Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Betawatch: May 19 - 25, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/betawatch-may-19-25-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/betawatch-may-19-25-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/betawatch-may-19-25-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The test is coming, it's plane to see.
This week in Betawatch, the biggest news is that the game everyone expected to be in beta isn't around. Guild Wars 2 is not running a beta weekend this weekend, meaning that anyone hoping to spend their long weekend in Tyria is going to have to go with the classic version. We also say farewell to Star Supremacy in wake of its launch.

However, for those who love testing unreleased games, it's not all bad news. World of Warplanes has announced its closed beta kicking off at the end of the month, and MechWarrior Online is heading into its closed beta this week. While you won't have a chance to get your paws on The Secret World just yet, we do have a nice new shiny set of impressions from the beta to help tide you over.

Jump on past the break to see the full list of what's still in testing!

Continue reading Betawatch: May 19 - 25, 2012

MassivelyBetawatch: May 19 - 25, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 May 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingFri, 25 May 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MechWarrior Online announces closed beta and founder's program]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/mechwarrior-online-announces-closed-beta-and-founders-program/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/mechwarrior-online-announces-closed-beta-and-founders-program/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/mechwarrior-online-announces-closed-beta-and-founders-program/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

MWO
Turn over the engine and light up the jet thrusters because MechWarrior Online is stomping into closed beta this week. Anyone who registers on the official site has a chance to check out the hot 'mech action before the rest of the crowd. While the beta is currently limited to North America, there is no IP blocking, so anyone can jump in as long as he or she doesn't mind a little lag.

Perhaps of more interest is Piranha Games' announcement of its founder's program, code-named Operation Inception. Yes, we guess the devs saw the movie too. While MWO will be free-to-play with optional microtransactions, Operation Inception lets players invest their money up-front to get special goodies and an early start to the game.

Players can buy into the founder's program starting June 19th. It will come in two tiers: a $30 veteran package and a $60 elite package. The veteran package includes $40 of in-game currency, a month of premium account status, a founder's tag, and early access. The elite package includes $80 of in-game currency, two months of premium status, the founder's tag, early access, and an exclusive BattleMech.

Early access for MechWarrior Online begins July 17th.

MassivelyMechWarrior Online announces closed beta and founder's program originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaclosed-betaearly-accessf2pfounders-battlemechfounders-programfree-to-playinceptionip-blockinglaunchmechmechsmechwarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemwooperation-inceptionpiranhapiranha-gamesregion-freesci-fiTue, 22 May 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Warplanes closed beta starts May 31st]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/world-of-warplanes-closed-beta-starts-may-31st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/world-of-warplanes-closed-beta-starts-may-31st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/world-of-warplanes-closed-beta-starts-may-31st/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

World of Warplanes closed beta starts May 31st
If you've been holding out hope for an invite to the World of Warplanes global alpha, take heart. Wargaming.net has just announced that it's moving its aviation shooter into closed beta on May 31st.

The company says its "army of test pilots will be increased drastically" as a result, so be sure to sign up on the official WoWP website. World of Warplanes is a lobby-based flight combat game set during aviation's golden age. It features aircraft ranging from 1930s biplanes to 1950s jets. For more on the game, check out our recent interview with producer Anton Sitnikau.

[Source: Wargaming.net press release]

MassivelyWorld of Warplanes closed beta starts May 31st originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaclosed-betaf2pfree-to-playglobal-alphahistoricalplaneplanespvpwarwargaming.netwarplanewarplanesworld-of-warplanesworld-of-warplanes-betaworld-of-warplanes-closed-betawowpwowp-betawowp-closed-betaTue, 22 May 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: May 12 - 18, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/betawatch-may-12-18-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/betawatch-may-12-18-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/betawatch-may-12-18-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Betawatch - D3
This week on Betawatch, we say farewell to Diablo III, which (at least nominally) moved on from beta to official launch on Tuesday. Bizarrely enchanting new MOBA SmashMuck Champions takes its place, joining our list with a closed beta planned within the month. We've also added MechWarrior Online to the alpha list, as reader mblakeman2001 rightly pointed out the game is in a friends-and-family beta!

CCP has begun sending out DUST 514 beta keys and opened registration, and we've also learned that Blade & Soul will leave beta and launch in July... but only in Korea. Sadface.

Finally, The Secret World's second beta weekend kicked off earlier today, but if you're not in it, you can content yourself with our hands-on with the game's combat and mission system.

Enjoy the entirety of our Betawatch roundup post-cut!

Continue reading Betawatch: May 12 - 18, 2012

MassivelyBetawatch: May 12 - 18, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 May 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingFri, 18 May 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MechWarrior Online dev Q&A covers beta, grouping, and combat damage]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/mechwarrior-online-dev-qanda-covers-beta-grouping-and-combat-dam/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/mechwarrior-online-dev-qanda-covers-beta-grouping-and-combat-dam/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/mechwarrior-online-dev-qanda-covers-beta-grouping-and-combat-dam/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

MWO
MechWarrior Online's devs aren't quite ready to disclose specifics on the game's minimum specs or beta process, but news for both is coming "soon." These vague assurances were the anomaly in a recent community Q&A, during which Piranha Games President Russ Bullock and Creative Director Bryan Ekman spilled on all of the minutia that fans were dying to know.

The duo said that they're "working very hard" to get MWO servers into every major region and that information about beta will be coming next week. They did confirm that there will be an open beta at some juncture, however.

Other details disclosed included the fact that players can form groups of up to 12 'Mechs, that legs cannot be blown off (but can be immobilized), and that the launch matchmaking system will be very basic and won't take into account player skill or records.

MassivelyMechWarrior Online dev Q&A covers beta, grouping, and combat damage originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaBryan-Ekmanclosed-betacommunity-q-and-af2pfree-to-playmechmechsmechwarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemin-specsminimum-specsmwoopen-betapiranhapiranha-gamespvpq-and-aRuss-Bullocksci-fisoonsoon-tmspecstweetchattwitterThu, 17 May 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Reserve your Guild Wars 2 character name today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/reserve-your-guild-wars-2-character-name-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/reserve-your-guild-wars-2-character-name-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/reserve-your-guild-wars-2-character-name-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Guild Wars 2
Everyone seems to freak out about grabbing his or her special character name at the launch of a new MMO, and we imagine Guild Wars 2 will invoke the same emotions. Instead of leaving this oh-so-important action to Day One, ArenaNet is giving players a chance to reserve their Guild Wars 2 names... starting today.

The way it works is that ArenaNet will be reserving all current Guild Wars names for the launch, and players attached to those names can then swoop in and collect them from the start. Three caveats are attached to this process, however: You have to log into Guild Wars sometime in 2012, you have to claim your names in Guild Wars 2 by launch day, and you can't secure Guild Wars 2's single names (as Guild Wars forces you to make two-word names).

The studio says that there are 20 million two-word names in use at this point, and we suspect that list will grow much longer after today. These names can be reserved at any point from now until whenever ArenaNet decides to compile its master list. After launch, ArenaNet promises to free up the unclaimed names for others to take.

MassivelyReserve your Guild Wars 2 character name today originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 May 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbetacharacter-namecharacter-name-reservationcharacter-namesclosed-betafantasyguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw2namename-reservationname-reservationsnamesncsoftreserve-your-namereserve-your-namesThu, 17 May 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DUST 514 handing out first beta keys tomorrow [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/dust-514-handing-out-first-beta-keys-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/dust-514-handing-out-first-beta-keys-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/dust-514-handing-out-first-beta-keys-tomorrow/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

DUST 514
Did you drop your name into CCP Games' hat as a potential tester for DUST 514? Then tomorrow might be a lovely day for you, as the studio is emailing out the first round of closed beta keys for registered participants after a short delay from its original key-handing-out schedule.

It is unknown how many keys will be sent out and to whom. Last month, CCP told Fanfest attendees that they would be among the first to test the anticipated MMOFPS. The DUST 514 website states that the studio is sending out Fanfest keys first and keys to standard registered players "soon after."

To celebrate the release of the closed beta keys, CCP is holding a "special event" over the weekend. The details of this event are forthcoming.

[Update: CCP has confirmed that beta registration has begun today and that EVE players and Fanfest attendees will get first pick.]

MassivelyDUST 514 handing out first beta keys tomorrow [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 May 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-keybeta-keysccpccp-gamesclosed-betaconsoledustdust-514eveeve-onlineeventfanfestfanfest-2012fpsin-game-eventmmofpsplaystationplaystation-3ps3shooterweekend-eventThu, 17 May 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blade & Soul on track to launch in Korea this July]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/blade-and-soul-on-track-to-launch-in-korea-this-july/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/blade-and-soul-on-track-to-launch-in-korea-this-july/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/blade-and-soul-on-track-to-launch-in-korea-this-july/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Blade & Soul
If all goes well, NCsoft's Blade & Soul will be making its public debut in July. That's the good news; the bad news is that the launch will be confined to Korea for the time being.

The company recently announced in an earnings call that the title is on track to go into open beta testing by June and then launch this July. There's some hope at NCsoft that the release of Diablo III will grow the potential gamer audience in the country, an audience that could be attracted to Blade & Soul come this summer.

Currently the game is in closed beta, with the next round of testing commencing on May 22nd. ThisIsGame reports that Blade & Soul has stirred up controversy with testers due to a vitality system that limits how fast a player can advance his or her character.

MassivelyBlade & Soul on track to launch in Korea this July originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 May 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetbetablade-and-soulblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcash-shopclosed-betaclosed-beta-testclosed-beta-testingd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiiearnings-callfantasygothic-fantasylaunchmartial-artsmartial-arts-mmomultiplayerncsoftncsoft-koreaonline-multiplayeropen-betaopen-beta-testopen-beta-testingreleaseroguelikerpgTue, 15 May 2012 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New MOBA SmashMuck Champions fights its way into closed beta this month]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/new-moba-smashmuck-champions-fights-its-way-into-closed-beta-thi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/new-moba-smashmuck-champions-fights-its-way-into-closed-beta-thi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/new-moba-smashmuck-champions-fights-its-way-into-closed-beta-thi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- SmashMuck Champions
Watch out, MOBA fans: A new challenger has appeared! Indie game developer Kiz Studios announced in a press release today that its upcoming MOBA title, SmashMuck Champions, is set to enter closed beta this month. Of course, if you're anything like us, you're probably wondering what the heck a SmashMuck Champions is.

According to the game's official site, the title is "a free-to-play action/strategy game featuring online multiplayer combat" in which players "build and train their own SmashMuck teams... to do battle in the toughest sport on Planet Muck." Gameplay-wise, the game seems to be your standard MOBA with a few not-so-standard twists. The addition of persistent champion gear plus interesting new mechanics such as stat-boosting training routines aim to put a new spin on the old formula. But hey, you don't have to take our word for it. The game will be entering closed beta testing on May 27th, so if you're a MOBA fan looking for a new thrill, just head on over to the game's official site and sign up for yourself. Oh, and while you're at it, don't forget to check out the game's latest official trailer after the cut.

[Source: Kiz Studios press release]

Gallery: SmashMuck Champions

Continue reading New MOBA SmashMuck Champions fights its way into closed beta this month

MassivelyNew MOBA SmashMuck Champions fights its way into closed beta this month originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 May 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betacbtclosed-betaclosed-beta-testclosed-beta-testinggalleriesgalleryindiekiz-studiosmobamultiplayer-online-battle-arenascreenshotscreenshotssmashmucksmashmuck-championstrailertrailersvideovideosMon, 14 May 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: May 5 - 11, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/betawatch-may-5-11-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/betawatch-may-5-11-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/betawatch-may-5-11-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

PSO2
The Spirit Tales open beta launched this week, bumping that game up a tier on our beta list. In fact, the game proved so popular that an additional beta server was added to accommodate the avalanche of fans of all things cute.

City of Steam has announced an alpha test for July, while Storybricks is accepting alpha signups for its alpha demo right now. Compounding the season's MMO drama is Phantasy Star Online 2, which is aiming to open up its beta early this summer.

The Secret World, with its 1,000,000 beta signups, is is kicking off its first beta weekend starting today. Meanwhile, Glitch's epic beta housing patch is finally upon us, World of Warcraft has unveiled cross-server grouping in the Mists of Pandaria beta, and Guild Wars 2 announced a surprise stress test for pre-purchasers this coming Monday.

Finally, if you're bored this weekend, why not check out Diablo III-rival Path of Exile? Tipsters Don and James report it's holding a public stress test starting right as this post is published at 8 p.m. EDT tonight.

The full Betawatch roundup lies in wait behind the break.

Continue reading Betawatch: May 5 - 11, 2012

MassivelyBetawatch: May 5 - 11, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 May 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingFri, 11 May 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aeria launches Waren Story website, offers beta signups]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/aeria-launches-waren-story-website-offers-beta-signups/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/aeria-launches-waren-story-website-offers-beta-signups/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/aeria-launches-waren-story-website-offers-beta-signups/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Waren Story mount
Waren Story's got a new website as of this morning. What's Waren Story? It's a new PvP-centric free-to-play MMO from Aeria.

The site features bits about the fantasy title's story, its customizable weapons and gear, and plenty of info on skills and character classes. There's also a section devoted to Waren Story's mercenary mechanics, which allow players to hire a wide variety of powerful combat allies. Elf archers, dwarf warriors, and Dryad queens are all yours for the taking, Aeria says.

Head to the game's new web destination for further details, and don't forget to sign up for the closed beta while you're there.

[Source: Aeria Games press release]

MassivelyAeria launches Waren Story website, offers beta signups originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeriaaeria-gamesbetaclosed-betaf2pfantasyfree-to-playmercenarieswaren-storywaren-story-betawaren-story-mercenariesThu, 10 May 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: April 28 - May 4, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/betawatch-april-28-may-4-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/betawatch-april-28-may-4-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/betawatch-april-28-may-4-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Betawatch (Glitch)
Beta launches numbered few this week, but Betawatchers were amply supplied with beta news. Glitch launched its new imagination system, we logged hands-on time with Firefall, Diablo III unveiled the Wizard and the game's TV spot, Storybricks kickstarted a Kickstarter promotion, The Repopulation promised a sandbox-worthy gear system, and the Guild Wars 2 gem store crept online.

We also say farewell to TERA this week as it's now out of beta and available in the West!

The full Betawatch roundup is tucked behind the break, ready and waiting to take over your weekend.

Continue reading Betawatch: April 28 - May 4, 2012

MassivelyBetawatch: April 28 - May 4, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 May 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingFri, 04 May 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: April 21 - 27, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/betawatch-april-21-27-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/betawatch-april-21-27-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/betawatch-april-21-27-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Betawatch - Tamer Saga
Tamer Saga and Grimlands join Betawatch's closed beta list this week, while Pirate101 (arrrr!) and Dragon Crusade have been added to our alpha list. And if you were hoping to jump into Spirit Tales' open beta on Wednesday, you're out of luck: Koramgame has postponed that test until May 10th with a lengthy explanation.

Want in on the Neverwinter beta? Prepurchasing Torchlight 2 through Perfect World Entertainment's portal will guarantee your spot.

You're no doubt keeping a steady eye on both TERA, which has opened up its head start program in advance of launch next week, and Guild Wars 2, whose first beta event for prepurchasers began earlier today. EVE Fanfest attendees can now redeem their voucher codes for DUST 514 as well.

Finally, reader Chet tipped us off to the rumor fact that Salem beta test invites are going out!

Enjoy the full Betawatch roundup after the break.

Continue reading Betawatch: April 21 - 27, 2012

MassivelyBetawatch: April 21 - 27, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 27 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betaroundupsalemtamer-sagatestingFri, 27 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aeria Games announces its new MMORTS, Dragon Crusade]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/aeria-games-announces-their-new-mmorts-dragon-crusade/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/aeria-games-announces-their-new-mmorts-dragon-crusade/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/aeria-games-announces-their-new-mmorts-dragon-crusade/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Not sure exactly where dragons enter in to all this.
While years have gone by without many entries into the MMORTS genre, the list of contenders is slowly but steadily expanding. Add Dragon Crusade to the list; it's an upcoming free-to-play browser title just announced by Aeria Games. The game will feature six different races, each with its own strengths and weaknesses as well as a unique racial capital. The core of the game, however, isn't meant to simply be your choice of race; it's building an actual kingdom over multiple cities.

Kingdoms are meant to add an important strategic resource to the game. Players are responsible for the defense of their cities, forcing a balance between gaining new ground and protecting what's already there. Players will also be granted a variety of different heroes, mounts, and pets, all of which have special development paths to give player forces a unique flair. There's no word yet on when the game will go into general release, but potential players can register for the upcoming closed beta on the official site.

[Source: Aeria Games press release]

Gallery: Dragon Crusade

MassivelyAeria Games announces its new MMORTS, Dragon Crusade originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeria-gamesbrowserbrowser-gameclosed-betadragon-crusadef2pfree-to-playgalleriesgallerymmortsnew-titlesrtsupcoming-betaThu, 26 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch 17 minutes of unadulterated Blade & Soul PvP footage]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/22/watch-17-minutes-of-unadulterated-blade-and-soul-pvp-footage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/22/watch-17-minutes-of-unadulterated-blade-and-soul-pvp-footage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/22/watch-17-minutes-of-unadulterated-blade-and-soul-pvp-footage/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Blade and Soul
There's nothing that South Korean gamers love more than hot-blooded PvP, which is why they went bananas to see NCsoft's Blade & Soul's player-vs.-player combat live at the recent Soul Party 2.

In two filmed videos by ThisIsGame.com, testers give the game's intense, kinetic action a workout during a 20v20 PvP match. The characters' full range of motion is on display in these clips, as are their various methods of impaling, soul-sucking, and fireballing opponents.

Blade & Soul recently announced its adorable Summoner class, which will be playable when the game heads into its third closed beta test on May 9th. And yes, you have our full permission to stay up past your bedtime to watch the following PvP bout.

Continue reading Watch 17 minutes of unadulterated Blade & Soul PvP footage

MassivelyWatch 17 minutes of unadulterated Blade & Soul PvP footage originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 22 Apr 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betablade-and-soulcbtcbt3closed-betaclosed-beta-testeventfantasymartial-artsmartial-arts-mmoncsoftncsoft-koreapvppvp-eventsoul-party-2summonervideoSun, 22 Apr 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: April 14 - 20, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/betawatch-april-14-20-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/betawatch-april-14-20-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/betawatch-april-14-20-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Betawatch - Otherland
Three new games join Betawatch this week! The Tad Williams-inspired Otherland is now accepting alpha sign-ups; Aeria Games announced Waren Story with a beta sign-up and a trailer; and Gamania opened up the testing rolls for its newest MMO, Soul Captor.

Meanwhile, heavy-hitters TERA and Guild Wars 2 are focusing on their impending beta weekends. TERA's first open beta weekend starts today, while Guild Wars 2 plans its first beta event for pre-purchasers next weekend.

Finally, Blizzard will be closing down the Diablo III beta come Tuesday in preparation for launch next month. That means that today through Monday is your last chance to get it on the open beta!

Read on for the full Betawatch roundup!

Continue reading Betawatch: April 14 - 20, 2012

MassivelyBetawatch: April 14 - 20, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingFri, 20 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 releases underwater concept art]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/guild-wars-2-releases-underwater-concept-art/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/guild-wars-2-releases-underwater-concept-art/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/guild-wars-2-releases-underwater-concept-art/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Guild Wars 2
They say a picture is worth a thousand words, or in this case, 460,000 likes on Facebook. Reacting to the growing popularity of Guild Wars 2 in its social media, ArenaNet has released a brand-new piece of gorgeous concept art for you to gawk at.

The piece shows Norn Eir Stegalkin finding something hidden deep underwater. Eir is one of the five key heroes of Destiny's Edge, the retired adventuring group that plays a huge part in the game. As Guild Wars 2 will have a significant underwater portion, this art is a good reminder that not all of the game's exploration and landmarks will take place out in the open air.

The concept art is by ArenaNet's Jamie Ro and can be viewed in high resolution on Flickr.

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 releases underwater concept art originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Apr 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbetaclosed-betaconcept-artEir-Stegalkinfacebookfantasyguild-warsguild-wars-2gw2Jamie-Rolikesncsoftnornunderwaterunderwater-artunderwater-combatunderwater-concept-artThu, 19 Apr 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: April 7 - 13, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/betawatch-april-7-13-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/betawatch-april-7-13-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/betawatch-april-7-13-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Betawatch - Glitch
Betawatch bids farewell to Tribes: Ascend this week; it's officially launched and shiny, and even better, it's F2P, so go get your pew on! If you're that one guy who just doesn't dig jetpacks, maybe try a free beta key for UFO Online, currently still in closed beta.

Meanwhile, fantasy MMO heavyweights Guild Wars 2 and TERA have been ramping up their beta hype with sneak-peeks, open beta plans, and pre-purchase kickoffs. If you're more into vampires, you'll be pleased to learn that Dark Legends has also rolled out to Android phones and Chrome. And finally, we've gotten another update from the Glitch folks about that game's impending housing revamp.

Enjoy the full Betawatch roundup!

Continue reading Betawatch: April 7 - 13, 2012

MassivelyBetawatch: April 7 - 13, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testingglitchlaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingFri, 13 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet releases a sneak peek of The Making of Guild Wars 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/arenanet-releases-a-sneak-peek-of-the-making-of-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/arenanet-releases-a-sneak-peek-of-the-making-of-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/arenanet-releases-a-sneak-peek-of-the-making-of-guild-wars-2/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Guild Wars 2
Whether you've reserved one of the coveted Guild Wars 2 collector's edition or are too poor or uninterested to have done so, ArenaNet has a special treat for each and every one of you today. Continuing its blog series highlighting the collector's editions insides, ArenaNet posted three spreads (that's six pages) of the book The Making of Guild Wars 2.

The revealed pages discuss the creation of the Mesmer class (which was apparently never in doubt), the difficulty of mastering the Necromancer and Thief professions, how the game was designed, the differences between Guild Wars' and Guild Wars 2's hex mechanics, and the effort that went into producing the game's many and varied creatures.

This hardcover book is 112 pages and comes with full-color concept art, screenshots, and developer insights into the construction of the game. Earlier today we reported on ArenaNet's glimpse into the creation of the collector's edition statue.

MassivelyArenaNet releases a sneak peek of The Making of Guild Wars 2 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbetaceclosed-betacollectors-editionfantasyguild-warsguild-wars-2gw2mesmerncsoftnecromancerthe-making-of-guild-wars-2thiefThu, 12 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet shows the making of Guild Wars 2's collector's edition statue]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/arenanet-shows-the-making-of-guild-wars-2s-collectors-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/arenanet-shows-the-making-of-guild-wars-2s-collectors-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/arenanet-shows-the-making-of-guild-wars-2s-collectors-edition/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Guild Wars 2
When Guild Wars 2's pre-purchase program started two days ago, scores of fans descended upon their local retailers looking to secure one of its few, highly desired collector's editions. For those fortunate enough to grab one, ArenaNet has posted an inside look at the centerpiece of the CE: the Rytlock Brimstone statue.

While the team considered statues of each of the races, it decided that the Charr was the most iconic and worthy of star treatment. ArenaNet partnered up with Canada's Happy Worker to fashion the detailed statue that shows Rytlock with his flaming blade, standing over a field of skulls. The heavy statue is 10 inches tall and painstakingly hand-painted.

If you're still attempting to hunt down a collector's edition of Guild Wars 2, head over to the pre-purchase page on the official site for the list of retailers in your country.

MassivelyArenaNet shows the making of Guild Wars 2's collector's edition statue originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbetacecharrclosed-betacollectors-editionfantasyguild-wars-2gw2happy-workerncsoftpre-purchaseprepurchaseRytlock-BrimstonestatueThu, 12 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Abduct yourself a UFO Online beta key from Massively!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/abduct-yourself-a-ufo-online-beta-key-from-massively/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/abduct-yourself-a-ufo-online-beta-key-from-massively/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/abduct-yourself-a-ufo-online-beta-key-from-massively/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Technically, UFO just refers to an unidentified aircraft. So, really, this could just be a game about looking up in the sky and not being sure what kind of plane that is. And then shooting someone.
You've seen our first impressions -- does that make you want to get in on UFO Online? For a lot of people, that's not quite possible yet, seeing as how the game is still in closed beta testing. However, as in the past, the team at Massively has you covered. Thanks to the folks over at gamigo, we've got 2,000 keys for the second closed beta test, and we're handing them out to whoever wants one.

If you're up for some tactical browser action, go ahead and click the button below, grab a code, then enter it in the appropriate spot on the front page of the official site. After that, you should be golden. Luckily, unlike many other betas, this one doesn't make you worry about a cumbersome client download since the entire game plays in your browser. So grab yourself a key, and please, go gentle with your probing of the game. It's still in testing.

GET YOUR KEY

MassivelyAbduct yourself a UFO Online beta key from Massively! originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Apr 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-keysbeta-testingbrowserbrowser-gameclosed-betagamigogiveawaysnewsufo-onlineWed, 11 Apr 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ready, aim, Firefall: Impressions of the closed beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/08/ready-aim-firefall-impressions-of-the-closed-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/08/ready-aim-firefall-impressions-of-the-closed-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/08/ready-aim-firefall-impressions-of-the-closed-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Firefall
Last year at PAX Prime, I had the opportunity to get my hands on an early version of Red 5 Studios' upcoming MMOFPS, Firefall. The game's come a long way since then, having gone into closed beta shortly after PAX Prime.

As of Friday, the game's NDA has finally dropped, and I can finally tell you fine folks all about my experiences with the game's beta. For those of you somehow not in the know, Firefall is essentially two games in one. On the one hand, you have the title's open-world PvE content that sees players exploring the lands of New Eden in an attempt to find a way to fight back the destructive alien force known as the Melding. On the other, there's the competitive e-sports-esque PvP, which lets players test their skills against each another to see who's the best shot in New Eden. So how much has Firefall changed between PAX Prime '11 and PAX East '12?

Continue reading Ready, aim, Firefall: Impressions of the closed beta

MassivelyReady, aim, Firefall: Impressions of the closed beta originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 08 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betacbtclosed-betaclosed-beta-testconconventionexpof2pfeaturedfirefallfirst-person-shooterfpsfree-to-playhands-onimpressionsmmo-shootermmofpspaxpax-2012pax-eastpax-east-2012penny-arcade-expopreviewpreviewspvpred-5red-5-studiossci-fishooterwarSun, 08 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX East 2012: Guns of Icarus announces closed beta, details adventure mode]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/pax-east-2012-guns-of-icarus-announces-closed-beta-details-adv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/pax-east-2012-guns-of-icarus-announces-closed-beta-details-adv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/pax-east-2012-guns-of-icarus-announces-closed-beta-details-adv/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Guns of Icarus Online
STEAMPUNK! AHH! OK, now that that's out of my system, let's talk Guns of Icarus Online. This morning, I had the pleasure of meeting with some of the folks from Muse Games at PAX East to talk about the studio's upcoming steampunk-airship-battling title. The title is still in alpha testing, though it will be springing into the early stages of closed beta at some point in the next couple of weeks. At launch, the title will be focused on competitive, match-made PvP matches a la first-person-shooters.

But this is Massively, so let's talk MMOs. Strictly speaking, I'd have to say Guns of Icarus Online isn't one -- at least not yet. After the initial match-based "skirmish" mode of the game is released, the studio will continue to support it by slowly adding in "adventure" mode features. Adventure mode is more akin to a traditional MMO in that it provide a more open world for players to navigate and explore, tradeskill and economy systems, missions, towns, and settlements, all within a persistent world. While it remains to be seen whether the game will ultimately become a "true" MMO, this stylish foray into the steampunk/dieselpunk genres is definitely one to watch.

Massively's on the ground in Boston during the weekend of April 6-8, bringing you all the best news from PAX East 2012. Whether you're dying to know more about TERA or PlanetSide 2 or any MMO in between, we aim to have it covered!

MassivelyPAX East 2012: Guns of Icarus announces closed beta, details adventure mode originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 07 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airshipairshipsbetabetasclosed-betaconconventiondieselpunkdirigiblesexpoguns-of-icarusguns-of-icarus-onlinehnnnghmuse-gamespaxpax-2012pax-eastpax-east-2012penny-arcade-exposteampunkzeppelinsSat, 07 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: March 31 - April 6, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/06/betawatch-march-31-april-6-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/06/betawatch-march-31-april-6-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/06/betawatch-march-31-april-6-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Betawatch (Star Conflict)
This week on Betawatch, we say farewell to Seven Souls Online and Blacklight Retribution, both of which have now launched officially. In their place, we've added two new games to keep an eye on: Star Conflict, a PvP-oriented space-combat MMO, joins our open beta list, while Grecca, a 2-D sandbox MMO, earns its city-building self a spot on our (open) alpha list.

Meanwhile, Spirit Tales announced an open beta date of April 25th, TERA kicked off its final closed beta weekend with a look at what open beta will entail, and Ensemble Online reached out for Kickstarter funding for its beta.

Enjoy the full Betawatch roundup beyond the break.

Continue reading Betawatch: March 31 - April 6, 2012

MassivelyBetawatch: March 31 - April 6, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betaensemble-onlinefeaturedgame-testinggreccalaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingFri, 06 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA sheds some light on open beta as test weekends draw to a close]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/04/tera-sheds-some-light-on-cbt-5-as-test-weekends-draw-to-a-close/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/04/tera-sheds-some-light-on-cbt-5-as-test-weekends-draw-to-a-close/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/04/tera-sheds-some-light-on-cbt-5-as-test-weekends-draw-to-a-close/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Screenshot -- TERA
TERA's launch is now just beyond the horizon, and that means that it's almost time for the game's closed beta testing to draw to a close. Specifically, it means that this weekend will mark the fifth and final closed beta test weekend, so En Masse Entertainment has put up a new blog post discussing what was learned from CBT 4 and what players can expect from CBT 5, open beta, and launch.

One thing that the team is looking at very intently for open beta and launch is the difficulty of the starting experience -- or perhaps more appropriately, the lack thereof. Players have long said that the starting experience is not challenging enough, and the team has been listening. On top of that, En Masse has been working on a number of other changes as well, including tweaks to the enchantment system, some additional equipment and skill options, and even an entirely new tutorial zone that "serves as the precursor to the current Island of Dawn experience." The full details, of course, can be found in the official post over at TERA's official site, so go on and read up and we'll see you in in Arborea again soon.

MassivelyTERA sheds some light on open beta as test weekends draw to a close originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 Apr 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-weekendbeta-weekendsblueholebluehole-studioscbtcbt-4cbt-5closed-betaclosed-beta-testclosed-beta-test-4closed-beta-test-5closed-beta-testingen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyteraWed, 04 Apr 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LeKool kickstarts Star Supremacy closed beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/01/lekool-kickstarts-star-supremacy-closed-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/01/lekool-kickstarts-star-supremacy-closed-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/01/lekool-kickstarts-star-supremacy-closed-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Star Supremacy battle screen
Star Supremacy's closed beta is officially live. The free-to-play browser-based space war MMO kicked off its testing phase last night, and LeKool Games says the game brings something unique to the crowded F2P market.

That something is ship customization. "No two ships will be identical," according to the company's press release. Star Supremacy is a hybrid 4X/multiplayer title set in the distant future, and it features three human factions battling across the stars for control over scarce resources and vast wealth. More info and beta signups are available on the game's official website.

[Source: LeKool Games press release]

MassivelyLeKool kickstarts Star Supremacy closed beta originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 01 Apr 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4xbetaclosed-betaf2pfree-to-playinternet-spaceshipslekoollekool-gamesspacestar-supremacystrategySun, 01 Apr 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: March 24 - 30, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/betawatch-march-24-30-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/betawatch-march-24-30-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/betawatch-march-24-30-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Betawatch (UFO Online pic)
This week in Betawatch, UFO Online entered its next round of closed beta, World of Warcraft's Mists of Pandaria beta opened up to more annual pass subscribers, and Auto Club Revolution kicked off a testing phase of its own, thereby joining our official open beta list.

Tired of standard MMOs? MMOFPS Firefall has announced its next stage of beta, and fans of Roguelikes can pile on the Path of Exile public stress test all weekend (thanks to reader Carson for that tip).

Don't forget our coverage of the latest and greatest Guild Wars 2 beta media event!

The full Betawatch roundup is tucked behind the cut.

Continue reading Betawatch: March 24 - 30, 2012

MassivelyBetawatch: March 24 - 30, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingFri, 30 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[UFO Online abducts cows, starts second beta phase]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/ufo-online-abducts-cows-starts-second-beta-phase/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/ufo-online-abducts-cows-starts-second-beta-phase/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/ufo-online-abducts-cows-starts-second-beta-phase/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

UFO Online
Remember kids: Just say no to alien probing! If you're like any of us on the Massively staff, then you're sick of being abducted by intergalactic bullies and dissected for kicks. That's why we're glad that gamigo's fighting back with UFO Online, which is one step closer to launch today.

The publisher announced that UFO Online is beginning its second beta phase following a period of reflection and development after the first. The game's studio, Funatics, has expanded the game to include two new aliens, a better loot system, more complex missions, and more strategic combat. Phase two of the aliens' diabolical plan, er, the studio's approach will also see a better tutorial, performance optimization, and UI improvements that all should make a significant difference for those testing the game.

If smacking down grey-skinned invaders appeals to you, you can apply for the beta on the website and read up on our first impressions of this turn-based tactical MMO.

[Source: gamigo press release]

MassivelyUFO Online abducts cows, starts second beta phase originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aliensbetabeta-testingclosed-betaclosed-beta-phase-twofunaticsgamigophase-twosecond-closed-betaufoufo-onlineuiThu, 29 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: How do you roleplay betas?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/the-daily-grind-how-do-you-roleplay-betas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/the-daily-grind-how-do-you-roleplay-betas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/the-daily-grind-how-do-you-roleplay-betas/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Diablo III
This may be a little to esoteric of a way to start your Wednesday morning, but you can't spell "Massively" in several foreign languages without "eso" and "teric." Anyway, this past week I posed a tongue-in-cheek question to RP-leaning friends on Twitter about how they roleplay betas. How did they take into account the fact that this world was to end? Was their character aware of the theory of multiple universes? Or did they simply put off roleplaying until the actual launch?

What surprised me were the thoughtful and interesting responses I received. I had just assumed nobody actually bothered with RP in betas, but that's not the truth; on the contrary, many of my friends used the time to experiment with characters, to begin to fashion stories, or even to play their character as an ancestor of their soon-to-come main.

So what about you? How do you -- or would you -- roleplay betas with their unstable, transitory worlds?

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: How do you roleplay betas? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Mar 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabetasclosed-betadaily-grindopen-betaopinionroleplayroleplay-in-betasroleplayingrptdgthe-daily-grindWed, 28 Mar 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Making the 'jump' from Guild Wars to Guild Wars 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/making-the-jump-from-guild-wars-to-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/making-the-jump-from-guild-wars-to-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/making-the-jump-from-guild-wars-to-guild-wars-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Black Citadel Forest, Guild Wars 2
The second Guild Wars 2 press beta weekend has come and gone, and Massively was there every step of the way. Stay tuned throughout the day today for even more guides, impressions, videos, and Q&As to get you ready for the highly anticipated sequel to Guild Wars.

Guild Wars 2 is on the way (when it's ready), and classic Guild Wars players probably understand that soon they'll be competing with a younger sibling -- a smarter, more attractive one who's sure to get more of mom's attention. And while we're sure that some of the more stalwart Guild Wars 2 fans are also Guild Wars players, not all veterans of the first edition are dedicated to licking up every drop of sequel info squeezed out of blogs, conventions, and betas. Those veterans might just be wondering, what exactly can Guild Wars 2 offer them, other than Hall of Monuments tie-ins? What's changed? What's the same? What will they love, what will they hate, and what could possibly make them jump ship to the new hotness?

The first and most important thing you must know is that yes, you can jump in Guild Wars 2! Seriously, though, jumping is more than just a thing you do with your spacebar when you're bored; it's a symbol of boundlessness. Guild Wars 2 itself is trying to jump a lot higher than its elder brother, and probably the essential difference between the games is that feeling that the walls have come down and gravity is letting loose. That alone should urge classic players to take a peek, but if that's not enough for you, fire up your Jeremy Soule soundtracks (yes, he's onboard for an encore!) and read on...

Continue reading Making the 'jump' from Guild Wars to Guild Wars 2

MassivelyMaking the 'jump' from Guild Wars to Guild Wars 2 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetauction-hallbetacash-shopcharacter-creationclosed-betaclosed-beta-3comparisondeathdeath-penaltydungeonsdynamic-contenteconomyendgameeye-of-the-northfantasyfeaturedgeargemsgroupgroupingguideguidesguild-warsguild-wars-2guild-wars-2-betaguild-wars-2-guideguild-wars-2-previewguildsgvggwgw2hall-of-monumentshands-onhominterfacejumpjumpingloremap-travelncsoftpreviewpreviewspropheciespvpquestsrenown-heartrmtsidekickingskill-pointtrading-posttyriauiuser-interfaceworld-vs-worldworld-vs-world-vs-worldwvwwvwvwMon, 26 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: March 17 - 23, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/betawatch-march-17-23-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/betawatch-march-17-23-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/betawatch-march-17-23-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Betawatch - WoW pic
This week has been huge for Betawatchers: The beta for World of Warcraft's Mists of Pandaria expansion kicked off, Wrath of Heroes' beta servers are now open, and Salem has begun accepting beta signups. We also learned that the End of Nations closed beta will start this spring.

Are you hoping to populate The Repopulation? Alpha signups went live just a few hours ago! Or maybe you're still waiting on Glitch's re-release? TinySpeck released a progress report earlier this evening (housing fans should go peek).

Finally, ArenaNet confirmed that a batch of Guild Wars 2 beta invites went out this week. Massively will be in attendance over the weekend, so tell us what you want to know and we'll do our best to focus on it!

The full Betawatch roundup is after the cut!

Continue reading Betawatch: March 17 - 23, 2012

MassivelyBetawatch: March 17 - 23, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingthe-repopulationFri, 23 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blade & Soul nearing commercial release, adding Summoner class]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/blade-and-soul-nearing-commercial-release-adding-summoner-class/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/blade-and-soul-nearing-commercial-release-adding-summoner-class/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/blade-and-soul-nearing-commercial-release-adding-summoner-class/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Blade & Soul - nearing commercial release
NCsoft is loath to talk about its Blade & Soul martial arts MMORPG here in the West, so we have to rely on third-party fansites and Chinese/Korean translations for most of our info. The latest such comes courtesy of MMO Culture, and it features an interview from a recent Tencent Games media event with a couple of newsworthy notables.

First up is the fact that upcoming Korean and Chinese Blade & Soul beta phases will feature the new Summoner class. Not much is known in terms of class specifics yet, but the site says that it boasts an "easier" and "more relaxed" playstyle than other classes.

The interview also touches on Blade & Soul's business model and its impending release. Despite the fact that NCsoft titles like Aion and Lineage II have recently committed to free-to-play in North America, the firm isn't talking about any particular Blade & Soul payment model just yet. Finally, MMO Culture reports that Blade & Soul "is currently near the end of the development phase for commercial release," and given the lack of info on a Western client, we expect said release to be exclusive to the Chinese and Korean markets for now.

MassivelyBlade & Soul nearing commercial release, adding Summoner class originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Mar 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betablade-and-soulblade-and-soul-business-modelblade-and-soul-summonerbusiness-modelschinese-betaclassesclosed-betafantasykorean-betamartial-artsmartial-arts-mmoncsoftncsoft-koreasummonertencenttencent-gamesFri, 23 Mar 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Howsabout another 5000 TERA closed beta keys?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/howsabout-another-5000-tera-closed-beta-keys/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/howsabout-another-5000-tera-closed-beta-keys/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/howsabout-another-5000-tera-closed-beta-keys/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Don't spear me bro
Massively's got a treat for those of you who were off doing something crazy like sleeping, eating, or working last Thursday, such that you missed out on grabbing one of the 10,000 TERA closed beta keys we gave away that very day in just under four hours. The treat is a picture of a centaur stabbing a dude with a spear! Just kidding -- it's 5,000 more keys!

These keys will secure your spot in TERA's Closed Beta Test 4 for North American players only, which runs this weekend, beginning on March 23rd. Just click the button below, claim your key, and then copy and paste it into the appropriate section of your En Masse Entertainment account, which you can create at the official site. After you've verified your email address, click the "enter code" button on the right side of your account window and submit your key. You can download the TERA client via the button on the account overview tab.

Don't forget to have fun!

GET YOUR KEY

MassivelyHowsabout another 5000 TERA closed beta keys? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arboreabackstorybetabeta-giveawaybeta-keysblueholebluehole-studiosclosed-betacontestcontestsen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasygiveawaygiveawaysteratera-betatera-beta-giveawaTue, 20 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ArcheAge evaluates CBT4 and revs up for CBT5]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/archeage-evaluates-cbt4-and-revs-up-for-cbt5/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/archeage-evaluates-cbt4-and-revs-up-for-cbt5/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/archeage-evaluates-cbt4-and-revs-up-for-cbt5/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

ArcheAge
After 95 days of intense testing, ArcheAge has put an end to the game's fourth closed beta and is evaluating the results in preparation for the next round. XLGAME's Jake Song said to the press that over 2,000 pieces of feedback were gathered from the event and most all of them were directly addressed by the team.

ArcheAge's fourth closed beta test expanded the game significantly. Three land regions, four sea zones, siege warfare, pirates, an auction house, the Kraken, and the new Hariharan race were added for players to try out. The team also improved the look of the Ferre race and clarity during character creation. During the event, XLGAMES incorporated a Footprint system into the game that would "mark" a trespasser who attempted to steal another player's resources, such as cutting down trees.

One new feature was removed, however. The team had a combustible liquor barrel in the game but yanked it when griefers threw it into the middle of a wedding ceremony and killed everyone.

As the devs put a wrap on closed beta four, Jake Song says that they're hard at work preparing for the fifth test. Before that happens, however, the team will attempt to fix many of the bugs that popped up during the last test, improve client downloading speeds, and incorporate instant dungeons and housing improvements.

MassivelyArcheAge evaluates CBT4 and revs up for CBT5 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Mar 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aaarche-agearcheagebetacbt4cbt5closed-betaclosed-beta-testclosed-beta-test-fiveclosed-beta-test-fourfantasyjake-songpvpsandboxsandparkxlgamesTue, 20 Mar 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet confirms Guild Wars 2 beta invites are in progress]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/17/arenanet-confirms-guild-wars-2-beta-invites-are-in-progress/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/17/arenanet-confirms-guild-wars-2-beta-invites-are-in-progress/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/17/arenanet-confirms-guild-wars-2-beta-invites-are-in-progress/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Guild Wars 2
Brooding over your lack of a beta invite for Guild Wars 2? Are you anxiously refreshing your inbox every three seconds on the off-chance that ArenaNet finally came to its senses and opened the door to the best tester in the world (that's you, of course)?

It might help you to know that ArenaNet has indeed begun sending out beta invites for the lucky few who were accepted after the recent 48-hour call to arms. Rubi Bayer confirmed this on Guild Wars 2's Facebook page:
"Yes, beta invitations have begun going out. They'll be sent out over the next few days. Please remember that discussing the beta in any way, shape, or form -- including your status in it -- is a breach of NDA. Don't risk your beta access!"
Keep in mind that whether or not you're admitted to this round of beta testing, you can ensure your place in future beta weekends by pre-purchasing the game.

MassivelyArenaNet confirms Guild Wars 2 beta invites are in progress originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 17 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbetabeta-invitebeta-testingclosed-betaclosed-beta-invitefacebookfantasyguild-wars-2gw2ncsoftndapre-purchaserubi-bayerSat, 17 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: March 10 - 16, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/betawatch-march-10-16-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/betawatch-march-10-16-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/betawatch-march-10-16-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Betawatch - Spirit Tales
Happy Friday, Betawatchers! This week, Spirit Tales entered closed beta, Seven Souls Online and Command & Conquer Tiberium Alliances joined our open beta list, and we caught more than a glimpse of The Secret World's current beta build at GDC.

Yesterday, we gave away 10,000 closed beta test keys for TERA. Apparently, you guys really wanted in because they're all gone. But if you didn't snag one, maybe you'll want to check out RaiderZ or one of the other Betawatch games in the list after the break!

Continue reading Betawatch: March 10 - 16, 2012

MassivelyBetawatch: March 10 - 16, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingFri, 16 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Spirit Tales threatens cuteness overload as closed beta begins]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/spirit-tales-threatens-cuteness-overload-as-closed-beta-begins/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/spirit-tales-threatens-cuteness-overload-as-closed-beta-begins/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/spirit-tales-threatens-cuteness-overload-as-closed-beta-begins/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

It's so fluffy I'm gonna die!
Free-to-play MMO developer/publisher KoramGame Ltd. has announced that its nauseatingly adorable title Spirit Tales is making the jump into closed beta. The chibi-anime-style game boasts extensive character customization with "over 40 million unique fashion combinations for your character," while further customization is possible with the game's pet system. Almost any creature in the game can be captured and tamed as a pet, after which point players can either summon their pets as battle companions or merge with them in order to enhance their characters' abilities.

Yann Wang, General Manager of KoramGame, is enthusiastic about the game's beta test, stating that the game's "unique character customization and pet system" and "explosive PvP battles and intense instanced dungeons are sure to win [players] over." Of course, there's only way to test the veracity of his statement, and that's to head on over to the game's official site and get in on the test yourself. But be sure to act quickly; testing slots for this phase are limited.

[Source: KoramGame Ltd. press release]

MassivelySpirit Tales threatens cuteness overload as closed beta begins originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-testbeta-testingcbtclosed-betaclosed-beta-testclosed-beta-testingf2pfree-to-playkoramgamekoramgame-ltdspirit-talesyann-wangThu, 15 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Get your free TERA beta keys here!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/get-your-free-tera-beta-keys-here/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/get-your-free-tera-beta-keys-here/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/get-your-free-tera-beta-keys-here/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

TERA - that's one big-ass monster
So you're not in the TERA beta yet, but you'd like to be, amirite? I mean, come on -- sexy avatars, action combat, gorgeous fantasy graphics -- what's not to like? Well, Massively is your sugar-daddy because today we've got 10,000 keys to give away, each of which will unlock the world of Arborea via TERA's Closed Beta Test 4 for North American players only.

All you have to do is click the link below, claim your key, and then copy/paste it into the appropriate section of your En Masse Entertainment account. What's that? You don't have an En Masse account? What are you waiting for, foo? Head to the firm's official site and make one right now! After you've gone through the email verification song and dance, click the "enter code" button on the right side of your account window and submit your key. Then download the TERA client via the button on the account overview tab.

GET YOUR KEY
En Masse has also brought word of a new video that shows off TERA's high-level Temple of Temerity instance. The dungeon tasks players with holding off hordes of enemies bent on destroying a relic, and the instance made its public debut at last week's GDC demo. Finally, En Masse is releasing an e-book called The Amaranthine Heart which expounds on TERA's lore and backstory. It's available for a palty $.99 on Amazon (and the instance video is free of charge after the cut).

Continue reading Get your free TERA beta keys here!

MassivelyGet your free TERA beta keys here! originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amaranthine-heartarboreabackstorybetabeta-giveawaybeta-keysblueholebluehole-studiosclosed-betacontestcontestsen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasygiveawaygiveawaysloretemple-of-temerityteratera-betatera-beta-giveawaytera-beta-keystera-dungeontera-e-booktera-instancethe-amaranthine-heartvideoThu, 15 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: March 3 - 9, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/betawatch-march-3-9-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/betawatch-march-3-9-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/betawatch-march-3-9-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Betawatch - Tribes Ascend pic
GDC has brought with it several tweaks to the Betawatch list! We've learned that DUST 514 will be entering a more open beta come April and Tribes: Ascend will officially launch on April 12th.

Meanwhile, the TERA team has kicked off a series of contests to accompany its third closed beta weekend. Line of Defense and Remanum have begun accepting beta signups; Dragon Born aims for a closed beta later this month; and City of Steam is offering a sneak-peek for long-time followers.

Finally, we say farewell to Rise of Dragonian Era, which launched today, and Crystal Saga, which launches on March 12th.

Enjoy the full Betawatch roundup!

Continue reading Betawatch: March 3 - 9, 2012

MassivelyBetawatch: March 3 - 9, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betacrystal-sagafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarise-of-dragonian-eraroderounduptestingFri, 09 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA recaps the most recent closed beta weekend, concludes that PvP players enjoy PvP]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/tera-recaps-the-most-recent-closed-beta-weekend-concludes-that/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/tera-recaps-the-most-recent-closed-beta-weekend-concludes-that/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/tera-recaps-the-most-recent-closed-beta-weekend-concludes-that/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

PvE players, meanwhile, enjoy wearing backless evening gowns into combat.
TERA has just wrapped up its most recent closed beta weekend and is aiming at another this coming Friday. In this latest test, players finally got to take part in the game's PvP offerings, and the official postmortem leads to an ironclad conclusion: PvP players really enjoy killing one another. Across the beta's two PvP servers, players racked up a total of 50,000 kills, with over 150,000 battles fought. And that's not even factoring in the number of guild battles taking place with over 2,000 guilds formed.

As it turns out, it wasn't just the players doing the testing; the developers were also putting together a small guild and going out among the people, as it were. It seems as if the game's PvP is humming along smoothly, and with the next closed beta coming up in just a couple of days, it'll be worth watching to see how the rest of the game stacks up.

And for those players participating in the closed beta weekends, the third edition begins Friday!

MassivelyTERA recaps the most recent closed beta weekend, concludes that PvP players enjoy PvP originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-recapblueholebluehole-studiosclosed-betaclosed-beta-recapclosed-beta-testclosed-beta-weekenden-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasynumberspvppvp-serversrecapstatsterayou-dont-sayWed, 07 Mar 2012 19:30:00 EST