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[Gaikai: Delivering instant MMOs to your browser]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/gaikai-delivering-instant-mmos-to-your-browser/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/gaikai-delivering-instant-mmos-to-your-browser/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/gaikai-delivering-instant-mmos-to-your-browser/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Gaikai
Imagine that you're reading up on an MMO on a site such as Massively (far-fetched, but stay with us on this). The words intrigue you and you think it might be worth checking out. You make a mental note to do so in the future -- to head over to the game's site, see if there's a trial, download it, set up an account, and give it a whirl -- but time gets away from you and none of that actually happens.

Now imagine that right after you read that article there was a single button or link. Clicking on it, a Java window opens up on top of your screen and tells you that you're now playing a trial of the game. There's no wait, no download, no lengthy form to fill out -- just click and play, right away. You go from interested to inside the game within mere seconds, your computer specs (mostly) aren't an issue, and your curiosity is immediately sated.

This isn't a far-fetched dream but the here-and-now reality. This is cloud-streaming MMOs brought to you by Gaikai. And it just might be the future of MMOs as we know it.

Continue reading Gaikai: Delivering instant MMOs to your browser

MassivelyGaikai: Delivering instant MMOs to your browser originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2moonsacclaimactivisionage-of-conanage-of-conan-unchainedaocaoc-unchainedbest-buyblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrowser-mmochronicles-of-spellborncloudcloud-streamingconandave-perryddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeaea-originearthworm-jimf2pfamilyfantasyfree-to-playfuncomgaikaigaikai-inchyboriaipadkid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrostreaming-mmothe-darknessturbineturbine-entertainmentunchainedwalmartwarcraftwbwizard101world-of-warcraftwowyoutubeWed, 14 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[So long and thanks for all the pics: One Shots favorites]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/01/so-long-and-thanks-for-all-the-pics-one-shots-favorites/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/01/so-long-and-thanks-for-all-the-pics-one-shots-favorites/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/01/so-long-and-thanks-for-all-the-pics-one-shots-favorites/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

We bid a final farewell to One Shots yesterday, but we couldn't let almost four years and 1,500 reader-submitted screenshots go without a little nod to some of our favorites.

First up, of course, is the first-ever One Shots entry. Liz Harper had this to say about the image:
I wanted to start our daily screenshot feature on Massively off with something, well, massive. A memorable, recognizable, and important scene from MMO history... and while you may all argue with me about what makes this particular shot important, it was the first thing that came to mind. Here we see a group of City of Heroes players gathering at City Hall in Atlas Park to "salute the memory and inspiration that is Christopher Reeve on the 2nd anniversary of his death." It's rare to see an in-game event that brings players together for a cause other than slaying dragons and similar.
Ready for more? Follow along after the jump for more of the best of One Shots!

Continue reading So long and thanks for all the pics: One Shots favorites

MassivelySo long and thanks for all the pics: One Shots favorites originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 01 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Activision-Blizzardanetarenanetaventurinebest-of-one-shotsblizzardchronicles-of-spellborncity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxdarkfallgalleriesgalleryguild-warsgwlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroncsoftone-shotsplaydomscreenshotscreenshotsthe-chronicles-of-spellbornturbineworld-of-warcraftwowSat, 01 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Shapeshifters]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/16/the-perfect-ten-shapeshifters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/16/the-perfect-ten-shapeshifters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/16/the-perfect-ten-shapeshifters/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Because we are true geeks, last weekend my wife and I went to see X-Men: First Class. Afterward, we got into a discussion about what mutant power we'd pick for ourselves if we had the choice. I was torn between teleportation and quick healing, while my wife wanted to be able to turn into cash to pay off our mortgage. I think one of us is more grounded in the real world than the other.

But the more I think about it, the more I was intrigued with the idea of a shapeshifter. To be anyone would give you unparalleled freedom -- and plenty of chances to get into mischief, too. Come to think of it, it's probably best I'm not granted that particular superpower.

However, plenty of MMOs do give players the chance to shift between their normal forms and something else entirely. While there are far more than 10 examples that the brain trust over here came up with, I'm going to pick out my favorites to highlight.

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Shapeshifters

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Shapeshifters originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Jun 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventureraliensanarchy-onlineaoarchetypechronicles-of-spellborncity-of-heroescohcount-choculadervishdruiddruidsdwarfeq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iifacehuggerfeaturedfurygrim-reaperguild-warsgwkheldiankheldiansleetlichlich-formmoonkinmorphmorphsmysticnecromancerperfect-10perfect-tenpolymorphriftrift-planes-of-telarashapeshiftshapeshiftersshapeshiftingteam-edwardteam-jacobthe-chronicles-of-spellbornthe-countultima-onlineuovampirevampire-formwardenworgenworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 16 Jun 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Massively: New Mega Man games edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/14/ask-massively-new-mega-man-games-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/14/ask-massively-new-mega-man-games-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/14/ask-massively-new-mega-man-games-edition/#commentsFiled under: , ,

I'm really happy to see that we're getting two new Mega Man games at long last. Mega Man Universe looks like it's going to be pretty awesome, even if it should really be taking cues from later installments, and Mega Man Legends 3 is a game that I've been waiting to see for... yeah, just about 10 years. Unfortunately, that does mean that I'm going to have to purchase another platform for the game, but that's all right by me. I already have a few dozen systems in my house; one more isn't going to hurt.

But we're not here to talk about my pet causes -- we're here for the latest edition of Ask Massively. This week's questions were all about Chronicles of Spellborn and administrative details, so click on past the cut for our answers, and send your questions in to ask@massively.com! Or just leave them right here in the comments, makes no nevermind to us.

Continue reading Ask Massively: New Mega Man games edition

MassivelyAsk Massively: New Mega Man games edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Oct 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acclaimadministrativeask-massivelychronicles-of-spellbornfeaturedlinksmassively-metamega-mannew-gamespsychicsq-and-aquestions-and-answersspellbornThu, 14 Oct 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Spellborn shutting down in September]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/09/spellborn-shutting-down-in-september/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/09/spellborn-shutting-down-in-september/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/09/spellborn-shutting-down-in-september/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It seems the bell has finally tolled for The Chronicles of Spellborn, the troubled free-to-play MMORPG from Playdom. The fantasy title, which boasted a unique combat system and attempted to alleviate the grind common to the massive genre through its mission system, will be shutting its doors for good in September. Spellborn has had a checkered history since its 2009 inception as a pay-to-play title. Shortly after release, its development team went bankrupt before it was slated for free-to-play distribution by Acclaim and Frogster.

According to a report published on Games.com, last week's server outage (which sparked a brush-fire of cancellation rumors) was temporary, but the game will nonetheless be closing next month. "Yes we do plan to close the game at the end of the month," said a Playdom rep via email. "The servers were down on Monday, but that was due to an unrelated technical issue; the game should be back up now until the end of this month."

MassivelySpellborn shutting down in September originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acclaimchronicles-of-spellbornf2pfree-to-playfrogstergame-closinggame-closureplaydomthe-chronicles-of-spellbornMon, 09 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Chronicles of Spellborn shutting down?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/29/chronicles-of-spellborn-shutting-down/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/29/chronicles-of-spellborn-shutting-down/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/29/chronicles-of-spellborn-shutting-down/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

While Frogster Interactive is perhaps best known for its main MMO, Runes of Magic, it also carries other games for players to enjoy. One of the titles handled by Frogster Asia is The Chronicles of Spellborn -- a belabored game that has seen its model shift from subscription to free within a few months of launch, had its development team go bankrupt and scatter to the winds, and watched its player-base drop off. Well, according to the most recent press release by Frogster Interactive, it would appear that the Frogster Asia division plans to slough off The Chronicles of Spellborn once and for all.

Meanwhile, in North America, Acclaim still has servers (somewhat) open for The Chronicles of Spellborn, but the game feels as if it has been left chained in a dusty corner with a crust of stale bread and a tin of rusty water by its neglectful parents. There are enormous issues on the official site, such as a broken downloader setup, corrupted patches, and most recently, a bug requiring players to change their passwords each and every time they try to log in to the game. No fixes or responses are forthcoming, and we were unable to get any official comment from Acclaim regarding its intentions for the North American version as of the time we published this.

The full text of the section of Frogster's press release dealing with TCoS can be found behind the break. As to Acclaim's intent, we'll update this post if we get a response.

[Thanks, Cow Moo Flage]

Continue reading Chronicles of Spellborn shutting down?

MassivelyChronicles of Spellborn shutting down? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 29 Jun 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingchronicles-of-spellbornf2pfree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-asiafrogster-interactivepress-releaseromrunes-of-magicSpellborn-nvsunsettcosthe-chronicles-of-spellbornTue, 29 Jun 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Waging WAR: An in-depth look at the Producer's Letter]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/05/waging-war-an-in-depth-look-at-the-producers-letter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/05/waging-war-an-in-depth-look-at-the-producers-letter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/05/waging-war-an-in-depth-look-at-the-producers-letter/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

This week, Waging WAR is going to take a deeper look at the Producer's Letter for this month of Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning. There are lots of new promises coming down the pipeline, and plenty of speculation to follow. Let's sift through some of the hubbub and get into the nitty-gritty of it all.

First of all, there's a serious cliffhanger in the notes suggesting that we'll be given a reason to wear all the sovereign gear that's being won in the new city sieges. Currently, there is good reason to wear (or at least acquire) warlord gear if for nothing other than the wards they provide -- and thus the significant advantage they give in the new city sieges. However, there is nothing in the game that requires the wards that the sovereign gear provides. If we insert tab-A into slot-B, the only real conclusion we can come to, speculatively, is that a new expansion is just beyond the horizon, and close to being revealed. Such an expansion could very well add a new tier (and new wards and warded content), in addition to buckets of other new content, such as a new pairing (as has been speculated many times in the past -- Skaven vs. Lizardmen, anyone?) On this point, I suppose we'll have to apply the "wait-and-see" motif, and just wait and see. Also, E3 is also coming up very soon (June 14-17). Could the EA/Mythic booth have some big news secretly tucked up their collective sleeves? As a disclaimer, this is only wild speculation by this particular columnist and nothing above should be taken as official suggestion of anything mentioned at all. But we can hope, can't we?

Continue reading Waging WAR: An in-depth look at the Producer's Letter

MassivelyWaging WAR: An in-depth look at the Producer's Letter originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 05 Jun 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aioncarrie-gouskoschronicles-of-spellborncity-siegecity-siegesea-gamesea-mythicea-warhammerea-warhammer-onlineelectronic-artsexpansionfeature-articlefeature-columnfeaturedgear-setsmythicmythic-eamythic-entertainmentpatchpatch-1.3.5patch-1.3.6patchesproducers-letterspeculationwaging-warwarWAR-bloggerwar-eawarhammerwarhammer-eawarhammer-onlinewarhammer-online-eaSat, 05 Jun 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Acclaim CEO says Spellborn version 2.0 is on the way]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/26/acclaim-ceo-says-spellborn-version-2-is-on-the-way/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/26/acclaim-ceo-says-spellborn-version-2-is-on-the-way/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/26/acclaim-ceo-says-spellborn-version-2-is-on-the-way/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

If you're a fan of The Chronicles of Spellborn, Beau Turkey at Spouse Aggro found something today that will make you very happy. There have been rumors floating around lately about a restructuring of the game, and those rumors were recently confirmed on the official forums by Howard Marks, the CEO of Acclaim Games: "The rumors are true! Spellborn Version Two is on the way."

Marks went on to explain that the new version has already been released in Japan to great success. They've been fine tuning it, and plans for the English version are underway. If you are a current player of The Chronicles of Spellborn, be sure you have a valid email address on file with Acclaim, because everyone playing the current version will be invited to beta test the new version via email.

While details are minimal at this point, it's great news for players to know that more is on the way. You can take a look at the forum announcement here, and Beau's take from a fan point of view here.

MassivelyAcclaim CEO says Spellborn version 2.0 is on the way originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Jan 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acclaimacclaim-gamesbeau-turkeychronicles-of-spellbornf2pfree-to-playhoward-marksspellbornspellborn-2spellborn-version-2spouse-aggroTue, 26 Jan 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Chronicles of Spellborn raises the free to play level cap]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/22/chronicles-of-spellborn-raises-the-free-to-play-level-cap/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/22/chronicles-of-spellborn-raises-the-free-to-play-level-cap/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/22/chronicles-of-spellborn-raises-the-free-to-play-level-cap/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Worst part of freemium games is really getting into the game and then running head long into the free area's level cap. You just got started, just got into getting a nice pace, and you suddenly can't go any further until you buy a new zone or pay for a subscription.

Chronicles of Spellborn seems to understand that problem and have taken a step to delay the inevitable. With the last patch, "Paragraph of Timed Strike," they've raised the free to play level cap from 7.6 to 9.9. This is going to allow new players or former free to play users the ability to level further and access more quests in the starting areas of Hawksmouth and Aldenvault.

Of course at level 9.9 you're still going to need a subscription if you want to continue on with Spellborn, but hey, now you have 2.3 more levels to enjoy before you need to grab some Acclaim coins.

MassivelyChronicles of Spellborn raises the free to play level cap originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 May 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acclaimacclaim-gamesaldenvaultchronicles-of-spellbornfree-to-playfreemiumhawksmouthlevel-capparagraph-of-timed-strikepatchspellbornupdateFri, 22 May 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Spellborn launches in the US; subscriptions free for 2 weeks]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/23/spellborn-launches-in-the-us-subscriptions-free-for-2-weeks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/23/spellborn-launches-in-the-us-subscriptions-free-for-2-weeks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/23/spellborn-launches-in-the-us-subscriptions-free-for-2-weeks/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Acclaim has officially launched The Chronicles of Spellborn in North America, and to mark the occasion, premium subscriptions are totally free for people registering before the 7th of May (and for existing accounts). The issue of needing "Acclaim Coins" to purchase subscriptions has been fixed in time for the launch, and when the free subscriptions run out, players will be able to keep them going using their credit cards directly.

As we had confirmed for us last month, Spellborn will be using a monthly paid subscription business model, however, a small portion (three areas) of the game's content will be available for free in perpetuity. Upon reaching a certain level, all further character progression is blocked. This is really more of a free trial than an actual "free-to-play with premium for-pay bits", so to see what the full game is really like, the best option would be to try it out now while the flood gates are opened all the way. If you decide to give it a go, be sure to let us know what you think about it.

MassivelySpellborn launches in the US; subscriptions free for 2 weeks originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Apr 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acclaimacclaim-coinschronicles-of-spellbornfree-subscriptionslaunchnorth-americaspellbornsubscriptionsususaThu, 23 Apr 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Chronicles of Spellborn moves up to 1.02]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/13/chronicles-of-spellborn-moves-up-to-1-02/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/13/chronicles-of-spellborn-moves-up-to-1-02/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/13/chronicles-of-spellborn-moves-up-to-1-02/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


The European free to play MMO Chronicles of Spellborn has unleashed patch 1.02, entitled "Scroll of the Second Path," bringing some brand new fixes and changes into their world.

One of the biggest changes is the introduction of a brand new tutorial that better introduces their combat system. One of the many problems that many players were facing with Spellborn was that it does not play like a traditional MMO. In fact, playing it like a traditional MMO would usually get you killed. This new tutorial better explains how to avoid getting hit, while still dealing damage of your own to the targets around you.

The other big change is the introduction of "menaces" -- new elite monsters that wander around outdoor areas. These guys are big and hard to kill, but their existences are also tied into special wanted posters in towns. These wanted posters trigger new quests to take down the menaces, giving players incentive to take on these new challenges.

The game is still awaiting a closed beta in the US, but those readers in the UK, France, or Germany will be happy to hop on the Spellborn wagon and give the game a try. The full patch notes for 1.02 are available on the Chronicles of Spellborn forums.

[Via A Ding World]

MassivelyChronicles of Spellborn moves up to 1.02 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 Feb 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acclaimchronicles-of-spellbornclosed-betacombat-systemeuropean-mmofree-to-playmenacesnew-questspatch-1.02scroll-of-the-second-pathtutorialFri, 13 Feb 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Spellborn updates for 2009 mapped out]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/14/spellborn-updates-for-2009-mapped-out/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/14/spellborn-updates-for-2009-mapped-out/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/14/spellborn-updates-for-2009-mapped-out/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Although the US is still waiting for The Chronicles of Spellborn to finish up its beta phases, the European version of the game has already been released. As is usually the case with an MMO launch, the developers didn't just flip the switch and then wash their hands of the project, and have been pushing out patches and hotfixes to their live servers as needed. Now we've been given an idea of where they hope to take the game over the coming year, via a post on the official forums.

In the short term, a big patch is expected to be ready for the end of January, which will include some new monsters as well as a tutorial that comes in response to feedback from the community and press. A bit later in the year, the plan is to roll out the market, and an arena match-up system that will allow 2v2 and 4v4 PvP games. Longer term development goals include mounts and guild alliances, but when we're looking at this time-frame, it's highly likely that more ideas will come about. So, who is already on board with Spellborn?

MassivelySpellborn updates for 2009 mapped out originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Jan 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2v24v4acclaimarenachronicles-of-spellborneuropeeuropeanmountspatchesspellborntcostutorialupdatesWed, 14 Jan 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Four cheers for Tipa's Spellborn gallery]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/05/four-cheers-for-tipas-spellborn-gallery/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/05/four-cheers-for-tipas-spellborn-gallery/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/05/four-cheers-for-tipas-spellborn-gallery/#commentsFiled under: , ,


You've got to admit it - Chronicles of Spellborn has some seriously amazing graphics. And to prove that's true, Tipa at West Karana has posted a great selection of screenies. They include some of the High Houses, cityscapes, temples, and yes, the gratuitous undressed character shot.

As if having Within Temptation do the music for it wasn't enough to tempt you (pun fully intended) into the game, these screen shots provide the additional visual stimulus needed to point you to the beta sign-up. If you're in the EU, you can download the client for free. So hop over, take a look, and commence the ooh-ing... and eagerly awaiting launch day in the States.

MassivelyFour cheers for Tipa's Spellborn gallery originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betachronicles-of-spellbornscreen-shotsscreenshotsspellbornMon, 05 Jan 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Chronicles of Spellborn scores 8/10 in an early review]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/08/the-chronicles-of-spellborn-scores-8-10-in-an-early-review/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/08/the-chronicles-of-spellborn-scores-8-10-in-an-early-review/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/08/the-chronicles-of-spellborn-scores-8-10-in-an-early-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Although a great deal of the world is still playing the beta version of The Chronicles of Spellborn, continental Europe has had access to the retail copy since the 27th of November. Since Eurogamer has had a couple of weeks to put the game through its paces, they've posted a review. Now, we're sure you know the various problems with MMO reviews in general -- the two biggest being that most (good) MMOs are updated frequently post-launch, and that there's usually too much content to get through to provide accurate insight to all levels and areas of a game -- but it's worth nothing that this one comes with a rather healthy eight-out-of-ten score at the end.

The art style and environments get an approving nod in the review, and so do the action-based combat mechanics. The "Skill Deck", which is the replacement for the traditional action bar you might be used to from a huge number of other MMOs, is both praised and knocked for its complexity. The primary criticisms that the review levels against TCoS are that it can be a bit generic at times, and that it lacks the glossy polish that you see in big-budget titles. Obviously these complaints were not significant enough to stop the reviewer from enjoying the game, and we look forward to seeing how it shapes up by the time it's released to the rest of the world in January.

MassivelyThe Chronicles of Spellborn scores 8/10 in an early review originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Dec 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acclaimartart-stylechronicles-of-spellborncombateueuropereviewskill-decktcosthe-chronicles-of-spellbornMon, 08 Dec 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Chronicles of Spellborn's open beta impressions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/24/the-chronicles-of-spellborns-open-beta-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/24/the-chronicles-of-spellborns-open-beta-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/24/the-chronicles-of-spellborns-open-beta-impressions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Since the launch of open beta in Europe and removal of the NDA this weekend, The Chronicles of Spellborn has now entered the public eye on a much larger scale. MMORPG has been providing some in-depth coverage of the game recently, including one of the first extensive looks at the character creation process.

However, sometimes it's good to get a "regular-guy" perspective on these first impressions, so we're particularly interested in a recent run-down from the A Ding World blog. In this thorough look at the current state of open beta, Sente runs through character creation, control, user interface, questing and much more. It's a great read if you're interested in learning more about this upcoming MMO, set to launch on November 27th in Europe and in January for the US.

MassivelyThe Chronicles of Spellborn's open beta impressions originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 24 Nov 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betachronicles-of-spellborneuimpressionsopen-betathe-chronicles-of-spellbornMon, 24 Nov 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Spellborn's American launch pushed back, closed beta starts the 27th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/19/spellborn-american-launch-date-pushed-back-closed-beta-starts-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/19/spellborn-american-launch-date-pushed-back-closed-beta-starts-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/19/spellborn-american-launch-date-pushed-back-closed-beta-starts-t/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

So we heard a couple months ago that The Chronicles of Spellborn would be released in North America and the United Kingdom on November 27th, coinciding with the continental European launch. Turns out it's been pushed back -- kinda. The European launch will still commence on the 27th, but the North American closed beta will begin on that day, with the actual, final launch occurring sometime in January.

Sure, we're a bit disappointed, but chances are we'll still get to play the game soon. Acclaim, the game's publisher in the region, went out of its way in the press release it sent us to stress the "Freemium" business model -- a newbie trial area will be available to all players, who can reach level seven before they have to upgrade to a premium subscription at the usual $15/month rate.

The idea of an unlimited free trial area with a level cap isn't fresh -- both Meridian 59 and EverQuest II have done that, but it's not a bad way to sample a game to decide if you want to invest your hard-earned cash in it. Might be worth trying just for Jesper Kyd's soundtrack

MassivelySpellborn's American launch pushed back, closed beta starts the 27th originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 19 Nov 2008 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acclaimacclaim-gamesbreakingcentral-americachronicles-of-spellbornclosed-betalaunchnorth-americarelease-datesouth-americaspellbornspellborn-internationalWed, 19 Nov 2008 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[News from the Wider MMO World: September 30th, 2008]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/news-from-the-wider-mmo-world-september-30th-2008/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/news-from-the-wider-mmo-world-september-30th-2008/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/news-from-the-wider-mmo-world-september-30th-2008/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,


The MMO genre is more than World of Warcraft, Age of Conan, and Warhammer Online. Here's what's going on in the rest of the world.

Ankama Games launches new Dofus Heroic Server; includes permadeath
As of September 23rd, there's a new server dedicated to Ankama Games' Dofus. Called the Heroic Server, its most notable feature is permanent death for all characters. Once dead, the player's opponent is allowed to take the character's items, and the deceased becomes interred in the Cemetery of Heroes, a worldwide ranking that can be consulted via a dedicated website. To offset the permadeath penalty, all skill and professions leveling will be much easier, allowing players to rise in rank much more quickly. To the brave and the bold: the Heroic Server calls!

Atlantica Online begins open beta; offers prizes
For their open beta launch, Atlantica Online's NDOORS is offering players of its Free Leagues -- the PvP system -- a variety of prizes, including a Nintendo Wii, an iPod Nano, or $10,000 in cash. Interestingly, these prizes become available only once the player population hits certain landmarks: 5,000; 10,000; 20,000; and 30,000. "NDOORS created something unique in the MMO world when we designed the deep turn-based, strategic world of Atlantica Online. So we decided we needed something just as original for our open beta," said Peter Kang, CEO, NDOORS Interactive. "This is going to be unlike anything anyone has seen before."

Continue reading News from the Wider MMO World: September 30th, 2008

MassivelyNews from the Wider MMO World: September 30th, 2008 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 30 Sep 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlantica-onlinechronicles-of-spellborndofusdream-of-mirror-onlinefeaturedjoystiqfeaturesknight-onlinenewsnews-from-the-wider-mmo-worldpirates-of-the-caribbean-onlineTue, 30 Sep 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Chronicles of Spellborn: Not free to play, proclaims Acclaim]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/29/the-chronicles-of-spellborn-not-free-to-play-proclaims-acclaim/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/29/the-chronicles-of-spellborn-not-free-to-play-proclaims-acclaim/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/29/the-chronicles-of-spellborn-not-free-to-play-proclaims-acclaim/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

In fact, the PR Manager for The Chronicles of Spellborn is quite insistent on the that point. 'TCoS is NOT a Free2Play game,' says PR manager, Mirage. And then again, only in ALL CAPS. Mirage is correct, of course. The Chronicles of Spellborn basically has a starting zone that you can play in for free. Think of it as a free trial, if you like. If you want to play the rest of this MMOG, you'll need to upgrade your free account for the regular subscription kind.

'Second, there are NO item malls, there is NO item selling,' adds Mirage. By the time we got halfway through we had to fan the air a little, as the stench of those nasty free-to-play models had pervaded the corners of the room. We hear that a box of sodium bicarbonate left open behind the sofa will eliminate those nasty odors.

Continue reading The Chronicles of Spellborn: Not free to play, proclaims Acclaim

MassivelyThe Chronicles of Spellborn: Not free to play, proclaims Acclaim originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 29 Sep 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acclaimacclaim-gameschronicles-of-spellbornfantasymmo-industrynew-titlesspellborn-internationalMon, 29 Sep 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Chronicles of Spellborn launches November 27th in North America]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/28/the-chronicles-of-spellborn-launches-november-27-in-north-americ/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/28/the-chronicles-of-spellborn-launches-november-27-in-north-americ/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/28/the-chronicles-of-spellborn-launches-november-27-in-north-americ/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Publisher Acclaim Games has finally announced the North American release date of developer Spellborn International's action-oriented MMORPG The Chronicles of Spellborn. The game will go live in the United States and Canada on the 27th of November -- exactly the same day as the European release. Why Acclaim and European publisher Frogster didn't announce for all regions at once, we're not quite sure!

In the press release we received, Acclaim promised that a North American closed beta will begin soon, and directed would-be players to sign up at the official site. Expect fairly standard MMO gameplay, except for combat, which is a little different. You'll actually have to aim your attacks like you would in a third person shooter game.

Spellborn runs on "Unreal Engine 2.5" and features music by respected video game composer Jesper Kyd, who has contributed scoring to games like Assassin's Creed, Gears of War, and Unreal Tournament 3.

MassivelyThe Chronicles of Spellborn launches November 27th in North America originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 28 Sep 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acclaimacclaim-gameschronicles-of-spellbornclosed-betafrogsterjesper-kydlaunchrelease-datespellbornspellborn-internationalunreal-engineSun, 28 Sep 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[News From the Wider MMO World: September 23, 2008]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/23/news-from-the-wider-mmo-world-september-23-2008/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/23/news-from-the-wider-mmo-world-september-23-2008/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/23/news-from-the-wider-mmo-world-september-23-2008/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,


The MMO genre is more than World of Warcraft, Age of Conan, and Warhammer Online. Here's what's going on in the rest of the world.

Secret of the Solstice gets new patch with new content
Outspark's Secret of the Solstice, the free-to-play fantasy MMO, has updated its client with a new patch. Available for both new players and veterans alike is a brand-new zone featuring new quests and a lush jungle landscape. Furthering the overarching storyline is a new initiative to pursue GM Alastor across the Emperonie Plateau and the Aserphel, Cretino, and Turmeit deserts. Finally, players can now view all of an NPC's available quests at the same time and choose which mission to undertake. Download the new patch at the SotS website.

New Warlock class available to Grand Chase players
KOG and Ntreev, publisher of Grand Chase, the side-scrolling fantasy brawler, has announced an update to the character class known as Arme. Arme, in addition to her Mage and Combat Alchemist jobs, now has access to a third: Warlock. The abilities of the Warlock job include summoning the spirits of earth, wind, fire, and water, to produce spectacular effects and fight with greater power than ever before. Before deciding if you want to switch jobs to the Warlock class, make sure to check up on the job's requirements on the Grand Chase website.

Continue reading News From the Wider MMO World: September 23, 2008

MassivelyNews From the Wider MMO World: September 23, 2008 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Sep 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asherons-callchronicles-of-spellbornfeaturedgrand-chasejoystiqfeaturesnewsnews-from-the-wider-mmo-worldpirates-of-the-caribbean-onlinesecret-of-the-solsticeTue, 23 Sep 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Acclaim to publish The Chronicles of Spellborn in North America]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/acclaim-to-publish-the-chronicles-of-spellborn-in-north-america/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/acclaim-to-publish-the-chronicles-of-spellborn-in-north-america/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/acclaim-to-publish-the-chronicles-of-spellborn-in-north-america/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Action-oriented MMORPG The Chronicles of Spellborn has found a publisher in Acclaim Games, the MMO-focused reincarnation of now-defunct Acclaim Entertainment. The company was founded by former Activision CEO Howard Marks, who bought the brand name from the original Acclaim after it crashed and burned in 2004.

David Perry -- Chief Creative Officer of Acclaim Games -- published a letter to the Spellborn community announcing the deal. In it, he talks up the game and the dev team behind it, saying that they immediately stood out to him and the other folks at Acclaim. We'll assume that Acclaim was the company that wrote the letter of intent way back in April, but who can say for sure?

Spellborn had already landed a publishing deal for Europe and Asia with Frogster Interactive. Last we heard the game was due out by the end of 2008, but we're not super-confident about it. Spellborn is still in its closed beta testing phase at the moment.

MassivelyAcclaim to publish The Chronicles of Spellborn in North America originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Aug 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acclaimacclaim-entertainmentacclaim-gamesactivisionbusinesschronicles-of-spellborndavid-perrydealfrogsterfrogster-interactivenorth-americapublisherspellborn-internationalTue, 26 Aug 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Frogster will drown you in new MMOs ... if you live in Europe]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/22/frogster-will-drown-you-in-new-mmos-if-you-live-in-europe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/22/frogster-will-drown-you-in-new-mmos-if-you-live-in-europe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/22/frogster-will-drown-you-in-new-mmos-if-you-live-in-europe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,


Frogster, noted European and Asian MMO publisher, has released a flying voidship-load of information about their upcoming MMOs for the European market.

Long awaited fantasy MMO The Chronicles of Spellborn is still due out late this year, with open beta to begin in October. We've been following this game closely for some time, but it looks like the rumored US publisher (given their prior relationship, perhaps Aeria Games) is not yet ready to announce North American release dates for the game. The World of Warcraft-ish Asian Import Runes of Magic, newly rescored and tuned toward Western tastes, will enter closed beta in September, for a European release about two months later. Isometric pet-raising, caveman-themed MMO StoneAge 2, already in open beta in North America, will be entering European closed beta in August ahead of a fall release. Next week, Frogster will release more information on its latest MMO, soccer-themed Kickster (formerly Kick Off). And they want us to keep an eye out for an expansion to the Bounty Bay Online pirate MMO.

Assuming you live in Europe, which ones should you particularly keep your eye on? If you bought a Gameboy just to play Pokemon, you might really enjoy StoneAge 2. If a subscription fee is keeping you from playing World of Warcraft, Runes of Magic might just be different enough to get you interested, and it will be free to play. If you liked Age of Conan's innovative combat system but couldn't get into the world of Hyboria, Spellborn's unique setting and combat system combined with its lush visuals might sell you.

Check out screenshots from each of these games in the gallery below.

Gallery: Frogster Fall Releases

StoneAge 2The Chronicles of SpellbornRunes of MagicKicksterBounty Bay Online

MassivelyFrogster will drown you in new MMOs ... if you live in Europe originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 Jul 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeria-gamesage-of-conanbetabounty-bay-onlinecasualchronicles-of-spellbornexpansionsfree-to-playfrogstergalleryhistoricalnew-titlesnewspokemonreal-liferunes-of-magicsportsstone-age-2world-of-warcraftTue, 22 Jul 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Runes of Magic beta registration and website opens]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/runes-of-magic-beta-registration-and-website-opens/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/runes-of-magic-beta-registration-and-website-opens/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/runes-of-magic-beta-registration-and-website-opens/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Runes of Magic, the eerily-similar-to-World of Warcraft Asian import being published in Europe by Frogster and in North America by persons as yet unknown* has just opened beta registration on their shiny new website. Runes of Magic, known as Radiant Arcana in Asia, will be free to play and has super high production values, so heck, why not check it out? Being able to have two jobs at once a la Final Fantasy XI and Guild Wars could be pretty cool, so if you've ever wanted to be a hunter/priest in WoW, well, now you can (except they call their hunters "scouts").

We'll have more about Runes of Magic once beta opens, but you can discuss the game with other eager prospective players in their newly-opened forums. Prize for best question so far: "will the leveling system be like WoW ( few weeks to reach max level) or a shorter leveling system?". Because it took FOREVER to reach max level in WoW when it was released. You know your WoW-like is on the right track when people wonder how to get past the boring stuff to the good stuff at max level before they've even seen the game.

* hey, Frogster, who is going to bring The Chronicles of Spellborn to North America?

MassivelyRunes of Magic beta registration and website opens originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 Jul 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betachronicles-of-spellbornfantasyfinal-fantasy-xiforumsfree-to-playfrogsterguild-warsnew-titlenewsradiant-arcanarunes-of-magicworld-of-warcraftwowFri, 11 Jul 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Runes of Magic to offer comprehensive feature set, but you'll have to wait]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/runes-of-magic-to-offer-comprehensive-feature-set-but-youll-ha/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/runes-of-magic-to-offer-comprehensive-feature-set-but-youll-ha/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/runes-of-magic-to-offer-comprehensive-feature-set-but-youll-ha/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Runes of Magic is a pretty thorough-sounding MMO coming out of Frogster Interactive Pictures, who also count Chronicles of Spellborn as one of their properties. According to the website, the list of features is fairly comprehensive, and we've included it after the jump. Frogster (which, by the way, is the greatest company name ever) was also nice enough to provide a ton of screenshots and concept art -- and it certainly looks pretty.

We can't fault Frogster for planning ahead: A recent press release states that the launch is planned for " ... before Christmas 2008. The English version will be released soon afterwards." You know, it's been a while since we've used the term "WoW Killer" -- with this list of features, at least on paper Runes of Magic could be the next contender!

Gallery: Runes of Magic Gallery


[Thanks, Axel!]

Continue reading Runes of Magic to offer comprehensive feature set, but you'll have to wait

MassivelyRunes of Magic to offer comprehensive feature set, but you'll have to wait originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chronicles-of-spellbornfrogsterlist-of-featuresrunes-of-magicwow-killerFri, 06 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Chronicles of Spellborn close in on a North American Publisher]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/the-chronicles-of-spellborn-close-in-on-a-north-american-publish/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/the-chronicles-of-spellborn-close-in-on-a-north-american-publish/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/the-chronicles-of-spellborn-close-in-on-a-north-american-publish/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


In a recent interview over at Ten Ton Hammer, Pierre-Yves Deslandes, the Public Relations Manager for The Chronicles of Spellborn answered some interesting questions about the upcoming fantasy MMO. One of the first questions on the minds of those at TTH and the minds of most players is why the game's launch has been post-poned another six months until autumn of 2008.

Of course, as with most game-launch delays, the development team is still working out some bugs. Plus, to complicate matters, the game is still without a North American publisher. But in addition to this news, we get treated to some wonderful information regarding the unique features of the game, including the "Dress to Impress" gear system.

Head on over to TTH to read the complete interview.

MassivelyThe Chronicles of Spellborn close in on a North American Publisher originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Jun 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chronicles-of-spellborndress-to-impressinterviewpierre-yves-deslandesten-ton-hammerthe-chronicles-of-spellborntthTue, 03 Jun 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hero's Journey, WRU?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/25/heros-journey-wru/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/25/heros-journey-wru/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/25/heros-journey-wru/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


We love the signs of spring; the green leaves on the trees; the children playing on the new grass; the annual news from long-in-development MMO, Hero's Journey. We have five new screenshots from the game, and we have to admit, they look absolutely fantastic. Like Darkfall Online, Hero's Journey is perennially on the verge of going into some sort of beta. And like Darkfall, they have promised the stove, refrigerator, cupboards AND kitchen sink to eager players.

Hero's Journey features complete character customization, similar to Chronicles of Spellborn; a dual-class adventure progression similar to those seen in Final Fantasy XI and Guild Wars; and a reactive combat system, similar to that seen in Vanguard. We do hope to see Hero's Journey at some point, and look forward to hearing more about its progress next year.

[Via Gamebunny]

Gallery: Latest Hero's Journey screenshots!

A LightlessLighted Statue in SewersQuillmore SewersNightshade RowNightshade Row

MassivelyHero's Journey, WRU? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 25 May 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betachronicles-of-spellborndarkfallfantasygalleriesgamebunnyguild-warsheros-journeyscreenshotsvanguardSun, 25 May 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[More beta screenshots from Chronicles of Spellborn]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/19/more-beta-screenshots-from-chronicles-of-spellborn/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/19/more-beta-screenshots-from-chronicles-of-spellborn/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/19/more-beta-screenshots-from-chronicles-of-spellborn/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


The team at Spellborn NV continues to entice with its latest screenshots from its closed beta for The Chronicles of Spellborn. These depict various cities and other places on the Shards of Parliament and Quarterstone, as well as some of the creatures who will be more than glad to help you test your skill at bleeding. After looking at the new screenshots, forum regulars wondered if the landscapes are too empty and flat when compared to World of Warcraft's lush richness.

Spellborn NV recently showed the game at the RPC Münster role-playing convention, where players reportedly loved the character creation system and combat systems best. Similarly to NCSoft's City of Heroes, the gear and outfits worn by Spellborn characters don't affect the gameplay -- you can look however you wish and still fight at your best. The Spellborn combat system is similar to first person shooters and Age of Conan in that you don't target anything specifically; if something is in range of your attacks, it will be hit. It also is uniquely based on a grid on which you arrange your possible attacks that moves to allow you to use different sets of all your abilities as the fight moves on, adding a "deck building" element to battle.

No news on the identity of the publisher with whom they signed a letter of intent to publish the game in North America, or whether we will still see The Chronicles of Spellborn this year. In a year that has seen Age of Conan and will likely see Warhammer Online and the next World of Warcraft expansion, Spellborn will have to work doubly hard to get a share of gamers' time and money.

Gallery: Chronicles of Spellborn [Beta]

MassivelyMore beta screenshots from Chronicles of Spellborn originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 May 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaocbetacharacter-creationchronicles-of-spellborncity-of-heroesfantasygame-mechanicsncsoftnew-titlerpc-munsterspellbornspellborn-nvtcoswarwarhammer-onlineworld-of-warcraftwowMon, 19 May 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Of the Spellborn PC, personal experience points, and adventure!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/24/spellborn-and-ultraforce-announce-spellborn-pc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/24/spellborn-and-ultraforce-announce-spellborn-pc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/24/spellborn-and-ultraforce-announce-spellborn-pc/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


There's been a lot of talk recently about special collector's editions. Are they really worth the money? Chronicles of Spellborn may have just made the ultimate deal here. For about 1200 Teuros (about two grand in US dollars), they've teamed up with Ultraforce to sell you a game and the custom gaming rig on which to play it. You just can't beat a deal like this. A highly anticipated MMO and a speedy Core2 Duo processor, twin GeForce 9600s SLI on an nForce 750i motherboard and custom Spellborn case art... No idea whether it comes with a three day head start, though, and we can hope those aren't the minimum system specs to play the game.

We've been seeing a lot of beta screen shots out of Spellborn, but there's been too many shots showing static scenes with perhaps a person standing in them but precious little action. The beta testers finally came through for us with a dozen adventuring screen shots and there is plenty of action to be seen. The screen shot above showcases how different the characters you create can look -- the woman in front is gray-haired and chunky but still looks good in her steel-and-silk bikini. She doesn't have to run fast; just faster than the doomed, thin girl lagging behind.

Spellborn is currently due to release world-wide in Q4 2008. They'll have some tough competition. The Spellborn devs just (like, a minute ago) put up a new beta video showing off their Personal Experience Point system. The PEPs are gained through PvE and grant permanent buffs to your character ... provided you don't die. Good stuff, and you can be one of the first to see it! Click on through to watch the video below the cut.

Continue reading Of the Spellborn PC, personal experience points, and adventure!

MassivelyOf the Spellborn PC, personal experience points, and adventure! originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Apr 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventurebetachronicles-of-spellborncore2duogeforce-9600nforce750iscreenshotsspecial-editionspellborntcosultraforceThu, 24 Apr 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Chronicles of Spellborn gets US Publisher]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/11/chronicles-of-spellborn-gets-us-publisher/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/11/chronicles-of-spellborn-gets-us-publisher/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/11/chronicles-of-spellborn-gets-us-publisher/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Seems like just yesterday we were wondering if The Chronicles of Spellborn would ever see US shores. Some kind spirit must have heard us, for today comes news that a US publisher has signed a letter of intent to publish this rather unique fantasy MMO on this side of the Atlantic. Spellborn International and its European/Asian publisher, Frogster, have decided to push the release date of the game from Q2 '08 (ie, Real Soon) to Q3 '08 (ie, when Warhammer Online and the new World of Warcraft expansion, Wrath of the Lich King, ship). The reason given for the delay is polish and time for the US publisher to work on marketing the game. Polish. That used to be such a kind word. Polished games are nice, but "fun" is an even better one.

Given the rather empty looking world they have been showing us, this extra time should certainly allow them to jam it full of goodness. With any luck at all, we'll be flying through the Deadspell Storm in our golden shardships, on our way to represent our Houses in Parliament. Now that it appears we'll be seeing this game in North America after all, what better time to learn more about the world of Spellborn through the Spellborn Scrolls? The Scrolls are an interactive text adventure that introduces you to the people and places of the game and is a pretty darn unique way to get the feel for the lore.

[Thanks, Garold!]

MassivelyChronicles of Spellborn gets US Publisher originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 Apr 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chronicles-of-spellborndeadspell-stormfrogsterfrogster-internationalletter-of-intentshardshipspellbornspellborn-internationalspellborn-scrollswarwarhammerwarhammer-onlineworld-of-warcraftwotlkwowwrath-of-the-lich-kingFri, 11 Apr 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Spellborn character screenshots]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/10/spellborn-character-screenshots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/10/spellborn-character-screenshots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/10/spellborn-character-screenshots/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


With all this news coming out of the Chronicles of Spellborn closed beta, can open beta be far? Well, actually, probably yes. The glimpses we have gotten of the game world so far look absolutely beautiful. Today's screen shots of actual characters shows off the unique Spellborn art style. And yet... the game world still seems barren and lifeless. Despite all the media Spellborn International is showing us, it seems unlikely they will make their Q2 '08 date for open beta. Further, without a US publisher, it could be a long time indeed before we get a chance to play.

MassivelySpellborn character screenshots originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Apr 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betacharacterschronicles-of-spellbornpublisherscreenshotsspellbornspellborn-internationalThu, 10 Apr 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The sounds of Shorath Mesa]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/05/the-sounds-of-shorath-mesa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/05/the-sounds-of-shorath-mesa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/05/the-sounds-of-shorath-mesa/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

There's so much news coming out for Chronicles of Spellborn these days, can we be blamed for hoping we get to play the game itself, soon? Hot on the heels of last week's developer's art journal about the swampy Shorath Mesa comes this new journal explaining how the sound artists designed the ambiance of the area. Shorath Mesa is covered with swamp and forest and the occasional ruined temple from ages long past. The ambient sounds must change as you move from one area to another; the soft whisper of rain falling through forest leaves makes way slowly to an echoing sadness as you near a temple. Far in the distance, thunder rolls. The best ambient sounds drag you into the game. By the sounds of things, Spellborn will draw you in completely to their realm. We don't often get a chance to hear how sound designers do their magic.

MassivelyThe sounds of Shorath Mesa originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 05 Apr 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>art-journalbansheechronicles-of-spellbornshorath-mesashrine-of-currentsspellbornspellborn-internationalSat, 05 Apr 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A glimpse into Quarterstone, the jewel of Spellborn]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/03/a-glimpse-into-quarterstone-the-jewel-of-spellborn/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/03/a-glimpse-into-quarterstone-the-jewel-of-spellborn/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/03/a-glimpse-into-quarterstone-the-jewel-of-spellborn/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


The Chronicles of Spellborn beta testers keep teasing us with these wonderful screenshots! We haven't seen an MMO with such a unique and evocative style since Lord of the Rings Online. This week brings us pictures from the city of Quarterstone, "the jewel of Spellborn". Quarterstone sits beneath massive holes that allow in the light of the Deadspell Storm, and around which cyclones rage. Despite the turmoil outside, Quarterstone seems fairly peaceful -- the real danger there are the battles between the great Houses.

Chronicles of Spellborn is due out "Q2 2008". Despite rumors of financial difficulties, a perceived lack of commitment by Central European and Asian publishing partner Frogster International, and no announced publishers in Britain or North America, Community Manager "Papillon" vows that if they run out of money, they will put what they have on the market and try to find a way forward from there (even if that means working for free!). We're rooting for you, Spellborn, and we loved what we saw of the game at GDC.

Updated: The struck-out text was based on a bad translation of a quote from the German section of the Spellborn forums. And in fact, the meaning was entirely opposite. We regret the error, won't be using dodgy automatic translation services in the future!

According to Papillon, the correct translation was: "And to even more emphasize that we do NOT intend to release Spellborn in a hurry, I finished in joking about "I think this development team would even work for free to make the dream become reality :) (PSSST! That stays between us! ;) Don't let my Boss know about this!)".

I think it's clear they meant something entirely different! /heads back to the English side of the forums...

MassivelyA glimpse into Quarterstone, the jewel of Spellborn originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 Apr 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chronicles-of-spellborndeadpell-stormfrogsterfrogster-internationalGDClord-of-the-rings-onlinelotropapillonquarterstonescreenshotsspellbornspellborn-internationalThu, 03 Apr 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Five MMOs better than World of Warcraft]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/01/five-mmos-better-than-world-of-warcraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/01/five-mmos-better-than-world-of-warcraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/01/five-mmos-better-than-world-of-warcraft/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


No fooling. Blizzard's World of Warcraft is a great game, a hugely influential game, maybe even the best game ever written by anyone, ever. Throughout history. But now that we've GOT WoW, well, what's next? Age of Conan? Warhammer? Spellborn? Maybe.

World of Warcraft had its roots in many other games, but none of those games stood still. Each of them looked at WoW, appreciated its roots, and said - we can do better. Other games, entirely different ones, said - we can give players something new. Here then, are five MMOs better than WoW - and why. Each takes some aspect of World of Warcraft and blows it away. Some of the games are old, some new, but all are excellent games -- and perhaps you will think so, too.

Find out what MMO we think does raiding better than WoW ==>>

MassivelyFive MMOs better than World of Warcraft originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Apr 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaocblizzardchronicles-of-spellbornfeaturedjoystiqfeaturesspellbornwarwarhammer-onlineworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 01 Apr 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Chronicles of Spellborn: Combat for Beginners]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/31/chronicles-of-spellborn-combat-for-beginners/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/31/chronicles-of-spellborn-combat-for-beginners/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/31/chronicles-of-spellborn-combat-for-beginners/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Face to face with a monster. Its soulless eyes glint blackly from the light of the Deadspell Storm. Its smell -- that awful stench -- may be its greatest weapon, but you do not come unprepared. You have your trusty falchion, worn but true. Your armor has been nicked and scratched and is no longer as shiny as when the blacksmith sold it, but it's honest chain and will turn a blade, or a claw. And of course, you have your trusty deck of cards. "Let's do this," you snarl. You turn the top card over...

Combat in Chronicles of Spellborn isn't the simple deal (cough sorry) we've come to expect in our MMOs. Instead of having a fixed set of abilities governed by cast timers and cool-downs, the abilities in Spellborn are controlled by cards, one for each action. You set up your cards in up to five columns -- for instance, one for mêlée, another for mêlée and debuffs, one for magic, another for ranged, and the last for healing. As you use an ability all columns move to the next row (or tier), and so on. Want to guarantee a finishing move is always available? Put them diagonally across your columns. For tips on how to make combos, and how to construct your deck so that the buffs and debuffs support your attacks, Spellborn dev El Drijver brings us his Combat for Beginners game design journal. Check out our previous coverage of this innovative MMO coming out of the Netherlands in the near future.

MassivelyChronicles of Spellborn: Combat for Beginners originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 31 Mar 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chronicles-of-spellborncombatcombat-systemel-drivjerspellbornMon, 31 Mar 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Chronicles of Spellborn: demo video good, another big delay bad]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/05/chronicles-of-spellborn-demo-video-good-another-big-delay-bad/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/05/chronicles-of-spellborn-demo-video-good-another-big-delay-bad/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/05/chronicles-of-spellborn-demo-video-good-another-big-delay-bad/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Good idea: Show off your Massively Multiplayer game at Game Developer's conference! The long-in-development title Chronicles of Spellborn showed off gameplay and core features to the site OnlineWelten. The Germans had a camera on-hand, and you can enjoy the lengthy resulting video either on their site, or embedded below the cut.

Bad idea: Postpone the launch of your already long-delayed title well into 2008. The official site notes that the developers now plan to release Spellborn sometime in Q2 of this year - right into the timeframe of Warhammer Online and (possibly) Wrath of the Lich King. This already incredibly niche title is going to have a stiff fight on its hands, and it's a real shame that they're postponing it right into the path of these mass-market behemoths.

Some of the features are definitely worth checking out, though; check below the cut for that great OnlineWelten video.

Continue reading Chronicles of Spellborn: demo video good, another big delay bad

MassivelyChronicles of Spellborn: demo video good, another big delay bad originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 Mar 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingchronicles-of-spellborndelaygdc08spellbornvideoWed, 05 Mar 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Chronicles of Spellborn + Within Temptation = music video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/28/chronicles-of-spellborn-within-temptation-music-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/28/chronicles-of-spellborn-within-temptation-music-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/28/chronicles-of-spellborn-within-temptation-music-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Continuing the Chronicles of Spellborn love, reader Garold (who sent us the last CoS video) finds a new video for us to enjoy. Currently being seen on TenTonHammer, this is a music video of Holland-based group Within Temptation (who provided in-game music), featuring scenery, gameplay, and ... spaceships? Apparently there's more to Spellborn than previously revealed.

This video makes us think of I'm So Sick, though nothing can touch that video's quality. Still, it's definitely worth watching for a continued look at what we can expect when this MMO makes it to market.

[Thanks, Garold!]

MassivelyChronicles of Spellborn + Within Temptation = music video originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Feb 2008 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chronicles-of-spellbornhollandim-so-sickmachinimamusic-videospaceshipstentonhammervideowithin-temptationThu, 28 Feb 2008 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Chronicles of Spellborn gets a video'd walkthrough at GDC]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/28/chronicles-of-spellborn-gets-a-videod-walkthrough-at/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/28/chronicles-of-spellborn-gets-a-videod-walkthrough-at/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/28/chronicles-of-spellborn-gets-a-videod-walkthrough-at/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

For those of you unfamiliar with Khaeon Games' Chronicles of Spellborn, here's a 40-minute developer-led tour through its opening stages, including character creation at this year's GDC.

A great deal of time is spent going over the character's stats ... a bit more than I'd have had the patience to sit through, personally. Right around the 17 minute mark the character finally starts running around. Nice tidbits: you have a chance to pick up a piece of hardware that an opponent carries and wear it yourself, but not before taking it to an armorer or equivalent to have it fitted. The atmosphere of the world is nice and angsty. Combat is reminiscent of Age of Conan, where there is no lock-on targeting, and it's dependent upon facing.

There's some promise here; sign up for the beta at their official site.

[Thanks, Garold!]

MassivelyChronicles of Spellborn gets a video'd walkthrough at GDC originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Feb 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanchronicles-of-spellborngameplaygdcgdc08khaeon-gamesvideoThu, 28 Feb 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[KillTenRats' Zubon on the state of the genre at WorldIV]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/27/killtenrats-zubon-on-the-state-of-the-genre-at-worldiv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/27/killtenrats-zubon-on-the-state-of-the-genre-at-worldiv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/27/killtenrats-zubon-on-the-state-of-the-genre-at-worldiv/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

WorldIV continues their MMO blogger interview series with an interview with Zubon of KillTenRats, which is not only a great MMO blog, but also a one-of-a-kind "blogomerate"-- they're a group of people who blog as a group without actually grouping together. As the Interview at WorldIV notes, the KTR folks are off in their own separate worlds, and yet somehow all of their posting feels like it all belongs in the same place.

So Zubon is just one part of the blog, but he still shares some interesting opinions about the state of the MMO world. One thing that draws him to these games, he says, is the fact that for all of their "persistent" gameplay, they're not actually persistent at all-- all the servers we're playing on now will be turned off someday, just as our sun, he says, will eventually run out of energy. Even he jokes that that sentiment strays into pretentious-ville, but it's an interesting thought: using the impermanence of virtual worlds to figure out own our impermanence and mortality.

He also labels himself a fan of "niche MMOs", and then defines those as anything that strays away from the elves and orcs type of world. He specifically mentions Tale in the Desert and the upcoming Chronicles of Spellborn as two MMOs to watch in terms of bringing new innovations to the genre. All in all, a good interview with a smart guy.

MassivelyKillTenRats' Zubon on the state of the genre at WorldIV originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Dec 2007 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blogomeratechronicles-of-spellborninterviewkill-ten-ratsmmo-blogmmo-bloggertale-in-the-desertworldivzubonThu, 27 Dec 2007 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Devs post hectic Spellborn combat video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/06/devs-post-hectic-spellborn-combat-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/06/devs-post-hectic-spellborn-combat-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/06/devs-post-hectic-spellborn-combat-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The developers behind the long-delayed Chronicles of Spellborn usually put out an in-depth article about a specific system, like this one on balancing combat in the game. As usual, they offer up a lengthy discussion of the subject, taking pains to include everyone in their development process.

For example, I can say that a certain basic damage attack should do 50 damage. The model will then show the amount of damage a weak attack should do or what amount a heavy heal should heal for. It will not only give these basic values, it will actually also reflect the effect of the use of consumables, sigils and attribute points by the player, so we can theoretically predict the outcome. Past taught us that these predictions are often far from the situation you end up with eventually, especially considering MMO's, but you need to start somewhere. As long as we keep updating the model to our actual findings and experiences, it will become more accurate as we progress.

Near the end of last month in lieu of a diary they offered up a frantic video of their PvP stress test. It's a brief stress test of their combat engine in the level 1 areas, a place that won't normally allow Player vs. Player combat. The designers hopped in to hack away at each other, and it was so much fun they decided to FRAPS the experience and share it wiith us. The voice-over by the TCOS designers provides some more insight into what gameplay in the game will be like. They don't rely on auto-targetting or background calculations to control damage. If you swing and hit with a sword, you do damage. Just one of the many decidedly different elements that make Spellborn stand out from the crowd.

MassivelyDevs post hectic Spellborn combat video originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 Nov 2007 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chronicles-of-spellborndeveloper-diarypvpspellborntcosvideoTue, 06 Nov 2007 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Chronicles of Spellborn CM interview]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/10/26/chronicles-of-spellborn-cm-interview/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/10/26/chronicles-of-spellborn-cm-interview/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/10/26/chronicles-of-spellborn-cm-interview/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

We haven't heard much here at Massively about The Chronicles of Spellborn, but what we have heard has been interesting. It's definitely a lesser-known MMORPG, and doesn't have the promotional power of Warhammer or some other MMOs currently in beta, but the dev team over there is definitely throwing around some interesting ideas. Want to play a fantasy MMO where gear doesn't matter, or where player skill is supposed to trump dicerolls? Then if this interview over at TenTonHammer is any indication, Spellborn might be your new favorite upcoming game.

TTH talks with Community Manager Pierre-Yves Deslandes about a game that seems to be aiming to break every MMO convention out there. Gear has no stats on it, so you can wear whatever you like anytime you want. Skills are layered, and meant to be used in conjunction with combos. And there is no auto-lock-- while Deslandes strays away from the "twitch" idea, they instead want to call it "focus." Instead of mindlessly clicking, you've got to be involved in the game.

Not all of it sounds completely new-- NPCs still give quests, and their big innovation in that area is that it's a book floating over their head rather than an exclamation mark. But Spellborn might be an interesting outing, especially if you're looking for something new in MMORPGs.

MassivelyChronicles of Spellborn CM interview originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 26 Oct 2007 22:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chronicles-of-spellbornCMcombosdevfocusgearinnovationsinterviewnpcsspellspellborntentonhammerFri, 26 Oct 2007 22:25:00 EST