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[New Firefall dev blog discusses raising the skill ceiling]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/new-firefall-dev-blog-discusses-raising-the-skill-ceiling/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/new-firefall-dev-blog-discusses-raising-the-skill-ceiling/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/new-firefall-dev-blog-discusses-raising-the-skill-ceiling/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- Firefall
The other day we talked about Red 5 Studios' new development philosophy for its upcoming MMOFPS, Firefall, and its decision to take things in a direction that's more focused on player skill than levels or gear. Today, the studio has released a new dev diary that expounds on this philosophy by discussing how it plans to make the game "approachable and exciting to players of all skill levels," while ensuring that it remains rewarding to the truly hardcore.

The post begins by taking a look at the game's core combat, which contains "a number of weapons and abilities that are lower-twitch and lower-skill," such as beam weapons, AoE abilities, and splash damage. The post goes on to discuss a number of potential solutions to these problems, such as changing the high-splash-damage plasma cannon into a gun that deals lower splash damage, but with devastating direct-hit damage. It's an interesting read for players who are looking for a bit more skill-based gameplay in their MMOs, and Firefall fans in general would do well to go check out the full post on the game's official site.

MassivelyNew Firefall dev blog discusses raising the skill ceiling originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dev-blogdev-diarydeveloper-blogdeveloper-diaryf2pfirefallfirst-person-shooterfpsfree-to-playmmo-shootermmofpspvpred-5red-5-studiossci-fishooterskillskill-ceilingwarThu, 24 May 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet talks about naming Guild Wars 2's world]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/arenanet-talks-about-naming-guild-wars-2s-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/arenanet-talks-about-naming-guild-wars-2s-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/arenanet-talks-about-naming-guild-wars-2s-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Guild Wars 2
While it's easy to get caught up in the big picture side of the development process, we risk overlooking the smaller but crucial work that goes into gluing the game together. One of these tasks is the naming of the world and all that lies within it. Content Designer Annie VanderMeer Mitsoda wrote an ArenaNet blog post about the challenges and decisions that went with labeling everything under the sun in Guild Wars 2.

Mitsoda said that the team has established a system for nailing down names. After coming up with the name, the team sends the moniker through a "sanity check" that makes sure it's not too hard to spell or say. The team also tries to weed out the more obscure or overt pop culture references, then passes along the names to the team's "loremasters," who check it against an internal wiki for consistency.

She goes on to share a few anecdotes about the naming process, such as the evolution of Charr names, the difficulty of putting a label on an animal that has no Earth equivalent, and how the creepy rat-dog Murellow got its name. It's an interesting read into a different side of the development process that often goes unnoticed, so check it out!

MassivelyArenaNet talks about naming Guild Wars 2's world originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 May 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetAnnie-VanderMeerAnnie-VanderMeer-Mitsodaarenanetbetacharrdev-blogdev-diaryfantasyguild-wars-2gw2loremurellownamenamesnamingncsoftWed, 23 May 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Exclusive Star Trek Online Season 6 reveal: Fleet starbases]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/exclusive-star-trek-online-season-6-reveal-fleet-starbases/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/exclusive-star-trek-online-season-6-reveal-fleet-starbases/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/exclusive-star-trek-online-season-6-reveal-fleet-starbases/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

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

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldeath-starDenis-Osmanbogovicdev-blogdev-diaryearth-spacedockf2pfleetfleet-starbasefleet-starbasesfree-to-playhousingjeff-millerjeremy-mattsonk7Matt-JeffriesNick-Duguidperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentplayer-housingplayer-starbaseplayer-starbasespreviewpwesci-fiseason-6star-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoTue, 22 May 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO's Fornost 'joining the modern MMO world']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/lotros-fornost-joining-the-modern-mmo-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/lotros-fornost-joining-the-modern-mmo-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/lotros-fornost-joining-the-modern-mmo-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

LotRO
"Fornost was designed and built in a different era of MMO," Turbine's devs said about the newly revised dungeon. "It is time for Fornost to join the modern MMO world." With Fornost slated for a massive overhaul with Update 7, the team posted a developer diary to explain the history of the instance and its hopeful future.

The third instance ever created for Lord of the Rings Online will be chopped up from its current super-long state to four manageable dungeons. The devs said that it was designed from an EverQuest mindset of long dungeon crawls, but so much has changed over time and most players no longer have the time or effort to conquer it.

With Update 7, Fornost will turn into four element-themed six-person dungeons. Each of these dungeons should take well less than an hour to complete and scale from level 30 to 75 with two tiers of difficulty. The team's reworked positioning, bosses, and quests to reflect the upgraded experience. For those who might miss the old Fornost, the team says that playing all four instances back-to-back will replicate the grand tour that it used to be.

MassivelyLotRO's Fornost 'joining the modern MMO world' originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dev-blogdev-diarydungeonf2pfantasyfornostfornost-revampfree-to-playinstancejoe-barrylord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroshades-of-the-pastturbineturbine-entertainmentupdate-7Thu, 10 May 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mike O'Brien: Guild Wars 2's beta weekend 'overwhelming']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/mike-obrien-guild-wars-2s-beta-weekend-overwhelming/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/mike-obrien-guild-wars-2s-beta-weekend-overwhelming/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/mike-obrien-guild-wars-2s-beta-weekend-overwhelming/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Mike O'Brien
Mike O'Brien said that the result of Guild Wars 2's initial public beta weekend was "overwhelming in more ways than one." ArenaNet's president took the time to write up a short blog post reflecting on the outcome of the past beta weekend and the reasoning behind this coming Monday's surprise stress test.

According to O'Brien, while the feedback from the event was quite positive, the team had to struggle with unexpected demand for the game. Even after the management temporarily turned off the ability for players' ability to pre-purchase the title through ArenaNet, the game's 48 servers couldn't contain the influx of testers and beta tourists.

It wasn't just a PR stunt, however. "This was definitely a real beta, designed to find problems, gather player input, and learn what work still needs to be done before we ship the game," O'Brien stated.

The team is anticipating a bigger crowd with the next beta weekend, which is why it's running a seven-hour stress test on May 14th to test new changes.

MassivelyMike O'Brien: Guild Wars 2's beta weekend 'overwhelming' originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 May 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbeta-weekenddev-blogdev-diaryfantasyguideguild-wars-2gw2Mike Shanahanmike-o-brienMikeShanahanncsoftpresidentserversstress-testThu, 10 May 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Lord of the Rings Online explains Moria revamp]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/lord-of-the-rings-online-explains-moria-revamp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/lord-of-the-rings-online-explains-moria-revamp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/lord-of-the-rings-online-explains-moria-revamp/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

LotRO
Since the word came down recently that Turbine is revamping much of Lord of the Rings Online's Moria, players have been buzzing about the merits and scope of such a project. Content Developer Lauren Salk posted an article on the official site explaining the reasoning behind the decision as well as the specific changes involved.

Salk said that Turbine wanted to respond to player complaints about the difficulty and pace of Moria's leveling experience. She admits that the quests did not always lead to the best places and resulted in a frustrating stint underground instead of an amazing journey. Salk confessed that the zone even frustrated her mother, who never made it all the way through.

With Update 7, LotRO will update half of Moria, while the latter half will come later on down the road. In addition to a smoother quest flow, additional quests, and an easier difficulty level, Turbine's adding tasks for all to enjoy.

Travel through Moria will become more pleasant, as the lighting will be adjusted, additional stable routes added, monsters moved out of the major pathways, and a no-reputation goat made available from the start.

MassivelyLord of the Rings Online explains Moria revamp originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 May 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>challengedev-blogdev-diarydev-postdifficulty-levelf2pfantasyfree-to-playlauren-salklord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromines-of-moriamoriamoria-revampshades-of-the-pasttravelturbineturbine-entertainmentupdate-7Fri, 04 May 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Repopulation lets players customize outfits to their hearts' content]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/the-repopulation-lets-players-customize-outfits-to-their-hearts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/the-repopulation-lets-players-customize-outfits-to-their-hearts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/the-repopulation-lets-players-customize-outfits-to-their-hearts/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The Repopulation
As The Repopulation is free from conventional MMO leveling and hews to skill-based progression instead, dealing with player gear is substantially more difficult than it would be otherwise. The team posted a five-minute dev video explaining how items, repair, and what it calls "fittings" work in the game.

The long and the short of The Repopulation's gear system is that players will be able to pick the outfit (or "shells") that they like the best visually and then equip the stats they want on it. This is done through fittings, which is similar to socket systems found in other MMOs.

As outfits take damage, the conditions of the fittings can and do degrade, reducing the stats associated with it. If it gets too bad, the fittings will either need to be repaired or replaced.

You can check out The Repopulation's gear system after the break. The team is currently accepting signups for June's alpha testing.

[Thanks to Halldorr and J.C. for the tip!]

Continue reading The Repopulation lets players customize outfits to their hearts' content

MassivelyThe Repopulation lets players customize outfits to their hearts' content originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 May 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiescustomizable-gearcustomizedev-blogdev-diarydev-videofittingfitting-systemfittingsgeargear-progressionitemitemsoutfitoutfit-systemrepairrepopulationsandboxsci-fishellsocketsocket-systemthe-repopulationvideoWed, 02 May 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth dev blog details Haven revamp]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/fallen-earth-dev-blog-details-haven-revamp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/fallen-earth-dev-blog-details-haven-revamp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/fallen-earth-dev-blog-details-haven-revamp/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Fallen Earth - new Haven Lightbearer building
It's been a month or so since we've heard from the folks working on Fallen Earth. Today, that news drought ends courtesy of a dev blog by one Ninjanomics.

The update is all about the changes in store for the town of Haven. Given the fact that the town is one of the more prominent features of the Northfields area, and given that it "had a confusing layout, was cruelly prohibitive to framerate, and didn't well reflect the serenity of the Lightbearers as a faction," the devs thought it was time for an extreme makeover.

Ninjanomics (also known as GamersFirst's art ninja) walks us through the rebuild process and details both the stylistic and the layout changes to the town. The original design had "no logical flow to speak of," which led G1 artists to divide Haven into two sections: the town proper and a grove area. As a result, the new Haven experience is markedly smoother for weary wasteland wanderers and fans of Fallen Earth's free-to-play sandpark ambiance.

MassivelyFallen Earth dev blog details Haven revamp originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 Apr 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dev-blogdev-diaryf2pfallen-earthfallen-earth-dev-blogfallen-earth-havenfallen-earth-haven-revampfefree-to-playg1gamersfirsthavenhaven-revampninjanomicspost-apocpost-apocalypticsandboxsci-fiwastelandsFri, 13 Apr 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dark Age of Camelot retunes Relic system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/10/dark-age-of-camelot-retunes-relic-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/10/dark-age-of-camelot-retunes-relic-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/10/dark-age-of-camelot-retunes-relic-system/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

DAoC
Dark Age of Camelot's Relic system is under the dev team's magnifying glass this month, and it looks as though dedicated RvRers are going to have to adjust to a few significant changes to how Relic raids work in the near future.

"We have learned over the years that being complex and being complicated are two very different things," Producer Stuart Zissu writes. "If players can't immediately grasp the situation and understand what is needed of them, then there is room for improvement."

In a new producer's letter, Zissu spells out the changes to the Relic system. Relics Temples and Mile Gates will be eliminated, and Relics themselves will be moved to the inner keeps. These new Relic Keeps will be granted additional guards the more keeps a realm holds in their home territory. However, the more relics a faction claims, the weaker the guards will be. Relic runs will be made more challenging, as the game will notify everyone in the region where the Relic holder is and faster avenues of transportation will be cut off.

MassivelyDark Age of Camelot retunes Relic system originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarecamelotclassic-mmodaocdark-age-of-camelotdev-blogdev-diaryeaelectronic-artsfantasymythicmythic-entertainmentmythologyproducers-letterpvprelicrelic-keeprelic-keepsrelic-runsrelic-systemrvrStuart-ZissuTue, 10 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[City of Steam fashions a pressurized skill tree]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/city-of-steam-fashions-a-pressurized-skill-tree/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/city-of-steam-fashions-a-pressurized-skill-tree/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/city-of-steam-fashions-a-pressurized-skill-tree/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

City of Steam
Many MMOs have skill or talent trees, but when you're doing a steampunk game, why not take a bland staple of the genre and turn it into something awesome? That's what City of Steam's Lead Designer Dave Winking is promoting when he shows off the team's ideas for turning the mundane into the fantastical.

After taking feedback from previous generic builds, City of Steam's dev team revamped the skill tree's visuals and mechanics to entice a "whoa!" out of its players. The concept is that the tree is now a maze of pipes, boilers, and valves. Players will build up "pressure" over time, pressure that can be vented into different pipes. The more pressure in a pipe, the higher a skill goes, and once a skill hits 100% pressure, it's usable by the player.

Winking says that players have more options than just filling up a pipe; they can also over-pressurize pipes to achieve higher skill ranks and take multiple paths to achieve better skills. There's even a mystery skill that Winking says will "make your character explode into pieces of bread with cat's heads stuck through them." Of course, he then says he's probably teasing about the last thing.

MassivelyCity of Steam fashions a pressurized skill tree originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betacity-of-steamclockworkDave-Winkingdev-blogdev-diarydev-journalMechanist-Gamespressurepressure-valvepreviewskill-treesteampunktalent-treeMon, 09 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet details Guild Wars 2's squad mechanics and region-locking [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/arenanet-details-guild-wars-2s-squad-mechanics/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/arenanet-details-guild-wars-2s-squad-mechanics/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/arenanet-details-guild-wars-2s-squad-mechanics/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Guild Wars 2 - WvW group
So what the heck is a squad as it relates to Guild Wars 2? I surely don't know, but ArenaNet's Jordan Massey does. Fortunately for all of us, he's explained it via the latest GW2 dev blog that's hot off the presses.

Essentially, squads are ANet's answer to the problem of WvW communication. As Massey says, "team chat was too large because everyone in the entire map could talk in it, resulting in too much noise. On the other hand, parties [...] were too small."

The squad, then, is a "one-to-many" command structure with its own chat channel that only accepts chat from the leader. Squad leaders also get squad map markers, which function much as normal waypoints. Massey also says that while the squad mechanics were designed with PvP in mind, they'll be quite helpful for larger PvE events. Read all about it at the official ArenaNet blog.

[Update: ArenaNet has also clarified whether GW2 will be region-bound. The Facebook statements are after the break.]

Continue reading ArenaNet details Guild Wars 2's squad mechanics and region-locking [Updated]

MassivelyArenaNet details Guild Wars 2's squad mechanics and region-locking [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetdev-blogdev-diaryfantasyguild-wars-2guild-wars-2-squadsgw2gw2-squadsjordan-masseyncsoftsquad-chatsquad-communicationsquadsThu, 05 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Perpetuum expands the sandbox with player-built settlements]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/31/perpetuum-expands-the-sandbox-with-player-built-settlements/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/31/perpetuum-expands-the-sandbox-with-player-built-settlements/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/31/perpetuum-expands-the-sandbox-with-player-built-settlements/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Perpetuum
Perpetuum's sci-fi sandbox is preparing to go from your basic Toys-R-Us plastic pool to a full-on professional playground setup in the near future. Its team of 10 developers are slaving away at creating 24 brand-new "Gamma" islands for players to colonize and fight over, as well as the tools with which to stake their claim.

This chain of two-dozen islands will be the foundation for Perpetuum's Player-Built Settlements (or PBS, if you miss Sesame Street). Everything from the buildings to the land they're built on can be created and modified by players to make a real and lasting impact on the game world.

Settlements will be color-coded to represent its parent corporation and are incredibly complex in regards to how the buildings are linked to each other. Of course, this being a PvP game, other corporations will certainly have motive to destroy and conquer enemy territory.

[Thanks to Roy for the tip!]

MassivelyPerpetuum expands the sandbox with player-built settlements originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 31 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatar-creationsdev-blogdev-diaryf2pfree-to-playpbsperpetuumplayer-build-settlementspvpsandboxsci-fiterraformingSat, 31 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Anarchy Online's future is so bright, it's gotta wear shades]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/31/anarchy-onlines-future-is-so-bright-its-gotta-wear-shades/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/31/anarchy-onlines-future-is-so-bright-its-gotta-wear-shades/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/31/anarchy-onlines-future-is-so-bright-its-gotta-wear-shades/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Anarchy Online
Game Director Fia "Lindelu" Tjernberg is absolutely pumped about Anarchy Online's future, and she's not shy about promoting it. In a massive March development update post, Tjernberg discusses many projects the team has in the works for the loyal citizens of Rubi-Ka.

Probably the biggest change on the immediate horizon is a brand-new global market interface that will allow players to buy and sell goods to each other. The market will be accessed at special terminals in the main cities as well as portable terminals, and can trade across all dimensions. Free players can browse the market, but only subscribers can buy or sell in it. Work-in-progress screenshots of the market were also posted to the main site.

She reports that while the team was happy to show off the upgraded graphics engine this past week, there's still a ways to go before it hits live. Other projects that occupy the devs' time are improving the new player experience, balancing professions, and a streamlined game launcher with a graphical character selection screen.

[Thanks to David for the tip!]

MassivelyAnarchy Online's future is so bright, it's gotta wear shades originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 31 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anarchy-onlineaoclassic-mmodev-blogdev-diarydev-updatedevelopment-updateFia-Tjernbergfuncomglobal-marketgraphics-engine-updategraphics-updateLindelurubi-kasci-fiSat, 31 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online declares war (more efficiently)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/eve-online-declares-war-more-efficiently/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/eve-online-declares-war-more-efficiently/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/eve-online-declares-war-more-efficiently/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

EVE Online
Team Super Friends is hard at work living up to its name by bringing liberty, justice, and wholesale carnage to the EVE Online community. As the team prepares for May's Inferno expansion, it's tackling a reworking of the War Declaration system.

According to a new EVE dev blog, the system wasn't exactly broken, but it was underutilized and wasn't always working as intended. As a result, the team took the system apart, examined it thoroughly, and put it back together with a few improvements aimed at making the act of declaring and waging war between corps clearer and easier to understand.

These improvements to War Declaration include modifying how costs are calculated, eliminating automatically retracting wars, and putting a time limit on conflicts. Wars will go on for a week, after which the declarer can choose to pay to prolong it or end it right then and there. An informative War Report will help players understand the forces engaged, losses sustained so far, and the history of a corp's past wars.

The blog ends with a FAQ on the changes culled from the recent Fanfest.

MassivelyEVE Online declares war (more efficiently) originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Mar 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesdev-blogdev-diaryeveeve-onlinefanfestinfernointernet-spaceshipssandboxsci-fispreadsheets-onlineteam-super-friendswar-declarationwar-declaration-systemThu, 29 Mar 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jumping out an airlock is a legitimate mode of travel in Line of Defense]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/jumping-out-of-an-airlock-is-a-legitimate-mode-of-travel-in-line/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/jumping-out-of-an-airlock-is-a-legitimate-mode-of-travel-in-line/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/jumping-out-of-an-airlock-is-a-legitimate-mode-of-travel-in-line/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Line of Defense
Contrary to many of Derek Smart's previous expansive computer titles, Line of Defense will be "streamlined" to focus on a small corner of the galaxy. In a new dev blog, Smart outlines the scope of the MMO's territory and how it connects to his previously established game universe.

Line of Defense consists of four space regions, each with its own planets and moons. The regions are connected by jump gates in the Sirius/Barnard's Star systems pathway. However, when the game first launches, players will only have access to the planet of Lyrius, with other planets and moons coming afterward.

Players can teleport from base to base on planets using Dynamic Jump Pads or can transfer to a station via a carrier. Jumpgates, however, will allow players in vehicles to traverse entire regions. But probably the most interesting mode of transportation is to let loose with an orbital drop from a space station down to the planet surface below.

The one thing that Line of Defense won't have, however, is the ability to seamlessly transition between planets, bases, and regions without loading screens.

MassivelyJumping out an airlock is a legitimate mode of travel in Line of Defense originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>derek-smartdev-blogdev-diarydr-derek-smartdynamic-jump-padgame-universegame-worldjump-gatejump-gatesjumpgatejumpgatesline-of-defenselodlyriusmoonsplanetssectorstransportationtravelWed, 28 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World's lead designer explains abilities, skills, gear, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/the-secret-worlds-lead-designer-explains-abilities-skills-gea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/the-secret-worlds-lead-designer-explains-abilities-skills-gea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/the-secret-worlds-lead-designer-explains-abilities-skills-gea/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World - beta ability wheel
Funcom's been pretty quiet since its GDC reveal of The Secret World. Today, though, lead designer Martin Bruusgaard has dropped the smack down on the information void via a lengthy blog post on the game's official site.

You'll probably want a couple of caffeinated beverages for this one because Bruusgaard has a lot to say about The Secret World's abilities, skills, gear, progression, and crafting systems. We would try to summarize it for you, but we'd still be typing this time tomorrow, so suffice it to say that basically every mechanical question you have about the game is at least touched on in this post.

There are plenty of interesting tidbits too, like the fact that TSW is shaping up to be one of the more non-linear experiences to be found among the latest crop of AAA MMORPGs. "The players are free to go wherever they want from the beginning, but they will most likely get their ass handed to them in the more difficult zones," Bruusgaard explains.

MassivelyThe Secret World's lead designer explains abilities, skills, gear, and more originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dev-blogdev-diaryfactionfantasyfuncomhorrormartin-bruusgaardmechanicsmythologyprogressionsci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedskillsthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-craftingthe-secret-world-mechanicsthe-secret-world-progressiontswMon, 26 Mar 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare talks SWTOR's 1.2 crew skill changes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/bioware-talks-swtors-1-2-crew-skill-changes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/bioware-talks-swtors-1-2-crew-skill-changes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/bioware-talks-swtors-1-2-crew-skill-changes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Star Wars: The Old Republic - crew skills chart
BioWare has laid its cards on the table with regard to the crafting changes coming in Star Wars: The Old Republic's 1.2 update. The tweaks are extensive, and designer Georg Zoeller has posted a lengthy summary on the game's official website.

Among the highlights are a large number of artifice schematics included with the patch. BioWare is keen on allowing players to choose their weapon color crystals without regard to the stats, and artificers will also be "the first profession to gain some dedicated PvP crafting."

Other highlights include various changes to gathering and reverse engineering mechanics as well as the ability for cybertech practitioners to sell any of their created vehicles on the auction house (the devs are removing the current bind restrictions). Get the full scoop at the official SWTOR website.

MassivelyBioWare talks SWTOR's 1.2 crew skill changes originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Mar 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.21.2-patch1.2-updatebiowarecraftingcrew-skillsdev-blogeaelectronic-artsgeorg-zoellerlucasartssci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorswtor-1.2the-old-republictorTue, 20 Mar 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet focuses on community in latest dev blog]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/arenanet-focuses-on-community-in-latest-dev-blog/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/arenanet-focuses-on-community-in-latest-dev-blog/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/arenanet-focuses-on-community-in-latest-dev-blog/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- Real Life
If you're reading Massively, we assume you're a player or fan of MMORPGs, but everyone has different reasons for playing. Some play for hardcore raiding progression, some play for role-playing, and some play just to wind down and relax, but there's one thread that ties all of these things together: community. After all, what's an MMORPG without the MMO? ArenaNet is well aware of this, and the studio has just released a new blog outlining its approach toward community-building with Guild Wars 2.

Some may be surprised to hear that ArenaNet will be offering official forums for GW2. Some may be even more surprised to hear that the studio will not be offering "traditional fansite support." But don't panic! This isn't the death of community, it's the evolution thereof. ArenaNet realizes that "gaming and community management have evolved over the last six years," so the studio plans to change right along with it. When you consider the fact that the GW2 community spans multiple separate communities, such as fansites, forums, social networking sites, and outlandishly fabulous sites such as Massively itself, it should come as no surprise that the studio is aiming to bring these players together. The final goal, according to the blog, "is to create an environment that is respectful, welcoming, inclusive, and friendly."

We're sure more details on the studio's community plan will be unearthed as the game approaches launch, but until then, ArenaNet is asking the community to be proactive by bringing community projects to its attention so that the studio can "[highlight] them for the broader community." So get to work, Guild Wars fans, and help to build a community that makes ANet proud.

MassivelyArenaNet focuses on community in latest dev blog originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetblogbuilding-communitycommunitydev-blogdev-diarydeveloper-blogdeveloper-diaryfantasyguild-wars-2gw2ncsoftThu, 15 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pathfinder Online goes time-traveling in latest dev blog]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/pathfinder-online-goes-time-traveling-in-latest-dev-blog/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/pathfinder-online-goes-time-traveling-in-latest-dev-blog/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/pathfinder-online-goes-time-traveling-in-latest-dev-blog/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Artwork -- Pathfinder
According to the venerable Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, time is an illusion, and lunchtime doubly so. MMO time is perhaps even more illusory, and that's the exact topic of today's Pathfinder Online dev diary. It's always tricky deciding on the ratio of real-world to in-game time. On the one hand, if time moves too quickly, it can be immersion-breaking; on the other hand, if time moves too slowly, it can lend a sense of stagnance, especially if other gameplay mechanics rely on the day/night cycle (such as mobs that only come out at night).

In light of this, Goblinworks has decided on a 4:1 game-to-earth-time ratio. This means that four in-game minutes will pass in the span of one real-world minute, one in-game day will pass in the span of six real-world hours, and so forth. This will also influence the rate of travel within the game. The team is operating under the assumption that the average human moves at three miles per hour. In-game hexes are about three-quarters of a mile from edge-to-edge, which means that it would take a real person about 15 minutes to traverse one hex. When you take into account the game's chronological dilation, though, the same journey will take an in-game character less than four minutes (assuming he can travel in a straight line), which the team says passes a basic "sanity test when considering the travel times required to cross the zones in other MMOs."

The full dev blog is chock-full of even more information than we can cram into this article, including details on how different variables (such as mounts, magic, and difficult terrain) will affect travel time and the perceived scale of the world, so if you're in the mood to have your brain addled by MMO chronomancy, head on over and give it a read.

MassivelyPathfinder Online goes time-traveling in latest dev blog originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dev-blogdev-diarydeveloper-blogdeveloper-diaryfantasyfast-travelgoblinworkspathfinderpathfinder-onlinepnpsandboxsandparkscaletimetime-scaletravelWed, 14 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Darkfall slices away at 'initial unforgiving experience' with 2.0]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/darkfall-slices-away-at-initial-unforgiving-experience-with-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/darkfall-slices-away-at-initial-unforgiving-experience-with-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/darkfall-slices-away-at-initial-unforgiving-experience-with-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Darkfall
"In the current version of the game, we've had many occasions where the steep learning curve and initial unforgiving experience, unnecessarily kept people out of the game," Aventurine's Tasos Flambouras comments on the latest Darkfall 2.0 post.

This week's post illuminates three major systems on which the team is working to make Agon a more approachable world. With Darkfall 2.0, new players will start out in a safe training zone that is designed to teach the fundamentals of the game without the risk of imminent ganking. Plus, the devs promise "a nice adventure with an epic ending" to boot.

The other two systems are coming up with a way to protect mount theft and to encourage the player economy. Mounts in 2.0 will remember their owners for a time, and any thief will have to contend with being branded a criminal and coming under fire by guard NPCs. Finally, new markets will appear in all major cities and allow players to buy, sell, and place orders for others to fill. There is one catch to shopping, however: If you buy an item from another city's market, you have to either travel there personally to get it or pay a surcharge for delivery.

MassivelyDarkfall slices away at 'initial unforgiving experience' with 2.0 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.0aventurinedarkfalldarkfall-2.0dev-blogdev-diaryeconomymarketmarket-systemmount-protectionmount-theftnew-player-experienceTasos-Flambourasupdateupdate-postFri, 24 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CCP still planning to expand EVE's station gameplay]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/ccp-still-planning-to-expand-eves-station-gameplay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/ccp-still-planning-to-expand-eves-station-gameplay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/ccp-still-planning-to-expand-eves-station-gameplay/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EVE Online - Rifter viewed from captain's quarters
Just when you internet-spaceship-only types thought it was safe to resume your relationship with CCP, the EVE Online studio has dropped a dev blog detailing its plans for further Incarna-style avatar development.

The recent CCP reorganization put bidpedal gameplay on the back burner due to a player outcry in favor of the game's flying-in-space elements, but as it turns out, CCP "still believes in the vision to bring your characters fully into the world of EVE." CCP t0rfifrans says it will simply take a bit longer for the firm to realize its ambitious sandbox goals. He also says those goals are currently up for debate, and while gambling minigames, corporation-owned hubs, and contraband trading haven't been ruled out entirely, Team Avatar has gone "back to the drawing board" in the interests of identifying rewarding gameplay and developing a prototype.

In other New Eden news, CCP's Power of 2 promotion is making a return engagement, and you can create a second account at a discount price through April 1st.

[Thanks to Kane Hart for the tip!]

MassivelyCCP still planning to expand EVE's station gameplay originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatarsccpccp-gamesccp-t0rfifransdev-blogdev-diaryeveeve-onlineflying-in-spacehtfuincarnainternet-spaceshipsnew-edenpower-of-2promotionssandboxsci-fiteam-avatarwalking-in-stationsThu, 23 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Go behind the scenes with EVE's art department in new video diary]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/go-behind-the-scenes-with-eves-art-department-in-new-video-diar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/go-behind-the-scenes-with-eves-art-department-in-new-video-diar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/go-behind-the-scenes-with-eves-art-department-in-new-video-diar/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EVE Online - Caldari Ibis concept art
CCP's latest dev blog spills the beans on EVE Online's upcoming rookie ship revamp. CCP Guard reports that the redesign is "part of our ongoing effort to continuously update the art assets in EVE Online and [make] sure it remains the most beautiful MMO out there."

The blog entry features a video clip that takes us behind the scenes at CCP's art department, and there are plenty of talking-head interviews as well as a few glimpses of sexy internet spaceship concept art. The five-minute clip is basically a crash course in the lengthy process of adding new art assets to EVE, and you'll find it after the jump.

Continue reading Go behind the scenes with EVE's art department in new video diary

MassivelyGo behind the scenes with EVE's art department in new video diary originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>art-designart-directionccpccp-gamesccp-guarddesigndev-blogdev-diaryeveeve-onlineeve-revampeve-rookie-ship-revampnew-edenrookie-shipssandboxsci-fiship-revampvideoTue, 21 Feb 2012 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet blog update details changes to Guild Wars 2's boons and conditions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/arenanet-blog-update-details-changes-to-guild-wars-2s-boons-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/arenanet-blog-update-details-changes-to-guild-wars-2s-boons-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/arenanet-blog-update-details-changes-to-guild-wars-2s-boons-and/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Guild Wars 2 - downed state
ArenaNet has just released a new blog post to follow up its first Guild Wars 2 press beta weekend. Lead designer Eric Flannum says that the preview event went off without a hitch, and he also indicates that the dev team has a lot on its plate as it gears up to bring the game to a wider audience.

He starts things off with a look at Guild Wars 2's unique "downed" mode, which is basically a pre-death state wherein you have a limited selection of abilities to rally and potentially save yourself. The blog goes on to detail changes to the game's compass, tweaks to its meta-events, and an extensive look at the updates to boons and conditions. Head to the official ArenaNet website for all the details.

MassivelyArenaNet blog update details changes to Guild Wars 2's boons and conditions originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arena-netarenanetboonscompassconditionsdev-blogdev-diarydowneddowned-modeeric-flannumfantasyguild-wars-2gw2tyriaTue, 21 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New DUST 514 dev blog has autocannons]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/new-dust-514-dev-blog-has-autocannons/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/new-dust-514-dev-blog-has-autocannons/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/new-dust-514-dev-blog-has-autocannons/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

DUST 514 - Minmatar autocannon ain't got time to bleed
DUST 514's tagline is "your next shot will topple empires," and if there's been a better marketing slogan for a sci-fi shooter, we'd like to hear it. CCP has just released a new dev blog for its EVE Online sidequel; appropriately, the piece is all about new and interesting tools for frakking up your factional enemies.

While a previous DUST blog entry introduced the heavy, medium, and light weapon classes, this one gets down and dirty with three variants designed for maximum destruction. First up is the Minmatar personal autocannon, followed by the Gallente plasma shotgun and the Caldari Nova knife. What about the Amarr? Sadly EVE's fourth player faction is nowhere to be found, but there's still plenty to read about on the official DUST 514 website.

MassivelyNew DUST 514 dev blog has autocannons originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesdev-blogdev-diarydustdust-514eveeve-onlinefpsmmo-shootermmofpsplaystation-3ps3sandboxshootersonyweaponsFri, 17 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CCP revisiting EVE's new player experience]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/ccp-revisiting-eves-new-player-experience/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/ccp-revisiting-eves-new-player-experience/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/ccp-revisiting-eves-new-player-experience/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EVE Online is hard, or so goes the conventional wisdom. CCP's sci-fi sandbox has seen a lot of players roll up a spaceship avatar since 2003, and it's also seen quite a few of those players quit on account of the considerable learning curve.

A new dev blog by CCP Legion outlines a broad-stroke plan to mitigate these difficulties, and Legion says that "we want to give the players a chance to experience the coolness of EVE even in the beginning and make them understand all the potential within the game. In short, we want to make the first days, weeks and months in EVE enjoyable and not just something you have to plow through in order to get to the good stuff."

How is CCP going to do that without dumbing it down? That's still up in the air, but Legion says that the changes will focus more on teachable mechanics than step-by-step guides.

In other New Eden news, CCP has released a new video called The Awakening, and it presents the first moments of a new pod pilot as he is born into his new life. View it in full after the break.

Continue reading CCP revisiting EVE's new player experience

MassivelyCCP revisiting EVE's new player experience originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesccp-legiondev-blogdev-diaryeveeve-onlineeve-online-the-awakeningeve-the-awakeninggame-mechanicslearning-curvenew-edennew-player-experiencesandboxsci-fithe-awakeningvideoFri, 17 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet closes the book on Guild Wars' Winds of Change]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/arenanet-closes-the-book-on-guild-wars-winds-of-change/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/arenanet-closes-the-book-on-guild-wars-winds-of-change/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/arenanet-closes-the-book-on-guild-wars-winds-of-change/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Guild Wars - I assume this image has something to do with Winds of Change
If you missed the Winds of Change arc that's bridging the gap between Guild Wars and Guild Wars 2, now's a great time to head to the official ArenaNet blog to catch up. The devs have provided a handy summary post and a bit of an explanation for their narrative goals as both Guild Wars and its highly anticipated sequel move forward.

ArenaNet also acknowledges the community feedback regarding the difficulty of the Winds of Change content, and the firm says that initially "the difficulty was getting in the way of people enjoying the story, making it far more of a slog than we'd intended and actively undermining their enjoyment of it."

Happily, recent updates have led to "major balance tweaks" and second looks at both normal and hard-mode content, so if you were frustrated before, it's worth your time to give it another go.

MassivelyArenaNet closes the book on Guild Wars' Winds of Change originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arena-netarenanetchallengedev-blogfantasyguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw2mmo-storynarrativencsoftnew-contentwinds-of-changeTue, 14 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lime Odyssey dev blog features the music of Yasunori Mitsuda]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/11/lime-odyssey-dev-blog-features-the-music-of-yasunori-mitsuda/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/11/lime-odyssey-dev-blog-features-the-music-of-yasunori-mitsuda/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/11/lime-odyssey-dev-blog-features-the-music-of-yasunori-mitsuda/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Lime Odyssey - musical avatar
It's time for another Lime Odyssey dev blog, and today's piece focuses on the free-to-play fantasy title's soundtrack. Aeria Games tapped veteran composer Yasunori Mitsuda to create the score, and though this is Mitsuda's first MMO project, it's definitely not his first video game suite. You've heard his work before if you've played Chrono Cross, Chrono Trigger, and Xenogears, and you can hear his latest in the sound samples we've got for you after the break.

Click through to read a bit about the themes for Blue Coral, West Tumbara, and Pripet.

[Source: Aeria Games press release]

Continue reading Lime Odyssey dev blog features the music of Yasunori Mitsuda

MassivelyLime Odyssey dev blog features the music of Yasunori Mitsuda originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 11 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeriaaeria-gamesdev-blogdev-diaryf2pfantasyfree-to-playlime-odysseymusicortascoresoundtrackyasunori-mitsudaSat, 11 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Funcom reveals The Secret World skill deck templates]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/funcom-reveals-the-secret-world-skill-deck-templates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/funcom-reveals-the-secret-world-skill-deck-templates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/funcom-reveals-the-secret-world-skill-deck-templates/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The Secret World - Illuminati dude with a swell goatee
Funcom has penned a new dev diary at MMORPG.com, and the piece reveals three new skill decks from the firm's The Secret World title.

What's a skill deck?

It's The Secret World's answer to the how-do-you-make-a-level-free-MMORPG question, and it allows players to select from 500 abilities to create "exactly the type of character they want." Funcom thinks the system will seem daunting to players used to simpler class-based mechanics in competing MMOs, and as such the firm is adding a few deck templates to offer players a helping hand.

Three of these are profiled in the new diary, including one from each of the game's factions. The Witch Hunter focuses on big damage spikes and represents the Templars, the Warlord is your basic swordfighter from the Dragon faction, and the Thaumaturgist is the Illuminati's answer to the gunmage archetype.

[Thanks to fallwind for the tip!]

MassivelyFuncom reveals The Secret World skill deck templates originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>damage-dealerdev-blogdev-diarydragonfantasyfuncomgunmagehorrorilluminatiskill-basedskill-deckskillsswordfightertemplarthaumaturgistthe-secret-worldtswwarlordwitch-hunterThu, 09 Feb 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Lime Odyssey dev blog highlights Muris race]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/06/lime-odyssey-dev-blog-highlights-muris-race/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/06/lime-odyssey-dev-blog-highlights-muris-race/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/06/lime-odyssey-dev-blog-highlights-muris-race/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Lime Odyssey - Muris mage
This week's Lime Odyssey dev blog is all about the Muris, an inquisitive race of tricksters who like to "spread trouble wherever they go."

Aeria Games has released a new cinematic and a couple of screenshots to go along with its textual description, and after viewing all of these after the cut, you'll have a clearer picture of who the Muris are (and why you might want to play one). Despite their cute factor, the Muris can be deadly, and they may be used in tandem with any of Lime Odyssey's four battle classes (Warrior, Thief, Mage, or Cleric).

[Source: Aeria press release]

Continue reading Lime Odyssey dev blog highlights Muris race

MassivelyLime Odyssey dev blog highlights Muris race originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeriaaeria-gamescinematicclassesdev-blogdev-diaryf2pfantasyfree-to-playlime-odysseymurisracestrailervideoMon, 06 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare: All our devs play SWTOR]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/31/bioware-all-our-devs-play-swtor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/31/bioware-all-our-devs-play-swtor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/31/bioware-all-our-devs-play-swtor/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Star Wars: The Old Republic - some smuggler who looks like John Marsden
Ever wonder if MMO devs play the MMO they're developing? Apparently the answer is yes in the case of Star Wars: The Old Republic. A new dev blog by BioWare executive producer Rich Vogel minces few words on that particular subject. "Every single one of us on the development team plays the game, and we see the same issues you do and where we need to expand," Vogel writes.

The rest of the wall o' text isn't quite as illuminating. Vogel starts by defining bugs and exploits, and he offers a few generalities in regards to BioWare's ability to quickly respond to both types of issues.

It's worth a read if you're heavily invested in Star Wars: The Old Republic, and you'll find it on the game's official site.

MassivelyBioWare: All our devs play SWTOR originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugsdev-blogeaea-biowareElectronic-Artsexploitsrich-vogelsci-fistar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorTue, 31 Jan 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Aventurine 'sprinting' toward Darkfall 2.0]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/adventurine-sprinting-toward-darkfall-2-0/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/adventurine-sprinting-toward-darkfall-2-0/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/adventurine-sprinting-toward-darkfall-2-0/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Darkfall
As Darkfall "sprints" down the road toward its second incarnation, bloodthirsty PvPers are looking to Aventurine for more information about how their favorite game world is being remolded. Tasos Flambouras came forth today with word that not only is the project still powering forward, but the development team is growing as new hires are brought on to assist in the efforts.

Flambouras uses the post as a progress report and To Do list all in one. Perhaps the most exciting teases that he mentions are new methods of progression in the game. "These are significant and exciting changes to the way the game is played because they add more purpose to player freedom," he writes.

Currently the art team is adding and revamping many of the game's objects and animations, while the world builders are hammering away at Mahirim. As part of Darkfall 2.0, introductory dungeons will be integrated into the game to help newbies get a foothold in the cutthroat MMO.

The team is also experimenting with "alternatives" to player respawn time after deaths, as well as a brand-new market system and improved trading experience.

MassivelyAventurine 'sprinting' toward Darkfall 2.0 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 27 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.0adventurinedarkfalldarkfall-2.0dev-blogdev-diarydev-postmarketmarket-systempreviewprogression-pathsrespawnrevamptasosTasos-FlambourastradingFri, 27 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Fanfest events detailed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/eve-fanfest-events-detailed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/eve-fanfest-events-detailed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/eve-fanfest-events-detailed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EVE Online - Fanfest poker table
Preparations for EVE Online's annual Fanfest are well underway, and CCP has updated its website with a blog entry that gives gamers an idea of what to expect if they're coming to Reykjavik in March.

CCP is adjusting its VIP office tour prize package this year. A contest entry will only set you back one PLEX (as opposed to the $1,000 minimum bid in years past). There's also a poker tournament, a silent auction, and a battle of the bands in the offing.

What does all this have to do with New Eden, you're asking? Well not much, aside from the opportunity to drink heavily and put a name to a face when it comes to all those capsuleers you've been swindling and killing for the past eight years. Head to the official site for details on all the events and prizes.

MassivelyEVE Fanfest events detailed originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 27 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesconventionsdev-blogeveeve-onlineeventsfanfestfanfest-2012new-edenreal-life-eventssandboxsci-fiFri, 27 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online dev diary details new Odyssey vessel]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/star-trek-online-dev-diary-details-new-odyssey-vessel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/star-trek-online-dev-diary-details-new-odyssey-vessel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/star-trek-online-dev-diary-details-new-odyssey-vessel/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Star Trek Online - Odyssey class ship
If you're looking for more details on Star Trek Online's new Odyssey-class starship, the game's official website has them.

Acquiring one is as easy as leveling a Federation character to five, since Cryptic is handing out the new hulls for free in celebration of STO's second anniversary. You'll need a Vice Admiral rank to pilot the ship, and if you're a bit behind, you'll receive an inventory item that can be redeemed later.

Cryptic says the Odyssey class is "the pinnacle of Federation starship design" and the largest vessel ever built. The ship can operate for lengthy periods without resupply, and it also features universal ensign and lieutenant commander bridge officer stations that can be operated by any bridge officer class.

MassivelyStar Trek Online dev diary details new Odyssey vessel originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarycrypticcryptic-studiosdev-blogdev-diaryf2pfederationfree-to-playodyssey-classperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentsci-fisecond-anniversarystar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotwo-year-anniversaryWed, 25 Jan 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online handing out Odyssey starships for its second anniversary]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/star-trek-online-handing-out-odyssey-starships-for-its-second-an/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/star-trek-online-handing-out-odyssey-starships-for-its-second-an/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/star-trek-online-handing-out-odyssey-starships-for-its-second-an/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

STO
It's been in the making for months now, but the wait is almost over. On February 2nd, Star Trek Online will release the latest in the line of Enterprises, the Odyssey-class (Enterprise-F) starship. Players are invited to do more than gawk at its power and majesty, as Cryptic is inviting all players level 5 or higher to take one for a test drive... and then take one home on the house.

Cryptic notes that the new Odyssey will be available for only a limited time at the start of the month, after which it will disappear from the game for an indeterminate amount of time. Players who cannot fly the top-tier starship can nevertheless earn it for use at a later date.

The Odyssey (and its corresponding Klingon Vengeance-class starship) giveaway is just the first part of STO's second anniversary events. From February 2nd through the 5th, the mischievous Q will challenge players to complete tasks in exchange for mystery prizes.

MassivelyStar Trek Online handing out Odyssey starships for its second anniversary originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2nd-anniversarycrypticcryptic-studiosdev-blogenterpriseenterprise-ff2pfree-to-playgiveawayin-game-eventodysseyodyssey-classperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweqsecond-anniversarystar-trek-onlinestotwo-year-anniversaryTue, 24 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[From hero to 0.0: EVE Online deploys Crucible 1.1 update]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/from-hero-to-0-0-eve-online-deploys-crucible-1-1-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/from-hero-to-0-0-eve-online-deploys-crucible-1-1-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/from-hero-to-0-0-eve-online-deploys-crucible-1-1-update/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

EVE Online
It may not be a full-blown expansion, but don't let the decimal point throw you off: EVE Online Crucible's 1.1 patch is a beast of an update, and it's roaring onto the live server today.

Crucible 1.1 "enhances and updates" many of the key features of the game, starting with a customizable NeoCom (user interface) that can be tweaked to the player's desire. The update also contains adjustments to Tech 2 modules, balances to blaster ammo, and the ability for alliances to enter into factional warfare.

As a result of a significant change to how player-owned structures use legacy fuel -- as in, they won't any longer, but they will be switching over to fuel blocks -- CCP is urging customers to pay attention lest they log in and find themselves in the dark.

You can get the full skinny on the update by either reading the full patch notes, reading through the list of major features, or listening to the grizzled voice of CCP Soundwave going over the 1.1 highlights after the jump.

Continue reading From hero to 0.0: EVE Online deploys Crucible 1.1 update

MassivelyFrom hero to 0.0: EVE Online deploys Crucible 1.1 update originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.11.1-updateccpccp-gamesccp-soundwavecruciblecrucible-1.1dev-blogeveeve-onlineneocompatch-1.1patch-notesvideoTue, 24 Jan 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pirates of the Burning Sea outlines plans for 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/22/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-outlines-plans-for-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/22/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-outlines-plans-for-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/22/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-outlines-plans-for-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Pirates of the Burning Sea - anchored ships
Remember Pirates of the Burning Sea? Yeah, it's still sailing along after its 2010 free-to-play conversion, and the dev team at Flying Lab Software is gearing up to celebrate the game's fourth anniversary in high pirate style.

Brain "Fodderboy" Taney has offered up a lengthy dev blog detailing what's next for the nautical MMO, and he outlines two main goals: immersion and the desire to "layer" the game.

Immersion is fairly self-explanatory (and in case it's not, Taney says that it entails bringing more authentic 18th century elements to the game). Layering requires a bit more verbiage, but it basically boils down to improving "the game experience for all the different kinds of players we have in our community (e.g., casual, hardcore, PvE-only, PvP-only, etc.)," Taney says. There's quite a bit more, of course, but you'll need to head to the official PotBS website to read about it.

MassivelyPirates of the Burning Sea outlines plans for 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 22 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brian-taneydev-blogdev-diarydevelopment-roadmapf2pflying-labflying-lab-softwarefodderboyfour-year-anniversaryfourth-anniversaryfree-to-playhistoricalimmersionlayeringPirates-of-the-Burning-SeapotbssoeSony-Online-EntertainmentupdatesSun, 22 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Big faction changes coming to Fallen Earth]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/21/big-faction-changes-coming-to-fallen-earth/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/21/big-faction-changes-coming-to-fallen-earth/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/21/big-faction-changes-coming-to-fallen-earth/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Fallen Earth - Odenville at dusk
Big changes are coming to Fallen Earth's faction system, and the latest GamersFirst dev diary has the details. Lead designer Marie "Aro Sei" Croall says that the devs "want to make sure it is clear to all players who they are fighting for and who they are against."

The current faction dynamics can be confusing, she explains, and GamersFirst feels that Fallen Earth's learning curve can be smoothed out "without dumbing it down." To do so, shoulder factions are being removed, and wastelanders will need to pick a faction and remain loyal to it in order to earn points. Missions may be accepted from three factions, but only the primary faction will determine PvP objectives, missions, and faction channels.

Finally, the devs are removing factional friendly fire except in cases of clan wars, bloodsports, or dueling gameplay. Croall says this is intended to curb same-faction griefing, and ultimately contribute to "a less jarring PvP experience in Fallen Earth."

MassivelyBig faction changes coming to Fallen Earth originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 21 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aro-seidev-blogdev-diaryf2pfactionfaction-changesfactionsfallen-earthfree-to-playfriendly-firegamers-firstgamersfirstgriefingmarie-croallpost-apocalypticsandboxsandparksci-fiwastelandSat, 21 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CCP shows off EVE neocom updates]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/ccp-shows-off-eve-neocom-updates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/ccp-shows-off-eve-neocom-updates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/ccp-shows-off-eve-neocom-updates/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

EVE Online - new neocom
Remember that dev blog about a year ago that mentioned updates in store for EVE Online's neocom interface? Well, it hasn't been forgotten, but the New Eden poo-storm of 2011 kind of bumped it to the back of the line.

Today, the EVE website has been updated with a look at the new neocom's design, and CCP Optimal has plenty of pics as well as some insights into what's changing below the pretty exterior. Chief among the tweaks is the ability for pod pilots to pick and choose the features they use most and remove extraneous buttons from the interface.

The new neocom is slated to go live in the Crucible 1.1 patch coming later this month.

MassivelyCCP shows off EVE neocom updates originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesccp-optimalcruciblecrucible-1.1customizable-neocomdev-blogeveeve-onlineinterfacenew-edenpoo-stormsandboxsci-fiuiuser-interfaceTue, 10 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MechWarrior Online fights with knowledge as well as lasers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/04/mechwarrior-online-fights-with-knowledge-as-well-as-lasers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/04/mechwarrior-online-fights-with-knowledge-as-well-as-lasers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/04/mechwarrior-online-fights-with-knowledge-as-well-as-lasers/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

MechWarrior Online
In any combat situation it is key to be as well-informed as possible: to know where your enemy is (hopefully not right behind you), what resources you have on hand (dual Twinkies), what you're up against (spouse aggro), and so on. The makers of the upcoming MechWarrior Online have devoted their second dev blog to the importance of information -- or as they put it, "knowledge is power!"

To aid with information warfare, the designers will provide to players a key tool called a BattleGrid, which will function like a pumped-up interactive map during in-game conflicts. Through the BattleGrid, players will be able to get a good idea of what's going on in the field quickly and what orders are coming through for the attack.

The blog post also mentions the concept of "modules" that allow pilots to customize their 'Mechs, and it gives a brief overview of the line-of-sight targeting system and how players can work together to share battlefield information as well as how they can confuse the enemy. Hiding and seeking in the game will require a good combination of both detection and "spoofing" modules to keep your team alive while exposing the opposite one.

[Thanks to Nimsy for the tip!]

MassivelyMechWarrior Online fights with knowledge as well as lasers originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 Jan 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlegriddetectiondev-blogdev-diarydeveloper-bloghide-and-seekinformation-warfareknowledge-is-powerline-of-sightmechmechwarriormechwarrior-onlinemodulemodulespiranha-gamesspoofingWed, 04 Jan 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 dev blog talks achievements, Thief tweaks]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/20/guild-wars-2-dev-blog-talks-achievements-thief-tweaks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/20/guild-wars-2-dev-blog-talks-achievements-thief-tweaks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/20/guild-wars-2-dev-blog-talks-achievements-thief-tweaks/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Guild Wars - Thief
It's been a trying year for impatient Guild Wars 2 fans, but 2011 is closing on something of a high note due to recent beta rumblings as well as an increase in the ArenaNet information trickle. The latest blurb is a year-end development update courtesy of Eric Flannum and Jon Peters, and Flannum kicks things off with a fairly detailed look at the game's achievement system.

As it turns out, GW2's achievements come in three flavors, and they comprise long-term goals, dailies, and monthly tasks that "encourage a variety of play and reward you with gold and experience."

Peters details recent changes to Thief class gameplay, and he pays particular attention to the steal and backstab abilities. He also spends a bit of time talking about improvements to combat timing and animations. "Making these improvements has been really interesting and fun because it has shown us how our game can feel appropriately action-oriented without taking away the familiarity of the MMO genre," Peters explains.

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 dev blog talks achievements, Thief tweaks originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Dec 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsanetanimationsarena-netarenanetbackstabclassescombat-animationsdev-blogdev-diaryeric-flannumfantasygame-mechanicsguild-wars-2gw2jon-petersncsoftstealthiefTue, 20 Dec 2011 21:00:00 EST