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 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Free for All: The 10 best-looking browser-based MMORPGs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/free-for-all-the-10-best-looking-browser-based-mmorpgs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/free-for-all-the-10-best-looking-browser-based-mmorpgs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/free-for-all-the-10-best-looking-browser-based-mmorpgs/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Battlestar Galactica Online screenshot
Beauty, they say, is in the eye of the beholder. Keep that in mind before you tell that me the games that fill out the following list of "best-looking browser-based MMORPGs" are ugly as sin. Sure, some of them are an acquired taste, but I wanted to display just how much variety there is now in browser gaming. It's not the delivery system it once was; we have had fancier-looking Flash-based titles for a while, but now with engines like Unity or Silverlight and even HTML5 coding, we have games that look no different from their client-based counterparts.

There are still some ugly-as-sin games out there as well, but they have endearing qualities all the same. So keep that in mind; this is my top 10 list. If you want to suggest your own in the comments section, I would love to hear them!

Now, on to the list, in no particular order...

Continue reading Free for All: The 10 best-looking browser-based MMORPGs

MassivelyFree for All: The 10 best-looking browser-based MMORPGs originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Mar 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-mystical-landarcane-legendsbattlestar-galactica-onlinebeau-hindmanBigpointcity-of-steamdragons-of-atlantisdrakensang-onlineEAf2pfeaturedffafree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiuminnogamesjagexkabamkartugalord-of-ultimamad-otter-gamesmilmoopinionrunescapespacetime-studiosvelvet-ropeWed, 20 Mar 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: The second annual Frindie Awards]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/02/free-for-all-the-second-annual-frindie-awards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/02/free-for-all-the-second-annual-frindie-awards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/02/free-for-all-the-second-annual-frindie-awards/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Frindie Awards logo
It's time once again for the Frindie Awards, my attempt to shine some light on the best indie, browser-based, free-to-play, and unusual MMOs that are all-too-often ignored by press -- and players. This one is for the little guys! Well, mostly. It's also for those games that seem to have passed under the collective radar of Massively readers or that seem to be very misunderstood.

Picking the winners this year is just as hard as it was last year, maybe even harder. 2012 was an incredible year for MMOs, so I would rather have just put together an article that highlights every single favorite. In the end, it's more helpful to make myself pick out a winner. It's a rare thing for some of these games to even receive a nod on a major website, something I still can't figure out. Either way, it's best to think of all of the MMOs on this list as my favorites from 2012.

Anyway, let's get to the awards!

Continue reading Free for All: The second annual Frindie Awards

MassivelyFree for All: The second annual Frindie Awards originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 Jan 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-mystical-landalganonarcane-legendsasherons-callbeau-hindmanbrowsercastle-empireclub-penguindeepworldderek-smartdrakensang-onlinef2pfeaturedffaforge-of-empiresfree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumfrindiefrindie-awardsfrindiesgameglobeglitchhabbo-hotelinnogamesistariajagexlife-is-magiclinden-labmilmonadirimopinionrunescapeRyzomsalemSandboxsecond-lifeSOESony-Online-Entertainmentspacetime-studiosSquare-EnixStar-Stablethe-matrix-onlinethe-missing-inkThereThere Will Be Bloodtiny-specktravianturbineVanguard-Saga-of-Heroesvelvet-ropewakfuwurm-onlineWed, 02 Jan 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: The indie edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/25/choose-my-adventure-the-indie-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/25/choose-my-adventure-the-indie-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/25/choose-my-adventure-the-indie-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Goonies screenshot, down here
It might be your time up there, but it's my time -- my time -- down here! For this latest edition of Choose My Adventure, I get to hand out a selection of odd little games for you to vote on, and then for the next month and change, I will stumble my way through the title. At your direction and with your help, of course. The trouble is that I have already played darn near everything. I've downloaded and tried so many games that I simply can't remember them all. So, what to do?

Well, I decided to give a mix of games a chance at several weeks coverage here on Massively. I picked out an assortment of browser games, independent titles, and lesser-known client-based MMOs. Hopefully you will steer me the right way, and if I am lucky, I won't even have a horrible time. I chose games that I know have a robust community in the hopes that plenty of voters will turn out. The key is to get the word out there, so if you have a favorite, go tell your community!

But first, click past the cut and vote on the game you would like to see me tackle for the next several weeks. Just don't expect to see triple-A games on the list!

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: The indie edition

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: The indie edition originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Jul 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-quest-worldsallods-onlineankamaaq-worldsbeau-hindmanBigpointchoose-my-adventureClone-Wars-Adventurescmadrakensang-onlinefeaturedgpotatohands-onjeremy-strattonjunebudkingdom-of-loathingkolmabinogimilmoNexonnexon-americaopinionpollpollsreaders-choiceromancerunes-of-magicshawn-schusterSOESONYSony-Online-EntertainmentSquare-EnixvotevotingwakfuzentiaWed, 25 Jul 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Drakensang celebrates end of beta, releases Atlantis trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/20/drakensang-celebrates-end-of-beta-releases-atlantis-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/20/drakensang-celebrates-end-of-beta-releases-atlantis-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/20/drakensang-celebrates-end-of-beta-releases-atlantis-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Drakensang celebrates end of beta, releases Atlantis trailer
There's good news and bad news for Bigpoint. Yesterday we told you about the bad news as the company announced it would be shutting down its mobile games division.

Its bread-and-butter browser MMOs are still alive and kicking, though, none more so than Drakensang Online. The free-to-play hack-and-slash title is celebrating its end-of-beta milestone, and Bigpoint says the game has amassed a whopping nine million registered players. As usual with such stats, we don't know how many of those nine million have actually played (or paid), but it's a big number nonetheless.

The game also boasts a new continent (Atlantis), and Bigpoint has released an accompanying teaser trailer that you can view after the cut.

[Source: Bigpoint press release]

Continue reading Drakensang celebrates end of beta, releases Atlantis trailer

MassivelyDrakensang celebrates end of beta, releases Atlantis trailer originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Jul 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlantisbigpointbrowser-baseddrakensangdrakensang-onlinef2pfantasyfree-to-playtrailervideoFri, 20 Jul 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Drakensang raises Atlantis update from the deeps]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/05/drakensang-raises-atlantis-update-from-the-deeps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/05/drakensang-raises-atlantis-update-from-the-deeps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/05/drakensang-raises-atlantis-update-from-the-deeps/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Drakensang raises Atlantis update from the deeps
Drakensang Online welcomes the citizens of Atlantis to its game world today. The hack-and-slash MMO pushed its largest update ever to the live servers, and it's so big that the ocean itself could not contain it. That's what we call "hyperbole" in the biz.

The Atlantis update is a wonder to behold. It includes a new continent with eight areas, 100 additional quests, and plenty of challenges for experienced players to tackle. The city itself is in ruins following its downfall by the giant snake Gorga. The update also includes a revamped world map that should help adventurers find their way.

In related news, Bigpoint claims that over eight million players have registered for Drakensang Online.

[Source: Bigpoint press release]

MassivelyDrakensang raises Atlantis update from the deeps originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Jul 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlantisbigpointbrowser-basedcontent-patchcontent-updatecontinentdrakensangdrakensang-onlinef2pfantasyfree-to-playgorgapatchupdateThu, 05 Jul 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Previously on MV TV: The week of June 2nd]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/10/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-june-2nd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/10/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-june-2nd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/10/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-june-2nd/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Previously On banner
So how did you survive E3? Did you get everything that you wanted this year? No? Well, that's OK; there's always next year. In the meantime, be sure to check out all of our E3 coverage in case you missed anything. I know I missed a lot, and I work here! It's easy to forget that the hardcore office-monkies like yours truly stayed behind and continued on as normal. That means we still streamed our favorite titles for you to watch! So what did you miss? Here are some of the highlights!

Mike decided to check out planetary action in EVE Online. We're not sure whether this meant asking a big green orb out on a date, but it sounds interesting! Next, he made a couple of runs through Drakensang Online, stomping newbie PvPers left and right. What a meanie! I jumped into a couple of games for your entertainment, including RuneScape. I wanted to show how the new Runespan worked, and I think I achieved my goal. Lastly I attempted to start a treehouse project in Free Realms, building it up slowly until I had a nice platform to continue from. If you've ever wondered what blank lots were used for in the charming social MMO, check it out past the break!

Continue reading Previously on MV TV: The week of June 2nd

MassivelyPreviously on MV TV: The week of June 2nd originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 10 Jun 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bigpointbrowser-basedccpdrakensang-onlineeve-onlinefeaturedfree-realmsjagexlivestreamingmassively-streamteammassively-tvmv-tvmvtvround-uprounduprunescapeSOESONYSony-Online-Entertainmentstreamstreamersstreamingstreamteamtwitchtwitch-tvvideovideosSun, 10 Jun 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Previously on MV TV: The week of May 12th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/20/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-may-12th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/20/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-may-12th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/20/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-may-12th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Previously On banner
What a week of livestreaming! We've got quite the variety and tons of hours of video to watch. What's that? You had to work and missed half of the cool streams we showed? Don't worry! I gather all of the best streams from the week's collection and list them for you right here. Still, you need to bookmark our livestream page so you can see which videos are going to be shown during the week, but if you miss any, you can check out the recap here. That's why we do it.

This week we had a lot to offer. First we had good old Mike jumping into EVE Online for some space action, then into TERA for some scantily clad combat! He then explores some of the great browser-based game Drakensang Online. MJ brought a ton of goodies to the streaming table, goodies like a run-through in EverQuest II, some base-jumping in City of Heroes, a bit of hardcore survival in Xsyon, and a flight around the beautiful lands of Aion. I rounded out the end by streaming some BatMUD, a cool MUD that has been around since many of you have been in diapers!

Click past the cut and grab some popcorn. Keep the butter light but add some salt. Thanks.

Continue reading Previously on MV TV: The week of May 12th

MassivelyPreviously on MV TV: The week of May 12th originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 20 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionascensionBatMUDBigpointblueholebluehole-studiosbrowser-basedccpccp-gamescity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxdrakensangdrakensang-onlineen-masseen-masse-entertainmenteq-2eq-iiEQ2eqiieveeve-onlineEverQuest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreedominternet-spaceshipslivestreamingmassively-streamteammassively-tvmudmv-tvmvtvnc-softncsoftnotoriousnotorious-gamesparagonparagon-studiospost-apocpost-apocalypticpvpround-uproundupsandboxsci-fantasysci-fiSOEsonySony-Online-Entertainmentspreadsheets-onlinestreamstreamersstreamingstreamteamsuperherosuperheroesteratruly-freetwitchtwitch-tvvideovideosxsyonSun, 20 May 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Previously on MV TV: The week of April 21st]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/29/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-april-14th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/29/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-april-14th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/29/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-april-14th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Previously On banner
What a week it has been in Massively's world of streaming games! We have a little bit of something for all types of viewers. Hardcores, roleplayers, explorers, crafters and lazy-bums like yours truly: We have something for all of you. Be sure to bookmark our livestream schedule page so that you can always see the schedule ahead of time. It's much easier to plan your life around our videos if you know the schedule early. Invite your friends... we love to hear from new people in the chat room!

This week, we had some EVE Online adventuring with Mike followed by his attempt at Drakensang Online, a browser-based action MMO. Adventure Mike took a spin in the way-back machine and streamed some EverQuest, and MJ scored some time in EverQuest II, a chunk of Vanguard, and Aion. She's been a very busy streamer! Lastly, I took a look at Gemstone IV, a fantastic MUD that almost brought tears to my eyes. Tears of frustration, but many tears of joy.

Let's get to watching!

Continue reading Previously on MV TV: The week of April 21st

MassivelyPreviously on MV TV: The week of April 21st originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 29 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionccpdrakensang-onlineeve-onlineeverquestEverQuest-2everquest-iifeaturedgemstone-ivLiveStreamlivestreamingmassively-streamteammassively-tvmv-tvmvtvpreviously-on-mv-tvround-uproundupstreamstreamersstreamingstreamteamtwitchtwitch-tvtwitchtvvanguardvideovideosSun, 29 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: New browser-based converts shine light on issues]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/free-for-all-new-browser-based-converts-shine-light-on-issues/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/free-for-all-new-browser-based-converts-shine-light-on-issues/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/free-for-all-new-browser-based-converts-shine-light-on-issues/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Fiesta Social screenshot
I recently threw out a prediction that within five years, most of our MMO content will be coming through our browsers. To be more specific, I think that most players in the United States will be enjoying their favorite MMOs within a browser. That can mean several things but does not refer to games like Free Realms, a client-based game that is only signed-into at the browser level. As with any discussion about genres, mechanics or styles in the MMO world, I have to be very specific.

It's pretty likely that a very large percentage of the US playerbase is already playing browser-based games. Look at the American market for games like RuneScape, Battlestar Galactica Online, Club Penguin, Drakensang Online, Evony, and Ministry of War and you might just find millions of players.

Next we need to consider that there are more games coming into the browser market. This new batch is essentially a group of standard, client-based MMOs that are porting themselves to the browser. I tend to be a little skeptical about some of these in the short-term, for several reasons.

Continue reading Free for All: New browser-based converts shine light on issues

MassivelyFree for All: New browser-based converts shine light on issues originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>8realmsbattlestar-galactica-onlinebeau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedclub-penguindrakensang-onlineevonyf2pfeaturedffafiesta-onlinefiesta-socialfree-for-allfree-realmsfree-to-playfreemiumftpillyriadjagexministry-of-waropinionrunes-of-magicrunescapetibiavelvet-ropeWed, 25 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Drakensang Online compares itself to Diablo III and Torchlight II]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/drakensang-online-compares-itself-to-diablo-iii-and-torchlight-i/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/drakensang-online-compares-itself-to-diablo-iii-and-torchlight-i/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/drakensang-online-compares-itself-to-diablo-iii-and-torchlight-i/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Drakensang Online
Bigpoint Games is painting Drakensang Online as the Rocky Balboa of isometric hack-'n'-slash MMOs, and it's stepping into the ring with the upcoming title contenders and swinging away. The company released a comparison chart to show how its scrappy underdog is actually head and shoulders above the developing competition.

According to the comparison chart, Drakensang takes the lead by offering all that its competition has and more. When you've got a game that was developed in less than two years, is free-to-play, and is a full-fledged MMO, why would you ever want to sample the fruits of Blizzard's and Runic Games' trees?

Will Drakensang nip hard enough at Diablo III's heels to hobble the mighty demon as it releases next month? Time will tell, but you can check out our impressions of Drakensang when Mike plays it for you live on Massively TV this Wednesday evening!

[Source: Bigpoint Games press release]

MassivelyDrakensang Online compares itself to Diablo III and Torchlight II originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetbigpointblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrowser-basedcash-shopcomparison-chartd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidrakensangdrakensang-onlinef2pfantasyfree-to-playgothic-fantasylivestreammassively-tvmultiplayeronline-multiplayerrockyrocky-balboaroguelikerpgrunic-gamestorchlighttorchlight-iiTue, 24 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Drakensang announces 'massive content updates']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/drakensang-announces-massive-content-updates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/drakensang-announces-massive-content-updates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/drakensang-announces-massive-content-updates/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Screenshot -- Drakensang Online
Bigpoint Games has announced that its free-to-play hack-and-slash title Drakensang Online is receiving a "massive content update." Between now and December 25th, Drakensang players will be receiving a couple of large updates, plus a few smaller changes as well.

The updates will introduce players to the Norlande, which will provide "a dozen new levels, numerous monsters and champions, new bosses, and new character items and equipment." To top it off, a player can experience all of this content as a new class, the agile Ranger. Rangers will also bring with them "a whole new skill system that makes skills easier and better to use, and significantly improves gameplay." To get in on the action, head on over to the game's official site.

[Source: Bigpoint Games press release]

MassivelyDrakensang announces 'massive content updates' originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bigpointbigpoint-gamesclassdrakensangdrakensang-onlinef2pfree-to-playlevel-caplevel-cap-increasenew-classnew-zonenorlanderangerskillskill-systemskillsMon, 12 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Drakensang Online boasts one million registered users]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/27/drakensang-online-boasts-one-million-registered-users/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/27/drakensang-online-boasts-one-million-registered-users/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/27/drakensang-online-boasts-one-million-registered-users/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Screenshot -- Drakensang Online
Bigpoint's free-to-play, browser-based MMORPG Drakensang Online has been in open beta for almost two months now, and according to the developers, it has amassed quite a following in that timespan. In a press release today, Bigpoint announced that the Diablo-esque MMO has garnered one million registered users since entering open beta in August.

So what's next for the game? Bern Beyreuther, Head of Development at Bigpoint Berlin, claims, "We already have a plethora of new content updates planned -- and Drakensang Online is just in its infancy." If you want to add yourself to the million, just head on over to the game's official site.

[Source: Bigpoint press release]

MassivelyDrakensang Online boasts one million registered users originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Sep 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben-beyreutherbigpointdrakensangdrakensang-onlinef2pfree-to-playone-million-playersone-million-registered-usersone-million-usersTue, 27 Sep 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: Drakensang Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/11/rise-and-shiny-recap-drakensang-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/11/rise-and-shiny-recap-drakensang-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/11/rise-and-shiny-recap-drakensang-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Drakensang Online screenshot
This week I was excited to spend some more time exploring Drakensang Online, the latest version in the long-running RPG series. I'd barely touched anything from the previous games, so I was blissfully unaware of what to expect from this one. I knew that Bigpoint was involved, so I had a feeling that the cash shop would be controversial but very convenient. I had also viewed screenshots and watched videos from before, so I was ready to see just how it would run on a basic laptop with three gigs of ram.

The experience turned out more or less as expected, but it did throw me a few curveballs. Click past the cut and let's talk all about it.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Drakensang Online

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Drakensang Online originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 11 Sep 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanBigpointbrowserbrowser-basedbuying-powercash-shopcrystal-sagaDiablodiablo-3drakensangdrakensang-onlinef2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpLiveStreamtorchlightvideoSun, 11 Sep 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MV Guide: September 5-11, 2011]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/05/mv-guide-september-5-11-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/05/mv-guide-september-5-11-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/05/mv-guide-september-5-11-2011/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Champions Online screenshot
MV Guide is a weekly rundown of the MMO gaming events planned on Massively's Livestream channel.

Every week, the Massively staff logs in to play various MMOs live and in person, and we'd love for you to drop by the channel and visit. We have a combination of regular weekly games and new surprises, so you'll find a variety of titles to take a look at. During livestream events, you can participate in the live chat, ask questions to learn about the game, and simply spend some time with Massively staff and readers. (Of course, livestream events are subject to the whims of outside forces like server-side gremlins once in a while.)

Continue reading MV Guide: September 5-11, 2011

MassivelyMV Guide: September 5-11, 2011 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Sep 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-studiosdrakensang-onlineguild-warsgwlivestreaminglord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromagic-the-gathering-onlinemtgomv-guidemv-tvncsoftriftstar-trek-onlinestotriontrion-worldsturbineMon, 05 Sep 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: Face of Mankind, a revisit]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/04/rise-and-shiny-recap-face-of-mankind-a-revisit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/04/rise-and-shiny-recap-face-of-mankind-a-revisit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/04/rise-and-shiny-recap-face-of-mankind-a-revisit/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Face of Mankind screenshot
I'm not exactly sure why I am such a glutton for punishment, but over the last week I thought it would be a good idea to revisit Face of Mankind, an MMOFPS that pushes roleplay and politics in its description. I had already known from my previous experience that roleplay was pretty much non-existent and that the crowd was made up largely of typical MMOFPS or PvP types, but I have a rule to always give games second, third and sometimes fourth chances. It's a simple fact that many of them, especially independent ones, take a long time to grow and mature into the games they always should have been.

So how has Face of Mankind matured? How has it grown?

I have to be honest with you and tell you that the game surprised me in some ways this time around. Perhaps it was because I was already familiar with the controls and layout, but click past the cut and let me tell you all about it.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Face of Mankind, a revisit

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Face of Mankind, a revisit originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 04 Sep 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmandrakensang-onlinef2pface-of-mankindfeaturedfomfree-to-playftpLiveStreammmofpsnexeonplayer-versus-playerpvprise-and-shinySun, 04 Sep 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MV Guide: August 15-21, 2011]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/mv-guide-august-15-21-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/mv-guide-august-15-21-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/mv-guide-august-15-21-2011/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Drakensang Online -- MV Guide
MV Guide is a weekly rundown of the MMO gaming events planned on Massively's Livestream channel.

Every week, the Massively staff logs in to play various MMOs live and in person, and we'd love for you to drop by the channel and visit. We have a combination of regular weekly games and new surprises, so you'll find a variety of titles to take a look at. During livestream events, you can participate in the live chat, ask questions to learn about the game, and simply spend some time with Massively staff and readers. (Of course, livestream events are subject to the whims of outside forces like server-side gremlins once in a while.)

Follow along after the jump to see what's scheduled for this week!

Continue reading MV Guide: August 15-21, 2011

MassivelyMV Guide: August 15-21, 2011 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Aug 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aftershockbigpointblizzardchampions-onlinecryptic-studiosdark-orbitdrakensang-onlinefeaturedgameloftgunshinelivestreammv-guidemv-tvnadirimorder-and-chaos-onlinesupercelltwisted-tribeWorld-of-WarcraftwowMon, 15 Aug 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Drakensang Online open beta is live]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/drakensang-online-open-beta-is-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/drakensang-online-open-beta-is-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/drakensang-online-open-beta-is-live/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Drakensang Online - Screenshot
Bigpoint Games, makers of Battlestar Galactica Online and Lord of Ultima, announced today that its newest creation, Drakensang Online has entered open beta. The game puts players in the shoes of one of two classes -- the fearless Dragonknight or the arcane Spellweavers -- and sends them to battle against the fierce monsters of the Anderworld.

Action-RPG fans will be familiar with Drakensang's formula of grouping up, finding bad things, and hitting them until they stop moving in hopes of getting some shiny new loot. For gamers on the go, however, Drakensang offers one distinct advantage: It runs in your browser. Anyone interested in giving this new game a test run can join the beta over at the official website.

MassivelyDrakensang Online open beta is live originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Aug 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbigpointbigpoint-gamesbrowserbrowser-baseddrakensangdrakensang-onlinef2pfree-to-playhack-n-slashMon, 08 Aug 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jump into Drakensang Online with a closed beta key from Massively [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/11/jump-into-drakensang-online-with-a-closed-beta-key-from-massivel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/11/jump-into-drakensang-online-with-a-closed-beta-key-from-massivel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/11/jump-into-drakensang-online-with-a-closed-beta-key-from-massivel/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Last week we brought you the news that Drakensang Online is entering open beta next month. However, if you don't want to wait that long to try it, we've got just the thing for you: 2,000 closed beta keys!

All you need to do is head over to our giveaway page to pick up a key. Then go to Drakensang Online's main page, click "play now for free" to register, and enter your key in the field at the bottom of the registration window.

Drakensang Online is browser-based, so once you're registered, you're free to jump right in and start playing!

[Update: The techies for our giveaway page have let us know that there was an IP tracking issue with one of the servers. The problem has been fixed, and keys will now be distributed correctly. We've raised the IP lock for now, so even if you got a key before, you're clear to claim another one. Thanks for your patience!]

GET YOUR KEY

MassivelyJump into Drakensang Online with a closed beta key from Massively [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 May 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-keybigpointbrowserbrowser-basedclosed-betaclosed-beta-keyclosed-beta-key-giveawaydrakensangdrakensang-onlineWed, 11 May 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Drakensang Online open beta coming in June]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/drakensang-online-open-beta-coming-in-june/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/drakensang-online-open-beta-coming-in-june/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/drakensang-online-open-beta-coming-in-june/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

It wasn't too long ago that we announced the impending arrival of Drakensang Online, an MMO iteration on Radon Labs' quirky Drakensang single-player RPG. Today, Bigpoint has confirmed that the title is even closer to release than we thought and that the open beta will be kicking off next month (in five different languages, no less).

Bigpoint's Bernd Beyreuther is enthusiastic about the browser MMO's chances. "The closed beta's smooth progress has enabled us to take the next step in June and open the game up to everybody. The switch from classic PC game to browser game was a huge leap forward for us filled with many new possibilities," he explained.

Drakensang Online will initially offer two playable classes, the Dragonknight and the Spellweaver, as well as over 100 hours of content including quests, dungeons, and exploration around the Anderworld.

MassivelyDrakensang Online open beta coming in June originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 May 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anderworldbetabigpointbigpoint-gamesbrowserbrowser-basedbrowser-mmodragonknightdrakensangdrakensang-onlinef2pfantasyfree-to-playopen-betaopen-beta-datespellweaverWed, 04 May 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Controlling share in Bigpoint purchased for $350 million]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/26/controlling-share-in-bigpoint-purchased-for-350-million/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/26/controlling-share-in-bigpoint-purchased-for-350-million/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/26/controlling-share-in-bigpoint-purchased-for-350-million/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The prolific MMO developer Bigpoint is answering to couple of new bosses today. According to Gamasutra, Summit Partners and TA Associates have banded together to heavily invest in the company -- and by doing so, to take a controlling share in Bigpoint. The two firms, which are now on the board of directors, have jointly invested $350 million into Bigpoint. These funds will recapitalize the studio and expand its presence worldwide.

Bigpoint founder and CEO Heiko Hubertz, who controls 30 percent of the company, appears optimistic: "The investment by TA Associates and Summit Partners is a validation of Bigpoint's leadership position within the gaming industry, and will give us a huge boost toward becoming one of the most successful gaming companies worldwide."

Bigpoint has a wide portfolio of titles including Battlestar Galactica Online, DarkOrbit, and the upcoming Drakensang Online.

MassivelyControlling share in Bigpoint purchased for $350 million originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Apr 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galactica-onlinebigpointboard-of-directorsbsocontrolling-sharedarkorbitdrakensang-onlinegamasutraheiko-hubertzinvestorssummit-partnerst-and-a-associates-is-a-completely-different-companyta-associatesTue, 26 Apr 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Drakensang Online moving into closed beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/11/drakensang-online-moving-into-closed-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/11/drakensang-online-moving-into-closed-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/11/drakensang-online-moving-into-closed-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

If game development had trending topics a la Twitter, "play in your browser" would be at the top of the list. After all, a game you can play in your browser takes all of the slow download and install times out of the equation. Drakensang Online is the latest such game in development heading for a release, with the closed beta having just begun. If you've never heard of the game before now, don't fret -- applications for testers are still being accepted.

How much social interaction will be present in the game remains to be seen, although the game's page boasts that players can engage in battle with and against other players around the world. There's a definite Diablo vibe to the screenshots and the trailers, so if that's up your alley, it might well be worth taking a look at the game during its beta testing phase.

[Thanks to B1GG1N for the tip!]

MassivelyDrakensang Online moving into closed beta originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Apr 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbetabeta-applicationbeta-testingbigpointbrowserbrowser-gameclosed-betadiablodiablo-clonedrakensang-onlineMon, 11 Apr 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bigpoint talks Drakensang Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/21/bigpoint-talks-drakensang-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/21/bigpoint-talks-drakensang-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/21/bigpoint-talks-drakensang-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Never heard of Drakensang? You're not alone, as the German-made CRPG from Radon Labs is a title that exists pretty far outside the mainstream occupied by the Dragon Ages, Fables, and Oblivions of the world. While it may end up falling short of household-name status, free-to-play MMO maker Bigpoint is nonetheless looking to bring the Drakensang saga to browsers everywhere.

Drakensang Online is being billed as an action RPG/MMORPG hybrid, and a recent Bigpoint press release makes numerous references to the speed of the battles as well as the quick and easy access afforded by the browser-only platform. Bigpoint is also highlighting the game's "endless customization options" and "profound and enthralling story." This last bit will be a departure from the source material, as critics generally found the original Drakensang narrative to be lacking when compared to the combat mechanics and the game's overall presentation.

You can read more about Drakensang Online at the official website, and don't forget to check out the game's teaser trailer after the cut.

Continue reading Bigpoint talks Drakensang Online

MassivelyBigpoint talks Drakensang Online originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Mar 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bigpointbrowserbrowser-baseddrakensangdrakensang-onlinedrakensang-sagaf2pfantasyfree-to-playpress-releasetrailervideoMon, 21 Mar 2011 13:30:00 EST