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[Vous parlez français? French and German editions of DDO now available]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/05/vous-parlez-francais-french-and-german-editions-of-ddo-now-ava/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/05/vous-parlez-francais-french-and-german-editions-of-ddo-now-ava/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/05/vous-parlez-francais-french-and-german-editions-of-ddo-now-ava/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

For many players, it's comforting to know that Dungeons and Dragons Online's European operations are now safe in the hands of Turbine. As part of the new global service of the game, Turbine's just announced that EU players now can enjoy German and French editions of the game in addition to English.

"We've successfully migrated players from the former European service and we are very excited to begin welcoming thousands more to DDO Unlimited," said Executive Producer Fernando Paiz. "This is going to be another outstanding year for the game as we continue to roll out new content and features for our growing legions of players. We're very excited to begin engaging directly with German and French speaking players and look forward to introducing them to a truly premium free-to-play MMORPG."

Last year, Turbine took over European operations from Codemasters, which had handled the game since launch. In addition to the German and French localizations, Europe can enjoy DDO Unlimited's popular free-to-play format, which is now fully in sync with the North American version.

MassivelyVous parlez français? French and German editions of DDO now available originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 05 Apr 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddo-euddo-unlimiteddungeons-and-dragons-onlinedungeons-and-dragons-online-europeeuropeeuropeanf2pFernando-Paizfree-to-playfrenchgermanturbineturbine-entertainmentTue, 05 Apr 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine bringing DDO: Unlimited to Europe in 2011]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/09/turbine-bringing-ddo-unlimited-to-europe-in-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/09/turbine-bringing-ddo-unlimited-to-europe-in-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/09/turbine-bringing-ddo-unlimited-to-europe-in-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The fifth anniversary of Dungeons and Dragons Online is at the end of this month, and Turbine's got big plans for both the birthday celebration and the rest of 2011.

We at Massively took a tour of the upcoming content today, and along with information on pirates, treasure maps, and an old familiar area reopened, we heard an exciting piece of news. Turbine will be bringing DDO: Unlimited to the European audience in 2011, supporting French and German languages as well as English. Beta testing will begin in March.

Want more details on what's to come for DDO this month? Keep your eyes peeled for this Friday's Exploring Eberron, where you'll find a full rundown of the newest content addition!

MassivelyTurbine bringing DDO: Unlimited to Europe in 2011 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 Feb 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingddoddo-unlimiteddungeons-and-dragons-onlinef2pfree-toplayftpturbineWed, 09 Feb 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DDOcast host leaving to work for Turbine]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/25/ddocast-host-leaving-to-work-for-turbine/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/25/ddocast-host-leaving-to-work-for-turbine/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/25/ddocast-host-leaving-to-work-for-turbine/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The feel-good news story of the day comes courtesy of the long-running Dungeons and Dragons Online podcast called, crazily enough, DDOcast. Normally a show's cancellation (or in this case, hiatus) isn't cause for celebration, but this particular story has a happy ending since podcast creator and host Jerry Snook is closing up shop to go and work for Turbine in an as-yet unidentified capacity. Snook posts a lengthy farewell on the podcast's website, and he also hints that the show may go on with a new host.

This Friday's show, episode 191, will be the last for the foreseeable future. Snook will also make the show's archives available to interested parties. "I will do my best to have the content available for as long as there is an interest in checking out the show and web site. It is also very possible that DDOcast will return/continue under new leadership," he writes.

MassivelyDDOcast host leaving to work for Turbine originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Oct 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddoddo-unlimitedddocastdungeons-and-dragons-onlinejerry-snookpodcastpodcaststurbineMon, 25 Oct 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dungeons and Dragons Online previews new Update 7 screenshots]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/13/dungeons-and-dragons-online-previews-new-update-7-screenshots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/13/dungeons-and-dragons-online-previews-new-update-7-screenshots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/13/dungeons-and-dragons-online-previews-new-update-7-screenshots/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Update 7 is coming for Dungeons and Dragons Online, and while the title of the update is Half-bloods, the patch promises to be anything but half-baked. Introducing two new races, a new raid, free quests, UI improvements, and more besides, the update promises to be one of the largest for the game since its switch to free-to-play last year. Turbine has shared a few new screenshots from the Droaam adventure pack, highlighting both the adventure and some of the coming UI improvements.

The UI improvements previewed offer several streamlined and clarified interfaces, while the Droaam screenshots show off a wide-ranging adventure that spans a number of different adversaries and settings. If the gallery sparks your interest, you can take a look at our recent tour through some of the content coming in Update 7 and get a bit more context. Dungeons and Dragons Online players can look forward to the patch later this month, which seems like a fine reason to assume that the cup is half-full.

Gallery: Dungeons and Dragons Online Update 7 Preview

MassivelyDungeons and Dragons Online previews new Update 7 screenshots originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Oct 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-packd-n-d-onlineddoddo-unlimiteddungeons-and-dragons-onlineendgameendgame-contentf2pfree-adventure-packfree-to-playgalleryhalf-bloodshalf-elfhalf-orchigh-level-contentnew-adventurenew-racespreviewracesscreenshotsturbineturbine-entertainmentu7update-7Wed, 13 Oct 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Waging WAR: Finding the sandbox]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/04/waging-war-finding-the-sandbox/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/04/waging-war-finding-the-sandbox/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/04/waging-war-finding-the-sandbox/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

In this installment of Waging WAR, Greg takes a look at Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning from a few different angles and goes in search of the proverbial "sandbox" in a game that contains neither sand nor boxes.

Somewhere along the line during my childhood, I developed a habit for playing games with nearly every game I've ever played. I can even remember a time in my early teens when I sat down with a few friends and collaborated on making our own version of battlechess. Pages of chicken-scratched rules and several dice results-tables later, and we were off and running for a solid week of the most entertaining chess matches I've ever played. Or there was that time with The Sims when I started creating experimental families and then leaving my computer on overnight and not interacting with them, just to see how successful they could be without my help. I could bore you for hours on end with examples of how I twisted the rules and made my own games from the games I've played.

I suppose I can blame my penchant for metagaming on my early introduction to pen-and-paper roleplaying (i.e., D&D 1st Ed., to be specific). All I had was a sheet of paper, a handful of dice, a description of the world around me, and my imagination. By its very nature, PnP gaming is sandbox gaming. The reason I'm bringing this up now is that, until WAR, I had pretty much been able to "find the sandbox" in any MMO I was able to get my hands on. Whether it was building hardcore Dungeons & Dragons Online characters, roleplaying in City of Heroes, or achievement-chasing in World of Warcraft, I've never really been troubled with finding something to do when the grind started to wear me down. But now, with WAR, I'm finding most of my old tricks for MMO metagaming just aren't working.

To read about what I've tried, and why it didn't work in WAR, follow along after the break.

Continue reading Waging WAR: Finding the sandbox

MassivelyWaging WAR: Finding the sandbox originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 04 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWarebioware-eaBioware-MMObioware-mythicchampions-onlinecity-of-heroesCity-of-Villainsddoddo-unlimitedDiabloDungeons-and-Dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineEAea-mythicfeaturefeaturedfeaturesgunbadhardcorehunters-valekeepersmass-effect-2mass-effect-2-pcmass-effect-dlcmythicmythic-eaMythic-EntertainmentMythicEntertainmentpermadeathPNPpvpRedEyerole-playrole-playingroleplayRolePlayingrvrSandboxThe-Simstometome-of-knowledgetome-unlockswaging-warwarWarhammer-OnlineWorld-of-WarcraftWorldOfWarcraftwowSat, 04 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Waging WAR: RvR packs, the "wait and see" edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/28/waging-war-rvr-packs-the-wait-and-see-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/28/waging-war-rvr-packs-the-wait-and-see-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/28/waging-war-rvr-packs-the-wait-and-see-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

This week Waging WAR rides the double rainbow of gameplay customization via downloadable content and takes a cursory glance at the RvR packs being teased by the folks behind the development of Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning. Let's follow along and see what Greg can unleash this time.

It is difficult to talk about the future of WAR right now. Not because it doesn't have a future, but because the availability of information regarding it is not exactly easy to find. Actually, information on the future of WAR is all but non-existent, surrounded by controversy on all sides, and steeped in rumor, speculation, assumption and misinformation. The best I can put together is that we, as players, can look forward to some sort of set of three different "RvR Packs" allowing us to "customize" our gameplay experience moving forward. The packs have been called "Power," "Progression," and "Personality." What exactly each contains is a mystery, although the few talking points I was able to find regarding these RvR packs are speculatively disappointing at best. Although Carrie, Andy, and anyone else involved with the Mythic development team have said time and time again that they are not discussing moving toward the free-to-play business model, what they're proposing with these customization packs looks suspiciously like the item shop established by Turbine, implemented in Dungeons & Dragons Online and soon in Lord of the Rings Online as well. V.I.P. membership, anyone?

Although concrete information is scarce and difficult to find, let's take a look at the most commonly referenced points of interest after the break.

Continue reading Waging WAR: RvR packs, the "wait and see" edition

MassivelyWaging WAR: RvR packs, the "wait and see" edition originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 28 Aug 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionaion-the-tower-of-eternityaion-tower-of-eternityandy-belfordbalaurBioWarebioware-eaBioware-MMObioware-mythicbioware-pointscarrie-gouskosddoddo-storeddo-unlimitedDLCdownloadable contentdownloadable-contentDownloadableContentDragon-AgeDragon-Age-OriginsDungeons-and-Dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineEAea-mythicf2pfeaturefeaturedfeaturesfree-to-playgames-daygames-day-2010games-workshopgamesday-ukLord of the Ringslord-of-the-rings-onlineLordOfTheRingsmass-effectmass-effect-2MassEffectmicro-transactionmicro-transactionsmonster-gamesmonster-playmythicmythic-eaMythic-Entertainmentrenownrenown-armorrenown-bonusrenown-caprenown-pointsrenown-rankrenown-rankingrvrrvr-packscenarioscenario-weaponsscenariosskaventurbineTurbine-Entertainmentvipwaging-warwarWarhammer-OnlineSat, 28 Aug 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DDO Europe to go free-to-play on August 20th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/20/ddo-europe-to-go-free-to-play-on-august-20th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/20/ddo-europe-to-go-free-to-play-on-august-20th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/20/ddo-europe-to-go-free-to-play-on-august-20th/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

While fans of Dungeons & Dragons Online in North America have had good reason to celebrate the game's transition to a free-to-play model and its subsequent revival, European players have had to make do with the regular (i.e. subscription-based) version of the game under Codemaster's rule. Like angry twins facing each other across a crowded cafeteria, the two versions of this MMO created an uncomfortable tension in the air over the past year.

This is about to change, however, as Eurogamer reports that Turbine is taking operational control of the game from Codemasters. With this move, Turbine is bringing DDO Europe in line with its North America sibling, transitioning the game to free-to-play on August 20th. This transition includes bringing European players together with NA players with global servers.

Looking to calm any apprehensions by the players, Turbine plans to pave the way to their new global servers by giving current DDO Europe players 5000 Turbine Points to spend in the DDO store. While there will only be an English service initially, French and German account services are in the works.

MassivelyDDO Europe to go free-to-play on August 20th originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Jul 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>angry-twins-are-no-good-for-anyonebreakingcodemastersddoddo-europeddo-storeddo-unlimitedeberron-unlimitedeuropef2pfree-to-playglobal-servernorth-americanorth-americanturbineTurbine-Entertainmentturbine-pointsTue, 20 Jul 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: The C-Store and the perils of going freemium]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/15/captains-log-the-c-store-and-the-perils-of-going-freemium/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/15/captains-log-the-c-store-and-the-perils-of-going-freemium/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/15/captains-log-the-c-store-and-the-perils-of-going-freemium/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Welcome to another installment of Captain's Log, in which we explore -- and sometimes complain about -- the uncharted depths of Star Trek Online. This is your captain speaking from behind a rickety card table in a basement somewhere in the murky New Jersey Nebula. Isn't moving the worst?

Last week, we learned a little bit about Daniel Stahl, the brand new executive producer on STO. But not enough to prepare us for the crazy truth bomb with which he torpedoed the official forums. On Sunday, Stahl suggested that he could see STO going free-to-play. Seriously. I had planned to discuss the Cryptic Store this week anyway, and this fits in nicely, given micro-transactions' importance to the free-to-play model.

Would Cryptic Studios' switching STO from subscriptions to an F2P model be a godsend or a hellish nightmare? (Hint: It would wind up somewhere in the middle.)

Continue reading Captain's Log: The C-Store and the perils of going freemium

MassivelyCaptain's Log: The C-Store and the perils of going freemium originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Jul 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allods-cash-shopallods-onlineask-crypticcaptains-logchampions-onlinecryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdaniel-stahlddoddo-storeddo-unlimiteddungeons-and-dragons-onlinef2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumkhaaaaanlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroobscure-manfred-mann-referencesrmtst-onlineStar-TrekStar-Trek-MMOstar-trek-onlinestosto-c-storesto-f2psto-freemiumsto-microtransactionstrek-onlineunbridled-speculationThu, 15 Jul 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO's Kate Paiz praises community, addresses F2P switch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/12/lotros-kate-paiz-praises-community-addresses-f2p-switch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/12/lotros-kate-paiz-praises-community-addresses-f2p-switch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/12/lotros-kate-paiz-praises-community-addresses-f2p-switch/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Over at Mordor or Bust, Lord of the Rings Online's new executive producer Kate Paiz sat down to talk about what's on every hobbit's mind: the transition to LotRO's free-to-play version this fall. Paiz took the reins of LotRO just as the F2P change was announced and is bringing her experience from DDO Unlimited's transition over to LotRO's team.

In the interview, Paiz spends a considerable amount of time both praising the community and reassuring it that these changes will benefit the game as a whole. One of the issues she addressed was the lack of Player versus Monster Player (PvMP) combat for non-subscribers, saying that it was necessary for now, but that may change in the future: "While we plan to introduce [PvMP] at some point in the future to the rest of the playerbase, we wanted to first focus on delivering the quality PvE game that we have to players in a way that continued to drive great interest and fun in the game."

While she declined to comment on whether Turbine would be giving refunds for lifetime subscribers who purchased that option shortly before the announcement of the F2P change, Paiz did say they'd like to offer lifetime VIP subscriptions again at some point. Paiz also said Turbine has "a lot of ideas" for additional classes, and it is working with the CDC to get LotRO launched in China.

You can read the full interview over at Mordor or Bust!

MassivelyLotRO's Kate Paiz praises community, addresses F2P switch originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Jul 2010 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cdcchinaclassesddoddo-unlimiteddungeons-and-dragons-onlinef2pfree-to-playkate-paizlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromordor-or-bustplayer-vs-player-monsterpvmpturbineMon, 12 Jul 2010 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Touring the fall's new content with Turbine (part two)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/09/the-road-to-mordor-touring-the-falls-new-content-with-turbine/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/09/the-road-to-mordor-touring-the-falls-new-content-with-turbine/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/09/the-road-to-mordor-touring-the-falls-new-content-with-turbine/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Last week we began a tour through the upcoming content Turbine have planned for Lord of the Rings Online, including the new-player experience, instance scaling and the region of Enedwaith. By themselves, those features represent so much exciting content that we could've ended there and been satisfied, but that wasn't the half of it.

Well, it was the half of it, actually. Here's the other half.

Buckle up, it's gonna be a bumpy ride on the Buckleberry Ferry!

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Touring the fall's new content with Turbine (part two)

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Touring the fall's new content with Turbine (part two) originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Jul 2010 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bilbo-bagginsbuckleberry-ferrycosmetic-itemsddoddo-unlimiteddungeons-and-dragons-onlineenedwaithf2pfall-festivalfeaturedflufffree-to-playhaunted-cellarhaunted-househelp-im-a-prisoner-to-the-ap-style-guideisengarditemizationlevel-cap-increaselfflord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolotro-storemarketingmountsshireturbineturbine-pointsvirtuesFri, 09 Jul 2010 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Exploring Eberron: Grouping is king]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/07/exploring-eberron-grouping-is-king/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/07/exploring-eberron-grouping-is-king/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/07/exploring-eberron-grouping-is-king/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Wednesday night's Nights of Eberron in Dungeons and Dragons Online was fun for all, as usual. We welcomed quite a few new members into OnedAwesome, even managing to get one through some Korthos Island quests at light speed to catch up with the rest of the crew. Once we got settled, OnedAwesome descended on House Phiarlan to make our first foray into premium content: Tangleroot Gorge. As a level 3-7 Adventure Pack with a huge explorable as well as a popular series of dungeons, it fit our group nicely. Since it offered more than one method of play, each group was free to do whatever they liked: hunt down rare encounters, pursue the slayer title, or head straight for the dungeons.

It's becoming the norm in OnedAwesome for guild chat to scroll madly at the beginning of the evening as we chat among ourselves, share information about the evening's planned activities, and sort ourselves into groups. As the level of actual gameplay rises, guild chatter settles down and goes quiet as everyone gets involved in their activities. Last night's guild channel went silent very quickly, broken only by the occasional greeting as someone logged on or an announcement of an achievement -- much fun was had by all.

In the month that Nights of Eberron has been up and running, I've noticed a recurring comment among those participating. Follow along after the cut as I take a closer look at what it is and why they say it.

Continue reading Exploring Eberron: Grouping is king

MassivelyExploring Eberron: Grouping is king originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 07 May 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddoddo-unlimiteddungeons-and-dragons-onlineexploring-eberronf2pfeaturedfree-to-playnights-of-eberrononedawesometurbineFri, 07 May 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exploring Eberron: What is all this stuff in my inventory?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/23/exploring-eberron-what-is-all-this-stuff-in-my-inventory/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/23/exploring-eberron-what-is-all-this-stuff-in-my-inventory/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/23/exploring-eberron-what-is-all-this-stuff-in-my-inventory/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Wednesday night's Nights of Eberron was its usual crazy success, and the diversity of player types makes for an interesting mix. "Interesting" is a very good thing in this case, as the guild is made up of players on every part of the spectrum from those with several years of experience in Dungeons and Dragons Online to people who are rolling their very first character.

For those new players, or even those who gave the game a brief try back when it went free-to-play, it can be a bit confusing. I'm going to spend some time in this column going over things for the newer players, because Dungeons and Dragons Online offers some pretty handy items that you don't want to miss out on.

OnedAwesome, Massively's official Dungeons and Dragons Online guild, ran through the Waterworks Wednesday night, killing an absolutely ridiculous amount of kobolds and picking up some handy loot. It was our first foray outside of Korthos, and at the end, there were lots of things in our inventory that were a mystery to many players. Follow along after the jump as we take a look at what they were.

Continue reading Exploring Eberron: What is all this stuff in my inventory?

MassivelyExploring Eberron: What is all this stuff in my inventory? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Apr 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Player attention may have been focused on the DDO Offer Wall the past few days, but Turbine jumped in and made it right pretty quickly. Hopefully the focus will head back to the fun stuff pretty soon -- namely, Dungeons and Dragons Online Update 4. If you've not heard the talk about Update 4, the Sentinels Adventure Pack, and the infamous zombie-pirates...well, welcome to Massively. We're glad you stopped by.

Turbine has released another round of gorgeous screenshots from Sentinels. These give us a peek at some pretty interesting things, including Captain Tew and Ratty, a flaming airship, some unusually well-dressed Kobolds, and -- surprise surprise -- zombies and pirates. Sadly, they are not zombie-pirates, just one of each. Still, the screenshots are a great look at the Adventure Pack, so take a peek at the gallery and then head into Dungeons and Dragons Online to check it out for yourself.

Gallery: DDO Update 4 4-14 screenshots

MassivelyDungeons and Dragons Online releases new Sentinels screenshots originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Apr 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddo-unlimitedddo-update-4dungeons-and-dragons-onlineturbinezombie-piratesThu, 15 Apr 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dungeons and Dragons Online announces bonus XP event]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/07/dungeons-and-dragons-online-announces-bonus-xp-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/07/dungeons-and-dragons-online-announces-bonus-xp-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/07/dungeons-and-dragons-online-announces-bonus-xp-event/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

If you're one of the Massively readers planning on joining for Massively's Nights of Eberron in Dungeons and Dragons Online on Wednesday nights, you'll be happy to hear that there's an extra treat in store for that new character you rolled.

To celebrate the release of Update 4 and the new Adventure Pack (we're telling ourselves that they are also celebrating the beginning of Nights of Eberron), Turbine is offering a 10% XP bonus for quests, which will give a nice boost to all players who are still leveling characters. If you've got some Experience Elixirs lying around, be sure you grab those, because they stack with this bonus. If you don't, they're of course available in the DDO store in single packs and "Super Stacks", discounted packages of five.

The event is going on now and will last until April 18th, so you've got plenty of time to take advantage!

MassivelyDungeons and Dragons Online announces bonus XP event originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Apr 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonus-xpddoddo-unlimiteddungeons-and-dragons-onlinef2pfree-to-playnights-of-eberronturbineWed, 07 Apr 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DDOn't miss out on Massively's Nights of Eberron]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/05/ddont-miss-out-on-massivelys-nights-of-eberron/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/05/ddont-miss-out-on-massivelys-nights-of-eberron/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/05/ddont-miss-out-on-massivelys-nights-of-eberron/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Remember when Massively's Choose my Adventure visited Stormreach? It was fun, but all good things must come to an end, right?

Well, not in this case. Justin and I got to chatting about Dungeons and Dragons Online recently, and decided it would be great fun to play the game together. But two is not a full party and hirelings are terrible conversationalists, so we turn to you guys -- won't you join us?

We'll be logging into Dungeons and Dragons Online every Wednesday at 9:00 PM EST beginning this week, and we'd love to play with you, our readers. Join us on the Cannith server with a new character and we'll begin our journey on Korthos Island just after the tutorial. We've rolled our respective characters, so add Syp and Rubialina to your friends list (Hey, we save our creative thinking for work), and we'll see you Wednesday night!

MassivelyDDOn't miss out on Massively's Nights of Eberron originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Apr 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddoddo-unlimiteddungeons-and-dragons-onlinef2pfree-to-playjustin-chose-the-titleonedawesometurbineMon, 05 Apr 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exploring Eberron: Can you really play free?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/25/exploring-eberron-can-you-really-play-free/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/25/exploring-eberron-can-you-really-play-free/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/25/exploring-eberron-can-you-really-play-free/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

When Dungeons and Dragons Online went free-to-play last summer, the change attracted an amazing amount of attention, and brought this quiet little game to the forefront of the MMO world. Nearly a full year later, that hasn't changed. Dungeons and Dragons Online is one of the most continually popular games in the fantasy genre as well as in the free-to-play arena.

Before we go any farther, let's clear the room of elephants: Turbine is not a non-profit organization. They are a business created to make a profit, and at the end of the day, yes: they want you to spend money. They are going to make that item shop as attractive as they possibly can in order to draw you -- and your credit card -- in to purchase some Turbine Points. In that respect, they are no different than every other MMO developer out there. They want to provide entertainment in exchange for some of your cash. So what makes them stand out? It's the fact that Turbine managed to hit on that perfect combination and truly offer something for everyone: those who want to simply pay a sub fee and be done with it, those who prefer to pick and choose via microtransactions, and those who want to play completely free.

It's that last thing that we're going to look at today. That's the big question for many people: is it really possible, or is Turbine just paying lip service to draw people in? Follow along after the jump and we'll take a look.

Continue reading Exploring Eberron: Can you really play free?

MassivelyExploring Eberron: Can you really play free? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 25 Mar 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddoddo-unlimiteddungeons-and-dragons-onlineexploring-eberronf2pfeaturedfree-to-playturbineThu, 25 Mar 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine releases screenshots from Dungeons and Dragons Online Update 4]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/17/turbine-releases-screenshots-from-dungeons-and-dragons-online-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/17/turbine-releases-screenshots-from-dungeons-and-dragons-online-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/17/turbine-releases-screenshots-from-dungeons-and-dragons-online-up/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Yesterday's State of the Game for Dungeons and Dragons Online gave players a lot to look forward to, and brought about a storm of questions and excitement from fans. The new race, the respec option, and particularly the introduction of guild housing left the community very anxious for Update 4 to arrive.

Almost lost amidst the other features was the announcement of a new adventure pack. "Sentinels" will take us back to House Deneith and Searing Heights -- places you may not have explored much lately -- to meet a new kind of undead and fight a pirate band led by Captain Tew.

So while we're counting down the days until April and Update 4, if for no other reason than to satisfy our curiosity about these upcoming changes, we've got some time to wait. Turbine has given us some gorgeous new screenshots of House Deneith to hold us over in the meantime, so check out the gallery below and enjoy.

Gallery: Dungeons and Dragons Online Update 4



MassivelyTurbine releases screenshots from Dungeons and Dragons Online Update 4 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-packddoddo-unlimitedddo-update-4dungeons-and-dragons-onlinedungeons-and-dragons-online-update-4house-deneithsearing-heightssentinelsturbineWed, 17 Mar 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DDO State of the Game released]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/16/ddo-state-of-the-game-released/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/16/ddo-state-of-the-game-released/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/16/ddo-state-of-the-game-released/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

In our interview with Fernando Paiz last week, he mentioned that a state of the game address was coming for Dungeons and Dragons Online. The address was posted today, bringing news of exciting new updates coming to DDO. Guild housing, another update, a new race, bug fixes and more: DDO players have a lot to look forward to.

Update 4 is scheduled for release in April, and is currently available on Lammania for preview. "Sentinels," the adventure pack coming with this update, will take players back out to Searing Heights as well as into House Deneith. You'll encounter undead and pirates. While this pack starts at level 7, Epic mode will be unlocked right out of the gate for high level players, so everyone will be able to enjoy it.

The new adventure pack is exciting -- we all love new content -- but this time it's not the only big news by a long shot. There are new items coming to the game, guild housing (which is being implemented as a reward for guilds to work for), and even a new race. If you've ever wanted to play a half-orc, it's your lucky day. The list of additions to the game is extensive and promises to keep players busy for quite a while.

Check out the state of the game address for the full story.

MassivelyDDO State of the Game released originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Mar 2010 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddoddo-unlimitedddo-update-4dungeons-and-dragons-onlinedungeons-and-dragons-online-update-4fernando-paizguild-housinghalf-orcturbineTue, 16 Mar 2010 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dungeons and Dragons Online Valentine's Day screenshot contest]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/10/dungeons-and-dragons-online-valentines-day-screenshot-contest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/10/dungeons-and-dragons-online-valentines-day-screenshot-contest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/10/dungeons-and-dragons-online-valentines-day-screenshot-contest/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Love is in the air, and so are Turbine Points. No, really. Dungeons and Dragons Online is holding a Valentine's Day screenshot contest, and Turbine Points are up for grabs, as well as a special forum title for the winner.

There are five categories in the contest, designed for individuals, couples, and groups in DDO. Categories are I <3 DDO, Cupid's Arrow, Perfect Pair, Most Romantic Individual, and Most Romantic Guild. Just pick your category and send your screenshot in along with a short description. Original screenshots only, no photoshopping, if you please. A full description of the categories along with all the rules and regulation can be found on the official site.

The winner in each category will receive 500 Turbine Points and a special forum title of either "I <3 DDO" or "Hopeless Romantic." The contest began today and will run until February 21st (at which time winners will be announced on my.DDO), so good luck!

MassivelyDungeons and Dragons Online Valentine's Day screenshot contest originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 10 Feb 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddoddo-unlimiteddungeons-and-dragons-onlineturbinevalentines-dayvalentines-day-screenshot-contestWed, 10 Feb 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine releases new screenshots from DDO: Update 3]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/10/turbine-releases-new-screenshots-from-ddo-update-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/10/turbine-releases-new-screenshots-from-ddo-update-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/10/turbine-releases-new-screenshots-from-ddo-update-3/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Update 3, the latest offering of new content for Dungeons and Dragons Online, has been live for a week now. Casual mode is back in business, and players are happily leveling without sigils, waiting for the weekend so they can fling themselves off the ski jump a few hundred more times, and enjoying the new quests.

If you haven't taken a look at the four free quests introduced with Update 3, Turbine is holding out a bit more eye candy to tempt you. Five new screenshots from level 13 quest Mired In Kobolds were released today, depicting our favorite scurrying little foes, as well as some beautifully scary shots of the first dragon encountered at the end of the quest.

Take a look at the new shots in the gallery below, and then head into Dungeons and Dragons Online to check out the quest. It's on the free-to-play side of the game, which makes it even more tempting!

Gallery: Dungeons and Dragons Online: Mired in Kobolds

MassivelyTurbine releases new screenshots from DDO: Update 3 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 10 Feb 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddoddo-unlimitedddo-update-3dungons-and-dragons-onlinemired-in-koboldsturbineWed, 10 Feb 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DDO Update 3 goes live, Turbine releases new screenshots]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/03/ddo-update-3-goes-live-turbine-releases-new-screenshots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/03/ddo-update-3-goes-live-turbine-releases-new-screenshots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/03/ddo-update-3-goes-live-turbine-releases-new-screenshots/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Dungeons and Dragons Online released Update 3 earlier today, something we at Massively have been anxiously awaiting since our tour last week. Fans of the game have been anxious too, reading through the patch notes and checking out the buzz on the Lamannia forums while they waited for update day to arrive.

Well, that day is here, and Stormreach Harbor is frozen over and crowded with players sliding and falling on the ice, while others farm Ice Tokens, check out casual mode, and gather groups for the new quests. If you haven't patched yet, Turbine has given us a little something to pass the time while you wait for your game to update: a series of new screenshots from the Delirium quest. Take a look at the gallery, and check out our developer tour for some insider hints while you wait.

Have fun, and have a drink at the Sleeping Spell in on us!

Gallery: Dungeons and Dragons Online Update 3

MassivelyDDO Update 3 goes live, Turbine releases new screenshots originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Feb 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>d-n-d-onlineddoddo-unlimiteddungeons-and-dragons-onlinepatchturbineupdate-3Wed, 03 Feb 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's tour through DDO Update 3]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/massivelys-tour-through-ddo-update-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/massivelys-tour-through-ddo-update-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/massivelys-tour-through-ddo-update-3/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Recently, we posted information about the current release notes for Dungeons and Dragons Online Update 3, the latest in a series of updates from Turbine since Dungeons and Dragons Online went free-to-play last summer. The update is scheduled to go live on February 3rd, and is only the tip of the iceberg for Turbine's plans, including six content updates for 2010, with a new one added every two months.

For now though, Update 3 offers more than enough to keep players very busy exploring all of the new surprises that it brings. The team at Turbine was kind enough to take us on another extensive tour of the new content, and since we are kind as well, we decided to share it all with you! Follow along after the cut to see all that Turbine has in store for DDO.

Continue reading Massively's tour through DDO Update 3

MassivelyMassively's tour through DDO Update 3 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charles-milesd-n-d-onlineddoddo-unlimitedddo-update-3developer-tourdungeons-and-dragons-onlinedungeons-and-dragons-online-update-3eric-boyerf2pfernando-paizfree-to-playturbineThu, 28 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dungeons and Dragons Online releases notes for update 3]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/16/dungeons-and-dragons-online-releases-notes-for-update-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/16/dungeons-and-dragons-online-releases-notes-for-update-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/16/dungeons-and-dragons-online-releases-notes-for-update-3/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Turbine is planning the next update for Dungeons and Dragons Online, and while it's not set to launch for a few more weeks, the current release notes are up for players to take a look at now.

The next update will bring about some very welcome changes, such as the removal of level sigils, new free content in the form of four new dungeons, and the addition of casual difficulty mode for solo players and small groups. On the other end of the difficulty scale, The Vault of Night adventure pack will offer epic difficulty for level 20 players, making it the latest adventure pack to get the epic treatment. Level 20 players will also want to revisit Kruz the Reincarnation Trainer -- he's expanded his repertoire and learned a few new tricks.

Of course, this is just a very small sampling of the coming updates for Dungeons and Dragons Online. As with updates one and two, the notes are very extensive (particularly with regard to enhancements and spells) and make changes to everything from table-dancing NPCs to quest mechanics. Read through the full release notes for yourself, and we'll see you in update three!

MassivelyDungeons and Dragons Online releases notes for update 3 originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 16 Jan 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddoddo-unlimitedddo-update-3dungeons-and-dragons-onlinef2pfree-to-playturbinevault-of-nightSat, 16 Jan 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DDO Unlimited rolls out second major update]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/18/ddo-unlimited-rolls-out-second-major-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/18/ddo-unlimited-rolls-out-second-major-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/18/ddo-unlimited-rolls-out-second-major-update/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Turbine is rolling out its second large update for Dungeons and Dragons Online: Eberron Unlimited, which includes a substantial new Adventure Pack entitled Dreaming Dark. If you're interested in finding out more about the new questing content, we have some hands-on experience with Dreaming Dark and the plot surrounding the Plane of Dreams and its many dangers.

There's plenty more in this new update, however, including many new DDO Store items and improvements. Turbine is even adding special holiday items like snowballs. In addition to that, players can celebrate Festivult, where every treasure chest has the potential to drop festival coins. Free dungeons and adventure packs are all potential Festival coin carries, so nobody gets left out. Coins are turned in to the Festivult Jester, who'll exchange them for gifts crafted specially for the season from House Ghallanda and House Cannith.

Sounds like good times in DDO Unlimited. Who doesn't enjoy finding extra loot in their treasure chest? Well, assuming it isn't junk loot, of course!

MassivelyDDO Unlimited rolls out second major update originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Dec 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-packddoddo-unlimiteddreaming-darkdungeons-and-dragons-onlinefestivulthands-onhouse-cannithhouse-ghallandaturbineFri, 18 Dec 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dungeons and Dragons Online developer tour: The Dreaming Dark]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/dungeons-and-dragons-online-developer-tour-the-dreaming-dark/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/dungeons-and-dragons-online-developer-tour-the-dreaming-dark/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/dungeons-and-dragons-online-developer-tour-the-dreaming-dark/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Back in October, the kind folks at Turbine invited us along on a tour of Dungeons and Dragons Online's Update One, where we enjoyed an introduction to the newest Adventure Pack: "The Path of Inspiration." This month, we got the same treatment for the Update Two, which is scheduled to arrive later this month. If you enjoyed the Inspired storyline, you'll love this one.

The Path of Inspiration introduced us to the Plane of Dreams, and this time we'll revisit the area in the culmination to the storyline that we began in Update One. This new Adventure Pack -- The Dreaming Dark -- is named for the creatures controlling the Inspired cult. We defeated the citizens of Dar Qat in Update One and now it's time to take on their masters. Follow along after the jump to explore The Dreaming Dark with us in this exclusive early dev tour.

Continue reading Dungeons and Dragons Online developer tour: The Dreaming Dark

MassivelyDungeons and Dragons Online developer tour: The Dreaming Dark originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 05 Dec 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-packcharles-milesddoddo-unlimiteddeveloper-tourdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeric-boyerf2pfeaturedfernando-paizfree-to-playnews-itemsscreenshotssteve-muraythe-dreaming-darkturbineSat, 05 Dec 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine releases DDO screenshots of Drow race]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/21/turbine-releases-ddo-screenshots-of-drow-race/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/21/turbine-releases-ddo-screenshots-of-drow-race/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/21/turbine-releases-ddo-screenshots-of-drow-race/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Any DnD fan is going to be familiar with the Drow, and it's pretty much a given that they would be a playable race in Dungeons and Dragons Online. If you're not familiar with them, Turbine has given us a series of beautiful screenshots with a closer look at the Drow.

The official site has a history of the Drow as well, if you are hoping for a bit more background: Most drow choose a life of adventure out of necessity, given the dangers of their homeland. Still, they greatly desire personal power, and many drow take up the mantle of adventurer seeking to satisfy their ambitions. Most drow follow the evil scorpion-god Vulkoor, though exposure to the cultures of Stormreach has brought a few of them to less malevolent deities.

If these screenshots are enough to get you interested in checking out the Drow race further you can explore more of their story and the prerequisites for unlocking them as a playable race, as well as inherent abilities and enhancements on the DDO site.

Gallery: Dungeons and Dragons Online Drow race


MassivelyTurbine releases DDO screenshots of Drow race originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 21 Nov 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddoddo-unlimiteddrowdungeons-and-dragons-onlineScreenshotsturbineSat, 21 Nov 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine announces the winners of the Broctober contest]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/turbine-announces-the-winners-of-the-broctober-contest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/turbine-announces-the-winners-of-the-broctober-contest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/turbine-announces-the-winners-of-the-broctober-contest/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Back in October, DDO Unlimited announced a fun little contest looking for responses to their (in)famous Broccoli vs. Beholder video. First prize was 5,000 Turbine points and the coveted title "Gweater Dwagonmark of Fwiends". (No, seriously. That's a great title.) Second and third place winners received Turbine points and a "Dwagonmark of Fwiends"title as well.

The results are in, with the winning "Broccoli vs. Wraith" video keeping the Turbine staff in stitches with the expressions on Broccoli's face and the farcical chase through the corridor and doorways. Congratulations also to second place winner Korin Geholtz for showing us Broccoli's attack on Stormreach, and Zac C.B./Sioyin Chua for Broccoli vs. Ham with bonus points for great music.

Korin Geholz also gave us an additional treat by giving Tasty Ham his very own Facebook page. Congratulations to all of you from Massively, and thanks for the laughs!

MassivelyTurbine announces the winners of the Broctober contest originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>broccolicontestddoddo-unlimiteddungeons-and-dragons-onlineturbineturbine-pointsWed, 18 Nov 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DDO: Unlimited Shan-to-Kor adventure pack trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/04/ddo-unlimited-shan-to-kor-adventure-pack-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/04/ddo-unlimited-shan-to-kor-adventure-pack-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/04/ddo-unlimited-shan-to-kor-adventure-pack-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Turbine has released a video for the Shan-to-Kor adventure pack, which is aimed at level four and above players. The dungeon -- which lies deep beneath the marketplace -- is nothing too grandiose or epic, certainly not on the level of Dol Guldur, but these videos serve as a nice way for interested DDO: Unlimited players to get a preview of content before they commit to buying it in-game through the DDO Store.

We wonder if there's a way for Turbine to incorporate these videos into the actual game itself, or at the very least to offer an external link for easy viewing. That may be asking too much, although since they keep making these it seems pretty logical to us.

Check out the video after the break.

Continue reading DDO: Unlimited Shan-to-Kor adventure pack trailer

MassivelyDDO: Unlimited Shan-to-Kor adventure pack trailer originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-packddoddo-unlimitedshan-to-korturbinevideoWed, 04 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose my Adventure: Meet Fahryn Brygo]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/14/choose-my-adventure-meet-fahryn-brygo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/14/choose-my-adventure-meet-fahryn-brygo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/14/choose-my-adventure-meet-fahryn-brygo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


It's always so exciting to get started in a new game with this series, and this week we officially kick off our time with Dungeons and Dragons Online. You voted earlier this week for the elements of my character creation, and I am happy to say that my new character is alive and well, and eager to begin his journey.

I've already discovered that this Choose my Adventure will need to be done a bit differently than the previous two, as I am almost completely unfamiliar with this game. What I have played was back during Module 7, and much of the game has changed since then. The voting will be less reliant on polls, and more on comment discussion. So follow along after the jump for a brief introduction to our newest adventurer, and where he will go from here.

Continue reading Choose my Adventure: Meet Fahryn Brygo

MassivelyChoose my Adventure: Meet Fahryn Brygo originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>character-creationchoose-my-adventureddoddo-unlimiteddungeons-and-dragons-onlinefeaturedturbineWed, 14 Oct 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose my Adventure: Dungeons and Dragons Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/12/choose-my-adventure-dungeons-and-dragons-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/12/choose-my-adventure-dungeons-and-dragons-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/12/choose-my-adventure-dungeons-and-dragons-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Join me as I brave my way through lands unknown in an adventure dictated entirely by you, the Massively readers! Vote for everything from game played to character creation to ultimate goal and watch it unfold in a series of journals and galleries here on the site. Then, as the ultimate goal is reached, we'll do it all over again in a new game!

Last week we ended our Lord of the Rings Online edition of Choose my Adventure with the retirement of Gibbi the Hobbit in his very own hobbit hole. This week, the votes have been counted and it appears that Dungeons and Dragons Online will be the next game in which I'll spend the next two months. I'm excited to make my way through DDO, especially since it's the first game in this series that I haven't played beyond level 10, and it will also be fun to try it out since it has re-released as a free-to-play.

So follow along after the jump for a set of polls that will determine character creation and play style throughout my adventures in DDO: Unlimited.

Continue reading Choose my Adventure: Dungeons and Dragons Online

MassivelyChoose my Adventure: Dungeons and Dragons Online originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Oct 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>character-creationchoose-my-adventureddoddo-eberron-unlimitedddo-unlimiteddungeons-and-dragons-onlinefeaturedturbineMon, 12 Oct 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine reveals DDO and LotRO YouTube channels]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/06/turbine-reveals-ddo-and-lotro-youtube-channels/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/06/turbine-reveals-ddo-and-lotro-youtube-channels/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/06/turbine-reveals-ddo-and-lotro-youtube-channels/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Turbine announced today that they have set up dedicated Youtube channels for Dungeons and Dragons Online and Lord of the Rings Online. They added something special for fans on the Lord of the Rings Online channel and uploaded the videos from LotRO's "Beyond the Shadows: Making of the Game" in HQ.

This is a treat for LotRO fans, as the Beyond the Shadows DVD was only available by purchasing the special edition of The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar in 2007. The video series begins with Executive Producer Jeffrey Steefel giving an overview of the game's intro cinematic, and continues with five more videos discussing creation and design of everything from monsters to weapons and armor.

The Dungeons and Dragons Online channel doesn't disappoint either, offering up community videos and information on some available adventure packs. Both channels look to be off to a great start, and with Turbine taking the time to split them from the official Turbine channel, it should be worth clicking the subscribe button.

MassivelyTurbine reveals DDO and LotRO YouTube channels originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddoddo-unlimitedlord of the ringslord-of-the-rings-onlineLordOfTheRingslotroturbineyoutubeTue, 06 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DDO store specials this weekend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/02/ddo-store-specials-this-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/02/ddo-store-specials-this-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/02/ddo-store-specials-this-weekend/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Turbine's free-to-play DDO Unlimited is offering weekend specials to their players in their online store now through Sunday, October 4th. Players can spend their Turbine Points on goodies for their characters including XP buffs, heals, cosmetic changes, and new adventures.

Twenty percent discounts are being offered in several different categories:
  • Heal potions and heal rods -- Heal your character for 2-39 HP per use.
  • Siberys spirit cakes -- Bring yourself or an ally back to life with full spell points and partial hit points. (Full hit points as well with Greater Siberys Spirit Cakes).
  • DDO fans looking for something new to do can check out the discounted adventure packs, offering several levels to choose from, and varying numbers of quests.
A twenty five percent discount is available on some nice cosmetic, loot, and XP items:
Players who have been saving their Turbine Points may find this a good weekend for a shopping spree, and anyone who has been thinking of giving the game a try may find this an ideal time to make the plunge!

MassivelyDDO store specials this weekend originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Oct 2009 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddoddo-unlimitedturbineturbine-pointsweekend-specialsFri, 02 Oct 2009 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Engage your DDO groove in this Sorrowdusk Isle video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/01/engage-your-ddo-groove-in-this-sorrowdusk-isle-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/01/engage-your-ddo-groove-in-this-sorrowdusk-isle-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/01/engage-your-ddo-groove-in-this-sorrowdusk-isle-video/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Turbine's DDO: Unlimited is without a doubt a bold and creative move in the MMO industry, and so we like to pay attention to their content packs for the game -- especially since we know there are those of you out there who're gaming on a budget.

This video for Sorrowdusk Isle does a very good job of visually conveying what you'll get with your purchase, but somehow the music feels, um, well wrong. The techno-inspired beats aren't bad, it's just odd when watching warriors slay monsters feels a little too much like a rave from the early 90s. Then again, who're we to judge? Maybe that's the next Adventure Pack: The House of Trance Jungle.

Check out the video after the break, and feel your foot tap to the beat.

Continue reading Engage your DDO groove in this Sorrowdusk Isle video

MassivelyEngage your DDO groove in this Sorrowdusk Isle video originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Oct 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddoddo-unlimiteddungeons-and-dragons-onlineeberronsorrowdusk-isletrailerturbinevideowizards-of-the-coastwotcThu, 01 Oct 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Conflict evolution]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/21/the-digital-continuum-conflict-evolution/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/21/the-digital-continuum-conflict-evolution/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/21/the-digital-continuum-conflict-evolution/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Conflict is at the core of just about everything. This is particularly true of MMOs, and why almost each and every single one of them is driven by conflict of some variety. For the most part that conflict is or results in combat, and as we all know, combat is probably the one thing you do most in your game of choice.

So where's it all headed?

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Conflict evolution

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Conflict evolution originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanall-points-bulletinaocapbchampions-onlinecrypticcryptic-studiosdc-universe-onlinedcuoddo-unlimitedfeaturedfuncomrealtime-worldssoestar-trek-onlinestothe-digital-continuumturbineMon, 21 Sep 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New DDO Unlimited video and screenshots show off the "Demon Sands"]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/16/new-ddo-unlimited-video-and-screenshots-show-off-the-demon-sand/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/16/new-ddo-unlimited-video-and-screenshots-show-off-the-demon-sand/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/16/new-ddo-unlimited-video-and-screenshots-show-off-the-demon-sand/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Today Turbine released new screens and a video of the Demon Sands adventure pack. As one of the many revamps that took place with the launch of Dungeons and Dragons Online: Eberron Unlimited last week, this area got a major make over. Designed for characters level 10 and up, the adventure pack includes:
  • 10 unique dungeons
  • The Demon Queen 12-man raid
  • 68 wilderness quests
  • The Zawabi's Refuge outpost.
This adventure pack, along with many others, can be purchased through the DDO Store unless you are a VIP member (i.e. monthly subscriber), then it's included, as are all adventure packs. But the question remains, is it worth it for the free-to-play players? Check out the screens and video after the jump to help you decide. You may also find our Common Questions for new DDO Players and Round Up Of DDO Articles on Massively useful.

Gallery: DDO Eberron Unlimited: Demon Sands adventure pack

Continue reading New DDO Unlimited video and screenshots show off the "Demon Sands"

MassivelyNew DDO Unlimited video and screenshots show off the "Demon Sands" originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-packddo-eberron-unlimitedddo-unlimiteddemon-sandsdungeons-and-dragons-onlinegalleryscreenshotstrailerturbinevideoWed, 16 Sep 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Common questions for new DDO Unlimited players [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/14/common-questions-for-new-ddo-unlimited-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/14/common-questions-for-new-ddo-unlimited-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/14/common-questions-for-new-ddo-unlimited-players/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Having spent the last few days in Turbine's newly-Free To Play DDO Unlimited, I asked and answered the same handful of questions a brain-numbing number of times. To spare the chat channel on your server the spam, I've listed many of the most common ones here. If the questions keep popping up while you are adventuring on Korthos, feel free to help out with the answers in the General or Advice chat channels.

Why can't I play a Drow/Warforged/Monk/Favored Soul?
  • Monk class/Warforged race: These can be bought either individually through the DDO store or gained automatically with a monthly subscription.
  • Favored Soul class/Drow race: These can be earned by free-to-play players through Favor Points earned by completing quests. They can also be purchased outright from the DDO store. Drows that are purchased through Favor Points are only unlocked on that server.
Why can't I get past level 4? Is leveling capped for players who are not paying?
All players, paying and free to play, can level up to 20. To get past four, free-to-play players can loot certain Sigils from chests in dungeons and select them as rewards. These Sigils will get you past the current leveling checkpoint. The Sigils are also available in the DDO Store. Paying players don't need Sigils to advance at the level checkpoints so they don't have to pass up the other good loot in the chests for them.

How do I switch weapons on the fly?
Drag your weapon icon from your inventory to your hotkey bar. Then click on that hotkey when you want to swap weapons. If you have more than one item you want to swap out (for example: sword and shield for bow) you can use the Weapon Set slots in the Inventory panel. Drop the items into the slots that make a set, then drag the icon with the green border down to your hotkey bar. (Thanks commenter Baburnama!)

Continue reading Common questions for new DDO Unlimited players [Updated]

MassivelyCommon questions for new DDO Unlimited players [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 Sep 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cannith-manufactoryddoddo-unlimiteddecrepit-catacombsebberon-unlimitedf2pfeaturedkorthos-islandskeleton-mageturbineMon, 14 Sep 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Are you checking out DDO?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/10/the-daily-grind-are-you-checking-out-ddo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/10/the-daily-grind-are-you-checking-out-ddo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/10/the-daily-grind-are-you-checking-out-ddo/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Yesterday saw the open launch of Dungeons & Dragons Online Unlimited, and from what we hear the stampede of players headed for Turbine's servers to check it out caused a bit of a hiccup. As it's tied to the monstrous name in Pen & Paper gaming, there is definitely a bunch of interest in seeing just what has changed in the game since its early days.

That said, we wanted to ask you if you'd gotten a chance to check out Turbine's re-imagined take on the tabletop favorite of so many? Did you give the new Dungeons & Dragons Online a whirl? Now that it has a F2P option, will you be spending time doing some dungeon crawling in DDO?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Are you checking out DDO? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddoddo-unlimiteddungeons-and-dragons-onlinef2pfree-to-playfreemiumpen-and-papertabletop-gamingtdgthe-daily-grindturbineThu, 10 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DDO Unlimited launch day round-up]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/09/ddo-unlimited-launch-day-round-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/09/ddo-unlimited-launch-day-round-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/09/ddo-unlimited-launch-day-round-up/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Dungeons and Dragons Online: Eberron Unlimited releases today, so we put together a little round-up of our best guides for this new content. Maybe you're confused on how the new DDO Store will work, or have heard rumors about what aspect of the game is truly free-to-play. We have you covered!
Massively's DDO Unlimited developer tour
Love can sometimes be a fickle thing, but I'm pretty sure that I love what Turbine has done with the DDO Store in Dungeons and Dragons Online Unlimited. I'll admit that initially I was a little concerned with the concept of an in-game store, but after playing with it at bit and asking some questions my fears have pretty much melted away.
Massively Speaking Episode 57: DDO with Jerry Snook
Massively Speaking Episode 57 returns this week with an entire episode dedicated to Dungeons and Dragons Online and their recent announcement about going free-to-play. Shawn is joined by DDOCast host Jerry Snook as they discuss the ins and outs, good and bad of a 3-year-old game going F2P.
The pros and cons of free to play Dungeons and Dragons Online
Dungeons and Dragons Online going free to play is undoubtedly an awesome announcement. But exactly how awesome of an announcement is it? Yesterday we were all over the announcement, covering the basics of what can be expected with this changeover from subscription based to free to play. But now, I'd like to break that down even further, and really look at the changes in an in-depth manner.
DDO goes F2P: An interview with Turbine
As the news hit yesterday concerning Dungeons and Dragons Online going free-to-play, many MMO gamers collectively rejoiced, while others didn't. The idea of this hybrid business model is wonderful for those who have yet to experience DDO, as it now gives them a chance to play the game as long as they'd like, with no level cap restrictions for absolutely no cost. This means no credit card info changing hands, no commitments to a monthly fee and the implied need to "get your money's worth" and no real need to quit the game if you can't afford it. But it can't be that easy, can it? Well, there's a slight catch.

Continue reading DDO Unlimited launch day round-up

MassivelyDDO Unlimited launch day round-up originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddoddo-unlimiteddungeons-and-dragons-onlineeberron-unlimitedfeaturedround-upturbineWed, 09 Sep 2009 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DDO Unlimited begins head start today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/01/ddo-unlimited-begins-head-start-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/01/ddo-unlimited-begins-head-start-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/01/ddo-unlimited-begins-head-start-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


With Dungeons and Dragons Online's upcoming venture into the world of free-to-play, we're all pretty excited to get into the game and see what it has to offer, without the worries of a monthly sub. Not only that, but the devs at Turbine are adding so much to the game, it really did its own relaunch for the event.

The official launch of DDO Unlimited will take place on September 9th, but today actually marks a head start for all current beta players and previous subscription holders. This means you can reserve new character names, check out the new content and even make some purchases on the DDO store before everyone else. Active or former subscribers can simply patch their current clients, but beta players will need to head on over to this link to download the game.

MassivelyDDO Unlimited begins head start today originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Sep 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddoddo-unlimiteddungeons-and-dragons-onlinehead-startturbineTue, 01 Sep 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DDO Unlimited's final patch notes released]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/31/ddo-unlimiteds-final-patch-notes-released/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/31/ddo-unlimiteds-final-patch-notes-released/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/31/ddo-unlimiteds-final-patch-notes-released/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


If you're one of those types of people who loves reading patch notes, then do we have a patch note novel for you! In anticipation of the Dungeons and Dragons Online: Eberron Unlimited release later this week, the DDO devs have dropped the final patch notes in our collective laps today.

These patch notes are certainly epic. Never before has a developer attempted to defeat the Iliad with the power of bug fixes and game improvements. The patch notes for DDO go over everything from the new class, to the new level cap of 20, to the UI enhancements, feat changes, class specific patch notes, adventure areas, and much, much more.

If you're interested in checking out what's in store for you at the launch of DDO, look no further than Turbine's patch notes. Enjoy your scrolling!

MassivelyDDO Unlimited's final patch notes released originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 31 Aug 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classesddoddo-unlimiteddungeons-and-dragonseberroneberron-unlimitedfeatsgame-launchpatch-notesturbineui-enhancementupdateMon, 31 Aug 2009 19:30:00 EST