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[RuneScape 3 dev diary gets serious about audio]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/runescape-3-dev-diary-gets-serious-about-audio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/runescape-3-dev-diary-gets-serious-about-audio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/runescape-3-dev-diary-gets-serious-about-audio/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

RuneScape 3 dev diary gets serious about audio
RuneScape 3 is coming soon. To get you all excited about it, the devs have released a new video talking about audio improvements in the game. The team recently recorded an orchestral score, but that's apparently just the beginning of its plans for RuneScape 3's audio. A lot of smaller recordings have been done to provide music for menus, incidentals, and poignant story moments. Audio isn't limited to just music, though. Jagex is focusing on strong, believable voice acting to draw players into the world and narrative. Ambient sound effects are also getting some loving polish.

Skip below the cut to hear (get it?) all about the upcoming improvements.

[Source: Jagex press release]

Continue reading RuneScape 3 dev diary gets serious about audio

MassivelyRuneScape 3 dev diary gets serious about audio originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 May 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiobrowserbrowser-basedclassic-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studiorsrunescaperunescape-3runescape3sandboxThu, 16 May 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Player panel submissions open for SOE Live 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/player-panel-submissions-open-for-soe-live-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/player-panel-submissions-open-for-soe-live-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/player-panel-submissions-open-for-soe-live-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Player panel submissions open for SOE Live 2013
Last year, SOE threw a new ingredient into its convention mix -- player panels. The result was such a hit that the studio is not only bringing them back this year, but extending their availability; Sunday has been added to the player panels schedule, and that means there are plenty of openings!

Do you have a subject involving any SOE game that you think would be of interest and benefit others? Maybe you are a whiz at livesteaming or you have primo tips and tricks on cosplay to dispense. What about sharing your fan site or holding a raid clinic? Whatever your idea, submit your proposal by 3:00 a.m EDT June 1st for consideration. If selected, you and up to three other panel members will receive All Access passes to SOE Live 2013 (no other expenses are covered, including food, travel, or add-ons). Panel selection -- which is not on a first-come, first-served basis -- will be completed mid-June.

MassivelyPlayer panel submissions open for SOE Live 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 May 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmobrowserbrowser-basedclassic-mmoconconsoleconsolesconventiondc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuodragondragonsdragons-propheteqeq-2eq-iieq-nexteq1eq2eqiieqneventeverquesteverquest-2everquest-iieverquest-nextf2pfan-fairefantasyfpsfrfree-realmsfree-to-playhousinginfernuminfernum-productionskid-friendlykidskids-mmolas-vegasmmo-shootermmofpsplanetsideplanetside-2playstation-3playstation3psps1ps2ps3runewakerrunewaker-entertainmentsandboxsci-fishootersoesoe-fan-fairesoe-livesoe-live-2013sonysony-online-entertainmentsuperherosuperheroestelonvanguardvanguard-saga-of-heroesvgMon, 13 May 2013 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[NCsoft sales down from last quarter, up from last year]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/12/ncsoft-sales-down-from-last-quarter-up-from-last-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/12/ncsoft-sales-down-from-last-quarter-up-from-last-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/12/ncsoft-sales-down-from-last-quarter-up-from-last-year/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

NCsoft sales down from last quarter, up from last year
A recent earnings report suggests that NCsoft's sales have slipped from Q4 2012 to Q1 2013, although the studio is quick to point out that the showing was "solid" particularly when compared to sales from a year ago. While sales were down 35% and net income was down 49% from the last quarter, sales were up 31% and net income was up 322% year-over-year.

Guild Wars 2 accounted for 21% of sales in the first quarter, in addition to Blade and Soul's 9%, Aion's 16%, and the usual Lineage cavalcade (Lineage 1 represented 38% of sales alone with its subscriptions).

While 64% of NCsoft's sales were in Korea, only 13% were in North America and 8% in Europe. The decrease in NA and EU contributions was due to "the reduction in Guild Wars 2 package sales," according to the report. All of NCsoft's subsidiaries posted drops in sales from last quarter except for NC Taiwan.

[Update: Also of note in the earnings call is the news that NCsoft's Nah Seong Chan says the company is "preparing an expansion pack" but has yet to decide when it might launch. Very interesting news indeed as ArenaNet said as recently as March that it was not working on an expansion. Thanks to Mike and Robert for the tips!]

MassivelyNCsoft sales down from last quarter, up from last year originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 12 May 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1q-2013aionanetarenanetascensionblade-and-soulbuy-to-playclassic-mmoearnings-reportf2pfantasyfree-to-playguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw2l1lineagelineage-1lineage-2lineage-iimartial-artsmartial-arts-mmoncsoftncsoft-koreaq1-2013truly-freeSun, 12 May 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape coming to tablets this year]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/runescape-coming-to-tablets-this-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/runescape-coming-to-tablets-this-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/runescape-coming-to-tablets-this-year/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

RuneScape coming to tablets this year
RuneScape 3 is an ambitious project, especially for an MMO series as old as RuneScape's, but Jagex CEO Mark Gerhard told IGN in a recent interview that they're ready to take the wildly popular MMO to the next level. This not only means the previously announced change from a Java-based platform to HTML5, but it also means that the game will be coming to tablets by Q4 of this year.

Gerhard also added that the possibility of a smartphone connection is there as well, but only as an addition to the overall game experience. Where else can Jagex go from here? Smart TVs? Consoles? Both are possibilities, according to Gerhard.

MassivelyRuneScape coming to tablets this year originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 May 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedclassic-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studiomark-gerhardmobilersrunescapesandboxtabletsThu, 09 May 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[See RuneScape 3 revealed to the world]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/see-runescape-3-revealed-to-the-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/see-runescape-3-revealed-to-the-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/see-runescape-3-revealed-to-the-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

See RuneScape 3 revealed to the world
The secret is out and can't be shoved back in the box: RuneScape 3 is coming. Of course, we already knew that, but there was a time not so long ago that the world was ignorant of this fact. If you wondered how the global reveal of this title went for those who were there, then Jagex has a neat behind-the-scenes video showing how and what the press saw when the studio went live with the info.

In addition to the pomp and circumstance of the event, the team also used the video to reveal the first new skill of the game: Divination. What does it do? Well, the devs were not as keen to share that. Speculate away!

Check out the reveal video after the jump.

Continue reading See RuneScape 3 revealed to the world

MassivelySee RuneScape 3 revealed to the world originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedclassic-mmodivinationf2pfantasyfree-to-playglobal-revealjagexjagex-games-studiorevealrsrs3runescaperunescape-3sandboxWed, 08 May 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Clone Wars Adventures not (immediately) affected by EA/Disney deal]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/clone-wars-adventures-not-immediately-affected-by-ea-disney-de/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/clone-wars-adventures-not-immediately-affected-by-ea-disney-de/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/clone-wars-adventures-not-immediately-affected-by-ea-disney-de/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Clone Wars Adventures not immediately affected by EADisney deal
If you're a Star Wars fan, you've no doubt heard of EA's acquisition of an exclusive multi-year license for creating games based on the iconic space story, a license that spans multiple platforms. But what does that mean for current -- or even past -- Star Wars MMOs that aren't connected to that studio? Massively jumped on the case and contacted SOE to find out what, if any, effect this agreement between EA and Disney would have on its past and present titles.

Specifically, we asked if Clone Wars Adventures would be forced to shut down when the current license expires. Of course, we also slipped in a question as to whether or not that deal prevented any possibility of a return of Star Wars Galaxies. As for CWA, the studio replied "Star Wars: Clone Wars Adventures is fully armed and operational, and this week's announcement does not affect our current agreement with Lucasfilm." So the browser-based games appears safe -- at least for now. The studio, however, declined to comment on SWG.

MassivelyClone Wars Adventures not (immediately) affected by EA/Disney deal originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 May 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedclassic-mmoclone-warsclone-wars-adventurescwaEAEA-Disney-licensing-dealfamilygalaxieskid-friendlykidslobbyminigamesandboxsci-fantasysci-fisoesony-online-entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-galaxiesswgswgoWed, 08 May 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape 3 to offer all-new experience]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/03/runescape-3-to-offer-all-new-experience/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/03/runescape-3-to-offer-all-new-experience/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/03/runescape-3-to-offer-all-new-experience/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

RuneScape 3 to offer allnew experience
With twelve years already under its belt, and a good chunk of those years providing weekly updates, it's understandable if new players might consider RuneScape literally too big to get into. So how do you circumvent this and continue to expand the population base? Why, you throw in a major update and rename the game to RuneScape 3, of course!

In a recent interview, Jagex CEO Mark Gerhard talked to Gamasutra about how this exact approach gives the game an all-new feel that is more likely to draw in new players who might otherwise overlook it. He stated, "We could have called it RuneScape Next Age if we wanted to, and part of my thinking was, for people who haven't played this game in a year, it's going to be night and day. It's not a completely new game, but it's certainly a new experience." RuneScape 3 will have a more powerful audio engine, boosted visuals and a better draw distance, and upgrades to the UI, among other things.

Just like back with RuneScape 2, the plan is to maintain the RuneScape 3 moniker for a while, then drop the numeral and return to the original name again.

MassivelyRuneScape 3 to offer all-new experience originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 May 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedclassic-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studioluring-new-playersMark-GerhardrsrunescapeRuneScape-3sandboxupdateFri, 03 May 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Thar be dragons]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/28/one-shots-thar-be-dragons/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/28/one-shots-thar-be-dragons/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/28/one-shots-thar-be-dragons/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

One Shots Thar be dragons
It would be a rare fantasy MMO that didn't have a posse of dragons roaming the land (or flying through the skies), and Guild Wars 2 certainly does not break that trend. It doesn't mean that going head-to-head with one is any less intimidating, however.

Reader Paul sent in this little meet-and-greet with Puff, saying it was when his Asuran Mesmer first encountered a dragon. Let's just hope he remained alive to have a second encounter. Asurans often look like popcorn chicken to dragonkind.

It's not just flying lizards in this week's One Shots! What wonders await you, I wonder?

Continue reading One Shots: Thar be dragons

MassivelyOne Shots: Thar be dragons originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 28 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionanetarenanetbiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbring-back-one-shotsbuy-to-playcamelotclassic-mmoconsoleconsolesdaocdark-age-of-cameloteaelectronic-artsfantasyffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgalleriesgalleryguild-wars-2gw2mythicmythic-entertainmentmythologyncsoftone-shotspics-or-it-didnt-happenpvpreader-screenshotsreader-submissionsrvrscreenshotscreenshotssquaresquare-enixuser-submissionswarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowSun, 28 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mythic community manager bids a sorrowful farewell]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/mythic-community-manager-bids-a-sorrowful-farewell/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/mythic-community-manager-bids-a-sorrowful-farewell/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/mythic-community-manager-bids-a-sorrowful-farewell/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Warhammer
It looks as if yesterday's EA layoffs are hitting MMO gamers closer to home than originally thought. In a post today on BioWare's Warhammer Online forums, Mythic's Timothy Chappell announced that he has been let go. Chappell was the community manager for Warhammer Online, Ultima Online, and Dark Age of Camelot.
I am very sorry to say that I was informed that my position was no longer needed. Though I had many titles I was handling for Mythic, I grew to love and appreciate all the communities and only wish I could have had more time or resources to get more involved with them. Though I had only been in the position for a little over a year, I will miss a great many of you and hope that you keep in touch.
The news is of particular concern for Warhammer, which also lost its lead developer earlier this week. Ultima Online, by contrast, assured players of its continuing operation in a producer's letter last week.

[Thanks to Fozee for the tip!]

MassivelyMythic community manager bids a sorrowful farewell originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 26 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWareclassic-mmoeaelectronic-artsfantasylayoffslord-britishmythicMythic-Entertainmentpvptimothy-chappellultimaultima onlineuowarwarhammerWarhammer-OnlineFri, 26 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: Battle music!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/23/jukebox-heroes-battle-music/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/23/jukebox-heroes-battle-music/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/23/jukebox-heroes-battle-music/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes Battle music!
It's time once again to take a week off from looking at specific MMO soundtracks and open ourselves up to a theme instead. The topic? Battle music. Yeah, it can be some of the most obnoxious music in the game, especially after hearing it for the 3,000th time, but every once in a while I hear a piece that has some merit to it. These are the ones we want to examine today.

What makes for a good battle music track? I think it has to get you excited without being annoying or grating and not so loud or incredibly noticeable that you can't help but get tired of it sooner rather than later. It was actually pretty tricky to pull together six such tracks for this column, but I managed to do with with the help of Colonel Bugle up there. He's got the best MP3 collection around.

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: Battle music!

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: Battle music! originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Apr 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anarchy-onlineaoatlanticaatlantica-onlinebiowarecamelotclassic-mmocomposercomposersconsoleconsolesdaocdark-age-of-cameloteaelectronic-artseqeq1everquestf2pfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivfree-to-playfuncomgame-musicjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettilord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrommo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicmythicmythic-entertainmentmythologynexonnexon-americanexon-koreaopinionpvprvrsci-fisoesonysony-online-entertainmentsoundtracksoundtrackssquaresquare-enixtactical-mmoturbineturbine-entertainmentTue, 23 Apr 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape 3 beta begins]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/runescape-3-beta-begins/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/runescape-3-beta-begins/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/runescape-3-beta-begins/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

RuneScape 3 beta begins
After opening the door for potential testers, Jagex announced today that it has begun the beta for RuneScape 3. Accepted testers and gold/silver club members can go ahead and get a peek at the next iteration of the MMO. If you applied and haven't been chosen yet, Jagex promises that more invites will go out in the next few weeks.

Jagex does specify that this is an early build in the HTML5 client. As such, the studio warns that there will be noticeable bugs and glitches as the tech undergoes optimization, not to mention missing features. Testers' visual settings will be set to minimum specs initially.

RuneScape 3 will be released this summer.

MassivelyRuneScape 3 beta begins originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 17 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabrowserbrowser-basedclassic-mmoclosed-betaf2pfantasyfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studiorsrunescaperunescape-3sandboxWed, 17 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ultima Online producer's letter talks vendor search, vet rewards, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/ultima-online-producers-letter-talks-vendor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/ultima-online-producers-letter-talks-vendor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/ultima-online-producers-letter-talks-vendor/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

This is a random UO screenshot
Ultima Online producer Bonnie Armstrong has penned a new producer's letter designed to do two things. One is to disseminate some of the ideas in the pipeline for 2013, and the other is to quell any community uncertainty stemming from the recent EA layoff announcement.

Some of the coming updates include a second house on Siege, more accessible veteran rewards, and vendor search functionality that should eliminate the need to use third-party script sites to find who's selling what. Read all about that stuff and more at the official UO website.

MassivelyUltima Online producer's letter talks vendor search, vet rewards, and more originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Apr 2013 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonnie-armstrongclassic-mmoeaelectronic-artsfantasylord-britishmythicmythic-entertainmentsandboxultimaultima onlineuouo-producers-letteruo-vendor-searchuo-vet-rewardsvet-rewardsTue, 16 Apr 2013 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Final moments of MMOs, part 1]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/11/the-perfect-ten-final-moments-of-mmos-part-1/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/11/the-perfect-ten-final-moments-of-mmos-part-1/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/11/the-perfect-ten-final-moments-of-mmos-part-1/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The Perfect Ten Final moments of MMOs
Maybe many of us would just rather remember MMOs as they were in life rather than at the moment of their demise. But I believe that how a game went out is incredibly fascinating for many reasons and worthy of examination.

It's in these final moments when an entire community has to say goodbye. It's in these moments that the developers mourn as well before pulling the plug. It's in these moments that history is being made one last time. And it goes without saying that it's in these moments that everyone curses the unfairness of it all.

Today we're going to watch the first half of 10 videos featuring MMOs in their final moments. It's here we'll see how weird, crazy, sad, and interesting things can get. Maybe you were part of one (or more) of these moments or are simply curious what it was like. Either way, it's the end of the world as we know it. And we feel fine.

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Final moments of MMOs, part 1

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Final moments of MMOs, part 1 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 11 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classic-mmocomposercomposersdungeon-runnerseqoaeverquest-online-adventuresfeaturedfinal-momentsgalaxiesgame-musicjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettimmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicmxoopinionsandboxsci-fishutdownsoesony-online-entertainmentsoundtracksoundtracksstar-warsstar-wars-galaxiessunsetswgswgotabula-rasathe-matrix-onlineThu, 11 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Paging the burn ward]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/07/one-shots-paging-the-burn-ward/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/07/one-shots-paging-the-burn-ward/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/07/one-shots-paging-the-burn-ward/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

One Shots Great balls o' fire!
It's a little amazing, when you think about it, that all of these magic-users who prance around in extremely flammable robes don't suffer from third-degree burns more than we see. Or maybe the game is hiding the awful, scarred truth from us. In any case, our opening screenshot this week should have resulted in a quick trip to the ER for both parties.

"This is a simple yet fun battle in Vindictus' early levels," reader Carolina says. "I love the detail of the damaged shoe on my spellcaster character."

Forget the human element; now the shoes are the ones suffering for our casual disregard of fiery magic! If you can get past the misery of the moment, we've got plenty of other great one shots this week for you to admire.

Continue reading One Shots: Paging the burn ward

MassivelyOne Shots: Paging the burn ward originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 07 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acac2action-mmoanetarenanetasherons-callasherons-call-2bring-back-one-shotsclassic-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playgalleriesgalleryguild-warsgwncsoftnexonnexon-americanexon-entertainmentone-shotspics-or-it-didnt-happenreader-screenshotsreader-submissionssandboxscreenshotscreenshotstabula-rasaturbineturbine-entertainmentuser-submissionsvindictusSun, 07 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape 3 beta registration starts April 3]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/01/runescape-3-beta-registration-starts-april-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/01/runescape-3-beta-registration-starts-april-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/01/runescape-3-beta-registration-starts-april-3/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

There was a RuneScape 2?
Jagex has announced RuneScape 3's beta program via a news posting on its website. There are several key dates to be aware of, including the beginning of the registration period on April 3rd.

Interestingly, the new HTML5 beta client will access the game's live servers, and testers will be able to progress and earn XP in the main game while testing! Click through to the RuneScape website for full details.

MassivelyRuneScape 3 beta registration starts April 3 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabrowserbrowser-basedclassic-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studiorsrunescaperunescape-3runescape-3-betasandboxMon, 01 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Cutest creatures]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/the-perfect-ten-cutest-creatures/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/the-perfect-ten-cutest-creatures/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/the-perfect-ten-cutest-creatures/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Perfect Ten Cutest creatures
I vividly remember a conversation I had with my then-girlfriend's parents back in 1996 about the potential of this growing "internet" phenomenon. With my limited understanding, I made it sound downright noble, a Library of Congress available at the fingertips of the average Joe or Jane. What I really should have said that it would be a tool for the distribution of pornography, nerd rage, and cute animal pictures.

I have no idea how big the cute animal picture industry is, but there have got to be millions of aspiring photographers daily who prod little baby critters with encouragement sticks in the hopes of eliciting a few "awws" out of strangers. Even when the serious business of MMOs came a-calling, cuteness infested fantasy lands near and far.

Whenever I see something absurdly cute in an MMO, I always smile because I know that somewhere, some uber-elite, way-too-serious player is developing facial tics from being in the same game world as it. So twitch away, as here are 10 of the cutest critters as seen in-game!

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Cutest creatures

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Cutest creatures originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Not So Massively title image
A demo of Diablo III running on the PS3 was shown at PAX East 2013 this week, and developers confirmed that the game is not necessarily exclusive to Sony. Many PC players have been enraged by the demo, which showed improved loot and singleplayer features developers had previously said were not possible. Red 5 Studios was also at PAX this week to reveal its ambitious plans for a gaming TV channel. The studio plans to expand its gaming video channel Stage 5 with several new high-quality shows about indie games, cosplay, and gaming tropes. Path of Exile also released information on three completely overpowered new support gems currently in alpha testing for its upcoming Patch 0.10.5.

In MOBA news, League of Legends officially launched in Italy this week with a huge launch ceremony in Rome. Several professional players were unrelatedly banned for boosting other players' stats artificially, and one team was given its final warning for using a DDoS attack during a match. Heroes of Newerth received new melee strength hero Prisoner 945, and Guardians of Middle-Earth released a free map update along with a purchasable spider character DLC. Upcoming MOBA SMITE was given a loose launch window of summer 2013, and Russian MOBA Prime World took a big step toward European and US launches with the translation of much of its Russian website into English.

Continue reading Not So Massively: PAX East 2013, D3 on PS3, and Firefall's TV channel

MassivelyNot So Massively: PAX East 2013, D3 on PS3, and Firefall's TV channel originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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One Shots
There's a lot going on in our lead picture here. There are question marks, a fungus person, a pointedly staring frog, and enough colors to give Crayola a run for its money. But what is it about? What does it mean?

Reader Stacy helps clear things up: "That's mah frog. This was around April Fool's last year (those question marks are fireworks from that in-game event and are amazing in motion). This was my first house; I got it for free from the EverQuest in-game card game, so I did not have much decoration. I bought a bunch of pets from a man down the street and set them loose, then set off all my fireworks and partied the night away with frog and friends."

See, if we did most of these activities in real life, we'd be in jail. Aren't MMOs grand?

Continue reading One Shots: ???

MassivelyOne Shots: ??? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 24 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bring-back-one-shotsclassic-mmoeqeq1everquestf2pfantasyfree-to-playgalaxiesgalleriesgalleryneocronneocron-2one-shotspics-or-it-didnt-happenreader-screenshotsreader-submissionssandboxsci-fiscreenshotscreenshotssoesonysony-online-entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-galaxiesswgswgouser-submissionsSun, 24 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist: When sequels attack!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/the-game-archaeologist-when-sequels-attack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/the-game-archaeologist-when-sequels-attack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/the-game-archaeologist-when-sequels-attack/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Game Archaeologist When sequels attack!
Sequels are both the bane of and a fact of life for movies and video games. Well, "bane" is a strong word, and you're probably thinking of Batman right now anyway, but personally, I'm always willing to give the benefit of doubt to any continuation of a favorite franchise. While we don't see sequels pop up as often in MMOs, they do exist and have significant effects upon the original title that bears the same name.

It's here that MMOs diverge from movies and other video games. With those, the original is not in any sort of danger, other than the perception of having its legacy dragged down into the muck (Caddyshack II, anyone?) and perhaps overstaying its welcome. An MMO sequel, on the other hand, can cause serious consequences to its ancestor.

Here at Game Archaeologist, we look at classic games that have often seen their time come and go. But what happens to one of these titles when a sequel attacks? Almost anything, it turns out.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist: When sequels attack!

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist: When sequels attack! originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 23 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acac2agonanetarenanetasherons-callasherons-call-2aventurinebrowserbrowser-basedbuy-to-playclassicclassic-mmoclassic-mmosclassicsconsoleconsolesdarkfalldfeqeq-2eq-iieq1eq2eqiieverquesteverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivfpsfree-to-playgagame-archaelogistglobal agendaguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw2hi-rezhi-rez-studiosjagexjagex-games-studiojumpgatejumpgate-evolutionl1lineagelineage-1lineage-2lineage-iimmofpsncsoftneocronneocron-2nostalgiaopen-pvpopinionpvprsrunescapesandboxsci-fishootersoesonysony-online-entertainmentspy-fisquaresquare-enixthe-game-archaeologistthird-person-shootertpsturbineturbine-entertainmentultima-online-2ultima-x-odysseySat, 23 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jagex announces RuneScape 3 for summer 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/22/jagex-announces-runescape-3-for-summer-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/22/jagex-announces-runescape-3-for-summer-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/22/jagex-announces-runescape-3-for-summer-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Jagex announces RuneScape 3 for summer 2013
Jagex has announced Runescape 3! A "significant improvement on all fronts," building on the last 12 years of the original game's development and history, RuneScape 3 looks as if it's following in the footsteps of RuneScape 2 by improving on the existing game rather than serving as a standalone title.

RuneScape 3 won't require players to create a new account. Players will simply keep using the same avatars they always have. The game will take advantage of the HTML5 engine and web GL to run faster, look better, and suck players in even more deeply, though folks running with older computers will still be able to use the old Java client if they prefer. Jagex is promising more details in the coming weeks.

Skip below the cut to check out the announcement video.

Continue reading Jagex announces RuneScape 3 for summer 2013

MassivelyJagex announces RuneScape 3 for summer 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Mar 2013 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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One Shots Views from a beta
It's hard not to turn into a total tourist when you're checking out a new beta. Out comes the fanny pack, the giddy delight of a new world, and most importantly, the camera.

Reader Michelle kicks off this week's One Shots column with a screenshot of the first Neverwinter beta weekend. It's a shot of her character Nora overlooking the edge of aptly named Neverdeath Graveyard. We're guessing that the caretaker down there has his hands full.

Would you go into such a place if you saw it in real life? I guess that's why we have our avatars to be bold where we would flee! Let's take a look at a few other places where angels fear to tread.

Continue reading One Shots: Views from a beta

MassivelyOne Shots: Views from a beta originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 17 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoanarchy-onlineaobring-back-one-shotsclassic-mmocrypticcryptic-studiosdndf2pfantasyfirefallfpsfree-to-playfuncomgalleriesgallerymmo-shooterneverwinterone-shotsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpics-or-it-didnt-happenpvppwereader-screenshotsreader-submissionsred-5red-5-studiossci-fiscreenshotscreenshotsshooterthird-person-shooteruser-submissionswarwishSun, 17 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you still play your first MMO?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/15/the-daily-grind-do-you-still-play-your-first-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/15/the-daily-grind-do-you-still-play-your-first-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/15/the-daily-grind-do-you-still-play-your-first-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

With thanks to Brad for the classic Ultima Online pic
With Brad McQuaid's return to EverQuest in the news this week, nostalgia has invaded our comment section. The most veteran of our MMO commenters mused about the days of meditating into spellbooks, losing levels on death, embarking on corpse runs, and waiting on the boat. No one even mentioned camping for jboots, begging to be put on a list for a spot in a dungeon group, or having your raid planejumped right before your eyes!

I think old-schoolers know that the old days had more than their fair share of problems, which is why most of them are probably playing Guild Wars 2 or The Secret World and not Asheron's Call or Anarchy Online. Or are they? Are more people living in classic MMOs than they let on?

My first was Ultima Online, and yes, I do poke my nose in once or twice a year, but it hasn't been my "main game" in a truly long time. What about you guys? Do you still play your first MMO? And if you've ever gone back, was it as you remembered?

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 still play your first MMO? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 Mar 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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One Shots Dancing with my homies
First of all, thank you guys so much for responding to our One Shots rallying cry and absolutely flooding us with screenshots! My cup overfloweth, and that's a delightful change of pace for this column. Even though we're quite literally set for months now, please keep sending in your favorite old or new screencaps!

To kick us off this week is Jerry, who's showing off how Anarchy Online can party down with the best of them: "This is Yardsale, a level 220 Trader, dancing with his trader pets in Borealis."

At first glance, I almost thought we were in the Matrix. But even with polygons so sharp that you can cut yourself on them, this title definitely has a style all its own. Hit the jump to see this and other wonders of the screenshotted world.

Continue reading One Shots: Dancing with my homies

MassivelyOne Shots: Dancing with my homies originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 10 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anarchy-onlineaobring-back-one-shotsbuy-to-playcity-of-heroescity-of-villainsclassic-mmocohcovcoxf2pfactionfantasyfree-to-playfreedomfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactivefuncomgalleriesgallerygameforgegameforge-berlinhorrormythologyncsoftone-shotsparagonparagon-studiospics-or-it-didnt-happenreader-screenshotsreader-submissionsromrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentsci-fantasysci-fiscreenshotscreenshotssecret-worldskill-basedsubscriptionlesssuperherosuperheroestaboreathe-secret-worldtswuser-submissionsSun, 10 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Funcom's Joel Bylos on the centralized TSW, AoC, and AO team]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/07/funcoms-joel-bylos-on-the-centralized-tsw-aoc-and-ao-team/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/07/funcoms-joel-bylos-on-the-centralized-tsw-aoc-and-ao-team/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/07/funcoms-joel-bylos-on-the-centralized-tsw-aoc-and-ao-team/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Massively Exclusive Bylos expounds on the centralized team for AO, AoC, and TSW
By now, most MMO gamers are pretty familiar with the fact that Funcom underwent restructuring. But what does that mean; what exactly did it entail? The term "restructuring" in itself signifies changes but does nothing to actually enlighten folks on what the changes are. Other than the fact that Joel Bylos was named creative director for all three of Funcom's titles -- Age of Conan, Anarchy Online, and The Secret World -- and that the team will be in one centralized in location, we know little of the details.

How many developers survived the restructuring and relocated to remain on the team? Is this move foreshadowing one or more games slipping into maintenance mode? How will the coveted dev attention be divvied up? What does the future hold? Devoid of facts, players are left left wondering about how these changes will impact their favorite games.

While chatting with Joel Bylos in an exclusive interview, I was able to ask some of these very questions.

Continue reading Funcom's Joel Bylos on the centralized TSW, AoC, and AO team

MassivelyFuncom's Joel Bylos on the centralized TSW, AoC, and AO team originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Mar 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanage-of-conan-unchainedanarchy-onlineaoaocaoc-unchainedbuy-to-playcentralized-temaclassic-mmoconanf2pfactionfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfuncomhorrorhyboriainterviewinterviewsJoel-Bylosmassively-exclusiveMassively-exclusive-interviewmassively-exclusive-interviewsmythologyrestructuringsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldskill-basedsubscriptionlessthe-secret-worldtswunchainedThu, 07 Mar 2013 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaderboard: What's the best Star Wars MMO?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/leaderboard-whats-the-best-star-wars-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/leaderboard-whats-the-best-star-wars-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/leaderboard-whats-the-best-star-wars-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

SWG is the best Star Wars MMO regardless of this poll result!
Star Wars has gotten the MMO treatment not once, not twice, but three times. This is assuming that you count SOE's Clone Wars Adventures browser title, which I do since it features extensive progression, non-combat activities, and a slew of other MMO-like features in spite of its heavy use of instancing.

Then there's Star Wars Galaxies, of course, followed by Star Wars: The Old Republic. For today's Leaderboard, help us pick the best Star Wars MMO (or at least, the most popular according to Massively commenters). Vote after the cut!

Ever wish that you could put to rest a long-standing MMO debate once and for all? Then welcome to the battle royal of Massively's Leaderboard, where two sides enter the pit o' judgment -- and only one leaves. Vote to make your opinion known, and see whether your choice tops the Leaderboard!

Continue reading Leaderboard: What's the best Star Wars MMO?

MassivelyLeaderboard: What's the best Star Wars MMO? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 04 Mar 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battle-royalbiowarebrowserbrowser-basedclassic-mmoclone-warsclone-wars-adventurescwaeaelectronic-artsf2pfamilyfree-to-playgalaxieskid-friendlykidsleaderboardlobbylucasartsminigameone-on-oneone-vs-oneopinionpollpollssandboxsci-fantasysci-fisoesony-online-entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-galaxiesstar-wars-mmostar-wars-the-old-republicswgswgoswtorthe-old-republictorversusvotevotesvotingvsMon, 04 Mar 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Back in the day...]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/03/one-shots-back-in-the-day/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/03/one-shots-back-in-the-day/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/03/one-shots-back-in-the-day/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

One Shots Back in the day
A few weeks ago I asked everyone to send me in screenshots of pre-2004 MMOs... and only Brad delivered. Seriously, people, you've been shown up by Brad. Brad gets the gold star. Brad gets the golden ticket and can come on a once-in-a-lifetime visit to see the fabled Massively word factory. Brad is my hero.

Brad (if you didn't catch his name) sent us in this shot of Ultima Online: "So much fun with vendors! This is a shot of Angelica's on the Chesapeake Server -- a popular shopping spot in Felucca to grab gear on the go. It was one of the few player-owned vendor spots in a protected zone near Lord British's Castle. This would have been taken around 2002. Notice the detail of the fish tank made from stacked cloth and the flowers made with an onion and two cooked eggs!"

Yes. Notice Brad's eggs, people. In them you can see the reflection of your failure. Aw, just kidding!

Continue reading One Shots: Back in the day...

MassivelyOne Shots: Back in the day... originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 03 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetback-to-betabetabring-back-one-shotsbrowserbrowser-basedbuy-to-playcasualclassic-mmoeaelectronic-artsf2pfantasyflashfree-to-playgalleriesgalleryglitchguild-wars-2gw2hipsterlord-britishlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromythicmythic-entertainmentncsoftone-shotspics-or-it-didnt-happenreader-screenshotsreader-submissionssandboxscreenshotscreenshotstinyspeckturbineturbine-entertainmentultimaultima onlineunlauncheninguouser-submissionsSun, 03 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Is 'maintenance mode' really a negative?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/the-daily-grind-is-maintenance-mode-really-a-negative/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/the-daily-grind-is-maintenance-mode-really-a-negative/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/the-daily-grind-is-maintenance-mode-really-a-negative/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The Secret World - Gunners
This week's news of Funcom naming Joel Bylos the creative director on all three of its MMORPGs was met with some predictable "maintenance mode!" and "yay, Funcom's failing" rhetoric in our comment section. While neither of these suppositions are based in reality, the former got me to thinking, and what I thought was that "maintenance mode" isn't an automatic negative to me like it appears to be to some folk.

For one thing, I play a ton of MMOs, and for another, I'm not exactly a content locust since it usually takes me several months to max out an avatar (and several more after that to gear him up). I can see why the hurry-up-and-beat-the-endgame crowd would be cross with a title that doesn't add new content every other week, but for me that's not only OK, it's preferable since it means that I might actually see all of the content, finish all of the story arcs, and get some use out of my gear.

Time between content updates also means time that I get to explore, socialize, roleplay, and do all the stuff that MMOs facilitate beyond the basic treadmill. What about you, Massively readers? Is "maintenance mode" a turnoff or does it give you time to catch your breath?

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: Is 'maintenance mode' really a negative? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Feb 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanage-of-conan-unchainedanarchy-onlineaoaocaoc-unchainedbuy-to-playclassic-mmoconancontent-locustsdaily-grindf2pfactionfantasyfree-to-playfuncomhorrorhyboriamythologyopinionsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldskill-basedsubscriptionlesstdgthe-daily-grindthe-secret-worldtswunchainedThu, 28 Feb 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Botters are losing the farm with RuneScape's newest anti-botting tech]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/27/botters-are-losing-the-farm-with-runescapes-newest-anti-botting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/27/botters-are-losing-the-farm-with-runescapes-newest-anti-botting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/27/botters-are-losing-the-farm-with-runescapes-newest-anti-botting/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Botters are losing the farm with RuneScape's newest antibotting tech
Have you noticed a reduction in RuneScape's bot population today? That could be because the game recently banned 20,000 gold-farming accounts in a single night! Thanks to the latest phase of RuneScape's Botwatch anti-botting technology, which targets third party clients and botting software as well as gold farmers, botters are being weeded out even better than before.

But even with one battle won, the war on botting is far from over; RuneScape maintains its zero-tolerance policy and promises ongoing advances in eradicating this infestation. In fact, Jagex is already working on the next phase of the anti-botting technology and will be rolling it out over the coming months.

MassivelyBotters are losing the farm with RuneScape's newest anti-botting tech originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Feb 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anti-bottingBotwatchbrowserbrowser-basedclassic-mmocracking-down-on-bottingf2pfantasyfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studiomass-bot-banningrsrunescapesandboxWed, 27 Feb 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Funcom's Bylos named creative director on AoC, AO, and TSW]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/26/bylos-named-funcom-creative-director-overseeing-tsw-aoc-and-a/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/26/bylos-named-funcom-creative-director-overseeing-tsw-aoc-and-a/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/26/bylos-named-funcom-creative-director-overseeing-tsw-aoc-and-a/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Bylos named Funcom creative director, overseeing TSW, AoC, and AO
Funcom has announced that The Secret World creative director Joel Bylos is now the creator director for all three of the firm's MMORPGs. This includes TSW, Age of Conan, and Anarchy Online. Bylos has penned letters from the game director for TSW and AoC, while AO's Dave "Ilaliya" Williams passes the torch via a forum post.

Bylos' TSW letter talks additional content plans up to and including Issue #12 (the live game currently sits on Issue #5, with #6 scheduled for early March). Bylos has a special place in his heart for AoC stemming from his time as the lead designer on the Rise of the Godslayer expansion, and his initial game director letter reflects on both coming home and the opportunities for expanding Hyboria. He also talks a bit about the pros and cons of having a single production team working on three live titles.

Finally, outgoing AoC producer Craig "Silirrion" Morrison recaps his four years at the helm and hints at a "new opportunity within the MMO world."

[Thanks to David for the tip.]

MassivelyFuncom's Bylos named creative director on AoC, AO, and TSW originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Feb 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanage-of-conan-unchainedanarchy-onlineaoaocaoc-unchainedbuy-to-playbylos-new-creative-directorclassic-mmoconancraig-morrisonf2pfactionfantasyfree-to-playfuncomhorrorhyboriajoel-bylosmythologysci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldsilirrionskill-basedsubscriptionlessthe-secret-worldtswunchainedTue, 26 Feb 2013 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Path of Exile events, Diablo III coming to PS4, and huge MOBA updates]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/not-so-massively-path-of-exile-events-diablo-iii-coming-to-ps4/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/not-so-massively-path-of-exile-events-diablo-iii-coming-to-ps4/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/not-so-massively-path-of-exile-events-diablo-iii-coming-to-ps4/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
Blizzard revealed this week that Diablo III will be coming to both the PlayStation 3 and Sony's new PlayStation 4 console and will be shown off at PAX. Torchlight II developer Runic Games announced that the game will soon be localised to Japanese and Chinese for its upcoming release in Asia; a free DLC is on the way with three new Asian-themed pets. Path of Exile revealed the schedule for its first full season of ladder-style race events and announced new account security options along with its new policy to never restore items from hacked accounts.

League of Legends unveiled its new champion duo, Quinn and Valor, a dynamic pair of characters that work together as a single champion to dominate teamfights. Heroes of Newerth revealed its own new hero with a video spotlight on Saloman, a melee support hero who gains power from movement and can heal and shield his allies.

Dota 2 added a new Hero Build feature to its beta this week, giving players access to community-produced skill and item builds for all heroes. Console MOBA Guardians of Middle-Earth showed off its new goblin DLC character Snaga, and online FPS Blacklight: Retribution detailed its upcoming Onslaught expansion, which comes with three new game modes.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Path of Exile events, Diablo III coming to PS4, and huge MOBA updates

MassivelyNot So Massively: Path of Exile events, Diablo III coming to PS4, and huge MOBA updates originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Feb 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoaction-rpgactivisionasiabattlenetblacklightblacklight-retributionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentchampionchineseclassic-mmocompetitive-gamingconsoleconsolesd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotadota-2dupeduplicatione-sporte-sportsesportesportseventeventsf2pfantasyfeaturedfpsfree-to-playgothic-fantasygrinding-geargrinding-gear-gamesherohero-buildsheroes-of-newerthhonitem-dupeitem-duplicationjapanjapaneseladderlast-man-standingleague-of-legendslocalisationlocalizationlollord-of-the-ringslotrmiddle-earthmists-of-pandariammofpsmobamonolithmonolith-studiosmultiplayernewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayeronslaughtpath-of-exilepaxperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentplanetsideplaystation-3playstation-4playstation-networkpoepsps1ps3ps4psnpvppwequinnquinn-and-valorrace-eventrace-eventsretributionriotriot-gamesround-uprounduprpgrunic-gamess2s2-gamessalomansci-fisearch-and-destroysimplified-chineseSnagasoesony-online-entertainmenttraditional-chinesevalorvalvevideowarcraftwarner-brosworld-of-warcraftwowxboxxbox-360xbox-livexbox360Mon, 25 Feb 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Anarchy Online set to finally merge servers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/anarchy-online-set-to-finally-merge-servers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/anarchy-online-set-to-finally-merge-servers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/anarchy-online-set-to-finally-merge-servers/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

RESISTANCE IS FUTILE.
How do you get together after 12 years of separation? That's a question the Anarchy Online community is going to have to answer tomorrow as the game undergoes a server merge, bringing together two communities that have been apart for more than a decade. PvP will be chaotic, the state of community relations will be chaotic, cats and dogs will be living next to one another... you get the idea, general mass hysteria.

Both servers will be brought offline at 5:00 a.m. EST on February 26th. The maintenance required to merge the two servers is expected to run for 24 hours, with the usual caveat that it may run longer depending on any issues encountered during the process. Afterwards, players will be able to log in to the new combined server and start welcoming their new neighbors... or start shooting them in their faces for property rights. As we said, general mass hysteria.

[Thanks to David for the tip!]

MassivelyAnarchy Online set to finally merge servers originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Feb 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anarchy-onlineaoclassic-mmocommunity-mergedowntimef2pfree-to-playfuncomnewssci-fiserver-downtimeserver-mergeserversMon, 25 Feb 2013 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Old-school RuneScape early access starts today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/old-school-runescape-early-access-starts-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/old-school-runescape-early-access-starts-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/old-school-runescape-early-access-starts-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Old-school RuneScape early access starts today
Those old-school RuneScape servers we told you about earlier this week are launching an early access period today. The shards will revisit the title as it was in late 2007, a window that Jagex says is "heralded as one of the defining periods of the game by its players."

The firm is opening up a voting period through which players will decide how much developer investment should be devoted to old-school RuneScape going forward. The options range from a basic service with critical maintenance to a full dev team that will iterate based on player input.

Jagex CEO Mark Gerhard notes that this isn't the first time his company has left major decisions in the hands of its users. In 2011, RuneScape's Free Trade and Wilderness mechanics were reintroduced to the game following a player poll. "Our players' dedication, passion, feedback, and enthusiasm all provide the compass, energy, and satisfaction that powers Jagex," he said. Jagex says that over 250,000 votes were cast in the old-school poll.

[Source: Jagex press release]

MassivelyOld-school RuneScape early access starts today originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Feb 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedclassic-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studiomark-gerhardold-schoolrsrunescaperunescape-old-schoolsandboxFri, 22 Feb 2013 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dark Age of Camelot launches an update and answers player questions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/dark-age-of-camelot-launches-an-update-and-answers-player-questi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/dark-age-of-camelot-launches-an-update-and-answers-player-questi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/dark-age-of-camelot-launches-an-update-and-answers-player-questi/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

No one takes Faertwyd's bunny slippers. No one.
If you've been playing Dark Age of Camelot for a while, odds are good that you've acquired a lot of things. You've got a set of Epic Armor, you've got tons of items clogging your bank, and you've got a pair of fuzzy bunny slippers that you don't remember buying but you now refuse to remove. The game's latest patch does not improve your slipper situation, but it does improve Epic Armor, add new Epic Weapons and Accessories, allow for remote bank access, and increase the stack limits on many items. So everything else gets better.

Does that satisfy you? No? You want to know more about the future of the game? Well, then, you can feast your eyes on a new set of community answers from the development team addressing the future update plans for the game as well as which areas will not be seeing much improvement (throwing weapons, for instance, are pretty much up the creek). So there's plenty for DAoC fans to enjoy. However, no one enjoys those bunny slippers. Seriously. Wear armor like everyone else.

[Thanks to Etaew for the tip!]

MassivelyDark Age of Camelot launches an update and answers player questions originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Feb 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bankbanksbiowarecamelotclassic-mmocommunity-q-acommunity-q-and-adaocdark-age-of-cameloteaelectronic-artsepicepic-accessoriesepic-armorepic-itemsepic-weaponsfantasyinventoryitem-overhaulsitemsmythicmythic-entertainmentmythologypatchpatchespvpq-and-arvrstack-sizesstacksThu, 21 Feb 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Would you pay to support a classic server?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/the-daily-grind-would-you-pay-to-support-a-classic-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/the-daily-grind-would-you-pay-to-support-a-classic-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/the-daily-grind-would-you-pay-to-support-a-classic-server/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Daily Grind Would you pay to support a classic server
The recent story of a possible new RuneScape classic server has caught my attention. Not because I have any particular attachment to RuneScape, but because I love the idea of studios offering older versions of the game (such as EverQuest Mac) for those who have a fondness for an earlier era. But what's even more interesting to me is how Jagex said that, depending on the number of players who support a 2007-era server, the studio may charge additionally for the privilege of playing on it.

That takes the conversation to a new level. It's one thing to support, in theory or in practice, a classic server, but it's another thing entirely to back up that support with cold, hard cash. Then again, classic servers are basically entirely different versions of the game that need their own maintenance and support, so some fundraising is expected.

This brings us to our question of the day. Would you not only play on a classic server of your favorite MMO -- but would you pay additionally to do it?

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: Would you pay to support a classic server? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Feb 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedclassic-mmoclassic-serverdaily-grindf2pfantasyfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studioopinionrsrunescapesandboxtdgthe-daily-grindWed, 20 Feb 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape is bringing old-school back]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/18/runescape-is-bringing-old-school-back/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/18/runescape-is-bringing-old-school-back/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/18/runescape-is-bringing-old-school-back/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Change is awful and we hate it.
There ain't no school like the old school. RuneScape players have spoken, and Jagex has listened: It's time to bring back a touch of nostalgia to the game in the form of pure old school servers, with the exact mix still to be determined. A recent announcement confirms that the servers will be coming back and reminds players to keep voting to determine the makeup of these servers. All voters will receive the first month on the throwback server for free.

For those who want more hard information from the development team, a special live forum chat will be held on Wednesday at 3 p.m. EST. Players can also begin posting to a forum thread tomorrow to help give the developers some advance idea of what to expect. If you're one of the 160,000 players who wanted to party like it's 2007, it looks as if your wish is coming true.

MassivelyRuneScape is bringing old-school back originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 18 Feb 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedclassic-mmoclassic-serversf2pfantasyfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studionew-serversold-schoolold-school-serversplayer-votingpollsrsrunescapesandboxserver-rulesetsthrowback-serversMon, 18 Feb 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine's servers down 34 hours and counting, studio comps players]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/15/turbines-servers-down-34-hours-and-counting-studio-comps-playe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/15/turbines-servers-down-34-hours-and-counting-studio-comps-playe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/15/turbines-servers-down-34-hours-and-counting-studio-comps-playe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Turbine's servers down 34 hours and counting, studio comps players
A period of global maintenance for Turbine's servers is now pushing well into its second day of downtime for all of the studio's games. Dungeons and Dragons Online, Lord of the Rings Online, and both Asheron's Call titles have been offline since 6:00 a.m. on February 14th. The servers were scheduled to be brought back online after 24 hours, but as of the time of this writing, they are still down as the studio works on issues that "cropped up during the night."

The downtime was to overhaul the billing system and other back-end projects.

LotRO CM Sapience posted this update at 4:20 p.m. EST:
"We are working to resolve ongoing issues with our system maintenance. At this time we do not have a specific estimate for when the game servers will be available. Our goal is to make the games available as soon as possible. However we would like to advise players that the service may continue to be unavailable this evening. We will continue to provide updates as we have them.

"As a thank you for your understanding and patience during this downtime, all Premium and VIP players who have logged into their account in the past 30 days (as of 6:00 a.m. EST on 2/14/2013) will receive 250 Turbine points. In addition, all VIP players who have logged in during the same period will have their accounts credited one day of VIP time for each day of downtime, plus one additional day. All points and additional time will be granted automatically as soon as our regular service is restored and stable."

MassivelyTurbine's servers down 34 hours and counting, studio comps players originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 Feb 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acac2asherons-callasherons-call-2classic-mmoddodnddowntimedungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlinef2pfantasyfree-to-playlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromaintenancesandboxserversturbineturbine-entertainmentFri, 15 Feb 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Players vote for 2007-era RuneScape server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/players-vote-for-2007-era-runescape-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/players-vote-for-2007-era-runescape-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/players-vote-for-2007-era-runescape-server/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Players vote for 2007era RuneScape server
Believe it or not, an "old-school" RuneScape server may be in the making. The crazy developers over at Jagex discovered a complete backup of the game from August 2007 and are allowing the community to vote on whether or not there's interest in playing this five-and-a-half year-old copy of the game.

The poll will go live on Friday for the following two weeks, but Mod Mark wanted to explain the hows and whys of this potential project in advance. He also set milestones for voting, with the minimum for the old-school server to become a reality being 50,000 votes for a maintenance-only version. If the server project gets enough votes, Jagex will actually hire a team to develop for it.

Mod Mark did want to clarify that possibility, however: "If this idea gathers sufficient support, then we will not need to take our current talent away from all of the exciting updates to be implemented into the current version of the game, as we will be able to hire a new dedicated team to work specifically on this project."

Tell you what: Why don't we have our own unofficial pre-poll poll right now? Vote on whether you'd play on a classic server after the jump!

Continue reading Players vote for 2007-era RuneScape server

MassivelyPlayers vote for 2007-era RuneScape server originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Feb 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20072007-serverbrowserbrowser-basedclassic-mmoclassic-serverclassic-shardf2pfantasyfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studiomod-markpollrsrunescapesandboxvoteWed, 13 Feb 2013 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[NCsoft earnings report shows healthy growth]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/05/ncsoft-earnings-report-shows-healthy-growth/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/05/ncsoft-earnings-report-shows-healthy-growth/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/05/ncsoft-earnings-report-shows-healthy-growth/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

NCsoft earnings report shows healthy growth
NCsoft just released its fourth quarter 2012 earnings report, and things are looking pretty good across the board for the multi-MMO company. NCsoft's earnings are up both quarter-over-quarter and year-over-year due to the releases of Blade & Soul and Guild Wars 2, not to mention "record-breaking annual revenues" from Lineage.

Guild Wars 2 accounted for 45% of the company's sales in Q4, followed by Lineage (24%) and Blade & Soul (10%). ArenaNet's newest game increased the North American market from 16% in Q3 to 25% in Q4.

It's not completely sunshine and roses, however. Lineage II and Aion both experienced declines during the period. NCsoft's net income was in the red for the quarter and its stock has slid since September, losing half of its value in the process.

[Thanks to Paul for the tip!]

MassivelyNCsoft earnings report shows healthy growth originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 05 Feb 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionanetarenanetascensionblade-and-soulbuy-to-playclassic-mmoearnings-reportf2pfantasyfree-to-playgrowthguild-wars-2gw2l1lineagelineage-1lineage-2lineage-iimartial-artsmartial-arts-mmoncsoftncsoft-koreaq4q4-2012truly-freeTue, 05 Feb 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Behind the scenes of FPS and MOBA development]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/04/not-so-massively-behind-the-scenes-of-fps-and-moba-development/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/04/not-so-massively-behind-the-scenes-of-fps-and-moba-development/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/04/not-so-massively-behind-the-scenes-of-fps-and-moba-development/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
Heroes of Newerth's Patch 3.0 was released this week, updating the game with new graphics and adding bots. The revamp is part of a move to capture gamers who are unfamiliar with the MOBA genre by lowering the barrier to entry. Upcoming MOBA Sins of a Dark Age detailed its own plans to revamp the MOBA genre with its new Realm Quest feature in a new development diary this week. Third-person MOBA SMITE continued beta development with the introduction of its new melee magical tank, Vulcan, the Smith of the Gods.

League of Legends officially started its third competitive season this week, complete with a new Championship Series website and live matches scheduled every week. Online FPS Blacklight: Retribution prepared for its upcoming competitive games with updates to the weapon recoil system, and Firefall announced plans to solve its PvP balance issues with standardised "regulation" PvP gear. We also got a look behind the scenes of upcoming co-op FPS Warframe, which lets players run along walls like ninjas.

Bloodline Champions showed more signs of reaching the end of its lifetime this week as developers shut down the game's Russian servers. Online FPS Bullet Run abruptly reached the end of its own life this week when Sony Online Entertainment announced the game will close its doors on March 8th. The announcement came as a surprise to many who weren't even aware of the game's release. Path of Exile's playerbase continued to grow this week, reaching a peak of over 70,000 players and causing some server stability problems.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Behind the scenes of FPS and MOBA development

MassivelyNot So Massively: Behind the scenes of FPS and MOBA development originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 04 Feb 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aconyaction-mmoaiblacklightblacklight-retributionbloodline-championsbotsclassic-mmocompetitive-gamingdiablodotae-sporte-sportsesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfpsfree-to-playfuncomgrinding-geargrinding-gear-gameshero-compositionheroes-of-newerthhoninfernoironcladironclad-gamesjunglinglane-controlleague-of-legendslolmap-awarenessmmofpsmobanewsninjaninjasnot-so-massivelynsmpatchpatch-3.0patchespath-of-exileperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentplanetsidepoepsps1pvppwerealm-questrealm-questsred-5-studiosriotriot-gamesround-uprounduprussians2s2-gamessci-fisins-of-a-dark-agesoesony-online-entertainmentsteve-sinclairstunlockstunlock-studiosvideovulcanwall-runningwarframeMon, 04 Feb 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Assembly Required: Kick(start)ing the sandbox genre]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/01/some-assembly-required-kick-start-ing-the-sandbox-genre-into-hi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/01/some-assembly-required-kick-start-ing-the-sandbox-genre-into-hi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/01/some-assembly-required-kick-start-ing-the-sandbox-genre-into-hi/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Some Assembly Required Kickstarting the sandbox genre into higher gear
Sandbox aficionados are known to reminisce about the "good old days." You know, that time long lost in the past when the greats of open-world play like Ultima Online and Star Wars Galaxies (pre-NGE of course) enjoyed their heyday. Many a lamentation has also been heard about how things have never been the same, or how nothing has filled that void.

Of course, the sandbox never died. In 2012 we started the year off with a guide to games sporting sandbox features to scratch a variety of virtual world itches and we ended with a look at some promising upcoming titles for 2013. With plenty of choices abounding, why are sandbox fans still decrying the lack of a home? It could be because they want one home for everyone to settle in together, basically one game to rule them all. But how realistic is that?

Even with the plethora of offerings now, many folks want to play their ideal sandbox, and everyone has their own idea of what the perfect one would be (and conversely, what would kill it). Perhaps the answer, then, is to forget about a single universal home that accommodates the masses and actually create a number of niche games where people find exactly what they are looking for. Wait, that's already happening? Enter Kickstarter.

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: Kick(start)ing the sandbox genre

MassivelySome Assembly Required: Kick(start)ing the sandbox genre originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 01 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologieschris-robertscitadel-of-sorceryclassic-mmocrowd-fundingcrowdfundingeaelectronic-artsembers-of-caerusfantasyfeaturedgalaxiesgame-mechanicsgoblinworksGreed-MongerKickstarterkickstarter-campaignKickstarter.comlord-britishmichael-dunhammythicmythic-entertainmentnotoriousnotorious-gamesopinionorigins-of-malupathfinderpathfinder-onlinepgcplayer-contentplayer-generated-contentpnppost-apocpost-apocalypticPrison-Worldpvprepopulationsandboxsandparksarsci-fantasysci-fishowing-supportsoesome-assembly-requiredsony-online-entertainmentspaceshipstar-citizenstar-warsstar-wars-galaxiesswgswgothe-repopulationultimaultima onlineuoVendetta-OnlinexsyonFri, 01 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST