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[Richard Garriott blasts NCsoft with $24 million lawsuit]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/06/richard-garriott-blasts-ncsoft-with-24-million-lawsuit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/06/richard-garriott-blasts-ncsoft-with-24-million-lawsuit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/06/richard-garriott-blasts-ncsoft-with-24-million-lawsuit/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

When Tabula Rasa shut down in January, we thought we'd heard the last of NCsoft and Richard Garriott in the same sentence. Oh, how wrong we were. Yesterday, Kotaku broke the news that Garriott was suing his old pals at NCsoft to the tune of $24 million for fraud, and generally being a bunch of fetid arsebiscuits. Details were decidedly skimpy, however - why would Garriott go after the company so long after his departure? What had gone rotten in the state of Denmark?

This morning, GamePolitics added their .02 to the mix and upped the ante with the legal documents involved - and boy, are they illuminating. According to Richard's side of the story, it goes like this: Richard & co form Destination Games, and are bought out by NCsoft in exchange for some very hefty stock options. After Tabula Rasa launches, Richard gets tapped for a space flight he signed up for some years prior. After talking to NCsoft higher-ups, he is approved for, and goes on, extended leave to take his space flight. During this time, he continues doing PR for Tabula Rasa, including Operation Immortality. Flight (and PR stunt) successful, Richard touches down to Earth, goes into quarantine in Russia, and NCsoft calls him to drop the hammer - while he's stuck in Russia, decontaminating. No choice, no warning, nothing. "So long, and thanks for all the Bane."

Continue reading Richard Garriott blasts NCsoft with $24 million lawsuit

MassivelyRichard Garriott blasts NCsoft with $24 million lawsuit originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 May 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingdestination-gameslawsuitrgtrrichard-garriottstock-optionstabula-rasatrWed, 06 May 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: A final salute]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/one-shots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/one-shots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/one-shots/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


While Tabula Rasa may have shut down all of the servers, this game is by no means forgotten. As many people head into their favorite gaming spaces this weekend to spend time with friends, at least one group will be missing their favorite MMO haunt. This salute to the end of Tabula Rasa comes to us from Mort, who sent along the follow brief note: [This is] a final salute to the fallen Earth from clan Kaka, [taken] at the Empire State Building. We have a few other final Tabula Rasa contributions, so we'll be adding those in the mix in the days to come - if you'd like to send yours and join the fun, feel free!

If you're playing a game we haven't seen in a while - or likely won't see again - why not send in a screenshot? We like to see everything from rolling landscape screens to the intense heat of battle. All you have to do is email it to us at oneshots AT massively DOT com along with your name, the game it's from, and a quick note about what we're seeing. We'll post it out here and give you credit for sending it in!

Gallery: One Shots


MassivelyOne Shots: A final salute originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Mar 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>destination-gamesncsoftone-shotsrgtrscreenshotscreenshotssunsettedtabula-rasatrFri, 06 Mar 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dismissed! The final moments of Tabula Rasa]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/01/dismissed-the-final-moments-of-tabula-rasa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/01/dismissed-the-final-moments-of-tabula-rasa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/01/dismissed-the-final-moments-of-tabula-rasa/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Despite any glimmer of hope from fans that the game could somehow be saved, NCsoft's Tabula Rasa closed down last night in a truly epic display of community and developer involvement.

It's not often that we get to see the last second of an MMO's life, so it's important that we showcase those videos depicting the final moments. Quite a few videos have popped up already, with many more out there on YouTube. We've collected and embedded a few of the very first videos available just below the cut, courtesy of iRacerMatt, our reader Poozle, Plukh and the wonderful tribute video at WarCry. Plus, be sure to check out our visual tribute to TR through a gallery of player screenshots.

Gallery: Remembering Tabula Rasa through screenshots

Tabula Rasa and NCsoft Devs, we salute youRuuuuun!A Thrax HybridEx-Community Coordinator Critters in game at a FNFOne of the earliest Friday Night Fight events in Alia Das

Continue reading Dismissed! The final moments of Tabula Rasa

MassivelyDismissed! The final moments of Tabula Rasa originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 01 Mar 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closuredestination-gamesfinalencsoftshutdowntabula-rasatrvideosSun, 01 Mar 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Raising a glass]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/23/one-shots-raising-a-glass/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/23/one-shots-raising-a-glass/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/23/one-shots-raising-a-glass/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Those brave soldiers of the AFS have been battling bravely against the Bane as the final days of Tabula Rasa tick to a close. Where these recruits will head next is anyone's guess, but we're glad to see a Tabula Rasa screenshot showing a little slice of life from the servers before they're gone. Today's One Shots comes to us from one AFS recruit, Kazmanchoy, who sent this in along with the following note. With the end of Tabula Rasa coming at the end of this week, there's never been a better time to head to one of TR's taverns to drown your sorrows with some fine Corman ale. The well-stocked bar seen here is in the Staal Nightclub in Crucible, on the planet Arieki.

Are you taking part in the final days of Tabula Rasa? If so, we'd love to see some of your screenshots and hear some of your thoughts on this game. Just email them to us at oneshots AT massively DOT com along with your name. We'll post your pictures for everyone to see and give you the credit for reporting in from the front lines.

Gallery: One Shots

MassivelyOne Shots: Raising a glass originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Feb 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>destination-gameskazmanchoyncsoftone-shotsrichard-garriottscreenshotscreenshotstabula-rasatrMon, 23 Feb 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[How NCsoft should have done their layoffs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/12/how-ncsoft-should-have-done-their-layoffs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/12/how-ncsoft-should-have-done-their-layoffs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/12/how-ncsoft-should-have-done-their-layoffs/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Adam Martin is no stranger to NCsoft or the game industry. We've already covered both his look into the failure of Tabula Rasa from his position at NCsoft, as well as his advice on how to approach customer service. His current topic, however, is a bit more edgy than usual.

Adam takes a crack at the NCsoft layoffs, not only saying they were expected but also going further by giving advice on how to properly lay off employees and departments. He makes the point that the company is simultaneously doing two things: both cleaning up the mess of a partial layoff in the development department in the European offices and transitioning the company into the hands of Arena.net veterans rather than Destination Games/Origin Systems veterans.

It may be a harsh situation, but Adam's post brings up many good points on how the whole thing could have been handled more effectively from a business stand-point. Check out his entire article over at his blog, T=Machine.

MassivelyHow NCsoft should have done their layoffs originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Feb 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adam-martinarena.netdestination-gamesnc-europencsoftncsoft-layoffsncwestorigin-systemsrichard-garriottrobert-garriottt-machineThu, 12 Feb 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tabula Rasa's new Mechs: How do I find them?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/10/tabula-rasas-new-mechs-how-do-i-find-them/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/10/tabula-rasas-new-mechs-how-do-i-find-them/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/10/tabula-rasas-new-mechs-how-do-i-find-them/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


While we gear up for the official release of Tabula Rasa's Deployment 16 onto the live servers, which is rumored to happen later this week, we find ourselves excited for the features coming along with it. These are features we've been awaiting for months, and even if we can only enjoy them for the remaining two weeks, they're fun to play with nonetheless.

One of those features is the drivable Mechs, or Personal Armor Units. These PAUs were announced very early in the game's development and have become almost a joke for the game's skeptics. So we thought we'd take this opportunity to give a quick little guide on how to obtain your PAU on the test server, and eventually the live server.

Continue reading Tabula Rasa's new Mechs: How do I find them?

MassivelyTabula Rasa's new Mechs: How do I find them? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 Feb 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>destination-gamesedmund-rangefeaturedjoystiqfeaturesmechncsoftpautabula-rasatr-deployment-16Tue, 10 Feb 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tabula Rasa honors biggest fans by naming in-game items after them]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/tabula-rasa-honors-biggest-fans-by-naming-in-game-items-after-th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/tabula-rasa-honors-biggest-fans-by-naming-in-game-items-after-th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/tabula-rasa-honors-biggest-fans-by-naming-in-game-items-after-th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

As I mentioned in an earlier post regarding Tabula Rasa's Deployment 16 hitting the test servers, one interesting feature included with this patch was this tidbit: 40 unique weapons named after players. This might be something you glanced over as you searched for more info on the PAUs, but this simple addition has made so many people excited, including myself.

The official list of immortalized players hasn't been released yet, but from the buzz at the PlanetTR forums, the ones who were honored are quite happy. I've skipped the plural narrative here to gush a bit about how much something like this means to me and presumably, the other 39 people honored as well.

Continue reading Tabula Rasa honors biggest fans by naming in-game items after them

MassivelyTabula Rasa honors biggest fans by naming in-game items after them originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Jan 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>communitydestination-gamesncsoftplayerstabula-rasatrtr-deployment-16Thu, 29 Jan 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A timeline of Tabula Rasa]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/21/a-timeline-of-tabula-rasa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/21/a-timeline-of-tabula-rasa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/21/a-timeline-of-tabula-rasa/#commentsFiled under: , ,


As Tabula Rasa approaches its final lap, the community retrospectives continue to arise, showcasing the best and worst that the game had to offer. Over at Ten Ton Hammer, they've compiled a short run-down which chronicles the rise and fall of NCsoft's failed sci-fi shooter.

Beginning in August of 2007, open beta rolled out, in what easily became tens of thousands of beta testers. Reviews for the game were mixed as the NDA lifted, and the polarizing opinions that later defined the game's community came out in full force. From there, the game suffered a few personnel changes and brought out its biggest guns when Richard Garriott announced a promotional tie-in with a space flight. This wasn't enough to keep the game afloat, as Garriott himself left the flock and the game's closure was announced 10 days later.

This article at TTH gives a brief timeline for the features and highlights of the game from early beta to now. It's worth a read if you're curious about the game's life, or want to simply look back fondly at its progression.

MassivelyA timeline of Tabula Rasa originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Jan 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>destination-gamesncsoftradarxrichard-garriotttabula-rasaten-ton-hammertrtthWed, 21 Jan 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Opinions flare from ex-NCsoft employees about TR's closing]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/16/opinions-flair-from-ex-ncsoft-employees-about-trs-closing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/16/opinions-flair-from-ex-ncsoft-employees-about-trs-closing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/16/opinions-flair-from-ex-ncsoft-employees-about-trs-closing/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

As Tabula Rasa approaches its end days, the anger, sadness and I-told-you-so sentiments are rising up more than ever. This week marks an interesting occasion where two former NCsoft employees each wrote detailed stories on their own perspectives regarding the sci-fi MMO's downward spiral.

First we have this post by Adam Martin, former CTO of NCsoft Europe, where he explains his views on why the game failed. Granted, he admits he wasn't actually on the TR team, but he was privy to the internal mailing lists and information about the game from Alpha to launch. As a response, we have a post from Scott Jennings, who sums it all up fairly well with this statement: "The biggest failing, though, was that it was in development about twice as long and spent twice as much as it had any right to. And that's what promotes it, in this snarky outside blogger's view, from understandable failure to extinction-level company-slaying train wreck."

Update: Although Adam Martin's post states that he was the European CTO at the time, we get word from NCsoft that he was never the CTO for NCsoft Europe. He was the Lead Programmer.

MassivelyOpinions flare from ex-NCsoft employees about TR's closing originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Jan 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closuredestination-gameslum-the-madncsoftncsoft-europeopinionsperspectivescott-jenningstabula-rasatrFri, 16 Jan 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Richard Garriott live on stage, one night only!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/13/richard-garriott-live-on-stage-one-night-only/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/13/richard-garriott-live-on-stage-one-night-only/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/13/richard-garriott-live-on-stage-one-night-only/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

As a game developer, there's no denying that Richard Garriott is a legend. I think by now most people reading this realize his importance in creating Ultima Online, and his "come-back" attempt with Tabula Rasa. Since then, Garriott has expressed a desire to leave gaming to pursue his rediscovered love for space travel, and then gaming again, and now space travel again.

If you find yourself compelled with the space flight of Richard Garriott, and you feel like paying $65 a ticket for the opportunity, he'll be telling his story live on the ZACH Theatre's Whisenhunt stage in Austin, TX for one night only. On Saturday, January 24th, at both 2:30pm and 8pm, you can listen to Richard Garriott talk about his experiences in space and his future plans with the space program. There will even be a Q&A session afterwards. I can think of a few questions I'd like to ask him. How about you?

MassivelyRichard Garriott live on stage, one night only! originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Jan 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>austindestination-gamesliverichard-garriottspacestagetabula-rasatheatertheatreTue, 13 Jan 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tabula Rasa Night of Champions event]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/tabula-rasa-night-of-champions-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/tabula-rasa-night-of-champions-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/tabula-rasa-night-of-champions-event/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


In this week's Weekend Wrapup for Tabula Rasa, we get word of the most recent Friday Night Fights results, but we also get a bit of an announcement for a new finale event regarding the long-running in-game boxing tournament.

FNF: Night of Champions will be a special event that will play host to the largest gathering of former FNF champions ever in one spot. The only problem is locating all of these former champions for the event! You can check out the current list of champions over at the PlanetTR forums, and keep an eye out for more info on what may be the largest Friday Night Fights ever.

MassivelyTabula Rasa Night of Champions event originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boxingchampionsdestination-gamesfriday-night-fightsncsoftnight-of-championsplanettrpvptabula-rasatournamentMon, 12 Jan 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Why you should be playing Tabula Rasa: It's free!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/why-you-should-be-playing-tabula-rasa-its-free/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/why-you-should-be-playing-tabula-rasa-its-free/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/why-you-should-be-playing-tabula-rasa-its-free/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


If you're still postponing the dive into NCsoft's Tabula Rasa, because of that whole shut-down thing, I wanted to just let you know that you may be missing out on a historical opportunity here. How often is it that you get to play a game through its last remaining weeks, and actually witness the end first-hand?

Right now the game itself is even free to download. I'll explain more on this later, but if you're feeling extra generous, or you're big into souvenirs from dead MMOs, you can pick it up on Amazon or most brick-and-mortar shops for $5 US. If you want to spend the extra cash for a Collector's Edition, to get some dogtags, an AFS Challenge coin, a "Making of Tabula Rasa" DVD and more, you can do that for $15-$30 usually. Or perhaps, you'll be lucky enough to find a dumpster full of boxes behind an EB Games somewhere.

Continue reading Why you should be playing Tabula Rasa: It's free!

MassivelyWhy you should be playing Tabula Rasa: It's free! originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>destination-gamesfeaturedjoystiqfeaturesncsofttabula-rasatrwhy-you-should-be-playingThu, 08 Jan 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tabula Rasa burial ground, behind EB Games]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/05/tabula-rasa-burial-ground-behind-eb-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/05/tabula-rasa-burial-ground-behind-eb-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/05/tabula-rasa-burial-ground-behind-eb-games/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Despite the title of this Kotaku post, I still refuse to call Tabula Rasa a bad game. Sure it's certainly not an encouraging sign to see dozens of sealed TR boxes filling a dumpster behind an EB Games in Canada, but I am not going to jump on that wagon.

In this Kotaku post, we see two reader-submitted photos of said dumpster, and it really makes me sad to think about where those games could have gone instead. I wonder if they first tried to give them away for free, or perhaps the EB Games upper management told them that it's not even worth the shelf space, considering their PC shelf space is shrinking every day anyway. Would you have taken a free copy of Tabula Rasa, just to play it out completely free these last six weeks? Am I being a complete fanboy? Yes, but I know I've never had a stronger compulsion to dumpster dive in my life.

MassivelyTabula Rasa burial ground, behind EB Games originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>destination-gamesdumpster-divingeb-gameskotakuncsofttabula-rasatrMon, 05 Jan 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tabula Rasa goes free-to-play one month early]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/tabula-rasa-goes-free-to-play-one-month-early/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/tabula-rasa-goes-free-to-play-one-month-early/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/tabula-rasa-goes-free-to-play-one-month-early/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


The news coming out of the Tabula Rasa camp this evening just keeps getting better! First we hear about the new content being released with Deployment 15, then the upcoming PAU and Mech units being released in Deployment 16, and now we get word that the game will be going free-to-play a full month earlier than originally planned.

As of right now, Tabula Rasa is completely free to current players, former players and brand new players. Head on over to the PlayNC store to create or reactivate an account and enjoy the final months of the game at no cost. Check out the official announcement for more details on creating or reactivating an account, and check out the game before it's too late!

MassivelyTabula Rasa goes free-to-play one month early originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Dec 2008 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbreakingnewsdestination-gamesfree-to-playncsofttabula-rasatrFri, 19 Dec 2008 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tabula Rasa's PAUs and Mechs coming in next patch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/tabula-rasas-paus-and-mechs-coming-in-next-patch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/tabula-rasas-paus-and-mechs-coming-in-next-patch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/tabula-rasas-paus-and-mechs-coming-in-next-patch/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Just when we thought the Tabula Rasa news couldn't get any better with today's Deployment 15 reaching the live servers, we now get word that the highly-anticipated Personal Armor Units that we've been hearing about for a year now are finally coming in Deployment 16.

These PAUs and Mechs will be two separate unit types, obtainable through either a control point mech pad or in the case of the PAU, as a "mount" of sorts. PAUs will only be available to the highest level of Logos Receptives and require a certain skill requirement for usage. Right now, we have word of the Angel PAU for Specialists, the Vulcan PAU for Soldiers, the standard AFS Mech which players are already aware of, the Orson Mech which acts much like a Sapper and finally the Grendel Mech which is described as having the ability to bring down the mightiest of base defenses (it's the big guy in the screenshot above). Check out the complete announcement and let us know what you think in the comments below.

MassivelyTabula Rasa's PAUs and Mechs coming in next patch originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Dec 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>destination-gamesmechncsoftpatchpautabula-rasatr-deployment-16Fri, 19 Dec 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tabula Rasa celebrates the holidays with FPS view]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/tabula-rasa-celebrates-the-holidays-with-fps-view/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/tabula-rasa-celebrates-the-holidays-with-fps-view/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/tabula-rasa-celebrates-the-holidays-with-fps-view/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


It's here! FPS view, along with several other exciting features, have now been implemented on Tabula Rasa's live servers with the latest patch: Deployment 15.7.

In addition, we have a new instance map entitled The Empire Sector, which is available to level 50 players who must also meet a certain Logos requirement. The CELLAR arena's location has also been expanded with a new entrance to the Edmund Range wargame map and the Epic Caves of Donn instance is also live with this patch. If that's just not enough, the holiday seasonal decorations are now in game for Tabula Rasa's second winter holiday event. Check out the complete patch notes for more information as to what's new on the live servers today.

MassivelyTabula Rasa celebrates the holidays with FPS view originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Dec 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cellardestination-gamesfpslive-serverncsofttabula-rasatr-deployment-15Fri, 19 Dec 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Honoring Tabula Rasa through screenshots]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/15/honoring-tabula-rasa-through-screenshots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/15/honoring-tabula-rasa-through-screenshots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/15/honoring-tabula-rasa-through-screenshots/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Over the next 2 months, we here at Massively plan to honor Tabula Rasa through a series of articles. The news of the game's closing affects all MMO gamers, even if they never actually played Tabula Rasa itself. So in this first one, we're taking a look at the community's best screenshots in an abbreviated gallery of event pics, rare captures and just a bit to help us look back once it's all gone.

These 45 screenshots were all created by the community at the PlanetTR forums, with a few thrown in by myself. They show everything from the early days of Beta to the high-level instances. I wanted to thank everyone at PTR who submitted literally hundreds of screenshots to me to make this possible. Follow the link below for the complete gallery.

Gallery: Remembering Tabula Rasa through screenshots

Tabula Rasa and NCsoft Devs, we salute youRuuuuun!A Thrax HybridEx-Community Coordinator Critters in game at a FNFOne of the earliest Friday Night Fight events in Alia Das

MassivelyHonoring Tabula Rasa through screenshots originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Dec 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>destination-gameseventsfeaturedjoystiqfeaturesncsoftplanet-trplanettrscreenshotstabula-rasatrMon, 15 Dec 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tabula Rasa's PlanetTR forums to change format]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/15/tabula-rasas-planettr-forums-to-change-format/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/15/tabula-rasas-planettr-forums-to-change-format/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/15/tabula-rasas-planettr-forums-to-change-format/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


With the news of Tabula Rasa's closing, one might wonder what will become of the game's largest and most popular unofficial forums. As was announced this past weekend, the PlanetTR forums will be changing formats after TR closes down in February. This will all be accomplished through a series of in-game and on-forum roleplaying events, introducing the world to a rogue band of AFS named The Agenda.

You can read a complete backstory on the creation of The Agenda, as well as an in-character thread from the story's Captain Durall for more information. The main in-game event will happen in January, and it promises to be an extensive war, much like their previous Server vs. Server wars, but larger. From there, in March, the forums will change format to appeal to a broader audience and be renamed to The Planet, although the domain name will remain planettr.com. It hasn't been decided exactly what direction the site will take, but you can make your voice heard in this thread, and of course we will be sure to keep players informed with any news.

MassivelyTabula Rasa's PlanetTR forums to change format originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Dec 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>destination-gamesforumsncsoftplanettrtabula-rasathe-planettrMon, 15 Dec 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tabula Rasa crafting: What didn't work then, and what works now]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/10/tabula-rasa-crafting-what-didnt-work-then-and-what-works-now/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/10/tabula-rasa-crafting-what-didnt-work-then-and-what-works-now/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/10/tabula-rasa-crafting-what-didnt-work-then-and-what-works-now/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Several times I've wanted to just sit myself down and write an in-depth article explaining the original crafting system in Tabula Rasa (before it was announced to close), but it's just one of those things where the explanation would not make much sense unless you've frustrated yourself with it firsthand. It was complicated, time consuming and you would only need to kill 3 or 4 more Bane to get a better item anyway. Yet in Deployment 13, the crafting system was completely overhauled, simplified, and caused players to actually craft again. But was it just too late?

Over at Van Hemlock's blog, he takes a practical look at the past and present of TR crafting, explaining what we once dealt with versus the new and improved system. For anyone who has simply ignored the crafting in TR based on previous bad experiences, this post if worth a read.

MassivelyTabula Rasa crafting: What didn't work then, and what works now originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 10 Dec 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingcrafting-systemdestination-gamesncsofttabula-rasatrvan-hemlockWed, 10 Dec 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tabula Rasa introduces Epic instances]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/05/tabula-rasa-introduces-epic-instances/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/05/tabula-rasa-introduces-epic-instances/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/05/tabula-rasa-introduces-epic-instances/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


As announced in today's Feedback Friday, the Tabula Rasa team has been working on a way to present low-level instances in what could be considered a "hard mode" of sorts. The first of these is the Caves of Donn instance which now has an Epic version, accessible through the CELLAR Arena.

This Epic Caves of Donn instance has Epic versions of the Caretakers, Technicians, Soldiers and the brand new Ravagers and Seekers created for the Back-to-Earth campaign. This instance is repeatable, allowing players to eventually gain all rewards in addition to the XP, Prestige and Mimeomech. Admittedly, the developers report that the instance doesn't have as much polish as they'd like, but considering the circumstances, we understand.

MassivelyTabula Rasa introduces Epic instances originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Dec 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>caves-of-donndestination-gamesepichard-modencsoftncsoft-austintabula-rasatrFri, 05 Dec 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tabula Rasa's weekend activites still going strong]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/04/tabula-rasas-weekend-activites-still-going-strong/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/04/tabula-rasas-weekend-activites-still-going-strong/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/04/tabula-rasas-weekend-activites-still-going-strong/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


As a testament to the fact that Tabula Rasa players aren't throwing down their rifles and giving up that easily, the community events are carrying on stronger than ever. Thanks to fansites such as PlanetTR and Gangrel's Forums, this weekend is chocked full of contests and special events to keep away those end-of-the-game-in-two-months blues.

First, there's the EU Centaurus AFS Boxing Tournament, which is basically the EU server's answer to Friday Night Fights. Speaking of which, this week's FNF will be held on the Orion server at 10pm EST. Finally, we have this month's installment of the Server vs. Server War on the PTS for all to enjoy. You can find out more information on this SvS War through our previous coverage or at PlanetTR's forums. Hope to see you there!

MassivelyTabula Rasa's weekend activites still going strong originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Dec 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>destination-gamesfnffriday-night-fightsgangrelncsoftncsoft-austinplanettrserver-vs-server-wartabula-rasatrThu, 04 Dec 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tabula Rasa's Deployment 15 hits the Public Test Server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/01/tabula-rasas-deployment-15-hits-the-public-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/01/tabula-rasas-deployment-15-hits-the-public-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/01/tabula-rasas-deployment-15-hits-the-public-test-server/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


For those players left to enjoy Tabula Rasa in its final months, NCsoft has remained diligent about keeping up with quality content. The most recent game update, Deployment 15, has now hit the Public Test Server and brings with it many features that players have been looking forward to for a while now.

In addition to the new FPS camera view, we're treated to a new instance map entitled "The Empire Sector". This special map is restricted to level 50 players who must also meet certain Logos requirements. Plus, NCsoft's developers aren't letting the closure blues get to them as they break out with some holiday decorations throughout 16 different locations where holiday headgear and "Festive Footwear" await players. Check out the complete PTS patch notes for more information on this large update.

MassivelyTabula Rasa's Deployment 15 hits the Public Test Server originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Dec 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>destination-gamesfpsncsofttabula-rasatrtr-deployment-15Mon, 01 Dec 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Why must MMOs die?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/22/the-digital-continuum-why-must-mmos-die/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/22/the-digital-continuum-why-must-mmos-die/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/22/the-digital-continuum-why-must-mmos-die/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Sitting on my desk are copies of Earth and Beyond and Auto Assault. In fact, I've even got a CE box for Auto Assault (that thing cost me 80 bucks). Unfortunately, these games are just dust collectors now. I keep them to remind me of the possibility of sunset and how much it can suck. Even if you didn't play Tabula Rasa, there were thousands of people who did, and that's all that really matters

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Why must MMOs die?

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Why must MMOs die? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 22 Nov 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto-assaultcity-of-heroescohcrypticdestination-gameseaearth-and-beyondfeaturedjoystiqfeaturesncsoftncsoft-norcalnetdevilsoesony-online-entertainmentstar-wars-galaxiessunsetsunsettingswgtabula-rasawestwoodSat, 22 Nov 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tabula Rasa's subscriber rewards explained]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/tabula-rasas-subscriber-rewards-explained/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/tabula-rasas-subscriber-rewards-explained/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/tabula-rasas-subscriber-rewards-explained/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


As we're still digesting the sad news from earlier today of Tabula Rasa's demise, some may have overlooked, or simply become confused about the special rewards that NCsoft is offering their current TR subscribers. We thought it only fair for us to explain them a bit.

First off, it's important to note that all of these goodies are only available to people who were subscribed to Tabula Rasa at the time of this announcement. That's right. There was no warning, or time to prepare. They are rewarding those who have stayed subscribed to the game, rightfully so.

Continue reading Tabula Rasa's subscriber rewards explained

MassivelyTabula Rasa's subscriber rewards explained originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 21 Nov 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aioncity-of-heroesdestination-gameslineage-2nc-westncsofttabula-rasatrFri, 21 Nov 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tabula Rasa to shut down in February 2009]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/tabula-rasa-to-shut-down-in-february-2009/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/tabula-rasa-to-shut-down-in-february-2009/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/tabula-rasa-to-shut-down-in-february-2009/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


It's been a fairly good run for Tabula Rasa, but the inevitable has now been announced. As of February 28, 2009, Tabula Rasa will be shutting down its servers for good. We've feared an Auto-Assault-like fate for the game for a while now, but confirmation of this event truly saddens everyone in the MMO community.

According to the announcement, the folks at TR plan on going out in style, though. Not only will they continue to pump out some new, quality content in the remaining months, but the game will actually go free-to-play for its final month and a half. You can check out more of their upcoming final plans with the game, as well as the official announcement at their website.

MassivelyTabula Rasa to shut down in February 2009 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 21 Nov 2008 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbreaking newsbreakingnewsdestination-gamesendncsoftrichard-garriottshutting-downtabula-rasatrFri, 21 Nov 2008 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Tabula Rasa introduces new Epic Bane]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/17/tabula-rasa-introduces-new-epic-bane/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/17/tabula-rasa-introduces-new-epic-bane/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/17/tabula-rasa-introduces-new-epic-bane/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


In the worlds of Tabula Rasa, the Bane have been relentless in their attacks against the remaining humans who threaten their plans of complete domination. In response to this, they have developed a new type of super-troop to turn the tide in their favor a bit. These new Bane are called E.P.I.C., or Enhanced Primary Invasion Conscripts. They have shown up in small groups sporadically throughout Foreas and Arieki, killing all AFS they encounter.

According to the most recent Feedback Friday, these Epics will need a full squad of high-ranking soldiers to take them down. Among the Epics spotted so far, there have been reports of Caretakers, Technicians, Grenadiers, Pistol and Rifle Soldiers wreaking havoc across the two planets. Is this a last-ditch effort by the Bane, or a simply a distraction used while they focus their true power elsewhere? Hop in game and find out as the interesting elements of TR's lore continue to unfold.

MassivelyTabula Rasa introduces new Epic Bane originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 17 Nov 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banedestination-gamesepicsfeedback-fridaylorenc-westncsofttabula-rasaMon, 17 Nov 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Richard Garriott announces his departure from NCsoft]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/11/richard-garriott-announces-his-departure-from-ncsoft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/11/richard-garriott-announces-his-departure-from-ncsoft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/11/richard-garriott-announces-his-departure-from-ncsoft/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Some say they knew this day would come, while others swore it never would. In an official announcement on the Tabula Rasa website, Richard Garriott announced to the world today that he is leaving NCsoft to pursue other interests.

According to the announcement, Garriott's experience pursuing his lifelong dream of spaceflight has sparked some new interests in him, and he aims to devote his time and resources into these, instead of the MMO he worked to build for so many years. This still leaves us with many unanswered questions. Does this mean the end of Tabula Rasa as we know it? That part has not been mentioned at all, but we imagine there will at least be some upcoming changes, like, to the logo. You can read Garriott's departing letter just after the cut below, and let us know what you think of his resignation in the comments.

Continue reading Richard Garriott announces his departure from NCsoft

MassivelyRichard Garriott announces his departure from NCsoft originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Nov 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbreakingnewsdestination-gamesnc-westncsoftrichard-garriotttabula-rasatrTue, 11 Nov 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tabula Rasa hosts another server war]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/11/tabula-rasa-hosts-another-server-war/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/11/tabula-rasa-hosts-another-server-war/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/11/tabula-rasa-hosts-another-server-war/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


The Server vs. Server War in Tabula Rasa is ready for this month's installment, as the PlanetTR folks get ready for what has quickly become one of their largest events. As with last month's server war, this one will follow the same rules, although this time Pegasus will join forces with Cassiopeia to battle those in Orion and Centaurus.

Join the fun on Saturday, December 6th from 3pm-5:30pm CTS. This will be held on the Public Test Server, on the Divide and Wilderness maps. Over 14 clans from all four servers will be involved, as this fourth installment of this event should prove to be their largest yet. Check out more information on the main site, as well as the sign-up threads for both sides at the PlanetTR forums.

MassivelyTabula Rasa hosts another server war originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Nov 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>destination-gamesforumsnc-westncsoftplanet-trpvprichard-garriottserver-vs-server-wartabula-rasaTue, 11 Nov 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tabula Rasa to hold back-to-basics Q&A event]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/07/tabula-rasa-to-hold-back-to-basics-qanda-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/07/tabula-rasa-to-hold-back-to-basics-qanda-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/07/tabula-rasa-to-hold-back-to-basics-qanda-event/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Even though Tabula Rasa has just reached its one-year anniversary, there are certainly new players coming into the game constantly. Whether people have heard about the newest crafting changes, the return to Earth or are simply coming back into the game after a long hiatus, they may need a bit of a brushing up on their skills. Luckily, there's an upcoming event to explain the basics of the game to us.

This Tabula Rasa 101 Q&A session will be held in-game at Alia Das in Wilderness 1 during the following times:

  • Monday, November 10th, 2:00 PM CT - Centaurus
  • Monday, November 10th, 8:00 PM CT - Orion
  • Tuesday, November 11th, 8:00 PM CT - Cassiopeia
  • Wednesday, November 12th, 8:00 PM CT - Pegasus

Once there, new recruits can meet up with GM_Vagabond to fire away any basic mechanics or gameplay questions you may have. Good luck, soldiers!

MassivelyTabula Rasa to hold back-to-basics Q&A event originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 07 Nov 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>basicsdestination-gamesin-game-eventnc-westncsofttabula-rasatrFri, 07 Nov 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tabula Rasa finally gets an FPS camera view]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/31/tabula-rasa-finally-gets-an-fps-camera-view/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/31/tabula-rasa-finally-gets-an-fps-camera-view/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/31/tabula-rasa-finally-gets-an-fps-camera-view/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Have you ever wondered why a game like Tabula Rasa never utilized that classic first-person view, considering the fact that it's billed as an FPS-style MMO? The over-the-shoulder view never really did it for most players who were looking for more of a shooter aspect in their game. Rest easy in knowing that the FPS view is finally coming to this NCsoft sci-fi MMO, according to the latest Feedback Friday.

If that's not enough, there will also be a scope view, allowing players to use their Torqueshell Rifles more authentically and adding to the immersion of playing an actual Sniper class. But wait, there's more! This Feedback Friday also describes a new mech cockpit view and increased camera distance from the character, which will be great news for the support classes who tend to hang back a bit from the front lines. Although there's no date mentioned for the implementation of these improvements, you can check out the entire news story for some impressive screenshots showcasing these new views.

MassivelyTabula Rasa finally gets an FPS camera view originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 31 Oct 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbreakingnewsdestination-gamesfeedback-fridayfpsmechnc-westncsoftscopesnipertabula-rasatorqueshell-riflesFri, 31 Oct 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Richard Garriott returns safely from space]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/24/richard-garriott-returns-safely-from-space/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/24/richard-garriott-returns-safely-from-space/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/24/richard-garriott-returns-safely-from-space/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Richard Garriott's space flight has certainly caught the attention of more than just the fans of his MMO development career. He's been all over the mainstream networks for several months as preparations were made and he was eventually launched into orbit earlier this month. Now Garriott has returned safely to Earth in what was said to be a highly-successful mission with Russian Cosmonauts.

Not only has the father of the modern MMO concluded the Tabula Rasa: Operation Immortality project with his trip to the International Space Station, but he has also become the second person to ever follow in their father's footsteps into space. Garriott's father Owen Garriott is a retired NASA astronaut who flew on the U.S. space station Skylap in 1973. Ironically, Garriott's return to Earth perfectly coincides with Tabula Rasa's own news of the game making a return to the home planet.

You can see more information, videos and interviews with Garriott upon his return at his website richardinspace.com.

MassivelyRichard Garriott returns safely from space originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 Oct 2008 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cosmonautsdestination-gamesearthinternationalspace-stationnc-westncsoftoperation-immortalityowen-garriottrichard-garriotttabula-rasatrFri, 24 Oct 2008 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tabula Rasa announces a return to Earth]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/24/tabula-rasa-announces-a-return-to-earth/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/24/tabula-rasa-announces-a-return-to-earth/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/24/tabula-rasa-announces-a-return-to-earth/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


After an alien attack led the Logos-receptive humans to find safety in other planets, the fate of the home planet was grim. It was rumored that Earth had been completely destroyed by the Bane, and that's what they came to accept after all this time. Yet, new research has discovered that those rumors were wrong. Not only is Earth still alive, but there are humans there left to save.

The return to Earth is a prospect in Tabula Rasa that probably every single player -- past and present -- have longed to see. With the upcoming Deployment 15, those dreams will come true. This exciting new content will include:

  • Epic instanced control point gameplay for level 48 to 50 players
  • All new setting and art design
  • New monsters, including new Epic creatures and mini-bosses. These new Epic creatures are designed to be a greater challenge, requiring the efforts of coordinated squads with excellent weapons and gear to be defeated.
  • PvE Mech gameplay opportunities
  • New armor sets available only on Earth

MassivelyTabula Rasa announces a return to Earth originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 Oct 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>destination-gamesearthnc-westncsoftrichard-garriotttabula-rasatrtr-deployment-15Fri, 24 Oct 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TR's Feedback Friday explains upcoming changes to Raksha]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/17/trs-feedback-friday-explains-upcoming-changes-to-raksha/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/17/trs-feedback-friday-explains-upcoming-changes-to-raksha/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/17/trs-feedback-friday-explains-upcoming-changes-to-raksha/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Tabula Rasa Designer Jason Ford takes the Feedback Friday controls this week to explain a bit about the changes to the Raksha Robotic Facility coming soon with Deployment 14. As he describes, "The Bane have blown a hole through the roof of the C.D.U. (Central Dispatch Unit) in Raksha Robotic Facility on Torden Incline. They've seized control of the C.D.U. system allowing them to start reprogramming the Wardenbots to fight on their behalf."

So now it's time for you to do something about it. A new group encounter has been added, entitled Central Dispatch Unit. This is a Wardenbot Control Point recommended for players between levels 25-32, and it is repeatable. This also spawns a new corresponding mission entitled War Machine, but is not required for participation on the Control Point encounter.

Read more about the details of this addition to the game, coming soon with Deployment 14.

MassivelyTR's Feedback Friday explains upcoming changes to Raksha originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Oct 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>destination-gamesfeedback-fridayinstancenc-westncsoftraksha-robotic-facilitytabula-rasatrtr-deployment-14Fri, 17 Oct 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tabula Rasa's Deployment 13.4 hits live servers ]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/15/tabula-rasas-deployment-13-4-hits-live-servers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/15/tabula-rasas-deployment-13-4-hits-live-servers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/15/tabula-rasas-deployment-13-4-hits-live-servers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


We've been talking about it since our interview with Dane Caruthers during PAX08 in August, but it's finally here! Tabula Rasa's megapatch, Deployment 13.4, has hit the live servers today, and with it comes some enormous gameplay changes, a new crafting system and more!

Plus, the new Command System is now set into place, which we've discussed briefly when it first went to the Public Test Server. This has been highly-anticipated among TR players as it gives a whole new dynamic to the existing pets. Instead of simply linking to the patch notes as we'd normally do, we've included everything for you just below the cut. Enjoy!

Continue reading Tabula Rasa's Deployment 13.4 hits live servers

MassivelyTabula Rasa's Deployment 13.4 hits live servers originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Oct 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbreakingnewsdestination-gamesnc-westncsoftnewspatchtabula-rasatr-deployment-13Wed, 15 Oct 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tabula Rasa Server vs. Server War]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/07/tabula-rasa-server-vs-server-war/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/07/tabula-rasa-server-vs-server-war/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/07/tabula-rasa-server-vs-server-war/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


If you follow Tabula Rasa news, you may have seen a recent announcement concerning the Server vs. Server war coming up this Saturday, October 11th, 2008. This war is the third one of its kind, and aims to be the largest and most popular to date.

If you're new to the Server vs. Server war, you may be interested in a brief explanation as told to us by PlanetTR's Adele Machka. The war works by combining clans from Pegasus-Centaurus and Orion-Cassiopeia to join two "super" clans which then declare war upon each other. Each of these wars last 4 hours. The victor is the clan which has the least amount of deaths at the end. It's an extremely well-organized event, and the organizers want to make sure that everyone just has fun, first and foremost. If you'd like more details or information on signing up for this event, check out this thread. Let's all do our part to make this the largest SvS event ever!

[Thanks Adele and Andriss!]

MassivelyTabula Rasa Server vs. Server War originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Oct 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestdestination-gamesnc-westncsoftplanet-trrichard-garriottserver-vs-server-wartabula-rasatrTue, 07 Oct 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Playboy model to join TR's Operation Immortality]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/29/playboy-model-to-join-trs-operation-immortality/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/29/playboy-model-to-join-trs-operation-immortality/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/29/playboy-model-to-join-trs-operation-immortality/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


The list of celebrities donating their digitized DNA for Tabula Rasa's Operation Immortality is becoming a bit staggering, but this latest one should help perk your interest. Jo Garcia, Playboy Magazine's Cyber Girl of the Year for 2008 will be the latest to store her digitized DNA on the International Space Station along with others like Stephen Hawking, Stephen Colbert, Tim Draper and more.

Although the title of Cyber Girl of the Year has nothing to do with gaming, Garcia considers herself an avid gamer. "People don't understand that that the whole gaming world is not just for geeks, and assume that every person who plays video games is a geek that wears glasses," Garcia said in a recent interview with Kotaku. "It's a misnomer that needs to be put to rest."

MassivelyPlayboy model to join TR's Operation Immortality originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 29 Sep 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>destination-gamesdnainternational-space-stationjo-garciamodelnc-westncsoftoperation-immortalityplayboyrichard-garriotttabula-rasatrMon, 29 Sep 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[TR's Deployment 13 introduces new Command System]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/26/trs-deployment-13-introduces-new-command-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/26/trs-deployment-13-introduces-new-command-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/26/trs-deployment-13-introduces-new-command-system/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Tabula Rasa's Deployment 13 has just hit the Public Test Server, and we think you might be excited to hear about the new Command System being implemented with it. Previously referred to as the Minion System, this enhancement gives better control over AI pets and controllable NPCs, also called subordinates, in the game.

Subordinates now have better control features where you can set their aggressiveness or defensiveness, assign an anchor point, order them to attack or heal a particular target or set them to simply follow you. All of these commands are done through a set of easy commands and hotkeys. To find out more info on the complete Command System, check out today's Feedback Friday.

MassivelyTR's Deployment 13 introduces new Command System originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 26 Sep 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aicommand-systemcompanionsdestination-gamesnc-westncsoftpetspublic-test-serversubordinatestabula-rasatrtr-deployment-13Fri, 26 Sep 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tabula Rasa is triple-A and here to stay, says NC West President]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/24/tabula-rasa-is-triple-a-and-here-to-stay-says-nc-west-president/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/24/tabula-rasa-is-triple-a-and-here-to-stay-says-nc-west-president/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/24/tabula-rasa-is-triple-a-and-here-to-stay-says-nc-west-president/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Massively recently had the chance to speak with NC West's newly appointed President of Publishing, David Reid. The bulk of the interview concerned the formation of NC West and its implications for NCsoft as a whole, but David also took the time to answer our questions about several of NCsoft's existing triple-A titles, including Tabula Rasa.

Massively: Obviously, Tabula Rasa is one of the triple-A titles NCsoft has in its stable. We hope you'll disagree, but we've heard again and again these rumors from players who are talking to people and from people within the industry, that people within the company are looking at Tabula Rasa to perform better than it has in the past, and that if it doesn't, then there might be consequences to that business reality. Can you clarify that for us, or expand upon that?

Continue reading Tabula Rasa is triple-A and here to stay, says NC West President

MassivelyTabula Rasa is triple-A and here to stay, says NC West President originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 24 Sep 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>david-reiddestination-gamesfeaturednc-austinnc-westncsofttabula-rasaWed, 24 Sep 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Richard Garriott's appearance on The Colbert Report]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/19/richard-garriotts-appearance-on-the-colbert-report/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/19/richard-garriotts-appearance-on-the-colbert-report/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/19/richard-garriotts-appearance-on-the-colbert-report/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

As announced earlier in the week, Richard Garriott made his Comedy Central debut last night with Stephen Colbert on The Colbert Report. This appearance by Garriott was in conjunction with his Operation Immortality project that will take place next month. Stephen Colbert will be joining many other popular celebrities by adding his digitized DNA to the Immortality Drive which will accompany Garriott on his space flight, and remain on the International Space Station in the event of Earth's destruction.

Admittedly, the Garriott appearance is very brief. In fact, he didn't actually "appear" on the show at all, but called in from his space flight training grounds in Russia. This was a bit on the disappointing side, yet we understand Garriott's time restraints with that whole space flight thing and all. Plus, it turns out this interview was done literally ten minutes before Garriott was to be quarantined for the flight. Sadly enough, there was no mention of Tabula Rasa during the interview at all. Regardless, it's a funny little interview.

MassivelyRichard Garriott's appearance on The Colbert Report originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Sep 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comedy-centraldestination-gamesdnancsoftoperation-immortalityrichard-garriottstephen-colberttabula-rasathe-colbert-reportFri, 19 Sep 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tabula Rasa's Deployment 12 goes live]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/18/tabula-rasas-deployment-12-goes-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/18/tabula-rasas-deployment-12-goes-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/18/tabula-rasas-deployment-12-goes-live/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Tabula Rasa's Deployment 12.5 hit the live servers today, and with it comes some major changes to the game. First off, there's the highly-anticipated Omega Labs instance that has been discussed in great length for quite a while now. This instance is available for level 50 players and can only be accessed after your character has completed a series of difficult missions to gain Level 5 Security Clearance.

This patch also brings us a new waypoint in the Concordia Palisades, new creatures, new Series 2 weapons, new dialogue audio for 200 missions, the first installment of pet AI improvements, regular bug fixes and much more. Check out the complete patch notes for more information as we look forward to the big Deployment 13 patch coming up on the PTS soon.

MassivelyTabula Rasa's Deployment 12 goes live originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Sep 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>destination-gamesncsofttabula-rasatrtr-deployment-12Thu, 18 Sep 2008 19:00:00 EST