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[Global Agenda closed beta to begin in July]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/27/global-agenda-closed-beta-to-begin-in-july/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/27/global-agenda-closed-beta-to-begin-in-july/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/27/global-agenda-closed-beta-to-begin-in-july/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Hi-Rez Studios just updated their Answer Center with new Global Agenda beta information. The game is expected to move to a Closed Beta phase this July. Global Agenda has been in Alpha testing for a number of months now.

It looks like they're sub-phasing their Closed Beta Test as well (e.g., CBT-1, CBT-2, etc.), an approach that seems more common in MMOs these days. Warhammer Online did a series of closed beta phases, and more currently, Aion is doing the same. Each phase focuses on a different area of the MMO that needs testing and each successive phase usually brings more testers to the mix.

There are pros and cons when taking this phased approach. On one hand you really get to hammer down on your areas of concern but on the other you're only testing the individual parts and not the whole. Players always seem to play a game differently when unleashed upon the full experience.

In the end though, it probably won't matter to all the people who want a taste of what Global Agenda has to offer. Winning E3 Editor's Choice awards like "Best of Show 2009" is definitely building anticipation and raising expectations for this title.

Continue reading Global Agenda closed beta to begin in July

MassivelyGlobal Agenda closed beta to begin in July originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 27 Jun 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionawardsbest-of-showclosed-betae3-2009global-agendahi-rez-studioswarhammer-onlineSat, 27 Jun 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[All Points Bulletin video podcast shows off scope of customization]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/19/all-points-bulletin-video-podcast-shows-off-scope-of-customizati/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/19/all-points-bulletin-video-podcast-shows-off-scope-of-customizati/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/19/all-points-bulletin-video-podcast-shows-off-scope-of-customizati/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Things were very quiet on the All Points Bulletin front for quite some time, but now we're seeing why. Realtime Worlds has been busy, and since E3 2009 the APB team at Realtime Worlds has revealed a ton of info about their upcoming game. Massively interviewed APB lead designer EJ Moreland who gave us some perspective on what the title will be like, but we're always looking out for more info. On that note, the All Points Bulletin game site revamp was accompanied by a new series of video podcasts, the second of which is now out.

This second All Points Bulletin video podcast "E3 and Beyond" has Chris "Deum" Collins from the APB community team speaking with lead gameplay designer Jesse Knapp about the game's extensive customization options, and is in two parts. Actually it's largely a montage of the E3 customization videos with commentary from the APB devs, where they answer questions posed to them by the game's fans. It's a great look at what's possible in the game and we highly recommend you give it a look. However, if that's not enough to get you to check it out, we've got two words for you: Suicide Girls.

We've got YouTube embeds of both parts for you below the cut. Have a look:

Continue reading All Points Bulletin video podcast shows off scope of customization

MassivelyAll Points Bulletin video podcast shows off scope of customization originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Jun 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbchris-collinscrimecustomizationdeume3-2009ej-morelandjesse-knappnew-titlesrealtime-worldssuicide-girlsurban-crimevideo-podcastFri, 19 Jun 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Interview with Real Time Worlds' David Jones]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/19/interview-with-real-time-worlds-david-jones/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/19/interview-with-real-time-worlds-david-jones/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/19/interview-with-real-time-worlds-david-jones/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Back in April we were starting to worry about APB because we hadn't seen or heard anything new about the game in a while. Thankfully, the information is starting to flow again due to E3 and an impending "early 2010" release date. GamesIndustry recently caught up with Realtime Worlds' Creative Director, David Jones and he had a lot of interesting things to say.

You won't learn anything earth-shattering about APB, but this interview gives us a good look at one of the leading forces behind the MMO (darn that pesky label). Given the global economic downturn, David feels his studio needs to focus now more than ever because there's not much chance of raising more venture capital. He's also very happy about the publishing partnership with EA because he feels they'll be able to help build APB a strong marketing presence at retail. Maybe the loaning of Paul Barnett is icing on the cake?

For all of you hoping for closed beta, you might be waiting a little longer since APB is still in an internal testing phase. For all of you worrying about a F2P/RMT business model, your fears can probably be eased since David feels that an online distribution strategy is "maybe pushing the envelope too far" for APB.

MassivelyInterview with Real Time Worlds' David Jones originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Jun 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbdavid-jonese3-2009eagamesindustry.bizinterviewpaul-barnettreal-time-worldsFri, 19 Jun 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 56: E3 impressions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/10/massively-speaking-episode-56-e3-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/10/massively-speaking-episode-56-e3-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/10/massively-speaking-episode-56-e3-impressions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Massively Speaking Episode 56 is back after a brief hiatus while we spent last week at E3. To compensate, Shawn is joined by WoW.com's Mike Schramm for a recap of the best and brightest from the convention. Which game did they like best? Why does it seem like every game will release in 2010? Check out the podcast to find out!

Have a comment for the podcasters? Shoot us an email to podcast AT massively DOT com. Maybe we'll read your letter on the air!

Get the podcast:
[iTunes] Subscribe to Massively Speaking directly in iTunes.
[Zune] Subscribe to Massively Speaking via the Zune service.
[RSS] Add Massively Speaking to your RSS aggregator.
[Digg] Like the show? Digg it.
[MP3] Download the MP3 directly.
[VW] Listen at VirginWorlds.com
Listen here on the page:



Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 56: E3 impressions

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 56: E3 impressions originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 10 Jun 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2009featuredimpressionsmassively-speakingmike-schrammpodcastingpodcastsWed, 10 Jun 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars: The Old Republic has hundreds of voice actors]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/09/star-wars-the-old-republic-has-hundreds-of-voice-actors/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/09/star-wars-the-old-republic-has-hundreds-of-voice-actors/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/09/star-wars-the-old-republic-has-hundreds-of-voice-actors/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Giant Bomb has been pumping out some great videos from E3 2009, but we of course took immediate notice of this interview with two Star Wars: The Old Republic developers from BioWare. Most of the conversation revolves around information we already know, until one of the devs reveals, "we have literally thousands of roles which are voiced in our game, which are done by many, many hundreds of voice actors." We knew there was going to be a lot of people, but, okay we didn't expect that many!

Hundreds.

Much of the Massively crew agreed that Star Wars: The Old Republic's classes would be limited to four or five on each side, due to the fully-voiced announcement. Now we're thinking differently with thousands of roles filled by many hundreds of voice actors. Suddenly, six or seven per side doesn't seem like a far away fever dream.

If you'd like to see how it ends when you ask a BioWare dev about SWTOR's release date, check out the full video after the break.

Continue reading Star Wars: The Old Republic has hundreds of voice actors

MassivelyStar Wars: The Old Republic has hundreds of voice actors originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 09 Jun 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebrad-shoemakere3-2009eaelectronic-artsgiant-bomblucas-artsstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorvoice-actingTue, 09 Jun 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: SWTOR turns up the heat]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/09/the-digital-continuum-swtor-turns-up-the-heat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/09/the-digital-continuum-swtor-turns-up-the-heat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/09/the-digital-continuum-swtor-turns-up-the-heat/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


E3 2009 has come and gone, with it came new information on Star Wars: The Old Republic -- and fresh concerns. To call BioWare ambitious would be an understatement of vast proportions. Every NPC receiving full voice acting ratcheted up my curiosity as much as it did my eyebrows. We may need a new word to describe the depths of this game's ambition.

As if the voice acting news wasn't enough, BioWare revealed a cinematic trailer that reminded me how powerful this property can truly be, in the right hands. The excitement was so immediately potent that it caused some people to cry "over-hyped!" in the few short minutes between the trailer's beginning and ending.

I think it's time to asses the current situation, and maybe ponder a few things about Star Wars and BioWare.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: SWTOR turns up the heat

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: SWTOR turns up the heat originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 09 Jun 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaocbiowarebounty-huntere3-2009eaelectronic-artsfeaturedfuncomhypejedilucas-artsmythicsithsmugglerstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtortoboldtrooperwarwarhammer-onlineTue, 09 Jun 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: A complete roundup of Massively's coverage]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-a-complete-roundup-of-massivelys-coverage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-a-complete-roundup-of-massivelys-coverage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-a-complete-roundup-of-massivelys-coverage/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,


Electronic Entertainment Expo 2009 proved to be a significant event for the gaming industry once again, with a fair amount of news and announcements related to MMOs. Massively was there on the ground for E3 this year and we've been putting up breaking announcements, interviews, and hands-on previews throughout.

Given how much info came out of E3 on Massively, here's a roundup of our coverage, day-by-day. Be sure to check out the rest after the jump as there's plenty more content, plus you'll find E3 galleries for these games as you click through. To cap it all off, we've also put together an E3 2009 wrapup video for you at the end of this post. Read on to see where the MMO industry is headed in the next year and beyond!

Continue reading E3 2009: A complete roundup of Massively's coverage

MassivelyE3 2009: A complete roundup of Massively's coverage originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Jun 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinchampions-onlinedragonica-onlinedungeon-fighter-onlinee3-2009final-fantasy-xivfree-realmsglobal-agendaheroes-of-telarahomejade-dynastyjumpgate-evolutionmassively-event-coveragemassively-hands-onmassively-interviewsmmo-industrymythosnew-titlesperfect-worldperfect-world-age-of-spiritsperfect-world-internationalrohan-blood-feudroundupstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-agencytorchlightMon, 08 Jun 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: CrimeCraft producer says game is the next step for Call of Duty, Halo players]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-crimecraft-producer-says-game-is-the-next-step/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-crimecraft-producer-says-game-is-the-next-step/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-crimecraft-producer-says-game-is-the-next-step/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


All Points Bulletin wasn't the only crime-themed MMO I saw at E3 last week. I also got to check out Vogster Entertainment's CrimeCraft. Just before the conference, the developer announced an August 25 release date, a monthly subscription as their business model and an exclusive deal with Best Buy.

On the floor, associate producer Aaron Krasnov laid down what's new in the game, how it's different from APB, the help he got from former Warhammer Online developers and how CrimeCraft is a natural progression for players of Halo and Call of Duty.

Continue reading E3 2009: CrimeCraft producer says game is the next step for Call of Duty, Halo players

MassivelyE3 2009: CrimeCraft producer says game is the next step for Call of Duty, Halo players originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Jun 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimecrimecrafte3e3-2009featuredvogster-entertainmentMon, 08 Jun 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: A chat with Cities XL's Alexandre Zambeaux]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-a-chat-with-cities-xls-alexandre-zambeaux/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-a-chat-with-cities-xls-alexandre-zambeaux/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-a-chat-with-cities-xls-alexandre-zambeaux/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Last week at E3, we had a chance to sit down with Alexandre Zambeaux, Marketing Director for Cities XL developer Monte Cristo Games, for some more info on the current state of the game, and what MMO gamers can expect from such a project. You may remember a pre-beta Q&A we did with the Monte Cristo team a few months ago, and as the game hasn't hit an open beta just yet, it will later this year. The info we got from that initial interview helped carve an idea in our heads of what this whole city-building MMO could possibly be, but now we're happy to offer a few more details.

Even though this meeting was very informal, we took some great info away from Alexandre to relay to you, the readers. Follow along after the jump to find out more about the business model, expandability, gameplay and more.

Continue reading E3 2009: A chat with Cities XL's Alexandre Zambeaux

MassivelyE3 2009: A chat with Cities XL's Alexandre Zambeaux originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Jun 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cities-xle3-2009interviewmonte-cristoMon, 08 Jun 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: New classes, prestige classes and more coming to Free Realms]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-new-classes-prestige-classes-and-more-coming-to-free-r/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-new-classes-prestige-classes-and-more-coming-to-free-r/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-new-classes-prestige-classes-and-more-coming-to-free-r/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Are you one of the folks who has leveled your classes all the way to max in Free Realms and are kind of wondering what now? Well, if you're the type who loves progression and really building your character up to be better, you're in luck. The folks at SOE are planning to introduce Prestige classes (much like the aforementioned racing ones) that will allow players to level their jobs to 20, and improve them through further play.

Along with this interesting development, they are adding in some new jobs to the game, like the Pro Racing class - and perhaps a new class to go with the Soccer game (Soccer player? Footballer?) since SOE has let us know that they are finally bringing those fenced-off soccer fields into play. Added to these new tidbits will be further expansion on the backstory of Free Realms, which will explain a bit more about the lands and inhabitants of this crazy fun casual MMO, as well as opening up more story-driven quests for players. Sounds like a bunch of exciting news coming in the next few months! We can't wait.
Massively was on the ground in Los Angeles last week and covering all the latest E3 MMO news coming from the convention. Check out our breaking coverage (or all the Joystiq network E3 reporting) and keep your eye on Massively's front page for the latest developments.

MassivelyE3 2009: New classes, prestige classes and more coming to Free Realms originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Jun 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>back-storye3-2009frfree-realmsmini-gamesnew-jobsprestige-classessoccersoesony-online-entertainmentMon, 08 Jun 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: A taste of what's to come in Runes of Magic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-a-taste-of-whats-to-come-in-runes-of-magic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-a-taste-of-whats-to-come-in-runes-of-magic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-a-taste-of-whats-to-come-in-runes-of-magic/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


We had the chance to sit down and catch up with the guys from Frogster Interactive as well as a few of the Runewaker Entertainment developers at E3. While we knew Elves were coming to Runes of Magic, we didn't have too many details of just precisely how they'd be implemented into the game. As part of our talk, they let me check out the never-before-seen area that the elves will be a part of, as well as showing off some of the new instance content and guild buildings that they're adding to the game.

This next chapter - The Elven Prophecy - will give players the option of playing the elven race (surprise) which starts out in a strange and wonderous new area. Beyond that, they're also working on PvP arenas, destructible guild buildings, and some new epic powers. Along with this sweeping update, the game is being updated with several graphic improvements including updates to things like water, and adding in some incidental sounds and music to start to help close the gap in regards to the dearth of sound issue many have decried Runes of Magic for. If you'd like a preview into some of these areas, be sure to check the gallery below, as well as the newly-released trailer showing off the Elven Prophecy, coming to Runes of Magic this September!

Gallery: E3 2009: Runes of Magic preview

Massively was on the ground in Los Angeles last week and covering all the latest E3 MMO news coming from the convention. Check out our breaking coverage (or all the Joystiq network E3 reporting) and keep your eye on Massively's front page for the latest developments.

Continue reading E3 2009: A taste of what's to come in Runes of Magic

MassivelyE3 2009: A taste of what's to come in Runes of Magic originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Jun 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chapter-2chapter-iie3-2009frogster-interactivepreviewromrunes-of-magicrunewaker-entertainmentthe-elven-prophecyMon, 08 Jun 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: Fallen Earth lead designer says 'We're not the Fallout MMO']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-fallen-earth-lead-designer-on-fallout-comparison/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-fallen-earth-lead-designer-on-fallout-comparison/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-fallen-earth-lead-designer-on-fallout-comparison/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


It's a post-apocalyptic world. Civilization has completely collapsed. You find yourself scavenging for food and supplies on a barren American frontier. And the thing you're looking for? Clean water. Just watch out for giant mutants along the way.

No, I didn't just describe a Fallout game. Well, actually I did, but I'm also loosely describing the plot of Fallen Earth. Developed by North Carolina-based studio Fallen Earth LLC, the MMO shooter takes place during the near future in America's Grand Canyon and allows players to switch between third- and first-person views. The game promises over 600 hours of play, extensive character customization, no fixed classes but six factions, and plenty of everything that good MMOs have to offer: an epic, immersive story, voice-over in missions as well as tons of equipment, weapons, vehicles, crafting and PvP.

However, besides all that, there was one main idea that lead designer Lee Hammock wanted me to take away from our demo session at E3: Fallen Earth is not the Fallout MMO. See his explanation why.

Continue reading E3 2009: Fallen Earth lead designer says 'We're not the Fallout MMO'

MassivelyE3 2009: Fallen Earth lead designer says 'We're not the Fallout MMO' originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Jun 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2009fallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfalloutfallout-mmofeaturedMon, 08 Jun 2009 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: Free Realms to introduce Guilds]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-free-realms-to-introduce-guilds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-free-realms-to-introduce-guilds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-free-realms-to-introduce-guilds/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


While the recent heads-up that we'll be able to add people to our friends list is definitely a welcome bit of Free Realms news, we were even more excited to hear that guilds are soon coming to this casual MMO. That's right - now you'll be able to add your friends and family to a special guild group! From what we were told, guilds will be given their own in-game chat channel so you can chat back and forth without having to worry about others intruding into your private chatter.

Another nice thing that will be coming is the option for guilds to create their own guild halls to spend time together. While we heard a bit about player housing, the specific details on guild halls are still largely under wraps for now - or perhaps Sony Online Entertainment is holding on to the details to give players an overview at their upcoming Fan Faire in Las Vegas. Whatever the case may be, we're glad to see all the new things coming to Free Realms.
Massively was on the ground in Los Angeles last week and covering all the latest E3 MMO news coming from the convention. Check out our breaking coverage (or all the Joystiq network E3 reporting) and keep your eye on Massively's front page for the latest developments.

MassivelyE3 2009: Free Realms to introduce Guilds originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Jun 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3e3-2009free-realmssoesony-online-entertainmentMon, 08 Jun 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: Player housing coming to Free Realms]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-player-housing-coming-to-free-realms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-player-housing-coming-to-free-realms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-player-housing-coming-to-free-realms/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Now that Free Realms is live - and by anyone's standards, tremendously successful - SOE's Free Realms team (at around 100 people) is busy working on new features and improvements. In September (or October, perhaps) they plan to add in player housing for everyone to enjoy. For those of you who have been pelting them on the forums for a home of your own - your request has been heard! A nice, shiny home in Free Realms should be yours in time for the holidays.

You'll be able to select land, size, and style of house; then really dig in and modify it to make it all your own. The plan is also to create new mini-games involving maintaining your house as well - we're guessing something along the lines of time-management games, perhaps? According to what we've heard, the garage coming out in July will be attached to your house, so you can show off your cars to friends. Neighborhoods will be instanced (currently planned for three buildings per personal plot with no word on neighborhood size) but they expect this will give players a new place to hang out and enjoy their time in Free Realms. There's currently no specifics on what will be available for F2P and paid members, so we'll have to wait and see.
Massively was on the ground in Los Angeles last week and covering all the latest E3 MMO news coming from the convention. Check out our breaking coverage (or all the Joystiq network E3 reporting) and keep your eye on Massively's front page for the latest developments.

MassivelyE3 2009: Player housing coming to Free Realms originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Jun 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2009free-realmsgaragehousingplayer-housingsoesony-online-entertainmentMon, 08 Jun 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: Impressions of Heroes of Telara]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-impressions-of-heroes-of-telara/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-impressions-of-heroes-of-telara/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-impressions-of-heroes-of-telara/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

To be honest, when the Heroes of Telara trailer first released, much of what we heard was "been there done that" from readers and friends. "Fantasy has been done to death" was another. That's why we were glad to see the game actually in play behind closed doors this last week at the Trion World Network space at E3. While we only saw a pre-alpha copy of the game (and would point out that it's what they used for the trailer) it's certainly raised our interest over the initial impression we had.

In motion, Heroes of Telara actually made some of us of think of an updated, shinier version of Guild Wars in terms of very pretty and highly-detailed stylized (yet somewhat realistic) graphics. As was explained to us by Chris Mancil, the Director of Community Management for Trion, one of the largest things that they feel will set Heroes of Telara apart from many others is that they are working to keep the game server-based. Their plan is to attempt to keep most of the "action" server side as is possible so that they can add new events into the game without having to send along enormous patches to players all the time. All assets will still reside client side, but they'll be able to manipulate game-play by telling the client to modify where things spawn, how things interact, and the like. From little things like different vendors having sales to large zone-wide events, it will allow them to change anything and everything on the fly and make Heroes of Telara feel more like it's taking place in a living, breathing, dynamic world that players will want to "live in, explore, and play."

Gallery: Heroes of Telara core gallery


Gallery: Heroes of Telara concept art

Continue reading E3 2009: Impressions of Heroes of Telara

MassivelyE3 2009: Impressions of Heroes of Telara originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Jun 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demoe3-2009fantasyfirst-lookheroes-of-telaraHoTtelaratriontrion-world-networkMon, 08 Jun 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: Racing updates zoom into Free Realms]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-racing-updates-zoom-into-free-realms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-racing-updates-zoom-into-free-realms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-racing-updates-zoom-into-free-realms/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


If you're one of the many people who really enjoy the Racing game or Demolition Derby in Free Realms, then you're in for a treat. We learned in speaking to Andrew Sites, Senior Producer for Free Realms, that the team at SOE are hard at work on a huge content update specifically geared (no pun intended) towards the fans of the racing games. The update, currently scheduled for July, will include progression for racing players allowing them to become better racers over time until they eventually unlock a prestige class mechanic. This prestige racer class is slated to allow players to hit level 20.

In addition to the prestige class, we'll also see a new garage being added to the game which will allow players to have a special place to store all their cars. The new garage will also allow players to modify them, including changing speed, braking, handling and all those other spiffy mechanics that racing gamers like to pick from in order to build the car of their dreams. As if this weren't enough, in August, all you Free Realms racing fiends will be treated to a Pro-driver class which will grant new cars and tracks. Should be a turbo-charged series of updates!
Massively was on the ground in Los Angeles last week and covering all the latest E3 MMO news coming from the convention. Check out our breaking coverage (or all the Joystiq network E3 reporting) and keep your eye on Massively's front page for the latest developments.

MassivelyE3 2009: Racing updates zoom into Free Realms originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Jun 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demolition-derbye3-2009free-realmsracingsoesony-online-entertainmentupdatesMon, 08 Jun 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: Sci-Fi MMO is an "action RPG"]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-sci-fi-mmo-is-an-action-rpg/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-sci-fi-mmo-is-an-action-rpg/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-sci-fi-mmo-is-an-action-rpg/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

While visiting with Trion World Network at E3, we were unable to snag any new details on the Sci-Fi MMO beyond this poster - at least any that we can share with you, anyway. (Some of the early concept art flashed across the monitors, and it looks pretty cool if we do say so ourselves.) We did find out that this new MMO is currently codenamed "Channel 3" and is going to be an "MMOARPG", or a massively multiplayer action role-playing game.

Of course, what precisely this means is largely anyone's guess. What makes it more action-based than a normal MMORPG? Will the action be due to the tie-in with the upcoming Sci-Fi series? Will they change their earlier statements and perhaps film action-y parts of the upcoming series in-game? Or is it just going to be buttonmashapolooza, with attacks coming as fast as you're able to faceroll your keyboard? Who knows! We'll keep our eyes peeled and ears to the ground in case the folks at Trion World Entertainment decide to let slip with any more tantalizing tidbits about this upcoming TV/MMO hybrid property. (Well, assuming they also don't catch us taking pictures of the monitors showing off concept art next time. Boooo.)

MassivelyE3 2009: Sci-Fi MMO is an "action RPG" originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Jun 2009 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>channel-3e3-2009mmoarpgsci-fi-channelsci-fi-mmotriontrion-world-networkMon, 08 Jun 2009 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: APB lead designer EJ Moreland on the term 'MMO' and competing with WoW ]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/07/e3-2009-apb-lead-designer-ej-moreland-on-the-term-mmo-and-wow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/07/e3-2009-apb-lead-designer-ej-moreland-on-the-term-mmo-and-wow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/07/e3-2009-apb-lead-designer-ej-moreland-on-the-term-mmo-and-wow/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Just from what we saw at E3, we know that Realtime Worlds' All Points Bulletin isn't your typical MMO. After I checked out the crime game's expansive character customization and grilled lead designer EJ Moreland about it, he also talked about a variety of topics, like how the terms "MMO" and "PvP" don't apply to APB, the MMO elements the game has, how some Crackdown fans might be disappointed and, of course, competing with the "800-pound gorilla" that is World of Warcraft.

Continue reading E3 2009: APB lead designer EJ Moreland on the term 'MMO' and competing with WoW

MassivelyE3 2009: APB lead designer EJ Moreland on the term 'MMO' and competing with WoW originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 07 Jun 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apbe3-2009featuredrealtime-worldsSun, 07 Jun 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: APB lead designer EJ Moreland on player customization and creativity]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/07/e3-2009-apb-lead-designer-ej-moreland-on-player-customization/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/07/e3-2009-apb-lead-designer-ej-moreland-on-player-customization/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/07/e3-2009-apb-lead-designer-ej-moreland-on-player-customization/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Ever since it was shown at GDC last year, All Points Bulletin has been one game that both MMO and shooter players alike have been following closely. During E3 this past week, Realtime Worlds, the Scotland-based studio headed by Grand Theft Auto creator Dave Jones, announced that the massively multiplayer crime-themed game will be published by Electronic Arts.

After getting a close look at APB's detailed customization options during a demonstration at E3, I spoke with lead designer EJ Moreland, whose past work includes EverQuest II, Star Wars: Galaxies and Ultima Online. During the interview, Moreland talked about the importance of having players feel unique, being compared to Spore and the possibilities in APB's future.

Continue reading E3 2009: APB lead designer EJ Moreland on player customization and creativity

MassivelyE3 2009: APB lead designer EJ Moreland on player customization and creativity originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 07 Jun 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apbe3e3-2009featuredrealtime-worldsSun, 07 Jun 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: A look at APB's extensive character customization]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/06/e3-2009-a-look-at-apbs-extensive-character-customization/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/06/e3-2009-a-look-at-apbs-extensive-character-customization/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/06/e3-2009-a-look-at-apbs-extensive-character-customization/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


There's been a lot of speculation about All Points Bulletin, the upcoming game from Crackdown developer Realtime Worlds, but at a closed-door demonstration at E3, we were finally able to take a good look at the game with lead designer EJ Moreland. And while many MMOs have detailed character customization, we've never seen anything quite like this.

During the video presentation of the game, Moreland said that the developers were focused on "the three C's" -- creativity, conflict and celebrity. The heart of APB is giving players the maximum flexibility to create what they want. Using the same customization tool that the developers use to make the thousands of NPCs in the game, players can modify their characters in a myriad of ways.

Gallery: E3 2009: APB

Continue reading E3 2009: A look at APB's extensive character customization

MassivelyE3 2009: A look at APB's extensive character customization originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 06 Jun 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apbcharacter-creationcharacter-customizatione3e3-2009featuredrealtime-worldsSat, 06 Jun 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: Massively's day 4 roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/06/e3-2009-massivelys-day-4-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/06/e3-2009-massivelys-day-4-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/06/e3-2009-massivelys-day-4-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Wait a minute, day 4 of E3 2009? Remedial math skills? E3 was only a three-day event, but our own coverage of Electronic Entertainment Expo 2009 is going to last a bit longer. We've still got a number of interviews and previews lined up for you in the coming days, today included, so we hope you'll keep reading this weekend. In the meantime, here are a few highlights of Massively's coverage of E3 2009 from yesterday:


If you'd like to see more, we've got some eye candy after the jump, with galleries for Champions Online, Torchlight, Rohan: Blood Feud, and Dragonica Online.

Continue reading E3 2009: Massively's day 4 roundup

MassivelyE3 2009: Massively's day 4 roundup originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 06 Jun 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinbill-roperchampions-onlinedragonica-onlinee3-2009final-fantasy-xivglobal-agendaheroes-of-telararohanrohan-blood-feudroundupstar-wars-the-old-republicthe-agencytorchlightSat, 06 Jun 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: Dragonica Online impressions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/05/e3-2009-dragonica-online-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/05/e3-2009-dragonica-online-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/05/e3-2009-dragonica-online-impressions/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Continuing the somewhat recurring theme at E3 2009 of "what was old is new again," Dragonica Online has taken the traditional 2D side-scroller format and transitioned it to 3D. The resulting environment will be friendly to any of the Night Elves you see endlessly bouncing around World of Warcraft and fans of nostalgic action RPGs like Secret of Mana.

The game sports fast and furious real-time combat, crafting, guilds, dungeon raids, PvP, and a light-hearted atmosphere. It didn't take us long to realize that Dragonica doesn't take itself too seriously. For example, in the demo, we saw an archer battling shark pirates who were wielding swordfish. We're obviously not in Middle Earth here.

Continue reading E3 2009: Dragonica Online impressions

MassivelyE3 2009: Dragonica Online impressions originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Jun 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgdragonicadragonica-onlinee3-2009featuredicejoystiqfeaturesrmtthqthq-icethqiceFri, 05 Jun 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: Launch date announced for Rohan: Blood Feud's crafting system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/05/e3-2009-launch-date-announced-for-rohan-blood-feuds-crafting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/05/e3-2009-launch-date-announced-for-rohan-blood-feuds-crafting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/05/e3-2009-launch-date-announced-for-rohan-blood-feuds-crafting/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


YNK Interactive has revealed at E3 that their free-to-play MMO Rohan: Blood Feud will be getting a crafting system later this month. Andy Tubbs, the head of YNK Interactive's Rohan Division, helped make the announcement: "We are excited on soon releasing the Crafting System that will coincide greatly with our other game features like the Exchange Market, a place where players will have the ability to sell and/or buy crafted items from other players." The Exchange Market Tubbs referred to allows players to sell their items for Rohan Points, which is the currency needed to purchase things from the Item Mall -- in other words, crafting and selling the results could potentially become a good alternative to spending your own real cash.

The crafting system will involve three steps: the first is collecting resources, then comes the extraction of crafting materials from those raw goods, and finally, the actual crafting can take place with the refined materials. Various enhancements can be applied to crafted items once the creator is skilled enough. Look out for the new system to debut on the 16th of June.
Massively is on the ground in Los Angeles this week and covering all the latest E3 MMO news coming from the convention. Check out our breaking coverage (or all the Joystiq network E3 reporting) and keep your eye on Massively's front page for the latest developments.

MassivelyE3 2009: Launch date announced for Rohan: Blood Feud's crafting system originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Jun 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andy-tubbscraftingcrafting-systeme3-2009exchange-marketf2pfree-to-playitem-mallrohanrohan-blood-feudrohan-onlineynkynk-interactiveFri, 05 Jun 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: Bill Roper on character themes and customization in Champions Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/05/e3-2009-bill-roper-on-character-themes-and-customization-in-cha/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/05/e3-2009-bill-roper-on-character-themes-and-customization-in-cha/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/05/e3-2009-bill-roper-on-character-themes-and-customization-in-cha/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


The superhero MMO genre has been ruled by one game and one game alone for the past five years: City of Heroes. NCsoft's title being quite literally the only game in town for superhero fans is about to change, with competitors like DC Universe Online and Champions Online on the way. We have a good idea of what to expect with DCUO given the recognizable characters the game incorporates, but what of Champions Online which is based upon the Champions pen and paper RPG?

We've wondered what Cryptic Studios will do to differentiate Champions Online from the competition; Massively had a chance to sit down with Bill Roper, the game's executive producer, to discuss that question at E3 2009.

Gallery: Champions Online Main Gallery

Continue reading E3 2009: Bill Roper on character themes and customization in Champions Online

MassivelyE3 2009: Bill Roper on character themes and customization in Champions Online originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Jun 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acrobaticsbill-roperchampions-onlinecryptic-studioscustomizatione3-2009executive-producerfeaturedmassively-event-coveragemassively-interviewspower-replacesuper-heroteleportthemethemesFri, 05 Jun 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: Torchlight will morph from single player game to MMO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/05/e3-2009-torchlight-will-morph-from-single-player-game-to-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/05/e3-2009-torchlight-will-morph-from-single-player-game-to-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/05/e3-2009-torchlight-will-morph-from-single-player-game-to-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Coming from the desginers who made Diablo, Mythos, Mythos II and Fate, we're expecting quite a lot from their new title, Torchlight. This classic Diablo style 2D hack-and-slasher can in every way be considered the spiritual successor to Mythos, and in some ways even more closer to the original Diablo. For instance, Torchlight is a town with another world underneath it -- that and it's going to be a single player RPG before it goes MMO. But rest assured, it will go MMO in a year to a year and a half.

First, we'll discuss features that will exist at singleplayer launch later this year, then we'll cover the new elements planned when the game expands into a massively multiplayer game. Check it all out after the jump along with gameplay footage, complete with Felicia Day of The Guild trying her hand at a beta version of the Action RPG.

Gallery: E3 2009: Torchlight

Continue reading E3 2009: Torchlight will morph from single player game to MMO

MassivelyE3 2009: Torchlight will morph from single player game to MMO originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Jun 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3e3-2009felicia-dayflagship-studiosmythosrunic-gamesthe-guildtorchlightFri, 05 Jun 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: Massively's day 3 roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/05/e3-2009-massivelys-day-3-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/05/e3-2009-massivelys-day-3-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/05/e3-2009-massivelys-day-3-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,


We've completely zerg rushed E3 2009, attending press events, demonstrations and sure, hitting some parties as well. But we've also gone out and interviewed the people behind the games that will be arriving on the MMO scene in the next year and we've got a lot to tell you in the coming days.

As the constant hustle of E3 2009 came to a close yesterday and the swarm of game journos scatters, now is when we really shift into high gear; Massively's content over the next few days will feature loads of info and interviews fresh from E3. We'd say to keep your eyes open for it, but honestly you won't be able to miss it. For now though, here's a quick roundup of yesterday's coverage:

Still hungry? We've also put together galleries for these MMOs after the jump:

Continue reading E3 2009: Massively's day 3 roundup

MassivelyE3 2009: Massively's day 3 roundup originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Jun 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-spiritsall-points-bulletinapbcrimedungeon-fighter-onlinee3-2009ether-saga-onlinefantasyfree-to-playjade-dynastymassively-event-coveragemassively-hands-onmmo-industrypaul-barnettperfect-worldperfect-world-internationalroundupstar-wars-the-old-republicsuicide-girlsswtorvideoFri, 05 Jun 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: Star Wars: The Old Republic demonstration]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/e3-2009-star-wars-the-old-republic-demonstration/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/e3-2009-star-wars-the-old-republic-demonstration/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/e3-2009-star-wars-the-old-republic-demonstration/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


The trailer for Star Wars: The Old Republic blew nerds around the world away, and has managed to build some of the greatest hype possible for an MMO in just a few short days. The question has been asked whether or not a trailer which contains absolutely no gameplay footage should be producing that sort of hype, but that trailer wasn't all that we saw of the upcoming MMORPG at E3. A panel dedicated to The Old Republic had much more to say.

The panel opened up with the stage being set: The Old Republic begins 3,000 years before the rise of Darth Vader, 300 years after the events of Knights of the Old Republic, which would give BioWare an excellent opportunity to define and expand upon key events of Star Wars "pre-history."

The entire presentation laid a significant emphasis on story and story elements. Right from the beginning, the developers lay out it: RPGs have four primary elements. Exploration, combat, progression, and story. The story element is the one most overlooked in MMOs, and The Old Republic intends to address that head on. They intend to embrace story right alongside the other RPG elements. It will be a major player, and not something just used to justify the other elements.

Gallery: Star Wars: The Old Republic Screenshots

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

Continue reading E3 2009: Star Wars: The Old Republic demonstration

MassivelyE3 2009: Star Wars: The Old Republic demonstration originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Jun 2009 21:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boba-fettbounty-huntercoruscantcraftinge3e3-2009han-solohuttamandalorian-huntmandaloriansord-mantellpvpsmugglerstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicthe-old-republicThu, 04 Jun 2009 21:40:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: Dungeon Fighter Online impressions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/e3-2009-dungeon-fighter-online-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/e3-2009-dungeon-fighter-online-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/e3-2009-dungeon-fighter-online-impressions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Nexon's upcoming free to play title Dungeon Fighter Online isn't quite like anything we've seen before -- and at the same time, it's a lot like things we've seen before. At first glance, DFO mimics old-school, style-arcade action-adventure games, the sort of thing you might have been pumping quarters into a decade ago.

Not so old-school, however, are the game's MMO features: a persistent, shared world, character advancement, quests, and loot. These aren't features we'd have ever thought of putting together, but we can assure you that the resulting low-rez adventure is fast-paced and fun. Best of all? You won't need a pocket full of quarters to enjoy it.

Gallery: E3 2009: Dungeon Fighter Online

Continue reading E3 2009: Dungeon Fighter Online impressions

MassivelyE3 2009: Dungeon Fighter Online impressions originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Jun 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcadedfodungeon-fighter-onlinee3-2009free-to-playnexonretroworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 04 Jun 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: Jade Dynasty at a glance]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/e3-2009-jade-dynasty-at-a-glance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/e3-2009-jade-dynasty-at-a-glance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/e3-2009-jade-dynasty-at-a-glance/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


The third game in Perfect World's portfolio, Jade Dynasty, has been riding quietly in closed beta for a while. At this year's E3, however, the Jade Dynasty crew brought out their game and let us here at Massively take it for a test drive. They also hit us with an announcement as well -- Jade Dynasty will be jumping out of closed beta on June 15th, and a European server will be added in on that day as well.

Overall, Jade Dynasty pulls much from Perfect World's other games: Perfect World and Ether Saga Online. The click on map to automatically move feature, cosmetic cash shop, and large amount of in-game quests returns, but a few new features have been added in that make this game a very interesting experience.

Join us after the break as we break down Jade Dynasty's features, a few of which may be controversial for some gamers.

Continue reading E3 2009: Jade Dynasty at a glance

MassivelyE3 2009: Jade Dynasty at a glance originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Jun 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>at-a-glanceautorunbottingclansdreaminge3-2009featuredguildsinvigorationjade-dynastyjade-dynasty-onlinejdjoystiqfeaturespathingperfect-worldpwThu, 04 Jun 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: A closer look at Perfect World International: Age of Spirits]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/e3-2009-a-closer-look-at-perfect-world-international-age-of-sp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/e3-2009-a-closer-look-at-perfect-world-international-age-of-sp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/e3-2009-a-closer-look-at-perfect-world-international-age-of-sp/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Freemium MMO Perfect World International, the English-language version of the popular Chinese MMO Perfect World 2, has slowly been taking over the world, having been released in numerous territories including Europe and North America. Well the company behind the game, Perfect World, is at E3 and has been showing off it's newest expansion Age of Spirits, which was announced last month. The game is out now and free-to-play.

Age of Spirits expands the land of Pangu, a realm steeped in Chinese mythology. It adds an elemental twist in the form of genies, tiny fairy-like creatures who hover and offer assistance in battle. Hailing from the Elemental Realm, a world parallel to the Perfect World, they level up as you do and also provide a little more uniqueness to fights. You might know your opponent's class in PVP but you have no idea what kind of genie they might have at their beck and call. Check out a trailer and gallery of brand new screen shots after the jump.

Continue reading E3 2009: A closer look at Perfect World International: Age of Spirits

MassivelyE3 2009: A closer look at Perfect World International: Age of Spirits originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Jun 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-spiritse3-2009geniesperfect-worldperfect-world-age-of-spiritsperfect-world-internationalThu, 04 Jun 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: Ether Saga Online to release major content patch this month, move from beta to live]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/e3-2009-ether-saga-online-to-release-major-content-patch-this-m/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/e3-2009-ether-saga-online-to-release-major-content-patch-this-m/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/e3-2009-ether-saga-online-to-release-major-content-patch-this-m/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


We had the chance to catch up with Perfect World today at E3, the developers of Ether Saga Online, and we picked up a very interesting piece of news about the game. They've just finished up with a brand new content patch for their game and are getting it set to go live later this month. They also let us check out their new launch trailer, which we've included for your viewing pleasure after the break.

The patch will not only knock Ether Saga out of beta and into the live release, but it will also drastically alter the questing done between the levels of 1 and 45. The amount of "kill X" quests have been reduced, with new gathering and exploration quests taking their place, and all "kill X" quests will never exceed 20 monsters required. The kill 30, kill 40, kill 50, and kill 60 goals have been removed due to player feedback and an attempt to localize the game for North American audiences.

Continue reading E3 2009: Ether Saga Online to release major content patch this month, move from beta to live

MassivelyE3 2009: Ether Saga Online to release major content patch this month, move from beta to live originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Jun 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabreakinge3-2009esoether-sagaether-saga-onlinefree-to-playgrindkill-xlaunchpatchperfect-worldquestsThu, 04 Jun 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: APB gets the Paul Barnett hype treatment]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/e3-2009-apb-gets-the-paul-barnett-hype-treatment/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/e3-2009-apb-gets-the-paul-barnett-hype-treatment/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/e3-2009-apb-gets-the-paul-barnett-hype-treatment/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


At E3 this entire week, EA is promoting their biggest and brightest new titles at their enormous booth in the LA Convention Center's South Hall. This includes two titles we're excited about: SWTOR and APB. To help promote APB yesterday, EA's Paul Barnett got the crowd hyped up for the game with some free t-shirts and a couple Suicide Girls to help toss them out to the audience.

On top of this, APB's Dave Jones was interviewed by Paul on the stage, and two short trailers were shown. The first one was basically what we saw last year, showcasing the amazing character customization options available in the MMO. Yet, we were also shown some in-game footage with characters created by the APB testing community basically, the new trailer we showed you earlier in the week). You can check out our shaky-cam footage of the event right after the jump below.

Continue reading E3 2009: APB gets the Paul Barnett hype treatment

MassivelyE3 2009: APB gets the Paul Barnett hype treatment originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Jun 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbdave-jonese3-2009ealive-eventspaul-barnettrealtime-worldsvideoThu, 04 Jun 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: Massively's day 2 roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/e3-2009-massivelys-day-2-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/e3-2009-massivelys-day-2-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/e3-2009-massivelys-day-2-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,


We thought the first day of E3 2009 turned out pretty well, with announcements for Star Wars: The Old Republic, Final Fantasy XIV, and All Points Bulletin. That's in addition to the packed interview schedule we lined up so we'll have plenty more to show you in the coming days. While the Massively team frantically taps their fingertips down into little bloody tater tots to bring you more fresh E3 goodness, have a look at some highlights of what day 2 of E3 2009 brought in MMO news.

Want to see more? We've got E3 galleries to flip through for these titles and events after the jump.

Continue reading E3 2009: Massively's day 2 roundup

MassivelyE3 2009: Massively's day 2 roundup originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Jun 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2009eventsfantasyfinal-fantasy-xivfree-realmsglobal-agendaguiness-world-recordshi-rez-studiosmassively-event-coveragemmofpsroundupsci-fisoesony-online-entertainmentspysquare-enixsqueenixthe-agencythe-daresThu, 04 Jun 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: Massively's day 1 roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/e3-2009-massivelys-day-1-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/e3-2009-massivelys-day-1-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/e3-2009-massivelys-day-1-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


E3 2009 is turning out to be quite a show this year and Massively is right in the middle of it all to report on the MMO news. We got a head start on E3 and reported a bit on what's happening before the Expo officially kicked off and it looks like we'll have plenty more to share with you before E3 is over. Here's our recap of day 1 in MMO news from Electronic Entertainment Expo 2009, and be sure to click through to the E3 galleries we've got after the jump.

Boatloads of screenshots after the jump!

Continue reading E3 2009: Massively's day 1 roundup

MassivelyE3 2009: Massively's day 1 roundup originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Jun 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbbiowaree3-2009eaelectronic-artseventsfinal-fantasy-xivheroes-of-telarahomemassively-event-coveragemassively-metaplaystation-homerealtime-worldsroundupsquare-enixstar-wars-the-old-republicswtortrion-world-networkWed, 03 Jun 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: Final Fantasy XIV is not PS3 exclusive, more details revealed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/e3-2009-final-fantasy-xiv-is-not-ps3-exclusive-more-details-re/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/e3-2009-final-fantasy-xiv-is-not-ps3-exclusive-more-details-re/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/e3-2009-final-fantasy-xiv-is-not-ps3-exclusive-more-details-re/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Today we got to spend some time with the team of Final Fantasy XIV in a seekret Square-Enix press conference at E3 and land some goodies about the game.

While the team was generally tightlipped about what they had planned for their next MMO, the one thing they were very clear about was that PC users will be able to jump into the Final Fantasy experience once more. While the game is currently a console exclusive for the PS3, a Windows version will be releasing at the same time.

In addition, the team did mention that they were still "considering all hardware possibilities" regarding the game. While it's not a full confirmation that the game will be coming to other consoles, it doesn't exactly write out the possibility either. Perhaps the game will be a timed exclusive, much like FFXI has done, rather than a full exclusive, but there is no clear indication that this is the path they will take at this time.

So what else has the team revealed? Follow us after the break and we'll drop the other details we know on FFXIV.

Gallery: E3 2009: Final Fantasy XIV screenshots

Continue reading E3 2009: Final Fantasy XIV is not PS3 exclusive, more details revealed

MassivelyE3 2009: Final Fantasy XIV is not PS3 exclusive, more details revealed originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Jun 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakinge3-2009ff14ffxiffxivfinal-fantasy-xifinal-fantasy-xivpcplayonlineplaystation-3ps3racessquare-enixvanadielwindowsWed, 03 Jun 2009 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: Global Agenda hands-on with executive producer Todd Harris]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/e3-2009-global-agenda-hands-on-with-executive-producer-todd-har/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/e3-2009-global-agenda-hands-on-with-executive-producer-todd-har/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/e3-2009-global-agenda-hands-on-with-executive-producer-todd-har/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Global Agenda is coming right along nicely -- we last saw the game in action at GDC, and today at E3, executive producer Todd Harris was nice enough to sit down and show us a never-before-seen part of the game: PvE gameplay.

We started off by checking out the character creator, which has come along quite a bit. They've built a very in-depth face creator -- there are about eight or ten different factors to switch between (eyes, mouth, and so on), and for each one, there are seven or eight sliders to adjust and tweak. Which allows for quite a few different variations, as you might imagine. Hair and skin color can also be edited, but Harris told us that body shape will generally be determined by the armor you wear (which is more or less determined by the class you choose).

Gallery: Hi-Rez Studios and Global Agenda Gallery

When bots attackThe juggernautBancroft helps out
Massively is on the ground in Los Angeles this week and covering all the latest E3 MMO news coming from the convention. Check out our breaking coverage (or all the Joystiq network E3 reporting) and keep your eye on Massively's front page for the latest developments.

Continue reading E3 2009: Global Agenda hands-on with executive producer Todd Harris

MassivelyE3 2009: Global Agenda hands-on with executive producer Todd Harris originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Jun 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boostclassese3-2009engineerglobal-agendahands-onhi-rez-studiosmassivelymedicreconroboticsscoutshooterskillsteam-fortress-2third-persontodd-harrisWed, 03 Jun 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: Day one video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/e3-2009-day-one-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/e3-2009-day-one-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/e3-2009-day-one-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


While it's technically the first day for most attendees, we've actually been here since Sunday, preparing for the big event. Yet, yesterday marked the first time the show floor was opened and we all got a look at the new E3.

After last year's disappointing showing, the organizers more than made up for it with what is arguably the largest collection of shinies we've seen at any conference in recent years. To pay respect for E3 going back to the way it was, we've compiled this short video of what we saw on Day 1. There's some shaky-cam footage of the show floor, some great MMO screens including never-before-seen shots of Torchlight and DCUO, and of course, an EverQuest booth babe. You can check it out right after the jump, and be sure to look for another compilation video once the convention is over, featuring our favorite moments.
Massively is on the ground in Los Angeles this week and covering all the latest E3 MMO news coming from the convention. Check out our breaking coverage (or all the Joystiq network E3 reporting) and keep your eye on Massively's front page for the latest developments.

Continue reading E3 2009: Day one video

MassivelyE3 2009: Day one video originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Jun 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conferenceday-onedcuoe3-2009global-agendashow-floorthe-agencytorchlightWed, 03 Jun 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: Free Realms and The Dares set world record concert event]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/e3-2009-free-realms-and-the-dares-set-world-record-concert-even/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/e3-2009-free-realms-and-the-dares-set-world-record-concert-even/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/e3-2009-free-realms-and-the-dares-set-world-record-concert-even/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Last night at SOE's gigantic E3 booth, attendees were actually a part of history. The Dares -- that youthful pop-punk band that sings the light-heartedly rebellious theme song for Free Realms -- performed a small set for a live concert audience at E3 and simultaneously in the game. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, who awarded the bandmates a plaque after the concert, this is the first time this has been done. Yeah, sorry Second Life fans.

If you're interested in seeing the live performance of "It's Your World", and thereby getting it stuck in your head for the next three weeks, check it out after the jump below. There's also a separate video showing the Guinness World Record reception, as well. Congrats goes out to those guys, although I'm pretty sure they'll never read this.

Continue reading E3 2009: Free Realms and The Dares set world record concert event

MassivelyE3 2009: Free Realms and The Dares set world record concert event originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Jun 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>concerte3-2009eventfree-realmsguinness-book-of-world-recordslivesoethe-daresWed, 03 Jun 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: Friends fix coming to Free Realms]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/e3-2009-friends-fix-coming-to-free-realms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/e3-2009-friends-fix-coming-to-free-realms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/e3-2009-friends-fix-coming-to-free-realms/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


While there's little doubt that Free Realms is a wonderfully fun, addictive game that more and more old-school MMOers and non-MMOers are enjoying together, it has had some pretty nasty snags since launch. The most glaring of these for social gamers has really been the problem with trying to add someone to your Friends listing. As the mechanic currently works, if you want to add someone to your friends listing in the game to find them later, you must be signed on to the same server at the same time. If you don't happen to know your friends are online, you have no real way to find them. This is leading to players having to hook up on Twitter, via IMs or email, or just by calling one another before they sign in so they can meet up in a particular zone on a particular server to finally be "friends" in Free Realms.

Yesterday, while talking to Andrew Sites from Sony Online Entertainment here at E3, we were told that they'd noticed, while Free Realms is incredibly popular, it's not necessarily as social as they'd like it to be - at least not yet. The friends list problem, they acknowledge, is a good portion of this, as players can't find their friends as easily as they'd intended for them to. As such, they wanted to let us all know that they're currently working on a fix for this particular issue and we should see it rolling out to the live servers within the next few weeks. Good news for those of us who have been frustrated by not being able to play with - or even locate - our friends in Free Realms.
Massively is on the ground in Los Angeles this week and covering all the latest E3 MMO news coming from the convention. Check out our breaking coverage (or all the Joystiq network E3 reporting) and keep your eye on Massively's front page for the latest developments.

MassivelyE3 2009: Friends fix coming to Free Realms originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Jun 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bug-fixe3e3-2009free-realmsfriendsfriends-listingsoesony-online-entertainmentWed, 03 Jun 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: The Agency in-game footage]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/e3-2009-the-agency-in-game-footage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/e3-2009-the-agency-in-game-footage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/e3-2009-the-agency-in-game-footage/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,


As part of our extensive E3 tour through SOE's newest games, launched and upcoming, we got a fairly good look at some gameplay footage in The Agency. Of course, you know The Agency as the spy MMO that had everyone talking at last year's E3. With this new gameplay footage, you lucky readers (or, viewers) get to see what to expect when the game launches.

Click through after the jump to see the game's lead producer, Lorien Gremore, show us around a bit with combat, stealth, minigames and even a bit of female persuasion tactics*.

* Not from Lorien

Gallery: E3 2009: The Agency

Massively is on the ground in Los Angeles this week and covering all the latest E3 MMO news coming from the convention. Check out our breaking coverage (or all the Joystiq network E3 reporting) and keep your eye on Massively's front page for the latest developments.

Continue reading E3 2009: The Agency in-game footage

MassivelyE3 2009: The Agency in-game footage originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Jun 2009 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demoe3-2009soespythe-agencyWed, 03 Jun 2009 07:00:00 EST