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[GDC 2012: The Secret World's crafting, combat (and cutscenes) revealed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/gdc-2012-the-secret-worlds-crafting-combat-and-cutscenes-re/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/gdc-2012-the-secret-worlds-crafting-combat-and-cutscenes-re/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/gdc-2012-the-secret-worlds-crafting-combat-and-cutscenes-re/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World
Funcom's hush-hush demo at last week's Game Developer's Conference was quite a bit of fun, even if the opening few minutes treaded perilously close to wince-inducing. The Secret World creative director Ragnar Tornquist kicked things off with a brief introduction, which was followed by a look at the game's character creation as experienced by a female Dragon-faction avatar.

Once that was complete, we got an eyeful of some opening cinematics, and I do mean an eyeful. If you've never watched a lesbian makeout scene alongside a half dozen sweaty male game journos (and a couple of pretty PR girls), well, let's just say that it's hilarious to think about now and fairly awkward to actually experience.

Continue reading GDC 2012: The Secret World's crafting, combat (and cutscenes) revealed

MassivelyGDC 2012: The Secret World's crafting, combat (and cutscenes) revealed originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awkward-lesbian-cinematic-is-awkwardbuild-abilitiesbuildersconconferenceconventioncraftingfactionfantasyfeaturedfuncomgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012gdcgdc-2012horrormythologysci-fantasysecret-worldsecret-world-ability-wheelsecret-world-craftingsecret-world-skillsskill-basedthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-craftingtradeskillstranscribingtswThu, 15 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wizard101 creators to present the Digital Kids Conference opening keynote]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/wizard101-creators-to-present-the-digital-kids-conference-openin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/wizard101-creators-to-present-the-digital-kids-conference-openin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/wizard101-creators-to-present-the-digital-kids-conference-openin/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Wizard101 creators Todd Coleman and Josef Hall will be opening the upcoming sixth annual Digital Kids Conference with a keynote address about their experience with engaging the youth market. The KingsIsle Entertainment duo will talk about their transition from hardcore gaming to creating a critically and commercially successful family-friendly game and (one can hope) the secrets of their genius. Wizard101 launched back in 2008 and has since grown in popularity to the tune of 25 million players spread throughout the Western hemisphere (with plans for near-future expansion into China). It is that recognized success that's made Coleman and Hall ideal candidates for the keynote, with the hopes that they'll spur others to greater heights.

The conference (formerly the Engage! Conference and Expo) will feature speakers from as disparate venues as the NFL, Cartoon Network, and Ubisoft, all focusing on interactive content to connect with kids in the digital world. The Digital Kids Conference covers the use of mobile apps, social games, social media, and virtual worlds to better understand creating and promoting products and content for a younger audience.

[Source: KingsIsle press release]

MassivelyWizard101 creators to present the Digital Kids Conference opening keynote originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Infernal Dawn
Last week's GDC came at a perfect time for Trion. The conference overlaps perfectly with RIFT's one-year anniversary, and Producer Adam Gershowitz took us through some highlights of the past year as well as the current Carnival of the Ascended content. But he also gave a peek at what's planned for the future, not only showing off the new raid zone Infernal Dawn but also talking about the team's plans for some fan-favorites like the leaderboards, mentoring, and housing.

Gallery: Rift Update 1.8

Continue reading GDC 2012: RIFT's Adam Gershowitz talks raiding, mentoring, and housing

MassivelyGDC 2012: RIFT's Adam Gershowitz talks raiding, mentoring, and housing originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adam-gershowitzcarnival-of-the-ascendedconconferenceconventionfantasyfeaturedgalleriesgallerygame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012gdcgdc-2012housinginfernal-dawninterviewinterviewsriftrift-literift-planes-of-telarascreenshotscreenshotstriontrion-worldsTue, 13 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2012: A look at Fighters Club Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/gdc-2012-a-look-at-fighters-club-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/gdc-2012-a-look-at-fighters-club-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/gdc-2012-a-look-at-fighters-club-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

fighters club
There may be no Brad Pitt and bars of soap, but Fighters Club, an upcoming MMO from KOG Studios, has plenty of pugilistic power to make Jack a happy man. At GDC last week, Massively had a chance to see some of the action and talk to the team about its plans for beta and launch. If you're curious about Fighters Club, then tape up those knuckles, slip into some kick-boxing shoes, and let's get ready to rumble!

Gallery: Fighters Club Online

Continue reading GDC 2012: A look at Fighters Club Online

MassivelyGDC 2012: A look at Fighters Club Online originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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sevencore
If you're wondering what gPotato has been up to lately, the answer is, lots! At GDC, gPotato reps showed off not one but four titles, two of which are brand-new and on their way to beta. For Allods and Aika fans, there was plenty of news about the new game updates. Meanwhile, gPotato put on demos for Sevencore and Eternal Blade, which are both in production and are being prepped for release sometime later this year. Read on for a hands-on look at each of these titles!

Gallery: gPotato Gallery

Continue reading GDC 2012: gPotato showcases Allods, Aika, Sevencore, and Eternal Blade

MassivelyGDC 2012: gPotato showcases Allods, Aika, Sevencore, and Eternal Blade originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aikaallodsallods-onlineastrum-nivalconconferenceconventioneternal-bladef2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgala-netgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012gdcgdc-2012gpotatointerviewinterviewssevencoreTue, 13 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 192: When it's ready]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/massively-speaking-episode-192-when-its-ready/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/massively-speaking-episode-192-when-its-ready/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/massively-speaking-episode-192-when-its-ready/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Diablo III
Massively Speaking Episode 192 recovers from the aftermath of last week's GDC, as Justin and Bree regain full mic privileges and prepare to sing a duet in celebration. In this episode, we wrap up the GDC craziness, talk about Diablo III's PvP circumcision, and celebrate the release of a couple of significant patches.

Have a comment for the podcasters? Shoot an email to podcast@massively.com. We may just read your email on the air!

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Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 192: When it's ready

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 192: When it's ready originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Moscone Center, San Francisco
Another Game Developer's Conference has come and gone, and Massively was there to bring you the most complete MMO-related coverage to be found on the 'net. There was a little something for everyone, and whether your taste runs to AAA MMOFPS titles or smaller indie sandbox affairs, the annual trade show featured tons of MMO news and views.

In addition to the demos and interviews, Massively also sat in on a couple of developer panels, and we managed to take a breather each morning to collect our thoughts via some impromptu podcast sessions. We also enjoyed some hands-on time with Funcom's hush hush The Secret World title, but unfortunately we can't tell you about that until March 15th. Today's Daily Grind is all about last week's convention, and the traditional question goes something like this: Which bit of GDC news was your favorite?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What was your favorite GDC 2012 reveal? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Mar 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conconferenceconventiondaily-grindeventsfeaturedgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012gdcgdc-2012opinionreal-life-eventstdgthe-daily-grindTue, 13 Mar 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Week in Review: GDC 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/mmo-week-in-review-gdc-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/mmo-week-in-review-gdc-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/mmo-week-in-review-gdc-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

GDC 2012
At the end of every week, we round up the best and most popular news stories, exclusive features, and insightful columns published on Massively and then present them all in one convenient place. If you missed a big MMO or WoW Insider story last week, you've come to the right post.

This week, Massively sent four MMO experts to the Game Developers Conference in San Francisco, California, so our usual Week in Review consists of a bit more than just the usual Star Wars: The Old Republic and World of Warcraft shenanigans! (Don't worry; it has those too.) Join us for a roundup of our best GDC coverage as well as the top non-GDC posts of the week. Maybe you'll see something you missed!

Continue reading MMO Week in Review: GDC 2012

MassivelyMMO Week in Review: GDC 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 11 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conconferenceconventionfeaturedgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012gdcgdc-2012joystiqmassively-metametarounduptop-storiesweek-in-reviewweekly-recapweekly-roundupwow-insiderSun, 11 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2012: Frogster shows off Eligium: The Chosen One]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/gdc-2012-frogster-shows-off-eligium-the-chosen-one/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/gdc-2012-frogster-shows-off-eligium-the-chosen-one/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/gdc-2012-frogster-shows-off-eligium-the-chosen-one/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Eligium concept art
At GDC, there is much to see and do. And one of the best things to do (besides try to win a really cool fuzzy hat) is to actually experience a game through a demonstration or even some hands-on play. I had the opportunity to do just that with one of Frogster's upcoming games. No, not that one; the other one. Ellen-Jane Austin, Country Manager UK, and Marco Neubert, Director Product PR, took me on a brief tour of Eligium: The Chosen One.

Although this game from Shanda Games Ltd. is pretty similar to other games in many respects, there are a few features that give it a unique flair, especially the virtue system, mounts, and my personal favorite, an ability to shape-change into a two-headed dragon!

Continue reading GDC 2012: Frogster shows off Eligium: The Chosen One

MassivelyGDC 2012: Frogster shows off Eligium: The Chosen One originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 11 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conconferenceconventioneligiumeligium-the-chosen-oneEllen-Jane-Austinfeaturedgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012gdcgdc-2012Marco-NeubertmountspetsShanda-GamesShanda-Games-LtdshapeshiftshapeshiftingSun, 11 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2012: Publishing heavies weigh in on F2P conversions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/gdc-2012-publishing-heavies-weigh-in-on-f2p-conversions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/gdc-2012-publishing-heavies-weigh-in-on-f2p-conversions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/gdc-2012-publishing-heavies-weigh-in-on-f2p-conversions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

GDC 2012 logo
Like it or not, free-to-play is rapidly coming to dominate every corner of the gaming industry. While that's good on the surface, it also blurs the line between business and design, and it creates a lot of tension for both consumers and developers who are increasingly faced with the challenges inherent in separating monetary decisions from gameplay decisions.

One of the more interesting GDC 2012 round-tables featured Sony Online Entertainment executive producer Dave Georgeson, NCSoft publishing director Steve Levy, Perfect World VP John Young, GamersFirst monetization director Joe Willmon, and Digi-Capital Limited managing director Tim Merel, all of whom convened for a mind-meld on successfully migrating subscription games to F2P.

As you would expect, the panel was heavy on business-speak, but it also featured plenty of insight into the pricing phenomenon that has become the rule rather than the exception.

Continue reading GDC 2012: Publishing heavies weigh in on F2P conversions

MassivelyGDC 2012: Publishing heavies weigh in on F2P conversions originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 11 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelsconconferenceconventiondave-georgesondesignf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012gamersfirstgdcgdc-2012grindjoe-willmonjohn-younglootmmo-industrymonetizationncsoftopinionpanelsperfect-world-entertainmentpolishing-a-turdpwesci-fisoeSony-Online-Entertainmenttim-merelwesternizationSun, 11 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2012: Forty minutes with Derek Smart and Line of Defense]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/gdc-2012-forty-minutes-with-derek-smart-and-line-of-defense/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/gdc-2012-forty-minutes-with-derek-smart-and-line-of-defense/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/gdc-2012-forty-minutes-with-derek-smart-and-line-of-defense/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Line of Defense - Fighter banking over Frostbite base
"I didn't want to make another Derek Smart game because usually when you mention 'Derek Smart' and 'game', gamers tend to run in the opposite direction," Smart told us when we asked about Line of Defense.

That's quite a candid intro, and it set the stage for an interesting 40-minute interview that featured plenty of insights into 3000AD's latest offering. Smart, of course, has something of a notorious reputation in the online community, and while we won't go into that here, it is worth noting that he's focusing on the work and letting his game do the talking.

Continue reading GDC 2012: Forty minutes with Derek Smart and Line of Defense

MassivelyGDC 2012: Forty minutes with Derek Smart and Line of Defense originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 11 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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holy grail
What do dwarves and Monty Python have in common? They both feature prominently in Linda "The Brasse" Carlson's GDC 2012 talk about the front lines of the SOE community relations team. Given the recent roller coaster ride of the ProSiebenSat.1 deal and the turmoil on the forums that followed, I found it interesting to hear what it's like to be a member of the community management folks as they try to handle being in the middle of it all. While her talk was mainly aimed at community managers in other games, there were a few tidbits that players would probably find interesting and maybe even surprising. Read on for the highlights!

Continue reading GDC 2012: The Tattered Notebook attends Brasse's community panel

MassivelyGDC 2012: The Tattered Notebook attends Brasse's community panel originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 10 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Repopulation screnshot
GDC literally has a little of everything, from indie developers to major studios, from free-to-play games to shooters to arena battles to retro to family... there really is something for everyone. As a massive fan of sandboxes myself, I was pleased to get to spend so much time with Above and Beyond Technologies' lead dev and co-owner Josh Halls and artist Kevin Grove as they demonstrated some of the features in their upcoming title, The Repopulation. (And I would have even spent longer if I could have!)

While I had a monopoly on the team's attention, I had the chance to see some of the customization available to characters, both in appearance and gear, as well as get the lowdown on the world building element. We actually walked through the building of a nation, a feature that will make many a sandbox fan giddy! Although Josh was quick to point out that only a few items were available at this point in development, there was certainly enough to get a feel for the system. And I am looking forward to it!

Continue reading GDC 2012: The Repopulation demonstrates world-building elements

MassivelyGDC 2012: The Repopulation demonstrates world-building elements originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 10 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiescharacter-customizationcitiescitycity-buildingcity-building gameconconferenceconventioncraftingcustomizationdemofeaturedgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012gdcgdc-2012guildsinterviewinterviewsJosh-HallsJoshua-HallsKevin-Grovenationsplayer-run-economypreviewpreviewsrepopulationrole-playsandboxsandbox-gamesci-fistar-wars-galaxiesswgthe-repopulationSat, 10 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2012: Wargaming.net on World of Warplanes, clan wars, and taking over the world]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/gdc-2012-wargaming-net-on-world-of-warplanes-clan-wars-and-ta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/gdc-2012-wargaming-net-on-world-of-warplanes-clan-wars-and-ta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/gdc-2012-wargaming-net-on-world-of-warplanes-clan-wars-and-ta/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Wargaming.net had a huge presence at this year's GDC, and why not? The firm is growing at an exponential rate, and we're not just talking about the fact that it has World of Warplanes and World of Battleships coming down the pike.

CEO Victor Kislyi told me that over the past year the firm has expanded to include 700+ employees and a global presence that features development centers in Kiev, Ukraine, and Russia. The firm's flagship World of Tanks title currently boasts 18 million players worldwide, and it is paving the way for the second and third entries in a World War II trilogy.

Its clan wars mode is also the starting point for a grand vision of military combat at the squad level.

Continue reading GDC 2012: Wargaming.net on World of Warplanes, clan wars, and taking over the world

MassivelyGDC 2012: Wargaming.net on World of Warplanes, clan wars, and taking over the world originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aviationclan-warsconconferenceconventionexclusivef2pfeaturedfree-to-playgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012gdcgdc-2012historicalintegrated-clan-warsinterviewplaneplanespvpvictor-kislyiwarwargaming.netwarplanewarplanesworld-of-warplanesworld-war-2world-war-iiwowpFri, 09 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 191: GDC Thursday]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/massively-speaking-episode-191-gdc-thursday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/massively-speaking-episode-191-gdc-thursday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/massively-speaking-episode-191-gdc-thursday/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Tribes Ascend
Massively Speaking Episode 191 is the last stand of the Massively GDC crew as they bravely recall their final experiences at the convention for you and their loved ones to cherish. It's been a whirlwind of a week, but many of the studios saved the best for last -- and we've got the scoop!

Have a comment for the podcasters? Shoot an email to podcast@massively.com. We may just read your email on the air!

Get the podcast:
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Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 191: GDC Thursday

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 191: GDC Thursday originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Mar 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aikaallods-onlineauto-club-revolutionblueholebluehole-studiosbrantbrianna-royceconconferenceconventionen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyfeaturedfighters-clubfighters-club-onlinegame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012gdcgdc-2012gpotatohero-enginehi-rezhi-rez-studioshumorjustin-olivettimassively-speakingopinionpodcastpodcastingpodcaststerathe-repopulationtribes-ascendFri, 09 Mar 2012 15:30:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 191Massively.com Staff44:42podcasts<![CDATA[GDC 2012: TERA's growth spurt and dynamic events]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/gdc-2012-teras-growth-spurt-and-dynamic-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/gdc-2012-teras-growth-spurt-and-dynamic-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/gdc-2012-teras-growth-spurt-and-dynamic-events/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

TERA
"It's been a helluva year since we've been at GDC last," TERA Producer Chris Hager started, "and everyone wants to know what we've been doing for the past 365 days."

Thus began our time with En Masse at GDC, in which enthusiasm for the forthcoming TERA was positively infectious. Hager sighed happily as he reminded us of the title's May 1st launch date: "You have no idea how happy that makes me to be able to say that."

Just because a launch date is on the horizon doesn't mean that the hardest part is over for this crew. During this past month, the team's been running a closed beta test that's provided vital feedback for last-minute tweaks and preparations. "We've taken that feedback and it's helped us evolve TERA into the game we all want to play," Hager said.

So just what has En Masse been doing for the past year, and what has us most excited about getting our hands on a launched version of TERA? Read on to find out!

Continue reading GDC 2012: TERA's growth spurt and dynamic events

MassivelyGDC 2012: TERA's growth spurt and dynamic events originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studioschis-hagerconconferenceconventionen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyfeaturedgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012gdcgdc-2012teraFri, 09 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2012: Bigpoint discusses the Game of Thrones MMO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/gdc-2012-bigpoint-discusses-the-game-of-thrones-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/gdc-2012-bigpoint-discusses-the-game-of-thrones-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/gdc-2012-bigpoint-discusses-the-game-of-thrones-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Game of Thrones screenshot
The Game is coming.

It had to be said. And for fans of George R.R. Martin's epic fantasy series A Song of Ice and Fire, that one little phrase elicits some powerful and mixed emotions: excitement (to actually wander about Westeros) and dread (will it actually be Westeros?). There was even a collective cringe among some Massively staff when the announcement was made that Game of Thrones was becoming an MMORPG. Could such a complex world translate well into the virtual realm? It made the transition to television pretty well in HBO's series, but a free-to-play browser-based MMO is a whole other beast.

We're pleased to say that fans of the books and the series can breathe a little easier and even look forward to the upcoming title becuse it's going to be gritty, it's going to be gory, and power will shift like the winds across the Dothraki Sea. Massively was able to sit down with Jorgen Tharaldsen (Producer at Artplant), Alan Dunton (Public Relations Director at Bigpoint), and Rob Ollett (Executive Producer at Bigpoint) to discuss details about what's coming.

Continue reading GDC 2012: Bigpoint discusses the Game of Thrones MMO

MassivelyGDC 2012: Bigpoint discusses the Game of Thrones MMO originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-combatalan-duntonArtplantBigpointbrowserbrowser-gamecash-shopconconferenceconventiondirectional-action-combatfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012game-of-thronesgdcgdc-2012george-r-r-martininterviewinterviewsitem-progressionjorgen-tharaldsenpolitical-systempreviewpreviewspvpRob-Ollettsandboxsiegesiege-systemsiegesFri, 09 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2012: The Firing Line's PlanetSide 2 and DUST 514 redux]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/the-firing-line-more-on-planetside-2-and-dust-514-from-gdc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/the-firing-line-more-on-planetside-2-and-dust-514-from-gdc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/the-firing-line-more-on-planetside-2-and-dust-514-from-gdc/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Firing Line - GDC 2012 header
This week I was fortunate enough to chat up the developers on the two biggest MMOFPS titles of the year. Exactly what year that is remains to be seen, and after hearing Sony Online Entertainment use the word "alpha" quite a lot, I suspect that PlanetSide 2 may slip into 2013. And that's not a bad thing at all, by the way.

CCP's DUST 514, on the other hand, is surely coming in 2012. The devs will be doling out some long-awaited hands-on time with EVE's precocious little brother at Fanfest in a couple of weeks, and while DUST and PS2 share similar core gameplay, their target audiences (and the general feeling I get from each game) are completely different.

Continue reading GDC 2012: The Firing Line's PlanetSide 2 and DUST 514 redux

MassivelyGDC 2012: The Firing Line's PlanetSide 2 and DUST 514 redux originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Mar 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesconconferenceconventiondavid-reiddustdust-514dust-eve-integrationdust-playstationeveeve-onlinef2pfeaturedfpsfree-to-playgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012game-mechanicsgdcgdc-2012hilmar-peturssoninterviewmatt-higbymmofpsmobilenew-edenopinionplanetside-2playstation-3ps2ps3pvpsandboxtflthe-firing-linethird-person-shootertpstramell-isaacvitaFri, 09 Mar 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DUST 514 beta starts in April, gameplay video released at GDC]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/dust-514-beta-starts-in-april-gameplay-video-released-at-gdc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/dust-514-beta-starts-in-april-gameplay-video-released-at-gdc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/dust-514-beta-starts-in-april-gameplay-video-released-at-gdc/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

DUST 514 - blown up tank
CCP has been incredibly coy about public testing for its DUST 514 MMOFPS, but last night the company revealed an upcoming April beta window in an exclusive interview with Gametrailers.

CEO Hilmar Petursson and CMO David Reid both gave the website a few interesting soundbytes as well as some long looks at DUST gameplay over the course of the eight-minute clip.

DUST isn't intended as an EVE Online replacement, nor does CCP expect huge numbers of EVE capsuleers to play the new shooter concurrently with its flying-in-space sandbox MMO. "It is really about providing this new gateway into the EVE universe for all the people who have been intrigued by it," Petursson said. "In April we'll open up the beta test we've been running since December of last year," he revealed.

Be sure to check out the full clip after the cut.

Continue reading DUST 514 beta starts in April, gameplay video released at GDC

MassivelyDUST 514 beta starts in April, gameplay video released at GDC originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Mar 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Firing Line - GDC 2012 Hi-Rez Interview, Tribes release date
It's been a crazy week at GDC, and though I've already gotten the skinny on both PlanetSide 2 and DUST 514, there's more on the way when it comes to online shooter news. Yesterday morning I headed over to the Hi-Rez Studios booth on the main show floor, where COO Todd Harris had some exciting news to share with fans of the firm's Tribes: Ascend title.

The free-to-play shooter will officially launch on April 12th, and Hi-Rez has also released a new parody trailer that pays homage to Dead Island and shows off the perils of the dreaded "llama capture" (if you're a Tribes newb, just know that speed equals survival when it comes to flag-grabs).

Join me after the cut for some Tribes-related chit-chat as well news of new content on the way for Global Agenda.

Continue reading GDC 2012: The Firing Line talks release dates with Tribes Ascend's Todd Harris

MassivelyGDC 2012: The Firing Line talks release dates with Tribes Ascend's Todd Harris originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Mar 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conconferenceconventiondead-islande-sporte-sportsexclusivef2pfeaturedfiring-linefpsfree-to-playgagame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012gdcgdc-2012global agendahi-rezhi-rez-studiosinterviewmmofpsonline-shootersci-fishooterspy-fithe-firing-linethe-firing-line-extrathe-firing-line-interviewsthird-person-shootertpstribestribes-ascendtribes-dead-islandtribes-release-datetribes-videovideoFri, 09 Mar 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2012: A peek behind SWTOR's project management curtain]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/gdc-2012-a-peek-behind-swtors-project-management-curtain/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/gdc-2012-a-peek-behind-swtors-project-management-curtain/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/gdc-2012-a-peek-behind-swtors-project-management-curtain/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Star Wars: The Old Republic - Nal Hutta
GDC is often described as the most cerebral of the various gaming conventions. E3 has its big reveals and booth babes, PAX has its fan-friendly hands-on sessions and general geekery. GDC, though, is mainly by developers and for developers, and last night's BioWare panel was a good case in point.

The session ran for well over an hour (not counting a brief Q&A at the end), and it focused largely on the daunting management tasks inherent in a project like Star Wars: The Old Republic.

Continue reading GDC 2012: A peek behind SWTOR's project management curtain

MassivelyGDC 2012: A peek behind SWTOR's project management curtain originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebioware-production-managementconconferenceconventiondallas-dickinsoneaelectronic-artsgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012gdcgdc-2012lucasartsmanagementproductionproject-managementrich-vogelsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorswtor-productionthe-old-republictorThu, 08 Mar 2012 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2012: Locking on to MechWarrior Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/gdc-2012-locking-on-to-mechwarrior-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/gdc-2012-locking-on-to-mechwarrior-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/gdc-2012-locking-on-to-mechwarrior-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

MechWarrior Online
The notion of strapping oneself into a massive battle robot chassis and duking it out with other 'Mechs appeals to the inner child in all of us (or it should), so it's hard not to feel a tingle of excitement when the makers of MechWarrior Online promise that we'll soon be able to do just that. We caught up with the Piranha Games crew at GDC to become one of the very first non-studio witnesses of MWO's in-game footage and to hear why this is a title that should be on all of our radars.

The team is filled with huge fans of the MechWarrior and BattleTech franchises, so the devs were eager to construct a proper MechWarrior title when Piranha got ahold of the license this year. The studio seized upon the free-to-play model early on as the best way to draw in as many potential 'Mech pilots as possible. It also snagged the CryEngine 3 to provide the best possible graphical fidelity for its product. Unfortunately, it's going to be hard to categorize MWO as "massively," as its non-persistent arena maps will host up to only 24 players in 12v12 fights.

Setting-wise, MechWarrior Online begins in 3049, but that date will keep tempo with the real-world calendar (so tomorrow it'll be March 9th, 3049, and so on). As events happen in the story according to the game's canon, the game will change to reflect that in real-time.

Read on to hear what the devs had to say about two of the game's four pillars: mech warfare and role warfare.

Continue reading GDC 2012: Locking on to MechWarrior Online

MassivelyGDC 2012: Locking on to MechWarrior Online originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>12v12community-warfareconconferenceconventionf2pfeaturedfree-to-playgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012gdcgdc-2012mechmech-warfaremechsmechwarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemobamwopiranhapiranha-gamesrole-warfaresci-fiworld-of-tanksThu, 08 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2012: A look at Dark Legends with Spacetime Studios]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/gdc-2012-a-look-at-dark-legends-with-spacetime-studios/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/gdc-2012-a-look-at-dark-legends-with-spacetime-studios/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/gdc-2012-a-look-at-dark-legends-with-spacetime-studios/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Dark Legends
Life, death, and a return from the grave: That sums up the life of a vampire, but it also sums up the journey of Spacetime Studios. What do the two have in common? The studio's upcoming title called Dark Legends. At GDC 2012 this week, Massively had a chance to talk with Gary Gattis, CEO of Spacetime Studios, and we got a first-hand look at how the company successfully created a game in which people can play together on laptops, tablets, phones, and virtually any mobile device available.

Continue reading GDC 2012: A look at Dark Legends with Spacetime Studios

MassivelyGDC 2012: A look at Dark Legends with Spacetime Studios originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Otherland
Do you prefer a post-apocalyptic world or Tad Williams' vision of the internet of the future? Luckily, you can have them both by the end of the year because Gamigo is working busy at work preparing to launch two new titles. Massively had a chance to talk with Anthony Guzzardo, Gamigo's North American Publicity Manager, as well as PR Manager Dennis Hartmann as they showed off Otherland, based on the works of Tad Williams, and Grimlands, a post-apocalyptic vision in the desert.

Continue reading GDC 2012: A look at Otherland and Grimlands with Gamigo

MassivelyGDC 2012: A look at Otherland and Grimlands with Gamigo originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anthony-guzzardoconconferenceconventioncyberpunkdemodennis-hartmannf2pfeaturedfree-to-playgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012gamigogdcgdc-2012grimlandskaren-bryanotherlandrealusci-fitad-williamsvirtual-worldvirtual-worldsWed, 07 Mar 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2012: CCP talks DUST 514 PC possibilities and World of Darkness development]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/gdc-2012-ccp-talks-dust-eve-and-world-of-darkness/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/gdc-2012-ccp-talks-dust-eve-and-world-of-darkness/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/gdc-2012-ccp-talks-dust-eve-and-world-of-darkness/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

GDC 2012 is now in full swing, and today we had the chance to sit down with CCP's Hilmar Petursson, Halldor Fannar, and David Reid to chat about the studio's upcoming FPS title, DUST 514. When asked about the studio's primary goal with DUST 514, the team had a simple reply: Make the best AAA free-to-play shooter possible. But is it coming to the PC?

While many EVE Online players aren't thrilled with DUST 514's PlayStation 3 exclusivity, there may be hope for a PC release yet. And while the devs weren't ready to make any official statements on the spot, a bit of wink-nudging indicates that a PC release may still be in the cards. As the devs note, mouse and keyboard controls are already supported in the PS3 version of the title. "I wonder why we did that," Hilmar joked during the interview.

Continue reading GDC 2012: CCP talks DUST 514 PC possibilities and World of Darkness development

MassivelyGDC 2012: CCP talks DUST 514 PC possibilities and World of Darkness development originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesconconferenceconsoleconventiondavid-reiddustdust-514eveeve-onlinefpsgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012gdcgdc-2012halldor-fannarhilmar-peturssoninternet-spaceshipsinterviewmmofpsplaystationplaystation-3ps3sandboxsci-fishooterspreadsheets-onlinewodworld-of-darknessWed, 07 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 189: GDC Tuesday]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/massively-speaking-episode-189-gdc-tuesday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/massively-speaking-episode-189-gdc-tuesday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/massively-speaking-episode-189-gdc-tuesday/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

PlanetSide 2
Massively Speaking Episode 189 is a special GDC edition hosted by two of our attendees, Shawn Schuster and Jef Reahard. The two assemble for a short, early-morning debriefing on yesterday's PlanetSide 2 demo, which as Shawn describes it, "pretty much blew [him] away." They compare the game to its predecessor and chat about the combat styles, immersion, interface, hype, and the massive feel of the game, even in alpha.

Stay tuned for tomorrow, when the pair will be joined by fellow Massively staffers MJ Guthrie and Karen Bryan. Our ground crew will be reporting back on DUST 514, Trion Worlds, MechWarrior Online, and more over the next few days. (And don't worry; the Justin and Bree show will return next week.)

Have a comment for the podcasters? Shoot an email to podcast@massively.com. We may just read your email on the air!

Get the podcast:
[iTunes] Subscribe to Massively Speaking directly in iTunes.
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Listen here on the page:



Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 189: GDC Tuesday

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 189: GDC Tuesday originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conconferenceconventionfeaturedfpsgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012gdcgdc-2012humorjef-reahardmassively-speakingmmo-shootermmofpsopinionplanetsideplanetside-2podcastpodcastingpodcastsps2sci-fishawn-schustershootersoesonysony-online-entertainmentWed, 07 Mar 2012 15:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 189Massively.com Staff00:12:10podcasts<![CDATA[GDC 2012: A look at Seven Souls Online with the NEOWIZ team]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/gdc-2012-a-look-at-seven-souls-online-with-the-neowiz-team/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/gdc-2012-a-look-at-seven-souls-online-with-the-neowiz-team/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/gdc-2012-a-look-at-seven-souls-online-with-the-neowiz-team/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Seven Souls Online
Just a few short weeks ago, Seven Souls Online was in closed beta and Massively readers were scooping up beta keys to test it out. Now, with closed beta, well, closed and open beta just around the corner, the team at NEOWIZ GAMES sat down to show off the state of the game and its plans for launch. The devs showed some beginner gameplay and then revealed some of the content that's ready and waiting for the higher levels. From jackpots to cubes to rage mode, Lead Community Manager Cesar Gatica and Marketing Manager Joon Yoon explained it all. What the heck are jackpots, cubes, and rage mode? Read on!

Continue reading GDC 2012: A look at Seven Souls Online with the NEOWIZ team

MassivelyGDC 2012: A look at Seven Souls Online with the NEOWIZ team originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7socesar-gaticaconconferenceconventiongame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012gdcgdc-2012joon-yoonneowizneowiz-gamesseven-souls-onlinessoWed, 07 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2012: SOE's PlanetSide 2 gunning for the big time]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/gdc-2012-soes-planetside-2-gunning-for-the-big-time/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/gdc-2012-soes-planetside-2-gunning-for-the-big-time/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/gdc-2012-soes-planetside-2-gunning-for-the-big-time/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

PlanetSide 2 - TR minigun
Our PlanetSide 2 bootcamp didn't start on the war-torn planet of Auraxis. It started on a plushly appointed hotel terrace in the middle of downtown San Francisco. Sony Online Entertainment brought its A-game to GDC 2012, and though its MMOFPS sequel is still undergoing internal alpha testing, the demo was striking enough to make us feel like battle-weary soldiers returning from the front.

Executive producer Josh Hackney kicked things off with a short spiel that touched on what made the original PlanetSide unique (truly massive combat, ambitious open-world design, and a passionate/enduring community, in a nutshell). Hackney then turned the microphone over to creative director Matt Higby and a team of SOE devs who proceeded to wow the gaggle of game journos with an hour of pure awesome.

Continue reading GDC 2012: SOE's PlanetSide 2 gunning for the big time

MassivelyGDC 2012: SOE's PlanetSide 2 gunning for the big time originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PlanetSide 2
Massively's boots are on the ground at this week's Games Developer Conference, and we've stormed Sony Online Entertainment's stronghold to find out any and all information about its upcoming MMOFPS PlanetSide 2. We've been tweeting the excitement from the show floor, and while hearing it is one thing, seeing it for yourself is another.

That's why we're bringing to you a mega-upload of 22 hot new images and concept art from this MMOFPS. Showing off a huge variety of environments, ships, soldiers, outfits, and action sequences, these screenshots are pure eye-candy for those anticipating this title. And after the cut, you'll find two GDC videos of the game, courtesy of PlanetSide Universe and tipster Kyle.

This is only the beginning, however. Stay tuned to Massively for our first impressions of PlanetSide 2 and an interview with SOE's Tramell Isaac coming later this week!

Gallery: PlanetSide 2


Massively sent four resolute reporters to San Francisco to bring you back the biggest MMO news from this year's GDC, the largest pro-only gaming industry con in the world! From games like The Secret World to PlanetSide 2, we're on the case, so stay tuned for all the highlights from the show!

Continue reading GDC 2012: Advanced recon of PlanetSide 2 uncovers hot zone photographs

MassivelyGDC 2012: Advanced recon of PlanetSide 2 uncovers hot zone photographs originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conconferenceconventionfpsgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012gdcgdc-2012mmo-shootermmofpsplanetsideplanetside-2ps2sci-fishootersoesonysony-online-entertainmenttrailertrailerstramell-isaacvideovideosTue, 06 Mar 2012 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Registrations open for SL Pro! conference, February]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/23/registrations-open-for-sl-pro-conference-february/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/23/registrations-open-for-sl-pro-conference-february/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/23/registrations-open-for-sl-pro-conference-february/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Registrations are presently open for SL Pro! a two day conference being run by Linden Lab for 'serious' professional Second Life content-creators to take place in late February this year, in Second Life itself, with a bit of help from NMC (the New Media Consortium).

Unfortunately, it's a conference with more than one track, where the two tracks generally have a fair bit of overlap, so that's a bit of an issue. The two tracks are building and scripting, each with eight sessions.

Continue reading Registrations open for SL Pro! conference, February

MassivelyRegistrations open for SL Pro! conference, February originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 23 Jan 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conferenceeducationglenn-lindenjonty-glaserlinden-labmmo-industrynew-media-consortiumnmcregistrationsecond-lifesl-prostiletto-moodyt-lindentom-halevirtual-worldsSat, 23 Jan 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hit the Virtual Goods Summit 15% cheaper this year]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/24/hit-the-virtual-goods-summit-15-cheaper-this-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/24/hit-the-virtual-goods-summit-15-cheaper-this-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/24/hit-the-virtual-goods-summit-15-cheaper-this-year/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


The Virtual Goods Summit has been an annual event since 2007, and features speakers from organizations all over the world, all focused on virtual goods, and virtual economies. This year's summit in San Francisco features quite a lineup, including the delicious Steve Meretzky, Turbine's accomplished Fernando Paiz, the engaging John Smedley of SOE, and plenty more.

Through the Virtual Goods Summit, developers and publishers share knowledge and get a deeper understanding of virtual goods and economies, how they function, their challenges and how to maximize the opportunities inherent in them. The Virtual Goods Summit runs on 30 October (with an optional half-day seminar on the 29th, covering the fundamentals and drivers of virtual economies, called Virtual Goods Summit University.

Want to get to the summit with a 15% discount on general admission? Register for the summit and use the code MASSIVELY at the checkout, and save! There's also discounted early-bird registration until 29 September.

MassivelyHit the Virtual Goods Summit 15% cheaper this year originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Sep 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelsconferencediscounteconomyeducationfernando-paizjohn-smedleymmo-industrysoesteve-meretzkyturbinevirtual-goods-summitvirtual-goods-summit-universityvirtual-worldsThu, 24 Sep 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GamesCom enters the ranks of E3 on its first year]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/gamescom-enters-the-ranks-of-e3-on-its-first-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/gamescom-enters-the-ranks-of-e3-on-its-first-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/gamescom-enters-the-ranks-of-e3-on-its-first-year/#commentsFiled under: , ,


With a bajillion gaming conventions going on this year, and the global economy being the way it is, you'd think gamers would need to pick and choose their events more carefully. You would actually think that if you decided to run your brand new gaming convention the exact same days as BlizzCon, you're in for some problems. Well, you'd be wrong.

GamesCom in Cologne, Germany has just reported its attendance numbers and it blew away all expectations. 245,000 people attended the 5-day event that exhibited 458 companies from 31 countries. Quite a feat considering it was their first year. Our parent site, Joystiq, was on the ground at GamesCom and can provide more helpful statistics such as liters of Kölsch consumed and number of times they ran into champion boxer Wladimir Klitschko. Very important stuff.

MassivelyGamesCom enters the ranks of E3 on its first year originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzconblizzcon-2009conferenceconventiongamescomgamescom-09gamescom-2009joystiqMon, 24 Aug 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: Day one video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/e3-2009-day-one-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/e3-2009-day-one-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/e3-2009-day-one-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


While it's technically the first day for most attendees, we've actually been here since Sunday, preparing for the big event. Yet, yesterday marked the first time the show floor was opened and we all got a look at the new E3.

After last year's disappointing showing, the organizers more than made up for it with what is arguably the largest collection of shinies we've seen at any conference in recent years. To pay respect for E3 going back to the way it was, we've compiled this short video of what we saw on Day 1. There's some shaky-cam footage of the show floor, some great MMO screens including never-before-seen shots of Torchlight and DCUO, and of course, an EverQuest booth babe. You can check it out right after the jump, and be sure to look for another compilation video once the convention is over, featuring our favorite moments.
Massively is on the ground in Los Angeles this week and covering all the latest E3 MMO news coming from the convention. Check out our breaking coverage (or all the Joystiq network E3 reporting) and keep your eye on Massively's front page for the latest developments.

Continue reading E3 2009: Day one video

MassivelyE3 2009: Day one video originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Jun 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conferenceday-onedcuoe3-2009global-agendashow-floorthe-agencytorchlightWed, 03 Jun 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Virtual Worlds Best Practices in Education conference this weekend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/26/virtual-worlds-best-practices-in-education-conference-this-weeke/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/26/virtual-worlds-best-practices-in-education-conference-this-weeke/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/26/virtual-worlds-best-practices-in-education-conference-this-weeke/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

For three days this coming weekend (Friday, 27 March to Sunday, 29 March), Second Life will be host to the Virtual Worlds Best Practices in Education conference. This grassroots, community-based conference attracts faculty, instructors, trainers, administrators, instructional designers, technical specialists, and members of organizations from around the world. Education is one of the spheres of industry where virtual environments are a tool that will probably never go away.

Those who create teaching/learning environments, resources, tools, support services and professional development opportunities internal and external to virtual world environments are participating in the conference. The conference schedule itself is more than impressive, featuring just about every big name in Second Life education, with more than 25 panels, presentations, tours and meet-and-greets across multiple Second Life venues.

Participation in the conference is free of charge, but you will need to register. For more information, check out the conference website.

Are you a part of the most widely-known collaborative virtual environment or keeping a close eye on it? Massively's Second Life coverage keeps you in the loop.

MassivelyVirtual Worlds Best Practices in Education conference this weekend originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>academicconferenceeducationsecond-lifevirtual-worldsvwbpevwbpe-2009Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ION Conference returns for 2009, changes name to LOGIN]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/20/ion-conference-returns-for-2009-changes-name-to-login/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/20/ion-conference-returns-for-2009-changes-name-to-login/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/20/ion-conference-returns-for-2009-changes-name-to-login/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Massively's readers who follow the online game industry may be familiar with Evergreen Events. They're the people who brought us the Online Game Development Conference (OGDC 2007) and the ION Game Conference (2008). The next step in the annual conference's evolution entails gaining a new name -- the LOGIN Conference.

LOGIN 2009 will be three and a half days of lectures, panels, roundtables, and keynotes focused on the online game industry. Thus far details about speakers are scarce, but one keynote speaker has been announced for LOGIN 2009 -- Charlie Stross, author of Halting State, a thriller that deals heavily with virtual worlds. The call for more speakers remains open, and if ION was any indication of what to expect, a number of industry luminaries are likely to have a presence at LOGIN.

LOGIN will take place in Seattle, Washington, from May 11-14, 2009. Massively will have more info for you about LOGIN as we get closer to the conference.

MassivelyION Conference returns for 2009, changes name to LOGIN originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Jan 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charlie-strossconferenceevergreen-eventsignionjubekeynoteloginlogin-09login-2009mmo-industrysheila-lewisvault-hubTue, 20 Jan 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[2008 Worlds in Motion Summit schedule announced]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/20/2008-worlds-in-motion-summit-schedule-announced/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/20/2008-worlds-in-motion-summit-schedule-announced/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/20/2008-worlds-in-motion-summit-schedule-announced/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The 2008 Worlds in Motion Summit schedule has been announced, along with a synopsis of this year's speeches and panels. The conference on virtual worlds and social gaming will be held on September 16th and 17th, during the Austin Game Developers Conference.

Worlds in Motion bills the 2008 Summit as a conference geared toward those who wish to better understand the business opportunities offered in the expanding social game networking space, and who plan to leverage their content and brands into interactive online worlds. Early bird registration ends July 31st; details can be found at the Austin GDC homepage. Read on after the jump for highlights of the upcoming 2008 Worlds in Motion Summit.

Continue reading 2008 Worlds in Motion Summit schedule announced

Massively2008 Worlds in Motion Summit schedule announced originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 20 Jul 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>areaeaustinbunchballbusiness-modelsconferencedouble-fusionelectric-sheepelectric-sheep-companygame-mechanicsgdcmetaversenbcneopetsnumedeonopportunitiesopportunityraph-kostersecond-lifesocialsocial-gaming-networksulakesummitthree-ringsvirtual-worldswhyvilleworlds-in-motionzwinkySun, 20 Jul 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[AGDC announces first keynote address]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/07/agdc-announces-first-keynote-address/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/07/agdc-announces-first-keynote-address/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/07/agdc-announces-first-keynote-address/#commentsFiled under: ,

The Worlds in Motion site notes that the first keynote address has been announced for this year's Austin Game Developer's Conference. Last last month the first speakers, such as Damion Schubert and Min Kim, were announced for the MMO-focused event. This week the event's first keynote has been announced, and it's very different from your average early-morning droner. Fans of The Office rejoice! The folks behind the Dunder Mifflin social networking game will be offering up ways of "driving user behavior and increasing engagement".

Other events announced include a technical discussion on Tabula Rasa's shading technology; that's an in-depth session aimed at MMO developers looking for cost/benefit tradeoffs. Probably the most exciting announced talk this week is Nick Fortugno's talk entitled What Your Mother and Your Ten-Year Old Can Teach You About MMOs. He gave a similar lecture at this year's IMGDC event, previously discussed here on the site. Interested parties will get early bird status through August 27th.

MassivelyAGDC announces first keynote address originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 07 Jun 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agdcagdc08austin-game-developers-conferenceconferencekeynotespeakersSat, 07 Jun 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Scientists, we need your swords!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/12/scientists-we-need-your-swords/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/12/scientists-we-need-your-swords/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/12/scientists-we-need-your-swords/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


This past weekend, scientists gathered on World of Warcraft's Earthen Ring server to discuss how WoW changes and is changed by its ten million, hugely international player base. They might have held their "Convergence of the Real and Virtual" conference in a conference room near some airport somewhere, but that would have been dull. Airport hotels don't provide photo opportunities with Thrall -- and Thrall doesn't DO hotels. Any session notes that advise attendees to get the flight point AHEAD of time are sure to end up someplace fun.

Sessions included the use of online games as laboratories to study human behavior; the interrelationship of virtual and real-world economies; the future of virtual worlds; and why Professor Abercrombie won't let elemental shamans on her Karazhan runs. Well, maybe not the last one. We have some questions of our own. If you could do your real world job in an MMO such as WoW -- would you? And if you did work in WoW, and your boss was dressed in blues and greens he picked up from the Murlocs in Southshore while you were fitted in epics from Black Temple, would you still respect him?

[Via Virtual World News]

MassivelyScientists, we need your swords! originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 May 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conferenceconvergence-of-the-real-and-virtualeconomyeventsnewssciencescientistsvirtual-worldsworld-of-warcraftwowMon, 12 May 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[InterPlay conference coming May 22nd]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/06/interplay-conference-coming-may-22nd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/06/interplay-conference-coming-may-22nd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/06/interplay-conference-coming-may-22nd/#commentsFiled under: , ,

theMIX agency and RoomFullofPeople just recently announced plans to host InterPlay, a one-day event that will explore the overlap of online games and social networks that has nothing to do with that other Interplay. The conference is planned for May 22nd and will take place at the Kabuki Hotel in San Francisco.

If you happen to attend you can expect to see speakers from companies such as Bebo, DoubleFusion and Electronic Arts. Their will also be a strong showing of venture capitalists to offer their own perspectives on several subjects. The panels being offered seem like they'll vary, some of the included examples are "Micro-Transactions and Virtual Goods", "Funding the Social Gaming Sphere "and "Advertising and Marketing on Social Games".

Sounds like a fairly well-rounded event and being that it's only one day it should be full of interesting discussions for those interested in either social networks or virtual worlds.

MassivelyInterPlay conference coming May 22nd originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 May 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beboconferencedoublefusionelectronic-artsinterplaymicrotransactionsroomfullofpeoplesocial-networksthemixvirtual-worldsTue, 06 May 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Virtual Worlds: Libraries, Education and Museums conference presentations available]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/13/virtual-worlds-libraries-education-and-museums-conference-pres/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/13/virtual-worlds-libraries-education-and-museums-conference-pres/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/13/virtual-worlds-libraries-education-and-museums-conference-pres/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Alliance Libary System logoLast Saturday saw the Virtual Worlds: Libraries, Education and Museums conference, organised by the Alliance Library System take place in Second Life. We didn't advertise the conference here on Massively because the available places went within minutes of registration opening. However, the presentations from the conference are gradually becoming available. I have to declare a personal interest here: I co-presented one of the sessions, but there were many other sessions covering a wide range of topics of interest to those in virtual worlds and libraries, education and museums.

Although not directly linked to this story, another view of the future of education crossed my desk the other day. KnowledgeWorks is carrying a map of the future forces affecting education. Whether it will affect you personally, professionally, or is of more interest to you as a parent, it is well worth a look.

MassivelyVirtual Worlds: Libraries, Education and Museums conference presentations available originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Mar 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alliance-library-systemconferenceeducationlinden-labsecond-lifeslThu, 13 Mar 2008 21:00:00 EST