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[Exclusive Star Trek Online Season 6 reveal: Fleet starbases]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/exclusive-star-trek-online-season-6-reveal-fleet-starbases/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/exclusive-star-trek-online-season-6-reveal-fleet-starbases/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/exclusive-star-trek-online-season-6-reveal-fleet-starbases/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

STO
You read that headline right: Star Trek Online will be introducing player starbases in its upcoming Season 6. For the first time in the game, fleets will be able to band together to build a virtual home in the icy blackness of space.

The project was spearheaded by Cryptic Lead Artist Jeremy Mattson, who was given the task of conceptualizing and designing this core feature of the path. Mattson sent us an exclusive developer diary to take us through this process, starting with his examination of starbases in Star Trek's canon all the way through the construction and finished product.

Continue reading Exclusive Star Trek Online Season 6 reveal: Fleet starbases

MassivelyExclusive Star Trek Online Season 6 reveal: Fleet starbases originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 May 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldeath-starDenis-Osmanbogovicdev-blogdev-diaryearth-spacedockf2pfleetfleet-starbasefleet-starbasesfree-to-playhousingjeff-millerjeremy-mattsonk7Matt-JeffriesNick-Duguidperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentplayer-housingplayer-starbaseplayer-starbasespreviewpwesci-fiseason-6star-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoTue, 22 May 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: STO's Caitian Carriers and Klingon Kitties]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/captain-s-log-sto-s-caitian-carriers-and-klingon-kitties/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/captain-s-log-sto-s-caitian-carriers-and-klingon-kitties/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/captain-s-log-sto-s-caitian-carriers-and-klingon-kitties/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

STO
Lately I've beginning to wonder whether the wait for Star Trek Online's Season Six has been as interminable for other players as it seems to have been for me. Although the past several weeks have been busy in the real-life side of things, those distractions really haven't been all that good at harboring my frustration about the wait for the new stuff as I would have liked.

Season Six is being readied for a move to STO's test server, Tribble, in the next couple of weeks, according to the most recent Ask Cryptic as answered by the game's Executive Producer, Dan Stahl. The new patch will contain fleet starbases and a new fleet advancement system but not much else in the way of story-based content.

That's not unexpected, however, as not one of the previous Season releases really ever contained story-based content; they've merely been game-technology pushes, and I understand that Season Six will be no different.

However a couple of things have come out to the game in the past few weeks that have ruffled some hard-core Trek-fan feathers: Caitian Carriers and Ferasans.

Continue reading Captain's Log: STO's Caitian Carriers and Klingon Kitties

MassivelyCaptain's Log: STO's Caitian Carriers and Klingon Kitties originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 May 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>caitiancanoncanonitecaptains-logCBScbs-studioscrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahlf2pfeaturedferasanfree-to-playian-richardsloreopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweracessci-fishipsstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoMon, 21 May 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: A new perspective on STO's endgame]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/captains-log-a-new-perspective-of-stos-endgame/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/captains-log-a-new-perspective-of-stos-endgame/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/captains-log-a-new-perspective-of-stos-endgame/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

STO
For a veteran Star Trek Online player, it can be very easy to get mired in the game's seemingly soulless endgame. From restricted (time-gated) play to lackluster PvP to grinding strategic task force missions and dailies, sometimes it's difficult to find reason to log in at all, let alone on someone else's schedule.

There are always a few options, however. Of course, these ideas aren't going to be everyone's cup of raktajino, but they're a start, and I want to take some time to discuss two possibilities that may help to provide a distraction while we all wait for fleet starbases, Tholians, and Ferasan (the new cat-like species to be released for the Klingon faction).

Continue reading Captain's Log: A new perspective on STO's endgame

MassivelyCaptain's Log: A new perspective on STO's endgame originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 May 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captains-logcrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahlf2pfeaturedfoundryfree-to-playopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestothe-foundryMon, 14 May 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Interview with Star Trek Online's Executive Producer, Daniel Stahl]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/captains-log-interview-with-star-trek-onlines-executive-produ/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/captains-log-interview-with-star-trek-onlines-executive-produ/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/captains-log-interview-with-star-trek-onlines-executive-produ/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Image
Next in this series of interviews conducted on my visit to Cryptic Studios in Los Gatos, California, last month is a chat with Daniel Stahl, Executive Producer of Star Trek Online.

I first asked Stahl to give me an overview of his responsibilities as Executive Producer, as there are many people who are either new to STO (or even to gaming overall) who may not have a clear understanding of his role entails.

He stated his job is "similar to making movies." He has several direct reports, the first being the software person or the person responsible for the team of people who actually create the code for the game. The second is the Content Lead, who is responsible for new missions, new features, and anything to with player experience. Finally, the Quality Assurance team also reports to him.

Continue reading Captain's Log: Interview with Star Trek Online's Executive Producer, Daniel Stahl

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Interview with Star Trek Online's Executive Producer, Daniel Stahl originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captains-logchampions-onlinecrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahlf2pfeaturedfree-to-playinterviewinterviewslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoturbineTurbine-EntertainmentMon, 16 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Producer Dan Stahl answers the newest round of Star Trek Online community questions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/producer-dan-stahl-answers-the-newest-round-of-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/producer-dan-stahl-answers-the-newest-round-of-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/producer-dan-stahl-answers-the-newest-round-of-star-trek-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

If we're really going to get every ship playable, we should arguably also be able to get ships that are clearly repainted models from other episodes.
Dan Stahl is back in the hot seat at Star Trek Online, and that means it's time for him to tackle another round of questions for the regular Ask Cryptic feature. This month's questions have quite a lot to do with forecasting future updates to the game, ranging from questions about new playable species to questions on revising crafting and PvP. And while these questions always involve a fair amount of ambiguity for far-off plans, there's plenty for players to chew on.

One of the obvious questions relates to the game's planned release of only two Featured Episode series. Stahl explains that the real issue isn't how many series are released; it's the fact that the game needs a steady pipeline of content, something that the team is examining closely. He also discusses future goals for Fleets and the possibility of voiceover for dedicated bridge officers. As with previous installments, there's no shortage of questions, so fans are likely to find something to get excited about within the answers.

MassivelyProducer Dan Stahl answers the newest round of Star Trek Online community questions originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Mar 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-crypticcrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahlf2pfree-to-playperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoThu, 01 Mar 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dan Stahl takes back the captain's chair in Star Trek Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/dan-stahl-takes-back-the-captains-chair-in-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/dan-stahl-takes-back-the-captains-chair-in-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/dan-stahl-takes-back-the-captains-chair-in-star-trek-online/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Star Trek
Remember in Star Trek: The Motion Picture how Kirk returns to the Enterprise and shoehorns his way back into the Captain's chair, leaving the previous job-holder to be absorbed by an interstellar entity that was really a relic of NASA's space program? What a hoot that was, and it's in no way relevant to today's story of former Star Trek Online Executive Producer Dan Stahl resuming his duties from Stephen D'Angelo after vacating the position in 2011.

Stahl left Cryptic in September 2011 for a job at Zynga, at which point D'Angelo assumed the producing role. Interestingly enough, Stahl quickly returned to Cryptic last December but was assigned to heading up the Foundry team. The saga has come full-circle as Stahl returns to executive producing and D'Angelo resumes his command as Cryptic's CTO.

Stahl posted a short re-introduction letter to mark his comeback: "After several eventful away team missions and a desk position training cadets in San Francisco, I'm grateful for the opportunity to be back at the helm of this very important title."

MassivelyDan Stahl takes back the captain's chair in Star Trek Online originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captain-kirkcrypticcryptic-studiosctodan-stahldaniel-stahlexecutive-producerf2pfree-to-playkirkperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwestar-trek-onlinestar-trek-the-motion-picturestephen-dangelostoMon, 13 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dan Stahl beams back aboard Cryptic Studios]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/01/dan-stahl-beams-back-aboard-cryptic-studios/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/01/dan-stahl-beams-back-aboard-cryptic-studios/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/01/dan-stahl-beams-back-aboard-cryptic-studios/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Star Trek Online - captain and bridge officer
Dan Stahl couldn't stay away from Star Trek Online for long, and now the former executive producer is back in the fold to head up the Foundry team for Cryptic Studios and parent company Perfect World Entertainment.

Stahl, who left STO for Zynga in September, posted on the o-boards earlier this evening announcing his return. "There is something magical going on at Cryptic these days and I'm very happy to be back working on the MMOs that I personally love to play," he said.

The Foundry is Cryptic's suite of user-generated content tools that is currently available in Star Trek Online and slated to appear in the company's upcoming Neverwinter title.

MassivelyDan Stahl beams back aboard Cryptic Studios originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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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[Dan Stahl leaving Cryptic, Star Trek Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/dan-stahl-leaving-cryptic-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/dan-stahl-leaving-cryptic-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/dan-stahl-leaving-cryptic-star-trek-online/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Star Trek Online - red shirt captain
Cryptic executive producer Dan Stahl has vacated the Star Trek Online captain's chair, according to a brief farewell message posted on the title's official website.

Details on the departure are slim, with Stahl telling fans that he has "chosen to move on in my career and pursue new challenges." The resignation is the latest development in what has been an eventful summer for STO faithful, as Cryptic Studios was acquired by Perfect World Entertainment and Star Trek Online was subsequently slated to receive the free-to-play treatment.

Stahl goes on to say that he will be answering questions prior to his end-of-the-month beam out, and he indicates that STO will be in good hands thanks to the leadership of former lead programmer and current Cryptic CTO Stephen D'Angelo.

Look for more insight into this move in this Thursday's Captain's Log column.

MassivelyDan Stahl leaving Cryptic, Star Trek Online originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Sep 2011 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boldly-goingcrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahlf2pfree-to-playmmo-industryperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpress-releasered-shirtsci-fistar-trekstar-trek-onlinestephen-dangelostoTue, 20 Sep 2011 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[September's Ask Cryptic details STO's F2P transition, new content, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/09/septembers-ask-cryptic-details-stos-f2p-transition-new-conten/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/09/septembers-ask-cryptic-details-stos-f2p-transition-new-conten/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/09/septembers-ask-cryptic-details-stos-f2p-transition-new-conten/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- Star Trek Online (Resistance is futile)
In the midst of the recent hullabaloo over Star Trek Online's free-to-play transition, September's Ask Cryptic focuses on what players can expect from the change. Executive Producer Dan Stahl touches on the subject of skilltree revamps, server availability, and much, much more.

Space skills are getting a few sweeping changes in order to make them more applicable to players of all builds. As such, skills that "apply only to a specific ship class or energy type" are being replaced with more general skills, such as increased damage, increased turn rate, and so forth. Stahl also reveals that the team has ordered new hardware and made perfomance tweaks to the game in order to allow for a potential influx of new players once the game goes F2P.

Players also ask about new content, noting that talked-about post-Season 4 content has not materialized as players expected. Stahl notes that Borg Red Alerts were just released, and work on the Deep Space Nine Feature Episode Series is progressing steadily. The Q&A also details the upcoming Borg Ground Invasion, which assigns players the difficult task of removing a Borg infestation before the Collective can successfully assimilate an entire planet.

The Q&A goes on to touch on new social zones, a great deal of "nice to have but low-priority" additions, and oodles more. For the full Q&A, hop your way on over to the full Ask Cryptic post.

MassivelySeptember's Ask Cryptic details STO's F2P transition, new content, and more originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Sep 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-crypticcrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldeep-space-9deep-space-nineds9f2pfree-to-playperfect-world-entertainmentpweskill-revampskill-tree-revampstar-trek-onlinestoFri, 09 Sep 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dan Stahl addresses Star Trek Online F2P concerns]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/dan-stahl-addresses-star-trek-online-f2p-concerns/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/dan-stahl-addresses-star-trek-online-f2p-concerns/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/dan-stahl-addresses-star-trek-online-f2p-concerns/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Star Trek Online
While we're still awaiting official details on the recent announcement of Star Trek Online's free-to-play transition, Executive Producer Daniel Stahl leaped into the forums to help dispel some of the more troubling fears and to shed some light on what is happening.

"There has been a method to all the madness, but first and foremost on my mind has been ensuring that Star Trek Online has a big future ahead of it," Stahl writes. "That has led to some tough decisions and deep analysis of what was critically wrong in STO. The next several months are going to be exciting for STO as you begin to see everything that we've been working on (finally)."

The good news is that the F2P switch will not impact current subscribers (if anything, Stahl says they'll see more benefits), nor will it restrict content access. Cryptic may be lowering prices on some items in the C-Store, and Star Trek Online will be playable to the level cap without requiring money spent on it. Stahl also confirmed that more hardware is on the way for the game's foundation.

At least from his perspective, Stahl sees STO's new owners as a boon to the game's future: "Perfect World has made it very clear that they want to invest in STO because they believe it has great POTENTIAL and they see an investment that can yield an even better game. That to me, is the golden path that this game deserves. It is Star Trek we are talking about!"

MassivelyDan Stahl addresses Star Trek Online F2P concerns originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Sep 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>c-storecrypticcryptic-entertainmentdan-stahldaniel-stahlf2pfree-to-playin-game-storeperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpotential-in-all-capsstahlstar-trek-onlinestoThu, 01 Sep 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[STO's August engineering report on plans for Feature Series 4]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/stos-august-engineering-report-on-plans-for-feature-series-4/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/stos-august-engineering-report-on-plans-for-feature-series-4/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/stos-august-engineering-report-on-plans-for-feature-series-4/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Star Trek Online screenshot
It's that time again, Trekkers and Trekkies -- Star Trek Online's August Engineering Report is upon us.

STO executive producer Daniel Stahl has offered up a post that kicks off with praise for Cryptic's new overlords at Perfect World Entertainment. He goes on to state that subs are up as players stream in to check out the new Ground Combat system and that the team is working extra hard to push out the long-awaited Deep Space 9-themed Feature Series 4. Stahl also outlines the devs' fall plans for the REDSHIRT closed beta server and notes that the upcoming September 22nd update "will be pretty big [...] some might say even bigger than the launch of Season 4."

Finally, the post winds down with a meaty list of game features and bug fixes currently in testing, including tweaks to the Duty Officer system, random Borg encounters, the group-finder tool, lore quests, and more.

MassivelySTO's August engineering report on plans for Feature Series 4 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 22 Aug 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Star Trek Online - Borg cube
It's time for the Star Trek Online edition of this month's Ask Cryptic, and executive producer Dan Stahl has stepped up to the plate with a whopping 5,000-word community-powered monster of a post.

Stahl delivers some good news right off the bat, as STO is scheduled to receive several new content additions between now and the end of October. Chief among these are various Borg-related invasion events, new lore quests, the Klingon Academy zone, the duty officer system and assignments, and Feature Episode Series 4.

The vast majority of the rest of the post is devoted to very specific gameplay questions and requests from STO players, and there's even a mention of the fact that Cryptic is hiring. Warp to the official STO website for all the details.

MassivelyStar Trek Online's Ask Cryptic featurette hints at new content originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-crypticborgcontentcrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahleventsfeature-episode-series-4feature-episodesjob-openingsjobsklingon-academy-zonenew-contentnow-hiringperfect-world-entertainmentpwesci-fistar-trekstar-trek-onlinestoFri, 12 Aug 2011 12:00:00 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<![CDATA[Star Trek Online producer previews the new Enterprise-F]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/20/star-trek-online-producer-previews-the-new-enterprise-f/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/20/star-trek-online-producer-previews-the-new-enterprise-f/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/20/star-trek-online-producer-previews-the-new-enterprise-f/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Star Trek Online producer Daniel Stahl has penned a new dev diary about the recent fan-driven Enterprise design contest. The piece appears on the official Star Trek website and offers a bit of insight on both the winning entry (submitted by STO fan Adam Ilhe) as well as the lore behind the revamped Enterprise-F.

"In the Star Trek Online timeline of 2409, the galaxy is embroiled in war with numerous threats to peace and stability. This Enterprise is designed to carry a message of peace, as well as to show the strength of resolve that forms the foundation of the Federation," Stahl explains.

Ilhe's ship design will be revealed to players in a forthcoming STO feature episode, and players will get to meet the ship's crew as well as earn their own Odyssey-class vessel. Warp to the official Star Trek website for further details.

MassivelyStar Trek Online producer previews the new Enterprise-F originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Jul 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestcontest-winnercrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldesign-contestenterpriseenterprise-ffan-contentodyssey-classplayer-generated-contentsci-fistar-trekstar-trek-onlinestoWed, 20 Jul 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Season Four launch recap]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/captains-log-season-four-launch-recap/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/captains-log-season-four-launch-recap/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/captains-log-season-four-launch-recap/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Captain's Log, Stardate 65037.1...

Hello, computer (and players)! As I mentioned in last week's Captain's Log entry, Season Four: Crossfire is now alive and kicking on Star Trek Online's Holodeck server. Based on past experiences with major content and code pushes, I feel that this was the smoothest to date with virtually no server issues or overload. While there have been a few snags along the way with some bugs making it past Cryptic's "white-glove" QA process, the update was a success and players are having more fun than ever before.

As discussed in one of my past log entries, Season Four was to bring many updates to the game, including the acclaimed ground combat 2.0 system, which would make it an even better Trek experience -- in all honestly, Cryptic delivered. STO is more active than ever and the fleet that I am in is having multiple newbies sign up each day; it is an exciting time to be a player and your weekly columnist. What I would like to do this week is revisit what I let you know was coming to the game and let you know some of my thoughts on them now that I have been experiencing them for myself.

Ensign, warp 12! Oh yeah, we are taking this to a whole new level...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Season Four launch recap

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Season Four launch recap originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>art-updateassimilationbehind-the-scenesborgcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdan-stahlfeaturedfoundrygozerground-combatground-combat-revampkdfklingonlivestreampvepve-queueqonosseason-4season-fourst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-ostar-trek-onlinestotrek-onlineThu, 14 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: The Gospel of Tribble]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/16/captains-log-the-gospel-of-tribble/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/16/captains-log-the-gospel-of-tribble/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/16/captains-log-the-gospel-of-tribble/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Captain's Log, Stardate 64959.3...

Hello, compu... what the... shields up, red alert! Brace for impact! A giant Tribble is on the loose, and its name is Season Four. That's right -- the Star Trek Online public test server, Tribble, sometimes nicknamed the Trouble with Tribble, has finally reopened with the major update that we have all been waiting for. This build was first pushed last Friday but was taken down moments later due to a "major database error." The show-stopping kinks have been worked out now, so it is time to get to testing out all of the new content I have been writing about for the past couple of months.

If you have not seen the release notes for this build, there are dozens of updates that will be altering the way you have come to play the game. Not sure what to test? That is what I am here for. The goal of this week's Captain's Log is to provide you a checklist on what to hit up once you patch your game and get on your test toon. Also, if you have never installed the test server, now is a great time -- Cryptic will soon be announcing a Tribble Test Weekend, during which you can log in and receive an exclusive item on the live server just for helping test.

Ensign, warp 10! Let's share some text from the word of Tribble...

Continue reading Captain's Log: The Gospel of Tribble

MassivelyCaptain's Log: The Gospel of Tribble originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>art-updateassimilationbehind-the-scenesborgcrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahlfeaturedfoundryground-combatground-combat-revampkdfklingonlivestreampvepve-queueqonosseason-4season-fourstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestosto-livestreamtesttest-servertribblevivoxThu, 16 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Cryptic hints at shared Foundry functionality for Star Trek Online, Neverwinter]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/08/ask-cryptic-hints-at-shared-foundry-functionality-for-star-trek/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/08/ask-cryptic-hints-at-shared-foundry-functionality-for-star-trek/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/08/ask-cryptic-hints-at-shared-foundry-functionality-for-star-trek/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

There's a new Ask Cryptic in town, and this month's Star Trek Online update finds producer Dan Stahl fielding a plethora of community questions that cover a wide range of topics.

While many of the questions (and answers) are straightforward one-liners, Stahl does go into a bit of detail about STO's Foundry functionality. He mentions that the content creation tool will be getting a round of bug fixes as well as new map hookups (including Star Fleet Academy) for the library. Stahl also says that Cryptic's Foundry team is currently hard at work on Neverwinter's player-generated content toolset, and the fruits of its labor will eventually be seen in STO as well.

"One thing I continue to stress is adding the ability for more acting and blocking features so that players can create their own dramatic scenes," Stahl explains. Head to the official STO website for the full text.

MassivelyAsk Cryptic hints at shared Foundry functionality for Star Trek Online, Neverwinter originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 Jun 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-crypticcrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahlfoundryneverwinterplayer-generated-contentplayer-generated-missionssci-fistar-trekstar-trek-onlinestothe-foundryWed, 08 Jun 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: To boldly go where... Perfect World has never gone before?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/02/captains-log-to-boldly-go-where-perfect-world-has-never-gon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/02/captains-log-to-boldly-go-where-perfect-world-has-never-gon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/02/captains-log-to-boldly-go-where-perfect-world-has-never-gon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Captain's Log, Stardate 64918.1...

Hello, computer (and players)! Isn't it amazing how the MMO gaming world works? One week you might be ecstatic about the planned updates for your favorite game, and the next week you are wondering if that same game is even going to last another day. Like many other Star Trek Online players, I was in this boat just last week. When Atari announced that it was going to be divesting interest in Cryptic, many players initially went into panic mode. But as I stated in my entry last week, I strongly felt that things were going to turn out just fine, possibly for the better -- and they definitely have.

Earlier this week, Perfect World Entertainment announced that it would acquire a 100% equity stake from Atari, with Cryptic Studios remaining as the sole shareholder. Made famous for its free-to-play games, including Perfect World International, Pocketpet Journey West, and Forsaken World, Perfect World has the potential to help STO continue to grow. While the new owners are very excited at the opportunity to utilize the engine Cryptic is famous for, they are also excited at the fact that Champions Online uses the free-to-play business model. Oh dear -- here we go again.

Ensign, warp 10! Everything is going to be OK and here's why...

Continue reading Captain's Log: To boldly go where... Perfect World has never gone before?

MassivelyCaptain's Log: To boldly go where... Perfect World has never gone before? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Jun 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acquisitionataricrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdan stahldan-stahlDanielStahlDanStahldiscontinueddstahlElliot Tanelliot-tanElliotTanfeaturedfor-saleforsaken-worldfree-to-playlifetime-subscriptionLiveStreamLiveStreamingopinionPerfect Worldperfect-world-entertainmentPerfectWorldpocket petsPocketPetspvppwerumorst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoStudiosThe Quantum CafeTheQuantumCafetrek-onlineThu, 02 Jun 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Another month, another round of answers for Star Trek Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/06/another-month-another-round-of-answers-for-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/06/another-month-another-round-of-answers-for-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/06/another-month-another-round-of-answers-for-star-trek-online/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

About once a month, Star Trek Online has producer Dan Stahl sit down and answer the newest round of player questions regarding the game's future additions. It's May, of course, which means that it's time for the newest Ask Cryptic, covering the recent additions to the game's microtransaction store as well as plans for Season 4 and beyond. And as always, while there are more features being asked about than are planned for the next major update, there are very few elements not planned for eventual inclusion.

Further ship customization is discussed, with the implementation of Duty Officers in Season 4 promised to help add more differentiation between individual ships. There's also mention of the debate about bringing lower-tier ships up to par for use in endgame activities, which is currently not on the table but is still under heavy debate in both development and on the forums. Players of Star Trek Online are encouraged to check out the latest round of answers for more info.

MassivelyAnother month, another round of answers for Star Trek Online originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 May 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>answersask-crypticc-storecrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studioscustomizationdan-stahlfuture-patchesfuture-updatesmicrotransactionsquestionsseason-4st-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestosto-season-4trek-onlineFri, 06 May 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Incoming message... from the future]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/captains-log-incoming-message-from-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/captains-log-incoming-message-from-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/captains-log-incoming-message-from-the-future/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Captain's Log, Stardate 64787.3...

Hello, computer (and players)! Captain Brandon Felczer of the USS Radiance Vesta-class battleship reporting in. While en route to the Gamma Orionis sector block to investigate readings of potential Borg energy signatures, we encountered an unexplained anomaly unlike any we have ever encountered; the computer system could not provide any data to us. As we attempted to break away from its gravitational pull, we lost all control and systems -- the crew lost consciousness. Once we awoke several hours later, we discovered that we had been pulled into its void and somehow propelled 365 Earth days into the future.

While the Prime Directive has required us to stay out of affairs not in our timeline, we managed to record several pieces of data about developments that will happen in the future. There have been some gigantic leaps forward, and I can honestly say I cannot wait for a year from now. After I am finished recording this log, I will send it on subspace frequencies back to Starfleet Command. If you are reading this now, you have received my log one way or another. You must be now asking yourself, "What did we see?"

Ensign, warp 10! Let's report on our findings of what we will see in Star Trek Online soon[TM]...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Incoming message... from the future

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Incoming message... from the future originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Apr 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>academyask-crypticataricrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdan-stahlDaniel-stahlfeaturedfeatured-episodesfeatured-seriesklingonpvpshipsStst-onlineStar-Trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestar-trek-online-gameplaystar-trek-online-newsstosto-academytrek-onlineThu, 14 Apr 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Zinkievich returns to the bridge of Star Trek Online and Cryptic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/zinkievich-returns-to-the-bridge-of-star-trek-online-and-cryptic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/zinkievich-returns-to-the-bridge-of-star-trek-online-and-cryptic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/zinkievich-returns-to-the-bridge-of-star-trek-online-and-cryptic/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

After charting the course to bring Star Trek Online to launch and through its early operation, Craig Zinkievich pulled a Captain Pike and left the game for greener pastures. Those pastures apparently weren't quite so green after all, as a recent interview with Daniel Stahl has confirmed that Zinkievich is back at Cryptic Studios once again as the COO. (The point is made almost as an aside at about 10:30 into the video.)

Fan reaction on the thread has been mixed, to say the least, but Stahl himself chimed in to say once more that he was happy to be working with Zinkievich again and that it should have no effect on the pace of updates. While there have been some fan misgivings, in the COO capacity Zinkievich is likely to have other responsibilities beyond solely overseeing Star Trek Online's continued development. Whether or not fans will join Stahl in welcoming Zinkievich back to the company remains to be seen.

MassivelyZinkievich returns to the bridge of Star Trek Online and Cryptic originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 08 Apr 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>corporatecraig-Zinkievichcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahlindustrymmo-industryst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotrek-onlineFri, 08 Apr 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online Ask Cryptic talks starbases, ground combat, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/07/star-trek-online-ask-cryptic-talks-starbases-ground-combat-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/07/star-trek-online-ask-cryptic-talks-starbases-ground-combat-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/07/star-trek-online-ask-cryptic-talks-starbases-ground-combat-and/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

How would you feel about a cover system and/or first-person-shooter elements in your daily Star Trek Online diet? Producer Dan Stahl tackles the feasibility of both of those features -- and a host of others -- in the latest Ask Cryptic. The STO version of the community Q&A feature went live last night on the game's official website and boasts a large number of subscriber-generated queries ranging from integrated voice chat to a time table on the ground combat revamp to the addition of starbase functionality to the Foundry.

"We anticipate the next major feature to the Foundry being the ability for fleets to design and run their own starbases. This is a monumental addition to the Foundry, so don't expect it right away, but it is the next big thing for that feature," Stahl says.

Check out the full list of questions on the official STO website.

MassivelyStar Trek Online Ask Cryptic talks starbases, ground combat, and more originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Apr 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-crypticcommunity-questionscover-systemdan-stahlfleetsfoundryfpsfps-elementsground-combatground-combat-revampsci-fistar-trekstar-trek-onlinestarbasesstothe-foundryvoice-chatThu, 07 Apr 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online pushes its player-generated mission Foundry to live servers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/28/star-trek-online-pushes-its-player-generated-mission-foundry-to/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/28/star-trek-online-pushes-its-player-generated-mission-foundry-to/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/28/star-trek-online-pushes-its-player-generated-mission-foundry-to/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Player-generated content may be the wave of the future. Jeremy Gaffney of Carbine Studios said at PAX East that in 10 years we will see more user-generated content. It seems Cryptic agrees. Executive Producer Dan Stahl proudly announced that Star Trek Online's player-generated content has been pushed to the live server today.

The Foundry, as the system is called, will allow players to create missions, test them, and then share those missions with other players. As in similar tools in other games, missions will be tried by players then rated. However, unlike missions in other systems, a Foundry mission will not show up in the player-created mission tab until it has been given its first review. There is a review content button for those who wish to review newly created missions. Stahl does tell us in his post on the official STO forums, "Be warned, with many new players getting their hands on the editor, there may be a lot of 'hello world' missions at first."

Cryptic is still going to monitor this feature much like a beta since this is the first time it will be sent out to the general public. The developers will be addressing any issues as soon as possible. However, this is live, so log on to STO and try it out now.

Stay tuned to Massively this Thursday as Brandon Felczer gives us an in-depth look at the Foundry in the Captain's Log.

MassivelyStar Trek Online pushes its player-generated mission Foundry to live servers originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 28 Mar 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AtariCrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahlfoundryJeremy-Gaffneyplayer-generated-contentStar-Trekstar-trek-onlineSTOuser-generated-contentMon, 28 Mar 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: The future for fleets]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/captains-log-the-future-for-fleets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/captains-log-the-future-for-fleets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/captains-log-the-future-for-fleets/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Captain's Log, Stardate 64731.1...

Hello, computer (and players)! On my way home from work today, Jason DeRulo's Ridin' Solo came up on my iPod's playlist, and I thought to myself, how boring -- who would want to ride solo? Most of us will agree that we have the most fun when we are teamed up with someone while playing. Whether it is for the social interaction or the companionship or just so that we don't have to keep zerging, we play MMOs so that we can play with other people from around the world. Our games also allow us to take teaming one step further in the form of guilds. In Star Trek Online, joining a fleet is one of the most popular ways to play the game.

Since the early days of closed beta, thousands of fleets have formed inside Cryptic's server, fleets that have brought players together from around the world. It truly does not matter whether you speak English or not -- some of the larger fleets out there have members who represent dozens of countries, languages and ethnicities. Whether you are into PvP, roleplay, raiding, PvE, or accolade-hunting, there is a fleet for everyone -- but it doesn't stop there! As time warps on, developers of the game are going to be adding new options and creating new gameplay that will change the way you will interact with your fleet. So what are they?

Ensign, warp 10! Let's talk about the future of fleets...

Continue reading Captain's Log: The future for fleets

MassivelyCaptain's Log: The future for fleets originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Mar 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>12th-fleetcaptains-logcrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldevelopmentfeaturedfleetfleetsfoundryinterviewpvpsci-fist-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-onlinestarbasestougcThu, 24 Mar 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Into the Cryptic hive]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/10/captains-log-into-the-cryptic-hive/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/10/captains-log-into-the-cryptic-hive/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/10/captains-log-into-the-cryptic-hive/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Captain's Log, Stardate 64692.8...

Hello, computer (and players). The following information has been marked classified and restricted by Starfleet Intelligence; any leaks will not be tolerated -- eh, forget it! Welcome to MassivelyLeaks! As you may or may not know, I had an exclusive opportunity to visit Cryptic Studios in Los Gatos, California last month. Since I'm arguably one of Star Trek Online's biggest fanboys, this was a dream come true (/e squeal), and I am still in shock that I was in the very cubicles where the game is made.

Tucked away in the beautiful Santa Cruz Mountains, Los Gatos is a small town in Santa Clara County (better known as Silicon Valley), just southwest of San Jose. It is hard to believe that the entire Star Trek universe is currently one of its residents. But it is -- I've seen it with my own eyes, and I am excited to share my experience with you.

Ensign, warp 10! Let's get down to some cryptic business and invade the hive...

Gallery: Brandon visits Cryptic Studios

Continue reading Captain's Log: Into the Cryptic hive

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Into the Cryptic hive originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Mar 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdan-stahldev-tourfoundryfraktoid5000galleriesgalleryjoe-blancatolivestreamlos-gatossalami_infernost-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestostormshadestudio-visittourtrek-onlinevideowishstonezeroniusrexThu, 10 Mar 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online unveils plans for future improvements]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/star-trek-online-unveils-plans-for-future-improvements/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/star-trek-online-unveils-plans-for-future-improvements/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/star-trek-online-unveils-plans-for-future-improvements/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The problem of dealing with a universe as expansive as the one in Star Trek Online is the simple reality of fitting more than 30 years of fiction into a single game. Still, as the latest Ask Cryptic demonstrates, the development team is trying to fit everything possible into the game, from a wider variety of pets to the whale probe from Star Trek IV. The latest batch of player-generated questions runs the gamut as usual, discussing everything from non-featured episode content to the possibility of expanded PvP arenas, and as usual Dan Stahl is on hand to give players some idea of what's coming.

Among the more interesting news is how close the Foundry system is to implementation, with the current plan to release it not too long after the current featured series wraps up next week. Revised ship interiors are also potentially on the to-do list, as well as the promise of "storing" unneeded officers on a fleet-run starbase. Star Trek Online players have a number of things to look forward to with the latest round of questions, even if the answers are admittedly vague about a precise timetable.

MassivelyStar Trek Online unveils plans for future improvements originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Mar 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-crypticcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdan-stahlfeature-episodesfuture-patchesnewspatchesq-and-aquestions-and-answersseason-4season-5season-6st-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotrek-onlineupdatesFri, 04 Mar 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Setting a course for the future]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/24/captains-log-setting-a-course-for-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/24/captains-log-setting-a-course-for-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/24/captains-log-setting-a-course-for-the-future/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Captain's Log, Stardate 64612.7...

Hello, computer (and players)! First things first: My name is Brandon, and I am your new columnist for Captain's Log! I am thrilled to join you each week with the latest Star Trek Online news, gossip, developer interview recaps, and much, much more! As some of you may know (or now know from clicking on my name above), I am a Trekker from mostly sunny Southern California who is actively involved in the STO universe.

Whether I'm doing my weekly podcast, Priority One, administrating our STO social-network site, The Quantum Café, or writing for you guys, I am having an absolute blast and am so proud of where the game has come one year since its launch. So, as a final piece of my "introduction," this column is dedicated to all the Captains out there -- may all your battles be glorious!

Ensign, warp 10! Let's catch these readers up on the latest STO news...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Setting a course for the future

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Setting a course for the future originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Feb 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-crypticataricrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdan-griffisdan-stahlDaniel-stahlFeaturedshaun-brodieStst-onlineStar-Trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestar-trek-online-gameplaystar-trek-online-newsstar-trek-online-season-threestosto-ask-crypticsto-engineering-reportsto-feature-episodes-series-3trek-onlineThu, 24 Feb 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dan Stahl talks Star Trek Online's Season 4 and beyond]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/12/dan-stahl-talks-star-trek-onlines-season-4-and-beyond/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/12/dan-stahl-talks-star-trek-onlines-season-4-and-beyond/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/12/dan-stahl-talks-star-trek-onlines-season-4-and-beyond/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Since taking over last year, Dan Stahl has made a point of being very accessible to players when it comes to the future of Star Trek Online and the team's overall plans. The United Federation of Planets, a fan forum celebrating the variety of games set within the universe, has conducted an interview with Stahl in the most recent issue of its magazine. As always, there's a large number of different projects behind the scenes as the team turns its focus toward Season 4 and beyond.

The overarching plan for the game's second year seems to be to improve and reinforce the game's elements to date, with Stahl mentioning that he hopes to put the Romulan faction into the game before the year is out. There are plans for another increase in level cap, possibly including Admiral-rank uniform variants as seen on the shows. And with Season 4 on its way, the team is hard at work trying to step up the storyline elements about the mysterious agenda of the Iconians, as well as the war between the KDF and Starfleet. The full interview begins on page 10 and should prove interesting to any Star Trek Online fan.

MassivelyDan Stahl talks Star Trek Online's Season 4 and beyond originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 12 Feb 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdan-stahlfactionsfoundryinterviewmeta-storypatchesplayable-factionsplayer-created-contentplayer-generated-missionsseason-3season-4social-areasst-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestostorytrek-onlineufpupcoming-patchesSat, 12 Feb 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: The movers and shakers of 2010]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/30/the-perfect-ten-the-movers-and-shakers-of-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/30/the-perfect-ten-the-movers-and-shakers-of-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/30/the-perfect-ten-the-movers-and-shakers-of-2010/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Even though MMOs are the products of great teams of talented workers -- from sound artists to writers -- it's inevitable that a few of the people behind the curtain step out into the limelight. It's a smart move, really; it provides a personal face for people to associate with the game, it keeps messages consistent, and it draws any potential hate onto one person instead of the team at large.

It stands to reason that these public figures end up being some of the major movers and shakers in the industry because of their high-profile positions. From CEOs to community managers, these are the people with power to make decisions, the voice to change opinions, and the personalities to inspire millions.

Oh, that last sentence is pure poetry. Let's re-read it again, shall we?

So in our last Perfect Ten of the year, I've asked the Massively team to compile a list of the 10 biggest MMO movers and shakers of this year. All of these people now owe us cupcakes of gratitude. (Legal Disclaimer: This does not signify a binding cupcake-blogger contract.)

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: The movers and shakers of 2010

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: The movers and shakers of 2010 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 30 Dec 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>30-studiosage-of-conanaocarenanetask-crypticbiowarebioware-mythicbree-profred-this-tgachampionschampions-onlinechris-caocoocraig-morrisoncraig-zinkievichcrypticcryptic-studioscupcakecupcake-contractcurt-schillingdan-ericksondan-stahldaniel-ericksondaniel-stahldark-side-of-the-forcedc-universe-onlinedcuoddodungeon-fighter-onlinedungeons-and-dragons-onlineea-biowareend-of-the-yearend-of-the-year-2010engineering-reportseq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfourth-pillarfree-to-playfuncomguild-warsguild-wars-2jack-emmertkate-paizlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromabinogimaplestorymike-obrienmin-kimneverwinternexonnexon-nanexon-north-americapaizperfect-10perfect-tenrhode-islandriftrift-planes-of-telarascott-hartsmanstar-trek-onlinestar-wars-the-old-republicstoswtorthe-old-republicthe-perfect-tentortriontrion-worldsturbinevindictusworld-of-warcraftThu, 30 Dec 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[STO's Dan Stahl fields 30 questions about the Enterprise, Tholians and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/stos-dan-stahl-fields-30-questions-about-the-enterprise-tholia/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/stos-dan-stahl-fields-30-questions-about-the-enterprise-tholia/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/stos-dan-stahl-fields-30-questions-about-the-enterprise-tholia/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

As Star Trek Online grows ever-closer to its one-year anniversary in February 2011, fans of Cryptic's space saga have burning questions about the future of the game. In swoops Executive Producer Dan Stahl to keep the flames under control with a whopping 30 answers in the latest STO Q&A session.

As usual, there is no overriding theme to these questions, which range from whether we'll be seeing the 2009 Star Trek movie's Enterprise in the game (only if Paramount gives permission), whether Cryptic is working on more voice-overs for missions (yes), and when we'll be seeing the Tholians (probably not until after Season 4 releases). Stahl emphasizes that the STO team's prime directive is, simply, "More Like Trek," and the devs are working hard to infuse more of a Star Trek feel into every aspect of the game.

Meanwhile, the Foundry -- the player-created mission system -- briefly went into beta on the Tribble test server yesterday, but was quickly taken down due to issues with the infrastructure. Stahl has great hopes for it, however: "In all -- the Foundry will open up the ability for the community to create some great (and let's be honest -- not so great) missions that you'll be able to play just like any other mission in the game."

MassivelySTO's Dan Stahl fields 30 questions about the Enterprise, Tholians and more originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Dec 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Talk about whiplash! Ever since last week's announcement of Champions Online's move to a hybrid free-to-play model, all eyes have turned to Cryptic's other MMO, Star Trek Online, as a possible candidate for this treatment. While STO's Dan Stahl said that Champions' move had "no direct impact" on Star Trek's business model, the outspoken Jack Emmert seems more open to the possibility.

In an interview with Eurogamer earlier today, Emmert addressed the issue head-on and allowed for a future where F2P STO happened. For now, the company is going to wait and see how Champions fares before making any decisions about STO's future: "We're not sold one way or the other with Star Trek yet. If people want Star Trek to go free-to-play then get in and play Champions and help make it a great success, because that would send a strong message. If we did Turbine's level of success that would certainly merit the discussion!"

However, Jack Emmert says the decision isn't his alone and refused to commit one way or the other. He does hint at a fourth project that Cryptic is working on, one which is not fantasy-based and is "close to my heart."

For speculation on what a free-to-play Star Trek Online might look like, make sure you read Ryan's column on the subject.

MassivelyJack Emmert: Star Trek Online may go F2P yet -- if you play Champions, that is originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Nov 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>championschampions-onlinecrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahleurogamerf2pfree-to-playjack-emmertpicard-plays-wowstar-trekstar-trek-onlinestoThu, 04 Nov 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[STO's latest Ask Cryptic tackles War Targs, weekly episodes and free-to-play]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/02/stos-latest-ask-cryptic-tackles-war-targs-weekly-episodes-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/02/stos-latest-ask-cryptic-tackles-war-targs-weekly-episodes-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/02/stos-latest-ask-cryptic-tackles-war-targs-weekly-episodes-and/#commentsFiled under: , ,

It's the beginning of a new month, and that means another Q&A session between Cryptic and fans. Star Trek Online's Executive Producer Dan Stahl stepped up for a comprehensive Ask Cryptic that looked deep into the eyes of the void and came back all the wiser for it.

The questions run across the board, with a large chunk devoted to future content: More bridge officer features? (Season Four.) New weekly episodes? (January, with more to follow.) Better deep space encounters? (The team is overhauling these after Season Three.) The ability to join factions? (Possible, such as a Ferengi trader faction.)

Stahl also admits that there are "too many currencies" in the game at the moment, and the team will be paring those down. One of the most requested features by players is the addition of the classic Enterprise bridge layout from the 1960's series, and it looks as though Cryptic will be delivering: "I can see this getting done in the next several updates."

And if you are among the crowd predicting that STO will quickly follow in Champions Online's F2P footsteps, it doesn't appear to be in the works (at least, not yet): "We're very excited to see Champs go F2P but this has no direct impact on Star Trek Online. Our subscription and C-Store model will continue forward without changes."

MassivelySTO's latest Ask Cryptic tackles War Targs, weekly episodes and free-to-play originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Nov 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-crypticbridge-officersc-storechampionschampions-onlinecrypticdan-stahlenterprisef2pferengifree-to-playstar-trek-onlinestoweekly-episodesTue, 02 Nov 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dan Stahl talks about Star Trek Online's user-generated content]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/06/dan-stahl-talks-about-star-trek-onlines-user-generated-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/06/dan-stahl-talks-about-star-trek-onlines-user-generated-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/06/dan-stahl-talks-about-star-trek-onlines-user-generated-content/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

With its first doses of weekly content a success, Star Trek Online is in a fairly comfortable spot at the moment. But there are still places to expand, including the often-mentioned tools for user-generated content. Although the tool isn't yet in the game, executive producer Dan Stahl has been discussing it for some time, and he goes into a bit more depth in a recent interview. He also discusses some of the upcoming changes scheduled for the game's later major updates, including interior interaction and bridge officer voices.

Among the more interesting issues discussed is the impact of user-generated content on the game's licensing. Everything currently in the game required approval from CBS first, which Stahl states has led to some discussion about how the user toolsets will interact with the canonical fiction. He also discusses several improvements planned for season 4, and the possibility of more interaction with ship interiors starting in season 4 or 5. Star Trek Online players are encouraged to take a look at the newest interview for a clearer picture of the game's future.

MassivelyDan Stahl talks about Star Trek Online's user-generated content originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Oct 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>approvalapproval-processcbscrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdan-stahlfuture-patchesgenesis-toolsinterviewspatchesst-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotrek-onlineugcuser-generated-contentweekly-episodesWed, 06 Oct 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Cryptic answers the 29 most pressing STO questions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/02/cryptic-answers-the-29-most-pressing-sto-questions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/02/cryptic-answers-the-29-most-pressing-sto-questions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/02/cryptic-answers-the-29-most-pressing-sto-questions/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Star Trek Online's monthly Ask Cryptic features are always something for fans to look forward to reading, but this month even more so as executive producer Dan Stahl goes well beyond the normal handful of queries to accumulate 29 questions and answers to some of the hottest topics among the community.

Included in this Q&A session is a sneak peek at the work-in-progress Tholian race (above left), the revelation that Season 4 will primarily focus on retooling repeatable end game content, fleet starbases, passive bridge officer abilities, Season 3 item sets, Memory Alpha improvements, sector space expansion and much, much more. Stahl even explains why he picks the questions he does to answer -- basically, he likes to get into topics that aren't repeatedly touched upon in interviews.

Those hoping for a full-fledged STO expansion shouldn't start holding their breath, however: "It is unclear if we will ever produce a paid expansion as the market is leaning away from expansions and more towards smaller microtransactions. However, if we ever did release a paid expansion, it would be a significant update and add some new functionality to the game that would be deemed worth the price of the release."

MassivelyCryptic answers the 29 most pressing STO questions originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 02 Oct 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Breen might be backstabbing frozen monsters, but they've been a part of something wonderful in Star Trek Online. Not in the sense that they've stopped being backstabbing frozen monsters, but in the sense that you'd be hard-pressed to find a player unhappy with the new featured episodes. And with the ongoing plan to add a new episode every week, there's going to be a lot more content to enjoy in short order. The most recent Ask Cryptic feature, unsurprisingly, has focused on this new aspect of the game, with Dan Stahl fielding player questions on the weekly feature.

Perhaps most interesting for players will be the fact that Stahl talks about using the prototype version of user-generated content tools to develop some of the patrol missions seen in-game, reminding players that the option to make your own episodes is coming with time. There's also re-affirmation of the episodes becoming permanent features of the game and scaling to all levels, allowing players to take off the rails of the previous leveling structure and chart their own course. View the full article for a deeper look inside the newest part of Star Trek Online, and really, don't turn your back on a Breen.

MassivelyNewest Ask Cryptic focuses on Star Trek Online's weekly episodes originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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As Star Trek Online concludes its shakedown cruise of the recent Season 2.0 update, players have turned their eyes to the future and pondered, "What's next?" Coming to their aid is STO's executive producer Dan Stahl, who fields a large number of questions about upcoming features and works in progress in the latest Ask Cryptic article.

One of the inquiries covered was user-generated content, which Stahl confirmed would be coming -- at least in beta form -- with Season 3. "We aren't discussing our specific plans just yet, but we do want the tools to be easy to use so that players can begin to create their own missions and episodes," he said. "This may or may not be the big secret project we are working on."

Other questions into the future development of Star Trek Online included customizable ship interiors, the PvP system, bridge officer promotions, expanding the Sol System, the ability to play as a holographic character, and bridge officer voices. And for those standing at the edge of their captain's chairs, eager to sit down, don't fret: Cryptic is hard at work on the long-awaited "sit in chairs" feature. You can read the full Ask Cryptic over at STO's website.

MassivelyCryptic discusses user-generated content and future improvements for STO originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 Aug 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-crypticbetabig-secret-projectbridge-officerscrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahlholographic-charactermeet-interesting-new-races-and-shoot-to-killpvpseason-2season-2.0season-3ship-interiorssit-in-chairssol-systemstar-trek-onlinestouser-generated-contentTue, 10 Aug 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dan Stahl highlights more of Star Trek Online's future direction]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/04/dan-stahl-highlights-more-of-star-trek-onlines-future-direction/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/04/dan-stahl-highlights-more-of-star-trek-onlines-future-direction/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/04/dan-stahl-highlights-more-of-star-trek-onlines-future-direction/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Star Trek Online's Dan Stahl has been fairly vocal since he took the executive producer post at the beginning of last month. We had our own chance to speak with him recently, where he discussed everything from the then-upcoming Season 2 content to the rumors about the game adopting a free-to-play model. His most recent interview at ZAM covers several of the same pieces of territory, but as one would expect with the time elapsed and the release of Season 2, there are several new pieces of information within.

The weekly episodes are one of the major points of discussion, with the first one premiering in late August. Stahl discusses the episodes focusing around the Deferi, a race with ties to both the Federation and the Klingons, but not explicitly allied with either. He also discusses plans for an overhaul to exploration, likening the current system to "a small box where you fly around and go through random doors," something that the team is planning on changing for Season 3. The full interview is well worth a read for what it contains -- nothing earth-shattering, but more signs that Star Trek Online's direction is getting progressively stronger.

MassivelyDan Stahl highlights more of Star Trek Online's future direction originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 Aug 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>changescrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdan-stahldiplomacyexecutive-producerexplorationexploringpatchesseason-2season-3st-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestosto-season-2sto-season-3trek-onlineupcoming-contentupcoming-patchesupdatesweekly-episodesWed, 04 Aug 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[STO celebrates six months of interstellar conflict in the latest State of the Game]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/27/sto-celebrates-six-months-of-interstellar-conflict-in-the-latest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/27/sto-celebrates-six-months-of-interstellar-conflict-in-the-latest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/27/sto-celebrates-six-months-of-interstellar-conflict-in-the-latest/#commentsFiled under: , ,

While Captain Kirk and the original crew of the Enterprise had an initial five-year mission to explore the cosmos, Star Trek Online players have had a mere six months to do the same. In this span of time, a lot has happened for STO -- some good, some bad, some controversial, and some radically different. As the game heads into its second six-month tour of duty, executive producer Dan Stahl threw open the doors for STO's Season 2.0 update, entitled "Ancient Enemies."

In the latest State of the Game report, Stahl looks back at the additions, changes and accomplishments of the STO team since launch. The bullet point list he lays out is impressive indeed, listing 32 big ticket items that have been implemented into the game. He then looks at the immediate present with the launch of Season 2.0, which Stahl sees as a direct response to player requests and demands. "Season Two is filled with additional features and updates that you asked for, and in some cases even helped us design, specifically minigames," Stahl writes.

Finally, the State of the Game looks at the future of the title and the many improvements that are slated for delivery, including an upgrade to ground combat, more ship options for both factions and rethinking exploration. You can read Dan Stahl's full State of the Game report over at Star Trek Online's site.

MassivelySTO celebrates six months of interstellar conflict in the latest State of the Game originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Jul 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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There's a lot going on with Star Trek Online at the moment. Not only does the game have a major update fast approaching and the occasional microtransaction controversy popping up, but it's also recently been given a new executive producer. Daniel Stahl has had the reins for a little under a month, but that's still enough time to have a notable influence on both the direction of the upcoming update and the overall direction of the game.

We recently had a chance to sit down and talk with the new executive producer about his work on Star Trek Online, the game's strengths and weaknesses, and where development is headed for the future. There's a new direction in store for the game, or perhaps it'd be more apt to say a new focus. If you're interested in the game's past and future, or even just in the various rumors that started flying about the game going free-to-play, take a look past the break for the full interview.

Continue reading Our interview with Star Trek Online's executive producer Dan Stahl

MassivelyOur interview with Star Trek Online's executive producer Dan Stahl originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Jul 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahlfeaturedinterviewslevel-pathlevelingmemory-alphapatchesseason-2st-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotrek-onlineupdatesMon, 26 Jul 2010 11:30:00 EST