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[New MOBA SmashMuck Champions fights its way into closed beta this month]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/new-moba-smashmuck-champions-fights-its-way-into-closed-beta-thi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/new-moba-smashmuck-champions-fights-its-way-into-closed-beta-thi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/new-moba-smashmuck-champions-fights-its-way-into-closed-beta-thi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- SmashMuck Champions
Watch out, MOBA fans: A new challenger has appeared! Indie game developer Kiz Studios announced in a press release today that its upcoming MOBA title, SmashMuck Champions, is set to enter closed beta this month. Of course, if you're anything like us, you're probably wondering what the heck a SmashMuck Champions is.

According to the game's official site, the title is "a free-to-play action/strategy game featuring online multiplayer combat" in which players "build and train their own SmashMuck teams... to do battle in the toughest sport on Planet Muck." Gameplay-wise, the game seems to be your standard MOBA with a few not-so-standard twists. The addition of persistent champion gear plus interesting new mechanics such as stat-boosting training routines aim to put a new spin on the old formula. But hey, you don't have to take our word for it. The game will be entering closed beta testing on May 27th, so if you're a MOBA fan looking for a new thrill, just head on over to the game's official site and sign up for yourself. Oh, and while you're at it, don't forget to check out the game's latest official trailer after the cut.

[Source: Kiz Studios press release]

Gallery: SmashMuck Champions

Continue reading New MOBA SmashMuck Champions fights its way into closed beta this month

MassivelyNew MOBA SmashMuck Champions fights its way into closed beta this month originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 May 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Screenshot -- The Secret World
Beta weekends are all the rage these days, and now Funcom is getting in on the action. The studio has announced that its upcoming fantasy-horror MMO, The Secret World, will be the subject of a series of weekend beta tests, the first of which is beginning this weekend.

From Friday until Sunday, players who were lucky enough to get their hands on beta keys via preorders or giveaways will be able to jump into the boots of a Templar initiate. After undergoing the proper procedures for joining the less-than-secretive secret organization, players will be whisked away to Solomon Island, New England, where they will be tasked with finding the source of the ancient evil threatening Kingsmouth. The full details of the beta weekend, including a handy-dandy FAQ, can be found over at The Secret World's official site.

MassivelyThe Secret World announces first beta weekend originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-weekendbeta-weekendsbetascbtclosed-beta-weekendfactionfantasyfuncomhorrorkingsmouthmythologysci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedsolomon-islandtemplarthe-secret-worldtswTue, 08 May 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch 17 minutes of unadulterated Blade & Soul PvP footage]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/22/watch-17-minutes-of-unadulterated-blade-and-soul-pvp-footage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/22/watch-17-minutes-of-unadulterated-blade-and-soul-pvp-footage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/22/watch-17-minutes-of-unadulterated-blade-and-soul-pvp-footage/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Blade and Soul
There's nothing that South Korean gamers love more than hot-blooded PvP, which is why they went bananas to see NCsoft's Blade & Soul's player-vs.-player combat live at the recent Soul Party 2.

In two filmed videos by ThisIsGame.com, testers give the game's intense, kinetic action a workout during a 20v20 PvP match. The characters' full range of motion is on display in these clips, as are their various methods of impaling, soul-sucking, and fireballing opponents.

Blade & Soul recently announced its adorable Summoner class, which will be playable when the game heads into its third closed beta test on May 9th. And yes, you have our full permission to stay up past your bedtime to watch the following PvP bout.

Continue reading Watch 17 minutes of unadulterated Blade & Soul PvP footage

MassivelyWatch 17 minutes of unadulterated Blade & Soul PvP footage originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 22 Apr 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betablade-and-soulcbtcbt3closed-betaclosed-beta-testeventfantasymartial-artsmartial-arts-mmoncsoftncsoft-koreapvppvp-eventsoul-party-2summonervideoSun, 22 Apr 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: Simplicity itself]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/flameseeker-chronicles-simplicity-itself/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/flameseeker-chronicles-simplicity-itself/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/flameseeker-chronicles-simplicity-itself/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Guild Wars 2 concept art
ArenaNet is designing Guild Wars 2 to appeal to bucketloads of people. The studio's got the PvP and competition, the high-end dungeon challenge, the super-cooperative and dynamic PvE content, the compelling and branching storyline, the flashy (and occasionally sensibly flashy) armors -- there's a lot going on. Part of what makes that possible is the use of very approachable systems.

These simple systems pop up all over the place: the straight-forward lists of boons and conditions that affect players, the common capture point mechanic over which more intricate PvP objectives can be layered, and the relatively small pool of skills from which to assemble a build. The beauty of their simplicity is that the simplicity itself isn't a limiting factor -- you can't do only simple things with them.

In this way, simple systems have a low entry barrier and a high complexity capacity. That means that more people can enjoy the game with relatively little skill and that there's a lot of room for time, dedication, and finesse to lead to outstanding results. Anyone can play, but not everyone can (or will) master elements of the game.

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: Simplicity itself

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: Simplicity itself originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetcbtdynamic-eventsemergent-gameplayeventsfantasyfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw1gw2ncsoftopinionskill-comboskillsTue, 17 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[En Masse Entertainment wraps up TERA closed beta weekends]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/en-masse-entertainment-wraps-up-tera-closed-beta-weekends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/en-masse-entertainment-wraps-up-tera-closed-beta-weekends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/en-masse-entertainment-wraps-up-tera-closed-beta-weekends/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Screenshot -- TERA
The fifth and final TERA closed beta weekend went out with a bang last weekend, heralding the beginning of the final steps toward the game's May launch. But before En Masse Entertainment opens the floodgates of open beta testing, it has decided to release some interesting details and statistics regarding the closed beta test weekends.

For instance, over the course of the closed beta weekends, players formed 90,000 parties and over 3,600 guilds in order to hunt down and destroy over 7.6 billion monsters. In the process, they earned a total of over 14.5 billion gold, collected 20 million items, and bit the dust almost 2 million times. Castanics reigned surpreme as the most commonly chosen race (with Humans and High Elves not far behind), while the most popular class was the Warrior, followed closely by Sorcerer and Slayer. Of course, players can expect to blow these numbers out of the water when open beta begins on April 19th.

[Source: En Masse Entertainment press release]

MassivelyEn Masse Entertainment wraps up TERA closed beta weekends originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 Apr 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabetasblueholebluehole-studioscbtclosed-beta-weekendclosed-beta-weekendsen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasylies-damn-lies-and-statisticsobtopen-betastatisticsterawrap-upFri, 13 Apr 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ready, aim, Firefall: Impressions of the closed beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/08/ready-aim-firefall-impressions-of-the-closed-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/08/ready-aim-firefall-impressions-of-the-closed-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/08/ready-aim-firefall-impressions-of-the-closed-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Firefall
Last year at PAX Prime, I had the opportunity to get my hands on an early version of Red 5 Studios' upcoming MMOFPS, Firefall. The game's come a long way since then, having gone into closed beta shortly after PAX Prime.

As of Friday, the game's NDA has finally dropped, and I can finally tell you fine folks all about my experiences with the game's beta. For those of you somehow not in the know, Firefall is essentially two games in one. On the one hand, you have the title's open-world PvE content that sees players exploring the lands of New Eden in an attempt to find a way to fight back the destructive alien force known as the Melding. On the other, there's the competitive e-sports-esque PvP, which lets players test their skills against each another to see who's the best shot in New Eden. So how much has Firefall changed between PAX Prime '11 and PAX East '12?

Continue reading Ready, aim, Firefall: Impressions of the closed beta

MassivelyReady, aim, Firefall: Impressions of the closed beta originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 08 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Screenshot -- TERA
TERA's launch is now just beyond the horizon, and that means that it's almost time for the game's closed beta testing to draw to a close. Specifically, it means that this weekend will mark the fifth and final closed beta test weekend, so En Masse Entertainment has put up a new blog post discussing what was learned from CBT 4 and what players can expect from CBT 5, open beta, and launch.

One thing that the team is looking at very intently for open beta and launch is the difficulty of the starting experience -- or perhaps more appropriately, the lack thereof. Players have long said that the starting experience is not challenging enough, and the team has been listening. On top of that, En Masse has been working on a number of other changes as well, including tweaks to the enchantment system, some additional equipment and skill options, and even an entirely new tutorial zone that "serves as the precursor to the current Island of Dawn experience." The full details, of course, can be found in the official post over at TERA's official site, so go on and read up and we'll see you in in Arborea again soon.

MassivelyTERA sheds some light on open beta as test weekends draw to a close originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 Apr 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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It's so fluffy I'm gonna die!
Free-to-play MMO developer/publisher KoramGame Ltd. has announced that its nauseatingly adorable title Spirit Tales is making the jump into closed beta. The chibi-anime-style game boasts extensive character customization with "over 40 million unique fashion combinations for your character," while further customization is possible with the game's pet system. Almost any creature in the game can be captured and tamed as a pet, after which point players can either summon their pets as battle companions or merge with them in order to enhance their characters' abilities.

Yann Wang, General Manager of KoramGame, is enthusiastic about the game's beta test, stating that the game's "unique character customization and pet system" and "explosive PvP battles and intense instanced dungeons are sure to win [players] over." Of course, there's only way to test the veracity of his statement, and that's to head on over to the game's official site and get in on the test yourself. But be sure to act quickly; testing slots for this phase are limited.

[Source: KoramGame Ltd. press release]

MassivelySpirit Tales threatens cuteness overload as closed beta begins originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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ArcheAge
Who would have thought that something as mundane as tractors could get us so excited? And yet ArcheAge does exactly that, as a new video from the closed beta shows off the latest model of drivable tractors, useful in both field irrigation and cargo hauling. Players are shown spraying down fields with a forward-facing nozzle, resulting in the quick growth of plants.

In addition to the zen and art of tractor pulling, this video briefly highlights several other aspects of this gorgeous game. It illuminates the creation and use of a trebuchet in castle sieges, underwater exploration, housing decorations, and painstakingly animated dragon-lion mounts.

While the video may not be in English, it's still a drop of cool water in the mouths of fans thirsty for this upcoming MMO. You can check out all of the lush goodness after the break.

[Thanks to Dengar for the tip!]

Continue reading ArcheAge explores the possibilities of an open world in a new video

MassivelyArcheAge explores the possibilities of an open world in a new video originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archeagecastle-siegecbtchinese-mountsclosed-betaclosed-beta-testfarminghousinglion-dragon-mountssandboxsiegetractortractor-pullingtrebuchetunderwaterunderwater-combatunderwater-explorationvideoxlgamesTue, 28 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Next TERA CBT weekend brings level cap increase, new dungeon, and PvP]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/next-tera-cbt-weekend-brings-level-cap-increase-new-dungeon-an/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/next-tera-cbt-weekend-brings-level-cap-increase-new-dungeon-an/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/next-tera-cbt-weekend-brings-level-cap-increase-new-dungeon-an/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[Source: En Masse Entertainment press release]

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beta-weekendbeta-weekend-1beta-weekend-oneblueholebluehole-studiocbtcbt-weekendcbt-weekend-1cbt-weekend-oneclosed-beta-testen-masseen-masse-entertainmentoh-god-vekasrecapteratera-onlinethe-exiled-realm-of-arboreaFri, 17 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Seven Souls Online gets competitive with its closed beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/seven-souls-online-gets-competitive-with-its-closed-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/seven-souls-online-gets-competitive-with-its-closed-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/seven-souls-online-gets-competitive-with-its-closed-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Screenshot -- Seven Souls Online
Last week, we gave you folks the opportunity to grab a beta key for NEOWIZ GAMES' upcoming F2P title Seven Souls Online. Well, the time has come to put those keys to good use. The game's developers announced in a press release today that Seven Souls Online has entered closed beta testing, but this isn't an ordinary beta test. No, this is a beta contest. You see, NEOWIZ GAMES wants to make sure that players report all the bugs they come across, so the studio is offering some extra incentives.

Throughout the course of the beta test, players can take part in The Great Bug Hunt, in which players are asked to submit bugs with screenshots and directions for replication. The seven players who submit the most useful bug reports will be rewarded with an iPad 2. If you're not up for all that bug-reporting work, though, don't worry. The studio is also asking beta testers to submit their most iconic screenshots that they think "represents Seven Souls Online." Players will vote on the forums for the best entry, and the top five contestants will receive an "ultra-rare" mount known as the Burning Ghost Mount, which sounds pretty awesome if a bit surreal. To get in on the beta testing action, just click on over to the game's official site.

[Source: NEOWIZ GAMES press release]

MassivelySeven Souls Online gets competitive with its closed beta originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionaction-combatbetabeta-testbeta-weekendbeta-weekend-1beta-weekend-oneblueholebluehole-studiocbtcbt-weekendcbt-weekend-1cbt-weekend-oneclosed-betaclosed-beta-testcombaten-masseen-masse-entertainmentfeaturedhands-onhigh-elfimpressionsteratera-onlinethe-exiled-realm-of-arboreawarriorTue, 14 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Anime-style MMO Spirit Tales begins closed beta sign-ups]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/23/anime-style-mmo-spirit-tales-begins-closed-beta-sign-ups/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/23/anime-style-mmo-spirit-tales-begins-closed-beta-sign-ups/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/23/anime-style-mmo-spirit-tales-begins-closed-beta-sign-ups/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Screenshot -- Spirit Tales
KoramGame Ltd., publisher of the upcoming anime-style F2P MMO Spirit Tales, has announced that players can now sign up for the title's closed beta test. Spirit Tales is described as taking place in "an earth-like fantasy world [that] is divided into two hemispheres: the dark and the light." Players can join one of three tribes as one of six classes (Archer, Sorcerer, Fighter, Warrior, Shaman, and Assassin) and capture and train pets, take part in 5v5 PvP battles, and of course, kill lots of critters for their shiny loot. To sign up for the game's closed beta, just click through the link below.

MassivelyAnime-style MMO Spirit Tales begins closed beta sign-ups originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-sign-upsbeta-testbeta-testingcbtclosed-betaclosed-beta-testclosed-beta-testingf2pfree-to-playkoramgamekoramgame-ltdsign-upsspirit-talesMon, 23 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Taking a look at the world bosses of ArcheAge]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/09/taking-a-look-at-the-world-bosses-of-archeage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/09/taking-a-look-at-the-world-bosses-of-archeage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/09/taking-a-look-at-the-world-bosses-of-archeage/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Set players on fire (like a boss)!
The upcoming sandbox game ArcheAge has turned quite a few heads with its design principles, graphics, and game mechanics. But mechanics alone don't make a game fun to play -- you need to have some content to make use of them, after all. Content like, say, a large number of bosses wandering the world for players to take up arms against. The folks over at Steparu have gone out and shown off precisely those bosses with a new series of videos, showing the latest beta build in action by demonstrating pitched fights against these enemies.

As the preview indicates, defeating bosses rewards you with enchantments, equipment, and reputation, with the last being quite useful to gain access to new prizes through the game. The first of several videos is embedded past the cut, but if you want to see the full spectrum of enemies you can fight like a boss, you'll need to check out the full array of videos yourself and possibly join the legions of hopeful fans wondering when the game will get a stateside release.

[Thanks to ArcheAge Fan for the tip!]

Continue reading Taking a look at the world bosses of ArcheAge

MassivelyTaking a look at the world bosses of ArcheAge originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archeagearcheage-bossesbetabossboss-fightsbossescbtclosed-betaclosed-beta-testpreviewpreviewsvideovideosxl-gamesMon, 09 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ArcheAge CBT4 vids offer a closer look at hang-gliding]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/archeage-cbt4-vids-offer-a-closer-look-at-hang-gliding/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/archeage-cbt4-vids-offer-a-closer-look-at-hang-gliding/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/archeage-cbt4-vids-offer-a-closer-look-at-hang-gliding/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

ArcheAge - hang-gliding at night
MMO Culture has been, ahem, hanging out in ArcheAge's fourth Korean closed beta test, and the fansite has posted a handful of new videos that show off various aspects of XLGAMES' forthcoming sandpark opus.

First up are a couple of clips that feature the game's unique hang-gliding mechanics, and if you're anything like us, you'll marvel not only at the slick flight model but also at some of the locations the player soars over, around, and through.

A third video shows off ArcheAge's gorgeous water and swimming effects, and you can find all three clips embedded after the break.

Continue reading ArcheAge CBT4 vids offer a closer look at hang-gliding

MassivelyArcheAge CBT4 vids offer a closer look at hang-gliding originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Dec 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arche-agearcheagebetacbtcbt4fantasygameplay-videohang-glidingsandboxsandparktrailervideoxlxl-gamesxlgamesMon, 12 Dec 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ignited Games' Rosh Online opens closed beta sign-ups]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/ignited-games-rosh-online-opens-closed-beta-sign-ups/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/ignited-games-rosh-online-opens-closed-beta-sign-ups/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/ignited-games-rosh-online-opens-closed-beta-sign-ups/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Rosh Online logo
Ignited Games, creator of the side-scrolling MMORPG WindSlayer 2, has announced that its newest title Rosh Online: The Return of Karos will soon be entering closed beta. Rosh Online puts players in the role of a hero (surprise!) who must attempt to break the curse of darkness that is slowly overtaking the land of Asmara. In order to do so, players must seek to become the mythical Karos warrior. For more information on the game, and to sign up for the imminent closed beta test, head on over to the game's official site.

[Source: Ignited Games press release]

MassivelyIgnited Games' Rosh Online opens closed beta sign-ups originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Nov 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-testbeta-testingcbtclosed-betaclosed-beta-testclosed-beta-testingf2pfree-to-airignited-gamesroshrosh-onlinerosh-online-the-return-of-karosrosh-sounds-like-a-dirty-wordMon, 21 Nov 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Jagged Alliance Online and UFO Online entering closed beta testing]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/09/jagged-alliance-online-and-ufo-online-entering-closed-beta-testi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/09/jagged-alliance-online-and-ufo-online-entering-closed-beta-testi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/09/jagged-alliance-online-and-ufo-online-entering-closed-beta-testi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- UFO Online
Double your turn-based strategy and double your fun with gamigo's upcoming UFO Online and Jagged Alliance Online. Both browser-based titles are gearing up to enter closed beta very soon. UFO Online, which focuses on defending territory from opposing factions and aliens (the extraterrestrial kind), begins its open beta today, while Jagged Alliance Online -- a squad-building, mercenary-themed title -- will follow in the next few days. To sign up to be a part of the testing, head on over to the games' official sites.

[Source: gamigo press release]

MassivelyJagged Alliance Online and UFO Online entering closed beta testing originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 Nov 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betacbtclosed-betaclosed-beta-testingf2pfree-to-playgamigojagged-alliance-onlinejaoufoufo-onlineWed, 09 Nov 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Be a part of Black Prophecy's closed beta test with our key giveaway!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/25/be-a-part-of-black-prophecys-closed-beta-test-with-our-key-give/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/25/be-a-part-of-black-prophecys-closed-beta-test-with-our-key-give/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/25/be-a-part-of-black-prophecys-closed-beta-test-with-our-key-give/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Black Prophecy entered North American closed beta testing Wednesday, and we hinted that we just might have some closed beta keys to share with our readers.

As it happens, we were telling the truth! We do have a few closed beta keys -- in fact, we have several thousand. Visit our giveaway page to pick yours up, then go to the Black Prophecy site to register. Follow the registration instructions, verify your email, then check your email again for a download link. Once your account is active in Gamigo's account system, visit the Pilot Licensing Terminal (aka. beta page) to enter your beta key.

The final step is the easiest: Enjoy the Black Prophecy closed beta!

GET YOUR KEY

MassivelyBe a part of Black Prophecy's closed beta test with our key giveaway! originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 Mar 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betablack-prophecycbtclosed-betaclosed-beta-key-giveawaycontestf2pfree-to-playftpgamigogiveawayFri, 25 Mar 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Iris Online enters second closed beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/07/iris-online-enters-second-closed-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/07/iris-online-enters-second-closed-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/07/iris-online-enters-second-closed-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Testing for Iris Online is something that isn't going to float everyone's boat... but one glance at the game's screenshots should make it clear that it will be deeply satisfying to certain people. There's no other game in which you can ride a purple cat with a jester's cap, for instance. If that tickles your fancy, you'll be happy to know that the game's second closed beta test has started, complete with bonuses to both former participants and those who didn't get a chance to test the game the first time around.

Beta testers from the previous phase will be happy to find that their prior characters have not been wiped, allowing them to continue playing from where they had left off. Players who weren't in the previous test, on the other hand, will be able to take part in this testing phase, as a beta key is not required for this phase of testing. The client download link is available with the official announcement, so Iris Online hopefuls should take a look now and get to work on earning their purple cat.

MassivelyIris Online enters second closed beta originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 07 Nov 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabetascbtcharacter-wipesclosed-beta-testf2pfree-to-playfreemiumgala-netgpotatoirisiris-onlinenew-testingtestingtesting-phasesSun, 07 Nov 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Grab a key for Iris Online here and be prepared for its October 15th closed beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/12/grab-a-key-for-iris-online-here-and-be-prepared-for-their-octobe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/12/grab-a-key-for-iris-online-here-and-be-prepared-for-their-octobe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/12/grab-a-key-for-iris-online-here-and-be-prepared-for-their-octobe/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Do you need more cute in your life, or do you have a deep appreciation for tarot cards? If you said yes to either of those statements, then we here at Massively may just have the title for you. It's gPotato's newest free-to-play entry: Iris Online.

Information about the game is just starting to surface, but let me give you a brief rundown. You're a gypsy-fantasy-themed hero who's out to save the world by utilizing tarot cards. The cards can be used to enhance your weapons and armor, and you can have your hero's fortune told to lay on the buffs and other types of special boosts. The game also features 22 dungeons, each one tied into a specific major arcana card.

Plus it's cute, and you really can't argue with cute. Unless you want to be a cute hater, in which case I ask you to argue against this. (Conclusion: Don't be a cute hater.) But if all of this seems like it's up your alley, then I encourage you to jump after the break, where you can claim a key for the game! We've got 5,000 keys to give away, so there's plenty for everyone!

Gallery: Iris Online Screenshots

Continue reading Grab a key for Iris Online here and be prepared for its October 15th closed beta

MassivelyGrab a key for Iris Online here and be prepared for its October 15th closed beta originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 12 Oct 2010 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cbtclosed-betaclosed-beta-keyclosed-beta-key-giveawayf2pfantasyfree-to-playgala-netgpotatogypsygypsy-fantasyirisiris-onlinetarottarot-cardstarot-dungeonsTue, 12 Oct 2010 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Run with the foxes: Grab a beta key for Kitsu Saga here]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/run-with-the-foxes-grab-a-beta-key-for-kitsu-saga-here/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/run-with-the-foxes-grab-a-beta-key-for-kitsu-saga-here/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/run-with-the-foxes-grab-a-beta-key-for-kitsu-saga-here/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Tomorrow's the beginning of the closed beta phase for Aeria Games' Kitsu Saga, the MMO in which cute, cavity-inducing foxes roam free. You may recall that we here at Massively have run two exclusive behind-the-scenes peeks into the game, but now's your time to check out Kitsu Saga instead of just hearing us talk about it.

Aeria has been kind enough to send 2,500 keys our way, so why delay giving them away any longer? Skip past the break to learn how to grab and redeem a key for yourself before they're all taken!

Continue reading Run with the foxes: Grab a beta key for Kitsu Saga here

MassivelyRun with the foxes: Grab a beta key for Kitsu Saga here originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 30 Sep 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeria-gamesbeta-key-giveawaycbtclosed-beta-key-giveawayclosed-beta-testf2pfantasyfox-spiritsfoxesfree-to-playgiveawaykawaiikitsukitsu-sagaThu, 30 Sep 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Get your MMORTS on because we have Ministry of War beta keys!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/19/get-your-mmorts-on-because-we-have-ministry-of-war-beta-keys/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/19/get-your-mmorts-on-because-we-have-ministry-of-war-beta-keys/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/19/get-your-mmorts-on-because-we-have-ministry-of-war-beta-keys/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Look, we know that all of you have plans for world domination. That's nothing to be ashamed of. But what good are those plans when you don't have the chance to put them into action, right?

Well, that's where Ministry of War comes in. Ministry of War is a browser-based MMORTS that lets you step into the shoes of one of history's great nations: Egypt, Persia, Rome, or China. From there, you'll build your empire humbly at first. You'll build structures, study war techniques, and prepare your army. Then, when your enemies on the game's huge world map least expect it, you can launch a strike into their lands! Here's where the game becomes less like Civilization and more like Age of Empires, as you'll find yourself commanding your units on an RTS battlefield. That's right, no more having battles decided for you -- you control the fight.

The good folks over at Snail Games USA have allotted us 100 beta keys to give away to you fine folks. However, there is a catch: The keys will be distributed at random, much like one of our contests. Interested and want to know more? Charge after the break for all of the details and where to sign up for a beta key!

Gallery: Ministry of War

Continue reading Get your MMORTS on because we have Ministry of War beta keys!

MassivelyGet your MMORTS on because we have Ministry of War beta keys! originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Aug 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>100-beta-keysbrowser-based-mmobrowser-based-mmortscbtclosed-beta-key-giveawayclosed-beta-testcontestfeaturedgiveawayministry-of-warmmortsmowsnail-gamessnail-games-usaThu, 19 Aug 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Who wants to be in a seekret beta test? [Updated, closed]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/04/who-wants-to-be-in-a-seekret-beta-test/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/04/who-wants-to-be-in-a-seekret-beta-test/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/04/who-wants-to-be-in-a-seekret-beta-test/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Normally on Massively we love offering you giveaways and beta keys and all sorts of goodies for reading our site. And, normally, we tell you where all of these fantastic prizes and keys are coming from. Companies love that we, essentially, promote their games, and you guys love having the chance to check out new games. It's a win/win.

Today's beta opportunity is a bit different. Very different, in fact! Today's post is regarding a super seekret beta test that we're not allowed to name in public. Shhhhh. What we can tell you, though, is that the game is from a prominent game developer, and the company is looking for 100 volunteers to provide feedback on the game during a focused testing phase this weekend. Currently, gamers from the United Kingdom, United States, and Germany are eligible to volunteer.

If you're interested in playing a mysterious game this weekend, send an email to sera@massively.com with the subject "Beta Test Volunteer." If you're one of the first 100 people to mail me, I'll respond back to you with a key to the test and instructions on how to download and play the game.

Remember though: This is a serious test! The devs at this company are looking for feedback on their game, and they're hoping you're willing to give it to them! So if you're up for it, mail away!

[Update: Bolded the e-mail address and the subject line, because apparently many of you did not see the requested subject line. I love you all, even when you send me e-mails with crazy subjects. ~Sera]

[Update 2: Holy heck guys! I hit over 500 e-mails in 20 minutes. Looks like I have my 100 participants! Thank you for your interest!]

MassivelyWho wants to be in a seekret beta test? [Updated, closed] originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beta-opportunitybeta-testcbtclosed-beta-testfocus-beta-testfocus-groupfocus-group-testinglolcat-seekret-lairseekret-beta-opportunityseekret-doorvolunteerWed, 04 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[We've got your key for The Lord of the Rings Online F2P beta test!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/26/weve-got-your-key-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-online-f2p-beta-test/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/26/weve-got-your-key-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-online-f2p-beta-test/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/26/weve-got-your-key-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-online-f2p-beta-test/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Step right up here friends, I said step right up! How would you, yes you, like to try out the title that has been 'causin a ruckus among us? That's right, friend, I'm talking about the one, the only, the hobbittastic Lord of the Rings Online[TM]! But I'm not talkin' about the one that's already out there, friend! I'm talkin' about the one that's coming -- the free to play version! Are you gamer enough to take it on?

All right, circus barker speech aside, our friends over at Turbine have supplied us with a special code for those of you who want to get in on the Lord of the Rings Online beta! However, there is a catch to this code -- it can only be used for 500 Massively readers who will be invited to the beta when the next wave of invites goes out.

Want more information, as well as the code you'll need to enter when you sign up for the beta? Not a problem, just skip past the break for all of the information you'll need!

Continue reading We've got your key for The Lord of the Rings Online F2P beta test!

MassivelyWe've got your key for The Lord of the Rings Online F2P beta test! originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-key-giveawaybeta-testcbtclosed-beta-keyclosed-beta-key-giveawayclosed-beta-testf2pfree-to-playj-r-r-tolkienlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromiddle-earththe-lord-of-the-rings-onlinetolkienturbinewarner-brosMon, 26 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Get a beta key, be divine: We have Divine Souls keys for you! [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/19/get-a-beta-key-be-divine-we-have-divine-souls-keys-for-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/19/get-a-beta-key-be-divine-we-have-divine-souls-keys-for-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/19/get-a-beta-key-be-divine-we-have-divine-souls-keys-for-you/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Do you miss the days of the fighting, combo-driven brawlers? Do you like pounding your hand on a keyboard/joystick, trying to rip off intense combos that make your friends jealous? Do you hope that one day, your combo-riffic skills could be seen by the world, so you could be hailed for your amazing finger dexterity?

Well, that day may have arrived with the coming of Divine Souls, Outspark's new action/MMO hybrid. Sure, you can team up with your friends to take on dungeons, a la Phantasy Star Online, but now you can do it by literally beating the hell out of everything that walks in front of you.

If you want more information, or a key to this new type of MMO, come and join us after the break!

Continue reading Get a beta key, be divine: We have Divine Souls keys for you! [Updated]

MassivelyGet a beta key, be divine: We have Divine Souls keys for you! [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Jul 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beta-keybeta-key-giveawaybrawlercbtclosed-beta-keyclosed-beta-key-giveawaycombosdivine-soulsf2pfighterfightingfree-to-playjugglingoutsparkMon, 19 Jul 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Get yourself a Zentia closed beta key, and take part in epic shrimp versus crab battles]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/13/get-yourself-a-zentia-closed-beta-key-and-take-part-in-epic-shr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/13/get-yourself-a-zentia-closed-beta-key-and-take-part-in-epic-shr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/13/get-yourself-a-zentia-closed-beta-key-and-take-part-in-epic-shr/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

If fairy tales are your thing and you don't mind some Chinese mythology, then ChangYou has a game to share with you. It's called Zentia, and it is the company's newest offering to the North American region.

Even better, it's going into closed beta on July 15th at 4 PM PT (7 PM ET) and we here at Massively have scored 5,000 beta keys for the game. Don't worry about rushing; there will be enough for everyone!

But, if you're interested in learning more about the game and see a trailer of the gameplay, or just want to grab yourself a key, then head on over past the break for everything you need to know!

Continue reading Get yourself a Zentia closed beta key, and take part in epic shrimp versus crab battles

MassivelyGet yourself a Zentia closed beta key, and take part in epic shrimp versus crab battles originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Jul 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betacbtchang-youchangyouclosed-betaclosed-beta-keyclosed-beta-key-giveawayf2pfree-to-playkidsvideozentiazentia-mmoTue, 13 Jul 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Allods Online Closed Beta Test 4 key giveaway]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/allods-online-closed-beta-test-4-key-giveaway/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/allods-online-closed-beta-test-4-key-giveaway/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/allods-online-closed-beta-test-4-key-giveaway/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Today marks the start of something very special for fans and players of Allods Online: Closed Beta Test 4. This stage of beta brings a raised level cap to 40, seven new contested zones, new instances, raids, Goblinball and Astral Ships. This all begins today at 11am PDT and runs until February 3, 2010.

But the best part is, we have 5,000 keys for you! To grab one for yourself, head on over to our giveaway page, click the key claim button at the bottom and copy your key. From there you'll head over to the official Allods Online website to redeem your key and download the client. While your client is downloading, check out our pre-release developer tour of the new zones and Astral Ships, including a comprehensive video. Please note that if you've already acquired a key in previous stages of beta, you will not need one now. Good luck!

MassivelyAllods Online Closed Beta Test 4 key giveaway originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 Jan 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allods-onlineastral-shipastrum-nivalbeta-keycbtcbt4closed-betagala-netgiveawaygpotatoTue, 19 Jan 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Karos Online enters open beta Dec 4th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/karos-online-enters-open-beta-dec-4th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/karos-online-enters-open-beta-dec-4th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/karos-online-enters-open-beta-dec-4th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Karos Online publisher NHN Corporation has announced that open beta for the fantasy MMO will kick off on Friday, December 4th. The official site's link for CBT sign-ups is still active, so this may be worth a shot. Those gamers already in the Karos Online closed beta will have some things to look forward to in the final CBT event running from November 27th - 28th. Characters will be given gear and items for high-level play with rapid experience gain. NHN says players will reach a level cap of 44 "almost immediately". There will also be new monsters, weapons, and Holy Creatures to tear into.

In addition, players in the CBT will be able to reserve their character names for when Karos Online's open beta doors swing wide to the masses. The English version of Karos Online is scheduled to launch in Q4 2009, with German and Turkish versions to follow in 2010.

MassivelyKaros Online enters open beta Dec 4th originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betascbtclosed-betaf2pfantasyfree-to-playkaros-onlinemmo-industrynew-titlesnhnnhn-corporationopen-betaThu, 19 Nov 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Allods Online closed beta begins today and we have more keys!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/10/allods-online-closed-beta-begins-today-and-we-have-more-keys/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/10/allods-online-closed-beta-begins-today-and-we-have-more-keys/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/10/allods-online-closed-beta-begins-today-and-we-have-more-keys/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Last week, we announced an upcoming closed beta test for Allods Online, with 500 keys to give out to the Massively readers. Since that went so well (the keys were gone in less than two hours!), we've been given 1k more to kick off the official CBT1, which starts at 2pm ET today. This first stage of closed beta covers levels 1-10 for both League and Empire sides, including all races, classes, and relevant zones. The beta test will run from November 10th through November 24th.

To grab your key, head on over to our giveaway page and follow the directions there. Remember, it doesn't start until 2pm ET today, so you have plenty of time to download and be ready!

MassivelyAllods Online closed beta begins today and we have more keys! originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 Nov 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allods-onlineBreakingBreakingNewscbtclosed-betagiveawaygpotatoTue, 10 Nov 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Players to get hands-on time with Star Trek Online at Eurogamer Expo]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/26/players-to-get-hands-on-time-with-star-trek-online-at-eurogamer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/26/players-to-get-hands-on-time-with-star-trek-online-at-eurogamer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/26/players-to-get-hands-on-time-with-star-trek-online-at-eurogamer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Some people have already gotten into the closed beta for Star Trek Online, but for the rest of us it's going to be a waiting game. There may be good news for some of our UK-based readers, though. Those in attendance at this week's Eurogamer Expo will get to experience both ship-based action and ground combat firsthand in a Star Trek Online demo Cryptic Studios has set up. According to Eurogamer, Cryptic will allow Expo attendees to fight a fleet of Klingons and follow that up with an away mission on a planet's surface, where they will encounter the "Guardian of Forever."

Eurogamer Expo will run October 27-28 in Leeds, and October 30-31 in London. You can check out the full details of this public hands-on of Star Trek Online in the Eurogamer announcement.

Gallery: Star Trek Online Gallery

MassivelyPlayers to get hands-on time with Star Trek Online at Eurogamer Expo originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betascbtclosed-betacrypticcryptic-studiosdemodemonstrationeurogamereurogamer-expohands-onklingonklingonsleedslondonmmo-industrynew-titlessci-fistar-trek-onlinestoMon, 26 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[All Points Bulletin closed beta has begun]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/19/all-points-bulletin-closed-beta-has-begun/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/19/all-points-bulletin-closed-beta-has-begun/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/19/all-points-bulletin-closed-beta-has-begun/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Urban crime (game) enthusiasts, rejoice! The All Points Bulletin closed beta has begun, according to reports at both Eurogamer and Kotaku. It was rumored that the beta would begin this month and it seems there are presently three windows of gameplay a week in the All Points Bulletin CBT -- Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday evenings, says Eurogamer's Oli Welsh. Those interested in ripping up the streets as either a Criminal or an Enforcer can still apply to become an All Points Bulletin beta tester at the game's official site.

APB is in development at Realtime Worlds in Scotland, and aims to bring a new level of online interaction to multiplayer urban crime games. Check out Massively's coverage of All Points Bulletin for more on what Realtime Worlds is creating.

MassivelyAll Points Bulletin closed beta has begun originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Oct 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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One of the upcoming games Massively is watching closely is Global Agenda, an amalgam of a sci-fi MMO and a shooter. Global Agenda's creators, Hi-Rez Studios, launched the first phase of closed beta testing roughly a month ago, with new players hammering their servers over the course of four days. The next round of closed beta testing begins today, August 21st, at 3pm EST (12pm PDT, 8pm GMT) and will last through 6am EST (3am PDT, 11am GMT) on Sunday, August 23rd.

Where the first test was focused on the early levels of gameplay, Hi-Rez Studios will now focus on higher level gameplay. While we couldn't say exactly what that entails, it's a safe bet that gamers will have access to a wider array of devices and skills. On the topic of skills, our understanding is that this next round of beta testing will throw the alpha and beta testers in the same room for the first time... which should be brutal.

Continue reading Second Global Agenda closed beta test weekend begins today

MassivelySecond Global Agenda closed beta test weekend begins today originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 21 Aug 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betascbtclosed-betaglobal-agendahi-rez-studiosmmo-industrymmofpsnew-titlespvepvpsci-fispy-fiFri, 21 Aug 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Karos Online announces closed beta dates and three playable races]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/14/karos-online-announces-closed-beta-dates-and-three-playable-race/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/14/karos-online-announces-closed-beta-dates-and-three-playable-race/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/14/karos-online-announces-closed-beta-dates-and-three-playable-race/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


It was only the other day when we first mentioned Karos Online, a fantasy MMO in development at Galaxy Gate, which will offer a twist on standard game mechanics with a dual dungeon system. Event dungeons will be limited to five players but battle conditions will adapt to player actions. Maze dungeons, on the other hand, won't have those player caps, and are essentially shifting labyrinths which add more difficulty the further players venture in.

If that's caught your attention, Karos Online's publisher NHN released more info today about the game's closed beta test. The closed beta weekend event will begin on Friday, August 21 and last through Sunday, August 23. This first weekend event will let players choose from three different races -- Humans, Shadows, and Seroines -- and one of each race's sub-classes.

Continue reading Karos Online announces closed beta dates and three playable races

MassivelyKaros Online announces closed beta dates and three playable races originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 14 Aug 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asmarabetascbtclassesclosed-betafantasyfree-to-playgalaxy-gatekaros-onlinenew-titlesnhnracesseroineshadowFri, 14 Aug 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Global Agenda closed beta kicks off tomorrow, July 24]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/23/global-agenda-closed-beta-kicks-off-tomorrow-july-24/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/23/global-agenda-closed-beta-kicks-off-tomorrow-july-24/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/23/global-agenda-closed-beta-kicks-off-tomorrow-july-24/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Global Agenda fans... it's almost here. The game's closed beta kicks off tomorrow, but a few lucky gamers in Hi-Rez's neighborhood actually got a head start today. Hi-Rez Studios Associate Producer Michal Adam just put up a dev blog over on MMORPG.com about the beta, and how some lucky gamers got first crack at the 'spy-fi' title.

She explains the Hi-Rez Studios tradition of N00b day "New Tester Day", where some players are invited out to the game studio to test out Global Agenda. It's part of the company's outreach to high schools and universities in the area. Michal writes, "Today's 'noob' group comprises individuals who live nearby and register through the Global Agenda website for today's testing session. I'm not sure when they signed up they knew they'd be the first to get onto Global Agenda's beta, and I guess I should stop calling them 'noobs' because they are the highest ranked players on our beta server!"

Continue reading Global Agenda closed beta kicks off tomorrow, July 24

MassivelyGlobal Agenda closed beta kicks off tomorrow, July 24 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Jul 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>associate-producerbetascbtclosed-betadev-blogdev-blogsglobal-agendahi-rez-studiosmichal-adammmofpsmmorpg.comnew-titlessci-fispy-fiThu, 23 Jul 2009 20:00:00 EST