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[The Mog Log: Final Fantasy XIV beta phase 1 and 2 - FATEs and dungeons]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/the-mog-log-final-fantasy-xiv-beta-phase-1-and-2-fates-and-du/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/the-mog-log-final-fantasy-xiv-beta-phase-1-and-2-fates-and-du/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/the-mog-log-final-fantasy-xiv-beta-phase-1-and-2-fates-and-du/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

That withdrawal is a very real thing. I'm missing it.
Do you smell that on the wind, my friends? It smells like June is fast approaching, and more importantly it smells like soon we'll be able to welcome the third phase of testing with open arms. Which is good, since I am currently going through withdrawal. I wake up in cold sweats, try to change my class in other games, start up the Final Fantasy XIV beta client in the hopes that someone "accidentally" turned the servers back on... you get the general idea.

To help alleviate this, I'm going to talk about the two pieces of the game from the first two beta phases that are in need of the most polish. While there are places to improve elsewhere, FATEs and dungeons have issues that might need a bit more hammering to fix. Or they might be fine and we just haven't yet seen enough of the game to know everything. Either way, let's get started with the big addition to the game, the system that had no predecessor in Final Fantasy XIV's first version: the FATE system.

Continue reading The Mog Log: Final Fantasy XIV beta phase 1 and 2 - FATEs and dungeons

MassivelyThe Mog Log: Final Fantasy XIV beta phase 1 and 2 - FATEs and dungeons originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 18 May 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabetasconsoleconsolesdungeonsdynamic-eventsfantasyfatesfeaturedffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivfull-active-time-eventsgroup-contentmog-logopinionraidssquaresquare-enixsquenixthe-mog-logSat, 18 May 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Defiance bugs invade RIFT]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/defiance-bugs-invade-rift/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/defiance-bugs-invade-rift/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/defiance-bugs-invade-rift/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

And this has somehow happened before Zerg invade Azeroth. I'm speechless.
Adventurers of Telara, you've kind of got a good news/bad news situation taking place here. The bad news is that RIFT is getting invaded, which was already the case. The worse news is that it's now being invaded by the Hellbugs from Defiance, which usually require a great deal of automatic weapons fire to be put down. The good news is that if you can somehow manage to overcome the distinct lack of any firearms and put down the invasion, you can keep a Hellbug around to ride! Wait, that might still be bad news.

Yes, Trion Worlds is kicking off a cross-promotional event with new fire rifts that give players a chance at Defiance-related rewards, most notably the chance to pick up a Hellbug mount. The event is open to all players, even if you're just trying out the game's Lite version. No word on how long the event will last, but it's probably best to assume that it won't be forever -- which is also sort of a good news/bad news situation, unless you wanted to see the game overrun by Hellbugs.

MassivelyDefiance bugs invade RIFT originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 May 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkark-hunterarkfallconquestcross-promotionsdefiancedynamic-eventsfantasyin-game-eventsinvasionsmmo-shooterpromotionspvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrsci-fishootersyfythird-person-shooterthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptpstransmedia-synergytriontrion-worldstvxboxWed, 01 May 2013 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The battle is joined: Starting new and fighting through Final Fantasy XIV's relaunch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/the-battle-is-joined-starting-new-and-fighting-through-final-fa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/the-battle-is-joined-starting-new-and-fighting-through-final-fa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/the-battle-is-joined-starting-new-and-fighting-through-final-fa/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Have I mentioned I love Highlander women yet? Because it should be restated regularly.
I know a lot about Final Fantasy XIV. This is surprising to no one; there's a reason Joystiq sent me to the preview event, a reason I write a weekly column about the game, and a reason I still have the Final Fantasy XIV collector's edition box sitting in my office. The net result is that I have spent a lot of time playing the game.

As a result, I was more than a little nervous when sitting down to play the revamped version at the Final Fantasy XIV press event in San Francisco last week. Done incorrectly, playing the game could feel subtly wrong, like a stranger pretending to be your old friend. And even if I avoided that pitfall, the gameplay could feel inelegant or forced.

I'm happy to report that none of that is the case. Make no mistake -- the game is very different from its original incarnation, but it also sports enough familiar stuff that you aren't left wandering around baffled.

Continue reading The battle is joined: Starting new and fighting through Final Fantasy XIV's relaunch

MassivelyThe battle is joined: Starting new and fighting through Final Fantasy XIV's relaunch originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Feb 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-realm-rebornbattle-flowbattle-mechanicscharacter-creationconsoleconsolescontentdynamic-eventsfantasyfatefeaturedffff14ffxivffxiv-version-2.0final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivflowfull-active-time-eventsgame-mechanicshands-onhunting-loglogopinionpreviewpreviewsquest-structurequestsrelaunchskillssquaresquare-enixThu, 21 Feb 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaderboard: Dynamic events vs. investigation quests]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/29/leaderboard-dynamic-events-vs-investigation-quests/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/29/leaderboard-dynamic-events-vs-investigation-quests/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/29/leaderboard-dynamic-events-vs-investigation-quests/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Dynamic investigations would only work in Law & Order: Online Madness Unit.
Guild Wars 2 decided to do something a little different when it was time to put together the game's content. Rather than having a few hubs where players can gather and grab a laundry list of quests, the game offers a few points of open-ended content and a lot of random events jumping up all over.

The Secret World went in a very different direction with the same goal of mixing up the final experience. Not every quest is a matter of just clicking the right stuff in the right places. There are quests where the answer lies behind a puzzle, something to challenge the mind of the player rather than just your character's murdering arm.

In the case of the former, dynamic events keep areas feeling fresh time after time, but they've also garnered some criticism for their simplicity or awkwardness compared to normal quests. On the other hand, the latter is pretty stagnant the second time you're solving the same puzzle, but it offers you a mental tease you don't always get from MMOs. So which do you think is the more interesting breakout? Dynamic events or investigation quests?

Continue reading Leaderboard: Dynamic events vs. investigation quests

MassivelyLeaderboard: Dynamic events vs. investigation quests originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 29 Oct 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbattle-royaldynamic-eventseventsfactionfantasyfuncomguild-wars-2gw2horrorinvestigationinvestigation-questsleaderboardmythologyncsoftone-on-oneone-vs-oneopinionpollpollspuzzlesrandom-eventsriddlessci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedthe-secret-worldtswversusvotevotesvotingvsMon, 29 Oct 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Are dynamic events another MMO fad?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/05/the-daily-grind-are-dynamic-events-another-mmo-fad/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/05/the-daily-grind-are-dynamic-events-another-mmo-fad/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/05/the-daily-grind-are-dynamic-events-another-mmo-fad/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Are dynamic events another MMO fad?
Move over, MMO story: dynamic events are this season's buzz word. Popularized by earlier MMOs like Warhammer Online and RIFT, dynamic events have become such an integral part of modern MMO design that brand-new Guild Wars 2 employs them as its central content conceit. Skip dynamic events in GW2 and you're going to have a rough time leveling (or surviving the ridicule of the commentariat, who consider dynamic events to be far superior to mundane, quest-like renown hearts). Even MMOFPS titles like Firefall are adopting the mechanic for their PvE fans.

But is this actually the type of content we want to see from our MMOs, whatever their flavor? Never mind whether they're actually dynamic -- do you actually think they make for fun, desirable content? Or are we just so sick of themepark-style questing and leveling that we're willing to accept anything in its stead, even if that "anything" might be a fad akin to MMO story?

What do you think -- are dynamic events all that and a bag of chips?

Every morning, the Massively bloggers probe the minds of their readers with deep, thought-provoking questions about that most serious of topics: massively online gaming. We crave your opinions, so grab your caffeinated beverage of choice and chime in on today's Daily Grind!

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Are dynamic events another MMO fad? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Oct 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brianna-royce-tdgdaily-grinddynamicdynamic-contentdynamic-eventdynamic-eventsfadfirefallGuild-Wars-2gw2levellevelingmmo-storyopinionorange-eventsquestquestingriftstorytdgthe-daily-grindWarhammer-OnlineFri, 05 Oct 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Diablo III's Monster Power system and LoL's World Championships]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/01/not-so-massively-diablo-iiis-monster-power-system-and-lols-wo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/01/not-so-massively-diablo-iiis-monster-power-system-and-lols-wo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/01/not-so-massively-diablo-iiis-monster-power-system-and-lols-wo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
This week Riot Games revealed details of the League of Legends $2,000,000 World Championship that's just two weeks away. Dota 2 celebrated its own world champions with a new blog post dedicated to the Aegis of Champions plaque given to this year's winners of The International. Upcoming console MOBA Guardians of Middle-earth showed off its PAX 2012 recap video this week, and Heroes of Newerth revealed its new hero, Solstice, who transforms during the night.

Torchlight II continues to dominate the game charts this week with impressive sales on Steam and even more impressive Metacritic scores. Upcoming free-to-play action RPG Path of Exile took another big step toward release this week with the addition of voice acting to quests. And Blizzard revealed details on Diablo III's next big patch, discussing increased legendary drop rates and the new Monster Power system that will let players customise their own difficulty levels.

Upcoming FPS Firefall revealed its impressive plans for Dynamic Events this week, with both local events and global invasions on the menu. Finally, Blacklight: Retribution followed last week's sniper montage contest with details of a new sniper-focused map and a new sniper rifle that would make Counterstrike players cry.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Diablo III's Monster Power system and LoL's World Championships

MassivelyNot So Massively: Diablo III's Monster Power system and LoL's World Championships originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Oct 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-million-dollarsaction-mmoaction-rpgaegis-of-championsand-then-we-doubled-itbarbarianbattlenetblacklightblacklight-retributionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcash-prizecompetitive-gamingconsoled3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotadota-2dynamic-eventdynamic-eventse-sporte-sportsenergy-twisteresportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfpsfree-to-playgothic-fantasygrinding-geargrinding-gear-gamesguild-wars-2gw2heroes-of-newerthhoninfernojay-wilsonleague-of-legendslegendarylegendary-itemslegendary-weaponslollord-of-the-ringslotrmagic-findmetacriticmeteormiddle-earthmmofpsmobamonolithmonolith-studiosmonster-powermultiplayerncsoftnerfnewsnot-so-massivelynsmone-million-dollarsonline-multiplayerpath-of-exileperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentplaqueplaystation-networkpoeps3psnpvppweriotriot-gamesround-uprounduprpgrun-like-the-winds2s2-gamessolsticesteamvalvevideovoice-actingwarner-broswhirlwindwizardwizard-nerfwyatt-chengxboxxbox-360xbox-livexbox360zombie-studiosMon, 01 Oct 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Firefall devs talk about dynamic events]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/28/firefall-devs-talk-about-dynamic-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/28/firefall-devs-talk-about-dynamic-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/28/firefall-devs-talk-about-dynamic-events/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Firefall devs talk about dynamic events
Just how dynamic is Firefall? Not dynamic enough, according to Red 5 Studios. In an effort to up the dynamism of the game, the development team is introducing some changes -- specifically, dynamic world events are going to be added to the world. They're so dynamical, it's even part of the name.

These new events come in two big categories: local and global. Both the local and global flavors can be world events, which are automagically activated by the game, or on-demand events, which are triggered by players. Global dynamic events are meant to reinforce the large themes of Firefall, while local events are all about what's going on in a specific region. The team is developing events to be engaging, varied, accessible, cooperative, and connected to the story of the world and regions in a meaningful way.

For a look at the type of events the team is working on, hit up the official blog post.

MassivelyFirefall devs talk about dynamic events originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 28 Sep 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dedynamic-eventdynamic-eventsdynamic-world-eventsdynomaticf2pfirefallfirst-person-shooterfpsfree-to-playmmo-shootermmofpspvpred-5red-5-studiossci-fishooterwarFri, 28 Sep 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Are live events due for a revival?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/22/the-daily-grind-are-live-events-due-for-a-revival/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/22/the-daily-grind-are-live-events-due-for-a-revival/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/22/the-daily-grind-are-live-events-due-for-a-revival/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Ultima Online
Live MMO events have long since fallen by the development wayside in the pursuit of scripted "dynamic" events. It used to be that game studios would send paid GMs into the game to roleplay with players in a tabletop-like scenario, conducting large-scale storytelling events and spawning enemies, locations, and items. Ultima Online, which celebrates its 15th birthday this week, is particularly well-known for these sorts of events, but they've seldom been replicated in later generations of triple-A MMOs.

TERA, apparently, hopes to change that with the implementation of Flash events, "spontaneous events focused on small groups of users and run by staff." They might seem a little out of place in TERA, but they could be a niche worth resurrecting. Live, impromptu events might have the disadvantage of involving only small groups of people and not the entire population, but that's exactly what makes them so intriguing for the players who happen to be in the right zone at the right time when one of these events starts.

What do you think? Do you wish more studios would get over their crush on pseudo-dynamic events and return to live events?

Every morning, the Massively bloggers probe the minds of their readers with deep, thought-provoking questions about that most serious of topics: massively online gaming. We crave your opinions, so grab your caffeinated beverage of choice and chime in on today's Daily Grind!

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Are live events due for a revival? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 22 Sep 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiosbrianna-royce-tdgclassic-mmodaily-grinddynamic-eventdynamic-eventseaelectronic-artsen-masseen-masse-entertainmenteventeventsfantasyflash-eventlive-eventlive-eventslive-events-teamlord-britishmythicmythic-entertainmentopinionpseudo-dynamic-eventssandboxscripted-eventscripted-eventstdgterathe-daily-grindultimaultima onlineuoSat, 22 Sep 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xsyon creature migration system unveiled]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/17/xsyon-creature-migration-system-unveiled/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/17/xsyon-creature-migration-system-unveiled/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/17/xsyon-creature-migration-system-unveiled/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Xsyon creature migration system unveiled
As part of making a dynamic, living world, Notorious Games unveiled Xsyon's unique new creature migration system. Unlike worlds where mobs are static, this sandbox will ensure that animals don't just hang around one place. Instead, as animals breed and the populations expand, they will move from regions with higher populations to areas with lower ones.

Different species will also exhibit different tendencies when migrating. Smaller, tamer critters will congregate toward the shores of Lake Tahoe and civilization, whereas the more dangerous creatures will migrate toward the mountains away from people. The wild animals that venture too close or into the toxic mist will mutate and return to wreak havoc upon the denizens of the land.

[Source: Notorious Games press release]

MassivelyXsyon creature migration system unveiled originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 17 Sep 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animal-migrationcreature-migration-systemdynamic-eventsdynamic-systemsfantasymigration-patternsmob-migrationnotoriousnotorious-gamespost-apocpost-apocalypticpvpsandboxsci-fantasysci-fixsyonMon, 17 Sep 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A critical look at Guild Wars 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/28/a-critical-look-at-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/28/a-critical-look-at-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/28/a-critical-look-at-guild-wars-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Guild Wars 2
Well, it's finally official: ArenaNet's golden child, Guild Wars 2, has launched, and I'm sure thousands upon thousands of you are too busy playing it to even read this article. On the other hand, it's an MMO launch, so a good chunk of you are bound to be locked out of the servers, unable to launch the client, or any number of other things, and if that's the case, then boy do I have an article for you. But first, allow me to don my flame retardant suit.

In the hopes of lowering the deluge of angry emails I'm about to get, let me preface everything by saying this: Guild Wars 2 is a good game -- a great game, even. In fact, I love it. But every time I've had the audacity to mention anything even remotely critical about the title in in-game chat (my first mistake), I've been immediately pounced upon by rabid fans who seem to think that anyone who feels that the game could be better in some regard is a heretic who should just quit the game. So I'm going to do what any rational gamer with a death wish would: take a critical look at Guild Wars 2.

Continue reading A critical look at Guild Wars 2

MassivelyA critical look at Guild Wars 2 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Aug 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetcriticismcritiquedesigndynamic-eventdynamic-eventsfantasyfeaturedflamebaitlolguild-wars-2gw2hands-onimpressionsjumping-puzzlesncsoftopinionrenown-heartvoice-actingvoiceoverTue, 28 Aug 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: Tips for your first outing in Guild Wars 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/28/flameseeker-chronicles-tips-for-your-first-outing-in-guild-wars/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/28/flameseeker-chronicles-tips-for-your-first-outing-in-guild-wars/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/28/flameseeker-chronicles-tips-for-your-first-outing-in-guild-wars/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Guild Wars 2
Welcome to Tyria, adventurer! This is the long-awaited launch day for Guild Wars 2. If you pre-purchased or pre-ordered the game, you've had a while in the world already. If not, then put on your best adventuring cloak and be sure to grab a spare handkerchief!

For those of you who haven't been following the game with the feverish eyes of a true fanatic, here are some things to keep in mind when you first strike out in Tyria.

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: Tips for your first outing in Guild Wars 2

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: Tips for your first outing in Guild Wars 2 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Aug 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adviceanetaquaticaquatic-skillsarenanetasura-portalcraftingdepositdynamic-eventsfantasyfast-travelfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesgatheringguideguidesguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw1gw2launchncsoftopinionpvetiptrickTue, 28 Aug 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 releases pillars of gameplay videos]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/26/guild-wars-2-releases-pillars-of-gameplay-videos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/26/guild-wars-2-releases-pillars-of-gameplay-videos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/26/guild-wars-2-releases-pillars-of-gameplay-videos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Guild Wars 2 concept art
Previously, ArenaNet discussed its philosophy behind the design of Guild Wars 2 in its MMO Manifesto. With launch quickly approaching, the studio has released four more videos that delve into how that philosophy was put into practice for the four ideas of dynamic events, personal story, combat, and PvP. Fans may be quick to note that there is no world vs. world video, but ArenaNet promises that a video highlighting that will come another day.

You can watch all four pillar of gameplay videos after the break.

Continue reading Guild Wars 2 releases pillars of gameplay videos

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 releases pillars of gameplay videos originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Jul 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetcombatdynamic-eventsfantasyguild-wars-2gw2ncsoftpersonal-storypillars-of-gameplayPvPvideoThu, 26 Jul 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Blender: Jeremy's unholy MMO concoction]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/22/mmo-blender-jeremys-unholy-mmo-concoction/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/22/mmo-blender-jeremys-unholy-mmo-concoction/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/22/mmo-blender-jeremys-unholy-mmo-concoction/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

MMO Blender
Have you ever wished MMO developers could put away their checkbooks, pluck out the best bits of their respective MMOs, and weld them together to construct the megalopolis of MMOs? We do too! So today, we're launching a brand-new opinion column, MMO Blender, in which the Massively writers will mix and match their favorite features from existing MMOs for your amusement. But do our choices create a perfectly honed machine or a lumbering, speechless frankenstein of an MMO that deserves to be put out of its misery?

First up: Livestreamer extraordinaire and Contributing Editor Jeremy Stratton with a potent, sandboxy blend of Fallen Earth, EVE Online, Lord of the Rings Online, and more. Wet your whistle after the break and look for more MMO Blenders from the rest of our staff in the coming weeks!

Continue reading MMO Blender: Jeremy's unholy MMO concoction

MassivelyMMO Blender: Jeremy's unholy MMO concoction originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Jun 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetarmchair-game-designauction-housecastlleccpccp-gamescode-clubcraftingdecoratingdigdynamic-eventseconomyeq-2eq-iieq2eqiieveeve-onlineeverquest-2everquest-iif2pfallen-earthfantasyfavorite-mmofefeaturedfellowship-maneuversffa-pvpfrankengamefrankenmmofree-for-allfree-for-all-pvpfree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactivefurnitureg1game-designgame-mechanicsgamersfirstguild-wars-2gw2housinginternet-spaceshipsjeremy-strattonkeepslayout-editorlineagelineage-2lineage-iilord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromechanicsmmo-blendermmo-mechanicsmmo-mix-tapemmo-mixologyncsoftopen-world-housingopinionplayer-housingplayer-vs-playerpost-apocpost-apocalypticpvpromrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentsandboxsci-fisiegesiege-warfaresiegessoesonysony-online-entertainmentspreadsheets-onlinetaboreatelonterraformterraformingturbineturbine-entertainmentvanguardvanguard-saga-of-heroesvgwastelandsworld-eventswurmwurm-onlineFri, 22 Jun 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet: Guild Wars 2 a 'reaction' to sluggish MMO design]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/arenanet-guild-wars-2-a-reaction-to-sluggish-mmo-design/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/arenanet-guild-wars-2-a-reaction-to-sluggish-mmo-design/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/arenanet-guild-wars-2-a-reaction-to-sluggish-mmo-design/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Guild Wars 2
Do you believe that the MMO genre has been stuck in a rut over the past few years? So does Christopher Lye, the global brand director for ArenaNet, who publicly denounced the post-World of Warcraft trend in the industry as stagnant.

In an interview with Gamasutra, Lye stated that Guild Wars 2 is walking the walk when it comes to genuinely challenging the status quo in the industry. "Honestly, I think the problem is that there's been a lack of change in MMO design and that Guild Wars 2 is a reaction to that," he said. "People will call this risky, but we think it's riskier just to churn out the same MMO that everyone has played before."

Lye pointed to Guild Wars 2's scaling dynamic event system and its action combat as examples of how ArenaNet is forging its own path. Observing that player consumption of content is "virtually insatiable," Lye said that the team has developed tools to allow it to implement changes and additions to dynamic events in hours, not weeks.

Is this industry stagnation coming to an end? Lye says yes: "We're finally seeing a point where companies realize that they're not going to create the next great MMO by just copying what's come before."

MassivelyArenaNet: Guild Wars 2 a 'reaction' to sluggish MMO design originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-combatactivisionanetarenanetbetablizzardblizzard-entertainmentchris-lyechristopher-lyedynamic-eventsfantasygamasutraguild-wars-2gw2industryinterviewmmo-industryncsoftstagnanttrendwarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowMon, 21 May 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: Dynomatic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/flameseeker-chronicles-dynomatic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/flameseeker-chronicles-dynomatic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/flameseeker-chronicles-dynomatic/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Guild Wars 2 concept art: Centaurs from hell
After the first mostly-open beta weekend event, reaction to the dynamic event system of Guild Wars 2 is mixed. Some people see it as the revolution of gameplay that was promised, others think it's a refreshing and solid system, and others feel that it falls short. All of those are fair, although it mightn't be hard to guess that I don't share all of those opinions.

Some people expecting the dynamic event system to be the trumpet that would herald the arrival of the salvation of the MMO world were rather let down. There've been a couple of bits of confusion about the nature and scope of dynamic events, so let's look into them.

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: Dynomatic

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: Dynomatic originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 May 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetcolin-johansondedynamic-eventsdynomaticfantasyfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw1gw2ncsoftopinionpveravious-makes-a-good-pointTue, 15 May 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: Simplicity itself]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/flameseeker-chronicles-simplicity-itself/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/flameseeker-chronicles-simplicity-itself/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/flameseeker-chronicles-simplicity-itself/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Guild Wars 2 concept art
ArenaNet is designing Guild Wars 2 to appeal to bucketloads of people. The studio's got the PvP and competition, the high-end dungeon challenge, the super-cooperative and dynamic PvE content, the compelling and branching storyline, the flashy (and occasionally sensibly flashy) armors -- there's a lot going on. Part of what makes that possible is the use of very approachable systems.

These simple systems pop up all over the place: the straight-forward lists of boons and conditions that affect players, the common capture point mechanic over which more intricate PvP objectives can be layered, and the relatively small pool of skills from which to assemble a build. The beauty of their simplicity is that the simplicity itself isn't a limiting factor -- you can't do only simple things with them.

In this way, simple systems have a low entry barrier and a high complexity capacity. That means that more people can enjoy the game with relatively little skill and that there's a lot of room for time, dedication, and finesse to lead to outstanding results. Anyone can play, but not everyone can (or will) master elements of the game.

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: Simplicity itself

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: Simplicity itself originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetcbtdynamic-eventsemergent-gameplayeventsfantasyfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw1gw2ncsoftopinionskill-comboskillsTue, 17 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: Setting up for success]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/flameseeker-chronicles-setting-up-for-success/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/flameseeker-chronicles-setting-up-for-success/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/flameseeker-chronicles-setting-up-for-success/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Guild Wars 2
Community Team Lead Martin Kerstein updated the ArenaNet blog a few days ago with some information about his team's plans for the Guild Wars 2 community. The two big bits of news were that there will be official forums (to the evident skepticism of the Guild Wars 2 Guru mods) and there will not be a typical fan site program. The most interesting bit, to me, is this:
"Our goal is to use a scalable, inclusive ecosystem instead of a rigid fan site program that doesn't scale well and excludes large parts of the fan base."
What I'm hoping this means is that the team members are opening themselves up to a lot more flexibility in which fan sites they support. This is great if it means that small blogs and niche communities can be more easily promoted; we already see this happening, as the Guild Wars 2 twitter feed is usually full of retweets pointing out various fan creations and posts. The flip side of this is equally true. In his article, Kerstein talks about wanting to promote a mature and helpful community, so hopefully the lack of a rigid structure in fan site support means the team members don't feel pressured to include and support toxic communities just because they've hit standardized milestones.

I have high hopes for this scalable community engagement style, and I hope to see it pay off for a lot of smaller fan sites and projects. If the folks at ArenaNet want to demand more of the quality of their community, more power to 'em.

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: Setting up for success

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: Setting up for success originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetcommunitydynamic-eventsfailurefantasyfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesforumsguild-warsguild-wars-2guild-wars-2-is-scalygwgw2Martin-Kersteinncsoftopinionravious-makes-a-good-pointscalable-contentTue, 20 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: Quest education]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/flameseeker-chronicles-quest-education/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/flameseeker-chronicles-quest-education/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/flameseeker-chronicles-quest-education/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

GW2
Looking around the Guild Warsy corners of the internet, I've found some confusion about quests and dynamic events. Having this handy platform to stand on, I thought I'd try to clarify things for those who aren't really sure what standard XP-gain looks like in Guild Wars 2. If this is old news to some of you, I apologize, but please remember that not everybody's been leaping on news scraps like a ravenous puppy for the last two or three years.

With the pretty aggressive abandonment of traditional questing in Guild Wars 2's PvE, there seems to be some misinformation about what directed content will look like. It's relatively accurate to say that there are three main types: personal story quests, renown hearts, and dynamic events. Dungeons, another type of PvE content, are kind of a world unto themselves; they're approached by way of the personal storyline but evidently aren't actually necessary for progress along that line (in an effort to not force people to team up in an MMO unless they jolly well feel like it). They contain events but also static objectives. However, since they're cordoned off by way of instances, it seems pretty safe to leave them out of this conversation. Let's dig in, shall we?

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: Quest education

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: Quest education originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetdynamic-eventsfantasyfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw2hearts-are-not-dynamic-eventsncsoftopinionpersonal-storypersonal-storylineQuestsraviousravious-makes-a-good-pointrenown-heartsTue, 13 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A new invasion is hitting Star Trek Online's test server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/a-new-invasion-is-hitting-star-trek-onlines-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/a-new-invasion-is-hitting-star-trek-onlines-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/a-new-invasion-is-hitting-star-trek-onlines-test-server/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

That probe is double-parked, too.
There has never been a shortage of stories about the Borg assimilating a culture, but it's rare for the race to actively invade a planet. But that's exactly what's happening on Star Trek Online's test serve: Defera undergoing a large-scale invasion by the Collective. Players in both the Federation and the KDF are tasked with fighting back against the Borg in a variety of different settings across the planet to help test out this new large-scale event.

Running for two hours once started, the event is currently being activated frequently enough so that players can consistently test all of the new elements introduced. If simply taking part in the push to prevent the Borg from getting a foothold isn't enough, the event also offers players new items as mission rewards, drops, and craftables. It should be an interesting event for players to explore in full on the test server, and it serves as another example of the game taking the war against the Borg up another notch.

MassivelyA new invasion is hitting Star Trek Online's test server originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Nov 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdynamic-eventseventsf2pfree-to-playin-game-eventspatchespath-to-f2pst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotesttrek-onlineupdatesworld-eventsThu, 10 Nov 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth developer blog talks territory control and world events]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/fallen-earth-developer-blog-talks-territory-control-and-world-ev/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/fallen-earth-developer-blog-talks-territory-control-and-world-ev/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/fallen-earth-developer-blog-talks-territory-control-and-world-ev/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Honey, the door blew shut. And locked itself.
The conversion to free-to-play has gone live, but there are more changes in store for Fallen Earth. A new developer blog entry has just been unveiled, discussing two of the bigger features in store for the game -- world events and territory control. The former will be dynamic content that appears at random, with multiple events able to feed upon one another and create some changing landscapes for players to explore.

Territory control, by contrast, will start off in a single region north of Blaine. The region will have a total of 13 different control points for factions to hold, with six of them out in the open and seven in more fortified locations. There will be notable rewards for players holding these objectives, including resource nodes, increased experience gain, and improved death toll. It should certainly lead to some interesting battles in the wasteland as players fight over the region's spoils.

MassivelyFallen Earth developer blog talks territory control and world events originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 31 Oct 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blogsdev-blogsdeveloper-blogdynamic-contentdynamic-eventsfactionsfallen-earthfegamersfirstpatchespreviewspvpterritory-controlworld-eventsMon, 31 Oct 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Newest Star Trek Online blog details upcoming event system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/16/newest-star-trek-online-blog-details-upcoming-event-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/16/newest-star-trek-online-blog-details-upcoming-event-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/16/newest-star-trek-online-blog-details-upcoming-event-system/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Not pictured: regular events in which the holodeck malfunctions and threatens to kill crew members. It's every other hour.
One of the major elements of the shows that Star Trek Online follows is one that assures there's always something happening. No ships are just idly floating about waiting for another urgent mission. That's where the new events system detailed in the latest Path to F2P blog comes in. It's a dynamic set of events and missions for players to take part in for a limited time, ranging from pure combat encounters to more social challenges among cadets and civilians.

As the blog outlines, players will be given access to a calendar showing the in-game events planned for the next 48 hours, with other special events popping up and leaving on a less regular schedule. Players can queue up to take part in these events as they become available, giving an alternate path to the extant missions and episodes. It's a fairly involved system overall, and it's the sort of thing that could help convey a sense of a dynamic universe.

MassivelyNewest Star Trek Online blog details upcoming event system originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 16 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdynamic-contentdynamic-eventseventsf2pfree-to-playgame-mechanicsin-game-eventsnew-systemspath-to-f2pscheduled-eventsst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotrek-onlineupdatesSun, 16 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: Invasion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/31/choose-my-adventure-invasion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/31/choose-my-adventure-invasion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/31/choose-my-adventure-invasion/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

My time was short this week in the world of Telara because of work and other obligations. However, I did several hours of RIFT-streaming this week; I hope you check out the stream at the end of this article. Although the video is kind of laggy, the inspiration for this article was captured in one of the streams. I die a lot, but thankfully, I'm an Ascended, right? So death means very little to me. I can be brought back many times over. I have a tendency, as you may see in that video, to get in over my head -- a lot.

This being my second week in the game, I'm getting used to what it's all about. I've been able to close multiple rifts, and I've leveled up to 13. (I told you I didn't get to play as much as I wanted.) There is much I love about the game, and there are many things that turn me off.

Most importantly, however, this week I encountered my first invasion of Freemarch. It took a bit for me to catch on to what was happening. I had thought it was just another rift opening up, but with a glance at my map, I quickly realized that this wasn't your everyday planar tear.

Gallery: CMA: RIFT

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: Invasion

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: Invasion originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 31 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alsbethalsbeth-the-discordantchoose-my-adventurecmadynamic-eventsFaeblightfeaturedinvasionIron-fortressJakubplane-of-deathplanes-of-telarapollpollsRIFTrift-planes-of-telararoleplaySeriiatriontrion-worldsWed, 31 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX 2011: Massively's hands-on with the Guild Wars 2 Asura]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/29/pax-2011-massivelys-hands-on-with-the-guild-wars-2-asura/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/29/pax-2011-massivelys-hands-on-with-the-guild-wars-2-asura/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/29/pax-2011-massivelys-hands-on-with-the-guild-wars-2-asura/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Lookit, I'm an Asura!
The new demo has arrived to the United States! ArenaNet unveiled the newest demo version of Guild Wars 2 last week at Gamescom, and it was filled with new surprises. Orrian undead, one of Zhaitan's underlings, the Charr starter area, playable Asura and Sylvari, and much more captured the attention of fans.

ArenaNet has returned to its home turf and was presenting the demo at PAX this weekend, and I had the privilege of diving into the game's new content. Follow along after the jump for the latest look at the Guild Wars 2 demo!

Continue reading PAX 2011: Massively's hands-on with the Guild Wars 2 Asura

MassivelyPAX 2011: Massively's hands-on with the Guild Wars 2 Asura originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 29 Aug 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetasuracharacter-creationdynamic-eventsfeaturedGuild-Wars-2gw2hands-onimpressionsncsoftpaxpax-primepax-prime-2011raceracesMon, 29 Aug 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2011: Guild Wars 2 shows off 40 minutes of gameplay]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/gamescom-2011-guild-wars-2-shows-off-40-minutes-of-gameplay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/gamescom-2011-guild-wars-2-shows-off-40-minutes-of-gameplay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/gamescom-2011-guild-wars-2-shows-off-40-minutes-of-gameplay/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Guild Wars 2 character customization
Hey Guild Wars 2 fans, bummed that you're not at Gamescom right now getting your paws, claws, or ferns on the game? We have the next best thing: nearly 40 minutes of video footage for you to digest.

On the Gamescom floor, ArenaNet's Chris Lye took time to walk Wartower.de through the full Guild Wars 2 demo for the event. During the tour, he shows us character customization, the Asura, and the Charr starting experience, capping it off with a giant dragon boss encounter.

So what's Lye looking forward to playing the most when the game goes live? "I've already found it: the Asura Thief. I love the size, I love the animations on the Asura, and I love how great they are as Thieves."

Grab some popcorn and settle in for the full video after the jump!

Continue reading Gamescom 2011: Guild Wars 2 shows off 40 minutes of gameplay

MassivelyGamescom 2011: Guild Wars 2 shows off 40 minutes of gameplay originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetasuracharrchris-lyechristopher-lyedemodemonstrationdragondynamic-eventsgamescomgamescom-2011guild-wars-2gw2thiefthievesvideowartowerThu, 18 Aug 2011 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter at Your Own Rift: Are rifts in danger of collapsing?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/13/enter-at-your-own-rift-are-rifts-in-danger-of-collapsing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/13/enter-at-your-own-rift-are-rifts-in-danger-of-collapsing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/13/enter-at-your-own-rift-are-rifts-in-danger-of-collapsing/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Like many of you, I've been exploring RIFT's Waves of Madness event over the past couple of weeks -- and enjoying it, too. You can really see how Trion Worlds has taken some of the lessons learned from River of Souls and improved its second world event. There just seems like more to do, much more in terms of atmosphere (I love the dripping ceilings in Sanctum), I'm not feeling as rushed, and the event story is coming through loud and clear.

One of the interesting things I've noticed is that the event's daily quests have subtly shifted our focus from single-player activities to group ones. In phase one, it was all about boring solo quests: find hidden invaders, collect eggs, defeat a few underwater baddies. But just when we started to get used to (and bored from) the routine, the successive phases have moved us toward the game's dynamic content. Namely, rifts, rifts and more rifts.

I think this is brilliant, because we're now given a solid reason why we should participate in rifts above the mere rewards. I've been worried that Trion's letting its focus on dynamic content slip as it's been rushing to get other game features and endgame raids out the door, and RIFT without people playing rifts would be sadly ironic.

Today we're going to look at just how much RIFT depends on its titular feature, and what Trion should be doing to ensure that it doesn't become another nice yet abandoned idea.

Continue reading Enter at Your Own Rift: Are rifts in danger of collapsing?

MassivelyEnter at Your Own Rift: Are rifts in danger of collapsing? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Jul 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dynamic-contentsdynamic-eventdynamic-eventseventfeaturedguild-wars-2gw2invasioninvasionspublic-questpublic-questingpublic-questing-2.0public-questspublic-quests-2.0riftrift-planes-of-telarariftsriver-of-soulssanctumtelaratriontrion-worldsultima-onlineuowaves-of-madnessworld-eventWed, 13 Jul 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA['Living, breathing world': Martin Kerstein expounds on Guild Wars 2's dynamic events]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/18/living-breathing-world-martin-kerstein-expounds-on-guild-war/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/18/living-breathing-world-martin-kerstein-expounds-on-guild-war/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/18/living-breathing-world-martin-kerstein-expounds-on-guild-war/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

We've heard the promises: No more grind. No more quests. A truly dynamic world. But can Guild Wars 2 truly live up to these lofty ideals, or will it come crashing down on us like so many other MMO promises in the past?

Speaking with Rock, Paper, Shotgun, ArenaNet's Martin Kerstein says that no, this is the real deal -- Guild Wars 2 will feature a "living, breathing world" unlike anything we've seen to date: "What we try to do with Guild Wars 2 anyway is to break a lot of the existing conventions, like by getting rid of quests and basically totally focusing on dynamic events. So you just run through the world and happen on stuff, and that stuff has an impact on the world... The good thing is those events run even if there are no players involved -- if there are no players, the enemy will take over and you'll have to get it back before you can actually do anything. That's why it feels more organic and breathing."

Shattering conventions is a favorite pastime at ArenaNet, as the company has made a public declaration that it is not afraid to go against the MMO flow. In the interview, Kerstein also addresses the cycle of dynamic events, World of Warcraft's subscriber decline ("It's an older game as well -- some people are maybe just tired," he said), and Warhammer Online's flawed Public Quest system.

Massively'Living, breathing world': Martin Kerstein expounds on Guild Wars 2's dynamic events originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 May 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetdynamic-eventdynamic-eventseventsgrindguild-wars-2gw2in-game-eventsliving-breathing-worldMartin-Kersteinncsoftpublic-questsquestsrock-paper-shotgunwarwarhammer-onlineworld-of-warcraftwowWed, 18 May 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Storyboard: All the way live]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/13/storyboard-all-the-way-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/13/storyboard-all-the-way-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/13/storyboard-all-the-way-live/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Once again, I have managed to very effectively shoot my plans in the foot. Last week I promised that I'd be doing my year-in-review post this week, only to find on closer examination that I had missed a week in my column numbering over the past year, which means that I'm still one week shy to be doing a year in review, and while I could still write it up on the pretense of "close enough"... well, that's kind of a cop-out, right? Better to do that at the right time.

This is all well and good, but it does mean that my original plans for this week's column are pretty well blown to pieces. So instead, I'm going to spotlight two live events that have been going down in two of my games of choice -- the Praetorian Invasion in City of Heroes, and the heralds of doom popping up hither and yon in Final Fantasy XIV. They're interesting to look at from the perspective of roleplaying, since both of them support and stymie roleplaying in different ways, and they're useful case studies for live events in general.

Continue reading Storyboard: All the way live

MassivelyStoryboard: All the way live originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 May 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcolumncomparisoncovcoxdynamic-eventsfeaturedff14ffxivfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivin-game-eventslive-eventsopinionstoryboardFri, 13 May 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2's Johanson: MMO class trinity is "tired"]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/guild-wars-2s-johanson-mmo-class-trinity-is-tired/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/guild-wars-2s-johanson-mmo-class-trinity-is-tired/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/guild-wars-2s-johanson-mmo-class-trinity-is-tired/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Have you ever wondered where all the hype comes from regarding Guild Wars 2? Sure, the original game was a financial success, and the sequel has NCsoft's considerable financial muscle behind it. When you get right down to it, though, ArenaNet is a company with one game to its credit, yet the firm still has the courage to openly challenge Blizzard as well as the rest of the crowded MMO market. In a new interview at Eurogamer, lead content designer Colin Johanson says ANet's success and confidence largely stem from a culture of creative fearlessness.

How does this attitude translate into a next-gen MMO? Johanson says the best example is the dev team's willingness to scrap one of the themepark MMO genre's sacred cows: the holy trinity. "We're basically saying, listen, this as a core game mechanic is tired, we can do something better, we can do something more interesting than this," Johanson explains.

The interview also touches on ArenaNet's release-it-when-it's-done mantra, and Johanson elaborates on why Guild Wars 2 has been so long in the making. "We're going to do all of this, we're going to make this the game that offers something for everybody, and we're going to get that right, and if it takes us a little longer to do that, the trade-off is totally worthwhile," he said. Head to Eurogamer for the full report.

MassivelyGuild Wars 2's Johanson: MMO class trinity is "tired" originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 Apr 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arena-netarenanetcolin-johansondynamic-contentdynamic-eventsfantasyguild-wars-2gw2holy-trinityinterviewstrinityFri, 15 Apr 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A look at the Norn events of Guild Wars 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/23/a-look-at-the-norn-events-of-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/23/a-look-at-the-norn-events-of-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/23/a-look-at-the-norn-events-of-guild-wars-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Norn Week continues for Guild Wars 2, and while that may sound a bit like Shark Week, it's not quite the same deal. The Norn are a bit more personable, for one. They're also the center of a new piece on designing and redesigning events on the official blog, penned by Jeffrey Vaughn. Focusing on the event design of the Wayfarer Hills (the starting area for Norn characters), the article covers both the general design procedure as well as the specifics for new Norn.

As Vaughn puts it, one of the centerpieces of the area's design is the four shrines to the Norn totem animals -- Bear, Raven, Wolf, and Snow Leopard. Originally all four were slated to be attacked by the Dragon-worshipping Sons of Svanir, but those events felt mechanically identical, resulting in changes being made to each shrine's event. Guild Wars 2 players can enjoy a slice of the Norn's Nordic flavor and lore with the latest installment of the week.

MassivelyA look at the Norn events of Guild Wars 2 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Feb 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbackgroundbackstorydynamic-eventsdynamic-systemseventsguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw2jeffrey-vaughnlorencsoftnewsnornnorn-culturenorn-weekplayer-racesraceracesracial-loreWed, 23 Feb 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Beta 5 patch notes posted for RIFT]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/beta-5-patch-notes-posted-for-rift/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/beta-5-patch-notes-posted-for-rift/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/beta-5-patch-notes-posted-for-rift/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

If you've been following RIFT closely over the past few weeks, you know that the fifth beta event has just begun. That means it's time for a new batch of updates, and the staff at Trion Worlds has come through. The notes for the newest event have been posted, and they contain an exhaustive number of changes, including a much-requested public grouping system and a number of UI improvements. There's also the usual collection of bugfixes and changes based on testing feedback.

Many players had requested some sort of open grouping system to coincide with the game's dynamic events, and the new public group system facilitates just that. Although the system still requires clicking a few buttons and flagging yourself as open for public groups, it streamlines the process of getting everyone organized and cooperative during a rift battle. RIFT testers and fans should take a look at the full list of changes before diving into the newest event.

MassivelyBeta 5 patch notes posted for RIFT originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 25 Jan 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-eventbeta-event-5beta-testingdynamic-eventsgroupingin-game-eventpatchpublic-eventspublic-groupingriftrift-beta-5rift-planes-of-telaratesting-eventtriontrion-worldsupdatesTue, 25 Jan 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Epic new Rift video precedes tomorrow's beta test opening]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/02/epic-new-rift-video-proceeds-tomorrows-beta-test-opening/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/02/epic-new-rift-video-proceeds-tomorrows-beta-test-opening/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/02/epic-new-rift-video-proceeds-tomorrows-beta-test-opening/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

If there's one MMO on the horizon that has everyone excited, it's Rift. Created by Trion Worlds, Rift promises to be the next big AAA launch title and has been drawing its share of attention from players. The game's closed beta begins tomorrow, and Trion has been giving out beta keys in preparation. Some Rift fans were able to grab limited beta keys that give access to several beta events, while others were lucky enough to secure an access-all-areas VIP beta key. Here at Massively, our 500 VIP keys disappeared in record time. For those of you who missed the chance to get in on the Rift beta, you can still sign up at the Rift website for a chance to get in.

Rift is being marketed as a fully complete, next-gen MMO. But those are just marketing buzzwords, right? Guess again! In this new video (after the cut below), the Trion team has taken the bold step of defining what exactly those terms mean in a very practical context. Rift is promised to be a highly polished MMO right from launch, with none of those rough edges we've come to expect from new titles. Rather than follow the standard MMO formula wherein monsters are forever bound to respawn and walk around within a small area, Rift aims to create a truly dynamic game world.

The demonic rifts that open randomly in the world will radically alter not just the look of the land but also the gameplay of nearby areas. Leave a rift unchecked for too long and you'll soon find they've set up camp and organised an invasion of the local area. If this new video doesn't make you excited for Rift and the future potential of the MMO genre, I don't know what will.

Skip past the cut to watch the new Rift beta video in full HD.

Continue reading Epic new Rift video precedes tomorrow's beta test opening

MassivelyEpic new Rift video precedes tomorrow's beta test opening originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaclosed-betadynamic-eventsnext-gennext-gen-mmopolishpolishedriftrift-planes-of-telarateleporttrailertriontrion-worldsvideoThu, 02 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Darkfall dev blog hints at dynamic quests and events]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/19/darkfall-dev-blog-hints-at-dynamic-quests-and-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/19/darkfall-dev-blog-hints-at-dynamic-quests-and-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/19/darkfall-dev-blog-hints-at-dynamic-quests-and-events/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Think Darkfall is all about crushing your enemies, driving them before you, and hearing the lamentation of their women? Well you're partially right, but Aventurine is also taking pains to highlight the game's inherent sandboxiness. While you can spend your entire Darkfall career ganking and being ganked, the game does offer a fair bit of PvE fun, moreso now after the release of the Hellfreeze expansion.

In the latest Aventurine devblog, community liasion Laenih outlines plans to bring the game's lore to the forefront. Dynamic quests and events are hinted at, and it seems that knowledge of Agon's lore may help players solve tasks in the near future. At the very least, the updates will add a bit of context and flavor to the proceedings. Laenih uses a member of the Vargashi race as an example, and if you're wondering who or what the Vargashi are, the devblog also features conceptual artwork highlighting the new NPCs.

Check it out on the official site, and also have a look at Darkfall's lore entries while you're at it.

MassivelyDarkfall dev blog hints at dynamic quests and events originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Nov 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aventurineaventurine-sadarkfalldarkfall-onlinedev-diarydevblogdynamic-eventsdynamic-questslaenihlorepvevargashiFri, 19 Nov 2010 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Trion's Hal Hanlin: Rift will be "sitting very comfortably in 2012 and beyond"]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/20/trions-hal-hanlin-rift-will-be-sitting-very-comfortably-in-20/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/20/trions-hal-hanlin-rift-will-be-sitting-very-comfortably-in-20/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/20/trions-hal-hanlin-rift-will-be-sitting-very-comfortably-in-20/#commentsFiled under: , ,

In a recent interview, Trion Worlds' Hal Hanlin told Eurogamer that Rift: Planes of Telara has three major factors in its favor: world-class talent, world-class technology and world-class money. Because of these factors, the team is gearing up to eat at the big boy's table come Rift's 2011 launch.

Hanlin, Rift's design producer, considers his job to fashion an immersive, exciting and engaging playscape: "I obsess over the details of design and making sure that everyone has what they need to make a game you want to bring your 20 closest friends to play."

The interview covers many of the features which Hanlin considers to be Rift's selling points, such as the dynamic invasions. Currently, the title is boasting over 100 events, but the team still has the option to include additional ones. However, quantity for the sake of quantity is not worth it. "More is not better," Hanlin said. "Better is better." As a result, one of the chief mandates of the company is to create "multiple paths" for players to choose from a variety of activities instead of a linear leveling path.

How does Hanlin see the game doing post-release? "Our longevity is going to be better than a lot of MMOs introduced to the market, because there's always something to see that's changed... I think we're going to be sitting very comfortably in 2012 and beyond."

MassivelyTrion's Hal Hanlin: Rift will be "sitting very comfortably in 2012 and beyond" originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Oct 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dynamic-eventseurogamereventshal-hanlininterviewinvasionsriftrift-planes-of-telaratriontrion-worldsWed, 20 Oct 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet releases images from Guild Wars 2 Designing Dynamic Events panel]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/arenanet-releases-images-from-guild-wars-2-designing-dynamic-eve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/arenanet-releases-images-from-guild-wars-2-designing-dynamic-eve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/arenanet-releases-images-from-guild-wars-2-designing-dynamic-eve/#commentsFiled under: , ,

New races, new lands, and talk of familiar places with a new look. The Guild Wars 2 Dynamic Events panel at PAX stirred up quite a bit of conversation and even more curiosity.

What are these regions? What events are there? What is a krait obelisk for? What does The Great Oouo look like? Guild Wars 2 fans watched all the video taken by hand held cameras at the panel and viewed snapshots of the screen, trying to get a better look.

If you've been dying for an up-close view of the Regrown Flame, orrian undead, and yes, even The Great Oouo, you're in luck. ArenaNet has generously provided Massively with the images used in the panel, so check out the gallery below for the newest look at Tyria of the future!

Gallery: Guild Wars 2 Dynamic Events panel images

MassivelyArenaNet releases images from Guild Wars 2 Designing Dynamic Events panel originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Sep 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetconcept-artdynamic-eventsguild-wars-2gw2kraitmapsncsoftorrian-undeadpanelPAXpax-2010pax-primepax-prime-2010quagganWed, 15 Sep 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Quaggan sad: A look back at the Guild Wars 2 Dynamic Events panel]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/09/quaggan-sad-a-look-back-at-the-guild-wars-2-dynamic-events-pane/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/09/quaggan-sad-a-look-back-at-the-guild-wars-2-dynamic-events-pane/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/09/quaggan-sad-a-look-back-at-the-guild-wars-2-dynamic-events-pane/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

At the top of my to-do list for Saturday morning at PAX was Designing Dynamic Events, a Guild Wars 2 panel with designers Eric Flannum and Colin Johanson. Talk and video of the panel have been everywhere this week, and I wanted to take a little bit of time to give my thoughts on what they did and how it was received.

The panel was billed as a discussion about "how Guild Wars 2 designers create events in the dynamic, living game world and the many factors to consider when designing any kind of MMO content."

It sounded interesting, but it was a ticketed event with limited attendance, which seemed strange to me. I managed to get a ticket and was even more confused when I walked into the relatively tiny room. Why such a small place for something that would certainly have drawn a huge crowd?

It all became clear very soon, so follow along after the cut to hear more about my take on the new things we learned in Designing Dynamic Events.

Continue reading Quaggan sad: A look back at the Guild Wars 2 Dynamic Events panel

MassivelyQuaggan sad: A look back at the Guild Wars 2 Dynamic Events panel originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 Sep 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetcolin-johansoncon-paneldesigning-dynamic-eventsdynamic-eventseric-flannumevent-designfeaturedguild-wars-2guild-wars-2-panelgw2jeff-grubbkraitncsoftopinionpanelpanelsPAXpax-2010pax-primepax-prime-2010quagganquest-designsharks-with-laser-beamsthe-mighty-ooohThu, 09 Sep 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX 2010: Hands on with Rift: Planes of Telara]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/06/pax-2010-hands-on-with-rift-planes-of-telara/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/06/pax-2010-hands-on-with-rift-planes-of-telara/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/06/pax-2010-hands-on-with-rift-planes-of-telara/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The dungeon portal loomed ahead as a developer pushed a headset into my hands. "You heal," he said to me then moved on to the other four players standing next to me. "You tank. You three DPS. Don't worry too much; you're all a little over-leveled for this dungeon. Let us know when you're ready."

I hardly heard him as I frantically tried to memorize the full array of skills in front of me, rearranging my hotbar to put my heals up front and center. "Ohh, you're a druid," another Trion Worlds developer said over my shoulder. "They're fun -- they get a faerie pet that heals your team as well." I followed his pointing finger and clicked on the skill to summon what appeared to be a cross-breed between Tinkerbell and a Troll doll. Fun times.

The developer who pulled me into the live demonstration at PAX Prime took up his microphone and directed everyone around the booth to look up at the big screen and watch a team of total strangers jump into a mid-level dungeon. Welcome to Rift, I thought nervously. There's nothing like diving in head-first with your potential humiliation on public display.

Continue reading PAX 2010: Hands on with Rift: Planes of Telara

MassivelyPAX 2010: Hands on with Rift: Planes of Telara originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 06 Sep 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captain-planet-and-the-planeteersclap-for-tinkerbellcyberpunkdimensionsdynamic-eventsdynamic-world-eventsfantasypunkfeaturedgoblinhands-oninterviewpaxpax-2010pax-primepax-prime-2010riftrift-planes-of-telarasoulstriontrion-worldstrollyarnosaurMon, 06 Sep 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX 2010: Guild Wars 2 hands-on]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/04/pax-2010-guild-wars-2-hands-on/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/04/pax-2010-guild-wars-2-hands-on/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/04/pax-2010-guild-wars-2-hands-on/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

I finally found time to check out Guild Wars 2 firsthand this morning, and the experience will easily be counted as the highlight of PAX so far in my book.

The demo booth was my first stop this morning, and I was excited to go through the character creation process and save Shaemoor. I've seen a dozen videos of just that, but there's nothing like playing through it firsthand. As I was playing, several ArenaNet staffers passed by, said hello, and chatted a bit.

I spent much of my demo time exploring all the character options, learning the controls, and looking around Shaemoor, growing a little anxious all the while. The clock was ticking and I hadn't seen nearly everything I wanted to. With about 10 minutes left, a few ArenaNet devs surprised me by stepping in and offering to show off some more content -- particularly legacy sites, something that was at the top of my wish list for the demo.

While there are no earth-shattering new revelations (sorry, no class reveal), it was exciting to check out some features in more detail. Follow along after the jump for screenshots, pictures, descriptions and video recorded in genuine shakycam!

Gallery: Guild Wars 2 hands-on

Continue reading PAX 2010: Guild Wars 2 hands-on

MassivelyPAX 2010: Guild Wars 2 hands-on originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 04 Sep 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbeetletundye-systemdynamic-eventsfeaturedGuild-Wars-2gw2hands-onncsoftPAXpax-2010pax-primepax-prime-2010Sat, 04 Sep 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[James Phinney discusses Guild Wars 2 classes, events, and combat at Comic-Con]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/03/james-phinney-discusses-guild-wars-2-classes-events-and-combat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/03/james-phinney-discusses-guild-wars-2-classes-events-and-combat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/03/james-phinney-discusses-guild-wars-2-classes-events-and-combat/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Comic-Con may be over, but the news keeps rolling in. The newest video over at GameTrailers is of a chat with ArenaNet's Design Director James Phinney.

James gave a brief rundown of what we know about Guild Wars 2 so far, explaining the combat roles of the classes we know: elementalist, warrior, and ranger. He also covered the dynamic event system that we've heard so much about, as well as the reasoning behind it.

Finally, he addressed the burning question of "When?" Unfortunately, it looks like we'll have to wait for that coveted date a bit longer: "When it's ready."

For now, you can look after the jump to see the video for yourself.

Continue reading James Phinney discusses Guild Wars 2 classes, events, and combat at Comic-Con

MassivelyJames Phinney discusses Guild Wars 2 classes, events, and combat at Comic-Con originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Aug 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetclassescomic-concomic-con-2010dynamic-eventsguild-wars-2gw2james-phinneyncsoftsdccsdcc-2010Tue, 03 Aug 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Straight pointers or vague hints?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/15/the-daily-grind-straight-pointers-or-vague-hints/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/15/the-daily-grind-straight-pointers-or-vague-hints/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/15/the-daily-grind-straight-pointers-or-vague-hints/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Quests do a lot of good for the MMO genre as a whole, but they do occasionally have the downside of turning the game into a series of flashing arrows from one destination to the next. World of Warcraft shows nearby quests on your map, just on the off chance you might miss them. Patch notes frequently involve telling players where to start the most recent new content. Guild Wars has been taking the opposite approach with its recent War in Kryta content, however -- there are no pointers, just small bursts of content that players can stumble across.

Content without clearly defined start-to-finish markers certainly helps make the game more entertaining and immersive, and gives a stronger feeling of a world instead of a collection of fetch missions. On the other hand, it also runs the very real risk of players flying straight past the additions and never experiencing what's meant to help rope them in. Which do you prefer from a player perspective? Would you rather keep the feel of spontaneous discovery with the risk of missing something, or do you prefer a straightforward experience instead?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Straight pointers or vague hints? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contentdynamic-eventsguild-warsgwindicationopinionpointersqueststdgthe-daily-grindupdateswar-in-krytaworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 15 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's interview with the Guild Wars 2 design team]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/28/massivelys-interview-with-the-guild-wars-2-design-team/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/28/massivelys-interview-with-the-guild-wars-2-design-team/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/28/massivelys-interview-with-the-guild-wars-2-design-team/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

There has been so much new information about Guild Wars 2 lately that it can be a little hard to keep up. While things have mostly focused around dynamic events and personal story, the scope of those two concepts is so large that every new piece of news seemed to trigger another list of questions.

We at Massively have been following the developments closely, so we are as curious as anyone else. We asked the Guild Wars 2 team about several various points -- everything from crafting to the creation timeline.

Lead Designer Eric Flannum, Lore and Continuity Designer Ree Soesbee, and Game Designer John Hargrove were kind enough to satisfy our curiosity on some of these points. Follow along after the jump and see what they had to say.

Continue reading Massively's interview with the Guild Wars 2 design team

MassivelyMassively's interview with the Guild Wars 2 design team originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 28 May 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenanetdynamic-eventseric-flannumfeaturedguild-wars-2interviewsjohn-hargrovencsoftpersonal-storyree-soesbeeFri, 28 May 2010 11:30:00 EST