Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Got cons?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/10/the-daily-grind-got-cons/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/10/the-daily-grind-got-cons/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/10/the-daily-grind-got-cons/#commentsFiled under: , ,

So the New York Comic Con is in full swing, and the fact that it's here already reminds us of just how many game-related cons there are scattered throughout the calendar year. Whether it's NYCC, Dragon Con, E3, GDC, or the various flavors of PAX, there always seems to be something just around the corner that calls for hotel reservations and airline tickets. More often than not, the next convention on the circuit sneaks right up on us before we manage to shake the jet lag from the last one.

While we'd like nothing better than to shirk responsibilities and tour the world of gaming and pop culture conventions for a year, work must occasionally intrude, and most of us have to pick and choose our events. What about you Massively readers? Did you attend NYCC this weekend, and are you a regular on the gaming convention circuit?
Every morning, the Massively bloggers probe the minds of our 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 The Daily Grind!

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Got cons? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 10 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airfareconsconvention-circuitconventionsdragon-cone3e3-2010gdc-2010hotelsnew-york-comic-connyccnycc-2010opinionPAXpax-2010pax-east-2010pax-prime-2010tdgthe-daily-grindtravelSun, 10 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SDCC 2010: TERA by the numbers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/26/sdcc-2010-tera-by-the-numbers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/26/sdcc-2010-tera-by-the-numbers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/26/sdcc-2010-tera-by-the-numbers/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

If looks were everything, then TERA would certainly place as a finalist in the Miss Upcoming MMO Universe pageant. Yet as visually sumptuous as it may be, we're more interested in its personality. Can the brains match the beauty? So far, it looks promising. We've been locked on to TERA's unique brand of fantasy play since this year's E3 (and before), and as such, it's great to check back in with the title, take it out for a quiet romantic dinner, and see how it's shaping up.

We caught up with En Masse Entertainment at the 2010 San Diego Comic-Con and spent a half hour putting the game through its paces and chatting up with TERA's devs. While TERA's dev team is working with a more recent build of the game, our hands-on demo was the same build as the one we saw at E3. Even so, it's always worth spending a few more minutes with an upcoming MMO to see what new facts and impressions can be gleaned. Hit the jump to read more about classes, races and an idea about not getting hit that's so crazy, it just might work!

Continue reading SDCC 2010: TERA by the numbers

MassivelySDCC 2010: TERA by the numbers originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Jul 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amanbarakascastanicscharacter-customizationclassescomic-concomicconcraftinge3e3-2010en-masseen-masse-entertainmentfeaturedhigh-elvespet-pvpspoporipotpourriracessdccsdcc-2010sorcererteravalkyon-federationwarriorMon, 26 Jul 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Play me, my lord: Might and Magic Heroes Kingdoms fires up an interview]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/21/play-me-my-lord-might-and-magic-heroes-kingdoms-fires-up-an-in/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/21/play-me-my-lord-might-and-magic-heroes-kingdoms-fires-up-an-in/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/21/play-me-my-lord-might-and-magic-heroes-kingdoms-fires-up-an-in/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Heroes of Might and Magic franchise has a long and rich history with PC gamers, although the series has somewhat fallen into obscurity as of late. Ubisoft is looking to thrust it back into the spotlight with the upcoming Might and Magic Heroes Kingdoms, a Civilization-type title. We've been tracking MMHK since this year's E3, and recently MMOsite.com grabbed some facetime with Ubisoft's Chris Early about the game. (Note that this isn't the Heroes of Might and Magic Online that's also nearing release.)

A browser-based title imported from overseas, Might and Magic Heroes Kingdoms encourages players to slowly build up a city (and later, cities) and interact with their neighbors. This can take the form of peaceful resource trading, hostile skirmishes, or large-scale strategy. While MMHK is set in the Might and Magic universe, the game differs from Heroes of Might and Magic's playstyle -- for example, combat is automatically resolved instead of turn-based. One of the most interesting features of the game is that it has a six-month cycle, after which winners are declared and the server resets for another grand struggle.

The interview spends a bit of time prodding Chris Early about the advantages -- and potential imbalance -- between free players and those who drop cash for advantages (such as more cities to control). Early claims that while paying players will have more options available, free players are still a significant force, especially if they specialize. You can read the whole interview over at MMOsite.com.

MassivelyPlay me, my lord: Might and Magic Heroes Kingdoms fires up an interview originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Jul 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browser-basedchris-earlye3e3-2010f2pfree-to-playHeroes-of-Might-and-Magicheroes-of-might-and-magic-mmoheroes-of-might-and-magic-mmorpgheroes-of-might-and-magic-onlinemight-and-magicmight-and-magic-heroes-kingdommight-and-magic-kingdomsmmhkmmosite.complay-me-my-lordubisoftWed, 21 Jul 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA's David Noonan talks story, gameplay]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/16/teras-david-noonan-talks-story-gameplay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/16/teras-david-noonan-talks-story-gameplay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/16/teras-david-noonan-talks-story-gameplay/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

TERA was one of the big winners at this year's E3, and the action fantasy MMORPG continues to ride that wave with a set of newly released video interviews taped on the show floor. TheGameNet's Nadine Heimann interviews lead writer David Noonan, who drops a few interesting nuggets about TERA's gameplay and story.

For starters, Noonan clears up a question many fans have had regarding Westernization and the game's plot. Despite the fact that the majority of TERA's development is happening at Bluehole Studio in Seoul, South Korea, the game's quests will have a distinctly American flavor since Noonan spends one week out of every month traveling to the far east to collaborate directly with Bluehole's designers.

He also points out that the game's quests will feature upwards of two million words, and that players could play through the TERA's lengthy storyline twice without repeating any quest content.

Check out the full interview on YouTube, and don't forget to watch the shorter "personality" piece as well.

MassivelyTERA's David Noonan talks story, gameplay originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Jul 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bluehole-studiodavid-newnane3-2010en-masseen-masse-entertainmentinterviewlorenadine-heimannstoryteratera-onlinethegamenetvideowesternizationyoutubeFri, 16 Jul 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Extensive TERA E3 demo video unveiled]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/01/extensive-tera-e3-demo-video-unveiled/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/01/extensive-tera-e3-demo-video-unveiled/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/01/extensive-tera-e3-demo-video-unveiled/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

If you're a fan of TERA but weren't able to make it to E3 2010, you can still check out portions of the lengthy press demonstration video that En Masse Entertainment showcased a couple of weeks ago in Los Angeles. Gametrailers has an edited version of the video, narrated by producers Sam Kim and Stefan Ramirez, which takes viewers on a whirlwind tour of TERA's action combat as five of the game's eight classes are shown battling through a scenario to take down the evil Captain Marduck.

"Keep in mind that this isn't a trailer, it is a cut down version of our demo and it is built entirely from footage captured from one of our sessions. We're going to boil this down to a five minute recap that gives you a taste of the experience," Ramirez notes.

The video highlights the berserker, warrior, slayer, sorcerer, and priest classes. Check it out after the jump, or at Gametrailers.

Continue reading Extensive TERA E3 demo video unveiled

MassivelyExtensive TERA E3 demo video unveiled originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Jul 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3e3-2010en-masseen-masse-entertainmentgameplay-demosam-kimstefan-ramirezteratera-onlinevideowalkthroughThu, 01 Jul 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Old school hobbits]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/25/the-road-to-mordor-old-school-hobbits/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/25/the-road-to-mordor-old-school-hobbits/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/25/the-road-to-mordor-old-school-hobbits/#commentsFiled under: , ,


(Screenshot courtesy of Lord of the Rhymes)

Over the past couple weeks Lord of the Rings Online players' eyes have turned to the future, and this column with it. After all, with the beta for LotRO F2P edition in full swing and the recent news from E3 about this fall's offerings, it's kind of hard not to be focused on what's ahead.

However, I was tickled by a LotRO forum thread this week that looked back, not forward. It's one of those nostalgia threads that tend to pop up in a forum of any game more than a few years old, a place for veterans to reminisce about the olden days (whether good or bad). It's also an excellent chance for newbies to learn a bit more about the history of the game -- and perhaps thank their lucky stars they didn't have to walk uphill through three-foot snow with a Balrog on their tail just to log in to the servers every day.

The thread certainly makes for good readin', but I wanted to comment on a few specific examples of how the game's changed, and how it was back when we were in school. Old school, that is. Hit the jump, and we'll travel to the past in our hobbit tub time machine!

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Old school hobbits

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Old school hobbits originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 Jun 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abcappledoree3-2010evendimeverswimf2pfeaturedfree-to-playghost-bearlevel-caplord-oflotromusic-systemnostalgiaold-schoolore-stealingthe-old-forestthe-road-to-mordortom-tom-bombadilturbineweathertopFri, 25 Jun 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[This week on The MMO Report]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/25/this-week-on-the-mmo-report/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/25/this-week-on-the-mmo-report/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/25/this-week-on-the-mmo-report/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

This week's MMO Report takes us back to last week's E3 at the Los Angeles convention center, and the show is so packed with content that Casey Schreiner and crew couldn't manage to fit it all into one episode. As a result, you can check out part one this week and wait with baited breath for part two next Thursday.

Speaking of content, Schreiner kicks things off by interviewing Nexon's Eun-Seok Lee and Min Kim about the forthcoming action title Vindictus. Lee talks about the game's non-traditional approach to classes as well as the free-to-play business model. "That's all we do, that's all we know how to do, we kind of invented free to play back in 2000," he says.

Chris Sherland, executive producer on LEGO Universe, is also interviewed on the show, and discusses the creativity inherent in the upcoming title. "We've taken the build metaphor across a number of different levels. If anybody's played the [LEGO] Batman games or the Star Wars games, it's very familiar [to] that early build experience where you're creating something in the world that's pre-determined, but you get that feedback that you've built something. We've that taken that to another level," Sherland says.

Finally, Star Wars The Old Republic writer Daniel Erickson discusses BioWare's decision to avoid demos and simply put the game in the hands of convention-goers, as well as specifics on the game's classes. He also touches on the much-discussed "Hope" trailer, which Casey accurately describes as "better than all three prequels combined."

Check out all the MMO Report E3 action at G4TV or after the jump.

Continue reading This week on The MMO Report

MassivelyThis week on The MMO Report originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 Jun 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarecasey-schreinere3e3-2010g4g4tvstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicthe-mmo-reportthe-old-republicvindictusFri, 25 Jun 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EQII's Dave Georgeson talks battlegrounds, starter cities]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/23/eqiis-dave-georgeson-talks-battlegrounds-starter-cities/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/23/eqiis-dave-georgeson-talks-battlegrounds-starter-cities/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/23/eqiis-dave-georgeson-talks-battlegrounds-starter-cities/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Now that this year's E3 is safely in the rear-view mirror, more MMO-centric news from the show is slowly filtering out of outlets around the web as writers are able to collect their interview notes and put fingers to keyboards. One such piece features EverQuest II's Dave Georgeson, the new producer on the long-running fantasy MMORPG, who sat down with Ten Ton Hammer to chat about changes coming soon to the world of Norrath.

Georgeson indicates that the updates will be revealed at this year's SOE Fan Faire. In the meantime, he mentions tweaks to the beloved cities of Freeport and Qeynos, recently removed as starter city options to the chagrin of many veteran players. "I think the business as usual model needs to change. It would be so much better if we can put back some of the richness into the game so we don't have the empty world syndrome. We're going to be offering some new things here in the future that are really going to shake things up a bit," Georgeson says.

He also touches on the problems inherent in the new Battlegrounds system, as well as hints at plans to address it eventually. "I think that people who are just casually going in are getting worked by people who have a lot of PvP gear and because of that we are seeing that people aren't going in without a full board commitment. Because not a lot of new people are going in we basically have the same set of people playing over and over again. Battlegrounds is a really good feature and we will continue to support it, we like it a lot; it's just under performing for the amount of effort we put into it," he says.

MassivelyEQII's Dave Georgeson talks battlegrounds, starter cities originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Jun 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlegroundsdave-georgesone3-2010EverQuest-2everquest-iiEverquest2freeportinterviewnorrathqeynosWed, 23 Jun 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 104: E3 2010 impressions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/23/massively-speaking-episode-104-e3-2010-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/23/massively-speaking-episode-104-e3-2010-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/23/massively-speaking-episode-104-e3-2010-impressions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Massively Speaking Episode 104 is back after a bit of a break as we return from E3 with tales of MMOs from a faraway land. Or Los Angeles, CA at least. Join Shawn and Sera as they discuss their honest impressions of the games they saw at E3 2010.

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

Get the podcast:
[iTunes] Subscribe to Massively Speaking directly in iTunes.
[RSS] Add Massively Speaking to your RSS aggregator.
[MP3] Download the MP3 directly.
Listen here on the page:



Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 104: E3 2010 impressions

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 104: E3 2010 impressions originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Jun 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2010hands-onimpressionsinterviewsmassively-speakingopinionpodcastingpodcastsWed, 23 Jun 2010 16:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 104Massively.com Staff01:32:58podcasts<![CDATA[TERA E3 video walkthrough with Evan Berman]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/23/tera-e3-video-walkthrough-with-evan-berman/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/23/tera-e3-video-walkthrough-with-evan-berman/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/23/tera-e3-video-walkthrough-with-evan-berman/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Thegamer.vg has an interesting video interview with En Masse Entertainment senior community manager Evan "Scapes" Berman recorded live at last week's E3 convention in Los Angeles. The three-part interview, which features over twenty minutes of footage from En Masse's upcoming TERA action MMORPG, touches on everything from character creation, to class skills, to equipment customization.

"With the focus group [testing this past March], we saw the Crystal Socketing System, which will allow your armor and weapons to be a little more customized toward what you want to focus on. If you want to have healing per second, or mana per second, or additional damage when somebody's knocked down...these are all crystals that you'll socket into your armor and weapons and you'll have a combination of them," Berman says.

The walkthrough focuses on character creation, and also shows a bit of PvE in the form of quests and starter area gameplay. View the first portion of the video at Thegamer.vg.

MassivelyTERA E3 video walkthrough with Evan Berman originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Jun 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bluehole-studioe3-2010en-masseen-masse-entertainmentinterviewteratera-onlinevideoWed, 23 Jun 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Fett's threads: The progression of SWTOR's bounty hunter armor]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/22/fetts-threads-the-progression-of-swtors-bounty-hunter-armor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/22/fetts-threads-the-progression-of-swtors-bounty-hunter-armor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/22/fetts-threads-the-progression-of-swtors-bounty-hunter-armor/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Star Wars: The Old Republic did not exactly keep a low profile at E3 this year. Between another slam-bang cinematic trailer and the revelation of player ships and war zones, the razzle dazzle of news kept us all hopping. However, BioWare did drop a few smaller bits of TOR goodness for us to snatch up, including a nifty video showing armor progression for the bounty hunter.

As with most MMOs, the look, bulk and "cool" factor of armor increases as one levels up and gets his or her hands on the latest and greatest gear. In this video, a bounty hunter is taken through the paces fighting enemies as he goes through five iterations of armor, each more threatening than the last. A sharp-eyed viewer can even spot a couple unfortunate souls frozen in carbonite in the background.

Check out the video after the jump!

Continue reading Fett's threads: The progression of SWTOR's bounty hunter armor

MassivelyFett's threads: The progression of SWTOR's bounty hunter armor originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 Jun 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armor-progressionbiowarebounty-huntere3-2010frozen-in-carbonitei-love-you-i-knowstar-wars-the-old-republicswtortortrailervideoTue, 22 Jun 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Fires of Hope from E3 2010]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/21/hyperspace-beacon-fires-of-hope-from-e3-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/21/hyperspace-beacon-fires-of-hope-from-e3-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/21/hyperspace-beacon-fires-of-hope-from-e3-2010/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

The Hyperspace Beacon is a weekly guide and discussion by Larry Everett about the yet-to-be-released game Star Wars: The Old Republic.

No matter where you were this week, if you are a Star Wars fan, you saw the new SWTOR trailer: Hope. I'm sure you also read the Daily Grind asking, "Do cinematics make you want to play?" It's an honest question. Lots of times these over-the-top trailers mask some of the things producers aren't telling you about the game you are interested in playing. In fact, it may give you greater expectations than the game has to offer. There have been quite a few comments about Star Wars Galaxies' trailers which have caused some players of the seven-year-old MMO to ask rhetorically, "I want to play that game. Where is that game?" So let me tell you up front, Star Wars: The Old Republic does not look like either of the cinematic trailers, but that does not mean it is not a great game.

I believe as a fan of this game and as a reporter for this website that I would be doing you, the reader, an injustice by totally giving into the (albeit mostly fan-created) hype that surrounds this game. So this week I want to take things back a notch and hopefully give you a realistic outlook on a couple of announced aspects of the game.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Fires of Hope from E3 2010

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Fires of Hope from E3 2010 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Jun 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alderaanautomagicallybattlegroundsBioWarecompanioncompanionsdaniel-ericksondarth-hatere3e3-2010james-ohlenLucasArtspvprich-vogelspace-combatSpaceShipspaceshipsStar-Warsstar-wars-galaxiesstar-wars-mmostar-wars-the-old-republicswtortor-aidtrailertrailerswar-zoneWar-zonesMon, 21 Jun 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2010: Your complete Massively coverage roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/21/e3-2010-your-complete-massively-coverage-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/21/e3-2010-your-complete-massively-coverage-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/21/e3-2010-your-complete-massively-coverage-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The 2010 edition of the gaming nirvana known as E3 has come and gone, and Massively was there to bring you three days of exclusives, firsts, and hands-on impressions for all your favorite MMORPG titles, studios, and developers. This year's Expo saw plenty of news and announcements regarding highly anticipated games, as well as plenty of information on assorted titles large and small.

We thought it best to collate our coverage into a complete and concise roundup post for your viewing pleasure, so read along after the cut to make sure you didn't miss anything. You can also check out all of our E3 galleries along the way.

Continue reading E3 2010: Your complete Massively coverage roundup

MassivelyE3 2010: Your complete Massively coverage roundup originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Jun 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galacticabiowareblack-prophecyClone-Wars-Adventuresdc-universe-onlinedragon-neste3-2010en-masseen-masse-entertainmentfeaturedfinal-fantasy-xivforsaken-worldglobal-agendajumpgate-evolutionLEGO-Universelord-of-the-rings-onlinemassively-event-coveragemassively-hands-onmassively-interviewsmight-and-magicmmo-industryNeed-for-Speednew-titlesnexonrift-planes-of-telararoundupsoestar-wars-the-old-republicswordsman-onlinetaikodomteratera-onlinethe-agencyvindictuswar40kwarhammer-40kMon, 21 Jun 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2010: Revving up Need For Speed World]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/20/e3-2010-revving-up-need-for-speed-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/20/e3-2010-revving-up-need-for-speed-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/20/e3-2010-revving-up-need-for-speed-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


"This is Need for Speed World. It is a Massively Multiplayer Action Racing Game. This is the first time for the franchise to go on the Massively Multi[player] Online market, so that is really exciting for us," Producer Jean-Charles Gaudechon announces to Massively at E3 as he gives us a tour of this brand new step into the MMO world. He could not wait to show of the innovative and (dare it be said) powerful features of this, yes, free-to-play game.

How does someone transform one of the best-selling console racing franchises into an online living world that players expect from an MMOG? The producers at EA make it seem simple. It actually seems as if this game should have been an online world the whole time. From customizable cars to character leveling and achievements to exportable leaderboards -- this game is any MMO without even thinking. All you need now is a couple thousand friends for you to race against.

"The world is the biggest we've ever done, it's a seamless open world that you can explore." Well, that sounds like an invitation from Mister Gaudechon. Follow the break, and we will explore!

Continue reading E3 2010: Revving up Need For Speed World

MassivelyE3 2010: Revving up Need For Speed World originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 20 Jun 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3e3-2010featuredjean-charles-gaudechonneed-for-speed-worldnfswracingSun, 20 Jun 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERAs Brian Knox interviewed at E3]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/20/teras-brian-knox-interviewed-at-e3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/20/teras-brian-knox-interviewed-at-e3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/20/teras-brian-knox-interviewed-at-e3/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Amira over at TERAfans managed to corner En Masse Entertainment Senior Producer Brian Knox at last week's E3 convention in Los Angeles. The highly visible TERA producer was quizzed on a variety of game-related topics submitted by TERAfans forum-goers including bits on the character talent system, battlegrounds, and a few hints on the game's political system.

"We're not talking a lot about it [the political system], but, there'll be different ways to be elected, be it through PvP, wealth, as well as voting. We're just trying to find the right balance so that different players can participate in different ways and have a choice about how they want to be a part of it all. Once you're elected to office, there'll be some cool features available as well," Knox said.

You can view the full transcript over at TERAfans.

MassivelyTERAs Brian Knox interviewed at E3 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 20 Jun 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoamirabrian-knoxe3e3-2010en-masseen-masse-entertainmentinterviewteratera-onlineterafansSun, 20 Jun 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2010: Hands-on with Clone Wars Adventures]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/19/e3-2010-hands-on-with-clone-wars-adventures/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/19/e3-2010-hands-on-with-clone-wars-adventures/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/19/e3-2010-hands-on-with-clone-wars-adventures/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Arriving at the SOE booth at E3, one is assaulted with the shininess of their latest upcoming titles, DC Universe Online and The Agency. But scattered about the booth were demo stations for many of their other upcoming games including the recently announced Clone Wars Adventures. We haven't heard much about this game since it was announced (and our subsequent interview with the lead designer), but we got to sit down at E3 and find out what's involved.

As a quick refresher, CWA is less a traditional MMORPG and more a virtual lobby where players can access a number of minigames. There's no leveling or quests or equipment with stats. It's more Free Realms and less EverQuest. It will be free-to-play as a Flash-based browser title when it arrives this fall. But how does all this actually play? Click past the jump for more info.

Continue reading E3 2010: Hands-on with Clone Wars Adventures

MassivelyE3 2010: Hands-on with Clone Wars Adventures originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 19 Jun 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cash-shopclone-warsClone-Wars-Adventurescwae3e3-2010featuredlightsaberLightsaber-Duelslobbyminigamessoesonysony-online-entertainmentstar-warstower-defenseSat, 19 Jun 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's Best of E3 2010]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/19/massivelys-best-of-e3-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/19/massivelys-best-of-e3-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/19/massivelys-best-of-e3-2010/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

E3 2010 has wrapped up and we're still recovering a bit from the shiny overload that's bombarded us for the event's long three days. While many MMO development studios and publishers weren't in attendance (NCsoft, Funcom, CCP, Mythic, etc), there was still a significant presence for MMOs this year. Whether through demos or hands-on play, we spent time with each and every MMO on the show floor this year.

So we wanted to honor the best of the best in our annual E3 awards which focus on MMO-related topics only. Follow along after the jump to see what tickled our fancy.

Continue reading Massively's Best of E3 2010

MassivelyMassively's Best of E3 2010 originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 19 Jun 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bestbest-of-e3e3e3-2010featuredopinionSat, 19 Jun 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WRUP: All work and no play...]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/19/wrup-all-work-and-no-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/19/wrup-all-work-and-no-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/19/wrup-all-work-and-no-play/#commentsFiled under:

You might think that going to E3, testing out half a billion games, conducting inaudible interviews in a roaring crowd of thousands, and then trying to deliver the goods to your staff over a crappy wifi connection would imply some glamorous existence. You might think that the writers who spent day and night transforming all of the interviews and trailers and screenshots into something that you, the reader, wanted to *squee* about, would be just like the reporters in some adrenaline-fueled news room in a grainy black-and-white film.

Well, you'd be right, more or less, minus the sound of creaky old typewriters clicking furiously -- but that doesn't mean we're not completely exhausted after a week this crazy! Hopefully you all enjoyed our coverage of the MMOs shown at E3. For now, we're going to kick back and relax before we wander too much into Jack Torrance territory. Hit the break and see which games we'll be using to recharge our play meters!

Continue reading WRUP: All work and no play...

MassivelyWRUP: All work and no play... originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 19 Jun 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-work-and-no-play-makes-jack-a-dull-boye3-2010gamingjack-torrancethe-shiningweekendweekend-gamingwhat-are-you-playingwrupSat, 19 Jun 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do cinematics make you want to play?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/19/the-daily-grind-do-cinematics-make-you-want-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/19/the-daily-grind-do-cinematics-make-you-want-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/19/the-daily-grind-do-cinematics-make-you-want-to-play/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Massively chat room, as well as the rest of the nerdosphere, was all abuzz this past Monday morning as some kind soul leaked the new Star Wars: The Old Republic cinematic that BioWare had been saving for this week's E3 reveal. Despite a quick retraction of the offending YouTube link, the clip remained viewable for some time prior to its official release, and frankly we all watched it.

Leaving aside the ethical question of leaks (and wink/nudge "leaks"), the thought occurred to me that while the video is a marvel of CGI artistry and admittedly feeds the inner fanboi fire, it also bears absolutely no resemblance to what the actual game it is advertising will look or play like.

So I ask you, Massively readers, do cinematics like this inspire you to play the game, or do you simply acknowledge them for the technical tour-de-force that they are and seek out definitive gameplay details before making a purchase decision?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do cinematics make you want to play? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 19 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebioware-hope-cinematicBioware-MMOe3-2010fanboishope-trailerleaked-traileropinionstar-wars-the-old-republicsw-mmoswtor-hope-cinematicthe-daily-grindSat, 19 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2010: Dragon Nest hands-on]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/e3-2010-dragon-nest-hands-on/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/e3-2010-dragon-nest-hands-on/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/e3-2010-dragon-nest-hands-on/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Dragon Nest couldn't be more different from Vindictus, Nexon's other new title. Where Vindictus is all about "elegant brutality," Nexon describes Dragon Nest as "kinetic and beautiful." And though both games are lovely in their own way, Dragon Nest's style is more typical of what you'd expect from Nexon: The art is stylized, with a bit of an anime feel to it. Gameplay felt a surprising amount like Nexon's 2-D classic arcade-style MMO, Dungeon Fighter Online, though DN is fully 3-D and much more like what you'd expect of an MMO. But like DFO, DN's combat is fast-paced, full of flashy animations, and just a lot of fun. With every game we see from Nexon, it's clear that they're taking everything they've learned from previous development and adding it to their latest project.

Though we haven't seen everything the game has to offer, Dragon Nest may be their most polished game yet.

Continue reading E3 2010: Dragon Nest hands-on

MassivelyE3 2010: Dragon Nest hands-on originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Jun 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dndragon-nestdungeon-fighter-onlinee3e3-10e3-2010featuredmabinoginexonvindictusFri, 18 Jun 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2010: Hands on with Final Fantasy XIV]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/e3-2010-hands-on-with-final-fantasy-xiv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/e3-2010-hands-on-with-final-fantasy-xiv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/e3-2010-hands-on-with-final-fantasy-xiv/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

I only have two words after playing Final Fantasy XIV. CRAB BATTLE!

Ok, so perhaps I have more than two words to say after playing Final Fantasy XIV and interviewing the game's producer, Hiromichi Tanaka. I was finally able to wrap my mitts around the game here at E3 2010 and experience the meat of the game -- a short preview of the game's combat system and questing system and some time with the game's character creator.

Final Fantasy XIV seems to be bridging elements of the old with elements of the new, and it's wrapping it all in a very gorgeous graphics engine. It's complicated without complication, simple on the surface yet teeming with a deeper game if you know where to look.

Gallery: E3 2010: Final Fantasy XIV

Continue reading E3 2010: Hands on with Final Fantasy XIV

MassivelyE3 2010: Hands on with Final Fantasy XIV originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Jun 2010 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aetherite-crystalaetherite-streamcrab-battlecrabs-in-a-barrele3-2010eorzeafeaturedffxivfinal-fantasy-xivfinal-fantasy-xiv-onlineguardian-spiritguildleveguildleveshands-onhiromichi-tanakanamedayquestingsquare-enixstar-signFri, 18 Jun 2010 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2010: A look inside Black Prophecy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/e3-2010-a-look-inside-black-prophecy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/e3-2010-a-look-inside-black-prophecy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/e3-2010-a-look-inside-black-prophecy/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

One of the games many of us here at Massively have been waiting on for some time has been the upcoming space dogfighter by Reakktor Media, Black Prophecy. Although the game was originally an indie title that was likely going to run on a subscription model, things changed drastically when Gamigo picked up the title and announced they'd be publishing it under a free-to-play model. While this has made some players very hesitant about the game, our time checking it out at E3, and talking to Dennis Hartmann, PR Manager at Gamigo, has made us even hungrier for it to OMG launch already.

So if you're curious about just what this upcoming space shoot-em-up F2P title has to offer in terms of mechanics -- or perhaps even surprises -- then join us behind the break as we break down our look at Black Prophecy! Alternatively, if you're more in the mood for eye-candy, we have a handful of screenshots for you to check out in the gallery below.

Gallery: E3 2010: Black Prophecy

Continue reading E3 2010: A look inside Black Prophecy

MassivelyE3 2010: A look inside Black Prophecy originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Jun 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-prophecybpdennis-hartmane3e3-2010f2pfeaturedfree-to-playgamigogamigo-agmassively-event-coveragereakktor-mediareakktor-media-gmbhFri, 18 Jun 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2010: Hands on with The Old Republic's smuggler class]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/e3-2010-hands-on-with-the-old-republics-smuggler-class/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/e3-2010-hands-on-with-the-old-republics-smuggler-class/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/e3-2010-hands-on-with-the-old-republics-smuggler-class/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

What's the oldest profession? If you answered smuggling, then you're wrong, but you're totally on track for what we're going to cover in today's hands-on!

At this year's E3, I had the pleasure of smuggling for fun and profit as I found my ship stolen out from underneath me in Star Wars: The Old Republic. I spent a decent amount of time learning about the game's world, the game's combat and quest system, and how cover works for the smuggler. I also got to witness a bit of multiplayer combat, to get a feel for how the game works in a party.

Was it revolutionary? Was it solid? Was it a piece of junk that could do the Kessel Run in an odd measure of distance instead of time? Follow after the break for all of this and more!

Continue reading E3 2010: Hands on with The Old Republic's smuggler class

MassivelyE3 2010: Hands on with The Old Republic's smuggler class originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Jun 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarecovere3-2010featuredhan-solokessel-runmass-effectplaythroughsmugglerstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorswtor-hands-ontwilekFri, 18 Jun 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2010: Vindictus hands-on]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/e3-2010-vindictus-hands-on/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/e3-2010-vindictus-hands-on/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/e3-2010-vindictus-hands-on/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

With as many demo stations as Nexon had available to show off their latest games -- Vindictus and Dragon Nest -- we could hardly pass by without stopping to play for a few minutes. And now we're going to try to pass the experience on to you, with words and pictures that don't quite do the game justice. But until it it goes live later this year (they're hoping to launch in the fall), this will have to suffice. So let's talk Vindictus.

Vindictus is a free-to-play game of the likes we've never seen before. It's running on Valve's Source Engine and looks simply incredible. It represents a major departure from Nexon's usual stylized graphics -- Vindictus is as realistic as they come, with crisp graphics and clean animation. It's also a departure content-wise: Vindictus is joyfully violent, allowing you to hack away at monsters, smash almost anything element in the environment, and destroy your opponents with finishing moves. And, of course, to look damn good while doing it. It's "all about elegant brutality," Nexon tells us, and we have to agree.

Gallery: E3 2010: Vindictus

Continue reading E3 2010: Vindictus hands-on

MassivelyE3 2010: Vindictus hands-on originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Jun 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3e3-10e3-2010e3-vindictusfeaturedfree-to-playnexonnexon-free-to-playnexon-vindictusvindictusFri, 18 Jun 2010 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2010: Expanding the LEGO Universe]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/e3-2010-expanding-the-lego-universe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/e3-2010-expanding-the-lego-universe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/e3-2010-expanding-the-lego-universe/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

While E3 offers a glimpse into the imaginations of many developers, one game stands out as focusing on the imagination and creativity of the user: LEGO Universe. Where else can your mooing chickens randomly attack each other? In fact, creativity and imagination are the focus of this game, literally (imagination is a stat used to power your abilities!). With the game releasing on October 29th, 2010, we spoke with the guys at NetDevil to get a scoop on some of the unique features to look forward to, including customization, safety, levels of building, and their behavior system. Then Creative Director Ryan Seabury treated to an entertaining demonstration.

Build a bridge over the cut for the interview highlights!

Continue reading E3 2010: Expanding the LEGO Universe

MassivelyE3 2010: Expanding the LEGO Universe originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Jun 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3e3-2010family-gamingfeaturedinterviewLEGO-Universelego-universe-interviewlego-universe-mmoLegosnetdevilryan-seaburyFri, 18 Jun 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2010: Victor Kislyi talks tanks... not the aggro kind]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/e3-2010-victor-kislyi-talks-tanks-not-the-aggro-kind/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/e3-2010-victor-kislyi-talks-tanks-not-the-aggro-kind/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/e3-2010-victor-kislyi-talks-tanks-not-the-aggro-kind/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


While the idea of a tank-based MMO might come across as a little odd to some people, World of Tanks has really shaken things up in its European-only closed beta test. Originally intended as a hardcore MMO for tank enthusiasts and PvP aficionados, interest in the intense, PvP-focused tank MMO skyrocketed in Russia and Europe, with over 40,000 players participating in the closed beta test, including even a few hundred American players who couldn't wait for the US beta coming up in a few weeks.

We got to sit down with Victor Kislyi, CEO of Wargaming.net, and discuss just why people are flocking to the tank-themed MMO, and the various changes they needed to make to accommodate a wider audience.

Continue reading E3 2010: Victor Kislyi talks tanks... not the aggro kind

MassivelyE3 2010: Victor Kislyi talks tanks... not the aggro kind originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Jun 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingclan-warsdeathmatche3-2010f2pfeaturedfree-to-playpvpshootertanksvictor-kislyiwargaming.networld-of-tankswwiiFri, 18 Jun 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Enedwaith Exploration Expo]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/the-road-to-mordor-enedwaith-exploration-expo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/the-road-to-mordor-enedwaith-exploration-expo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/the-road-to-mordor-enedwaith-exploration-expo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


E3 is always an exciting time full of announcements, reveals and hundreds of journalists attempting to leech every last drop of information from crafty studios. It's pretty much insane, and if your head isn't exploding from all of the news, trailers, screenshots and surprises, then I'm going to have to ask you to hand in your gamer card.

For Turbine, this year's E3 has been a crucial moment in the company's history. Not only are we seeing them under the Warner Bros. banner in public, but they had to step up and both defend and build off of the revelation of Lord of the Ring Online's new business model. They were smart not to save the announcement itself for E3, because the gaming public and the press needed a bit of time to both digest the news and get past the initial emotional reaction so they could bring the studio thoughtful questions. Turbine's undoubtedly enjoying its fair share of press coverage at E3 because of this, and that's saying something considering all of the other heavy-hitters like Star Wars: The Old Republic, Final Fantasy XIV and Warhammer 40K that are making appearances.

No matter what your feelings are on the F2P model, Turbine's got a lot more for LotRO gamers than just that -- in fact, they've been bombarding us with so much good new stuff that it's hard to know where to start. So let's take a quick tour through 10 exciting additions and updates to the game that they've revealed.

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Enedwaith Exploration Expo

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Enedwaith Exploration Expo originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dungeon-finderdx11e3e3-2010enedwaithf2pfeaturedfinal-fantasy-xivforochelfree-to-playhobbyhousingisengardlegendary-itemslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromiddle-earthmirkwoodmoriaranger-session-playsarumonskirmishstar-wars-the-old-republicthe-eye-of-sauron-is-nearsightedturbinevolume-3-book-2volume-iii-book-iiwardrobewarhammer-40kwarhammer-40k-onlineWarner-BrosWarner-Bros-Interactiveweatherstockworld-of-warcraftFri, 18 Jun 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What's your E3 highlight?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/the-daily-grind-whats-your-e3-highlight/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/the-daily-grind-whats-your-e3-highlight/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/the-daily-grind-whats-your-e3-highlight/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Whew! This past week has been a rollercoaster of craziness, a carousel of attractions and a mirror maze of sights from E3. We certainly hope you've enjoyed the coverage here at Massively, from interviews to exclusive peeks to mind-snapping trailers.

As we all continue to sift through the mountains of E3 information, we'd love to know what you consider to be the expo's highlight, your own personal "Best of Show" award. Was it the brand-new trailer of the previously hidden Warhammer 40k: Dark Millennium Online? The exceedingly awesome new SWTOR cinematic? The in-depth look into DC Universe Online? Or perhaps you're a Marvel fanboy and Super Hero Squad Online's gotten you revved up? Could it be the exciting conversations with Final Fantasy XIV's devs? The Agency's PvP side or LotRO's brand-new zone? Or perhaps you found yourself charmed by one of the smaller titles, such as Forsaken World, Taikodom, Swordsman Online, Battlestar Galactica Online and Zentia?

If you were asked -- and hey, we're asking you! -- what's your E3 highlight? Who gets the blue ribbon and who ends up empty-handed?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What's your E3 highlight? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galactica-onlineblue-ribboncinematicdark-millennium-onlinedc-universe-onlinedcuoe3e3-2010e3-highlightsfinal-fantasy-xivforsaken-worldlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroopinionstar-wars-the-old-republicsuper-hero-squad-onlineswordsman-onlinetaikodomtdgterathe-agencythe-daily-grindtortrailerWarhammer-40KzentiaFri, 18 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA teases E3 screens of the week]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/tera-teases-e3-screens-of-the-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/tera-teases-e3-screens-of-the-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/tera-teases-e3-screens-of-the-week/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Despite wowing the gamers at E3 with their hands-on demo this week, the folks at En Masse Entertainment still managed to find time to tease a few more screenshots of their upcoming TERA fantasy/action MMORPG. The sixth installment of the Screenshots of the Week featurette gives those unfortunate souls who couldn't make it to E3 a glimpse into the demo from the show.

"Feast your eyes as an intrepid party of adventurers battle a Red Lash Dreadnaught, a Red Lash Juggernaut, and two Kazuur Syndicate Overseers," writes Scapes, En Masse senior community manager, in a teaser post on the game's official forums.

You can view the three new screens on TERA's official website, or view the Flickr photostream for larger versions. And don't forget Massively's very own TERA hands-on as chronicled yesterday from E3!

MassivelyTERA teases E3 screens of the week originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Jun 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2010en-masseen-masse-entertainmentscapesscreenshots-of-the-weekteratera-onlineThu, 17 Jun 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2010: Interview with Warhammer 40K's Mark Downie]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/e3-2010-interview-with-warhammer-40ks-mark-downie/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/e3-2010-interview-with-warhammer-40ks-mark-downie/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/e3-2010-interview-with-warhammer-40ks-mark-downie/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Let's face it: At E3, every studio, game and gadget struggles to be the talk of the show, but there's just so much going on that most exhibits and demos get lost in the noise. Therefore, when buzz erupts to eclipse the noise, it behooves the gamer to sit up and take notice. Warhammer 40k: Dark Millennium Online is buzzing strong right now, like thousands of armored, heretic-hunting space bees, especially after revealing the trailer earlier this week. With the previously secretive MMO out in the open, fans are hungry for any and all details about this entry in the beloved 40k franchise.

Fortunately, Massively made fast friends with Vigil's Mark Downie, who was more than happy to spill the space beans about the look of the game, faithfulness to the IP and Warhammer 40k's release window. Buckle up, engage thrusters and hit the jump for the full conversation.

Continue reading E3 2010: Interview with Warhammer 40K's Mark Downie

MassivelyE3 2010: Interview with Warhammer 40K's Mark Downie originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Jun 2010 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>darksiderse3e3-2010featuredgames-workshopgenconinterviewmark-downiemythicMythic-Entertainmentthqvigilwalk-softly-and-carry-a-big-gunwarWarhammer-40Kwarhammer-40k-mmowarhammer-40k-onlinewarhammer-onlineThu, 17 Jun 2010 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2010: Massively's look at Forsaken World gameplay]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/e3-2010-massivelys-look-at-forsaken-world-gameplay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/e3-2010-massivelys-look-at-forsaken-world-gameplay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/e3-2010-massivelys-look-at-forsaken-world-gameplay/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We've heard bits and pieces of information regarding Perfect World Entertainment's upcoming title, Forsaken World. The game has gotten a fair amount of attention thanks to the unusual classes offered and the vampire element.

Those two small details are just the start, however -- there is much more that distinguishes Forsaken World and makes it one to watch. We've been anxious to get a closer look at the game, and this week at E3 the PWE staff was happy to oblige. Follow along after the jump for a rundown of some of the features of Forsaken World.

Continue reading E3 2010: Massively's look at Forsaken World gameplay

MassivelyE3 2010: Massively's look at Forsaken World gameplay originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Jun 2010 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3e3-2010f2pfeaturedforsaken-worldfree-to-playhands-onperfect-world-entertainmentPWEThu, 17 Jun 2010 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 launches into space Taikodom-style!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/e3-launches-into-space-taikodom-style/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/e3-launches-into-space-taikodom-style/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/e3-launches-into-space-taikodom-style/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

There are not many games that truly give the player the feel of what it is like to fly a starship in space. In fact, even some of the MMOs that label themselves as sci-fi are often just fantasy games with a futuristic paint job. And if you're looking for, more specifically, a free-to-play sci fi MMO, you will find but one game, and that game is Taikodom, the Brazilian-born, space-action game. If this game seems familiar, it's because it was recently acquired by GamersFirst, who have really put production of this title into full gear. Massively was lucky enough to to get our hands on the current incarnation of this game -- pre-beta! -- at E3.

Set some 300 years in the future, Taikodom tells us that Earth -- or at least, Earth as we know it -- has completely changed. We are no longer able to set foot on the soothing surface of our blue-green homeworld. Instead, groups of space stations called Nodes are now our homes. Corporations run these nodes, and each has its own distinct faction and personality. Humanity now explores the galaxy in starships, which simulate and repeat familiar sights and sounds back to us. Hyperspace between Nodes is traversed via giant disc-shaped stations called, predictably, jumpgates. Explore this vast and exciting galaxy with us after the break!

Gallery: E3 2010: Taikodom

Continue reading E3 launches into space Taikodom-style!

MassivelyE3 launches into space Taikodom-style! originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Jun 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3e3-2010featuredgamersfirstopen-worldopen-world-pvpsci-fispacespaceshipstaikodomtaikodom-betaunityunity-engineThu, 17 Jun 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2010: Perfect World Entertainment introduces Swordsman Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/e3-2010-perfect-world-entertainment-introduces-swordsman-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/e3-2010-perfect-world-entertainment-introduces-swordsman-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/e3-2010-perfect-world-entertainment-introduces-swordsman-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The folks at Perfect World Entertainment have been busy at E3 this week. They're showcasing several of their new titles, including the increasingly popular Battle of the Immortals.

They didn't stop with titles we already know, however. PWE has also introduced a brand-new game. Swordsman Online is the working title of this newest venture, and we got the first details just a few days ago. Today brings more information in the form of a teaser trailer that gives a nice overview of the feel and style of Swordsman Online.

PWE CEO Dr. Alan Chen is very optimistic about what this will bring to the free-to-play market: "Swordsman Online highlights our commitment to constantly push the industry envelope and what it means to be a free-to-play game. Players should never have to settle or compromise on game quality regardless of business model and we want players to expect more from their MMOs."

Want to see for yourself? Follow along after the jump for a first look at Swordsman Online.

Continue reading E3 2010: Perfect World Entertainment introduces Swordsman Online

MassivelyE3 2010: Perfect World Entertainment introduces Swordsman Online originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Jun 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3e3-2010f2pfree-to-playperfect-world-entertainmentpweswordsmanswordsman-onlineThu, 17 Jun 2010 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2010: Zentia preview]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/e3-2010-zentia-preview/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/e3-2010-zentia-preview/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/e3-2010-zentia-preview/#commentsFiled under: , ,

ChangYou's Zentia is -- you guessed it -- another free-to-play title coming from Asia. So what makes it stand out from the rest? We talked to the game's senior producer, Susan Revelt at E3 and she tells us it's the game's story that makes it shine. And we admit, Zentia does start with a rather unique premise: You enter the game as one of 22 (former) immortals who have been banished from the immortal realms and tasked with ridding the world of demons before they can return. It's ChangYou's take on telling a fairy tale... with a humorous twist. (Revelt tells us they're aiming for a Princess Bride or Labyrinth feel with the story and the humor.) Whether this has given them what they need to succeed in the crowded free to play market is still up in the air. Though we've seen footage of the game, we haven't had a chance to test drive it ourselves and the closed beta won't begin until early July, with a planned release towards the end of August.

Let's start by talking about the basics of the game...

Gallery: E3 2010: Zentia

Continue reading E3 2010: Zentia preview

MassivelyE3 2010: Zentia preview originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Jun 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>changyouchangyou.come3e3-10e3-2010featuredheavenly-testzentiazentia-mmoThu, 17 Jun 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2010: DC Universe Online takes it up a notch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/e3-2010-dc-universe-online-takes-it-up-a-notch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/e3-2010-dc-universe-online-takes-it-up-a-notch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/e3-2010-dc-universe-online-takes-it-up-a-notch/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,


We've seen SOE's superhero MMO DC Universe Online. We saw it two years ago at the San Diego Comic Con where its physics-based badassery allowed us to pick up cars, lampposts and anything else we could get our costumed hands on, and use them to knock our foes across three city blocks. Two years later we expected to see something substantially new and excited and we were not disappointed.

Creative Director Jens Anderson took us through a walkthrough of the latest build of the game and we saw boss fights, PvP gameplay and endgame armor sets themed to declare your allegiance to the most popular superheroes in the game. Read on for the latest details!

Gallery: E3 2010: DC Universe Online

Continue reading E3 2010: DC Universe Online takes it up a notch

MassivelyE3 2010: DC Universe Online takes it up a notch originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Jun 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc-universe-onlinedcuoe3-2010featuredsoeSONYSony-Online-EntertainmentsuperherosuperheroessupermanThu, 17 Jun 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Should Star Trek Online fans fear the competition?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/captains-log-should-star-trek-online-fans-fear-the-competition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/captains-log-should-star-trek-online-fans-fear-the-competition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/captains-log-should-star-trek-online-fans-fear-the-competition/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Good afternoon, cadets and admirals. Welcome to this week's edition of Captain's Log, your ever-expanding guide to Star Trek Online. Last time, we discussed some basics of ground combat, and I promised more to come. But I've decided to change course a bit, so we'll cover those next week.

Instead, I thought it might be fun to discuss what's on every Earth nerd's mind right now: E3! The Electronic Entertainment Expo has engines on full impulse this week in Los Angeles, and amid all the grand news we don't care about -- I was counting on the 3DS to not be totally awesome so I wouldn't have to replace my DSiXL! Curses! -- the MMO news is flying fast and furious. With all the news and shiny images of forthcoming space-based MMOs, should fans worry that STO's days are numbered?

Continue reading Captain's Log: Should Star Trek Online fans fear the competition?

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Should Star Trek Online fans fear the competition? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Jun 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galacticaBigpointBioWarebioware-swtorblack-prophecycaptains-logCCP-Gamescrypticcryptic-studiosdark-millenium-onlinee3e3-2010eve-onlinefeaturedincarnaJGEjge-gamejumpgate-evolutionnetdevilPhilip-Reisbergerreakktor-mediasci-fi-mmost-onlineStar-TrekStar-Trek-MMOstar-trek-onlineStar-Warsstar-wars-galaxiesstar-wars-mmostar-wars-the-old-republicstar-wars-tortrek-onlineWarhammer-40KThu, 17 Jun 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2010: Our exclusive interview with Final Fantasy XIV executive producer Hiromichi Tanaka]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/e3-2010-our-exclusive-interview-with-final-fantasy-xiv-executiv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/e3-2010-our-exclusive-interview-with-final-fantasy-xiv-executiv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/e3-2010-our-exclusive-interview-with-final-fantasy-xiv-executiv/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

In the world of Final Fantasy XIV, Hiromichi Tanaka is kind of a big deal. In fact, he's kind of a big deal in the franchise's history as a whole, having worked on the design for several games and having been the lead developer on Final Fantasy XI. It seems fitting that one of the designers from the original game 23 years ago is now hard at work crafting the newest installment of the series -- one that promises to be many things to many players while retaining the core features that have captivated fans for years.

Square-Enix have made a big push for their newest game at this year's E3, and we were lucky enough to have a few minutes of Mr. Tanaka's time to ask him about the game as a whole. There's a lot more still to be learned about the game, but from what we've seen in both the interview and our hands-on experience, it already has quite a bit to offer.

Continue reading E3 2010: Our exclusive interview with Final Fantasy XIV executive producer Hiromichi Tanaka

MassivelyE3 2010: Our exclusive interview with Final Fantasy XIV executive producer Hiromichi Tanaka originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Jun 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>companye3e3-2010featuredffff11ff14ffxiffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xifinal-fantasy-xivguildguild-systemguildleveshiromichi-tanakain-developmentinterviewslevelinglevequestlevequestslinkshellsquaresquare-enixThu, 17 Jun 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2010: The Agency blows up in our faces... and it's a good thing]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/e3-2010-the-agency-blows-up-in-our-faces-and-its-a-good-thi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/e3-2010-the-agency-blows-up-in-our-faces-and-its-a-good-thi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/e3-2010-the-agency-blows-up-in-our-faces-and-its-a-good-thi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

After seeing the new trailer yesterday for SOE's The Agency, we thought nothing could get us more revved up about this upcoming title. We were wrong. DEAD wrong. Ahem. Sorry.

For aspiring Mr. and Ms. Kiss-Kiss-Bang-Bangs out there, The Agency is promising all of the hot, high-tech spy action that you can handle. Step into the shoes of James Bond, Jason Bourne, Inspector Gadget or Maxwell Smart, grab your favorite weapon, and throw yourself into one of many exciting locales where you and other players will compete for all the secrets and bragging rights.

At E3, Massively got the chance to sit down with The Agency's Senior Producer Josh Hackney and check in on how this title is progressing. Hit the jump to read about specialized roles, PvP and why mindlessly spraying hot lead in all directions is completely passé.

Continue reading E3 2010: The Agency blows up in our faces... and it's a good thing

MassivelyE3 2010: The Agency blows up in our faces... and it's a good thing originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 Jun 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agencye3e3-2010featuredinspector-gadgetjames-bondjason-bournejosh-hackneykiss-kiss-bang-bangmaxwell-smartoracle-visionreconsnipersniper-riflesoeSony-Online-Entertainmentthe-agencyWed, 16 Jun 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2010: Lord of the Rings Online Vol 3 Book 2 preview of Enedwaith [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/e3-2010-lord-of-the-rings-online-vol-3-book-2-preview-of-enedwa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/e3-2010-lord-of-the-rings-online-vol-3-book-2-preview-of-enedwa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/e3-2010-lord-of-the-rings-online-vol-3-book-2-preview-of-enedwa/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Massively sat down today with the Turbine team at E3 in Los Angeles to take a look at the new Lord of the Rings Online free-to-play content that went into closed beta earlier today. Along with the new cash shop, we got a look at the new playable area Enedwaith that will go live with the Volume 2, Book 3 launch this Fall. The blurred version of the new land map is for those of you who don't like spoilers. Full map and all the details about the next patch after the jump!

Continue reading E3 2010: Lord of the Rings Online Vol 3 Book 2 preview of Enedwaith [Updated]

MassivelyE3 2010: Lord of the Rings Online Vol 3 Book 2 preview of Enedwaith [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 Jun 2010 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dx11e3-2010enedwaithfeaturedlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolotro-storeskirmishskirmishesvol3-book2Wed, 16 Jun 2010 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2010: Erez Goren talks to Massively about Global Agenda's future, part 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/e3-2010-erez-goren-talks-to-massively-about-global-agendas-fu2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/e3-2010-erez-goren-talks-to-massively-about-global-agendas-fu2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/e3-2010-erez-goren-talks-to-massively-about-global-agendas-fu2/#commentsContinue reading E3 2010: Erez Goren talks to Massively about Global Agenda's future, part 2

MassivelyE3 2010: Erez Goren talks to Massively about Global Agenda's future, part 2 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 Jun 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dome-citye3e3-2010erez-gorenexclusivegame-mechanicsglobal-agendaglobal-agenda-hi-rezhi-rezhi-rez-global-agendahi-rez-stdioes-global-agendahi-rez-studiosinterviewmassively-exclusive-interviewsmassively-interviewsopen-zonepreviewpreviewssandstormsandstorm-patchsandstorm-phase-2War-zoneswarzonesWed, 16 Jun 2010 17:00:00 EST