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[Captain's Log: Epic adventure, revenge, and an interview with Adam Ihle]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/28/captains-log-epic-adventure-revenge-and-an-interview-with-ad/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/28/captains-log-epic-adventure-revenge-and-an-interview-with-ad/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/28/captains-log-epic-adventure-revenge-and-an-interview-with-ad/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Enterprise F Dry Dock
This week, after what seemed like an interminable period of waiting, Star Trek Online's acting Executive Producer Stephen D'Angelo posted a dev blog that outlines most of the details for STO's second anniversary events.

Beginning Thursday, February 2nd, STO will see the return of the infamous Q and his mischievous ways. Players are invited to sign in every day between February 2nd and 6th to participate in a challenge handed down by Q. After doing the entity's bidding, players will be rewarded with a different daily prize, although what those four prizes are has not been revealed.

However, the news that really has the playerbase buzzing is the announcement that the new and very highly anticipated Federation and Klingon flagships will also be up for grabs -- for free.

I will be outlining D'Angelo's follow up posts that give us more details into both ships. Also, in light of the announcements, I took the opportunity to catch up with Adam Ihle, whose winning starship design became the inspiration for the final look of the Odyssey class; we'll hear his reaction to the ship's debut in the game.

Continue reading Captain's Log: Epic adventure, revenge, and an interview with Adam Ihle

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Epic adventure, revenge, and an interview with Adam Ihle originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 28 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adam-ihleanniversarycaptains-logcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosfeaturedperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentPWEsci-fishipst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestarshipstephen-dangelostosto-gameplaytrek-onlineSat, 28 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Will two cloud bursts cure a drought?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/07/captains-log-will-two-cloud-bursts-cure-a-drought/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/07/captains-log-will-two-cloud-bursts-cure-a-drought/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/07/captains-log-will-two-cloud-bursts-cure-a-drought/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

USS Taranis NX Class
After the most tumultuous year in Star Trek Online's history, we stand on the cusp of the game's second anniversary and full-blown evolution to free-to-play. Early F2P entrance for former subscribers was opened last Thursday. And now, unfortunately, loyal subscribers have been informed that the anticipated flood of new story-based content might more accurately be described as a trickle.

In his most recent Dev Diary #11, STO's acting Executive Producer Stephen D'Angelo outlined his future hopes for the game in 2012. As players are wont to do, we read between the lines and noticed not what was contained in the blog but rather what was blatantly missing: a detailed outline of future playable content.

Continue reading Captain's Log: Will two cloud bursts cure a drought?

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Will two cloud bursts cure a drought? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 07 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adam-ihlecaptains-logCBScbs-corporationcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosf2pfeaturedfree-to-playfree-to-play-conversionneverwinteropinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentPWEsci-fiscience-fictionst-onlinestar-trekStar-Trek-MMOstar-trek-onlinestephen-dangelostotrek-onlineSat, 07 Jan 2012 14:00:00 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.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaionaion-gameAnarchy-Onlineaocccpccp-eveccp-gameschampions-onlinecharacter-creationcharacter-customizationcity-of-heroescocohcraft-of-godscraft-of-the-godscraftingcrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdaocdark-age-of-camelotdarkfalleden-eternaleq-1eq-2eq-ieq-iieveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlineever-quest-1ever-quest-2ever-quest-iever-quest-iieverquest-1everquest-2everquest-ieverquest-iifallen-earthfeaturedfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-xiflyffFuncomglitchguild-housinghousingking-of-kings-3liden-labs-second-lifelinden-labslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroluna-onlinemabinogimission-architectnc-softnc-soft-aionncsoftncsoft-aionnotorious-gamesparagonparagon-cohparagon-studioesplanetsideplayer-generated-contentplayer-generated-missionsplayer-housingplayer-run-economyrunescapeRyzomsecond-lifesecond-life-linden-labsslsl-liden-labssoe-eq-1soe-eq-2soe-eq-isoe-eq-iisome-assembly-requiredsony-eq-1sony-eq-2sony-eq-isony-eq-iisquare-enixst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotrek-onlineturbineTurbine-EntertainmentUltima-OnlineUOvanguardVanguard-Saga-of-Heroesvirtual-worldwar-of-the-immortalswizard-101xbox-360XsyonFri, 06 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Former subscribers get an early engagement to Star Trek Online's free-to-play model]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/04/former-subscribers-get-an-early-engagement-to-star-trek-onlines/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/04/former-subscribers-get-an-early-engagement-to-star-trek-onlines/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/04/former-subscribers-get-an-early-engagement-to-star-trek-onlines/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Money is really hard to maintain when you have replicators.
In the universe of Star Trek Online, it's the 24th century and humans no longer make use of money. Here in the 21st century, however, you've still got a bit more time until you can play Star Trek Online without the use of said money. Or do you? Starting tomorrow, January 5th, the doors will open for players to start enjoying the game for free before the full free-to-play launch on January 17th.

So what do you need to do to get this early access? Well, if you're asking now, you're a bit too late; the privilege is being extended to lapsed former subscribers, who can come back and play the game for free as Silver members. That means certain features will be restricted, but if you had played in the past and haven't had a chance to catch up with the newer features of the game, tomorrow will be your chance to log in and start trekking across the universe for free.

MassivelyFormer subscribers get an early engagement to Star Trek Online's free-to-play model originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosearly-accessf2pfree-to-playlapsed-subscriberslapsed-subscriptionsnewspath-to-f2psilver-membersst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestosubscriberstrek-onlineupdatesWed, 04 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online looks to anniversary updates, free-to-play updates, and beyond]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/03/star-trek-online-looks-to-anniversary-updates-free-to-play-upda/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/03/star-trek-online-looks-to-anniversary-updates-free-to-play-upda/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/03/star-trek-online-looks-to-anniversary-updates-free-to-play-upda/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Stardate... Tuesday. Point five!
Star Trek Online's second anniversary is just a month away, but the game's transition to a free-to-play model is even closer than that. In the game's latest developer diary, executive producer Stephen D'Angelo talks about updates leading into the business model shift, the anniversary, and the eventual rollout of the game's next season. A couple of new bug fixes and feature improvements will be rolled out to the live game before January 17th, at which point the game will shift over to the free-to-play mode.

In February, the game will be celebrating its anniversary with a new KDF flagship, the debut of the Odyssey-class Federation ship, and soon thereafter a series of Dominion featured episodes. Players can look forward to season 6 sometime in June, with the development team aiming at something new in the game roughly every other week once the game is free-to-play. It's a tall order, but Star Trek Online fans at least have those frequent updates to hope for if not necessarily expect.

MassivelyStar Trek Online looks to anniversary updates, free-to-play updates, and beyond originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Jan 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversariescrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdev-diariesdeveloper-diariesf2pfree-to-playpending-updatesst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestephen-dangelostotrek-onlineupdatesTue, 03 Jan 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ground skill revamp previewed for Star Trek Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/ground-skill-revamp-previewed-for-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/ground-skill-revamp-previewed-for-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/ground-skill-revamp-previewed-for-star-trek-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Our existing skill of shooting things with weapons only goes so far.
As part of the latest major patch, Star Trek Online is giving its skill system a massive overhaul, designed to make the skill functions more transparent and encourage a bit more variety in skill setups. The space skill revisions have already been previewed, but the ground skills have only just seen the light of day in the latest entry of the Path to F2P blog series. In some ways, the revisions are much smaller than those made to space combat; in other ways, the changes are bigger.

Ground skills now have two skill tracks -- one set of skills that's shared among all characters and one that's unique for each career. The shared line of skills provides straight buffs to general abilities, such as damage and shield values, while the unique line of five skills buffs career-specific abilities such as pets for Engineers, healing for Science, and buffs for Tactical. Players should peruse the full list of updates to get a sense of what ground skills will look like after the change -- they're simpler, but there's still a great deal of room for differentiation.

MassivelyGround skill revamp previewed for Star Trek Online originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Dec 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>character-abilitiescrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdesignf2pfree-to-playground-abilitiesground-skillspatchespath-to-f2pprogressionskillsst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotrek-onlineupdatesWed, 21 Dec 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Star Trek Online developer diary explores the abandoned Jem'Hadar ships]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/new-star-trek-online-developer-diary-explores-the-abandoned-jem/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/new-star-trek-online-developer-diary-explores-the-abandoned-jem/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/new-star-trek-online-developer-diary-explores-the-abandoned-jem/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Hopefully these fare better in the hands of players than as enemies.
The Dominion is, in many ways, the opposite of the Federation in Star Trek Online. Rather than being composed of several races cooperating freely for shared exploration, the Dominion features multiple races honed into single-purpose tools by the Founders. One of those tools is the Jem'Hadar, the warriors of the organization and the pilots behind the fast scarab-like attack vessels players are no doubt familiar with. And as the latest developer diary outlines, the Jem'Hadar ships are turning into a mystery -- because they're turning up empty and unharmed in the middle of Federation and Klingon space.

In game terms, the ship is small and quick and mounts a heavy offensive arrangement of officers and equipment. In lore terms, however, the presence of the ships could easily be the subject of an entire set of missions (and may be in the future, in the Foundry if not from the development team). It's an interesting fictional read as well as an interesting look at a new ship type in the game, both of which should appeal to fans of Star Trek Online

MassivelyNew Star Trek Online developer diary explores the abandoned Jem'Hadar ships originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backstorycrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdeveloper-blogdeveloper-diaryf2pfree-to-playlorenewspatchesperfect-world-entertainmentpweseason-5shipsst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotrek-onlineupdatesWed, 07 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online offering perks to subscribers before the business shift]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/02/star-trek-online-offering-perks-to-subscribers-before-the-busine/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/02/star-trek-online-offering-perks-to-subscribers-before-the-busine/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/02/star-trek-online-offering-perks-to-subscribers-before-the-busine/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

In other news, humans in the Star Trek universe don't use money.
Season 5 is now live for Star Trek Online, but the actual conversion to free-to-play is still a little further ahead. That means there's a grace period during which players can be given a few extra little perks for sticking with the game. Said perks have been outlined in the most recent Path to F2P blog entry. Until January 2nd, the classic Constitution-class ship and the Klingon Qorgh Refit are free to players who log in and claim them from the C-Store.

Subscription deals are also being offered through December 19th for players who subscribe for longer than one month. Picking up a three-month subscription will come out to around $36, and a six-month subscription will run about $66, both cheaper than the regular pricing. You can also pick up a lifetime subscription as well, if you're willing to drop $200 up front. While some players will doubtlessly be taking advantage of the shift to stop subscribing and keep playing, there's certainly no shortage of deals being offered to keep subscriptions after the switch.

MassivelyStar Trek Online offering perks to subscribers before the business shift originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Dec 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdealsdiscountsf2pfree-to-playpath-to-f2pperfect-world-entertainmentpromotionpweseason-5st-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestosubscriptionstrek-onlineFri, 02 Dec 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[A new invasion is hitting Star Trek Online's test server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/a-new-invasion-is-hitting-star-trek-onlines-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/a-new-invasion-is-hitting-star-trek-onlines-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/a-new-invasion-is-hitting-star-trek-onlines-test-server/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

That probe is double-parked, too.
There has never been a shortage of stories about the Borg assimilating a culture, but it's rare for the race to actively invade a planet. But that's exactly what's happening on Star Trek Online's test serve: Defera undergoing a large-scale invasion by the Collective. Players in both the Federation and the KDF are tasked with fighting back against the Borg in a variety of different settings across the planet to help test out this new large-scale event.

Running for two hours once started, the event is currently being activated frequently enough so that players can consistently test all of the new elements introduced. If simply taking part in the push to prevent the Borg from getting a foothold isn't enough, the event also offers players new items as mission rewards, drops, and craftables. It should be an interesting event for players to explore in full on the test server, and it serves as another example of the game taking the war against the Borg up another notch.

MassivelyA new invasion is hitting Star Trek Online's test server originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Nov 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdynamic-eventseventsf2pfree-to-playin-game-eventspatchespath-to-f2pst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotesttrek-onlineupdatesworld-eventsThu, 10 Nov 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: To spec or not to spec?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/captains-log-to-spec-or-not-to-spec/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/captains-log-to-spec-or-not-to-spec/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/captains-log-to-spec-or-not-to-spec/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Screenshot - Star Trek Online
Captain's Log, Stardate 65340.3...

Hello, computer (and players)! Unlike an answer to Shakespeare's original question, the answer to the question in this week's title is probably a no-brainer for most of you: Yes! Choosing a specialization, or "speccing," in MMOs is something that stretches across most titles out there, and Star Trek Online is no different. Whether you wish to resist attacks longer, do more damage, or add strength to your powers, choosing a customized spec can be rewarding and a challenge at the same time. With so many variables and places to spend your points, the possibilities are endless.

While this week's Captain's Log is not here to tell you what you should spec into for your particular class or ship set-up, I would like to go over the space skill point overhaul that STO is about to go through. In the past, one of the biggest complaints from players was that they did not have a clear understanding of which skill tree affected which ability. The devs heard this feedback and have been working on a complete revamp to make these decisions simpler. Hopefully, this will allow you to have a better understanding of where and why to spend your points in a particular skill when you do have to re-spec at the launch of F2P on January 17th, 2012.

Ensign, warp 10! Let's get our readers' bookmark buttons ready...

Continue reading Captain's Log: To spec or not to spec?

MassivelyCaptain's Log: To spec or not to spec? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Nov 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batteriescaptain-gekocaptains-logcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosefficiencyenergy-weaponsengineering-systemsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playguidelivestreamoperation-systemsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentprojectile-weaponsre-specscience-systemsshakespeareskillpointsspecspeccingspecializationspecsst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotactical-systemstargeting-systemstrek-onlinetribbletwittertwitterverseweaponsThu, 10 Nov 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dates outlined for Star Trek Online's free-to-play conversion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/09/dates-outlined-for-star-trek-onlines-free-to-play-conversion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/09/dates-outlined-for-star-trek-onlines-free-to-play-conversion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/09/dates-outlined-for-star-trek-onlines-free-to-play-conversion/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Stardate... Tuesday. Point five!
The cat is officially out of the bag: Star Trek Online is switching over its new free-to-play model on January 17th, 2012. And if you're looking forward to the shift in payment models, you might think that's the only date you need to be concerned with at the moment. But there are a few more milestones for players to look for, starting with December 1st. That's the day when players will start receiving their point stipends for subscription, with a stipend of 400 points on the billing date for the account.

Another major date listed in the latest Path to F2P blog is December 8th -- that's the latest date that the team is planning to push the current test build on to the live servers. Sometime between the 1st and the 8th, the build will go live, with several enhancements and upgrades for existing subscribers even without the inclusion of free players. So mark your calendar because these are some rather important dates to keep watch on as the next month of testing and refinement rounds out.

MassivelyDates outlined for Star Trek Online's free-to-play conversion originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 Nov 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Borg's susceptibility to computer issues suggests that the Collective is still running on a Windows 98 tower.
Bugs and design issues are present even in the universe of Star Trek Online, ranging from irritating interface bugs on ship consoles to the apparently frequent bug that causes the holodeck to nearly kill everyone on the ship every few weeks. They also crop up in the game itself, of course, but as outlined in the latest Path to F2P blog, the development team is focusing in closely on trying to eliminate several bugs and design issues currently in the game.

Patrol missions, for instance, are being changed from a flat sequence of isolated system missions into a more freeform system that scales with level. Crafting changes are also being put in place, giving players "material blocks" to work with that are purchase via dilithium, thereby allowing fleets and groups of players to shunt crafting resources toward a single player. The entry also hints at an entirely new form of content coming to the test server over the next month, although players will have to wait to find out what that means.

[Edit: More details on the F2P switch have also surfaced, thanks to our friends at IGN.]

MassivelyNewest test server pass for Star Trek Online aimed at cleaning up [Updated with F2P date!] originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 Nov 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balance-adjustmentsbug-fixescrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdesign-fixesf2pfixesfree-to-playnew-contentpath-to-f2ppreviewst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotrek-onlineupcoming-contentTue, 08 Nov 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online outlines the next several veteran rewards for players]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/star-trek-online-outlines-the-next-several-veteran-rewards-for-p/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/star-trek-online-outlines-the-next-several-veteran-rewards-for-p/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/star-trek-online-outlines-the-next-several-veteran-rewards-for-p/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Military organizations force you to buy new ships to command, unless you've been around a really long time. Then they'll give you a free one eventually.
There's still no definite date on the conversion to free-to-play for Star Trek Online, but the game is quickly approaching its 700th day of operation -- which is important. The game's veteran awards are provided for players in 100-day increments, meaning that the point is fast approaching when the players will be owed a new reward. So it makes sense that the latest Path to F2P blog discusses the next four veteran rewards and explains another upgrade to the reward for 600 days.

The 600-day reward will change to a free token at level 51 (Vice Admiral) allowing players to pick a free ship, something that is currently the case but is being changed with the upcoming patch. This veteran reward means long-time players will still be eligible for a free ship, a benefit that should help assuage at least some of the issues seen with the payment model shift. The subsequent rewards range from new Android bridge officers to free respec tokens, all of which should make long-time players rather pleased.

MassivelyStar Trek Online outlines the next several veteran rewards for players originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 Nov 2011 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blogcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdeveloper-blogf2pfree-to-playpath-to-f2pplayer-rewardsrewardsst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotrek-onlineupdatesveteran-rewardsveteransMon, 07 Nov 2011 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Overhaul to skills coming to Star Trek Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/overhaul-to-skills-coming-to-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/overhaul-to-skills-coming-to-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/overhaul-to-skills-coming-to-star-trek-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Not pictured: Astrometrics.
The core of progression in Star Trek Online has always been the game's sprawling skill system, but it's also proved to be something of a weakness. Not only were several of the skills difficult to understand at a glance (Astrometrics offers benefits not instantly apparent, for instance), but the higher-tier skills were often prohibitively expensive in terms of skill points. That's why in addition to all of the other changes going live with the game's free-to-play conversion, the development team is working on a major skill overhaul so that players can know what each skill does and so that everything feels worthwhile.

A list of the new skills and their effects are included with the newest installment of the Path to F2P blog, with the changes allowing players to more easily switch between ship types and weapon types without feeling unduly penalized. In addition, skills are now clearly separated into buffs to click abilities or passive benefits, rather than having them tied together in several cases. It's a wide-sweeping set of revisions but hopefully one that will help make the system more transparent for all players.

MassivelyOverhaul to skills coming to Star Trek Online originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Nov 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>character-progressioncrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosf2pfree-to-playgame-mechanicspath-to-f2pplayer-skillsskill-revisionsskillsst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotrek-onlineFri, 04 Nov 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online opens up testing for the dilithium exchange]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/star-trek-online-opens-up-testing-for-the-dilithium-exchange/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/star-trek-online-opens-up-testing-for-the-dilithium-exchange/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/star-trek-online-opens-up-testing-for-the-dilithium-exchange/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

If you could transfer it back into real money, you could sell a starship and buy a pizza.
The economy of free-to-play games can be a tricky business. Usually, they're managed by keeping a strict distinction between in-game currency and purchased currency, but Star Trek Online is taking a slightly different approach. The upcoming overarching currency dilithium can be traded for Cryptic Points via the new dilithium exchange service, which has just gone live on the Tribble server for players to test. But the trade isn't a straight one, instead working on an auction-type system.

The newest Path to F2P blog outlines the means for players to use the exchange system, which works both ways -- players can look to buy dilithium or Cryptic Points and are able to browse the overall market and see what other players are offering or asking. It's not quite as simple as being able to swipe your credit card and then grab some in-game money, but it's certainly blurring the lines between real currency and game money.

MassivelyStar Trek Online opens up testing for the dilithium exchange originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studioscurrencycurrency-exchangecurrency-systemsdilithiumf2pfree-to-playmicrotransactionsst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotrek-onlineThu, 03 Nov 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: A two-minute read could save you 15% or more on nerdrage insurance]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/captains-log-a-two-minute-read-could-save-you-15-or-more-on-n/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/captains-log-a-two-minute-read-could-save-you-15-or-more-on-n/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/captains-log-a-two-minute-read-could-save-you-15-or-more-on-n/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot - Star Trek Online
Captain's Log, Stardate 65340.3...

Hello, computer (and players)! Welcome to this week's edition of Captain's Log, brought to you by "Geko" Insurance. (And let's just say, you may want to purchase a policy). If you are a Star Trek Online player who watches Cryptic's official forums, you know that the game experienced an Occupy movement of its own this past weekend. Even if you don't frequent the forums, you may have seen some of the concerns raised through the #STO Twitter feed.

Over the weekend, players lashed out against some of the recent changes that have made their way to the Tribble test server. It may be surprising to some of you reading this, but the commotion was not related to the economy changes. The main concern is that some of the items for purchase in the C-Store are going to be changing from account-wide unlocks to per-character transactions. While I was a little perturbed at the thought too, I was happy to see that some of the misconceptions were cleared up once we got an official statement from one of the devs. But since there is a lot more to the story, let's take a look.

Ensign, warp 10! And don't forget to buckle your seatbelt...

Continue reading Captain's Log: A two-minute read could save you 15% or more on nerdrage insurance

MassivelyCaptain's Log: A two-minute read could save you 15% or more on nerdrage insurance originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>al-riverabalanceboycottc-storec-store-pointscaptain-gekocaptains-logconsumablescraftingcrypticcryptic-pointscryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdoffduty-officerduty-officer-systemExchangef2pfeaturedfeedbackforumsfree-to-playhereticlivestreammarketingpatch-notesperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestarshipsstotrek-onlinetribbletribble-test-servertwitterunlock-statusThu, 03 Nov 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Every day I'm tribbleing]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/captains-log-every-day-i-m-tribbleing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/captains-log-every-day-i-m-tribbleing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/captains-log-every-day-i-m-tribbleing/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot - Star Trek Online
Captain's Log, Stardate 65322.9...

Hello, computer (and players)! For the past several weeks, Star Trek Online players have been checking out the latest F2P beta builds on the Tribble test server. While there have been a few patches on other days, more for stability fixes and minor tweaking, Thursdays seem to be the designated day for us to receive the largest pushes of new content. The latest round of updates has brought further economy changes, new events and ships, and even more heated debates. Since we seem to be a ways out from the seeing the updates ported to the Holodeck live server, there is still plenty of time to check it all out and provide your feedback to the devs.

I would like to dedicate this entry to those who are helping test the changes. This week's Captain's Log serves as a checklist of sorts on what new content you can test and where you can provide feedback about it. As you read through, I suggest that you read a particular section, jump into game to check out the particular change, formulate an opinion, and head to the linked forum where you can leave your feedback. No matter what you think, it's important to let the devs know -- they will make changes based upon a collective opinion.

Ensign, warp 10! It's time to create our own party rock anthem...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Every day I'm tribbleing

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Every day I'm tribbleing originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilityc-storeconsolecraftingcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdaily-eventdevdev-blogdev-diarydeveloper-blogdeveloper-diarydevsdilithiumdoffduty-officerduty-officer-systemevent-calendarf2pfeature-testingfeaturedfeedbackforumforumsfree-to-playgame-mechanicsgame-systemsgeargozerhereticklingon-academylivestreamloglore-missionspatchespath-to-f2pperfect-world-entertainmentpowerpwesci-fishipsspecial-task-forcespecial-task-force-missionsspecial-testingstst-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestarfleet-academystephen-dangelostfstf-updatesstostormshadetest-servertrek-onlineuiui-tweakupdatesThu, 27 Oct 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online strengthening the fight against the Borg]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/22/star-trek-online-strengthening-the-fight-against-the-borg/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/22/star-trek-online-strengthening-the-fight-against-the-borg/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/22/star-trek-online-strengthening-the-fight-against-the-borg/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

RESISTANCE IS PROBABLY NOT A REALLY GOOD IDEA, WAIT LET ME TRY THAT AGAIN.
Since launch, Star Trek Online has always used the Borg as a major threat. This is evidenced by the Borg's position in several of the game's Strategic Task Forces, top-end challenges for the best of the best in the Federation and the KDF. The conversion to free-to-play will include improvements and updates for these STFs, starting with a change explained in the latest installment of the Path to F2P blog series.

The first change is the shift to two separate difficulty modes, Normal and Elite. STFs are also being added to the PvE queue feature so that players can more easily assemble a group. Last but not least, the missions will feature special rewards that can be traded for a variety of anti-Borg equipment, allowing successful players the chance to better tune their ships for future runs. These updates won't reduce the threat level of the Borg, but they should help more players face off against one of the game's marquee opponents.

MassivelyStar Trek Online strengthening the fight against the Borg originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 22 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balancecontentcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosf2pfree-to-playfuture-patcheslootpatchespath-to-f2ppve-queuequeuequeue-systemrewardsst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestfstostrategic-task-forcetrek-onlineupdatesSat, 22 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: More on the economy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/captains-log-more-on-the-economy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/captains-log-more-on-the-economy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/captains-log-more-on-the-economy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot - Star Trek Online
Captain's Log, Stardate 65303.9...

Hello, computer (and players)! As I discussed last week, heated discussions surround Star Trek Online's change to a F2P hybrid model and planned game mechanics updates. While new updates are being pushed to the Tribble server for testing and feedback, many aspects are in a state of flux as such feedback is collected, evaluated, and implemented. The biggest area affected is the economy. While everyone has his own thoughts on the matter, Cryptic is leaving no feedback forum post unread -- the players will help shape these changes.

Last week, we saw the push of another patch that seems to have made some giant strides toward solving some of the biggest concerns, including significant reductions in prices for most items and the return of free ship tokens for most ranks. Stephen D'Angelo, acting Executive Producer and Emergency Executive Producer Hologram (EEPH), explained: "Based on how rapidly we're getting data and revising the game, we're still probably two more weeks away from having the economy in a state that is close to good enough." Since he said a lot more in his recent dev blog post, I thought I should take some time to expound on it.

Ensign, warp 10! Let's take a look at what else the EEPH had to say and break it down...

Continue reading Captain's Log: More on the economy

MassivelyCaptain's Log: More on the economy originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 Oct 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auction-housec-storec-store-pointsconsumablescrypticcryptic-pointscryptic-star-trekcryptic-studioscurrencycurrency-exchangedangelodev-blogdilithiumdoffduty-officerduty-officer-systemeephenergy-credit-systemenergy-creditsExchangef2pfeaturedfeedbackforumsfree-to-playhigh-end-gearlivestreamperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpvpspecial-task-forcest-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestarshipsstephen-dangelostfstotop-end-geartrek-onlinetribbletribble-test-serverThu, 20 Oct 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online opens character transfers to the test server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/star-trek-online-opens-character-transfers-to-the-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/star-trek-online-opens-character-transfers-to-the-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/star-trek-online-opens-character-transfers-to-the-test-server/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

You're going forward in time, not backward. But that's not the point.
When the testing process started for Star Trek Online's upcoming free-to-play version, players were limited to creating new characters rather than bringing over old favorites. The reasoning was simple: Because the game will be flinging the doors open to a flood of new players, that experience absolutely needs to be top-notch. But now that the testing has been ongoing for some time, the Tribble test server is open for players to bring a higher-ranked Federation or Klingon character across.

Naturally, there are some restrictions to the process, namely that players are limited in their overall number of characters transferred. Characters will also be updated to the newer game version, meaning several currency changes for Federation characters and a long list of changes for any Klingon characters. The newest entry in the Path to F2P blog series outlines the details, which should be pertinent to any players eager to see what their characters will play like when the business model shifts.

MassivelyStar Trek Online opens character transfers to the test server originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Oct 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>character-transferscrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosf2pfree-to-playst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotesttest-servertrek-onlinetribbleupdatesTue, 18 Oct 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Newest Star Trek Online blog details upcoming event system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/16/newest-star-trek-online-blog-details-upcoming-event-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/16/newest-star-trek-online-blog-details-upcoming-event-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/16/newest-star-trek-online-blog-details-upcoming-event-system/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Not pictured: regular events in which the holodeck malfunctions and threatens to kill crew members. It's every other hour.
One of the major elements of the shows that Star Trek Online follows is one that assures there's always something happening. No ships are just idly floating about waiting for another urgent mission. That's where the new events system detailed in the latest Path to F2P blog comes in. It's a dynamic set of events and missions for players to take part in for a limited time, ranging from pure combat encounters to more social challenges among cadets and civilians.

As the blog outlines, players will be given access to a calendar showing the in-game events planned for the next 48 hours, with other special events popping up and leaving on a less regular schedule. Players can queue up to take part in these events as they become available, giving an alternate path to the extant missions and episodes. It's a fairly involved system overall, and it's the sort of thing that could help convey a sense of a dynamic universe.

MassivelyNewest Star Trek Online blog details upcoming event system originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 16 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdynamic-contentdynamic-eventseventsf2pfree-to-playgame-mechanicsin-game-eventsnew-systemspath-to-f2pscheduled-eventsst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotrek-onlineupdatesSun, 16 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online dev blog clarifies free-to-play currency trades]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/14/star-trek-online-dev-blog-clarifies-free-to-play-currency-trades/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/14/star-trek-online-dev-blog-clarifies-free-to-play-currency-trades/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/14/star-trek-online-dev-blog-clarifies-free-to-play-currency-trades/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Star Trek Online title image
Ever since Cryptic announced that Star Trek Online is going free to play, developers have published regular "Path to F2P" dev blogs discussing upcoming changes designed to restructure the game for its new payment scheme. In the latest dev blog in the series, STO Executive Producer Stephen D'Angelo looks at the in-game economy and how going free-to-play will affect the various currencies in use.

Energy credits will be used for practically everything encountered in normal gameplay, functioning like gold in most fantasy MMOs. Players can expect to use energy credits every time they play, and receive them as rewards. Dilithium will be used by hardcore players to get high-end gear, but the average casual player will never need it in significant quantities. Cryptic points will be reserved for cash shop items like new ships, but Cryptic aims to let players trade their cryptic points to other players for dilithium.

When the system goes live, players will be able to grind for dilithium in order to buy cash shop items without paying cash. At the same time, hardcore players will be able to short-cut the dilithium grind and quickly obtain high-end equipment with an injection of cryptic points. This system mirrors the diamond trade in Runes of Magic and the PLEX trade in EVE Online, both systems that have proven highly effective at allowing cash-rich players to shortcut grind and letting time-rich players play their way to everything the game has to offer.

MassivelyStar Trek Online dev blog clarifies free-to-play currency trades originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 14 Oct 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-pointscryptic-star-trekcryptic-studioscurrencydiamondsdilithiumenergy-credit-systemenergy-creditsf2pfree-to-playnewsplexst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestephen-dangelostotrek-onlineFri, 14 Oct 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: The voices of reason]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/captains-log-the-voices-of-reason/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/captains-log-the-voices-of-reason/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/captains-log-the-voices-of-reason/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot - Star Trek Online
Captain's Log, Stardate 65284.2...

Hello, computer (and players)! It is often said that the voices of the gaming community are some of the loudest, and most passionate, around. This is especially true within the Star Trek Online community. While some may see particular posts made in Cryptic's forums as trolling or whining, others see passion and dedication for making the game they love the best it can be. There is no denying that there will always be those who love to hate and hate to love, but there are also community members out there who are the voices of reason -- they take their time to carefully examine something and provide appropriate and well-thought feedback on how to make something better.

As STO is preparing to re-launch with its F2P model, many changes are being pushed to the Tribble test server for players to playtest and provide feedback on. Before the test shards ever open, debates based on the patch notes begin. After a few hours of testing on Tribble, players make their feedback posts public in hopes that developers notice and hear their opinions. The great news here is that the developers are reading each post and have vowed that feedback does not go unnoticed. Since I have been following this feedback closely myself, I thought I should share some of it here.

Ensign, warp 10! Let's share some recent community feedback on two of the hottest topics out there...

Continue reading Captain's Log: The voices of reason

MassivelyCaptain's Log: The voices of reason originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Oct 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>c-storec-store-pointscommunitycrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdevelopersF2Pfeaturedfeedbackfree-to-playgold-membersgrindholodeckperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesilver-membersst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestothe-economytrek-onlinetribbletrollingtrollsThu, 13 Oct 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Newest F2P blog for Star Trek Online talks about dilithium]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/07/newest-f2p-blog-for-star-trek-online-talks-about-dilithium/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/07/newest-f2p-blog-for-star-trek-online-talks-about-dilithium/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/07/newest-f2p-blog-for-star-trek-online-talks-about-dilithium/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Looks like the Corvette of starships. And priced like one.
Star Trek Online has always had a variety of currencies for players, each allowing access to different stocks of items. But another form of money is coming into the game, and much like gold-pressed latinum, it's something that has a long history in lore. The rare and valuable dilithium is being introduced as a new form of reward, and the latest entry in the Path to F2P series discusses just how the new form of money will work.

The most important role that the ore will play will be in replacing the existing free ship tokens that had previously come when players achieved a new rank. Earning a new ship will now be a more difficult and involved task, with a discount coupon and a free offering of refined dilithium to make it easier to earn a ship on a rank increase, but it won't be automatic. The entry goes on to state that the current implementation on the test server is not quite right, and it includes more discussion about how much effort is meant to be involved in getting a brand-new ship.

MassivelyNewest F2P blog for Star Trek Online talks about dilithium originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 07 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studioscurrenciescurrencydilithiumf2pfree-to-playgame-mechanicsin-game-currencymoneyorepath-to-f2prewardsshipsst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotrek-onlineFri, 07 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Testing out the future]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/captains-log-testing-out-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/captains-log-testing-out-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/captains-log-testing-out-the-future/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Star Trek Online wallpaper of a pile of Tribbles
Captain's Log, Stardate 65264.3...

Hello, computer (and players)! As you have must have seen by now, open beta testing of Star Trek Online's new F2P model is well underway; the developers have been posting dev diaries about the impending changes for the last couple of days. Because testers on the Tribble test server were required to start new characters, and because character transfers will not be an option for at least a few weeks, many players have begun a mad dash to level up their test characters in order to test out some of the retooled endgame content.

Since testing, especially in this manner, can be confusing, I have decided to dedicate this week's Captain's Log to those who are willing to take on the challenge. Past the jump, you will find a checklist of sorts that you can use while testing (or, ultimately, playing) the new content and updates. I suggest reading each section and then checking it out in-game. While some recommendations may seem less interesting than others, I suggest you give each a fair shot so you can provide feedback on what can make the game better.

Ensign, warp 10! Let's give our dedicated Tribbleites some structure to their testing time...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Testing out the future

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Testing out the future originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 06 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blogc-storecrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studioscurrencycurrency-updatedan-griffisdeep-space-ninedev-blogdev-diarydeveloper-blogdeveloper-diaryduty-officerduty-officer-systemevent-calendarf2pfeature-testingfeaturedfree-to-playgame-mechanicsgame-systemsgeoff-tuffligozerlivestreamlore-missionsmission-journalmission-windownew-systemspatchespath-to-f2pperfect-world-entertainmentpweremasteredsci-fispecial-testingstst-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestephen-dangelostfstf-updatesstotest-servertesting-rewardstrek-onlinetutorialtutorial-updateuiui-tweakupdatesThu, 06 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online bringing the Klingons into the free-to-play test realm]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/star-trek-online-bringing-the-klingons-into-the-free-to-play-tes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/star-trek-online-bringing-the-klingons-into-the-free-to-play-tes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/star-trek-online-bringing-the-klingons-into-the-free-to-play-tes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Space. The place where we will fight a large number of people for honor.
The KDF faction has always struggled in Star Trek Online, from its early perception among players as the game's red-headed stepchild of a PvP faction to the present day. But there are still dedicated Klingon players, and there's no shortage of love for the faction in the lore. So there will no doubt be many players happy that starting on October 6th, the Klingon's new and improved play experience will be up for players to enjoy on the test server.

In a significant departure from the past, Klingon players will now start well into the Lieutenant Commander rank, giving players a sizable jump in levels. The story arcs for the faction are now threaded together to alleviate the sometimes confusing structure of the story missions, giving a uniquely Klingon experience from start to finish. And as with all of the testing going on prior to the game's free-to-play conversion, players who clock in enough time to reach level 31 on a Klingon character will earn some bonus rewards -- enough to stir a true warrior's blood for the honor of victory.

MassivelyStar Trek Online bringing the Klingons into the free-to-play test realm originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 Oct 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosf2pfactionsfree-to-playkdfklingonspath-to-f2pst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotesttest-servertesting-rewardstrek-onlineWed, 05 Oct 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Testing players to receive rewards in Star Trek Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/testing-players-to-receive-rewards-in-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/testing-players-to-receive-rewards-in-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/testing-players-to-receive-rewards-in-star-trek-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

They're not actually all that troublesome.
One of the little carrots that Star Trek Online has always given its players is a reward for playing on the test server. Specifically, by playing on the Tribble server, players receive a unique "bonus" tribble for their captain on the live server. The fourth entry in the Path to F2P blog series promises that players who take part on the test server will once again receive a special ball of fluff to call their own... but there's more on the way.

The special reward tribble will be given to anyone who either reaches level 6 on a character created for the test server or transfers a higher-level character over once the transfers become available. Current subscribers who clock in time on the server will also be eligible for several other small rewards -- nothing spectacular individually, but enough so that players who log in regular testing will feel a bit of an extra bonus. The test server will get the KDF faction opened this week, so Star Trek Online players will have plenty to test in the name of easily replicating cooing dustbunnies.

The fifth Path to F2P blog post has also gone live this evening with more details on how to rack up these test points and a deeper explanation for why you'd want to do so.

MassivelyTesting players to receive rewards in Star Trek Online originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Oct 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-model-conversionconversioncrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosf2pfeature-testingfree-to-playpath-to-f2pspecial-testingst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestephen-dangelostotest-servertesting-rewardstrek-onlinetribbletribblesupdatesTue, 04 Oct 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Newest Star Trek Online blog entry outlines the Duty Officer system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/02/newest-star-trek-online-blog-entry-outlines-the-duty-officer-sys/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/02/newest-star-trek-online-blog-entry-outlines-the-duty-officer-sys/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/02/newest-star-trek-online-blog-entry-outlines-the-duty-officer-sys/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

And they say EVE is full of spreadsheets.
One of the issues that Star Trek Online has always faced when emulating its source material is the simple issue of size. Players take the role of a captain overseeing an entire ship, crewed with numerous people, a ship that in the television series would be filled with actors and recurring faces. But in gameplay, that sense has always been a bit more difficult to convey... and it's an element being addressed with the new Duty Officer system.

In the latest entry in the Path to F2P blog, Geoff Tuffli outlines the goals and overall thrust of the Duty Officer system. Players will receive Duty Officers as rewards in a variety of ways, including spending time in the academy for each respective faction. The officers can be placed in departments, sent on assignments, or otherwise managed by players in order to receive the greatest amount of benefit from the support staff. It's a feature that's long been promised by the development team, and as the game moves toward a hybrid business model, it looks to finally be moving to release.

MassivelyNewest Star Trek Online blog entry outlines the Duty Officer system originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 02 Oct 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blogcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdeveloper-blogdeveloper-diaryduty-officerf2pfree-to-playgame-mechanicsgame-systemsgeoff-tufflinew-systemspatchespath-to-f2pstst-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotrek-onlineupdatesSun, 02 Oct 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: What's your (energy) type?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/captains-log-whats-your-energy-type/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/captains-log-whats-your-energy-type/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/captains-log-whats-your-energy-type/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Star Trek Online screenshot
Captain's Log, Stardate 65244.9...

Hello, computer (and players)! Happy birthday to me, happy birthday to me, happy birthday dear meeeeeee, happy birthday to me. Sorry, I couldn't resist. Yes, today is my birthday, and the best present I could receive is being able to share this week's Captain's Log with you all. As we get closer and closer to the F2P re-launch of Star Trek Online, I expect that there will be new captains tuning into this column each week, so to help support our new comrades in between the weeks that feature an influx of breaking news and developments, I am going to be taking some time to educate everyone on a few of the game's mechanics.

When I first started playing STO, I often found myself wondering about many of the choices available to my different characters. From armor to shields, deflectors to engines, and kits to weapons, there is an endless array of options that we can decide to play with and use. One of the most frequently asked questions I get from new players is, "What is the best energy type to use for my ship's weapons?" In the past, when I really did not know much, I would choose my type by the color it emitted. I now know that "pretty" does not equal "power." While each type has its own special bonuses, it's up to you to decide which to use and why. Here's to hoping I can aid in that decision.

Ensign, warp 10! Let's take a look at the spectrum of colors and their abilities...

Continue reading Captain's Log: What's your (energy) type?

MassivelyCaptain's Log: What's your (energy) type? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antiprotonarmorbirthdaycaptains-logcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdeflectorsdisruptorenginesF2Pfeaturedfree-to-playkitslivestreamperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentphaserplasmapolaronprocpweshieldsspecst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestosubsystemstertryontrek-onlineTribbleweaponsThu, 29 Sep 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online outlining the road to free-to-play]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/star-trek-online-outlining-the-road-to-free-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/star-trek-online-outlining-the-road-to-free-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/star-trek-online-outlining-the-road-to-free-to-play/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Poke the energy being with a stick, sir? Sure thing! This is probably okay.
The conversion to free-to-play isn't here yet for Star Trek Online, but it's on its way. And like so many things in the franchise, it's starting off with a sacrificial redshirt. Specifically, it's kicking off with the advent of the RedShirt test server for the game, as explained in the first "Path to F2P" blog entry on the official site. It's not that Tribble, the longtime test server, is being removed altogether -- instead, it's being repurposed to allow current subscribers a preview of the game's upcoming conversion.

According to executive producer Stephen D'Angelo, Tribble will reopen for players on the 29th, although it will not be accepting character transfers upon opening. This is intentional, as the development team wants players to test out the new early portions of the game and enjoy the revised experience. It's the start of what promises to be a long path, but current subscribers and the team behind the game get to walk it one step at a time.

MassivelyStar Trek Online outlining the road to free-to-play originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Sep 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelconversioncrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdevelopmentf2pfree-to-playpreviewsredshirtst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestephen-dangelostotest-servertestingtrek-onlinetribbleThu, 29 Sep 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Preparing for launch (and farewells)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/captains-log-preparing-for-launch-and-farewells/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/captains-log-preparing-for-launch-and-farewells/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/captains-log-preparing-for-launch-and-farewells/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Star Trek Online screenshot
Hello, computer (and players)! As we are all now aware, the development team at Star Trek Online is busy making its preparations to re-launch the game with a hybrid, free-to-play model. Currently, the Tribble test server has been taken down as a beta build is being prepared for testing. In the meantime, Red Shirt, originally a Closed Beta test sever, has been opened up to current subscribers to continue testing new releases that will occur between now and the F2P launch. While there is still no date set for when this will be happening, many signs point to an October or November launch period.

To add to the craziness that must be going on at Cryptic's headquarters in Northern California, on Tuesday, Dan Stahl, Executive Producer of STO, publicly announced that he would be vacating the Captain's Chair as he moves on to a new endeavor in his career. Effective immediately, Stephen D'Angelo, Cryptic's CTO, will be taking temporary command as the search for a new EP begins. While this came as a shock to many and was completely unexpected even by me, it may not be the "end of the world" as some players are calling it. Let's explore more.

Ensign, warp 10! Set sensors to maximum range as we explore a little bit more about this change...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Preparing for launch (and farewells)

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Preparing for launch (and farewells) originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahldevelopment-teamepescortexecutive-producerfeaturedlivestreampatchperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpvppweredshirtst-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestephen-dangelostotest-servertrek-onlinetribbleThu, 22 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Class spotlight - Engineer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/captains-log-class-spotlight-engineer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/captains-log-class-spotlight-engineer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/captains-log-class-spotlight-engineer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Star Trek Online engineer patch
Captain's Log, Stardate 65205.7...

Hello, computer (and players)! As you may or may not know, the Star Trek franchise celebrated a momentous birthday last week as it turned 45 years old. While humankind first set out to "boldly going where no one has gone before" in the late 1960s, its legacy lives on today, four decades later, through Star Trek Online. Although the game has had its fair shares of ups and downs, I am not afraid to stand behind it and be proud of it for being able to continue Gene Roddenberry's dream. I am also extremely honored to play a small part in its history by bringing you Captain's Log each week, and I look forward to what the next 45 years hold.

I'd like to welcome each of you to the third and final installment of my three-part series focusing on the classes within STO. After checking out the awesome DPS that Tactical captains can dish out a couple of weeks back, we now shift our focus to the Scottys, LaForges, Obriens, and Torreses of the game -- the Engineering captains. Players taking on this role often find themselves having a blast, literally, as they materialize their defense and medical turrets, call on their support and seeker drones, and deploy their force fields and cover shields. While there are a variety of powers that this career can utilize, I would like to showcase a few of them past the jump.

Ensign, warp... actually, no; it's actually time to realign the dilithium matrix...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Class spotlight - Engineer

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Class spotlight - Engineer originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armekborgclassescrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdirected-energy-modulationeject-warp-plasmaemergency-poweremergency-power-to-auxiliaryemergency-power-to-shieldsengineering-teamextend-shieldsfeaturedfuse-armorlivestreammedical-generator-fabricationperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentRebecca-Simmonsred-alertscience-teamshield-generator-fabricationst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlineSTFstosto-class-spotlightsto-wikitrek-onlineturret-fabricationweapons-malfunctionwikiThu, 15 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Setting a new course]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/captains-log-setting-a-new-course/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/captains-log-setting-a-new-course/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/captains-log-setting-a-new-course/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Star Trek Online logo
Hello, computer (and players)! Leave your credit cards, er, I mean, Latinum, at the turbolift door -- Star Trek Online has changed course for a new destination... Planet Free-to-Play. As we reported late last week (thanks again to tipster The First Avenger and @Altexist), it was announced during a Perfect World Entertainment earnings call that STO would be adopting a new subscription model before year's end. Little did we know that the plan to make a full-scale announcement had already been in the works and was set to have been released this week, the first inkling of which we saw this past Tuesday.

The press release and new F2P information page that Cryptic has launched on STO's home page contains a lot of information that explains the different benefits that paying and non-paying players will experience. As it did with Champions Online, the development team is planning on being as transparent as possible, listening to feedback, and making adjustments based on closed beta experiences of the new hybrid model. This week's Captain's Log is going to explore some of these benefits, shed some positive light on some worries, share with you exclusive answers to some questions we sent into PR, and let you know some of my overall personal thoughts -- so without further ado, make it so!

Ensign, warp 10! Let's help our readers decide whether they are going to be Silver or Gold members...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Setting a new course

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Setting a new course originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>character-slotscrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studioscustomer-servicedaniel-stahlenergy-creditsf2pfeaturedfeatures-matrixfleetfleetsfoundryfree-to-playkdfklingonklingon-factionlivestreammonthly-stipendperfect-world-entertainmentQ-and-Arespec-tokenst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestipendstothe-foundrytrek-onlineThu, 08 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Class spotlight - Tactical]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/captains-log-class-spotlight-tactical/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/captains-log-class-spotlight-tactical/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/captains-log-class-spotlight-tactical/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Star Trek Online tactical patch
Captain's Log, Stardate 65168.1...

Hello, computer (and players)! Welcome to Captain's Log and the second installment in a three-part series focusing on the classes within Star Trek Online. After exploring some of the amazing powers available to those who roll a Science captain, we shift our focus away from support and healing this week to dive into the realm of DPS. While this realm can be filled with members of all three classes, Tactical captains, if specced correctly, take the trophy each and every time.

Ever since the game launched early last year, my main toon has always been a Tactical captain. During the time I leveled up, I tested out different types of ships at each rank. While flying a science ship as a Tactical captain was fun during the early stages of leveling, I would definitely suggest flying an escort, or if you must, a cruiser, when you first make it to Rear Admiral. I am sure there are some Tacticals out there flying Science classes, but I feel that the Bridge Officer stations equipped on escorts allow the best Tactical abilities to come into play. But enough about telling you what to do -- let's move onto talking about some of the best attack powers in the game.

Ensign, warp 10! It's time to help our reads unload some DPS on their next enemy...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Class spotlight - Tactical

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Class spotlight - Tactical originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Sep 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilityattack-patternattack-pattern-betaattack-pattern-omegabeam-array-fire-at-willcannon-rapid-firecaptains-logclassclass-spotlightcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosengineerengineer-officerfeaturedguideguidesKAkhitomer-accordlivestreammotion-acceleratoroverwatchrally-crysciencescience-officerskill-treeskill-tree-blockst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestealth-moduleSTFstosto-class-spotlightstun-grenadesuppressing-firetacticaltactical-officertactical-teamtorpedo-high-yieldtrek-onlineThu, 01 Sep 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Class spotlight - Science]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/25/captains-log-class-spotlight-science/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/25/captains-log-class-spotlight-science/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/25/captains-log-class-spotlight-science/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Star Trek Online medical patch
Captain's Log, Stardate 65150.3...

Hello, computer (and players)! McCoy, Crusher, Bashir, the EMH and Phlox are all known for their amazing medical skills throughout the many series of Star Trek. While some of these Doctors were the most beloved characters in all of the franchise, Science officers seem to be a rare item in the Star Trek Online universe. Although Science is the least commonly played career, many who do venture into the field have rewarding gaming experiences due to the different sub-careers they can spec into.

This week's Captain's Log introduces the first installment in a three-part series that will span the next few weeks -- each entry will focus on a different class and provide some great information that you will be able to reference the next time you roll a new character. Whether you prefer to provide support through healing, debuffs, or powerful expose attacks that leave your enemies vulnerable to vaporization, this spotlight on Science captains has something for everyone. Continue past the jump for information of some of my favorite skills for Science officers.

Ensign, warp 10! Let's get those medical tricorders ready for use...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Class spotlight - Science

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Class spotlight - Science originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 25 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilitycaptains-logcharged-particle-burstclassclass-spotlightcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdoctorExothermic-Induction-Fieldfeaturedfeedback-pulseguideguideshazard-emittersHyperonic-radiationjam-sensorsKAkhitomer-accordlivestreammedical-tricordernantie-health-monitorPhotonic-Shock-Wavesciencescience-officerscramble-sensorsskill-treeskill-tree-blockst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlineSTFstosto-class-spotlighttachyon-harmonictrek-onlinetriageThu, 25 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Incoming messages from the devs... again]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/captains-log-incoming-messages-from-the-devs-again/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/captains-log-incoming-messages-from-the-devs-again/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/captains-log-incoming-messages-from-the-devs-again/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Photo from the event
Captain's Log, Stardate 65131.6...

Hello, computer (and players)! I seem to mention this all the time, but I believe it to be true: The developers working on Star Trek Online are more transparent with their work than the devs of most other games. Whether or not this transparency has been always been a good thing is debatable, though. Still, no matter what one's thoughts on this are, I think we can all agree we like to be "in the know" when it comes to new things in development. This past weekend, a select group of STO players was able to attend another Dine with the Devs event, hosted by yours truly, where transparency was taken to the next level.

As I let you all know last week, the second-ever Dine with the STO Devs event coincided with some STO devs' visit to the Star Trek Las Vegas convention. Over 50 players gathered at a local Vegas restaurant to eat, drink and bombard Cryptic's developers with their most burning questions. Because 99.99% of the game's players were unable to attend, I captured the entire event on audio and would like to present you with a basic transcript of the evening's events. So make some food, grab a drink, and get ready to fire up the Holodeck for another edition of Captain's Log.

Ensign, warp 10! Auxiliary power to the Holodeck matrices and brace for impact...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Incoming messages from the devs... again

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Incoming messages from the devs... again originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andoriaBorgcrypticcryptic-gozercryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdevelopersdine-with-the-devsdinnerexplorationfeaturedfleetfleet-actionfleetsfoundryfoundry-missionfoundry-missionsgozericonianiconiansinto-the-hivejheiniglas-vegasMeetupnevadapokerpriority-onepvpq-and-ashipshipsst-onlinestastar-trekstar-trek-las-vegasstar-trek-las-vegas-conventionstar-trek-onlinestfstfstargtargstholiantholiansthomasthecrypticcattribbletribblestricorderUIzeroniusrexThu, 18 Aug 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online's Dine with the Devs event details -- Vegas edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/star-trek-onlines-dine-with-the-devs-event-details-vegas-edi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/star-trek-onlines-dine-with-the-devs-event-details-vegas-edi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/star-trek-onlines-dine-with-the-devs-event-details-vegas-edi/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

With the Star Trek Las Vegas convention coming up this weekend, trekkers and trekkies are sewing the final buttons and putting the finishing touches on their costumes. With estimates of over 15,000 Humans, Klingons, and Romulans -- among others -- attending the event at the Rio Convention Center, there is bound to be a massive turn-out of Star Trek Online players, including a handful of Cryptic developers. Just like last month, there is a special event being planned that will bring players and devs together for an evening of fun.

Priority One, the STO podcast for which I am Executive Producer, is proud to be hosting another Dine with the Devs event this Saturday evening, August 13th. While not affiliated with Massively, the casual meet-up will be within walking distance of the convention. As we dine, the devs will be answering players' questions and talking more in depth about some of the projects they have been involved with. It is important to note that each attendee's expenses are their own responsibility. For more information, including location and time, visit the event's information page.

MassivelyStar Trek Online's Dine with the Devs event details -- Vegas edition originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 09 Aug 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdine-with-the-devsdinnerLas VegasLasVegasMeetuppriority onePriorityOneq and aQAndASan Diegost-onlinestar trekstar trek conventionstar trek las vegas conventionstar-trek-las-vegasstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlineStarTrekStarTrekConventionStarTrekLasVegasConventionstotrek-onlineTue, 09 Aug 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Building a successful fleet]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/04/captains-log-building-a-successful-fleet/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/04/captains-log-building-a-successful-fleet/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/04/captains-log-building-a-successful-fleet/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Captain's Log, Stardate 65093.1...

Hello, computer (and players)! In the Star Trek Online universe, fleets are the foundation that ensures ones' in-game (and even out-of-game) experience is one that is active, social, and fulfilling. Whether you enjoy PvP, Special Task Forces, role play, or a combo of all the above, there should be a fleet out there for you to call home. But, what do you do if you can not find one that suits your warp core? Well, you start your own! That's right! Gather your friends (or make new ones), visit the fleet contact on Earth Space Dock, think up a clever name, and click that "create" button.

Okay, okay -- I make it sound a lot easier than it actually is. Building a fleet takes a lot of work, time and dedication, but is possible with the right spirit at the helm. Then, just when you have it built, successfully running it becomes an even bigger challenge. During this week's Captain's Log, I am going to take you on a tour of duty as we explore a possible structuring to your future fleet. Based off of one of the most successful fleets in-game, Stonewall Fleet, which has had over 1,400 members sign-up for membership, let's take a look at the roles they have in place to make it all happen.

Ensign, warp 10! Let's help our readers create the perfect structure to their fleet...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Building a successful fleet

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Building a successful fleet originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>admiraladmiraltyalliesambassaforcode of conductCodeOfConductcombatcounselorcraftingcrafting corpCraftingCorpcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdata samplesDataSamplesenergy creditsEnergyCreditsfleet admiralfleet resourcesFleetAdmiralFleetResourcesfleetsHazard teamHazardTeamintelligenceinvitesKDFklingonlas vegasLasVegaslivestreamnewsletternicholas swinfordNicholasSwinfordnick swinfordNickSwinfordofficersPersonnelpvprecruitmentrostersocialst-onlineStar Trek Conventionstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlineStarTrekConventionSTFstlvstostonewall fleetstonewall-fleetStonewallFleettrek-onlineThu, 04 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Dining with the devs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/28/captains-log-dining-with-the-devs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/28/captains-log-dining-with-the-devs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/28/captains-log-dining-with-the-devs/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Captain's Log, Stardate 65075.4...

Hello, computer (and players)! Ahhh, the good 'ol developers! You follow them on twitter, you read every one of their forum posts, and you even stalk them in-game. But you know what? Developers are just like us, a fellow human being, right? Wrong! Developers are the key to the future, the hands that create our dreams, the molders that shape our gameplay. Okay, okay -- I'm going a bit overboard, but you have to admit, they are pretty dang cool!

Luckily for us Star Trek Online players, the devs that are working on the game, as well as all of the other projects in development at Cryptic, are very transparent. More often that not, they let us know what they are working on and look to the community to see what we think about particular ideas -- we truly get to help influence what makes it into the game. Aside from posting in the forums, many of them also participate with the community by guest starring on podcasts and meeting up with players when they can.

As I broke the news to you all last week, I was privileged to host a Dine with the Devs event that coincided with a visit of some of the STO devs to this year's San Diego Comic-Con. While this was not associated with Massively, I figured all of you would like to know what happened and what was said. So, without further ado, it's time to recap the event and fill you all in on the super-secret meeting minutes!

Ensign, warp 10! Let's boldly go where most of you were not able to go...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Dining with the devs

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Dining with the devs originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Jul 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Borgcaliforniacomic-concomic-con-2011Comic-conInternationalcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdevelopersdine-with-the-devsduty officerduty-officer-systemDutyOfficerfleetfleet starbasesfleetsFleetStarbasesfoundrygold pressed latinumGoldPressedLatinumground combatGroundCombathereticjheinigKDFklingonLas VegasLasVegaslivestreamMeetuppriority onePriorityOneq and aQAndAsalami_infernoSan DiegoSanDiegoseason fourseason-fourSeasonFourst-onlinestar trekstar trek conventionstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestarbasestarfleetstarfleet academyStarfleetAcademyStarTrekStarTrekConventionstougcThu, 28 Jul 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: The reverse slingshot effect]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/captains-log-the-reverse-slingshot-effect/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/captains-log-the-reverse-slingshot-effect/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/captains-log-the-reverse-slingshot-effect/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Captain's Log, Stardate 65056.3...

Hello, computer (and players)! The slingshot effect is a maneuver, shown throughout the Star Trek franchise, which allowed starships to move back through the time continuum. By traveling at a high warp factor towards a star with a large gravitational pull, the ship would whip around it and time travel. While this seemed to only exist within the realms of the IP, it looks as though Star Trek Online's Executive Producer Dan Stahl took us on a reverse slingshot course, giving us a glimpse into the future of the game. Before we returned to the original timeline, he made sure to write up everything we saw along the way for those who couldn't make the trip.

In layman's terms, for those of you who missed the news earlier this week, July's Engineering Report has been released. While this is a monthly publication that contains the development pipeline for STO, including some items that have been featured in past issues, there are always a few bullet points added that seem to spark a healthy amount of debate -- one of these includes the ability to auction off your in-game Emblems, a form of currency, for C-Store points that have been paid for with real money. For information on this, including a response from Cryptic's PR department, and more, read ahead past the jump for this week's Captain's Log entry.

Ensign, warp 10! Let's pull a slingshot maneuver of our own...

Continue reading Captain's Log: The reverse slingshot effect

MassivelyCaptain's Log: The reverse slingshot effect originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Jul 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>academyauctionbugsc-storecaptains-logcaptainslogcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studioscstore pointsCstorePointsdan stahldan-stahldaniel stahlDanielStahlDanStahldevelopmentdine with the devsdine-with-the-devsDineWithTheDevsemblemsengineering reportengineering-reportEngineeringReportexplorationfeaturedfleet starbasefleetsFleetStarbasefoundryklingonlivestreammicrotransactionpatchesplutoQAseason-fiveseason-fourshipsslingshotsolsol planetsSolPlanetsspeciesst-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestarbasesstarfleetstfstoterritory controlTerritoryControltime travelTimeTraveltrek-onlinetribblewarpThu, 21 Jul 2011 13:00:00 EST