Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Champions' Forum Malvanum alert now live]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/champions-forum-malvanun-alert-now-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/champions-forum-malvanun-alert-now-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/champions-forum-malvanun-alert-now-live/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Champions' Forum Malvanun alert now live
Have you ever wanted to battle for galactic glory on the moon? Now you can thanks to Champions Online's Forum Malvanum alert. The new content just went live, and Cryptic says that player heroes will need to "defeat some of the the most dangerous monsters and gladiators from around the universe" in order to become champions of the Lunar Games.

"The Lunar Games include ten rounds of enemies, with some variation in each run," according to Cryptic's announcement post. "Heroes who complete the first five rounds are guaranteed a prize as worthy competitors. More rewards will be granted by Tateklys for defeating the time-limited sixth through tenth rounds, including a climactic final fight with Firewing himself, reigning champion of the Games. Rewards include costume pieces, resources and more."

[Thanks Matixzun!]

MassivelyChampions' Forum Malvanum alert now live originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 May 2013 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alertchampionschampions-alertchampions-onlinechampions-raidchampscocrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfirewingforum-malvanumfree-to-playlunar-gamesperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpvepwesuperherosuperheroesThu, 23 May 2013 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Champions Online brings back the Bloodmoon event and prepares for space gladiators]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/champions-online-brings-back-the-bloodmoon-event-and-prepares-fo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/champions-online-brings-back-the-bloodmoon-event-and-prepares-fo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/champions-online-brings-back-the-bloodmoon-event-and-prepares-fo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

yeah you heard me. SPACE. GLADIATORS.
Players of Champions Online, rejoice! The Bloodmoon has risen once again, and dark and dire perils threaten Millennium City. From this Thursday at 3:01 p.m. EDT until Tuesday at 2:59 a.m. EDT, you'll be able to hop into the action and bathe in the blood of your ghoulish enemies. Do ghouls have blood? We'll assume so.

Did you know that there are aliens hiding on the dark side of the moon? Of course you did! But here's the thing: There are also aliens hiding on the dark side of the moon in Champions Online. They've been kidnapping heroes from earth to fight in their lunar gladiatorial arena. Soon, the Forum Malvanum custom alert will be open to any Earthling brave enough to step up to the challenge.

Skip below the cut to catch a bit of history on what the Bloodmoon is all about.

Continue reading Champions Online brings back the Bloodmoon event and prepares for space gladiators

MassivelyChampions Online brings back the Bloodmoon event and prepares for space gladiators originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 May 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bloodmoonchampionschampions-onlinechampscocrypticcryptic-studiosdark-side-of-the-moonf2pforum-malvanumfree-to-playperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpreviewpwespace-gladiatorssuperherosuperheroesvideovideosThu, 16 May 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A Mild-Mannered Reporter: How Champions Online could get its groove back]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/a-mild-mannered-reporter-how-champions-online-could-get-its-gro/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/a-mild-mannered-reporter-how-champions-online-could-get-its-gro/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/a-mild-mannered-reporter-how-champions-online-could-get-its-gro/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

I believe I can fly! It's a demonstrable fact! Hence why I believe it.
It's hard to be a fan of Champions Online right now. The game has not been in a good state for pretty much any of its life cycle, but as I've discussed previously, its woes have really come into focus lately. It's been a long time since the game really sat down and advanced any sort of story, and it's been even longer since the game offered players something new in the endgame. When Cryptic has two other games with lots of ambition and promise, Champions Online is left looking like the unwanted sibling.

Part of the problem is the fact that CO currently has a skeleton crew working on it and a minimal budget. I suspect (without having hard numbers) that it's at the same sort of uneasy place as Vanguard was for a long while -- making just enough money to justify its continued operation while not making enough money for additional development staff. So with all of that in place, what can the game do to prop itself up a bit more without requiring a huge infusion of additional money? How can Champions Online get its act back together?

Continue reading A Mild-Mannered Reporter: How Champions Online could get its groove back

MassivelyA Mild-Mannered Reporter: How Champions Online could get its groove back originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 May 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-mild-mannered-reporterchampionschampions-onlinechampscocrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfeaturedfoundryfree-to-playgame-mechanicsmild-mannered-reporteropinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpgcplayer-generated-contentpwespeculationsuggestionssuperherosuperhero-genresuperheroesWed, 15 May 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: Neverwinter pre-launch interview, part two]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/20/massively-exclusive-neverwinter-pre-launch-interview-part-two/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/20/massively-exclusive-neverwinter-pre-launch-interview-part-two/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/20/massively-exclusive-neverwinter-pre-launch-interview-part-two/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Massively Exclusive Neverwinter prelaunch interview, part two
We're back with Cryptic Lead Producer Andy Velasquez to continue our discussion of Neverwinter's beta lessons, launch preparations, and post-launch plans. We also touch on some of the comments and concerns that players had for the title and how Cryptic is addressing them.

If you missed the first part of this interview, make sure you check it out before continuing!

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: Neverwinter pre-launch interview, part two

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: Neverwinter pre-launch interview, part two originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 20 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoandy-velasquezbalancebehind-the-scenesbetabeta-testingchampions-onlineclassescrypticcryptic-studiosdndexclusivef2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playinterviewinterviewslaunchlaunch-daylaunchesneverwinterperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpreviewpreviewspwestar-trek-onlineupdate-1update-2Sat, 20 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: Neverwinter pre-launch interview, part one]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/massively-exclusive-neverwinter-pre-launch-interview-part-one/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/massively-exclusive-neverwinter-pre-launch-interview-part-one/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/massively-exclusive-neverwinter-pre-launch-interview-part-one/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Massively Exclusive Neverwinter prelaunch interview
Andy Velasquez has seen his fair share of MMO launches, but that doesn't make a new one any less exhilarating or terrifying. As lead producer, he's the captain of the Neverwinter ship and must make sure it's seaworthy before slipping out of drydock and heading into the unknown waters of release. Metaphor or no, it's a daunting job with little downtime, especially in this final week leading up to the soft launch of open beta.

Velasquez took a half-hour out of his busy schedule to sit with us and talk about the preparations being made for Neverwinter's big moment. Read on for his candid insights into beta stories, launch day, and making tough calls when tough calls had to be made.

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: Neverwinter pre-launch interview, part one

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: Neverwinter pre-launch interview, part one originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoandy-velasquezbalancebehind-the-scenesbetabeta-testingchampions-onlineclassescrypticcryptic-studiosdndexclusivef2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playinterviewinterviewslaunchneverwinterperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpreviewpreviewspwestar-trek-onlineupdate-1update-2Fri, 19 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Stepping on tax edition, April 15 - 21, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/15/the-stream-team-stepping-on-tax-edition-april-15-21-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/15/the-stream-team-stepping-on-tax-edition-april-15-21-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/15/the-stream-team-stepping-on-tax-edition-april-15-21-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

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

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

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

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

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Champions Online screenshot
I remember playing and disliking Champions Online when it first came out. My wife and I had the same reaction when we both thought it looked funky and played oddly. It was as though the game was attempting to be some sort of kitschy '60s-inspired comic book game, so it was hard to take it seriously. It just wasn't that much fun. Granted, that was a long time ago, and since then the title has changed hands, been patched up, and been smoothed over. I've played it off and on since my first experience but always felt it lacked... something.

I knew I needed to give it a second chance, and what better avenue to do it in than this very column? I've been really diving into it over the past few weeks, and I've discovered that the game is actually really good. And really fun. And that it looks good! I streamed it live just to double check, and sure enough, the game holds up well and made me so happy that I continued to try it out. I even subscribed! (Will wonders never cease?) So today, I want to tackle the game from a fresh, newbier perspective than the one taken in our weekly superhero column, A Mild-Mannered Reporter, where Eliot has been chronicling the playerbase's frustration with the game's content-update shortcomings.

Be sure to check out the embedded livestream later in the article. It really shows off how fun the game can be, as well as covers some of its finer details.

Gallery: Second Wind: Champions Online screenshots

Continue reading Second Wind: Champions Online

MassivelySecond Wind: Champions Online originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Stream Team Bleepity bleep edition, April 8 14, 2013

It's definitely not a new thing. Throughout the ages, when intense frustration strikes, a colorful epithet can slip past the lips of even the most soft-spoken. Heck, at particularly annoying times, a full string of them has been known fly forth from the most unexpected sources. And we all know that there are plenty of frustration-inducing situations in gaming. So it's not hard to equate swearing with gaming, right?

Of course, we at Massively TV advocate a responsible use of language during our adventures. While there could be a time or a place for the universally known curses, we prefer bursts of creative language skills. And if there's one thing The Stream Team has, it's an abundance of creativity! We've learned it is possible to express frustration while avoiding the censors because censors are mean and carry big, painful sticks! Ouch.

Need proof? Pop into any of the shows scheduled this week or the reruns from last; watch how deftly (or not) our intrepid streamers react to curse-creating incidents. Hope as they might, nothing can go smoothly all the time... or for the very unlucky, at all! A perfect demonstration of this is highlighted in our newest section, a place devoted to showcasing a stream of the week. Catch MJ's colorful repurposing of the English language first-hand in Highlight Reels, then offer your most creative expression in the Outtakes.

Continue reading The Stream Team: Bleepity bleep edition, April 8 - 14, 2013

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Bleepity bleep edition, April 8 - 14, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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For the record, I was disappointed by the 4/1 jokes this year.
Having spent the last couple of weeks systematically irritating the makers of every superheroic MMO currently on the market, I think now seems like a perfect time to go trawling for recent news and views. Especially since I am writing this on April 1st to meet my deadline, so there's a day-long moratorium on any real news being posted. (That Kickstarter of ours is very real, though. You need to give us money right now.)

Of course, the big news was a completely unexpected announcement that came out right after PAX East concluded: Another challenger is entering the arena, and it's something no one could have seen coming without insider information. Meanwhile, Marvel Heroes announced its launch date days after I had speculated on what that might be, and Champions Online is gearing up to kick off another event. So let's get talking about all the superhero news that's been going down since the last roundup.

Continue reading A Mild-Mannered Reporter: A super month in super news

MassivelyA Mild-Mannered Reporter: A super month in super news originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Apr 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-mild-mannered-reporteractionaction-mmochampionschampions-onlinechampscocrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfeaturedfree-to-playgazilliongazillion-entertainmentinfinite-crisismarvelmarvel-heroesmarvel-universemarvel-universe-onlinemild-mannered-reportermobamuoopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesecret-identitysuperherosuperhero-genresuperheroesturbineturbine-entertainmentwarner-brosWed, 03 Apr 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Winning is half the battle]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/31/one-shots-winning-is-half-the-battle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/31/one-shots-winning-is-half-the-battle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/31/one-shots-winning-is-half-the-battle/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

One Shots Winning is half the battle
If knowledge is half the battle, what's the other half? Winning, duh. It's certainly not flaky pastries or erotic roleplaying. You got to win the game's face off, and when you're done, you should pose for a commemorative photo like Reader Ralph here:

"This shot was taken just minutes from the end," he wrote to us. "After several fierce battles, our team of AFS soldiers succeeded in taking over the last Bane encampment! The Earth was ours again! WE WON! And then our universe winked out of existence, and Tabula Rasa was no more."

You won and you lost? Ralph, you officially broke the universe with that. Read on for more exciting player screenshots in today's edition of One Shots.

Continue reading One Shots: Winning is half the battle

MassivelyOne Shots: Winning is half the battle originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 31 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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It's improved a lot from the game which I preordered and then un-preordered, but still.
Let's be honest here. Champions Online is not in a good state.

A couple of weeks back I wrote about how expecting a limited-time event to flesh out the game's endgame is silly to say the least, and I stand by that. But there are two issues under discussion here, and the second is "does the game need more content?" The answer, right now, is an emphatic yes. An event isn't the place to go looking for that content necessarily, but this is still a pretty significant problem, and the game certainly doesn't look as if it's fast approaching its fourth year of operation (and it is).

So what happened? It's no secret that the game launched to some pretty poor reception, but that doesn't account for the way that the game has been managed since then, especially when its free-to-play conversion has by all indications been reasonably successful. So why is it that after nearly half the lifespan of City of Heroes it still feels like a game that just recently launched?

Continue reading A Mild-Mannered Reporter: So what's the deal with Champions Online?

MassivelyA Mild-Mannered Reporter: So what's the deal with Champions Online? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Mar 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-mild-mannered-reporterchampionschampions-onlinechampscocrypticcryptic-studiosdevelopment-cyclesf2pfailurefeaturedfree-to-playmild-mannered-reporteropinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweretrospectivesuperherosuperhero-genresuperheroesWed, 27 Mar 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exclusive: Champions Online challenges players to take on the Forum Malvanum]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/22/exclusive-champions-online-challenges-players-to-take-on-the-fo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/22/exclusive-champions-online-challenges-players-to-take-on-the-fo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/22/exclusive-champions-online-challenges-players-to-take-on-the-fo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Wait, how will you get wheel spikes on this?
Champions Online players have just braved a full-scale invasion in the appropriately named Lemurian Invasion event. So now the superheroes of Millennium City get to take a long weekend and possibly head to the beach, right? Hardly. A new challenge approaches in the form of the upcoming Forum Malvanum event, throwing heroes into a pitched arena battle run by a mysterious alien race. But it's not quite what you might think.

The aliens behind these gladiatorial games have been running challenges across the galaxy for quite some time, and they've now invited Earth's champions to participate. Should the heroes emerge victorious, they'll reap the rewards of galaxy-spanning wealth and power. Not that you can expect the games of an intergalactic race obsessed with bloodsports to be particularly fair...

Leaving aside the perpetual nightmare that is a superhero's life, this even promises to offer several additions for players. Aside from the almost mandatory new lockbox, the event will contain new content including an arena showdown and a mission focused around a high-speed race. We also had a chance to sit down and ask producer Tom Edwards a few more questions about the upcoming event. Read on!

Gallery: Champions Online Main Gallery

Continue reading Exclusive: Champions Online challenges players to take on the Forum Malvanum

MassivelyExclusive: Champions Online challenges players to take on the Forum Malvanum originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenachampionschampions-onlinechampscocrypticcryptic-studioseventf2pfeaturedforum-malvanumfree-to-playin-game-eventinterviewinterviewslockboxesnewsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpreviewpweracerace-eventssuperherosuperheroesTom-EdwardsvehiclesFri, 22 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Champions Online dev blog goes behind-the-scenes of the Lemurian Invasion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/16/champions-online-dev-blog-goes-behind-the-scenes-of-the-lemurian/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/16/champions-online-dev-blog-goes-behind-the-scenes-of-the-lemurian/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/16/champions-online-dev-blog-goes-behind-the-scenes-of-the-lemurian/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Champions Online's Lemurian Invasion
Last week, Champions Online's Lemurian Invasion event hit the live servers, and since then players have been valiantly fighting to defend the world against the alien forces. But as the latest Champions devblog notes, "an invasion force like the Lemurians doesn't come out of nowhere." With that in mind, Cryptic has released a brand-new devblog that takes players behind the curtain for a look at the making of the Lemurian invasion. In the post, Champions Online's new Live Producer, Tom "Lord Gar" Edwards, takes players on a brief tour of the process behind creating a live event.

Edwards details all of the hard work that went into the Lemurian Invasion, from the event's initial conception to 3-D models, animations, and playtesting. But perhaps more importantly, he takes a few paragraphs to talk about the future: "[In] the first half 2013, [Cryptic's] plan is to release several story arcs of a similar scale to the Lemurian invasion." He adds that "each arc will have a lockbox, some smaller missions, and then a larger mission at the end." According to Edwards, each mission will " have its own themed rewards and new items [that will] sometimes focus on character improvements, and some on vehicles." Champions' next arc will involve "gladiatorial combat" and will focus on the aforementioned character improvements.

Edwards promises that more info is coming soon. Until then, how about heading over to the Champions Online devblog for all the tasty Lemurian Invasion details?

[Thanks to Matixzun for the tip!]

MassivelyChampions Online dev blog goes behind-the-scenes of the Lemurian Invasion originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 16 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>behind-the-sceneschampionschampions-onlinechampscocrypticcryptic-studiosdevblogdevblogseventeventsf2pfree-to-playfreemiumin-game-eventin-game-eventslemurian-invasionlive-eventlive-eventsmaking-ofmicrotransactionmicrotransactionsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpremiumpwesuperherosuperheroesSat, 16 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Cryptic and ye shall receive -- Champions Online answers, that is]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/14/ask-cryptic-and-ye-shall-receive-champions-online-answers-th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/14/ask-cryptic-and-ye-shall-receive-champions-online-answers-th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/14/ask-cryptic-and-ye-shall-receive-champions-online-answers-th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Ask Cryptic and ye shall receive Champions Online answers, that is
At the end of February, Champions Online posted an "Ask Cryptic" thread, inviting players to query devs about anything on their minds. And plenty did, filling 14 pages with burning questions such as will past events like Nighthawk ever return, can we get vehicle vs. vehicle battlegrounds, and have you tried bacon jerky? Producer Tom Edwards and the Champion's dev team answered these -- yes, good idea, and "Why would you do this to me?" respectively -- along with many others.

Although not all questions could be individually addressed, Edwards touched on as many as possible. Want to hear about land vehicles (yes, they are coming), adjusted lockbox drop rates, or the plans for a story arc throughout 2013? Then check out the full answer session on the official site.

MassivelyAsk Cryptic and ye shall receive -- Champions Online answers, that is originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Mar 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Ask-Crypticbacon-jerkychampionschampions-onlinechampscocrypticcryptic-studiosdevs-answer-burning questionsDevs-answer-burningQuestionsf2pfree-to-playperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweQA-sessionrecurring-eventssuperherosuperheroesTom-Edwardsvehicle-vs-vehicl-battlegroundsThu, 14 Mar 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A Mild-Mannered Reporter: Champions Online, Lemurian events, and you]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/13/a-mild-mannered-reporter-champions-online-lemurian-events-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/13/a-mild-mannered-reporter-champions-online-lemurian-events-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/13/a-mild-mannered-reporter-champions-online-lemurian-events-and/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Sometimes I just can't seem to stop stirring the pot.
Every so often, I'm told that I don't understand an issue under discussion, and it's entirely true. There are a lot of issues out there, and the best I can do is get some of the information, form an opinion, and then change that opinion based upon new information. So I do my best, but I'm going to be wrong sometimes.

Other times I'm told I don't understand an issue when I actually do, and the problem is that the issue under discussion is not the most relevant issue.

So let's talk a little bit more about Champions Online and the Lemurian Invasion. If you haven't been paying attention, this spawned a little bit of controversy among the playerbase and more when I said that the people raising a stink were wrong. They still are, even if they're also right about an unconnected issue I only brushed against before.

Continue reading A Mild-Mannered Reporter: Champions Online, Lemurian events, and you

MassivelyA Mild-Mannered Reporter: Champions Online, Lemurian events, and you originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Mar 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-mild-mannered-reporterchampionschampions-onlinechampscocontentcrypticcryptic-studiosdevelopmentendgameendgame-contentexclusivityf2pfeaturedfree-to-playin-game-eventsmild-mannered-reporteropinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesuperherosuperhero-genresuperheroesWed, 13 Mar 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Lemurian Invasion of Champions Online is going out with a splash]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/the-lemurian-invasion-of-champions-online-is-going-out-with-a-sp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/the-lemurian-invasion-of-champions-online-is-going-out-with-a-sp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/the-lemurian-invasion-of-champions-online-is-going-out-with-a-sp/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Why would you make a hovertank that goes underwater?
Invaders from the deep have threatened Champions Online players for a while now, but it's time to deep-six the Lemurian threat for good. The latest patch to the game is giving players a chance to do just that with a new queued event capping off the multi-week invasion, providing a fight against evil for fabulous new toys. Or you can buy new toys, if that's more your speed.

The Lemurian forces are trying to summon something enormous to overtake Millennium City, and high-level players will be pitted against the bulk of this army and its ominiously named Bleak Harbinger. Fail, and Millennium City falls. Succeed, and you might be able to pick up a Lemurian hovertank. Oh, and the city won't be destroyed. There are also new hoverbikes available from both the Drifter and the C-Store, helping ensure that heroes who want to take on the invasion will have good equipment to do so before it ends on March 27th.

[Thanks to matixzun for the tip!]

MassivelyThe Lemurian Invasion of Champions Online is going out with a splash originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 08 Mar 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>championschampions-onlinechampscocrypticcryptic-studiosendgameeventf2pfree-to-playin-game-eventitemsloreperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesuperherosuperheroesvehiclesFri, 08 Mar 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Massively: We bake bread to crush]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/ask-massively-we-bake-bread-to-crush/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/ask-massively-we-bake-bread-to-crush/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/ask-massively-we-bake-bread-to-crush/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

PAWN STARS
I have a dirty little secret: A few weeks ago when I was really sick and laid up on the sofa, I got addicted to Pawn Stars. It's a cheesy little History Channel reality show that tracks the exploits of a Las Vegas pawn shop and the shop owners' good, bad, and history-related deals. (I know, I know. I'm bad and I should feel bad.)

One lesson the boss repeats to his employees and the viewers over and over is that being rare isn't enough to make something valuable and that many valuable things aren't particularly rare at all.

This is not a lesson MMO players have learned.

Continue reading Ask Massively: We bake bread to crush

MassivelyAsk Massively: We bake bread to crush originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Feb 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adviceadvice-columnask-massivelybrianna-royce-ask-massivelychampions-onlinefalse-scarcityfeaturedhumorlemurian-invasionmassively-metametaopinionpawn-starswe-play-to-crushThu, 28 Feb 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A Mild-Mannered Reporter: News from around the superheroic world]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/27/a-mild-mannered-reporter-news-from-around-the-superheroic-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/27/a-mild-mannered-reporter-news-from-around-the-superheroic-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/27/a-mild-mannered-reporter-news-from-around-the-superheroic-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Gotta get this header thing settled. Seriously.
I've been talking about superhero games in the conceptual state over the past few weeks, which has been great for those of us who really enjoy that sort of thing. (I also got some very nice feedback from the folks at Missing Worlds Media regarding last week's article, so that's also keen.) But there are two titles in the genre already out, plus one that's not yet out but is rapidly approaching launch. So rather than speak in the abstract, let's talk about the news in review, yes?

Marvel Heroes has been making the biggest waves recently with a major beta update that trimmed up systems, changed statistics, and revamped crafting extensively. Champions Online's latest event became a point of some contention when the finale was swapped from being a high-end event to being something for everybody. And DC Universe Online waited until I had just wrapped up my month in the game to launch a big update including housing. So in no particular order, let's talk about all of this.

Continue reading A Mild-Mannered Reporter: News from around the superheroic world

MassivelyA Mild-Mannered Reporter: News from around the superheroic world originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Feb 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-mild-mannered-reporteractionaction-mmochampionschampions-onlinechampscoconsoleconsolescrypticcryptic-studiosdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuof2pfeaturedfree-to-playgazilliongazillion-entertainmentmarvelmarvel-heroesmarvel-universemarvel-universe-onlinemild-mannered-reportermuonewsnews-roundupopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentplaystation-3playstation3ps3pwesecret-identitysoesony-online-entertainmentsuperherosuperhero-genresuperheroesWed, 27 Feb 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Neverwinter Days: Money and knowledge]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/neverwinter-days-money-and-knowledge/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/neverwinter-days-money-and-knowledge/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/neverwinter-days-money-and-knowledge/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Neverwinter Days Ten essential Neverwinter resources
If you've been following Neverwinter's development closely and combing the internet for every scrap of information about it, chances are that this week's column isn't for you. But if Cryptic's newest D&D dungeon crawler has arrested your interest as of late and you're trying to catch up with the rest of the crowd, I think we can be accommodating.

Prior to a game's release, I like to bone up on the basics without crossing over into spoiler-heavy territory (especially guides and extensive video walkthroughs, but that's just me). It's a great time to get into dedicated podcasts on the game as well; I swear that podcasts at pre-launch are always more interesting than afterward.

So this week we'll go over a few essential resources that all Neverwinter fans, current and aspiring, should include in their bookmarks, as well as a brief discussion about the game's monetization plans.

Continue reading Neverwinter Days: Money and knowledge

MassivelyNeverwinter Days: Money and knowledge originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>astral-diamondsbetachampions-onlineclosed-betacocommunity-resourcescrypticcryptic-studiosdilithiumdnddungeons-and-dragonsf2pfantasyfeaturedfoundryfree-to-playmonetizationneverwinterneverwinter-daysneverwinter-nightsopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentPGCplayer-generated-contentpremium-currencypwestar-trek-onlinestothe-foundryzenWed, 20 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: Star Trek Online's soundtrack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/29/jukebox-heroes-star-trek-onlines-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/29/jukebox-heroes-star-trek-onlines-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/29/jukebox-heroes-star-trek-onlines-soundtrack/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes Star Trek Online's score
As a franchise, Star Trek is replete with terrific (and iconic) music. Star Trek VI remains one of my all-time favorite film scores, and who can listen to the opening notes of The Next Generation without being able to whistle and/or hum the whole thing? Of course, Star Trek has a lot of bad and forgettable music as well, which is probably par for a combined work of hundreds upon hundreds of hours of television and cinema.

I had high hopes for Star Trek Online's score upon first logging into the game, and the opening theme certainly did not disappoint. Kevin Manthei (Champions Online, City of Villains) delivers a stirring title track that is also one of my favorites, although the remainder of the score is much more lopsided. Some of it is so generic and harsh on the ears that I ended up turning off the soundtrack when I played STO. That's a shame because there are several equally excellent tracks deserving of a listen.

So today we're going to the stars. I hope you packed your undies and a warm sweater.

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: Star Trek Online's soundtrack

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: Star Trek Online's soundtrack originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 29 Jan 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>champions-onlinecity-of-villainscomposercomposerscrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfeaturedfree-to-playgame-musicjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettikevin-mantheimmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesci-fisoundtracksoundtracksstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoTue, 29 Jan 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A Mild-Mannered Reporter: Shall I play the villain?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/a-mild-mannered-reporter-shall-i-play-the-villain/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/a-mild-mannered-reporter-shall-i-play-the-villain/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/a-mild-mannered-reporter-shall-i-play-the-villain/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

I'm not such a bad guy once you get to know me. For a given value of bad.
Superheroes are defined by their villains. A lot of what makes Spider-man and Batman such celebrated characters is the fact that they've got no shortage of interesting opponents. DC Universe Online knew this when it launched and gave players a villainous option right from the beginning, something that even City of Heroes didn't manage until its first expansion.

Not that this is the norm. Admittedly, calling anything the "norm" in a subgenre with only three launched games to go by is a bit complicated, but that's not the point. Champions Online doesn't let you take a walk on the villain side, and Marvel Heroes will launch without the ability to play a villain now or (presumably) ever.

This seems a bit odd on some level. We like villains, we interact with villains as readers, we enjoy seeing what the villains will do. But does it diminish a game to lack the option, or does it diminish villains as a whole when you can play as one?

Continue reading A Mild-Mannered Reporter: Shall I play the villain?

MassivelyA Mild-Mannered Reporter: Shall I play the villain? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Jan 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-mild-mannered-reporteractionaction-mmochampionschampions-onlinechampscity-of-heroescity-of-villainscocohconsoleconsolescovcoxcrypticcryptic-studiosdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuof2pfaction-dynamicsfaction-splitsfactionsfeaturedfree-to-playfreedomgazilliongazillion-entertainmentmarvelmarvel-heroesmarvel-universemarvel-universe-onlinemild-mannered-reportermuoncsoftopinionparagonparagon-studiosperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentplayable-villainsplaystation-3playstation3ps3pwesecret-identitysoesony-online-entertainmentsuperherosuperhero-genresuperheroesvillain-factionvillainsWed, 23 Jan 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Change is good edition, January 21 - 27, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/21/the-stream-team-change-is-good-edition-january-21-27-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/21/the-stream-team-change-is-good-edition-january-21-27-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/21/the-stream-team-change-is-good-edition-january-21-27-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Stream Team Change is good edition, January 21 27, 2013
Change is good. Especially when it's lots of change... like in the $100 bill variety. Of course, I'm talking coinage there, not alterations in life. When life changes too much, it can really throw us for a loop. Though come to think of it, is that such a bad thing? Watching your favorite Stream Team members doing loopty loops would be pretty dang entertaining!

A few things in my life have been on the path to change lately -- some abrupt, some gradual. Even here at Massively we've had recent changes (new streamer and cool behind-the-scenes programming goodies FTW!). And Massively TV is all about change, bringing you new shows to enjoy each week! In that light, I'm willing to accept that the whole change-is-good mantra isn't all bad.

Want to experience a bit of change yourself? Then check out your favorite games played by your favorite streamers after the cut, and be sure to let us know who you'd like to see team up for more two-hour blocks of Massively mayhem.

Continue reading The Stream Team: Change is good edition, January 21 - 27, 2013

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Change is good edition, January 21 - 27, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Jan 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionaionanetarenanetascensionbiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentborderlands-2buy-to-playccpccp-gameschampionschampions-onlinechampscocommand-and-conquer-tiberium-alliancesconsoleconsolescrypticcryptic-studiosdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuodragons-of-atlantiseaelectronic-artseq-2eq-iieq2eqiieveeve-onlineeverquest-2everquest-iif2pfactionfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfuncomguild-wars-2gw2heart-of-the-swarmhi-rezhi-rez-studioshistoricalhorrorinternet-spaceshipslivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamslucasartsmassively-metamassively-tvmetamobamultiplayer-online-battle-arenamv-guidemv-tvmvguidemvtvmythologyncsoftpath-of-exileperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentplaystation-3playstation3pollps3pvppwesandboxsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldskill-basedSmitesoesonysony-online-entertainmentspreadsheets-onlinestar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstarcraft-2starcraft-iistarcraft-ii-heart-of-the-swarmstreamstream-schedulestream-teamstreamersstreamingstreamteamsubscriptionlesssuperherosuperheroesswtortanktanksthe-old-republicthe-secret-worldthe-stream-teamthe-westtortruly-freetswtwitchtwitch-tvwarwarcraftwargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-of-warcraftwotwowMon, 21 Jan 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Over the cliff edition, January 14 - 20, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/14/the-stream-team-over-the-cliff-edition-january-14-20-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/14/the-stream-team-over-the-cliff-edition-january-14-20-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/14/the-stream-team-over-the-cliff-edition-january-14-20-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Stream Team Over the cliff edition, January 14 20, 2013
You went right over the edge at full tilt, like a speeding locomotive with dreams of flying. Oh, you knew it was coming. You knew it was bound to happen, most likely sooner than later. You already envisioned that plunge over the cliff.

What? No, not that cliff. For shame, trying to bring politics on the hallowed ground of The Stream Team. I was talking about your favorite Massively TV hosts veering off the path and plummeting (at times to their deaths) into the depths below, just as I did it this past week in the Icy Keep! We like to say it is on purpose, but... yeah.

Have you seen your favorite livestreamers pull a "whoops" or Leeroy Jenkins lately? If not, you'd better join in this week to catch all the new blunders. And you certainly don't want to miss out on the special treats -- an all new Massively livestreamer and a game of pin the quote on the streamer!

Continue reading The Stream Team: Over the cliff edition, January 14 - 20, 2013

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Over the cliff edition, January 14 - 20, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 Jan 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionanetarenanetascensionbiowareborderlands-2buy-to-playccpccp-gameschampionschampions-onlinechampscocode-clubcommand-and-conquer-tiberium-alliancesconsoleconsolescrypticcryptic-studiosdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuodragons-of-atlantiseaelectronic-artseq-2eq-iieq2eqiieveeve-onlineeverquest-2everquest-iif2pfactionfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfuncomguild-wars-2gw2heart-of-the-swarmhi-rezhi-rez-studioshistoricalhorrorinternet-spaceshipslivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamslucasartsmassively-metamassively-tvmetamilmomobamultiplayer-online-battle-arenamv-guidemv-tvmvguidemvtvmythologyncsoftpath-of-exileperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpin-the-quote-on-the-streamerplaystation-3playstation3pollps3pvppwesandboxsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldskill-basedSmitesoesonysony-online-entertainmentspreadsheets-onlineStar-Sonatastar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstarcraft-2starcraft-iistarcraft-ii-heart-of-the-swarmstreamstream-schedulestream-teamstreamersstreamingstreamteamsubscriptionlesssuperherosuperheroesswtortanktanksthe-old-republicthe-secret-worldthe-stream-teamThe-WesttorTorchlight-2truly-freetswtwitchtwitch-tvwarwargaming.networld-of-tanksWorld-of-Warcraftwotwurmwurm-onlineMon, 14 Jan 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist: How to return to older games]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/12/the-game-archaeologist-how-to-return-to-older-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/12/the-game-archaeologist-how-to-return-to-older-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/12/the-game-archaeologist-how-to-return-to-older-games/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Game Archaeologist Overcoming obstacles in returning to older games
Let's face it: It's just not that easy to either try out or return to an older MMO. It defies logic because you would think that these games would explicitly crave people to come play them, but it's almost like there's a chest-high wall topped with itchy fiberglass shreds warning people away. It's not impossible to surmount, of course, just inconvenient and a little daunting. And so we log back into World of Warcraft or (thrashes around for a random title) Champions Online instead.

However, this column doesn't care about them fancy games with their exclamation marks and free-to-plays, no sirree. We're all about the love for classic MMOs, and it would behoove us to consider supporting that which we love.

It's that time of year when I feel the call to return to one of my first MMO loves, Anarchy Online. After tangling with the account page, looking for a subscription variant that apparently no longer exists, and mentally adjusting to the extremely dated graphics, I started to wonder if it was even worth it. But a little perseverance paid off, and I wanted to share a few lessons learned about overcoming obstacles when it comes to diving back into the past.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist: How to return to older games

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist: How to return to older games originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 12 Jan 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acanarchy-onlineanetaoarenanetasherons-callchampions-onlineclassicclassic-mmoclassic-mmosclassicscustomer-supportf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfuncomgame-archaelogistgraphicsguild-wars-2gw2ncsoftnostalgiaopinionsandboxsci-fisoesubscriptionthe-game-archaeologistturbineturbine-entertainmentuiuser-interfaceworld-of-warcraftSat, 12 Jan 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A Mild-Mannered Reporter Extra: Interviews with Champions Online and The Phoenix Project]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/10/a-mild-mannered-reporter-extra-interviews-with-champions-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/10/a-mild-mannered-reporter-extra-interviews-with-champions-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/10/a-mild-mannered-reporter-extra-interviews-with-champions-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Still sad? Still sad.
I promised you that we would be doing interviews next time, but astute readers would note that I did not say "next week." So welcome to our special extra installment of the column looking at two different sides following the City of Heroes shutdown.

We've already seen two projects coming from the ashes of CoH; The Phoenix Project and Heroes and Villains are both currently being assembled by passionate fans of the now-departed game. But we'd be remiss if we failed to note the impact that the game's closure has had on existing games like Champions Online and DC Universe Online. Rather than just speculating on any of this, we decided to just ask.

So today you've got two interviews. One is with Brad Stokan, Executive Producer at Cryptic Studios, about how the City of Heroes shutdown has affected Champions Online and the studio that helped bring the game to life in the first place. The other is with the lead staff at Missing Worlds Media, the team behind The Phoenix Project. So let's take a look behind the scenes, yes?

Continue reading A Mild-Mannered Reporter Extra: Interviews with Champions Online and The Phoenix Project

MassivelyA Mild-Mannered Reporter Extra: Interviews with Champions Online and The Phoenix Project originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Jan 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-mild-mannered-reportera-mild-mannered-reporter-extrabrad-stokanchampionschampions-onlinechampscity-of-heroescity-of-villainsclosurecocohcoh-shutdowncovcoxcrypticcryptic-studioscultureextra-editionf2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreedominterviewinterviewsmild-mannered-reportermild-mannered-reporter-extramissing-worldsmissing-worlds-medancsoftopinionparagonparagon-studiosperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentphoenixphoenix-projectpwesave-cohshutdownsuperherosuperhero-genresuperheroesthe-phoenix-projectThu, 10 Jan 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Cryptic prepping new Champions 'mega-event']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/07/cryptic-prepping-new-champions-mega-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/07/cryptic-prepping-new-champions-mega-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/07/cryptic-prepping-new-champions-mega-event/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Champions Online - yay, lockboxes
Cryptic has tweaked its Champions Online website with news of a forthcoming in-game event. First up is a rather mysterious in-character blurb and an associated discussion thread. The shenanigans are scheduled to begin on January 11th, and Cryptic will be giving away free costume pieces to celebrate.

The "mega-event" will feature new adventures released every couple of weeks that include new missions and new items, and the festivities will eventually culminate in a custom alert. Cryptic is also touting its Grav Bike Arsenal lockbox. You'll find more info on that at the official Champions website.

MassivelyCryptic prepping new Champions 'mega-event' originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 Jan 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>championschampions-eventschampions-onlinechampscocrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfree-to-playgrav-bikegrav-bike-arsenalin-game-eventslockboxlockboxesperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesuperherosuperheroesMon, 07 Jan 2013 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Broken resolutions edition, January 7 - 13, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/07/the-stream-team-broken-resolutions-edition-january-7-13-201/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/07/the-stream-team-broken-resolutions-edition-january-7-13-201/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/07/the-stream-team-broken-resolutions-edition-january-7-13-201/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Stream Team Broken resolutions edition, January 7 13, 2013
It was bound to happen. And we totally understand -- really. We've all been there, so there are no judgments coming from us. Besides, you might have even made it longer this year than last. Perhaps this could be one of those times when we say it's the thought that counts. After all, those pesky resolutions seem made to be broken, don't they?

I'm actually not doing too badly, relatively speaking. Luckily, some of my resolutions revolve around The Stream Team, so I have maintained my record on those. Experience crazy technical glitches? Check! Got that one rolling early on. Watch more Massively TV each week? Pfft, bring on something hard to do! Oh, here's one -- team up with another livestreamer for two hours of amusing antics? Well, you'll just have to check past the cut to see whether I succeeded at that one. And while you are there, let us know how long your resolutions held out.

Continue reading The Stream Team: Broken resolutions edition, January 7 - 13, 2013

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Broken resolutions edition, January 7 - 13, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 Jan 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionanetarenanetascensionbiowareborderlands-2buy-to-playccpccp-gameschampionschampions-onlinechampscocode-clubcrypticcryptic-studioseaelectronic-artseq-2eq-iieq2eqiieveeve-onlineeverquest-2everquest-iif2pfactionfamilyfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfuncomguild-wars-2gw2heart-of-the-swarmhi-rezhi-rez-studioshistoricalhorrorinternet-spaceshipskid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamslucasartsmassively-metamassively-tvmetaMilMomobamultiplayer-online-battle-arenamv-guidemv-tvmvguidemvtvmythologyncsoftperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpiratepirate101piratespollpvppwesandboxsc2sci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldskill-basedSmitesoesonysony-online-entertainmentspreadsheets-onlineStar-Sonatastar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstarcraft-2starcraft-iistreamstream-schedulestream-teamstreamersstreamingstreamteamsubscriptionlesssuperherosuperheroesswtortanktankstelonthe-old-republicthe-secret-worldthe-stream-teamtorTorchlight-2torchlight-iitruly-freetswtwitchtwitch-tvvanguardvanguard-saga-of-heroesvgwarwargaming.networld-of-tankswotwurmwurm-onlineMon, 07 Jan 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A Mild-Mannered Reporter: Farewell for now, Champions Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/02/a-mild-mannered-reporter-farewell-for-now-champions-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/02/a-mild-mannered-reporter-farewell-for-now-champions-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/02/a-mild-mannered-reporter-farewell-for-now-champions-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

I'm fond of this header. So fond of it that I'm using it twice.
So I've spent a month in Champions Online, and I've taken enough time to understand most of how the game fits together on a conceptual level. This is from equal parts playing and reading about the game in various places because I just do that for fun. Those of you who were here for my first outing will remember that I was pleased with the game as a whole. Upon further play, though, my impression has... well, remained pretty darn positive. This is not one of those twist endings.

Of course, I can also see why the game never quite hit the level of widespread popularity that City of Heroes managed, and some of the problems that plague it are a direct result of what I like about it. So with my first outing in the game out of the way, I'm going to offer a more complete look at the game, starting with the bad and ending with the good.

Continue reading A Mild-Mannered Reporter: Farewell for now, Champions Online

MassivelyA Mild-Mannered Reporter: Farewell for now, Champions Online originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 Jan 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-mild-mannered-reporterchampionschampions-onlinechampscity-of-heroescocohcrypticcryptic-studiosdesignf2pfeaturedfree-to-playgame-mechanicsmild-mannered-reporteropinionparagon-studiosperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwerecapstaffsuperherosuperhero-genresuperheroesthe-good-and-the-badWed, 02 Jan 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Countdown edition, December 31, 2012 - January 6, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/31/the-stream-team-countdown-edition-december-31-2012-january/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/31/the-stream-team-countdown-edition-december-31-2012-january/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/31/the-stream-team-countdown-edition-december-31-2012-january/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Stream Team Countdown edition, December 31, 2012 January 6, 2013
It's the final countdown. Do do do do. Do do do do do... Admit it, you were just singing along too, weren't you? That's OK -- I wasn't listening. Or recording. Promise! If your sparkling rendition becomes an overnight sensation on YouTube, it will be purely a coincidence.

Seriously, how is this year over already? This is it. The clock has nearly finished ticking down on 2012. In fact, before this week is out, we will leave the year behind us. It was a fairly good one, and I will give it a fond farewell. But then it is on to a brand-spanking new year.

It is at this time that many folks make resolutions to enhance their lives. What better way to enhance life than by adding more The Stream Team hilarity? I shall join in this time-honored tradition and commit to immerse myself in as much Massively TV as possible, starting with all of the great shows this week. Or was it that I will avoid being committed... either way, it will make for some great entertainment. So why don't you join us in filling 2013 with gaming goodness? And be sure to drop us a note about your favorite New Year's traditions in the comments!

Continue reading The Stream Team: Countdown edition, December 31, 2012 - January 6, 2013

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Countdown edition, December 31, 2012 - January 6, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 31 Dec 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionanetarenanetascensionbiowareborderlands-2buy-to-playccpccp-gameschampionschampions-onlinechampscity-of-steamcocrypticcryptic-studioseaelectronic-artseq-2eq-iieq2eqiieveeve-onlineeverquest-2everquest-iif2pfactionfamilyfantasyfeaturedfpsfree-to-playfuncomgoblinguild-wars-2gw2hi-rezhi-rez-studioshistoricalhorrorinternet-spaceshipskid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamslucasartsmassively-metamassively-tvmechanistmechanist-gamesmetammo-shootermmofpsmobamultiplayer-online-battle-arenamv-guidemv-tvmvguidemvtvmythologyncsoftperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpiratepirate101piratesplanetsideplanetside-2pollps2pvppwesandboxsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldshooterskill-basedSmitesoesonysony-online-entertainmentspreadsheets-onlinestar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstarcraft-2starcraft-iisteampunkstreamstream-schedulestream-teamstreamersstreamingstreamteamsubscriptionlesssuperherosuperheroesswtortanktankstelonthe-old-republicthe-secret-worldthe-stream-teamtortruly-freetswtwitchtwitch-tvvanguardvanguard-saga-of-heroesvgwarwargaming.networld-of-tankswotMon, 31 Dec 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A Mild-Mannered Reporter: Tips for City of Heroes refugees in Champions Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/26/a-mild-mannered-reporter-tips-for-city-of-heroes-refugees-in-ch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/26/a-mild-mannered-reporter-tips-for-city-of-heroes-refugees-in-ch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/26/a-mild-mannered-reporter-tips-for-city-of-heroes-refugees-in-ch/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

I'm not sure if Voltaic will remain a main, but she's been a useful learning tool.
Champions Online has been a breath of fresh air for the past couple of weeks. It's not a perfect game, nor is it a perfect substitute for City of Heroes, but it's a remarkably good approximation. I would imagine that most players familiar with the latter will feel fairly comfortable in the former, once they get over the obvious differences between the two.

Not that the hurdles are exactly minor. For all that I've grown fond of Champions Online, it still has a lot of strange fiddly bits, doing with six different systems what most games do with two or three. Just jumping in cold, as I did, can leave you looking around aimlessly and quite possibly result in your making some choices regarding character builds that you swiftly regret. As I also did.

So here are a few tips for players new to the game, tilted in no small part to anyone coming over from our dearly departed CoH. I can't keep you from making every mistake, but I can at least help you get a feel for the game's systems in some small part.

Continue reading A Mild-Mannered Reporter: Tips for City of Heroes refugees in Champions Online

MassivelyA Mild-Mannered Reporter: Tips for City of Heroes refugees in Champions Online originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 26 Dec 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-mild-mannered-reporteradvicechampionschampions-onlinechampscity-of-heroescocohcoh-refugeescomparisoncrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfeaturedfree-to-playmild-mannered-reporternew-player-advicenew-playersopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesuperherosuperhero-genresuperheroestipsWed, 26 Dec 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Peace on Earth edition, December 24 - 30, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/24/the-stream-team-peace-on-earth-edition-december-24-30-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/24/the-stream-team-peace-on-earth-edition-december-24-30-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/24/the-stream-team-peace-on-earth-edition-december-24-30-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Stream Team Peace on Earth edition, December 24 30, 2012
I don't know about you, but I am pretty glad the world didn't end, either by a butterfly flapping its wings or by World of Warcraft shutting down (your top two votes!). Despite all the troubles in it, I'm still pretty fond of this place. After all, this is where the MMOs are! And Massively TV. Of course, there are many other reasons, not the least of which is this very special time of year.

On that note, The Stream Team wishes you all a wonderful holiday season. May your homes and lives be filled with peace, happiness, and lightning-fast internet! Oh, and also the sound of this week's streams...

Continue reading The Stream Team: Peace on Earth edition, December 24 - 30, 2012

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Peace on Earth edition, December 24 - 30, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 24 Dec 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acage-of-wulinage-of-wushuaionanetarenanetascensionasherons-callasherons-call-2asiabiowarebuy-to-playccpccp-gameschampionschampions-onlinechampschinachinesechinese-mmocity-of-steamclassic-mmococonsoleconsolescrypticcryptic-studiosdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuodota-2dota2eaelectronic-artseq-2eq-iieq2eqiieveeve-onlineeverquest-2everquest-iif2pfactionfallen-earthfantasyFar-Cry-3fefeaturedfpsfree-to-playfuncomg1gamersfirstgoblinGoodgame-Empiregpotatoguild-wars-2gvggw2hi-rezhi-rez-studioshistoricalhorrorinternet-spaceshipsjet-likidnappinglivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamslucasartsmartial-artsmassively-metamassively-tvmechanistmechanist-gamesmetaming-dynastymmo-shootermmofpsmobamultiplayer-online-battle-arenamv-guidemv-tvmvguidemvtvmythologyncsoftperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentplanetsideplanetside-2playstation-3playstation3pollpost-apocpost-apocalypticps2ps3pvppwesandboxsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldshooterskill-basedSmitesnail-gamessnail-games-usasoesonysony-online-entertainmentspreadsheets-onlinestar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstarcraft-iisteampunkstreamstream-schedulestream-teamstreamersstreamingstreamteamsubscriptionlesssuperherosuperheroesswtortanktanksThe-Lost-Titansthe-old-republicthe-secret-worldthe-stream-teamtortruly-freetswturbineturbine-entertainmenttwitchtwitch-tvwarwargaming.netwastelandsworld-of-tankswotwushuwuxiaMon, 24 Dec 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: End of the world edition, December 17 - 23, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/17/the-stream-team-end-of-the-world-edition-december-17-23-201/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/17/the-stream-team-end-of-the-world-edition-december-17-23-201/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/17/the-stream-team-end-of-the-world-edition-december-17-23-201/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Stream Team End of the world edition, December 17 23, 2012
It's the end of the world as we know it, and I feel fine! Why? Because we've got The Stream Team to keep us company in the final week! So even if the world ends on December 21st, there are plenty of wacky Massively antics to keep us entertained. What's on the schedule this time around? Plenty -- see for yourself.

But wait, if the world is ending, why bother extending the schedule past the fateful date of destruction? Well, it just looked too unbalanced when chopped in half! And besides, if the world ends with a zombie apocalypse, who's to say that we won't enjoy some shows even when we become zombies? Speaking of endings, what is your prediction for the final finale?

Continue reading The Stream Team: End of the world edition, December 17 - 23, 2012

MassivelyThe Stream Team: End of the world edition, December 17 - 23, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 17 Dec 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-wulinage-of-wushuaionanetarenanetascensionasherons-call-2asiabiowarebrowserbrowser-basedbuy-to-playccpccp-gameschampionschampions-onlinechampschinachinesechinese-mmocity-of-steamclassic-mmococonsoleconsolescrypticcryptic-studiosdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuodota-2eaelectronic-artseq-2eq-iieq2eqiieveeve-onlineeverquest-2everquest-iif2pfactionfallen-earthfantasyfar-cry-3fefeaturedfree-to-playfuncomg1gamepotgamersfirstgoblinGoodgame-Empiregpotatoguild-wars-2gvggw2Habbo-Hotelhardcorehi-rezhi-rez-studioshistoricalhorrorinternet-spaceshipsjagexjagex-games-studiojet-likidnappinglivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamslord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolucasartsmartial-artsmassively-metamassively-tvmechanistmechanist-gamesmetaming-dynastymobamultiplayer-online-battle-arenamv-guidemv-tvmvguidemvtvmythologyncsoftopen-pvpperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpermadeathpkplayer-killingplaystation-3playstation3pollpost-apocpost-apocalypticps3pvppwersrunescapesandboxsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldsir-techskill-basedSMITEsnail-gamessnail-games-usasoesonysony-online-entertainmentspreadsheets-onlinestar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicStarCraft-IIsteampunkstreamstream-schedulestream-teamstreamersstreamingstreamteamsubscriptionlesssuperherosuperheroesswtortanktanksThe-Lost-Titansthe-old-republicthe-secret-worldthe-stream-teamtorTorchlight-IItruly-freetswturbineturbine-entertainmenttwitchtwitch-tvwarwargaming.netwastelandswizardrywizardry-onlineworld-of-tankswotwushuwuxiaMon, 17 Dec 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A Mild-Mannered Reporter: A new start in Champions Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/a-mild-mannered-reporter-a-new-start-in-champions-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/a-mild-mannered-reporter-a-new-start-in-champions-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/a-mild-mannered-reporter-a-new-start-in-champions-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Coming to you live from the Canadian wilderness!
Apparently, my phrasing in last week's poll was unclear, so let me make myself totally clear right now: Starting this week and with every subsequent week, A Mild-Mannered Reporter will be focusing on the whole genre of superheroic MMOs. Last week's poll was meant to be a place to start, not a place to end up. With that in mind, it's time to jump into Champions Online, a game that I haven't played since it was in beta... which was enough to convince me to cancel my pre-order after months of being excited.

Let me step back. It's not that the game was terribly bad back then; it's that I could tell the designers loved active combat, and as it turns out my computer at the time could run the game in only the most cursory sense of the word. Trying to take part in semi-active combat when every action has about a half-second of delay attached is not what I'd call fun or smart.

But that was ages ago, so it's time to give it the old college try once again. I loaded it up on Steam and got started anew, and after some frustration with login verifications and getting the subscription working, I filled in a month of subscription time and went to make my first character.

Continue reading A Mild-Mannered Reporter: A new start in Champions Online

MassivelyA Mild-Mannered Reporter: A new start in Champions Online originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Dec 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-mild-mannered-reporterchampionschampions-onlinechampscocrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfeaturedfirst-impressionsfree-to-playmild-mannered-reporternew-player-impressionsopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwestarting-freshsuperherosuperheroesWed, 12 Dec 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Get your festival on edition, December 10 - 16, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/the-stream-team-get-your-festival-on-edition-december-10-16-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/the-stream-team-get-your-festival-on-edition-december-10-16-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/the-stream-team-get-your-festival-on-edition-december-10-16-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Stream Team Get your festival on edition, December 1016, 2012
The lull is over, and now the hustle and bustle of the winter holiday season begins! Regardless of which holiday you celebrate, mid-December is a time to prepare for and enjoy the festivities. For some folks, that means lots of cooking, lots of eating, and lots of family and friends. And for many of us, we add game time in our favorite MMOs on top of all that. We are even masterful at combining any variation of all of the above! That's where Massively TV comes in handy.

Join your friends (and possibly family?) on The Stream Team in-game and in chat as you watch and even participate in various adventures across the MMO spectrum. Sandboxes and themeparks, PvP and PvE -- they are all represented. And we have a new streamer joining the ranks! So take a look at what games catch your fancy this week, welcome our new guinea pig... er streamer, and then tell us what your favorite in-game holiday festivals are.

Continue reading The Stream Team: Get your festival on edition, December 10 - 16, 2012

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Get your festival on edition, December 10 - 16, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 10 Dec 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionanetarenanetascensionback-to-betabetabiowarebrowserbrowser-basedcasualccpccp-gameschampionschampions-onlinechampsclassic-mmococrypticcryptic-studiosDotA-2eaelectronic-artseq-2eq-iieq2eqiieveeve-onlineeverquest-2everquest-iif2pfactionfamilyfantasyfeaturedflashfpsfree-to-playfuncomgamepotglitchguild-wars-2gw2habbo-hotelhardcorehi-rezhi-rez-studioshipsterhorrorinternet-spaceshipsjagexjagex-games-studiokid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamslord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolucasartsmassively-metamassively-tvmetammo-shootermmofpsmobamultiplayer-online-battle-arenamv-guidemv-tvmvguidemvtvmythologyncsoftopen-pvpperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpermadeathpiratepirate101piratespkplanetsideplanetside-2player-killingpollps2pvppwersrunescapesandboxsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldshootersir-techskill-basedSmitesoesonysony-online-entertainmentspreadsheets-onlineStar-Stablestar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstarcraft-iistreamstream-schedulestream-teamstreamersstreamingstreamteamsuperherosuperheroesswtortelonthe-old-republicthe-secret-worldthe-stream-teamtinyspecktorTorchlight-IItruly-freetswturbineturbine-entertainmenttwitchtwitch-tvunlauncheningvanguardvanguard-saga-of-heroesvgwizardrywizardry-onlineMon, 10 Dec 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Absolutely ridiculous cash shop selections]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/06/the-perfect-ten-absolutely-ridiculous-cash-shop-selections/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/06/the-perfect-ten-absolutely-ridiculous-cash-shop-selections/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/06/the-perfect-ten-absolutely-ridiculous-cash-shop-selections/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Perfect Ten Absolutely ridiculous cash shop sales
This past week, the Money Gnomes at Turbine tested the waters with the idea of selling a $50 horse in Lord of the Rings Online. Oh, not just any horse, mind you: It's a toy hobby horse. For $50.

The representative who asked for feedback on the item and price-point probably caused herself internal hemorrhaging by stating, "This is not a joke." The fans responded, "Of course, and the sky is made out of blue cheese." At the very least, it allowed the more creative players to come up with humorous expressions of incredulity. The fun finally came to an end when the studio announced that the "experimental" price point was a failure.

Of course, this is by far not the first time a game studio's attempted to sell a ridiculous item, an item with a ridiculous price point, or both combined. If you sell it, after all, the rubes will come.

So in the spirit of a $50 hobby horse that costs something like $20 in real life to acquire, here are 10 completely ridiculous items that we've seen in MMO cash shops.

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Absolutely ridiculous cash shop selections

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Absolutely ridiculous cash shop selections originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 06 Dec 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoactivisionallodsallods-onlineanetarenanetastrum-nivalbackpackbackpack-backpackbiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcash-shopccpccp-gamescelestial-steedchampionschampions-onlinechampscity-of-heroescity-of-villainsclassic-mmococohcovcow-finishercoxcrypticcryptic-studioseaelectronic-artseq-2eq-iieq2eqiieveeve-onlineeverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreedomfreeform-character-slotgala-netgpotatoguild-wars-2gw2hobby-horsehumorinner-armorinternet-spaceshipsitem-shopligerlord-britishlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolucasartsmail-ru-gamesmail.ru-gamesmailru-gamesmonoclemonoclegatemythicmythic-entertainmentncsoftnexonnexon-americanexon-entertainmentopinionp10paragonparagon-studiosperfect-10perfect-tenperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentplayer-wingspwequickbarquickbarsraised-garden-bedroundupsandboxsci-fisoesonysony-online-entertainmentsparkleponyspreadsheets-onlinestar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsuperherosuperheroesswtorthe-old-republicthe-perfect-10the-perfect-tentop-10top-10-listtop-tentop-ten-listtorturbineturbine-entertainmentultimaultima onlineuovindictuswarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 06 Dec 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A Mild-Mannered Reporter: Moving forward after City of Heroes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/05/a-mild-mannered-reporter-moving-forward-after-city-of-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/05/a-mild-mannered-reporter-moving-forward-after-city-of-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/05/a-mild-mannered-reporter-moving-forward-after-city-of-heroes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Hopefully you didn't just start crying again.
Last week was painful, not just for me but for a lot of you was well. I'm touched by the number of comments I received on last week's article, and I can understand why a lot of you thought that this was curtains for the column as well as for the game. It was a sad ending, with a note of hope almost buried by all of the crushing emotion. You and I lost a friend that's been with us for more than eight years; it's hard to be optimistic.

But I'm still here. And I'm still the same person I was a week ago, if somewhat diminished by loss. And now it's time to move along.

I've written the last word there is for me to write on the subject of City of Heroes, but as it turns out, I still have a lot more to say about the genre. This probably doesn't come as much of a surprise to regular readers. I'm a guy who loves superheroes, and losing a home hurts, but it doesn't mean I'm hanging up my cape. It means that I need to find a new home. And I'd be remiss in not asking anyone else along for the ride.

Continue reading A Mild-Mannered Reporter: Moving forward after City of Heroes

MassivelyA Mild-Mannered Reporter: Moving forward after City of Heroes originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 Dec 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Daily Grind What MMO do you use as a substitution for a dead one
The second that City of Heroes shut down last week, that domineering voice in my mind piped up, "I want to play City of Heroes!" I tried to say that it wasn't a possibility any more, but the voice wasn't having it. It also wanted Froot Loops with chocolate milk. Now I have a sugar high.

So I began hunting around for a substitution to fill the gap in my now hurting soul. DC Universe Online was first up, but I couldn't quite get into the setting or the actiony playstyle. So I swallowed my distaste for Champions Online's free-to-play restrictions and reloaded that title onto my machine. There's enough of that old Cryptic magic to soothe the loss of CoH, I think.

Have you ever done this? Have you ever used an MMO as a substitution for a title that's shut down? If so, share with us and let us know if it was a soothing balm or a weak facsimile.

Every morning, the Massively bloggers probe the minds of their readers with deep, thought-provoking questions about that most serious of topics: massively online gaming. We crave your opinions, so grab your caffeinated beverage of choice and chime in on today's Daily Grind!

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Which MMO do you use as a substitution for a dead one? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 Dec 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>championschampions-onlinechampscity-of-heroescity-of-villainscocohconsoleconsolescovcoxcrypticcryptic-studiosdaily-grinddc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuof2pfree-to-playfreedomncsoftopinionparagonparagon-studiosperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentplaystation-3playstation3ps3pwesoesony-online-entertainmentsuperherosuperheroestdgthe-daily-grindWed, 05 Dec 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Lull in the storm edition, December 3 - 9, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/03/the-stream-team-lull-in-the-storm-edition-december-3-9-201/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/03/the-stream-team-lull-in-the-storm-edition-december-3-9-201/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/03/the-stream-team-lull-in-the-storm-edition-december-3-9-201/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Stream Team Lull in the storm edition, December 3 9, 2013
From horror movies to storms, there is always a lull before the stuff really hits the fan. And right now is the lull in the storm that is holiday preparation. It's just a short span of time that offers a breather between the insanity that is Black Friday and the rush of all else that comes with the season, so take advantage of it! Before all the decorating, holiday parties, shopping, cooking, and everything else, settle back and watch some Massively TV!

While you relax and enjoy your lull, The Stream Team will treat you to a bit of beta action, some heroic antics, plenty of shooting, and possibly even the final moments of one title. Then, if you can muster the energy for it, share your favorite relaxation ritual. Can you guess one of mine?

Continue reading The Stream Team: Lull in the storm edition, December 3 - 9, 2013

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Lull in the storm edition, December 3 - 9, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 03 Dec 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionallodsallods-onlineanetarenanetascensionastrum-nivalback-to-betabetabiowarebrowserbrowser-basedcasualccpccp-gameschampionschampions-onlinechampscity-of-heroescity-of-steamcity-of-villainscocohcovcoxcrypticcryptic-studioseaelectronic-artseq-2eq-iieq2eqiieveeve-onlineeverquest-2everquest-iif2pfactionfamilyfantasyfeaturedflashfpsfree-to-playfreedomfuncomgala-netglitchgoblingpotatoguild-wars-2gw2hi-rezhi-rez-studioshipsterhistoricalhorrorinternet-spaceshipskid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamslucasartsmail-ru-gamesmail.ru-gamesmailru-gamesmassively-metamassively-tvmechanistmechanist-gamesmetammo-shootermmofpsmobamultiplayer-online-battle-arenamv-guidemv-tvmvguidemvtvmythologyncsoftparagonparagon-studiosperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpiratepirate101piratesplanetsideplanetside-2pollps2pvppwerelaxationsandboxsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldshooterskill-basedSmitesoesonysony-online-entertainmentspreadsheets-onlineStar-Stablestar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsteampunkstreamstream-schedulestream-teamstreamersstreamingstreamteamsuperherosuperheroesswtorTaikodomtanktankstelonthe-old-republicthe-secret-worldthe-stream-teamtinyspecktortruly-freetswtwitchtwitch-tvunlauncheningvanguardvanguard-saga-of-heroesvgwarwargaming.networld-of-tankswotMon, 03 Dec 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: City of Heroes' soundtrack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/27/jukebox-heroes-city-of-heroes-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/27/jukebox-heroes-city-of-heroes-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/27/jukebox-heroes-city-of-heroes-soundtrack/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes City of Heroes' soundtrack
Really, how could it be anything else this week? By the first of December, a major MMO influence on my life will be gone for good. We will talk about it in the past tense with wistful tones, remembering the superheroic escapades and villainous schemes. It will be given a place of honor in many of our memories, and I truly believe that City of Heroes will echo throughout the industry and community for years to come.

One of those echoes is the game's score, which will endure, as does every MMO's soundtrack. When I first started playing City of Heroes in 2004, the music made a big impression on me. It painted a picture of the game's locale and atmosphere perhaps better than anything else. Heck, you could play the game with your eyes closed and know which zone you were in by the music cues. That's how integral the score was to the game.

So this is my final send-off to City of Heroes: a look at the highlight from its soundtrack from the launch through Freedom. Goodbye, City of Heroes... I'm going to really miss you. I won't miss the whine from the force field bubble, but I'll miss almost everything else.

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: City of Heroes' soundtrack

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: City of Heroes' soundtrack originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Nov 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>champions-onlinecity-of-heroescity-of-heroes-freedomcity-of-heroes-going-roguecity-of-villainscohcomposercomposerscovcoxf2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreedomgame-musicgoing-roguehuxleyinvader-zimjason-gravesjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettiKevin-Riepllineage-iimichael-henrymmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicncsoftopinionparagonparagon-studiossoundtracksoundtracksstar-trek-onlinesunsunsetsunsettingsuperherosuperheroesTue, 27 Nov 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Pie is not a lie edition, November 26 - December 3, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/26/the-stream-team-pie-is-not-a-lie-edition-november-26-decembe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/26/the-stream-team-pie-is-not-a-lie-edition-november-26-decembe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/26/the-stream-team-pie-is-not-a-lie-edition-november-26-decembe/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Stream Team Pie is not a lie edition, November 26 December 3, 2012
Ahh, the big dinner is over... but not the leftovers. And even better, not the pies! MMmm pie. From the results of the poll, pie is the big winner for favorite Turkey Day food. Oh sure, it appears to have tied with stuffing, mashed potatoes, and -- my personal favorite -- the day-after sandwich, but once you take into account all the pie choices, the round confectionery delight definitely wins.

And pie is just like Massively TV! No, really -- think about it. One of the greatest things about Thanksgiving pies is that there are so many different ones to choose from. If you don't really fancy one kind (I am not a fan of traditional pumpkin), you can have something else. You can also try little bits of multiple pies to see what you like, or you can simply indulge in all the varieties! And The Stream Team offers a variety of games to sample vicariously, regardless your personal taste. Some streams even come with a dollop of dev commentary on top. You can choose to sample one or two here and there, or you can dive right in and gorge on all of them. So check out what's on this week's menu...

Continue reading The Stream Team: Pie is not a lie edition, November 26 - December 3, 2012

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Pie is not a lie edition, November 26 - December 3, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Nov 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-wulinage-of-wushuaionallodsallods-onlineanetarenanetascensionasiaastrum-nivalback-to-betabetabiowarebrowserbrowser-basedcasualccpccp-gameschampionschampions-onlinechampschinachinesechinese-mmocity-of-steamcoconsoleconsolescrypticcryptic-studiosDayZdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuoeaelectronic-artseq-2eq-iieq2eqiieveeve-onlineeverquest-2everquest-iif2pfactionfamily-Guy-Onlinefantasyfeaturedflashfpsfree-to-playfuncomgala-netglitchgoblingpotatoguild-wars-2gvggw2hi-rezhi-rez-studioshipsterhistoricalhorrorinternet-spaceshipsjet-likidnappinglivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamslucasartsmail-ru-gamesmail.ru-gamesmailru-gamesmartial-artsmassively-metamassively-tvmechanistmechanist-gamesmetaming-dynastymmo-shootermmofpsmobamultiplayer-online-battle-arenamv-guidemv-tvmvguidemvtvmythologyncsoftnew-englandparadoxparadox-interactiveperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpermadeathplanetsideplanetside-2playstation-3playstation3pollps2ps3pvppwesalemsandboxsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldshooterskill-basedSmitesnail-gamessnail-games-usasoesonysony-online-entertainmentspreadsheets-onlinestar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsteampunkstreamstream-schedulestream-teamstreamersstreamingstreamteamsuperherosuperheroesswtortaikodomtanktankstelonthe-old-republicthe-secret-worldthe-stream-teamtinyspecktortruly-freetswtwitchtwitch-tvunlauncheningvanguardvanguard-saga-of-heroesvgwarwargaming.networld-of-tankswotwushuwuxiaMon, 26 Nov 2012 09:00:00 EST