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[League of Legends runs Make-A-Wish charity campaign]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/06/league-of-legends-runs-make-a-wish-charity-campaign/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/06/league-of-legends-runs-make-a-wish-charity-campaign/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/06/league-of-legends-runs-make-a-wish-charity-campaign/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

League of Legends title image
The Make-A-Wish foundation is a charity that helps make seriously ill children's dreams come true. Several months ago, Riot Games worked with the foundation to bring 17-year-old League of Legends fan and cancer sufferer Joe up to the studio where his favourite game is made. Riot was so inspired by Joe's visit that developers decided to give back to the Make-A-Wish in any way they could to make more children's dreams come true.

Following on from the success of community donations to the Red Cross during Japan's earthquake and tsunami, this week Riot announced a new donation drive in support of the Make-A-Wish foundation.

"From now, May 4, until 10:30 a.m. PT on May 18, 2012, Riot Games will donate 100 percent of the RP sale price for Joe's favorite champion, Jax, and his Jaximus skin to Make-A-Wish. To make it easier to help, we'll also be lowering the price of both the champion and skin by 50% during this period."

MassivelyLeague of Legends runs Make-A-Wish charity campaign originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 06 May 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>campaigncancercharitydotae-sportesportsf2pfantasyfoundationfree-to-playjaxjaximusjoeleague-of-legendslolmake-a-wishMake-A-Wish Foundationmake-a-wish-foundationMake-a-wishFoundationmobariotriot-gamesSun, 06 May 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Tanks appreciates the military with a World of Thanks]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/world-of-tanks-appreciates-the-military-with-a-world-of-thanks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/world-of-tanks-appreciates-the-military-with-a-world-of-thanks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/world-of-tanks-appreciates-the-military-with-a-world-of-thanks/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

If you've actually been shot at in a tank, this game is probably a bit less fun.
When you log in and play World of Tanks, you're playing the entertaining part of war, the part with cool machines wreaking havoc. Real wars obviously aren't fought by logging in and choosing a tank; they're fought by brave men and women willing to lay down their lives for their country if necessary. Thus, in honor of National Military Appreciation Month, Wargaming.net is donating to several charities for American veterans with your purchases.

Four charities -- AMVETS, Homes for our Troops, the Military Families Fund, and Paralyzed Veterans of America -- will be receiving 10% of the proceeds from all American purchases of larger Gold packs and 75% of the proceeds for all American purchases of the T14 package. To help raise awareness of veteran concerns, the company will also be hosting several giveaways through the month. It's a nice nod toward the reality of armed conflicts, and it lets you play at a private little war while still donating to survivors of real battles.

MassivelyWorld of Tanks appreciates the military with a World of Thanks originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 May 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charitycharity-donationscharity-eventsf2pfree-to-playhistoricalin-game-eventsmilitarymilitary-appreciation-monthpvptanktankswarwargaming.networld-of-tankswotThu, 03 May 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Play games, heal kids: It's time for Extra Life 2011]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/14/play-games-heal-kids-its-time-for-extra-life-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/14/play-games-heal-kids-its-time-for-extra-life-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/14/play-games-heal-kids-its-time-for-extra-life-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Extra Life
Extra Life is upon us once again. Arguably the biggest annual charity event in the gaming world, Extra Life challenges gamers from all over to round up sponsors for their individual gaming marathons in support of Children's Miracle Network hospitals.

Massively's own Beau Hindman will be one of those stepping up to the plate for a 24-hour gaming marathon. He'll be on Massively's Livestream channel beginning tomorrow morning, October 15th, at 9:00 a.m. EST to stream a variety of games. Want to help out? Visit Beau's donation page to contribute any amount, then check out his Livestream beginning tomorrow morning.

Want more? Follow along after the jump for a roundup of our Extra Life posts from this week, and be sure to leave a comment and let us know about other MMO-related Extra Life events -- particularly those that you're involved in!

Continue reading Play games, heal kids: It's time for Extra Life 2011

MassivelyPlay games, heal kids: It's time for Extra Life 2011 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 14 Oct 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24-hour-gaming-marathonbeau-hindmancharitychildrens-miracle-networkdonationdonationsextra-lifeextra-life-2011gaming-for-charitygaming-marathonFri, 14 Oct 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Blizzard auctioning off retired WoW servers for charity]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/blizzard-auctioning-off-retired-wow-servers-for-charity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/blizzard-auctioning-off-retired-wow-servers-for-charity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/blizzard-auctioning-off-retired-wow-servers-for-charity/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

World of Warcraft server
What do you do when you upgrade your MMO's servers and end up with a bunch of hardware you don't need any longer? If you said, "Hold the world's geekiest garage sale," then you're absolutely right.

Recently Blizzard upgraded its fleet of World of Warcraft servers and has decided that instead of mothballing the old ones, it will auction them off and donate the proceeds to a worthy charity. The auctions will be handled by eBay, as any interested parties can place a bid on the actual server shard that hundreds of thousands of players used for years.

Each of the auctioned server blades is a self-contained unit and will have the World of Warcraft logo emblazoned across it, with a plaque attached detailing the server's usage dates and the signatures of the development team. Bidding will begin on October 17th and proceed through November 14th as Blizzard auctions the dozens of HP p-Class server blades off in groups, and the winnings will be given to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, which helps combat pediatric cancer and other diseases that affect young kids.

If the thought of owning a piece of MMO history appeals to you -- or if you're looking for an interesting Christmas present for that WoW friend of yours -- then check out the auction dates on eBay.

MassivelyBlizzard auctioning off retired WoW servers for charity originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcharityebaygarage-saleserverserver-bladeserver-bladesserversst-judesst-judes-childrens-hospitalst-judes-childrens-research-hospitalworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 13 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Paragon Studios games for charity with Extra Life]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/paragon-studios-games-for-charity-with-extra-life/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/paragon-studios-games-for-charity-with-extra-life/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/paragon-studios-games-for-charity-with-extra-life/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Screenshot -- City of Heroes
Paragon Studios, being the charitable bunch that it is, has announced that on Saturday, October 15th, it will be taking part in the Extra Life charity event. The game-for-charity marathon benefits the Children's Miracle Network and its associated hospitals, making it a more-than-worthy endeavor.

The studio will be streaming its contribution to the event on its Ustream channel this Saturday, so players can tune in, relax, and banter with the devs. And of course, if you're feeling particularly generous, you can donate to Paragon's Extra Life marathon. For more information about the event, check out its official site, and be sure to tune in to Paragon's stream this Saturday.

MassivelyParagon Studios games for charity with Extra Life originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Oct 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charitycity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxeventextra-lifegame-for-charitygaming-marathonparagonparagon-studiosstreamstreamingThu, 13 Oct 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Funcom signs on for Extra Life charity event]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/funcom-signs-on-for-extra-life-charity-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/funcom-signs-on-for-extra-life-charity-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/funcom-signs-on-for-extra-life-charity-event/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Extra Life logo
Trion isn't the only MMO studio ponying up for charity on October 15th. Funcom is also partnering with Extra Life for a bleary-eyed 24-hour gaming marathon designed to raise money and awareness for Children's Miracle Network Hospitals.

Here's how it works: You'll need to register with Extra Life and collect pledges from friends, family, co-workers, and anyone else you come across. Then you can join either the Age of Conan or Anarchy Online in-game event and try to stay awake. What's in it for you? Well, aside from doing the right thing to help a bunch of kids in need, you might win beta access to The Secret World. While you're at it, don't forget to follow Massively's own Beau Hindman (and donate as much as you're able) as he embarks on his own Extra Life marathon.

MassivelyFuncom signs on for Extra Life charity event originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Oct 2011 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24-hour-gaming-marathonage-of-conananarchy-onlineaoaoccharitychildrens-miracle-networkdonationsextra-lifefuncomreal-world-eventsWed, 12 Oct 2011 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT Extra Life charity event coming in October]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/14/rift-extra-life-charity-event-coming-in-october/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/14/rift-extra-life-charity-event-coming-in-october/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/14/rift-extra-life-charity-event-coming-in-october/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

RIFT - Extra Life charity banner
If you're feeling charitable this year but don't want to take time to log out of your favorite MMO to make a donation, Trion Worlds is offering you the next best thing. October 15th marks the date of RIFT's Extra Life event, which will feature a 24-hour gaming marathon designed to put a little coin in the pocket of the Children's Miracle Network.

How does it all work?

First you'll need to register with Extra Life and decide whether you want to play as part of a team or as an individual. Then you'll need to spread the word to family, friends, and anyone else who might be willing to sponsor your 24-hour Telara marathon. Finally, you can join up with Trion staffers in-game on the 15th and do your part for charity. There are a couple of pretty cool rewards on tap too, namely in-game titles like "the Charitable" (for all participants), and "the Insomniac" (for those who manage to last the entire 24 hours). You can find more details on the RIFT forums and at the Extra Life website.

MassivelyRIFT Extra Life charity event coming in October originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24-hour-gaming-marathon24-hr-marathoncharitycharity-eventchildrens-miracle-networkdonationdonationsextra-lifefantasyin-game-eventriftrift-extra-lifesponsorshiptelaratriontrion-worldsWed, 14 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Warcraft pet sales contribute over $1.9 million to Red Cross]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/03/world-of-warcraft-pet-sales-contribute-over-1-9-million-to-red/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/03/world-of-warcraft-pet-sales-contribute-over-1-9-million-to-red/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/03/world-of-warcraft-pet-sales-contribute-over-1-9-million-to-red/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

In May, Blizzard announced that sales of the Moonkin Hatchling in-game pet had raised $800,000 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Around the same time, Japan suffered a devastating earthquake and Blizzard was quick to introduce a second in-game pet in the form of the Cenarion Hatchling, the sales of which would all be contributed to the Red Cross's Japanese Earthquake and Tsunami relief fund.

Well, it looks like the World of Warcraft community -- with a little help from the adorable feathered Cenarion Hatchling -- has done it again. Blizzard announced today that as of today, sales of the Hatchling have totaled over $1.9 million, with every last penny going to the Land of the Rising Sun in its time of need. Blizzard -- and we here at Massively, for that matter -- send out heartfelt thanks to the players who helped contribute to this staggering amount to the Red Cross.

MassivelyWorld of Warcraft pet sales contribute over $1.9 million to Red Cross originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Aug 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardblizzard-entertainmentcenarion-hatchlingcharitydonationdonationsearthquakejapanjapanese-earthquakered-crossred-cross-japanese-earthquake-and-tsunami-relief-fundrelieftsunamiworld-of-warcraftwowWed, 03 Aug 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New EVE Online trailer highlights the player behind the space ship]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/07/new-eve-online-trailer-highlights-the-player-behind-the-space-sh/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/07/new-eve-online-trailer-highlights-the-player-behind-the-space-sh/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/07/new-eve-online-trailer-highlights-the-player-behind-the-space-sh/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Hot on the heels of today's announcement that EVE Online will soon be making its way to Japanese gamers, CCP released a new trailer for the Incarna expansion. Rather than focusing only on in-game action, the new trailer entitled "I was there" tells the tale of a memorable battle from the perspective of a player. Although the dialogue is pretty corny, the story and feeling behind it are things any player involved in gang or fleet warfare can identify with. We all carry stories of the epic fights we've turned around in our favour, and we all like to remember that we were there.

The trailer highlights the very real rush of fleet warfare, the real bonds we form with the players behind the ships and the communities we build and defend together. That sense of community is even extended outward into the real world, as attendees at the annual Fanfest or any one of several unofficial EVE meet-ups find out every year.

At the 2011 EVE Fanfest in March, CCP and EVE players in attendance raised $11,000 US for charity Get Well Gamers. Notable items sold included the official CCP Banhammer from the GM department, as seen in the company's absolutely not safe for work music video HTFU, and a tour of the CCP offices led by CEO Hilmar Pétursson. CCP Soundwave's impromptu art print auction raised a massive $1,500, bringing total donations up to the $11,000 mark. The money was delivered to Get Well Gamers this week and will go to help buy gaming systems for sick children to play during their stays in hospital.

Skip past the cut to watch the new Incarna trailer, embedded in HD.

Continue reading New EVE Online trailer highlights the player behind the space ship

MassivelyNew EVE Online trailer highlights the player behind the space ship originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Jul 2011 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatarsccpccp-eveccp-gamesccp-soundwavecharitycommunitycool-as-fdonationeveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlinefleetfleet-warfaregang-warfareget-well-gamersincarnanewspvpterritorial-controlterritorial-warfaretrailervideoThu, 07 Jul 2011 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Blizzard donates $800,000 from virtual pet sales to Make-A-Wish]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/05/blizzard-donates-800-000-from-virtual-pet-sales-to-make-a-wish/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/05/blizzard-donates-800-000-from-virtual-pet-sales-to-make-a-wish/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/05/blizzard-donates-800-000-from-virtual-pet-sales-to-make-a-wish/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Who says Blizzard plus microtransactions equals pure, unadulterated evil? Well, a lot of gamers, for one, but that hasn't stopped the makers of World of Warcraft from gifting a sizable chunk of RMT-related change to charity.

Gamasutra has all the details on Blizzard's most recent involvement with the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Proceeds from the $10 Moonkin Hatchling pet that was sold during the last two months of 2010 have been donated to the long-running charity, with some $800,000 ultimately going to a worthy cause.

Blizzard has also added another in-game pet to its cash shop, and 100 percent of the proceeds from the new Cenarion Hatchling will go to the Red Cross's Japanese Earthquake and Tsunami relief fund. There is currently no word as to whether the company will offer similar assistance to the survivors of the severe storms that killed over 300 people and caused millions of dollars in property damage in the southeastern United States last week.

MassivelyBlizzard donates $800,000 from virtual pet sales to Make-A-Wish originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 May 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardBlizzard-Entertainmentcash-shopcenarion-hatchlingcharitydisaster-reliefdonationsfantasymake-a-wishMake-A-Wish FoundationMake-a-wishFoundationmicrotransactionsmoonkin-hatchlingrmtWorld-of-WarcraftwowThu, 05 May 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CCP converting EVE PLEX to currency for storm relief]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/03/ccp-converting-eve-plex-to-currency-for-storm-relief/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/03/ccp-converting-eve-plex-to-currency-for-storm-relief/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/03/ccp-converting-eve-plex-to-currency-for-storm-relief/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

CCP has a long history of lending a helping hand during times of crisis. Whether it's the Haiti earthquake, the Japan tsunami, flooding in Pakistan, or most recently, the severe storms in the southeastern United States, the developer of EVE Online and World of Darkness is usually at the forefront of gamemaker disaster relief efforts.

Today, CCP Fallout outlines the latest such drive on the EVE Insider dev blog. Plex for Good: Storm Relief is designed to provide aid to those devastated by the tornados that ripped through portions of Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee last week. The drive starts today and runs through May 16th, and each player-made PLEX donation "will be converted into cash currency and donated to the Red Cross." Players should contract their PLEX to the "CCP PLEX for Good" character, and because it's EVE, the dev blog mentions that any scams relating to the relief effort will be met with swift and harsh punishments.

Head to official EVE website to learn more.

MassivelyCCP converting EVE PLEX to currency for storm relief originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 May 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-falloutccp-gamescharitydonationseveeve-onlinemmo-industryplexplex-for-goodred-crosssci-fistorm-relieftornado-reliefTue, 03 May 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Microtransaction items for Japanese aid in gPotato's stores]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/26/microtransaction-items-for-japanese-aid-in-gpotatos-stores/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/26/microtransaction-items-for-japanese-aid-in-gpotatos-stores/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/26/microtransaction-items-for-japanese-aid-in-gpotatos-stores/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The earthquake that hit Japan on March 11th may no longer be at the forefront of gamers' minds, but the country is still reeling from the impact. NCsoft and CCP Games have both announced efforts to help aid the Japanese people with charitable donations, and it looks like gPotato has decided to encourage players to donate as well. The company has added new merchandise into the microtransaction stores for several games that, items that will grant players a unique look as well as donating all profits to the Red Cross.

Rappelz, Flyff, and Luna Plus are all offering capes for players, while Tales Runner offers a shirt and Iris Online offers a kitten hat. (Sadly, the cat in question is not Maru.) One hundred percent of profits will be donated to the Red Cross to aid in relief efforts, and the items cannot be purchased with "free" currency. The items will be available until March 31st, so if you play the games and haven't yet donated, now would be the time.

MassivelyMicrotransaction items for Japanese aid in gPotato's stores originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 26 Mar 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charitydisaster-reliefdonationflyffgala-netgpotatoiris-onlinejapan-earthquakejapanese-earthquakeluna-plusprofitsrappelzreal-world-eventred-crosstales-runnerSat, 26 Mar 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NCsoft makes multi-million dollar Japanese relief donation]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/ncsoft-makes-multi-million-dollar-japanese-relief-donation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/ncsoft-makes-multi-million-dollar-japanese-relief-donation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/ncsoft-makes-multi-million-dollar-japanese-relief-donation/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Earlier we told you about Hi-Rez Studios and its efforts to help victims of the Japanese earthquake and tsunami. NCsoft is also throwing a considerable contribution into the relief drive in the form of 500 million Yen (or 4.5 million Euros/6.3 million USD, for those of you counting along at home).

NCsoft's Sung Joon Park explained that the sum equals a month's worth of sales, adding that the South Korean gaming giant would not be shutting off game services. "We'll maintain the service with minimal electricity and personnel. Maintaining daily life is also important, therefore we plan to uphold the service."

Kotaku puts NCsoft's gift into perspective, noting that the South Korean MMO maker is a big deal in Asia, where its contributions to the Japanese recovery outstrip notables including Nintendo, Sony, and Hyundai.

[Thanks to cic for the tip!]

MassivelyNCsoft makes multi-million dollar Japanese relief donation originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Mar 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charitydisasterdonationsearthquakefantasyjapanjapanese-disasterjapanese-earthquakemmo-industryncsoftrelief-effortstsunamiFri, 18 Mar 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hi-Rez puts Global Agenda on sale, 100% of proceeds going to disaster victims]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/hi-rez-puts-global-agenda-on-sale-100-of-proceeds-going-to-dis/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/hi-rez-puts-global-agenda-on-sale-100-of-proceeds-going-to-dis/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/hi-rez-puts-global-agenda-on-sale-100-of-proceeds-going-to-dis/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Lots of game companies are stepping up to offer financial support to the victims of the recent disasters that have devastated Japan. Atlanta-based Hi-Rez Studios is going one better, as the indie MMO developer has placed its flagship title on sale for the weekend and is donating 100% of the resulting proceeds to Red Cross relief efforts.

That's right, we said 100%, and from March 18th through March 20th, purchasing Global Agenda from the Hi-Rez online store will not only net you the premier MMO shooter at a $20.00 discount but send much-needed funds to our friends in the Pacific.

Global Agenda is completely free-to-play after the initial client purchase, and Hi-Rez offers booster packs to speed your in-game advancement and credit/token acquisition.

MassivelyHi-Rez puts Global Agenda on sale, 100% of proceeds going to disaster victims originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Mar 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charityf2pfree-to-playglobal-agendahi-rezhi-rez-studiosjapanmmo-industryred-crossrelief-effortssalesci-fishooterweekend-saleyayFri, 18 Mar 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: Guilds, crafting, and craft beer edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/17/the-mmo-report-guilds-crafting-and-craft-beer-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/17/the-mmo-report-guilds-crafting-and-craft-beer-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/17/the-mmo-report-guilds-crafting-and-craft-beer-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

It's St. Patrick's day, and what better time to discuss craft beers on The MMO Report than today? Mind you, for those of you who don't imbibe frosty adult beverages, there's also a huge serving of corned MMO news, and the lilting smell of cabbage you're picking up... is probably coming from the mailbag. Shall we move on to the tasty news of the week? Let's!

First up, Casey jumps straight on to the Guild Wars 2 news that many have been buzzing about this week: professions! Next up, it's Star Wars: The Old Republic's trailer made of completely delicious in-game footage, as well as the ongoing rush to get guilds set up before launch. Casey zooms straight into Jagex's partnership with Hasbro to create the upcoming Transformers MMO for the West, and he notes that Free Realms on PS3 will probably be just as popular as it is on PC.

Casey also takes a moment to note the Final Fantasy XI and Final Fantasy XIV server downtime and asks anyone who can to please donate to help those in Japan. Moving on from there, it's a look into the ever-enlightening mailbag, where this week Casey is both praised and derided for his choice in beers and we are treated to another dose of photoshop magic. Finally, it is revealed that G4TV landed an exclusive fly-over of Perfect World International's new area, Dragon Mountain.

As always, you can catch this week's episode behind the break, or every Thursday on G4TV.

Continue reading The MMO Report: Guilds, crafting, and craft beer edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: Guilds, crafting, and craft beer edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Mar 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenanetbiowarecasey-schreinercharityconsolescraft-beerdragon-mountainffxiffxivfinal-fantasy-xifinal-fantasy-xivfree-realmsG4TVg4tv.comguild-wars-2gw2hasbrojagexjapanncsoftperfect-world-entertainmentperfect-world-internationalps3star-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-mmo-reporttransformerstransformers-mmovideoThu, 17 Mar 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CCP auctioning off a special studio tour for charity]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/05/ccp-auctioning-off-a-special-studio-tour-for-charity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/05/ccp-auctioning-off-a-special-studio-tour-for-charity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/05/ccp-auctioning-off-a-special-studio-tour-for-charity/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Are you heading to Iceland for the EVE Online Fanfest coming up at the end of this month? Have some spare cash that you'd like to see go to a great cause? As part of its charity events at Fanfest this year, CCP is offering a super-special VIP tour of its studios -- a tour that is currently being auctioned off via a silent email auction. All proceeds from the auction will be going to benefit Get Well Gamers, a charity that helps provide games and consoles to the childrens' ward at many hospitals.

The lucky winner will get a personal dev tour into the inner sanctum of CCP HQ in Reykjavík led by CEO Hilmar Veigar Pétursson (aka CCP Hellmar). Along with the tour, the winner will be treated to lunch with the developers of EVE Online and given what the company describes as "a bunch of cool goodies." If you'd like to get a bid in, head over to the EVE Online site and read up on what you'll need to do to enter the silent auction. Good luck!

MassivelyCCP auctioning off a special studio tour for charity originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 05 Mar 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionccpccp-gamesccp-hellmarcharityeveeve-onlineget-well-gamersHilmar-Veigar-PeturssonSat, 05 Mar 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Frogster sends Save the Children 82,000€ check]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/12/frogster-sends-save-the-children-82-000-check/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/12/frogster-sends-save-the-children-82-000-check/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/12/frogster-sends-save-the-children-82-000-check/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

While Frogster Interactive, as a company, has been dealing with some rough times of late, the players of both Runes of Magic and Bounty Bay Online have opened up their hearts -- and their wallets -- to do some good. Recently, players in both games have had the option to pick up certain special mounts and ship covers to help fund the Save the Children initiative in Bhutan. Frogster kept a small portion of proceeds from the item sales to cover VAT and basic administration costs, while Runewaker waived its share of all profits from those items. While previous fundraising in Frogster's free-to-play games has always been met with great success, this year players more than doubled last year's 40,000€ raised for Save the Children by raising 82,000€!

This year's initiative was to assist the families in Bhutan, a small landlocked country in the Himalayas sandwiched between India and China that is home to a burgeoning Democratic government. Due to the major cultural shifts occurring in the country, children are inundated with information via internet and cable TV while their parents are unable to read and write -- let alone navigate the newfound technological morass they find themselves thrust into. Save the Children seeks to build schools for the children as well as help Bhutani families navigate the influx of new technology, all while preserving the country's cultural heritage for future generations.

According to a press release, Kathrin Wieland, Executive Director of Save the Children Germany e.V., was surprised and delighted at the great generosity of the gamers: "I am very happy about the engagement of Frogster and its players, which allows us to clear a path for these children to a positive future." We certainly wish Save the Children the very best of luck with the hard work ahead and applaud Frogster and Runewaker as well as the giving players of Runes of Magic and Bounty Bay Online who have made that work possible.

MassivelyFrogster sends Save the Children 82,000€ check originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 12 Feb 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bhutancash-shopcharitycharity-drivefrogsterfrogster-interactiveitem-shopmicrotransactionsmtrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentsave-the-childrenSat, 12 Feb 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Runes of Magic prepping Queensland flood relief effort]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/13/runes-of-magic-prepping-queensland-flood-relief-effort/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/13/runes-of-magic-prepping-queensland-flood-relief-effort/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/13/runes-of-magic-prepping-queensland-flood-relief-effort/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Today's feel-good story (if anything associated with the dreadful Queensland flooding can be termed feel-good) comes courtesy of N3V Games and F2P giant Runes of Magic. N3V, the game's Queensland-based publisher, has announced plans to assist flooding victims by donating half of the revenues from certain cash shop items to the relief efforts.

The special event begins this Saturday, January 15th, and ends on Sunday, January 23rd. Runes of Magic players can contribute to the clean-up efforts by purchasing star mounts or flame mounts (at a cost of 225 diamonds, or approximately US $12). N3V Games CEO Graham Edelsten explained his company's decision to lend a helping hand. "As a Queensland company we have many guys living in Brisbane who have been affected by the floods," he said. "This charity event is our way of showing our support for all of those affected by these unfortunate events."

MassivelyRunes of Magic prepping Queensland flood relief effort originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Jan 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cash-shopcharitycharity-eventf2pflame-mountfloodingfree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-interactiven3vn3v-gamesqueenslandqueensland floodingQueenslandFloodingrelief-effortsromrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentstar-mountThu, 13 Jan 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE's December CSM summit minutes released]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/eves-december-csm-summit-minutes-released/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/eves-december-csm-summit-minutes-released/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/eves-december-csm-summit-minutes-released/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Several years ago, EVE Online developer CCP Games instituted the Council of Stellar Management, a player-run advisory committee on game design. The members of the council are voted for by players, making the CSM a democratically elected group with direct access to developers. The council has had a significant impact on the game, having pushed through such important changes as the titan doomsday nerf and the introduction of a 24-hour skill queue. Players can raise issues or suggestions to the CSM through the official assembly hall forum. Every six months, the council meets with CCP's developers in Iceland to discuss all the important issues players have raised.

In an effort to keep the dealings of the CSM transparent, the minutes of each council session and Icelandic CSM summit are published openly. The first round of minutes from EVE's latest bi-annual CSM summit have now been released, with a further two rounds of meetings to be released within the next week. Topics covered in the first set of minutes include a new EVE forum, the possibility of a permanent CCP-administered charity, talks on the CSM process, and potential CSM activities at Fanfest 2011. For those interested in exactly what went on in the CSM summit, the full minutes of these meetings are publicly available on the EVE website.

MassivelyEVE's December CSM summit minutes released originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Jan 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-eveccp-gamescharitycouncil-of-stellar-managementcsmcsm-delegatecsm-summiteveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlinefanfest-2011meetingminutesTue, 11 Jan 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Child's Play breaks annual record with over $2 million raised]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/03/childs-play-breaks-annual-record-with-over-2-million-raised/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/03/childs-play-breaks-annual-record-with-over-2-million-raised/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/03/childs-play-breaks-annual-record-with-over-2-million-raised/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Child's Play has become the ubiquitous ur-charity for the gaming community. Founded by Mike Krahulik and Jerry Holkins of Penny Arcade fame, it's grown into a multinational event for gamers the world over to help out needy children. It's also made a tradition out of breaking records for overall donations every year, and this year is no exception, with the total amount raised coming out to over $2 million for the year and nearly $9 million over its lifetime.

The record-breaking effort has always been helped by enterprising fundraisers from the community, and the MMO community is no exception; notable fundraising efforts this year include the Lord of the Rings Online-inspired fundraiser from A Casual Stroll to Mordor and Sony Online Entertainment's donations for the purchase of in-game pets, together with other non-MMO events such as the infamous Desert Bus for Hope marathon and the Humble Indie Bundle. The entire gaming community, online or off, can take pride in another record-breaking year for Child's Play.

MassivelyChild's Play breaks annual record with over $2 million raised originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 03 Jan 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acts-of-kindnesscharitychilds-playchilds-play-charitycommunitydesert-busfundraisinggaming-communityhuman-decencyhumble-indie-bundlemmo-communitypenny-arcadesoesony-online-entertainmentMon, 03 Jan 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE and players pitch in to support Child's Play]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/21/soe-and-players-pitch-in-to-support-childs-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/21/soe-and-players-pitch-in-to-support-childs-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/21/soe-and-players-pitch-in-to-support-childs-play/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

It is better to give than receive, as it's been said, unless you're giving yourself a present that prompts a major corporation to give to a charity in turn. Then everyone wins!

OK, that may sound a bit convoluted, but SOE is actually making it really easy for players to help out with a great charity this holiday season. The studio is supporting Child's Play, a charity started up by the Penny Arcade folks to supply hospitals with video games and toys for kids. SOE has pledged to donate $10 for every purchase of one of four in-game items. These items include a P3-NUT droid pet in Clone Wars Adventures, a penguin pet in Free Realms, an EverQuest II Cloak of Falling Snow, and a neat EverQuest ornamentation that turns any weapon into a cardboard tube (visually, not statistically).

This charity drive will go through the end of the month (December 31st), and SOE will honor up to $50,000 of donations based on player purchases. You can read more about this promotion over at EverQuest II, or head over to Child's Play to see what this charity is about.

MassivelySOE and players pitch in to support Child's Play originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 Dec 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charitychilds-playClone-Wars-AdventurescwaeqEQ2EQIIeverquestEverQuest-2everquest-iifree-realmspenny-arcadepromotionsoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstar-wars-clone-wars-adventuresswaTue, 21 Dec 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mabinogi to host in-game fundraiser for Starlight Foundation]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/19/mabinogi-to-host-in-game-fundraiser-for-starlight-foundation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/19/mabinogi-to-host-in-game-fundraiser-for-starlight-foundation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/19/mabinogi-to-host-in-game-fundraiser-for-starlight-foundation/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Nexon America's Mabinogi is known for its bright clothing and extreme customization. It will now be known as charitable as well, thanks to the recent sale of the Starlight Scepter, a silvery wand that puts out a wonderful rainbow effect. During the charity event (scheduled to run for an entire year) 50 percent of the wand's cost -- roughly $4 US -- will be donated directly to the Starlight Children's Foundation, a charity that helps seriously ill children and their families. This would be the perfect opportunity to look good and feel good at the same time.

Not only that, but if you purchase one of the newly submitted Mabinogi soundtrack songs from iTunes, 100 percent of the proceeds go to the charity. That means that for every 99-cent song, Starlight Children's Foundation will receive 35 cents! The Foundation has been helping children with serious illnesses for more than 25 years. So, the next time someone asks you where you got that killer looking wand, you can tell him how you helped the foundation!

MassivelyMabinogi to host in-game fundraiser for Starlight Foundation originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Nov 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmancash-shopcharityf2pfree-to-playftpfundraiseriTunesmabinoginexon-americasoundtrackstarlight-childrens-foundationsstarlight-foundationFri, 19 Nov 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Domain of Heroes donates half of proceeds to help ugliest orc]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/17/domain-of-heroes-donates-half-of-proceeds-to-help-ugliest-orc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/17/domain-of-heroes-donates-half-of-proceeds-to-help-ugliest-orc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/17/domain-of-heroes-donates-half-of-proceeds-to-help-ugliest-orc/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

What do you do when one of the most vocal and active members of your community falls on hard times? You help him out by raising money. It seems as though Ugs, the "Ugliest Orc" (we're not sure what he had to go through to get that title), has become ill. We all know how a single trip to the E.R. can set you back a house or two, so his bills are piling up. The issues have put a stress on his life that many of us have never known, even forcing him to tell the baby orcs that there will be no Christmas!

Other players heard about his plight and suggested an "Ugs Appreciation Day" to raise funds, similar to an event we covered in the past. They discussed it on the forums, and the date was set to the 21st of November. The creator of the game then upped the amount to 50% of all in-game profits going to the ugly one! The game features a robust text-based system that can run in any browser and features 30 races, 27 classes and tons of skills. Sign up if it sounds interesting, donate on that special day by purchasing in-game wishes and other items, or go to the shop and stock up on other goods.

Good luck, Ugs!

MassivelyDomain of Heroes donates half of proceeds to help ugliest orc originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 17 Nov 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowsercharityDoHdomain-of-heroesdonationsf2pfree-to-playftpget-better-ugsin-game-eventin-game-eventsreal-ugly-orcsugs-appreciation-dayWed, 17 Nov 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Extra Life extravaganza: Donate to (and watch) our 24 hours of live marathon MMO gaming]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/11/extra-life-extravaganza-donate-to-and-watch-our-24-hours-of-l/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/11/extra-life-extravaganza-donate-to-and-watch-our-24-hours-of-l/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/11/extra-life-extravaganza-donate-to-and-watch-our-24-hours-of-l/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Hey Massively readers! We need you guys to rally up and help us help an awesome cause! As we reported on earlier, the Extra Life charity video game marathon is going on this weekend, and we're participating in it! Beau Hindman and I (Seraphina Brennan) will be stepping up to our keyboards for 24 hours of non-stop grinding this weekend, and we'd love it if you could support us!

Extra Life is asking for donations of $24 (but you can donate whatever amount you wish), and this year the money is going to Children's Miracle Network. Beau is supporting the Texas Children's Hospital, while I will be supporting the UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh. Every dollar donated is 100% tax deductible and will go towards helping out these two fine hospitals and the many kids who depend on them. So please click on this link to support Beau, or click on this link to support me (Seraphina).

If you're participating, you can also join our site's team and lend your fundraising efforts to the Massively.com Mob! For more information on participating, check out the Extra Life homepage here.

Even if you can't spare the money, you can still join us this weekend and cheer us on as we livestream our gaming to the masses! I will be livestreaming my gaming on Massively TV, while Beau will be streaming on his own channel, Beau Turkey TV. The madness begins at 9:00 a.m EDT for Beau and me, but you can drop by at any time that day to watch us and cheer us on!

Please contribute if you can. Every amount helps, and your donations will help give kids an extra life in their fight!

MassivelyExtra Life extravaganza: Donate to (and watch) our 24 hours of live marathon MMO gaming originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Oct 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24-hours-of-gamingbeau-turkeycharitycharity-eventchildrens-hospitalschildrens-miracle-networkextra-lifegaming-marathongrindinggrinding-marathonlivestreamlivestream-eventmmo-gamingmmo-marathonmmo-voicessarcastic-gamerseraphina-brennanMon, 11 Oct 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Helpful hobbits see fundraising as Child's Play]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/helpful-hobbits-see-fundraising-as-childs-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/helpful-hobbits-see-fundraising-as-childs-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/helpful-hobbits-see-fundraising-as-childs-play/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Hobbits -- is there anything they can't do? First they're taking the One Ring into the heart of Mordor to save Middle-earth from Sauron's grip, and now they're out on another journey, this time to bring relief to hospitalized children in our world.

You may be quite familiar with Child's Play, a charity started by Penny Arcade's creators and designed to raise money to buy video games and systems for children's hospitals. This year, MMO gamers are getting in on the action, as A Casual Stroll to Mordor, a LotRO blog and podcast, is attempting to raise $5,000 for Child's Play by presenting the fundraising as steps along Frodo, Sam, Merry and Pippin's famous journey from the Shire to Rivendell.

Dubbing it "The Fellowship Walk," each milestone toward the $5,000 goal is represented by a different stage of the Fellowship's journey on their site. The Lonely Mountain Band, The Guild and other individuals are donating special items to be given away over the next month in an effort to attract more donors. Merric, one of the founders of the blog, found himself hospitalized as a child, and found out first-hand how helpful video games are in distracting kids from the pain.

You can learn more about their effort -- and perhaps chip in a few bucks yourself -- by heading over to A Casual Stroll to Mordor! Oh, and happy birthday to Frodo and Bilbo!

MassivelyHelpful hobbits see fundraising as Child's Play originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Sep 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-casual-stroll-to-mordorcharitychilds-playfundraiserlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromerricmordorpenny-arcadesauronthe-fellowship-walkthe-guildthe-lonely-mountain-bandturbineWed, 22 Sep 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[It's time to play games and heal kids with Extra Life]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/13/its-time-to-play-games-and-heal-kids-with-extra-life/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/13/its-time-to-play-games-and-heal-kids-with-extra-life/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/13/its-time-to-play-games-and-heal-kids-with-extra-life/#commentsFiled under: , ,

It's time once again to start registering for Extra Life. If you've been a member of the gaming community for a while, you're probably aware of this great charity event started by the Sarcastic Gamer blog.

If you're unfamiliar with it, Extra Life is a 24-hour gaming marathon to benefit your local children's hospital through the Children's Miracle Network. Players sign up individually or as a team, gain sponsors willing to pledge $1 per hour, and play for 24 hours straight. Last year the organization raised over $150,000, and the organizers would love to see that number exceeded this year.

Hundreds of gamers, including our very own Beau, have signed up to participate in this event, which begins October 16th. You can sign up as a participant through the site, or as a sponsor through the individual gamer pages.

MassivelyIt's time to play games and heal kids with Extra Life originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Sep 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charitychildrens-miracle-networkextra-lifegaming-marathonsarcastic-gamersponsorMon, 13 Sep 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hello Kitty Online Food for Friends 2 event a success]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/24/hello-kitty-online-food-for-friends-2-event-a-success/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/24/hello-kitty-online-food-for-friends-2-event-a-success/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/24/hello-kitty-online-food-for-friends-2-event-a-success/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

With the recent devastation in Haiti, we've seen a host of different gaming initiatives to help out. The folks at Sanrio Digital in connection with Aeria Games ran their own event, called Food for Friends 2. The idea was that players could donate any type of in-game items to Aeria, and Aeria would donate to the Haiti relief efforts on behalf of the Hello Kitty Online community.

Well, the results are in, and the Hello Kitty Online players on Aeria servers donated 534,358 items to the cause. While Aeria has not currently released their total donations as yet, the numbers are in from the Sanrio Digital side of things. Apparently the Sanrio Digital crowd managed to get 1,248,257 donated crafted items, and in turn Sanrio donated US $18,038.30 to Doctors Without Borders for the Haiti relief efforts. Now that's a friendship gift we can get behind.

MassivelyHello Kitty Online Food for Friends 2 event a success originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 24 Feb 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeriaaeria-gamescharitable-donationcharitydoctors-without-bordersf2pfood-for-friends-2free-to-playhaitihello-kitty-onlinehkosanrio-digitalWed, 24 Feb 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Over $40,000 donated to EVE Online "PLEX for Haiti" initiative so far]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/16/over-40-000-donated-to-eve-online-plex-for-haiti-initiative-s/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/16/over-40-000-donated-to-eve-online-plex-for-haiti-initiative-s/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/16/over-40-000-donated-to-eve-online-plex-for-haiti-initiative-s/#commentsFiled under: , ,

When the Republic of Haiti suffered a devastating earthquake on January 12th, groups around the world struggled to give as much aid as possible. Proving that gamers are givers, several MMO companies rushed to provide a way for their players to donate to registered relief aid charities like the Red Cross. Sony Online Entertainment raised over $25,000 in just three days by selling in-game items in Free Realms, EverQuest and EverQuest II. They donated 100% of the proceeds to charity and even added $10 of their own money for each purchase made.

CCP ran their own EVE Online "PLEX Aid for Haiti" initiative where players were encouraged to buy PLEX and then contract them to the "CCP PLEX for Haiti" character in-game. Even PLEX purchased in-game with ISK helped the appeal as every two PLEX contracted to CCP equaled $35 US Dollars of cash that was bought but not converted into game time. CCP could then donate the full $35 without making a loss. It was a clever scheme that allowed players who were short on cash but rich in-game to donate real money to charity.

CCP have just announced that so far the total tally of PLEX donated to the appeal has reached 2,290, which has a real cash value of just over $40,000 US dollars. One player donated a staggering 341 PLEX, which has an in-game value of over 88 billion ISK and makes a real world donation of almost $6,000. Of note is the revelation that only 1.4% of the donated PLEX were bought directly for cash, while players buying the PLEX using their spare ISK contributed the remaining 98.6%. That's a testament both to the generosity of gamers and the innovative system CCP used to collect aid. Hopefully we'll see this strategy used in future when someone is in desperate need of aid as it has proven very successful. For those that still want to donate, CCP are currently still accepting donations of PLEX to help the people of Haiti.

MassivelyOver $40,000 donated to EVE Online "PLEX for Haiti" initiative so far originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Feb 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-eveccp-gamescharitydonationdonationseveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlineeverquesteverquest-iifree-realmsgamershaitiplexred-crossreliefrelief-effortssoeTue, 16 Feb 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CCP Games 'PLEX Aid for Haiti' initiative to help Red Cross relief efforts]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/ccp-games-plex-aid-for-haiti-initiative-to-help-red-cross-reli/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/ccp-games-plex-aid-for-haiti-initiative-to-help-red-cross-reli/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/ccp-games-plex-aid-for-haiti-initiative-to-help-red-cross-reli/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The devastating January 12 earthquake which struck the Republic of Haiti claimed many lives, and has left even more people homeless. It's a terrible situation, but at the very least there are numerous aid efforts underway, and some companies in the MMO industry are finding ways to help as well. CCP Games now ranks among them, with their PLEX Aid for Haiti initiative. The company is offering a way for the EVE Online playerbase to get involved and help with donations.

Here is the message from Hilmar Veigar Pétursson, CEO of CCP Games, in its entirety:

Continue reading CCP Games 'PLEX Aid for Haiti' initiative to help Red Cross relief efforts

MassivelyCCP Games 'PLEX Aid for Haiti' initiative to help Red Cross relief efforts originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Jan 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesccp-hellmarcharitydonationseveeve-onlinehaitihilmar-peturssonhilmar-v-peturssoniskplexrelief-effortsFri, 29 Jan 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hello Kitty Online's Food for Friends 2 event provides Haiti disaster relief]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/18/hello-kitty-onlines-food-for-friends-2-event-provides-haiti-dis/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/18/hello-kitty-onlines-food-for-friends-2-event-provides-haiti-dis/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/18/hello-kitty-onlines-food-for-friends-2-event-provides-haiti-dis/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

One of the things that's different about Hello Kitty Online, beyond the pink hearts and stars motif, is that the game ties in with some great charitable causes. Now Sanrio Digital has announced the "Food for Friends 2" guild competition, an event that lets guilds compete for Loyalty Point prizes for use in the Hello Kitty Online item mall while helping people in the real world. Players from select regions (North America, Europe, Singapore, Malaysia) who participate in Food for Friends 2 will generate real money donations (from event sponsors) through their gameplay that will help disaster relief efforts in Haiti.

Food for Friends 2 runs from January 21-30 and getting involved is very simple. Players can log in and head on over to Hello Kitty Online's version of London to speak with an NPC named Cinnamaroll. He's collecting crafted consumable items for the needy. The more people from your guild who donate these items, the higher your guild's point standings increase.

Continue reading Hello Kitty Online's Food for Friends 2 event provides Haiti disaster relief

MassivelyHello Kitty Online's Food for Friends 2 event provides Haiti disaster relief originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 18 Jan 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betascharitable-causescharitiescharitydoctors-without-borderseventsfood-for-friendsfood-for-friends-2haitihello-kittyhello-kitty-onlinehkommo-industryrelief-effortssanrio-digitalMon, 18 Jan 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Buy special Station items and SOE will donate to Haitian relief]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/17/buy-special-station-items-and-soe-will-donate-to-haitian-relief/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/17/buy-special-station-items-and-soe-will-donate-to-haitian-relief/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/17/buy-special-station-items-and-soe-will-donate-to-haitian-relief/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

If you've been considering donating to Haitian relief efforts and happen to play EverQuest, EverQuest II, or Free Realms, then we've got some news that you'll undoubtedly want to take a look at.

Between now and midnight PST on January 18th, for every purchase of either a Zando T-Rex pet in Free Realms, a Protectors of the Faydark armor crate in EverQuest II, or a Plush Bear item in EverQuest, SOE will donate $10 to the relief efforts up to a maximum of $25,000. Considering each of the items only costs 500 Station Cash to purchase, that equates to players donating $5, then SOE matching the donation with $5 of their own and then sending it along. That's pretty cool in our book.

So if you want to help a great cause and land a little something fun for your EQ, EQII, or Free Realms character, then these items are something you'll want to pick up before the midnight on the 18th. Also, a big thumbs up to SOE for offering items to raise money for Haiti.

[Update: SOE has raised $25,000 for this relief effort in just three days!]

MassivelyBuy special Station items and SOE will donate to Haitian relief originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 17 Jan 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charityeq2eqiieverquesteverquest-2everquest-iifree-realmshaitihaitian-reliefitem-mallsoesony-online-entertainmentvirtual-itemsSun, 17 Jan 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wizard101 raises over $100,000 for charity]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/12/wizard101-raises-over-100-000-for-charity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/12/wizard101-raises-over-100-000-for-charity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/12/wizard101-raises-over-100-000-for-charity/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The holidays are over -- everyone can breathe a collective sigh of relief now -- but there are some gifts that keep on giving. Charitable donations always go up during the holidays, and with the rise of microtransaction stores, games are better able to get in on the generosity. Wizard101 was one of the many offering an in-game carrot for donating to charity, the tiger-striped Meowmodon mount. Aside from having an adorable name, it inspired enough players to purchase it that raised $126,000 for charity.

The total amount received will be split evenly between Child's Play and the Austin Children's Shelter, to suppport both the worldwide community and the area surrounding the KingsIsle headquarters. The company seems quite pleased with the results, and it's a testament to both the community and the game that a free-to-play game could raise such a substantial sum for two excellent causes. The offiicial announcement can be found on the official Wizard101 site, to no great surprise. Congratulations to the players who took part, and we can only hope this effort will be repeated in the coming months -- free-to-play item malls donating to charity have certainly made an impact this holiday season, certain hiccups notwithstanding.

MassivelyWizard101 raises over $100,000 for charity originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 12 Jan 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>austin-childrens-centercharitychilds-playchilds-play-2009kingsislekingsisle-entertainmentkittenmeowmodonmeowmodon-mountmountw101wizard101Tue, 12 Jan 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Child's Play pulls out of Atlantica Online charity drive because of negative player feedback]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/31/childs-play-pulls-out-of-atlantica-online-charity-drive-because/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/31/childs-play-pulls-out-of-atlantica-online-charity-drive-because/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/31/childs-play-pulls-out-of-atlantica-online-charity-drive-because/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


On the list of all-time classic burns, "we don't want your money" is pretty far up there, especially when it's a charity saying it. Atlantica Online has been burned pretty badly. We reported recently on the company offering an in-game grab bag in the game's item mall that would result in donating an unstated amount to Child's Play. Unfortunately, due to negative feedback, Child's Play has requested that they be withdrawn from this charity drive.

Why would players complain about donating to charity? Some facts have surfaced, chief among them the official statement that the donations would be 5% of gross revenue. For a $40 purchase, only two dollars actually wind up going to charity, which feels a bit duplicitous when one of the main selling points is a charitable donation.

Atlantica Online's official announcement is almost petulant -- it boils down to the company stating that they wanted to just do something nice before complaining players ruined it for everyone. Although the announcement goes on to state that they will look for an alternative recipient of the donation, for the time being none is listed. It's sad news all around, even in light of the popular charity's record donations this year.

MassivelyChild's Play pulls out of Atlantica Online charity drive because of negative player feedback originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 31 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlanticaatlantica-onlinecharitycharity-declinedcharity-donationchilds-playndoorsThu, 31 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Buy a mount in Wizard101 for charity]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/15/buy-a-mount-in-wizard101-for-charity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/15/buy-a-mount-in-wizard101-for-charity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/15/buy-a-mount-in-wizard101-for-charity/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Remember when you would try and convince your mother to get you something with the rallying cry that it would be educational? It didn't always work, but it was usually worth a try. Kids playing Wizard101 -- or adults looking to justify their latest impulse purchase to their spouse -- will be able to unleash a variant on that: "But it's for charity!" The Meowmodon mount, pictured above, has just been unveiled as the newest addition to the mount options in the game, but there's a twist: buying it sends no money to KingsIsle. It moves straight on to charity.

Each time the mount is purchased, KingsIsle will donate the full cost of the mount, roughly $15 US, to two charities, the Austin Children's Shelter and the ever-popular Child's Play. Moreover, the mount will only be available between December 14th and January 5th of next year. The fact that it's a limited-time item makes it even more attractive to many parts of the gaming community, and it marks a Wizard101 player as having donated to worthy causes at one of the most important times of the year. So if you have any interest in owning it, by all means, head to the page with all the details, and remember that you don't have to feel even remotely bad about this impulse purchase.

MassivelyBuy a mount in Wizard101 for charity originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>austin-childrens-sheltercharitychilds-playdonationkingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlimited-timemeowmodonmountmountswizard-101wizard101Tue, 15 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hello Kitty Online joins the Toys for Tots charity drive]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/11/hello-kitty-online-joins-the-toys-for-tots-charity-drive/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/11/hello-kitty-online-joins-the-toys-for-tots-charity-drive/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/11/hello-kitty-online-joins-the-toys-for-tots-charity-drive/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Hello Kitty and Toys for Tots, two names that are pretty recognizable at first glance. Well, the two are teaming up for the holiday season, as Aeria Games is using Hello Kitty Online as a platform to drive charitable contributions in a pretty unique way.

Instead of offering a buyable pet and giving the proceeds to Toys for Tots, HKO players will get to search the grand virtual lands of Sanrio for Short Sticks, Webley Webs, Shells, and Bramble's Comfort. Each set of items collected will go to creating a special in-game Crab Plush Toy for you and will add one more donation to Aeria's real life toy drive. That's right: An in-game quest with a real life reward of helping get toys to children for the holidays. That's one quest that you can't drop from your log.

GMs will be picking up item sets on December 14th, 15th, and 16th. For the full information on what needs to be collected to make a set, check out the event page on HKO's main website. Don't miss out on this great chance to help children in need!

MassivelyHello Kitty Online joins the Toys for Tots charity drive originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 Dec 2009 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeria-gamescharitycrab-plush-toyeventhello-kittyhello-kitty-onlinehkoholiday-eventin-game-eventmarinessanriosanrio-digitaltoys-for-totsFri, 11 Dec 2009 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Real World Heroes gives titles for charity in City of Heroes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/26/real-world-heroes-gives-titles-for-charity-in-city-of-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/26/real-world-heroes-gives-titles-for-charity-in-city-of-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/26/real-world-heroes-gives-titles-for-charity-in-city-of-heroes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

It's trite and cliche, but also true -- the holidays are the optimal time to stop and remember that there are people less fortunate than you in the world. Charity drives step up in frequency and everyone looks for the spirit of the holiday, of giving gifts out of kindness and hope that others can share in your good fortune. That being said, it can help give an incentive for everyone if there's something more to be had than simply the warm fuzzy feeling. Real World Hero, a player-run charity drive, has teamed up with the community team in City of Heroes to provide a little extra incentive for players of the game to step up and do something super.

Running between November 30th and December 24th, players who include their character information when they donate will be eligible for a limited-time special gold title for their character, marking them as a generous soul. The event is not being officially sponsored by the company, but the support is certainly added incentive to take part. With Operation Gratitude, Donate Games, and the ever-popular Child's Play as the designated recipients, it's a good time for City of Heroes players to be a bit more heroic in their day-to-day lives and be known for it in-game to boot.

MassivelyReal World Heroes gives titles for charity in City of Heroes originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charitycharity-drivechilds-playcity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxdonate-gamesdonationdonationsncsoftoperation-gratitudereal-lifereal-world-eventsreal-world-heroThu, 26 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ride a turkey in Fiesta and help feed the homeless in America]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/16/ride-a-turkey-in-fiesta-and-help-feed-the-homeless-in-america/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/16/ride-a-turkey-in-fiesta-and-help-feed-the-homeless-in-america/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/16/ride-a-turkey-in-fiesta-and-help-feed-the-homeless-in-america/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

We here at Massively always appreciate it when games give back to the community, and the folks over at Fiesta seem to follow our line of thought. In celebration of Thanksgiving, they've released the new Thomas the Turkey mount for players to grab from the item shop.

Thomas is a special beast, however, as 100% of his proceeds until November 30th will go towards Feeding America, a charity that works with local food banks to provide food to the homeless and needy. After the 30th, Thomas will stick around in the Fiesta store as a standard mount.

Thomas is currently priced at around $6.80, but it's good to know that the money will be going to a good cause. So don't dilly dally, go out and purchase your turkey before the 30th to make sure you help the homeless and get a sweet ride while doing it.

MassivelyRide a turkey in Fiesta and help feed the homeless in America originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charityfeeding-americafeedingamerica.orgfiestamountoutsparkthanksgivingturkeyMon, 16 Nov 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Extra Life raises over $150,000]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/27/extra-life-raises-over-150-000/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/27/extra-life-raises-over-150-000/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/27/extra-life-raises-over-150-000/#commentsFiled under: , ,

A little over a week ago, we told you about Beau Turkey (from Spouse Aggro) and his participation in Extra Life, the gaming marathon created by Sarcastic Gamer and the Texas Children's Hospital to raise money for the Texas Children's Cancer Center. He easily achieved his goal of $192 -- raising $270 -- but he was one of many, many people who pitched in their time and money to help out. Thanks to Beau and all the others who helped out, Extra Life hit quite a milestone.

Yesterday they announced that they had raised over $150,000 -- an amount well over last year's total which will see 100% going to the Cancer center (Check out the header for a running total). Extra Life has designated this Saturday as "make up day," when participants can finish up their full 24 hours, if they couldn't make it before. Of course, the site will remain open for donations until then as well.

We applaud Beau, Sarcastic Gamer, and all of you who participated. Thank you!

MassivelyExtra Life raises over $150,000 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-turkeycharitiescharityextra-lifegamer-charitiesgamer-charitysarcastic-gamerspouse-aggrotexas-childrens-hospitalTue, 27 Oct 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blogger to play 24 hours of MMOs for charity]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/17/blogger-plays-games-and-heals-kids/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/17/blogger-plays-games-and-heals-kids/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/17/blogger-plays-games-and-heals-kids/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Beau Turkey, the guy-half of the Spouse Aggro blog and podcast -- and a regular guest on our own Massively Speaking podcast -- is participating in a very special charity event all day today. The charity is called Extra Life, and it is a 24-hour gaming marathon with the slogan "Play games, heal kids", created to raise money for the Texas Children's Cancer Center.

Beau has chosen his games -- twelve games for two hours each -- and posted his list here. He's included in-game names and servers for each game to make it easier for those who'd like to join him. If you're more of a voyeur, Beau has been kind enough to set up live streaming video of the event as well. We're predicting that it's going to be pretty fun to watch, especially around hour eighteen or so, when he starts to lose feeling in his right hand.

Of course, it's good if you want to watch; better if you log in and play with Beau, and best if you donate. Beau's goal is a pretty reasonable $192.00, and you can help him reach it here. Good luck Beau, we think you're doing a great thing. Hope you have plenty of coffee on-hand!

MassivelyBlogger to play 24 hours of MMOs for charity originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 17 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-turkeycharitiescharityextra-lifesarcastic-gamerspouse-aggrostreaming-videoSat, 17 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Second Life users raise more than a quarter million for cancer research]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/22/second-life-users-raise-more-than-a-quarter-million-for-cancer-r/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/22/second-life-users-raise-more-than-a-quarter-million-for-cancer-r/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/22/second-life-users-raise-more-than-a-quarter-million-for-cancer-r/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

This weekend, saw the main event of the Second Life Relay for Life, raising funds for the American Cancer Society for cancer research. The exact figure raised for cancer research by Second Life users is a bit hazy, being reported slightly differently from multiple sources, but the American Cancer Society is reporting that the contributed amount is a very exciting US$270,388.

While Second Life often receives a fairly low opinion in the media, particularly the tech media, and tends to get a poor rap from MMOG players, their contribution every year to cancer research is not to be sold short. We'd like to see some of you MMOG players try to beat that next year.

In the meantime, if you're at Dragon*Con 2009 this year, you MMOGers have a chance to show you care, at the convention-wide blood drive. It'll be Horde versus Alliance versus everyone who thinks you're too self-absorbed to participate. Show you've got it in you, and let them take some of it out of you!

Are you a part of the most widely-known collaborative virtual environment or keeping a close eye on it? Massively's Second Life coverage keeps you in the loop.

MassivelySecond Life users raise more than a quarter million for cancer research originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Jul 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acsamerican-cancer-societyblood-drivecharityculturedragon-condragon-con-2009second-lifesecond-life-relay-for-lifevirtual-worldsWed, 22 Jul 2009 19:00:00 EST