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[RuneScape: Seventh anniversary retrospective]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/runescape-seventh-anniversary-retrospective/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/runescape-seventh-anniversary-retrospective/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/runescape-seventh-anniversary-retrospective/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

RuneScape title image
Although RuneScape officially launched in 2001, today marks the seventh anniversary of the end of the RuneScape 2 beta. This was a complete gameplay and graphics overhaul that signaled the rebirth of the game, and it's a date well worth celebrating. The past year has been filled with massive content updates that added clan support, upgradeable clan citadels, a new website, and countless new quests. Player-made battlefields put game design in the hands of players, who have used the system to produce ton of content.

Understandably, most people will likely remember this year for one thing: This was the year that RuneScape beat the bots. Following the momentous Bot Nuking Day, players logged in to find a distinctly emptier world but one filled with real people. RuneFest 2011 was a success, with presentations from the game's developers and a special focus on breaking the bots. This year also saw the interesting story that the Dutch Supreme Court ruling that stealing RuneScape items is the same as theft of real life goods.

In this anniversary retrospective, I look back at some of RuneScape's top news stories and game additions of the year.

Continue reading RuneScape: Seventh anniversary retrospective

MassivelyRuneScape: Seventh anniversary retrospective originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarybirthdaybotsbottingbreaking-the-botsbrowserbrowser-basedclanclan-citadelsclansclassic-mmocourtdutchf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studiolegalrmtrsrscrunescaperunescape-2runescape-classicseven-yearseven-year-anniversaryseven-yearstheftvideoWed, 28 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively interviews Jagex on RuneScape's clan citadels]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/21/massively-interviews-jagex-on-runescapes-clan-citadels/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/21/massively-interviews-jagex-on-runescapes-clan-citadels/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/21/massively-interviews-jagex-on-runescapes-clan-citadels/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

RuneScape Clan Citadels title image
In July of this year, browser MMO RuneScape celebrated the launch of its latest blockbuster expansion, Clan Citadels. RuneScape has been home to clans for most of its current 10-year run, but until recently they've always been unofficial groups organised using external websites and mutual friend lists. In the absence of game mechanics to support competitive gameplay, clan leaders even organised wars and other competitive games with other clans.

The Clan Citadels update changed all that by introducing the infrastructure clans need to support their in-game endeavours. Clans can now build huge floating cities to be used as a place to meet, throw parties and discuss organisation. The expansion was sweetened by the addition of a completely new free-form battlefield creator, allowing players to develop custom minigames with hand-designed maps. Clans can even invite other players to their battlefields or challenge other clans to a match on their own terms.

Massively recently caught up with two of the developers behind the Clan Citadels expansion to find out how it has been received by players and what we can expect in the future. In this in-depth interview, Senior Content Developer Ashleigh Bridges delves into RuneScape's innovative battlefield creator and Senior Game Designer Chihiro Yamada gives us the lowdown on the future of clan content.

Continue reading Massively interviews Jagex on RuneScape's clan citadels

MassivelyMassively interviews Jagex on RuneScape's clan citadels originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Sep 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ashashleigh-bridgesbattlefieldschihiro-yamadaclanclan-citadelsclansexpansionfeaturedice-rinkinterviewjagexmod-ashrunescapeWed, 21 Sep 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you participate in guild events?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/the-daily-grind-do-you-participate-in-guild-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/the-daily-grind-do-you-participate-in-guild-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/the-daily-grind-do-you-participate-in-guild-events/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Dungeons and Dragons Online
The biggest representation of the social aspect of MMO gaming is a player's guild, clan, or kin. (Or supergroup, or linkshell, you get the idea.) Whether it be a tiny group of friends or a huge roster of players with a similar overarching goal, this is the group you can turn to first for help and company in game.

Most groups will have some sort of organized event on a semi-regular basis. RIFT's Gaiscioch Family, for example, has organized a huge ongoing event. Many guilds in various games acknowledge their members' busy lives by setting aside a designated night and time to play together. Today we want to know what you think: Are these things your cup of tea, or do you prefer to jump in and out on a more spur-of-the-moment basis?

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: Do you participate in guild events? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clansgaiscioch-familyguild-eventsguildskinshipslinkshellsopinionsupergrouptdgthe-daily-grindTue, 20 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO gives us a glimpse into Isengard's Dunland]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/20/lotro-gives-us-a-glimpse-into-isengards-dunland/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/20/lotro-gives-us-a-glimpse-into-isengards-dunland/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/20/lotro-gives-us-a-glimpse-into-isengards-dunland/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Dunland, one of Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard's three new zones, promises to be a treat for bold Hobbits and nebbish Elves alike. Today we've gotten a better picture of what Dunland will look like as Turbine's released six screenshots giving us a feel for the wide range of vistas we'll be encountering.

Dunland is located at the southern reaches of the Misty Mountains, with hilly, swampy and woodsy areas awaiting our discovery. The zone is dominated by the many clans of the Dunland peoples who are being tempted by Saruman into joining the forces of the Enemy.

We've got a little over two months to go until LotRO's latest expansion hits the streets, so take your time to peruse all six of these new screenshots in the gallery below:

Gallery: Lord of the Rings Online Core Gallery

MassivelyLotRO gives us a glimpse into Isengard's Dunland originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Jul 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clansdunlanddunland-clansdunlanderselvesexpansiongalleryhobbithobbitslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromisty-mountainsrise-of-isengardsarumanscreenshotsswampturbineturbine-entertainmentzoneWed, 20 Jul 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape's Clan Citadels puts game design in the hands of players]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/07/runescapes-clan-citadels-puts-game-design-in-the-hands-of-playe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/07/runescapes-clan-citadels-puts-game-design-in-the-hands-of-playe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/07/runescapes-clan-citadels-puts-game-design-in-the-hands-of-playe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Last week, we brought you the news that browser-based fantasy MMO RuneScape would be introducing clan citadels in its next expansion. We heard that these customisable castles in the sky would feature a tier-based progression system, but until now we didn't know what the actual castles would look like or if any kind of new gameplay would come with them. Jagex has just revealed that the expansion's gameplay element is potentially as huge and revolutionary as their massive Dungeons of Daemonheim update.

The new floating castles act as meeting places for clans, and will contain exclusive skill-training areas for woodcutting, mining and other skills. Working on the clan's skill plots will add resources to upgrade the castle and pay for its upkeep, but may provide slightly less experience gain than traditional skill-training areas.

Customisable clan battlefields provide a sandbox map editor tool, letting clans design and build their own battlegrounds and minigames. Players will be able to design their own arenas and gameplay for the first time in RuneScape's ten year history, creating anything from capture the flag style matches and monster hunts to basic clan versus clan PvP battles. Perhaps the most exciting part of the feature is the ability for clan members to invite other players to try their games and challenge rival clans to competitive battleground matches. The expansion launches on 26th July.

Skip past the cut to watch the official clan citadel trailer and get a sneak peek at the castle's in-game visuals.

Continue reading RuneScape's Clan Citadels puts game design in the hands of players

MassivelyRuneScape's Clan Citadels puts game design in the hands of players originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Jul 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefieldsbattlegroundsbreakingclanclan-battlefieldsclan-citadelsclan-warsclansexpansionguildguild-hallguild-hallsguildsjagexmap-editornewsplayer-developersrunescapesandboxvideoThu, 07 Jul 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape announces clan citadels]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/30/runescape-announces-clan-citadels/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/30/runescape-announces-clan-citadels/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/30/runescape-announces-clan-citadels/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Jagex made a huge announcement today, one sure to bring beaming smiles to the faces of all RuneScape fans. On July 26th, RuneScape will see a monumental new addition in the form of clan citadels. These fortresses aren't any ordinary castles, though. They're floating castles! That's right, clan citadels will be situated on levitating pieces of earth high above the clouds, providing an undoubtedly breathtaking (and vertigo-inducing) view from the top.

Acquiring one of these prestigious strongholds will be no mean feat, however. Clan members will need to work together to gather the considerable resources required to construct their citadel. Progression will be tiered, allowing players to watch as their guild's home grows before their very eyes. The citadels will boast "a huge range of customization options" to ensure that each clan can craft a stronghold that suits its taste. This members-only update will go live on July 26th. Until then, keep an eye out for more news on RuneScape's newest undertaking, and head on over to the official site for the full details.

MassivelyRuneScape announces clan citadels originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 30 Jun 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browser-basedclan-citadelsclansf2pfree-to-playguildshousingjagexjagex-ltdplayer-housingrunescapeThu, 30 Jun 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: Choose your clan]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/10/wasteland-diaries-choose-your-clan/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/10/wasteland-diaries-choose-your-clan/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/10/wasteland-diaries-choose-your-clan/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

If you are playing Fallen Earth and you are not in a clan, you are doing it wrong. The importance of clan membership cannot be overstated. There are simply too many benefits to not find one that suits you. There is safety in numbers if you are a PvPer. It's nice to team up on that nasty boss with your PvE buddies. And roleplaying by yourself isn't roleplaying at all; it's just being weird. We need to interact with other people to get the most out of an MMO game. Hence: clans.

Finding a clan to join is easy. Finding the best clan for you is a bit more complicated. In order to make it a little bit easier for you to choose the clan that's best for you, I have compiled a list of Fallen Earth clans for you to check out. I've supplied their requirements, playstyle focus, and website when available -- some clans are more secretive than others (or maybe less formal). So click past the cut and start your search for your new BFFs.

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: Choose your clan

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: Choose your clan originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 Jun 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10th-mountain-division1st-canyon-armybosbrowncoatsclanscovert-operationscsfdriftersequalizersetsuexilefactionfall-of-the-legendsfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfeaturedferalFrench-Connectionhope-springsinvictakaosLegends of the FallLegendsOfTheFallomni-clansoutlanderspvepvpred-alertroleplayRolePlayingsaintsTaotectribal-bloodvalhalla-sectorwolves-of-warFri, 10 Jun 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape patch triggers clan bonanza]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/13/runescape-patch-triggers-clan-bonanza/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/13/runescape-patch-triggers-clan-bonanza/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/13/runescape-patch-triggers-clan-bonanza/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Yesterday's news regarding RuneScape's new clan functionality apparently struck a chord with some of you. Actually, based on a followup post on the game's official website, it seems a whole lot of you are forming up with friends to avail yourselves of the new mechanics.

Jagex reports that RuneScape currently features over 33,000 clans to choose from, and some 250,000 players have already pledged themselves to a clan (which equals approximately 10,000 people per hour joining a clan).

RuneScape players can register their organization by visiting the clan camp south of Falador, and Jagex recommends reserving your clan name as soon as possible due to the overwhelming demand. More info on the patch, as well as today's press release, can be found on the game's official website.

MassivelyRuneScape patch triggers clan bonanza originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Apr 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedclanclan-campclan-mechanicsclan-registrationclansf2pfaladorfantasyfree-to-playguildguildsjagexpatchpress-releaserunescapestatisticsupdateWed, 13 Apr 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape launches clan support]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/12/runescape-launches-clan-support/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/12/runescape-launches-clan-support/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/12/runescape-launches-clan-support/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The long-running browser-based MMO known as RuneScape has a new (and long-awaited) update in store for its loyal players. Today marks the addition of clan support to the free-to-play fantasy title, and the patch offers a number of tools to assist players in organizing and maintaining the RuneScape equivalent of the traditional MMO guild.

The latest game update from Jagex features new clan chat channels, a new clan camp social hub area on the world map, and customization options including mottos, motifs, and colors (which are evident on clan capes and a territory marker known as the vexillum).

Jagex has also added clan-specific gameplay content in the form of rated clan wars, allowing for clan vs. clan challenges and associated leaderboards. Finally, Jagex is gifting each clan with a personalized web presence including public and private forums, stats, and membership details. More information about RuneScape clans is available at the game's official website.

MassivelyRuneScape launches clan support originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 12 Apr 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedclan-campclan-capesclan-chatclan-warsclan-websiteclansf2pfantasyfree-to-playguildguild-functionalityguildsheraldryjagexpatchrunescapeupdatevexillumTue, 12 Apr 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: PAX East panel explores online communities]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/17/the-guild-counsel-pax-east-panel-explores-online-communities/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/17/the-guild-counsel-pax-east-panel-explores-online-communities/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/17/the-guild-counsel-pax-east-panel-explores-online-communities/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

There were two things that really stood out for me at PAX East: the ridiculously long lines and the throngs of fans who happily sat down together to play games face to face. On the surface, PAX East might seem to be about who has the best card deck or who has the quickest twitch reflexes, but it's actually much more than that.

We've looked at the growing importance of online communities and the relationships that have been created by them, so it's little surprise that PAX was full of players who were there to meet and play with friends they met through gaming. And among the many panels this weekend, there was one that explored this very issue. The speakers were all experienced managers of online communities, and they shared their stories of how they got started and why these communities are so important. Read on to hear their stories.

Continue reading The Guild Counsel: PAX East panel explores online communities

MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: PAX East panel explores online communities originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Mar 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2old2playastro-gamingclanscommunitiescommunityDerek-nolandestructoidfeaturedfrag-dollsfriendshipguild-counselguild-managementguildshamza-azizmorgan-romineonline-communitiesonline-friendshipsonline-relationshipspaxpax-2011pax-eastPAX-East-2011real-lifeross-furmansfx360stan-pressThu, 17 Mar 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: The Nerfpocalypse]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/wasteland-diaries-the-nerfpocalypse/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/wasteland-diaries-the-nerfpocalypse/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/wasteland-diaries-the-nerfpocalypse/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

I don't know about you, but when I think about a post-apocalyptic future, I think about bands of merciless raiders, anarchy and danger along every roadway. Does Fallen Earth have all of these things? Yes, but it is hardly the lawless, danger-ridden place (once you get acclimated to it) that you would expect to find when civilization has collapsed and there are mutants running amok. Fallen Earth is hardly the quintessential post-apocalyptic future. Games like Gamma World (a pen-and-paper RPG from days of yore) and Wasteland captured the bleakness of a destroyed world much more convincingly.

But who knows. Maybe the folks at Icarus got it right. We'll never know until the earth is destroyed. And games won't be such a matter of import when almost everyone is gone. Anyway, what I am getting at is the setting. The setting looks fantastic; the art department has certainly captured a desolate wasteland. The writing is great, and the towns and encounters are well-designed. Fallen Earth has the ambiance nailed. But the wasteland just doesn't have that sense of danger about it. Not for me, at least. After the cut, I'll discuss what I thought FE was going to be like, what it is, and what I think it should be.

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: The Nerfpocalypse

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: The Nerfpocalypse originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Mar 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apocalypseclan-warfareclansconflict-townsfactional-warfarefactionsfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfeaturedicarusicarus-studiosopen-world-pvppvepvppvp-flaggingpvp-zonestownsFri, 04 Mar 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lineage II's High Five update coming to PTS]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/31/lineage-iis-high-five-update-coming-to-pts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/31/lineage-iis-high-five-update-coming-to-pts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/31/lineage-iis-high-five-update-coming-to-pts/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Big changes are in store for NCsoft's long-running Lineage II MMORPG, and the game's official website has updated with details of the new High Five patch that's on its way to the public test server. The patch is so substantial that it's being brought to the live game in several parts, with the first four scheduled to appear on the PTS on February 2nd.

High Five features a reduced XP requirement for characters at level 78 or above, and clan levels 6, 7, and 8 will see a similar adjustment in terms of reputation points and member number requirements. The update is also bringing a ton of new character skills to Aden, as well as an extensive list of changes to existing skills. New quests and hunting zone revamps are also in the works (specifically Antharas' Lair and Dragon Valley), and numerous weapons, armor, and jewelry can now be purchased at the Giran Luxury Shop with Adena instead of crystals.

Finally, NCsoft has made significant adjustments to the Grand Olympiad system, including revamping the arenas to instanced zones (allowing for 160 simultaneous stadium matches), as well as various tweaks to both participatory and spectator aspects of the system. You can check out the preliminary patch notes on the official forums, and don't forget to read up on the particulars of this week's test server implementation.

[Thanks to Justin for the tip!]

MassivelyLineage II's High Five update coming to PTS originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 31 Jan 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clan-levelingclansfantasygrand-olympiadhigh-fiveL2Lineage IIlineage-2lineage-iiLineageIincsoftnew-skillspatchskill-changesskillsxpxp-reductionMon, 31 Jan 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: Faction interaction]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/21/wasteland-diaries-faction-interaction/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/21/wasteland-diaries-faction-interaction/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/21/wasteland-diaries-faction-interaction/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The factions in Fallen Earth are a diverse bunch, each one bent on dominating the other five. They all have their reasons to want to impose their will upon the inhabitants of the Grand Canyon Province. They are all also very narrow-minded in their approach to rebuilding society. They are all very intolerant of the other factions and will impede and harass them at every opportunity. Some factions (those on the opposite side of the wheel) espouse downright hatred of their diametrically opposed faction and kill its members on sight. The factions also have sub-factions which usually straddle the beliefs of an allied faction.

Each faction in Fallen Earth has one arch-enemy, two enemies, and two allies. The two allies are sometimes called the shoulder factions due to their position on the faction wheel. The allied factions, however, are enemies to one another. This can complicate relations in multi-factional task forces. It can sometimes lead to fighting one allied faction to appease the other. Sometimes the ally of yesterday becomes the enemy of tomorrow. Yes, it makes for some intriguing politics and some excellent canonical roleplaying situations. But when players are interjected into the politics, it can get downright confusing. After the cut, I'll describe the faction mechanics in more detail and the players' effect on the wheel as well.

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: Faction interaction

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: Faction interaction originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 21 Jan 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chotaclansenforcerenforcersfactionfaction-wheelfactionsfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfefeaturedicarusicarus-studioslightbearertechtechstravelertravelersvistaFri, 21 Jan 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: A brief history]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/10/wasteland-diaries-a-brief-history/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/10/wasteland-diaries-a-brief-history/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/10/wasteland-diaries-a-brief-history/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Fallen Earth has a relatively short history, as far as the power struggles on the server. Yes, in case you didn't know it, Fallen Earth is a single-server game. Everything I'll discuss in this post occurred on that single shard. The power struggles in the wastelands, be they between factions or clans, have been ever-changing. It seems that no one group retains power for very long. They say that history is written by the victors. And they could be right, but since we lack clear winners, I'll write it.

There isn't really a way to assert dominance in Fallen Earth in any kind of overt way. But there are subtleties that player groups can control. In some cases, they can even hold a resource with which to extort the playerbase. In the future we may see a true struggle for resources in an apocalyptic wasteland, but for now we will have to be content with simply crushing our enemies. After the break I'll chronicle the past year or so and outline how the power struggle evolved through that time period. Not everyone will agree with my perception of the events, but I'll do the best I can to remain unbiased.

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: A brief history

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: A brief history originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 Dec 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clan-warsclansconflict-townsexilefallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfeaturedfist-of-the-empirefoehistoryicarus-studiosoffice-parkpark-citypvpravenwood-divisionsaintssoldiers-of-fortunesuspicious-cheesewolves-of-warFri, 10 Dec 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: PvP for dummies]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/17/wasteland-diaries-pvp-for-dummies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/17/wasteland-diaries-pvp-for-dummies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/17/wasteland-diaries-pvp-for-dummies/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

PvP in Fallen Earth is different. It's not much like an MMORPG, and it's not much like an FPS (first-person shooter, for the uninitiated). It's a hybrid, and it can take some getting used to. But isn't that what PvE is for? To train us to PvP? I would like to think that, but many players of MMOs refuse to ever fight their fellow players. Considering I get most of my combat joy out of fighting other players, I find this online conscientious objector mentality beyond my ability to understand. But there are also those who will always PvP, and then there are the undecided. If you're wondering whether or not to try out some Fallen Earth PvP action, this article is for you.

I have never understood why, in a game that has such paltry death penalties, so few engage in PvP. The fine folks at Fallen Earth, LLC have even been nice enough to put kid gloves on us when we PvP in Blood Sports. There is literally no penalty whatsoever for dying in a Blood Sports match. You respawn fully buffed and ready to get some. My goal in this article is to convince some of the players who are undecided on PvP to try it out. I'll give you the low-down on what to expect, and at the end I'll give you some tips from the pros. So, without any further ado, let's move on.

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: PvP for dummies

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: PvP for dummies originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Sep 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blood-sportsclansdpsduelduelingduelsfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfefeaturedfpsguidehollywood-undeadhow-tohow-to-pvpicarusicarus-studiosinterviewInterviewsmisbee-havenpvppvp-guidepvp-tipszerogravityFri, 17 Sep 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: Loyalty]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/10/wasteland-diaries-loyalty/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/10/wasteland-diaries-loyalty/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/10/wasteland-diaries-loyalty/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

In Fallen Earth you start out as a confused clone. You don't have any idea who you are or what to do. The answers are there if you choose to seek them out. But you may also choose to ignore your greater purpose and carve out your own little niche in the wastes. You may form bonds with other players during your journeys, and you might join a clan at some point. But there is another factor that might divert your moral compass from that of your colleagues: Fallen Earth's six factions.

The factions add a bit of flavor to the game, but they also complicate matters for players who have formed friendships in Sector 1, before the factions had any sway. Sure, you may learn a little bit about the various factions during your adventures in the Plateau Province, but you won't choose sides until you get to Sector 2. You can always remain neutral, but that would be akin to playing the game blindfolded. You would be severely gimping yourself for no good reason. After the cut I will take an in-depth look at loyalties in Fallen Earth and how they might be torn between three different entities: factions, friends, and clans.

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: Loyalty

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: Loyalty originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 Sep 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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"The future in your hands," Funcom promised gamers in the early days of the new decade. As the MMORPG genre slowly took shape and grew in popularity, game studios were still babes in the woods, feeling out this brave and complex new world without a standard handbook to guide them to success. EverQuest focused on large group content and raids, Dark Age of Camelot featured Realm vs. Realm conflict, and RuneScape brought the MMO to the browser. Everyone desperately hoped he had the next big hook that would reel in gamers by the thousands, especially Norwegian developer Funcom, which made headlines in 1999 with its highly acclaimed adventure The Longest Journey.

Funcom took one look at the small but expanding MMO market, got together in a group huddle, and said, "You know what guys? This fantasy thing, it's everywhere. Let's do something different. Let's drill for sci-fi gold. And let's throw in robots, cuddly rodents, randomly generated missions and a bitter rivalry between factions. Geronimo!"* (*Quote fabricated by author.)

And thus, almost a decade ago, Anarchy Online hit the industry like a sack of broken features. It wasn't the stellar debut Funcom desired, but the game endured and went on to carve itself out a workable plot of land. This month, The Game Archaeologist trades in his rugged leather attire for space armor and a high-powered laser rifle. The year is 29475, and the place is Babylon 5. Er, Rubi-Ka.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist and the Girdle of Anarchy: The history

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist and the Girdle of Anarchy: The history originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Sep 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1337age-of-conanalien-invasionanarchy-onlineaocbabylon-5clansdante-alighieridaocdark-age-of-camelotearth-and-beyondeqeverquestf2pfeaturedfree-to-playfroobsfuncomgeronimoleetleetslegacy-of-the-xanlost-edennorwaynotumnotum-warsomni-tekperksrubi-karubi-owns-a-ka-true-storyshadowlandstabula-rasathe-divine-comedythe-game-archaeologistthe-longest-journeythe-matrix-onlinethe-secret-worldTue, 07 Sep 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: Lone wolf]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/03/wasteland-diaries-lone-wolf/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/03/wasteland-diaries-lone-wolf/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/03/wasteland-diaries-lone-wolf/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

An MMO is a massively multiplayer online game. So what would attract a lone-wolf type to something that is massively multiplayer? You would think this would drive someone who enjoys his solitude away. This is simply not the case, as every MMORPG has lone-wolf players. If that MMO happens to be Fallen Earth, with its post-apocalyptic setting, it might seem to attract individualistic survivalist types who strive to be self-sufficient. I have never played an MMO in which so many people were withdrawn, introverted, and downright antisocial.

Well, it is the apocalypse, and there are times when I just want to be left alone to kill in silence. I am a bit of a lone wolf, myself. But many times, trying to get a group together can be like pulling teeth... from a drunken throwback's maw. Sure, people aren't bound to be as friendly in a ravaged, unlawful world like the one we call home in Fallen Earth, but sometimes the wasteland can be a very lonely place. I enjoy doing my own thing as much as anyone else, and in many cases I don't want to stop what I'm doing to help other players, but I tend to. And I'm almost always glad I did. After the cut, I'll take a look at the pros and cons of being a lone wolf.

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: Lone wolf

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: Lone wolf originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Sep 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antisocialclanmatesclanscraftingcrafting-systemdeadfallfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfeaturedgroup-missionsgroupsguildsicarusicarus-studioslone-wolfmissionssolo-playsolo-playersteamsFri, 03 Sep 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: Office Park PvP]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/21/wasteland-diaries-office-park-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/21/wasteland-diaries-office-park-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/21/wasteland-diaries-office-park-pvp/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The new Sector in Fallen Earth known as Deadfall is a fairly large area considering it is not a sector, but a part of Sector 3. For a large area it has an insignificant percentage of its land mass devoted to PvP. At first, this might sound like a bad thing. But it helps keep the PvP action localized to a more compact area. There are actually two PvP zones in Deadfall and both are small and minimize the hide and seek. Some of you might refer to this as "search and destroy", but to me it's hide and seek. Of the two PvP zones, only Office Park sees much action. There is a good reason for this and it all boils down to faction reputation.

The Office Park PvP zone holds a unique resource: GlobalTech Circuitry. It can be harvested from GlobalTech Relic nodes which are only found at Office Park. It is also small, yet cluttered, with accessible rooftops. There are plenty of tactical options and cover and the fights sometimes wind up on the rooftops or inside the buildings. The first time I saw this zone on the Public Test Server, I knew it would be a hot-spot for PvP but I never would have imagined to what extent. This tiny zone sees more action than any other for a simple reason. Keep reading below to find out why.

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: Office Park PvP

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: Office Park PvP originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 21 May 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clansfactionsfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcicarus-studiospvpFri, 21 May 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIV has a clan-do attitude]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/06/final-fantasy-xiv-has-a-clan-do-attitude/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/06/final-fantasy-xiv-has-a-clan-do-attitude/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/06/final-fantasy-xiv-has-a-clan-do-attitude/#commentsFiled under: , ,

While we heard about Final Fantasy XIV's subraces -- called "clans" -- a week ago from Japanese fansites, today SquareEnix has released the details on their North American site. Each race has two clans, which totals 10 unique selections by the time all is said and done.

Fans familiar with Final Fantasy XI's races will be pleasantly surprised by the variety offered here. The elfin Elezen are now divided into the Wildwood (forest archers) and Duskwight (grubby cave-dwellers) clans. If cutsie dolls are more to your liking, then the Lalafell are up for the job, split between the down-to-earth Plainsfolk or the darker Dunesfolk. The hulking Roegadyn are partial to extreme climates of bitter oceans and volcanic fury, which has resulted in the Sea Wolves and Hellsguard, respectively. Of course, every MMO must offer a traditional human race, which in FFXIV falls to the Hyur, who either identify as the educated Midlanders or the beefy Highlanders. Finally, the cat-like Miqo'te will choose to be either one of the Keepers of the Sun or the Seekers of the Moon.

From running down this list, there's a definite light/dark dichotomy going on here, not just in skin tone but in the clans' basic philosophy. You can find information about the different versions of each of the five primary races by going to World --> Races --> Overview on the Final Fantasy XIV main menu.

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XIV has a clan-do attitude originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 Apr 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clanselezenffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-xifinal-fantasy-xivhyurlalafellmiqoteracesroegadynsquareenixsubracesTue, 06 Apr 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth's State of the Game: Upcoming additions and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/fallen-earths-state-of-the-game-reveals-upcoming-additions-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/fallen-earths-state-of-the-game-reveals-upcoming-additions-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/fallen-earths-state-of-the-game-reveals-upcoming-additions-and/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

When it comes to transparency regarding patches, Fallen Earth might have just won that category in spades. The latest State of the Game article on their site is more than just an overview of the direction they want to take the game in, it's a patch by patch listing of the features that the development team will be bringing to the table.

Patch 1.3 will be expanding the game with the introduction of Kaibab Forest and Deadfall Point, as players will run a brand new plotline to push back the radiation zone and find more secrets hidden in the wasteland. The new areas come with a brand new level added to the cap, so all of that experience gained from the new area won't go to waste.

Continue reading Fallen Earth's State of the Game: Upcoming additions and more

MassivelyFallen Earth's State of the Game: Upcoming additions and more originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Jan 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsanimationsclansdeadfalldeadfall-pointdeath-tollfallen-earthgraphicskaibab-forestpatchpvpradiationrespecstate-of-the-gametimelineupdatesveteran-rewardswastelandThu, 28 Jan 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth showcases recruiting clans for the month of January]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/04/fallen-earth-showcases-recruiting-clans-for-the-month-of-january/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/04/fallen-earth-showcases-recruiting-clans-for-the-month-of-january/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/04/fallen-earth-showcases-recruiting-clans-for-the-month-of-january/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Finding a clan to join can sometimes be a very difficult process. Pouring over pages and pages of guild recruitment advertisements in forums and talking with people in-game seems to be the only effective way of selecting a clan that can meet your needs. Even then it's a hit or miss opportunity, as the clan you may choose might turn out to be something you didn't want to be a part of.

Well, Fallen Earth is seeking to help alleviate some of the burden this January with a daily look into one of the many recruiting clans in the game. Each day on the website and official Facebook page, a new clan will be highlighted for your clan joining needs.

So if you've been looking for that perfect group in Fallen Earth, you'll want to keep your eye on their website all this month!

MassivelyFallen Earth showcases recruiting clans for the month of January originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 04 Jan 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clan-recruitmentclansfallen-earthguild-recruitmentguildsplayer-groupsrecruitment-driveshooting-people-who-arent-your-friendssocialMon, 04 Jan 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Darkfall gets its own analog of EVE University: Newborn on Agon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/30/darkfall-gets-its-own-analog-of-eve-university-newborn-on-agon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/30/darkfall-gets-its-own-analog-of-eve-university-newborn-on-agon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/30/darkfall-gets-its-own-analog-of-eve-university-newborn-on-agon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


The settings of Darkfall and EVE Online are worlds apart, but there is some common ground between the titles. PvP combat permeates both sandbox games, and given a potentially hostile environment when starting out, it's always good to have a helping hand. EVE Online players have training corps like EVE University to show them the ropes in what can sometimes be a brutal game. Darkfall now has an analog of EVE University called "NEW" which Syncaine recently pointed out on his blog, Hardcore Casual. NEW is short for "Newborn on Agon", a North American server clan that provides training in most any facet of the game for those willing to learn.

Although Darkfall can be harsh to newer players, NEW provides a (comparatively) safe environment where players can spend 30 days learning what interests them, or developing the skills to succeed in the game once it's time to move on. The clan is politically neutral and owns the city of Hammerdale, contributing to NEW's potential to become a haven for new players. Also, some of Darkfall's major alliances support the idea of NEW which could be beneficial in the long run.

It's great to see things like this happen in sandbox MMOs, and hopefully Darkfall will continue to see its players establish lasting institutions in the game.

MassivelyDarkfall gets its own analog of EVE University: Newborn on Agon originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Oct 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alliancesaventurineaventurine-sabloggersclansdarkfalleve-onlineeve-universityfantasyguildshammerdalehardcore-casualinstructionnewnewborn-on-agonpoliticspvepvpsandboxsyncaineFri, 30 Oct 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: Jade Dynasty at a glance]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/e3-2009-jade-dynasty-at-a-glance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/e3-2009-jade-dynasty-at-a-glance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/e3-2009-jade-dynasty-at-a-glance/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


The third game in Perfect World's portfolio, Jade Dynasty, has been riding quietly in closed beta for a while. At this year's E3, however, the Jade Dynasty crew brought out their game and let us here at Massively take it for a test drive. They also hit us with an announcement as well -- Jade Dynasty will be jumping out of closed beta on June 15th, and a European server will be added in on that day as well.

Overall, Jade Dynasty pulls much from Perfect World's other games: Perfect World and Ether Saga Online. The click on map to automatically move feature, cosmetic cash shop, and large amount of in-game quests returns, but a few new features have been added in that make this game a very interesting experience.

Join us after the break as we break down Jade Dynasty's features, a few of which may be controversial for some gamers.

Continue reading E3 2009: Jade Dynasty at a glance

MassivelyE3 2009: Jade Dynasty at a glance originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Jun 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fans of sci-fi MMOs looking for something a tad less complex than EVE Online have much to look forward to in the coming months and years, first with the joystick-style game Jumpgate Evolution and, further down the road, with Black Prophecy from Reakktor Media. We came across an interview (in German) with Reakktor Media CEO Kirk Lenke at OnlineWelten titled "Volle Kraft voraus" that might interest gamers hoping to learn more about Black Prophecy. For our non German-speaking readers, that's "full speed ahead" and the interview has been translated into English and posted on the Black Prophecy forums by a community member named Renfield.

The OnlineWelten interview hits on much of what Massively covered when we spoke with Black Prophecy's development director, but also looks at clans (guilds) and the advantages that membership can provide for players.

Gallery: Black Prophecy

Continue reading Black Prophecy interview details impact of clan resources on PvP

MassivelyBlack Prophecy interview details impact of clan resources on PvP originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 May 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-prophecyclanseconomygame-mechanicsguildskirk-lenkeonlineweltenpvpreakktor-mediaresourcessci-fispace-stationspace-stationsThu, 14 May 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A look at this week's changes to Darkfall]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/30/a-look-at-this-weeks-changes-to-darkfall/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/30/a-look-at-this-weeks-changes-to-darkfall/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/30/a-look-at-this-weeks-changes-to-darkfall/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


MMO developer Aventurine makes no bones about Darkfall being an aggressive, PvP-centric game -- one that we've seen no small amount of debate over among Massively's readers. However, like all new MMOs (and some old), there are still some kinks Aventurine is working out with Darkfall. This week's patch brought significant changes to the game, which are detailed in the official patch notes, but MMORPG.com's Darkfall Correspondent Megan Clark has written her expanded take on the changes and what they mean for the gameplay experience. Clark breaks down the April 24th patch changes as "The Good, the Bad and the Mundane."

As to the 'good', Clark points out improvements in sorting out friend from foe, crafting and trade enhancements (with greater protection when trading outside of one's own clan), and new quest lines added. The 'bad', as Clark sees it, is a 45-minute timer when quitting a clan or kicking a member. It resolves the issue of players quitting their clan to avoid conflicts with a warring clan, but it adds another risk. She says, "I feel it poses a greater threat to clans who need to kick members in an emergency to protect their members or banks." Clark explains, "Imagine if you had a rogue member of your clan killing your crafters/tradesmen in protected cities to steal their goods. The problem of an emergency kick doesn't arise often, but when you need someone out fast, that 45 minute timer will be devastating."

Megan Clark takes a good look at how Darkfall is shaping up and you can see her angle on these changes at MMORPG.com.

MassivelyA look at this week's changes to Darkfall originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 30 Apr 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aventurineclansdarkfallfantasygame-mechanicsguildsmegan-clarkmmorpg.comopinionpatch-notespatchespvpThu, 30 Apr 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Patch 1.7 to grace TR some time next week]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/04/patch-1-7-to-grace-tr-some-time-next-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/04/patch-1-7-to-grace-tr-some-time-next-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/04/patch-1-7-to-grace-tr-some-time-next-week/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Tabula Rasa community team sent out another bulletin this Friday, specifically concerning the changes that should be coming to the public test server some time between now and next week. Among the tweaks they mentioned for patch 1.7 are tweaks to the way enemy spawns and high-level AI is handled. In the Palisades, Torden Incline, and the Plains, they're looking to smooth out enemy spawn patterns, in addition to alleviating some of the tougher spots in Divide and Wilderness, where enemies that you just finished killing will often pop right back in and shoot you in the back.

They also mentioned some exciting changes the group mechanics, including the clan owned CPs (finally!) and some a new LFG system that should make the quest to find a group considerably less arduous, or so we hope. Tabula Rasa still strikes us as a solo-centric game, so we'd like to see group play pushed to the forefront, even if it means they have to beat us over the head with it.

Also, one final announcement for the especially dense among us: the Skitterin hybrid class was an April Fools' joke!

MassivelyPatch 1.7 to grace TR some time next week originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Apr 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clan-captured-cpsclansCPsgroupingskitterintabula-rasaTRtr-patch-1.7Fri, 04 Apr 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Major changes to TR PvP in the works]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/22/major-changes-to-tr-pvp-in-the-works/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/22/major-changes-to-tr-pvp-in-the-works/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/22/major-changes-to-tr-pvp-in-the-works/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


It's a PvPers delight today, as Tabula Rasa's Feedback Friday features a cameo from designer Chris Strasz. He's stepped in this week to reassure players that the design team is paying attention to the complaints about TR's fragmented PvP system, and there are fixes on the way that he hopes will improve the experience considerably. A big portion of the fixes he talks about have to do with the way that clans function. They're looking to fix many of the smaller problems that have plagued clan participation in the past, such as fixing the problem of leaderless clans and improving the clan roster window to allow players to see when clanmates were last active, as well as providing new incentives to participate like passive buffs.

They're also looking to overhaul the nature of PvP itself. They're hoping to roll out a new system of "PvP contracts" where players, squads, and clans can map out a set number of rules before engaging in Wargames. As the system exists now, squads had to sort of amiably agree to rules before fighting, and with this new system, hopefully they'll be able to write the rules in stone instead of relying on voluntary cooperation. And of course, they're looking to more ably integrate PvP into the main part of the game with clan-captured CPs and the like. While I welcome these sorts of changes, the PvP crowd is notoriously hard to please, and one wonders whether their efforts might not be better directed somewhere where they're more likely to be appreciated... like, I don't know, PvE?

MassivelyMajor changes to TR PvP in the works originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Feb 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chris-straszclan-captured-cpsclansdestination-gamesfeedback-fridayimprovementspvptabula-rasatrwargamesFri, 22 Feb 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[TR PvP to incorporate clan-captured CPs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/10/tr-pvp-to-incorporate-clan-captured-cps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/10/tr-pvp-to-incorporate-clan-captured-cps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/10/tr-pvp-to-incorporate-clan-captured-cps/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Richard Garriott, founder of the legendary Ultima series and Executive Producer for Tabula Rasa, gave a lecture this evening to the Washington D.C. chapter for the Association of Computer Machinery. Of course, being your personal guide into the complex world of MMOs, we were on-hand to cover the event. While you'll have to wait until tomorrow to see the full write-up, we couldn't resist posting this juicy bit of information that fell from the lips of one Lord British.

Addressing the issue of the near-constant feedback cycle that MMOs enjoy by virtue of being in a persistent state of development and refinement, Garriott cited Tabula Rasa's PvP as an element of the game that was being moved up the ladder of development priorities. PvP in the game's current state essentially amounts to guilds camping teleporters and hospitals, waiting for members of warring clans to appear, where they can be taken by surprise and slaughtered.

Garriott's vision for the future of the PvP system is set to feature TR's popular Capture Point gameplay mechanic. Clans will be to capture CPs for themselves, generating money based on the activities of the NPCs within the CP. This will have the dual effect of giving warring clans something to do besides spawn-camping as well as give a context for PvP that makes slightly more sense within the lore. It's always been a bit of a rough sell having fellow members of the Allied Free Sentients slaughtering each other, but the idea of clans trying to control commerce is somehow more palatable.

Again, we'll have a full write-up tomorrow.

MassivelyTR PvP to incorporate clan-captured CPs originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 10 Dec 2007 23:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ACMbreakingcapture-pointsclanscpslecturelord-britishmmospvprichard-garriottMon, 10 Dec 2007 23:15:00 EST