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[Rise and Shiny recap: Wakfu]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/15/rise-and-shiny-recap-wakfu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/15/rise-and-shiny-recap-wakfu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/15/rise-and-shiny-recap-wakfu/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Wakfu screenshot
In June, I drove down to Austin, Texas, to once again participate in GDC Online. I do it every year if I can, and I love it. It's a smaller event when compared to the larger E3s and other conventions, but it is more personal and up-close. My favorite speaker at this last event had to be David Calvo from Ankama Games. When he first came out barefoot, I was honestly worried that the chat would be all about goofy, "deep" design techniques that had no real use in practice. In the end, his talk was deep but was really just asking developers to have fun and try new things. Yes, I know: new things. Crazy, huh?

If Wakfu is any proof, those design theories are put to practice every day at Ankama. Wakfu, for me, is a breath of fresh air in so many ways. Even though I am somewhat used to the design and art style, thanks in large part to playing the previous title Dofus, I still find myself loving how simply complex much of Wakfu is.

There are issues that come with complexity, however.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Wakfu

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Wakfu originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 15 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ankamaankama-gamesbeau-hindmandavid-calvoDofusf2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpglitchjagexLiveStreampreviewrise-and-shinyrunescapeRyzomsoeSony-Online-EntertainmentSquare-Enixstreamingthe-chronicles-of-spellbornthirst-of-nighttwitch-tvVanguard-Saga-of-HeroesvideowakfuSun, 15 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: The rise of the browser]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/07/mmobility-the-rise-of-the-browser/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/07/mmobility-the-rise-of-the-browser/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/07/mmobility-the-rise-of-the-browser/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Glitch screenshot
Over the last week I have been obsessing over Glitch, the new browser-based MMORPG brought to us by Tiny Speck. I will go into details of why in my Rise and Shiny column, but for now, let's just say that I think it is one of the greatest things I have come across in a long time. For the record, I was talking about Glitch before it was popular (that hipster cred should get my a free pair of glasses in Glitch!) and was excited about starting this column because of games like Glitch.

In short, I knew that the browser market was huge, and I knew it was only going to grow bigger. Yes, I know what you're thinking, and yes I am claiming that we are starting to see the end of the heavy-duty client and demand for expensive hardware and upgrades. It's a big prediction, but click past the cut and let me explain.

Continue reading MMObility: The rise of the browser

MassivelyMMObility: The rise of the browser originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 07 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galactica-onlinebeau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedChromeBooksclub-penguinDofusearth-eternalf2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpglitchgoogleillyriadjagged-alliance-onlinekultanmilmoMMObilityorder-and-chaos-onlinepuzzle-piratesrunescapespiral-knightsstar-legendsstar-trek-infinite-spaceufo-onlinewakfuFri, 07 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Non-vanilla server rulesets]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/the-perfect-ten-non-vanilla-server-rulesets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/the-perfect-ten-non-vanilla-server-rulesets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/the-perfect-ten-non-vanilla-server-rulesets/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Perfect Ten
I've always thought that rulesets are a golden opportunity for MMO developers to get creative with their products and try something fresh and exciting. Unfortunately, most every MMO these days, new and old, adheres to the four "vanilla" rulesets that have been in place since Pong. You have your default PvE, your same-as-PvE-except-we-have-a-naming-policy PvE-RP, and the two player vs. player variants: PvP and PvP-RP.

Those are all well and good, but... y'know... couldn't rulesets be used to create fascinating variations on these games? It turns out that yes, yes they can.

While the vanilla rulesets are the vast majority, there does exist a group of fringe rulesets that dared to walk the different patch, er, path and made versions of MMOs that are a bold and refreshing flavor. Like blue! Sometimes these new rulesets were whipped up to inject new life into an aging title, giving players a valid reason to come back and see the game from a different perspective.

In this week's Perfect Ten, we're going to check out just how wild 'n' wacky server rulesets can get!

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Non-vanilla server rulesets

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Non-vanilla server rulesets originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Sep 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5150acage-of-conanasherons-callblood-and-glorycity-of-heroescodemasterscohcooperativedaocdark-age-of-camelotdarkfalldofuseqeqiieqmaceveeve-onlineeverquesteverquest-iiexchangefallen-earthfeaturedffafree-for-allheroiclandrovallord-of-the-rings-onlineloreplaylotroperfect-10perfect-tenpermadeathplanes-of-powerprogressionpvproleplay-encouragedrperule-setrulesetrulesetsserverserver-rulesserversshadowbaneshardshardssiege-perilousstation-exchangesubscriber-onlythe-perfect-10the-perfect-tenturbineultima-onlineuovanguardvip-onlyThu, 08 Sep 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ankama releases new Vulkania zone for DOFUS]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/07/ankama-releases-new-vulkania-zone-for-dofus/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/07/ankama-releases-new-vulkania-zone-for-dofus/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/07/ankama-releases-new-vulkania-zone-for-dofus/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

DOFUS, the free-to-play fantasy MMO from Ankama, is embarking on a somewhat novel approach to new zone content. The game's newest map area is an archipelago called Vulkania, and it's only available to players during the months of July and August.

The isle features varying terrain including white sand beaches, tropical jungles, craters, and various caverns, not to mention strange wildlife. Among the new monster species are the sauroshell family and a pet/mount called a madreggon. According to an Ankama press release, "Vulkania is also home to Grozilla and Grasmera, two terrors who are back to shake the World of Twelve once more!"

The release also provides a concise summary of what we can expect from Vulkania aside from its monsters, and amenities include 40 new quests, 13 new equipment items, and 3 new titles. Check out the official DOFUS website for more.

MassivelyAnkama releases new Vulkania zone for DOFUS originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Jul 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ankamadofusf2pfantasyfree-to-playgrasmeragrozillamadreggonmountpetpress-releasesauroshellvulkaniaThu, 07 Jul 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: Fifty games for the mobile lifestyle]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/mmobility-fifty-games-for-the-mobile-lifestyle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/mmobility-fifty-games-for-the-mobile-lifestyle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/mmobility-fifty-games-for-the-mobile-lifestyle/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

I like lists. Lists help keep my candy-coated brain functioning. I see so many games, devices, and developers that I need to write things down periodically or become lost. Not so long ago I made a list of 25 games for your shiny new laptop, but I wanted to update it with other devices as well. I'd like to clarify the devices I have, though, especially since it was brought to my attention that a lot of players use laptops as their primary gaming machines. When I refer to a laptop, it is far from a gaming machine and could not run games like EverQuest II or Age of Conan.

So here are some stats: I have an HTC Inspire, an iPhone 3GS, an iPad, a Phenom Triple-core PC desktop with an Nvidia 9800 card, six gigs of ram and onboard sound. My laptop is an HP G62 with an AMD Athlon II P340 dual core processor, three gigs of ram and an AMD graphics chip built in. I also have a more powerful gaming PC, but that is often referred to as "the wife's machine" around here, and it is so packed with her items that I rarely touch it. So most of these games can be run on their native devices, and if they are meant for PC, probably on netbooks as well. When I'm playing on netbooks, resolution is often the major issue. Some games just will not fit on the tiny screens without some slight modding.

Anyway, click past the cut to see the list. The first 11 are my favorites, the ones that I play often, if not every day. The rest are in no particular order, so keep that in mind as well. Remember that this year is going to be an incredible one for mobile, thanks to the new games I found at E3. So this list will change!

Continue reading MMObility: Fifty games for the mobile lifestyle

MassivelyMMObility: Fifty games for the mobile lifestyle originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 Jun 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-mystical-landadventurequest-worldsAnarchy-Onlineasherons-callatmosphirbattlestar-galactica-onlinebeau-hindmanccpcity-of-eternalsClone-Wars-Adventurescrowns-of-powerdark-orbitdark-orbit-gamesdie2niteDofusdomain-of-heroesdragon-fabledungeon-blitzeden-eternaleve-onlineeverquestf2pfeaturedfleckfree-realmsfree-to-playftpfusion-fallgilfors-talesglitchgunshineillyriadkingsisle-entertainmentlinkrealmsmabinogiMapleStorymilmoministry-of-warmiramagiaMMObilitymobilemonkey-questmonster-forestnadirimNexonorder-and-chaos-onlinepets-vs-monsterspirate-galaxypocket-legendspockie-ninjapoptropicapuzzle-piratesrunescapeshin-megami-tensei-imagine-onlineSOEspiral-knightsThreeRingstravianswakfuwizard-101World-of-WarcraftzentiaTue, 21 Jun 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DOFUS: Battles available in the App Store]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/13/dofus-battles-available-in-the-app-store/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/13/dofus-battles-available-in-the-app-store/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/13/dofus-battles-available-in-the-app-store/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

What's more fun than using the word DOFUS in a sentence? Using the words DOFUS: Battles, of course. Happily, the devs at Ankama have given us ample reason to do both thanks to the newly released iOS title called, you guessed it, DOFUS: Battles.

The strategy game is available in the App Store today for both iPhones and iPads and is an interesting blend of RPG, RTS, and tower defense mechanics, all tied to the game world of the wildly successful DOFUS MMORPG. Players will manage an army consisting of 12 heroes and a dragon, and the new game borrows 12 classes from its parent MMO and spices things up with 28 levels, three minigames, and more than 170 unique equipment items.

DOFUS: Battles currently comes in four flavors: a free version with battle and class limitations, the full version, and two corresponding HD versions for higher screen resolutions. You can learn more at the game's official site.

MassivelyDOFUS: Battles available in the App Store originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 May 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ankamaapp-storedofusdofus-battlesf2pfantasyfree-to-playiosipadiphonemobilepress-releaseFri, 13 May 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DOFUS introduces Rogue and Masqueraider classes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/11/dofus-introduces-rogue-and-masqueraider-classes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/11/dofus-introduces-rogue-and-masqueraider-classes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/11/dofus-introduces-rogue-and-masqueraider-classes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Class-based fantasy games aren't unusual these days; in fact, they're the standard. It's rare that such a title has more than a handful of classes, though. Then there's DOFUS. The six-year-old free-to-play title recently added Masqueraiders and Rogues, bringing the game's class total to a whopping 14.

Rogues function a bit differently than the rascally backstabbers you may be used to from other games. Rogues effectively dictate actions on the battlefield through the use of bombs and walls, which direct enemy movements and function as a form of crowd control.

Masqueraiders take their power from a variety of wearable masks, which allow the player to adopt several fighting styles. Three masks types are available: the cowardly mask (ranged damage), the psychopath mask (close combat damage), and the classic mask (crowd control). Finally, Masqueraiders can also avail themselves of several buff-type spells including plastron, tororuga, and trance. Head to the official DOFUS website for all the details.

MassivelyDOFUS introduces Rogue and Masqueraider classes originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Apr 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ankamabombsccclassescrowd-controldamagedofusdpsf2pfantasyfree-to-playgame-mechanicsmasqueraidersroguerogue-not-rougerogueswallsMon, 11 Apr 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Death penalties]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/the-perfect-ten-death-penalties/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/the-perfect-ten-death-penalties/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/the-perfect-ten-death-penalties/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Death penalties belong in that tier of MMO discussion topics that is reserved for the most controversial subjects, along with skimpy armor and the New Game Enhancements. Death, as we know well, comes for us all with big, nasty, pointy teeth. But for some reason, we are not fans of it, neither in real life nor in online games.

One of the reasons death penalties continue to be a divisive subject is that they used to be brutal beyond belief in MMOs back in the olden days of yore. As the MMO genre progressed, the penalties were lightened and experimented with in an effort to avoid driving players barking mad because of them. So we've ended up with two camps: one group of gamers who campaign for harsh death penalties to make the world seem exciting and dangerous, and another group that campaigns for lenient penalties in the interests of sanity.

So today we're going to go through 10 of the most-used types of death penalties in MMOs, starting with the most brutal and ending with the most lenient. Stay for the after-column party as well, as you'll get a taste for this debate in the comments section!

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Death penalties

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Death penalties originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Mar 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaoccity-of-heroescohdarkfallde-levelingdeathdeath-penaltiesdeath-penaltydelevelingdiablo-2diablo-iidofuseveeve-onlineeverquestfeaturedfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-xigrim-reaperguild-warsgwhot-pocketitem-repairjedinew-game-enhancementsngeparagon-studiosperfect-10perfect-tenpermadeathpermanent-deathporchepre-trammelresurrection-sicknessrez-sicknessskimpy-armorstar-wars-galaxiesthe-perfect-10the-perfect-tentrammelultima-onlinexp-debtThu, 24 Mar 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wakfu open beta starts April 27th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/08/wakfu-open-beta-starts-april-27th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/08/wakfu-open-beta-starts-april-27th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/08/wakfu-open-beta-starts-april-27th/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

If you haven't managed to snag a closed beta key to Square-Enix and Ankama's new Wakfu free-to-play opus, don't sweat it. The companies have just announced that open beta is coming in late April (the 27th to be precise), which, given the fact that it's already almost mid-March, will be here before you know it.

Wakfu, which many are referring to as Dofus 2.0, is a turn-based tactical MMO that boasts 14 character classes and three nations that can either work together or go to war, depending on how players choose to proceed. Wakfu also features an in-depth political system complete with a player-occupied governor position as well as the ability to set laws and taxes.

Check out some spiffy new beta screenshots in our gallery below, and head to the official website for more info.

Gallery: Wakfu beta screens

MassivelyWakfu open beta starts April 27th originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ankamabetabetasclosed-betadofusdofus-2.0f2pfantasyfree-to-playopen-betaplayer-governorpolitical-systempoliticssquare-enixwakfuTue, 08 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wakfu celebrates President's Day by detailing its political system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/21/wakfu-celebrates-presidents-day-by-detailing-its-political-syst/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/21/wakfu-celebrates-presidents-day-by-detailing-its-political-syst/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/21/wakfu-celebrates-presidents-day-by-detailing-its-political-syst/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Unless you're a school kid or a federal employee, you might not have known that today is a U.S. national holiday. Yep, it's President's Day, and aside from being a spectacularly silly reason for taking a day off from work, it also marks an opportunity for the developers of Wakfu to hype the game's political system.

The upcoming MMO from the makers of DOFUS allows for players to run for the governorship of their nation, accessing privileged information on zone status, weather forecasts, and the number of mobs roaming the wilds. All of this info comes via interaction with Clan Member NPCs, and these select members of Wakfu's elite ruling class have been "granted special powers by the ancient gods," according to a new press release.

Potential player governors will need to declare their candidacy and gather votes, and if they're lucky enough to secure a victory, they will then have two weeks with which to "regulate laws and sales taxes." There's no word on whether Wakfu politicians can indulge in fiscal irresponsibility or illicit affairs, but player governors can declare war and attempt to conquer the territories of neighboring nations. Head to the official website for more info, and check out four new screens of the political system in action courtesy of our Wakfu gallery.

Gallery: Wakfu beta screens

MassivelyWakfu celebrates President's Day by detailing its political system originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Feb 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clan-memberdeclare-wardofusf2pfree-to-playgalleriesgallerygovernorplayer-governorspolitical-systempoliticsscreenshotswakfuwarMon, 21 Feb 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: Shadowtale]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/20/rise-and-shiny-recap-shadowtale/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/20/rise-and-shiny-recap-shadowtale/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/20/rise-and-shiny-recap-shadowtale/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Shadowtale is pretty close to genius in a lot of ways. It can be played in pretty much any browser, it can run on almost any machine, and it still offers pretty in-depth gameplay, especially considering its limitations. While the controls are not necessarily the easiest to remember at first, they become very simple to manage after a short while. It would seem that the developers have a good grasp on how to make a solid, fun game for many different age groups.

I spent most of my time running around, exploring and killing monsters along the way. Attacking enemies is one of the most fun parts of the game. You simply hit a keyboard or mouse button and your character will swing his sword. You have another button for block, and the number keys can fire off special abilities. I was so surprised when the combat responded as it did, allowing me to actually block and dodge incoming enemies. It was fluid and almost like a "2-D Vindictus-lite."

But I'm not just going to go on about the controls all day. Click past the cut to see what I thought about the rest of the game.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Shadowtale

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Shadowtale originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 20 Feb 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2-dbeau-hindmanbrowserDofusf2pfeaturedfree-to-playftphyper-awesome-entertainmentrise-and-shinyScrollershadowtalevindictuswakfuSun, 20 Feb 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's first impressions of Wakfu]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/14/massivelys-first-impressions-of-wakfu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/14/massivelys-first-impressions-of-wakfu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/14/massivelys-first-impressions-of-wakfu/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

If you are a fan of Dofus, you might be familiar with my current mania. I was asked to take an early look at Wakfu, the game that could be called "Dofus 2.0," and I was given permission to talk about it. That's right, if it were a horrible menace to my free time, I would be able to tell you. If it didn't run, or if it were nothing but a mess of bugs, I could tell you that as well. Of course, I wasn't forbidden from telling you how much I might have liked it or how confident I was that the game truly felt like a "2.0," so I might just do some of that.

Remember, this is a closed beta I am about to talk about. Let's keep that in mind. OK, OK, I just have to say that -- sort of like an article disclaimer to do away with any responsibility I might have for my opinion. Now, I don't want to give you any spoilers, and I want you to promise to read to the end of the article, but let's just say that, closed beta or not, this game is really tight.

But let's go ahead and click past the cut, mkay? I want to tell you more.

Gallery: Wakfu beta screens


Continue reading Massively's first impressions of Wakfu

MassivelyMassively's first impressions of Wakfu originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 Feb 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ankamaankama-gamesbeau-hindmanclosed-betacraftingDofusenvironmentalfeaturedFirst-Impressionsgalleryhands-onmabinogipreviewRyzomscreenshotsSquare-EnixTurn-basedwakfuweatherweather-systemsMon, 14 Feb 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Square and Ankama gear up for Wakfu closed beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/22/square-and-ankama-gear-up-for-wakfu-closed-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/22/square-and-ankama-gear-up-for-wakfu-closed-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/22/square-and-ankama-gear-up-for-wakfu-closed-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Lest you think Square-Enix is solely committed to sprawling, spikey-haired, single-player productions or much-maligned MMORPGs, we're here to tell you that the famed development firm is gearing up to unleash Wakfu on an unsuspecting gaming populace. The new tactical MMO will be opening the doors of its closed beta on January 31st, and Square is inviting you to check out the game's 14 classes, turn-based combat, and an evolving eco-system in which killing a monster may mean ridding the game world of it for good.

While Square is handling publishing duties for Wakfu, the brains behind the game is a company called Ankama, better known to international MMO fans as the creators of Dofus. Aside from a propensity for wacky titles, Ankama is making a name for itself via the various multimedia projects surrounding the release of Wakfu including comic books, card games, and an animated cartoon.

MassivelySquare and Ankama gear up for Wakfu closed beta originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 22 Jan 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ankamabetaclassesclosed-betadofuseco-systemf2pfree-to-playsquareSquare-EnixSquareEnixTurn-basedturn-based-combatwakfuSat, 22 Jan 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: Dofus]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/02/rise-and-shiny-recap-dofus/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/02/rise-and-shiny-recap-dofus/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/02/rise-and-shiny-recap-dofus/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Years ago I had to find a job in my new home state of Texas. Luckily for me, my wife hooked me up with a friend who helped me get hired at Starbucks. At first, I hung my head in shame. Later, though, I enjoyed dealing with customers and the free coffee. I had a co-worker, a real chin-scratching, coffee house wanna-be intellectual who would often spend more time dreaming about some game than about getting people on their breaks. He even brought his Macbook to work to sneak in time in the game.

I glanced over his shoulder one day and was delighted to see an odd-looking, cartoony, turn-based game on his screen. It turned out that the game was Dofus. I tried it immediately and fell in love with it, but that was years ago. I still found time to revisit the game, but once I started working at Massively, most of my time became dedicated to every other game in the world.

Well, it's time to visit it again. During the first part of this week, though, I thought this was going to be a disaster. I stayed strong and battled my way through bot after bot, spam message after spam message, and eventually found the great game I remember. Click past the cut to see exactly what I found!

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Dofus

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Dofus originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 02 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ankamaankama-gamesbeau-hindmanbotsDofusdofus-2.0f2pfeaturedflash-basedflash-based-mmofree-to-playftpgames-workshopgold-spamgold-spammerminiaturesmobilenetbooknotebookrise-and-shinyspamspam-botstable-toptable-top-gameswar40kWarhammer-40KSun, 02 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Twenty-five free MMOs for that shiny new laptop]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/29/free-for-all-twenty-five-free-mmos-for-that-shiny-new-laptop/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/29/free-for-all-twenty-five-free-mmos-for-that-shiny-new-laptop/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/29/free-for-all-twenty-five-free-mmos-for-that-shiny-new-laptop/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

So there you are, reading a column from your favorite Massively writer on your shiny new laptop. You might be stuck with your parents and family because of the snow, or you might simply want to find a new MMORPG to play on the device. Perhaps you broke down and bought that cute pink netbook at Target, and now you need something to do with it besides reading your favorite writer of all time?

Don't worry, because I've taken the time to compile and test 25 MMOs that will work wonderfully on your new toy! Yes, there are real MMOs out there that are not dependent on the latest graphics card or six gigs of ram. These are fully realized worlds, complete with chat windows and socializing. I will make a note if the game might have some difficulty on the oldest of hardware -- or the least powerful -- so keep an eye out for that. Otherwise, download away!

For the record, this is my new toy. I got it for work, but you know the first thing I had to do was try out gaming on it. Click past the cut to see the list!

Continue reading Free for All: Twenty-five free MMOs for that shiny new laptop

MassivelyFree for All: Twenty-five free MMOs for that shiny new laptop originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 29 Dec 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventurequest-worldsbeau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedcanaan-onlinecash-shopcode-of-everanddarkorbitdarkwindDofusdomain-of-heroeseternal-landsf2pfeaturedfragoriafree-to-playftpfusionfallglitchgolemizerheroes-of-might-and-magic-onlineindependentIndielinkrealmsmabinogiMapleStorymight-and-magic-heroes-kingdomsmilmopoptropicapuzzle-piratesrunescapeshadowtaletalesweavertibiaunitywizard-101wizard101Wed, 29 Dec 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Four games I'm dying to play in 2011]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/22/free-for-all-four-games-im-dying-to-play-in-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/22/free-for-all-four-games-im-dying-to-play-in-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/22/free-for-all-four-games-im-dying-to-play-in-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The year 2010 was a great year in gaming. If anyone tells you any different, look him in the eye -- you've just met a madman. In fact, 2010 did so much for me, personally, that it might be hard to top it for a while. I actually started getting paid to write my blog entries this year, discovered so many wonderful new developers this year, and played more hours than in all of the previous years combined.

As luck would have it, there are already several new games being announced that are making 2011 look like an even bigger year for me. Browser-based technology is only growing more robust and rich, indie gaming is finally starting to get a lot of the respect it deserves, and I now have the ability to contact almost any developer I want for use in my columns. All of this adds up to some exciting times ahead, for sure. All thanks to Massively, of course.

There are four games in particular that I am very excited about. More will come, I'm positive, but these four have already cast huge spells on me. Click past the cut to see what you should be excited about, too!

Continue reading Free for All: Four games I'm dying to play in 2011

MassivelyFree for All: Four games I'm dying to play in 2011 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-mystical-landankamaankama-gamesbattlestar-galacticabattlestar-galactica-onlinebeau-hindmanBigpointbigpoint-gamesbrowserbrowser-basedbsg-onlineDofusdofus-2.0end-of-the-year-2010featuredfree-for-allfree-to-playftpglitchIndieindie-gamesmobile-gamingSquare-Enixunityunity-enginewakfuWed, 22 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DOFUS brings the holidays to players, then blows them up]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/15/dofus-brings-the-holidays-to-players-then-blows-it-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/15/dofus-brings-the-holidays-to-players-then-blows-it-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/15/dofus-brings-the-holidays-to-players-then-blows-it-up/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The colorful world of DOFUS seems well-suited to a holiday celebration, especially with the amount of character embedded in the game's graphics. And one is taking place on Kwismas Island, beyond a shadow of a doubt. But there's still something else for players to look for, something that's far less merry than the dungeons of the island (whose merriness is already a rather dubious quality). It's the newest class of the game, the Rogue, a class focused on guns, explosives, and the use of both in tandem.

Capable of summoning a variety of elemental bombs as well as making elementally charged pistol attacks, Rogues are the 13th class in the game, available as a premium feature now. All DOFUS players can enjoy Kwismas Island, however, previewed in our gallery just below. Take a look at the Rogue teaser video past the cut, and consider the possible combination of holiday dungeons and heavy explosives. (It beats fruitcake and caroling.)

Gallery: DOFUS Kwismas Island gallery

Continue reading DOFUS brings the holidays to players, then blows them up

MassivelyDOFUS brings the holidays to players, then blows them up originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Dec 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ankamaankama-gamesclassclassesdofusexplosionsf2pfree-to-playgalleriesgalleryholiday-eventin-game-eventnew-classroguerogue-classteaservideovideoswinter-holiday-2010Wed, 15 Dec 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Chill out in Frigost with a DOFUS beta key from Massively]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/chill-out-in-frigost-with-a-dofus-beta-key-from-massively/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/chill-out-in-frigost-with-a-dofus-beta-key-from-massively/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/chill-out-in-frigost-with-a-dofus-beta-key-from-massively/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ankama Games has just updated their DOFUS servers, and are introducing an all new area, Frigost, for players to check out. This chilly area is for those adventurers who have attained level 100 or higher, and offers lots of new challenges in the form of frozen lake dungeons and icy fields of enemies to battle through. There's also shiny new equipment, all new quests, and a new ice DOFUS (or dragon egg for those not familiar) for players to be found among the riches of this new land.

For those readers who have been playing DOFUS for some time, or are just looking for a fun new free-to-play game to check out, we've managed to snag 200 beta keys to get you into the frosty lands of Frigost early. All you have to do to snag one is to head over to our beta code giveaway page, grab a key, then follow the directions there to get signed up!

MassivelyChill out in Frigost with a DOFUS beta key from Massively originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Jun 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ankama-gamesbeta-keybeta-key-giveawaydofusdofus-2.0f2pfree-to-playfrigostFri, 18 Jun 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's tour of Dofus 2.0]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/04/massivelys-tour-of-dofus-2-0/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/04/massivelys-tour-of-dofus-2-0/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/04/massivelys-tour-of-dofus-2-0/#commentsFiled under: ,


Dofus is a game that's been around for a while now, first in its 1.0 form, and now as Dofus 2.0. It's a tactics-based game (many players have pointed out that it has a Final Fantasy feel about it), and while it's not as flashy as many of the graphics-heavy games on the market today, it's got a fair amount of substance to it. Dofus 2.0 offers a nice variety of combat areas, diverse and specialized classes, even crafting if that's your thing. Recently we were lucky enough to take a tour of Dofus 2.0 with Ankama's own Elissa Dukes. Follow along after the jump to see what we found.

Continue reading Massively's tour of Dofus 2.0

MassivelyMassively's tour of Dofus 2.0 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Mar 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ankamaankama-gamesdev-tourdeveloper-tourDofusdofus-2.0elissa-dukesfeaturedfinal-fantasytourThu, 04 Mar 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dofus opens their new version, Dofus 2.0, to simultaneous praise and worry]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/14/dofus-opens-their-new-version-dofus-2-0-to-simultaneous-praise/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/14/dofus-opens-their-new-version-dofus-2-0-to-simultaneous-praise/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/14/dofus-opens-their-new-version-dofus-2-0-to-simultaneous-praise/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

If you're a gamer looking for a tactical approach to MMOs, then you're pretty much going to want to play Dofus. Dofus is the MMO that takes a real-time strategy approach to combat, letting characters move in cells and conduct attacks in turns, very similar to the classic combat system of Final Fantasy Tactics.

Recently, the Dofus team has ripped open the packaging on Dofus 2.0, a huge update that gives the game improved graphics, new areas, gameplay, and much more. However, the update hasn't been released without a fair share of criticism. Ankama Games had made the decision to launch Dofus 2.0 while simultaneously keeping Dofus 1.26, the prior version, online on separate servers.

Continue reading Dofus opens their new version, Dofus 2.0, to simultaneous praise and worry

MassivelyDofus opens their new version, Dofus 2.0, to simultaneous praise and worry originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ankamaankama-gamesbreakingdofusdofus-2.0final-fantasy-tacticsgraphics-updatemmortsreal-time-strategyMon, 14 Dec 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO launch subscriber bubble]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/09/the-mmo-launch-subscriber-bubble/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/09/the-mmo-launch-subscriber-bubble/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/09/the-mmo-launch-subscriber-bubble/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,


It feels like a new MMO is being released every month these days and the market for persistent online games is certainly expanding. At the head of this market is a set of games commonly referred to "triple A" titles. These are popular games from big name studios or games using popular intellectual properties. New games that are considered "triple A" have a unique ability to build unparalleled levels of anticipation and hype around themselves prior to release. In order to draw in as many players as possible, an obscene amount of cash is often spent on advertising to hype these games up for release. But is this appropriate and cost-effective or does it show a fundamental misunderstanding of of the MMO market?

In this article, we look at what can go wrong with over-hyped MMO launches and what happens when the subscriber bubble bursts.

Continue reading The MMO launch subscriber bubble

MassivelyThe MMO launch subscriber bubble originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 09 Jun 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age of conanage-of-conanAgeOfConanbetabubblebusinessdofuseveeve-onlinefeaturedjoystiqfeatureslaunchrunescapesubscriberswtortibiawarhammer onlinewarhammer-onlineWarhammerOnlineworld of warcraftworld-of-warcraftWorldOfWarcraftTue, 09 Jun 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Move over BlizzCon, here comes AnkamaCon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/move-over-blizzcon-here-comes-ankamacon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/move-over-blizzcon-here-comes-ankamacon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/move-over-blizzcon-here-comes-ankamacon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


If you thought Blizzard had the only MMO convention in town, think again. Ankama Games, the creators of Dofus and Wakfu, have announced their 4th annual convention -- AnkamaCon!

This year AnkamaCon will be in Paris and the theme is Gobbowl, a crazy sport introduced in Wakfu the animated series. Convention goers can expect to enjoy rooms that will be screening the Wakfu series, playable demonstrations of Ankama's games, a first look at Dofus-pocket for mobile phones, a chance to play the Wakfu trading card game before it releases, and much much more.

AnkamaCon will be June 27th and 28th, with weekend passes going for 29 euros in advance or 35 euros at the door. Families also have the option of family passes, which are 37 euros in advance or 45 at the door.

MassivelyMove over BlizzCon, here comes AnkamaCon originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Jun 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ankama-gamesankamaconconventiondofusdofus-2.0dofus-arenadofus-pocketpariswakfuwakfu-tcgwakfu-the-tv-seriesThu, 04 Jun 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft partners with Ankama Games to bring Wakfu to Xbox Live Arcade]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/microsoft-partners-with-ankama-games-to-bring-wakfu-to-xbox-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/microsoft-partners-with-ankama-games-to-bring-wakfu-to-xbox-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/microsoft-partners-with-ankama-games-to-bring-wakfu-to-xbox-live/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


If you have heard of Dofus or Wakfu, then you've heard of Ankama Games, the people Microsoft has just turned to for a new Xbox MMO-esque game. In their partnership announced today, Ankama will be bringing a new title, Islands of Wakfu, to Xbox Live Arcade late next year. Islands of Wakfu will keep the current cartoon style of Dofus and Wakfu, but utilize a more adventure/beat-'em-up style instead of the top down tactical style. Also, it's going to be more of a team play game, where two players work cooperatively together, rather than a full on MMO. The game promises to be set in the same universe as Ankama's other games and reveal new information about the world itself.

So it's not a full on MMO, but the offer certainly does open the doors of hope. Having a known MMO developer working on Xbox Live Arcade titles with their unique IP may herald other game developers to do the same. Who knows, we might end up with a Wakfu MMO on the arcade anyway!

[via TenTonHammer]

MassivelyMicrosoft partners with Ankama Games to bring Wakfu to Xbox Live Arcade originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Dec 2008 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ankamaankama-gamesarcadebreakingdofusf2pfree-to-playislands-of-wakfumicrosoftnew-titleswakfuxbox-360xbox-livexbox-live-arcadexbox-mmoxbox360Thu, 18 Dec 2008 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[News from the Wider MMO World: September 30th, 2008]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/news-from-the-wider-mmo-world-september-30th-2008/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/news-from-the-wider-mmo-world-september-30th-2008/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/news-from-the-wider-mmo-world-september-30th-2008/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,


The MMO genre is more than World of Warcraft, Age of Conan, and Warhammer Online. Here's what's going on in the rest of the world.

Ankama Games launches new Dofus Heroic Server; includes permadeath
As of September 23rd, there's a new server dedicated to Ankama Games' Dofus. Called the Heroic Server, its most notable feature is permanent death for all characters. Once dead, the player's opponent is allowed to take the character's items, and the deceased becomes interred in the Cemetery of Heroes, a worldwide ranking that can be consulted via a dedicated website. To offset the permadeath penalty, all skill and professions leveling will be much easier, allowing players to rise in rank much more quickly. To the brave and the bold: the Heroic Server calls!

Atlantica Online begins open beta; offers prizes
For their open beta launch, Atlantica Online's NDOORS is offering players of its Free Leagues -- the PvP system -- a variety of prizes, including a Nintendo Wii, an iPod Nano, or $10,000 in cash. Interestingly, these prizes become available only once the player population hits certain landmarks: 5,000; 10,000; 20,000; and 30,000. "NDOORS created something unique in the MMO world when we designed the deep turn-based, strategic world of Atlantica Online. So we decided we needed something just as original for our open beta," said Peter Kang, CEO, NDOORS Interactive. "This is going to be unlike anything anyone has seen before."

Continue reading News from the Wider MMO World: September 30th, 2008

MassivelyNews from the Wider MMO World: September 30th, 2008 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 30 Sep 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlantica-onlinechronicles-of-spellborndofusdream-of-mirror-onlinefeaturedjoystiqfeaturesknight-onlinenewsnews-from-the-wider-mmo-worldpirates-of-the-caribbean-onlineTue, 30 Sep 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Player Consequences: Why We Subscribe]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/player-consequences-why-we-subscribe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/player-consequences-why-we-subscribe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/player-consequences-why-we-subscribe/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

There are many different choices when it comes to picking out a MMO nowadays. The genre is no longer limited to only a handful of games based on old Dungeons and Dragons manuals. Players have the options to pilot spaceships, become a superhero, command a pirate fleet, or even fight aliens as a super soldier. While the classic swords and sorcery setting still defines the MMO genre, it is no longer a requirement for being successful in the market. Yet despite having, dozens of different worlds to choose from players still seem to be limited to only one payment method.

It's not that gamers are overly fond of the subscription model. Indeed a lot of console and FPS gamers specifically avoid MMOs because of monthly fees. This hasn't stopped game developers from continually using the subscription model though. Despite all the different payment models being explored by industry, the subscription model continues to be the most popular for AAA titles. There seems to be an underlying notion in the west that subscribing to a MMO is still the most beneficial payment method for the consumer. If you look at the history of early MMOs it's not hard to see how this notion was formed.

Continue reading Player Consequences: Why We Subscribe

MassivelyPlayer Consequences: Why We Subscribe originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Aug 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dofusfeaturedjoystiqfeaturesmaplestoryplayer-consequencesrunescapeWed, 20 Aug 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[News from the Wider MMO World: August 19, 2008]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/news-from-the-wider-mmo-world-august-19-2008/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/news-from-the-wider-mmo-world-august-19-2008/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/news-from-the-wider-mmo-world-august-19-2008/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,


The MMO genre is more than World of Warcraft, Age of Conan, and Warhammer Online. Here's what's going on in the rest of the world.

Battleground Europe launches new website
Playnet Inc.'s Amy-Lynn Engelbrecht informs us that the destination site for Cornered Rat Software's World War 2 MMO, Battleground Europe, has gotten a significant makeover. With a focus on providing information that's more helpful to members of its strong and active community, the new updated site also features an RSS feed for news, or the option to receive regular updates by Feedburner email. Join up and fight with a 14-day free trial!

Ankama Games announces new Wakfu features
The spiritual and temporal successor to Ankama's previous title Dofus, Wakfu is an up-and-coming 2D MMO with a currently unreleased launch date. However, bits and pieces of news trickle out from time to time, such as the following: There will be an Enchantment profession, in which items are dismantled for their runes, then grafted onto new items for special powers. Taking a page from World of Warcraft?

Secondly, Wakfu will have no NPCs to offer quests. Instead, the game will have "Dynamic Challenges" -- quests that arise when environmental conditions are right, such as time, area, etc. The types of Challenges include Kill, Ecosystem, Social, and Discovery. Each will be available in both solo and team play.

Continue reading News from the Wider MMO World: August 19, 2008

MassivelyNews from the Wider MMO World: August 19, 2008 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 Aug 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apbbattleground-europedofusfeaturedfuncomjoystiqfeaturesjumpgate-evolutionnetdevilnewsnews-from-the-wider-mmo-worldnvidiapaxpenny-arcade-expopirates-of-the-burning-searealtime-worldsrunes-of-magicsoesony-online-entertainmentthe-secret-worldwakfuTue, 19 Aug 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Wakfu trailer spotlights cross-media push]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/21/new-wakfu-trailer-spotlights-cross-media-push/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/21/new-wakfu-trailer-spotlights-cross-media-push/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/21/new-wakfu-trailer-spotlights-cross-media-push/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


For those of us not fortunate enough to be part of the Wakfu closed beta, the game has remained something of a mystery. A beautiful, sexily-rendered 2D turn-based mystery, but a mystery nonetheless. We've seen a few screenshots, we know its release is going to be accompanied by an animated series, and we know the game is going to be in the same general vein as sister series Dofus, but beyond that it's still a little vague.

The marketing team over at French developer Ankama Games has passed a trailer our way that really highlights the synergy between the animated series and the game proper. It also puts the game engine into motion, giving us a better idea of what the gameplay might be like, including some glimpses of player-to-player interaction, albeit in French. Check out the video after the jump if this sounds like it might possibly be your cup of tea.

Continue reading New Wakfu trailer spotlights cross-media push

MassivelyNew Wakfu trailer spotlights cross-media push originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Jul 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2Danimated-seriesankama-gamesdofustrailerturn-basedvideowakfuMon, 21 Jul 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Better, faster, prettier: Dofus 2.0]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/16/better-faster-prettier-dofus-2-0/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/16/better-faster-prettier-dofus-2-0/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/16/better-faster-prettier-dofus-2-0/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Have you played or do you currently play Dofus? If so, Ankama games has something they'd like you to see. They've been in the process of completely upgrading the entire game with the Dofus 2.0 update, as you know. However, now they can finally show you what they've been working on with a video and information page! The game code is being rewritten for improved performance all around and the visuals are -- as you can see -- getting a very nice overhaul as well. Our only complaint is that characters in-game are still incredibly small, which is something of a bother for players who love to customize and stare at their avatars for hours on end.

Ankama is promising more information soon, but they did make it clear that no characters will be reset and no servers will be shut down. This is only a visual and internal upgrade, it's like an MMO version of a face-lift only not as painful and probably more effective overall. If you're really jonesing for more information you can check out the Dofus 2.0 devblog.

MassivelyBetter, faster, prettier: Dofus 2.0 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 Jul 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ankamadevblogdofusdofus-2.0serversupdateupgradeWed, 16 Jul 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[First North American Dofus server opens Tuesday]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/22/first-north-american-dofus-server-opens-tuesday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/22/first-north-american-dofus-server-opens-tuesday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/22/first-north-american-dofus-server-opens-tuesday/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ankama Games' Dofus is something of a cult hit. Since its release in 2005, it has spawned two spin-offs. It's done things a bit differently than other MMOs, with turn-based combat and even hardcore permadeath servers. But the French company behind it is about to journey into a new frontier.

No, we're not talking about Wakfu. It turns out that the first North American Dofus server will be opening Tuesday the 24th of June. It'll be called "SOLAR," and new players on the server will get all sorts of bonus perks for the first week, including daily events, double experience points, and a few in-game gifts. The top ranked players at the end of the week will get even more gifts.

The new server is open only to subscribers, so if you're only playing in a free-to-play capacity, you're out of luck. Oh well. There's so little free content in Dofus now, we've come to think of it as pay-to-play anyway.

MassivelyFirst North American Dofus server opens Tuesday originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 22 Jun 2008 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ankama-gamesdofuseventgiftsnorth-americaserversolarwakfuSun, 22 Jun 2008 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wakfu in closed beta, sports new screenshots]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/wakfu-in-closed-beta-sports-new-screenshots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/wakfu-in-closed-beta-sports-new-screenshots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/wakfu-in-closed-beta-sports-new-screenshots/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


We've said it before, and we're saying it again: Wakfu looks fantastic. The art style, while maintaining the look of its progenitor, Dofus, ramps up to new levels with Wakfu. To prove this, simply check out the screenshots page on their site, newly updated with pictures of new areas and characters to gawk at.

In other news, as of the 6th, Wakfu is now in closed beta! Those of you lucky enough to have received your beta keys in e-mail will already know if this title lives up to its hype; the rest of us will just have to wait. Until it opens up, peruse the screens, read the Dev Blogs, and dream of Xelor time powers.

[Via GamersHell]

MassivelyWakfu in closed beta, sports new screenshots originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Jun 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artclosed-betadev-blogsdofusscreenshotswakfuxelorWed, 11 Jun 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wakfu enters closed beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/wakfu-enters-closed-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/wakfu-enters-closed-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/wakfu-enters-closed-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


We've been anticipating the release of Wakfu, the 2D MMO from the makers of Dofus. Good news for those of you waiting with us: Wakfu is now in closed beta! Even better, we have an official release window of Q4. And what's more, new details regarding gameplay have emerged.

Apparently there will be no NPCs in Wakfu. Instead, the management of the world will rely upon player-appointed (and presumably player-run) governors to handle the chores of running the world. Ecology will also play an important part in keeping Wakfu's environments alive and well, though it's unclear what the players will have to do to keep things going smoothly. More news as it's revealed!

[Thanks, Sergio!]

MassivelyWakfu enters closed beta originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 Jun 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closed-betadofusecologygovernorsNPCswakfuWed, 04 Jun 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Prepare for Dofus 2.0!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/09/prepare-for-dofus-2-0/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/09/prepare-for-dofus-2-0/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/09/prepare-for-dofus-2-0/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Ankama Games has announced the development of Dofus 2.0, an upgrade to their popular 2D MMO. Far from letting their first game go to seed in favor of the upcoming Wakfu, Ankama has rewritten the Flash-based game in Action Script 3, promising faster, better responsiveness to player commands.

Additionally, over 2,000 animations and 10,000 maps are being entirely redrawn, leading to what will feel like a revitalization of the same-old, same-old haunts you've known for so long. We can't wait to see what it will all look like once the dust has settled, with a beta planned for September.

[Thanks, Sergio!]

MassivelyPrepare for Dofus 2.0! originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 May 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2daction-script-3ankama-gamesdofusflashupgradewakfuFri, 09 May 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Wakfu screenshots display more UI palettes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/23/new-wakfu-screenshots-display-more-ui-palettes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/23/new-wakfu-screenshots-display-more-ui-palettes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/23/new-wakfu-screenshots-display-more-ui-palettes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


We're looking forward to Wakfu, the new 'tactical' MMORPG from Ankama, the makers of Dofus. Exactly how Wakfu will differ from Dofus in gameplay isn't entirely clear just yet, but visually, it's got a gorgeous look, much higher-res than its predecessor. Video of gameplay shows small but noticeable improvements, like grasses swaying in the wind, and water levels advancing and receding.

The latest batch of screenshots on gamershell.com show more user interface elements, including the customary inventory screen, armor and weapons window (with player character included, something new), and others. If you can read (and understand) French, maybe you can puzzle out what's going on in the others. Still no release date for the beta, so let these beautiful shots appease your hunger for now.

MassivelyNew Wakfu screenshots display more UI palettes originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Apr 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ankamadofusfrenchinventorypalettesscreenshotsUIwakfuWed, 23 Apr 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aeria devolves with Stone Age 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/12/aeria-devolves-with-stone-age-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/12/aeria-devolves-with-stone-age-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/12/aeria-devolves-with-stone-age-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Aeria Games, providers of popular free-to-play MMOs Dream of Mirror Online, Last Chaos, Shaiya, and Twelve Sky, among others, continues its wild growth with a new game set in a fictional prehistoric time: Stone Age 2. A 2D, isometric view, similar to Dofus, is the milieu for this title, which will be released in North America at an unspecified date.

There are a couple of intriguing game mechanics for this new MMO, including a deeper Pet system than exists in most games, allowing players the ability to train their pets (which is the heart of gameplay), and receive updates on pet status via email sent directly to their cellphones. There is even mention of being able to access video of in-game events by way of fixed cameras, while you're unable to drop into the game itself.

Could this type of game-to-real world interaction be the precursor to a new wave of always-on content? Get screenshots of this new title at its website.

[Via WorthPlaying]

MassivelyAeria devolves with Stone Age 2 originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 12 Apr 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeriacellphonedofusdream-of-mirror-onlinelast-chaospet-systemshaiyastone-age-2twelve-skySat, 12 Apr 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DOFUS Arena's Cedric Gerard takes his turn at an interview]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/13/dofus-arenas-cedric-gerard-takes-his-turn-at-an-interview/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/13/dofus-arenas-cedric-gerard-takes-his-turn-at-an-interview/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/13/dofus-arenas-cedric-gerard-takes-his-turn-at-an-interview/#commentsFiled under: , ,

DOFUS Arena poses a problem to us here at Massively because of it's name. On one hand we're completely into a massively game in the vein of turn-based strategy RPGs like Disgaea or Final Fantasy Tactics. While on the other hand, the name of this game makes us want to burn our eyeballs and then bury them. So when we saw this interview with Ankama Game's Cédric Gérard, it was a difficult call to make; burn and bury our eyes or write about the interview?

Continue reading DOFUS Arena's Cedric Gerard takes his turn at an interview

MassivelyDOFUS Arena's Cedric Gerard takes his turn at an interview originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Mar 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ankama-gamescedric-gerarddofusdofus-arenaflashjavaThu, 13 Mar 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What would you pay for?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/29/the-daily-grind-what-would-you-pay-for/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/29/the-daily-grind-what-would-you-pay-for/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/29/the-daily-grind-what-would-you-pay-for/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

At this year's Game Developer's Conference, a lot of hay was made over the concept of microtransactions and the free-to-play model. Attendees seemed split right down the middle, some for, some against. It wouldn't be a stretch to characterize the Massively readership as similarly split. But for those of you who love your free-to-play MMOs, is there anything that would get you to pay a monthly fee?

Many titles have the option to both play free and pay a monthly; Dofus, for example, and Second Life too, to polarize the offerings. Are there any such models that have shot themselves in the foot by making the paid content not appealing enough to energize users to pay? If not, what will it take?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What would you pay for? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Feb 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dofusfree-to-playfuture-of-mmosgame-developers-conferencegdc08microtransactionsmonthly-feesecond-lifethe-daily-grindFri, 29 Feb 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wakfu is NOT Dofus]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/29/wakfu-is-not-dofus/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/29/wakfu-is-not-dofus/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/29/wakfu-is-not-dofus/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

As mentioned in a previous post, there is an animated series in production called Wakfu the TV Series, but while it features characters types from the MMO Dofus, Wakfu itself is an in-beta MMO that's based on the world and characters from Dofus.

So, what's the difference between the two? According to their website, Wakfu will be more of what you love about Dofus -- improved graphics, new class spells, more character customization -- but with an added dimension to interacting with the environment and the community, including electing players to governorship, and preservation of the forests. If the graphical simplicity of Dofus turns you off, perhaps Wakfu will be more to your liking. Check out the shiny goodness in their trailer.

[Thanks, Note!]

MassivelyWakfu is NOT Dofus originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Feb 2008 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dofusnew-titletrailerwakfuwakfu-the-tv-seriesFri, 29 Feb 2008 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dofus' Wakfu - the TV series]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/27/dofus-wakfu-the-tv-series/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/27/dofus-wakfu-the-tv-series/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/27/dofus-wakfu-the-tv-series/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

As stated, Dofus is an MMO with an outstanding and appealing aesthetic; one that I've often wished were available to just watch, like a cartoon. Well, apparently Ankama Games and I were on the same wavelength, because sure enough, there's an animated show being produced as we speak!

Wakfu - the TV series follows the adventures of Yugo, a young boy with a strong sense of justice, and his four adventurous friends, each one of them a different warrior type from the world of Dofus. Take a gander at the trailer -- it's a fantastic mix of European and Asian animation styles and perfectly captures the sometimes alien, sometimes whimsical World of Twelve. No release date has been offered, but I'm keeping all channels open for the announcement!

MassivelyDofus' Wakfu - the TV series originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Feb 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animatedanimationankama-gamesdofustrailertv-seriesvideowakfuworld-of-twelveyugoWed, 27 Feb 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dofus opens test servers in America and Canada]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/26/dofus-opens-test-servers-in-america-and-canada/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/26/dofus-opens-test-servers-in-america-and-canada/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/26/dofus-opens-test-servers-in-america-and-canada/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

As of yesterday, and continuing for the next month, Ankama Games' Dofus MMO will offer 5x the earned experience for all players playing on the new American test server. You can download the client software at the community site right away.

Dofus is an MMO I signed up for a long time ago and immediately fell in love with its art style. It's completely 2D, but the adorable design and animations are well worth the download -- and it's free! You can check out previous Massively entries on Dofus to help you decide if you want in or not, but don't wait too long ... 5x experience won't be around forever!

MassivelyDofus opens test servers in America and Canada originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Feb 2008 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2d5x-experienceamerican-serverankama-gamesdofustest-serverTue, 26 Feb 2008 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Space for a new style of MMO?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/03/the-daily-grind-space-for-a-new-style-of-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/03/the-daily-grind-space-for-a-new-style-of-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/03/the-daily-grind-space-for-a-new-style-of-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , ,

My uncle's dead 'ardAs you may know if you've read my earlier posts, I'm basically a Second Lifer, but in the interests of research and writing for Massively, I've tried Runescape, Dofus, Oberin, Vendetta Online and World of Warcraft. You may also have noticed a number of first impressions posts but relatively little follow up.

This isn't entirely an accident. All of the games have failed to attract and keep my attention. Second Life has not. Come the end of my free month, I'm not 99% certain I won't be subscribing to World of Warcraft because it's doing the same things as the other games.

Continue reading Space for a new style of MMO?

MassivelySpace for a new style of MMO? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 03 Feb 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Call-of-CthulhuDofusfeaturedlevel-basedMMORPGOberinopinionRole-playingRunequestRunescapeskills-based-role-playVendetta-OnlineWorld-of-WarcraftSun, 03 Feb 2008 18:00:00 EST