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[DC Universe Online's upcoming game update is all about easier grouping]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/dc-universe-onlines-upcoming-game-update-is-all-about-easier-gr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/dc-universe-onlines-upcoming-game-update-is-all-about-easier-gr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/dc-universe-onlines-upcoming-game-update-is-all-about-easier-gr/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

The proposal for Super Wimp Raids, where the enemies just stare at you menacingly, was summarily rejected.
If you've been enjoying DC Universe Online ever since the game switched business models, odds are good you're looking toward the endgame by now. Game Update 9, which is coming soon, will make getting into that endgame even easier via the addition of Novice Raids. This new difficulty setting still allows players to experience all the storyline of Fortress of Solitude, Kahndaq, and the Batcave, but the difficulty will be notched down so that players can get a better feel for what they're doing.

Of course, if you're not into the endgame rush, you've still got something to look forward to with the new role-optional alerts system. In essence, players will now be able to queue for Alerts without needing to put together a balanced group; in the event that a role is missing, a team buff will be applied to ensure that the area can still be cleared. That means that even with nothing but Damage characters, you can still explore all of DC Universe Online's group content, something that should allow for some novel player approaches once the update goes live.

[Update: SOE has also issued a statement about plans for the game's PvP in 2012. The full quote is after the cut.]

Continue reading DC Universe Online's upcoming game update is all about easier grouping

MassivelyDC Universe Online's upcoming game update is all about easier grouping originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alertsdcdc-comicsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuoendgamef2pfree-to-playgroup-contentgroupingnovice-raidspatch-previewspatchesraidsrole-optional-alertssoesony-online-entertainmentMon, 30 Jan 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Year One: A look back at DCUO on its first anniversary]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/year-one-a-look-back-at-dcuo-on-its-first-anniversary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/year-one-a-look-back-at-dcuo-on-its-first-anniversary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/year-one-a-look-back-at-dcuo-on-its-first-anniversary/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

DC Universe Online - Zatanna
Given the popularity of Batman, Superman, and the rest of the DC Comics license, you'd think an MMO based in and around Gotham City and Metropolis would be nothing short of wildly successful.

If anything, though, DC Universe Online (as well as dearly departed Sony Online Entertainment titles like Star Wars Galaxies and The Matrix Online) has proved that big-name IPs are not a surefire recipe for an MMO blockbuster. While DCUO has picked up a head of steam over the past couple of months, it took a free-to-play business model conversion to help the superhero title achieve success in its rookie year.

Continue reading Year One: A look back at DCUO on its first anniversary

MassivelyYear One: A look back at DCUO on its first anniversary originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1-year-anniversaryaction-mmoanniversarybatmancomicsdc-comicsdc-universe-onlinedcuodlcf2pfeaturedfree-to-playgreen-lanternlantern-corpsone-year-anniversarypatchesretrospectivesinestrosoeSony-Online-EntertainmentsuperherosupermanupdatesWed, 11 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DC Universe Online crafting goes live today with Game Update 8]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/dcuo-crafting-game-update-8-go-live-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/dcuo-crafting-game-update-8-go-live-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/dcuo-crafting-game-update-8-go-live-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

DC Universe Online - Huge Strange likes to craft
It's patch day for DC Universe Online, and when the superhero title comes back up, denizens of Gotham and Metropolis will have a new research and development system to play with. The R&D mechanic is DCUO's answer to traditional MMO crafting, and characters at level 10 and above will want to head to either the Watchtower or the Hall of Doom for an introduction to the new mechanics.

The R&D system brings equipment mods and superior consumables to the game, and it's broken down into four major gameplay spheres: researching, gathering, salvaging, and collecting. Researching involves finding upgrade plans throughout the game world while gathering involves acquiring exobytes. Salvaging is all about turning items into crafting materials, and collecting hinges on getting drops from various boss mobs.

The new mechanics are free for all players via the game's eighth major update. The patch notes can be viewed on the official DCUO forums.

[Source: Sony Online Entertainment press release]

MassivelyDC Universe Online crafting goes live today with Game Update 8 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingdc-comicsdc-universe-onlinedcuof2pfree-to-playgame-update-8game-update-eightpatchesresearch-and-developmentsoeSony-Online-EntertainmentsuperherotradeskillsupdatesTue, 10 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Firing Line: Aiming to misbehave]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/16/the-firing-line-aiming-to-misbehave/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/16/the-firing-line-aiming-to-misbehave/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/16/the-firing-line-aiming-to-misbehave/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Firing Line - various shooter characters
Hello folks, and welcome to my Christmas list (well, the Massively portion of it, at any rate). For this week's edition of The Firing Line, I decided to take a look at a few of the more obscure titles coming down the development pike.

Now, when I say obscure, I don't necessarily mean shoe-string budget indie productions. The games I've got for you after the cut feature a cross-section of both big IPs and big-name development studios, but for whatever reason, they're still a bit under the radar when compared to the likes of PlanetSide 2, DUST 514, and Firefall. Turn the page to read about four online shooters you should be excited about. There might even be some video involved if you play your cards right.

Continue reading The Firing Line: Aiming to misbehave

MassivelyThe Firing Line: Aiming to misbehave originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc-comicsdefiancedefiance-mmof2pfeaturedfiring-linefree-to-playgamigoghost-reconghost-recon-onlinegotham-city-impostorsgrimlandsmmo-shootermonolithonline-shooteropinionpost-apocalypticpreviewssci-fishootersuperherosyfythe-firing-linetriontrion-worldsubisoftFri, 16 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New power set, Central City map coming to DCUO on December 6th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/new-power-set-central-city-map-coming-to-dcuo-on-december-6th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/new-power-set-central-city-map-coming-to-dcuo-on-december-6th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/new-power-set-central-city-map-coming-to-dcuo-on-december-6th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

DC Universe Online - Sorceror attacking
December 6th is shaping up to be quite a big day for Sony Online Entertainment. Not only is EverQuest II's latest expansion slated to debut, but so is the new Lightning Strikes content pack for DC Universe Online. The pack is free for subscribers and $9.99 for F2P folk.

There's plenty of bang for your buck too, and it all starts with a new power set (electricity) and continues with new gear, a new open-world map (Central City), and plenty of new DC Comics characters and missions to populate it. New faces include Livewire, Black Lightning, The Top, and The Trickster, and you can learn more about DCUO -- as well as download the client -- at the game's official web destination, and we've tucked the newest trailer right after the break.

Continue reading New power set, Central City map coming to DCUO on December 6th

MassivelyNew power set, Central City map coming to DCUO on December 6th originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 30 Nov 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>central-citydc-comicsdc-universe-onlinedcuoelectricityelectricity-powersflashlightning-strikesnew-mappower-setssoeSony-Online-Entertainmentsuperherothe-flashWed, 30 Nov 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Dreamhack Winter 2011]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/28/not-so-massively-dreamhack-winter-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/28/not-so-massively-dreamhack-winter-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/28/not-so-massively-dreamhack-winter-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
League of Legends launched season two this week and announced some pretty big changes to jungling with the upcoming Volibear patch. Developers have also removed the dodge stat from the game completely and refunded players the full price of dodge runes purchased. Despite the lack of official reveals for Diablo III this week, the news train kept chugging along as fansite DiabloFans dug around in the data files to discover details of the gem system. The first part of the game's official comic Sword of Justice was also released this week, with a limited 100,000-print run.

Bloodline Champions officially released Metal Warden this week and celebrated a successful tournament at Dreamhack Winter 2011. Heroes of Newerth was also at Dreamhack this weekend, with the finals of MSI's massive Beat It tournament and news released of a new HoNTour tournament series. Rise of Immortals released a spotlight on new immortal Pycon this week, and Facebook MMO Dungeon Overlord published a trailer to celebrate the game's official launch. BioWare's Wrath of Heroes celebrated its third closed beta event this weekend, and I was there to get some first-hand experience. Keep an eye out this week for my first impressions of this upcoming MOBA.

Skip past the cut for details of this week's biggest news from the world of MOBAs and other big online games that aren't quite MMOs.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Dreamhack Winter 2011

MassivelyNot So Massively: Dreamhack Winter 2011 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 28 Nov 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beat-itbiowareblizzardBlizzard-Entertainmentbloodlinebloodline-championscompetitive-gamingdc-comicsdiablodiablo-3diablo-3-betadiablo-iiidiablo-iii-betadodgedreamhackdreamhack-winterdungeon-overlordemeraldfeaturedfnaticfnatic.msiheroes-of-newerthhonhontourhonwarsinside-designjewelerleague-of-legendslolmetal-wardenmsinewsnight-owl-gamesnot-so-massivelypetroglyphPetroglyph-Gamespvprise-of-immortalsRoIrubyS2S2 gamsS2-Gamesseason-twosword-of-justicetopaztournamenttrailervideoVolibearwarhammerwrath-of-heroesMon, 28 Nov 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[John Smedley gives interesting tweets on DC Universe Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/john-smedley-gives-interesting-tweets-on-dc-universe-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/john-smedley-gives-interesting-tweets-on-dc-universe-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/john-smedley-gives-interesting-tweets-on-dc-universe-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Not pictured: John Smedley dancing in his office.
DC Universe Online is one of the most recent games to make the business model change over to free-to-play, but that alone isn't an assurance of a game's success. The proof, as they say, is in the pudding. And according to the latest Twitter posts by John Smedley on his feed, that pudding is exceptionally rich; Since the business model switch, the game's revenues have been up an astonishing 700% per day, with 53% of the revenue coming from the PlayStation 3 players.

The playerbase is growing, as well, with about a 6% increase per day. Apparently, 85% of players are returning players, and it would seem that many of them are happy with what they see judging by the growth in both revenue and total population. Enough to purchase more characters, even -- extra character slots are one of the most popular items in the cash shop, with the Vanguard of the Heavens skin being the other most popular item. It's an interesting set of numbers, showing that the proof is most certainly in the pudding -- and it's quite a lot of pudding.

MassivelyJohn Smedley gives interesting tweets on DC Universe Online originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Nov 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modeldcdc-comicsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuof2pfree-to-playfree-to-play-successjohn-smedleysoesony-online-entertainmenttweetstwitterMon, 21 Nov 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: How do you pass the time in a login queue?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/the-daily-grind-how-do-you-pass-the-time-in-a-login-queue/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/the-daily-grind-how-do-you-pass-the-time-in-a-login-queue/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/the-daily-grind-how-do-you-pass-the-time-in-a-login-queue/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

DC Universe Online - login queue
So I'd been trying to log in to DC Universe Online (with a legendary account, mind you) for the better part of a week, and I finally managed it at around midnight on Sunday after a 20 minute wait. That may sound annoying, but it's nothing compared to the waits last week after the title went F2P. Afternoon and prime time queues placed me somewhere around the 4,000th spot in line, and I eventually stopped waiting after routinely encountering 45-minute delays and never-ending login screens.

It's been quite some time since I had to wait like that for an MMO, and I alternated between reading a book, making dinner, and playing another title to pass the time. What about you, Massively folk? Do you have the patience for MMO login queues and if so, what do you do while you're waiting?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: How do you pass the time in a login queue? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc-comicsdc-universe-onlinedcuof2pfeaturedfree-to-playgame-discussiongamer-discussionlogin-queuesmmo-discussionmmo-hot-topicsmmo-issuesmmo-topicsmmorpg-discussionmmorpg-hot-topicsmmorpg-topicsopinionpatiencequeuessuperherotdgthe-daily-grindwaitThu, 10 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DC Universe Online boasts 1000% playerbase growth]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/dc-universe-online-boasts-1000-playerbase-growth/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/dc-universe-online-boasts-1000-playerbase-growth/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/dc-universe-online-boasts-1000-playerbase-growth/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- DC Universe Online
DC Universe Online has been free-to-play for just under a week now, but SOE is already reporting huge spikes in player population. SOE president John Smedley has been tweeting constantly since the transition, with the most recent tweet announcing that population is up 1000% from its pre-F2P numbers.

It's not all sunshine and butterflies over in DCUO-land, however. Players have been experiencing a number of issues with the F2P transition, such as astoundingly long server queues, endless loading screens, and other gameplay-inhibiting problems. Smedley says that the team is "on it," though.

If you want to be part of the game's booming playerbase, just head on over to the game's official site (or download the game on Steam) and jump on in.

MassivelyDC Universe Online boasts 1000% playerbase growth originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 Nov 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boostdc-comicsdc-universe-onlinedcuof2pfree-to-playgrowthjohn-smedleyplayer-baseplayerspopulationpopulation-growthsoesony-online-entertainmenttransitionMon, 07 Nov 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DCUO registers 120,000 new players, sees concurrent user spike [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/dcuo-registers-120-000-new-players-sees-concurrent-user-spike/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/dcuo-registers-120-000-new-players-sees-concurrent-user-spike/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/dcuo-registers-120-000-new-players-sees-concurrent-user-spike/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

DC Universe Online - moon over Gotham
If the early returns are any indication, DC Universe Online's free-to-play conversion is looking pretty successful. Sony Online Entertainment boss John Smedley recently tweeted that the superhero MMO picked up 120,000 new player registrations since its Tuesday evening cutover.

Smedley also said that concurrent users swelled 400% during the same time period. The one downside to the title's newfound popularity is the login queues. Earlier this year SOE consolidated all of the game's launch-day shards down to a few "megaservers" and PC Gamer reports that login queues are paying the price as a flood of F2P tire-kickers descends on Gotham City and Metropolis en masse.

[Update: John Smedley sent out another tweet on Friday heralding even more good news for SOE: "Over 330k new players. Concurrent usage is up 600% in DCUO! F2P FTW!"]

MassivelyDCUO registers 120,000 new players, sees concurrent user spike [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelsdc-comicsdc-universedc-universe-onlinef2pfree-to-playim-batmanjohn-smedleysoeSony-Online-EntertainmentsuperheroThu, 03 Nov 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do single-player games influence your MMO choices?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/the-daily-grind-do-single-player-games-influence-your-mmo-choic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/the-daily-grind-do-single-player-games-influence-your-mmo-choic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/the-daily-grind-do-single-player-games-influence-your-mmo-choic/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

No, no, I... am... Batman!
OK, I admit it. I'm not playing many MMOs this week (Heresy! Burn the infidel! Etc.). I'll log a couple of merc matches in Global Agenda and maybe complete a faction quest or two in Age of Conan, but almost all of my gaming time is going toward Rocksteady's glorious Batman sequel.

Arkham City is so good, in fact, that it's made me patch my long-neglected DC Universe Online client just in case I feel like soaking up some more Gotham City atmospherics while I'm away from my Xbox 360. And how sad is that, seriously?

Anyway, since this is the Daily Grind and not the daily-random-game-related-rambling, I'll cut to the chase in favor of the traditional question: Do single-player games influence your MMO playing?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do single-player games influence your MMO choices? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 21 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkham-citybatmanbatman-arkham-citydc-comicsdc-universe-onlinedcuogame-discussiongamer-discussiongd-batmangotham-cityim-batmanmmo-discussionmmo-hot-topicsmmo-issuesmmo-topicsmmorpg-discussionmmorpg-hot-topicsmmorpg-topicsopiniontdgthe-daily-grindFri, 21 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE enlists comic book writer Marv Wolfman to pen PlanetSide 2 backstory]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/11/soe-enlists-comic-book-writer-marv-wolfman-to-pen-planetside-2-b/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/11/soe-enlists-comic-book-writer-marv-wolfman-to-pen-planetside-2-b/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/11/soe-enlists-comic-book-writer-marv-wolfman-to-pen-planetside-2-b/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

PlanetSide 2
Comic book writer Marv Wolfman is taking a cue from his superhero stories to team up forces once again with a powerful ally -- in this case, Sony Online Entertainment. The writer, who last worked on DC Universe Online, has now returned to the studio to flesh out the backstory for the upcoming PlanetSide 2.

Wolfman is in charge of writing a series of fictional episodes depicting the life and history of the people of Auraxis and the rising war between the three factions of the game. He's pretty jazzed about the opportunity: "I'm thrilled to be working with SOE again. Not only do I get to take elements from the original PlanetSide and further develop an extensive backstory that can help players more fully understand this incredible new world, but even better, I get to create dozens of individual characters that I hope will help bring alive the story of PlanetSide 2 for the entire player community."

In a dev diary, Creative Director Matthew Higby stresses that it's important to have not just a solid game but a believable world in which that game can take place. "Beyond grounding the design of the world, the story gives meaning to who the people fighting on it are, how they got there, their motivations and what their conflict signifies," Higby writes.

The first of these episodes will be released on the PlanetSide 2 site later this week.

MassivelySOE enlists comic book writer Marv Wolfman to pen PlanetSide 2 backstory originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backstorycomic-bookdcdc-comicsdc-universe-onlinedcuoepisodesloremarv-wolfmanmarvelmatt-higbymatthew-higbyplanetsideplanetside-2psps2soeSony-Online-EntertainmentstoryTue, 11 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DCUO's latest update takes you to the Fortress of Solitude]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/dcuos-latest-update-takes-you-to-the-fortress-of-solitude/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/dcuos-latest-update-takes-you-to-the-fortress-of-solitude/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/dcuos-latest-update-takes-you-to-the-fortress-of-solitude/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

DC Universe Online - Superman and the fortress
We still don't have a date for you with regard to DC Universe Online's impending payment model switcheroo. We do have the latest Sony Online Entertainment press release, though, and it's full of details about the superhero MMO's latest content patch.

Listen up, Superman fans, as today's patch brings about the second phase of a three-part raid in which players must stop Brainiac from harnessing Kryptonian technology and using it to destroy the entire planet. The update, appropriately titled The Fate of the Fortress, features Superman's iconic arctic hideout known as the Fortress of Solitude, and the patch allows would-be heroes to team up with Kal-El, Lex Luthor, and their fellow players to tackle a challenging eight-man group combat raid.

There's a bunch of new loot to be had as well, and today's update also features a new hard-mode option for the HIVE tier-two alert as well as a new Batcave PvP map. Finally, SOE has incorporated a new dueling mechanic into DCUO, so fire up your launchpads, button up your underoos, and get ready to save Gotham City and Metropolis from the clutches of the megalomaniacal Brainiac.

[Source: SOE press release]

MassivelyDCUO's latest update takes you to the Fortress of Solitude originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brainiacdc-comicsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuofate-of-the-fortressfortress-of-solitudegame-update-5gotham-citygu-5hive-hard-modelex-luthormetropolisnew-contentnew-raidpress-releasesoeSony-Online-Entertainmentsuperherosupermanthe-fate-of-the-fortressTue, 04 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DC Universe Online lets you prove how legendary you are]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/dc-universe-online-lets-you-prove-how-legendary-you-are/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/dc-universe-online-lets-you-prove-how-legendary-you-are/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/dc-universe-online-lets-you-prove-how-legendary-you-are/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Yes, I'm sorry I couldn't find the space for a Barney Stinson reference, too.
The fact of the matter is that in our minds, all of our characters are legendary. That's kind of the goal of MMOs. But DC Universe Online wants to give you a chance to mark your character as something special, even above and beyond that -- and true to form, the development team is kicking off a contest, asking players to show off their character to be featured in a future issue of DC Universe Online Legends, the game's tie-in comic book.

Submissions require a shot of the character's front and back, a 50-word description of what makes the character legendary, and of course your account name. The deadline for submissions is October 4th, but you can feel free to submit as many of your characters as you like. So what are you waiting for? Not only will your character be legendary in your own mind, but you'll be able to point to him or her in the comic to show everyone else.

MassivelyDC Universe Online lets you prove how legendary you are originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Sep 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>characterscontestculturedc-comicsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedc-universe-online-legendsdcuoegoofficial-contestscreenshotssoesony-online-entertainmenttie-inThu, 29 Sep 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE webcast fielding your DCUO F2P questions tonight]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/soe-webcast-fielding-your-dcuo-f2p-questions-tonight/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/soe-webcast-fielding-your-dcuo-f2p-questions-tonight/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/soe-webcast-fielding-your-dcuo-f2p-questions-tonight/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

DC Universe Online - Gotham skyline
In case you haven't heard, DC Universe Online is going free-to-play sometime toward the end of October. Everyone's favorite DC Comics-flavored MMO (OK, the only DC Comics-flavored MMO) is also the star of this week's Sony Online Entertainment webcast.

Executive producer Lorin Jameson and creative director Jens Andersen will be fielding your questions about superhero-sized free-to-play and the future for digital denizens of Gotham City and Metropolis. The webcast happens on SOE's Stickam channel; you can also catch it via the Stickam tab on SOE's Facebook page.

What time, you ask? Set your alarms for 7:00 p.m. EDT, and check out this handy timezone conversion link if you're unsure how that equates to your local time.

MassivelySOE webcast fielding your DCUO F2P questions tonight originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Sep 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc-comicsdc-universe-onlinedcuof2pfree-to-playjens-andersenlorin-jamesonmmo-industrypodcastsoeSony-Online-EntertainmentwebcastTue, 20 Sep 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DCUO's Fight for the Light content pack free for subscribers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/dcuos-fight-for-the-light-content-pack-free-for-subscribers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/dcuos-fight-for-the-light-content-pack-free-for-subscribers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/dcuos-fight-for-the-light-content-pack-free-for-subscribers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

DC Universe Online - Lantern Corps
DC Universe Online is about to get a bit bigger, and it's also bucking the double-dipping trend that's gripped the MMO industry of late. The good news for subscribers is two-fold: First, there's a lot of new content on the way. Second, it's included in the subscription fee. The Fight for the Light pack, which integrates the legend of the Green Lantern (as well as the rest of the Lantern and Sinestro Corps) into Sony Online Entertainment's massively multiplayer beat-'em-up, debuts on September 6th.

What exactly is in store for loyal denizens of Metropolis and Gotham City? For starters, there's the game's seventh power set (light, of course), followed by new instances like S.T.A.R. Labs, Coast City, and Sciencells Prison. In addition, players will interact with Green Lantern-based friends and foes as they battle to save earth from the clutches of Brainiac.

Gallery: DC Universe Online

MassivelyDCUO's Fight for the Light content pack free for subscribers originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Sep 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc-comicsdc-universedcuofight-for-the-lightfree-contentgreen-lanternlantern-corpsnew-contentsinestrosinestro-corpssoeSony-Online-Entertainmentsubscription-basedsubscriptionssuperheroThu, 01 Sep 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New DC Universe video explains SOE's Lantern Corps focus]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/new-dc-universe-video-explains-soes-lantern-corps-focus/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/new-dc-universe-video-explains-soes-lantern-corps-focus/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/new-dc-universe-video-explains-soes-lantern-corps-focus/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

DC Universe Online - Lantern Corps
If you've been wondering why Sony Online Entertainment chose to focus on the Lantern Corps for DC Universe Online's first game pack, a new video featuring creative director Jens Andersen has your answer.

"The Green Lantern Corps gives us a great stepping stone off of Earth, out of our solar system, and into the galaxy at large so we can begin exploring the great expanse of the DC universe," Andersen explains. So while Gotham City and Metropolis are still the heart of the DCUO experience, players and DC comics fans alike will be adventuring beyond the familiar confines of humanity's home planet as the game grows.

Aside from that, Andersen says that SOE was keen to get light powers into the game as well, and players can use both light and fear variants to wreak havoc on their enemies. You can read more about the new Fight for the Light pack on the official DCUO website, and don't forget to check out the new screens below (and the video after the cut).

Gallery: DC Universe Online

Continue reading New DC Universe video explains SOE's Lantern Corps focus

MassivelyNew DC Universe video explains SOE's Lantern Corps focus originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dcdc-comicsdc-universedc-universe-onlinefight-for-the-lightgallerygreen-lanternjens-andersenlantern-corpsscreenshotssinestrosoeSony-Online-EntertainmentsuperherotrailervideoThu, 18 Aug 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: Jim Lee talks Batman, canon, and DCUO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/massively-exclusive-jim-lee-talks-batman-canon-and-dcuo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/massively-exclusive-jim-lee-talks-batman-canon-and-dcuo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/massively-exclusive-jim-lee-talks-batman-canon-and-dcuo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

This is a big week for DC Universe Online, mainly because Sony Online Entertainment is forging ahead with its "megaservers" population consolidation. To mark the occasion, we sat down with DC Comics legend Jim Lee for a brief Q&A.

OK, you got us.

We sat down with Jim Lee because he's Jim Lee, and we're unabashed Batfans who will jump at every opportunity to talk to the artists behind the cowl. In any event, Lee did have some interesting things to say about MMOs in general, canon in particular, and his experiences with SOE and DCUO. Join us after the cut to read all about it.

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: Jim Lee talks Batman, canon, and DCUO

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: Jim Lee talks Batman, canon, and DCUO originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 09 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmancanoncontinuitydc-comicsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuoexclusivefeaturedinterviewjim-leemmo-industrysoeSony-Online-EntertainmentsuperheroTue, 09 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DC Universe Online rolling out megaservers on Monday]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/06/dc-universe-online-rolling-out-megaservers-on-monday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/06/dc-universe-online-rolling-out-megaservers-on-monday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/06/dc-universe-online-rolling-out-megaservers-on-monday/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

DC Universe Online has been quiet on the announced megaservers for quite some time, but it turns out that the update is just around the corner. Specifically, the new server structure will be going into effect on Monday, and players have been given a brand-new developer diary on the benefits and the procedure to help get everyone up to speed. In short, it's more people on servers and more people to group up with, albeit still segregated between PC and PS3 players.

Character names will have to be changed in some cases, but the system being used ensures that characters whose names are changed will also receive a free subsequent change if they want. According to comments, the determination will essentially be comparing hours played -- so if you have two characters with the same name on active accounts, but one's been active since launch, the older character will get to keep the name. While it's not quite the cross-platform servers many players had hoped for, it should help bolster the population of each game server as a whole.

MassivelyDC Universe Online rolling out megaservers on Monday originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 06 Aug 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dcdc-comicsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuonewsserver-consolidationserver-mergesserver-updatesserverssoesony-online-entertainmentSat, 06 Aug 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ra's al Ghul's Revenge goes live for DC Universe Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/17/ras-al-ghuls-revenge-goes-live-for-dc-universe-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/17/ras-al-ghuls-revenge-goes-live-for-dc-universe-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/17/ras-al-ghuls-revenge-goes-live-for-dc-universe-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Are you ready to face off against a nearly immortal enemy? That's what DC Universe Online players will be up against starting today, as the latest game update throws Ra's al Ghul at the players. The eponymous terrorist and assassin is embarking on his latest scheme to wipe humans from the planet with biological weapons, forcing players to brave the League of Assassins' Stronghold with the possibility of earning several new rewards. But there's more to the latest update beyond just the new villain for players to oppose.

Poison Ivy is also hitting the scene in a big way, trying to strengthen her connection the mystical plant realm known only as the Green. That puts her at odds with the elemental Swamp Thing, forcing heroic and villainous players to team up with the faction-appropriate character and either aid or thwart Ivy's goals. DC Universe Online players can begin downloading and playing the update immediately, just in time to get some solid play in for the weekend.

MassivelyRa's al Ghul's Revenge goes live for DC Universe Online originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc-comicsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuopatchpatchesras-al-ghulras-al-ghuls-revengesoesony-online-entertainmentupdateupdatesFri, 17 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DC Universe Online updates fans on console freezes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/dc-universe-online-updates-fans-on-console-freezes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/dc-universe-online-updates-fans-on-console-freezes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/dc-universe-online-updates-fans-on-console-freezes/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

If you've been playing DC Universe Online on the PlayStation 3, you've probably either experienced or heard of the freezing problems experienced on the platform. Executive producer DeadMeat has posted an update on the situation to the game's official Facebook page, and while it's not a fix, it does help explain what the issue seems to be from the development side. In short, the issue is less a matter of not being able to fix it and more of an issue of nailing down the precise problem.

According to the update, the common out-of-memory error that's causing console freezes requires a very specific set of conditions to be met, and while the team is doing its best to replicate the conditions for freezing, the live environment is very different from the in-house testing environment. DC Universe Online players who are trying to enjoy the game on the console might not be mollified by this update, but it's a clear sign that the developers are trying to keep an open line of communication.

MassivelyDC Universe Online updates fans on console freezes originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Jun 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugsconsole-errorsconsolesdc-comicsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuodeadmeatfreezinggame-errorsnewsplaystation-3ps3soesony-online-entertainmentWed, 15 Jun 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Alter-Ego: What's in a name?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/04/alter-ego-whats-in-a-name/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/04/alter-ego-whats-in-a-name/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/04/alter-ego-whats-in-a-name/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

(AP Photo/DC Comics, Victor Ha)
While it is incredibly tempting to go off on a tear about the major decision announced this week to reboot the entire DC Comics universe, starting 52 new comics at issue #1 and essentially retconning every hero and villain we've known to date, this week's column isn't about that. After all, this isn't a comics site, and we've already heard from the DC Universe Online developers that the continuity in the game is separate from that of the overall DC Universe. (Considering how much we heard that noted in the recent chats, we wonder whether Sony Online Entertainment didn't know this major shake-up was on the way.) As such, I suspect we will see the game's storyline remain essentially intact, at least until the point at which we finally take down Brainiac once and for all. After that, it's anyone's guess. Depending on how the reboot works, it might well shake up the game's direction if the new comics are doing well with readers.

No, instead our superpowered game is getting its own different version of a restart in the promised upcoming MegaServer merges. While before we had multiple servers, each side will now have two -- one PvP and PvE for both PC and PS3 players -- giving us a total of four. Over this mad-scientist server-mashup, the issue of collisions looms. This week, we also found out that the merges will not only affect player names but league names as well, ensuring that there is plenty of confusion and concern on the part of the playerbase.

Will MegaServers be the bane or balm of DC Universe Online's population issues? What precisely are the facts and fallacies? Whom will this affect? Join me behind the break as I take a look at the overall situation!

Continue reading Alter-Ego: What's in a name?

MassivelyAlter-Ego: What's in a name? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 04 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alter-egocharacter-conceptscharacter-creationcharacter-namescharactersdc-comicsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuofeaturedleague-namesleaguesmega-serversmegaserversname-collisionnamingopinionplayer-namesrole-playRPsoesony-online-entertainmentSat, 04 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Witness Ra's al Ghul's revenge in the new DCUO trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/02/witness-ras-al-ghuls-revenge-in-the-new-dcuo-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/02/witness-ras-al-ghuls-revenge-in-the-new-dcuo-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/02/witness-ras-al-ghuls-revenge-in-the-new-dcuo-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

In you haven't heard, Ra's Al Ghul, a nemesis of the Caped Crusader, has dug his talons into DC Universe Online, and it's up to you to stop him from killing millions of innocent people by joining other heroes in this 4-man alert and defeat Ra's and his lethal minions deep in his mountain stronghold. Jens Andersen, the creative director for DCUO, shares the latest visuals in a walkthrough video released by IGN and presents a guided tour of the inner sanctum of Ra's al Ghul's League of Assassins. Each member of the league has his or her own mystic power you must overcome before you face off against Ra's al Ghul himself.

This 4-man alert is just part of the new additions to DC Universe Online in Update 3. Get the whole scoop from Krystalle Voecks, who recently sat down with the developers to discuss the patch, then check out the video after the break.

Continue reading Witness Ra's al Ghul's revenge in the new DCUO trailer

MassivelyWitness Ra's al Ghul's revenge in the new DCUO trailer originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Jun 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4-man-alertalertdc-comicsdc-universe-onlineDCUOdungeoninstancejens-andersenras-al-ghulSOESonySony-Online-Entertainmenttrailerupdate-3videoWarner-BrosThu, 02 Jun 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Alter-Ego: Update 3 and more in store]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/28/alter-ego-update-3-and-more-in-store/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/28/alter-ego-update-3-and-more-in-store/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/28/alter-ego-update-3-and-more-in-store/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Good things are on the horizon in DC Universe Online, heroes, and villains! After having the chance to sit in on a roundtable discussion with Jens Andersen, Mark Anderson, and Lorin Jameson on Thursday, I am confident that the team in charge of the game's development is taking a good hard look at all the feedback it's been receiving from players. Aside from getting a chance to hear more about the soon-to-be-released Update 3, we were able to get a handful of answers for some burning questions that players have been asking about recently -- and some screenshots in the gallery below to give you a sneak peek!

Additionally, we managed to get a hint of things to come, as we're certain anyone who was watching Thursday night's DC Universe Online stickam chat noticed. For those who didn't make it, don't worry -- I'll be running down several interesting points from that event too since it meshes well with the roundtable discussion. All you have to do to get the super-scoop is join me behind the break!

Gallery: DC Universe Online

Continue reading Alter-Ego: Update 3 and more in store

MassivelyAlter-Ego: Update 3 and more in store originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 28 May 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alter-egobatmanchris-caoclayfacedc-comicsdc-universe-onlinedcuodcuo-update-3featuredgu3jens-andersenjohn-blakelylorin-jamesonmark-andersonpenguin-robotspoison-ivyras-al-ghulsoesony-online-entertainmentswamp-thingtwo-faceupdate-3vertigovertigo comicsVertigoComicsSat, 28 May 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DC Universe Online's megaservers to use phasing rulesets]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/16/dc-universe-onlines-megaservers-to-use-phasing-rulesets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/16/dc-universe-onlines-megaservers-to-use-phasing-rulesets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/16/dc-universe-onlines-megaservers-to-use-phasing-rulesets/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

When DC Universe Online first announced its "super servers," the whole matter seemed pretty cut and dried. These were server mergers under another name, right? Well... perhaps, but perhaps not quite. As a new piece on the merger explains, the servers are going to continue to operate both the PvP and PvE rulesets as before -- players who select the PvP type will be in a phased instance with other PvP players, while PvE players will be in a separate phase.

There's also some discussion about switching phases to ensure that you and your friends wind up in the same place. The overall feel is that the team is aiming toward a Guild Wars-style environment, with a single server and multiple instances within that server. DC Universe Online players can take a look at the answers and form their own conclusions, although the fact that these servers still segregate PC and PS3 players will likely remain a sore point.

MassivelyDC Universe Online's megaservers to use phasing rulesets originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 May 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc-comicsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuomega-serversmegaserversserver-instancesserver-mergesserver-phasingserverssingle-server-architecturesoesony-online-entertainmentsuper-serversMon, 16 May 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Alter-Ego: Ways to get your DC Comics fill -- free!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/07/alter-ego-ways-to-get-your-dc-comics-fill-free/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/07/alter-ego-ways-to-get-your-dc-comics-fill-free/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/07/alter-ego-ways-to-get-your-dc-comics-fill-free/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

As we already know, Sony's PSN servers have been offline for well over two weeks at this point, and Sony Online Entertainment's PC networks followed suit earlier this week due to the same hack. We also know that all DC Universe Online players will be receiving a month's free subscription time plus one additional day for every day the network is down in addition to a funky-looking Batman-inspired mask. The topic of the overall network breach is so big that it's crossed from gaming news to mainstream media -- the U.S. government has called Sony on the carpet about the loss of personal data, and Australia is planning to add new privacy laws due to the breach.

As a long-time SOE gamer, I understand the frustration, trust me. I am concerned about my personal data being out there, have signed up for credit monitoring, and filed fraud alerts with the three major bureaus just to be safe. Still, rather than devoting yet another post here on Massively to the security breach, I thought it would be better to instead borrow a page from Karen's great Guild Counsel posting from earlier this week so I can offer up some different DC Comics-related things to do while the game is offline. At least one of the suggestions is both free and time-sensitive, so be sure to join me after the break as soon as you can!

Continue reading Alter-Ego: Ways to get your DC Comics fill -- free!

MassivelyAlter-Ego: Ways to get your DC Comics fill -- free! originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 07 May 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alter-egoamazon-video-on-demandanimated-seriescartoonscomicsdc-comicsdc-universe-onlinedcuofcbdfeaturedfreefree-comic-book-dayfree-comic-bookshululoremoviesnetflixonline-comic-bookssoesony-online-entertainmentstreamingstreaming-videoSat, 07 May 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DC Universe Online players getting a new mask as a consolation prize]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/dc-universe-online-players-getting-a-new-mask-as-a-consolation-p/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/dc-universe-online-players-getting-a-new-mask-as-a-consolation-p/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/dc-universe-online-players-getting-a-new-mask-as-a-consolation-p/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

It hasn't been an easy ride for Sony Online Entertainment customers this week, as it looks like the PSN hack has affected them as well. The company is already working on a plan to make up the outage to players, especially the DC Universe Online customers who have been doubly hit. And as we all know, the road to mending fences starts with a nice hat, which has just recently been revealed on the former game's Facebook page.

According to the official statement, all DC Universe Online players impacted by the outage will receive a free month of game time plus one day per day that the service was unavailable. Players will also be receiving a new Batman-inspired mask as shown above. Precise details will be made available to players in the coming days as network service begins restoration, and while the hat won't cure all woes, it will at least help ease the sting.

MassivelyDC Universe Online players getting a new mask as a consolation prize originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 May 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc-comicsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuomake-good-plannetwork-outageoutageplaystation-networkpsnpsn-breachpsn-hacksoesoe-hacksony-breachsony-hacksony-online-entertainmentwelcome-backWed, 04 May 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DC Universe Online moving to super servers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/01/dc-universe-online-moving-to-super-servers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/01/dc-universe-online-moving-to-super-servers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/01/dc-universe-online-moving-to-super-servers/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Server merges are an odd thing for any game. On the one hand, they help produce more populated servers, give players more choices of companions, and generally can help keep the community more closely tied. On the other hand, they're rarely seen as a sign that the game is in good health, since it means fewer servers for players to select from. Whether you see it as a good sign or a bad one, DC Universe Online is presenting it as an unambiguously good feature, dubbing the upcoming merges as creating "super servers."

Starting with testing on the PC next week, the game will be migrating to four total servers -- two for each region (US and Europe) and two for each platform (PC and PS3) -- which means that all U.S. PC players will be on the same server. Unfortunately for many DC Universe Online players, this does mean that console and PC players will remain on separate server lists, which may prove detrimental in the long run. Players should keep their eyes open for more news regarding the merge in the coming weeks.

MassivelyDC Universe Online moving to super servers originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 01 May 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoledcdc-comicsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuopcplatform-crossingplatformsplaystationplaystation-3regionregional-serversserver-listsserver-mergessoesonysony-onlinesony-online-entertainmentSun, 01 May 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DC Universe Online Update 2 is on its way!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/02/dc-universe-online-update-2-is-on-its-way/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/02/dc-universe-online-update-2-is-on-its-way/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/02/dc-universe-online-update-2-is-on-its-way/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

We know you've been anxiously awaiting new content from DC Universe Online -- so have we. A couple of weeks ago, Creative Director Chris Cao talked with us about the "chance" content of the latest update. The Penguin and Two-Face are the villains of choice this time around, and we'll even see a special appearance from Mister Mxyzptlk. Naturally, we're are all excited about the new update -- now when is it coming out?

We finally have the answer. On the official forums, Community Manager Tony "RadarX" Jones told DCUO fans that the update will be coming next week! He also took some time to explain that multiple exploits have been fixed, many mission bugs have been squashed, and the social UI has been overhauled.

For more information about the update, don your cape and cowl, then head over to Krystalle's interview with Chris Cao. If SOE keeps to its normal update schedule, we will see the new content on Tuesday (if not Thursday). To the Batcave!

MassivelyDC Universe Online Update 2 is on its way! originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 02 Apr 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bug-fixeschris-caocontent-updatedc-comicsdc-universe-onlineDCUOMister-MxyzptlkpatchpenguinSOESONYSony-Online-Entertainmenttony-jonesTwo-Faceupdateupdate-2Warner-BrosSat, 02 Apr 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Community Detective Issue #19: DC Universe Online (PS3 edition)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/community-detective-issue-19-dc-universe-online-ps3-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/community-detective-issue-19-dc-universe-online-ps3-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/community-detective-issue-19-dc-universe-online-ps3-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Community Detective banner
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird... it's a plane! It's a disgruntled PS3 MMO player about to throw himself from the top of the LexCorp tower due to a lack of support options! Never fear -- the Community Detective is here, but unfortunately I can't really save the day. What I can do is give you the low-down on my experiences with DC Universe Online's rather pedestrian PS3 customer service and support apparatus.

If you'll recall from last issue's look at the PC DCUO client, I found that the customer service was actually quite responsive (as it has been in all of the Sony Online Entertainment MMOs profiled over the history of this column). DCUO's PC version fell down when it came to usability, UI, and community/grouping issues, but at least its customer support ducks were in a row.

Read on after the cut to see why the same can't be said for the console version.

Continue reading Community Detective Issue #19: DC Universe Online (PS3 edition)

MassivelyCommunity Detective Issue #19: DC Universe Online (PS3 edition) originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Feb 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chatcommunitycommunity-detectiveconsolecustomer-servicedcdc-comicsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuofeaturedopinionplaystation3ps3pvesoeSony-Online-EntertainmentuiTue, 15 Feb 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Great balls of fire]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/13/one-shots-great-balls-of-fire/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/13/one-shots-great-balls-of-fire/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/13/one-shots-great-balls-of-fire/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

When it comes to feeling particularly heroic or villainous in a video game, several people really enjoy the crazy powers available to players in DC Universe Online. Speaking as someone who also plays a fire tank in the game, I must say that the power in the above image is definitely one of my personal favorites. However, this is One Shots, which is all about our readers' contributions, such as today's note and image from site regular, Redwense. He writes in: "There are those moments in video games that can make one giddy with delight, as the avatar under one's control performs something fun and unexpected. Summoning a burning meteorite and hurling it from great heights at an unsuspecting populace beneath my blood-stained leather boots? Yes, one of many super-villain moments. Doctor Moxie was just... warming up."

Do you have screenshots of your favorite game that you haven't sent in to us yet? If so, why are you holding back? You should gather those up and send them to us here at oneshots@massively.com. Be sure to include your name, the name of the game, and a description of what we're seeing. We can always use more MMO images to show off!

Gallery: One Shots: 2011

MassivelyOne Shots: Great balls of fire originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 13 Feb 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc-comicsdc-universe-onlinedcuoone-shotsredwensescreenshotscreenshotssoesony-online-entertainmentSun, 13 Feb 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DC Universe Online releases a cinematic of the future... and the present]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/08/dc-universe-online-releases-a-cinematic-of-the-future-and-the/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/08/dc-universe-online-releases-a-cinematic-of-the-future-and-the/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/08/dc-universe-online-releases-a-cinematic-of-the-future-and-the/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

It was always an interesting point for fans that the instigator of DC Universe Online's boom in superhumans was Lex Luthor from an alternate future timeline. After all, Luthor has always been portrayed as one of the most ardent villains in the IP, a scheming and calculating figure, someone whose actions are always made with his benefit as the end goal. The newest cinematic trailer for the game addresses precisely that fact, and it does so with a style and energy that's admirable.

As the video opens, we see Luthor and an unknown character, Fracture, fleeing through the Fortress of Solitude in the wake of Brainiac's world-shattering attack. Their mission, and the ultimate backstory behind Luthor's plan to change the course of history, is given a satisfying and energizing twist over the course of the trailer. DC Universe Online fans would do well to watch the movie just after the break, to get a closer look at the developing backstory behind the game's premise.

Continue reading DC Universe Online releases a cinematic of the future... and the present

MassivelyDC Universe Online releases a cinematic of the future... and the present originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 Feb 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backstorycinematiccinematic-trailerdc-comicsdc-universe-onlinedcuofractured-futurelex-luthorloreluthorsoesony-online-entertainmenttrailervideovillainsTue, 08 Feb 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Alter-Ego: Using a controller with DC Universe Online on PC]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/05/alter-ego-using-a-controller-with-dc-universe-online-on-pc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/05/alter-ego-using-a-controller-with-dc-universe-online-on-pc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/05/alter-ego-using-a-controller-with-dc-universe-online-on-pc/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

This week I'm actually going to detour slightly from the game and instead feature one of my favorite hacks for playing DC Universe Online. Well, OK, not a hack -- more like a fun project for the nerdily inclined. Part of the reason I've decided to detour is an email I received earlier this week from Rusty, who asked: "I am very interested in trying the controller on my PC and would welcome your opinion on the best way to accomplish this. I'm leery of downloading software to make this happen. Would you mind sharing your experience?"

As such, this week I'm dedicating my column to helping my fellow PC fiends get their controller on in DC Universe Online. Depending on your personal level of hardware nerditry, your extant pieces/parts, and your budget, this can range from incredibly inexpensive on up to ridiculously awesome. Hungry for more? Join me after the break!

Continue reading Alter-Ego: Using a controller with DC Universe Online on PC

MassivelyAlter-Ego: Using a controller with DC Universe Online on PC originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 05 Feb 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alter-egoconsoleconsolescontrollercontrollersdc-comicsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuofeaturedguidehow-tokludgemedia-center-pcpcsoesony-online-entertainmentusbwindows-7windows-xpwiredwirelessxbox-360Sat, 05 Feb 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Chris Cao spreads the love for the next DCUO update]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/01/chris-cao-spreads-the-love-for-the-next-update-to-dcuo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/01/chris-cao-spreads-the-love-for-the-next-update-to-dcuo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/01/chris-cao-spreads-the-love-for-the-next-update-to-dcuo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

DC Universe Online has become the fastest-selling game for Sony Online Entertainment. Playstation 3 and PC players alike enjoy diving deep into the world of DC comics. Developers of this highly successful MMO promised monthly content, and they are delivering in spades -- or should we say hearts? This month's update from SOE promises to be full of hearts, love, and cats. What? Cats? Yes, cats. In addition to adopting the usual MMO February/Valentine's Day theme, DCUO is featuring everyone's purrfect cat burglar: Catwoman.

Game Director Chris Cao spoke with us yesterday about the new content coming out later this month. He was not shy about answering our questions about the update or about the issues players are having with the game. So follow us after the break as we visit SOE's secret Batcave to talk to Chris Cao about the past, present, and future love of DC Universe Online.

Gallery: DCUO -- February update

Continue reading Chris Cao spreads the love for the next DCUO update

MassivelyChris Cao spreads the love for the next DCUO update originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Feb 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>catwomanchat-systemchat-updateschris-caoDCdc-comicsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuoexclusivefeaturedfebruarygame-updateinterviewInterviewspatchPlaystation-3PS3SOESonySony-Online-Entertainmentupdatevalentines-dayWarner-BrosTue, 01 Feb 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Alter-Ego: Working together is hard to do]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/29/alter-ego-working-together-is-hard-to-do/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/29/alter-ego-working-together-is-hard-to-do/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/29/alter-ego-working-together-is-hard-to-do/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Wake me up when chat is working.
The news earlier this week that DC Universe Online is now Sony Online Entertainment's best-selling game probably won't come as much of a surprise to anyone who has actually played it. There's an enormous amount of fun to be had in running through the game, and the storylines are incredibly well thought-out. However, for all that I personally love the game, there is one thing that I and many other people I've talked to find to be incredibly lacking, and in this case, it's something so integral to the MMOG experience as to essentially make or break parts of the game.

Essentially, what point is there to an MMO in which you can't really reliably interact with the other people you're playing with? It's also rather eye-opening just how much your enjoyment of a game like this can be impacted when you can't effectively talk to other people. As such, this week I'll look at several crucial problems with the DC Universe Online chat interface, as well as things that can be done to improve the overall experience.

Continue reading Alter-Ego: Working together is hard to do

MassivelyAlter-Ego: Working together is hard to do originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 29 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alter-egochatchat-problemscontrollerdc-comicsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuoissuesmmogmmorpgmmospgmumbleopinionrantskypesocial-interactionsocial-systemssoeSony-Online-Entertainmentteamspeakventrilovoice-chatvoipwhere-is-my-massively-multiplayerSat, 29 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Alter-Ego: Building a better costume]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/22/alter-ego-building-a-better-costume/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/22/alter-ego-building-a-better-costume/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/22/alter-ego-building-a-better-costume/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

In last week's Alter-Ego column, I went over some of the basics of creating a character as well as my own view on the costume creator. This, in turn, set off a small firestorm of remarks in the comments both for and against the way DC Universe Online's designers have handled costuming. One thing was made fairly clear to me -- there are lot of people out there who don't entirely understand just how costuming and stat-based gear in DC Universe Online actually work. While you do start off with a limited number of options in the creator for costuming choices, a great many open up once you actually start playing the game. As such, I wanted to take some time in this week's column to really dig into how gear and costuming works in the game. Hopefully, it will help to clear up some confusion for people who haven't had a chance to actually play the game as yet.

So if you're curious about how to build your super costume choices or how the nuts and bolts of stat gear work for heroes and villains, then join me behind the break for this week's edition of Alter-Ego!

Continue reading Alter-Ego: Building a better costume

MassivelyAlter-Ego: Building a better costume originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 22 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alter-egocosmeticcosmeticscostumecostumescostumingdc-comicsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuofeaturedgearMentorsoeSony-Online-EntertainmentstatsvideoSat, 22 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Heroes beware]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/20/one-shots-heroes-beware/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/20/one-shots-heroes-beware/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/20/one-shots-heroes-beware/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

While we've given some column space to the heroes fighting crime in Gotham and Metropolis since the launch of DC Universe Online, today we wanted to spotlight one of the many villains who make it challenging. Why challenging? Well, if you play on a PvP server, you know all-too-well what it's like to get pounced while working toward a story object or when in the wrong place at the wrong time. That's the beauty of today's One Shots from Mourne -- it's just indiscriminate villainy. He writes in to explain: "I snapped this pic of my dual-pistol wielding villain, Slinger, ejecting brass. The graphics in this game look a lot better than I thought they would, and the cities are very immersive. My favorite part -- open world PvP is non-stop on PvP servers."

Whether you're a hero, villain, or something else entirely, we'd love to see what you're up to in your favorite MMO. Just email your image to us here at oneshots@massively.com along with your name, the name of the game, and a description of what we're seeing in the image. Please make sure your image is at least 1024 pixels across and has no visible UI elements showing. It could wind up being the next one we showcase here on Massively!

Gallery: One Shots: 2011

MassivelyOne Shots: Heroes beware originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 Jan 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc-comicsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuomourneone-shotsscreenshotscreenshotssoeSony-Online-EntertainmentvillainvillainsThu, 20 Jan 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DC Universe Online's developer reading list]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/19/dc-universe-onlines-developer-reading-list/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/19/dc-universe-onlines-developer-reading-list/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/19/dc-universe-onlines-developer-reading-list/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Whether or not you're a fan of DC Universe Online, the game clearly goes out of its way to make nods to comics that spawned the franchise. That naturally has to lead to a question -- what books has the team been reading? After all, it makes a lot of difference if the team is reading The Killing Joke when it comes to designing the Joker. Fortunately for all of us who know more about DC than may be entirely necessary, ComicsAlliance has unveiled the reading list for the game's development team, replete with all of the recommended books for getting a feel for the universe.

The resultant list has a number of expected entries (The Killing Joke is indeed among them) and a few unexpected ones, covering both recent events in the continuity and studies of individual character behaviors. It also contains a few surprising omissions and a couple of questionable inclusions, even with the caveats of the comics not being in continuity (Watchmen is an excellent book, but not really in the game's milieu). Still, even if you can find fault with some of the choices, it's certainly a good primer for what to expect from DC Universe Online's in-game continuity.

MassivelyDC Universe Online's developer reading list originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 19 Jan 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backstorycomic-bookscomic-readingcomicscontinuitydcdc-comicsdc-universe-onlinedcuolorereadingreading-listsoesony-online-entertainmentsource-materialWed, 19 Jan 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DC Universe Online adds even more servers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/19/dc-universe-online-adds-even-more-servers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/19/dc-universe-online-adds-even-more-servers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/19/dc-universe-online-adds-even-more-servers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Things are seriously taking off for Sony Online Entertainment's newest MMO, DC Universe Online. Just a couple of days after launch, the company needed to open up two new PvP servers (one each on PC and PS3), as the extant PvP servers were slammed full of people, and more were picking up the game daily. Now, due to demand, SOE has decided to open up even more servers, and this time it's not just for PvP -- or North America!

The newest servers -- four in all -- include two new PvE servers for North America: "Last Laugh" and "Relentless" on PC and PS3. Meanwhile, our friends in Europe are getting two new PS3 servers to enjoy: the "Justice for All" PvE server, and "Absolute Power" as a new PvP server. With six new servers online since launching a week ago, it's a great sign that DC Universe Online is attracting a lot of players with it's interesting mix of action-packed game play and story.

[Edited to correct new server name]

MassivelyDC Universe Online adds even more servers originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 19 Jan 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc-comicsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuoeuropenew-serversnorth-americapvepvpsoeSony-Online-EntertainmentWed, 19 Jan 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Heading for the heights]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/16/one-shots-heading-for-the-heights/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/16/one-shots-heading-for-the-heights/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/16/one-shots-heading-for-the-heights/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

While night hangs ever-present over the streets of Gotham, many new heroes and villains are finding their way through the treacherous streets. Will we ever manage to beat Brainiac back, or will the ruin of our world come as (now alternate) Future Lex Luthor experienced and warned us about? We have no way of knowing. Meanwhile, players like Sortius are just getting their first taste of superpowered action in DC Universe Online. Impressed by the view, Sortius had to send in this screenshot and added the following note: "I snapped this one while cruising Gotham as Dragon Wind, looking for 'clues' and collectibles. The cities really take my breath away; the scale and detail is amazing. I couldn't resist taking this shot as it shows off exactly why I'm loving it."

If you'd like to tell us of your adventures, then grab a screenshot and email it to us here at oneshots@massively.com! Be sure to include your name, the name of the game, and a description of what we're seeing in the image. We'll post it out here and give you the credit for sending it in.

Gallery: One Shots: 2011

MassivelyOne Shots: Heading for the heights originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 16 Jan 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc-comicsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuodcuo-comicone-shotsscreenshotscreenshotssoesony-online-entertainmentsortiusSun, 16 Jan 2011 16:00:00 EST