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 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Six reasons LotRO's Lore-masters rock]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/the-road-to-mordor-six-reasons-lotros-lore-masters-rock/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/the-road-to-mordor-six-reasons-lotros-lore-masters-rock/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/the-road-to-mordor-six-reasons-lotros-lore-masters-rock/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Road to Mordor Six reasons why Loremasters rock
In my Lord of the Rings Online career, I've played two classes far more than any others: the Captain and the Lore-master. Both scratch that "pet class" itch that I have in MMOs, both are quite group-friendly, and both seem to be somewhat unorthodox picks (at least compared to the plague of Hunters and Champions infecting the game).

I'll leave a discussion about Captains for another time, but today I felt like talking about the strangeness that is the Lore-master. It's such a unique class in feel and execution, and it's captivated me such that I'm actually leveling up my second Lore-master because I was dissatisfied with the way I handled my first one.

Maybe you've never tried one. Maybe you picked one up and just couldn't get a feel for what it was supposed to do. I'll admit that the LM is an acquired taste, partially because its skillset is all over the map and it doesn't settle into an expected template. However, it may just be the coolest class in the game. Here are six reasons why.

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Six reasons LotRO's Lore-masters rock

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Six reasons LotRO's Lore-masters rock originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 18 May 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classclass-reviewclassesf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playlmlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelore-masterlore-masterslotroopinionpetpet-classroad-to-mordorthe-road-to-mordorturbineturbine-entertainmentSat, 18 May 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mog Log: Final Fantasy XIV beta phase 1 and 2 - gathering]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/11/the-mog-log-final-fantasy-xiv-beta-phase-1-and-2-gathering/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/11/the-mog-log-final-fantasy-xiv-beta-phase-1-and-2-gathering/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/11/the-mog-log-final-fantasy-xiv-beta-phase-1-and-2-gathering/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Fit the pieces together.
We all like to stop and smell the roses. And then we like to pluck those roses, bring them home, and melt them into component enzymes that will allow us access to a temporary attack power buff. Final Fantasy XIV is beautiful, sure, but you need that attack power bonus.

If it isn't obvious, this week's stop on my whirlwind beta tour is the fine art of grabbing items from the landscape and turning them into crafting fodder. Final Fantasy XIV had quite an interesting gathering system at launch, but it also had some pretty serious problems, and so the relaunch had to completely revamp the system while retaining the soul of the original version. No pressure.

Not a whole lot changed in terms of gathering between my time in San Francisco and my time in the beta, but I did have a great deal more time to try out the gathering system. So let's take a walk on the self-sufficient side.

Continue reading The Mog Log: Final Fantasy XIV beta phase 1 and 2 - gathering

MassivelyThe Mog Log: Final Fantasy XIV beta phase 1 and 2 - gathering originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 11 May 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabetasbotanistclassclassesconsoleconsolesfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgame-mechanicsgatheringharvestingmog-logopinionsquaresquare-enixsquenixthe-mog-logSat, 11 May 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you avoid 'evil' classes?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/the-daily-grind-do-you-avoid-evil-classes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/the-daily-grind-do-you-avoid-evil-classes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/the-daily-grind-do-you-avoid-evil-classes/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Daily Grind Do you avoid 'evil' classes
Having started to play a Necromancer in Guild Wars 2 lately, I've been thinking about how odd it is that some MMO classes are kind of, well, evil. Or at least really, really gross, unless you think that playing with corpses is something a normal, well-adjusted citizen does. Summoning zombies, consorting with demons, even stealing from others -- sometimes our classes do unsavory activities. One could even call them... evil.

Perhaps this depends on the morality of the beholder, but I know that I've spoken to players from time to time who just don't pick classes that can be construed as evil even if they're using their corpse-exploding habits for the greater good. Usually it just doesn't fit in with their perception of what a hero is, and that is that.

What about you? Do you avoid "evil" classes, are you attracted to them, or do you not think about it one way or the other?

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 avoid 'evil' classes? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 May 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbuy-to-playclassclassesdaily-grindevilfantasyguild-wars-2gw2ncsoftnecromanceropiniontdgthe-daily-grindthiefwarlockWed, 01 May 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR wraps up expansion class changes with the Sith Inquisitor and Jedi Consular]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/swtor-wraps-up-expansion-class-changes-with-the-sith-inquisitor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/swtor-wraps-up-expansion-class-changes-with-the-sith-inquisitor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/swtor-wraps-up-expansion-class-changes-with-the-sith-inquisitor/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

SWTOR wraps up expansion class changes with the Sith Inquisitor and Jedi Consular
Star Wars: The Old Republic has finished up the last of eight dev diaries featuring changes to the game's classes following Rise of the Hutt Cartel's release. On the docket for today is the Sith Inquisitor and Jedi Consular, mirrored classes that have mirrored adjustments.

Both classes now have stronger heals (Dark Heal and Benevolence), cooldown-free shields (Static Barrier and Force Armor), and class-wide access to 10 seconds of faster casting and interrupt blocking (Polarity Shift and Mental Alacrity). Both classes also have been treated to a new skill, Force Barrier, which offers total protection for up to 10 seconds of channeling.

There are plenty of other detailed changes to the advanced classes and roles, so check these diaries out if you're in tune with the Force in a way that makes the rest of us jealous.

MassivelySWTOR wraps up expansion class changes with the Sith Inquisitor and Jedi Consular originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Apr 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareclassclass-changesclassesdev-diaryeaelectronic-artsexpansionf2pfree-to-playhutt-carteljedi-consularlucasartsrise-of-the-hutt-cartelrothcsci-fisith-inquisitorstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorFri, 19 Apr 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR reloads Bounty Hunters and Troopers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/swtor-reloads-bounty-hunters-and-troopers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/swtor-reloads-bounty-hunters-and-troopers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/swtor-reloads-bounty-hunters-and-troopers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

SWTOR reloads Bounty Hunters and Troopers
The dev diary march to cover all of the changes to Star Wars: The Old Republic's classes continues, with today's twin postings focusing on the Bounty Hunter and Trooper.

Bounty Hunters should have an easier go at it now, as BioWare's handing out Hydraulic Overrides and Chaff Flares to everyone. The team also redesigned the Kolto Overload skill to give the class a huge bump to survivability when it activates. Over on the Trooper side of things, the team's brought the class' resource mechanic in line with the Trooper's Bounty Hunter counterpart. All Troopers now get Hold the Line and Diversion skills, as well as a more survival-happy Adrenaline Rush.

The smaller but still significant tweaks to the advanced classes are worth reading carefully if you play one of these classes, as there are plenty to note.

MassivelySWTOR reloads Bounty Hunters and Troopers originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Apr 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebounty-hunterclassclassesdev-diaryeaelectronic-artsexpansionf2pfree-to-playhutt-cartellucasartsrise-of-the-hutt-cartelrothcsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictortrooperThu, 18 Apr 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIV shows off the jobs and professions of 2.0]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/final-fantasy-xiv-shows-off-the-jobs-and-professions-of-2-0/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/final-fantasy-xiv-shows-off-the-jobs-and-professions-of-2-0/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/final-fantasy-xiv-shows-off-the-jobs-and-professions-of-2-0/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Final Fantasy XIV shows off the jobs and professions of 20
As Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn takes shape, so does its website. Square-Enix has updated the official site with scads of new screenshots for many of the game's jobs and professions. We've saved you the time it would take to comb through the entire site hunting each of these down by compiling all of them in one handy-dandy gallery. Behold!

Gallery: Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn jobs and professions

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XIV shows off the jobs and professions of 2.0 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Apr 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classclassesconsoleconsolesfantasyffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgalleryprofessionprofessionsscreenshotssquaresquare-enixThu, 18 Apr 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Neverwinter Days: Choosing your first class]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/neverwinter-days-choosing-your-first-class/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/neverwinter-days-choosing-your-first-class/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/neverwinter-days-choosing-your-first-class/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Neverwinter Days Choosing your first class
Ready to play some Neverwinter? It looks as though Cryptic is ready to pull the trigger on this bad boy, with a soft launch (open beta with no wipes) starting on April 25th for founders and April 30th for everyone else. While I'm not surprised that the studio is moving ahead with the launch, I still wish that Neverwinter were being held back a few months to get more testing time and to add more classes.

You see, five classes doesn't seem like enough to me, especially in a D&D MMO. Yes, there's plenty of room for growth here, and I'm sure that Cryptic will be charging for each new class rolled out, but five? That's pretty paltry, especially when you read this prospective list.

But I'm not in charge of development and schedules; I'm just a humble gamer and writer. So I'll lift my chin and get excited for the fact that, hey, we're going to be playing non-wipeable Neverwinter soon! That means that we all have just a couple of weeks to make a crucial decision: What class will we roll first? Let's take a look at the big five and see what the options are.

Continue reading Neverwinter Days: Choosing your first class

MassivelyNeverwinter Days: Choosing your first class originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 17 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaclassclassescontrol-wizardcrypticcryptic-studiosdevoted-clericdnddungeons-and-dragonsf2pfantasyfeaturedfoundryfree-to-playgreat-weapon-fighteguardian-fighterneverwinterneverwinter-daysneverwinter-nightsopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentPGCplayer-generated-contentpwethe-foundrytrickster-rogueWed, 17 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR brings Smugglers and Imperial Agents up to date]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/swtor-brings-smugglers-and-imperial-agents-up-to-date/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/swtor-brings-smugglers-and-imperial-agents-up-to-date/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/swtor-brings-smugglers-and-imperial-agents-up-to-date/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

SWTOR brings Smugglers and Imperial Agents up to date
With Rise of the Hutt Cartel finally open for business, the folks at BioWare are doing their best to educate players on the significant changes in Star Wars: The Old Republic's first expansion. Today sees not one but two class dev diaries itemizing the tweaks and upgrades to the Smuggler and the Imperial Agent.

As both classes mirror each other and use similar skills, the twin dev diaries cover mostly the same basic topics. Alacrity has been buffed to genuinely speed up attacks, DoTs are cheaper to throw down, shields now absorb any type of damage, and accuracy's importance has been raised when you're fighting elite and tougher mobs.

The diaries also cover changes to specific advanced classes and skill trees. BioWare says that it will be releasing similar diaries for the remaining six classes in the near future.

MassivelySWTOR brings Smugglers and Imperial Agents up to date originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Apr 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareclassclassesdev-diarydeveloper-diaryeaelectronic-artsexpansionf2pfree-to-playhutt-cartelimperial-agentlucasartsrise-of-the-hutt-cartelrothcsci-fismugglerstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorTue, 16 Apr 2013 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Neverwinter closes in on another beta weekend with the Great Weapon Fighter]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/11/neverwinter-closes-in-on-another-beta-weekend-with-the-great-wea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/11/neverwinter-closes-in-on-another-beta-weekend-with-the-great-wea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/11/neverwinter-closes-in-on-another-beta-weekend-with-the-great-wea/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

I'm going to fight this weapon so hard.
Some people are pretty good at fighting weapons, but sometimes you just need a great weapon fighter. Someone who really fights weapons better than...

Wait, we're sorry. Neverwinter's Great Weapon Fighter is a class that fights with great weapons, not a great fighter of weapons. The name can be read a couple of different ways, but since the class is on display in the latest spotlight (complete with video past the break) you can clear up any misconceptions about it fairly easily.

Of course, you can't quite clear up those misconceptions via open beta, since Neverwinter isn't opening the gates until April 30th. Founders and other beta testers can enjoy the game's latest beta weekend very soon, however, with the test period starting on Friday at 3:00 p.m. EDT. This latest weekend is featuring both the crafting system and the new Gateway system, so testers should look forward to several new features starting on Friday.

Continue reading Neverwinter closes in on another beta weekend with the Great Weapon Fighter

MassivelyNeverwinter closes in on another beta weekend with the Great Weapon Fighter originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 11 Apr 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmobetabeta-schedulebeta-testbeta-weekendclassclassesclosed-betacrypticcryptic-studiosdndf2pfantasyfree-to-playgame-mechanicsneverwinteropen-betaperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwetrailertrailersvideovideosThu, 11 Apr 2013 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you like class quests?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/03/the-daily-grind-do-you-like-class-quests/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/03/the-daily-grind-do-you-like-class-quests/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/03/the-daily-grind-do-you-like-class-quests/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Daily Grind Do you like class quests
Apart from Star Wars: The Old Republic, which has tailored half of the game to be such, class quests seems to be a concept on the way out of design popularity. These are quests that are specifically tailored to a class' abilities and story, while not being accessible by folks in other professions.

I rather like class quests when I encountered them. They made me feel a little special, like I was part of an "exclusive" club that the rest of the game's classes wouldn't be able to see. What's better is that these missions helped me get into the spirit of the class and identify more strongly with it.

What about you? Do you like class quests when you encounter them? Do you think there should be more class-specific activities or should they be eliminated altogether?

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 like class quests? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Apr 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareclassclass-contentclass-missionsclass-questsclassesdaily-grindeaelectronic-artsf2pfree-to-playlucasartsopinionsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtortdgthe-daily-grindthe-old-republictorWed, 03 Apr 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: The coming LotRO class apocalypse and how you can survive it]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/30/the-road-to-mordor-the-coming-lotro-class-apocalypse-and-how-yo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/30/the-road-to-mordor-the-coming-lotro-class-apocalypse-and-how-yo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/30/the-road-to-mordor-the-coming-lotro-class-apocalypse-and-how-yo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The Road to Mordor The coming class apocalypse and how you can survive it
Out of the four primary goals that the Lord of the Rings Online team has stated for 2013, the promise of class revamps has proven to be the most nerve-wracking -- and intriguing -- among the populace. After all, when you say that "significant changes" are coming to classes and don't follow up with any sort of significant details, speculation and worry is going to run amok.

Last September I argued that classes did need a shakeup. While the whole structure isn't without its redeeming (ahem) virtues, I believed that it wasn't intuitive for new players, that there wasn't really any growth in the abilities or builds of characters post-Moria, and that much of the deed system was simply too grindy.

That's why I'm cautiously optimistic about the "coming class apocalypse" in 2013 -- I'm tired of the status quo. LotRO has an opportunity to cut the dead weight and make leveling interesting all over again. Let's take a look at a few statements by the dev team to deduce what we'll be looking at when it happens.

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: The coming LotRO class apocalypse and how you can survive it

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: The coming LotRO class apocalypse and how you can survive it originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 30 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classclass-revampclass-treesexpansionf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playkate-paizlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroMatt-Zimmittiopinionriders-of-rohanroad-to-mordorrorskill-treestalent-treesthe-road-to-mordorturbineturbine-entertainmentSat, 30 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[See Neverwinter's Devoted Cleric in action]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/see-neverwinters-devoted-cleric-in-action/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/see-neverwinters-devoted-cleric-in-action/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/see-neverwinters-devoted-cleric-in-action/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Neverwinter's Devoted Cleric in action
Neverwinter's Devoted Cleric isn't your standard battle cleric with a mace and religious pamphlets but a long-distance spellcaster who has the ability to fling heals and death from afar while holding up a ridiculously huge icon.

Cryptic's hoping to sell the class to you via a snazzy montage that involves an awful lot of light and pizazz. Perhaps too much pizazz. It must be hard for these guys and gals to brush their teeth in the morning without the place lighting up like a discotheque.

Check out the montage video after the jump and let us know if this will be the class for you on launch day!

Continue reading See Neverwinter's Devoted Cleric in action

MassivelySee Neverwinter's Devoted Cleric in action originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Mar 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoclasscrypticcryptic-studiosdevoted-clericdndf2pfantasyfree-to-playmontageneverwinterperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwetrailervideoThu, 28 Mar 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Nexus Telegraph: More WildStar class speculation]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/18/the-nexus-telegraph-more-wildstar-class-speculation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/18/the-nexus-telegraph-more-wildstar-class-speculation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/18/the-nexus-telegraph-more-wildstar-class-speculation/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The official Facebook page has neat screenshots that don't always tie into the theme.
WildStar got a website overhaul not too long ago, giving those of us watching the game a bit more information about the class setup. All four classes have their limitations on display along with the roles that those classes will play -- meaning we're now sitting at two healers, two tanks, and two more class placeholders that have yet to be revealed, which did nicely shoot my speculation about the class/role division in the throat, but I'm not exactly complaining.

Of course, knowing who can be what means that we have a clearer picture of WildStar's structure, and that means we can speculate about how the rest of that structure will be filled in. So with full knowledge that I might turn out to be wrong before the week is out, I'm going to guess at what's coming around the bend in terms of the game's classes and how the classes will play in their respective roles.

Continue reading The Nexus Telegraph: More WildStar class speculation

MassivelyThe Nexus Telegraph: More WildStar class speculation originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 18 Mar 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbinecarbine-studiosclassclassescolumnfeaturedgame-mechanicsncsoftnexusnexus-telegraphopinionpossibilitysandparksci-fantasysci-fispeculationthe-nexus-telegraphwild-speculationwildstarMon, 18 Mar 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with Neverwinter's Control Wizard]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/hands-on-with-neverwinters-control-wizard/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/hands-on-with-neverwinters-control-wizard/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/hands-on-with-neverwinters-control-wizard/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Handson with Neverwinter's Control Wizard
This past weekend was Neverwinter's second beta event, and with it came a number of new additions. The Foundry was open for business, the tutorial was expanded, the level cap was increased, and new zones were available to explore. Above all that was the availability of a fourth class over the first beta event's three: the Control Wizard.

Along with what seemed like the entire state of New Jersey, I rolled a Control Wizard to give Neverwinter's offensive magic user a test drive. The Wizard is a mixture of familiar fantasy aspects with a dash of unexpectedly awesome differences. So while I was casting the same-old elemental spells (all fantasy magic users seem to know only four elements due to a lack of imagination on behalf of the creators), I was also tossing in spells to mess with enemies and keep them off my back.

Here are my early hands-on impressions of the Control Wizard, a class that I'll definitely be playing at launch.

Continue reading Hands-on with Neverwinter's Control Wizard

MassivelyHands-on with Neverwinter's Control Wizard originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Mar 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmobetabeta-testbeta-testingbeta-weekendclasscontrol-wizardcrypticcryptic-studiosdndf2pfantasyfeaturedfirst-impressionsfree-to-playhands-onneverwinterperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpreviewpreviewspwetestingwizardMon, 11 Mar 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Neverwinter beta Half-Orc character creation video preview]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/09/neverwinter-beta-half-orc-character-creation-video-preview/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/09/neverwinter-beta-half-orc-character-creation-video-preview/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/09/neverwinter-beta-half-orc-character-creation-video-preview/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Neverwinter Half-orc Screenshot
Are you looking forward to playing Neverwinter but uninspired by the racial options that were available in the first beta weekend? Does the idea of creating a mundane Human or diminutive Halfling fail to get your adrenaline pumping? Is the potential of the dour disposition of the Dwarves ruined by their short stature? Would a passing thought of playing a delicate Elf be enough to unravel the very core of your being? If you answered yes to all of these questions, then you'll be happy to hear that Half-Orcs are now in Neverwinter!

Want to see them in action? Enjoy Massively's Half-Orc character creation preview video after the cut.

Continue reading Neverwinter beta Half-Orc character creation video preview

MassivelyNeverwinter beta Half-Orc character creation video preview originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 09 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmocharacter-creationcharactersclassclassescrypticcryptic-studiosdndf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playguideguideshands-onneverwinterperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpreviewpreviewspweraceracestrailertrailersvideovideosSat, 09 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WAKFU welcomes the Masqueraider]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/27/wakfu-welcomes-the-masqueraider/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/27/wakfu-welcomes-the-masqueraider/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/27/wakfu-welcomes-the-masqueraider/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

WAKFU welcomes the Masqueraider
First of all, the Masqueraider may be either the absolute best or worst class name ever devised depending on your tolerance for puns. Second of all, it's WAKFU's 15th class. Third of all, it's here, so go check it out.

The Masqueraider switches between roles using a clever mask system. While the first couple of skills in any line are available no matter what mask is worn, all of the other skills are mask-dependent. The masks range from coward (which relies on heals, escapes, and ranged DPS) to classic (which allows for excellent melee combat and helpful auras). There's even a Psychopath mask, which gives you a shortcut to the game's forums so that you can quickly write rants. Just kidding -- it's all about fire DPS.

The Masqueraider was part of WAKFU's February 26th update, which also included AP set rebalancing and profession bags.

MassivelyWAKFU welcomes the Masqueraider originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Feb 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ankamaclassf2pfree-to-playmasqueraiderpatchpoliticssandboxsesquare-enixsquenixstrategystrategy-mmosubsubscriptionturn-based-combatupdatewakfuWed, 27 Feb 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Nexus Telegraph: Bringing class into WildStar]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/the-nexus-telegraph-bringing-class-into-wildstar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/the-nexus-telegraph-bringing-class-into-wildstar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/the-nexus-telegraph-bringing-class-into-wildstar/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

A robot with a sword seems like it's gotten weapons the wrong way around.
Last week's column was all about unpacking the Dominion, something that I'll be doing more of over the course of this week, but not every reveal was focused around the more aristocratic side of WildStar. I suppose that the Stalker could be seen as aristocratic with the right concept, but the point is that Stalker is the fourth class revealed and the first new one we've heard about since the original three. Knowing the name alone gives a pretty clear picture of what the class is all about, but we've also had a chance to see a little of the stealthy claw machine in action.

Of course, at the moment we don't know much beyond those basics. They're sneaky, they're dangerous in close combat, and they apparently play very well with the Draken philosophy. So let's talk about the classes in general and how they relate to what we know of the game thus far, including the obvious question about whether or not this is all we get in terms of classes to play.

Continue reading The Nexus Telegraph: Bringing class into WildStar

MassivelyThe Nexus Telegraph: Bringing class into WildStar originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Feb 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbinecarbine-studiosclassclass-mechanicsclassescolumnfeaturedgame-classesgame-mechanicsncsoftnexusnexus-telegraphopinionsandparksci-fantasysci-fispeculationthe-nexus-telegraphwildstarMon, 25 Feb 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIV's Yoshida on PvP, chocobos, and mobile apps]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/final-fantasy-xivs-yoshida-on-pvp-chocobos-and-mobile-apps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/final-fantasy-xivs-yoshida-on-pvp-chocobos-and-mobile-apps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/final-fantasy-xivs-yoshida-on-pvp-chocobos-and-mobile-apps/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

I find it really ironic that this was one of the header photos the community team used.
The recent Final Fantasy XIV press event in San Francisco didn't just mean a chance to sit down and play the game amidst a lushly decorated room, although that was certainly on the agenda. It also meant a chance to ask director and producer Naoki Yoshida some questions about the game going forward and the plans for development down the line, diving beyond what we see and into more fine details about the game's mechanics.

While players will have access to a sizable chunk of the revamped game when the beta goes live on February 25th, there's still a lot that's hidden behind a veil of secrecy. Yoshida's answers help illuminate more details about what's going on in Final Fantasy XIV that might not be playable right now but will be in the near future. And even beyond the foundation that's visible from the beta, the promise of more expansion only adds to the game's overall quality.

Continue reading Final Fantasy XIV's Yoshida on PvP, chocobos, and mobile apps

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XIV's Yoshida on PvP, chocobos, and mobile apps originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Feb 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-realm-rebornclassclassesconsoleconsolesfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivffxiv-version-2.0final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgatheringhousinginterviewinterviewsmobile-appmobile-functionalitypress-eventpreviewpreviewsprofessionspvprelaunchrevampsquaresquare-enixtest-phasestestingupcoming-systemsThu, 21 Feb 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Camelot Unchained: Balanced classes out, rock-paper-scissors in]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/18/camelot-unchained-balanced-classes-out-rock-paper-scissors-in/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/18/camelot-unchained-balanced-classes-out-rock-paper-scissors-in/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/18/camelot-unchained-balanced-classes-out-rock-paper-scissors-in/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Camelot Unchained Balanced classes out, rockpaperscissors in
In his latest lecture series on Camelot Unchained game design, Mark Jacobs discusses his team's approach to class design for the title and how it won't go with the flow of most MMOs. In fact, he says that the effort to carefully balance classes has proved a detriment to the industry, and as such, Camelot Unchained will pursue a rock-paper-scissors structure.

Why is Jacobs going down this route? In short, it just doesn't fit an RvR-focused game. "[Rock-paper-scissors] lends an element of unpredictability and it gives us so much more freedom to explore different classes/abilities without worrying about having everything equally balanced 100% all the time," he wrote.

Jacobs finishes his lecture by saying that the studio is adapting CCP's development model: "Start small, iterate and then build, baby, build."

MassivelyCamelot Unchained: Balanced classes out, rock-paper-scissors in originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 18 Feb 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balancecamelotcamelot-unchainedchoicescity-statecity-state-entertainmentclassclass-balanceclassesdev-blogdev-diarymark-jacobspvprock-paper-scissorsrvrMon, 18 Feb 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Six reasons why Minstrels rule]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/16/the-road-to-mordor-six-reasons-why-minstrels-rule/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/16/the-road-to-mordor-six-reasons-why-minstrels-rule/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/16/the-road-to-mordor-six-reasons-why-minstrels-rule/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Road to Mordor Six reasons why Minstrels rule
In the gaming world, you're either a bard person or you're not; there's no middle ground. For some, the concept of a character attacking with music and "inspiring" fellow adventurers with top 40 tunes is incredibly weird, even though armies used to employ musicians all the time for tempo and morale. For others, using music to help and hurt is a refreshing change of pace from fireballs and 70-pound impractical swords.

Over the five-plus year adventure that I've had in Lord of the Rings Online, I've rolled many-a Minstrel, although I've yet to make one my main. I've always loved the concept of the class, especially within Tolkien's IP, where music fills an important niche in the books. Music has power in Middle-earth, and the Minstrel is the one with the skills to defeat Sauron with mad lute skills.

As a tribute to this awesome class, here are six reasons why Minstrels rule -- and why you should try one out if you haven't already.

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Six reasons why Minstrels rule

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Six reasons why Minstrels rule originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 16 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bagpipebagpipesbardbardsclassclassesf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrominstrelminstrelsmusicopinionroad-to-mordorsword-and-boardthe-road-to-mordorturbineturbine-entertainmentSat, 16 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Neverwinter's Guardian Fighter gets her 80s montage sequence]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/15/neverwinters-guardian-fighter-gets-her-80s-montage-sequence/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/15/neverwinters-guardian-fighter-gets-her-80s-montage-sequence/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/15/neverwinters-guardian-fighter-gets-her-80s-montage-sequence/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Neverwinter's Guardian Fighter gets her 80s montage sequence
A good montage can tell you so much in a tight time frame, although if you blink you might miss the entirety of this particular one. Neverwinter put together a quick 45-second montage of the Guardian Fighter in action, with all of the shield-bashing, sword-slashing fury that the class can muster.

The Guardian Fighter was one of three classes available in last weekend's beta event. It relies heavily on AoE attacks and a defensive posture to stand toe-to-toe with the big baddies.

You can watch the Guardian Fighter in action after the break, and then perhaps go way back to watch the official class video that came out a while ago.

Continue reading Neverwinter's Guardian Fighter gets her 80s montage sequence

MassivelyNeverwinter's Guardian Fighter gets her 80s montage sequence originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 Feb 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmobetaclasscrypticcryptic-studiosdndf2pfantasyfree-to-playguardian-fightermontageneverwinterperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwevideoFri, 15 Feb 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Everyone's a potential traitor... even you: WildStar's Dominion faction]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/everyones-a-potential-traitor-even-you-wildstars-dominion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/everyones-a-potential-traitor-even-you-wildstars-dominion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/everyones-a-potential-traitor-even-you-wildstars-dominion/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Dominion
Last week, we revealed WildStar's Exile faction -- a Firefly-esque group of rebels, pirates, and vagabonds. Today, we're finally able to put our eyeballs on the game's Dominion faction, including three of its four races, plus a newly unveiled class, the Stalker.

My instinct was to assume that the Dominion faction was meant to be a parallel to Firefly's Alliance -- space cowboys versus authoritarian aristocrats. But having explored them in more detail, I saw a lot more of Star Wars and Allods Online than I expected, and that's brilliant. Allods also has two factions, the "evil" one of which is a unique blend of Imperial Russian industrial dieselpunk and high-society technocracy. Blend that with Human High Culture propaganda from the Star Wars Extended Universe and maybe a dash of Brazil's dystopian humor and you've got WildStar's Dominion.

But don't take just my word for it. Let's have a look at the videos!

Continue reading Everyone's a potential traitor... even you: WildStar's Dominion faction

MassivelyEveryone's a potential traitor... even you: WildStar's Dominion faction originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Feb 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allods-onlinecarbinecarbine-studioscassiancassian-humanclassclassesdominiondraeneidrakeneldanfeaturedfireflygalleriesgalleryhands-oninterviewinterviewsJeremy-Gaffneymecharincsoftpreviewpreviewsraceracessandparksatyrsci-fantasysci-fiscreenshotscreenshotsstalkertrailertrailersvideovideoswildstarWorld-of-WarcraftwowwsWed, 13 Feb 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Neverwinter unveils the Devoted Cleric]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/08/neverwinter-unveils-the-devoted-cleric/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/08/neverwinter-unveils-the-devoted-cleric/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/08/neverwinter-unveils-the-devoted-cleric/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Sickness and health, I guess.
There's a lot of devotion running around in Neverwinter, and usually it's not something to be fond of. Most of the game features a plethora of foes devoted to the idea of ripping your character limb from limb, for example. But devotion isn't all bad. Take the newest class for the game, the Devoted Cleric, a beacon of healing light that will hinder foes, help allies, and always remain faithful to you even if you wear that hat he absolutely hates.

Devoted Clerics have two at-will abilities under normal circumstances: a standard attack and a lighter attack that also heals allies for a small amount. As the Devoted Cleric attacks, he builds up Divinity, which allows him to shift into different at-will abilities -- a channeled beam of damage or a channeled heal that restores both the target and the cleric. Take a closer look at the class mechanics on the official site, or see the class in action in the trailer past the cut.

[Source: Perfect World Entertainment press release]

Continue reading Neverwinter unveils the Devoted Cleric

MassivelyNeverwinter unveils the Devoted Cleric originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 08 Feb 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoclassclass-mechanicsclassesclericclericscrypticcryptic-studiosdevoted-clericdndf2pfantasyfree-to-playgame-mechanicsneverwinternew-classperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpreviewpwevideovideosFri, 08 Feb 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's video guide to Neverwinter character creation]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/08/massivelys-video-guide-to-neverwinter-character-creation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/08/massivelys-video-guide-to-neverwinter-character-creation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/08/massivelys-video-guide-to-neverwinter-character-creation/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Neverwinter screenshot
Are you impatiently waiting to get your Dungeons and Dragons on in the upcoming Neverwinter beta events? Then we're sure you have already planned out what your character will look like. No? Well then, let us help you.

Yesterday, we previewed the character creation tools for Cryptic's upcoming MMO, but we didn't showcase all of the customization options for every race. Today we remedy that with not one but six videos showing off all of the hairstyles, faces, scars, and tattoos for both genders of every race!

Enjoy the previews after the cut.

Continue reading Massively's video guide to Neverwinter character creation

MassivelyMassively's video guide to Neverwinter character creation originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 08 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmocharacter-creationcharactersclassclassescrypticcryptic-studiosdndf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playguideguidesneverwinterperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpreviewpreviewspweraceracestrailertrailersvideovideosFri, 08 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What's the goofiest class name in an MMO?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/01/the-daily-grind-whats-the-goofiest-class-name-in-an-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/01/the-daily-grind-whats-the-goofiest-class-name-in-an-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/01/the-daily-grind-whats-the-goofiest-class-name-in-an-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

He's pretty damn great.
If a game's gotta have classes, I say they need to sound awesome. I'm bored of Paladins and Assassins and Clerics and Warriors; I want to see Troubadors and Deadeyes and Tempests and Saboteurs and Disco Bandits. Some games, like Wakfu, have made class names into an artform: Foggernaut. Xelor's Sandglass. Sram's Shadow.

What I don't get is why a Western game company would go to the trouble of implementing class names that sound like weird translations or just generic words mashed together. I'll forgive Korean devs for the Sheath Knight. I'll forgive sandboxes for mundane Bureaucrats and Beggars. But Neverwinter's Great Weapon Fighter is just screaming for a rewrite. Or at least a hyphen.

What about you guys -- what class name would you like to see stricken from the roster of your favorite MMO? And what names stand out as the most badass?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What's the goofiest class name in an MMO? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 01 Feb 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brianna-royce-tdgclassclass-namesclassesdaily-grindgreat-weapon-fighternameneverwinteropiniontdgthe-daily-grindFri, 01 Feb 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mog Log: Final Fantasy XIV's Armoury system, yesterday and tomorrow]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/22/the-mog-log-final-fantasy-xivs-armoury-system-yesterday-and-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/22/the-mog-log-final-fantasy-xivs-armoury-system-yesterday-and-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/22/the-mog-log-final-fantasy-xivs-armoury-system-yesterday-and-t/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The Mog Log header by A. Fienemann
Final Fantasy XIV has always sold its class system on the idea that you use it more as an a la carte buffet. Abilities you learn in one class are useful in another class, and as a result, your Gladiator is a mix of several different abilities in a single package. The idea at launch was that mixing abilities and inherent mechanics would produce very different characters based on the needs of circumstance and your personal playstyle.

This is not what happened. Nor is it what happened following the large ability revamp, which actually wound up making cross-class skills less useful in many areas.

When the game relaunches, odds are good that the current system will be largely intact, at least at a conceptual level. (You have your class abilities and then a selection of abilities from other classes that you've learned, in other words.) And it's my hope that on this third pass through the system, the development team gets things just right. But let's take a look at the first two versions first.

Continue reading The Mog Log: Final Fantasy XIV's Armoury system, yesterday and tomorrow

MassivelyThe Mog Log: Final Fantasy XIV's Armoury system, yesterday and tomorrow originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 22 Dec 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilitiesarmouryarmoury-systembalancecharacter-buildsclassclassesconsoleconsolesfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgame-mechanicsmechanicsmog-logopinionskillssquaresquare-enixsquenixthe-mog-loguseful-abilitiesuseful-skillsSat, 22 Dec 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pocket Legends adds Paladin and Ranger classes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/13/pocket-legends-adds-paladin-and-ranger-classes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/13/pocket-legends-adds-paladin-and-ranger-classes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/13/pocket-legends-adds-paladin-and-ranger-classes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Pocket Legends adds Paladin and Ranger classes
Three's company no longer; Spacetime Studios is adding two new classes to its smash hit Pocket Legends, bringing up the grand total of available characters to five. The new classes to be included in today's update are the Vixen Ranger and the Rhino Paladin. The Ranger looks to be a dual-wielding fighter while the Paladin is geared out as a classic tank.

The new classes aren't the only things being added today. The update has a new level 76 red dragon to defeat, additional dungeons, a heroic instance, a 3v3 capture-the-flag map, more options for existing classes' skills, and the game's Winterfest holiday event.

[Source: Spacetime Studios press release]

MassivelyPocket Legends adds Paladin and Ranger classes originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Dec 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>christmaschristmas-2012classclassescontent-patchcontent-updatef2pfreefree-to-playholidayholiday-2012paladinpatchpocket-legendsrangerspacetimespacetime-studiosupdatewinterfestThu, 13 Dec 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter at Your Own Rift: Build to win]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/enter-at-your-own-rift-build-to-win/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/enter-at-your-own-rift-build-to-win/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/enter-at-your-own-rift-build-to-win/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Enter at Your Own Rift Building off the backs of others
We've arrived at the point in RIFT's post-expansion launch cycle when I'm genuinely embarrassed to admit how slowly I've progressed. While many of you are probably 60 and living the high life in the endgame, I'm still (mumbles) 51. I have many excuses for this: a newborn at home, flip-flopping interest between my Rogue and Cleric, a lot of experimentation in Dimensions, and Storm Legion's generally slow leveling pace. But perhaps my greatest excuse stems from one of the core features of the game. I keep making new builds and experimenting with them.

Is that my fault? After all, with just one the addition of one new soul per calling a legion of new builds arose. Pun intended. Players on the forums are crunching numbers, fiddling with old builds, and magicking new ones out of thin air.

I've become fascinated if not addicted to testing out these player-created builds as of late. Some promise the world and are sadly lacking, while others have shown me synergies that I didn't realize were possible.

Continue reading Enter at Your Own Rift: Build to win

MassivelyEnter at Your Own Rift: Build to win originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Dec 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buildbuildscaptain-n-the-game-masterclassclassesconquestenter-at-your-own-riftexpansionfantasyfeaturedopinionpvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrsoulsoul-buildssoul-treesoulsstorm-legiontelarathree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsWed, 12 Dec 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aion 4.0 will bring an increased level cap and new skills]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/30/aion-4-0-will-bring-an-increased-level-cap-and-new-skills/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/30/aion-4-0-will-bring-an-increased-level-cap-and-new-skills/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/30/aion-4-0-will-bring-an-increased-level-cap-and-new-skills/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Aion 40 will bring an increased level cap and new skills
In case new classes and a new region weren't enough to whet your appetite, Aion's 4.0 update is raising the level cap and ushering in some new skills! The new level cap will be 65, up from 3.0's cap at 60.

What good is a level cap raise without some skills to populate the new progression? No good at all, of course. Gladiators, Rangers, Clerics, and Chanters will get shiny new survival skills. Spiritmasters, Sorcerers, Assassions, Templars, and Gladiators will get their hands on some powerful offensive skills. Finally, a new skill type is being introduced: Charged skills will have stronger effects based on how long they are charged, and it's up to the caster to decide how long to channel them. These skills will include "Induce Sleep" for Sorcerers, which will keep the target asleep longer based on the length of the charge; "Healing Splendour" for Clerics, which will heal members more based on charge duration; and "Lethal Strike," a Chanter skill that can be charged for greater damage.

MassivelyAion 4.0 will bring an increased level cap and new skills originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Nov 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4.0aionAion-4.0ascensionclassclassesf2pfantasyfree-to-playncsoftskillskillstruly-freeupdate-4.0Fri, 30 Nov 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Darkfall posts a new preview of the Battle-Brand role]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/21/darkfall-posts-a-new-preview-of-the-battle-brand-role/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/21/darkfall-posts-a-new-preview-of-the-battle-brand-role/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/21/darkfall-posts-a-new-preview-of-the-battle-brand-role/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Darkfall rejects your idea about bandages being a physical thing.
You should know your role in Darkfall Unholy Wars. After all, your role determines a lot of what you're capable of doing at any given time, so it's pretty important. The newest development blog on the game gives a preview of one of the updated re-release's new roles for the Warrior, the defensive school known as the Battle-Brand. This is not a role for going out and making people miserable; this is a role for ruining the days of those trying to make you miserable.

The Battle-Brand's abilities include two self-buffs to reduce magical damage taken and reflect a portion of damage taken back to the source. It also features Foebringer, an AoE pull for all nearby enemies, and Bandage, a self-healing spell to keep the Warrior up longer. Last but not least is the ultimate ability, Stoic Defense, which makes the Warrior entirely immune to damage for a short time while consuming mana and stamina. Take a look at the role's abilities in action in a preview video just past the cut.

[Thanks to bartillo for the tip!]

Continue reading Darkfall posts a new preview of the Battle-Brand role

MassivelyDarkfall posts a new preview of the Battle-Brand role originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Nov 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilitiesability-previewagonaventurinebattle-brandclassclassesdarkfalldarkfall-unholy-warsdefensedefensivedfdfuwfantasyopen-pvppreviewpvpre-releaserolerolessandboxunholy-warsvideovideosWed, 21 Nov 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wizardry Online revealing class and chat info this evening]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/21/wizardry-online-revealing-class-and-chat-info-this-evening/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/21/wizardry-online-revealing-class-and-chat-info-this-evening/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/21/wizardry-online-revealing-class-and-chat-info-this-evening/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Wizardry Online revealing class and chat info this evening
If you have more questions about Wizardry Online than have been answered to date, hopefully you'll start to fill in those gaps come this evening. The devs are preparing to release a post on the official Wizardry Online Wiki that will shed some light on the various classes as well as the in-game chat system.

The classes set to be revealed are the melee Fighters, healer Priests, hard-hitting Thieves, and ranged Mages. The studio is giving each class a difficulty and survivability rating, as well as the alignment and requirements to roll one.

It looks as though Wizardry Online will handle its game population through automatic world instances called channels. New channels will be created when the number of players demand it, and players can choose a specific channel, a type of channel, or the first available channel upon logging in.

Keep an eye on the wiki for the dev blog to go live at 6:00 p.m. EST tonight.

[Source: SOE press release]

MassivelyWizardry Online revealing class and chat info this evening originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Nov 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betachannelschatchat-channelclassclass-revealdev-diarygamepothardcoreopen-pvppermadeathpkplayer-killingpvpsir-techsoesony-online-entertainmentwikiwizardrywizardry-onlineWed, 21 Nov 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Age of Wushu invites you to be a beggar]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/20/age-of-wushu-invites-you-to-be-a-beggar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/20/age-of-wushu-invites-you-to-be-a-beggar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/20/age-of-wushu-invites-you-to-be-a-beggar/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Age of Wushu invites you to be a begger
MMO players are definitely used to being recruited to fill heroic roles, but what about jumping into the shoes of a street bum? That doesn't happen as often. Don't tell that to Age of Wushu, however, as this contrarian sandbox is looking to make an entire class out of martial arts panhandling.

That's right: One of the classes in the game is the Beggar. This isn't your average drunk wino (well, not too drunk); the Beggars are tough as nails and can go toe-to-toe with the best of the rich kids. Beggars fight in a similar fashion to the Drunken Master style, using booze to fuel their flexible attacks and witty comebacks. The class relies mostly on hands and feet to do damage, although the occasional quarterstaff is wielded as well.

Go slumming with the Beggars in a video after the break!

Continue reading Age of Wushu invites you to be a beggar

MassivelyAge of Wushu invites you to be a beggar originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Nov 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-wulinage-of-wushuasiabeggarbeggarsbetaboozechinachinesechinese-mmoclassdrunkdrunken-masterdrunken-master-stylegpotatojet-limartial-artsming-dynastysandboxsnail-gamessnail-games-usavideowushuwuxiaTue, 20 Nov 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Swordsman Online video demonstrates combat variety]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/19/swordsman-online-video-demonstrates-combat-variety/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/19/swordsman-online-video-demonstrates-combat-variety/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/19/swordsman-online-video-demonstrates-combat-variety/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Swordsman Online combat video demonstrates clan variety
Perfect World's upcoming Swordsman Online is all about combat, combat, and more combat, which means that combat needs to be divine. Today we've been treated to a video demonstrating six of the game's 10 "clans," the fighting styles that players can adopt in their war against high health bars. Within each of those clans are three paths that may be chosen by players at will.

While the video doesn't clearly state which clan is on display, it still provides a useful look at Swordsman Online's fights. There is everything from hand-to-hand melee to whirling chains to giant cannons. Because in a game called Swordsman Online, it'd be silly not to have giant cannons firing quarter-ton balls, yes?

Check out the video after the break and let us know which style suits you the best!

Continue reading Swordsman Online video demonstrates combat variety

MassivelySwordsman Online video demonstrates combat variety originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Nov 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ancient-chinabetaclanclassclassescombatcombat-videofighting-stylespathpathsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentplayer-created-skillsstealthswordsmanswordsman-focus-testswordsman-onlinevideoMon, 19 Nov 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sevencore's Shadow Crusade update incorporates new class and race]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/06/sevencores-shadow-crusade-update-incorporates-new-class-and-rac/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/06/sevencores-shadow-crusade-update-incorporates-new-class-and-rac/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/06/sevencores-shadow-crusade-update-incorporates-new-class-and-rac/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Sevencore's Shadow Crusade update incorporates new class and race
Fledgling MMO Sevencore passed through a significant rite of passage today by releasing its first update, Shadow Crusade. The fantasy/sci-fi title, which launched last month, is fleshing out its content offerings with a new class, an additional race, crafting changes, and a PvP arena.

New to the game is the Assassin class, a melee fighter that relies on high chances to crit and dodge. Assassins use daggers and dual claws, which give the option for single- or multi-target attacks, respectively. Shadowcore is also adding the diminutive but powerful Aimon race. Aimon characters get a boost to their mounts' energy and have a faster out-of-combat health regen.

Finally, Shadow Crusade is looking to make waves with a 5v5 PvP arena, a new zone, a level cap increase to 95, and a new type of crafting that combines old gear to make better items.

[Source: gPotato press release]

MassivelySevencore's Shadow Crusade update incorporates new class and race originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 Nov 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5v5aimonarenaclasscraftingf2pfantasyfree-to-play-mmogPotatolevel-cap-increasematerializationpatchpvpracesci-fiscreenshotsSevencoreshadow-crusadeupdatezoneTue, 06 Nov 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT Update 1.11 overhauls classes for Storm Legion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/18/rift-update-1-11-overhauls-classes-for-storm-legion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/18/rift-update-1-11-overhauls-classes-for-storm-legion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/18/rift-update-1-11-overhauls-classes-for-storm-legion/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

RIFT Update 111 overhauls classes for Storm Legion
RIFT is gearing up for next month's expansion, and Update 1.11 is the first step into that bold new world of Storm Legion. The update, which landed on servers yesterday, makes major changes to classes and game systems in order to get everything in line with the expansion.

Most classes have received a wide variety of changes to skills and soul trees, necessitating a reset for many builds. There are so many changes, in fact, that Trion Worlds had to list each of the callings' patch notes in separate forum threads. While players can't spend more than 51 points in any soul, they can now see the additional skills that will come with the expansion.

Planar attunement is now shared between characters and has been simplified somewhat. Trion's also loosened restrictions on the wardrobe, allowing players to use clothing from any class for their cosmetic outfits.

A world event called Tempest Rising and the unlocking of the Exodus of the Storm Queen dungeon for expansion pre-orders will be triggered in upcoming weeks.

MassivelyRIFT Update 1.11 overhauls classes for Storm Legion originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Oct 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.11classclass-overhaulclassesconquestexodus-of-the-storm-queenexpansionfantasypatchpatch-1.11planar-attunementpvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrstorm-legiontempest-risingthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsupdateupdate-1.11wardrobeworld-eventThu, 18 Oct 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter at Your Own Rift: Analysing Storm Legion's new souls]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/17/enter-at-your-own-rift-analysing-storm-legions-new-souls/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/17/enter-at-your-own-rift-analysing-storm-legions-new-souls/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/17/enter-at-your-own-rift-analysing-storm-legions-new-souls/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Enter at Your Own Rift Analysing Storm Legion's new souls
I still can't wrap my head around just how many metric tons of content are coming with RIFT: Storm Legion. It's an expansion that looks to put other expansions to shame by sheer size alone. Epeen competitions notwithstanding, any one of these major features would usually be good enough for a full expansion elsewhere.

Take the new souls, for example. Storm Legion is adding four of them, one for each archetype. That's not just four additional classes but a hefty amount of additional combinations, since RIFT builds allow for three souls at a time. So each archetype is going from 56 unique soul combinations to a whopping 84.

I can only imagine how much of a headache 336 different soul combinations are to balance, but fortunately I don't have to worry about it from my end. Instead, I want to take a look at the revealed new souls and speculate as to how they'll fit in with the game come next month.

Continue reading Enter at Your Own Rift: Analysing Storm Legion's new souls

MassivelyEnter at Your Own Rift: Analysing Storm Legion's new souls originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 17 Oct 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classclassesconquestdefilerenter-at-your-own-riftexpansionfantasyfeaturedharbingeropinionpvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrstorm-legiontacticiantelaratempestthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsWed, 17 Oct 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Why LotRO's classes need a shakeup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/29/the-road-to-mordor-why-classes-need-a-shakeup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/29/the-road-to-mordor-why-classes-need-a-shakeup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/29/the-road-to-mordor-why-classes-need-a-shakeup/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Road to Mordor Why classes need a shakeup
In a recent post about the Riders of Rohan beta, blogger Doc Holiday wrote a criticism of LotRO's lackluster class development: "Think about it, what have our characters actually gotten since Moria? Outside of revamps (which are always needed as games age and don't really count) there's been almost no progression of our characters outside of gaining morale."

For this I have two words in response: hear, hear!

I've been thinking about this a lot since last week's imaginary restart scenario and even before. There's a reason that rerolling a character in Lord of the Rings Online has such appeal, even with a mountain of content behind it. It's a character that actually develops noticeably before your eyes, not slugs through content.

Today I want to examine why I agree with Holiday about the stagnation of high-level classes and how the devs can shake up the status quo to make character development exciting once more.

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Why LotRO's classes need a shakeup

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Why LotRO's classes need a shakeup originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 29 Sep 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classclassesexpansionf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playlegendary-itemslegendary-traitslord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromines-of-moriamounted-combatopinionriders-of-rohanroad-to-mordorrorshakeupstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-burning-crusadethe-road-to-mordortraittrait-slotstraitsturbineturbine-entertainmentvirtuevirtue-slotsvirtuesworld-of-warcraftSat, 29 Sep 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blade & Soul introduces the Lyn Blade Master]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/28/blade-and-soul-introduces-the-lyn-blade-master/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/28/blade-and-soul-introduces-the-lyn-blade-master/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/28/blade-and-soul-introduces-the-lyn-blade-master/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Blade & Soul introduces the Lyn Blade Master
The wait is still on for Blade & Soul to make it across the Pacific, but at least we can drink in news and updates from those already enjoying the title. Steparu.com has a big preview of the Lyn Blade Master class as well as the game's October update.

As one might infer from the title, Lyn Blade Masters are quite skilled in slicing and dicing. Players using the class can employ stuns, flying swords, and AoE attacks. The Lyn Blade Master has use as a tank too, with strong grabbing skills to keep the enemy rooted and focused on him or her.

October's update to Blade & Soul has a slew of changes and tweaks. NCsoft is revamping the Summoner class, creating a new endgame dungeon from an old one, adding a solo dungeon called the Tower of Mushin, implementing a cross-server party matching system, throwing in a tournament system, and more.

Check out the Lyn Blade Master reveal video after the jump and let us know if you'll be playing one!

Continue reading Blade & Soul introduces the Lyn Blade Master

MassivelyBlade & Soul introduces the Lyn Blade Master originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 28 Sep 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blade-and-soulclassclassesfantasylyn-blade-mastermartial-artsmartial-arts-mmoncsoftncsoft-koreaoctober-updateoh-koreapreviewtankupdateupdate-3videoFri, 28 Sep 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Neverwinter's Guardian Fighter on display]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/19/neverwinters-guardian-fighter-on-display/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/19/neverwinters-guardian-fighter-on-display/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/19/neverwinters-guardian-fighter-on-display/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Neverwinter's Guardian Fighter on display
Hankering for your 20-sided dice and some good old-fashioned dungeon crawling? Get with the times: It's 2012, and we're on the verge of an action-packed D&D MMO called Neverwinter! Cryptic's hard at work on this upcoming title, and for those mulling over their future choice of class, the team is currently trying to sell you on the Guardian Fighter.

The Guardian Fighter is a melee tank that does much what you'd expect. It absorbs a lot of damage while dishing out some of the pain in return. The team's released a video to show off some of the class' more essential skills, including Cleave, Tide of Iron (a shield slam), Guarding, Lunging Strike, and Terrifying Impact.

Check out the video after the jump and let us know if you'll be playing this class at launch!

[Thanks to Paul for the tip!]

Continue reading Neverwinter's Guardian Fighter on display

MassivelyNeverwinter's Guardian Fighter on display originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoclassclass-revealclass-spotlightclass-videocrypticcryptic-studiosdndf2pfantasyfree-to-playguardian-fightermeleemelee-tankneverwinterperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwetanktrailervideoWed, 19 Sep 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: DK Online shows off the Shadowmage]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/12/massively-exclusive-dk-online-shows-off-the-shadowmage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/12/massively-exclusive-dk-online-shows-off-the-shadowmage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/12/massively-exclusive-dk-online-shows-off-the-shadowmage/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Massively Exclusive DK Online shows off the Shadowmage
Last time, we gazed upon the Paladin and we saw the light. Now, we delve into the darkness and shadows with an exclusive look at DK Online's Shadowmage. The final class highlighted in Aeria Games' spotlight videos, the Shadowmage proves that not all heroes are pure and innocent. By embracing shadow magic, this class is able to support comrades by debuffing opponents while simultaneously buffing allies. Like any good dark mage, some of the available skills are poison, paralyze, and bleed. However, while Shadowmages use a more sinister and subversive method of magical combat, they aren't above smashing heads with their staffs as well.

If this class sounds more your style than the Warrior, Paladin, or Sorceress, jump past the cut for a more in-depth look, including a dev blog, exclusive interview, and video.

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: DK Online shows off the Shadowmage

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: DK Online shows off the Shadowmage originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Sep 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeriaaeria-gamesbetaclassclass-revealclass-revealsdev-diaryDK-OnlineDKODragon-Knightsdragon-knights-onlineexclusive-interviewfeaturedinterviewMassively-exclusivemassively-exclusive-interviewsnecromancerShadowmagetrailervideoVishal-AasdhirWed, 12 Sep 2012 09:30:00 EST