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[The Game Archaeologist dials up Phantasy Star Online: The players]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/the-game-archaeologist-dials-up-phantasy-star-online-the-player/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/the-game-archaeologist-dials-up-phantasy-star-online-the-player/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/the-game-archaeologist-dials-up-phantasy-star-online-the-player/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

PSO Blue Burst
After last week's foray into the colorful world of Phantasy Star Online, I knew I had to step it up for a great follow-through. That's why I got in touch with three excellent MMO bloggers who have long histories with PSO and were more than eager to share their perspective on this unique game world!

The Game Archaeologist: Who the heck are you and how did you first get into Phantasy Star Online? What class and race did you play?

David: I'm David Lambert, but many people know me better as Branick, host and producer of the LOTRO Academy podcast. I first got into Phantasy Star Online with the original Dreamcast release, which I picked up only about two weeks after it came out. I actually had eight different characters (I bought six VMUs in addition to the two I already had specifically for this purpose), but I definitely favored the HUcast. I wasn't big on using techniques, and the HUcast had the highest attack power in the game.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist dials up Phantasy Star Online: The players

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist dials up Phantasy Star Online: The players originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blue-burstchristmascity-of-heroesdavid-lambertdiablodiablo-clonediablo-iidreamcastdreamcast-web-browserexploitexploitingexploitsfeaturedffxifinal-fantasy-xigamecubegamesharkhackinginterviewlotro-academymagmagspatrickPhantasy-Starphantasy-star-onlinephantasy-star-online-2phantasy-star-universePhantasy-Star-Zeropsopsuroguerogue-likessegasoexboxyeeboYeebo-Fernbottoms-MMO-Love-InTue, 07 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: Post-Christmas update]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/choose-my-adventure-post-christmas-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/choose-my-adventure-post-christmas-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/choose-my-adventure-post-christmas-update/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

A turkey and ham coma, family soiree, and the biggest calendar holiday of the year have left my Lineage II escapades a wee bit smaller this week, but not without some fun happenings. Speaking of holidays, I hope everyone had a terrific one!

Random events, miraculously revived dead pets, more amazing scenery, and lots of killing are on deck in today's Choose My Adventure. It turns out that I am terrible at raising my pet wolf and even got into an accidental scuffle with another player that left her pet dead and me even deader. I returned to the Path to Awakening because that's what you voted for last week. I've also neared the end of the uber-fast leveling cycle via quests and am turning to grinding for the majority of my experience gain. The fun-level has yet to dip for me; there's higher level gameplay I'm really hoping to dip my dagger into, and I'm curious to see what level I can reach by the end of this trip. As always, check out the extensive gallery and livestreams, and tune in to MV Guide to see when my next livestream will be.

Gallery: CMA: Lineage 2

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: Post-Christmas update

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: Post-Christmas update originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Dec 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>choose-my-adventurechristmascmacraftingf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgalleriesgallerygoddess-of-destructionhands-onjeremy-strattonl2lineagelineage-2lineage-iincsoftncsoft-westopinionpath-to-awakeningpollpollsreaders-choicescreenshotscreenshotsvotevotingWed, 28 Dec 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Embers of Caerus dares you to go dungeon diving in the deep dark]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/embers-of-caerus-dares-you-to-go-dungeon-diving-in-the-deep-dark/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/embers-of-caerus-dares-you-to-go-dungeon-diving-in-the-deep-dark/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/embers-of-caerus-dares-you-to-go-dungeon-diving-in-the-deep-dark/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Embers of Caerus
While the indie Embers of Caerus might not even be in alpha yet, the developers wanted to give fans and followers a Christmas present in the form of a special preview of one of the Forsaken World's dungeons.

If you're expecting a brightly-lit funhouse full of dizzying sights, you may want to prepare for a shift in perspective. Once we enter the cave mouth, we're plunged into darkness with the occasional flickering torchlight -- and creepy cackle -- as our only points of reference. The video takes its time poking through the bowels of the earth, discovering more creepy sights and sounds the deeper it goes.

And while it might not be packed wall-to-wall with mobs -- this is a very early glimpse into the game, after all -- there is a terrifying surprise laying in wait at the end. You may need to go get your security blanket in preparation, especially if you watch it with the lights off and headphones on.

You can watch the full video after the jump!

[Thanks to Ron for the tip!]

Continue reading Embers of Caerus dares you to go dungeon diving in the deep dark

MassivelyEmbers of Caerus dares you to go dungeon diving in the deep dark originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cavecave-divingchristmasdungeondungeon-videoembers-of-caeruspre-alphapreviewskeletonskeletonsspelunkingvideoWed, 28 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Are you still on the gaming train today?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/25/the-daily-grind-are-you-still-on-the-gaming-train-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/25/the-daily-grind-are-you-still-on-the-gaming-train-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/25/the-daily-grind-are-you-still-on-the-gaming-train-today/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Heading for the metaphorical zone line.
If you're in the US, today is probably the one day of the year when pretty much everyone gets to take time off and have a holiday. December 25th is acknowledged as a day of rest and relaxation with friends and family. Of course, it wouldn't be much of a holiday if you didn't get to do things you enjoyed... but for some of us, this is also a day when we take a break even from our sometimes stressful hobby of online games.

So what about you? Obviously you're still on the browsing train for the day, but are you still planning on logging in and grinding out a few quests today? Or is this a day off all 'round? And please, feel free to let us know what you'll be up to for the day either way because we'd like to hope that all of our readers are having a happy day doing what they love. It's the season for that, after all.

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Are you still on the gaming train today? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 25 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>christmaschristmas-2011cultureholiday-eventhumoropinionreal-world-eventtdgthe-daily-grindSun, 25 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Supremacy needs space-men to help Santa find his space-sleigh!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/star-supremacy-needs-space-men-to-help-santa-find-his-space-slei/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/star-supremacy-needs-space-men-to-help-santa-find-his-space-slei/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/star-supremacy-needs-space-men-to-help-santa-find-his-space-slei/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Star Supremacy
Fun fact about Santa: Not only does he have to visit all of the houses across the world in the span of a single night, but apparently he's on galaxy duty as well. Jolly St. Nick will be making the rounds in Star Supremacy during the game's Xmas event, during which he'll be making appearances on the neutral planets twice a day. He's not there for pleasantries, however; Santa needs players to help him find his sleigh, and he's prepared to dish out Christmas stocking bounties as rewards.

Barbily Games is also preparing to roll out its Gemini update, which will bring back three PvP systems for players to conquer. The update will also include a helping hand to lowbies' energy regeneration, new equipment, improved construction, and the ability to retreat.

You can get a good look at the update in our new Star Supremacy gallery below!

Gallery: Star Supremacy

MassivelyStar Supremacy needs space-men to help Santa find his space-sleigh! originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Dec 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>barbilybarbily-gameschristmaseventf2pfree-to-playgalleriesgallerygeminigemini-updatein-game-eventmmortsretreatsantascreenshotscreenshotsstar-supremacyxmasWed, 21 Dec 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ArcheAge team releases holiday greetings video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/archeage-team-releases-holiday-greetings-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/archeage-team-releases-holiday-greetings-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/archeage-team-releases-holiday-greetings-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

ArcheAge - Christmas party
'Tis the season for holiday-themed giveaways, events, and videos, and the team at XLGAMES is getting into the act despite the fact that ArcheAge won't be coming to Western shores in time for Christmas 2011.

Grinch impressions aside, the new holiday video shows off some of the game's weather effects as well as a veritable winter wonderland complete with snow and player-placed Christmas tree decorations -- not to mention dancing and fireworks. You can see all the festive sights after the cut, and we'll take this opportunity to say that all we want for Christmas is an English-language client!

Continue reading ArcheAge team releases holiday greetings video

MassivelyArcheAge team releases holiday greetings video originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arche-agearcheagebetachristmasdecorationsfantasyholidayholiday-2011korean-betasandboxsandparkvideoxlxl-gamesxlgamesWed, 21 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's 2011 winter holiday event roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/massivelys-2011-winter-holiday-event-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/massivelys-2011-winter-holiday-event-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/massivelys-2011-winter-holiday-event-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

DC Universe Online
The winter holiday season is well underway, both in and out of game. Many schools, businesses, and communities are preparing to take a little time off to enjoy the holidays, and here at Massively, we want to make sure you don't miss a single in-game party.

We've been rounding up all the details on celebrations happening in our favorite MMOs, combining them into a handy guide. Follow along after the jump for your map to all of the can't-miss MMO winter holiday events for 2011!

Continue reading Massively's 2011 winter holiday event roundup

MassivelyMassively's 2011 winter holiday event roundup originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Dec 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Activision-Blizzardage-of-conanaikaaionanarchy-onlineanetaocarenanetblizzardcastle-empirechampions-onlinechristmascity-of-heroesclone-wars-adventurescohcovcoxdaocdark-age-of-camelotdarkedendarkeden-onlinedc-universe-onlinedcuodigimon-masters-onlinedragon-nestelswordeqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfeaturedffxivfinal-fantasy-xivfree-to-playfrogsterfuncomgpotatoguild-warsgwhellgatehellgate-globalholiday-2011holiday-roundupholidays-2011jagged-alliancekingsisleleague-of-legendslolncsoftnexonperfect-world-entertainmentpweriftriot-gamesromrosh-onlinerunes-of-magicshsosoesony-online-entertainmentsquaresquare-enixstar-trek-onlinestosuper-hero-squad-onlinet3funtrionw101warhammer-onlinewindslayer-2wizard101world-of-warcraftwowWed, 21 Dec 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lord of the Rings Online discusses this year's Yule Festival]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/16/lord-of-the-rings-online-discusses-this-years-yule-festival/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/16/lord-of-the-rings-online-discusses-this-years-yule-festival/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/16/lord-of-the-rings-online-discusses-this-years-yule-festival/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The forces of evil can wait while we build snowmen.
Generally, holiday events aren't seen as content in major need of updating. Usually a game that runs an event one year will run more or less the same event the next year with a handful of extra toys. But the holiday events in Lord of the Rings Online are still an important part of the game experience, which is why the Yule Festival has undergone some serious revamping and changes to hopefully make this year the best Yule ever.

As outlined in the new developer diary, the original incarnation had a lot of space in Winter-home that didn't tie together, leaving the area feeling empty despite the abundance of content. The changes were thus focused around making full use of the space as well as making the existing quests a bit friendlier to players to address some long-standing complaints. The overall effect should make the area feel more lively and the event more fun for everyone, whether you've done it for years or this is your first Yule in Middle-earth.

MassivelyLord of the Rings Online discusses this year's Yule Festival originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Dec 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>christmaschristmas-2011developer-diarieseventsf2pfree-to-playholiday-eventlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrlotronewspatchesturbineturbine-entertainmentwinter-holiday-2011yule-festivalyule-festival-2011Fri, 16 Dec 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: The story and presents behind RIFT's Fae Yule]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/13/massively-exclusive-the-story-and-presents-behind-rifts-fae-yu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/13/massively-exclusive-the-story-and-presents-behind-rifts-fae-yu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/13/massively-exclusive-the-story-and-presents-behind-rifts-fae-yu/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

RIFT
All in-game holiday festivals were not born equal, but they do seem to share a family resemblance when it comes to being merry and bright. RIFT's Fae Yule is but one of many, many Christmastime MMO holidays that we're witnessing this month, but the team at Trion Worlds is looking to make it stand out from the rest of the crowd with its depth and sense of fun.

So why do the inhabitants of Telara celebrate Fae Yule and take time out of their busy schedule of slaughter and soul-absorbing to decorate the town and scarf down bucketfuls of eggnog? What do they sing about when gathered around a crackling fire? What kind of present is appropriate for the fellow who already has the gift of immortality?

It's time to sit on Trion's lap and ask for your greatest wish in game while jolly St. Hartsman tells you all about the lore and in-game goodies behind RIFT's festivities. Ho-ho-hit that jump and let's get started!

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: The story and presents behind RIFT's Fae Yule

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: The story and presents behind RIFT's Fae Yule originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Dec 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backgroundbackstorychristmaschristmas-eventexclusivefae-yuleholidayholiday-eventIlluminariain-game-eventloreriftscott-hartsmanstorytriontrion-worldsVaiyuuTue, 13 Dec 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Starlight Celebration approaches for Final Fantasy XI]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/09/the-starlight-celebration-approaches-for-final-fantasy-xi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/09/the-starlight-celebration-approaches-for-final-fantasy-xi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/09/the-starlight-celebration-approaches-for-final-fantasy-xi/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

A depiction of an Elvaan as something other than haughty and distant? It's the end of the world!
The end of the year quickly approaches, and if you're a veteran of Final Fantasy XI, you know that means it's time for the Starlight Celebration. The music changes in Jeuno, the snow falls, and players get to enjoy a bit of Christmas cheer in the game as well as out of it. And like most events, this one has a new wrinkle for its newest outing: it seems a handful of Goblins have decided to get involved in the celebration, taking some presents that weren't intended for them and leaving adventurers to recover the missing gifts.

Missed a previous year? That's all right -- you can still obtain one of the many cozy furnishings or festive costume pieces through a variety of event merchants and packages scattered throughout Vana'diel. The event will start on the live servers on December 16th and run through December 31st, plenty of time for everyone in Final Fantasy XI to get a solid dose of some holiday cheer.

MassivelyThe Starlight Celebration approaches for Final Fantasy XI originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Dec 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>christmaschristmas-2011ffff11ffxifinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-xiholidayholiday-eventin-game-eventnewssquaresquare-enixstarlight-celebrationwinter-holidayFri, 09 Dec 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamebreaker's 12 Days of Smack Talkin' brings holiday cheer, WoW-vs.-SWTOR arguments]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/gamebreakers-12-days-of-smack-talkin-brings-holiday-cheer-wow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/gamebreakers-12-days-of-smack-talkin-brings-holiday-cheer-wow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/gamebreakers-12-days-of-smack-talkin-brings-holiday-cheer-wow/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Boom!
Everybody knows that nothing says "Happy Holidays" like throwing some more fuel on the WoW-vs.-SWTOR fire. Gamebreaker.TV fully realizes this and has decided to contribute its own rendition of The Twelve Days of Christmas in the form of a World of Warcraft Rogue trading verbal blows with a Star Wars: The Old Republic Sith Assassin over whose game is better. It's a rather amusing way of mixing MMOs and holiday spirit, but let's not let it devolve into a real flame war, hm? Click on past the cut for the full video.

Continue reading Gamebreaker's 12 Days of Smack Talkin' brings holiday cheer, WoW-vs.-SWTOR arguments

MassivelyGamebreaker's 12 Days of Smack Talkin' brings holiday cheer, WoW-vs.-SWTOR arguments originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Dec 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>12-days-of-christmas12-days-of-smack-talkinbiowareblizz-bluesblizzardblizzard-entertainmentchristmasgamebreakergamebreaker-tvgamebreaker.tvholidayshumorstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictortwelve-days-of-christmasvideovideosworld-of-warcraftwowWed, 07 Dec 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Warcraft's holiday sale includes $10 sparkleponies]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/world-of-warcrafts-holiday-sale-includes-10-sparkleponies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/world-of-warcrafts-holiday-sale-includes-10-sparkleponies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/world-of-warcrafts-holiday-sale-includes-10-sparkleponies/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

WoW Holiday Sale banner
The holidays are here, and you know what that means: holiday sales! Blizzard is joining the fun with a number of (rather good) deals. The World of Warcraft Battle Chest, which includes vanilla WoW and The Burning Crusade, is on sale for a measly $5 US. Wrath of the Lich King is on sale for $10, and Cataclysm's price has been reduced to $20.

And as if that's not enough, Blizzard is also providing discounts for two of its cash shop items. Players can get their hands on a sparklepony for $10 or a Pandaren Monk non-combat pet for $5. The sale lasts until December 19th, so act now. For the full details, check out the news on WoW's official site.

MassivelyWorld of Warcraft's holiday sale includes $10 sparkleponies originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Dec 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battle-chestblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcatacataclysmchristmasholidayholiday-saleholiday-salesholidayspandaren-monksparkles the fire safety dogSparklesTheFireSafetyDogtbcthe-burning-crusadeworld-of-warcraftwotlkwowwrath-of-the-lich-kingWed, 07 Dec 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Are you giving the gift of games this year?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/02/the-daily-grind-are-you-giving-the-gift-of-games-this-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/02/the-daily-grind-are-you-giving-the-gift-of-games-this-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/02/the-daily-grind-are-you-giving-the-gift-of-games-this-year/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Christmas presents
If you've got a gamer on your Christmas list, congratulations. With the proliferation of digital download titles and services like Steam and Good Old Games, it's never been easier to put a smile on the face of your favorite geek.

Digital gifting does have a dark side, though, or at least a hmm-that's-kind-of-impersonal side. While most of us would never turn down a virtual copy of Skyrim or a few funny bucks to spend in an MMO cash shop, it is nice to get (and give) an actual present that someone's taken the time to wrap and deliver.

What about you, Massively crew? Are you giving the gift of digital gaming this year?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Are you giving the gift of games this year? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cash-shopchristmaschristmas-giftsdigital-distributiondigital-downloadsfeaturedfunny-bucksfunny-moneygame-discussiongamer-discussiongiftsgoggood-old-gamesholiday-giftsholidaysitem-shopmmo-discussionmmo-hot-topicsmmo-issuesmmo-topicsmmorpg-discussionmmorpg-hot-topicsmmorpg-topicsopinionpresentstdgthe-daily-grindFri, 02 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT gets into the holiday spirit with the Fae Yule world event]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/22/rift-gets-into-the-holiday-spirit-with-the-fae-yule-world-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/22/rift-gets-into-the-holiday-spirit-with-the-fae-yule-world-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/22/rift-gets-into-the-holiday-spirit-with-the-fae-yule-world-event/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Aww lookit the Corgi
It's that time of year again, it would seem. A time for mirth, merriment, and fending off an evil dragon to ensure that it isn't able to enslave an entire race of magical creatures. Well, that's what's going on in Telara, anyway, thanks to RIFT's Fae Yule celebration. The event, which started today, will span six weeks and will feature "fancy holiday hats, new quests, a grumpy mead-guzzling satyr, and other festive items."

But of course, this is Telara, so the festivities simply wouldn't be complete if Crucia, the evil dragon of air, didn't decide to make an appearance. She's already tired of the Fae's newfound freedom and wants to wrest them back into servitude. It's up to players to make sure she does not succeed. And to top it off, Trion is presenting players with experience, favor, prestige, plaque, and planarite bonuses this weekend only. So what are you waiting for, Telarans? Get a move on.

[Source: Trion Worlds press release]

MassivelyRIFT gets into the holiday spirit with the Fae Yule world event originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>christmascruciaeventeventsfae-yuleholidayholidaysin-game-eventin-game-eventsin-game-holidayrifttriontrion-worldsTue, 22 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World beta coming 'before Christmas,' forums erupt [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/the-secret-world-beta-coming-before-christmas-forums-erupt/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/the-secret-world-beta-coming-before-christmas-forums-erupt/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/the-secret-world-beta-coming-before-christmas-forums-erupt/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- The Secret World
Conspiracy theories abound on The Secret World's official forums due to a video released by the Montreal Gazette in which Funcom Canada CEO Miguel Caron mentions that the studio is aiming to open beta testing "before Christmas." Caron also goes on to mention that subscription fees for the game will be somewhere between $15 and $17.

Needless to say, the forums are in a flurry over this new information. What does this mean for The Secret War, which was intended to grant guaranteed beta access to high-ranking players? Why begin an open beta a whole four months prior to launch? And for the love of all that's sacred, what about those Sanctuary of Secrets tokens we got months ago?

Well, no one knows! Funcom has been tight-lipped on the matter, but stay tuned and we'll be sure to let you know as more news develops. Meanwhile, head on over to the official forums to join the fray, or jump past the cut for the video.

[Update: Funcom has responded to these rumors and says open beta will not begin before Christmas of this year.]

Continue reading The Secret World beta coming 'before Christmas,' forums erupt [Updated]

MassivelyThe Secret World beta coming 'before Christmas,' forums erupt [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betachristmasforumsfuncomfuncom-canadamiguel-caronopen-betaseriously-funcom-what-are-these-sanctuary-of-secrets-tokens-forthe-secret-warthe-secret-worldtswThu, 03 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO's Siege of Mirkwood discounted to become the one price to sell them all]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/27/lotros-siege-of-mirkwood-discounted-to-become-the-one-price-to/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/27/lotros-siege-of-mirkwood-discounted-to-become-the-one-price-to/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/27/lotros-siege-of-mirkwood-discounted-to-become-the-one-price-to/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

While many of us have spent a great amount of time and money shopping for other people this holiday season, it's sometimes easy to overlook yourself in all of the hustle and bustle. Treat yourself to something nice this week -- you deserve it! May we suggest a gaming Snuggie for those long nights of raiding, or perhaps 50% off of Lord of the Rings Online: Siege of Mirkwood?

As part of the Turbine Tuesdays sales, the LotRO store will be selling the game's second expansion for half off the regular price this Tuesday, December 28th. Siege of Mirkwood is priced at 995 Turbine Points in the NA store (which is around $10), but on the 28th the cost will be halved to 498 ($5).

The Siege of Mirkwood expansion unlocks over 150 quests, zone deeds, five instances and plenty of content for high-level players. Currently, free players may access the zone and experience the epic storyline, but the rest of the content is walled off unless this quest pack is purchased.

MassivelyLotRO's Siege of Mirkwood discounted to become the one price to sell them all originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 27 Dec 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cash-shopchristmasdeeddungeonf2pfree-to-playholidayholiday-saleinstanceitem-storelord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolotro-storepromotionsalesiege-of-mirkwoodsnuggietpturbineturbine-pointsturbine-tuesdaysMon, 27 Dec 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Direct2Drive offers last minute shopping deals]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/24/direct2drive-offers-last-minute-shopping-deals/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/24/direct2drive-offers-last-minute-shopping-deals/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/24/direct2drive-offers-last-minute-shopping-deals/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Still stressing over what to get the gamer on your Christmas shopping list? Never fear, as IGN's Direct2Drive digital download service has come to the rescue with a few last minute holiday deals. While the sale (which lasts until 10:00 a.m. PST on December 27th) covers games from all genres, there are a couple of particularly noteworthy MMORPG steals.

All SOE titles (excluding DC Universe Online) are 50% off -- including all of EverQuest II's expansions. You can also take advantage of the Choose Your Savings promotion through the end of the year by spending preset amounts and using the associated promo codes when placing your order:
  • spend $49.95, save 25% with code BAHHUMBUG
  • spend $29.95, save 15% with code SCROOGED
  • spend $19.95, save 10% with code GRINCH

MassivelyDirect2Drive offers last minute shopping deals originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 Dec 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>christmasd2ddirect2driveend-of-year-2010EQ2eqiiEverQuest-2everquest-iiholiday-2010ignpromotionsshoppingsoeSony-Online-EntertainmentvanguardVanguard-Saga-of-HeroesFri, 24 Dec 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the Mask: I'm raiding for Christmas]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/23/behind-the-mask-im-raiding-for-christmas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/23/behind-the-mask-im-raiding-for-christmas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/23/behind-the-mask-im-raiding-for-christmas/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

I'm not a big fan of holiday events. For the most part, they're an excuse to grind a bunch of cosmetic stuff, such as titles/perks and costume pieces. The other possibility is random junk filling my inventory, like fireworks, candy, and other assorted goodies that just end up on the auction house. If there's any holiday missions or quests, people are more interested in doing them in the most efficient way possible, instead of killing mobs for experience.

Since I like tangible benefits, holiday events generally aren't my thing. I usually end up soloing over the season or playing with a small group of friends. Bah humbug.

The winter events in Champions Online are really no different from the events in any other game. They mostly consist of gathering presents, doing little holiday quests and getting an inventory full of random junk. But the devs included something silly that I'm looking forward to: an excuse to get teams to do the impossible.

Buckle in, guys: I'm doing Andrithal and Mandragalore this holiday season.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: I'm raiding for Christmas

MassivelyBehind the Mask: I'm raiding for Christmas originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-harlequinchampions-onlinechristmaschristmas-eventcocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosendgamefeaturedholidayholiday-raidingraidwinter-eventwinter-holidaywinter-holiday-2010winter-holiday-eventwinter-holidaysThu, 23 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[What does Santa want for Christmas? World of Tanks!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/23/what-does-santa-want-for-christmas-world-of-tanks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/23/what-does-santa-want-for-christmas-world-of-tanks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/23/what-does-santa-want-for-christmas-world-of-tanks/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Boom boom boom. Boom boom boom. Boom boom boom ba-boom. Dashing through the shells, waging war today. O'er the fields we drive, blowing tanks away! HEY!

It just wouldn't be Christmas without a little panzer turret action, right? Well, never fear. Christmas is finally here. Wargaming.net has given us a Yuletide trailer to fill your life with holiday cheer -- and canon fire, of course. Today, the company released a new World of Tanks teaser to whet your warring appetite. Wargaming.net CEO Victor Kislyi knows that Kris Kringle likes a little ka-boom with his jingle-jangle. "The first present I got from Santa was a tiny plastic T-34, so I'm pretty sure that he just loves tanks. In fact, we've got a letter from Lapland recently with him asking to film a Christmas of his dream. We didn't hesitate for long and have come up with something he will surely like," explains the gaming executive.

To catch this explosive video, follow after the cut. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from World of Tanks!

Continue reading What does Santa want for Christmas? World of Tanks!

MassivelyWhat does Santa want for Christmas? World of Tanks! originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Dec 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>christmasexplosionsreindeersanta-claustanksteasertrailervideowargaming.networld-of-tanksWOTThu, 23 Dec 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: Christmas in Agon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/22/choose-my-adventure-christmas-in-agon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/22/choose-my-adventure-christmas-in-agon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/22/choose-my-adventure-christmas-in-agon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Oy. Well, if I had to do it over again, I'd have scheduled this whole Choose My Adventure thing in such a way as to avoid the December holiday rush. Last week was rather hectic from an out-of-game perspective, and this week is shaping up to be even more so. That's not to say there wasn't any time for Darkfall, though, and I did manage around 20 hours of in-game activity for the week. As a testament to the title's staying power, there simply wasn't as much time as I'd have liked.

The fifth week of my Agonian ramble-on was filled with low-level PvP, a bit of questing and crafting, and more exploration than you can shake a candy cane at. Join me after the cut for a recap of the week that was.

Gallery: Choose My Adventure - Darkfall Gallery #4

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: Christmas in Agon

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: Christmas in Agon originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Dec 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>altsaventurineaventurine-sachoose-my-adventurechoose-my-adventure-darkfallchristmaschristmas-2010darkfalldarkfall-onlinefeast-of-the-dawning-frostfeaturedgalleriesholidayholiday-2010inkarnationopinionpvepvpsandboxscreenshotsswiftsnoutWed, 22 Dec 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lost Pages of Taborea: Snowflake Festival]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/20/lost-pages-of-taborea-snowflake-festival/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/20/lost-pages-of-taborea-snowflake-festival/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/20/lost-pages-of-taborea-snowflake-festival/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Jingle brother's time is here. Time for slaying. Time for cheer. Presents abound every Christmas in the Snowflake Festival, and I've been hoarding them like a squirrel. This is one of my favorite holidays, probably my favorite one in Runes of Magic. Not only are there lots of treats to get, but the quests are fun. I reminisced last week about the events held in RoM year-round, but I wanted to run through some of the things I've been doing in this year's festival.

Despite some recent patching trouble, the holiday is up and running. There are new mounts, furniture, Christmas graphics and prizes galore to enjoy this year. If you've never played RoM during the Snowflake Festival -- or never took part in the quests -- this will serve as a fun guide and idea engine for what's in store for you. Get your space bar primed and ready for lots of jumping and read on past the break.

Continue reading Lost Pages of Taborea: Snowflake Festival

MassivelyLost Pages of Taborea: Snowflake Festival originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Dec 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charity-mountcharity-wolf-steedchristmaseventsfeaturedfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-ineractiveholidayholiday-furniturehousingjeremy-strattonjingle-brotherslost-pages-of-taboreamoas-charity-steedmountsromrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentsantasanta-claussled-fragmentssnowflake-festivaltitleswinter-holidaywinter-holiday-2010winter-holiday-eventMon, 20 Dec 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Bad Santa]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/18/one-shots-bad-santa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/18/one-shots-bad-santa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/18/one-shots-bad-santa/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

While Santa is a familiar and welcome sight to many, not every Santa you meet is out to spread joy and give out presents to good boys and girls. Take, for example, this evil Santa who shows up in Runes of Magic -- he's more bent on beatdowns than merrymaking. So, hey -- if you've had about enough of ho-ho-holiday stuff, then you can head for this MMO and hunt down some bad Santas for yourself! Darkorchid writes in to explain: "The best part about the Snowflake Festival in Runes of Magic is that you get to kill Santa! He's pretty easy, too. Must be due to all of those cookies and glasses of milk."

There are only a handful of days left to send in your holiday shots. So if you'd like to share a festive image, send it in to us here at oneshots@massively.com. Be sure to include your name, the name of the game, and a description of what we're seeing. We'll post it out here and give you the credit for sending it in.

Gallery: One Shots: Gallery II

MassivelyOne Shots: Bad Santa originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 18 Dec 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>christmasDarkorchidf2pfree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-interactiveholiday-2010one-shotsromrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentscreenshotscreenshotswinter-holiday-2010Sat, 18 Dec 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's ho-ho-holiday MMO roundup for 2010]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/17/massivelys-ho-ho-holiday-mmo-roundup-for-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/17/massivelys-ho-ho-holiday-mmo-roundup-for-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/17/massivelys-ho-ho-holiday-mmo-roundup-for-2010/#commentsFiled under: , ,

It's that time of year again -- when snow falls in lands that normally don't even see weather effects! When you're supposed to love your fellow elf, human, dwarf -- or at least maim them in the nicest, most brotherly way possible. As one would expect with a plethora of MMOs out on the market, there are gobsmackingly huge numbers of events to take advantage of. Being the festive holiday folks we are (well, OK, some of us anyway), we've gathered up a listing of some of the many things going on. So if you're curious about just what holiday merriment can be found out there, grab some egg nog (alcohol optional), click past the break, and dive into our festive roundup of holiday events.

Also, be sure to keep an eye on Massively as Rubi continues giving great gifts to gamers galore in our 12 Days of Giveaways event!

Continue reading Massively's ho-ho-holiday MMO roundup for 2010

MassivelyMassively's ho-ho-holiday MMO roundup for 2010 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>christmasholiday-2010holidays-2010mmommorpgmobile-mmoroundupwinterwinter-holidaywinter-holiday-2010winter-holiday-eventFri, 17 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Figgy pudding]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/17/the-road-to-mordor-figgy-pudding/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/17/the-road-to-mordor-figgy-pudding/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/17/the-road-to-mordor-figgy-pudding/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

For those of us who celebrate the holidays, right now is an insanely busy time of the year. There are presents to be wrapped, eggnog to be nogged, and looks of annoyance to be thrown at the radio when the music station decides to play that Do They Know It's Christmas? song for the sixth time that hour.

It also means that winter holidays are hitting most major MMOs, including our beloved Lord of the Rings Online. This year, the Yule Festival is marked by the addition of a whole new area -- Winter-home -- and players are already neck-deep in the quests, snowball fights and theatrical hilarity. Turbine's done a spectacular job this year infusing a lot more life and fun into the festivals, from the shrew stomping this past spring to the Haunted Burrow this fall. Winter-home is, in many ways, a perfect capstone to a terrific year for the game, and it's a pretty enjoyable event from what I've seen so far.

So grab that cute Hobbit or Dwarf and join me as we travel to the merriment of Winter-home this week!

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Figgy pudding

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Figgy pudding originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Dec 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-casual-stroll-to-mordora-christmas-carolBah-humbugcharles-dickenschristmascosmeticcosmetic-outfitdickensdo-they-know-its-christmasdwarfeating-contestfeast-beastfeaturedfrostbluff-theaterfrostbluff-theatreglittering-yule-steedglobehaunted-burrowhobbitholiday-eventin-game-eventlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromuppetpretty-in-pinkrich-vs-poorrise-of-isengardshakespeareshrew-stompingsnowball-fightsparkle-ponysparkleponystatler-and-waldorftolkienturbinewinter-homeyule-festivalFri, 17 Dec 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Zu Online: The Blood Demon's Assault coming December 27th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/14/zu-online-the-blood-demons-assault-coming-december-27th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/14/zu-online-the-blood-demons-assault-coming-december-27th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/14/zu-online-the-blood-demons-assault-coming-december-27th/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Expansions are no fun with just one or two new features, which is why Zu Online is bringing a dozen of them to bear with its new update. On December 27th, this martial arts MMO is planning to launch The Blood Demon's Assault, and Zu Online players will have their hands full.

The Blood Demon is a big bad who was slain in battle but lives on as a malevolent spirit. In an attempt to return and rule over the three worlds of the game (physical, celestial and ghostdom), the Blood Demon has ordered his troops to conquer the vital Hexad Region. Fortunately, the good guys got wise to his plan and are marshaling their own armies to forestall his return.

Blood Demon's Assault includes new instances and systems for players to master, although IGG has even more planned than the company is telling. The update has been in testing for months now and should prove to be a nice belated Christmas gift for the community.

MassivelyZu Online: The Blood Demon's Assault coming December 27th originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 Dec 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blood-demonblood-demons-assaultchristmasf2pfree-to-playhexad-regioniggmartial-artsthe-blood-demons-assaultwinter-holiday-2010zuzu-onlineTue, 14 Dec 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lost Pages of Taborea: Reminiscing on holiday events]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/13/lost-pages-of-taborea-reminiscing-on-holiday-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/13/lost-pages-of-taborea-reminiscing-on-holiday-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/13/lost-pages-of-taborea-reminiscing-on-holiday-events/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

There's been a lot of event play-time in Runes of Magic lately. The pumpkin festival carried on for a lot longer than was originally anticipated and transitioned into a short -- and smaller -- autumn banquet. Now, Christmas is right around the corner. I've been drooling over the Christmas trees that are already for sale in the cash shop.

RoM has seen a full year's cycle of events come and go twice now, and we are approaching the third Christmas. Now that long-term players have seen all the offerings, I wanted to peer into the place these holidays have in the world of Taborea and see how they add to our virtual lives. In this article, I want to share how I look forward to events and explore some of the great reasons to have them. 'Tis the season, and all that jazz. Let's take some time to look back and reminisce on RoM's holiday events and why we take part in them.

Continue reading Lost Pages of Taborea: Reminiscing on holiday events

MassivelyLost Pages of Taborea: Reminiscing on holiday events originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>christmasevent-rewardseventsfeaturedfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactiveholidayholiday-eventsin-game-eventjeremy-strattonlost-pages-of-taborearomrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentwinter-holidaywinter-holiday-2010winter-holiday-eventMon, 13 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What's your favorite in-game winter holiday?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/13/the-daily-grind-whats-your-favorite-in-game-winter-holiday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/13/the-daily-grind-whats-your-favorite-in-game-winter-holiday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/13/the-daily-grind-whats-your-favorite-in-game-winter-holiday/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

There's nothing better to cement the mood of the holidays than a cup of hot liquidy beverage, a roaring fireplace (or, lacking a fireplace, a carefully controlled indoor fireworks display), and an internet-capable computer that allows you access to your favorite MMOs. Of course, this is the time of year when most MMOs pull out their annual winter-themed holiday events, which are packaged in such a way to offend no one while calling on the spirit of the season.

So granted that you're fond of these holidays, we want to know which MMO winter event is your fave? It's not as if you lack choices at this point: Frostfell, Yule Festival, Wookiee Life Day, Winter Veil, Wintersday, First Night, Frostburgh, Solorius, Attack of the Misfit Toys, Festivult, Snowflake Festival, Starlight Celebration, Midwinter Festival, Festival of the White Hart, Snowdays, Junkadoo, Festival of Gloriann... the list just goes on and on.

For a bonus question, what are your winter event goals this year? Do you have your eye on a special prize, decoration or outfit?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What's your favorite in-game winter holiday? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>attack-of-the-misfit-toyschristmasdecorationfestival-of-gloriannfestival-of-the-white-hartfestivultfirst-nightfrostburghfrostfelljunkadoomidwinter-festivalopinionoutfitsnowdayssnowflake-festivalsoloriusstarlight-celebrationtdgthe-daily-grindwinter-eventwinter-festivalwinter-holidaywinter-veilwintersdaywookie-life-dayyule-festivalMon, 13 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fantasy Earth Zero celebrates the holidays with decoration and giveaways]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/10/fantasy-earth-zero-celebrates-the-holidays-with-decoration-and-g/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/10/fantasy-earth-zero-celebrates-the-holidays-with-decoration-and-g/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/10/fantasy-earth-zero-celebrates-the-holidays-with-decoration-and-g/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The holiday season is such a wonderful time of year that even the supernatural creatures summoned into battle feel the urge to dress for the occasion. At least, that's the case in Fantasy Earth Zero, which is embracing the spirit of the season by giving its summons a uniquely festive appearance. Considering the importance of summons in the game's PvP maps, players can expect to see quite a bit of the festive models during the available timeframe.

If that wasn't enough, however, the community team is also holding two promotions for players. Players are asked to design a holiday card for the game, with five winners being selected to win five gold coins each. The team is also taking the opportunity to play Santa, as three lucky players will be granted their item of choice from the cash shop absolutely free. If your holiday plans include claiming land for your nation in Fantasy Earth Zero, you'll have several chances to enjoy the festive spirit while doing so.

MassivelyFantasy Earth Zero celebrates the holidays with decoration and giveaways originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 Dec 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>christmaschristmas-2010contestcontestsdecorationsdesignf2pfantasy-earth-zerofestive-spiritfezfree-to-playgamepotgamepot-usagiftsholiday-decorationholidayssquaresquare-enixFri, 10 Dec 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Atlantica Online rings in the holidays]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/10/atlantica-online-rings-in-the-holidays/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/10/atlantica-online-rings-in-the-holidays/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/10/atlantica-online-rings-in-the-holidays/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Christmas has come to Atlantica Online, and with it, a host of changes that are certain to excite both new and veteran players. In the most recent updates, players are enjoying sweeping changes in the game's tactical battle system, the opening of Santa's Villa, and a new dungeon to explore. Small groups of three 125th-level-and-higher players can head into the Ancient Lava Valley area and pit their skills against a host of monsters called the Flame Guardians. The overhauled battle system has opened up more control of battles for players, as well as introducing a solo mode for the Trojan War missions. As if that wasn't enough, players also have the option of adding a stable, which allows them to showcase two mounts of their choosing at their homes for other players to ooh and aah over.

In addition to all of the above, Atlantica Online is also holding a 200% bonus experience weekend from December 24th to the 26th, perfect for getting your character caught up over the holidays. Those playing at other times won't be left out, however, as nDoors is running 150% bonus experience weekends in Atlantica Online leading up to the big Christmas event. To top it all off, players who log in Christmas day will be awarded gifts at certain times -- and the next day boasts a huge World PvP competition for those more interested in a festive holiday gankfest.

Pop over to the Atlantica Online site to check out the details of their most recent patch and the various ho-ho-holiday events!

MassivelyAtlantica Online rings in the holidays originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 Dec 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ancient-lava-valleyatlanticaatlantica-onllinebonus-experiencebonus-experience-weekendschristmascombat-overhaulholidays-2010ndoorsndoors-interactivenew-dungeonsecret-of-the-volcanosolo-missionstactical-battle-systemworld-pvp-competitionFri, 10 Dec 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[City of Heroes gearing up for winter festivities]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/09/city-of-heroes-gearing-up-for-winter-festivities/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/09/city-of-heroes-gearing-up-for-winter-festivities/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/09/city-of-heroes-gearing-up-for-winter-festivities/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The holidays are anything but a time to relax in City of Heroes, as pretty much every holiday has one villain or another seeking to unleash some diabolical scheme. That means that characters have to race into action to stop it, all while enjoying special badges, prizes, and limited-time events. This year's winter holiday season promises to be no different, as the beginning and ending times for the Winter Event 2010 have just been announced by the Paragon Studios team.

Running from December 17th to January 2nd, the event promises to feature all of the attractions of the prior year while adding a few new wrinkles. Aside from the obvious transport of the holiday to Praetoria (totalitarian police states like Christmas too), players will be tasked with stopping the nefarious plot of Lady Winter following Lord Winter's defeat last year. City of Heroes players have a fair idea of what to expect from the winter event, but that doesn't mean it's any less fun to log in and start throwing snowballs for justice.

MassivelyCity of Heroes gearing up for winter festivities originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 Dec 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>christmaschristmas-2010city-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxholiday-eventin-game-eventncsoftnewsparagonparagon-studiosupcoming-eventThu, 09 Dec 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth Holiday Apocalypse Challenge starts today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/09/fallen-earth-holiday-apocalypse-challenge-starts-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/09/fallen-earth-holiday-apocalypse-challenge-starts-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/09/fallen-earth-holiday-apocalypse-challenge-starts-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Want some wasteland in your Christmas stocking? Icarus Studios has just the thing, and it's called the Fallen Earth Holiday Apocalypse Challenge. Aside from managing to put the words holiday and apocalypse in the same sentence, the contest gives you a chance to win a custom PC, an iPhone 4, and various and sundry additional goodies.

Enter for your chance to win (and check out the phat lewt) via the official contest website, and make sure you log in to Fallen Earth as often as possible from today through January 7th. Each day you log in earns you an additional contest entry. Also be sure to use the email address associated with your Fallen Earth game account when entering the contest. Finally, if you're not currently subscribed, Icarus has temporarily extended the game's trial to 30 days, so what are you waiting for?

MassivelyFallen Earth Holiday Apocalypse Challenge starts today originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 Dec 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>christmascontestcustom-pcfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcholiday-apocalypseholiday-apocalypse-challengeholidaysicarusicarus-studiosiphonepost-apocalypticprizessci-fiThu, 09 Dec 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Second part of EVE Christmas present revealed -- the Echelon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/09/second-part-of-eve-christmas-present-revealed-the-echelon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/09/second-part-of-eve-christmas-present-revealed-the-echelon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/09/second-part-of-eve-christmas-present-revealed-the-echelon/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Two weeks ago, we learned of CCP's plans to remove learning skills from EVE Online. Learning skills have always been a problem for new players, and their removal has been an issue supported by players for years. As the first part of a two-part Christmas present to players, CCP announced that the skills would be removed with the Incursion expansion's December release. Speculation on what the second part of that present could be has run wild on the forums, with many older players even wishing lost features would make a come-back.

CCP has just announced that the second part of EVE's Christmas patch will be a new ship called the Echelon. As with previous presents, Every subscribed player will have one of these ships delivered to them through the item-redeeming system. The Echelon is a unique CONCORD design aimed at fighting the oncoming Sansha menace. The ship boasts impressive hacking capabilities, with a bonus to the operation of specialised Sansha codebreakers. A limited-edition Sansha codebreaker will also be included with the ship. Until now, hacking has been restricted solely to a mini-profession for the gathering of invention materials and completion of static COSMOS missions. This announcement is the first hint we've seen that the Sansha incursions we're looking forward to in January will include an element of hacking.

MassivelySecond part of EVE Christmas present revealed -- the Echelon originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 Dec 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-eveccp-gameschristmasecheloneveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlineexpansionhackingincursionincursionspresentprofessionssanshasanshas-nationThu, 09 Dec 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Deck the halls with Coralax costumes in City of Heroes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/08/deck-the-halls-with-coralax-costumes-in-city-of-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/08/deck-the-halls-with-coralax-costumes-in-city-of-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/08/deck-the-halls-with-coralax-costumes-in-city-of-heroes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

At one point in development, the Coralax were going to be the new epic archetype for the villainous crowd in City of Heroes. Now, they're just another low-level villain group with some memorable looks to them. But for the next twelve days, they can be something more -- namely, they can be your new clothing. No, you aren't getting missions to skin the Coralax and wear what's left as a hat. The Paragon Studios team is taking the opportunity to give away the never-before-seen costume code for the aquatic humanoids via social networking through December 23rd, skipping the weekends.

While similar giveaways have happened in the past, they've always been with costume codes from a recent convention. The Coralax costume is totally new and unprecedented, and that means whoever snags one owns a unique part of the game's history. Since the team won't be announcing where the codes will be dropped next, it's up to players to keep a close eye on Twitter, Facebook, and the forums to try and snag a code in time. Good luck to City of Heroes players eager for the new costume, because nothing says the leadup to the holiday season like a mad dash for something everyone wants.

MassivelyDeck the halls with Coralax costumes in City of Heroes originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 Dec 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>christmaschristmas-2010city-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcontestcoralaxcostumecostume-codecostume-contestcovcoxfacebookforumsholiday-eventncsoftnew-costumeofficial-forumsparagonparagon-studiospromotionsocial-networkingspecial-eventtwitterWed, 08 Dec 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What do you want from Cyber-Santa this year?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/06/the-daily-grind-what-do-you-want-from-cyber-santa-this-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/06/the-daily-grind-what-do-you-want-from-cyber-santa-this-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/06/the-daily-grind-what-do-you-want-from-cyber-santa-this-year/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Weird fact: Did you know that today is St. Nicholas Day? 'Tis true! Nicholas, the Greek bishop who's been the inspiration for Santa Claus due to his penchant for gift-giving, got his very own holiday that nobody really celebrates. Except us! Because what is the internet for, if not to get all giddy over long-forgotten trivia and then demand more gifts from your Amazon.com wishlist?

So in honor of good ol' Nick, why don't you hop up on our lap and tell Massively what you want for the holidays this year from the land of MMOs. Is there a game that you've just been too poor -- or too stingy -- to buy, even though you dream about it every night? Do you wish that you could get into an exclusive beta? Is there an item in the cash shop that you've been coveting? Or would you love it if a friend helped you accomplish a tricky achievement in game?

Make a list -- and check it twice for factual and grammatical errors -- and let us know what you'd like from Cyber-Santa this year! Who knows... he might even be reading this post right now!

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What do you want from Cyber-Santa this year? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 06 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonamazon.comchristmascyber-santafuturamarobot-santasanta-clausst-nicholas-daytdgwish-listMon, 06 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA['Tis the season for gifts and goodies in Vanguard]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/tis-the-season-for-gifts-and-goodies-in-vanguard/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/tis-the-season-for-gifts-and-goodies-in-vanguard/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/tis-the-season-for-gifts-and-goodies-in-vanguard/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Tell us the truth, gentle reader: Have you been a good little boy or girl this year? And have you dutifully paid your monthly subscription to SOE? If you said "Yes!" on both counts, then Vanguard invites you to party it up with the Festival of Gloriann. The major cities have been dressed up in their wintry finest, and gifts have been sprinkled around for all to find.

If you really want to get into the festival, you can learn more about Atnas Claws, meet Randolf the flying reindeer (and perhaps get a lift), and beat up on freaky-looking snowmen. Any similarities to real-world copyrights is just a coincidence. There are also special housing decorations and fun costumes to enjoy.

The Festival of Gloriann is currently lighting up Vanguard, so check it out and give Atnas a high-five for us!

Massively'Tis the season for gifts and goodies in Vanguard originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Dec 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atnas-clawschristmasfestival-of-gloriannholidayin-game-eventrandolfreindeersnowmansoeSony-Online-Entertainmenttelonthe-festival-of-gloriannvanguardVanguard-Saga-of-HeroeswinterFri, 03 Dec 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape wishes members a merry Christmas with its December update]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/01/runescape-wishes-members-a-merry-christmas-with-its-december-upd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/01/runescape-wishes-members-a-merry-christmas-with-its-december-upd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/01/runescape-wishes-members-a-merry-christmas-with-its-december-upd/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Christmas is quickly approaching, and with it many MMOs are gearing up for a December update. For EverQuest II, World of Warcraft and many others, this means it's time for the annual Christmas festivals or other wintry festivities. Other games, such as EVE Online and Asheron's Call, will be giving players a major patch this month to add new content or features. Players of RuneScape will be similarly celebrating the holiday season with a Christmas patch full of goodies. Included in the update will be improvements to the Warrior's Guild, new hit splats to give additional information about damage, and the new area of Daemonheim for subscribed members.

The Warrior's Guild will be getting a new challenge called the Cyclossus, and many of the previous challenges will be updated to include additional rewards. Daemonheim will bring players the winter Heimland Games, with activities ranging from snowball fighting and snowman decoration to ice skating and something ominously referred to as "seal sliding." To top off the December update, a new Damage Soaking stat will be added to several pieces of high-level gear to fix what Jagex calls "an imbalance between the potential damage per minute (DPM) and damage capacity (DC) of higher-level players." If you're one of RuneScape's several million players, you'll have a lot to look forward to this holiday season.

MassivelyRuneScape wishes members a merry Christmas with its December update originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 Dec 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserchristmaschristmas-2010CyclossusDaemonheimdamage-soakingdecemberjagexjagex-ltdpatchrunescapeupdatewtf-is-seal-slidingWed, 01 Dec 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively interviews CCP Greyscale on the EVE Christmas gift]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/26/massively-interviews-ccp-greyscale-on-the-eve-christmas-gift/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/26/massively-interviews-ccp-greyscale-on-the-eve-christmas-gift/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/26/massively-interviews-ccp-greyscale-on-the-eve-christmas-gift/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Early yesterday morning, a new devblog by EVE Online developer CCP Greyscale brought us an exciting first look at something awesome arriving in the upcoming Incursion expansion's December release. Speaking on behalf of development team Yggdrasill at CCP's top secret Iceland hideout, Greyscale explained CCP's plans to completely abolish learning skills in EVE. Learning skills increase a player's attributes, which decrease the time it takes to train skills. Since they take some time to train, however, dedicating time to them will only pay off after several months of subsequent skill training. As a result, new players are often advised to put off training for that ship they want or those useful industrial skills, as focusing on learning skills early on will pay off in the long run. This can stunt a player's progression in his early days, making for a very boring early play experience that can be distinctly off-putting.

As part of the company's Christmas gift to all EVE players, the skillpoints we have invested in learning skills will be reimbursed so that we can add them to any skill we want. To compensate for the decrease in attributes and give new players a bit of a boost, all players will have 12 points added to every attribute. This is exciting news, as the removal of learning skills has always been strongly supported by the EVE community. We caught up with CCP Greyscale to ask a few important questions about what this change means for players.

Skip past the cut for our interview with CCP Greyscale on the EVE Christmas gift and what the learning skill changes mean for players new and old.

Continue reading Massively interviews CCP Greyscale on the EVE Christmas gift

MassivelyMassively interviews CCP Greyscale on the EVE Christmas gift originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 26 Nov 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-eveccp-gamesccp-greyscalechristmasdevblogdeveloperdevelopersdevelopmenteveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlineinterviewlearningLearning-Curvelearning-skillspresentskillssurpriseFri, 26 Nov 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: The sadistic shopper's list for Black Friday and Cyber Monday]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/25/the-perfect-ten-the-sadistic-shoppers-list-for-black-friday-an/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/25/the-perfect-ten-the-sadistic-shoppers-list-for-black-friday-an/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/25/the-perfect-ten-the-sadistic-shoppers-list-for-black-friday-an/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

With the holiday shopping season upon us, gamers are hot for great deals and cheap entertainment. As my wife's logic goes, if something is 80% off, you buy it, even if you didn't really want it in the first place. It's the principle of the thing, an automatic 80% dose of smug satisfaction at being a savvy shopper!

Not every deal should be pursued, however. Although most video games are playable for years and decades after release, not so with MMOs that have had their service shuttered. It's recently come to my attention that even though these games are completely unplayable -- rendered nothing more than a few cents' worth of a DVD and cardboard packaging -- online retailers haven't kept up with the times and keep these products on the virtual shelves long past their expiration dates.

That's not to say you should avoid these products at all cost, because studies show that a large percentage of Massively readers have a sick and twisted sense of humor. What would make a better gift this Christmas than a multi-million-dollar-budget MMO that died a horrible death years before?

So don't be the typical gifter who settles for a Blu-ray player or an iPod -- give a package of misery, disillusionment and broken dreams! Hit the jump for 10 items that absolutely belong in your shopping cart if you wish to be feared!

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: The sadistic shopper's list for Black Friday and Cyber Monday

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: The sadistic shopper's list for Black Friday and Cyber Monday originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 25 Nov 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinamazonapbasherons-call-2auto-assaultbill-roperblack-fridayblu-raybostonbox-artchristmascircuits-of-timeclock-craftcyber-mondayearth-and-beyondfeaturedflagshipflagshippedflux-capacitorfuryguamhellgate-londonhubbleipodkrystallematrix-onlinemxonasancsoftnerd-rageperfect-10perfect-tenrf-onlinerichard-gariottrichard-gariotts-tabula-rasa-limited-collectors-editionshadowbaneshoppingsoespocktabula-rasathe-matrix-onlinethe-perfect-10the-perfect-tentime-traveltimecardturbineturbine-entertainmentThu, 25 Nov 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Reasons why it's great to be an MMO fan today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/18/the-perfect-ten-reasons-why-its-great-to-be-an-mmo-fan-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/18/the-perfect-ten-reasons-why-its-great-to-be-an-mmo-fan-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/18/the-perfect-ten-reasons-why-its-great-to-be-an-mmo-fan-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

After my last Perfect Ten list, I strongly debated creating a new one revolving around the issue of spiders and their relation to insects and gigantism, but my editor told me that that wasn't enough of an MMO topic to suit Massively's needs. So, bowing and scraping in apology, I must instead present to you my back-up plan: Ten reasons why it's great to be an MMO fan today.

I can hear some of you grimacing right now: "But Justin -- if that is your real name -- are you really so doe-eyed and naïve? Don't you know that all MMOs suck, that it's all the same old crud, and that you have gray in your beard?"

That's where I'm different, I guess. I'm not blind to some of the serious issues that plague the MMO industry, and I've had my fair share of burnout, disillusion and frustration with the games, but I can't bring myself to become an MMO cynic. On the contrary, I feel that part of being an MMO fan is that it's fun to look on the bright side and get excited about this hobby we all share. So in that spirit, I present to you 10 reasons why it's a great time to be an MMO fan right now more than ever before.

And, yes, I'm still calling spiders "bugs." You can't stop me. I'm immune to all conventional weapons!

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Reasons why it's great to be an MMO fan today

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Reasons why it's great to be an MMO fan today originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Nov 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>addbusiness-modelscharitieschristmascyniceveeve-onlinef2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playhalohorrorlongevitylord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromaddennaivencsoftpolygamypost-apocalypticpvepvppvpbdtthrpsandboxscifisocialspiders-are-insectssubscriptionsuperherotheme-parkThu, 18 Nov 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What was the best gift you received in-game?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/25/the-daily-grind-what-was-the-best-gift-you-received-in-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/25/the-daily-grind-what-was-the-best-gift-you-received-in-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/25/the-daily-grind-what-was-the-best-gift-you-received-in-game/#commentsFiled under: , ,

It's Christmas day for those of you who celebrate it, and whatever your focus today is, presents are sure to be involved in some way, shape, or form.

Real-life presents aren't the only things being exchanged -- the gifts are flying in MMO-land as well. You'll find packages with pretty wrapping in nearly every game: dropping from monsters, being offered as quest rewards, and offered by collectors (often in exchange for pieces of dead foes, but we try not to think about what they do with them after we hand them over.) The best gifts, though, are the ones received from your friends and guildmates in-game. The ones that were crafted or picked out just for you, because someone knew you wanted a special miniature, weapon, or piece of armor. We love those gifts because they came from a friend who cared enough to take some extra time and effort with you in mind.

So today, we want to know what your favorite gift from an MMO friend was. It doesn't have to be the biggest and best epic weapon on the block, it could even be some version of a Christmas card, but it brought a smile to your face. So tell us about it, and happy holidays from Massively!

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What was the best gift you received in-game? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Christmasgiftsholiday-2009opinionthe-daily-grindFri, 25 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST