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[If 38 Studios goes under, Rhode Island taxpayers will be footing the bill [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/if-38-studios-goes-under-rhode-island-taxpayers-will-be-footing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/if-38-studios-goes-under-rhode-island-taxpayers-will-be-footing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/if-38-studios-goes-under-rhode-island-taxpayers-will-be-footing/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Who doesn't love a good bar graph?
Project Copernicus and Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning developer 38 Studios is in some hot water, but it looks like that may be the least of your worries if you're a Rhode Island resident. Rhode Island's WPRI reports that if the studio founders and can't pay back the bonds given to it by the state, then the onus of doing so will fall upon Rhode Island taxpayers.

How much moolah are we talking about? Something to the tune of $112.6 million US. According to Joystiq, "If 38 Studios can't pay, the governor is required to ask the General Assembly to repay bondholders," which means that Rhode Island taxpayers will be responsible for footing the bill by 2020. For now, though, both the studio and the Rhode Island government are tight-lipped on the studio's future, and by association, the future of Project Copernicus, so we'll just have to wait and see how this plays out.

[Update: Our sister site Joystiq reports that 38 Studios "missed its latest loan payment of $1.125 million to the state of Rhode Island on May 1, effectively defaulting [on] its $75 million loan." Rhode Island's Economic Development Corporation will hold an emergency meeting tomorrow morning to discuss the situation.]

MassivelyIf 38 Studios goes under, Rhode Island taxpayers will be footing the bill [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studioscopernicuseconomyfinancefinancesgames-industryindustrykingdoms-of-amalur-reckoningmmo-industryproject-copernicusTue, 15 May 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MechWarrior Online devs field 'Mech customization queries]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/mechwarrior-online-devs-field-mech-customization-queries/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/mechwarrior-online-devs-field-mech-customization-queries/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/mechwarrior-online-devs-field-mech-customization-queries/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

MechWarrior Online
If you had four developers of a hot upcoming title trapped in a room and could ask them any question you wanted, what would it be? (Please note that if you actually are in this situation, Massively advises releasing the hostages and surrendering to the police.) While there might not be a filthy underground lair involved in MechWarrior Online's latest community Q&A session, the principle is the same.

A good bulk of the 27 questions thrown to the four members of Piranha Games' team revolve around 'Mech customization. MechWarrior Online will be pretty flexible in this regard, although not as flexible as pen-and-paper fans might hope. For example, custom decals won't be in the game at launch, as their inclusion would require too much monitoring. Still, if you're trying to get a sense of the scope of MWO's 'Mech customization, this Q&A might impress you.

Just because the community could ask doesn't mean that Piranha had to answer, however. When queried about the in-game economy, Creative Director Bryan Ekman put the answer off until later: "We're not ready to go into details on the economics of the game. We plan to cover this in greater detail in the next couple of months via our dev blogs."

MassivelyMechWarrior Online devs field 'Mech customization queries originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>community-q-and-acustomizationdev-q-and-aeconomyf2pfree-to-playin-game-economymechmech-customizationmechsmechwarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemwopiranhapiranha-gamesq-and-asci-fiWed, 18 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[En Masse highlights shiny TERA launch features]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/en-masse-highlights-shiny-tera-launch-features/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/en-masse-highlights-shiny-tera-launch-features/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/en-masse-highlights-shiny-tera-launch-features/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

TERA - Mistmoor party
TERA is soldiering on toward its May 1st North American street date. En Masse Entertainment, the game's American publisher, has quite a few features lined up to distract you from the brouhaha going on outside the game's lush fantasy world, and the firm has updated its website accordingly.

You'll find info on TERA's staged invasions, public quests, and economic system archived in the lengthy new post. The update also recaps the game's reputation system, its dungeon roster, and a few of the more interesting class tweaks to boot. Head to the official TERA site for all the goods.

MassivelyEn Masse highlights shiny TERA launch features originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiosclasseseconomyen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasygame-mechanicsteratera-economytera-launchtera-launch-featuresTue, 17 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA's new launch features section adds economic changes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/tera-new-launch-features-section-adds-economic-changes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/tera-new-launch-features-section-adds-economic-changes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/tera-new-launch-features-section-adds-economic-changes/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Screenshot -- TERA
TERA's May release date is less than a month away now, and En Masse Entertainment is filling the days leading up to the big event by unveiling a series of new launch features. Today's piece is focused on a number of adjustments that have been made to the game's economic system.

For starters, the trade broker has been vastly improved with "robust search features," while private stores have been abolished in order to make the broker the true hub of the game's economy. Enchanters will be pleased to know that the penalty for failing an enchantment has been removed, so while an enchantment can still fail, it won't weaken the target piece of equipment in the process. And to top it off, the currency demoninations have been changed up to prevent players from having to deal with astronomical amounts of gold. The full details, as well as previous new launch features, can be found over on the game's official site.

MassivelyTERA's new launch features section adds economic changes originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Apr 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ahauction-houseblueholebluehole-studiosbrokereconomicseconomyen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyprivate-storeprivate-storesteratrade-brokerWed, 11 Apr 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[CCP reiterates anti-pay-to-win stance for EVE microtransactions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/03/ccp-reiterates-anti-pay-to-win-stance-for-eve-microtransactions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/03/ccp-reiterates-anti-pay-to-win-stance-for-eve-microtransactions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/03/ccp-reiterates-anti-pay-to-win-stance-for-eve-microtransactions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

CCP's Tori Frans Olafsson
CCP has been pretty quiet on the subject of microtransactions since last summer's monoclegate and the ensuing Jita protests. EVE Online creative director Torfi Frans Olafsson recently spoke up about the trendy new business model, and while he acknowledged that it is popular, he also said that CCP is "very reluctant to do that in EVE because it's so established. It's like changing the DNA of a living organism after it's born. That didn't work in Blade Runner," he tells PC Gamer.

Olafsson also repeats the anti-pay-to-win mantra that comes standard in just about every developer interview these days. He says that CCP will sell cosmetic items in EVE, including makeovers for your avatar, ship, and starbase. Given the fact that players will be purchasing weapons and gear in DUST 514 (which will interface directly with EVE's pre-existing economy), we've no doubt it will be interesting to see how CCP maintains that delicate balance.

"I think we have to be very careful in introducing such mechanics into EVE. And I personally think that we shouldn't be doing it in the near future," Olafsson says, "because it's such a vulnerable little flower in a vulnerable little ecosystem. You make minor changes to an ecosystem and you can introduce hostile things and the whole system breaks down."

Check out the video interview after the cut.

Continue reading CCP reiterates anti-pay-to-win stance for EVE microtransactions

MassivelyCCP reiterates anti-pay-to-win stance for EVE microtransactions originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Apr 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesccp-torfifransconsoledustdust-514economyeveeve-fanfesteve-fanfest-2012eve-microtransactionseve-onlineeve-rmtfanfest-2012fpsinternet-spaceshipsinterviewmicrotransactionsmmofpsnew-edenplaystationplaystation-3ps3sandboxsci-fishootertorfi-frans-olafssonvideoTue, 03 Apr 2012 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Assembly Required: Revisiting Origins of Malu]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/some-assembly-required-revisiting-origins-of-malu-an-intervi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/some-assembly-required-revisiting-origins-of-malu-an-intervi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/some-assembly-required-revisiting-origins-of-malu-an-intervi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Some Assembly Required
Many moons ago when the air just started to cool from summer's heat (aka, last September), Some Assembly Required had the opportunity to talk shop with a new outfit that is developing a promising new sandbox MMORPG, Origins of Malu. And you know me: Sandbox is the magic word! As skeptical as I knew I should be, I still came away from that interview with renewed hope that a game with some of the features for player-generated content could exist again.

Back then, Burning Dog Media made the bold statement that it would absolutely release its flagship game in 2012, with a target of early 2012 to boot. But as the first quarter of the year quickly drew to a close with scant information available, it became pretty clear the game is still a ways off. In the realm of games, no news is not necessarily good news... and we definitely hit a drought in news.

Now that drought has ended. In our second exclusive interview, we spoke with Michael Dunham, Producer, Jason Mitchell, Senior Developer, and Dave Cruikshank, Art Director, to learn what's been going on behind the scenes and get the scoop on more details about those very features that have sandbox lovers salivating.

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: Revisiting Origins of Malu

MassivelySome Assembly Required: Revisiting Origins of Malu originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Mar 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burning-dog-mediaconstructioncraftingDave-Cruikshankeconomyexclusiveexclusive-interviewfaction-warfarefactionsfeaturedgame-mechanicsguildsinterviewinterviewsJason-Mitchellmassively-exclusive-interviewsmichael-dunhamopinionorigins-of-malupgcplayer-contentplayer-economyplayer-generated-contentPvEPvPsandboxsarsome-assembly-requiredFri, 30 Mar 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[NCsoft explains NA and EU Collector's Edition price difference [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/ncsoft-explains-na-and-eu-collectors-edition-price-difference/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/ncsoft-explains-na-and-eu-collectors-edition-price-difference/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/ncsoft-explains-na-and-eu-collectors-edition-price-difference/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- Guild Wars 2
Many European Guild Wars 2 fans have been left scratching their heads over the pricing discrepancies between the U.S. and European Collectors' Editions of the title. As followers of the game are probably aware, the U.S. edition is being sold for $149.99 US while the European version is being sold for £129.99/€149.99.

The problem, of course, is that with the current exchange rates, £129.99 is closer to $206 US and €149.99 is just under $200 US, making the European versions of the game considerably pricier. NCsoft explained to PC Gamer today that the reason behind this discrepancy is that "currency fluctuations, distribution costs, taxes and market conditions in addition to the cost of goods are all contributing factors when setting pricing. These vary dramatically between NA and EU and our pricing is competitive and adjusted accordingly." As the article notes, this might make sense if we assume that the CE of the game is manufactured in the U.S., but even with the extra shipping costs, it's a pretty hefty addition to an already sizeable price tag.

[Update: NCsoft points out that the EU pricing includes VAT taxes (20%), while the North American pricing is pre-tax.]

MassivelyNCsoft explains NA and EU Collector's Edition price difference [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetcecollectors-editioneconomyfantasyguild-wars-2gw2industrymmo-industrymoneymoneysncsoftThu, 29 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Cash rules everything around Pathfinder Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/cash-rules-everything-around-pathfinder-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/cash-rules-everything-around-pathfinder-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/cash-rules-everything-around-pathfinder-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Hey, pretend money is pretend money.
The latest in the series of Pathfinder Online developer diaries has just recently gone live, and this time it's covering something near and dear to the heart of many gamers: money. Even if you don't play an MMO specifically for the size of your bankroll, everyone likes having cash to spend and money in the bank. The diary explains that the heart of the game's economic system will be a currency known simply as coin, which is meant to be the driving force behind the virtual economy in-place.

Beyond the basics of the game's economic theory, however, the entry also reveals something of the game's business model, explaining that players will also be able to spend real money to purchase Skymetal Bits. These Bits work as microtransaction currency, running the gamut of the usual microtransaction services (skill training, cosmetic items, special content, and so forth). If you've been following the game along thus far, you'll probably want to see what information the latest entry is providing.

MassivelyCash rules everything around Pathfinder Online originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelscasheconomieseconomyfantasygoblinworksmicrotransactionsmoneypathfinderpathfinder-onlinepnpsandboxsandparkvirtual-economiesWed, 28 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Why I Play: EVE Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/why-i-play-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/why-i-play-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/why-i-play-eve-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

EVE Online - Gallente Iteron hauler warping past a planet
I can't for the life of me convince my friends to sign up for EVE Online. In their defense, the game can feel like a job at first. There are no skinner box particle effects or angelic choirs signifying your latest achievement, nor does anyone shower you with virtual confetti as you graduate from the newbie island.

For these reasons and others like them, CCP seems to have topped out somewhere around half a million active subs at the game's high point. EVE is seen as unfriendly in some ways, but in actuality it's the friendliest MMO around if you're an imaginative sort with the desire to direct your own in-game destiny.

Could the tutorials be better? Sure. Could PvE missions be more engaging? Absolutely. Does either of these failings, or numerous others, detract from what is the genre's premier emergent experience?

Nope.

Continue reading Why I Play: EVE Online

MassivelyWhy I Play: EVE Online originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamescomplexitycraftingeconomyeditorialeveeve-onlinefeaturedinternet-spaceshipsmassively-metametanew-edenop-edopinionplayer-contentplayer-generated-contentroleplayroleplayingsandboxSchadenfreudesci-fiuser-generated-contentwhy-i-playWed, 28 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Making the 'jump' from Guild Wars to Guild Wars 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/making-the-jump-from-guild-wars-to-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/making-the-jump-from-guild-wars-to-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/making-the-jump-from-guild-wars-to-guild-wars-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Black Citadel Forest, Guild Wars 2
The second Guild Wars 2 press beta weekend has come and gone, and Massively was there every step of the way. Stay tuned throughout the day today for even more guides, impressions, videos, and Q&As to get you ready for the highly anticipated sequel to Guild Wars.

Guild Wars 2 is on the way (when it's ready), and classic Guild Wars players probably understand that soon they'll be competing with a younger sibling -- a smarter, more attractive one who's sure to get more of mom's attention. And while we're sure that some of the more stalwart Guild Wars 2 fans are also Guild Wars players, not all veterans of the first edition are dedicated to licking up every drop of sequel info squeezed out of blogs, conventions, and betas. Those veterans might just be wondering, what exactly can Guild Wars 2 offer them, other than Hall of Monuments tie-ins? What's changed? What's the same? What will they love, what will they hate, and what could possibly make them jump ship to the new hotness?

The first and most important thing you must know is that yes, you can jump in Guild Wars 2! Seriously, though, jumping is more than just a thing you do with your spacebar when you're bored; it's a symbol of boundlessness. Guild Wars 2 itself is trying to jump a lot higher than its elder brother, and probably the essential difference between the games is that feeling that the walls have come down and gravity is letting loose. That alone should urge classic players to take a peek, but if that's not enough for you, fire up your Jeremy Soule soundtracks (yes, he's onboard for an encore!) and read on...

Continue reading Making the 'jump' from Guild Wars to Guild Wars 2

MassivelyMaking the 'jump' from Guild Wars to Guild Wars 2 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetauction-hallbetacash-shopcharacter-creationclosed-betaclosed-beta-3comparisondeathdeath-penaltydungeonsdynamic-contenteconomyendgameeye-of-the-northfantasyfeaturedgeargemsgroupgroupingguideguidesguild-warsguild-wars-2guild-wars-2-betaguild-wars-2-guideguild-wars-2-previewguildsgvggwgw2hall-of-monumentshands-onhominterfacejumpjumpingloremap-travelncsoftpreviewpreviewspropheciespvpquestsrenown-heartrmtsidekickingskill-pointtrading-posttyriauiuser-interfaceworld-vs-worldworld-vs-world-vs-worldwvwwvwvwMon, 26 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Remanum launches first international server, tweaks ports]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/remanum-launches-first-international-server-tweaks-ports/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/remanum-launches-first-international-server-tweaks-ports/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/remanum-launches-first-international-server-tweaks-ports/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Remanum - browser-based trade MMO
All roads lead to Rome, even in the world of browser MMOs. Travian Games is trumpeting its commerce-based Remanum title, which puts the player in the role of a merchant-politician at the height of ancient Roman civilization.

Travian has just launched the game's first international server, and now English-language players can vie for the rank of Roman emperor while trading goods and engaging in various political machinations. Travian, a Bavaria-based browser game outfit, has also launched a new German-language server for Remanum's open beta.

The firm is also updating the game's UI and increasing the range on the game's ports, which will ease the acquisition of scarce resources, according to a Travian statement.

[Source: Travian Games press release]

MassivelyRemanum launches first international server, tweaks ports originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ancient-romebrowserbrowser-basedeconomyf2pfree-to-playopen-betaremanumremanum-international-serverrometradetradingtraviantravian-gamesFri, 09 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Five scams to avoid]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/04/eve-evolved-five-scams-to-avoid/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/04/eve-evolved-five-scams-to-avoid/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/04/eve-evolved-five-scams-to-avoid/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

EVE Evolved title image
Anyone who's familiar with EVE Online will have heard stories of the game's criminal underworld, from devastating corporate infiltration to the daily grafting of common con artists. Most players will never perpetrate a scam, but those who do are constantly coming up with new tricks to part you from your hard-earned ISK. For every genuine smooth-talking con-artist who comes up with new schemes and socially engineers his way to a fortune, you'll find dozens of copycats who flood popular chat channels with scams they've seen perpetrated in the past.

On an average day, over 90% of the chat in Jita's local channel is people posting copycat scams, with legitimate offers completely drowned out. There may not even be anyone at the helm with these scams, as a script could easily paste the scam message every few minutes for an entire day. Not confined to Jita, these scams are often replicated across all of the game's main trade hubs and popular mission-running systems. Knowing how these scams work is the first step to protecting yourself from making an expensive and extremely embarrassing mistake.

In this week's EVE Evolved, I explain the trick behind five of EVE's most common copycat scams and how to protect yourself from them.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Five scams to avoid

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Five scams to avoid originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 04 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamescontractseconomicseconomyeveeve-evolvedeve-onlinefeaturedguidemarketopinionsandboxscamscamssci-fiSun, 04 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars: The Old Republic announces economic adjustments]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/star-wars-the-old-republic-announces-economic-adjustments/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/star-wars-the-old-republic-announces-economic-adjustments/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/star-wars-the-old-republic-announces-economic-adjustments/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- Star Wars: The Old Republic
Economic upheaval is coming to the galaxy in Star Wars: The Old Republic's patch 1.1.5. A series of rumors and announcements from major organizations across the galaxy have been published on the official site in order to give players some insight into the upcoming changes. From all of the delicious lore tidbits, we find out that the speeder manufacturer Korrealis is retiring its Sovereign, Prince, Baron, and Commander speeders, while the Tirsa Industrial Consortium has quietly removed its Prime model speeders from the market. As a result of this decision, all of the aforementioned models are now steeply discounted, so grab them while they last.

Meanwhile, the Republic Senate's Committee on Transportation and Public Safety has decided to lower the cost of speeder licenses. Speeder purchase taxes, however, are being raised in response to this move. The Imperial Transportation Authority recently passed a similar law. To top it off, the Republic has recently come into possession of some previously Empire-owned purple color crystals, and both Republic and Empire merchants have some into possession of some very rare -- and very expensive -- white color crystals. Market speculators, start your engines; there's money to be made!

MassivelyStar Wars: The Old Republic announces economic adjustments originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarecolor-crystalseaeconomicseconomyelectronic-artsgalactic-marketin-game-economylorelucasartspurple-color-crystalssci-fispeederspeeder-licensespeeder-licensesspeedersstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorthe-old-republictorwhite-color-crystalsThu, 01 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Black Prophecy developer Reakktor Media on its last legs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/29/black-prophecy-developer-reakktor-media-on-its-last-legs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/29/black-prophecy-developer-reakktor-media-on-its-last-legs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/29/black-prophecy-developer-reakktor-media-on-its-last-legs/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- Black Prophecy
The future is looking a bit hazy for Black Prophecy developer Reakktor Media, as reports indicate that the studio "has begun the insolvency process" and is scrambling for work in order to keep itself afloat. Speaking to GamesIndustry.biz, Reakktor Media's managing director Kirk Lenke stated that "[the studio is] in a position to accomplish basically anything [that] is played right now, even if we were focused in the recent times on multiplayer mobile gaming," which may indicate an interest in developing games outside of the MMO genre.

Lenke also notes that the studio currently has a Diablo-esque sci-fi title in the early development stages. At any rate, we wish the best of luck to the folks at Reakktor Media. Even if things are looking pretty grim, here's to hoping that there's a silver lining in store for the studio.

MassivelyBlack Prophecy developer Reakktor Media on its last legs originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 29 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-prophecyeconomyfinancesfinancialindustryinsolvencyinsolvency-processkirk-lenkemmo-industryneocronreakktorreakktor-mediaWed, 29 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Darkfall slices away at 'initial unforgiving experience' with 2.0]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/darkfall-slices-away-at-initial-unforgiving-experience-with-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/darkfall-slices-away-at-initial-unforgiving-experience-with-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/darkfall-slices-away-at-initial-unforgiving-experience-with-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Darkfall
"In the current version of the game, we've had many occasions where the steep learning curve and initial unforgiving experience, unnecessarily kept people out of the game," Aventurine's Tasos Flambouras comments on the latest Darkfall 2.0 post.

This week's post illuminates three major systems on which the team is working to make Agon a more approachable world. With Darkfall 2.0, new players will start out in a safe training zone that is designed to teach the fundamentals of the game without the risk of imminent ganking. Plus, the devs promise "a nice adventure with an epic ending" to boot.

The other two systems are coming up with a way to protect mount theft and to encourage the player economy. Mounts in 2.0 will remember their owners for a time, and any thief will have to contend with being branded a criminal and coming under fire by guard NPCs. Finally, new markets will appear in all major cities and allow players to buy, sell, and place orders for others to fill. There is one catch to shopping, however: If you buy an item from another city's market, you have to either travel there personally to get it or pay a surcharge for delivery.

MassivelyDarkfall slices away at 'initial unforgiving experience' with 2.0 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.0aventurinedarkfalldarkfall-2.0dev-blogdev-diaryeconomymarketmarket-systemmount-protectionmount-theftnew-player-experienceTasos-Flambourasupdateupdate-postFri, 24 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Are heirloom items bad for MMOs?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/the-daily-grind-are-heirloom-items-bad-for-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/the-daily-grind-are-heirloom-items-bad-for-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/the-daily-grind-are-heirloom-items-bad-for-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

I may have chosen this image because it provided me the opportunity to make a 'you have a dead bird on your head' joke in the alt text
In its Wrath of the Lich King expansion, World of Warcraft introduced a new class of items: the heirloom. Heirlooms can be transferred between all of the characters on your account, even your alts belonging to "enemy" factions. While a cloth-bedecked caster can't exactly wear the heavy platemail of his older Paladin brother, the hand-me-downs are pretty useful for twinking if you plan it out a bit.

The trouble is that heirlooms effectively level up with the player, so an alt who has a truckload of heirlooms has no need to take part in the player market. Why would he need to buy a crafted staff from a Weaponsmith? He's got one that he can use for 80 (85, now) levels. And in that case, why bother crafting as a lowbie Weaponsmith at all?

What do you think -- do the conveniences of heirloom items outweigh their negative impact on MMO economies?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Are heirloom items bad for MMOs? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>altaltsbind-on-accountBlizzardBlizzard-Entertainmentbrianna-royce-tdgcraftingdaily-grindeconomyheirloomheirloomsopinionplayer-economytdgthe-daily-grindtwinkWorld-of-WarcraftwotlkwowwrathWrath-of-the-Lich-KingMon, 20 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lineage II boasts increased revenue and playerbase following free-to-play transition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/lineage-ii-boasts-increased-revenue-and-playerbase-following-fre/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/lineage-ii-boasts-increased-revenue-and-playerbase-following-fre/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/lineage-ii-boasts-increased-revenue-and-playerbase-following-fre/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- Lineage II
It's been a little over two months now since NCsoft's Lineage II adopted a free-to-play business model that the studio has taken to calling "Truly Free." It would appear the transition went over well for the long-running title, as a new press release boasts that since the change, "[the game] has almost quadrupled its revenue and increased its concurrent player base by more than 800 per cent." Not a bad resurgence for a game that's been kicking around for the better part of eight years now. The studio attributes the success -- at least in part -- to the newly added Path to Awakening feature, "which provides helpful buffs, items and advice to accelerate new characters towards the level cap." If you'd like to get in the game and experience the freshly reinvigorated world of Lineage II for yourself, just click on through to the official site.

[Source: NCsoft press release]

MassivelyLineage II boasts increased revenue and playerbase following free-to-play transition originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelbusiness-modelseconomyf2pfree-to-playgoddess-of-destructionindustryl2lineage-2lineage-iimmo-industryncsoftpath-to-awakeningtruly-freeWed, 08 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA reveals SWTOR subscription and sales numbers, beats financial predictions [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/ea-reveals-swtor-subscription-and-sales-numbers-beats-financial/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/ea-reveals-swtor-subscription-and-sales-numbers-beats-financial/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/ea-reveals-swtor-subscription-and-sales-numbers-beats-financial/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- Star Wars: The Old Republic
It looks like Star Wars: The Old Republic didn't let its daddy down, as EA has reported much better sales than expected for the December quarter, largely thanks to the runaway sales of the new MMO title (as well as many of EA's other heavy-hitters). The company ended up earning an adjusted $344 million for a total net loss of $205 million, which isn't too shabby if you consider how much money just went into the development and launch of The Old Republic.

Perhaps most interestingly to players, however, is the fact that EA has reported sales of more than 2 million units of The Old Republic with about 1.7 million subscribers. Those are the highest (and the hardest) numbers we've heard so far. EA's Chief Financial Advisor, Eric Brown, stated in an interview that EA managed to pull in more SWTOR subscribers than the studio had initially anticipated. He added that at launch, the studio was able to add a great number of users per server courtesy of some technical improvements. If you're economically minded and want to get the full, dirty, stock market details, just click past the link below.

[Thanks to Gabriel for the tip!]

[Update: Darth Hater has compiled some additional TOR-related statistics and Q&A from today's EA earnings call: "2,000,000+ copies sold, 40% sold through Origin; 1,700,000+ active subscribers, 1 million concurrent." The company also notes that "Active subscribers means anyone paying OR in their trial period. MOST of those 1.7m are paying at this point."]

MassivelyEA reveals SWTOR subscription and sales numbers, beats financial predictions [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaearningseconomicseconomyelectronic-artsfinancesindustrynumberssalessales-numbersso-many-numbersstar-wars-the-old-republicsubscription-numbersswtorthe-old-republictorWed, 01 Feb 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Assembly Required: One last jump to lightspeed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/16/some-assembly-required-one-last-jump-to-lightspeed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/16/some-assembly-required-one-last-jump-to-lightspeed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/16/some-assembly-required-one-last-jump-to-lightspeed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Star Wars Galaxies - Tatooine twin sunset
Eulogizing Star Wars Galaxies is difficult. In fact, I've written some 2,200 articles since signing on with Massively a couple of years ago, and none of them has come close to being as painful as this particular wall o' text.

The fact that I even used the word eulogy in reference to a video game says it all, really. Join me after the cut for as brief a remembrance as I can manage.

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: One last jump to lightspeed

MassivelySome Assembly Required: One last jump to lightspeed originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Dec 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closingcraftingeconomyeuologyfeaturedgame-closinghousingopinionplayer-contentplayer-generated-contentsandboxsci-fiserver-closingserver-shutdownshutdownsoesome-assembly-requiredSony-Online-Entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-galaxiesstar-wars-mmosunsetswgtradeskillingwe-will-miss-you-swgFri, 16 Dec 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nexon raises $1.17 billion from IPO, stock subsequently drops]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/nexon-raises-1-17-billion-from-ipo-stock-subsequently-drops/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/nexon-raises-1-17-billion-from-ipo-stock-subsequently-drops/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/nexon-raises-1-17-billion-from-ipo-stock-subsequently-drops/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Nexon logo
Korean online gaming giant Nexon has raised $1.17 billion from its initial public stock offering. The filing stated that Nexon has 1.2 billion registered players, 77 million of which were active as recently as September 2011. CFO Owen Mahoney says the company's expertise made it an attractive proposition for new shareholders. "We can really bring a lot to the table. We know how to tune a game so that people will play it for months on end," he explained.

Nexon's IPO was the largest on the Tokyo Stock Exchange this year, and as a result the company is now valued somewhere between $7.69 billion and $8.97 billion according to GamesIndustry.biz.

Even so, Nexon's stock price slipped by 3.9 percent on its first day of trading.

MassivelyNexon raises $1.17 billion from IPO, stock subsequently drops originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Dec 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>economyf2pfree-to-playinitial-public-offeringipommo-industrynexonowen-mahoneystockstokyo-stock-exchangeWed, 14 Dec 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Goblinworks CEO: 'There's a whole new way to make MMOs affordably']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/goblinworks-ceo-theres-a-whole-new-way-to-make-mmos-affordabl/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/goblinworks-ceo-theres-a-whole-new-way-to-make-mmos-affordabl/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/goblinworks-ceo-theres-a-whole-new-way-to-make-mmos-affordabl/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Pathfinder Online - concept art montage
Pull up a chair, sandpark fans, and while you're at it you might want to grab a large cup of your favorite caffeinated beverage. Goblinworks has published the first in a series of dev blogs designed to give starving sandbox fans a peek into the world of Pathfinder Online, and it's quite a lengthy read.

Goblinworks CEO Ryan Dancey introduces key members of the Pathfinder team (including industry veterans who have worked on titles including City of Heroes and World of Darkness) before moving on to a high-level view of Pathfinder's business plan. Three main strategies emerge from the wall o' text, and Dancey cites the use of field-tested middleware, sandbox design elements, and most interestingly, a hard cap on the number of new players allowed into the game each month as the factors that will make Pathfinder stand apart from the gaggle of themepark clones currently blotting out the sun.

"Making a game that starts with 4,500 players and grows to 16,500 players [after seven months] is much, much easier and vastly less expensive than making a game designed to accommodate a million players on day one," Dancey explains. He goes on to say that Pathfinder aims to emulate EVE Online's model of starting small and gradually building a larger playerbase over time while avoiding "a huge themepark mortgage" in terms of development and infrastructure costs.

MassivelyGoblinworks CEO: 'There's a whole new way to make MMOs affordably' originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Dec 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-planeconomyfantasygoblinworksmmo-industrypathfinderpathfinder-onlineplayer-contentplayer-economyplayer-generated-contentplease-dont-suckryan-danceysandboxsandparkThu, 08 Dec 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you buy from a vendor?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/25/the-daily-grind-do-you-buy-from-a-vendor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/25/the-daily-grind-do-you-buy-from-a-vendor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/25/the-daily-grind-do-you-buy-from-a-vendor/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Fallen Earth food merchant
In your average, run-of-the-mill themepark MMO, you'll encounter waves of NPC merchants tucked away in their own little market districts, offering everything from consumable potions to crafting materials to weapons, armor, and more. But often times, what they have to sell is nothing compared to the rewards you get from quest-givers.

With the exception of a few necessary crafting components, I think it's safe to say that NPC vendors can be ignored, as long as you complete the area's quests successfully, which brings it down to a question of playstyle. You can ignore the quests, not craft a thing, and buy everything from a vendor... if you can somehow raise the money without doing quests. That's up to you.

So our question for you on this Black Friday is this: Do you buy your wardrobe and arsenal from the NPC merchants, or if given the chance, would you rather make the items yourself, buy from other players, or earn your keep through quests?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do you buy from a vendor? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>economymarketmerchantsnpcopinionquest-giversqueststdgthe-daily-grindvendorsFri, 25 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MindArk announces Planet Calypso land grab]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/mindark-announces-planet-calypso-land-grab/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/mindark-announces-planet-calypso-land-grab/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/mindark-announces-planet-calypso-land-grab/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Planet Calypso
MindArk's Planet Calypso is certainly one of the most unique virtual worlds out there, due in large part to the fact that the game's real estate is bought, sold, and traded for real-world cash. Land management, however, has generally been an activity for the ludicrously rich, with some properties costing as much as 500,000 USD.

MindArk looks to change that, however, by introducing a whopping 60,000 new plots of land (each measuring at 100 square meters) that can be bought for the (relatively) low price of 100 USD. Each deed that a player purchases "entitles the holder to a share of the 50% planet partner Gross Revenue generated by Planet Calypso." So if you've got a few hundred bucks to blow on virtual real estate and want a piece of the pie, head on over to the official site and sign up.

MassivelyMindArk announces Planet Calypso land grab originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Nov 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>economicseconomyentropia-universeland-grablandgrabmindarkplanet-calypsoreal-estateThu, 10 Nov 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Are we witnessing the bursting of a gaming bubble?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/05/the-daily-grind-are-we-witnessing-the-bursting-of-a-gaming-bubb/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/05/the-daily-grind-are-we-witnessing-the-bursting-of-a-gaming-bubb/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/05/the-daily-grind-are-we-witnessing-the-bursting-of-a-gaming-bubb/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Bubble photograph by Jean-Louis Plot
The last few weeks have cast a dark shadow over the MMO gaming industry. At a time when MMOs release seemingly every other day and big blockbusters are just over the horizon, MMO companies are canceling titles, shelving games, cutting back, changing models, and laying off staff. CCP Games dropped employees and slowed its development pace; NCsoft and GamersFirst followed suit, though with assurances that their games would proceed as usual. In the last few days alone, we saw Gameforge let go both developers and titles, TurnOut halt development on Earth Eternal, and both LEGO Universe and Troy Online announce impending shutdowns.

What do you think? Are we dealing with a "gaming bubble" on the verge of bursting? Did MMOs become too popular too fast, such that the industry is now bloated and unsustainable? Is a culling of the MMO herd a necessary evil to improve the overall quality of MMOs? Or is this flurry of layoffs and closures merely a coincidence, a temporary downsizing due to end soon?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Are we witnessing the bursting of a gaming bubble? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 05 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alt1-gamesbubbleccpccp-gamesculling-the-herdearth-eternaleconomicseconomygameforgegamersfirstgames-bubblemmo-bubblemmo-industryncsoftopiniontdgthe-daily-grindtroy-onlineturnout-venturesunsustainabilitySat, 05 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Zynga reports record revenue in last quarter]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/zynga-reports-record-revenue-in-last-quarter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/zynga-reports-record-revenue-in-last-quarter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/zynga-reports-record-revenue-in-last-quarter/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Zynga logo
A recent SEC filing from Zynga, creator of the social gaming epidemic known as FarmVille, revealed that the company is reporting a record quarterly revenue of over 306 million USD, though -- bizarrely enough -- profits are almost 54 percent lower than they were this time last year.

Revenue isn't the only thing that's on the rise, either. The company reports 152 million unique monthly players, compared to the 151 million the company reported in June. The average number of daily players, however, dropped from 59 million to 54 million. At any rate, the company seems to be going strong, with new titles such as the recently announced (supposed MMO) CastleVille just on the horizon.

MassivelyZynga reports record revenue in last quarter originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>castlevilleearningseconomyfacebook-gamesfacebook-gamingfarmvillefinancefinancesprofitsrevenuesocial-gamessocial-gamingzyngaFri, 04 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ChangYou reports record revenue, registered accounts]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/changyou-reports-record-revenue-registered-accounts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/changyou-reports-record-revenue-registered-accounts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/changyou-reports-record-revenue-registered-accounts/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

ChangYou logo
With all the layoffs that seem to be going around the MMO industry as of late, it's about time we hear some good news from a developer. ChangYou, known in North America primarily for its quirky title Zentia and the bizarrely named Duke of Mount Deer, reports a 119 million USD revenue for its third fiscal quarter.

The company's amount of registered users rose as well, with the company citing 159 million current gamers inhabiting ChangYou's titles. CEO Tao Wang is understandably pleased with these results and says that "we believe these results once again demonstrate our ability to understand and fulfill gamers' needs and showcase our content development and game operation strengths." For the full details, check out the article over at Gamasutra.

MassivelyChangYou reports record revenue, registered accounts originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 31 Oct 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>changyouduke-of-mount-deereconomicseconomyf2pfinancefree-to-playmiscmiscellaneousprofitsregistered-usersrevenuesuccesstao-wanguserszentiaMon, 31 Oct 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: WindSlayer 2 dev diary gets economic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/28/massively-exclusive-windslayer-2-dev-diary-gets-economic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/28/massively-exclusive-windslayer-2-dev-diary-gets-economic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/28/massively-exclusive-windslayer-2-dev-diary-gets-economic/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- WindSlayer 2
Now that we've gotten a look at the basics of WindSlayer 2's melee and ranged classes, it's time to delve into what makes the game's economy tick. So if you're a shrewd businessman, head on past the cut to the dev diary and find out how you can play the market in WindSlayer 2.

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: WindSlayer 2 dev diary gets economic

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: WindSlayer 2 dev diary gets economic originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 28 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingdev-diaryeconomicseconomyf2pfree-to-playgatheringignited-gamesprofessionprofessionstradeskilltradeskillswindslayer-2Fri, 28 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: Launch 2.0]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/14/wasteland-diaries-launch-2-0/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/14/wasteland-diaries-launch-2-0/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/14/wasteland-diaries-launch-2-0/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

The Los Alamos auction house
Fallen Earth is officially free-to-play with patch 2.0. There are very few restrictions on the free accounts, so if you haven't at least tried it out, you really have no excuse. If it's been a while since you've played, you might want to pop in and check it out. A lot has changed, and there's no need to sub up to take a look. The world is pretty well populated now. Even Los Alamos was crowded again, like it used to be over a year ago. The starter towns were packed with new players all running around with their axes and air rifles. The population is certainly healthy at the moment; hopefully it will last.

It's been over two years since Fallen Earth went live, and it's also probably been over two years since the wasteland has had so many people in it. LifeNet gear is back in style again. Players are trotting around on "Old Nags," and the Help channel is a fusillade of questions that many of the more helpful and knowledgeable players try to keep up with. I spent a few hours traveling around and watching the crowds. Seeing the swarms of players and the dead mobs littering the desert sand in Sector 1 reminded me of launch day back in September of '09. But the difference is this: There are more players everywhere, which means many of the old players have returned as well. I've noticed some big changes already, and I'll share those with you right after the cut.

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: Launch 2.0

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: Launch 2.0 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 14 Oct 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boneclawChopperCommandereconomyf2pfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfeaturedfree-to-playgamersfirstpatch-2.0server-populationwardrobe-slotsFri, 14 Oct 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth launches F2P, postpones world events]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/fallen-earth-launches-f2p-postpones-world-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/fallen-earth-launches-f2p-postpones-world-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/fallen-earth-launches-f2p-postpones-world-events/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Fallen Earth
Fallen Earth has barreled over the falls today into the wild rapids of free-to-play, opening up the game for anyone who wants to experience what the post-apocalypse tastes like (slightly leathery). Current subscribers will find that their accounts have been upgraded to Commander-level status, and all previous subscribers and purchasers of the game will have a brand-new Spiked Chopper waiting for them by the end of the week.

As part of the F2P launch, patch 2.0 has hit the servers, and with it came several changes and hotfixes. Loot drop rates from mobs have been increased and crafting has been tweaked as GamersFirst continues its efforts to rebalance the economy. In a new dev blog, GamersFirst discusses what's going on with the economy and why these changes are taking place. The primary reason that the devs are monkeying with this system is to get players interacting more and to introduce an element of challenge for crafters.

Unfortunately, the world events that were scheduled to go live today have been postponed until next week, following the discovery of several bugs and performance problems.

MassivelyFallen Earth launches F2P, postpones world events originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Oct 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingeconomyeventsf2pf2p-launchfallen-earthfefree-to-playgamersfirstin-game-eventspatchpatch-2.0relaunchspiked-chopperupdateworld-eventsWed, 12 Oct 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: Player-run economy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/07/wasteland-diaries-player-run-economy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/07/wasteland-diaries-player-run-economy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/07/wasteland-diaries-player-run-economy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Fallen Earth screenshot
The economy in Fallen Earth has been stagnant for a while. The auction house has been just a place for trader clones (with maxed social skill) to post wares with a small markup from the NPC vendors prices. In some cases, these traders would post mats that could only be bought in PvP conflict towns or found in secret or dangerous scavenging spots. It was hard to be competitive in a market like that. Every resource had an unlimited supply thanks to the vendors. There were a few items that actually worked on the supply and demand principle, like vibrant and volatile chemicals and pre-fall tech. These items had prices that were dictated completely by the players. Through competition, the prices got pretty reasonable (and I even bought a few pre-fall techs to allieviate the Citadel grind).

All that has changed now, and the Fallen Earth team has made some massive changes to the way the economy works. In this post, I'll take a look at what has changed. I'll try to give my best guess about what will happen to the economy in the coming weeks. A great many players are already freaking out about this concept on the forums and in global chat. While I admit it's too early to tell what will become of us in the near future, there's no need to panic. People were rage-quitting the game mere hours after the changes were made. If you ask me, it's a bit premature to make a decision like that. Nobody really knows what will happen, but click past the cut to see my best guesses.

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: Player-run economy

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: Player-run economy originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 07 Oct 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auction-houseconflict-townscraftingeconomyeconomy-changesf2pfallen-earthfefeaturedfree-to-playgamersfirstgrindinglootMarie-Croallmaterialsmatsplayer-run-economyscavengingvendorsFri, 07 Oct 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lost Pages of Taborea: Fixing the economy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/03/lost-pages-of-taborea-fixing-the-economy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/03/lost-pages-of-taborea-fixing-the-economy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/03/lost-pages-of-taborea-fixing-the-economy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Runes of Magic screenshot
I've got one more article concerning the current state of Runes of Magic's economy. To round out my trilogy, I'm taking a look at actual fixes to what could be seen as a broken mechanic. If the current inflation is indeed seen as something that is broken and could quickly damage the playability in RoM, then the fixes would likely be band-aids. It would take too long to rework an entire system filled with thousands of items, each affecting the other. The fix would also need to be implemented quickly. That puts some limitations on our speculations. What does the fix need to concentrate on?

The problem seems boil down to the excess amounts of gold that can be hoarded -- hundreds and hundreds of millions can be saved up. It's also possible for high-level, well-geared players to accumulate gold rather quickly. In this week's Lost Pages of Taborea, I want to take a look at gold sinks (including one Frogster is testing), gold-caps, and some other ways to tame the economy.

Continue reading Lost Pages of Taborea: Fixing the economy

MassivelyLost Pages of Taborea: Fixing the economy originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 03 Oct 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>economic-recoveryeconomic-stimuluseconomicseconomyfeaturedfixing-the-economyfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactivegoldgold-faucetgold-fixgold-sinkinflationjeremy-strattonlost-pages-of-taborearomrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentMon, 03 Oct 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Anvil of Crom: Surviving the craftpocalypse]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/02/the-anvil-of-crom-surviving-the-craftpocalypse/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/02/the-anvil-of-crom-surviving-the-craftpocalypse/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/02/the-anvil-of-crom-surviving-the-craftpocalypse/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The Anvil of Crom header - big angry man with a battleaxe
So last week we started talking a bit about Age of Conan's 2012 crafting revamp. I laid out a few things that foul up the current system -- from a tradeskiller's point of view, naturally -- but I didn't quite get around to talking about solutions.

Though that's on the to-do list, I may not get around to it this week either, since a few mails and some forum discussions brought up a couple of interesting tangential points that I hadn't considered.

Surprisingly, I got email from folks who aren't really looking forward to the big tradeskill upheaval that Funcom game director Craig Morrison hinted at in the August development update. Even more mind-boggling was the fact that these folks aren't even crafters.

Continue reading The Anvil of Crom: Surviving the craftpocalypse

MassivelyThe Anvil of Crom: Surviving the craftpocalypse originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 02 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanage-of-conan-craftingage-of-conan-unchainedanvil-of-cromaocaoc-craftingaoc-ngeaoc-unchainedchill-pillschillaxcraftingcrafting-revampcraftpocalypseeconomyf2pfantasyfeaturedfeedbackfree-to-playfuncomin-game-economyngeopinionreader-feedbacksurviving-the-craftpocalypsethe-anvil-of-cromtradeskill-revamptradeskillingtradeskillsvirtual-worldsSun, 02 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lost Pages of Taborea: Beating the economy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/lost-pages-of-taborea-beating-the-economy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/lost-pages-of-taborea-beating-the-economy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/lost-pages-of-taborea-beating-the-economy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Runes of Magic image
Last week, I expounded on Runes of Magic's current economic situation. Prices are crazier than the obligatory car salesman's, only in reverse. That is to say, prices are extremely high for everything right now. It doesn't stop the game from functioning, but it does put a lot of gear and upgrading tools out of reach for new and free players.

This week in Lost Pages of Taborea, I want to look at a handful of ways that you can continue to enjoy RoM until the storm blows over (if it blows over). Even though prices seem out of hand, you can still get equipped well enough from new quests to start running dungeons. The minigames have been rejuvenated into farming grounds, thanks to the introduction of crimson stats. And even though it is often scoffed at, arena gear is an option for those willing to grind honor points or materials.

Continue reading Lost Pages of Taborea: Beating the economy

MassivelyLost Pages of Taborea: Beating the economy originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Sep 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coast-of-opportunitycrimsoncrimson-statseconomyfeaturedfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactiveinflationjeremy-strattonlost-pages-of-taborearomrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentMon, 26 Sep 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Informal RMT study looks at microtransaction effects across multiple titles]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/informal-rmt-study-looks-at-microtransaction-effects-across-mult/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/informal-rmt-study-looks-at-microtransaction-effects-across-mult/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/informal-rmt-study-looks-at-microtransaction-effects-across-mult/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Team Fortress 2 microtransactions
Wondering whether microtransactions in Western games are as harmless as publishers would have you believe? BitGamer was as well, and as such the website has conducted an informal study of RMT and its effects across seven different titles.

Among the surveyed games are MMORPGs that include World of Warcraft, Lord of the Rings Online, Realm of the Mad God and EVE Online. The study includes data collected on over 800 RMT items, and while the conclusions are somewhat lacking in terms of objective analysis ("nobody likes Battlefield," etc.), there is nonetheless a fair bit of interesting info on display.

Ultimately the piece reaches the familiar conclusion that RMT is here to stay and that it's OK as long as the implementation avoids the dreaded pay-to-win stigma. That said, "even just cosmetic items will breed a bitter culture of haves and have-nots if you can't reasonably get them for free in a game for which you're already paying," the article states.

Be sure to check out Massively's own RMT studies for more insight into the value offered by your favorite microtransaction games.

MassivelyInformal RMT study looks at microtransaction effects across multiple titles originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Sep 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelseconomyeveeve-onlinelord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroMicrotransactionsMiscellaneousmmo-industryrealm-of-the-mad-godrmtrmt-studystudyworld-of-warcraftwowMon, 26 Sep 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: ArcheAge's Jake Song on consensual PvP, inflation, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/21/massively-exclusive-archeages-jake-song-on-consensual-pvp-inf/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/21/massively-exclusive-archeages-jake-song-on-consensual-pvp-inf/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/21/massively-exclusive-archeages-jake-song-on-consensual-pvp-inf/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

ArcheAge - newbie coast CBT3
ArcheAge news has been a bit sporadic of late, and it's also been quite some time since we talked to the devs or took a spin through one of the game's closed beta phases. Like many of you, we're dying to know more about XL Games' forthcoming fantasy sandpark, so we went straight to the source to see if we could drum up anything new.

Lead designer Jake Song was kind enough to field a few of our burning questions, and we're pleased to present you with another Massively ArcheAge exclusive that touches on everything from localization and story to consensual PvP and item decay. Join us after the break for that and more.

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: ArcheAge's Jake Song on consensual PvP, inflation, and more

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: ArcheAge's Jake Song on consensual PvP, inflation, and more originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Sep 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arche-agearcheagebetabeta-testscbt4consensual-pvpcraftingeconomyexclusiveexclusive-interviewfantasyfeaturedffa-pvpinflationinterviewitem-decayjake-songjake-song-exclusivekorean-betalocalizationloot-dropsprisonpvpsandboxsandparkstoryxlxl-gamesWed, 21 Sep 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth dev diary talks economic changes, world events, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/fallen-earth-dev-diary-talks-economic-changes-world-events-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/fallen-earth-dev-diary-talks-economic-changes-world-events-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/fallen-earth-dev-diary-talks-economic-changes-world-events-and/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Fallen Earth - cooking
Earlier today we told you about the Fallen Earth devs answering a few of your free-to-play questions. Now it's time to dive a bit further down the rabbit hole courtesy of this month's state of the game update.

Producer Marie Croall checks in with us to talk about the game's two-year anniversary celebration, which includes "PvP, PvE, and RP components." She also says that the event will be run at EU- and US-friendly times (though said times aren't specified as of yet).

In terms of game updates, the major portion of the September recap concerns the ongoing economic changes. Inconsistencies dealing with recipe and component rarity have been dealt with, and the dev team has "redone the placement of most of the nodes in the game" to make the rarer nodes more of an incentive to enter PvP-enabled areas. Finally, Croall says that the release of the new world event system has been bumped back to coincide with the free-to-play conversion on October 12th. Grab your favorite wasteland beverage and read all the details at the official Fallen Earth dev blog.

MassivelyFallen Earth dev diary talks economic changes, world events, and more originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Sep 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingdev-blogdev-diaryeconomic-changeseconomic-tweakseconomyfallen-earthgamersfirsticarusicarus-studiosmarie-croallpatchespost-apocalypticrare-recipesrarityrecipessci-fiState-of-the-gameupdatewastelandworld-event-systemworld-eventsTue, 20 Sep 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lost Pages of Taborea: State of the economy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/lost-pages-of-taborea-state-of-the-economy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/lost-pages-of-taborea-state-of-the-economy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/lost-pages-of-taborea-state-of-the-economy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Runes of Magic screenshot
For months now, it's been no secret that Runes of Magic's economy has been out of whack. I've been sitting on this article, watching and waiting to see what would happen next. The assumption, of course, is that I think something will happen. I keep thinking that Runewaker, Frogster and RoM will align like stars to zap the economy back to its previous state, or that RoM's economy will act like a large, slowly deflating balloon, but nothing's happened for months. That's not to say the something that could happen will never happen. This period of severe inflation is a drop in the bucket compared to the life of the game. But what if the economy stays the way it is?

I've stopped asking questions that pointed and started asking how this new economy makes sense. I don't think anything is more wrong with the economy now than it was before. Prices are higher, much higher, on everything. For some, that's enough of a problem, but is it a problem for the operation of RoM? In this week's Lost Pages of Taborea, follow me down the rabbit hole to see how the weird might actually be normal.

Continue reading Lost Pages of Taborea: State of the economy

MassivelyLost Pages of Taborea: State of the economy originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Sep 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>currencydiamond-pricesdiamondseconomyfeaturedfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactivegoldinflationjeremy-strattonlost-pages-of-taborearomrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentMon, 19 Sep 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: Scavenger's guide]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/wasteland-diaries-scavengers-guide/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/wasteland-diaries-scavengers-guide/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/wasteland-diaries-scavengers-guide/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Killing White Crow
The economy in Fallen Earth is due to get a major overhaul in the next month. The devs have been pretty tight-lipped about what exactly is going to change. They may do something as bold as doing away with NPC vendors altogether (unlikely) or maybe just tweaking the rarity of materials (confirmed). Since we aren't exactly sure what is going to change, we can't really prepare ourselves properly, can we? We can guess which materials are going to become rarer with the revamp by looking at the recipes, but they will be undergoing changes as well. So trying to figure out what to hoard for the new economy is purely a guessing game.

I don't want to get into theorycrafting on what may or may not change economy-wise. I'll leave it up to your best guess as to what materials you think you'll need to stock up on. My purpose in this post will be to help you get said materials. I can't think of a single material in the entire gameworld of Fallen Earth that is out of my grasp. I'm pretty sure I can find anything. I have compiled a list of useful materials and the best places that I know of to find them. There are some things that I will not divulge, but I'm going to be very generous considering most of the loot tables will be drastically altered very soon. Click past the cut and have a look at the list.

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: Scavenger's guide

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: Scavenger's guide originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Sep 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingcrateseconomyfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfeaturedgamersfirsticarus-studiosmaterialsmatsmerchantsmobsnodesscavengingscavenging-nodesFri, 16 Sep 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Assembly Required: Diving into details of Origins of Malu with an exclusive interview]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/some-assembly-required-diving-into-details-of-origins-of-malu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/some-assembly-required-diving-into-details-of-origins-of-malu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/some-assembly-required-diving-into-details-of-origins-of-malu/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Some Assembly Required header image
"This will be the world's best game ever ever ever!" -Michael Dunham. You tell 'em!

Honestly, we have heard it before: MMORPG feature lists that promise what our sandbox-loving hearts desire. Try as we might, we cannot escape those sneaky tendrils of hope that find the chinks in our +10 jaded armor of cynicism as we read about the return of a true virtual where actions have consequences, personal choices dictate gameplay, and individuality is a matter of principle.

Sadly, time and time again those hopes are dashed by titles that either cannot deliver on their promises or never even survive until launch. The same is true for the developers at Burning Dog Media; they too have ridden the roller coaster of sandbox dreams and harbored in their hearts a vision of their ultimate game if only they had the wherewithal to produce it. The difference between them and us is... they do!

Welcome to issue #6 of Some Assembly Required -- an exclusive interview with Michael Dunham and Dave Cruikshank -- Lead Developer and Art Director of Burning Dog Media, respectively -- who are in the midst of developing the new sci-fi/fantasy MMORPG Origins of Malu. Originally called just Origins (the change was to help avoid confusion with other projects that were cropping up with similar titles), this game previously teased sandbox aficionados with a glimpse at some hope-stirring features. Today, we have the privilege of expounding on "coming soon" and revealing more features that not only are planned but are for the most part implemented.

So why should we check out Origins of Malu? And what tantalizing tidbits of sandboxy goodness can we expect? Grab onto that hope and dive past the cut -- if you dare -- to see what Michael and Dave have to share.

Gallery: Origins of Malu

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: Diving into details of Origins of Malu with an exclusive interview

MassivelySome Assembly Required: Diving into details of Origins of Malu with an exclusive interview originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Sep 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AIburning-dogburning-dog-mediacharacter-customiationcraftingdave-cruikshankduelingduelseconomyexclusivefactionsfantasyfeaturedharvestinghousinginterviewmassively-exclusive-interviewsmichael-dunhamnew-titlesoriginsOrigins of Maluorigins-mmoOrigins-of-MaluOriginsOfMalupermadeathpvpsandboxsandbox-mmosci-fiscifisome-assembly-requiredFri, 16 Sep 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO subscription dollars in decline for the first time since 2002]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/mmo-subscription-dollars-in-decline-for-the-first-time-since-200/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/mmo-subscription-dollars-in-decline-for-the-first-time-since-200/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/mmo-subscription-dollars-in-decline-for-the-first-time-since-200/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Money and lots of it
With all of the free-to-play MMOs coming onto the market and the F2P conversion of formerly subscription-only titles, it should come as no surprise that the subscription model is losing its grip on the industry. Eurogamer reports that starting in 2010, the money brought in from MMO subscriptions has actually gone into decline for the first time ever since analysts began tracking it in 2002.

2010's subscription revenue added up to $1.58 billion, a respectable amount but still 5% less than 2009. 2009 saw a 10% bump in subscriptions, and 2008 witnessed 21.6% growth. Connect the dots, and subscription revenue has most likely peaked and begun a downhill slide. Analysts predict that by 2015, revenue from subs will be as low as $1.33 billion. However, with the popularity of RIFT this year and the coming storm of Star Wars: The Old Republic, the subscription model may see a resurgence.

On the flip side, microtransactions from F2P models are rising exponentially, jumping 24% from 2009 to 2010 to account for $1.13 billion. With the two models combined, the industry saw a very modest 5% increase last year in revenue.

Screen Digest analyst Piers Harding-Rolls sees the writing on the wall: "The focus of many PC game operators has clearly shifted to micro-transaction‐based models -- in part due to competition in the subscription market especially in the high‐end MMOG segment, but also because of the flexibility micro-transactions offer operators in monetising gamers."

MassivelyMMO subscription dollars in decline for the first time since 2002 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2002200820092010analysisanalysteconomyeurogamerf2pfree-to-playmicrotransactionsPiers-Harding-Rollsprofitrevenueriftscreen-digeststar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubssubscriptionsubscriptionsswtorthe-old-republictorThu, 15 Sep 2011 12:30:00 EST