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[One Shots: Woodland critters]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/13/one-shots-woodland-critters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/13/one-shots-woodland-critters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/13/one-shots-woodland-critters/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

One Shots
TERA isn't quite two weeks old, but it's already offering up some spectacular views. Kromic on the Dragonfall server paused while riding on his mount to take this shot. He writes in,
While doing some exploring on my trusty steed in TERA, I found a great view of the capital city Velika.
His screenshot is just after the cut, along with three more images of woodland critters doing their duty to spice up our MMO scenery.

Continue reading One Shots: Woodland critters

MassivelyOne Shots: Woodland critters originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 13 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-tale-in-the-desertatitdblueholebluehole-studiosbring-back-one-shotsegenesisegypten-masseen-masse-entertainmenteq-2eq-iieq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfree-to-playgalleriesgalleryhistoricalmythologyone-shotsreader-screenshotsreader-submissionsriftrift-literift-planes-of-telarasandboxscreenshotscreenshotssoesonysony-online-entertainmenttaletellingteratriontrion-worldsuser-submissionsSun, 13 May 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World unveils the Scorched Desert]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/06/the-secret-world-unveils-the-scorched-desert/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/06/the-secret-world-unveils-the-scorched-desert/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/06/the-secret-world-unveils-the-scorched-desert/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- The Secret World
The Secret World is expanding its territory today with a new video revealing the Scorched Desert. The new zone is set in -- where else -- the sands of Egypt, where a dark corruption is taking over the land. Biblical plagues have returned to Egypt as an ancient cult awakens the dead. Of course, it will be up to players to fight back the forces of darkness and keep the paranormal activity at bay. For the full video, just click on past the cut.

Continue reading The Secret World unveils the Scorched Desert

MassivelyThe Secret World unveils the Scorched Desert originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 Dec 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>egyptfuncomrevealscorched-desertthe-scorched-desertthe-secret-worldtswvideovideoszoneTue, 06 Dec 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[A Tale in the Desert VI begins tomorrow]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/02/a-tale-in-the-desert-vi-begins-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/02/a-tale-in-the-desert-vi-begins-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/02/a-tale-in-the-desert-vi-begins-tomorrow/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- A Tale in the Desert
A Tale in the Desert V is coming to a close, and of course that means that A Tale in the Desert VI is just over the horizon. For the uninitiated, this means that the current arc of events will be coming to an end and players will be starting from scratch. However, that doesn't mean that all was for naught.

Though the players themselves have to start anew, the achievements of Tale 5 remain in place. Players succeeded in building four new monuments, which will lead to four new Tests designed by the team's Oracles for Tale 6. The new Tale goes live at noon EST tomorrow, December 3rd, so you have one more night to prepare yourselves before another unique Tale begins. To get in on the action yourself, just head on over to the game's official site.

MassivelyA Tale in the Desert VI begins tomorrow originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Dec 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-tale-in-the-deserta-tale-in-the-desert-6a-tale-in-the-desert-viatitdatitd-6atitd-viegenesisegyptegyptianf2pfree-to-playsandboxtale-6tale-viFri, 02 Dec 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist spins A Tale in the Desert: A talk with Teppy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/the-game-archaeologist-spins-a-tale-in-the-desert-a-talk-with-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/the-game-archaeologist-spins-a-tale-in-the-desert-a-talk-with-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/the-game-archaeologist-spins-a-tale-in-the-desert-a-talk-with-t/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

A Tale in the Desert
I have to say, I have nothing but admiration for lone wolf-style developers who decide to pish-posh giant studio teams and massive budgets and jump into the game-making mosh pit anyway. Andrew "Teppy" Tepper is one of these visionaries who had an idea for a unique MMO and took it to fruition. I mean, most of us come up with "totally tubular" notions for online games, but how many of us make it happen? Outside of a couple of doodles on a Post-It, that is.

In our second week covering the fascinating sandbox world of A Tale in the Desert, The Game Archaeologist had the pleasure of sitting down with Teppy to get his perspective on how one man bootstrapped his way into the MMO world. He also dishes on the team's next MMO project, which we'll be talking more about on Massively later this week.

So what's it like to create the ultimate sandbox in Egypt of all places? Teppy, take it away!

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist spins A Tale in the Desert: A talk with Teppy

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist spins A Tale in the Desert: A talk with Teppy originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-tale-in-the-deserta-tale-in-the-desert-5a-tale-in-the-desert-6andrew-teppercodecraftingdemi-pharaohdragons-taleegenesisegyptfeaturedinterviewlaissez-fairelawlawsminecraftpharaohsandboxsociologicalsociologytellingteppywurm-onlineTue, 20 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist spins A Tale in the Desert: The highlights]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/13/the-game-archaeologist-spins-a-tale-in-the-desert-the-highlight/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/13/the-game-archaeologist-spins-a-tale-in-the-desert-the-highlight/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/13/the-game-archaeologist-spins-a-tale-in-the-desert-the-highlight/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

A Tale in the Desert
Readers of the ever-so-humble Game Archaeologist will recall that earlier this year I had the opportunity to exchange informative words with Dr. Richard Bartle, the creator of MUD. Since he was -- and is -- a highly opinionated designer, I asked him what he thought was the most innovative MMO from the last decade. The answer was short and succinct.

"A Tale in the Desert, he replied, then added: "Note that 'innovative' doesn't necessarily mean 'successful.'"

Right there is the crux of ATITD's unique position in the MMO industry. Instead of storming down a path well-traveled, it took a machete and made its own trail -- a trail down which few have followed. As Jef recently noted in Some Assembly Required, it is an "odd duck" of a game, skewing as far away from combat as possible to focus on two often-neglected aspects of MMOs: crafting and politics. Even though its population has pegged it as an eternally niche game, it's proven that constant fighting isn't the only thing that can draw an online community together.

This week we're going to look at some of the more unique features of this innovative yet diminutive MMO, which began telling its tale back in 2003.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist spins A Tale in the Desert: The highlights

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist spins A Tale in the Desert: The highlights originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Sep 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-tale-in-the-desertandrew-tepperatitdcivilizationcraftingdemi-pharaohegenesisegyptfeaturedgrieferlawlegal-systemmentorpharaohpolitical-systemrichard-bartlesandboxsexismsnide-impact-dirtbagssociologysome-assembly-requiredstrangertellingthe-game-archaeologistTue, 13 Sep 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: A Tale in the Desert V]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/15/rise-and-shiny-recap-a-tale-in-the-desert-v/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/15/rise-and-shiny-recap-a-tale-in-the-desert-v/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/15/rise-and-shiny-recap-a-tale-in-the-desert-v/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

A Tale in the Desert V is a non-combat crafting paradise. That might sound a little strange, but the developers encourage players to work together to accomplish bigger and better things, making them feel as though they are part of a community. I have tried the game at different times over the years but never really became more than a visitor. I was glad to be given the opportunity to check it out, but even after a week I still feel like I have barely scratched the surface. I have emerged from the tutorial a smarter citizen, but I know that around the corner, greater challenges wait.

The game is not without its flaws, however, although many of the issues might fade as systems and controls become more apparent. Still, I found myself a little frustrated when the game asked me to sit and literally watch grass grow. I did it, though, and found an odd game, filled with mysteries. In a good way, of course.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: A Tale in the Desert V

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: A Tale in the Desert V originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 15 Aug 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-tale-in-the-deserta-tale-in-the-desert-5ATITDatitd-5beau-hindmancommunityCommunity-gamescraftingcrafting-systemegenesisegyptegyptianfeaturedpyramidsrise-and-shinySun, 15 Aug 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A Tale in the Desert launches Tale 5 today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/07/a-tale-in-the-desert-launches-tale-5-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/07/a-tale-in-the-desert-launches-tale-5-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/07/a-tale-in-the-desert-launches-tale-5-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

For all that the MMO industry is occasionally decried as being a large gathering of copycats, there are some interesting outliers amidst a field of fantasy kill-fests. A Tale in the Desert is a prime example -- set in ancient Egypt, with a focus on character interaction and nonviolent problem resolution, it's really in a class of its own. And with the new installment of the game launching today, it's the perfect time for players who aren't familiar with the game to start mingling with newcomers. The fourth installment wrapped up in July, which makes for a quick turnaround into the newest iteration.

Unlike many other games in the genre, A Tale in the Desert runs for a while, then rests and starts over with new systems in place. This installment is featuring new Foraging and Aquaculture mechanics, allowing new ways to harvest plants and the ability to grow papyrus. The game is free for the first 24 hours of play, and each iteration tends to last for around six months. If the idea of a combat-free, crafting-focused game appeals to you, now would be the perfect time to head out into the lands of the Pharaoh.

MassivelyA Tale in the Desert launches Tale 5 today originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 07 Aug 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-tale-in-the-deserta-tale-in-the-desert-5atitdatitd-5craftingcrafting-systemsegenesisegypthistoricalhistorymmo-industryno-combatnon-combat-gamesocial-mmotale-5Sat, 07 Aug 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A Tale in the Desert to launch new player driven server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/a-tale-in-the-desert-to-launch-new-player-driven-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/a-tale-in-the-desert-to-launch-new-player-driven-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/a-tale-in-the-desert-to-launch-new-player-driven-server/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


A Tale in the Desert may not be the first game that comes to mind when you think of MMOs, but the title from independent developer eGenesis is something quite unique in this market. A Tale in the Desert isn't a combat-focused game at all, rather it's more about social, economic, and even legal systems in an ancient Egyptian setting. Players involved in a "telling" (a game arc) can even vote to determine the game's laws, which sets this title apart from most others.

eGenesis announced this week that they're launching a new server on February 20th, stating that it will give even greater control to players by allowing them to "completely control the timing of the telling." The new server will offer players an ancient Egypt that has yet to be built. In other words, it's an open environment where the players can have some degree of control over how that setting takes shape.

If the notion of a player-driven setting where the game's subscribers shape the play experience and surroundings appeals to you, have a look at what's coming soon to A Tale in the Desert.

MassivelyA Tale in the Desert to launch new player driven server originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Jan 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-tale-in-the-desertancient-egyptancient-worldatitdcultureeconomyegenesisegyptlawslegalmmo-industryplayer-governancepoliticstellingWed, 27 Jan 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mytheon site launches with trailer, game to release in Q1 2010]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/25/mytheon-site-launches-with-trailer-game-to-release-in-q1-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/25/mytheon-site-launches-with-trailer-game-to-release-in-q1-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/25/mytheon-site-launches-with-trailer-game-to-release-in-q1-2010/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Mytheon from Petroglyph Games is a title we've mentioned in the past, as it's a different take on the type of games we cover at Massively. Essentially it's an MMORTS, and as such may be comparable to titles like Dreamlords the Reawakening or even Atlantica Online. As its name implies, Mytheon is rooted in ancient world myths, which could be a nice departure from the numerous pure fantasy games on the market. At launch Mytheon will have content based in ancient world Greece and Egypt.

The game mechanics seem to be heavily tied in to power stones, which provide different benefits to the game's three classes. According to Petroglyph: "The collection and casting of Power Stones is the backbone of Mytheon. Power Stones initiate every in-game effect possible, from summoning minions and structures that fight for the player, to conjuring fireballs and lightning bolts and healing a party." Mytheon can be played solo, but will also have group and PvP gameplay options. The game's first trailer might give you a better idea of what to expect. It's embedded on the new game site, and offers some of the first glimpses at Mytheon's gameplay as well as the setting of Hades.

Continue reading Mytheon site launches with trailer, game to release in Q1 2010

MassivelyMytheon site launches with trailer, game to release in Q1 2010 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 25 Jun 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ancient-worldegyptf2-fantasyfree-to-playgreecehadeshistoricalmicrotransactionsmmortsmytheonnew-titlespetroglyphpetroglyph-gamespower-stonestrue-gamestrue-games-interactiveThu, 25 Jun 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SGW images depict spacesuits, Egyptian mythology]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/29/sgw-images-depict-spacesuits-egyptian-mythology/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/29/sgw-images-depict-spacesuits-egyptian-mythology/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/29/sgw-images-depict-spacesuits-egyptian-mythology/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Outer space and Egyptology; it was out of the marriage of these two things that the original Stargate movie was born. While the popular TV series Stargate SG-1 and even more so its spinoff Stargate Atlantis have moved away from Ancient Egypt over the years to explore other mythologies or Star Trek-style science-driven-concepts like self-replicating nanobots gone mad, rest assured that the Egyptian motif is still intact in Cheyenne Mountain's MMO Stargate Worlds.

The evidence: the above, decidedly-Egyptian screenshot, which is one of four new images just released to the game's official gallery. Note the awesome-looking disintegrating moon in the sky. Sweet! To cover the outer space side of things, one of the other images depicts artist's conceptions of humans' spacesuits. The other two images: concept art of a war-torn, bunker-type area, and yet another screenshot of forest ruins.

MassivelySGW images depict spacesuits, Egyptian mythology originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 29 Mar 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cheyenne-mountainconcept-artegyptgalleryimagesscreenshotssgwspace-suitsspacesuitsstargatestargate-atlantisstargate-sg-1stargate-worldsSat, 29 Mar 2008 19:00:00 EST