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[TERA writer discusses the labor of love behind game writing]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/tera-writer-discusses-the-labor-of-love-behind-game-writing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/tera-writer-discusses-the-labor-of-love-behind-game-writing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/tera-writer-discusses-the-labor-of-love-behind-game-writing/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

You always hurt the ones you love, but it's usually not with a battleaxe.
There's a conception among some gamers that working with video games for a living entails more "video games" than "working." A new development diary by TERA's writing team manager David Noonan is quick to disabuse readers of that notion. He does see the job as a labor of love, but he also freely admits that every day brings the question of how much time will be "love" and how much time will be plain old "labor."

Noonan explains the way that he and his team look at bug reports relating to their department. Sometimes, the only thing that needs to be changed is a simple typo; other times, the dialogue of an entire quest chain will need to be rewritten from the start. But that doesn't negate the joy of filling in a story and creating a world, from the major quests down to the item names. If you have an interest in TERA's writing, game writing in general, or both, Noonan has some interesting insights to share.

[Thanks to Mike for the tip!]

MassivelyTERA writer discusses the labor of love behind game writing originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 May 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backstoryblueholebluehole-studiosdavid-noonandev-diarydeveloper-diaryen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasygame-designgame-writinglorelore-designlore-developmentlore-writingterawritingMon, 07 May 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Check and mate: A look at Otherland's EightSquared simulation]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/check-and-mate-a-look-at-otherlands-eightsquared-simulation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/check-and-mate-a-look-at-otherlands-eightsquared-simulation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/check-and-mate-a-look-at-otherlands-eightsquared-simulation/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Knight from B1 to -- aw, s**t.
Fans of Tad Williams' deliciously cyberpunk book series Otherland are almost certainly waiting with bated breath for gamigo and RealU's upcoming MMO adaptation of the universe. In hopes of making the wait just a tad easier, gamigo has released a new developer diary video focusing on the EightSquared universe of Otherland.

EightSquared, as you may have surmised from the name, is a simulation in which an entire medieval countryside has sprung forth from a gargantuan chess board on which the Red and White armies are locked in an eternal war/game. But something has gone wrong with the simulation: The armies are no longer following the rules of warfare (i.e., rules of chess), and it's up to players to find out where the problem lies before things get too far out of hand and cause the destruction of the simulation itself. The full dev diary also provides a look at the game's Lifecycle AI, which breathes life into the world by providing NPCs who follow their own day-to-day schedules.

So what are you waiting for? Log in to the Net and go take a look for yourself.

[Source: gamigo press release]

Continue reading Check and mate: A look at Otherland's EightSquared simulation

MassivelyCheck and mate: A look at Otherland's EightSquared simulation originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Mar 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chesscyberpunkdev-diariesdev-diarydeveloper-diariesdeveloper-diaryeightsquaredf2pfree-to-playgamigootherlandrealusci-fitad-williamsvideovideosvirtual-worldvirtual-worldszonezonesFri, 30 Mar 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Learn about the Warrior in the newest Lime Odyssey development blog]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/25/learn-about-the-warrior-in-the-newest-lime-odyssey-development-b/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/25/learn-about-the-warrior-in-the-newest-lime-odyssey-development-b/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/25/learn-about-the-warrior-in-the-newest-lime-odyssey-development-b/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

It's kind of hard to feel menaced by a weapon wielded by an adorable little button.
Friday saw the reveal of information on Lime Odyssey's Warrior class, which specializes more or less in what you would expect from the description. (That does not include carpentry or specialized dance moves, if you're not sure.) Today, we've got a bit of a developer diary to follow up the reveal, with a bit more detail on how the class is meant to play and what prospective Warriors can expect in terms of equipment and so forth.

For those looking forward to the game, there's still no news on when the closed beta will begin, although development is continuing apace despite the game's trouble in its nation of origin. You can still sign up for the beta, however, and all signs point to a testing phase on the near horizon. If you just want to learn about playing a Warrior, just skip on down to see how to unleash maximum destruction with massive weapons.

Continue reading Learn about the Warrior in the newest Lime Odyssey development blog

MassivelyLearn about the Warrior in the newest Lime Odyssey development blog originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 25 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeriaaeria-gamesclassclassesdeveloper-diarydevelopment-blogf2pfantasyfree-to-playlime-odysseyphysical-classpreviewswarriorSun, 25 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Leave your legacy with Star Wars: The Old Republic's newest dev dispatch video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/22/leave-your-legacy-with-star-wars-the-old-republics-newest-dev/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/22/leave-your-legacy-with-star-wars-the-old-republics-newest-dev/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/22/leave-your-legacy-with-star-wars-the-old-republics-newest-dev/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- Star Wars: The Old Republic
Star Wars: The Old Republic's patch 1.2 is slowly creeping over the horizon, and that means players are one step closer to getting to try out the next steps in the game's Legacy progression system for themselves. In light of this, BioWare has released a new video highlighting the inner workings of the Legacy system to give players a look at what exactly they can expect.

Here's a recap for the uninitiated: The Legacy system unlocks after a character completes chapter one of the storyline, and from that point on that character will gain Legacy experience in addition to the normal combat experience. Progressing through the Legacy system will unlock a variety of spiffy treats -- such as special skills, new class-race combinations, account-bound gear, and more -- for all characters on a player's account. Obviously the benefits are greatest for altoholics (whoo!), but even one-character players will be able to benefit from the new abilities and other unlocks. Of course, you don't have to take our word for it; the full developer dispatch video can be seen just past the cut.

Continue reading Leave your legacy with Star Wars: The Old Republic's newest dev dispatch video

MassivelyLeave your legacy with Star Wars: The Old Republic's newest dev dispatch video originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Mar 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowaredev-diariesdev-diarydev-dispatchdeveloper-diariesdeveloper-diarydeveloper-dispatcheaelectronic-artslegacylegacy-systemlucasartspatch-1.2sci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorthe-old-republictorvideovideosThu, 22 Mar 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World offers up a video diary on freeform progression]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/the-secret-world-offers-up-a-video-diary-on-freeform-progression/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/the-secret-world-offers-up-a-video-diary-on-freeform-progression/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/the-secret-world-offers-up-a-video-diary-on-freeform-progression/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Okay. Maybe this is okay. Maybe it just wants a bacon strip.
The Secret World is going to feature a lot of different monsters to contend with, and that means a lot of different tricks to deal with all of them. We've known for a while that the game will feature a freeform skill system, but in a recent video diary the development staff shows off some of these freeform skills in action and in visual flow. As stated before, players can pick any different combination of skills and abilities from the skill wheel, with the big key simply being to look for synergy between your various abilities.

Regardless of what your character has unlocked, you'll be limited to seven active abilities and seven passive abilities at any given time, thereby ensuring that more experienced characters will have more options rather than more raw power. The video also talks about templates to help guide new players and the game's equipment system, all of which emphasize the role of players in determining how they want to play. If this sounds right up your alley, take a look at the full video diary just past the break.

Continue reading The Secret World offers up a video diary on freeform progression

MassivelyThe Secret World offers up a video diary on freeform progression originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilitiesdev-diarydeveloper-diaryfactionfantasyfreeform-progressionfuncomgame-mechanicshorrormechanicsmythologysci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedskill-progressionskillsthe-secret-worldtswvideovideosWed, 21 Mar 2012 20:30:00 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[LotRO paddles down The Great River in a canoe fashioned from patch notes and dev diaries]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/lotro-paddles-down-the-great-river-in-a-canoe-fashioned-from-pat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/lotro-paddles-down-the-great-river-in-a-canoe-fashioned-from-pat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/lotro-paddles-down-the-great-river-in-a-canoe-fashioned-from-pat/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

LotRO
"The Great River not only offers something fresh-feeling and new, but also some fairly epic eye candy," the latest Lord of the Rings Online developer diary begins. The diary is referring to the latest zone being created for the game, which is slated to come with Update 6. We've already gotten a glimpse of the region, but now it's time for the team to go in-depth with its concept and creation.

One of the highlights of the new region is that The Great River will be home to the very first Rohirrim settlement: Stangard. Because of this, Standgard will feature unique visuals and architecture not found elsewhere in the game. In addition to providing new vistas to explore, The Great River will help players gear up further through quest rewards, a new reputation faction, and an elite area. For those interested in getting an idea of how Turbine puts together a zone like this, there's a terrific addendum that walks through the process.

Preliminary patch notes are also up for Update 6, which is now on the test server. There's a lot to digest here, although it's interesting to note that Virtues will be increased to 14 (from 12) due to player demand.

It's good to know that plenty of bugs will be fixed come this patch, including this one: "The sky objects will no longer vanish when you travel to certain instances and then return. Told ya; The sky is not falling. It was just...missing."

MassivelyLotRO paddles down The Great River in a canoe fashioned from patch notes and dev diaries originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Mar 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anduindev-diarydeveloper-diaryf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotropatchpatch-notesreputationRohirrimstangardtest-serverthe-great-riverturbineturbine-entertainmentupdate-6virtuesThu, 01 Mar 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[WildStar Wednesday examines redundancies in quest text]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/29/wildstar-wednesday-examines-redundancies-in-quest-text/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/29/wildstar-wednesday-examines-redundancies-in-quest-text/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/29/wildstar-wednesday-examines-redundancies-in-quest-text/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

I've been in a firefight before... well, in a fire. Actually, I got fired.
Can you really produce a meaningful set of quests while keeping each snippet of text down to 140 characters? The team developing WildStar certainly thinks so. In a previous installment of the regular WildStar Wednesday feature, fans were introduced to the concept, but this week's developer diary is all about explaining how you keep all of the flavor of a quest while trimming it down to the bare minimum necessary. It's not about stripping out flavor -- it's about exactly the opposite.

Senior narrative designer Cory Herndon explains by example that a lot of quest text winds up repeating unnecessary facts or stating something that should be immediately clear. Herndon starts with a longer example of quest text and steadily pares it down to the most important bits of information, keeping all of the flavor while posting each bit of communication in quick and comprehensible bursts. Combined with the discussion of adding further bits of quest dialogue after important objectives are completed, the diary shows just how you can get a lot of flavor into the quests without quite as many fancy words.

MassivelyWildStar Wednesday examines redundancies in quest text originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 29 Feb 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbinecarbine-studiosdeveloper-diaryncsoftpresentationpreviewsquestquest-textquestsstorytwitterwildstarwildstar-wednesdaywsWed, 29 Feb 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lord of the Rings Online offering PvMP players some Commendation]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/lord-of-the-rings-online-offering-pvmp-players-some-commendation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/lord-of-the-rings-online-offering-pvmp-players-some-commendation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/lord-of-the-rings-online-offering-pvmp-players-some-commendation/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Nothing personal, bro. I just need to upgrade my mandibles.
Lord of the Rings Online has always had an interesting system of PvP, with players facing off against a specially designated group of players in the guise of monsters. It's also a system that's historically had some problems, ones that the developers are hoping to alleviate the new Commendation system coming with Update 6. While it won't fix everything, the new system outlined in today's developer diary should ensure that players will be able to focus their PvMP efforts toward PvMP rewards, making rewards more straightforward without forcing players into PvE to advance.

The diary explains how Destiny, the previously intended PvMP currency, wound up being bloated and failed to serve its proper purpose. Commendations will be hard-capped at 100,000, and spending this currency will allow players to advance Creeps and acquire new equipment. The preliminary numbers are also included with the diary, with the understanding that there will be some tweaking after the system goes live. While players might be a bit miffed at having to use their Destiny quickly before it goes away, the new reward system will hopefully make advancing via PvMP far more viable.

MassivelyLord of the Rings Online offering PvMP players some Commendation originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>currenciesdeveloper-blogdeveloper-diaryf2pfree-to-playlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrlotrolotro-update-6pvmppvppvp-rewardsreward-systemsrewardsturbineturbine-entertainmentupdate-6Thu, 16 Feb 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: WindSlayer 2's dungeon diary]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/massively-exclusive-windslayer-2s-dungeon-diary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/massively-exclusive-windslayer-2s-dungeon-diary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/massively-exclusive-windslayer-2s-dungeon-diary/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Windslayer 2
What separates MMO avatars from we mortals in the real world? Other than a surprising tolerance for 60-pound shoulder armor, we'd have to say, "the near-suicidal tendency to continually dive into long-forgotten caves, castles, and other dungeons of doom," although perhaps there's a few of you who do pull off the side of the road while driving in order to run into an open sewer pipe. We don't know.

What we do know is that MMOs wouldn't be the same without the classic dungeon dive, and WindSlayer 2 is on board with that concept. In the latest exclusive developer diary from Ignited Games, the team talks about the advantages of forming adventuring parties to go danger spelunking and what the risks and rewards might come out of such actions.

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: WindSlayer 2's dungeon diary

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: WindSlayer 2's dungeon diary originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaBeuritaniaclosed-betadev-diarydeveloper-diarydungeondungeon-divingdungeonsexclusivef2pfree-to-playignited-gamesopen-betawindslayerwindslayer-2Tue, 10 Jan 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Namaste Entertainment trumpets upcoming Storybricks beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/namaste-entertainment-trumpets-upcoming-storybricks-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/namaste-entertainment-trumpets-upcoming-storybricks-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/namaste-entertainment-trumpets-upcoming-storybricks-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Namaste Entertainment
If you're part of the crowd that grouses at unoriginality in the MMO genre and are craving a fresh breath of minty innovation, then you might have been intrigued at the ideas put forth by Namaste Entertainment's Storybricks toolset earlier this year. But when would this become reality? Turns out the answer is sooner than you'd think.

Namaste announced that Storybricks' beta is scheduled for February next year, and if you want to check it out, all you need to do is sign up for the newsletter and you'll be on the list. The beta will be a "skeletal version" of the toolkit without the associated game, but it should allow players to fiddle around with creating their own MMO scenarios and worlds. During the beta process, the devs will be actively creating Storybricks content and releasing it for testing as well.

To cement the good news, Lead Designer Stephane Bura and MMO Architect Brian "Psychochild" Green have put forth their first developer diary talking about the lead-up to beta and what is planned for early next year. Feast your eyeballs and eardrums on the excitement after the jump!

Continue reading Namaste Entertainment trumpets upcoming Storybricks beta

MassivelyNamaste Entertainment trumpets upcoming Storybricks beta originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Dec 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabrian-greendev-diarydev-videodeveloper-diarynamastenamaste-entertainmentpsychochildsandboxStephane-BurastorybricksvideoWed, 14 Dec 2011 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Stephen D'Angelo promises 'one more surprise' for Star Trek Online in December]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/13/stephen-dangelo-promises-one-more-surprise-for-star-trek-onli/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/13/stephen-dangelo-promises-one-more-surprise-for-star-trek-onli/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/13/stephen-dangelo-promises-one-more-surprise-for-star-trek-onli/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

STO
Star Trek Online's Stephen D'Angelo is one of the game's biggest cheerleaders, and it shows in his latest developer diary. "December has been an amazing month," he begins, citing the release of Season 5, new starships, and the Duty Officer system.

He highlights the game's first holiday, Q's Winter Wonderland, and the minigames and activities in which the players can participate to get the most out of this whimsical event. Of course, it's not all fun and games when serious prizes, like a holographic bridge officer or a Jem'Hadar Attack Ship, are on the line.

D'Angelo also says that a Duty Officer mini-event is on the docket for the month, as will "one more fun surprise." He concludes his letter by sharing the news that the team is now focusing on February's Dominion Episodes and ground skills/UI improvements.

MassivelyStephen D'Angelo promises 'one more surprise' for Star Trek Online in December originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Dec 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-entertainmentdev-diarydeveloper-diarydominionduty-officerduty-officer-systemf2pfree-to-playqqs-winter-wonderlandseason-5season-fivestar-trek-onlinestephen-dangelostoTue, 13 Dec 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Star Trek Online developer diary explores the abandoned Jem'Hadar ships]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/new-star-trek-online-developer-diary-explores-the-abandoned-jem/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/new-star-trek-online-developer-diary-explores-the-abandoned-jem/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/new-star-trek-online-developer-diary-explores-the-abandoned-jem/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Hopefully these fare better in the hands of players than as enemies.
The Dominion is, in many ways, the opposite of the Federation in Star Trek Online. Rather than being composed of several races cooperating freely for shared exploration, the Dominion features multiple races honed into single-purpose tools by the Founders. One of those tools is the Jem'Hadar, the warriors of the organization and the pilots behind the fast scarab-like attack vessels players are no doubt familiar with. And as the latest developer diary outlines, the Jem'Hadar ships are turning into a mystery -- because they're turning up empty and unharmed in the middle of Federation and Klingon space.

In game terms, the ship is small and quick and mounts a heavy offensive arrangement of officers and equipment. In lore terms, however, the presence of the ships could easily be the subject of an entire set of missions (and may be in the future, in the Foundry if not from the development team). It's an interesting fictional read as well as an interesting look at a new ship type in the game, both of which should appeal to fans of Star Trek Online

MassivelyNew Star Trek Online developer diary explores the abandoned Jem'Hadar ships originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backstorycrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdeveloper-blogdeveloper-diaryf2pfree-to-playlorenewspatchesperfect-world-entertainmentpweseason-5shipsst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotrek-onlineupdatesWed, 07 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Get into a RIFT Instant Adventure faster than watching this promo video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/get-into-a-rift-instant-adventure-faster-than-watching-this-prom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/get-into-a-rift-instant-adventure-faster-than-watching-this-prom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/get-into-a-rift-instant-adventure-faster-than-watching-this-prom/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

RIFT
"Players are in for good surprises," Trion Worlds' devs promise. "It's like nothing you've ever seen in an MMO before."

What's all this about? Why, it's the upcoming Instant Adventure feature for RIFT, where players can jump right into massive group content without having to sit in a queue or worrying about group composition. This "nonstop excitement" is hyped via a new video diary in which the feature is quickly demonstrated while the devs hit all the talking points in less than a minute.

Instant Adventures are designed to deliver quick group quests without having to pull together specific roles or wait for world events to occur. By clicking on the Instant Adventure button, players are brought to either Stillmoor or Shimmersand and a special encounter is launched that scales up and down with your group's size.

Give it a look and see if this is as good as the devs' word -- the adventures start (instantly) after the jump.

Continue reading Get into a RIFT Instant Adventure faster than watching this promo video

MassivelyGet into a RIFT Instant Adventure faster than watching this promo video originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Dec 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dev-diarydeveloper-diarygroupgroup-contenthal-hanlininstant-adventureinstant-adventuresrifttrailertriontrion-worldsvideovideo-dev-diaryvideo-developer-diaryWed, 07 Dec 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO dev diary details the Instance Finder]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/06/lotro-dev-diary-details-the-instance-finder/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/06/lotro-dev-diary-details-the-instance-finder/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/06/lotro-dev-diary-details-the-instance-finder/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- Lord of the Rings Online
In today's Lord of the Rings Online developer diary, game systems engineer Leo "Ransroth" Zelevinsky takes some time to provide players with information on the Instance Finder coming with Update 5. In a nutshell, it works like this: The tool exists in order to allow players to easily find instance parties and to reward them for participating in random content. Joining and completing an instance or skirmish using the Instance Finder, which can be done with or without an existing fellowship, will grant players instance currency, which can then be redeemed for spiffy loot.

For the full details on how the Instance Finder works, head on over to the official dev blog.

MassivelyLotRO dev diary details the Instance Finder originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 Dec 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dev-diarydev-journaldeveloper-diarydeveloper-journalf2pfree-to-playinstance-finderleo-zelevinskylord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroransrothturbineturbine-entertainmentupdate-5Tue, 06 Dec 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Volume III, Book 5 diary available for Lord of the Rings Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/23/volume-iii-book-5-diary-available-for-lord-of-the-rings-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/23/volume-iii-book-5-diary-available-for-lord-of-the-rings-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/23/volume-iii-book-5-diary-available-for-lord-of-the-rings-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Continuing the epic saga of doing the work necessary so the heroes don't all die.
One of the challenges facing the storyline in Lord of the Rings Online is that it has a very definite deadline to contend with. While the story runs in parallel to the events in the books, it also has to line up in terms of what's taking place, which is why players will be parting company with the Grey Company starting in the next installment. Instead, as outlined in a new developer diary, Book 5 of Volume III will see players working with Prince Théodred, heir to Rohan, as he works to organize the defense of his country's borders.

The diary also gives a firm date to mark story progress by; according to the book's timeline, Frodo should reach Mount Doom in about a month. Players will find this book to be a bit shorter than the previous installment, but it should still be a vital component as the game approaches the climax of the trilogy. They'll also receive a cosmetic set of equipment at the beginning of Book 5 to help them look like a Ranger, which is appropriate considering the story progress up to this point.

MassivelyVolume III, Book 5 diary available for Lord of the Rings Online originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Nov 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backstorybook-5developer-diaryepic-storyf2pfree-to-playlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelorelotrlotrostoryturbineturbine-entertainmentupcoming-patchesupcoming-updatesupdatesvolume-iiivolume-iii-book-5Wed, 23 Nov 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: WindSlayer 2 dev diary talks in-game events]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/massively-exclusive-windslayer-2-dev-diary-talks-in-game-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/massively-exclusive-windslayer-2-dev-diary-talks-in-game-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/massively-exclusive-windslayer-2-dev-diary-talks-in-game-events/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Windslayer 2 - GM event
Hello 2-D sidescrolling fans, and welcome to another exclusive Windslayer 2 developer diary. We've partnered with Ignited Games to bring you a series of first looks at the title as it moves through beta and toward its official release. So far we've covered a basic introduction, ranged class mechanics, and PvP.

Today we're shifting gears a bit to focus on in-game events. Ignited is currently focusing on both scripted events and GM-driven events, and both are designed to add a bit of flavor and give players an interesting diversion from everyday gameplay. See what's in store after the break.

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: WindSlayer 2 dev diary talks in-game events

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: WindSlayer 2 dev diary talks in-game events originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Nov 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2-ddev-diarydeveloper-diaryeventsf2pfantasyfree-to-playgm-eventsignitedignited-gamesin-game-eventsscripted-eventsside-scrollerwindslayerwindslayer-2Tue, 15 Nov 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Guild Wars 2 demo build brings changes to UI, character creation, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/new-guild-wars-2-demo-build-brings-changes-to-ui-character-crea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/new-guild-wars-2-demo-build-brings-changes-to-ui-character-crea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/new-guild-wars-2-demo-build-brings-changes-to-ui-character-crea/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Guild Wars 2
ArenaNet has had an exciting week -- the developer is in attendance at G-Star in Korea to show off the demo of Guild Wars 2. As with any game in development, GW2 is in a constant state of change as the team continues testing and improving. G-Star attendees were treated to the very latest build, and some of the ArenaNet developers put together some information about that build for those unable to attend the convention.

Eric Flannum, joined by Character Artist Team Lead Aaron Coberly and UI Artist Vicki Ebberts, ran down the changes in the newest ArenaNet blog entry. Character customization and creation got some improvements, and Aaron provides a detailed video to show them off. Vicki talked over the new "big beefy UI" as a response to feedback the team has received, and Eric wrapped up with some exciting details about changes to skill acquisition. Weapon skills will continue to be unlocked by using the weapon, but healing, utility, and elite skills will now be unlocked with skill points. "Skill points can be acquired by undertaking what we call a skill challenge. There are 200 skill challenges in the game, and they range from defeating tough opponents, to answering riddles, to drinking a particularly potent drink."

There are many more details -- and the promise of more to come tomorrow -- at the ArenaNet blog, so head there for the full blog entry!

MassivelyNew Guild Wars 2 demo build brings changes to UI, character creation, and more originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Nov 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aaron-coberlyanetarenanetarenanet-blogcharacter-creationdeveloper-diaryeric-flannumg-stargstarguild-wars-2gw2ncsoftskill-acquisitionskillsuivicki-ebbertsThu, 10 Nov 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT Ember Isle developer diary talks art and lore]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/rift-ember-isle-developer-diary-talks-art-and-lore/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/rift-ember-isle-developer-diary-talks-art-and-lore/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/rift-ember-isle-developer-diary-talks-art-and-lore/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

RIFT Ember Isle
"1.4 was a big patch, 1.5 was an bigger patch... 1.6 is going to blow them away," declares Trion Worlds' Hal Hanlin in this most recent dev diary for RIFT's upcoming From the Embers patch. RIFT's Design Producer is joined by developers Morgan Lockhart, Michael Daugherty, Mike Chang, Jason Colombo, and Berenger Fish to discuss the newest endgame zone, Ember Isle, the largest the team's undertaken to date. But it wouldn't be a proper dev diary without some gushing about the lore, art, locations, and mechanics of the zone, and that's all included too. Sweeping musical score included free of charge!

Hit the break to review the video in all its green glory.

Continue reading RIFT Ember Isle developer diary talks art and lore

MassivelyRIFT Ember Isle developer diary talks art and lore originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 Nov 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.6artberenger-fishcaduceus-risedevdev-diarydeveloper-diarydevsdungeonember-islefrom-the-embershal-hanlinjason-colomboloreMichael-Daughertymike-changmorgan-lockhartpatchpreviewriftrift-planes-of-telaratrailertrailerstriontrion-worldsvideovideosMon, 07 Nov 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively exclusive: WindSlayer 2 PvP dev diary]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/massively-exclusive-windslayer-2-pvp-dev-diary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/massively-exclusive-windslayer-2-pvp-dev-diary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/massively-exclusive-windslayer-2-pvp-dev-diary/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Windslayer 2
The fount of information about Ignited Games' WindSlayer 2 continues to gush forth, as the studio continues to release developer diaries about its upcoming title. We've already heard about WindSlayer 2's economy, ranged classes, and melee classes, not to mention an overview of the game proper.

Today it's all about the brutal, cutthroat element of PvP combat. Hit the jump to read our exclusive dev diary on the subject!

Continue reading Massively exclusive: WindSlayer 2 PvP dev diary

MassivelyMassively exclusive: WindSlayer 2 PvP dev diary originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenaarena-combatdev-diarydeveloper-diaryignited-gamespvpslayerwindslayerwindslayer-2Thu, 03 Nov 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Every day I'm tribbleing]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/captains-log-every-day-i-m-tribbleing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/captains-log-every-day-i-m-tribbleing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/captains-log-every-day-i-m-tribbleing/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot - Star Trek Online
Captain's Log, Stardate 65322.9...

Hello, computer (and players)! For the past several weeks, Star Trek Online players have been checking out the latest F2P beta builds on the Tribble test server. While there have been a few patches on other days, more for stability fixes and minor tweaking, Thursdays seem to be the designated day for us to receive the largest pushes of new content. The latest round of updates has brought further economy changes, new events and ships, and even more heated debates. Since we seem to be a ways out from the seeing the updates ported to the Holodeck live server, there is still plenty of time to check it all out and provide your feedback to the devs.

I would like to dedicate this entry to those who are helping test the changes. This week's Captain's Log serves as a checklist of sorts on what new content you can test and where you can provide feedback about it. As you read through, I suggest that you read a particular section, jump into game to check out the particular change, formulate an opinion, and head to the linked forum where you can leave your feedback. No matter what you think, it's important to let the devs know -- they will make changes based upon a collective opinion.

Ensign, warp 10! It's time to create our own party rock anthem...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Every day I'm tribbleing

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Every day I'm tribbleing originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilityc-storeconsolecraftingcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdaily-eventdevdev-blogdev-diarydeveloper-blogdeveloper-diarydevsdilithiumdoffduty-officerduty-officer-systemevent-calendarf2pfeature-testingfeaturedfeedbackforumforumsfree-to-playgame-mechanicsgame-systemsgeargozerhereticklingon-academylivestreamloglore-missionspatchespath-to-f2pperfect-world-entertainmentpowerpwesci-fishipsspecial-task-forcespecial-task-force-missionsspecial-testingstst-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestarfleet-academystephen-dangelostfstf-updatesstostormshadetest-servertrek-onlineuiui-tweakupdatesThu, 27 Oct 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA exalts its game testing team]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/tera-exalts-its-game-testing-team/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/tera-exalts-its-game-testing-team/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/tera-exalts-its-game-testing-team/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

TERA team
"You'll probably never see our names until you read the credits, but we have one of the most important jobs in game publishing," writes Scott James Magner. He heads up the "unsung heroes" of the TERA development team -- the game testers -- and he's written up a few fun insights into the behind-the-scenes process that is helping to refine this MMO as it heads to launch.

According to Magner, the En Masse QA team's been flooded with requests to join the testing and feedback process as they continually poke and prod at all of TERA's systems and content. "At this point," he says, "we've played every class and race multiple times, but no one is tired of coming to work."

The team is currently testing fights against "Big-Ass Monsters" in the Celestial Hills, and Magner says he's still learning new combos and techniques even after a full year of testing. While the testing team usually is far out of the spotlight, he says that its job is crucial to the game's success and that all of the testers are "you" at heart -- passionate gamers who want the best for this title.

[Thanks to Joseph for the tip!]

MassivelyTERA exalts its game testing team originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bambig-ass-monstersdev-diarydeveloper-diaryen-masseen-masse-entertainmentgame-testersgame-testingqaqa-teamquality-assurancescott-james-magnerteratesterstestingThu, 27 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively exclusive: Introducing WindSlayer 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/07/massively-exclusive-introducing-windslayer-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/07/massively-exclusive-introducing-windslayer-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/07/massively-exclusive-introducing-windslayer-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

WindSlayer 2
One of the things we Massively writers love to do is to be the conduit between you and hidden gems in the MMO world. While high-profile games may get all the hubbub, it's just as important to bring to you the scrappy upstarts that are looking to make a name for themselves.

With that in mind, we'd like to introduce you to WindSlayer 2, a 2-D side-scrolling title that keeps the action fast and furious. Ignited Games is understandably excited to show off WindSlayer 2 as it enters closed beta and is prepared to woo you with a series of developer diaries showing off this fun little sequel to WindSlayer.

So gird your loins, hold on to your butts, and hit that jump to see what WindSlayer 2 is all about!

Continue reading Massively exclusive: Introducing WindSlayer 2

MassivelyMassively exclusive: Introducing WindSlayer 2 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 07 Oct 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2-ddev-diarydeveloper-diaryf2pfantasyfree-to-playignited-gamesside-scrollerside-scrollingTommy-Luowindslayerwindslayer-2Fri, 07 Oct 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR dev diary comments on companion control]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/07/swtor-dev-diary-comments-on-companion-control/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/07/swtor-dev-diary-comments-on-companion-control/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/07/swtor-dev-diary-comments-on-companion-control/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

SWTOR companions
A couple of weeks ago, BioWare began a diary outlining the Star Wars: The Old Republic companion. In the second part of the companion developer's diary released today, Senior Game Designer William Wallace tackles the intricate mechanics of companion control. MMO players' opinions vary on how pets should be handled in combat situations. If not handled well, companions can overpower a group sometimes and completely ruin it at others.

Wallace admits that BioWare's vision for companions has been augmented based on how players actually used the NPCs during gameplay. The team added passive and active controls over companions. In fact, if a player only wishes to control some companion actions but not others, BioWare provided ways to do that, too.

We also know that sometimes groups can be split up. Wallace explains how SWTOR works around that:
If a player leaves the group or its proximity, to travel to a vendor for instance, he is able to summon his companion for the journey. Upon reentering proximity of the group, the companion is automatically dismissed. The remaining group can temporarily substitute the missing player with one of their companions if desired.
Companions are a staple in BioWare games. Developers promise to continue to make the companion gaming experience better -- meeting or exceeding your expectations.

MassivelySWTOR dev diary comments on companion control originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 07 Oct 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWarecompanioncompanionsdeveloper-blogdeveloper-diaryEAElectronic-ArtsLucasArtspet-classStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicSWTORthe-old-republicTORwilliam-wallaceFri, 07 Oct 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Testing out the future]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/captains-log-testing-out-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/captains-log-testing-out-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/captains-log-testing-out-the-future/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Star Trek Online wallpaper of a pile of Tribbles
Captain's Log, Stardate 65264.3...

Hello, computer (and players)! As you have must have seen by now, open beta testing of Star Trek Online's new F2P model is well underway; the developers have been posting dev diaries about the impending changes for the last couple of days. Because testers on the Tribble test server were required to start new characters, and because character transfers will not be an option for at least a few weeks, many players have begun a mad dash to level up their test characters in order to test out some of the retooled endgame content.

Since testing, especially in this manner, can be confusing, I have decided to dedicate this week's Captain's Log to those who are willing to take on the challenge. Past the jump, you will find a checklist of sorts that you can use while testing (or, ultimately, playing) the new content and updates. I suggest reading each section and then checking it out in-game. While some recommendations may seem less interesting than others, I suggest you give each a fair shot so you can provide feedback on what can make the game better.

Ensign, warp 10! Let's give our dedicated Tribbleites some structure to their testing time...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Testing out the future

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Testing out the future originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 06 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blogc-storecrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studioscurrencycurrency-updatedan-griffisdeep-space-ninedev-blogdev-diarydeveloper-blogdeveloper-diaryduty-officerduty-officer-systemevent-calendarf2pfeature-testingfeaturedfree-to-playgame-mechanicsgame-systemsgeoff-tuffligozerlivestreamlore-missionsmission-journalmission-windownew-systemspatchespath-to-f2pperfect-world-entertainmentpweremasteredsci-fispecial-testingstst-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestephen-dangelostfstf-updatesstotest-servertesting-rewardstrek-onlinetutorialtutorial-updateuiui-tweakupdatesThu, 06 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Newest Star Trek Online blog entry outlines the Duty Officer system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/02/newest-star-trek-online-blog-entry-outlines-the-duty-officer-sys/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/02/newest-star-trek-online-blog-entry-outlines-the-duty-officer-sys/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/02/newest-star-trek-online-blog-entry-outlines-the-duty-officer-sys/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

And they say EVE is full of spreadsheets.
One of the issues that Star Trek Online has always faced when emulating its source material is the simple issue of size. Players take the role of a captain overseeing an entire ship, crewed with numerous people, a ship that in the television series would be filled with actors and recurring faces. But in gameplay, that sense has always been a bit more difficult to convey... and it's an element being addressed with the new Duty Officer system.

In the latest entry in the Path to F2P blog, Geoff Tuffli outlines the goals and overall thrust of the Duty Officer system. Players will receive Duty Officers as rewards in a variety of ways, including spending time in the academy for each respective faction. The officers can be placed in departments, sent on assignments, or otherwise managed by players in order to receive the greatest amount of benefit from the support staff. It's a feature that's long been promised by the development team, and as the game moves toward a hybrid business model, it looks to finally be moving to release.

MassivelyNewest Star Trek Online blog entry outlines the Duty Officer system originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 02 Oct 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blogcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdeveloper-blogdeveloper-diaryduty-officerf2pfree-to-playgame-mechanicsgame-systemsgeoff-tufflinew-systemspatchespath-to-f2pstst-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotrek-onlineupdatesSun, 02 Oct 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WildStar explores its Nexus]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/21/wildstar-explores-its-nexus/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/21/wildstar-explores-its-nexus/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/21/wildstar-explores-its-nexus/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

WildStar: Planet Nexus
WildStar Wednesday is upon us, again! The team at Carbine Studios intends to give a weekly update for its upcoming MMO WildStar. Before finishing off part two of From Concept to Creature, Senior Community Manager Robert "Robeardo" Land decided to sidestep the creature aspect of the world and concentrate on the history of the WildStar central planet, appropriately named Nexus.

Robeardo had to call on the talents of Narrative Designer Chad Moore to assist him in the developer blog. Moore explains that Nexus was once the home of the Eldan, an ancient, advanced race that disappeared from the galaxy over a thousand years ago, leaving behind all of its technology to rot. Part of the excitement for the player is exploring the planet and unearthing artifacts. Moore explains further:
The rusting wrecks of giant robots lie half-buried in shifting desert sands, and strange and deadly alien creatures prowl in the shadows of extraordinary monolithic machines. And hidden among all of these wonders are the dark secrets of the Eldan themselves, and the answers to why they disappeared from planet Nexus so long ago.
WildStar is locking in the explorer type of MMO player, and we at Massively will keep our eyes out to see if it hopes to hook the social, killer, and achiever types, too.

MassivelyWildStar explores its Nexus originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Sep 2011 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbinecarbine-studiosChad-Mooredeveloper-diaryEldanexplorationlorencsoftNexusrobert-landWildStarwildstar-wednesdayWed, 21 Sep 2011 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Dark Age of Camelot takes players to school]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/dark-age-of-camelot-takes-players-to-school/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/dark-age-of-camelot-takes-players-to-school/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/dark-age-of-camelot-takes-players-to-school/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

DAoC
Dark Age of Camelot's new website is already paying off in spades for players, as the developers are able to pass along a host of new information, concept art and previews for the populace. DAOC will be 10 years old as of next month and isn't slowing down. Exhibit A: The team is already hard at work on the 1.110 patch.

John Thronhill penned a dev diary about the patch this week; he focuses on the new Lesson Quests that will go hand-in-hand with the beginner experience. Lesson Quests are designed to help newbies get their footing in this complex setting, especially since the game continues to see a "large amount of returning and brand-new players" each month.

As players progress through Lesson Quests, they'll not only get a better understanding of how DAOC works but be rewarded with buff tokens, potions, and other nice goodies. As part of the quest chain, NPCs will demonstrate crowd control techniques and other RvR survival skills in the hopes that new players will be able to make a better contribution to the war. These tutorial quests can also be skipped if players already know the ropes.

Lesson Quests aren't the only new additions coming with 1.110, although Thornhill says we'll have to wait until another day to hear about the rest.

MassivelyDark Age of Camelot takes players to school originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10th-anniversarybeginner-experiencebioware-mythicdaocdark-age-of-camelotdev-diarydeveloper-diaryea-mythicJohn-Thronhilllesson-questsmythicmythic-entertainmentnew-user-experiencenew-user-journeypatch-1.110pvprvrtrainertutorialFri, 16 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[March into the Gap of Rohan with LotRO's latest dev diary]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/09/march-into-the-gap-of-rohan-with-lotros-latest-dev-diary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/09/march-into-the-gap-of-rohan-with-lotros-latest-dev-diary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/09/march-into-the-gap-of-rohan-with-lotros-latest-dev-diary/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Gap of Rohan is having a Back to Isengard Sale!
Horses thunder, horns blow, and the forces of the Free Peoples of Middle-earth ride out to meet the Enemy on its own turf. It's in the Gap of Rohan, one of the newest areas featured in the upcoming Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard, where players will finally encounter the Rohirrim proper.

Turbine is excited to introduce this long-awaited nation of horse-riders to the game, and in a new developer diary, an overview of this infamous region is given. While the Gap may not be large in size, it is critical to both armies to control, as it commands one of the best crossings of the river Isen.

The developers also share some behind-the-scenes info about the "tricks" used to simulate large armies fighting alongside player characters -- all while still running on your average computer. We have several new action screenshots of combat in the Gap of Rohan for you below, and the full dev diary can be watched after the jump!

Gallery: Lord of the Rings Online Core Gallery

Continue reading March into the Gap of Rohan with LotRO's latest dev diary

MassivelyMarch into the Gap of Rohan with LotRO's latest dev diary originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Sep 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bob-hessdev-diarydeveloper-diarygallerygap-of-rohanisenlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrorise-of-isengardrobert-hessscreenshotsturbineturbine-entertainmentvideovideo-diaryFri, 09 Sep 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Embers of Caerus: 'MMO guilds suck']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/30/embers-of-caerus-mmo-guilds-suck/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/30/embers-of-caerus-mmo-guilds-suck/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/30/embers-of-caerus-mmo-guilds-suck/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Forsaken Studios
Forsaken Studio's newest sandbox MMO may not even have a proper website yet, but that doesn't mean Embers of Caerus can't make waves. In the team's first dev blog, a gauntlet is thrown down to all other MMOs: Your guilds suck, apparently. Nothing personal.

"For that part traditional MMORPG guilds have done their job, and they haven't done it badly, but it can certainly be improved," the team writes. It's their opinion that guilds are a little too exclusive and inflexible, not allowing players to mingle in multiple groups as they would in real life.

Using Facebook as an example of how people categorize friends into different groups, the devs show that we have grown to expect flexibility in structuring our relationships and social circles. It's the opinion of the team that MMOs should evolve with the times to include the same types of features: "Once we break the bonds of traditional guilds, and work instead to define ways to organise and control our relationships and groups, the possibilities are pretty much endless."

Embers of Caerus plans to allow players as much flexibility as possible in their goals and their social groupings, so that an adventurer could be part of both a thieving guild and a merchant troupe if so desired. The title is only a few weeks into development at this point.

[Thanks to the good folks on the Massively forums for bringing this to our attention!]

MassivelyEmbers of Caerus: 'MMO guilds suck' originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 30 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dev-blogdev-diarydeveloper-blogdeveloper-diaryembers-of-caerusfacebookforsaken-studiosguildguildsnew-titlesocial-circlessocial-networkingthievesTue, 30 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX 2011: SWTOR video guides us through the Eternity Vault]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/pax-2011-swtor-video-guides-us-through-the-eternity-vault/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/pax-2011-swtor-video-guides-us-through-the-eternity-vault/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/pax-2011-swtor-video-guides-us-through-the-eternity-vault/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

PAX 2011: SWOTR Infernal One
Who lies at the bottom of the Eternity Vault? Thanks to the commentary in the latest Star Wars: The Old Republic developer walkthrough, we now know that an ancient Rakata warlord named the Infernal One is held captive in this ancient prison. Director of Production and part-time superhero Dallas Dickinson explains that it took an army to take down this being the last time he arose, yet for some reason a group of eight can do it now. Yes, our characters are really that awesome in TOR.

In the video, Dickinson guides us through the first two encounters: battles against two massive defense turrets and a rocket-launching gigantic droid. The turret encounter employs intense raid mechanics, like dual-tanking and crowd control, whereas the giant droid requires stay-out-of-the-green-stuff maneuvers and line-of-sight avoidance techniques. Beyond those two encounters, the Operation is a mystery. However, we catch glimpses of a couple of giant monsters and the final boss using the Force to toss giant columns around the room!

After the break, check out the 10-minute video walkthrough and let us know what you think in the comments. And of course, you know SWTOR is at PAX, where we have just barely started our coverage of the event. Stay tuned here as we will feature more impressions and interviews in the not-too distant future.

Massively's on the ground in Seattle during the weekend of August 26-28, bringing you all the best news from PAX Prime 2011. Whether you're dying to know more about SWTOR, Guild Wars 2, City of Heroes, or any MMO in between, you can bet we'll have it covered!

Continue reading PAX 2011: SWTOR video guides us through the Eternity Vault

MassivelyPAX 2011: SWTOR video guides us through the Eternity Vault originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 26 Aug 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWaredallas-dickinsondev-diarydeveloper-diaryEAElectronic-Artseternity-vaultLucasArtsPAXpax-2011pax-primepax-prime-2011raidraid-mechanicsStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-infernal-onethe-old-republictortrailervideowalkthroughFri, 26 Aug 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[City of Heroes explores the process of making missions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/city-of-heroes-explores-the-process-of-making-missions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/city-of-heroes-explores-the-process-of-making-missions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/city-of-heroes-explores-the-process-of-making-missions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Random City of Heroes screenshot
It's been a little while since the last installment of City of Heroes' developer dispatch newsletter, the Intrepid Informer, due in no small part to the upcoming hybrid business model domination the news sphere. But the second part of the series on designing missions for the games has just recently been posted, giving players a look behind the scenes at the process that goes into crafting compelling arcs for players to enjoy time and again.

Penned by Matt Miller, the installment explains some of the thought processes that go on during mission development. For example, as Miller explains, the main reason that level bands restrict available enemy groups is simply plausibility -- if you're still seeing Hellions at level 50, it implies that the Rikti are essentially equivalent to punks in red jackets. Miller also talks about the importance of finding little quirks to help the mission feel unique and memorable, an important element in a game that allows you to flash back to older missions at almost any time. It's sure to be an interesting read for longtime fans interested in seeing how the team goes about taking a broad concept and turns it into a playable arc.

MassivelyCity of Heroes explores the process of making missions originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 09 Aug 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxdesigndeveloper-diaryintrepid-informermatt-millermatt-positron-millermission-designmissionsncsoftparagonparagon-studiospositronquest-designquestsTue, 09 Aug 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Age of Empires Online dev diary is all about the goods]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/17/age-of-empires-online-dev-diary-is-all-about-the-goods/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/17/age-of-empires-online-dev-diary-is-all-about-the-goods/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/17/age-of-empires-online-dev-diary-is-all-about-the-goods/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Using tongue-in-cheek stick puppets, the folks at Age of Empires Online have emerged to give us a quick overview of the gear system in a new dev diary. Yes, even empire-building titles rely on good ol' fashioned MMO gear to equip armies.

Once attached to an army, gear changes the appearance and stats of your troops. The more rare the gear, the tougher they become. Gear can be found, purchased, and crafted as you may expect. You have to purchase the civilization with real-world money in order to be able to equip the very best items, however.

And if you're curious about Age of Empires Online's pricing structure, ShackNews has the full skinny. Some of the purchases are merely cosmetic, although it looks like there's bad news for those looking to avoid a "pay to win" scenario: "Unfortunately, Microsoft's approach to monetising Age of Empires Online seems to be one of placing non-paying players at a significant disadvantage."

Age of Empires Online is slated for an August 16th launch. You can watch the dev diary on gear for a chuckle or two after the jump!

Continue reading Age of Empires Online dev diary is all about the goods

MassivelyAge of Empires Online dev diary is all about the goods originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Jun 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-empires-onlineaoeaoeocraftingdev-diarydeveloper-diaryf2pfree-to-playgearlaunchmicrosoftpay-to-winpricing-structurerock-paper-shotgunshacknewsFri, 17 Jun 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Engaging the brain: Funcom talks about the immersiveness of story in The Secret World]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/27/engaging-the-brain-funcom-talks-about-the-immersiveness-of-stor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/27/engaging-the-brain-funcom-talks-about-the-immersiveness-of-stor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/27/engaging-the-brain-funcom-talks-about-the-immersiveness-of-stor/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

"No designer could ask for more to draw upon," The Secret World's Joel Bylos says. "This world, our world, is the greatest resource of them all."

And so begins a fascinating trip down the dark alleys of storytelling in Funcom's upcoming MMO. In a dev diary posted at MMORPG.com, The Secret World team suggests it's more interesting to set the game in our world instead of in rehashed fantasy lands. By embracing the concept of "everything is true," the writers open the door to every conspiracy theory, every urban legend, and every branch of pseudoscience known to man.

"The story is exploration. The story is discovery," Bylos promises. He says that the ultimate goal of the storytelling team is to get players to stop mindlessly clicking and to start engaging the story on a conscious level. This includes investigating events, hunting for clues and solving puzzles. No, this isn't Scooby-Doo Online (although that would be awesome).

It's also interesting to note that every character in the game has full voice-over and motion capture as a way to pull you into the story instead of jolt you out of it. Bylos also outlines the different types of missions, which include stealth and infiltration, action, investigation, and story.

[Thanks Even!]

MassivelyEngaging the brain: Funcom talks about the immersiveness of story in The Secret World originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 27 May 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conspiraciesconspiracyconspiracy-theoriesdev-diarydeveloper-diaryhorrorimmersionimmersivenessinvestigationjoel-bylosmmorpg.compsuedosciencepuzzlesRagnar-Tornquistscooby-doo-onlinestoriesstorystorytellingthe-secret-worldtswurban-legendsvideowritingFri, 27 May 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New developer diary on designing the Steampunk Pack for City of Heroes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/19/new-developer-diary-on-designing-the-steampunk-pack-for-city-of/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/19/new-developer-diary-on-designing-the-steampunk-pack-for-city-of/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/19/new-developer-diary-on-designing-the-steampunk-pack-for-city-of/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Pip pip, ladies and fellows alike! No doubt you saw the marvelous presentation of yesterday's fully cinemascoped "trailer" for the upcoming Steampunk Pack that will be delivered at the onset of June to a waiting audience in City of Heroes. But what formidable science was leveraged in the creation of these modern marvels of technology and ingenuity? Wonder no longer, for the fine staff and associates at Paragon Studios have put together a fortuitous dispatch describing the method behind these fantastic creations at the cutting edge of technology.

Cheryl Austin, a plucky lass responsible for many of the designs seen within the impressive piece of cinematography, discusses both the inspirations behind these marvelous designs and the subtle ways in which steam and clockwork mechanisms found their way into use. If you are one of the many kind souls within City of Heroes no doubt anticipating this costume set with bated breath, then by all means, peruse the words of the designer with all due haste!

MassivelyNew developer diary on designing the Steampunk Pack for City of Heroes originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 May 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artcheryl-austincity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxdeveloper-diarydevelopmentncsoftparagonparagon-studiossteampunksteampunk-packThu, 19 May 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The world is your oyster: Dawn of Fantasy dev diary demonstrates Kingdom Wars mode]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/18/the-world-is-your-oyster-dawn-of-fantasy-dev-diary-demonstrates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/18/the-world-is-your-oyster-dawn-of-fantasy-dev-diary-demonstrates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/18/the-world-is-your-oyster-dawn-of-fantasy-dev-diary-demonstrates/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

If you liked Dawn of Fantasy's first developer diary showcasing the MMORTS' Stronghold Defense mode, then buckle up, because here we go again!

This time, 505 Games' Gordon Farrell and Arielle Parkas up the ante by demonstrating the Kingdom Wars feature. Unlike the hop-in-and-out Stronghold Defense matches, Kingdom Wars challenges you to go on a global crusade to conquer all of the lands. It's here that you'll be building an army from scratch, laying siege to cities for their resources, engaging in diplomacy, and accomplishing quests -- all while fending off feisty computer and player forces.

Kingdom Wars offers both single-player and multiplayer options, and players can pick of the three factions to rule. Of course, world-conquering isn't done by feats of martial skill alone; a shrewd king knows that creating a strong economy is a necessary foundation for victory.

You can check out the full developer diary for this intriguing Dawn of Fantasy game mode after the jump!

Continue reading The world is your oyster: Dawn of Fantasy dev diary demonstrates Kingdom Wars mode

MassivelyThe world is your oyster: Dawn of Fantasy dev diary demonstrates Kingdom Wars mode originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 May 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>505-gamesArielle-Parkasconquer-the-worlddawn-of-fantasydev-diarydeveloper-diarydofeconomygordon-farrellkingdom-warsmmortsmultiplayerrtsstronghold-defensevideoworld-campaignWed, 18 May 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hold the gates: Dawn of Fantasy dev diary gives an overview of stronghold defense]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/03/hold-the-gates-dawn-of-fantasy-dev-diary-gives-an-overview-of-s/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/03/hold-the-gates-dawn-of-fantasy-dev-diary-gives-an-overview-of-s/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/03/hold-the-gates-dawn-of-fantasy-dev-diary-gives-an-overview-of-s/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

We haven't heard from 505 Games' Dawn of Fantasy for a while, but it looks as though the MMORTS is coming along quite nicely. In a first of hopefully several developer diaries, Lead Writer and Associate Producer Gordon Farrell shows one of the game's modes: stronghold defense.

Dawn of Fantasy players will be encouraged to take control of pre-built villages, towns, and castle fortresses and defend them from the enemy as the situation warrants. In the video, Farrell shows how these strongholds can be built up and defenses laid out prior to the enemy's assault.

The diary goes on to show a sample scenario of a player attempting to hold on to a multi-tiered fortress against the combined assault of Elves and Orcs. Each faction looks to have its own style and special units -- for example, the Elves wield giant Treants as siege weapons, whereas the Orcs have mobile towers and battering rams.

Even though the cavalry comes to the rescue, the defending player is soon overwhelmed. However, Farrell speculates about what you might have done differently instead. You can watch the full dev diary after the jump!

Continue reading Hold the gates: Dawn of Fantasy dev diary gives an overview of stronghold defense

MassivelyHold the gates: Dawn of Fantasy dev diary gives an overview of stronghold defense originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 May 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>505-gamesassaultcastle-defensedawn-of-fantasydefensesdev-diarydeveloper-diarydofelfelvesgordon-farrellmmortsorcorcspvpreal-time-strategyrtssiegestronghold-defensetreantsvideoTue, 03 May 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Exclusive: RIFT's lore is Drowning in Snow]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/13/exclusive-rifts-lore-is-drowning-in-snow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/13/exclusive-rifts-lore-is-drowning-in-snow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/13/exclusive-rifts-lore-is-drowning-in-snow/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Many players of Trion's breakout MMO do not always absorb the vast lore that so richly paints RIFT's landscape. Most of the time, we are more concerned about jumping to the next raid, rift or dungeon. We miss that there is actually a deep history to the world of Telara, and our characters are a part of it -- literally.

Trion has given Massively readers an exclusive preview of some of the upcoming stories behind the game -- the first part of Drowning in Snow, a story about Kira Thanos and her companion Uriel Chuluun. Although we do not quite know where this adventure will ultimately take the Kelari and Bahmi duo, the underlying tension is already evident in these first few scenes. We also know Regulos will not stop until all of Telara is under his control!

Follow after the break to be one of the first to read this new piece of RIFT lore, and let us know what you think of Drowning in Snow in the comments.

Continue reading Exclusive: RIFT's lore is Drowning in Snow

MassivelyExclusive: RIFT's lore is Drowning in Snow originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Apr 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>developer-diaryDrowning-in-snowexclusivekira-thanosloreRIFTrift-planes-of-telarastoryTriontrion-worldsUriel-ChuluunWed, 13 Apr 2011 19:00:00 EST