Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Free for All: Shopping for your favorite free-to-play fanatic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/free-for-all-shopping-for-your-favorite-free-to-play-fanatic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/free-for-all-shopping-for-your-favorite-free-to-play-fanatic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/free-for-all-shopping-for-your-favorite-free-to-play-fanatic/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Free Realms screenshot
Well, November is officially over. You know what that means: The shopping season is upon us. While you might or might not celebrate any one of the numerous holidays that are coming up over the next several weeks, you are probably quite aware of the sales and seasonal happenings in your area. Times have changed, though. It only takes one trip to the local game shop to see how boxed MMOs are not as common as they once were. Digital delivery, faster internet speeds, free-to-play payment models and many more titles to choose from have all encouraged developers to skip the boxes for the most part.

So what is there to get for the free-to-play fanatic in your life? There's plenty, fortunately. It can be quite a trip to navigate the muddy waters of cash-shop goods and virtual money, and the last thing you would want to do is buy something that is not needed or wanted.

Click past the cut and I'll give you some suggestions for gift giving this season!

Continue reading Free for All: Shopping for your favorite free-to-play fanatic

MassivelyFree for All: Shopping for your favorite free-to-play fanatic originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 30 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmancash-shopcash-shop-buying-guideClone-Wars-Adventurescrucialdream-of-mirror-onlinef2pfeaturedfree-for-allfree-realmsfree-to-playftpgamersfirstlord-of-the-rings-onlineMicrotransactionsNexonrunes-of-magicultimate-gamer-cardwizard101Wed, 30 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: Dream of Mirror Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/01/rise-and-shiny-recap-dream-of-mirror-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/01/rise-and-shiny-recap-dream-of-mirror-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/01/rise-and-shiny-recap-dream-of-mirror-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,


Each week Rise and Shiny asks you to download and try a different free-to-play, indie or unusual game, chosen by me, Beau Hindman. Some of the games will be far out of your gaming comfort zone, and some will pleasantly surprise you. We will meet each Tuesday and Friday night at 9 p.m. EDT (8 p.m. CDT), followed by this column the Sunday after. I welcome any suggestions for games, either in the comments or at beau@massively.com or Twitter me @Beau_Hindman.

At some point in his life, every man has to attempt to grow a beard. I am not talking about a finely chisled goatee, or one of those odd looking Robin Hood-type deals. I am talking about a full beard, a substantial mound of hair rooted in our face -- an escape-attempt by the very testosterone that makes us a man in the first place. I knew I had a chance this time when, after suggesting to my wife what I would attempt, she only shrugged. Normally she pulls on any scruff that pops out of my chin and says, "You look homeless. Shave."

As you grow this beard, there will be times when you will be very conscious of it.
  • When you first step out of the shower
  • When you are eating and food falls into it
  • When you are playing MMORPGs
Some MMOs are better suited to a beard: EVE Online, for example. EverQuest II will feel all right. World of Warcraft? Only while PvPing. If you're like me, though, and spend most of your time within balloon-bright cartoon-fests like Dream of Mirror Online, then you might be surprised at how it feels while playing bearded .

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Dream of Mirror Online

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Dream of Mirror Online originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 01 Aug 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeriaaeria-gamesbeau-hindmancasualdomodream-of-mirror-onlineeve-onlineEverQuest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playftphands-onrise-and-shinyWorld-of-WarcraftSun, 01 Aug 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A look at Aeria Games and their social network]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/10/a-look-at-aeria-games-and-their-social-network/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/10/a-look-at-aeria-games-and-their-social-network/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/10/a-look-at-aeria-games-and-their-social-network/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


When I was asked to do a write up about Aeria games, I smiled. Not only do some of my favorite FTP games come from the developer, but I have always liked how they present their products. While social networks are anything but brand new and uncommon, Aeria does theirs in a way that makes you want to play their games and to dive into their world.

I decided to take a broad look at the two major areas: First, I wanted to try out the social network area of their site. It's standard stuff, really, but works well and is fun to fill out. I also wanted to try out some of their mini-games that are hosted on the site itself. Next I wanted to look at one of their games, Shin Megami Tensei: Imagine Online. There are a total of 16 titles to choose from, so I decided to go with one that I had enjoyed the most. It's been fun so far, and I'm glad I am going to be able to shine a little light on one of my favorite publishers!

Continue reading A look at Aeria Games and their social network

MassivelyA look at Aeria Games and their social network originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 10 Apr 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeriaaeria-gamesdream-of-mirror-onlineDreamOfMirrorOnlinefeaturedfree-to-playftpshin-megami-tenseiShinMegamiTenseisocial-networkSocialNetworkSat, 10 Apr 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DOMO gets new bosses, race-change scrolls and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/15/domo-gets-new-bosses-race-change-scrolls-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/15/domo-gets-new-bosses-race-change-scrolls-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/15/domo-gets-new-bosses-race-change-scrolls-and-more/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Before we get into the contents of the latest Dream of Mirror Online patch, we should point out that this is currently just for the European (Gametribe) version of the game. Players of the European DOMO will be able to pit themselves against a couple of formidable new foes:

Two dreadful instance bosses are infesting BigBeam region! If you have the title "Champion of BigBeam" you can challenge boss Bone Fish King and boss Black Magic Tree Fiend. Great rewards are waiting for fierce warriors!

As the Aeria Games version of DOMO only just received the BigBeam area within the last week, it will probably be a little while before these bosses make their way over. Other additions for the Gametribe patch include scrolls that can change your character's race for 30 minutes, new boxes to store items, a high quality saddle to increase the speed of Special Riding Pets, and a goodie bag with a Firefighter costume inside for all your extinguishing needs.

MassivelyDOMO gets new bosses, race-change scrolls and more originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Jun 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bigbeamblack-magic-tree-fiendbone-fish-kingchampion-of-bigbeamdomodream-of-mirror-onlineeuropeanfirefighter-costumegametribepatchMon, 15 Jun 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Witch Doctor on the way to DOMO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/23/witch-doctor-on-the-way-to-domo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/23/witch-doctor-on-the-way-to-domo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/23/witch-doctor-on-the-way-to-domo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


GameTribe, the free to play MMO portal, have announced that Aeria Games' Dream of Mirror Online will be receiving an update that adds a new class to the game on May 27th. This will be a Witch Doctor, a mysterious class that usually does not show up in public and is only known through rumors a guesswork.

Also being added are several new in-game shop items, including several storage boxes for the various types of items, as well as a new Leather Goodie Bag which when opened contains leather clothing and sunglasses which last 15 days, 30 days or are permanent. Until May 27th there is also a Crimson Mecha constume, helmet and jetpack available. These are all permanent items.

MassivelyWitch Doctor on the way to DOMO originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 23 May 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeria-gamesdream-of-mirror-onlinegametribewitch-doctorSat, 23 May 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Short or long quest arcs?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/19/the-daily-grind-short-or-long-quest-arcs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/19/the-daily-grind-short-or-long-quest-arcs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/19/the-daily-grind-short-or-long-quest-arcs/#commentsFiled under: , ,


A little while back, Beau from Spouse Aggro wrote a post about the fun of doing long quest arcs with cut-scenes in Dream of Mirror Online. While I can also say I've enjoyed questing in DOMO, sometimes there's something to be said for a quick "get in, get out" setup like, say, some of the one-off, well thought out missions I've seen created in the City of Heroes Mission Architect, or jumping in and doing something quick in Free Realms when you only have a short period of time. While there is a space for both, it almost seems like long quest arcs involving lots of time (and grinding) are becoming something of an endangered species. Games that have long time-requirements to complete them are often sparsely populated (as per Beau's mention of Final Fantasy XI) compared to many other MMOs on the market these days.

Thus, we raise the question - are long quest arcs full of "grind for x drop" "must complete with a group" "run all over the place for a while fetching things" slated to go the way of the dodo, with players instead opting for quick bite-sized missions instead? Or do you think longer quests are better, as they require you to get out into the world more and see/do things you wouldn't if you just ran outside the five-feet-away gates and knocked over 10 wolves for their paws then ran back?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Short or long quest arcs? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 May 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-turkeydomodream-of-mirror-onlinegrindlong-questsquestsshort-questsspouse-aggrothe-daily-grindTue, 19 May 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dream of Mirror Online welcomes a brand new city]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/30/dream-of-mirror-online-welcomes-a-brand-new-city/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/30/dream-of-mirror-online-welcomes-a-brand-new-city/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/30/dream-of-mirror-online-welcomes-a-brand-new-city/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

It's not that often that a brand new region gets added into a game's patch, but Dream of Mirror Online has brought a whole new area to their game. Enter BigBeam City and the greater BigBeam region, where players can engage in a variety of new quests all for the low, low price of free. The region is targeted for players of level 30 and above, with quests starting as early as level 25 and going up to level 60.

However, players of the Aeria Games American version of Dream of Mirror Online will not be enjoying these new areas, as they have not yet been implemented. European players playing with GameTribe do have access to the new areas, as well a slew of new items added to the item shop, like the item de-leveling items that lower the level limit on equipment when successful.

It's currently unclear as to when Aeria Games will be adding BigBeam to their version, but time will certainly tell. Until then, we can all go invade the European servers.

MassivelyDream of Mirror Online welcomes a brand new city originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 30 Apr 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeria-gamesamericanbigbeambigbeam-citybigbeam-regiondomodream-of-mirror-onlineeuropeangametribeitem-shopThu, 30 Apr 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aeria Games: "If you don't have fun playing, we'll give you a refund"]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/07/aeria-games-if-you-dont-have-fun-playing-well-give-you-a-re/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/07/aeria-games-if-you-dont-have-fun-playing-well-give-you-a-re/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/07/aeria-games-if-you-dont-have-fun-playing-well-give-you-a-re/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


There aren't many MMO publishers out there who would actually offer refunds for gamers who don't have fun in their titles, but this is exactly what Aeria Games is doing. We did a double take when hearing about this but it's legit. Superman0X is a USA Gamemaster for Aeria Games, and has declared "April is Fun Month at Aeria... GUARANTEED".

That's a bold statement. But what does it mean for players of the various Aeria Games MMOs? Superman0X writes, "We are so sure you will have fun we are going to put our AP [Aeria Points] where our mouth is. If any player does not have fun we will refund all their AP purchases for the entire month up to 5000AP." Players who didn't enjoy themselves in April will have a window of opportunity to request a refund from May 1st to May 10th . You can check out the full details in the announcement but we're guessing Aeria has a lot of faith in their titles if they'd even consider making such an offer.

MassivelyAeria Games: "If you don't have fun playing, we'll give you a refund" originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Apr 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeria-gamesaeria-pointsdomodream-of-mirror-onlinef2pfree-to-playgamemastergmlast-chaosmegatenproject-torquerefundrefundsshaiyashin-megami-tenseistoneage-2superman0xturf-battlestwelve-skyTue, 07 Apr 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you like cel-shaded MMO graphics?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/24/the-daily-grind-do-you-like-cel-shaded-mmo-art/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/24/the-daily-grind-do-you-like-cel-shaded-mmo-art/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/24/the-daily-grind-do-you-like-cel-shaded-mmo-art/#commentsFiled under: ,


From the simplistic to the detailed, we've seen more and more MMOs with cel-shaded art entering the market in the last while. Dream of Mirror Online, Zu Online and FusionFall have all launched already and are using a slightly less demanding variant. Champions Online will be coming out later this year and seems to be using a more detailed version versus the others out there. Some people really enjoy cel-shaded animation, preferring the animated cartoon look it gives. Others can't stand it because it means you can often lose certain physical elements due to poor shading, so your avatar winds up looking more 2-d than 3-d. (Sometimes referred to as 'losing your nose' when looking at a head-on view of your avatar facing into the light and the nose disappears due to no shadowing.)

Of course, realizing this is ultimately a matter of personal taste - we wanted to ask. Do you like cel-shaded graphics in MMOs? Is it a fresh, fun way to see a new world? Perhaps you like the idea, but think the execution needs work. Does the 'losing your nose' thing drive you bonkers? Or do cel-shaded MMO graphics just not do it for you at all?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do you like cel-shaded MMO graphics? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Mar 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cel-shadedchampions-onlinedream-of-mirror-onlinegraphicsmmoopiniontdgthe-daily-grindzu-onlineTue, 24 Mar 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DOMO embraces same-sex marriage in game]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/19/domo-embraces-same-sex-marriage-in-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/19/domo-embraces-same-sex-marriage-in-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/19/domo-embraces-same-sex-marriage-in-game/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


While they're certainly not the first game to offer same-sex marriage, Aeria's Dream of Mirror Online announced today that they're embracing the once controversial topic with their new and improved dynamic in-game marriage system. The same-sex aspect of this marriage system is simply one of the many features, but it hasn't been added as just an afterthought. It's been a popular topic of discussion among DOMO players since the game's launch in Fall of 2007.

This marriage system allows couples to embark on a series of challenging quests where they can plan their in-game wedding, complete with dream locale, wedding outfit and even a perfect set of rings. Once married, the couple will be granted unique features which include the ability to summon their significant other to their location, as well as special healing abilities during battle.

MassivelyDOMO embraces same-sex marriage in game originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Mar 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeria-gamesdomodream-of-mirror-onlinemarriagesame-sexsame-sex-marriageweddingsThu, 19 Mar 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dream of Mirror Online takes it all the way to 64 in their new patch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/18/dream-of-mirror-online-takes-it-all-the-way-to-64-in-their-new-p/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/18/dream-of-mirror-online-takes-it-all-the-way-to-64-in-their-new-p/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/18/dream-of-mirror-online-takes-it-all-the-way-to-64-in-their-new-p/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Most games choose to stop their leveling content at round numbers, like 60, or 70, or 80. Dream of Mirror Online, however, doesn't feel bound by those limitations. They're pushing their content all the way to level 64, and we can't blame them. We've always felt that 64 was a good number that brings back good memories. 64-bit game consoles, Nintendo 64, GoldenEye...

We see what they did there. They wanted to bring back our fond memories of GoldenEye as we played their game.

Anyway, today's patch adds two new major quests to the game, as well as a few new items for everyone to collect. We're looking forward to grabbing the samurai goodie bags ourselves. If you're interested in getting access to level up to 64, then talk to the Tiger Demon in Eversun suburbs. Once that quest is completed, your character will have access to level up to the brand new cap of 64!

MassivelyDream of Mirror Online takes it all the way to 64 in their new patch originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Feb 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>domodream-of-mirror-onlinegametribelevel-64level-cap-increasepatchsamuraiupdateWed, 18 Feb 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aeria Games gives away five million dollars in points to players]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/aeria-games-gives-away-five-million-dollars-in-points-to-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/aeria-games-gives-away-five-million-dollars-in-points-to-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/aeria-games-gives-away-five-million-dollars-in-points-to-players/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Do you play Last Chaos, Shaiya, Dream of Mirror Online, or any one of the other Aeria Online games? Check your e-mails and spam filters for a nice stocking stuffer of Aeria Points, as the company is sending over five million dollars worth to their player community.

Any member of the Aeria Games community is eligible to recieve one of these e-mails, and Aeria will be sending them out from now all the way to Christmas, so keep checking as you might not know when one of these may fly into your inbox. The number of points that each person will get can vary, and so far a limit has not been mentioned on how much you may receive.

Good luck for those of you who are members of the Aeria community! We hope you get showered with points! Plus, if you find yourself rich, your favorite news site might like a few points too.

[via Allakhazam]

MassivelyAeria Games gives away five million dollars in points to players originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Dec 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeriaaeria-gamesaeria-onlineaeria-pointschristmaschristmas-contestdomodream-of-mirror-onlinegiveawaylast-chaosshaiyashin-megami-tensei-imaginetwelve-skyThu, 18 Dec 2008 10:00:00 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[News From the Wider MMO World: September 16, 2008]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/16/news-from-the-wider-mmo-world-september-16-2008/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/16/news-from-the-wider-mmo-world-september-16-2008/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/16/news-from-the-wider-mmo-world-september-16-2008/#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.

World of Kung Fu opens screenshot contest
From September 15th to the 30th, VestGame Entertainment has partnered with zownder.com to create the first World of Kung Fu screenshot contest. "This contest really gives us the chance to showcase the awesome graphics and spectacular artwork that forms such an integral part of the game", says David Clarke, World of Kung Fu's North American Producer. The Grand Prize includes a permanent Xuan Wu mount and over a hundred rare items such as high level Forging Vouchers, Advanced Craftsman Charms, Sky Pearls, and much more. For more information, visit either founder's website.

Gaia Online brings Snoop Dogg and the Incredible Hulk to the virtual mall
Each month, residents of the virtual world Gaia Online have a chance to vote for their favorite real-world celebrities as part of the Celebrity Snare section of the website. As an example, the latest items to have been made available are Snoop Dogg's hairstyle, and the Hulk's torn-up purple pants. "Gaia Online is truly an extension of our users' real life interests and passions and Celebrity Snare is just another way we're enabling Gaians to customize their online persona and express themselves to the community," said Craig Sherman, CEO of Gaia Online. "The same way fans hang a poster on their bedroom wall or wear a t-shirt with their favorite band on it, we're enabling our users to establish a connection with the celebrities they admire." Further celebrities to go virtual will include Elvis Presley, Justin Timberlake, Tila Tequila, Paris Hilton, Raven Symone and Marvel's She-Hulk.

Continue reading News From the Wider MMO World: September 16, 2008

MassivelyNews From the Wider MMO World: September 16, 2008 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Sep 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeria-gamesalbatross18bittorrentcabal-onlinedream-of-mirror-onlinedreamlords-the-reawakeningea-mythicexpansionfeaturedfiestagaia-onlinejoystiqfeaturesla-talelast-chaosnewsnews-from-the-wider-mmo-worldogplanetoutsparkrumble-fightersecret-of-the-solsticeshaiastygian-abyssultima-onlinevestgame-entertainmentworld-of-kung-fuTue, 16 Sep 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dream of Mirror Online update changes tax rates]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/23/dream-of-mirror-online-update-changes-tax-rates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/23/dream-of-mirror-online-update-changes-tax-rates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/23/dream-of-mirror-online-update-changes-tax-rates/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Dream of Mirror Online's version 7.5 update has gone live, and it's accompanied by a new issue of the micro-faux newspaper the Eversun Times. The news: economic hardship has stricken Eversun City, and its leaders are under intense scrutiny. As a result, a new 10% tax rate has gone into effect in the city.

Darkdale and Collington saw tax rate changes as well -- to 4% and 1%, respectively. New quests have been added in both of those towns. And that's it. Okay, so it's not the biggest patch in history. We're not even sure that we like a patch that pretty much just changes the tax code, since we don't like taxes to begin with! But there you have it.

MassivelyDream of Mirror Online update changes tax rates originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Jul 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeriaaeria-gamesdomodomo-version-1.75dream-of-mirror-onlineeversun-cityeversun-timespatchtaxesthe-eversun-timesWed, 23 Jul 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aeria adds Diablo-like Cronous to its library]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/18/aeria-adds-diablo-like-cronous-to-its-library/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/18/aeria-adds-diablo-like-cronous-to-its-library/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/18/aeria-adds-diablo-like-cronous-to-its-library/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

MMO portal Aeria Games has acquired a new game called Cronous, which was originally developed by Lizard Interactive. Cronous' gameplay is similar to that of Diablo, Mythos, or Dungeon Runners. That makes it somewhat unique in Aeria's library, which is otherwise made up mostly of games of a different character such as Dream of Mirror Online and Shaiya.

The game's info page lists most of the usual action-RPG features, plus "nonlinear storytelling" with regards to quests, guild castle building and management, and siege warfare. We don't fully understand the nonlinear storytelling bit, although it's included in the press release as one of the major selling points of the game. It sounds cool up front though.

Sign-ups are already underway for a closed beta test, so if you want to give the game a try, that's probably your best bet.

[Via Ten Ton Hammer]

MassivelyAeria adds Diablo-like Cronous to its library originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Jul 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Lockpick Entertainment announced today that they have signed an exclusive agreement to distribute their MMORTS game Dreamlords -- the Reawakening in North America. Aeria Games, publishers of Stone Age 2, Dream of Mirror Online and many, many more free-to-play MMOs, will have Dreamlords in beta in July, looking forward to an August release.

Spencer Chi, producer at Aeria Games, called Dreamlords an answer to gamers' demand for a fun MMORTS (massively-multiplayer online real-time strategy) game. Dreamlords players will be able to buy in-game items and equipment with the Aeria Points currency common to all Aeria's games. Interested and want to know more? Then turn back to our extensive coverage of Dreamlord's path to publication.

MassivelyDreamlords finds US publisher -- and you'll never guess who. originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Jul 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeria-gamesbetadomodream-of-mirror-onlinedreamlordsdreamlords-the-reawakeningfantasyfree-to-playmmortsnew-titlesnewspvpstone-age-2Fri, 04 Jul 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New closed beta for Pi Story]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/01/new-closed-beta-for-pi-story/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/01/new-closed-beta-for-pi-story/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/01/new-closed-beta-for-pi-story/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Pi Story, a 2D side scrolling MMO in the style of Maple Story, has announced a new round of their closed beta test. The beta is currently limited to previous beta testers for Aeria Games' lineup of import MMOs, or those quick enough to snag one of the closed beta keys they are giving away. If you'd like to get in on the casual MMO goodness that flows from Aeria Games, why not head over and sign up? From Pi Story to the incredibly popular Dream of Mirror Online to the pet collecting and raising game Stone Age 2 to the massively kung-fu game Twelve Sky (and many others), you'll find a game there you'll enjoy. And they are all free to play.

Pi Story tells the tale of a perfect world -- Pi -- that was torn apart by this very desire for perfection. Now the world is broken into shards, and your job is to bring these shards back together by finding all the pieces of Pi. Mmm. Pi. Pi Story features casual play, a very easy grouping system, instanced adventure areas, a strategy-based guild activity system and housing, an apartment of your own you can decorate as you wish, a built in web diary and browser, and built-in message boards.

Want to see more? Check out the gameplay video after the break.

Continue reading New closed beta for Pi Story

MassivelyNew closed beta for Pi Story originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Jul 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeria-gamesbetacasualdomodream-of-mirror-onlineeventsfantasyfree-to-playmaple-storynew-titlepi-storystone-age2twelve-skyTue, 01 Jul 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Summer update adds Merchant class to Dream of Mirror Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/22/summer-update-adds-merchant-class-to-dream-of-mirror-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/22/summer-update-adds-merchant-class-to-dream-of-mirror-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/22/summer-update-adds-merchant-class-to-dream-of-mirror-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Gametribe, the European carrier of Dream of Mirror Online (run in North America by Aeria Games), announced a new game update this weekend. The update will go live on the 25th, and it will add a new class to DoMO -- the Merchant. The Merchant "uses money to fight and create powerful attacks." Sounds cool, but expensive!

The update will also feature a handful of new quests, including a couple new steps to the main quest. The item mall will see the addition of greedy inventory bags. Unsurprisingly, those will increase a character's maximum inventory. Some new visual character customization options will be added as well.

We've given kudos to DoMO for its art style in the past. Brenda Holloway (one of the staff bloggers here at Massively) even wrote that it's better than World of Warcraft. Don't scoff until you've tried it! If you have an aversion to microtransactions, though, maybe you should just take our word for it and move on.

MassivelySummer update adds Merchant class to Dream of Mirror Online originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 22 Jun 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeria-gamesbagsclassdomodream-of-mirror-onlinegametribegreedyjunemerchantmicrotransactionspatchquestssoftstarsummerupdateSun, 22 Jun 2008 11:30:00 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[WRUP: A long week's weekend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/11/wrup-a-long-weeks-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/11/wrup-a-long-weeks-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/11/wrup-a-long-weeks-weekend/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Happy Friday! Maybe it's just because sickness set in at the beginning of this week, but for some reason the past five days have seemed unreasonably long, so the break of the weekend is a welcome sight today. Friday also happens to be the day where we ask: What aRe yoU Playing in this wide and wonderful world of MMOs?

Kyle Horner says he's been enjoying himself in Ikariam lately -- he says it's a free-to-play browser based game that's "kind of like Civ," which makes it a must-check out. Michael Zenke tells us he's got Mythos and WoW on the docket for this weekend, along with another super secret game that we can't quite tell you about yet. But our own Tateru Nino takes the cake. Here's what she says she has planned for this weekend: "Dark Messiah of Might and Magic, Half Life 2 (original recipe), Team Fortress 2, UFO: Afterlight, The Bard's Tale, Imperium Romanum, City of Heroes, LotRO, The Longest Journey (original game), Two Worlds, Bioshock, Dream of Mirror Online, Neverwinter Nights 2, plus time in SL." Yowza. That's a lot of gaming.

So what are you up to? Taking advantage of the extra XP in Pirates of the Carribbean Online? Trying to sign up to play Age of Conan? Or just desperately trying to finish up your taxes? Leave a comment below and let us know what's on your MMO plate this weekend.

Previously on WRUP...

MassivelyWRUP: A long week's weekend originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 Apr 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conancity-of-heroesdream-of-mirror-onlineikariamkyle-hornerlotromassivelymichael-zenkemythospirates-of-the-carribbean-onlineweekendwowwrupFri, 11 Apr 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Aeria Games opens new DOMO server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/08/aeria-games-opens-new-domo-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/08/aeria-games-opens-new-domo-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/08/aeria-games-opens-new-domo-server/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


We here at Massively are pretty fond of Dream of Mirror Online and its delightful graphics. We even think its superior to World of Warcraft in some respects -- plus also (duh!): Free -- and now? A new server!

If you, like us have been feeling the squeeze on Aeria Games' very popular (and honestly rather crowded) Onyx server for Dream of Mirror Online, you'll likely be pleased to hear that there's now a pristine new server available.

Starting right now, you can create fresh characters on Aeria Games' new DOMO server, Sapphire. If you've built up a group and would like to play and level together on a quieter, and less crowded server, Sapphire might just be the thing for you.

MassivelyAeria Games opens new DOMO server originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 Apr 2008 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeria-gamesbreakingdomodream-of-mirror-onlinefantasyfree-to-playTue, 08 Apr 2008 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Five MMOs better than World of Warcraft - Part 5]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/01/five-mmos-better-than-world-of-warcraft-part-5/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/01/five-mmos-better-than-world-of-warcraft-part-5/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/01/five-mmos-better-than-world-of-warcraft-part-5/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Perhaps you play World of Warcraft just for fun? A casual game that you appreciate for its low system requirements and ability to either group or solo as the whim takes you? A game fun for you but as fun for your kids, one everyone can enjoy? One with some pretty unusual game mechanics and a very unique art style? WoW does all these things pretty well - but Aeria's Dream of Mirror Online does them better. Plus, it's free.

DOMO is built around stories - and you're in one, someone brought from our world to the Mirror World along with many others to save the realm from dissolution. Are you the One who will save it? The Mirror people are willing to take a chance on you. You will meet Mirror Kings of every description to help you on your way; you can battle monsters or befriend them; you can fly around on swords; you can have quests with full cinematics and if you want friends to come along, then they can.

If you don't want to grind your way to uberness, you can buy helpful items in their shops for cash or in the dozens of player-created shops for game currency. Instead of killing monsters, you can capture them and release them later as pets under your control. And the graphics! Some people consider WoW's strong art style one of its greatest features. Well, you haven't seen DOMO yet. Playing DOMO is like being the main character of your own anime. If you play WoW because you enjoy a casual, colorful game with the emphasis on fun all the time, exploring strange worlds, and being the star of your own story... you should give Dream of Mirror Online a shot.

World of Warcraft is an excellent game, but its very success is something of a prison. They have ten million players to please. They can't try anything radically new. Smaller games are freer to try things that are very new and go to places WoW cannot follow. You've played WoW. Is it time to give something new a chance? No matter what you like best, there's a game that does it better, and all of them are filled with fantastically helpful people who welcome new players. These games can be a little overwhelming to begin with; but you probably felt that way the first time you stepped into the world of Azeroth, too.

We don't expect everyone to agree with our particular choices. Have some better ones? Or is WoW truly the best game no matter what you like to do best? Let us know in the comments!

MassivelyFive MMOs better than World of Warcraft - Part 5 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Apr 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeria-gamesdomodream-of-mirror-onlineworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 01 Apr 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dream of Mirror Online's cel-shaded look works for it]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/19/dream-of-mirror-onlines-cel-shaded-look-works-for-it/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/19/dream-of-mirror-onlines-cel-shaded-look-works-for-it/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/19/dream-of-mirror-onlines-cel-shaded-look-works-for-it/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Our own Tateru Nino has been covering Dream of Mirror Online pretty well (both with a nice hands-on and coverage of the problems with EU players), and now Keen (of Keen and Graev) has written up a few of his own impressions of the game as well. He doesn't go nearly as in-depth as Tateru's hands-on (just mentions that there are a few "kill x boars pigs" quests), but he does talk about how the cel-shading and stylization of the graphics is a real boost for the game, both in terms of playability (the low system requirements are great for pulling in casual players) and in terms of feel. Both Tateru and Keen felt that the world was really alive with characters and story.

My original concern with the game was that the gameplay would end up "as cutesy as the graphics are," but according to what we've heard, it's actually pretty in-depth. Anyone else given the world of DOMO a try?

MassivelyDream of Mirror Online's cel-shaded look works for it originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 19 Dec 2007 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cel-shadedcutedream-of-mirror-onlinegameplaygraphicsimpressionskeenqueststateru-ninoWed, 19 Dec 2007 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DOMO: Divided dream developments]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/08/domo-divided-dream-devlopments/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/08/domo-divided-dream-devlopments/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/08/domo-divided-dream-devlopments/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Late last month, we wrote about anguish among players of Dream of Mirror Online at a move by GameTribe to block IP addresses outside of Europe, and to have competing operator Aeria Games to block European addresses from their servers.

All in all, it's been quite a tangle of he-said/she-said - assorted forum posts, threads and interviews are no longer accessible, making it even harder to pin down what's going on, but we've put together a bit of a timeline, and there has been a new development that may make players saddened by the split rather happier.

Continue reading DOMO: Divided dream developments

MassivelyDOMO: Divided dream developments originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 08 Dec 2007 05:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeria-gamesdomodream-of-mirror-onlinegametribesoftstarSat, 08 Dec 2007 05:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with Dream of Mirror Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/02/dream-of-mirror-online-hands-on/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/02/dream-of-mirror-online-hands-on/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/02/dream-of-mirror-online-hands-on/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Dream of Mirror Online is currently in the news for IP bans, and unexpected regional segregation between service operators. Leave all that go for just a few minutes.

Forget the disputes between the game operators and focus on the game. What is Dream of Mirror Online all about, what is it like to play, and most of all, is it fun? We've had our hands on the beta for a while now, and we've got some hands-on impressions for you.

Gallery: Dream of Mirror Online


Continue reading Hands-on with Dream of Mirror Online

MassivelyHands-on with Dream of Mirror Online originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 02 Dec 2007 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betasdomodream-of-mirror-onlinefeaturedhands-onnew-titlesSun, 02 Dec 2007 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DOMO: Broken mirror, broken dreams]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/29/broken-mirror-broken-dreams/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/29/broken-mirror-broken-dreams/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/29/broken-mirror-broken-dreams/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Aeria Games and Entertainment, one of the regional publishers/operators of Softstar's new free-to-play MMO Dream of Mirror Online, has announced that it is reluctantly going to have to IP block European users from the service from the commencement of the upcoming open beta.

Aeria Games is so reluctant, in fact, that they've started up a petition, and are encouraging DOMO players who take issue with the change to contact MMO developer Softstar. [Correction: Apparently these initiatives were started by the forum moderators who are volunteers and not employees of Aeria games]

Continue reading DOMO: Broken mirror, broken dreams

MassivelyDOMO: Broken mirror, broken dreams originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Nov 2007 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeria-gamesbreakingdomodream-of-mirror-onlinegametribehellgate-londonsoftstarThu, 29 Nov 2007 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Dream of Mirror Online open beta incoming]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/15/dream-of-mirror-online-open-beta-incoming/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/15/dream-of-mirror-online-open-beta-incoming/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/15/dream-of-mirror-online-open-beta-incoming/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


To be honest, I'm not sure if a game like this floats any boats here at Massively, but surely in our (growing) audience there's someone out there who cares for cel-shaded graphics and wacky Japanese RPGs with surfer swords and anime nose bubbles. For you, dear reader, we cover the news that Dream of Mirror Online (DOMO, for short), a very Japanese (and Maple Story-esque, I believe) MMO is finishing up closed beta and will have an open beta before the end of the year.

The open beta will also add Hunter, Mercenary, Musician and Wizard classes, and Gametribe promises more new content to come. I kind of like how bright and shiny the graphics are-- it's a good change from the dark and increasingly bump-mapped graphics of Western games. But I worry that the gameplay will end up as cutesy as the models are. Anyone excited about this one and want to tell us why?

MassivelyDream of Mirror Online open beta incoming originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Nov 2007 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brightclassesdream-of-mirror-onlinegraphicsjapanesemaple-storynose-bubblesshinysurfer-swordsThu, 15 Nov 2007 09:00:00 EST