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[Guild Wars 2 nets 500K Facebook likes, releases Destiny's Edge art to celebrate]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/guild-wars-2-nets-500k-facebook-likes-releases-destinys-edge-a/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/guild-wars-2-nets-500k-facebook-likes-releases-destinys-edge-a/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/guild-wars-2-nets-500k-facebook-likes-releases-destinys-edge-a/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Guild Wars 2
ArenaNet continues to roll out the rewards for being well-liked this week. Guild Wars 2 crossed the half-million Facebook like barrier, and as a result, the studio released a new epic piece of art for its fans.

The picture is of Destiny's Edge, the adventuring group that features so prominently in Guild Wars 2, facing a rather fearsome foe: The Shatterer. According to the Facebook page, this is actually an in-game screenshot that's been "embellished" by ArenaNet artist Daniel Dociu. As with the other pictures that it has released, ArenaNet has made this image available as a high-resolution version as well.

This art release comes at an auspicious time, as Guild Wars 2 is diving into a seven-hour beta stress test starting today at 2:00 p.m. EDT.

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 nets 500K Facebook likes, releases Destiny's Edge art to celebrate originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 May 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetartbetaconcept-artDaniel-Dociudestinys-edgefacebookfantasyguild-wars-2gw2likesncsoftscreenshotstress-testMon, 14 May 2012 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Artist plagiarizes Guild Wars 2, World of Warcraft illustrators]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/artist-plagiarizes-guild-wars-2-world-of-warcraft-illustrators/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/artist-plagiarizes-guild-wars-2-world-of-warcraft-illustrators/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/artist-plagiarizes-guild-wars-2-world-of-warcraft-illustrators/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Concept art
If you're going to steal, steal big -- or so Romanian artist Iani Papadopol thought. Papadopol put on an exhibit called "UpDate 3D loading" featuring fantastic landscapes and scenery. The only problem? Instead of painting them himself, he ripped off several well-known illustrators, including ArenaNet's Daniel Dociu and Blizzard's Mathias Verhasselt, claiming the pieces as his own.

The fraud was discovered by online fans and local artists after the exhibit was broadcast on TV. Papadopol's works were found to be stunningly similar -- in fact, identical -- to those of famous video game illustrators. Papadopol attempted to sell the prints before he was caught. There's no word yet whether charges will be filed.

"I found out from my friends," Dociu, a fellow Romanian, said on a news channel. "I recognized four pieces of my work immediately. What upsets me is that he's also Romanian with an artistic background. I will not take legal action if he admits what he did."

Papadopol's father, the acclaimed artist Constantin Papadopol, says that this is a misunderstanding. In any case, let this be the lesson to the next lazy art thief: It's perhaps best not to rip off the guy whose work was on the cover of National Geographic.

MassivelyArtist plagiarizes Guild Wars 2, World of Warcraft illustrators originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionanetarenanetartart-theftblizzardblizzard-entertainmentconcept-artconcept-artistConstantin-PapadopolcrimeDaniel-Dociufantasyguild-wars-2gw2iani-PapadopolillustratorMathias-Verhasseltncsoftplaigarismtheftwarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowFri, 04 May 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Farscape MMO plans from shuttered studio go public [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/plans-for-shuttered-farscape-mmo-made-public/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/plans-for-shuttered-farscape-mmo-made-public/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/plans-for-shuttered-farscape-mmo-made-public/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Farscape logo
So, Farscape fans, what would you say to an MMO based on your favorite IP that was designed by former members of Fallen Earth's dev team?

If you answered yes please, we've got both good news and bad news. The bad news is that the game is dead in the water. The good news is that former Fallen Earth lead designer Lee Hammock has made a ton of information about the development process available on his blog.

In a nutshell, Hammock and other Fallen Earth ex-patriots signed on with a startup company a couple of years ago. Said company claimed to have $150 million in funding, so the devs jumped into pre-production (which included a design document, over 200 pages of content iteration, and meetings with Farscape creator Rockne O'Bannon and Jim Henson Studios). After six months of work, funding dried up and the startup's CEO left the devs empty-handed.

Former project lead Colin Dwan told us that the motivation behind releasing this information now is twofold. "We want people to see some of what goes into writing a design doc for a multi-million dollar MMO. We want to share the passion we had for a universe that was cut short without having a chance to see the light of day," he said. Head to Hammock's blog to see some concept art, storyline info, the project mission statement, and more.

[Update: Lee Hammock has been asked to take down his blog posts on his work with the Farscape MMO for legal reasons.]

MassivelyFarscape MMO plans from shuttered studio go public [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>colin-dwanconcept-artdesign-docsfarscapefarscape-concept-artfarscape-mmofarscape-mmo-design-docslee-hammockMiscellaneoussci-fiWed, 02 May 2012 10:00:00 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[Take a peek at RIFT's shiny Infernal Dawn concept art]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/02/take-a-peek-at-rifts-shiny-infernal-dawn-concept-art/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/02/take-a-peek-at-rifts-shiny-infernal-dawn-concept-art/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/02/take-a-peek-at-rifts-shiny-infernal-dawn-concept-art/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Concept Art -- RIFT
RIFT players have been waiting on pins and needles for the upcoming patch 1.8, which will bring a brand-new raid known as Infernal Dawn to the world of Telara. Unfortunately, they're going to have to wait just a bit longer. Trion Worlds, in hopes of making the wait more (un)bearable, has released a new blog post on the official site that shines a spotlight on the art behind the Infernal Dawn instance.

This raid will pit players up against one of the biggest bads in the world: Maelforge the Flame Sire. It's kind of a big deal, ladies and gents. So it's only fitting that the concept art reflects that, and boy does it ever. I mean, look up there. Do you see that bow? Holy crap, that's a badass bow. To see what other badassery awaits you in Infernal Dawn, just go check out the official post.

MassivelyTake a peek at RIFT's shiny Infernal Dawn concept art originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artconcept-artfantasyholy-crap-that-bow-is-badassinfernal-dawnmaelforgepatch-1.8riftrift-literift-planes-of-telaratriontrion-worldsMon, 02 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE shows off PlanetSide 2 anti-aircraft battery creation video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/soe-shows-off-planetside-2-anti-aircraft-battery-creation-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/soe-shows-off-planetside-2-anti-aircraft-battery-creation-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/soe-shows-off-planetside-2-anti-aircraft-battery-creation-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

PlanetSide 2 - Sky Lance
If you're in the mood for another glance behind the scenes at Sony Online Entertainment's art department, we've got a new PlanetSide 2 video that you'll want to watch.

SOE senior artist Roel Jovellanos walks us through the creation process on a Nanite Systems anti-aircraft gun. The Sky Lance starts out as a greyscale Photoshop sketch, moves to a Maya 3-D model, and goes through various stages of artistic wizardry to arrive at the final image shown above.

PlanetSide 2 is an open-world sci-fi MMOFPS featuring three factions and thousand-player battles that include infantry, ground vehicles, and aircraft.

[Source: SOE press release]

Continue reading SOE shows off PlanetSide 2 anti-aircraft battery creation video

MassivelySOE shows off PlanetSide 2 anti-aircraft battery creation video originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anti-aircraft-batteryconcept-artfpsmmo-shootermmofpsplanetside-2planetside-2-concept-artplanetside2shootersky-lancesoeSony-Online-Entertainmenttime-lapse-videovideoFri, 24 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[That palette is fully operational: Jeff Dobson opens up about SWTOR's artistic side]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/that-palette-is-fully-operational-jeff-dobson-opens-up-about-sw/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/that-palette-is-fully-operational-jeff-dobson-opens-up-about-sw/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/that-palette-is-fully-operational-jeff-dobson-opens-up-about-sw/#commentsFiled under: , ,

SWTOR
Story may get all the press when it comes to Star Wars: The Old Republic, but the truth is that the final product was a team collaboration between many departments -- including the artists. Art Director Jeff Dobson sat down with Republic Trooper to talk about the process of shaping each of the game's many worlds and locales with BioWare's signature flair.

It might astound you to realize just how many different type of artists work on MMOs such as SWTOR. Dobson said the team has "concept artists, character artists, environment artists, VFX artists, GUI artists, animators, and technical artists. The world design team is worth a mention here as well, because they participate a lot in the initial visual development of an area." And that doesn't include the separate teams that did the cinematic cutscenes or pre-rendered cinematics!

Dobson said that the biggest challenge for the art team was the scale of the project. "The Old Republic has too many assets to even really take stock of how much there is. It is a lot of work to simply track this many assets as they go through the creation pipeline," he said.

MassivelyThat palette is fully operational: Jeff Dobson opens up about SWTOR's artistic side originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artart-teamartistsbiowarecinematiccinematicsconcept-artconcept-artistsea-biowareinterviewjeff-dobsonrepublic-trooperstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorTue, 17 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Post-apocalyptic L.A.W takes us from sketches to art to screen]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/post-apocalyptic-l-a-w-takes-us-from-sketches-to-art-to-screen/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/post-apocalyptic-l-a-w-takes-us-from-sketches-to-art-to-screen/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/post-apocalyptic-l-a-w-takes-us-from-sketches-to-art-to-screen/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

LAW
Good-looking graphics don't just magically appear overnight in MMOs, delivered by the FedEx equivalent of the leprechaun community. The look and design of a game is a lengthy process full of revisions, abandoned doodles, and brainstorming -- something we end-users tend not to appreciate.

Consider today your education, then, as the team behind the post-apocalyptic L.A.W -- Living After War released a whole crate of images with the intent of showing us how the iterative process works. In the gallery below you can check out different versions of the same buildings, vehicles, and mobs at various stages of their making. From sketches to concept art to in-game models, these screens are a great crash course in understanding how involved the development team has to get to make these games a reality.

Gallery: L.A.W -- Living After War


[Source: ProSiebenSat.1 press release]

MassivelyPost-apocalyptic L.A.W takes us from sketches to art to screen originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Nov 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artartistartistsconcept-artfedexgalleryin-game-modelin-game-modelsl.a.wl.a.w-living-after-warleprechaunliving-after-warpost-apocalypticprosiebensat.1-digitalscifiscreenshotssketchsketchesFri, 18 Nov 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World sketches out the Templars]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/the-secret-world-sketches-out-the-templars/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/the-secret-world-sketches-out-the-templars/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/the-secret-world-sketches-out-the-templars/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Secret World
The Secret World's Week of the Templars continues, as today Funcom released a batch of artwork featuring the faction's look and locales.

The Templars' red-and-white outfits may not be everyone's cup of Earl Grey tea, but for us and ours, it looks quite snazzy, especially on the PvP uniforms. This is a faction that says that the end of the world is no reason not to dress up in style.

The rest of the concept art focuses on Templar-related areas, such as a "Camelot" castle in a park, a fighting pit, and a lounge where off-duty Templars can knock back a drink or unload a few dozen rounds at the adjacent firing range.

You can get a feel for the Templar faction in our gallery below!

Gallery: The Secret World

MassivelyThe Secret World sketches out the Templars originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Nov 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artworkcamelotconcept-artfactionfiring-rangefuncomgalleryscreenshotstemplartemplarsthe-secret-worldtswweek-of-the-templarsTue, 15 Nov 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MechWarrior Online concept artist Alex Iglesias interviewed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/09/mechwarrior-online-concept-artist-alex-iglesias-interviewed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/09/mechwarrior-online-concept-artist-alex-iglesias-interviewed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/09/mechwarrior-online-concept-artist-alex-iglesias-interviewed/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

MechWarrior Online concept art
MechWarrior Online has only been recently announced, but already interviews with the game's dev team are beginning to roll out. A Q&A with one of the game's concept artists, Alex "flyingdebris" Iglesias, went up on the forums today. The interview covers how Alex came to work for the MechWarrior team to begin with and grills him on the challenges of redesigning the game's iconic giant robots. For the full interview, head on over to the MechWarrior online official site.

MassivelyMechWarrior Online concept artist Alex Iglesias interviewed originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 Nov 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alex-iglesiasartconcept-artgiant-robots-omginterviewmechwarriormechwarrior-onlinemwopiranhapiranha-gamesWed, 09 Nov 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Recruit for Ryzom, win fabulous prizes!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/recruit-for-ryzom-win-fabulous-prizes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/recruit-for-ryzom-win-fabulous-prizes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/recruit-for-ryzom-win-fabulous-prizes/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ryzom
Ryzom is undergoing a recruitment drive at the moment, and the team is looking to the players for help. A spiffy contest has been posted on the official site to see which players can rope in the most new warm bodies for the cause.

Each player is tasked with recruiting friends and family members via a unique link that will count toward their tally during the month of November. After November 30th, the Ryzom team will see which players have netted the biggest catch and will dole out rewards accordingly.

The first place winner gets a choice of tempting prizes: either an original concept art drawing or an Nvidia GeForce GTX 480 graphics card. Second place can choose from the drawing or a lifetime subscription to the game, and third through sixth place winners will receive a three-month subscription.

Ryzom is currently free-to-play with an optional subscription package.

MassivelyRecruit for Ryzom, win fabulous prizes! originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Nov 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>concept-artcontestf2pfree-to-playgeforcelifetime-sublifetime-subscriptionnvidiaprizespromotionrecruitrecruitmentryzomsubsubscriptionFri, 04 Nov 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild War 2's art director illustrates cover of National Geographic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/02/guild-war-2s-art-director-illustrates-cover-of-national-geograp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/02/guild-war-2s-art-director-illustrates-cover-of-national-geograp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/02/guild-war-2s-art-director-illustrates-cover-of-national-geograp/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

National Geographic
ArenaNet's Daniel Dociu has another high-profile project in addition to his work on Guild Wars 2: the cover of National Geographic. In this month's issue of the magazine, Dociu provides artwork to illustrate a "magical mystery treasure" of Anglo-Saxan origin that was recently found. Both the cover and the article piece show an era soldier with appropriate armor, clothing, and weapons.

Dociu currently holds the positions of both creative director and art director for Guild Wars 2. His skill and prestige certainly isn't hurting the game's profile any, as this achievement comes on top of the Exposé 9's Grand Master Award he won this past July.

The National Geographic issue is on news stands (or, to you whippersnappers, the "website") now.

MassivelyGuild War 2's art director illustrates cover of National Geographic originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 Nov 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetanglo-saxonarenanetartart-directorartworkconcept-artcover-artcreative-directorDaniel-Dociuguild-wars-2gw2national-geographicwhippersnappersWed, 02 Nov 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet unearths treasure trove of lost Guild Wars concept art]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/29/arenanet-unearths-treasure-trove-of-lost-guild-wars-concept-art/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/29/arenanet-unearths-treasure-trove-of-lost-guild-wars-concept-art/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/29/arenanet-unearths-treasure-trove-of-lost-guild-wars-concept-art/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Lost Guild Wars concept art
ArenaNet has always taken Guild Wars concept art very seriously, edeavouring to make the in-game graphics match the concept as closely as possible. This is particularly true of Guild Wars and its upcoming sequel Guild Wars 2, both of which feature gorgeous vistas and impressive architecture. A lot of the original Guild Wars concept art has made its way to the public, where it offers us a glimpse of the visual targets for Ascalon, Kryta, Tyria and beyond.

In a new devblog, ArenaNet's David Campbell unearths a treasure trove of previously unseen concept art for Guild Wars' Eye of the North expansion. David explains that these five postcard-style pieces were experiments by the art team to create distinctive environments using a variety of colour palettes. Among the postcards, you'll find forested areas, epic cliff-faces, enclosed valleys and even frozen tundra.

MassivelyArenaNet unearths treasure trove of lost Guild Wars concept art originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 29 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetconcept-artdavid-campbelldev-diarydevblogeotneye-of-the-northguild-warsguild-wars-2guildwarsgwgw2ncsoftnewsSat, 29 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Dragon roars: Funcom spies on The Secret World's most mysterious faction]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/the-dragon-roars-funcom-spies-on-the-secret-worlds-most-myster/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/the-dragon-roars-funcom-spies-on-the-secret-worlds-most-myster/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/the-dragon-roars-funcom-spies-on-the-secret-worlds-most-myster/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Secret World
We don't care if you have the eye of the tiger -- this is the Week of the Dragon, darn it, and you're going to give respect to it or it will roast your noggin right off your neck! As part of the focus on The Secret World's least-understood faction, Funcom's released a quartet of artwork pieces to help give us an insight into the organization.

Perhaps the most eye-catching are the Mute Monks, an ancient order of scary-looking muscle men who have sewn their lips shut and baptized their bodies with tattoos. These monks are the recruiting arm of the Dragon, but are by no means the only members players will encounter.

The other pieces of concept art show off a temporary Dragon headquarters, a bang (cyber-cafe) that's a front for the group, and a possible outfit for a Dragon agent in the field.

What are you waiting for? Check them all out in the gallery below!

Gallery: The Secret World

MassivelyThe Dragon roars: Funcom spies on The Secret World's most mysterious faction originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Oct 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artworkconcept-artdragonfactionfactionsfuncomgallerymonksmute-monksscreenshotsseoulthe-secret-worldtswweek-of-the-dragonTue, 18 Oct 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[First WildStar Wednesday dev diary takes fans through creature creation]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/first-wildstar-wednesday-dev-diary-takes-fans-through-creature-c/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/first-wildstar-wednesday-dev-diary-takes-fans-through-creature-c/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/first-wildstar-wednesday-dev-diary-takes-fans-through-creature-c/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Concept Art -- WildStar
Welcome, ladies and gentlemen, to the first (of many, we hope) WildStar Wednesday. The magnificent Robert "Robeardo" Land and the fabulous Andy Cotnam from Carbine Studios have collaborated on a short dev diary to kick things off after WildStar's recent official announcement and convention circuit.

The diary focuses on the creation of a WildStar boss by the name of Metal Maw. Metal Maw, for the uninitiated, was conceived at Gamescom during a live drawing session featuring Mr. Cotnam, with the help of some fan input. Now that the creature has been created, Cotnam takes fans through the process of bringing a boss monster from the page to the game. For the full process -- and some lovely concept art, to boot -- head on over to the official dev diary.

MassivelyFirst WildStar Wednesday dev diary takes fans through creature creation originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andy-cotnamcarbine-studiosconcept-artcreaturecreature-creationdev-diarymetal-mawncsoftrobert-landwildstarwildstar-wednesdayThu, 15 Sep 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2's Asura Week continues with a look at environmental concepts]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/13/guild-wars-2s-asura-week-continues-with-a-look-at-environmental/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/13/guild-wars-2s-asura-week-continues-with-a-look-at-environmental/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/13/guild-wars-2s-asura-week-continues-with-a-look-at-environmental/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Guild Wars 2 - Asura environment art
Asura Week continues today with another blog entry from ArenaNet's Matt Barrett. While yesterday's update looked at conceptualizing the floppy-earred cutelings themselves, today's blurb is all about their environmental art.

Asuran design is heavily influenced by ancient Hindu architecture and features "massive stone columns, intricate, masterful carvings, and a sense of being inside a mountain," Barrett explains, before going on to share several thumbnail sketches and designs for more specific in-game props. While most of Barrett's showcase is in black and white, he does do color pieces as well, primarily toward the beginning of the conceptual process. After that, he says, "it's much more economical to explore designs in grayscale."

So what is it that makes Asura tick, according to the ArenaNet's art department? They're "mad with ambition to harness the power of the planet, and they have all the best tools with which to do it."

On a lighter note, today's update also features an Asura advice column filled to the brim with pearls of wisdom about everything from lemonade turrets to grawl-infested cabbage crops. Head to the official Guild Wars 2 website for the full Asura experience.

MassivelyGuild Wars 2's Asura Week continues with a look at environmental concepts originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arena-netarenanetartasuraasura-weekconcept-artenvironmental-artenvironmental-conceptsfantasyguild-wars-2gw2matt-barrettmatthew-barretttyriaTue, 13 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New video shows creation of EverQuest II raptor concept]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/new-video-shows-creation-of-everquest-ii-raptor-concept/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/new-video-shows-creation-of-everquest-ii-raptor-concept/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/new-video-shows-creation-of-everquest-ii-raptor-concept/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

EverQuest II - raptor sketch
It's not often that we get to see behind the curtain on our favorite MMORPGs, and Sony Online Entertainment has teamed with PC Gamer to give us one of those opportunities. EverQuest II recently released a slew of new mounts, among them flyers, gliders, and leapers that give players the ability to soar over the wilds of Norrath like never before.

SOE production artist Nate Temple kept a video record of his concept design for one of the game's new raptor leapers, and we get to see the complete sketch unfold before our eyes thanks to the time-lapse wizardry on display in the five-minute clip. Temple shows off his mad Photoshop skills and provides a good bit of interesting commentary, so jump past the cut to check it out!

Continue reading New video shows creation of EverQuest II raptor concept

MassivelyNew video shows creation of EverQuest II raptor concept originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 24 Aug 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conceptconcept-artcrustacean-perioddev-diaryeq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfree-to-playleaper-mountnate-templenorrathproduction-artraptorraptor-mounttime-lapse-videovideovideo-diaryWed, 24 Aug 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest cracks the door wider to peek in on Veil of Alaris concept art]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/everquest-cracks-the-door-wider-to-peek-in-on-veil-of-alaris-con/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/everquest-cracks-the-door-wider-to-peek-in-on-veil-of-alaris-con/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/everquest-cracks-the-door-wider-to-peek-in-on-veil-of-alaris-con/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Veil of Alaris concept art
While November is still a ways off, EverQuest players have a lot to be excited for as the title's 18th expansion bakes in Sony Online Entertainment's creative ovens. Today, the company has released three new pieces of concept art -- along with a wireframe model -- to give us more of an idea of what to expect out of Veil of Alaris.

The art shows off some of the structures of Alaris, including a costal town and various towers, as well as the mysterious inhabitants of the lands. Alaris will consist of 12 new zones, half of which are raid zones.

In addition to Alaris itself, the expansion will feature a level cap increase to 95 and a welcome revamp of the guild hall system. There will also be more armor sets, a cultural armor tier, and the ability to resize hotbars.

You can check out all of the concept art goodness in the gallery below!

Gallery: EverQuest: Veil of Alaris

Resplendent Temple

MassivelyEverQuest cracks the door wider to peek in on Veil of Alaris concept art originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 22 Aug 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alarisarmor-setarmor-setsconcept-artcultural-armoreqeverquestguild-hallguild-hall-systemguild-hallshotbarlevel-cap-increaseraid-zonesoesony-online-entertainmentveil-of-alariswireframe-modelMon, 22 Aug 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Defiance drops in new screenshots, artwork]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/defiance-drops-in-new-screenshots-artwork/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/defiance-drops-in-new-screenshots-artwork/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/defiance-drops-in-new-screenshots-artwork/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Defiance
Hot off the press from Gamescom 2011, we bring you a new round of screenshots from the upcoming collaboration between Trion Worlds and SyFy, Defiance.

For those of you not up to speed on what exactly Defiance is aiming to be, here's a crash-course. Defiance is set to be the first-ever collaborative effort between an MMO and a TV-show, with actions occurring in each influencing the story of the other. Players will be put in the shoes of the citizens of San Francisco Bay Area, while the TV show takes place in and around St. Louis. Earth is under attack by a mysterious breed of aliens who are looking to terraform Earth until it suits their own needs, and of course this means that all humans must die. Humanity isn't just going to take that sitting down, though, and it's up to players to fight off the alien hordes and reclaim their planet.

Savvy? Great. Now hit the gallery below (and if you're new to the Defiance scene, go check out the trailer) for some new screenshots of this innovative title and prepare yourself to fight for the planet. That, or die trying.

Gallery: Defiance core gallery

MassivelyDefiance drops in new screenshots, artwork originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artartworkconcept-artconsolesdefiancegamescom-2011mmofpssci-fiscreenshotscreenshotssyfytriontrion-worldsThu, 18 Aug 2011 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE releases new PlanetSide 2 art and screens]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/soe-releases-new-planetside-2-art-and-screens/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/soe-releases-new-planetside-2-art-and-screens/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/soe-releases-new-planetside-2-art-and-screens/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Planetside 2 - muzzle flare
Sony Online Entertainment is sloooooowly letting a few PlanetSide 2 teases slip through the cracks, and the latest is a set of screenshots and artwork showing off the upcoming massively multiplayer shooter's dazzling visuals.

The new gallery features a bunch of combat shots complete with dirty uniforms, spiffy muzzle flares, and some nifty surrounding terrain. You'll also spot a few dead bodies in the background, and the overall mood evoked is one of gritty sci-fi realism. SOE has also tossed in a couple of concept art pieces for your viewing pleasure, so take a look at the gallery below to see some Terran Republic stealth and medic gear.

In other PlanetSide 2 news, rumor has it that the title won't be coming to the Playstation 3 console. "I think I would have been told about it by now," SOE's Matt Higby reportedly told IncGamers.

Gallery: PlanetSide 2

MassivelySOE releases new PlanetSide 2 art and screens originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artconcept-artgallerymatt-higbymmo-shootermmofpsnew-conglomerateplanetside-2playstation-3playstation3ps3sci-fiscreenshotsshootersoeSony-Online-Entertainmentterran-republicThu, 18 Aug 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2011: Transformers Universe reveals the Brawler]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/gamescom-2011-transformers-universe-reveals-the-brawler/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/gamescom-2011-transformers-universe-reveals-the-brawler/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/gamescom-2011-transformers-universe-reveals-the-brawler/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Transformers Universe
Gamescom, roll out! At this week's convention, Jagex set up a Transformers Universe booth to demonstrate some of the customization that will be in next year's game and give players a taste of the choices they'll be making when the game goes live.

The team also used this opportunity to talk about the first revealed class, the Brawler, and show concept art of these hulking piles of scrap metal and stubborn perseverance.

Senior Producer Kris Jones says that the Brawler will be the front line of defense in a fight: "Players who like to engage as the tank in co-op team play will be drawn to this Brawler Class. The strength and resilience of this class makes it the perfect choice for those who like to get up close in a battle environment, for those who like a good brawl."

You can check out the Brawler in the gallery below. Transformers Universe is slated for a 2012 release, and interested players are encouraged to sign up to receive more info about the upcoming beta.

Gallery: Transformers Universe

MassivelyGamescom 2011: Transformers Universe reveals the Brawler originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brawlerbumblebeeconcept-artgallerygamescomgamescom-2011jagexjagex-gameskris-jonestanktransformerstransformers-universeThu, 18 Aug 2011 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[NCsoft announces new MMO: WildStar [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/ncsoft-announces-new-mmo-wildstar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/ncsoft-announces-new-mmo-wildstar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/ncsoft-announces-new-mmo-wildstar/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

In addition to the Guild Wars 2 PvP news we heard this morning, NCsoft dropped another news bomb regarding the announcement of its newest MMO venture, titled WildStar.

Developed by Carbine studios, WildStar is a sci-fi/fantasy hybrid MMO of "high adventure" in which players "lay claim to a mysterious planet on the edge of known space" by playing as Explorers, Soldiers, Scientists, or Settlers. Through a feature known as Momentum Mechanics, players can immerse themselves in a world that actually responds to choices made throughout the game. "Depending on a combination of faction, race, class and path," a press release states, "WildStar will present gamers with unending surprises, mini-quests and challenges, ensuring that their experiences are fun and fresh."

We'll keep our eyes on any further developments with Wildstar, including news of the playable demo at Gamescom.

[Update: We now have a complete gallery of screenshots and concept art below and the cinematic trailer after the jump.]

Gallery: WildStar

Continue reading NCsoft announces new MMO: WildStar [Updated]

MassivelyNCsoft announces new MMO: WildStar [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 17 Aug 2011 07:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbine-studiosconcept-artfantasyhybridncsoftsci-fiscreenshotsvideowildstarWed, 17 Aug 2011 07:15:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet's Daniel Dociu wins award for digital art]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/15/arenanets-daniel-dociu-wins-award-for-digital-art/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/15/arenanets-daniel-dociu-wins-award-for-digital-art/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/15/arenanets-daniel-dociu-wins-award-for-digital-art/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Guild Wars 2 has had a distinctive art style ever since it was first announced, helping to solidify the game's image in the minds of fans. A big part of that has naturally been the vision of Daniel Dociu, art director for ArenaNet and overseer of the visuals for the project. So it should come as no surprise that Dociu has been awarded the Grand Master Award for Exposé 9, Ballistic Publishing's digital art annual for 2011.

Both Dociu and concept artist Kekai Kotaki were featured in the pages, with both praised for their expressive and immersive artwork for the game. It might be a surprise to the readers of the magazine, but it's no surprise to the players who have been enjoying the work of these talented figures for years. Congratulations are in order for the award, one well-deserved considering the visual treat that Guild Wars 2 promises to provide.

MassivelyArenaNet's Daniel Dociu wins award for digital art originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 Jul 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarena-netarenanetartartistsawardsconcept-artconcept-drawingsculturedaniel-dociuguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw2kekai-kotakincsoftFri, 15 Jul 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Meet LotRO's latest Big Bad: The dragon Draigoch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/meet-lotros-latest-big-bad-the-dragon-draigoch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/meet-lotros-latest-big-bad-the-dragon-draigoch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/meet-lotros-latest-big-bad-the-dragon-draigoch/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Lord of the Rings Online's Rise of Isengard expansion is still a couple months away, but that doesn't mean we should be saving up our collective drool for that moment. Instead, let us lavish our eyes on a brand-new piece of concept art and feel our mouths go slack with anticipation!

This piece of art depicts Draigoch, the giant dragon who will be the big bad boss of the expansion's 24-man raid. Turbine says that Draigoch is one of the most powerful creatures in Middle-earth, and after getting a look at him, we're inclined to agree. Reportedly, he'll be so big that players will only be able to fight his head.

Rise of Isengard is slated for a September 27th release, and can be pre-ordered now to gain spiffy bonuses and cosmetic gear.

Gallery: Lord of the Rings Online Core Gallery

MassivelyMeet LotRO's latest Big Bad: The dragon Draigoch originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Jul 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24-man-raid24-person-raidconcept-artdragonDraigochgallerylord-of-the-rings-onlinelotropreviewraidrise-of-isengardturbineturbine-entertainmentThu, 14 Jul 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PitchBlack Games announces Sanya Weathers as new Director of Community]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/20/pitchblack-games-announces-sanya-weathers-as-new-director-of-com/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/20/pitchblack-games-announces-sanya-weathers-as-new-director-of-com/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/20/pitchblack-games-announces-sanya-weathers-as-new-director-of-com/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

PitchBlack Games announced today that it has a new addition to its team in the form of former Mythic Director of Community Sanya Weathers. This is certainly a promising announcement for PitchBlack, coming hot on the heels of the official announcement of the studio's first project, Prime: Battle for Dominus.

In regard to Weathers' reasons for choosing to join up with the Prime Online team, she says, "The opportunity to direct community for a PVP MMO at a startup couldn't be refused. The team at PitchBlack also shares my ideals when it comes to customer communication and service, and I look forward to seeing what we can build together." Given her history with Dark Age of Camelot, we're not surprised to see her working on yet another three-faction, PvP-focused MMO. We here at Massively wish Sanya the best at her new gig and look forward to seeing what she and the team at PitchBlack come up with. To round out this new announcement, we also have three pieces of concept art for each of the game's three playable races, which you can see in the gallery below.

Gallery: Prime: Battle for Dominus core gallery

MassivelyPitchBlack Games announces Sanya Weathers as new Director of Community originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Jun 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>concept-artdirector-of-communitygalleriesgallerypitchblackpitchblack-gamesprimeprime-battle-for-dominusprime-onlinesanya-weathersMon, 20 Jun 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Darkfall possibly headed to Asian market]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/17/darkfall-possibly-headed-to-asian-market/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/17/darkfall-possibly-headed-to-asian-market/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/17/darkfall-possibly-headed-to-asian-market/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Darkfall's brand of FFA PvP and sandbox-style fantasy elements may be headed to the Asian market, according to a new post on Aventurine's weekly dev blog. Tasos Flambouras reports that company staffers recently traveled to the Far East for discussions with "several of the Asian majors." What became of those discussions is still shrouded in secrecy, but Flambouras does hint at more news in this regard down the road.

"This will be good for the game overall since we'd be tapping into some vast development resources. Unfortunately I can't be more specific but there will be announcements when we can," he explains.

Today's Epic Blog entry also talks a bit about some new PvE dungeons in the works, and there are some interesting pieces of concept art as well as a screenshot or two of the new Cairn dungeon. Read all about it at the official Darkfall site.

MassivelyDarkfall possibly headed to Asian market originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Jun 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asian-marketaventurineconcept-artdarkfalldev-blogdev-diarydungeonsepic-blogfantasylocalizationpvesandboxtasostasos-flambourasFri, 17 Jun 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Transformers Universe rolls out concept art, teaser [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/14/transformers-universe-rolls-out-concept-art-teaser/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/14/transformers-universe-rolls-out-concept-art-teaser/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/14/transformers-universe-rolls-out-concept-art-teaser/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

"Finally... choose your side," a tantalizing Transformers Universe teaser says as a shadowed figure completes the change from vehicle into robot. During BotCon, Jagex gave die-hard Transformers fans the first look at the MMO's development, including concept art and the aforementioned trailer. BotCon's turned out to be a gold mine of Transformers Universe info so far.

Energon Pub brought back the official info from the event for our eager ears. The game, which is slated for a 2012 release, will be an action MMO that allows players to craft their own Transformers to suit their playstyles. Both Autobot and Decepticon sides will be open for play, and we'll be seeing many iconic figures from the Prime Universe, including the Prime cartoon, the book Exodus, and the War for Cybertron game.

You can check out the concept art below -- and don't miss the teaser video after the jump!

[Update: You can also sign up for the beta on the fledgling Transformers Universe website.]

Gallery: Transformers Universe

Continue reading Transformers Universe rolls out concept art, teaser [Updated]

MassivelyTransformers Universe rolls out concept art, teaser [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 Jun 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>botconconcept-artenergon-pubexodusjagexprimeprime-universeteaserteaser-videotrailertransformerstransformers-universevideowar-for-cybertronTue, 14 Jun 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Funcom prepping new Age of Conan adventure pack inspired by film reboot]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/24/funcom-prepping-new-age-of-conan-adventure-pack-inspired-by-film/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/24/funcom-prepping-new-age-of-conan-adventure-pack-inspired-by-film/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/24/funcom-prepping-new-age-of-conan-adventure-pack-inspired-by-film/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

It looks like rumors of new film-related content for Age of Conan were pretty accurate, as Funcom has officially announced The Savage Coast of Turan adventure pack for its fantasy MMORPG.

According to a new press release, the pack "includes but is not limited to" content from the forthcoming Conan the Barbarian film reboot and will see players traveling to the lands of Turan some 20 years after the events of the movie. Players will explore the city of Ardashir and take on new quests, encounters, raids, and dungeons, all inspired by the film and on display in the recently released Conan trailer.

Conan the Barbarian debuts August 19th, and while there is no firm release date for The Savage Coast of Turan, film producer Fredrik Malmberg says that fans will appreciate the synergy between the movie and Funcom's MMORPG. "Many of the concepts, locations, and designs from the game development were utilized by the film team for consistency," he said. Check out our AoC gallery below for a glimpse of some Ardashir concept art that includes new Turanian armor.

Gallery: Age of Conan Gallery

MassivelyFuncom prepping new Age of Conan adventure pack inspired by film reboot originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 May 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaocardashirarmorartconanconan-filmconan-movieConan-the-Barbarianconan-the-barbarian-filmconcept-artfredrik-malmbergfuncomgallerypress-releasesavage-coast-of-turanturanturanian-armorTue, 24 May 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[IGG reveals new Moonlight concept art]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/18/igg-reveals-new-moonlight-concept-art/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/18/igg-reveals-new-moonlight-concept-art/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/18/igg-reveals-new-moonlight-concept-art/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Not enough vampire-themed MMOs in your life? Take heart, as IGG is looking to fill that particular niche with a new free-to-play game called Moonlight Online. The title has been under development for the last three years, and according to a new press notice, the development team is aiming pretty high.

"The game will prominently feature themes of romantic renaissance and gothic apocalypse, from moving, epic love stories to spectacular seasonal landscapes," enthuses the press release. IGG is also pointing to the game's realistic 24-hour timekeeping system and its "strategic empire building and property management" functionality as harbingers of incredibly diverse gameplay.

While we don't have any screenshots or video footage as of yet, IGG has released a couple of new concept art shots that serve as atmospheric barometers (and they're appropriately gothic and creepy). Have a look courtesy of our Moonlight gallery below.

Gallery: Moonlight Online

MassivelyIGG reveals new Moonlight concept art originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 May 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24-hour-timekeepingbloodsuckersconcept-artempire-buildingf2pfree-to-playgalleryiggmoonlightmoonlight-not-twilightmoonlight-onlinethis-game-bitesvampiresWed, 18 May 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: What are all these games doing on my internets?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/23/not-so-massively-what-are-all-these-games-doing-on-my-internets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/23/not-so-massively-what-are-all-these-games-doing-on-my-internets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/23/not-so-massively-what-are-all-these-games-doing-on-my-internets/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Welcome to Not So Massively, our weekly roundup of the top news from popular multiplayer online battle arenas (MOBAs) and other multiplayer online games that aren't quite MMOs. Published every Saturday, the column covers games such as League of Legends, Heroes of Newerth, Defense of the Ancients, Bloodline Champions, and more.

In the past few years, we've seen a virtual revolution in online gaming. MMOs have taken off in a big way, but the latest online games to really capture our attention have been a little less than "massively." Multiplayer Online Battle Arenas and other session-based online games feature regular development updates and offer a form of persistence by tracking stats and characters, making them a lot closer to MMOs than traditional online games.

Last week we looked at the updated Engineer in Heroes of Newerth (who I can confirm is now hilariously broken and fun to play), League of Legends' new champion Brand, and the first details of Rise of Immortals character Ichorr. In this week's bumper edition of Not So Massively, we look at upcoming HoN hero Silhouette, the adorable LoL Cottontail Teemo, LoL's 24th summoner showcase, Easter updates for Bloodline Champions, Darkspore's new hero Skar, Hi-Rez Studios' new MOBA Smite, and much more.

Continue reading Not So Massively: What are all these games doing on my internets?

MassivelyNot So Massively: What are all these games doing on my internets? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 23 Apr 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artart-spotlightbattleborn-kayleconcept-artcottontail-teemodarksporeeggniterfeaturedgameplayherohero-spotlightheroes-of-newerthhi-rez-studiosHoNKatersonesevenleague-of-legendsLoLmaxismobanikasaurninjanot-so-massivelyorigamipatchpetroglyphriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsroirounduprumbleS2-Gamessilhouetteskarsmitesummoner-spotlightteemotrailervideovlogSat, 23 Apr 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Masthead releases Earthrise vehicle concept art]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/20/masthead-releases-earthrise-vehicle-concept-art/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/20/masthead-releases-earthrise-vehicle-concept-art/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/20/masthead-releases-earthrise-vehicle-concept-art/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

What's Masthead Studios been up to lately? Aside from bug-fixing and putting out fires on the forums of its newly released sci-fi sandbox called Earthrise, the studio is finding time to iterate on future features for the world of Enterra.

Player vehicles have been an oft-requested addition since the game's early beta days, and if two new pieces of concept art are any indication, the cries haven't gone unnoticed. Masthead has just published preliminary models for two types of single-occupant vehicles, both bearing the sexy lines and sleek stylings of a futuristic hover-bike, swoop, or insert-sci-fi-motorcycle-analog-here.

While there's no word on when we'll see these new pieces of awesome in the game, we'll keep our eyes (and ears) peeled for further details. In the meantime, check out both images in our gallery below.

Gallery: Earthrise

MassivelyMasthead releases Earthrise vehicle concept art originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>concept-artearthrisegalleriesgalleryhoverbikemastheadmasthead-studiosmotorbikemotorcyclepress-releasesandboxsci-fiscreenshotsswoopvehiclesWed, 20 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamigo opens the news floodgates]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/10/gamigo-opens-the-news-floodgates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/10/gamigo-opens-the-news-floodgates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/10/gamigo-opens-the-news-floodgates/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

"Cry havoc, and unleash the titles of war" might as well be gamigo's cry, as today it has seen fit to give us what can only be termed as a new title news explosion. Aside from offering up an interesting tidbit on its upcoming space dogfighter, Black Prophecy, the company has released information on a handful of other new titles that should pique the interest of gamers who are looking for something beyond the standard free-to-play MMO fare. Better still, some of these titles will be available in-browser, helping to open up more "jump in and game" free-to-play options.

Grimlands offers something for players who have been waiting for a post-apocalyptic title that promises the ability to evolve their own playstyles -- and cities. UFO Online: Fight for Earth features a tactics-heavy browser-based MMO environment where players will battle against each other and enemy NPCs in a world overrun with gobsmackingly enormous amounts of aliens. Magic Campus offers adventure in a turn-based world where players build a powerful cadre of pets and mentor others in the ways of magic -- all in their browsers.

Sound intriguing? Join us behind the break for a first look at screenshots and video from these upcoming gamigo titles!

Continue reading Gamigo opens the news floodgates

MassivelyGamigo opens the news floodgates originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Mar 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>announcementsbetablack-prophecybrowser-basedconcept-artcross-platformf2pfantasyfeaturedflashfree-to-playgallerygamigoGrimlandsjrpgmacmagic-campusmmommofpsmmoomgmmorpgmmortsnew-titlespcpost-apocalypticpreviewsscreenshotscreenshotsteaser-trailertrailerufo-onlineufo-online-fight-for-earthunityunity-enginevideoThu, 10 Mar 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallout Online newsletter tells stories and shows off new weapons]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/28/fallout-online-newsletter-tells-stories-and-shows-off-new-weapon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/28/fallout-online-newsletter-tells-stories-and-shows-off-new-weapon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/28/fallout-online-newsletter-tells-stories-and-shows-off-new-weapon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Dark humor has always been an important part of the Fallout series, being especially obvious in the first two Fallout games that Interplay developed before selling the single-player game's rights to Bethesda. Now, with the fourth edition of the Fallout Online newsletter, The Armageddon Rag, we're not only treated to some typically dark and twisted storytelling but given a peek at some of the weapons that we'll see in the wastes.

Along with the 9mm Burreyetta Model 86d seen above, there are other deliciously wicked-looking bits of weaponry concept art to check out, such as the Chemblaster 3000 CDS, a special stimpak that insists "even the dead will rise" when it is used, and slightly more familiar weapons like the AKA-47. Between the art and the descriptions, we're sure any post-apocalyptic fan waiting for Fallout Online will find goodness to geek out on. Just don't greeble on yourself, OK?

MassivelyFallout Online newsletter tells stories and shows off new weapons originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 28 Feb 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armageddon-ragbethesdaconcept-artfalloutfallout-mmofallout-onlinefoInterplayinterplay-entertainmentlorenewsletterpreviewstoriesMon, 28 Feb 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars: The Old Republic unveils art from its players and developers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/14/star-wars-the-old-republic-unveils-art-from-its-players-and-dev/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/14/star-wars-the-old-republic-unveils-art-from-its-players-and-dev/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/14/star-wars-the-old-republic-unveils-art-from-its-players-and-dev/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

In watching any of the documentaries or behind-the-scenes interviews, you will notice that art plays a huge role in any Star Wars-related project. In Star Wars: The Old Republic, the developers and community team like to showcase not only the artistic skills of the designers but the illustrations of the fans, too. This week, we are lucky enough to have both.

The SWTOR Studio Insider is written today by two artists: Senior Concept Artist Ryan Dening and Senior Environment Artist Christopher Reeves. These two creators dive deep into the design process of creating the Agent starship. "For the first time, we were making these ships exist in real space and giving the players the experience of owning their own Starship," Dening said in regard to the difference in designing for SWTOR vs. Knights of the Old Republic.

The community is not without its talent as well, and the community team is quick to acknowledge this. Greighson and Crypticgrrl of the official forums had their work displayed in this week's Fan Friday. Grieghson designed propaganda posters for the Empire, and Crypticgrrl displayed her fine art talent. We have placed their works in the gallery below.

In another announcement, the development team confirmed that it will be at PAX East in Boston, Massachusetts, from March 11th to March 13th. Rest assured Massively will be there to catch the latest.

Gallery: SWTOR Fan Friday

MassivelyStar Wars: The Old Republic unveils art from its players and developers originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 14 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWareChristopher-Reevesconcept-artEAElectronic-Artsenvironmental-artfan-artLucasArtsRyan-Deningspace-shipStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstarshipSWTORthe-old-republictorFri, 14 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Trion profiles RIFT's Freemarch zone]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/29/trion-profiles-rifts-freemarch-zone/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/29/trion-profiles-rifts-freemarch-zone/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/29/trion-profiles-rifts-freemarch-zone/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Throughout this month, Trion Worlds has been regularly releasing new information on its upcoming fantasy MMO RIFT. With the NDA having been lifted on the first two rounds of closed beta events, excitement has really started to build for what could potentially be a fun and polished MMO. The game's third closed beta event is already underway, allowing selected testers to play through the first 20 levels and explore the new Silverwood and Freemarch zones. For anyone who didn't make it into the third RIFT beta event, Trion has now released several screenshots and pieces of concept art on the Freemarch zone to give us an idea of what we can expect from it.

Freemarch is a zone with a chilling storyline. Home of the Defiant faction, its coasts are ravaged by the slimy monsters that clamber out from dangerous water rifts. Its fertile rolling fields are now ravaged by death rifts, and the once-grand Port Scion is completely overrun with the Deathtouched. "Freemarch is the heart of the Defiant faction," Trion tells us. "Their wondrous city of Meridian stands by the coast, its back to the mountains, sending out waves of Defiant to keep Freemarch free. Yet every day new rifts open, new monsters emerge, and the laughter of cultists grows ever more confident and shrill. Undead claw their way from their graves to feast on the living and raze farmsteads, turning the heartland black."

Stay tuned to Massively's coverage of RIFT for more updates, reveals and impressions from the beta tests.

Gallery: RIFT: Location Reveals

MassivelyTrion profiles RIFT's Freemarch zone originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 29 Dec 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artconcept-artdeath-riftdefiantfreemarchgalleryport-scionriftriftsscreenshotscreenshotstrion-worldswater-riftWed, 29 Dec 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA Korean loading screens give story clues]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/29/tera-korean-loading-screens-give-story-clues/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/29/tera-korean-loading-screens-give-story-clues/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/29/tera-korean-loading-screens-give-story-clues/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

While the Korean version of TERA may or may not be analogous to the one we end up getting in the States or Europe, it's nonetheless a lot of fun to peruse the translations, videos, and screenshots that are starting to roll out of the Far East with more regularity.

Courtesy of TERAfans, we now have a hefty gallery (approximately 40 images) featuring the artwork from the Korean client's loading screens. The images paint a picture of TERA's narrative and serve to whet our collective appetite for the lush world that En Masse and Bluehole Studio are bringing to life. Check out the images below, and hit up TERAfans for more information on the source.

Gallery: TERA Korean CBT - Loading screens

MassivelyTERA Korean loading screens give story clues originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 29 Nov 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arboriaartBlueHolebluehole-studioconcept-arten-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasygalleryloading-screensteratera-onlineterafansMon, 29 Nov 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Creating concepts for The Old Republic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/19/creating-concepts-for-the-old-republic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/19/creating-concepts-for-the-old-republic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/19/creating-concepts-for-the-old-republic/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Well, it's Friday again, and that, of course, means more news from Star Wars: The Old Republic. For those who are like this reporter and like to know the intricate details of how games are made, you are in luck. Once a month, BioWare gives us a glimpse of what it takes to produce a multi-million dollar MMO. This issue of the Studio Insider links us up with Concept Artist Diego Almazan and the creation of the Flesh Raider.

"When starting a concept, it's important to get as much information as possible to help make the creature or object fit best in its place in the game," Almazan explains in the article. As with any piece of art, the Flesh Raider concept starts with rough sketches then to more fleshed out (pun intended) renders. Unlike concept art from just a few years ago, these concepts are digitally painted and without armor or other clothing so that these can be added in the next step. Colors and clothing can easily adjusted to fit the developer's vision.

The article also highlights some questions about gameplay from SWTOR forum members answered by Lead Writer Daniel Erickson. Don't miss the full article on the official site and be sure to catch the latest SWTOR news here at Massively.

MassivelyCreating concepts for The Old Republic originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Nov 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWareconceptconcept-artdaniel-ericksonDiego-AlmazanEaElectronic-ArtsFan-fridayFresh-raiderLucasArtsStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicStudio-insiderswtorthe-old-republictorFri, 19 Nov 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Moonlight Online reveals concept art for its starting cities]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/12/moonlight-online-reveals-concept-art-for-its-starting-cities/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/12/moonlight-online-reveals-concept-art-for-its-starting-cities/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/12/moonlight-online-reveals-concept-art-for-its-starting-cities/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Earlier this year, IGG announced they had begun work on an MMO based in the Moonlight universe. Moonlight Online takes place in a dark world where werewolves and vampires war for supremacy. Since the announcement, IGG has been regularly pumping out concept art to give people a feel for the style the game is aiming for. We've been shown some werewolf and vampire characters, a dark armoured horse and a few buildings inspired by medieval and gothic architecture. New art has now been released showing the game's three starting cities: Castle Williams, Fort Traster and Wolfsburg Bastion.

Castle Williams is a dark, gothic castle where all vampires first begin their journey. Home to the humans, Fort Traster is a municipality with a strong focus on teaching magic. As expected, werewolves start their adventures in Wolfsburg Bastion, a wild and untamed stronghold. IGG continue to release concept art on the upcoming title regularly, and updates can be found on the official Moonlight Online forum.

Gallery: Moonlight Online

MassivelyMoonlight Online reveals concept art for its starting cities originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Nov 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artcitiescityconcept-artgalleriesgallerygothiciggmoonlightmoonlight-onlinevampirewerewolfFri, 12 Nov 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet releases new Guild Wars 2 concept art slideshow]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/22/arenanet-releases-new-guild-wars-2-concept-art-slideshow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/22/arenanet-releases-new-guild-wars-2-concept-art-slideshow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/22/arenanet-releases-new-guild-wars-2-concept-art-slideshow/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

If you were one of the lucky fans who attended the Guild Wars 2 panel at New York Comic Con, you were treated to a slideshow of typically beautiful concept art.

Those of us who did not attend get to share that privilege now, thanks to ArenaNet. The developers have set the slideshow to music and released it as an HD video. The slideshow encompasses art from all five playable races, and the variety of images shown may well make an extra viewing or two worthwhile.

The video includes everything from sweeping landscapes and huge vehicles to armor details and small household items. In between are creatures, armor sets, interiors, and much more. Follow along after the jump to see for yourself!

Continue reading ArenaNet releases new Guild Wars 2 concept art slideshow

MassivelyArenaNet releases new Guild Wars 2 concept art slideshow originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Oct 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetconcept-artguild-wars-2gw2ncsoftnew-york-comic-connew-york-comic-con-2010nyccnycc-2010Fri, 22 Oct 2010 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet releases images from Guild Wars 2 Designing Dynamic Events panel]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/arenanet-releases-images-from-guild-wars-2-designing-dynamic-eve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/arenanet-releases-images-from-guild-wars-2-designing-dynamic-eve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/arenanet-releases-images-from-guild-wars-2-designing-dynamic-eve/#commentsFiled under: , ,

New races, new lands, and talk of familiar places with a new look. The Guild Wars 2 Dynamic Events panel at PAX stirred up quite a bit of conversation and even more curiosity.

What are these regions? What events are there? What is a krait obelisk for? What does The Great Oouo look like? Guild Wars 2 fans watched all the video taken by hand held cameras at the panel and viewed snapshots of the screen, trying to get a better look.

If you've been dying for an up-close view of the Regrown Flame, orrian undead, and yes, even The Great Oouo, you're in luck. ArenaNet has generously provided Massively with the images used in the panel, so check out the gallery below for the newest look at Tyria of the future!

Gallery: Guild Wars 2 Dynamic Events panel images

MassivelyArenaNet releases images from Guild Wars 2 Designing Dynamic Events panel originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Sep 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetconcept-artdynamic-eventsguild-wars-2gw2kraitmapsncsoftorrian-undeadpanelPAXpax-2010pax-primepax-prime-2010quagganWed, 15 Sep 2010 10:00:00 EST