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[Behind the Mask: The real state of the game]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/behind-the-mask-the-real-state-of-the-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/behind-the-mask-the-real-state-of-the-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/behind-the-mask-the-real-state-of-the-game/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Although Champions Online's most recent State of the Game has been out for a while, I sort of avoided talking about it in previous editions of Behind the Mask. The main reason was because I really wanted to cover the new powersets. However, that doesn't mean I don't have any comments on it.

If you look at the history of the State of the Game and Ask Cryptic entries, they fluctuate quite a bit between good information and annoying PR. The January SOTG was full of annoying PR, and it bothered me greatly. It felt dishonest. I saw a lot of hype on little things that no one wanted and very little on what people really wanted.

This week, I'm going to talk about the real state of the game: where CO is and where it needs to go. I'll also talk about some of the future stuff that Robobo mentioned in the SOTG. Is it good or bad? We'll see!

Continue reading Behind the Mask: The real state of the game

MassivelyBehind the Mask: The real state of the game originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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This week on Behind the Mask, we're going to take an in-depth look at Champions Online's new Earth powerset. It took me quite a while to review Wind, and Earth is relatively new. Why the time disparity?

The real answer is that I looked at Wind long before last week, but I didn't really find anything fun or exciting at a first look. Earth is a lot different. Earth has a lot of potential for combining powers between the set; it can Stagger enemies and then exploit that Stagger for damage or bonus effects. Because a lot of the Earth tricks eat your Stagger stacks, you have to choose between keeping Stagger on your targets for the debuff or eating it for the bonus power effects. On top of that, it has the first viable Brick archetype heal, making the Mountain the second reliable Archetype tank. Earth is a lot of fun.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: Throwing stones at their glass houses

MassivelyBehind the Mask: Throwing stones at their glass houses originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>by-your-powers-combinedchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosearthearth-powersearth-powersetf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhealingperfect-world-entertainmentpwesupporttankingThu, 26 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the Mask: Scarlet Weather Rhapsody]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/behind-the-mask-scarlet-weather-rhapsody/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/behind-the-mask-scarlet-weather-rhapsody/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/behind-the-mask-scarlet-weather-rhapsody/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Champions Online released two powersets recently, and I finally got time to sit down and crunch numbers on the new Wind powers. Wind has been live for a few weeks now, and the Squall archetype uses its powers to push enemies around the battlefield and rock the damage charts.

Wind has been one of the most frequently requested powersets since Heavy Weapons hit the game, and I was excited to play around with the set. Does the Wind powerset meet the expectations players had for it? This week on Behind the Mask, I set out to find the answer to that question.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: Scarlet Weather Rhapsody

MassivelyBehind the Mask: Scarlet Weather Rhapsody originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>behind-the-maskchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosfeaturedlightning-and-windlightning-boltperfect-world-entertainmentpwestormstormbringersuper-heroweather-controlwindwind-and-waterwind-poweredThu, 19 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the Mask: The dangers of roleplaying as an outlet]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/behind-the-mask-the-dangers-of-roleplaying-as-an-outlet/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/behind-the-mask-the-dangers-of-roleplaying-as-an-outlet/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/behind-the-mask-the-dangers-of-roleplaying-as-an-outlet/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Recently, I've run into some troubling developments while roleplaying in Champions Online. I've encountered quite a few "troll characters" who seem designed soley to irritate and annoy other people. The characters in question are often played by otherwise-good roleplayers, which makes me wonder: Why would someone do this?

This is as much a topic for Storyboard as it is for Behind the Mask, but because it is very common among Champions Online roleplayers, I feel it deserves extra consideration. This article isn't going to finger-point at bad roleplayers and say why they're wrong. Rather, the point of this column is to inform good roleplayers about elements of RP that can quickly ruin people's fun.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: The dangers of roleplaying as an outlet

MassivelyBehind the Mask: The dangers of roleplaying as an outlet originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>behind-the-maskchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosdisruptive-roleplayingfeaturedhow-to-win-friends-and-influence-peopleinfluencing-peopleperfect-world-entertainmentpweroleplayingrpsocial-skillstroll-roleplayingwinning-friendsThu, 12 Jan 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Assembly Required: A virtual world roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/some-assembly-required-a-virtual-world-round-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/some-assembly-required-a-virtual-world-round-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/some-assembly-required-a-virtual-world-round-up/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Some Assembly Required header
If you are perusing this column, chances are you are a fan of virtual worlds and the sandbox genre. Join the club! (Dues will be due on the third Tuesday.) The aspect that compels many aficionados to delve into a game is the ability to make an impact on the world in some small respect instead of making them into Hive Member 1593072 running a static, predetermined gauntlet. How that impact is accomplished, however, varies; there are multiple features that can facilitate it, and which ones are considered most important depends on the player.

With the loss of one of the best sandbox games just last month, some players may be feeling a void. Others still are looking/hoping for the "ultimate" sandbox that contains nearly every virtual world feature. Certainly, there are some upcoming games that make some drool-worthy promises, but what about playing something now? There are actually games out on the market that have at least one aspect of the genre, if not more.

To start off the new year, Some Assembly Required looks at some of the top features of virtual worlds and lists games that incorporate these features. While this list isn't exhaustive (considering the sheer number of games when you include all of the smaller free-to-play titles, I'd run out of column space!), it is a comprehensive enough overview to point you toward some games worth playing that perhaps you hadn't considered before.

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: A virtual world roundup

MassivelySome Assembly Required: A virtual world roundup originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Last week on Behind the Mask, we talked about the basic dimensional structure of the Champions universe and its parallels with the Kabballah. This week, we take you a bit deeper into the mythos of Champions Online. We'll take a look at the Astral Plane, or Yetzirah, and the key places that exist there. I'll be focusing heavily on the Quaternion -- a series of four planar zones within the Lower Astral Plane that embody most fantasy elements critical to the Champions Universe.

If you have ever wondered about demons and angels, this is a must-read. The Vibora Bay story arc paints a very unusual picture about the nature of these planes, and we'll be covering just what Heaven and Hell are in respect to that story. We'll also be covering faeries, elves, dwarves, and other popular fantasy elements. If you're planning on creating a roleplaying character who fits into a fantasy subtype, travels through dimensions, or just uses magic, this information will be critical to you!

Continue reading Behind the Mask: Angels and Devils

MassivelyBehind the Mask: Angels and Devils originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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One of the exciting things about writing about Champions Online is that there is a huge amount of lore and backstory behind the game. Although Behind the Mask has a definite focus on concrete game information (that's just how I roll), the lore is always something I'm excited to cover. It offers a look into Champions that can't be experienced with just the online game.

This week we're going to look at alternate dimensions in the Champions universe. I was going to take a more indepth look at the background behind the war between Heaven and Hell, but unfortunately there is so much information that paints necessary frameworks for those story elements. It's unfortunate, but the information I have to go over this week is pretty crazy stuff.

Before you go through this, you may want to check out some of my other lore articles, including my magic lore article and my general lore primer. I do restate all the necessary stuff here, but having a broader understanding of what's going on can do nothing but help. A lot of the information here is from The Mystic World sourcebook, but there's also a fair bit of stuff cobbled together from ingame lore and some other sourcebooks. Definitely check them out if you want more information on these subjects.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: Between this world and the next

MassivelyBehind the Mask: Between this world and the next originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Dec 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Now that The Old Republic has hit the shelves, it seems like everyone has something to say about it. Cryptic seems to acknowledge it in its own unusual way: by lampshading it.

Enter the Unleashed, Champions Online's newest free archetype. No, you're not misreading me here; the Unleashed is not a gold archetype. If you make an account right now, you can play the Unleashed from the moment you enter the character select screen, without spending a dime. Since it's the ninth free archetype, you'd think that he'd be a stable, bread-and-butter class. However, the Unleashed is nothing but. His wackiness approaches the Impulse, but where the Impulse is kind of ineffectual, the Unleashed is deadly efficient.

Interested in a sword-wielding knight who slings force blasts? Hit the jump and we'll see what Cryptic's take on a Jedi can do.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: The Force Unleashed

MassivelyBehind the Mask: The Force Unleashed originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archetypebehind-the-maskbrawlerchampionschampions-onlinechampscocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosfeaturedforce-unleashedjedilightsaberlightsabersmelee-dpsperfect-world-entertainmentpwesithstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicthe-old-republicThu, 22 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the Mask: A way to improve microtransaction consumables]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/behind-the-mask-a-way-to-improve-microtransaction-consumables/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/behind-the-mask-a-way-to-improve-microtransaction-consumables/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/behind-the-mask-a-way-to-improve-microtransaction-consumables/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

A couple of weeks ago, I lamented the existence of grab bags in Champions Online and how they could be made more worthwhile. Although I made quite a few suggestions on what could be changed, the main concern was that the consumables placed in the grab bags were simply not worth anything.

Improving the value of C-Store consumables won't appease the vocal minority whose sense of entitlement tells them that they deserve the ultra-rare grab bag items. These people only see the grab bags as chances for costume unlocks, so making the consumables worth the 80 CP ($1 US) won't matter to them. For the general public, though, making the consumables worth the gamble makes the grab bag items much more desirable.

This week on Behind the Mask, we'll look at the C-Store consumables and weigh in on whether they're worth the money. If they're not, we'll look at what could be done to fix it!

Continue reading Behind the Mask: A way to improve microtransaction consumables

MassivelyBehind the Mask: A way to improve microtransaction consumables originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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One of the major criticisms of Champions Online is a lack of game balance. People claim that the phrase "your own hero, your own story" doesn't cover the fact that your hero might be a gimp compared to someone else's. Although archetypes have their own balance issues (even among themselves), this complaint most commonly leveled at the freeform game where there are millions of possible characters.

However, I think that most armchair game theorists have a terrible understanding of what "balance" even means. Decades of competitive gaming (yeah, I'm that old) have given me a comprehensive understanding of what the term means, and I think it's worth looking at how CO stacks up.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: What does unbalanced even mean?

MassivelyBehind the Mask: What does unbalanced even mean? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balanceBehind-the-Maskchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosf2pfeaturedfree-to-playgame-balanceimbalanceopoverpoweredperfect-world-entertainmentpvp-balancepwestreet-fighter-2-came-out-a-long-time-agosuper-herounbalancedThu, 08 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Newest Ask Cryptic for Champions Online covers the flames of fashion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/06/newest-ask-cryptic-for-champions-online-covers-the-flames-of-fash/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/06/newest-ask-cryptic-for-champions-online-covers-the-flames-of-fash/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/06/newest-ask-cryptic-for-champions-online-covers-the-flames-of-fash/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Love is a burning thing, and it makes a fiery ring. Bound by wild desire, I fell into a ring of fire.
There are many components to making a great superhero game, but one of the key elements is ensuring that players can be astonishingly good-looking. So it's no surprise that the latest installment of Ask Cryptic sees several questions from Champions Online players about current, upcoming, and conceptual costume sets. That includes promises of more beast-oriented sets and a hard look at any powersets with major clipping issues (although minor clipping issues for certain poses are to be expected).

Equally interesting to players will be the promise that the staff is hard at work trying to give players more options for power emanation points, such as staves or wands for magical characters. While some of the answers given will be seen as a bit disappointing, such as the fact that tattoos and scars will not be usable outside of the chest pieces already featuring them, overall the answers promise all sorts of ways for players to look as good as possible while fighting crime.

MassivelyNewest Ask Cryptic for Champions Online covers the flames of fashion originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 Dec 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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It's always a good day to be a robot.
No job ever goes quite right, no matter how well you plan it. It's as true in Champions Online as it is anywhere else, and it's certainly the case in the latest installment of the Whiteout series. After all, the first two issues made it plenty clear that heroes would have their hands full dealing with a downed alien spacecraft, but now things are going from bad to worse for the Steelhead soldiers and the player characters. It seems there's another player involved in the game who hopes to get in on the wrecked ship...

As with previous installments of the series, the new issue can be played by any character over level 11 and provides special rewards in addition to the usual mission benefits. But if you've already played through the mission, you can take a look at the game's latest Art Corner, which shows off the design of the mechanical antagonists plaguing the newest mission installment (and the subsequent ones as well, most likely).

MassivelyIssue 3 of Whiteout available for Champions Online players originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Dec 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Everyone's heard of the "gift box" phenomenon. It's a common theme in F2P MMOs to release an item that doesn't have guaranteed contents and instead has a random selection from a pool of items. Sometimes there are rare bonus items inside; other times there are things the buyer didn't really want. Champions Online has taken its second foray into this territory with the Service and Cursed Grab Bags, a pair of C-Store items that grant a chance at a variety of tradable goodies.

Gift box items sell to a variety of people. Some find the idea of chance more fun, and others absolutely must have the rare items and will spend lots of money trying to get them. Are the grab bags a scam, though? After the jump, we'll look at just why that is and hopefully give you enough information to come to your own conclusion.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: Are grab bags a scam?

MassivelyBehind the Mask: Are grab bags a scam? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>behind-the-maskc-storecash-shopchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosf2pfeaturedfree-to-playgift-boxgift-boxesgrab-bagluck-of-the-drawperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwerandom-number-generatorscamThu, 01 Dec 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the Mask: Charging to maximum]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/24/behind-the-mask-charging-to-maximum/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/24/behind-the-mask-charging-to-maximum/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/24/behind-the-mask-charging-to-maximum/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Once upon a time before the Champions Online beta, I was introduced to the idea of charged attacks. The concept seemed pretty cool; you had your basic attack, and charging the attack would do something neat and special. Unfortunately, CO kind of fell short on my expectations. Energy is used for all attacks, rather than just special or charged attacks, and it builds much too quickly. The choice to charge an attack is not as much of a tactical decision and mostly hinges on how much health the enemy has left.

This week on Behind the Mask, we're going to cover charge powers. Although some of this may seem obvious or simple, there is a lot of nuance to be understood. I won't treat you guys like noobs or idiots when it comes to these mechanics; we're going to look at the in-depth reasons why charging powers isn't the best idea in CO.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: Charging to maximum

MassivelyBehind the Mask: Charging to maximum originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Nov 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>behind-the-maskchampions-onlinecharged-attackschargingcharging-powerscocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosee-han-timingfeaturedimma-chargin-ma-lazerperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpower-chargingpwetiming-attacksThu, 24 Nov 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Champions Online archetype available in regular and controversial editions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/23/new-champions-online-archetype-available-in-regular-and-controve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/23/new-champions-online-archetype-available-in-regular-and-controve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/23/new-champions-online-archetype-available-in-regular-and-controve/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

In this screenshot, everyone is still on fire, but it's purple. Color is special.
It might seem a little late for a demonic archetype, but Champions Online has still rolled one out into the store. The Scourge is a new ranged archetype focused on poisoning and debuffing the target, with less durability and melee power to balance its slow ranged ramp-up. Like all archetypes, it's free to subscribing players and available for free players in the cash store. But it's also tied to a new grab bag offered in the cash store, which is provoking a few player concerns.

The Cursed Grab Bag, among other things, contains a special token to unlock the Cursed archetype, which is essentially a color-shifted version of the Scourge archetype. Some players are a little concerned about the slippery slope being established here, as the Cursed archetype is not free to subscribers (although color-shifting powers is). As a result, concerns have been raised about what this cosmetic change might mean for future archetypes being released, although as others point out, you can always just change the color if you subscribe to begin with.

MassivelyNew Champions Online archetype available in regular and controversial editions originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Nov 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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A lot of people seem to get the wrong idea about Champions Online's Gold archetypes. For the most part, the Gold archetypes are simply different options to play with. As I mentioned previously, the Master is kind of an exception, since it's the only dedicated archetype tank. However, this does not mean that the Master is the beat-all-end-all or that Gold archetypes are outright superior to Silver ones. For the most part, the Silver archetypes are better at their focused roles than the comparable Gold archetypes.

This week, we're going to look at the damage-soaking tanky archetypes and compare them. I'll also give a quick comparison between these bruisers and a comparable freeform hero. There's quite a few to cover, so let's get to it!

Continue reading Behind the Mask: Comparing the archetype bruisers

MassivelyBehind the Mask: Comparing the archetype bruisers originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archetypearchetypesbehemothbehind-the-maskchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosfeaturedfighterglaciermastermelee-archetypenot-a-tank-article-this-timeperfect-worldpwesavagespecialistThu, 17 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the Mask: How tanking got easier]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/behind-the-mask-how-tanking-got-easier/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/behind-the-mask-how-tanking-got-easier/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/behind-the-mask-how-tanking-got-easier/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

I've mused for a long time about the problems with tanking in Champions Online, since it's my preferred PvE role. Gold members can build freeform characters with everything one would need for a tank, leaving only skill as a requirement. On the other hand, Silver members have been left out in the cold. It's unfortunate, but there has simply been no decent archetype tank.

This all changed with the launch of the Master, a martial arts-themed melee fighter with everything needed to compete in the toughest lairs. Although he isn't a perfect tanking package, he is completely functional and does his job well. He's the Mind of tanking archetypes: He soaks damage, he owns face, and he isn't reliant on a healer for sustainability. I think I'm in love.

Although he is not a free archetype, unlocking the Master is a one-time purchase. If you're into the tank playstyle but you're not into a subscription, this archetype is for you.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: How tanking got easier

MassivelyBehind the Mask: How tanking got easier originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Nov 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>championschampions-onlinechampscocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosf2pfeaturedfree-to-playkung-fukung-fu-mastermartial-artistmartial-artsmasterperfect-world-entertainmentpweshurikens-and-lightningtanktank-archetypetankingtanksThu, 10 Nov 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the Mask: How freeforms work]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/behind-the-mask-how-freeforms-work/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/behind-the-mask-how-freeforms-work/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/behind-the-mask-how-freeforms-work/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

This week on Behind the Mask, we'll be looking at freeform characters and how they work. This is more of a primer for players who are interested in the Gold subscription and would like to know more about how freeform characters differ from archetypes. I'm also spotlighting it to show just how archetypes are built poorly and some ways they could be improved.

Freeform characters differ dramatically from archetypes. However, they follow a concrete set of rules on how they must be built. A hero can't just select Gigabolt, Ego Storm, or other high-level powers right from the start; there's a list of power restrictions that must be selected first. The power restrictions basically correlate to level restrictions, although there are some ways around that too.

While this may be familiar to Gold players, it will serve as a primer for those who are not experts at maneuvering around the power selection process.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: How freeforms work

MassivelyBehind the Mask: How freeforms work originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buildingbuildschampions-onlinecharacter-customizationcocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosfeaturedfreeformfreefprm-character-progressionopen-character-customizationperfect-world-entertainmentpweThu, 03 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Cryptic posts Champions Online's November state of the game]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/01/cryptic-posts-champions-onlines-november-state-of-the-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/01/cryptic-posts-champions-onlines-november-state-of-the-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/01/cryptic-posts-champions-onlines-november-state-of-the-game/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Champions Online
Cryptic Studios has just uploaded its most recent state of the game letter for Champions Online, and the post begins by reinventing itself. Rather than focusing on "answering all the questions about future development plans and the status of top issues and player concerns," the Champs team aims to use the SOTG to reveal what the team is working on right now. Long-term plans and feedback will be addressed instead on the forums as part of the UNTIL Field Report.

The SOTG covers the pair of new archetypes, the Halloween event, new costume sets, and the archetype roation promotion before briefing players on the upcoming comic series 2, called Whiteout, which will "take your Hero on an adventure that is unique and exciting." The (apparently still growing) team is also working on the Alert system, the Winter event, two new frameworks (Earth and Wind), and tweaks to the Infernal framework and the Nemesis. And as promised, this month's UNTIL Field Report fills in the details of these development nuggets and more.

MassivelyCryptic posts Champions Online's November state of the game originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Nov 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archetypechampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosf2pfree-to-playnewsperfect-world-entertainmentpwesotgState-of-the-gamesuperheroUNTIL-field-reportUNTIL-field-reportsTue, 01 Nov 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the Mask: The choice of team support]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/behind-the-mask-the-choice-of-team-support/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/behind-the-mask-the-choice-of-team-support/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/behind-the-mask-the-choice-of-team-support/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Champions Online screenshot
Last week's Behind the Mask covered Champions Online's super team support solo monster, the Mind, but I thought it would be prudent to cover the other ways a player can support a team. Some of this will tread existing ground, as I've already talked about the Mind and Grimoire archetypes in previous editions, and both have one of the four team support options.

I'll be covering the Mind's passive in more detail, taking a brief look again at the Grimoire's passive as well as covering the other two options, Seraphim and Medical Nanites. While we don't have a Celestial archetype just yet, it is only a matter of time before Cryptic adds one, so this will give a bit of a preview for what a Celestial healer plays like.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: The choice of team support

MassivelyBehind the Mask: The choice of team support originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aura-passivebehind-the-maskchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosdefensef2pfeaturedfree-to-playhealerhealershealingperfect-world-entertainmentpweteam-supportThu, 27 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the Mask: Mind over matter]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/behind-the-mask-mind-over-matter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/behind-the-mask-mind-over-matter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/behind-the-mask-mind-over-matter/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Champions Online
I have been hounded a bit lately for more coverage on the free aspects of Champions Online and the options available to free players. Fortunately, even before I wrote last week's article on the penultimate freeform tank, I was planning to cover the Mind archetype next.

The Mind is the Silver answer to a dedicated support character, and it is perhaps by accident that she is also the most interesting and powerful archetype in the game. She combines team support, healing, survivability, DPS, and self-sustainability into one neat package that is literally unrivaled by any other archetype, free or otherwise.

Unlike other archetypes, the Mind is too complex to be summarized by one article. She's an exceptionally varied creature with many options. Because the essential advantages in her build are pretty loose, she can get all of her key powers with a minimum of sacrifice. Hit the jump and I'll show you how playing the Mind is more like playing a freeform character and less like playing an archetype.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: Mind over matter

MassivelyBehind the Mask: Mind over matter originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 Oct 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archetypebehind-the-maskchampions-onlineclassclass-discussioncocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosf2pfeaturedfree-archetypefree-players-dont-have-it-that-badfree-to-playhealerhealer-archetypementalistmindperfect-world-entertainmentpsionicpsionic-healerpwesilver-archetypeThu, 20 Oct 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the Mask: Practical indestructibility]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/behind-the-mask-practical-indestructibility/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/behind-the-mask-practical-indestructibility/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/behind-the-mask-practical-indestructibility/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Champions Online screenshot
It's not very commonplace to showcase a single build on Behind the Mask. In fact, aside from the Archetypes, I've never directly addressed any of the millions of build options in Champions Online. However, one build in particular has garnered a lot of attention lately. It's infamous for its incredible survivability, and many people consider it the benchmark of all builds. The main permutation of the build is Invul/dodge, but the core idea is using layered defenses to ramp up survivability to ridiculous levels.

This week, we'll cover what Invul/dodge is, how it works, and some popular variants. We'll also discuss its limitations and counters. While Invul/dodge is probably the most situationally durable build in the game, it has its weaknesses. Some players might delude you into thinking that Invul/dodge is good at everything, but that couldn't be further from the truth.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: Practical indestructibility

MassivelyBehind the Mask: Practical indestructibility originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Oct 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>champions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosdodgef2pfeaturedflavor-of-the-monthfotmfotm-doesnt-mean-imbafree-to-playidfinvulnerabilitylayered-defensesperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwetanktankingThu, 13 Oct 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the Mask: The separation of newbie and expert]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/behind-the-mask-the-separation-of-newbie-and-expert/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/behind-the-mask-the-separation-of-newbie-and-expert/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/behind-the-mask-the-separation-of-newbie-and-expert/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Champions Online screenshot
Last week on Behind the Mask, we got into a little discussion about why Champions Online's Elite difficulty needs to be buffed (and possibly also the very hard difficulty as well). This led to a discussion of whom Elite would be tailored for. I'm sure this is a big issue over at Cryptic right now. If Elite is increased in difficulty, whom should it be designed to suit?

I was asked this burning question a few times, and I've made my opinion clear: that Elite should be for the top tier, the tip of the iceberg of player ability. Don't take that to mean Gold players only. There is a sharp divide between an expert Silver player and a poor Gold player. In fact, the poor Gold player is likely to be worse than a bad Silver player. How good is good enough? This week, we'll find out.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: The separation of newbie and expert

MassivelyBehind the Mask: The separation of newbie and expert originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 06 Oct 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualcasual-playerchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosdifficulty-leveldifficulty-slidereliteelite-difficultyelitistfeaturednoobnoviceperfect-world-entertainmentpvewe-love-casualsThu, 06 Oct 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the Mask: Elite doesn't mean casual]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/behind-the-mask-elite-doesnt-mean-casual/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/behind-the-mask-elite-doesnt-mean-casual/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/behind-the-mask-elite-doesnt-mean-casual/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Back in the early days of Champions Online, there was no difficulty slider. We got stuck playing the same stuff regardless of player or character ability, and often that meant high-skill players and their nigh-invincible god characters smashed through insignificant minions like freight trains. When Serpent Lantern launched, Cryptic added in difficulty settings, beginning at the base normal difficulty and ending at very hard. Later on, the devs added an Elite difficulty, touted to be even tougher than VH.

Since then, high-powered heroes have had a way to challenge themselves... sort of. When Serpent Lantern first launched, doing it on VH was reasonably challenging due to the many annoyances (mostly pulson guns) placed in it by the dev team. When players rightfully complained that the pulson guns ripped through well-statted tanks, the devs nerfed the guns and the difficulty became mostly a joke. Normal difficulty is still mostly synonymous with "cakewalk," while Elite is more like "sorta dangerous, maybe."

Continue reading Behind the Mask: Elite doesn't mean casual

MassivelyBehind the Mask: Elite doesn't mean casual originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>behind-the-maskchallengechampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosdifficulty-leveldifficulty-slidereliteelite-difficultyf2pfeaturedfree-to-playperfect-world-entertainmentpulson-guns-suckedpweThu, 29 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the Mask: Science, technology and fantasy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/behind-the-mask-science-technology-and-fantasy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/behind-the-mask-science-technology-and-fantasy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/behind-the-mask-science-technology-and-fantasy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Champions Online screenshot
Last week's Behind the Mask generated quite a bit of controversy over fantasy and the suspension of disbelief. This week, I'm going to follow up. We'll cover how the Champions Online universe deals with fantasy in its lore and why realism is important.

We'll also cover how fantasy elements can use realism to expand -- rather than subtract -- your options for roleplaying. Last week, we only covered weapons technology, but there's a lot more to any fictional setting than just weapons. Everything from communications and transportation to food production is important to discuss, and while we can't touch on everything, we can look at the hows and whys of the superhero genre.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: Science, technology and fantasy

MassivelyBehind the Mask: Science, technology and fantasy originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>behind-the-maskchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosf2pfantasy-sci-fifeaturedfree-to-playits-magic-and-i-dont-got-to-splainloreroleplayingsciencescience-fantasyscience-fictionsuper-heroThu, 22 Sep 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Champions Online lets you vie for the kingship on a hill]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/champions-online-lets-you-vie-for-the-kingship-on-a-hill/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/champions-online-lets-you-vie-for-the-kingship-on-a-hill/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/champions-online-lets-you-vie-for-the-kingship-on-a-hill/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

I sell propane and propane accessories, I tell you what.
Who doesn't want to be recognized as the king of a hill? No matter where you go, as long as people can see the hill, they will know that the hill is all yours. That's probably not quite why Champions Online has added its brand-new King of the Hill PvP mode to the game, but it's certainly on the list. It's a chance for heroes to fight for dominance of a given point, with the attackers steadily gaining in power as the defenders struggle to hold their spot for seven minutes.

Wondering how the mode came into being or just want to see how it will play? Then peek past the break for a video walkthrough of this new opportunity to take up arms against your fellow costumed crusaders. Or take a look at the recent Behind the Mask column covering just this mode, which should put you well on your way to asserting dominance over the hill of your choice. It's good to be the king.

Continue reading Champions Online lets you vie for the kingship on a hill

MassivelyChampions Online lets you vie for the kingship on a hill originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>champions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosf2pfree-to-playking-of-the-hillnew-additionspvppvp-modesupdatesvideovideosThu, 15 Sep 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the Mask: Fictional guns are lame]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/behind-the-mask-fictional-guns-are-lame/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/behind-the-mask-fictional-guns-are-lame/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/behind-the-mask-fictional-guns-are-lame/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Champions Online screenshot
Out of all my issues with modern roleplaying, the inaccurate portrayal of firearms is very near and dear to my heart. Champions Online is a pretty big offender in this regard. One of the most important things that we forget to realize about games in modern settings is that in the real world, guns are tremendously destructive.

Although this is more of a general roleplaying issue and not limited to CO, I feel it's worth touching on. Is it so weird to wonder why superpowered groups like VIPER or UNTIL use energy blasters instead of firearms? Hit the jump and we'll talk about why the U-KTF blaster rifles don't hold a candle to things that exist in the real world.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: Fictional guns are lame

MassivelyBehind the Mask: Fictional guns are lame originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>.50-caliber-bmg20mm-anti-materiel-riflebehind-the-maskbulletschampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosenergy-weaponsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playgunslasers-are-dumbloreThu, 15 Sep 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the Mask: The best defense isn't a good offense]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/behind-the-mask-the-best-defense-isnt-a-good-offense/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/behind-the-mask-the-best-defense-isnt-a-good-offense/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/behind-the-mask-the-best-defense-isnt-a-good-offense/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Champions Online Screenshot
Blocking is one of the elements that separates Champions Online from just another MMO. Along with combat movement, blocking turns CO from another game of "1, 2, then 4 until dead" into a dynamic action experience.

Blocking reduces incoming damage by a ton, even with no investment in upgrading it. It also gives you sizable energy boosts for every attack you block, which gives you comeback potential. Many players block only charged attacks, and even more simply never block. While it's important to block charged attacks, blocking isn't just for the few times when those happen.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: The best defense isn't a good offense

MassivelyBehind the Mask: The best defense isn't a good offense originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Sep 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>behind-the-maskblockblockingchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosdamage-reductiondefensedefensive-mobilityf2pfeaturedfree-to-playmedical-nanites-is-still-a-terrible-passiveresistancetankingwhy-isnt-fire-shield-fixedThu, 08 Sep 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the Mask: Two years and two thousand miles]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/behind-the-mask-two-years-and-two-thousand-miles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/behind-the-mask-two-years-and-two-thousand-miles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/behind-the-mask-two-years-and-two-thousand-miles/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Champions Online screenshot
Some of you will recall what Champions Online was like at launch. I think that a lot of readers here at Massively still remember that soreness. The first year of CO was kind of a rough, rocky ride. At some point or another, I think all of us expected the game to fail. It was really only in the in the last few months of that year that Cryptic started to turn the game around.

The second year of Champions has been a lot more successful. I'm pretty sure that from a bottom-line perspective, the F2P launch helped turn the game into a profitable venture. However, that hasn't been the only major change. If Cryptic had held this kind of attitude from day one, I think things would have turned out differently.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: Two years and two thousand miles

MassivelyBehind the Mask: Two years and two thousand miles originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-long-way-to-goanniversarybehind-the-maskbirthdaybirthdayschampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosf2pfree-to-playhey-i-think-the-game-is-funtwo-year-anniversarytwo-yearsThu, 01 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the Mask: I'm the king of the world (or the hill)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/25/behind-the-mask-im-the-king-of-the-world-or-the-hill/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/25/behind-the-mask-im-the-king-of-the-world-or-the-hill/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/25/behind-the-mask-im-the-king-of-the-world-or-the-hill/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Champions Online screenshot
For the third week in a row, I'm covering Champions Online's PvP, and this week I'll be talking about the new King of the Hill gametype that was available for playtest last week on PTS. As of this writing, KOTH is not live yet, and I suspect it won't be until after the anniversary event. Still, this is sort of a sneak preview of the gametype, and I'll be sharing my experiences, some potential strategies, and some of the issues raised by the playtesters with the new mode.

For the first time ever, I actually had a chance to play with a lot of the PvP regulars. For whatever reason, whenever I play in PvP I do not see many of the big name PvPers. It was good to see some familiar forum faces and match myself against them for the first time. How did I fare? Well, hit the jump and you'll find out.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: I'm the king of the world (or the hill)

MassivelyBehind the Mask: I'm the king of the world (or the hill) originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 25 Aug 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>behind-the-maskchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosf2pfeaturedfree-to-playking-of-the-hillkothpvpThu, 25 Aug 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the Mask: Preparing for war]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/behind-the-mask-preparing-for-war/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/behind-the-mask-preparing-for-war/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/behind-the-mask-preparing-for-war/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Champions Online screenshot
As many of you will recall, last week we talked about Champions Online's PvP and some basic information on the builds and gametypes currently available. For those of you who watched my livestream this week, I also managed to noob it up in Stronghold quite a bit (plus a game of BASH and a game of Zombies). It was quite fun; I have very little experience in Stronghold compared to other types of PvP, so it was a bit of a learning experience.

I wanted to go back to PvP again this week and cover some basic tools and strategies for all types of PvP, especially the Hero Games group PvP modes. Some of the strategies aren't obvious to beginners, and others are easy to forget in the heat of battle. While everyone can agree on certain basic strategies, it's easy to get blood in the eyes and focus too heavily on depleting some hero's life bar.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: Preparing for war

MassivelyBehind the Mask: Preparing for war originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>behind-the-maskchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosdont-diefeaturedhero-gamespvpstay-alivestronghold-prisonzombie-apocalypsezombies-and-stronghold-are-much-more-fun-than-utcThu, 18 Aug 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Champions Online gives players the full Aftershock treatment]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/champions-online-gives-players-the-full-aftershock-treatment/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/champions-online-gives-players-the-full-aftershock-treatment/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/champions-online-gives-players-the-full-aftershock-treatment/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

New rewards do not include the ability to get a VTOL plane for yourself.
The first comic series for Champions Online has come to a close, and it certainly made an impact, which makes it more than a little ironic that it's titled Aftershock. But what would a good comic series be if it didn't get a collected edition after it finished? The completed series is now available in-game, and rather than simply allowing players who've experienced the first run a rehash of the old material, the completed series offers a bit more incentive.

Four new rewards can be picked up from the complete series -- a serpent cowl, a new sword, a new aura, and a quartet of action figures. In addition, the complete series features dynamic panels and all of the same core gameplay that debuted with the individual issues. So if you've been meaning to run your way through the series but hadn't quite gotten around to doing so, now would be the perfect time.

MassivelyChampions Online gives players the full Aftershock treatment originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Aug 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Champions Online screenshot
Although I've referenced it a little bit here and there, I've directly avoided talking about PvP in Champions Online. It's a controversial topic -- probably moreso in CO than in most other MMOs. In Champions, there is a massive difference between a hero who is focused on PvP and one who is not. Characters who are well-optimized PvE machines tend to perform acceptably (especially in certain types of PvP). However, if a hero isn't as optimized, he or she tends to get steamrolled by the flavors of the month.

Because most CO players are more casual players (in the sense that they don't plan builds and tend to pick powers that are "fun" or "cool"), they often get quite upset when they are defeated by an optimized PvP build. Most players I know tend to assume that the FoTM builds are unbeatable and that the only way to beat them is to join them.

Experienced PvPers know that this just isn't the case. It is true that an optimized PvP build is a necessity, but the actual optimization can take on many forms. There are dozens of effective "win buttons" in Champions' PvP out of a couple hundred powers. Out of dozens of possible kill methods, picking one and supplementing it with logical choices and personal flavor is a snap.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: Heroes vs. heroes

MassivelyBehind the Mask: Heroes vs. heroes originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 11 Aug 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bashbattle-arena-super-heroesbehind-the-maskchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosduelf2pfeaturedflavor-of-the-monthfree-to-playpvpzombie-apocalypsezombieszombies-ate-my-neighborsThu, 11 Aug 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the Mask: A long, slow, rumbling]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/04/behind-the-mask-a-long-slow-rumbling/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/04/behind-the-mask-a-long-slow-rumbling/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/04/behind-the-mask-a-long-slow-rumbling/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

One of the things I absolutely hate about comics is waiting. When I read Detective Comics regularly, I used to patiently wait while re-reading my old issues, wondering what was going to happen to Batman next. Eventually, I got into manga a little bit and was totally spoiled by the graphic novel format. Now I only read comics (or novel series) if I can get an entire plot arc in one shot. I hate waiting. Heck, I prefer to watch an entire TV season on Netflix instead of waiting for each episode to get released.

Unsurprisingly, I played through the first three issues of Aftershock, Champions Online's new comic series, before I decided I was irritated with waiting every week for the latest issue. I was sort of put off by bugs in the first issue of the series, and I decided that waiting for the final release would give the devs time to polish out the bugs. New content is new content after all, and when it's released weekly, it doesn't get a lot of time on PTS before it gets pushed to live.

Issue #6, The King is Dead, was released a few weeks ago, and the devs have put the finishing touches on Aftershock. How does it match up with the rest of CO's content?

Continue reading Behind the Mask: A long, slow, rumbling

MassivelyBehind the Mask: A long, slow, rumbling originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aftershockbehind-the-maskchampions-onlinecocomic-seriescrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosdemonflamef2pfeaturedfree-to-playluther-black-might-not-be-deadnama-is-aliveqliphothicstory-tellingthe-kings-of-edom-are-overpoweredthe-serpent-lanternthe-supreme-serpent-is-a-bossviperThu, 04 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Champions Online rolls out the next phase of Hideouts]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/03/champions-online-rolls-out-the-next-phase-of-hideouts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/03/champions-online-rolls-out-the-next-phase-of-hideouts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/03/champions-online-rolls-out-the-next-phase-of-hideouts/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Superheroes need their personal stomping grounds. That's why the development team behind Champions Online gave us hideouts for our heroes, and why the system is being expanded by another step. The phase three hideouts are now available, representing another evolution in the options available to heroes with the Basement and Moon hideout tracks. This newest upgrade unlocks the Hi-Tech Basement and the 60's Retro Moon lairs for heroes to customize and enjoy.

Of course, all of these new options do come at a price -- specifically, they come at a price of around 500 points in the C-store, including for subscribers and lifetime members. As a result, the newest pair of hideouts may not be for the penny-conscious hero on the run. For those of you who feel like splurging a little and living in style, however, the new hideouts should provide the perfect place to relax and enjoy the superheroic life from behind the scenes.

MassivelyChampions Online rolls out the next phase of Hideouts originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Aug 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>c-storechampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosf2pfree-to-playhideoutshousinghousing-stylesitem-shopmicrotransactionsplayer-housingWed, 03 Aug 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the Mask: You wouldn't like me when I'm angry]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/28/behind-the-mask-you-wouldnt-like-me-when-im-angry/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/28/behind-the-mask-you-wouldnt-like-me-when-im-angry/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/28/behind-the-mask-you-wouldnt-like-me-when-im-angry/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

There are quite a few controversial powers in Champions Online, such as Inertial Dampening Field or Dragon's Wrath, but there are no more controversial mechanics in CO than the Enrage and Focus mechanics. Both of these buffs provide tremendous bonuses to offense for very little opportunity cost. Focus provides a damage bonus to melee attacks which scales with DEX, while Enrage provides a damage bonus to all attacks which scales with STR.

Focus is often scrutinized more heavily than Enrage, simply because DEX is a better stat than STR. However, because Enrage can be applied to ranged attacks, it has more potential for abuse. Focus is limited to melee attacks -- although some builds use ranged attacks to build Focus with Form of the Tempest, these builds inevitably close distance and strike with Dragon's Wrath, Dragon's Claws, or Ego Blade Breach.

This week, we're going to look at Enrage -- ways to build and maintain it, and ideal ways to use it.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: You wouldn't like me when I'm angry

MassivelyBehind the Mask: You wouldn't like me when I'm angry originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Jul 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>behind-the-maskchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosdamage-bonusesdamage-buffsenragef2pfeaturedfree-to-playhulk-smashrage-is-so-imbalancedThu, 28 Jul 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the Mask: The truth about healing]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/behind-the-mask-the-truth-about-healing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/behind-the-mask-the-truth-about-healing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/behind-the-mask-the-truth-about-healing/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

One of the main reasons I decided to cover the Inferno archetype a couple weeks ago was because I felt I should showcase the importance of a self-heal for all characters. In Champions Online, freeform characters can select any powers they want, and the most important powers to choose are heals. Why?

There's a lot of core elements of CO's design that correlate well with having healing powers. In any game, self-heals are effective, and unless they perform poorly, they tend to be highly valued. When a hero can select any powers, heals just naturally gravitate to the top of the list. But there are a few other things that make this pattern more significant.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: The truth about healing

MassivelyBehind the Mask: The truth about healing originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Jul 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>behind-the-maskchampions-onlinecoco-needs-protective-spiritcrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosdamage-reductionf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhealingmitigationregen-is-a-crutchself-healingsurvivabilityThu, 21 Jul 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the Mask: Welcome to my lair, do not touch my radio]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/behind-the-mask-welcome-to-my-lair-do-not-touch-my-radio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/behind-the-mask-welcome-to-my-lair-do-not-touch-my-radio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/behind-the-mask-welcome-to-my-lair-do-not-touch-my-radio/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Hideouts are the one of the most anticipated features in Champions Online. Players have wanted their own personal space for a while, especially because City of Heroes has had supergroup bases for a very long time. Ever since Champions launched, players have wanted space to call their own. Most roleplayers have made do with private mission instances, but this was a tenuous situation at best.

Do Hideouts live up to the hype? What do they mean for roleplayers, or for the average player? Are they worth purchasing? After the jump, we'll cover the consequences related to hideouts and some of their implications in the CO roleplaying world.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: Welcome to my lair, do not touch my radio

MassivelyBehind the Mask: Welcome to my lair, do not touch my radio originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Jul 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>behind-the-maskchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosf2pfree-to-playhideoutsmoms-basementplayer-housingroleplayingtailorThu, 14 Jul 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the Mask: You're fired]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/07/behind-the-mask-youre-fired/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/07/behind-the-mask-youre-fired/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/07/behind-the-mask-youre-fired/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

At the time this episode of Behind the Mask was written, neither Hideouts nor Aftershock had been released. I could run a hype post about hideouts, but they are not on PTS (or at least, we can't access them), which is worrying. In fact, the recent patches have been extremely frustrating for a lot of Champions Online's veteran players. Last week, the huge patch that integrated Vivox voice chat also broke the snot out of the game; it ruined everything from team chat to mission doors to certain parts of the in-game C-Store. It even broke the difficulty slider! I haven't even played CO in the last week due to the bugs. It's pretty frustrating.

Combined, these things make me really mad. Hideouts haven't been tested by players at all, and they were intended to roll out on Wednesday. The Vivox patch was pushed full of game-breaking bugs that players knew about in advance. Remember the kitchen sink patch? I thought the sloppy, impulsive, not-listening-to-players mentality that Cryptic had back then was dead. It needs to stay dead.

I will not, however, be roped into writing a gigantic, mega-DOOM column this week. We can save those types of columns for EVE Online. Instead, I'm going to rant about something familiar and relevant to everyone: archetypes, and specifically, how the current archetypes are bad. I've already covered this ground, but I'm rearmed with research and rage. This week, we're throwing the Inferno archetype under the bus. He's not terrible by any means, but... to be honest, we can do better. A lot better.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: You're fired

MassivelyBehind the Mask: You're fired originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Jul 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aoe-dpsbehind-the-maskchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-failscryptic-studiosdamage-dealerdpsf2pfeaturedfixing-class-imbalancefree-to-playinferno-archetypekitchen-sink-patchpve-damage-dealerThu, 07 Jul 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the Mask: I put on my robe and wizard hat]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/30/behind-the-mask-i-put-on-my-robe-and-wizard-hat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/30/behind-the-mask-i-put-on-my-robe-and-wizard-hat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/30/behind-the-mask-i-put-on-my-robe-and-wizard-hat/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Grimoire is Champions Online's magic-using archetype, and it's one of the most functional archetypes overall. Many players, including me, consider it to be the most complete package of all the archetypes (free or otherwise), providing strong team support, offense, and defense all in one.

However, the Grimoire has a lot of quirks. He's not a blasty glass cannon, and leveling one up requires a lot of finesse and a totally different style of play. He lacks the ability to use easy damage attacks -- he can't draw a SMG or unleash mighty fire breath upon his foes. The Grimoire must approach battles much more tactically, especially in the early stages of the game.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: I put on my robe and wizard hat

MassivelyBehind the Mask: I put on my robe and wizard hat originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 30 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archetypeArchetypeschampionschampions-onlinechampscocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosfeaturedgrimoireopinionthe-grimoireThu, 30 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST