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[Captain's Log: STO's Caitian Carriers and Klingon Kitties]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/captain-s-log-sto-s-caitian-carriers-and-klingon-kitties/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/captain-s-log-sto-s-caitian-carriers-and-klingon-kitties/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/captain-s-log-sto-s-caitian-carriers-and-klingon-kitties/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

STO
Lately I've beginning to wonder whether the wait for Star Trek Online's Season Six has been as interminable for other players as it seems to have been for me. Although the past several weeks have been busy in the real-life side of things, those distractions really haven't been all that good at harboring my frustration about the wait for the new stuff as I would have liked.

Season Six is being readied for a move to STO's test server, Tribble, in the next couple of weeks, according to the most recent Ask Cryptic as answered by the game's Executive Producer, Dan Stahl. The new patch will contain fleet starbases and a new fleet advancement system but not much else in the way of story-based content.

That's not unexpected, however, as not one of the previous Season releases really ever contained story-based content; they've merely been game-technology pushes, and I understand that Season Six will be no different.

However a couple of things have come out to the game in the past few weeks that have ruffled some hard-core Trek-fan feathers: Caitian Carriers and Ferasans.

Continue reading Captain's Log: STO's Caitian Carriers and Klingon Kitties

MassivelyCaptain's Log: STO's Caitian Carriers and Klingon Kitties originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 May 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>caitiancanoncanonitecaptains-logCBScbs-studioscrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahlf2pfeaturedferasanfree-to-playian-richardsloreopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweracessci-fishipsstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoMon, 21 May 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: A new perspective on STO's endgame]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/captains-log-a-new-perspective-of-stos-endgame/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/captains-log-a-new-perspective-of-stos-endgame/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/captains-log-a-new-perspective-of-stos-endgame/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

STO
For a veteran Star Trek Online player, it can be very easy to get mired in the game's seemingly soulless endgame. From restricted (time-gated) play to lackluster PvP to grinding strategic task force missions and dailies, sometimes it's difficult to find reason to log in at all, let alone on someone else's schedule.

There are always a few options, however. Of course, these ideas aren't going to be everyone's cup of raktajino, but they're a start, and I want to take some time to discuss two possibilities that may help to provide a distraction while we all wait for fleet starbases, Tholians, and Ferasan (the new cat-like species to be released for the Klingon faction).

Continue reading Captain's Log: A new perspective on STO's endgame

MassivelyCaptain's Log: A new perspective on STO's endgame originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 May 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captains-logcrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahlf2pfeaturedfoundryfree-to-playopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestothe-foundryMon, 14 May 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Old reruns, a new currency, and time-gates frustrate STO players]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/captains-log-old-reruns-a-new-currency-and-time-gates-frustr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/captains-log-old-reruns-a-new-currency-and-time-gates-frustr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/captains-log-old-reruns-a-new-currency-and-time-gates-frustr/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

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Recently Cryptic Studios' Star Trek Online team has pressed forward with a mix of new releases and old reruns in an effort to entertain the playerbase while we await the anticipated release of Season 6 in June.

Some of the recent releases, such as Spotlight on the Foundry, a new Klingon mission titled Alpha, the new Caitian Atrox carrier for the Federation faction, and a duty officer commendation XP bonus weekend, have all been fairly well-received. We have also seen the return of the Ask Cryptic blogs, and apparently we will also be seeing the return of the fan-favorite Engineering Reports at the end of this month.

The question remains, however, whether or not the those relative successes can overcome the controversies that seem to surround the game's other recent releases -- namely, the introduction of what is arguably a new currency and the infusion of yet another time-gated mission.

Continue reading Captain's Log: Old reruns, a new currency, and time-gates frustrate STO players

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Old reruns, a new currency, and time-gates frustrate STO players originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captains-logcash-shopcrypticcryptic-studioscurrencyf2pfeaturedfeatured-episodefree-to-playlobi-crystalsopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwererunssci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotime-gatedtime-gated-missiontime-gatingMon, 07 May 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Interview with Star Trek Online lead writer Christine Thompson, part two]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/captains-log-interview-with-star-trek-online-lead-writer-chris/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/captains-log-interview-with-star-trek-online-lead-writer-chris/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/captains-log-interview-with-star-trek-online-lead-writer-chris/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Cryptic Studios
This week brings to an end my series of interview with Cryptic Studios representatives. We conclude with the second half of my interview with Christine Thompson, lead writer for Star Trek Online.

Thompson confirmed that she essentially writes everything in STO. She admits that she gets some help, sometimes from developers who prefer to write their own work, but she says she writes 90% of everything in the game.

The conversation picked back up with a focus on The Foundry, the user-generated content tool available to players in STO. I asked her if she had any direct advice for authors who use the Foundry to create missions and maps and social zones in the game. She said, "Authors "shouldn't be afraid to tell the stories they want to tell. That's one of the joys of The Foundry. And they should also know not every story is going to work for everybody. Some things people will love, and some things people won't. Use Of Bajor for example. I really enjoyed that episode. We took a chance and did something completely different with that episode, and I liked telling a Bajoran story. But for every person who liked that episode, there was somebody saying" -- and here she dropped her voice to a hoarse whisper -- "oh dear god, why can't I just shoot something?!"

Continue reading Captain's Log: Interview with Star Trek Online lead writer Christine Thompson, part two

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Interview with Star Trek Online lead writer Christine Thompson, part two originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Apr 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captains-logChristine-Thompsoncrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfeaturedfree-to-playinterviewinterviewsj-michael-straczynskiopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoMon, 30 Apr 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Interview with Star Trek Online lead writer Christine Thompson, part one]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/captains-log-interview-with-star-trek-onlines-lead-writer-chr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/captains-log-interview-with-star-trek-onlines-lead-writer-chr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/captains-log-interview-with-star-trek-onlines-lead-writer-chr/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

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Today Captain's Log continues with the first of two installments of my interview with Christine Thompson, Star Trek Online's lead writer at Cryptic Studios!

I began the discussion by asking Thompson about her background as a writer and journalist before she began working for Cryptic. She stated that she had held positions as a reporter, editor, page designer, and wire editor for 13 years, after which she found herself in a position of "either having to move up into management or having to find something else to do."

Yet she spent a lot of her personal time playing MMOs, reading comic books and fantasy novels, and watching Star Trek. Since she had to find a new career anyway, she thought, "Why not find a career I actually enjoy?" That's when she began to look for writing positions in the gaming industry.

Continue reading Captain's Log: Interview with Star Trek Online lead writer Christine Thompson, part one

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Interview with Star Trek Online lead writer Christine Thompson, part one originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captains-logChristine-Thompsoncrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfeaturedfree-to-playinterviewinterviewsopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestar-wars-the-old-republicstostoryswtorwritingMon, 23 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Interview with Star Trek Online's Executive Producer, Daniel Stahl]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/captains-log-interview-with-star-trek-onlines-executive-produ/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/captains-log-interview-with-star-trek-onlines-executive-produ/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/captains-log-interview-with-star-trek-onlines-executive-produ/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

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Next in this series of interviews conducted on my visit to Cryptic Studios in Los Gatos, California, last month is a chat with Daniel Stahl, Executive Producer of Star Trek Online.

I first asked Stahl to give me an overview of his responsibilities as Executive Producer, as there are many people who are either new to STO (or even to gaming overall) who may not have a clear understanding of his role entails.

He stated his job is "similar to making movies." He has several direct reports, the first being the software person or the person responsible for the team of people who actually create the code for the game. The second is the Content Lead, who is responsible for new missions, new features, and anything to with player experience. Finally, the Quality Assurance team also reports to him.

Continue reading Captain's Log: Interview with Star Trek Online's Executive Producer, Daniel Stahl

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Interview with Star Trek Online's Executive Producer, Daniel Stahl originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captains-logchampions-onlinecrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahlf2pfeaturedfree-to-playinterviewinterviewslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoturbineTurbine-EntertainmentMon, 16 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Interview with Cryptic's Al Rivera, part three]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/captains-log-interview-with-cryptics-al-rivera-part-three/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/captains-log-interview-with-cryptics-al-rivera-part-three/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/captains-log-interview-with-cryptics-al-rivera-part-three/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

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Today Captain's Log continues with the third and final installment of my interview with Al Rivera, Star Trek Online's Lead Designer at Cryptic Studios!

Rivera and I picked up the conversation and talked briefly about the Why I Play STO column that I wrote several weeks ago. I informed him that because of that column, I had received a few emails from brand-new MMO players who expressed frustration over the fact that as new free-to-play players, they weren't immediately allowed into the parts of the game that would give them access to the community, especially fleets, right off the bat.

Continue reading Captain's Log: Interview with Cryptic's Al Rivera, part three

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Interview with Cryptic's Al Rivera, part three originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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In the midst of writing up the wonderful interviews I had with members of Cryptic Studios' Star Trek Online development team, I saw that the game's April calendar was posted and contained some interesting new events. This was the sign that it was all right for me to discuss the new Klingon mission that is set to be released on Thursday, April 5th! So today, I will lightly touch upon my experience with testing the mission in this column. I don't expect to be delivering spoilers, so everyone will be able to experience it for himself when it debuts.

In releasing the new mission, Cryptic decided to take advantage of a community-based effort called Klingon Awareness Week (KAW) and set the release date to occur right in the middle of the event. This week also sees the return of First Contact Day events for the Federation side, which will showcase its own unique rewards. Let's dig in to each of these great events!

Continue reading Captain's Log Supplemental: Klingon Awareness Week and First Contact Day

MassivelyCaptain's Log Supplemental: Klingon Awareness Week and First Contact Day originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Apr 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Today Captain's Log continues with part two of my interview with Al Rivera, Star Trek Online's Lead Designer at Cryptic Studios.

Last week I received a bit of feedback regarding the state of Rivera's desk. I withheld taking pictures of the interior of the office space for fear of inadvertently capturing information that I wasn't free to share. Happily, though, Rivera himself decided to tweet a few photos of the ships and Trek paraphernalia that graced our visit to his office. Yes, it also included a picture of what I had described in my last column as a "funky purple monster." Apparently my comic book naiveté has kept me from recognizing what Rivera informed me is The Maxx.

Sorry, but it will always be that funky purple monster to me.

Continue reading Captain's Log: Interview with Cryptic's Al Rivera, part two

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Interview with Cryptic's Al Rivera, part two originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Cryptic Studios
Last week, I headed to Cryptic Studios to meet with several of the folks responsible for the development of Star Trek Online. Over the course of the next few weeks, I will be sharing what I learned from those individuals and from the team on the whole!

This week, I will begin my coverage of a lengthy interview with Al Rivera (@CaptainGeko), the lead designer for STO.

If I had any doubts about the team's love or understanding of our beloved franchise, those doubts were dispelled the moment I walked into the STO work area.

Continue reading Captain's Log: Interview with Cryptic's Al Rivera, part one

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Interview with Cryptic's Al Rivera, part one originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Foundry is Star Trek Online's user-generated content tool, one that allows players to create their very own playable missions in the game. Those missions also become available as content to the rest of the playerbase. It's a tool that differentiates STO from most other MMOs and encourages fans to expand on the universe of STO and Star Trek in general. Join me as in this Captain's Log, I focus on the Foundry, some of its missions, and the community that keeps it going.

Continue reading Captain's Log: Focus on the Foundry

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Focus on the Foundry originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Brandon-Felczercaptains-logchallengechristine-thompsoncrypticcryptic-studiosdivide-et-imperaf2pfeaturedfoundryfree-to-playopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpgcplayer-generated-contentpwerema-donnareturn-to-terra-novarisian-sunsetsci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestougcuser-generated-contentMon, 19 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: The 2800 -- Boldly they rode into the sunset]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/captains-log-the-2800-boldly-they-rode-into-the-sunset/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/captains-log-the-2800-boldly-they-rode-into-the-sunset/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/captains-log-the-2800-boldly-they-rode-into-the-sunset/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

As with previous columns about The 2800, this is an overview and will contain spoilers. If you have not yet played this mission or do not want to know about what happens, stop right here.

This is what happens when you look forward to something for a long time and then it's over. It's that satiated-yet-melancholy knowledge that sits in your gut and you're able to smile and frown at the same time.

Star Trek Online released the finale to The 2800 featured series with Boldly They Rode on Saturday, March 10th. Deep Space Nine is once again firmly in the hands of the Federation, thanks to the Klingon Empire, a suspiciously eager to help Changeling and her Vorta subordinates as well as a critical appearance from a new ship with a familiar name. Come join me while I recap the events of the episode!

Continue reading Captain's Log: The 2800 -- Boldly they rode into the sunset

MassivelyCaptain's Log: The 2800 -- Boldly they rode into the sunset originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Facility 4028
Like previous columns about The 2800, this column is an overview and will contain spoilers. If you have not yet played this mission or do not want to know about what happens, stop right here!

Star Trek Online continues its recent featured episode series, The 2800, with Facility 4028, a meticulously created mission that places the player's character into the unenviable position of being caught in the middle of a Starfleet prison when all hell breaks loose.

It's a fun little trip, and I believe it's an installment worthy of the reputation garnered by the more intricate missions seen in STO's previous series, Cloaked Intentions. Join me for a recap of this adventure!

Continue reading Captain's Log: Facility 4028 -- The jailhouse rocks!

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Facility 4028 -- The jailhouse rocks! originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Hypatia Header
Like previous columns about The 2800, this is an overview and will contain spoilers. If you have not yet played this mission or do not want to know about what happens, stop right here!

Episode three of Star Trek Online's featured episode series, The 2800, was released over the weekend, and developers at Cryptic Studios were able to give the players who enjoy flying small vessels their first new mission since The Vault in the Cloaked Intentions series.

So jump into your shuttle (or fighter or captain's yacht) and join me as we head toward the Gamma Quadrant.

Continue reading Captain's Log: Operation Gamma

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Operation Gamma originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 27 Feb 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Bajor HQ
If you have not yet played the newest episode in Star Trek Online's The 2800 series and you do not appreciate spoilers, then hold off reading this column.

At first I thought I was going to split this column and discuss two different things: the new DS9 Bundle offered by Cryptic Studios in the Star Trek Online C-Store and the newest featured episode, The 2800: Of Bajor.

Although there still is a lot to talk about the bundle, after playing today's episode, I realized that it would be impossible to write about both and that I needed to concentrate on one.

To that end, if you consider yourself a Deep Space Nine fan, you owe it to yourself to check out the bundle that caters to your tastes. It includes the new Vedek robes and Admiral uniforms as well as a completely new environment for the Defiant class ship (including a bridge, crew, engineering, mess, sickbay, and many other rooms). Also included are two new Bajoran weapons, three unique duty officers, and a playable shuttlecraft which makes it a really good deal for 1800 C-Store points.

But first, let's concentrate on the newest featured episode, Of Bajor...

Continue reading Captain's Log: The 2800: Of Bajor is as immersive as it gets

MassivelyCaptain's Log: The 2800: Of Bajor is as immersive as it gets originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captains-logChristine-Thompsoncrypticcryptic-kestrelcryptic-studiosf2pfeaturedfeatured-episodefree-to-playkestrelopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestothe-2800the-2800-of-bajorMon, 20 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Does 'The 2800: Second Wave' live up to expectations?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/captains-log-does-the-2800-second-wave-live-up-to-expectati/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/captains-log-does-the-2800-second-wave-live-up-to-expectati/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/captains-log-does-the-2800-second-wave-live-up-to-expectati/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Second Wave
This column will be going over the new episode in detail, so if you haven't played it yet and are averse to spoilers, stop right here.

After a long year's wait and hot on the heels of another controversial release of in-game revenue-generating lock boxes, Star Trek Online finally saw the debut of playable story-based content. The first of five scheduled episodes in the series titled The 2800: Second Wave was launched on Saturday morning while crowds gathered in the Beta Ursae sector and waited with bated breath.

When the mission opened, the server was filled almost immediately, and by the time I was able to log in, there was already a queue that exceeded 1300 players. Luckily, I have a lifetime sub, so my entrance was prioritized, and I immediately logged into my Vice Admiral tactical character and had her hail Starfleet Command.

She was told that she was selected to attend a conference being held at Deep Space Nine (DS9) and that representatives from the Klingon Empire, Defera, Cardassia and the UFP would be attempting to come to an accord in order to face the growing Borg threat. But what happened when she got there had nothing to do with the Borg...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Does 'The 2800: Second Wave' live up to expectations?

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Does 'The 2800: Second Wave' live up to expectations? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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ESD @nd Anniversary
Another year has passed for Star Trek Online, and it can be described as tumultuous at best.

It was a year that contained very little story-based content provided by the developer, Cryptic Studios, as it was put through the proverbial ringer -- first by being sold off, and second by being purchased in the midst of what many believed was the game's most critical year.

With the focus that many players (including me) had on the lack of new missions in 2011, it was easy to gloss over what material did get released despite the challenges the strangle-held teams at Cryptic were facing.

The game has gone free-to-play, there are visibly more players than have ever been seen before, the development team seems to be settling in to a new owner's house, and the second anniversary is upon us, so it's time to take a good look back to see what was released over the course of the last year.

Continue reading Captain's Log: A year in review

MassivelyCaptain's Log: A year in review originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 04 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarycaptains-logcrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfeaturedfree-to-playopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwerachel-garrettsci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoyear-in-reviewSat, 04 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Epic adventure, revenge, and an interview with Adam Ihle]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/28/captains-log-epic-adventure-revenge-and-an-interview-with-ad/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/28/captains-log-epic-adventure-revenge-and-an-interview-with-ad/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/28/captains-log-epic-adventure-revenge-and-an-interview-with-ad/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Enterprise F Dry Dock
This week, after what seemed like an interminable period of waiting, Star Trek Online's acting Executive Producer Stephen D'Angelo posted a dev blog that outlines most of the details for STO's second anniversary events.

Beginning Thursday, February 2nd, STO will see the return of the infamous Q and his mischievous ways. Players are invited to sign in every day between February 2nd and 6th to participate in a challenge handed down by Q. After doing the entity's bidding, players will be rewarded with a different daily prize, although what those four prizes are has not been revealed.

However, the news that really has the playerbase buzzing is the announcement that the new and very highly anticipated Federation and Klingon flagships will also be up for grabs -- for free.

I will be outlining D'Angelo's follow up posts that give us more details into both ships. Also, in light of the announcements, I took the opportunity to catch up with Adam Ihle, whose winning starship design became the inspiration for the final look of the Odyssey class; we'll hear his reaction to the ship's debut in the game.

Continue reading Captain's Log: Epic adventure, revenge, and an interview with Adam Ihle

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Epic adventure, revenge, and an interview with Adam Ihle originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 28 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adam-ihleanniversarycaptains-logcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosfeaturedperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentPWEsci-fishipst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestarshipstephen-dangelostosto-gameplaytrek-onlineSat, 28 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Cryptic's Lead Designer responds to questions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/21/captain-s-log-cryptic-s-lead-systems-designer-responds-to-quest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/21/captain-s-log-cryptic-s-lead-systems-designer-responds-to-quest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/21/captain-s-log-cryptic-s-lead-systems-designer-responds-to-quest/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

STO Ds9 wallpaper resized header
The weekend before Star Trek Online launched its free-to-play format, Cryptic Studios' Lead Designer, Al Rivera, responded to a lengthy list of player concerns, rants and questions via the STO community podcast PodcastUGC.

PodcastUGC usually focuses its broadcasts on issues revolving around the game's user generated content tool, The Foundry, but as of late the co-hosts of the show (including me!) have been desperate for specific Foundry issues to discuss due to the lack of changes since last year.

In the previous week's episode, I let my opinions fly along with my frustrations about what I felt was a severe lack of story-based content. I asked aloud, "What the hell have they been doing the past year?"

To our surprise, we were contacted by Al Rivera, who set aside his day off to talk with us about just that.

Continue reading Captain's Log: Cryptic's Lead Designer responds to questions

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Cryptic's Lead Designer responds to questions originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 21 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>al-riveracaptains-logCBScbs-studioscrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfeaturedfree-to-playopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentPodcastUgcpwesci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestephen-dangelostotrek-onlineSat, 21 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: A new era begins]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/14/captains-log-a-new-era-begins/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/14/captains-log-a-new-era-begins/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/14/captains-log-a-new-era-begins/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Tristan at Starfleet Academy STO
As you probably know by now, Star Trek Online is converting to the free-to-play format this coming Tuesday, January 17th. If you've held off subscribing to STO for the past two years, you might be wondering what you can expect should you decide to give STO a try.

If you've never played an MMORPG and are thinking that this might be a perfect time to try one, I think you might be right. STO is not like most other MMOs. That can be a good thing but also a detriment.

This column is here to help you, Trekkie or not, gamer or not. And I'm going to try to help you decide whether STO is the F2P game for you.

Continue reading Captain's Log: A new era begins

MassivelyCaptain's Log: A new era begins originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 14 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brandon-felczercaptains-logcrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfeaturedfree-to-playopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentPWEsci-fistar-trekStar-Trek-MMOstar-trek-onlineStarTrekStarTrekOnlinestoSat, 14 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Will two cloud bursts cure a drought?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/07/captains-log-will-two-cloud-bursts-cure-a-drought/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/07/captains-log-will-two-cloud-bursts-cure-a-drought/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/07/captains-log-will-two-cloud-bursts-cure-a-drought/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

USS Taranis NX Class
After the most tumultuous year in Star Trek Online's history, we stand on the cusp of the game's second anniversary and full-blown evolution to free-to-play. Early F2P entrance for former subscribers was opened last Thursday. And now, unfortunately, loyal subscribers have been informed that the anticipated flood of new story-based content might more accurately be described as a trickle.

In his most recent Dev Diary #11, STO's acting Executive Producer Stephen D'Angelo outlined his future hopes for the game in 2012. As players are wont to do, we read between the lines and noticed not what was contained in the blog but rather what was blatantly missing: a detailed outline of future playable content.

Continue reading Captain's Log: Will two cloud bursts cure a drought?

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Will two cloud bursts cure a drought? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 07 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adam-ihlecaptains-logCBScbs-corporationcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosf2pfeaturedfree-to-playfree-to-play-conversionneverwinteropinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentPWEsci-fiscience-fictionst-onlinestar-trekStar-Trek-MMOstar-trek-onlinestephen-dangelostotrek-onlineSat, 07 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Facing a content drought? Make up your own!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/31/captains-log-facing-a-content-drought-make-up-your-own/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/31/captains-log-facing-a-content-drought-make-up-your-own/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/31/captains-log-facing-a-content-drought-make-up-your-own/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Beth in WW STO
Those of you who haven't been in Star Trek Online in a while will be happy to know there was a new event system put into place after the advent of A Call to Arms. The event calendar appears the moment a player clicks on his Starfleet delta to hail Starfleet and contains a neatly reorganized mission menu as well as an hourly listing of special daily events in which players can participate. Missions range from the KDF Mirror Universe and the new Borg Invasion of Defera to the Multiphasic Event in which players who farm anomalies for crafting are granted extra rewards during the time period in question. The new event system is very helpful to those players who get satisfaction from a specific type of play as they are able to obtain extra rewards for undertaking that play during the scheduled times.

Of course, events aren't the only way to spend your STO time during this content drought, and this New Year's Eve edition of the Captain's Log has a few other ideas for you...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Facing a content drought? Make up your own!

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Facing a content drought? Make up your own! originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 31 Dec 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captains-logcrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfan-fictionfan-projectsfeaturedfoundryfree-to-playopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoucguser-generated-contentSat, 31 Dec 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Dilithium, attack ships, and lightsabers, oh my!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/24/captains-log-dilithium-attack-ships-and-lightsabers-oh-my/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/24/captains-log-dilithium-attack-ships-and-lightsabers-oh-my/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/24/captains-log-dilithium-attack-ships-and-lightsabers-oh-my/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

STO screenshot
So much has happened with Star Trek Online since Massively's last column on the game! The Captain's Log's previous author, Brandon Felczer, accepted a position with Perfect World Entertainment (Cryptic Studios' parent company) and is now a community manager for Star Trek Online. We wish him the best in his future endeavors. And that makes me, Terilynn Shull, your new STO columnist!

Since then, Cryptic's newest patch, A Call to Arms, was released to subscribers. The patch was really the preliminary push of the anticipated free-to-play model that Cryptic announced will occur on January 17th, 2012. To the dismay of many players, the patch did not contain any new mission content, and we've been told not to expect any new story-driven content until at least February of next year.

However, A Call to Arms did include the nervously awaited single-currency economy, the highly anticipated duty officer system, and a revamped set of strategic task force (STF) missions, and it was soon followed by the controversial holiday event and "homage" to Star Wars: The Old Republic.

Continue reading Captain's Log: Dilithium, attack ships, and lightsabers, oh my!

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Dilithium, attack ships, and lightsabers, oh my! originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 24 Dec 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-call-to-armsbiowarec-storecaptains-logcrypticcryptic-studiosdilithiumdoffduty-officerduty-officer-systemeaelectronic-artsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playholiday-eventjemhadarjemhadar-attack-shiplucasartsopinionpatchpatchesperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstephen-dangelostoswtorthe-old-republictorSat, 24 Dec 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: To spec or not to spec?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/captains-log-to-spec-or-not-to-spec/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/captains-log-to-spec-or-not-to-spec/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/captains-log-to-spec-or-not-to-spec/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Screenshot - Star Trek Online
Captain's Log, Stardate 65340.3...

Hello, computer (and players)! Unlike an answer to Shakespeare's original question, the answer to the question in this week's title is probably a no-brainer for most of you: Yes! Choosing a specialization, or "speccing," in MMOs is something that stretches across most titles out there, and Star Trek Online is no different. Whether you wish to resist attacks longer, do more damage, or add strength to your powers, choosing a customized spec can be rewarding and a challenge at the same time. With so many variables and places to spend your points, the possibilities are endless.

While this week's Captain's Log is not here to tell you what you should spec into for your particular class or ship set-up, I would like to go over the space skill point overhaul that STO is about to go through. In the past, one of the biggest complaints from players was that they did not have a clear understanding of which skill tree affected which ability. The devs heard this feedback and have been working on a complete revamp to make these decisions simpler. Hopefully, this will allow you to have a better understanding of where and why to spend your points in a particular skill when you do have to re-spec at the launch of F2P on January 17th, 2012.

Ensign, warp 10! Let's get our readers' bookmark buttons ready...

Continue reading Captain's Log: To spec or not to spec?

MassivelyCaptain's Log: To spec or not to spec? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Nov 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batteriescaptain-gekocaptains-logcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosefficiencyenergy-weaponsengineering-systemsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playguidelivestreamoperation-systemsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentprojectile-weaponsre-specscience-systemsshakespeareskillpointsspecspeccingspecializationspecsst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotactical-systemstargeting-systemstrek-onlinetribbletwittertwitterverseweaponsThu, 10 Nov 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: A two-minute read could save you 15% or more on nerdrage insurance]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/captains-log-a-two-minute-read-could-save-you-15-or-more-on-n/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/captains-log-a-two-minute-read-could-save-you-15-or-more-on-n/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/captains-log-a-two-minute-read-could-save-you-15-or-more-on-n/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot - Star Trek Online
Captain's Log, Stardate 65340.3...

Hello, computer (and players)! Welcome to this week's edition of Captain's Log, brought to you by "Geko" Insurance. (And let's just say, you may want to purchase a policy). If you are a Star Trek Online player who watches Cryptic's official forums, you know that the game experienced an Occupy movement of its own this past weekend. Even if you don't frequent the forums, you may have seen some of the concerns raised through the #STO Twitter feed.

Over the weekend, players lashed out against some of the recent changes that have made their way to the Tribble test server. It may be surprising to some of you reading this, but the commotion was not related to the economy changes. The main concern is that some of the items for purchase in the C-Store are going to be changing from account-wide unlocks to per-character transactions. While I was a little perturbed at the thought too, I was happy to see that some of the misconceptions were cleared up once we got an official statement from one of the devs. But since there is a lot more to the story, let's take a look.

Ensign, warp 10! And don't forget to buckle your seatbelt...

Continue reading Captain's Log: A two-minute read could save you 15% or more on nerdrage insurance

MassivelyCaptain's Log: A two-minute read could save you 15% or more on nerdrage insurance originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>al-riverabalanceboycottc-storec-store-pointscaptain-gekocaptains-logconsumablescraftingcrypticcryptic-pointscryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdoffduty-officerduty-officer-systemExchangef2pfeaturedfeedbackforumsfree-to-playhereticlivestreammarketingpatch-notesperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestarshipsstotrek-onlinetribbletribble-test-servertwitterunlock-statusThu, 03 Nov 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Global Chat: October 16-22, 2011]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/23/global-chat-october-16-22-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/23/global-chat-october-16-22-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/23/global-chat-october-16-22-2011/#commentsFiled under: , ,

AC2
Welcome to this week's Global Chat! We love hearing what you have to say at Massively, and we love it even more when we can share the best comments with all of our readers. Massively staffers will be contributing some of their favorite comments every week, so keep an eye out every Sunday for more Global Chat!

While almost all of our news stories and columns are game-specific, the conversation that follows in the comments often expands beyond the game in question. Discussion turns to mechanics, development styles, and industry trends. Even if the game in the original story isn't your thing, you may find some interesting conversation, so follow along after the jump to see what some of our readers had to say last week.

Continue reading Global Chat: October 16-22, 2011

MassivelyGlobal Chat: October 16-22, 2011 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 23 Oct 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionasherons-call-2captains-logcommenterscommentscontrolled-chaoscrypticcryptic-studiosdeceivefeaturedglobal-chatopinionstar-trek-onlinestothe-game-archaeologistturbineturkeySun, 23 Oct 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: What's your (energy) type?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/captains-log-whats-your-energy-type/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/captains-log-whats-your-energy-type/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/captains-log-whats-your-energy-type/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Star Trek Online screenshot
Captain's Log, Stardate 65244.9...

Hello, computer (and players)! Happy birthday to me, happy birthday to me, happy birthday dear meeeeeee, happy birthday to me. Sorry, I couldn't resist. Yes, today is my birthday, and the best present I could receive is being able to share this week's Captain's Log with you all. As we get closer and closer to the F2P re-launch of Star Trek Online, I expect that there will be new captains tuning into this column each week, so to help support our new comrades in between the weeks that feature an influx of breaking news and developments, I am going to be taking some time to educate everyone on a few of the game's mechanics.

When I first started playing STO, I often found myself wondering about many of the choices available to my different characters. From armor to shields, deflectors to engines, and kits to weapons, there is an endless array of options that we can decide to play with and use. One of the most frequently asked questions I get from new players is, "What is the best energy type to use for my ship's weapons?" In the past, when I really did not know much, I would choose my type by the color it emitted. I now know that "pretty" does not equal "power." While each type has its own special bonuses, it's up to you to decide which to use and why. Here's to hoping I can aid in that decision.

Ensign, warp 10! Let's take a look at the spectrum of colors and their abilities...

Continue reading Captain's Log: What's your (energy) type?

MassivelyCaptain's Log: What's your (energy) type? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antiprotonarmorbirthdaycaptains-logcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdeflectorsdisruptorenginesF2Pfeaturedfree-to-playkitslivestreamperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentphaserplasmapolaronprocpweshieldsspecst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestosubsystemstertryontrek-onlineTribbleweaponsThu, 29 Sep 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Class spotlight - Tactical]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/captains-log-class-spotlight-tactical/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/captains-log-class-spotlight-tactical/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/captains-log-class-spotlight-tactical/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Star Trek Online tactical patch
Captain's Log, Stardate 65168.1...

Hello, computer (and players)! Welcome to Captain's Log and the second installment in a three-part series focusing on the classes within Star Trek Online. After exploring some of the amazing powers available to those who roll a Science captain, we shift our focus away from support and healing this week to dive into the realm of DPS. While this realm can be filled with members of all three classes, Tactical captains, if specced correctly, take the trophy each and every time.

Ever since the game launched early last year, my main toon has always been a Tactical captain. During the time I leveled up, I tested out different types of ships at each rank. While flying a science ship as a Tactical captain was fun during the early stages of leveling, I would definitely suggest flying an escort, or if you must, a cruiser, when you first make it to Rear Admiral. I am sure there are some Tacticals out there flying Science classes, but I feel that the Bridge Officer stations equipped on escorts allow the best Tactical abilities to come into play. But enough about telling you what to do -- let's move onto talking about some of the best attack powers in the game.

Ensign, warp 10! It's time to help our reads unload some DPS on their next enemy...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Class spotlight - Tactical

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Class spotlight - Tactical originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Sep 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilityattack-patternattack-pattern-betaattack-pattern-omegabeam-array-fire-at-willcannon-rapid-firecaptains-logclassclass-spotlightcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosengineerengineer-officerfeaturedguideguidesKAkhitomer-accordlivestreammotion-acceleratoroverwatchrally-crysciencescience-officerskill-treeskill-tree-blockst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestealth-moduleSTFstosto-class-spotlightstun-grenadesuppressing-firetacticaltactical-officertactical-teamtorpedo-high-yieldtrek-onlineThu, 01 Sep 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Class spotlight - Science]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/25/captains-log-class-spotlight-science/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/25/captains-log-class-spotlight-science/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/25/captains-log-class-spotlight-science/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Star Trek Online medical patch
Captain's Log, Stardate 65150.3...

Hello, computer (and players)! McCoy, Crusher, Bashir, the EMH and Phlox are all known for their amazing medical skills throughout the many series of Star Trek. While some of these Doctors were the most beloved characters in all of the franchise, Science officers seem to be a rare item in the Star Trek Online universe. Although Science is the least commonly played career, many who do venture into the field have rewarding gaming experiences due to the different sub-careers they can spec into.

This week's Captain's Log introduces the first installment in a three-part series that will span the next few weeks -- each entry will focus on a different class and provide some great information that you will be able to reference the next time you roll a new character. Whether you prefer to provide support through healing, debuffs, or powerful expose attacks that leave your enemies vulnerable to vaporization, this spotlight on Science captains has something for everyone. Continue past the jump for information of some of my favorite skills for Science officers.

Ensign, warp 10! Let's get those medical tricorders ready for use...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Class spotlight - Science

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Class spotlight - Science originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 25 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilitycaptains-logcharged-particle-burstclassclass-spotlightcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdoctorExothermic-Induction-Fieldfeaturedfeedback-pulseguideguideshazard-emittersHyperonic-radiationjam-sensorsKAkhitomer-accordlivestreammedical-tricordernantie-health-monitorPhotonic-Shock-Wavesciencescience-officerscramble-sensorsskill-treeskill-tree-blockst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlineSTFstosto-class-spotlighttachyon-harmonictrek-onlinetriageThu, 25 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: The reverse slingshot effect]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/captains-log-the-reverse-slingshot-effect/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/captains-log-the-reverse-slingshot-effect/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/captains-log-the-reverse-slingshot-effect/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Captain's Log, Stardate 65056.3...

Hello, computer (and players)! The slingshot effect is a maneuver, shown throughout the Star Trek franchise, which allowed starships to move back through the time continuum. By traveling at a high warp factor towards a star with a large gravitational pull, the ship would whip around it and time travel. While this seemed to only exist within the realms of the IP, it looks as though Star Trek Online's Executive Producer Dan Stahl took us on a reverse slingshot course, giving us a glimpse into the future of the game. Before we returned to the original timeline, he made sure to write up everything we saw along the way for those who couldn't make the trip.

In layman's terms, for those of you who missed the news earlier this week, July's Engineering Report has been released. While this is a monthly publication that contains the development pipeline for STO, including some items that have been featured in past issues, there are always a few bullet points added that seem to spark a healthy amount of debate -- one of these includes the ability to auction off your in-game Emblems, a form of currency, for C-Store points that have been paid for with real money. For information on this, including a response from Cryptic's PR department, and more, read ahead past the jump for this week's Captain's Log entry.

Ensign, warp 10! Let's pull a slingshot maneuver of our own...

Continue reading Captain's Log: The reverse slingshot effect

MassivelyCaptain's Log: The reverse slingshot effect originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Jul 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>academyauctionbugsc-storecaptains-logcaptainslogcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studioscstore pointsCstorePointsdan stahldan-stahldaniel stahlDanielStahlDanStahldevelopmentdine with the devsdine-with-the-devsDineWithTheDevsemblemsengineering reportengineering-reportEngineeringReportexplorationfeaturedfleet starbasefleetsFleetStarbasefoundryklingonlivestreammicrotransactionpatchesplutoQAseason-fiveseason-fourshipsslingshotsolsol planetsSolPlanetsspeciesst-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestarbasesstarfleetstfstoterritory controlTerritoryControltime travelTimeTraveltrek-onlinetribblewarpThu, 21 Jul 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online posts the latest Engineering Report]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/19/star-trek-online-posts-the-latest-engineering-report/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/19/star-trek-online-posts-the-latest-engineering-report/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/19/star-trek-online-posts-the-latest-engineering-report/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

With the launch of Season Four now behind the developers at Star Trek Online, the team is now focusing on what lies ahead for its Captains. The latest Engineering Report, a monthly forum post that is released and written by Executive Producer Dan Stahl, foreshadows some upcoming content that we will see soon[TM] and commits to the eradicating of bugs that recently came to life. There are even some new additions that are sure to bring some "healthy" discussions to the Cryptic forums.

Between now and Season Five, we will see the introduction of the Duty Officer system, STF revamps, new gear sets, more Klingon updates, and the advancement of the Borg into Federation space. While it has been said that Season Five will most likely not be released until 2012, players can look forward to seeing major updates for fleets, a rework of how exploration works, more in-game species, and the introduction of fleet starbases. Make sure to take a look at the full report, as well as this week's upcoming Captain's Log entry, to read about these and other updates coming to a starship near you.

MassivelyStar Trek Online posts the latest Engineering Report originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugscaptains-logcaptainslogcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdan stahlDanStahldevelopmentengineering-reportexplorationfleet starbasefleetsFleetStarbasepatchesseason-fiveseason-fourshipsspeciesst-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestarbasesstotrek-onlineupcoming-patchesTue, 19 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Missed dev transmissions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/09/captains-log-missed-dev-transmissions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/09/captains-log-missed-dev-transmissions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/09/captains-log-missed-dev-transmissions/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Captain's Log, Stardate 64940.2...

Hello, computer (and players)! As we have explored in past logs, the developers working on Star Trek Online are extremely transparent with the community, and this, surprising to some, is actually by design. Since Dan Stahl took over as Executive Producer a year ago come July, he made it his personal mission to make sure that fans of the game knew where the game was heading at all times and what was currently being developed. Due to the success of this open communication, Cryptic as a whole has made a shift to this philosophy for its other announced projects. New details often emerge through several different official sources: the monthly Ask Cryptic and Engineering Report as well as a plethora of interviews.

While the previously listed outlets are often marketed and widely known about, there are several channels that I would like to bring to light, ones that seem to fall under the radar. As Twitter is one of the biggest social media crazes, developers are using it to get information and work-in-progress screenshots out to the public. Also, some devs seem to be sacrificing sleep, as we will often wake up to posts in the STO forums that were posted near the midnight hour of Cryptic's time zone. Many feel that the most interesting and drool-worthy information is found in these "leaks," so I would like to share some of them with you.

Ensign, warp 10! You might want to grab a towel to wipe up your mouth...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Missed dev transmissions

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Missed dev transmissions originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-crypticcaptains-logcraig zincCraigZinccrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdan griffisdan stahlDanGriffisdaniel stahlDanielStahlDanStahldstahlduty officerduty officer systemDutyOfficerDutyOfficerSystemfawfeaturedfire at willFireAtWillforum-postsforumsgozerground combatGroundCombathereticinterviewjheiniglivestreammatt highisonMattHighisonmhighisonmidnightocdpriority onePriorityOnestostormshadethomasthecattwilighttwitteruniformswipwishstonework-in-progresszincThu, 09 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Back to the future]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/19/captains-log-back-to-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/19/captains-log-back-to-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/19/captains-log-back-to-the-future/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Captain's Log, Stardate 64884.1...

Hello, computer (and players)! Guess what's back? That's right! Hailing frequencies are now reopened -- Captain's Log is no longer on hiatus. Over the past few weeks, there has been some great news released about the Star Trek Online universe: the winner of the Design the Next Enterprise Contest was announced, the May Ask Cryptic was released, the dev team revealed the 500-day veteran rewards, and the Featured Episode reruns began. While everyone has had his or her own opinions on these stories, there is one piece of news that everyone can agree on: the awesomesauceness of the latest Engineering Report.

As first announced earlier this week, Executive Producer Dan Stahl dropped his latest report, which describes the updates to the game coming in Season Four. As usual, aside from the imminent new content, Dan foreshadows the future for us. Captain's Log is no stranger to talking about the future of the game, so I am excited to share some more details about the upcoming updates with you. Since Season Four is right around the corner and I believe it will be the "game changing update this game has needed since launch," let's get on to this week's Log entry.

Ensign, warp 10! Let's talk about Season 4 and beyond...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Back to the future

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Back to the future originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 May 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>academycaptains-logcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdan stahldaniel stahlDanielStahlDanStahldpsdstahlduty officerduty officer systemDutyOfficerDutyOfficerSystemfeaturedforum-postsforumsground combatGroundCombatGunsIdeasklingonofficial-forumspostssalami_infernoseason 4season fourSeason4SeasonFourshuttlestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestar-trek-online-gameplaystarfleetstarfleet academyStarfleetAcademystosto-gameplaytutorialVivoxvivox-voice-chatwishstonewishyThu, 19 May 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Warp trails through deliberation]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/captains-log-warp-trails-through-deliberation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/captains-log-warp-trails-through-deliberation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/captains-log-warp-trails-through-deliberation/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Captain's Log, Stardate 64806.6...

Hello, computer (and players)! It has been said that the development of a MMO and the direction it takes can attributed to those who were not afraid to speak out and gather followers who are in support of abstract ideas. As I have preached about since I took over the helm of the Captain's Log, the community has been at the forefront of the Star Trek Online universe. Bolstered by numerous fan sites and thousands of fleets and cemented by transparent developer posts and interviews, STO wouldn't be where it is today without such a passionate community. A lot of this passion takes its form through posts in Cryptic's official forums.

Whether the residence of your most beloved troll or the dwellings of your favorite developer, a game's official forums are a place to come together to rant, rave, and be that person who stands out and speaks up. The STO forums are no different. While the past few columns of mine have been about what the developers have said are coming in the future, I thought we should set a course this week for the forums and blaze a trail through the vast expanse filled with wants, desires, and demands. Shields up. Red alert.

Ensign, warp 10! What are the players asking for this week?

Continue reading Captain's Log: Warp trails through deliberation

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Warp trails through deliberation originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Apr 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captains-logcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosfeaturedforum-postsforumsGunsIdeasklingonofficial-forumspostspreorder-bonusshuttlest-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestar-trek-online-gameplaystosto-gameplaythomasthecattrek-onlineThu, 21 Apr 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: The Foundry and you]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/captains-log-the-foundry-and-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/captains-log-the-foundry-and-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/captains-log-the-foundry-and-you/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Captain's Log, Stardate 64750.3...

Hello, computer (and players)! "Ceeeeelebrate good times, come on!" That's right, captains -- it's time to let the good times roll and the never-ending content stream to begin. Earlier this week, Larry Everett helped break Star Trek Online's news drought with his post about the Foundry being moved from the test server, nicknamed Tribble, to the live server, aka Holodeck. (I've always thought the test server should have been called Holodeck, but that is a discussion for another day.) For those of you who do not know by now, the Foundry is a user-generated content (UGC) toolset that allows players to create their own missions and episodes.

Since late last year, volunteer testers have been creating hundreds of missions and pushing them out for captains of all ranks to try. Co-developed by Cryptic devs who are working at implementing the system in the upcoming Neverwinter game, the Foundry has gone through extensive changes since its inception -- the evolution of the toolset has actually provided a platform for some UGC episodes that rival those made by Cryptic. But what does this really mean for STO players?

Ensign, warp 10! Let's talk about STO's "saving grace."

Continue reading Captain's Log: The Foundry and you

MassivelyCaptain's Log: The Foundry and you originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 31 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>authorcaptains-logFeaturedholodeckRolePlayingst-onlineStar-TrekStar-Trek-MMOstar-trek-onlinestar-trek-online-foundrystar-trek-online-foundry-betastosto-foundrysto-foundry-beginnerssto-foundry-beta-walkthroughsto-foundry-forumsTribbleugcThu, 31 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: The future for fleets]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/captains-log-the-future-for-fleets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/captains-log-the-future-for-fleets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/captains-log-the-future-for-fleets/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Captain's Log, Stardate 64731.1...

Hello, computer (and players)! On my way home from work today, Jason DeRulo's Ridin' Solo came up on my iPod's playlist, and I thought to myself, how boring -- who would want to ride solo? Most of us will agree that we have the most fun when we are teamed up with someone while playing. Whether it is for the social interaction or the companionship or just so that we don't have to keep zerging, we play MMOs so that we can play with other people from around the world. Our games also allow us to take teaming one step further in the form of guilds. In Star Trek Online, joining a fleet is one of the most popular ways to play the game.

Since the early days of closed beta, thousands of fleets have formed inside Cryptic's server, fleets that have brought players together from around the world. It truly does not matter whether you speak English or not -- some of the larger fleets out there have members who represent dozens of countries, languages and ethnicities. Whether you are into PvP, roleplay, raiding, PvE, or accolade-hunting, there is a fleet for everyone -- but it doesn't stop there! As time warps on, developers of the game are going to be adding new options and creating new gameplay that will change the way you will interact with your fleet. So what are they?

Ensign, warp 10! Let's talk about the future of fleets...

Continue reading Captain's Log: The future for fleets

MassivelyCaptain's Log: The future for fleets originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Mar 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>12th-fleetcaptains-logcrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldevelopmentfeaturedfleetfleetsfoundryinterviewpvpsci-fist-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-onlinestarbasestougcThu, 24 Mar 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Bridging the gap]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/17/captain-s-log-bridging-the-gap/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/17/captain-s-log-bridging-the-gap/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/17/captain-s-log-bridging-the-gap/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Captain's Log, Stardate 64711.7...

Hello, computer (and players)! Wouldn't you agree that all MMO players have felt, or will feel, some sort of boredom with their games of choice at some point in their lives? Whether it be because they have leveled up four toons, maxed out their gear, completed all of their dailies for months, or can run raids in their sleep, a little bit of boredom is no reason to launch the escape pods between content pushes. This is especially true in the Star Trek Online universe.

I recently felt the boredom mentioned above and started playing RIFT as a way to "take a break" from STO; as I started my journey through the lands of Telara, I could not help but think that I was "cheating" on STO. I say "cheating" because I can honestly say I love STO and am so proud to be a lifetime member. So why did I start to play RIFT? Well, I leveled up four toons, maxed out my gear, ran my dailies for months, and can now run the raids in my sleep. But the thing is, I know that MMOs are evolving, living creatures, and I know that STO's future is quite bright. But while you wait for that blinding future, let me outline some ways to bridge the gap.

Ensign, warp 10! Let's talk about some things to do...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Bridging the gap

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Bridging the gap originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boredombridging-the-gapcaptains-logcrypticcryptic-studiosfeaturedriftsci-fist-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-onlinestotriontrion-worldsThu, 17 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist goes to Earth & Beyond: The vet]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/08/the-game-archaeologist-goes-to-earth-and-beyond-the-vet/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/08/the-game-archaeologist-goes-to-earth-and-beyond-the-vet/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/08/the-game-archaeologist-goes-to-earth-and-beyond-the-vet/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Space: the final frontier... except for 4chan, which is a lot scarier to explore. These are the voyages of the Starship Massively. Its five-year mission: to explore strange, new worlds; to seek out new life and blow it out of the sky; to boldly exploit trade routes like no one has done before!

Erp, better stop there before I begin infringing on the Captain's Log's territory! In any event, we at The Game Archaeologist Institute for Fuzzy Nostalgia continue to forge ahead with the Earth & Beyond dig, carefully dusting off memories and screenshots to preserve in a blog-shaped museum.

It's one thing to talk of a game, but another to speak with one who was there at the time, so I went on a hunt through the dark recesses of the internet to find seasoned Earth & Beyonders. This search took me about two minutes before one of my associates practically opened the floodgates of fanboy gushing to drown me in his enthusiasm for this title. One interview, hundreds of screenshots and an Electronic Arts dev bible later, and we at the institute knew that we hit the motherlode.

Join us for a civilized discussion with an Earth & Beyond vet as he shares with us crumpets and recollections.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist goes to Earth & Beyond: The vet

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist goes to Earth & Beyond: The vet originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 Mar 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arduacanadacaptains-logcelestial-horizonclaudia-christiancolumbia-disastercommand-and-conquerdev-bibleeaearth-and-beyondechoes-of-nonsenseelectronic-artseveeve-onlineexplorerfantasyfeaturedfederationinterviewirelandJenquaijump-to-lightspeedlord-of-the-ringsnet7sci-fiscience-fictionspace-shuttle-columbiastar-trekstar-wars-galaxiessunsetswgtea-and-crumpetsthe-game-archaeologisttitanwargameswestwoodTue, 08 Mar 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Facing the future of Star Trek Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/27/captains-log-facing-the-future-of-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/27/captains-log-facing-the-future-of-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/27/captains-log-facing-the-future-of-star-trek-online/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Welcome to another edition of Captain's Log, the greatest weekly column about Star Trek Online that you'll read on Massively today. I can't believe this, but there's a fairly solid chance that I'm digging myself out of another blizzard at this very moment, so I hope you're having fun reading this instead of freezing to death, shovel in hand. Winter is getting on my nerves.

Next week, STO will celebrate its one-year anniversary, and Captain's Log will celebrate with a half-amazed look back at 12 months of Federation funsauce and Klingon, er... hm. Anyway, we'll look ahead this week to STO's future -- both the future we expect, and the future STO needs to ensure it reaches its second, fifth and tenth anniversaries.

Continue reading Captain's Log: Facing the future of Star Trek Online

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Facing the future of Star Trek Online originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Jan 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Ataricaptains-logcaptains-log-future-of-stocrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdaniel-stahlfeaturedst-onlineStar-TrekStar-Trek-MMOstar-trek-onlinestar-trek-online-futurestar-trek-online-season-3stosto-ask-crypticsto-combatsto-combat-changessto-foundrysto-free-to-playsto-freemiumsto-futuresto-future-featuressto-ground-combattrek-onlineThu, 27 Jan 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Foundry-friendly resources and tips]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/13/captains-log-foundry-friendly-resources-and-tips/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/13/captains-log-foundry-friendly-resources-and-tips/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/13/captains-log-foundry-friendly-resources-and-tips/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Greetings, readers, and welcome to another installment of Captain's Log. I'm sure many of you live in sunnier climes and don't know such joys, but by the time you're reading this, I should be dealing with the aftermath of yet another darn snow day. I hope it warms your hearts that as you all sit there relaxing, I'm likely outside shoveling snow for what feels like the 17th time this winter.

After last week's look at Massively's readers poll, which named Star Trek Online the best MMO of 2010, your friendly neighborhood Cap's Log focuses this week on how to use the Foundry, STO's user-generated-content tools. I'll point out some handy online resources that explain the fundamentals of using the Foundry and then offer my thoughts on something even more vital to a successful mission: storytelling.

Continue reading Captain's Log: Foundry-friendly resources and tips

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Foundry-friendly resources and tips originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Jan 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captains-logfeaturedst-onlineStar-TrekStar-Trek-MMOstar-trek-onlinestar-trek-online-foundrystar-trek-online-foundry-betastar-trek-online-season-threestosto-foundrysto-foundry-beginnerssto-foundry-beta-walkthroughsto-foundry-forumssto-foundry-resourcessto-foundry-storytellingsto-foundry-tipssto-foundry-videosto-foundry-walkthroughsto-mission-creationsto-mission-creatorsto-season-3sto-ugcsto-ugc-systemsto-ugc-toolssto-user-contentsto-user-generated-contenttrek-onlineThu, 13 Jan 2011 18:00:00 EST