marking what is in my mind the most significant sunset of a major MMO to date (and a personally painful one for many on the staff at Massively, including me). I know what you're thinking, and no, the impending closure is due neither to the hackings nor to a dwindling playerbase. Past the break, an audibly regretful John Smedley, President of SOE, sits down with us to chat about SWG's sunset, explaining the reasons that led to the decision and offering a new hope for the future.

Continue reading Exclusive: Smedley on the sunsetting of Star Wars Galaxies [Updated]

MassivelyExclusive: Smedley on the sunsetting of Star Wars Galaxies [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 Jun 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebreakingchroniclesClone-Wars-AdventurescwaeaElectronic-Artseq2EQIIEverQuest-2everquest-iifeaturedgalaxiesinterviewinterviewsjohn-smedleylucasartssandboxsmedleysoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-galaxiesstar-wars-the-old-republicstorytellersunsetswgswtortcgthe-old-republictortrading-card-gameFri, 24 Jun 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaked memo says Pottermore is an online game]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/22/leaked-memo-says-pottermore-is-an-online-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/22/leaked-memo-says-pottermore-is-an-online-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/22/leaked-memo-says-pottermore-is-an-online-game/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We've been on mystical pins and needles for the past week as the countdown continues to tomorrow's full reveal of Pottermore, a mysterious website bearing J.K. Rowling's name. The Atlantic reports that a leaked memo making the rounds spells out the truth: Pottermore will be an online game of sorts.

The memo "suggests that [Pottermore.com] is a sophisticated online game that contains clues to prizes that are hidden in the real world. These are an unstated number of magic wands secreted in Britain and America, and possibly other countries."

This sounds more like an ARG -- alternate reality game -- than an MMO, although we're not prepared to rule out the possibility until all is said and revealed. The article mentions that this could be a marketing tool tied into Pottermore instead of Pottermore proper.

Fans who'd love to see a Harry Potter MMO still have hope that this could be the real deal, but we won't know for sure until tomorrow's announcement.

MassivelyLeaked memo says Pottermore is an online game originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Jun 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternate-reality-gameannouncementargbreakingharry-potterharry-potter-mmojk-rowlingleakleakedleaked-memomarketingpotterpottermorerumorrumorsthe-atlanticwandWed, 22 Jun 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A new experience is launching for City of Heroes -- Freedom]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/a-new-experience-is-launching-for-city-of-heroes-freedom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/a-new-experience-is-launching-for-city-of-heroes-freedom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/a-new-experience-is-launching-for-city-of-heroes-freedom/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The world of City of Heroes is changing. Players in the game now face an invasion from another dimension and a staggering host of new threats. But there's an even bigger change on the horizon, one that will shake the game to its very fundamentals. That change is City of Heroes Freedom, a combination of a new hybrid business model for the game that will add a plethora of new rewards, subscription option, and content for all players of the game. The fact that it will open the game up to a free-to-play model is almost incidental considering the other sweeping changes coming to the game as a whole.

The longstanding Veteran Rewards system will be getting overhauled into a new Paragon Rewards system, which will offer all of the extant rewards along with a huge number of additional bonuses on a monthly basis. Subscribers will be upgraded to VIP Players, gaining access not only to priority queues and a special VIP-only server but to an exclusive signature story arc every month, allowing characters to experience ongoing stories alongside the important lore characters of Paragon City and the Rogue Isles. VIP players will also be gaining a free monthly stipend of Paragon Points for the game's new cash store, which will allow players access to new costumes, new power sets, and even new weapon and usage styles for existing sets. City of Heroes players should take a look at the official site and get ready for the newest upgrade to the game -- a solid dose of old-school freedom.

MassivelyA new experience is launching for City of Heroes -- Freedom originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 Jun 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbusiness-modelcity-of-heroescity-of-heroes-freedomcity-of-villainscohcoh-freedomcovcoxf2pfree-to-playmicrotransactionsncsoftparagonparagon-studiossignature-contentspecial-contentsubscription-optionalvipvip-subscriptionTue, 21 Jun 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online server offline due to DDOS attack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/14/eve-online-server-offline-due-to-ddos-attack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/14/eve-online-server-offline-due-to-ddos-attack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/14/eve-online-server-offline-due-to-ddos-attack/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Just over an hour ago, the EVE Online login and website servers became unresponsive and went offline. A Twitter user purporting to represent the group responsible for the major PSN outage earlier this month is claiming credit for the EVE server outage. According to the user, the DDOS is part of a series of attacks today that has also shut down the Minecraft login servers and The Escapist magazine's website.

CCP released an update on Facebook and Twitter stating that the issue is currently under investigation. "EVE Online and related services are currently offline and will return as soon as possible following investigation of some issues." CCP was unable to comment further on the outage but urges players to watch the EVE Facebook and Twitter feeds for further updates as they become available.

MassivelyEVE Online server offline due to DDOS attack originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 Jun 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingccpccp-eveccp-gamesddosdowntimeeveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlinenewsserverserver-downtimeTue, 14 Jun 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine announces LotRO's Rise of Isengard release date]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/07/turbine-announces-lotros-rise-of-isengard-release-date/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/07/turbine-announces-lotros-rise-of-isengard-release-date/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/07/turbine-announces-lotros-rise-of-isengard-release-date/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The road goes ever on for fans of Lord of the Rings Online, and as of September 27th, that road will lead to Isengard. Turbine has just announced the official launch date for its Rise of Isengard expansion, and the update will add Isengard, Dunland, and the Gap of Rohan to the expanding Middle-earth map.

There's also a new level cap in the offing (75) as well as a new 24-player raid in the works. If September seems far away, take heart. Turbine has also announced that pre-orders are available today, and bonus items including a new cloak, title, mount, and bonus XP will be available in-game immediately after your purchase.

The pre-order comes in three flavors (the Base, Heroic, and Legendary editions), and each includes the full expansion and an escalating array of the bonus items listed above. Head to the official Rise of Isengard website for more and check out the trailer after the cut!

Continue reading Turbine announces LotRO's Rise of Isengard release date

MassivelyTurbine announces LotRO's Rise of Isengard release date originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Jun 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24-man-raidbreakingdunlandf2pfantasyfree-to-playgap-of-rohanisengardlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromiddle-earthpre-orderpre-order-bonusrise-of-isengardtolkientrailerupdatesvideoTue, 07 Jun 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2011: DUST 514 is a PS3 exclusive, to be released spring 2012 [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/06/dust-514-is-a-ps3-exclusive-to-be-released-spring-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/06/dust-514-is-a-ps3-exclusive-to-be-released-spring-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/06/dust-514-is-a-ps3-exclusive-to-be-released-spring-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

In the run-up to E3, CCP Games hinted repeatedly that news about its upcoming MMOFPS DUST 514 was forthcoming. A big announcement was expected at E3, but few people expected it to be part of today's Sony conference. CCP CEO Hilmar Pétursson made an appearance at the conference to reveal that the console-only MMOFPS would be a PS3 exclusive. The Sony presenter then confirmed that the game is set for a spring 2012 release, with beta starting at the end of this year.

Hilmar ended the announcement with the showing of a new trailer for the game, highlighting the various character and battlefield upgrades available and their prices in ISK. This may indicate that EVE Online players will be able to purchase supplies for DUST marines as part of a mercenary contract. The video ended with a structure in DUST 514 launching what appeared to be a doomsday blast at an EVE player's dreadnought in orbit. Bearing a similarity to a previous trailer in which EVE dreadnoughts delivered artillery support for ground troops, this may give some clues as to how CCP wants to have the two games interact.

[Update: CCP has released a new devblog all about DUST 514's PS3 exclusivity with links to more information and the E3 trailer.]

Massively's on the ground in Los Angeles during the week of June 6-9, bringing you all the best news from E3 2011. Whether you're dying to know more about Star Wars: The Old Republic, RIFT, or any MMO in between, you can bet we'll have it covered!

MassivelyE3 2011: DUST 514 is a PS3 exclusive, to be released spring 2012 [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 06 Jun 2011 22:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingccpccp-gamesdustdust-514e3e3-2011eveeve-onlinemercenarymmofpsnewsplaystationplaystation-3ps3ps3-exclusivesonyvideoMon, 06 Jun 2011 22:10:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT confirms development of an addon API]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/03/rift-confirms-development-of-an-addon-api/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/03/rift-confirms-development-of-an-addon-api/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/03/rift-confirms-development-of-an-addon-api/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

It's been rumored for much of the day with implementation scattered throughout the test client, but it's been confirmed -- addons are coming to RIFT. In a post to the official forums, James Nichols explains that the game's addon API is currently being tested for implementation, with the hope that players will be able to customize the game's interface while still maintaining the high level of quality found throughout the game. A precise release has not been stated, as the API is still in its earliest stages of development.

Fan reaction has been mixed, as addons have long been a contentious element of many games -- some players feel that they strip down complexity of play, and there are obvious comparisons to be drawn with World of Warcraft. At the same time, the promise to allow free customization and alteration to RIFT has many players excited and looking forward to the new feature. Either way, it's coming to the game, so only time will tell what the implementation will bring.

[Thanks puremallace for the tip!]

MassivelyRIFT confirms development of an addon API originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>add-onsaddonsbreakingpatchespending-updatesriftrift-planes-of-telaratest-servertriontrion-worldsupdatesFri, 03 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Perfect World acquires Cryptic Studios]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/31/perfect-world-acquires-cryptic-studios/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/31/perfect-world-acquires-cryptic-studios/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/31/perfect-world-acquires-cryptic-studios/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

We've been on pins and needles since Atari announced two weeks ago that it was planning to sell off Cryptic Studios. Champions Online and Star Trek Online players were worried about the future of their titles, generating many rumors as to what might happen next .

Today, we know the answer. Perfect World Company has inked a deal to purchase Cryptic from Atari. Euro Investor has the full agreement between the two companies, which details the specifics of this $50+ million purchase. The Chinese firm, which already has a host of MMOs under its umbrella, is taking over 100% of Cryptic's equity from Atari.

Perfect World's Michael Chi thinks that this will give the company more credence in the western market: "We are very pleased to sign the agreement to acquire Cryptic Studios. This strategic acquisition will add attractive game titles to our portfolio, which will help us further penetrate into the U.S. and global online game markets. More importantly, Cryptic Studios' highly reputable development team and its technology platform will further strengthen our well-established R&D capabilities. We deem this as another noteworthy achievement of our global expansion efforts."

Hopefully, this deal will mean nothing but good things for Cryptic, which is also deep into development with Neverwinter.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in!]

MassivelyPerfect World acquires Cryptic Studios originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 31 May 2011 08:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acquisitionagreementataribreakingchampions-onlinecocontractcrypticcryptic-studiosdealeuro-investorlegal-contractmichael-chineverwinterperfect-worldperfect-world-companyperfect-world-entertainmentpurchasesalestar-trek-onlinestoTue, 31 May 2011 08:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Funcom planning Age of Conan: Unrated F2P launch this summer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/25/funcom-planning-age-of-conan-unrated-f2p-launch-this-summer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/25/funcom-planning-age-of-conan-unrated-f2p-launch-this-summer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/25/funcom-planning-age-of-conan-unrated-f2p-launch-this-summer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Yep, it's official: Funcom has just announced this morning that Age of Conan is switching to a free-to-play/hybrid business model. While no date has been set, a posting on the game's European forums confirms that the title will be relaunched this summer as Age of Conan: Unrated.

Highlights of the new service include free access to all of the outdoor playfields in the original game (Aquilonia, Cimmeria, and Stygia), two free character slots, and access to non-premium dungeons as well as four character classes (Barbarian, Demonologist, Guardian, and Priest of Mitra). Alternate advancement points, veteran points, and offline levels are reserved for premium subscribers, as is the majority of the Rise of the Godslayer expansion content (the exception being the level 20 to 40 Gateway to Khitai content).

You can check out the full list of free and premium services, as well as a F2P FAQ, on the European Age of Conan forums. Also be sure to read Massively's exclusive F2P interview with Craig Morrison to learn about plans for server merges and other details.

MassivelyFuncom planning Age of Conan: Unrated F2P launch this summer originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 May 2011 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaocaoc-unratedbreakingbusiness-modelsf2pfantasyfree-to-playfuncomhyboriahybridmmo-industryWed, 25 May 2011 07:00:00 EST