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[Free for All: Old Second Life documentary still highlights truths]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/free-for-all-older-second-life-documentary-still-highlights-tru/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/free-for-all-older-second-life-documentary-still-highlights-tru/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/free-for-all-older-second-life-documentary-still-highlights-tru/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Second Life documentary screenshot
So I was working on this week's Free for All last night when a buddy of mine asked me if I had seen a certain older Second Life documentary. I didn't think I had before, but it turns out that my usual record of consuming everything MMO still stands, and it was fun to re-watch the older documentary again for several reasons.

One of the most important things I noticed about the film was just how universal to MMO gaming the documentary was. The issues it brought up are still issues, the problems with virtual worlds are still problems, and the fact that any technology older than six months looks laughable on film is still true. It was also encouraging to see how well Second Life has aged since 2007, but it's slightly depressing to see just how horrible MMO documentaries can be at showing the entire picture.

Continue reading Free for All: Old Second Life documentary still highlights truths

MassivelyFree for All: Old Second Life documentary still highlights truths originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2Lbeau-hindmanBlizzardBlizzard-Entertainmentdocumentariesdocumentaryf2pfeaturedfour-cornersfree-for-allfree-to-playftplinden-labphilip-rosedalesandboxsecond-lifeSLvideovideosvirtual-sexvirtual-worldsWorld-of-Warcraftwowyou-only-live-twiceWed, 01 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Garriott talks riding rockets, Man on a Mission movie]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/garriott-talks-riding-rockets-man-on-a-mission-movie/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/garriott-talks-riding-rockets-man-on-a-mission-movie/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/garriott-talks-riding-rockets-man-on-a-mission-movie/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Richard Garriott on the ISS
Richard Garriott may not be making the MMO sequel that many of his fans crave, but he is the subject of a new documentary film called Man on a Mission. VentureBeat.com recently corralled the elusive creator of the famous Ultima franchise for an extensive interview.

The piece is mainly focused on the film, which is currently playing in select cities as well as various on-demand internet outlets. The documentary presents Garriott's career as an underdog triumph, and highlights the fact that he was rejected for NASA's astronaut program due to his poor eyesight. Garriott had the last laugh, however, as he bought his way to the international space station in 2008 and became the first second-generation astronaut in American history (and a noted supporter of private-sector space flight).

While there's precious little info regarding Garriott's current and future gaming pursuits, the interview does offer up some geeky nuggets for those interested in rockets and rocketmen. "For example, launch you think of as this loud, shaky, scary moment," Garriott explains. "In fact, on a liquid-fueled rocket like the Soyuz, it's almost perfectly silent and smooth on the inside. It's much more cerebral, it feels much more like a ballet move, lifting you ever faster into the sky, than it does a sports car dropping the clutch at a green light."

MassivelyGarriott talks riding rockets, Man on a Mission movie originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>culturedocumentarygarriottgeekeryinterviewsman-on-a-missionmmo-industryrichard-garriottspace-flightultimaultima-onlineyes-we-know-this-is-not-game-news-but-respect-your-eldersWed, 01 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare documents the beginning of your SWTOR saga]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/20/bioware-documents-the-beginning-of-your-swtor-saga/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/20/bioware-documents-the-beginning-of-your-swtor-saga/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/20/bioware-documents-the-beginning-of-your-swtor-saga/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

SWTOR
The launch day of Star Wars: The Old Republic is upon us, and while most any interested parties are fully immersed in BioWare's mega-MMO, there are always those who are still on the fence about the game or haven't heard about it yet. To give a proper nudge in the right direction, BioWare's released an eight-minute documentary titled Your Saga Begins to give a broad overview of SWTOR's strengths and direction.

The team spends the time making a case for not only why the game is special but how it should appeal to the Star Wars fan in all of us. Covering the bases of story, voiceovers, companions, exploration, graphical style, and more, the developers hit on all of the selling points of the game while giving first-time viewers a good reason to give this title a shot.

Even if you're a veteran of the Mandalorian War, there should be a tidbit or two in this documentary that's new to you, whether it be absorbing the behind-the-scenes voice recordings or seeing just how big and bushy some of the devs' beards have become. You can watch the full documentary after the jump -- and don't forget to check out our comprehensive guide to launch and beyond!

Continue reading BioWare documents the beginning of your SWTOR saga

MassivelyBioWare documents the beginning of your SWTOR saga originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Dec 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beardbeardsbiowaredocdocumentaryea-biowarelaunchlaunch-daysagastar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorvideovoiceoveryour-saga-beginsTue, 20 Dec 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Documentary on Richard Garriott to premiere in 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/documentary-on-richard-garriott-to-premiere-in-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/documentary-on-richard-garriott-to-premiere-in-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/documentary-on-richard-garriott-to-premiere-in-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Don't you talk back to me about game design, I've been to OUTER SPACE.
He's the man credited with Tabula Rasa and Ultima Online. He blames other companies for ignoring the social gaming space. He runs his own company via robot, and he likes to remind everyone that he is a key element of the ultimate RPG. Oh, and he's been to space, and that's what the upcoming documentary about Richard Garriott is going to focus on. The documentary, Man on a Mission, will be chiefly focusing Garriott's efforts to be the first son of an astronaut to go into space.

As the documentary explains, due to Garriott's nearsightedness, a career in NASA was always out of the question, but he never stopped wanting to follow in his father's footsteps. The documentary will premiere on January 13th nationwide, tracing his path to fortune through video games followed by his trip aboard the Soyuz spacecraft. If you're interested in seeing what you can expect from the documentary, you can check out the trailer just past the cut.

Continue reading Documentary on Richard Garriott to premiere in 2012

MassivelyDocumentary on Richard Garriott to premiere in 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Nov 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>documentarygarriottgeneral-britishindustry-personalitieslord-britishman-on-a-missionmmo-industryrichard-garriottvideovideosMon, 21 Nov 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: A look at Race to World First]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/the-guild-counsel-a-look-at-race-to-world-first/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/the-guild-counsel-a-look-at-race-to-world-first/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/the-guild-counsel-a-look-at-race-to-world-first/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Race to World First
As MMOs grow in popularity and age, they're being seen as a serious subject of study. And as they gain acceptance, we're beginning to see more exposure on paper and in film. Recently, we looked at the documentary The Raid, a portrayal of one guild's progression through World of Warcraft raid content. In this week's Guild Counsel, we'll look at yet another new documentary: Race to World First.

Continue reading The Guild Counsel: A look at Race to World First

MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: A look at Race to World First originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 Oct 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardBlizzard-Entertainmentblood-legioncataclysmdocumentaryfeaturedguild-counselkaren-bryanlady-sinestraparagonrace-to-world-firstvideovideosworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 20 Oct 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New documentary follows the Race to World First]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/15/new-documentary-follows-the-race-to-world-first/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/15/new-documentary-follows-the-race-to-world-first/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/15/new-documentary-follows-the-race-to-world-first/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Race to World First
MMO players, have you ever thought that your in-game exploits were worthy of a feature film? Well, they probably aren't, but at the very least they're worth a documentary!

An upcoming documentary film by the name of "Race to World First" is about the World of Warcraft guild Blood Legion and its journey to become the number one guild in the world. The only catch is that the current numero uno guild is the internet-famous Paragon.

The full documentary can be watched at Looking for Group Productions' website for the meager fee of $2.99. If you'd like a peek at what you'd be getting yourself into, follow on past the cut to watch the documentary's trailer.

Continue reading New documentary follows the Race to World First

MassivelyNew documentary follows the Race to World First originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 15 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blood-legiondocumentariesdocumentaryguildmiscmiscellaneousparagonrace-to-world-firstvideovideosworld-firstworld-of-warcraftSat, 15 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Catch The Raid's world premiere for free]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/catch-the-raids-world-premiere-for-free/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/catch-the-raids-world-premiere-for-free/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/catch-the-raids-world-premiere-for-free/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Raid movie
Hot on the heels of 2009's Second Skin, MMO players are once again the subject of an in-depth documentary about their lives and playing styles as Gamebreaker.TV is hosting the world premiere of The Raid for all to enjoy.

Directed by gamer Kevin Johnson, The Raid follows a guild of World of Warcraft players who tackle some of the toughest challenges of the game and open up about what being a raider means to them. The 20-minute runtime examines what drives players to the raiding scene and introduces outsiders to the collaboration and competition that goes on during these events. The primary focus, however, is on the social aspect of raiding and how it binds a group of people together for a single purpose.

You can catch the documentary after the jump until Wednesday evening at 10 p.m. EDT. Please note that the film starts around the 26-minute mark if you don't want to sit through the pre-show interviews. Give it a watch and let us know what you think -- did The Raid hit the spot or miss its target?

Continue reading Catch The Raid's world premiere for free

MassivelyCatch The Raid's world premiere for free originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Aug 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>competitiondocumentaryendgameendgame-raidinggamebreaker-tvGamebreaker.tvkevin-johnsonmovieobsessionraidraidersraidingraiding-guildsecond-skinthe-raidthis-is-why-i-dont-raidMon, 08 Aug 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamers documentary now available for streaming]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/31/gamers-documentary-now-available-for-streaming/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/31/gamers-documentary-now-available-for-streaming/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/31/gamers-documentary-now-available-for-streaming/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Back in November of last year, we came across an interesting documentary on gaming and MMORPGs. In the 60-minute film "Gamers," filmmaker Ben Gonyo explores today's online gaming culture in an effort to make it more accessible and understandable to a wider audience. For two years, Gonyo immersed himself in World of Warcraft and the gaming subculture to find out what it's all about. Although it touches on controversial issues like a player's potential obsession with his or her virtual hobby, the documentary's aim is to heave a mostly light-hearted tone. It includes interviews with gamers, game designers, comedians, celebrities and psychologists.

Although the film aired on several TV channels, only a brief trailer for the film was made publicly available online. The full 60-minute documentary has now been made publicly available for streaming via the internet. Head over to the video stream at SnagFilms to watch the film and leave your own comments on the issues covered. International viewers should be advised that the stream may be restricted only to US residents.

Continue reading Gamers documentary now available for streaming

MassivelyGamers documentary now available for streaming originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 31 Jan 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben-gonyodocumentaryfilmgamergamersstreamvideoWorld-of-WarcraftMon, 31 Jan 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blizzard comments on video games addiction documentary]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/06/blizzard-comments-on-video-games-addiction-documentary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/06/blizzard-comments-on-video-games-addiction-documentary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/06/blizzard-comments-on-video-games-addiction-documentary/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Video game addiction is hardly a new subject around these here parts, but it still remains a much-discussed and controversial topic even so. Today, BBC investigative journalism program Panorama will add to the conversation with an in-depth look into the causes of gaming addiction and the consequences of players who become a little too hooked. The episode, titled "Addicted to gaming?", is expected to come down harshly against the practices of video game studios.

According to CVG, it's no surprise that the documentary is airing the very night that World of Warcraft: Cataclysm launches, as Panorama uses WoW as one of its key examples. One of the stories follows the tale of Chris Dandos, a teenager who stopped going to school to play WoW for up to 20 hours a day.

In response to the episode's focus, Blizzard released the following comment: "Our games are designed to be fun... but like all forms of entertainment... day-to-day life should always take precedence. World of Warcraft contains practical tools that assist players and parents in monitoring playing time."

MassivelyBlizzard comments on video games addiction documentary originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 06 Dec 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>addictionbbcblizzardcontroversyculturedocumentarygame-addictionpanoramavideo-game-addictionWorld-of-WarcraftwowMon, 06 Dec 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Documentary filmmaker takes on MMORPGs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/09/documentary-filmmaker-takes-on-mmorpgs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/09/documentary-filmmaker-takes-on-mmorpgs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/09/documentary-filmmaker-takes-on-mmorpgs/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

As popular as World of Warcraft has become, we almost take it for granted that everyone on the planet is familiar with (or has at least heard of) MMORPGs. Despite the fact that gaming has become relatively mainstream over the last few years, MMORPGs remain mysteriously inaccessible to portions of the populace, and filmmaker Ben Gonyo aims to change all that with a new documentary called Gamers.

Gamers sees Gonyo immerse himself in MMO subculture for the better part of two years, and features interviews with over 100 gamers, designers, critics, psychologists, comedians, and celebrities -- including Curt Schilling and R.A. Salvatore. The film is currently airing on the Documentary Channel on both DISH and DirectTV, and you can check out various previews and trailers at the film's official website, as well as after the cut. Finally, be on the lookout for a Massively review in the near future.

Continue reading Documentary filmmaker takes on MMORPGs

MassivelyDocumentary filmmaker takes on MMORPGs originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 09 Nov 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben-gonyoculturecurt-schillingdocumentaryfilmgamersgamers-filminterviewsmmorpgpreviewsra-salvatoretrailersworld-of-warcraftTue, 09 Nov 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New Making of Eorzea video sits down with Final Fantasy XIV's composer Uematsu]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/31/new-making-of-eorzea-video-sits-down-with-final-fantasy-xivs-co/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/31/new-making-of-eorzea-video-sits-down-with-final-fantasy-xivs-co/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/31/new-making-of-eorzea-video-sits-down-with-final-fantasy-xivs-co/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

For many people, Nobuo Uematsu's name is inextricably linked to the Final Fantasy series. And with good cause -- he's one of the people most closely associated with the feel of the series, with several of his compositions having become ubiquitous even within games he didn't score. Having been the sole composer for Final Fantasy XIV, the newest Making of Eorzea video sits down with Uematsu and discusses the experience of composing the full score for the game.

While Uematsu estimates it's been about ten years since he was in charge of a full score for a game, there's little argument to be had about his suitability for the job. He discusses both the scope of the project and his experiences in composing such memorable tracks as the theme song -- which, in his own words, was sung by Susan Calloway at his own insistence. See more about the music of Final Fantasy XIV in the video, embedded after the cut.

Continue reading New Making of Eorzea video sits down with Final Fantasy XIV's composer Uematsu

MassivelyNew Making of Eorzea video sits down with Final Fantasy XIV's composer Uematsu originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 31 Aug 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>composingcompositiondocumentaryffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivmaking-ofmaking-of-eorzeamusicnobuo-uematsuscoresoundtracksquaresquare-enixsusan-callowaytheme-songvideo-documentaryTue, 31 Aug 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Third video diary for Going Rogue explores City of Heroes lore and powers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/28/third-video-diary-for-going-rogue-explores-city-of-heroes-lore-a/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/28/third-video-diary-for-going-rogue-explores-city-of-heroes-lore-a/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/28/third-video-diary-for-going-rogue-explores-city-of-heroes-lore-a/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

With only a short stretch of time left until the release of Going Rogue, Paragon Studios has released a new video documentary about the anticipated City of Heroes expansion. This time, the focus is split between the new characters and powers to be featured within the expansion, diving into the lore that surrounds Praetoria and the Emperor's entourage. Much like previous installments, the documentary both serves to preview some new material to existing fans and show off what's coming for new players or those long absent.

Emperor Cole, naturally, gets to show off front and center, as does Calvin Scott of the Resistance. The designers stress that the intent is to create two sides of very different moral character in Praetoria, rather than a simple choice between good and evil. We also get a look at some of the Kinetic Melee and Electric Control powers in action, and of course, more of the cityscapes players can look forward to with the expansion. Check out the video embedded after the cut, which shows that City of Heroes isn't at risk of slowing down too soon.

Continue reading Third video diary for Going Rogue explores City of Heroes lore and powers

MassivelyThird video diary for Going Rogue explores City of Heroes lore and powers originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Jul 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backstorycity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcolecovcoxdevelopmentdiarydocumentaryemperor-coleexpansionloreloyalistncsoftparagonparagon-studiospowerspraetoriapreviewresistancevideovideo-development-diaryvideo-diaryvideo-documentaryWed, 28 Jul 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Garriott's Mission trailer offers a sneak peek before SXSW]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/15/garriotts-mission-trailer-offers-a-sneak-peek-before-sxsw/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/15/garriotts-mission-trailer-offers-a-sneak-peek-before-sxsw/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/15/garriotts-mission-trailer-offers-a-sneak-peek-before-sxsw/#commentsFiled under: , ,

You may love him, or you may hate him; but nobody can deny the influence Lord British has had on the MMO industry. Many feel that Ultima Online was a shining example of MMO mechanics, not since repeated in quite the right combination. Later, Richard Garriott went on to create Tabula Rasa for NCsoft -- a game beloved by some, reviled by others. As part of his own trip to space, he launched Operation Immortality, in an attempt to draw more interest to Tabula Rasa. He went up in space, he came back down, NCsoft released him. We all know the story by now.

But what you may not know is that Garriott had a crew filming the entire time he was involved with the space program. They've compiled the footage into a documentary called Man on a Mission, which is slated to be released later this year at South by Southwest. However, for those who would like a little taste what life was like for Garriott during those hectic days juggling public appearances and training in Russia, you can check out the trailer on his Facebook page now.

[via GameSetWatch]

MassivelyGarriott's Mission trailer offers a sneak peek before SXSW originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Feb 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>documentaryman-on-a-missionmoviencsoftrichard-garriottsouth-by-southwestspace-travelsxswsxsw-2010tabula-rasatrtrailerMon, 15 Feb 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO documentary "Second Skin" debuts in theaters today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/07/mmo-documentary-second-skin-debuts-in-theaters-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/07/mmo-documentary-second-skin-debuts-in-theaters-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/07/mmo-documentary-second-skin-debuts-in-theaters-today/#commentsFiled under: , ,


It's not often that we talk about movies here on Massively, but the new(ish) documentary entitled Second Skin is definitely right up our alley. Today marks the debut of Second Skin in select theaters across the United States, as well as a free showing of the film at various websites.

Is the movie worth seeing if you're heavily into MMOs? Well, we try not to do reviews here (MMO reviews at least), but I would say it's definitely worth checking out if you enjoy MMOs even a tiny bit. The film showcases the lives of several MMO gamers (mostly WoW and EverQuest) to show how these games have affected their lives. There's a fairly good balance of good and bad, showing everything from the marriage of people who met in these games to a tragic suicide that was blamed on an MMO. Check it out all this week online at Fancast or SnagFilms, or at participating theaters across America.

MassivelyMMO documentary "Second Skin" debuts in theaters today originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 07 Aug 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>documentaryfilmgamersmoviesecond-skinFri, 07 Aug 2009 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA["EverCracked! The Phenomenon of EverQuest" to debut at SOE Fan Faire]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/11/evercracked-the-phenomenon-of-everquest-to-debut-at-soe-fan-f/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/11/evercracked-the-phenomenon-of-everquest-to-debut-at-soe-fan-f/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/11/evercracked-the-phenomenon-of-everquest-to-debut-at-soe-fan-f/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


We don't doubt that many of our readers first got their feet wet in the world of MMOs with EverQuest, a game that gave rise to addictions so severe that it was often referred to as "EverCrack" by its loyal fans. It's these folks (this blogger amongst them) that will likely get the most enjoyment out of a new documentary called EverCracked! The Phenomenom of EverQuest that is set to debut at SOE Fan Faire 2009 later this month.

The documentary is hosted by Jason "Jace" Hall (of the Jace Hall Show) and features interviews not only with some of the main brains behind the game, but also with another very important group of people -- the players. We aren't sure yet when those who aren't visiting Fan Faire will be able to see it, but for now, check after the break for a preview trailer.

Continue reading "EverCracked! The Phenomenon of EverQuest" to debut at SOE Fan Faire

Massively"EverCracked! The Phenomenon of EverQuest" to debut at SOE Fan Faire originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 11 Jun 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>documentaryeqevercrackevercrackedevercracked-the-phenomenom-of-everquesteverquestfan-faire-2009filmjace-halljace-hall-showjason-hallmoviesoesoe-fan-fairesony-online-entertainmenttrailerThu, 11 Jun 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video interviews present the life and times of Richard Garriott]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/25/video-interviews-present-the-life-and-times-of-richard-garriott/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/25/video-interviews-present-the-life-and-times-of-richard-garriott/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/25/video-interviews-present-the-life-and-times-of-richard-garriott/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


The online broadcast network VBS is showing a three-part video series on the life and times of (computer) RPG pioneer Richard Garriott. The footage explores his first steps into the world of video game design, explaining how the moniker "Lord British" became synonymous with Garriott.

The videos also give a look into what someone can do once they can afford any toy their heart desires, and chronicles a bit of the latest direction Garriott is taking his life -- into space. The short series is a revealing peek into the life of a significant figure in the games industry. We've got the video embeds for you below the cut, but for more background you might want to check out the accompanying info over at VBS.TV.

Continue reading Video interviews present the life and times of Richard Garriott

MassivelyVideo interviews present the life and times of Richard Garriott originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Feb 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>documentarygame-designinterviewslord-britishmmo-industryreal-liferichard-garriotttabula-rasaultima-onlinevbsvideoWed, 25 Feb 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[First Star Wars: The Old Republic video offering now available!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/12/first-star-wars-the-old-republic-video-offering-is-a-documentar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/12/first-star-wars-the-old-republic-video-offering-is-a-documentar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/12/first-star-wars-the-old-republic-video-offering-is-a-documentar/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


As promised yesterday, the first video offering from the Star Wars: The Old Republic team is now available! Though it's only about five minutes, it offers a ton of great insight into what BioWare and LucasArts will be offering with this title. There's no obvious new information, but there are a bunch of subtle hints about what we might expect to see this ambitious MMO experience. Whether mictrotransactional or not, this game is going to be a one-of-a-kind offering for the genre ... and here's your chance to see the first footage!

Click on through below the cut for the first video offering from Star Wars: The Old Republic, and then head over to our quickie feature pulling apart the details of the video.

Gallery: Star Wars: The Old Republic Concept Art

Continue reading First Star Wars: The Old Republic video offering now available!

MassivelyFirst Star Wars: The Old Republic video offering now available! originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Dec 2008 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LucasArts and BioWare have just announced that their first video documentary for Star Wars: The Old Republic will be posted on that game's official website tomorrow, December 12th. There is no mention of an exact time, but you can bet fans of this upcoming mega MMO will be watching intently. Ladies and Gentlemen, man your refresh buttons!

This video is said to show an overview of the game and provide the public with its first look at actual in-game footage. In the meantime, if you'd like to get caught up on the progress of the game, you can check out our SWTOR screenshot gallery linked below, as well as our complete coverage of the game as it stands so far.

Gallery: Star Wars: The Old Republic Screenshots

A HuttCantina of the Hutt PalaceDroids with blastersTomb Lightsaber Duel Trooper opens fire

MassivelyA first look at SWTOR's in-game footage coming tomorrow originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 11 Dec 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowaredocumentaryin-game-footagelucasartsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorvideoThu, 11 Dec 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Cinemassively: Our Brilliant Second Life]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/08/cinemassively-our-brilliant-second-life/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/08/cinemassively-our-brilliant-second-life/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/08/cinemassively-our-brilliant-second-life/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

While a lot of news reports focus on the breaking up of real marriages because of Second Life, a surprising amount of partners actually log in together. One couple, Blair Fizz and Alegria Garden, were in a documentary, Our Brilliant Second Life, last year. Created by Mixin Pixel to show a different side to virtual relationships, it ended up being shown at the Aspen Shortsfest in 2007!

If you have machinima or movie suggestions from any MMO, please send them to machinima AT massively DOT com, along with any information you might have about them.

MassivelyCinemassively: Our Brilliant Second Life originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 08 Jun 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alegria-gardenaspen-shortsfestaustraliablair-fizzcinemassivelydocumentarylinden-labllmachinimamixin-pixelsecond-lifeslSun, 08 Jun 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Cinemassively: The making of BloodSpell]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/05/cinemassively-the-making-of-bloodspell/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/05/cinemassively-the-making-of-bloodspell/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/05/cinemassively-the-making-of-bloodspell/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

While Neverwinter Nights wasn't quite an MMO, players were able to host up to 64 people at once on a home server. It was also extremely customizable in a way that few MMOs allowed for. That's why it served as the medium of choice for veteran machinimator Hugh Hancock to create his feature-length machinima, BloodSpell.

Making a feature-length anything isn't easy. It requires a lot of planning, time, dedication, and a large cast of supporting players. Hugh has been releasing documentaries once a week that go over everything from concept to development to preproduction, all the way to finish. These short films are extremely helpful to any aspiring machinimator plotting a large-scale project! For more information, check out the BloodSpell blog.

If you have machinima or movie suggestions from any MMO, please send them to machinima AT massively DOT com, along with any information you might have about them.

MassivelyCinemassively: The making of BloodSpell originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 May 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bloodspelldocumentaryhugh-hancockmachinimamaking-ofmaking-of-bloodspell-documentaryneverwinter-nightsstrange-companyMon, 05 May 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Cinemassively: i.Mirror, a Second Life documentary]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/02/cinemassively-i-mirror-a-second-life-documentary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/02/cinemassively-i-mirror-a-second-life-documentary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/02/cinemassively-i-mirror-a-second-life-documentary/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Second Life avatar China Tracy created this documentary full of moving imagery and music in three acts. China's typist, artist Cao Fei, opens viewers eyes to romance and deception. This 28-minute SL film was featured last year as part of the China Pavilion at the 2007 Venice Biennale. Cao was previously mentioned on Massively for possibly selling an in-world art installation for $100,000 USD!

[Via New Media Research Studio]

If you have machinima or movie suggestions from any MMO, please send them to machinima AT massively DOT com, along with any information you might have about them.

MassivelyCinemassively: i.Mirror, a Second Life documentary originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 May 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cao-feichina-tracycinemassivelydocumentaryi-mirrorlinden-labmachinimasecond-lifeslFri, 02 May 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Cinemassively: Gametrotting machinima documentary]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/27/cinemassively-gametrotting-machinima-documentary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/27/cinemassively-gametrotting-machinima-documentary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/27/cinemassively-gametrotting-machinima-documentary/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Jun Falkenstein recently blogged about a machinima documentary that she was in last summer. When I checked it out, I was surprised to see the all-star crew of machinimators that they assembled for it. They were asked to explain machinima as if the audience had never heard, or seen, of it.

In the video, Philip Debevoise, the President of Machinima.com, discusses what machinima is all about. Frank Dellario, of the Electric Sheep Company-owned ILL Clan, gives us a peek at how his team works as well. I really enjoyed seeing the variety of platforms that this mini-documentary highlighted, and I hope to see more coverage like this in the future!

[Via Stone Falcon Productions]

MassivelyCinemassively: Gametrotting machinima documentary originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Feb 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardcinemassivelydocumentaryelectric-sheep-companyescfrank-dellariogametrottingill-clanjun-falkensteinlinden-labmachinimamachinima-commachinima.comphilip-debevoisesecond-lifeslsnacky's-journalsnackys-journalstone-falcon-productionsworld-of-warcraftwowWed, 27 Feb 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Cinemassively: Wonderland documentary focuses on virtual adultery in cyberspace]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/06/cinemassively-wonderland-documentary-focuses-on-virtual-adulter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/06/cinemassively-wonderland-documentary-focuses-on-virtual-adulter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/06/cinemassively-wonderland-documentary-focuses-on-virtual-adulter/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The BBC recently aired a documentary about Second Life that focuses on a much darker side of it. A husband, Lee, starts to notice that his wife of nine years, Caroline, is spending more time online and less time with the kids. When he tries to come into their bedroom, she'll shove him out and dodge questions about what she was doing.

This leads to heartbreaking revelations by her kids, who feel that she doesn't care as much about them as she does SL. Caroline ends up risking everything to meet her lover, who lives on another continent! Will she come to her senses and realize that she has a family at home? You'll just have to watch this sad tale to find out.

[Thanks, Fenlock!]

MassivelyCinemassively: Wonderland documentary focuses on virtual adultery in cyberspace originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Feb 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbccarolinedocumentaryleelinden-labmachinimasecond-lifeslvirtual-adultery-and-cyberspace-lovewonderlandWed, 06 Feb 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Broadcast student creates documentary on MMO player relationships]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/02/broadcast-student-creates-documentary-on-mmo-player-relationship/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/02/broadcast-student-creates-documentary-on-mmo-player-relationship/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/02/broadcast-student-creates-documentary-on-mmo-player-relationship/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Sure, we've got Second Skin coming up, but if you can't wait that long, here's a well-produced, nicely narrated audio documentary about the mechanisms of MMO relationships. It was created by a student from Central Michigan University's School of Broadcast & Cinematic Arts named Nathan Bender.

For a change, this documentary focuses on Final Fantasy XI, rather than World of Warcraft. It provides a great deal of insight into how players interact with each other, and an insider's perspective on what it's like to enter a larger social world than previously experienced. Running under 30 minutes, it's well worth your time and may have you nodding in recognition.

[Thanks, Fusionx!]

MassivelyBroadcast student creates documentary on MMO player relationships originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 02 Feb 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BBCWell, it's been said often enough before, but Second Life is all about sex. That, at least, would be the impression you would gain from the documentary that has just finished (2:30 SL Time) on BBC2. The programme dealt with 2 Second Life couples. One couple were both in a RL relationship with others, in the other couple she was married, he was single.

The first couple were both unhappy, have separated from their former partners, married in Second Life, Real Life and are expecting a baby. The other couple, she was depressed (not necessarily about her marriage), he agitated for her to come and visit in RL. She wouldn't, he left her and so she went to visit. Whether or not it would have been different if she'd gone earlier, who will know. They're now separated in SL, not interested in RL, and she is working with her husband in therapy to make her marriage work.

In that sense, a fairly balanced programme I guess. And there are definitely people I know where this describes their SL relationships well. Then there are couples where they meet in SL as single people, get together in SL, get together in RL and get married. The whole gamut of human relationships (and some others too) are expressed, because the thing that is so often forgotten is that it's people doing this, bringing their human strengths and weaknesses to the world. An interesting programme though, even if it feels a bit like they needed the spice of adultery to sell it... shame really. Oh, I had a chuckle, if you've seen the programme and remember the lighthouse, it's one of my lighthouse lights that's all over the BBC.

I've tried, I can't find any links on BBC pages but it has shown up on iPlayer. Thanks Andy.

[EDIT: added link to iPlayer to allow you to watch it]

MassivelySecond Life: BBC documentary about virtual adultery originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 30 Jan 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BBCdocumentarySecond-LifeTelevisionUKVirtual-adulteryWed, 30 Jan 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Cinemassively: Second Skin Trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/29/cinemassively-second-skin-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/29/cinemassively-second-skin-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/29/cinemassively-second-skin-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Here at Massively, we've been anxiously awaiting for Second Skin. One of my personal friends, Nexeus Fatale, was a subject in this documentary about MMOs and I've been hearing about it for at least a year. The wait finally appears to be over as they are hoping to premiere it at SXSW in March. However, Pure West released a trailer today to whet our appetite!

The trailer itself mainly focuses on World of Warcraft players as they fall in love, develop gaming addictions, and as they work together in guilds. However, I did spot two scenes with Nexeus and a short blurb from Tony Walsh, of Clickable Culture. They represent the Second Life aspect of the film, which was sadly neglected in the trailer. If you enjoyed the preview, you can check out the hi-res versions on their site.

MassivelyCinemassively: Second Skin Trailer originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 29 Jan 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Whether or not you're into documentaries, (for the record, we think they can be very interesting) if you've played massively multiplayer online games in any form then Second Skin by Pure West Documentaries is a movie you'll want to check out at some point. The trailer is going to be debuting tomorrow, Tuesday, January 29th 2008 according to Victor Pineiro; the writer and producer of the film.

The movie itself says it will cover guilds, virtual couples, virtual world addiction, gold farming, virtual identities, disabled massively gaming, guild leadership, cybersex and consult some experts from the industry itself. That's a lot of subjects to cover in one movie, but then again when your movie looks closely at how these worlds affect the lives of the people that play them -- well, then there is a lot to talk about.

Don't forget to check back tomorrow for the world debut of Second Skin's trailer.

MassivelyMMO documentary Second Skin debuts trailer soon originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 28 Jan 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>documentaryfilmmachinimasecond-skintrailersMon, 28 Jan 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Documentary shows our Second Skin]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/21/documentary-shows-our-second-skin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/21/documentary-shows-our-second-skin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/21/documentary-shows-our-second-skin/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Ten Ton Hammer has posted part 1 of their great Q&A with the folks at Pure West Documentaries, the company behind Second Skin. What is Second Skin? A documentary film about us... the players of the very subject matter you come to Massively to read about. It's a film that tells the tale of real-life players - your co-workers, your wife, boss, or even the girl next door - living within the virtual worlds of MMOs as someone - or some thing - else.

The interview asks a lot of very interesting questions and is absolutely worth the time to read. The film has been in the making for two years and was just recently finished. It's due to make it's debut at the South by Southwest Film Festival in March 2008. This is not a shockumentary or a slam film. The guys at Pure West are, like us, gamers who set out to put together a film that walks the tight rope between showing both the negative (of which we hear about all too often) and positive (which we hardly ever hear about) sides of this growing phenomena.

Peter Schieffelin Brauer, producer of the film says: Certainly we hear a lot about the negative aspects. But I think one thing we found was really important was to really give both sides a voice. Of course, I'm a gamer, I care about the gamer's voice a lot more, but if I don't come out and acknowledge the other side, no one's going to listen to me.

This statement in and of itself speaks to the legitimacy of the filmmakers. I know I'll be buying a ticket when this film hits my local metroplex.

MassivelyDocumentary shows our Second Skin originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 21 Dec 2007 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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