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[TERA's High Elves strut their stuff in a high-octane video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/teras-high-elves-strut-their-stuff-in-a-high-octane-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/teras-high-elves-strut-their-stuff-in-a-high-octane-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/teras-high-elves-strut-their-stuff-in-a-high-octane-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

TERA
"We believe. We remember." Those are the watchwords of the High Elves of TERA, and they're not just talking about rock 'n roll, mind you. As TERA's launch approaches, En Masse is making a strong bid for the legitimacy of this race by releasing its High Elf spotlight video. It's two minutes of flips, ridiculously big weapons, and strong magic flaunted in the face of enemies everywhere.

Once a conquering nation that operated under the name of the Children of Karas, the High Elves suffered a humiliating downfall and subsequently re-emerged as a force for good. While their aid to the good people of the world is welcome, they're not quite trusted as of yet.

High Elves receive four unique racials: They can teleport to their home city, refill their mana, regenerate mana upon resurrection, and gather alchemy resources quickly.

Check out the video after the jump and let us know if you'll be rolling a High Elf upon launch!

Continue reading TERA's High Elves strut their stuff in a high-octane video

MassivelyTERA's High Elves strut their stuff in a high-octane video originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studioschildren-of-karaselfelvesen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyhigh-elfhigh-elvesrace-spotlightrace-videoracialsteravideoFri, 13 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Eligium launches website and reveals... panda monks. Really.]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/eligium-launches-website-and-reveals-panda-monks-really/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/eligium-launches-website-and-reveals-panda-monks-really/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/eligium-launches-website-and-reveals-panda-monks-really/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Eligium
Oh Blizzard, did you think you were the only company looking at kung-fu pandas for inspiration? Sorry to tell you, but panda fever is sweeping the globe, and Frogster's upcoming Eligium is going to cash in on that craze like nobody's business.

Today Eligium launched its official website, replete with a beta signup form, videos, screenshots, and forums. On top of that, Frogster announced two of the fantasy free-to-play MMO's races: Pandas and Elves.

The Pandas are described as "masters of the martial arts" as they harness their chi to unleash it on their enemies. At level 15, Panda players can choose between two skill specializations, including Fire Breather. The Elves, on the other hand, fit more into standard fantasy tropes, being experts at archery and trees. The race will eventually segregate into either a defensive or long-range attack skillset.

You can take a gander at Eligium's goodies and sign up for the closed beta over on the official site.

[Source: Frogster press release]

MassivelyEligium launches website and reveals... panda monks. Really. originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betablizzardclassclassesclosed-betaelfelf-scouteligiumelven-scoutf2pfire-breatherfree-to-playfrogsterkung-fu-pandamonkpadarapandapanda-monkpandaranraceraceswebsiteThu, 27 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaderboard: GW's Gwen vs. EQ's Firiona Vie]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/17/leaderboard-gws-gwen-vs-eqs-firiona-vie/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/17/leaderboard-gws-gwen-vs-eqs-firiona-vie/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/17/leaderboard-gws-gwen-vs-eqs-firiona-vie/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Leaderboard
Like breakfast cereals and discount tire retailers, MMO companies have a long tradition of cultivating mascots to promote their games. Typically, said mascot is on the cover, shows as much cleavage as the ESRB allows, and is shooting rainbow magic from her navel. Or something.

Today, Leaderboard is pitting two of the more well-known MMO mascots against one another, sort of like Top Model if Top Model contained three-dimensional characters. In the left corner is Guild Wars' Gwen, an orphan, refugee, warrior, and storybook princess all rolled into one. In the right corner is Firiona Vie, the Vanna White of EverQuest box art.

Firiona may be flaunting a bit more skin than battle protocol requires, but it's certainly served the purpose of getting players to pick up the box and wonder whether true Elfy love lies within. Gwen's recent marriage to Keiran Thackeray unfortunately takes her off the market to those hoping that a sentient computer would digitize and throw them into a video game in the hopes of (ahem) mesmerizing her with charm.

It's Elfish mage vs. human mystic, blonde bombshell vs. goth cutie in today's knockout poll! Hit the jump to cast your vote.

Continue reading Leaderboard: GW's Gwen vs. EQ's Firiona Vie

MassivelyLeaderboard: GW's Gwen vs. EQ's Firiona Vie originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 17 Oct 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>elfeqeverquestfeaturedFiriona-Viegothguild-warsgwgwenKeiran-Thackerayleaderboardmascotmesmermysticopinionpollvanna-whitevoteMon, 17 Oct 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Seven things to do in Ered Luin before you die]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/the-road-to-mordor-seven-things-to-do-in-ered-luin-before-you-d/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/the-road-to-mordor-seven-things-to-do-in-ered-luin-before-you-d/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/the-road-to-mordor-seven-things-to-do-in-ered-luin-before-you-d/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

LOTRO Ered Luin
As I moved on to my second starter zone in Lord of the Rings Online on my mission to complete every quest in every area of the game, I was in for a rude, if expected, awakening. In comparison to the Shire, LotRO's Ered Luin is lacking across the board. It's hard to imagine that the game's most eastern zone, which houses not one but two racial starting areas, could turn out to be a snoozefest, but I'll let the title of this article do the talking for me. I wanted to have 10 highlights of each zone for this series and could barely get to seven.

The problem here is multifold. In trying to cram both the Elves and Dwarves into a relatively small (if tall) zone, Turbine didn't allow for the space to develop either race's culture before throwing them together in the middle for an awkward social dance. The races aren't allowed to really establish their personalities, either, leaving the Elves to start shining in Rivendell and the Dwarves in Moria. Finally, many of the quests are so dull and forgettable as to prompt players to race through the area to escape to more interesting locales.

It's not all a loss, of course. Some of the areas are quite scenic, and I do actually approve of the concept of setting up the conflict between Dwarves and Elves. If anything, the taste of ideas here almost begs for the area to be significantly expanded so that these concepts could be played out and the respective Elf and Dwarf habitations could be given more life.

In the end, I recommend that visiting travelers, adventurers, and treasure-hunters pack a light lunch and plan to get the following seven activities done in a half-day's span.

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Seven things to do in Ered Luin before you die

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Seven things to do in Ered Luin before you die originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Sep 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bathobbitbatmandwarfdwarveselfelvesered-luinfeaturedGondamonguideindiana-joneslord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromapthe-road-to-mordorturbineturbine-entertainmentwinezoneFri, 16 Sep 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: Sylvari week wrap-up]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/flameseeker-chronicles-sylvari-week-wrap-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/flameseeker-chronicles-sylvari-week-wrap-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/flameseeker-chronicles-sylvari-week-wrap-up/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Flameseeker Chronicles
Guild Wars 2 Sylvari week is over, much to the relief of abused F5 keys everywhere. We've finally seen the redesign, we've read the lore, we've gotten more details about the culture, we've watched new videos, and best of all, we've talked the subject to death.

Now that it's all over and we've had a chance to process the infodump, it's time for my standard post-race-week Flameseeker Chronicles analysis. Follow along after the jump, where I'll recap a few of the high points of Sylvari week.

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: Sylvari week wrap-up

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: Sylvari week wrap-up originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Aug 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetaudioelfelvesfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesguild-wars-2gw2ncsoftopinionraceracessylvarisylvari-weekvoice-overvoice-oversvoice-workMon, 15 Aug 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Why Elves are the scourge of MMOs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/11/the-perfect-ten-why-elves-are-the-scourge-of-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/11/the-perfect-ten-why-elves-are-the-scourge-of-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/11/the-perfect-ten-why-elves-are-the-scourge-of-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Perfect Ten
Astute readers of Massively or my personal blog Bio Break are probably quite familiar with my blatant prejudice against all things Elf. I hate Elves and everything for which they stand. And nowhere does this hatred blossom more brightly than in the fertile fields of MMOs.

As the axiom goes, where there is fantasy, there are Elves. Blame J.R.R. Tolkien for popularizing a race of what used to be cookie and Santa helpers. Almost overnight Elves became in vogue in geek culture, and efforts to root them out with flamethrowers have been in vain. Any fantasy MMO that is announced is required, by some arcane law that can only be broken with the blood of a virgin god, to include Elves as a racial choice -- or, if the developers are feeling particularly sadistic, more than one choice. Wood, night, blood, dark, light, mystical -- take your pick. There are plenty of Elves for everyone!

Well, I'm not having it. Elves don't get a free pass on my watch, and I'm not afraid to stand up to the powerful Pro-Elf lobby and nail my 10 theses as to why Elves suck on the doors of this blog. Consider your pointy ears on notice, you woodland freaks -- the jig is up!

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Why Elves are the scourge of MMOs

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Why Elves are the scourge of MMOs originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 11 Aug 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bowselfelf-hateelvenelvesfeaturedghandigreen-arrowhumori-hate-elveslistperfect-10perfect-tenrobin-hoodsex-appealsexysniperthe-perfect-10the-perfect-tentree-hugging-hippiesvampiresThu, 11 Aug 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Frozen in time]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/27/the-road-to-mordor-frozen-in-time/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/27/the-road-to-mordor-frozen-in-time/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/27/the-road-to-mordor-frozen-in-time/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

My goat snorted as it cleared the final rise, and I pulled its reins to bring it to a halt. Raising a hand to shield my eyes from the sun, I gazed at the decrepit ruins before me.

A chill ran up my spine as I imagined the horrors that awaited me within the crumbling structure. For many days I had traveled the countryside looking for just this place, yet now that I'd found it, I was unsure whether I wanted to be here at all. My guides had long since fled in terror, abandoning gear and food in their haste to flee what they called "evil territory."

I curled my fist and summoned all of the powers of determination that remained within me. It had to be done. I had come too far and shed too much blood to turn my back on the ruins' ancient secrets right as I was on the verge of discovery. Sure, it was the beginning of every scary play ever, but I knew completely that my destiny would be made or broken in the next few minutes.

I kicked my mount into action, and we solemnly entered the deep shadows of the ruins' domain. It was do or die time.

"FREEZE TAG!" I shouted. "GAME ON!"

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Frozen in time

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Frozen in time originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 27 May 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balrogbree-landburglarcaptaincheatercheaterselfelvesf2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreeze-tagfrostbitefrozengamehunterin-game-eventInternational-Association-of-Virtual-Freeze-Taglord-of-the-rings-onlinelotropvpruinsstar-warstagthawedFri, 27 May 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: A look back at Volume 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/06/the-road-to-mordor-a-look-back-at-volume-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/06/the-road-to-mordor-a-look-back-at-volume-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/06/the-road-to-mordor-a-look-back-at-volume-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Last year, I spent a column giving my reflections, thoughts, and observations on the entirety of Volume 1 of Lord of the Rings Online's epic storyline, and today I'd like to do the same for Volume 2. Since these stories are at the center of LotRO's player experience, it's important to see how they function and hold up in today's increasingly story-centric MMO environment.

I've gone through Volume 2 twice, once before the "solofication" of the recent update and once after. The second journey was, by far, much more enjoyable since I didn't have to sit there for weeks hoping to find enough players on the same part of the Fellowship portions to continue the tale. Being able to go through it at my own pace was vastly more enjoyable, especially when I could dedicate huge chunks of time to knock out several chapters in one go.

And this is a good thing, as this volume of the epic story not only gives you one of your legendary traits but greatly helps you build reputation toward a faction that will give you another one (the Iron Garrison Guards). As such, Volume 2 will continue to be an important part of any character's journey.

So let's dig into this puppy (not... a literal puppy, you understand) and see what Volume 2 has to offer. If you haven't yet gone through this part of the epic story, beware: Here be spoilers!

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: A look back at Volume 2

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: A look back at Volume 2 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 May 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balrogdwarfdwarveselfelvesepic-storyfeaturedfellowshipfellowship-of-the-ringflashbackflashbacksfrodogandalfiron-garrison-guardslegendary-itemslegendary-traitslord-of-the-rings-onlinelothlorienlotromazgogmines-of-moriamirkwoodsauronsiege-of-mirkwoodskirmishskirmishessoloficationspoilersturbineturbine-entertainmentvolume-1volume-2volume-ivolume-iiwatcherwatcher-in-the-waterFri, 06 May 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hold the gates: Dawn of Fantasy dev diary gives an overview of stronghold defense]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/03/hold-the-gates-dawn-of-fantasy-dev-diary-gives-an-overview-of-s/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/03/hold-the-gates-dawn-of-fantasy-dev-diary-gives-an-overview-of-s/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/03/hold-the-gates-dawn-of-fantasy-dev-diary-gives-an-overview-of-s/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

We haven't heard from 505 Games' Dawn of Fantasy for a while, but it looks as though the MMORTS is coming along quite nicely. In a first of hopefully several developer diaries, Lead Writer and Associate Producer Gordon Farrell shows one of the game's modes: stronghold defense.

Dawn of Fantasy players will be encouraged to take control of pre-built villages, towns, and castle fortresses and defend them from the enemy as the situation warrants. In the video, Farrell shows how these strongholds can be built up and defenses laid out prior to the enemy's assault.

The diary goes on to show a sample scenario of a player attempting to hold on to a multi-tiered fortress against the combined assault of Elves and Orcs. Each faction looks to have its own style and special units -- for example, the Elves wield giant Treants as siege weapons, whereas the Orcs have mobile towers and battering rams.

Even though the cavalry comes to the rescue, the defending player is soon overwhelmed. However, Farrell speculates about what you might have done differently instead. You can watch the full dev diary after the jump!

Continue reading Hold the gates: Dawn of Fantasy dev diary gives an overview of stronghold defense

MassivelyHold the gates: Dawn of Fantasy dev diary gives an overview of stronghold defense originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 May 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>505-gamesassaultcastle-defensedawn-of-fantasydefensesdev-diarydeveloper-diarydofelfelvesgordon-farrellmmortsorcorcspvpreal-time-strategyrtssiegestronghold-defensetreantsvideoTue, 03 May 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: How would you convince someone to jump ship to your MMO?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/14/the-daily-grind-how-would-you-convince-someone-to-jump-ship-to/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/14/the-daily-grind-how-would-you-convince-someone-to-jump-ship-to/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/14/the-daily-grind-how-would-you-convince-someone-to-jump-ship-to/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

I've always noticed that when someone becomes completely enamored, infatuated or smitten with a great thing, he always wants to tell others about it in the hopes of sharing it. Whether it be losing weight, a great movie, a hot new artist or an awesome MMO blog, we all have our evangelistic moments as we make the case for how terrific something is to our friends.

Do we do this with MMOs? Does a bear relieve himself in the woods and then shapeshift into an Elven Druid? Most definitely. MMO players are never short on expressing their opinions, especially to friends, family and whatever anonymous forum-goer may be lurking. Not only do we love our games, but we want others to love them as well.

So how would you convince someone to give your favorite MMO a try over the one he's currently enjoying? What makes yours so special, and how would you transfer a bit of your passion to others? For a bonus question, have you ever successfully wooed someone to your game, and if so, how did you do it?

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: How would you convince someone to jump ship to your MMO? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>druidelfeve-onlinejump-shipopinionshapeshifttdgthe-daily-grindMon, 14 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: What if?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/11/the-road-to-mordor-what-if/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/11/the-road-to-mordor-what-if/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/11/the-road-to-mordor-what-if/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

By the time you read this, I'll be scurrying around PAX East in Boston, feeling much like a Hobbit: unable to see over the crowd, far out of my element, and deeply wishing I purchased shoes. I'll of course be talking with the folks at Turbine to see what information I can wheedle out of them about the future of this terrific game, so if you don't hear from me again, I'm most likely languishing in a PR dungeon somewhere for being too nosy.

It's a good week, therefore, to be thinking about the future. My mind never stops thinking about future possibilities for any franchise, and even if they never come to be, these speculations are a great pastime of any fan. I'm always wondering "What if?" as I play Lord of the Rings Online -- what if I could mug Frodo and become the Ring-bearer? What if those lazy bums finally finished the repairs to the tavern in Frogmorton? What if Elves could kill innocent woodland creatures and go to the dark side?

Playing "What if?" with LotRO is tougher than with other games because of the limitations imposed by the IP. Despite what some say, Turbine's struggled hard to stay within the boundaries of lore and setting, and while that's helped the company to be creative in ways that it might not have otherwise, it does present some unique obstacles that aren't present in competing MMOs.

So to celebrate PAX, LotRO, and the future, here's a column of "What ifs?" for your consumption!

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: What if?

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: What if? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 Mar 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beornboat-mountsdwarfeaglesearth-kinelfelvesentseriadorfar-downsfeaturedfrodofrogmortongondorgray-havenshalf-elfhalf-elvenhobbitlindonlord-of-the-rings-onlinelossothlotromammothsmanMinhiriathmounted-combatOliphantspaxpax-eastrangersring-bearerrohanshapeshiftersledssouthfarthingspeculationstar-wars-galaxiesteam-saurontower-hillsturbineturbine-entertainmentvalawargswhat-ifwizardsFri, 11 Mar 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Rating Eriador]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/the-road-to-mordor-rating-eriador/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/the-road-to-mordor-rating-eriador/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/the-road-to-mordor-rating-eriador/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Lately I've been playing world traveler with my level 43 Lore-master as he's bouncing all over Middle-earth in what used to be the high-level zones of the game: Trollshaws, Angmar, Forochel, Misty Mountains, and Eregion. Once again, I'm struck by just how cohesive this place feels -- it's not a collection of Sonic the Hedgehog-themed areas (Green Zone 1, Lava Zone 4, etc.) but a world that connects together in a tangible, real way. Even though it's fiction.

Until November 2008, Eriador was the only place in Middle-earth that we could explore, and although some criticized Lord of the Rings Online for not shipping with, well, every locale in J.R.R. Tolkien's imaginarium open for business, it was a smart decision. The devs could take this section of the world and focus on building depth and detail instead of spreading it thin, like butter scraped over too much bread. As a result, Eriador remains a wonderful starting point -- not to mention the bulk of any current player's journey -- and many of us have grown attached to these familiar sights and sounds as a result.

Today I'd like to take a brief overview of all of Eriador's zones (we'll leave Rhovanion for another day) and rate them from best to worst in terms of zone design, questing, and that slippery cool-factor that's hard to define. Where would I suggest a summer vacation home and where would be an ideal spot for a penal colony? Hit the jump and let's run it down.

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Rating Eriador

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Rating Eriador originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 Feb 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>angmarbreebree-landcrazy-cat-ladydwarfelfenedwaithered-luineregioneriadorettenmoorsevendimeverswimfeaturedforochelhobbitjrr-tolkienlone-landslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromanmiddle-earthmisty-mountainsmountsnorth-downsplayer-vs-monster-playerpvmpRhovanionshiresonicsonic-the-hedgehogthe-shiretoofertrollshawsturbinetwofervolume-1weathertopFri, 25 Feb 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[A world torn asunder: RIFT's Mathosian Civil War revealed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/02/a-world-torn-asunder-rifts-mathosian-civil-war-revealed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/02/a-world-torn-asunder-rifts-mathosian-civil-war-revealed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/02/a-world-torn-asunder-rifts-mathosian-civil-war-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Brother vs. brother, elf vs. elf: This is the sad state of Telara that led to the Mathosian Civil War. While RIFT players may find themselves drawn to the planar invasions as the key conflict of the world, the truth is that plenty of events and key figures have played a part in shaping the land up to this point.

Today Trion Worlds released the backstory of both the Mathosian Civil War and Shyla Starhearth, the leader of the High Elves. Both Aedraxis Mathos and Shyla find themselves at odds over the conflict and the future of the world. It's interesting to note that the civil war began at the city of Port Scion, which will be both a PvP warfront at launch and a proper zone sometime thereafter.

Hit the jump to bone up on your RIFT lore as two mighty forces come to a head!

Continue reading A world torn asunder: RIFT's Mathosian Civil War revealed

MassivelyA world torn asunder: RIFT's Mathosian Civil War revealed originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 Feb 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Aedraxis-Mathos-Ibackstoryelfelvesgalleryhigh-elvesloremathosianMathosian-Civil-Warport-scionPrince-Hylaspvpriftrift-planes-of-telarashyla-starhearthtelaratriontrion-worldswarfrontWed, 02 Feb 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: The Professor]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/07/the-road-to-mordor-the-professor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/07/the-road-to-mordor-the-professor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/07/the-road-to-mordor-the-professor/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

This past week on January 3rd, J.R.R. Tolkien celebrated his 118th birthday -- or rather, we celebrated it for him. Tolkien was born in South Africa in 1892 and lived a rich and full life, from fighting in the first World War to working on the Oxford English Dictionary to taking a position at several universities that would earn him the nickname "The Professor."

He is, of course, most well-remembered for his seminal works of fantasy -- The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings and The Silmarillion -- although his writings didn't end there. Due to Tolkien's love of nature, linguistics, and mythology, his creations were born out of comprehensive backgrounds and rich histories, which he seemed to love making up just as much as the stories themselves.

For years now, Tolkien fans around the world have remembered his birthday by raising a glass on his birthday and giving a simple toast, "The Professor," at 9:00 p.m. wherever they lived. Likewise, in Lord of the Rings Online, many players gathered at their tavern of choice to do the same.

Today I thought I'd remember the Professor in a slightly different way by exploring the quest chain "Missing the Meeting." While it's not completely overt if you happened to come across it, "Missing the Meeting" is a tribute to J.R.R. Tolkien and his life, and it's worth going through at least once if you want to pay homage and get a nifty token by which to remember him.

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: The Professor

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: The Professor originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 07 Jan 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bird-and-baby-innbirthdaybrandywinebullroarers-swardcarlo-williamscharles-williamschronicles-of-narniacs-lewiseagle-and-child-pubelfevendimfeaturedfrostbluff-theatrehomagehugo-dysoninklingsjack-lewisdownjrr-tolkienlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelost-doglost-leaflotrolotro-wikimiddle-earthmissing-the-meetingnarnianpcowen-barfieldowen-farfieldoxford-english-dictionarypipepostal-servicequestronald-dwaleroverandomsouth-africathe-hobbitthe-inklingsthe-professorthe-silmarilliontoasttolkientolkiennaturbineuniversity-of-oxfordworld-war-iyule-festivalFri, 07 Jan 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Bits 'n' pieces]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/the-road-to-mordor-bits-n-pieces/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/the-road-to-mordor-bits-n-pieces/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/the-road-to-mordor-bits-n-pieces/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Three wolves. A full moon. One incredible cloak in the Lord of the Rings Online store. As a forum poster asked, is the Cloak of the Mountain Wolves too powerful and too intrinsically sweet?

I think it is a distinct possibility. I already own six and have Sauron on farm status because of them. Forget piddly rings -- this is the one cloak to rule them all, and in the darkness, blind them.

I'm a bit all over the place in today's column, so bear with me as I spew forth a 427-line stream-of-consciousness poem devoted to Aragorn's stubble. You totally know you want to hit the jump to read it. I triple-dog-dare ya.

[Editor -- No, Justin, you have to write a normal column. Don't make me get the fire hose.]

Darn.

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Bits 'n' pieces

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Bits 'n' pieces originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Dec 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aragorns-stubblebarter-walletcloak-of-the-mountain-wolvescosmetic-outfitdwarfelfenedwaithf2pfeaturedfestivalfree-to-playguardianhousing-decorationslone-landslord-of-the-rings-onlinelore-masterlotrolotro-storemarketingmirkwoodmoriamountnovember-updatepatchpierep-horsereputationrune-keepersantasauronshiresteed-of-nighttask-systemthree-wolf-moonturbineTurbine-Entertainmentupdatevaultvault-3.0winter-homeyule-festivalFri, 03 Dec 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Are you pro-elf or anti-elf?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/the-daily-grind-are-you-pro-elf-or-anti-elf/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/the-daily-grind-are-you-pro-elf-or-anti-elf/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/the-daily-grind-are-you-pro-elf-or-anti-elf/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The pro-elf lobby will tell you of their deep wisdom, their abiding love of nature and their immortality. If you're not an elf, they reason, then you should deeply want to be one. After all, who wouldn't like a pocket unicorn and an innate ability to win the Olympic gold medal in archery? Elves are cool, which is why every fantasy MMO -- by sovereign law -- includes one.

Elves are filthy blights upon the land and should be eliminated on site, the anti-elf federation declares. We've had enough of their haughty arrogance, their tree-hugging insanity, and their pocket unicorns that always get underfoot. They're like that popular kid in class who looks a little too good, and has a rotten-to-the-core personality to back it up. Elves suck.

So which side do you land on: pro-elf or anti-elf? Let's hash this out, right here, right now!

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 you pro-elf or anti-elf? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anti-elfelfelveshumorno-elvesopinionpocket-unicornspro-elftdgthe-daily-grindFri, 03 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Off to the races]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/05/the-road-to-mordor-off-to-the-races/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/05/the-road-to-mordor-off-to-the-races/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/05/the-road-to-mordor-off-to-the-races/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

A long time ago in this column, back in an age of sweet innocence that I like to call "April 2010," I spent a bit of time commenting on the nine classes in Lord of the Rings Online and how they appeal to different playstyles. Today, as I sit here swaddled in a blanket, drinking tea and desperately trying to wish this cold away, I want to write the companion piece to that article, dealing with races.

LotRO is somewhat unique in the MMO landscape in that it is pretty confined to four and only four playable races outside of PvMP. As much as we love the Pale Folk, I highly doubt we'll ever be given another racial choice for the lifespan of the game -- at least, not without some fiddly logic on Turbine's part. Besides, the four races we're given -- Dwarf, Man, Hobbit and Elf -- are the iconic grouping of the books, and trying to add a gnome or giant or well-intentioned half-orc to the Quest would just come off as silly.

Anyway, if you're starting out in LotRO or mulling over an alt, there's a lot more to consider when picking a race than just "what looks good" (although I'm not going to tell you looks aren't important, no I am not). Races influence your starter zone, traits, special skills and class picks. Join us as we jump down the rabbit hole and emerge in a magical land full of words and screenshots!

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Off to the races

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Off to the races originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Nov 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>class-pairingsdwarfelffeaturedfemale-dwarfguidehobbitlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromannationalitiespale-folkrace-guideracesracialracial-guideracial-traitssauronshireturbineFri, 05 Nov 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO barters, gallops and tasks with advance patch notes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/26/lotro-details-november-update-with-advance-patch-notes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/26/lotro-details-november-update-with-advance-patch-notes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/26/lotro-details-november-update-with-advance-patch-notes/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Those who assumed that Turbine would be taking it easy for its next Lord of the Rings Online patch may want to sit down, buckle up and prepare to be thrust into a wall of patch notes. The list of changes and additions for LotRO's November update have been posted, and players may check them out on the Bullroarer test server.

While the notes are "subject to change," they contain an impressive list of additions we've known were coming (such as expanding the free-to-play coverage to include the expansions all the way up through level 65) as well as a few surprises. Among the surprises are a new barter wallet to hold inventory-clogging skirmish and anniversary tokens, the ability for former subscribers to use swift travel routes, upgrades to reputation mounts, new ingredient packs for crafters and an overhaul of the Dwarf and Elf starting area.

The notes also give us a peek at the mysterious "Task" system. According to Turbine, this system will add 250 repeatable quests to the game, be accessible by all tiers of players, and will require current trophy drops. Tasks will also come with a new set of deeds and rewards, hopefully adding to the amount of free Turbine Points that players can accrue. You can read the test server patch notes on the LotRO forums.

MassivelyLotRO barters, gallops and tasks with advance patch notes originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Oct 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>barter-walletbullroarercraftingdwarfelfexpansionf2pfree-to-playingredient-packlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotronovember-updatereputation-mountskirmish-tokensswift-traveltask-systemtest-serverturbineTue, 26 Oct 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Global Agenda trailer puts pansy elves in their place]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/global-agenda-trailer-puts-pansy-elves-in-their-place/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/global-agenda-trailer-puts-pansy-elves-in-their-place/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/global-agenda-trailer-puts-pansy-elves-in-their-place/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


We just had a look at some of the gameplay from Global Agenda at E3, but the latest trailer from Hi-Rez studios is a bit different. It's a more humorous look at the sort of characters that will be found in-game, or rather, the sorts that won't. Walking around in a flowing robe and attempting to fling fireballs won't get you very far in Global Agenda, as the trailer points out so clearly -- a Recon character makes short work of an elf trying to fill his cast-bar to attack, proving that technology is the key to victory in this particular world, and that other elves hoping to join the game's cast need not apply. Hit the jump to check out the full trailer.

Continue reading Global Agenda trailer puts pansy elves in their place

MassivelyGlobal Agenda trailer puts pansy elves in their place originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Jun 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>elfelvesglobal-agendahi-rez-studiosno-elvesrecontrailervideoMon, 08 Jun 2009 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mabinogi's associate producer helps us pioneer our way through Iria]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/09/mabinogis-associate-producer-helps-us-pioneer-our-way-through-i/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/09/mabinogis-associate-producer-helps-us-pioneer-our-way-through-i/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/09/mabinogis-associate-producer-helps-us-pioneer-our-way-through-i/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Mabinogi's latest expansion, Pioneers of Iria, has recently gone live on the servers after much anticipation by the fans. Now players are able to not only explore the brand new continent of Iria, but also able to take advantage of new races in character creation, such as the giant and the elf, and the brand new exploration system.

We here at Massively recently had a chance to catch up with Nexon's Matthew McCullough, the associate producer on the North American version of Mabinogi, to ask him some questions about their brand new release. Is all of this new content truly real? Is it really free? Can elves and giants live together with one another in harmony?

Hit the continue reading link below, if you want the answers to these burning questions! Also, if you're a Mabinogi fan, look forward to our hands on with the Pioneers of Iria expansion later on in the week!

Continue reading Mabinogi's associate producer helps us pioneer our way through Iria

MassivelyMabinogi's associate producer helps us pioneer our way through Iria originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Mar 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>elfexpansionexplorationfeaturedfree-expansionfree-to-playgiantinterviewiriajoystiqfeaturesmabinogimatthew-mculloughnexonpatchpioneers-of-iriapvpMon, 09 Mar 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New races, continent, skills, and more coming to Mabinogi]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/30/new-races-continent-skills-and-more-coming-to-mabinogi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/30/new-races-continent-skills-and-more-coming-to-mabinogi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/30/new-races-continent-skills-and-more-coming-to-mabinogi/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Nexon America as just informed us of a huge expansion coming to Mabinogi, titled Pioneers of Iria, which will be featuring a huge brand new continent, two new races for players to create characters as, new skills, new magic, a new exploration system, dungeons, cities, the works.

Pioneers of Iria, due to release sometime late in February, will introduce the brand new continent of Iria -- a land mass over three times bigger than the current continent of Ulad. Iria is also the home of the races of Elves and Giants, which will be featured as brand new player races.

Continue reading New races, continent, skills, and more coming to Mabinogi

MassivelyNew races, continent, skills, and more coming to Mabinogi originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Jan 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingelfexpansionexplorationexploration-expgiantmabinoginew-racesnew-skillspioneers-of-iriaFri, 30 Jan 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Know Your LotRO Lore: The Elves]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/06/know-your-lotro-lore-the-elves/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/06/know-your-lotro-lore-the-elves/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/06/know-your-lotro-lore-the-elves/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Welcome to Know Your LotRO Lore, a new weekly column here at Massively showcasing the lore of J.R.R. Tolkien's world as it intersects with Turbine's Lord of the Rings Online.

The Elf is possibly the most intricately-detailed race in all of J.R.R. Tolkien's works. He created their histories, bloodlines and origins throughout his entire life, from before The Hobbit to works published after his death.

Did Tolkien invent Elves? No, but he did redefine them as they're portrayed today in modern fantasy settings. Mostly everything we see in WoW, Warhammer, and of course LotRO come from Tolkien's descriptions of the Germanic and Celtic mythological creatures. Follow along below on our journey through the origins and progression of Tolkien's Elves in Middle-earth and beyond.

Gallery: Know Your LotRO Lore

LothlorienThe EntsGimliThe ValarOrcs and Goblins

MassivelyKnow Your LotRO Lore: The Elves originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 Jan 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>elfelvesfeaturedjoystiqfeaturesknow-your-lotro-lorelord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrotolkienturbineTue, 06 Jan 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blogging into Mordor: Finding the perfect name for your Elf]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/15/blogging-into-mordor-finding-the-perfect-name-for-your-elf/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/15/blogging-into-mordor-finding-the-perfect-name-for-your-elf/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/15/blogging-into-mordor-finding-the-perfect-name-for-your-elf/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Looking to create an elf in the Lord of the Rings Online but not sure what to name it? Want to avoid naming it "Legolazs" or "Elronde"? Have you unfortunately already used one of these names but are looking to change it? You're in luck! This article will show you how to find a decent, lore-appropriate name for your elf. And if you are not playing LOTRO but are looking for a name for an elf in World of Warcraft or a similar game, this guide might be a handy tool.

Since elves are a very popular race in LOTRO, and there are a lot of famous elves in the lore that many players wish to emulate, finding a decent name can be difficult. It is important to remember to follow the naming rules of the game, which means you cannot choose a name that is close in spelling or sound to any of the actual characters from the books (such as Legolas, Arwen, etc). If your name is too similar to one of these characters, it will be changed. A good way to make sure that you are not accidentally stealing a name from the books is to use it in a Google search or consult a book such as the Complete Guide to Middle Earth.

Continue reading Blogging into Mordor: Finding the perfect name for your Elf

MassivelyBlogging into Mordor: Finding the perfect name for your Elf originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 15 Jun 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>elfelvishfeaturedlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotronamingnaming-policyturbineSun, 15 Jun 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choosing your race in Middle-earth: Man and Elf]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/18/choosing-your-race-in-middle-earth-man-and-elf/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/18/choosing-your-race-in-middle-earth-man-and-elf/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/18/choosing-your-race-in-middle-earth-man-and-elf/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

In many ways, picking a race for yourself in an MMO is very much a personal choice. However it can help to have some tips and an overall viewpoint on the subject. This guide is here for old players or new players that are unsure of the the finer details of each race in Lord of the Rings Online. The goal isn't to answer the question of which race is best, but rather to give a few tips and some advice on the strong points of the races in Middle-earth. In this first part of our guide to help you choose your race in LotRO, we'll explore the races of both Man and Elf.

Obviously if a player has their heart set on being any single race, this guide isn't going to change their mind. Even if you've already made up your mind on a race (or already chosen it), this guide could contain a couple helpful chunks of information.

Continue reading Choosing your race in Middle-earth: Man and Elf

MassivelyChoosing your race in Middle-earth: Man and Elf originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 18 Feb 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archetbarbershopelfelvesguidelord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromanmenmiddle-earthracesracial-choiceturbinewalk-throughMon, 18 Feb 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ear modification: bad for your elf]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/05/ear-modification-bad-for-your-elf/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/05/ear-modification-bad-for-your-elf/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/05/ear-modification-bad-for-your-elf/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Moonfire! Moonfire! Moonfire!One of the more bizarre stories to surface on the internet this week is the Modern Plasztikai Sebészet -- henceforth referred to as the "Elf Ear Clinic". The site is almost certainly fake -- but it's an idea that isn't too far off being a reality, and surely must appeal to a percentage of MMO players somewhere.

Real world influencing MMOs is nothing new -- but MMOs being able to influence physical aspects of real life is something new entirely, Second-Life excluded. And it's maybe just a little bit scary. They can say faun-clubs all they want, but what they really mean is level 70 night elf druids.

And just so you know; pointy elf ears wouldn't necessarily allow you to hear better anyway. Ear shape and hearing is individual, not universal -- having elongated pointy ears would change how you hear sounds, and after years of your brain interpreting sounds from your original ear shape it's unlikely to be an improvement. Oh well.

Would *you* be tempted to get a pair of elf ears? Or is this a step too far in body modification?

MassivelyEar modification: bad for your elf originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Nov 2007 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>druidelffaun-clubmodern-plasztikai-sebészetweirdMon, 05 Nov 2007 13:00:00 EST