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[EverQuest II's GU63 tweaks crafting, adds hundreds of new items]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/everquest-iis-gu63-tweaks-crafting-adds-hundreds-of-new-items/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/everquest-iis-gu63-tweaks-crafting-adds-hundreds-of-new-items/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/everquest-iis-gu63-tweaks-crafting-adds-hundreds-of-new-items/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

EverQuest II - armorsmith at the forge
If you've been slacking when it comes to keeping up with EverQuest II tradeskill news lately, the recent Game Update 63 (otherwise known as Skyshrine) featured quite a few noteworthy tweaks. Sony Online Entertainment has posted a dev interview detailing some of the larger changes, including the addition of several hundred new craftable items.

SOE's Brian "Omougi" Ferguson says that Carpenters and Alchemists got a lot of love during this patch, and combat-only players will be pleased to know that crafters can now make even more handy upgrades. There are two new consumables for each class archetype, and Ferguson is particularly fond of the tank versions which gives meatshields an additional 20% damage reduction for 12 seconds.

Full details are yours at the official EQII website.

MassivelyEverQuest II's GU63 tweaks crafting, adds hundreds of new items originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 May 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingeq-2eq-iieq2eq2-craftingeqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfree-to-playnon-combat-gameplaysoesonysony-online-entertainmenttradeskillingtradeskillsyayMon, 21 May 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR patch 1.3 bringing group finder, legacy perks]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/swtor-patch-1-3-bringing-group-finder-legacy-perks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/swtor-patch-1-3-bringing-group-finder-legacy-perks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/swtor-patch-1-3-bringing-group-finder-legacy-perks/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

SWTOR
A long time ago on a server far, far away, the Imperial forces BioWare prepared a Star Wars: The Old Republic update to rule the online world: patch 1.3. Called Allies, patch 1.3 will usher in a group finder, character transfers, and legacy perks.

The group finder will aid in banding together interested adventurers to tackle operations and flashpoints. Lead Designer Daniel Erickson said that the time is ripe for the feature, as players are spread out in levels and are rolling plenty of alts. Saying that BioWare wants to "respect the communities" that have formed, Erickson reports that the group finder will not be cross-server.

He also revealed some of the other key features for patch 1.3. Additional perks to the Legacy system will allow players to customize their experience; we'll see new ports, earlier access to mounts, and bonus XP modifiers for PvP. The patch will also change social gear to fit the armor type of the class using it, server transfers, and the ability to add augments to any crafting items. Looking past 1.3, Erickson promises a "return to big content" with patch 1.4.

If you're a fan of the SWTOR novels, you'll also be delighted to hear that Drew Karpyshyn announced that his next novel, Annihilation, is scheduled for November 13th.

You can watch the patch 1.3 preview video after the jump!

Continue reading SWTOR patch 1.3 bringing group finder, legacy perks

MassivelySWTOR patch 1.3 bringing group finder, legacy perks originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 May 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.31.3-patch1.3-updateadaptive-gearalliesannihilationaugmentsbiowarecharacter-transfercharacter-transferscraftingdaniel-ericksonDrew-Karpyshyndungeon-findereaelectronic-artsgroup-finderinterviewlegacylegacy-perkslegacy-systemlucasartspatchpatch-1.3people-finderpreviewsci-fiserver-transferserver-transfersstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorthe-old-republictorupdateupdate-1.3videoMon, 21 May 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Assembly Required: I saw the wilds of Salem (and lived to tell about it)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/some-assembly-required-i-saw-the-wilds-of-salem-and-lived-to-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/some-assembly-required-i-saw-the-wilds-of-salem-and-lived-to-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/some-assembly-required-i-saw-the-wilds-of-salem-and-lived-to-t/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Some Assembly Required - Salem dev tour
I spent an hour romping through the woods of Salem last Friday with Seatribe head honcho Bjorn Johannessen. The tiny indie company (current dev population: two) is hard at work on its followup to Haven and Hearth, an acquired taste of a sandbox game notable for its no-holds barred approach that includes permadeath and the ability to summon (and kill) criminal characters -- even while their lulz-loving puppet-masters are offline.

Publisher Paradox bills Salem as "the crafting MMO," and boy it's not kidding. Over the course of this particular dev tour, I saw crazy amounts of tradeskill functionality, all kinds of cool world-building stuff, and ultimately, more than enough reasons to spend time with the game when it launches later this year.

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: I saw the wilds of Salem (and lived to tell about it)

MassivelySome Assembly Required: I saw the wilds of Salem (and lived to tell about it) originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 May 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bjorn-Johannessenbodily-humorscraftingf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgame-mechanicshistoricalhumorsmetagamenew-englandopinionparadoxparadox-interactivepermadeathpgcplayer-contentplayer-created-contentplayer-generated-contentsalemsalem-skillssandboxsarseatribeskill-basedsome-assembly-requiredtradeskillinguser-generated-contentFri, 18 May 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exclusive Interview: Going global with Fallen Earth's PvP]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/exclusive-interview-going-global-with-fallen-earths-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/exclusive-interview-going-global-with-fallen-earths-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/exclusive-interview-going-global-with-fallen-earths-pvp/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Fallen Earth
Two of the biggest cornerstones of Fallen Earth have always been crafting and PvP, and its these cornerstones that GamersFirst is enriching come patch 2.4. The patch, called Global Territory Control, is taking these elements and firing them up in ways that any PvPer or crafter should find exciting.

We hopped on the phone with Associate Producer Asa Reed, Director of Operations Joe Willmon, and Senior Game Designer Marie Croall to talk about why 2.4 will be the patch that will change the wasteland forever -- and why you should anticipate it, whether you're a crafter or a player-killer.

Gallery: Fallen Earth Black Box Gear

Continue reading Exclusive Interview: Going global with Fallen Earth's PvP

MassivelyExclusive Interview: Going global with Fallen Earth's PvP originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 May 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.4asa-reedcraftingf2pfaction-controlfallen-earthfefree-to-playg1gamersfirstglobal-territory-controlharvesterharvestersharvestinginterviewinterviewsJoe-Willmonkeepkeepsmarie-croallpatch-2.4post-apocpost-apocalypticpreviewpvpresourcessandboxsci-fiwastelandsThu, 17 May 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Anvil of Crom: Age of Conan turns four, taps SWG for crafting inspiration]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/the-anvil-of-crom-age-of-conan-turns-four-taps-swg-for-craftin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/the-anvil-of-crom-age-of-conan-turns-four-taps-swg-for-craftin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/the-anvil-of-crom-age-of-conan-turns-four-taps-swg-for-craftin/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

The Anvil of Crom - Age of Conan turns four, looks to Star Wars Galaxies for inspiration
The last time I did an anniversary retrospective for Age of Conan, we had a recent expansion, some new dungeon content, and several class revamps fresh on our minds. The year before that, we had the earth-shaking combat and itemization changes. This past year, the major development was, of course, the switch to a freemium business model, followed closely by the game's first adventure pack.

Join me after the break for a quick rundown on the last 12 months as they happened in Hyboria, as well as an anniversary interview with game director Craig "Silirrion" Morrison that sheds a bit of light on the crafting revamp.

Continue reading The Anvil of Crom: Age of Conan turns four, taps SWG for crafting inspiration

MassivelyThe Anvil of Crom: Age of Conan turns four, taps SWG for crafting inspiration originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 May 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanage-of-conan-craftingage-of-conan-star-wars-galaxiesage-of-conan-unchainedanniversaryanvil-of-cromanvil-of-crom-interviewsanvil-of-crom-specialanvil-of-crom-specialsaocaoc-anniversaryaoc-craftingaoc-interviewaoc-unchainedclassic-mmoconancraftingcraig-morrisonf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfuncomgalaxieshyboriainterviewinterviewsopinionsandboxsci-fisilirrionsoesony-online-entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-galaxiesswgswgothe-anvil-of-cromThu, 17 May 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars: The Old Republic answers a new set of community questions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/star-wars-the-old-republic-answers-a-new-set-of-community-quest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/star-wars-the-old-republic-answers-a-new-set-of-community-quest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/star-wars-the-old-republic-answers-a-new-set-of-community-quest/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

No, rakghouls are probably not one of the new playable races.
The Legacy update is live, the Rakghoul Plague is contained for the time being, and Star Wars: The Old Republic fans are eager for more content and more news. The latest set of community questions and answers doesn't really deliver any new content, but it does deliver tantalizing promises, such as the fact that players can expect to roster of playable races to expand this year. There are also promises of an overhaul to the Achievement system and more Legacy-wide rewards, potentially including datacrons.

Not all of the news is good, however, with dual spec confirmed to not be included in the the upcoming patch 1.3 (but hopefully in the following patch). There are also a few in-depth answers about crafting and the necessity of finding a crafter for optimal item modifications. Players can also expect to see future spontaneous world events, although the team doesn't want to precisely replicate the Rakghoul Plague with a new skin. Take a look at the full list of questions, and if you want something answered that isn't there, submit it for the next round.

MassivelyStar Wars: The Old Republic answers a new set of community questions originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 27 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarecraftcrafterscraftingdesigndevelopmenteaelectronic-artslucasartsq-and-aquestions-and-answerssci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorswtor-patch-1.2swtor-patch-1.3the-old-republictorupdatesFri, 27 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Grimlands closed beta features new dungeons, crafting revamp, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/grimlands-closed-beta-features-new-dungeons-crafting-revamp-an/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/grimlands-closed-beta-features-new-dungeons-crafting-revamp-an/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/grimlands-closed-beta-features-new-dungeons-crafting-revamp-an/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Grimlands - landscape shot
What's better than a post-apocalyptic online shooter? How about a post-apocalyptic online shooter that you don't have to pay for? Free-to-play publisher gamigo is hoping you'll feel that way about Grimlands, which heads to closed beta this week to focus test "technical details such as server stability, optimization of the network code, and new features."

The game's first beta build boasts a dozen new dungeons, dynamic weather effects, and vehicles that consume gasoline and feature both weapon and armor mounting capabilities. Oh yeah, there's crafting, too, and a player-run economy that includes weaponsmith, armorer, and engineer professions as well as various specializations. Sound interesting? If so, you can register for beta at the official site.

[Source: gamigo press release]

MassivelyGrimlands closed beta features new dungeons, crafting revamp, and more originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingf2pfree-to-playgamigogrimlandsgrimlands-betagrimlands-closed-betammo-shooterpost-apocalypticpost-apocalyptic-shootershootertradeskillswasteland-shooterThu, 26 Apr 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter at Your Own Rift: Handy tips for fishing and survival in Telara]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/enter-at-your-own-rift-handy-tips-for-fishing-and-survival-in-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/enter-at-your-own-rift-handy-tips-for-fishing-and-survival-in-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/enter-at-your-own-rift-handy-tips-for-fishing-and-survival-in-t/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

rift fishing
In my last column about RIFT, I looked at a few highlights that were coming with Update 1.8, but because of the buzz surrounding the two new skills of fishing and survival, I wanted to delve into both a little more closely and perhaps even give a few tips I picked up so far that might be helpful if you're thinking of giving it a try.

Whether you're an old salt or a greenhorn, and if you're curious about what exactly it takes to fish in Telara or what you need to build yourself a nice camp and a warm meal, this week's Enter at Your Own Rift might help!

Continue reading Enter at Your Own Rift: Handy tips for fishing and survival in Telara

MassivelyEnter at Your Own Rift: Handy tips for fishing and survival in Telara originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cookingcraftingenter-at-your-own-riftfantasyfeaturedfishingfishing-derbyfishing-trophyopinionriftrift-bedrollrift-derbyrift-fishing-guiderift-planes-of-telararift-survival-guiderift-tentsurvivaltelaratradeskillstriontrion-worldsWed, 25 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Assembly Required: Can Darkfall and The Repopulation end the sandbox drought?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/some-assembly-required-can-darkfall-and-the-repopulation-end-th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/some-assembly-required-can-darkfall-and-the-repopulation-end-th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/some-assembly-required-can-darkfall-and-the-repopulation-end-th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Some Assembly Required - Catching up with Darkfall and The Repopulation
It's not often that we use this space for news recaps. Generally MJ and I have a particular topic (or game) in mind for Some Assembly Required's biweekly rotation. This time, though, I figured we should highlight some of the recent goings-on with a couple of pertinent sandbox titles simply because Massively news posts don't offer enough space to expound on anything other than the basics.

Join me after the break, then, for a rundown on what's new with Darkfall and The Repopulation.

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: Can Darkfall and The Repopulation end the sandbox drought?

MassivelySome Assembly Required: Can Darkfall and The Repopulation end the sandbox drought? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiesagonaventurinecity-buildingcraftingdarkfalldarkfall-2.0darkfall-craftingdffantasyfeaturedgame-mechanicsnation-buildingopen-pvpopinionpgcplayer-contentplayer-generated-contentpvprepopulationsandboxsarsci-fisome-assembly-requiredthe-repopulationtradeskillinguser-contentuser-generated-contentFri, 13 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pathfinder Online developer blog outlines the path of production]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/pathfinder-online-developer-blog-outlines-the-path-of-production/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/pathfinder-online-developer-blog-outlines-the-path-of-production/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/pathfinder-online-developer-blog-outlines-the-path-of-production/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Someone made the small jagged sword being stabbed into my gut! Wait, this is less cool than I had envisioned.
Everything comes from somewhere. That's one of the axioms underpinning Pathfinder Online -- almost every single object that players see will have been produced by a player. In the most recent development blog, the process for gathering and producing items is outlined, and it bears all of the detailed hallmarks of the game's other systems. This isn't a game in which players grab a pickaxe and swing at the nearest rock face for ore; instead, you construct a camp and start up an entire mining operation.

The game has a basic three-tiered structure to its non-combat operation, starting with harvesting the resource, moving on to processing and refining the items in question, and finishing with crafting a usable item. And as an outgrowth of the game's open systems, these elements work in multiple directions. Starting a camp to harvest resources, for example, can generate a lot of commotion and attract hostile monsters, necessitating that players deal with the fallout or find someone else willing to do so. No one can accuse the designers of making crafting activities a secondary goal with this degree of detail involved.

MassivelyPathfinder Online developer blog outlines the path of production originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Apr 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buildingcraftingfantasygatheringgoblinworksitemspathfinderpathfinder-onlinepnpproductionresourcessandboxsandparkThu, 12 Apr 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter at Your Own Rift: Fishin' and survivin']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/enter-at-your-own-rift-fishin-and-survivin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/enter-at-your-own-rift-fishin-and-survivin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/enter-at-your-own-rift-fishin-and-survivin/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

rift fishing
One of the parts of the recent RIFT producer's letter that caught my eye was the hint that there will soon be more to do in game besides "stab" stuff. Maybe I'm mellowing in my old age, or perhaps it's because of my inner Bartle explorer player-type, but I'm enjoying activities in MMOs that don't involve mass slaughter all the time. Usually, that means crafting, but the inventory management that's required often leaves me cross-eyed by the time I'm done.

With Update 1.8, RIFT will add two new skills to the game: fishing and survival. Non-combat activities have already been introduced in past updates, like the wedding instance, but these two new skills look to be fun games within the game, so I was eager to check things out. Join me as I don some hip-waders, pack up some flint, and head to PTS for a peek at fishing, survival, and a quick peek at the looking-for-guild tool.

Continue reading Enter at Your Own Rift: Fishin' and survivin'

MassivelyEnter at Your Own Rift: Fishin' and survivin' originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingenter-at-your-own-riftfantasyfeaturedfishingkaren-bryanlfglooking-for-guildopinionpatchpatchespreviewpreviewsriftrift-fishingrift-looking-for-guild-windowrift-planes-of-telararift-survivalsurvivaltelaratriontrion-worldsWed, 11 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[En Masse reveals TERA crafting guide]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/en-masse-reveals-tera-crafting-guide/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/en-masse-reveals-tera-crafting-guide/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/en-masse-reveals-tera-crafting-guide/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

TERA - crafting interface
Crafting probably isn't the first (or even the second) thing that springs to mind when someone says TERA, but thankfully Bluehole and En Masse didn't opt to leave the system on the cutting room floor when designing the new fantasy MMO.

En Masse recently released a fairly detailed tradeskilling guide, and while it won't tell you exactly where to get rare materials, it does give you plenty of info on the basics. TERA features six different crafting disciplines, and your character can learn them all at any time. There are no training costs; all you'll need to worry about is finding patterns and raw materials.

Crafted items are usually better than random loot drops, but generally you'll be outpacing your gear every five levels, so you'll want to upgrade fairly often anyway. There's a lot more info on TERA's tradeskilling system at the official website.

MassivelyEn Masse reveals TERA crafting guide originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studioscraftingcrafting-guideen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyteratera-craftingtera-crafting-guidetera-gatheringtradeskillingtradeskillsThu, 05 Apr 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: An interview sheds light on the new BlackCloud]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/wings-over-atreia-an-interview-sheds-light-on-the-new-blackclou/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/wings-over-atreia-an-interview-sheds-light-on-the-new-blackclou/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/wings-over-atreia-an-interview-sheds-light-on-the-new-blackclou/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Aion
Information is like gold 'round these parts, and I've been out prospecting, sifting, and searching in the hopes of at least finding a few flakes if not hitting pay dirt. But even with Aion Ascension just around the corner, finding many nuggets of information on the new BlackCloud Marketplace hasn't panned out. Until now. Eureka!

Welcome to the Massively Gold Rush. OK, so maybe a "rush" is a bit of an overstatement, but I have discovered a few golden nuggets about Aion's renovated cash shop and impending 3.0 expansion. I had the chance to catch up with Producer Adam Christensen and learn a bit more about what Daevas will find in the BlackCloud Marketplace as well as get some details about various new upcoming features like housing, mounts, and the level 60 Daevanion armor.

And with the BlackCloud Marketplace finally opening its doors, Daevas can check out the selection for themselves and pre-purchase items to be delivered at Ascension's Launch.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: An interview sheds light on the new BlackCloud

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: An interview sheds light on the new BlackCloud originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3.03.0-patchAdam-ChristensenaionAion-AscensionBlackCloud-Marketplacecash-shopConstructioncraftingcrafting-Constructioncrafting-professionDaevanion-armorexlusive-interviewf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfurniturehousinginterviewinterviewsmountsncsoftnew-crafting-professionopinionstorage-spacewings-over-atreiaThu, 05 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Champions Online cuts the craft in favor of the mod scene]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/champions-online-cuts-the-craft-in-favor-of-the-mod-scene/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/champions-online-cuts-the-craft-in-favor-of-the-mod-scene/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/champions-online-cuts-the-craft-in-favor-of-the-mod-scene/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

I'm going to use Fusion to fuse this arrowhead to your brainmeats.
Whether or not you're fond of Champions Online, you probably don't like the game's crafting system. Almost no one does, and apparently not even the developers have been terribly pleased with it. That's why the game is putting that system aside and replacing it with a new system. The Mod and Fusion system will work more along the lines of gear slotting as found in other MMOs. Certain gear comes with slots for Mods, and by combining Mods via Fusion, you can produce more powerful enhancements.

The old crafting skills, meanwhile, tie into the new method of fusing Mods by helping you create stronger Mods and harvest new ones. Extant crafters will also be integrated into the new system; all existing crafted benefits will stay in place (although new ones won't be available), and the crafting-specific travel powers and bags will be moved to other vendors. It's a pretty radical reinvention of the game's current dynamic, but it will hopefully make the game a bit more fun for crafters and non-crafters alike.

MassivelyChampions Online cuts the craft in favor of the mod scene originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Mar 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>championschampions-onlinechampscocraftingcraftscrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfree-to-playgame-mechanicsgame-systemspatchperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpreviewspwesuperherosuperheroesupdatesFri, 30 Mar 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Assembly Required: Revisiting Origins of Malu]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/some-assembly-required-revisiting-origins-of-malu-an-intervi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/some-assembly-required-revisiting-origins-of-malu-an-intervi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/some-assembly-required-revisiting-origins-of-malu-an-intervi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Some Assembly Required
Many moons ago when the air just started to cool from summer's heat (aka, last September), Some Assembly Required had the opportunity to talk shop with a new outfit that is developing a promising new sandbox MMORPG, Origins of Malu. And you know me: Sandbox is the magic word! As skeptical as I knew I should be, I still came away from that interview with renewed hope that a game with some of the features for player-generated content could exist again.

Back then, Burning Dog Media made the bold statement that it would absolutely release its flagship game in 2012, with a target of early 2012 to boot. But as the first quarter of the year quickly drew to a close with scant information available, it became pretty clear the game is still a ways off. In the realm of games, no news is not necessarily good news... and we definitely hit a drought in news.

Now that drought has ended. In our second exclusive interview, we spoke with Michael Dunham, Producer, Jason Mitchell, Senior Developer, and Dave Cruikshank, Art Director, to learn what's been going on behind the scenes and get the scoop on more details about those very features that have sandbox lovers salivating.

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: Revisiting Origins of Malu

MassivelySome Assembly Required: Revisiting Origins of Malu originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Mar 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burning-dog-mediaconstructioncraftingDave-Cruikshankeconomyexclusiveexclusive-interviewfaction-warfarefactionsfeaturedgame-mechanicsguildsinterviewinterviewsJason-Mitchellmassively-exclusive-interviewsmichael-dunhamopinionorigins-of-malupgcplayer-contentplayer-economyplayer-generated-contentPvEPvPsandboxsarsome-assembly-requiredFri, 30 Mar 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Massively: A confluence of awesome edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/ask-massively-a-confluence-of-awesome-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/ask-massively-a-confluence-of-awesome-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/ask-massively-a-confluence-of-awesome-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

If you'd like to complain about the ending, please avoid spoilers, be polite, and don't. Just don't.
Every so often, awesome things happen. Apparently, for reasons I cannot begin to explain, I can now dress my characters in Final Fantasy XIII-2 in N7 armor from Mass Effect 3. This makes me happy in countless ways. I'd like to have full-on armor customization for the suits, but then, I'd also like the game to be a totally separate storyline as opposed to providing a wholly unnecessary epilogue to Final Fantasy XIII. So I'm focusing on combining an awesome game system with a visual element of an awesome game.

This week's Ask Massively has nothing to do with combining one thing with another thing. Or maybe it sort of does, seeing as how it's all about crafting and gathering instead of killing stuff. If you've got a question you'd like to see answered in a future installment, send it to ask@massively.com or leave it in the comments below. Questions may be edited slightly for clarity and/or brevity.

Continue reading Ask Massively: A confluence of awesome edition

MassivelyAsk Massively: A confluence of awesome edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adviceadvice-columnask-massivelycraftingfeaturedgame-mechanicsgatheringhumormassively-metametaopinionThu, 29 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Why I Play: EVE Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/why-i-play-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/why-i-play-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/why-i-play-eve-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

EVE Online - Gallente Iteron hauler warping past a planet
I can't for the life of me convince my friends to sign up for EVE Online. In their defense, the game can feel like a job at first. There are no skinner box particle effects or angelic choirs signifying your latest achievement, nor does anyone shower you with virtual confetti as you graduate from the newbie island.

For these reasons and others like them, CCP seems to have topped out somewhere around half a million active subs at the game's high point. EVE is seen as unfriendly in some ways, but in actuality it's the friendliest MMO around if you're an imaginative sort with the desire to direct your own in-game destiny.

Could the tutorials be better? Sure. Could PvE missions be more engaging? Absolutely. Does either of these failings, or numerous others, detract from what is the genre's premier emergent experience?

Nope.

Continue reading Why I Play: EVE Online

MassivelyWhy I Play: EVE Online originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamescomplexitycraftingeconomyeditorialeveeve-onlinefeaturedinternet-spaceshipsmassively-metametanew-edenop-edopinionplayer-contentplayer-generated-contentroleplayroleplayingsandboxSchadenfreudesci-fiuser-generated-contentwhy-i-playWed, 28 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: The crew skills story]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/hyperspace-beacon-the-crew-skills-story/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/hyperspace-beacon-the-crew-skills-story/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/hyperspace-beacon-the-crew-skills-story/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Hyperspace Beacon: The crew skills story
Forgive my fanboy-ism a bit, please. Update 1.2: Legacy excites me. My friends on the Star Wars: The Old Republic live server wonder where I've got off to since the patch hit the test server. Not to worry, guys. I'm still in game; I'm just playing with the new UI and character builds.

We know that the major part of this update is the Legacy system. In a system that is rarely seen across MMOs, BioWare has created a tangible connection between alts. Now, Aaron Shaddoe can be the brother of Maacus Shaddoe and the son of Ryctur Shaddoe, and the game will reward me for doing that. Aaron could be a Smuggler, Maacus a Jedi Consular, and Ryctur a Bounty Hunter, all with interconnecting abilities between them. It's an interesting concept, but I'm curious how many people are going to seriously use it for its intended purpose.

Update 1.2 holds a couple of other changes that interest me more -- namely, crew skills and story content. Lead Combat Designer Georg Zoeller and Writer Charles Boyd spoke about the changes to crew skills and the story update in two developer blogs last week. And despite the legacy system's being the biggest part of this update, it's these two areas that will impact the greater game.

[Warning: Some minor spoilers are contained within. It's been three months, so I hope they are not spoilers any more, but I should warn you just in case.]

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: The crew skills story

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: The crew skills story originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>augmentaugment-slotbiowarecharles-boydcraftingcrew-skillscustom-craftingeaelectronic-artsfeaturedflashpointgeorg-zoellerhyperspace-beaconlegacylost-islandlucasartsopinionRise-of-the-Rakghoulssci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstoryswtorthe-fourth-pillarthe-old-republictorupdate-1.2Tue, 27 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mythos Global wants you to play your way]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/mythos-global-wants-you-to-play-your-way/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/mythos-global-wants-you-to-play-your-way/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/mythos-global-wants-you-to-play-your-way/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Mythos
Mythos Global has been on one crazy rollercoaster ride throughout its lifespan, and the latest incarnation of the free-to-play Diablo-esque dungeon-crawler has been in open beta for a little over a month now. But T3Fun wants players to know that there's more to Mythos than just dungeon-delving, and the studio has released a trio of new videos to prove it.

Whether you're a loot fiend, an achievement chaser, or a master crafter, Mythos has something for you. As with most Diablo-alikes, Mythos features a plethora of randomized loot for players to hoard like there's no tomorrow, while the artisans among us can become masters of their trades with the help of the game's unique crafting skill tree system. And of course, achievements and titles abound for those who just love showing off their heroic accomplishments. If any of these playstyles tickles your fancy, just head on over to the game's official site to get in on the action for yourself.

[Source: T3Fun press release]

Continue reading Mythos Global wants you to play your way

MassivelyMythos Global wants you to play your way originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementscraftingf2pfantasyfree-to-playfrogsterhanbitsoftlootmythosmythos-globalplaystylesredbanat3funtitlestrailertrailersvideovideosMon, 26 Mar 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Darkfall polishes content until it shines]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/darkfall-polishes-content-until-it-shines/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/darkfall-polishes-content-until-it-shines/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/darkfall-polishes-content-until-it-shines/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Darkfall
Heigh-ho, heigh-ho, it's off to work Darkfall's development team goes (and now that tune is stuck in your head. You're welcome.)! And as the game's 2.0 edition slowly takes shape, we're given yet another dev blog about the massive undertaking of this project.

Improved visuals are one of the priorities for the team, and players will be pleased to hear that SMAA -- uber-anti-aliasing -- should make the game's graphics shine. Weapons are being modified to have distinctive looks based on which rank they are, and the team reports that there are six weapons styles with nine ranks apiece, each requiring a unique design.

Also on the table for examination is the improved crafting process. Aventurine is introducing two new professions dedicated to converting one material into a more refined product. Tanning will take on skinning's former duty of taking hides and turning them into leather, and weaving will be the primary avenue to create cloth from cotton. On top of these new professions is the expansion of the crafting system to allow professions to "infuse" rare materials into common ones, resulting in special crafting mats for high-quality gear.

MassivelyDarkfall polishes content until it shines originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Mar 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.0agonanti-aliasingaventurinecraftingdarkfalldarkfall-2.0dffantasygraphicsopen-pvppvpsandboxskinningsmaatanningweapon-ranksweavingFri, 23 Mar 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[A Mild-Mannered Reporter: Digital Enhancements]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/a-mild-mannered-reporter-digital-enhancements/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/a-mild-mannered-reporter-digital-enhancements/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/a-mild-mannered-reporter-digital-enhancements/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Illustration by A. Fienemann
Last week, I covered the raw basics of Enhancements in City of Heroes. This was a good place to start, but it also glossed over everything but the basics. It's telling that glossing over everything but the basics still involves stuff that's as bogglingly complicated as diversification, but then, there's a reason I decided to do these columns in the first place. But with all the basics out of the way, what more could there be to cover?

Lots, as it happens, because last week didn't touch upon dual Enhancements or Inventions, both of which cover the same ground and take into account the specifics of Enhancement Diversification and so forth. So for those of you wondering why I didn't talk about IOs, those still trying to get a handle on the system, or those just morbidly curious about how the game works, it's time to start in with the enhancements that broke the entire system in half more or less the second they were introduced: Inventions.

Continue reading A Mild-Mannered Reporter: Digital Enhancements

MassivelyA Mild-Mannered Reporter: Digital Enhancements originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-mild-mannered-reportercity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxcraftingenhancementsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreedomgame-mechanicsinventionsmechanicsmild-mannered-reporterncsoftopinionparagonparagon-studiossuperherosuperheroessystemsWed, 21 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Becoming a mediocre trader in several free titles]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/free-for-all-becoming-a-mediocre-trader-in-several-free-titles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/free-for-all-becoming-a-mediocre-trader-in-several-free-titles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/free-for-all-becoming-a-mediocre-trader-in-several-free-titles/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Mabinogi ship banner
I often find myself achieving little things in many different games while other gamer buddies of mine are busily conquering actual gods or dragons within one or two particular titles. Sure, I would love to join a group of battleworn adventurers as they took down one of the final bosses in almost any game, but I rarely find the time to work a character into the ranks of the ascended.

OK, so I have time, but not if I wanted to do what I do here. That is to say, I am not dedicated to one game because it is my job to tell you readers about several games. About every game. About as many games as possible. I can't do that while maintaining a high DPS score. It's a give and take, but I love to explore, fortunately.

Let me tell you about how I love to trade or craft in some of my favorite titles and why it's important to me.

Continue reading Free for All: Becoming a mediocre trader in several free titles

MassivelyFree for All: Becoming a mediocre trader in several free titles originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedbrowser-based-mmoclassic-mmocode-clubcraftingf2pfantasyfeaturedffafletchingfree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumftpglitchjagexjagex-games-studiomabinoginexonopinionparallel-kingdomperbluersrunescapesandboxtiny-specktradetradingvelvet-ropewurmwurm-onlineWed, 21 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare talks SWTOR's 1.2 crew skill changes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/bioware-talks-swtors-1-2-crew-skill-changes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/bioware-talks-swtors-1-2-crew-skill-changes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/bioware-talks-swtors-1-2-crew-skill-changes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Star Wars: The Old Republic - crew skills chart
BioWare has laid its cards on the table with regard to the crafting changes coming in Star Wars: The Old Republic's 1.2 update. The tweaks are extensive, and designer Georg Zoeller has posted a lengthy summary on the game's official website.

Among the highlights are a large number of artifice schematics included with the patch. BioWare is keen on allowing players to choose their weapon color crystals without regard to the stats, and artificers will also be "the first profession to gain some dedicated PvP crafting."

Other highlights include various changes to gathering and reverse engineering mechanics as well as the ability for cybertech practitioners to sell any of their created vehicles on the auction house (the devs are removing the current bind restrictions). Get the full scoop at the official SWTOR website.

MassivelyBioWare talks SWTOR's 1.2 crew skill changes originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Mar 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.21.2-patch1.2-updatebiowarecraftingcrew-skillsdev-blogeaelectronic-artsgeorg-zoellerlucasartssci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorswtor-1.2the-old-republictorTue, 20 Mar 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2012: Watch Funcom's full The Secret World presentation]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/gdc-2012-watch-funcoms-full-the-secret-world-presentation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/gdc-2012-watch-funcoms-full-the-secret-world-presentation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/gdc-2012-watch-funcoms-full-the-secret-world-presentation/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

TSW
If you found your appetite whetted for The Secret World after reading Jef's writeup from GDC, then make room in your life for 35 minutes of Funcom's full presentation from the conference! Senior Producer Ragnar Tørnquist, Lead Designer Martin Bruusgaard, and Lead Content Designer Joel Bylos take turns showing off in-game footage and discussing the game mechanics at play.

Topics covered in the presentation include character creation, the creepy/sexy Dragon starter experience, how achievements work, story, crafting, and the lands of Transylvania.

While the video isn't 100% pristine -- Funcom apologized for the less-than-perfect lighting during the presentation -- it's so chock-full of information and footage that you won't even notice. Give it a whirl after the jump!

Continue reading GDC 2012: Watch Funcom's full The Secret World presentation

MassivelyGDC 2012: Watch Funcom's full The Secret World presentation originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementscharacter-creationcraftingdragonfactionfantasyfuncomgdcgdc-2012horrorJoel-Byloslesbian-sexloreMartin-BruusgaardmythologypresentationRagnar-Tørnquistsci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedstorythe-secret-worldtransylvaniatswMon, 19 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Assembly Required: Is The Secret World a sandbox?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/some-assembly-required-is-the-secret-world-a-sandbox/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/some-assembly-required-is-the-secret-world-a-sandbox/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/some-assembly-required-is-the-secret-world-a-sandbox/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Some Assembly Required - Is The Secret World a sandbox?
I'm more excited than I thought I would be for The Secret World. After playing it at last week's Game Developer's Conference and getting a preview of the game's crafting system, I think it's safe to say my anticipation went up a few notches.

The real-world setting and horror-fantasy elements have always been appealing, but a general lack of info throughout 2011 -- coupled with Funcom's decision to add a cash shop to a subscription game -- conspired to knock The Secret World down a few pegs. Now I'm almost willing to forgive the business model faux pas because it seems like the game will feature significant sandbox elements.

Is it a sandbox, though?

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: Is The Secret World a sandbox?

MassivelySome Assembly Required: Is The Secret World a sandbox? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conspiracycraftingfactionfantasyfeaturedfuncomgame-mechanicshorroris-the-secret-world-a-sandboxjoel-bylosmartin-bruusgaardmmo-storymythologyopinionpgcplayer-contentplayer-generated-contentsandboxsandparksarsci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedsome-assembly-requiredstorythe-secret-worldthemeparktradeskillingtradeskillstswuser-generated-contentFri, 16 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xsyon celebrates its first year of Prelude]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/xsyon-celebrates-its-first-year-of-prelude/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/xsyon-celebrates-its-first-year-of-prelude/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/xsyon-celebrates-its-first-year-of-prelude/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Xsyon screenshot
One year and counting. Crack open the waterskin and raise a toast to Xsyon: Today the post-apocalyptic sandbox by Notorious Games celebrates its first full year of launch. Well, the first year of the official launch of Prelude, a limited first release of the virtual world. Come to think of it, even that date seems a bit nebulous as the pre-order players in the first phase of Year Zero (basically beta) actually had their most significant change on March 11th, 2011 when the second phase launched and totems were introduced.

Semantics aside, Xsyon has come a long way from that official first day. Unlike many games where gameplay is neatly laid out, this indie title gives players only the canvas and a few tools before setting them loose to fashion their world. As the year continued, additional tools were provided and the world became more vibrant and dynamic. Initially barren without any critters (other than your surviving neighbors) to hunt, the world is now populated with large creatures that roam the land, threatening the lives of travelers and hunters alike. Even the lay of the land itself is different as players manipulate and alter the terrain, build settlements, and plant trees. Communities are forming; groups are supporting and even entertaining each other. Civilization is slowly rebuilding.

And that's only the beginning.

Continue reading Xsyon celebrates its first year of Prelude

MassivelyXsyon celebrates its first year of Prelude originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarybuildingcraftingdynamic-AIfeaturedharvestingmutantsnotoriousnotorious-gamesplantingplanting-treespost-apocpost-apocalypticpvprebuildingrebuilding-civilizationsandboxsci-fantasysci-fiterraformingxsyonThu, 15 Mar 2012 14:30:00 EST<![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[GDC 2012: The Repopulation demonstrates world-building elements]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/10/gdc-2012-the-repopulation-demonstrates-world-building-elements/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/10/gdc-2012-the-repopulation-demonstrates-world-building-elements/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/10/gdc-2012-the-repopulation-demonstrates-world-building-elements/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

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[The MMO Report: RIFT's two Adams]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/the-mmo-report-rifts-two-adams/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/the-mmo-report-rifts-two-adams/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/the-mmo-report-rifts-two-adams/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Casey and Adam
This week on The MMO Report, Casey caps off his Trion Worlds tour by chatting up RIFT's Adam Gershowitz and Adam Hetenyi. Backed by enormous screens showing off the game's flashiest scenes, the two Adams discuss RIFT's upcoming 1.8 patch, giving previews of the goodies that will tempt hardcore endgamers in the Infernal Dawn raid (pro tip: Do not invite Maelforge to your birthday party). The pair also discuss the game's new skills -- fishing, trapping, and survival -- before teasing what players can look forward to after 1.8 has come and gone.

The full HD video is behind the cut!

Continue reading The MMO Report: RIFT's two Adams

MassivelyThe MMO Report: RIFT's two Adams originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adam-gershowitzadam-hetenyicasey-schreinercraftingfantasyhumorinferma-dawnmmo-reportnewsopinionriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararoundupthe-mmo-reporttriontrion-worldsvideovideosThu, 08 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Get a job in Final Fantasy XIV]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/get-a-job-in-final-fantasy-xiv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/get-a-job-in-final-fantasy-xiv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/get-a-job-in-final-fantasy-xiv/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

I won't pay, I won't pay, say no way. Na - na - why don't you get a job?
With patch 1.21, players in Final Fantasy XIV will have a new way to improve their characters. Leveling a class won't be changing, but the job system will allow characters to reach the full potential of a given discipline. The latest preview goes into depth about the process of unlocking and improving each of the new jobs, with each job requiring a primary class at level 30 and a supplementary class at level 15.

Once a job is unlocked, players can equip the job's Soul Crystal to switch to the specific job. This will allow the player access to job-specific skills, but it will also carry limitations -- players will be limited in the number of actions that can be equipped from other classes, and they can only use actions from specific classes. If you're more of the crafty sort, of course, you won't be getting in on the new jobs, but you will be able to take advantage of the newly streamlined recipes for accessories, food, and medicines. So there's a little something for everyone.

MassivelyGet a job in Final Fantasy XIV originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoleconsolescraftingfantasyffff14ffxivffxiv-patch-1.21final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgame-mechanicsjobjobsnewspatchespreviewsrecipessquaresquare-enixupdatesMon, 05 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: Ode to 3.0, verse three -- crafting]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/wings-over-atreia-ode-to-3-0-verse-three-crafting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/wings-over-atreia-ode-to-3-0-verse-three-crafting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/wings-over-atreia-ode-to-3-0-verse-three-crafting/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Wings Over Atreia header
When, oh when will my expansion get here?
Oh when, oh when could it be?
With its new recipes
and crafting dailies,
Oh when, oh when can it be?

I just can't get this song out of my head. No matter how hard I try, I can't keep my mind away from Aion's upcoming 3.0 patch/expansion, Ascension. Ignoring it didn't work. Taking one little peek didn't either. Perhaps sharing and getting the tune stuck in someone else's head might do the trick? Nope; I've tried that for the last two weeks to no avail. I have even tried replacing it with other ditties, jingles, and orchestrations, but the melody always morphs back into something about that tempting little patch. My last hope is to play, but since that won't be a viable option for a while (still no definitive date, dagnabbit!), I guess that leaves me with just one choice: If you can't beat it, join it.

Yup, I will just have to hum along while busying myself learning more about all the neat little tidbits, like the ones coming the way of the crafters. Ah, you thought that perhaps adventurers were the only ones getting the goods? If so, you thought wrong. Beyond recipes, Ascension actually introduces some intriguing (and useful) new features specifically related to crafting.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: Ode to 3.0, verse three -- crafting

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: Ode to 3.0, verse three -- crafting originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Mar 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3.03.0-patchaionaion-3.0aion-ascensionascensioncrafterscraftingf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgrind-reductionncsoftncsoft-aionopinionpatch-3.0wings-over-atreiaMon, 05 Mar 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIV pushes patch 1.21 back to March 9th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/final-fantasy-xiv-pushes-patch-1-21-back-to-march-9th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/final-fantasy-xiv-pushes-patch-1-21-back-to-march-9th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/final-fantasy-xiv-pushes-patch-1-21-back-to-march-9th/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

FFXIV
Patience, they say, is a virtue -- and no one is more patient than the Final Fantasy XIV community. This patience will be tested once more as the imminent 1.21 patch has been delayed until March 9th to accommodate further work and testing.

If someone is to blame, it's Producer Naoki Yoshida, who admits that "the sheer volume" of his suggestions prompted the delay. But it will be worth it, he promises.

In a new producer's letter, Yoshida hypes the patch and in particular its changes to magic casting. These changes will be "almost identical" to what the game will see when it hits 2.0. He's extremely excited to announce that adjustments to alchemy and culinary professions -- the medicines and food, specifically -- are almost complete. Finally, he reports that the team is deep into testing the two new instanced raids that are coming with the patch.

Yoshida also thanked the community for its feedback over the upcoming server merges.

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XIV pushes patch 1.21 back to March 9th originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Mar 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.21alchemycraftingculinarydelayffxivffxiv-patch-1.21final-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivmagic-castingNaoki-Yoshidapatchpatch-1.21patch-delayproducers-letterraidraidsseserver-mergeserver-mergessquare-enixupdateThu, 01 Mar 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Funcom gutting Age of Conan's crafting system, starting over]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/28/funcom-gutting-age-of-conans-crafting-system-starting-over/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/28/funcom-gutting-age-of-conans-crafting-system-starting-over/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/28/funcom-gutting-age-of-conans-crafting-system-starting-over/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Age of Conan - I have no crafting shots because the current system sucks that bad
Age of Conan's latest development update is here, and producer Craig "Silirrion" Morrison has quite a lot to say about the game's forthcoming crafting revamp. And when we say revamp, we mean revamp. "When we sat down and looked at the system and how we could add depth and improve engagement, it became clear that it was better to start over," Morrison says.

He isn't kidding either, as the new system does away with awkward quest blocks to progression and instead ties your advancement directly to making items and using the relevant skills.

Harvesting nodes will also spawn with more variety (and at more locations), and the much-reviled random NPC attacks that used to happen while harvesting are finally being dropped. Still want more details? Well, material quality will matter, there will be some sort of refining process, and there's an entirely new system for the actual production of an item. There's a lot more to Age of Conan's new crafting system, of course, but we're out of space, so you'll need to head to the official site to check it out.

MassivelyFuncom gutting Age of Conan's crafting system, starting over originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanage-of-conan-crafting-revampaocaoc-craftingaoc-crafting-revampcraftingcrafting-revampcraig-morrisonf2pfantasyfree-to-playfuncomhyborianon-combatnon-combat-gameplaysilirriontradeskillswooTue, 28 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles Extra: Guild Wars 2 crafting explained]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/flameseeker-chronicles-extra-guild-wars-2-crafting-explained/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/flameseeker-chronicles-extra-guild-wars-2-crafting-explained/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/flameseeker-chronicles-extra-guild-wars-2-crafting-explained/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

GW2
Remember how I wanted to talk to you about crafting in Guild Wars 2? Let's do that now. I made a video while I was fiddling around with the weaponsmithing and armorsmithing disciplines in the recent Guild Wars 2 closed beta press weekend, and I've included it in this extra edition of Flameseeker Chronicles. Let's take a look at exactly what's going on for your first 25 points or so in these disciplines.

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles Extra: Guild Wars 2 crafting explained

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles Extra: Guild Wars 2 crafting explained originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetarmorsmithingcraftingcrafting-systemdivinitys-reachfantasyfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesgatheringguild-warsguild-wars-2guild-wars-2-guideguild-wars-2-previewgw1gw2ncsoftopinionvideovideosweaponsmithingWed, 22 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Why I Play: Fallen Earth]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/why-i-play-fallen-earth/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/why-i-play-fallen-earth/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/why-i-play-fallen-earth/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Fallen Earth
I'm going to start my Fallen Earth testimony by echoing the same sentiment that Shawn shared last week with WURM Online: I really didn't get it the first couple of times I tried it. I had heard great things about this post-apocalyptic title from Massively and elsewhere at the time, but it felt so different and kind of raw when I logged in that I didn't stay for long. In fact, it wasn't until I forced myself to sit down and devote an entire evening to Fallen Earth that I got past my initial objections and it clicked for me.

It clicked hard.

Since that time, I've been an ardent fan of Fallen Earth, using it as Exhibit A whenever people complain that all MMOs are too much alike and boring. Well, here you go, I say. An MMO in a contemporary setting that also happens to embrace apocalyptic themes. An MMO that revels in dark humor and edgy themes. An MMO where 95% of the gear in the game can be crafted and used by you. An MMO with free-form character growth and -- this is important -- motorcycles. An MMO with a world that's genuinely fun to explore (and might I add, huge).

It's not perfect, it's not my main MMO squeeze, but it is a title I've carried a torch for since my first days in the wasteland. I've got no shortage of words when it comes to this game, especially if there's a chance that my verbosity will get you to take a closer look at Fallen Earth (which is easier than ever since its free-to-play conversion).

Continue reading Why I Play: Fallen Earth

MassivelyWhy I Play: Fallen Earth originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingfallen-earthfeaturedgamersfirsticarus-studiosopinionsandboxsandparktheme-parkwhy-i-playwurm-onlineWed, 22 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Are heirloom items bad for MMOs?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/the-daily-grind-are-heirloom-items-bad-for-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/the-daily-grind-are-heirloom-items-bad-for-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/the-daily-grind-are-heirloom-items-bad-for-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

I may have chosen this image because it provided me the opportunity to make a 'you have a dead bird on your head' joke in the alt text
In its Wrath of the Lich King expansion, World of Warcraft introduced a new class of items: the heirloom. Heirlooms can be transferred between all of the characters on your account, even your alts belonging to "enemy" factions. While a cloth-bedecked caster can't exactly wear the heavy platemail of his older Paladin brother, the hand-me-downs are pretty useful for twinking if you plan it out a bit.

The trouble is that heirlooms effectively level up with the player, so an alt who has a truckload of heirlooms has no need to take part in the player market. Why would he need to buy a crafted staff from a Weaponsmith? He's got one that he can use for 80 (85, now) levels. And in that case, why bother crafting as a lowbie Weaponsmith at all?

What do you think -- do the conveniences of heirloom items outweigh their negative impact on MMO economies?

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: Are heirloom items bad for MMOs? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>altaltsbind-on-accountBlizzardBlizzard-Entertainmentbrianna-royce-tdgcraftingdaily-grindeconomyheirloomheirloomsopinionplayer-economytdgthe-daily-grindtwinkWorld-of-WarcraftwotlkwowwrathWrath-of-the-Lich-KingMon, 20 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WAR producer's letter talks bug fixing, patch schedules]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/war-producers-letter-talks-bug-fixing-patch-schedules/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/war-producers-letter-talks-bug-fixing-patch-schedules/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/war-producers-letter-talks-bug-fixing-patch-schedules/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Warhammer Online - Knight of the Blazing Sun
Hey kids, it's time for another Warhammer Online producer's letter (no, it's still not dead, doomsayers). The dev team is currently hard at work on the 1.4.5a patch, and in case you were wondering, that little "a" basically indicates additions to the previous 1.4.5 update. Said additions will take the form of "functionality, messaging, and tweaks to the fortresses and relics," all of which are still being discussed on the official WAR forums.

Next up is the 1.4.6 patch, and Mythic has switched gears to focus on bug fixing instead of the previously planned open RvR tweaks. There are also some additional items of interest on the horizon, including a new live event and some changes to crafting. Head to the WAR Herald to read up on all the details.

[Thanks to Benjamin for the tip!]

MassivelyWAR producer's letter talks bug fixing, patch schedules originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.4.5-patch1.4.6-patchbioware-mythicbug-fixingbugscraftingfantasylive-eventsmythicMythic-Entertainmentopen-rvrproducers-letterrvrwarwarhammerwarhammer-onlineTue, 14 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA beta videos show crafting, enchanting, Elin creation]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/tera-beta-videos-show-crafting-enchanting-elin-creation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/tera-beta-videos-show-crafting-enchanting-elin-creation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/tera-beta-videos-show-crafting-enchanting-elin-creation/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

TERA - crafting
TERA's recent closed beta kickoff (and lack of an NDA) brought with it a slew of user-created video content, and as the testing weekends roll on toward the game's May release window, there will be ample opportunities to see just about every part of Arborea via YouTube.

Today we've got a trio of introductory videos that show three different aspects of the game. First up is a clip that features the enchanting process, followed by a brief look at the game's crafting mechanics. Finally, TERA Hispano has uploaded some footage of the controversial Elin race. The video covers almost nine minutes on the character creation screen, and you can find it after the break.

[Thanks to Axel for the tip!]

Continue reading TERA beta videos show crafting, enchanting, Elin creation

MassivelyTERA beta videos show crafting, enchanting, Elin creation originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arboreablueholebluehole-studiocharacter-creationcraftingelinelin-videoen-masseen-masse-entertainmentenchantingfantasygameplay-videoteratera-videovideoMon, 13 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO's update 5.2 showers players with lock boxes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/lotros-update-5-2-showers-players-with-lock-boxes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/lotros-update-5-2-showers-players-with-lock-boxes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/lotros-update-5-2-showers-players-with-lock-boxes/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

LotRO
Lord of the Rings Online is grasping the concept of mystery lock boxes with both hands and isn't letting go. In fact, the game's new 5.2 patch will see these lock boxes dropping with increased frequency across all of Middle-earth. The boxes, which require a special key to unlock for its tantalizing prize, have had their loot tables improved and can even drop additional keys for future boxes.

Update 5.2 isn't just about these lock boxes, of course. Improvements to monster play and two endgames raids are on the docket, as well as a much-needed in-game map to the Pit of Irons. For those who have gotten turned around in the aforementioned pit (such as a Massively staffer or two), this comes as a welcome piece of news. Crafters will rejoice to see that the cooldown on guild crafting recipes has been lowered by six hours and that several recipes, such as the Tome of Wisdom, are now granted automatically.

Word is that the Buried Treasure in-game event has gone live with the update as well.

MassivelyLotRO's update 5.2 showers players with lock boxes originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5.2-updateburied-treasurecraftingf2pfree-to-playlock-boxeslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromonster-playmystery-boxespatchpatch-5.2patch-notespit-of-ironsraidraidsturbineturbine-entertainmentupdateupdate-5.2Mon, 13 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Assembly Required: Salem dev talks permadeath, griefing, and skill-based gameplay]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/10/some-assembly-required-salem-dev-talks-permadeath-griefing-an/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/10/some-assembly-required-salem-dev-talks-permadeath-griefing-an/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/10/some-assembly-required-salem-dev-talks-permadeath-griefing-an/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Some Assembly Required - architecture banner
Hello, sandbox faithful, and welcome to a special interview edition of Some Assembly Required. We recently had a chance to pitch some questions to the team behind Seatribe's upcoming Salem title, and creative director Björn Johannessen was kind enough to answer them.

Salem is being advertised by publisher Paradox as "the crafting MMO," but it's also rife with throw-back mechanics including a huge amount of player freedom and a permadeath/punishment system similar to the one in Johannessen's Haven & Hearth.

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: Salem dev talks permadeath, griefing, and skill-based gameplay

MassivelySome Assembly Required: Salem dev talks permadeath, griefing, and skill-based gameplay originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bjorn-Johannessencash-shopcraftingemergent-gameplayexclusivef2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgame-mechanicsgriefinghaven-and-hearthinterviewitem-shopno-tradeparadoxParadox-Interactivepermadeathpermadeath-prevents-griefingplayer-contentplayer-generated-contentsalemsandboxseatribeskill-systemsome-assembly-requiredsoul-boundtradeskillsFri, 10 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST