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[ArenaNet talks about naming Guild Wars 2's world]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/arenanet-talks-about-naming-guild-wars-2s-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/arenanet-talks-about-naming-guild-wars-2s-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/arenanet-talks-about-naming-guild-wars-2s-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Guild Wars 2
While it's easy to get caught up in the big picture side of the development process, we risk overlooking the smaller but crucial work that goes into gluing the game together. One of these tasks is the naming of the world and all that lies within it. Content Designer Annie VanderMeer Mitsoda wrote an ArenaNet blog post about the challenges and decisions that went with labeling everything under the sun in Guild Wars 2.

Mitsoda said that the team has established a system for nailing down names. After coming up with the name, the team sends the moniker through a "sanity check" that makes sure it's not too hard to spell or say. The team also tries to weed out the more obscure or overt pop culture references, then passes along the names to the team's "loremasters," who check it against an internal wiki for consistency.

She goes on to share a few anecdotes about the naming process, such as the evolution of Charr names, the difficulty of putting a label on an animal that has no Earth equivalent, and how the creepy rat-dog Murellow got its name. It's an interesting read into a different side of the development process that often goes unnoticed, so check it out!

MassivelyArenaNet talks about naming Guild Wars 2's world originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 May 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetAnnie-VanderMeerAnnie-VanderMeer-Mitsodaarenanetbetacharrdev-blogdev-diaryfantasyguild-wars-2gw2loremurellownamenamesnamingncsoftWed, 23 May 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet shows the making of Guild Wars 2's collector's edition statue]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/arenanet-shows-the-making-of-guild-wars-2s-collectors-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/arenanet-shows-the-making-of-guild-wars-2s-collectors-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/arenanet-shows-the-making-of-guild-wars-2s-collectors-edition/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Guild Wars 2
When Guild Wars 2's pre-purchase program started two days ago, scores of fans descended upon their local retailers looking to secure one of its few, highly desired collector's editions. For those fortunate enough to grab one, ArenaNet has posted an inside look at the centerpiece of the CE: the Rytlock Brimstone statue.

While the team considered statues of each of the races, it decided that the Charr was the most iconic and worthy of star treatment. ArenaNet partnered up with Canada's Happy Worker to fashion the detailed statue that shows Rytlock with his flaming blade, standing over a field of skulls. The heavy statue is 10 inches tall and painstakingly hand-painted.

If you're still attempting to hunt down a collector's edition of Guild Wars 2, head over to the pre-purchase page on the official site for the list of retailers in your country.

MassivelyArenaNet shows the making of Guild Wars 2's collector's edition statue originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbetacecharrclosed-betacollectors-editionfantasyguild-wars-2gw2happy-workerncsoftpre-purchaseprepurchaseRytlock-BrimstonestatueThu, 12 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: Life in the legions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/flameseeker-chronicles-life-in-the-legions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/flameseeker-chronicles-life-in-the-legions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/flameseeker-chronicles-life-in-the-legions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/flameseeker-chronicles-life-in-the-legions/
Last week, Leif Chapelle, a content designer, took some time to update the ArenaNet blog with a bit of a behind-the-scenes look at personal story in Guild Wars 2. He sketched out the structure of how players' biography choices affect their storyline: "To experience every potential storyline being told from level one to 10, you'd need to play the game 30 times (five races times three initial storylines times two internal branches in each storyline)... We have 80 levels of progression for your character, and every 10 levels or so, you'll begin a new chapter in your story."

To someone who has rolled a seemingly endless string of alts in virtually every game I've played and is extraordinarily trigger-happy when it comes to remaking characters, this shows a great deal of promise. I'm sure it's quite an angstilicious idea for people who want to savor ALL THE STORY, but I hope that such types might admit (however grudgingly) that too much story is a better option than too little.

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: Life in the legions

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: Life in the legions originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetash-legionblood-legioncharrfantasyfeaturedflame-legionflameseeker-chroniclesguild-warsguild-wars-2guild-wars-2-betaguild-wars-2-previewguild-wars-nightfallgwgw1gw2iron-legionleif-chappellemike-zMike-Zadorojnyncsoftopinionpersonal-storyTue, 27 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Breaking down Guild Wars 2's character creator]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/breaking-down-guild-wars-2s-character-creator/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/breaking-down-guild-wars-2s-character-creator/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/breaking-down-guild-wars-2s-character-creator/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

GW2
The second Guild Wars 2 press beta weekend has come and gone, and Massively was there every step of the way. Stay tuned throughout the day today for even more guides, impressions, videos, and Q&As to get you ready for the highly anticipated sequel to Guild Wars.

In just the few minutes that it takes to traverse the 10 screens of Guild Wars 2's character creation process, I'm left with one overriding thought: This game looks ridiculously good. Ludicrously so, even. And I didn't even enter the game world yet!

I always love a good, in-depth character creation system, as there's a joy in spending a good amount of time making exactly the sort of character you want to play. Unfortunately, most MMOs have stripped this process down to the bare basics, which is why I'm pleased to announce that it's actually a mini-journey in and of itself in Guild Wars 2.

The point of this process isn't just to make a character but help you grow attached to this person and get to know him or her through it. What are this character's motivations? What branch of his or her profession is the most appealing? How did you become a hero? What obstacles do you have to overcome?

Instead of playing the game itself, I took some time over this beta testing weekend to dissect every step of the character creation system and bring my findings back to those of you who want to start building your character in your mind.

Continue reading Breaking down Guild Wars 2's character creator

MassivelyBreaking down Guild Wars 2's character creator originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbackstorycharactercharacter-creationcharacter-creatorcharacter-customizationcharacterscharrclassclassescustomizationfantasyfeaturedguideguidesguild-wars-2guild-wars-2-betaguild-wars-2-guideguild-wars-2-previewgw2hands-onhumanncsoftnornpreviewraceracesstoryMon, 26 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: GW2 field trip edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/25/the-mmo-report-gw2-field-trip-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/25/the-mmo-report-gw2-field-trip-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/25/the-mmo-report-gw2-field-trip-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The MMO Report
This week on The MMO Report, Casey treks to Burbank, California, to check out Guild Wars 2's voice-acting studio and interview ArenaNet lead writer Bobby Stein. Stein tells the crew that his team has been working on GW2's voice-overs for three years, resulting in approximately 70 or 80 times the amount of voice work for Guild Wars 1's final installment, Eye of the North.

Casey also interviews a trio of women portraying female Charr characters, but it just wouldn't be an MMO Report field trip if Casey hadn't given the voice acting a try himself. Rising to such stage directions as "he's a cat" and "now try it drunk," Casey receives a hard-earned standing ovation from the sound booth.

All this and more in the MMO Report video tucked behind the break!

Continue reading The MMO Report: GW2 field trip edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: GW2 field trip edition originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 Nov 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbobby-steinburbankcasey-schreinercharreotneye-of-the-northfield-tripguild-warsGuild-Wars-2gwgw1gw2gwenmmo-reportnewsthe-mmo-reportvideovideosvoice-overvoice-oversvoice-workFri, 25 Nov 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[[Updated] Guild Wars 2 Charr plushies on sale now, but you can win one free from Massively!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/guild-wars-2-charr-plushies-on-sale-now-but-you-can-win-one-fre/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/guild-wars-2-charr-plushies-on-sale-now-but-you-can-win-one-fre/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/guild-wars-2-charr-plushies-on-sale-now-but-you-can-win-one-fre/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Rawr, I scary!
Guild Wars 2 fans attending PAX may have noticed an extra attendee roaming the show floor: the fiercely cute Charr plushie. According to the tag on his backside, he goes by the name Charrlie, and it seemed like every ArenaNet devotee at PAX wanted to nab one for his or her very own.

The ArenaNet crew handed out several as prizes during a panel and some trivia contests on stage, and promised fans that the plushies would be for sale at some time in the future. That time has arrived a little sooner than most fans expected -- as of right now, the little guys can be purchased in the Penny Arcade store for $34.99.

Even better, we've got one here at Massively to share with a lucky reader! All you need to do is leave a comment telling us why you should be the winner. Tomorrow at 3:00 p.m. EDT, we'll go through the entries, choose the best one, and mail Charrlie the Charr to the winner right away.

Be sure to read our contest rules, hit that comment button, and good luck!

[UPDATE: We have chosen and contacted a winner. Thanks to all who entered!]

OFFICIAL RULES

Massively[Updated] Guild Wars 2 Charr plushies on sale now, but you can win one free from Massively! originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetcharrcharr-plushiecharrliecharrlie-bit-mecharrlie-plushiecontestcontestsdont-take-him-to-candy-mountainfree-charr-plushiegiveawaygiveawaysguild-wars-2its-so-fluffyncsoftnot-the-unicornThu, 08 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2011: Guild Wars 2 shows off 40 minutes of gameplay]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/gamescom-2011-guild-wars-2-shows-off-40-minutes-of-gameplay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/gamescom-2011-guild-wars-2-shows-off-40-minutes-of-gameplay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/gamescom-2011-guild-wars-2-shows-off-40-minutes-of-gameplay/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Guild Wars 2 character customization
Hey Guild Wars 2 fans, bummed that you're not at Gamescom right now getting your paws, claws, or ferns on the game? We have the next best thing: nearly 40 minutes of video footage for you to digest.

On the Gamescom floor, ArenaNet's Chris Lye took time to walk Wartower.de through the full Guild Wars 2 demo for the event. During the tour, he shows us character customization, the Asura, and the Charr starting experience, capping it off with a giant dragon boss encounter.

So what's Lye looking forward to playing the most when the game goes live? "I've already found it: the Asura Thief. I love the size, I love the animations on the Asura, and I love how great they are as Thieves."

Grab some popcorn and settle in for the full video after the jump!

Continue reading Gamescom 2011: Guild Wars 2 shows off 40 minutes of gameplay

MassivelyGamescom 2011: Guild Wars 2 shows off 40 minutes of gameplay originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetasuracharrchris-lyechristopher-lyedemodemonstrationdragondynamic-eventsgamescomgamescom-2011guild-wars-2gw2thiefthievesvideowartowerThu, 18 Aug 2011 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet revealing Guild Wars 2 PvP and customization at Gamescom]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/29/arenanet-revealing-guild-wars-2-pvp-and-customization-at-gamesco/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/29/arenanet-revealing-guild-wars-2-pvp-and-customization-at-gamesco/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/29/arenanet-revealing-guild-wars-2-pvp-and-customization-at-gamesco/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Europe's largest game expo is getting ready for plenty of Guild Wars 2 goodness, as ArenaNet will be bringing its highly anticipated fantasy MMO to the Cologne convention that runs from August 17th to August 21st.

In a new post on the company blog, Martin Kerstein gives us an idea of what we can expect from the NCsoft demo booth. The playable GW2 build will include all seven professions revealed thus far, the complete Charr starter experience, and a mid-level demo featuring powerful Orrian enemies (and Sylvari and Asura playable characters).

Last but not least, gamers will finally get their hands on Guild Wars 2's character customization system as well as its PvP component. Hands-on PvP experiences will be available, and players can also watch exhibition matches between developers and select European players.

MassivelyArenaNet revealing Guild Wars 2 PvP and customization at Gamescom originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Jul 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arena-netarena.netarenanetasuracharacter-customizationcharrcharr-starter-experiencedemoseventsfantasygamescomgamescom-2011guild-wars-2gw2martin-kersteinncsoftplayable-demoprofessionspvpreal-world-eventstyriaFri, 29 Jul 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: MMO mascots]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/28/the-perfect-ten-mmo-mascots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/28/the-perfect-ten-mmo-mascots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/28/the-perfect-ten-mmo-mascots/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Everyone knows that a good mascot can make a difference between a video game's death and rabid popularity. Mario, Master Chief, Duke Nuke 'Em, Pac-Man, Samus Aran, Pyramid Head -- each one of these mascots isn't merely an aspect of the game, they are the virtual spokesperson (or spokesthing) which represents the game itself.

Yet when you think about it, MMOs have had a tougher time producing mascots than other video game genres, partially because unlike other games, you don't play as the mascots, and partially because when you have a cast of thousands of NPCs, picking out one to elevate above the rest is a difficult job.

Difficult, that is, but not impossible. Today we're going to look at ten MMO mascots (MMOscots?) that studios have tried to promote as the face of these games, to varying degrees of success.

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: MMO mascots

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: MMO mascots originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Jul 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>13371337-speakanarchy-onlineanetangelaoapril-foolsarenanetarthasbatmanbe-the-broccoliblizzardbroccolicharrchatdycity-of-heroescohddodevildungeons-and-dragons-onlineea-mythicelfy-mcnoclotheseqeverquesteye-of-the-northf2pfaxion-onlinefeaturedfree-realmsfree-to-playguild-warsguild-wars-eye-of-the-northgwgwenjack-emmertleetleet-speakleetslich-kinglistlistsmascotmascotsmythicmythic-entertainmentperfect-10perfect-tenplayboyprince-arthasretconretconningsarah-morrisonsoesquigsquigsstatesmantabula-rasathe-jokerthe-perfect-10the-perfect-tenturbinewarwarhammer-onlineworld-of-warcraftwowWrath-of-the-Lich-KingThu, 28 Jul 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[In the beginning: Guild Wars 2 shows off Ascalon Catacombs intro cinematic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/30/in-the-beginning-guild-wars-2-shows-off-ascalon-catacombs-intro/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/30/in-the-beginning-guild-wars-2-shows-off-ascalon-catacombs-intro/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/30/in-the-beginning-guild-wars-2-shows-off-ascalon-catacombs-intro/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Dungeons without context tend to just blend in with the other 55,000 instances we've run in our MMO careers, so a gripping backstory can make all the difference in how memorable a good dungeon run can be.

ArenaNet has released a new introductory cinematic for Guild Wars 2's Ascalon Catacombs that helps bring players -- those both unfamiliar to the Guild Wars lore and heavily steeped in it -- up to speed. A Charr narrates a slice of history from the first game, leading up to how this dungeon was created and why it's so full of teed-off ghosts.

In an attached developer blog, Horia Dociu tells us why these cinematics aren't just window dressing but essential to the experience: "These cinematics play at the key moments of the story mode in each of the eight dungeons in Guild Wars 2, setting the mood and delivering valuable info. Stylistically, we're pushing the concept of a visual storybook as a form of communicating to the player -- we want the cinematics to feel like moving paintings."

You can watch the full intro to Ascalon Catacombs after the jump!

Continue reading In the beginning: Guild Wars 2 shows off Ascalon Catacombs intro cinematic

MassivelyIn the beginning: Guild Wars 2 shows off Ascalon Catacombs intro cinematic originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 30 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetascalon-catacombsascalonian-catacombsbackstorycharrcinematicdev-blogdev-diarydeveloper-blogghostsguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw2Horia-Dociuintro-cinematicloremoving-paintingsncsoftstorystorytellingvideoThu, 30 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: Charr week]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/25/flameseeker-chronicles-charr-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/25/flameseeker-chronicles-charr-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/25/flameseeker-chronicles-charr-week/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

I have to admit I waxed nostalgic over Charr Week. It all brought back memories of my first real encounter with this race: a PUG in Great Northern Wall. One member of the group suggested we fight the horde of Charr approaching us at the end of the mission, to which the group leader responded, "Hell no! They're level 8 -- they'll kill us!"

That panicked, heart-pounding race back to the Wall was the moment I became hooked on Guild Wars. That's when I truly fell for the game, hook, line, and sinker. These days Bonfaaz Burntfur looks mostly like an angry Pomeranian in a cloth diaper to me, but back then, he and his army were truly fearsome.

What strikes me most, looking back, is how the Charr have evolved in every way, both within the story and without. Lore, design, characterization, ability... you name it and it's grown amazingly. Follow along after the jump for an in-depth look at how far the Charr have come.

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: Charr week

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: Charr week originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Apr 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetcharrcharr-weekfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesguild-wars-2gw2ncsoftraceracesMon, 25 Apr 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet designer Ree Soesbee wraps up Guild Wars 2 Charr week]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/22/arenanet-designer-ree-soesbee-wraps-up-guild-wars-2-charr-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/22/arenanet-designer-ree-soesbee-wraps-up-guild-wars-2-charr-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/22/arenanet-designer-ree-soesbee-wraps-up-guild-wars-2-charr-week/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The final day of Guild Wars 2 Charr week is here, and it's designer Ree Soesbee's turn to give us another in-depth look at the Charr. Ree is the author of the Guild Wars 2 backstory, so she enjoys a unique view of the Charr heirarchy -- both the big picture and the small details.

She's got plenty to say and a story to tell, so follow along after the jump for our in-depth look at the wrap-up of Charr week!

Continue reading ArenaNet designer Ree Soesbee wraps up Guild Wars 2 Charr week

MassivelyArenaNet designer Ree Soesbee wraps up Guild Wars 2 Charr week originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Apr 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetcharrcharr-weekguild-wars-2ncsoftree-soesbeeFri, 22 Apr 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: Scorpion Lobster Battle edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/the-mmo-report-scorpion-lobster-battle-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/the-mmo-report-scorpion-lobster-battle-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/the-mmo-report-scorpion-lobster-battle-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Today's MMO Report is all about League of Legends, the amazing arena-based... what? Never mind -- Casey's not talking about League of Legends, just to spite "some guy." Well, there goes the whole show. I guess if you want to hear about how RIFT messed up its first ever event, then he might talk about that game. The newly announced class for The Secret World made the show. Somehow some silly race from Guild Wars 2 known as the Charr was good enough for Casey to cover. It seems the only redeeming factor of the show is a crazy Scorpion Lobster Battle sent in by a watcher. (Don't ask.)

Anyway, if you really want to catch the latest episode of the MMO Report despite the lack of League of Legends talk, jump past the break or hop over to G4TV to see Casey Schreiner in his full high-def glory.

Continue reading The MMO Report: Scorpion Lobster Battle edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: Scorpion Lobster Battle edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Apr 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenanetcasey-schreinercharrfuncomG4TVg4tv.comGuild-Wars-2GW2league-of-legendsmmo-reportriftrift-planes-of-telarariot-gamesthe-secret-worldtrionvideoThu, 21 Apr 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The roar of engines and the thunder of guns: Massively's analysis of the new Guild Wars 2 video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/the-roar-of-engines-and-the-thunder-of-guns-massivelys-analysi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/the-roar-of-engines-and-the-thunder-of-guns-massivelys-analysi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/the-roar-of-engines-and-the-thunder-of-guns-massivelys-analysi/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Charr week continues with the one thing most Guild Wars 2 fans have been anticipating all week: the video. As always, this is pure in-game footage -- no CGI -- so it's an exciting look at the Charr race and what's become of Ascalon in the years since humans roamed this part of Tyria.

As always, we've taken a close look at the video, so follow along after the jump for the video and our analysis. Of course, don't forget to check out the updated Charr page on the Guild Wars 2 site!

Continue reading The roar of engines and the thunder of guns: Massively's analysis of the new Guild Wars 2 video

MassivelyThe roar of engines and the thunder of guns: Massively's analysis of the new Guild Wars 2 video originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Apr 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetcan-you-believe-this-is-a-fantasy-genre-gamecharrcharr-weekguild-wars-2gw2ncsoftvideoThu, 21 Apr 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet on designing the Charr: "A fire-worshipping race of hell cats"]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/20/arenanet-on-designing-the-charr-a-fire-worshipping-race-of-hel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/20/arenanet-on-designing-the-charr-a-fire-worshipping-race-of-hel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/20/arenanet-on-designing-the-charr-a-fire-worshipping-race-of-hel/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Guild Wars 2's Charr week continues today with a look at Designing the Charr. Artists Katy Hargrove, Kristen Perry, and Kekai Kotaki sat down for this round of information to talk all about the past, present, and future of the Charr race and the process of designing it over a period of years.

We won't keep you waiting: Follow along after the jump for all the latest on Charr week!

Continue reading ArenaNet on designing the Charr: "A fire-worshipping race of hell cats"

MassivelyArenaNet on designing the Charr: "A fire-worshipping race of hell cats" originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Apr 2011 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetcharrcharr-weekguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw2katy-hargrovekekai-kotakikristen-perryncsoftraceracesWed, 20 Apr 2011 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Writing the Charr: It's just plain fun to write for the bad guys]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/19/writing-the-charr-its-just-plain-fun-to-write-for-the-bad-guys/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/19/writing-the-charr-its-just-plain-fun-to-write-for-the-bad-guys/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/19/writing-the-charr-its-just-plain-fun-to-write-for-the-bad-guys/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Charr week kicked off yesterday with a look at the race's starting area in Guild Wars 2. Today ArenaNet delves much more deeply into the Charr race as writer Scott McGough delivers a treat for story and lore fanatics: a look at writing for the Charr.

This is an especially interesting read for longtime fans of Guild Wars because we've watched the Charr evolve over the years and learned more about their hierarchy, their values, their strengths, and their failings. The Charr began (in the eyes of the humans) as a formidable but lesser group of creatures to be removed from the human lands of Old Ascalon. Over time, we've learned much more about this fierce, intelligent, and strictly organized race -- even becoming allies with some of its members.

Follow along after the jump and let's take a look at the history of the Charr and how it's written into Guild Wars 2.

Continue reading Writing the Charr: It's just plain fun to write for the bad guys

MassivelyWriting the Charr: It's just plain fun to write for the bad guys originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 Apr 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetarenanet-blogcharrcharr-weekfeaturedguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw2ncsoftracesscott-mcgoughTue, 19 Apr 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 Charr week begins with starting area design]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/18/guild-wars-2-charr-week-begins-with-starting-area-design/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/18/guild-wars-2-charr-week-begins-with-starting-area-design/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/18/guild-wars-2-charr-week-begins-with-starting-area-design/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you're one of those looking forward to playing a Charr in Guild Wars 2, this is your week. ArenaNet is focusing on the Charr for the next five days, beginning in the most logical place: the Charr starting area.

Content designer Devon Carver gives his take on the creation of this zone in today's ArenaNet blog post: "First impressions are lasting impressions, and the first area you'll encounter as a new Charr player is the Village of Smokestead. We know that it has to be reflective of who the Charr are and that it has to set the stage for the Charr perspective on life."

Carver goes on to cover many details of the area both big and small -- everything from the overall layout of the village to the problem of how to feed the citizens every day. You can check out the full entry at the ArenaNet blog.

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 Charr week begins with starting area design originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 18 Apr 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetcharrcharr-weekdevon-carverguild-wars-2gw2ncsoftMon, 18 Apr 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Charr week coming for Guild Wars 2 fans]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/charr-week-coming-for-guild-wars-2-fans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/charr-week-coming-for-guild-wars-2-fans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/charr-week-coming-for-guild-wars-2-fans/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

With the exception of King Adelbern and his faithful scribe, the Charr were the first living beings we saw in Guild Wars. They're the most familiar non-human creatures to long-term Guild Wars fans, and players have watched them grow in strength and cunning -- and even become reluctant allies -- over the past six years.

The Charr will finally be a playable race in Guild Wars 2, to the delight of a huge portion of the fanbase. As much as we know about the Charr, we're always eager for more information, and next week ArenaNet will release all of the details on this race that fans could hope for. That's right, the company has announced on Facebook that Charr week is next week. The developers have given a little teaser in the form of some art -- use the image to hold you over until Monday, and enjoy Charr week!

MassivelyCharr week coming for Guild Wars 2 fans originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 Apr 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetcharrcharr-weekguild-warsGuild-Wars-2gwgw2ncsoftplayable-racesFri, 15 Apr 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Best non-traditional MMO fantasy races]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/13/the-perfect-ten-best-non-traditional-mmo-fantasy-races/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/13/the-perfect-ten-best-non-traditional-mmo-fantasy-races/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/13/the-perfect-ten-best-non-traditional-mmo-fantasy-races/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Elves. Dwarves. Humans. Halflings. Gnomes. Hobbits. Dark elves. High elves. Half-elves. Wood elves. Keebler elves. Elvish impersonators.

Are you as tired as I am of the endless regurgitation of stock fantasy races in our MMOs? It seems inconceivable (I do not think that means what you think it means) for a new fantasy title to come out without most of the above races infesting the character creation screen with moldy unoriginality, putrescent stank, and dusty boredom.

That's why today I'm standing up to praise 10 MMOs that dare to go above and beyond the stale by offering mostly unique and different races than the rest of the market. Hopefully future games will learn from their example and throw off the yokes of generic oppression to give us something bold and refreshing!

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Best non-traditional MMO fantasy races

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Best non-traditional MMO fantasy races originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acallods-onlineasherons-callbed-wettingburning-crusadecharrdaocdark-age-of-camelotdark-elvesddodraeneidragondragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlinedwarveseberronelveselvish-impersonatoreq2eqiiettenmoorseverquest-2everquest-iifalcor-the-luck-dragongargoylegibberlingsgnomesgpotatoguild-wars-2halflingshigh-elveshobbitshorizonsistariaistaria-formerly-horizonskeebler-elveskoboldlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromonster-playnarniaperfect-10perfect-tenpuff-the-magic-dragonpvmpratongareepicheeprubiskavensoeSony-Online-Entertainmentspider-weaverturbineultima-onlineundeadwarforgedWarhammer-OnlineWorld-of-WarcraftThu, 13 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet releases Edge of Destiny Guild Wars novel]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/23/arenanet-releases-edge-of-destiny-guild-wars-novel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/23/arenanet-releases-edge-of-destiny-guild-wars-novel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/23/arenanet-releases-edge-of-destiny-guild-wars-novel/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Looking for a last-minute Christmas gift for that discerning Guild Wars fan on your list? ArenaNet may have just the thing in the newly released Edge of Destiny, the second novel tie-in to the popular gaming franchise. Penned by J. Robert King, the book takes place prior to the events chronicled in the original Guild Wars novel, Ghosts of Ascalon, and approximately five years before Guild Wars 2's time frame.

The novel features the exploits of an adventuring company that you'll meet in the new game, including Rytlock Brimstone (a charr warrior), Snaff (an asura inventor), and Caithe (a mysterious sylvari). You can grab a copy of the novel on Amazon, or sample the first chapter at the official ArenaNet blog.

MassivelyArenaNet releases Edge of Destiny Guild Wars novel originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Dec 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenanetasuracaithecharredge-of-destinyfantasyguild-warsGuild-Wars-2j-robert-kinglorenovelrytlock-brimstonesnaffsylvariThu, 23 Dec 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[First Guild Wars novel announced: Ghosts of Ascalon to release this summer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/23/first-guild-wars-novel-announced-ghosts-of-ascalon-to-release-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/23/first-guild-wars-novel-announced-ghosts-of-ascalon-to-release-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/23/first-guild-wars-novel-announced-ghosts-of-ascalon-to-release-t/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We know from the lore of Guild Wars 2 that Ascalon will become what is literally a ghost town thanks to King Adelbern, his sword Magdaer, and his last-ditch effort to drive out the Charr in a cataclysm known as Foefire.

The effects of the event reach farther than anyone would have thought in the first Guild Wars 2 novel, now officially titled Ghosts of Ascalon. The ghosts of slain Ascalon soldiers are the only inhabitants of the area now, defending their home from invaders and generally making it a pretty unwelcoming place.

In Ghosts of Ascalon, Queen Jennah is attempting a treaty with the Charr, who are unwilling to deal until the Charr artifact the Claw of the Khan-Ur is retrieved from -- where else -- Ascalon City. A small band of adventurers sets out for Old Ascalon to retrieve the artifact from a dangerous land and an unwilling ghostly king. (Since Lion's Arch is gone, we assume they couldn't find anyone to run them.)

The book is scheduled for release this summer in North America and Europe. For now, check out the FAQ on the Guild Wars 2 site.

MassivelyFirst Guild Wars novel announced: Ghosts of Ascalon to release this summer originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Feb 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenanetarenanet-guild-wars2charrclaw-of-the-khan-urghosts-of-ascalonGuild-Wars-2guild-wars-2-novelncsoft-austinTue, 23 Feb 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Analyzing the newest Guild Wars 2 trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/analyzing-the-newest-guild-wars-2-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/analyzing-the-newest-guild-wars-2-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/analyzing-the-newest-guild-wars-2-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

ArenaNet has a very early, very wonderful holiday gift for Guild Wars fans this morning: a brand new Guild Wars 2 trailer. (Take a moment to cheer, then we'll move on.) The trailer is amazingly beautiful, something we've come to expect from ArenaNet and particularly Guild Wars 2. But if you don't let yourself get distracted by the eye candy -- something that is admittedly hard to do -- there is a lot of new information here, including more details on people and places we've already heard of, and some fascinating possibilities to explore.

Take a look at the video here, then follow along with us as we explore this new information from ArenaNet. If you're unfamiliar with Guild Wars 2, this will help you get acquainted, but we also have some deep lore speculation for current Guild Wars fans. (The video can also be found at the official Guild Wars 2 site.)

Continue reading Analyzing the newest Guild Wars 2 trailer

MassivelyAnalyzing the newest Guild Wars 2 trailer originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenanetasuraBreakingBreakingNewscharrguild-warsGuild-Wars-2guild-wars-2-trailerhumannornsylvarithe-races-of-tyriaFri, 04 Dec 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Charr confrontation in the Eye of the North]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/28/one-shots-charr-confrontation-in-the-eye-of-the-north/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/28/one-shots-charr-confrontation-in-the-eye-of-the-north/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/28/one-shots-charr-confrontation-in-the-eye-of-the-north/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Today's screenshot comes to us from the climax of one of Guild Wars: Eye of the North's most memorable quests - Assault on the Stronghold. Your character leads a charge of fiercesome Charr warriors against another group of their kinsmen, in a desperate bid to stop the unleashing of terrible, terrible things. To do so, you have to bust through the fortifications surrounding the heretic Charr encampment. Luckily you have some help: a giant siegeweapon built on the back of an enormous insect. The screenshot above depicts the confrontation between your Charr allies and Pyre Fierceshot, the noble Charr warrior who you call friend.

These mighty opponents arrive just in time to save the soul of their people; they're also just in time for Guild Wars' fourth anniversary! Make sure to check out all of recent feature coverage on the game in honor of the event. Especially make sure you check out our retrospectives on both Prophecies/Factions and Nightfall/Eye of the North.

Do you have a screenshot of a dramatic quest? An MMO cutscene that just floored you? Whatever your flavor of screenshot, we'd love to see it. Just toss it into an email to oneshots AT massively DOT com!

Gallery: One Shots

MassivelyOne Shots: Charr confrontation in the Eye of the North originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 28 Apr 2008 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charreye-of-the-northguild-warsgwgwenone-shotsMon, 28 Apr 2008 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Building the Bane]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/18/building-the-bane/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/18/building-the-bane/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/18/building-the-bane/#commentsFiled under: , ,

I'm not evil, I'm just morally ambiguousOver at GameZone, there's a lengthy article about the origins of the main villains of the whole Tabula Rasa saga: The Bane. It's also got some beautiful shots from Destination Games of a Thrax soldier and the Neph, and goes into a bit of detail of the Bane hierarchy -- standard story fluff, you'd think, but intriguing.

The Thrax are quite well personalized as a race, actually -- in that they're immediately recognizeable as repulsive, and that you want to shoot them. It also makes a break from tradition in that they're the first foe you'll encounter in TR, and that they're not stupid; instead of the usual fighting of rats / bats / giant spiders / kobolds to introduce you to a standard MMO, dropping assorted body parts that you'll immediately sell for two shillings. Not that I'm a cynic, and not that other MMOs don't have their own memorable opponents -- be they Charr, Nazgûl, or other players.

Now if you'll excuse me, I'm off to kill some Trolls.

MassivelyBuilding the Bane originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 18 Nov 2007 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banecharrdestination-gamesgiant-spidersnephstorytabula-rasathraxSun, 18 Nov 2007 20:00:00 EST