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[Hyperspace Beacon: Holocron Files -- Chiss]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/10/hyperspace-beacon-holocron-files-chiss/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/10/hyperspace-beacon-holocron-files-chiss/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/10/hyperspace-beacon-holocron-files-chiss/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Hyperspace Beacon: Holocron Files -- Chiss
For some players, deciding which species to play in Star Wars: The Old Republic comes down to which skin tone is the coolest. Wasn't it said when the species were first announced that the choices were human with blue skin, human with green skin, bald human, human with head tails, and human with horns? Although hyperbolic, the sentiment contains an element of truth, especially when judged by aesthetics alone. Then again, no one complains in fantasy games when you have a choice between human, short human, and human with pointy ears. Elves and dwarves are viewed through the lens of pre-existing culture and folk-lore.

The Holocron Files are designed to lay the cultural foundation for some of SWTOR's species. From the horned Zabrak to the red-skinned Sith Pureblood, each Star Wars species has a rich history and backstory. Thankfully, BioWare kept that in mind when considering which species you could play.

In honor of my newest character, it's only fitting that we discuss the Chiss this week.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Holocron Files -- Chiss

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Holocron Files -- Chiss originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ascendancybiowareblue-skinchisscultureeaelectronic-artsEmpirefactionfeaturedholocron-fileshyperspace-beaconImperial-Agentlorelucasartsopinionracessci-fispeciesstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republicthrawntorTue, 10 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars: The Old Republic's Smuggler and Sith Warrior fight it out]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/16/star-wars-the-old-republics-smuggler-and-sith-warrior-fight-it/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/16/star-wars-the-old-republics-smuggler-and-sith-warrior-fight-it/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/16/star-wars-the-old-republics-smuggler-and-sith-warrior-fight-it/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- Star Wars: The Old Republic
We know you're all busy, Star Wars: The Old Republic fans, but try to pry your eyes away from the shiny new game for just a minute because it's time for the final Choose Your Side video. This time, the match-up is between the wily, conniving Smuggler and the vicious, rage-driven Sith Warrior.

So who will emerge the victor and who will be left eating the pavement? That's ultimately for you to decide, but if you'd like a little bit of help formulating your argument, just give the video a look and see what the game's developers have to say. All you have to do is click on past the cut.

Continue reading Star Wars: The Old Republic's Smuggler and Sith Warrior fight it out

MassivelyStar Wars: The Old Republic's Smuggler and Sith Warrior fight it out originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Dec 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarechoose-your-sideempirefan-fridayrepublicsith-warriorsmugglerstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorvideovideoswarriorFri, 16 Dec 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Best of...]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/13/hyperspace-beacon-best-of/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/13/hyperspace-beacon-best-of/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/13/hyperspace-beacon-best-of/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Hyperspace Beacon: Best of...
If you pre-ordered the game early enough, then you should be in Star Wars: The Old Republic's early access by the time you are reading this. I hope you're having a good time. Look me up on the Lord Adraas server. My name there is Shaddoe. Don't be scared -- I may roleplay my character.

Even if you didn't pre-order in time, you'll want your SWTOR fix, and I have the solution for you right here: the Hyperspace Beacon. Each week for the last year and a half, I have written a guide to the world of Star Wars: The Old Republic, covering everything from lore and game mechanics to speculation and community. Ultimately, I hope to better prepare you for the launch of this highly anticipated MMO. However, 67 articles can be tough to sift through, so I've narrowed down the list to the best of the best.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Best of...

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Best of... originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Dec 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advanced-classesBioWareclassescraftingEAElectronic-ArtsempirefeaturedGame-MechanicshypeImperialjef-reahardloreLucasArtssmugglerStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicSWTOrthe-old-republicTORTue, 13 Dec 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR: So you want to play a Sith Inquisitor]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/swtor-so-you-want-to-play-a-sith-inquisitor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/swtor-so-you-want-to-play-a-sith-inquisitor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/swtor-so-you-want-to-play-a-sith-inquisitor/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

SWTOR - The Sith Inquisitor
OK, enough of these goody-goody Jedi, all right? It's time to come to the Dark Side of Star Wars: The Old Republic, where the Sith Inquisitor reigns supreme. The Inquisitor fills a variety of roles within the ranks of the Empire, from healing to ranged DPS to melee DPS to tanking. There's an option for any playstyle, which makes the Inquisitor a great character for the indecisive among us. Also, you get Force Lightning, so that's pretty cool.

On your journey as a Sith Inquisitor, you begin as a slave who has recently discovered his (or her) Force-sensitivity. As you arrive at the Sith Academy on the red planet of Korriban, you're faced with a simple choice: Become Sith -- or die.

Continue reading SWTOR: So you want to play a Sith Inquisitor

MassivelySWTOR: So you want to play a Sith Inquisitor originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advanced-classadvanced-classesassassinbiowareclassclasseseaelectronic-artsempirefeaturedguideguidesinquisitorlucasartspreviewpreviewssci-fisith-assassinsith-inquisitorsith-sorcerersorcererstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorswtor-class-guideswtor-guideswtor-launch-guidethe-old-republictorMon, 12 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR pits the Trooper against the Inquisitor]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/12/swtor-pits-the-trooper-against-the-inquisitor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/12/swtor-pits-the-trooper-against-the-inquisitor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/12/swtor-pits-the-trooper-against-the-inquisitor/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

SWTOR
The second of the four-part Choose Your Side video series has been released over at Star Wars: The Old Republic, and this time it creates a hypothetical showdown between the Republic's Trooper and the Empire's Inquisitor. In it, four BioWare devs jaw about who would win in a fight and what each of these classes has going for it. These videos are proving to be a great way to get a better feel for classes' strengths and weaknesses, particularly in a PvP setting.

On one hand, the Trooper is said to have an advantage in terms of health, armor and range, with plenty of tricks to keep the Inquisitor at bay and, er, dead. On the other hand, the Inquisitor's Force powers and double-bladed lightsaber may make for a completely unfair fight against the Force-less Trooper.

The devs reveal a few tidbits about the two classes' philosophy while they're calmly laying out the smack talk. The Trooper comes off as a "shoot first and ask questions later" type of character, while the Inquisitor is portrayed as a mastermind pulling the strings from behind the stage.

You can watch the full video after the jump!

Continue reading SWTOR pits the Trooper against the Inquisitor

MassivelySWTOR pits the Trooper against the Inquisitor originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 12 Nov 2011 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarechoose-your-sideclassclasseseaea-biowareempireinquisitorpvprepublicsith-inquisitorstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictortrailertroopervideoSat, 12 Nov 2011 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Building a better empire]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/28/eve-evolved-building-a-better-empire/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/28/eve-evolved-building-a-better-empire/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/28/eve-evolved-building-a-better-empire/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

EVE Evolved title image: Building a better empire
It's often said that EVE Online is 99% endgame, with only the tutorials and epic mission arcs really providing directed gameplay. Once you get out into the open world, the game is dominated by sandbox laws and social interaction. This is most clear in the lawless nullsec regions where alliances war over territory and build their own empires in the void.

Last week I looked back at the early days of nullsec industry and examined the problems industry has developed over the years. With a massive nullsec revamp scheduled to begin this winter, I went on to speculate on how the game could be changed to bring back the glory days of nullsec industry. Although adequately incentivised local mining and production could transform player-created empires, those aren't the only areas of gameplay being revisited. Sovereignty mechanics, fleet warfare, small gang warfare, exploration and small-scale territorial control will all eventually be redesigned as part of the massive iterative overhaul.

In this week's EVE Evolved, I look at the history of EVE's empire-building and territorial warfare mechanics, some of the problems faced by the sovereignty system, and how those aspects of EVE could possibly be changed for the better.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Building a better empire

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Building a better empire originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 28 Aug 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alliancealliance-warfareccpccp-eveccp-gamescolonisationdreadnoughtempireempire-buildingeveeve-ccpeve-evolvedeve-mmorpgeve-onlinefeaturedhistoryinfrastructureinterstellar-starbase-syndicateissmapmostly-harmlessnullsecoutpostplayer-owned-starbaseplayer-owned-stationpvpsovereigntystarbaseterritorial-controlterritorial-warfareterritorywarwarfareSun, 28 Aug 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Man in the mirror]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/05/hyperspace-beacon-man-in-the-mirror/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/05/hyperspace-beacon-man-in-the-mirror/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/05/hyperspace-beacon-man-in-the-mirror/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

On Friday, our friends on the BioWare community team gave us a second progression video for the Bounty Hunter in Star Wars: The Old Republic. As with anything on the internet, the video wasn't above scrutiny and complaint by followers. The complaints ranged from "we already have a Bounty Hunter progression video" to "why don't we have a Jedi Consular video yet?" But that doesn't hit on the real issue: There were no fiery explosions for the Bounty Hunter to walk away from in slow motion! He just can't be cool unless he turns his back on the destruction like he just doesn't frelling care.

Despite the lack of carnage in the class progression video, we did glean insight into many of the class powers, some of which mirror its Republic counterpart: the Trooper. I know for marketing reasons and to keep from confusing the potential player, it's not a good idea to use the word "mirror" when describing The Old Republic classes. But it's hard to deny that the Imperial Bounty Hunter and the Republic Trooper are very much mirrored insofar as combat roles and abilities. After the break, I will explain to you what I see that is the same and what is different between the two classes. Then, in the end, I will let you decide whether the classes are truly mirrored or not.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Man in the mirror

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Man in the mirror originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 05 Jul 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWarebounty-hunterclassescomparisonDamage-Per-SecondDPSEAeletronic-artsempirefeaturedgameplayhealerhyperspace-beaconLucasArtsmechanicsmirroredmirrored-classesprogression-videorepublicStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicStephen-Reidswtortankthe-old-republictortrinitytrooperTue, 05 Jul 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Human High Culture]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/17/hyperspace-beacon-human-high-culture/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/17/hyperspace-beacon-human-high-culture/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/17/hyperspace-beacon-human-high-culture/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

BioWare games are notorious for interweaving allegories on racism in their plotlines. If you take Mass Effect, for example, Navigator Pressly was a human who had major issues with aliens -- especially Turians. Inversely, the Citadel Council was definitely prejudiced against humans because the human species was rather new to Citadel space and rising to power too quickly by the Council's standards. These undertones help give the Mass Effect story depth and real-world relevance.

Although it's not an overt plot point in the Star Wars series of movies, speciesism does sometimes play a heavy hand in the Expanded Universe. In the Galactic Empire, this is known as Human High Culture. In the high political offices of the Galactic Empire under Emperor Palpatine, humans were regarded as superior to other species of the galaxy. Humans were, after all, most numerous, and they also did not originate from a single planet like most species. But the roots of the Human High Culture date back further than the events in Star Wars: The Old Republic. They may date all the way back to the first Dark Jedi to rule over the Sith people on Korriban.

With this idea of Human High Culture in mind, I would like to talk about the species available to the SWTOR Imperial classes. In the May edition of PC Gamer UK, an over-ambitious reporter incorrectly announced a list of species and class combinations. What I would like to do today is make my own list based on what I know of Star Wars lore and announced species in the game. Continue after the break as I compile the list.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Human High Culture

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Human High Culture originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 May 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWarebounty-hunterChissclassesEAElectronic-ArtsEmpirefeaturedhuman-high-cultureImperial-AgentLucasArtsPC-Gamerpc-gamer-ukpureblood-sithRattatakiSithSith-Empiresith-inquisitorsith-purebloodsith-warriorspeciesStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorswtor-lore-guidethe-old-republictorTue, 17 May 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy the SWTOR Imperial Agent!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/29/spy-the-swtor-imperial-agent/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/29/spy-the-swtor-imperial-agent/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/29/spy-the-swtor-imperial-agent/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

When BioWare gives out so much information about one class, where do you start? We now have confirmation of the Sniper DPS sub-class and the support/healing Operative class for the Imperial Agent. Also, we know more about the Chiss' origins, the Agent's starship, and the Agent class' combat role in Star Wars: The Old Republic.

The Chiss hail from the the unknown regions of galactic space, and their advanced Ascendancy evolved independently from the Republic and the Sith Empire. Despite having a grand army these blue-skinned humanoids prefer to handle war through negotiation and espionage. So when the Sith Empire brought its fleet to conquer Chiss Space, instead of being met by brute force as in other systems, the Empire was met by diplomatic messages. These negotiations allowed for the Chiss to become the only true ally of the Sith Empire.

As with any spy for the Empire, the Agent needs the most advanced starship one can find. In this case, we are talking about the X70B-Phantom-class Prototype. The superior technology of this starship prevents it from being mass-produced, so it is only given to the best operatives. The shape and haul keep the craft off most radars, and the navigation system will not be seen on any other ship for the next couple of decades.

Generally, the training for an Imperial Agent will go one of two ways. Secrecy and stealth are the weapons of the Agent, and much like its Republic counterpart, the Smuggler Scoundrel, the Operative can specialize in medical technology as well. However, unlike the Smuggler Gunslinger DPS class, the Sniper's advantage is the distance and precision of rifles instead of the Gunslinger's rapid-fire dual short-ranged pistols.

Be sure to check out the gallery of concept art and screenshots below, and don't miss the Agent's teaser video after the break.

Gallery: SWTOR Imperial Agent

Continue reading Spy the SWTOR Imperial Agent!

MassivelySpy the SWTOR Imperial Agent! originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Oct 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agentBioWarechissEAElectronic-ArtsEmpireImperial-AgentLucasArtsoperativePhantomsniperStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorFri, 29 Oct 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIV releases new Gridania assets]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/final-fantasy-xiv-releases-new-gridania-assets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/final-fantasy-xiv-releases-new-gridania-assets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/final-fantasy-xiv-releases-new-gridania-assets/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

With only a few days left until release, Final Fantasy XIV has lifted the shroud surrounding the third of the starting city-states for new characters. Gridania, nestled in the Black Shroud, is a city built into the very structure of the wood around it, filled with reverence for the spirits and creatures that dwell in the environment. The newest pictures have been put together in a gallery showing off the environment of the city -- as well as a hint of the Garlean Empire.

A city of warm earth tones and expansive wooden buildings, Gridania manages to carry its own distinct feel from its sister cities, especially with the stained-glass architecture that dominates the adventurer's guild. While the preview images lack the callbacks that the recent Ul'dah reveal carried, they still show off an environment that is both engaging and alien. Take a look at the full gallery, and keep your eyes open to see if Final Fantasy XIV has any more secrets to reveal prior to next week's launch.

Gallery: Final Fantasy XIV Gridania preview

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XIV releases new Gridania assets originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Sep 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-shroundcitiescitycity-statesempireenvironmentffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivforestgalleriesgarlean-empiregridaniaimagesscreenshotssettingsquaresquare-enixstarting-citiesthe-black-shrouduldahThu, 16 Sep 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: Off the rails]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/11/choose-my-adventure-off-the-rails/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/11/choose-my-adventure-off-the-rails/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/11/choose-my-adventure-off-the-rails/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Join me as I brave my way through lands unknown in an adventure dictated entirely by you, the Massively readers! Suggest everything from game played to character creation to ultimate goal and watch it unfold in a series of posts here on the site. Then, as our two months are up, we'll do it all over again in a new game!

This last week wound up being a medley of moments -- some pretty cool and others a study in frustration, honestly. However, to be completely fair, while some of this is related to the game, a goodly portion of the frustration is related to some pretty glaring oversights for newcomers on Sony Online Entertainment's part.

Curious as to what happened in Star Wars Galaxies this week? Join me behind the jump as I break down what things broke down, and what bits were pretty solidly in the "kick ass" column.

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: Off the rails

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: Off the rails originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Aug 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>choose-my-adventureCMAempirefactionfeaturedimperialpilotrebelrebellionSandboxsoeSONYsony-online-entertainmentspaceStar-Warsstar-wars-galaxiesswgWed, 11 Aug 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Loyal to their cause]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/12/hyperspace-beacon-loyal-to-their-cause/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/12/hyperspace-beacon-loyal-to-their-cause/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/12/hyperspace-beacon-loyal-to-their-cause/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

As some of you may know, I love roleplaying in MMOs. Most of the MMOs I've played have had RPG tagged at the end. Even though it's not required to roleplay to enjoy an MMORPG, immersion is compounded when you do, therefore fun is compounded, too. In the Star Wars universe, I could not help but wrap myself in lore when I played a soldier or agent of the Galactic Empire. From line and formation to order and procedure -- all of this was in service to His Majesty, the Emperor. Of all the characters I made over my seven years of Star Wars Galaxies, my Imperial characters were the most purpose-driven.

When Bioware announced the trooper class for Star Wars: The Old Republic, many players asked who would want to play a clone. There's no personality there, no motivation or character development, right? I disagree very strongly. In fact, I will go so far as to say I believe there is only one binding factor between soldier types: loyalty. Even then there are different types of loyalties and different motivations behind an individual character's loyalties.

Step past the break and watch as I contrast the loyalty of famous factions of existing Star Wars soldiers and compare them to the trooper and agent classes of SWTOR.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Loyal to their cause

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Loyal to their cause originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Jul 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agentagent-classBioWarebioware-swtorboba-fettCaridacloneclone-trooperclone-warscompnorEAElectronic-ArtsEmpirefeaturedgeorge-lucasHumanImperialimperial-intelligenceimperial-security-bureauinquisitorinquisitoriusIsardisbJango-fettKaminoloyaltyLucasArtsroleplayroleplayerRolePlayingStar-Warsstar-wars-galaxiesstar-wars-the-old-republicStormtrooperstormtroopersswtorswtor-lore-guidetortroopertrooper-classMon, 12 Jul 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Empires strike back]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/24/hyperspace-beacon-empires-strike-back/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/24/hyperspace-beacon-empires-strike-back/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/24/hyperspace-beacon-empires-strike-back/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Welcome, space traveler to another addition of the Hyperspace Beacon. Gear yourself up, and you may want to take out a notepad. We are delving deep into Star Wars lore this week. This will set the stage for future additions of the Hyperspace Beacon. I hope to not only answer some of your questions but also bring more questions to mind.

Sith Empires have always played a huge role in Star Wars history. In fact, with few exceptions, any time there was a major threat to the galaxy it came in the form of a Sith Empire. Sith Empires can be traced back as far as one hundred thousand years before the destruction of the first Death Star with the first Sith'ari, Adas. Adas was the first to unite the red-skinned Sith race under one banner. But these first Sith were not Force-wielders in the same vein as the Dark Jedi who followed them.

Following the break I will share how the Great Sith Empires came to be, the wars that surround them, how they are tied to the Empire in Star Wars: The Old Republic, and some of my speculation on what will be revealed in the game.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Empires strike back

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Empires strike back originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 24 May 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Beral-Ovairdaniel-ericksondarth-malakdarth-revandarth-sidiousempireexal-kresshKnights-of-the-Old-Republiclorenaga-sadowstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorswtor-lore-guideteneb-kelMon, 24 May 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Old Republic cracks open the files on the galaxy's most notorious figures]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/30/the-old-republic-cracks-open-the-files-on-the-galaxys-most-noto/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/30/the-old-republic-cracks-open-the-files-on-the-galaxys-most-noto/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/30/the-old-republic-cracks-open-the-files-on-the-galaxys-most-noto/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Sometimes it feels as though the Sith and Jedi get boiled down to two primary emotions: scowly and smug. It kind of makes it hard to root for one side or the other when that's all there is. Happily, Team BioWare's decided to graduate past these stereotypes as they flesh out the complex leaders in the struggle for intergalactic domination.

Three new biographies have been posted on The Old Republic's website, representing the three main factions of the game: Darth Malgus for the Sith, Mandalore for the Independents, and General Garza for the Republic. You may remember Darth Malgus as the seething bad guy from the Deceived trailer, and it turns out that he's now the star of his own book as well: Star Wars: The Old Republic: Deceived. The novel -- which just received a first look over at StarWars.com -- promises to reveal insights into just why Malgus led the assault to sack the Jedi temple on Coruscant.

More exciting than these biographies are the introduction of a brand-new section of TOR's Holonet: Inhabitants! This page covers droids, creatures and humanoids that players will encounter on a regular basis in the game, and currently has six records to choose from: the Gundark, the AR-34 Enforcer Droid, Gormak, Trandoshan, Salky Hounds, and the X2-C3 Imperial Astromech. Each of the records is accompanied by a description and a trio of screen shots to enjoy.

It's a lot to absorb in one sitting, so head on over to The Old Republic to check out these new Biographies and Inhabitants!

MassivelyThe Old Republic cracks open the files on the galaxy's most notorious figures originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Apr 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebreakingdarth-malgusdeceiveddroidea-biowareempiregeneral-garzaimperialjedimandaloreracesrepublicsiththe-old-republictorFri, 30 Apr 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars Galaxies pushes Galactic Civil War live and calls for recruits]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/star-wars-galaxies-pushes-galactic-civil-war-live-and-calls-for/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/star-wars-galaxies-pushes-galactic-civil-war-live-and-calls-for/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/star-wars-galaxies-pushes-galactic-civil-war-live-and-calls-for/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

There's a war brewing in Star Wars Galaxies. Well, to be quite technical about it, the game's setting is right in the middle of a war, but the most recent update brings that war even further to a head. In terms of storyline, the Empire is fighting a pitched battle against a renewed Rebel offensive to take key strategic points across the galaxy. The gameplay side of things sees a number of cities with capturable objectives, defensive fortifications to be built, protected, and demolished, and vehicles to use in the assault and defense of three volatile cities.

It's a big update, and for understandable reasons Sony Online Entertainment wants to show off what they've done with the game. So they're giving players a chance to jump back into the action. Between February 1st and March 1st, former players will be allowed to come back for free, with their accounts automatically reinstated for the month. Those who decide that toppling the Empire -- or defending it -- is worth re-subscribing will be rewarded with a special in-game painting. Star Wars Galaxies still has quite a bit of life left in it, and players should be more than happy with the amount of content in this new update.

MassivelyStar Wars Galaxies pushes Galactic Civil War live and calls for recruits originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Jan 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capturable-citiesdefense-fortificationsempirefree-reactivationgalactic-civil-wargalactic-civil-war-forces-under-siegegame-update-15gcwrebelssoesony-online-entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-galaxiesswgWed, 27 Jan 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Everybody loves a good cantina fight in Threat of Peace, issue #20]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/everybody-loves-a-good-cantina-fight-in-threat-of-peace-issue/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/everybody-loves-a-good-cantina-fight-in-threat-of-peace-issue/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/20/everybody-loves-a-good-cantina-fight-in-threat-of-peace-issue/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

And so the plot thickens, as the identity of the man attempting to dissolve the peace treaty between the Republic and the Empire is now closer to being revealed. Yes, this week BioWare continues their free online comic Threat of Peace with issue number 20, which largely focuses on the Bounty Hunter known as Braden.

The developer's propensity for seeding hints at future in-game content through this series continues, and in that statement we mean to say Nar Shadda is most likely going to be a playable planet in Star Wars: The Old Republic. We also wouldn't be surprised to see Dantooine become an in-game destination as well, since it's both a classic location and apparently the future site of some intrigue for Threat of Peace readers.

We suppose it'd be easy enough to assume most planets featured from the movies and previous KOTOR games will end up in Star Wars: The Old Republic. Nonetheless, it's fun to play the guessing game when it comes to a highly anticipated MMO. We're hoping the next official planet announcement goes to Nar Shadda, as it's just such a lovely place to visit.

MassivelyEverybody loves a good cantina fight in Threat of Peace, issue #20 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebounty-hunterbradendantooinedarkhorseeaelectronic-artsempirelucasartsnar-shaddarepublicstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republicthreat-of-peacewebcomicFri, 20 Nov 2009 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR's Imperial Spy gets an official reveal]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/13/swtors-imperial-spy-gets-an-official-reveal/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/13/swtors-imperial-spy-gets-an-official-reveal/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/13/swtors-imperial-spy-gets-an-official-reveal/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


We've pretty much known about it for a while, but Star Wars: The Old Republic now officially has an Imperial Spy class. Granted, even before, we had a pretty good inkling that some kind of spy or rogue class was in the wings for the Empire players -- especially since the Smuggler had no logical counterpart.

So what's the big deal about an official announcement? A class page full of juicy information just waiting to be devoured by eager fans. The combat tactics movies are easily the most impressive section of the class page, simply because the abilities shown are exceptionally fun. We can't decide which we like more: the stun dart / targeted blaster strike or the orbital bombardment. Even the ability to throw down an energy shield in the middle of combat looks pretty cool.

Whatever your favorite ability or class happens to be, there's no doubt these new screens are looking better than before. We're always excited to see progress being made and it's heartening to have a visual reminder that Star Wars: The Old Republic is coming along.

Gallery: Star Wars: The Old Republic Screenshots

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

MassivelySWTOR's Imperial Spy gets an official reveal originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareclassclasseseaelectronic-artsempireimperial-spylucasartsstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorFri, 13 Nov 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Embracing the Sith in Star Wars: The Old Republic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/05/embracing-the-sith-in-star-wars-the-old-republic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/05/embracing-the-sith-in-star-wars-the-old-republic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/05/embracing-the-sith-in-star-wars-the-old-republic/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Everyone is worried about the Jedi player population when it comes to Star Wars: The Old Republic, but the Sith are in every way a likely -- if not moreso -- threat. With franchise analogs like Vader and Maul, there's going to be a lot of people auto-running around the game to the tune of Imperial March.

Even BioWare seems to think the Sith are kind of a big deal in this new developer blog promoting the greatness of embracing the darkness within us all. We're not even exaggerating in this case, the blog really does go on for quite some time about how awesome dark Jedi are -- so don't be too shocked when legions of Sith roam the battlefield looking for Republic blood.

MassivelyEmbracing the Sith in Star Wars: The Old Republic originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Oct 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaelectronic-artsempirelucasartssithsith-warriorstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorwarriorMon, 05 Oct 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free the Bounty Hunter in Threat of Peace issue 12]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/03/free-the-bounty-hunter-in-threat-of-peace-issue-12/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/03/free-the-bounty-hunter-in-threat-of-peace-issue-12/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/03/free-the-bounty-hunter-in-threat-of-peace-issue-12/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


It's not always the best idea to bet on a Bounty Hunter when no money is involved, but such is the case in the newest issue of Star Wars: The Old Republic's Threat of Peace. We suppose freedom is payment enough for this particular Bounty Hunter, assuming he doesn't get caught up in something else.

Besides, by freeing the Bounty Hunter we get to see his awesome Tie Fighter-like ride, as seen above. Meanwhile, our Empire droid and Jedi seem to have fumbled their way into being saved from their tight spot adrift in the depth of space. Although, not everything is as it seems.

Unfortunately, there aren't any signs or hints at a new class this week, as has been the case in previous installments. No, this week just moves the story along. We could experience a dry spell of really exciting information up until PAX, but our hope is that won't be the case.

MassivelyFree the Bounty Hunter in Threat of Peace issue 12 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 03 Aug 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebounty-hunterdark-horse-comicsdroideaelectronic-artsempirejedilucasartsstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthreat-of-peaceMon, 03 Aug 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[What are SWTOR's three final classes? part 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/30/what-are-swtors-three-final-classes-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/30/what-are-swtors-three-final-classes-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/30/what-are-swtors-three-final-classes-part-2/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Continue reading What are SWTOR's three final classes? part 2

MassivelyWhat are SWTOR's three final classes? part 2 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 30 Jul 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>assassinbiowaredroideaelectronic-artsempirejedilucasartsopinionrepublicsithstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republicThu, 30 Jul 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[What are SWTOR's three final classes?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/30/what-are-swtors-three-final-classes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/30/what-are-swtors-three-final-classes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/30/what-are-swtors-three-final-classes/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Looking at the official Star Wars: The Old Republic class page reveals four slots on both factions, with three total filled thus far. Of course, you'll notice that Jedi and Sith aren't shown here, but it's a forgone conclusion that they'll be filled sooner or later. While nobody but BioWare can be sure what the final classes actually, half the fun is trying to figure them out before they're announced.

So with that said, it's time to take a few educated guess stabs at potential classes, and formulate our wish lists. I'm sure you've all got ones of your own as well, so feel free to share!

Continue reading What are SWTOR's three final classes?

MassivelyWhat are SWTOR's three final classes? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 30 Jul 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebounty-huntereaelectronic-artsempirefeaturedgalactic-republicjedilucasartsopinionrepublicsithsmugglerstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtortrooperThu, 30 Jul 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Threat of Peace issue #4, need we say more?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/11/threat-of-peace-issue-4-need-we-say-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/11/threat-of-peace-issue-4-need-we-say-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/11/threat-of-peace-issue-4-need-we-say-more/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


The Sith have strange ways about them; strange but effective means of getting exactly what they want. This is why when Coruscant came under siege by the Sith Empire just as they were beginning peace talks with the Galactic Republic, we had a feeling there was an deeper motive beneath the obvious. It all becomes clear in this week's issue number four of BioWare's Star Wars: The Old Republic webcomic, Threat of Peace.

Beyond here things should only get more interesting. We're hoping for a timeline update next week along with issue five, because at four pages a pop the cliffhangers can sometimes be a real pain in our geeky butts.

MassivelyThreat of Peace issue #4, need we say more? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 11 Apr 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarecoruscanteaelectronic-artsempiregalacticlucasartsrepublicsithstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthreat-of-peacewebcomicSat, 11 Apr 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE's 'Orca' mining vessel facilitates suicide ganks against miners]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/02/eves-orca-mining-vessel-facilitates-suicide-ganks-against-min/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/02/eves-orca-mining-vessel-facilitates-suicide-ganks-against-min/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/02/eves-orca-mining-vessel-facilitates-suicide-ganks-against-min/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Among the changes to EVE Online introduced with the Quantum Rise expansion is a new class of ship, the 'Orca' industrial command ship.The ship is intended to be a major asset to mining operations in New Eden, but it's a flexible ship -- and this writer has been waiting to see what clever uses players will have for it. It looks like that day has come... The Orca's substantial cargo capacity, a ship maintenance bay, and corp hangar have made it an ideal base of operations for criminals operating in highsec, with an aim to suicide gank T2 mining ships. In other words, use fully insurable Tech I ships to gank specialized, expensive, and largely uninsurable Tech II ships.

Suicide ganking is nothing new, but one of the major changes CCP Games put into place to dissuade players from committing highsec suicide ganks was to substantially increase the security status penalties players are hit with when committing aggressive acts in high security (Empire) space. But no matter how low one's security status drops, all players can move about in highsec in their ship's capsule. It's only when a criminal enters a ship in highsec space that CONCORD takes action. That is where the Orca comes in. Criminals can board new ships housed within the Orca at a safespot and then warp in on their victims en masse, in multiple waves of suicide ganks. When their suicide gank ships are blasted apart by CONCORD, they can fly in their pods back to the Orca and gear up for the next wave.

Continue reading EVE's 'Orca' mining vessel facilitates suicide ganks against miners

MassivelyEVE's 'Orca' mining vessel facilitates suicide ganks against miners originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Dec 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adaptccpccp-gamescleverconcordcontroversyempireeveeve-onlineexploitshighsecorcaquantum-risesci-fiTue, 02 Dec 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare releases new SWTOR concept art]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/15/bioware-releases-new-swtor-concept-art/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/15/bioware-releases-new-swtor-concept-art/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/15/bioware-releases-new-swtor-concept-art/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


New concept art has been announced for BioWare's recent MMO project Star Wars: The Old Republic. This new concept art shows a few new character, weapon and environmental designs such as as Assassin Droid, a Medical Droid, a Jedi and Sith Lightsaber, a few forms of the Blaster, Jedi and Sith scenery, buildings and more.

Plus, the team has also added ten new forum avatars to their community section. These new avatars allow you to customize your profile with even more races, additional female options, and Republic and Empire allegiance icons. Head on over to the SWTOR forums for more information, and check out the new concept art added to our SWTOR Concept Art Gallery linked below.

Gallery: Star Wars: The Old Republic Concept Art

MassivelyBioWare releases new SWTOR concept art originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 15 Nov 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatarsbiowareconcept-artempirejedirepublicsithstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorSat, 15 Nov 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: PvP masterclass - Fleet warfare]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/02/eve-evolved-pvp-masterclass-fleet-warfare/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/02/eve-evolved-pvp-masterclass-fleet-warfare/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/02/eve-evolved-pvp-masterclass-fleet-warfare/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,


Fleet warfare in EVE Online is a big step up from the small, casual PvP gangs discussed in last week's PvP Masterclass article. In this guide, I explore the day to day activities of EVE's largest combat machinations, from 30-man faction warfare gangs to 300-man territorial fleets. In stark contrast to a small and highly mobile gang, a large fleet is a lumbering hulk that favours combined firepower and good co-ordination over all else. Massive fleets of hundreds of pilots routinely clash in the outskirts of EVE's lawless 0.0 space. But when they move at the speed of their slowest member and are really only as good as their fleet commander, what can you do to make sure your fleet is a success?

Fight-by-numbers:
The essence of fleet warfare is that using more ships is usually better. By focusing all attacks on one enemy at a time, a larger fleet has a very high damage potential. It also allows a more diverse range of ship types to take part in the fight such as an electronic warfare wing or sniper squadron. Forming a large fleet usually requires some planning and co-ordination, making them less suited to casual PvP and more suited to organised assaults on specific targets like POS.

Read on as I tackle the question of how to make a fleet effective from the perspective of both the fleet's individual members and the fleet commander.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: PvP masterclass - Fleet warfare

MassivelyEVE Evolved: PvP masterclass - Fleet warfare originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 02 Nov 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alignblobbuffer tankBufferTankccpcombatcommandercorpcorporationempireeveeve-evolvedeve-onlinefactionfactional-warfarefcfeaturedfleet commanderFleetCommandergankgroupingguidejoystiqfeaturesprofessionspvpsci-fiwarwarfareSun, 02 Nov 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: PvP masterclass - Gang warfare]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/26/eve-evolved-pvp-masterclass-gang-warfare/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/26/eve-evolved-pvp-masterclass-gang-warfare/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/26/eve-evolved-pvp-masterclass-gang-warfare/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,


PvP Masterclass is a series of articles explaining PvP from the bottom up and showing you how to get involved even if you're a new player. In part 1 of this series, I examined the main types of PvP a player can choose in EVE Online and showed the directions players can take their PvP careers. In this second part, I explore how small gang warfare fits into the PvP landscape of EVE and help you decide what avenues you should pursue if small gang warfare is your cup of tea.

Numbers game:
A complaint I hear all too often today is that small gang warfare in EVE is dead, that PvP is a numbers game and competing on the battlefield means having the biggest blob. It almost always transpires that these people are trying to shoehorn small gang warfare into places it's not suited for like major 0.0 territorial conflicts or that they're neglecting the importance of intel-gathering scouts. Small gang warfare isn't about your gang of five ships trying to take on a blob of two hundred. It's about putting together a small, tight unit of pilots and picking your fights carefully.

Whether you're planning to pirate, fight for the Gallente Federation or declare war on your neighbours, small gang warfare is for you. Read on as I examine the small roaming gang, one of EVE's oldest and most fun avenues of PvP.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: PvP masterclass - Gang warfare

MassivelyEVE Evolved: PvP masterclass - Gang warfare originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 26 Oct 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpcombatcorpcorporationempireeveeve-evolvedeve-onlinefactionfactional-warfarefeaturedgroupingguidejoystiqfeaturespiracypirateprofessionspvpsci-fivetowarwardecwarfareSun, 26 Oct 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Lore of Star Wars: The Old Republic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/the-lore-of-star-wars-the-old-republic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/the-lore-of-star-wars-the-old-republic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/the-lore-of-star-wars-the-old-republic/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


The hotly anticipated MMO Star Wars: The Old Republic (SWTOR) from BioWare has only just been announced, but they've already given us a clear picture of the game's setting and a bit of the lore as well. From what we can tell, you won't need to be a die-hard fan of Star Wars to appreciate the title, which is good news as there's a daunting amount of Star Wars canon out there. That said, it'll certainly help to have at least some grounding in what's going on in Star Wars: The Old Republic. To that end, Massively's put together a brief primer on the lore of SWTOR.

Who is this written for? People who've seen the films but may not necessarily have played Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic (KotOR) on PC or console, and especially those who haven't read the novels or various comic book lines released over the years. Read on, and we'll introduce you to the backdrop and factions of Star Wars: The Old Republic.

Continue reading The Lore of Star Wars: The Old Republic

MassivelyThe Lore of Star Wars: The Old Republic originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Oct 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarecoruscantdark-councildarth-vaderemperorempirefeaturedgalactic-republicjedijedi-counciljedi-orderjoystiqfeaturesknights-of-the-old-republickorribankotorlorenaga-sadowrepublicrevansci-fisithsith-empiresith-lordsith-lordsstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtortreaty-of-coruscanttythonWed, 22 Oct 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: PvP masterclass - Introduction]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/19/eve-evolved-pvp-masterclass-introduction/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/19/eve-evolved-pvp-masterclass-introduction/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/19/eve-evolved-pvp-masterclass-introduction/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,



One of the most perplexing things about EVE Online has to be the fact that although the game is essentially designed around PvP, a lot of players avoid it entirely. In this new series of articles, I will explain PvP from the bottom up, with a particular focus on helping anyone that has always wanted to give EVE's high quality PvP a try but wasn't sure what to do. In this first article, I examine the different types of PvP available in EVE Online and suggest ways to get involved in them even if you're just finishing the 14-day trial.

Types of PvP:
In most MMOs, PvP means organised battleground matches or one versus one player duels. For those games lucky enough to have open world PvP, the options are a lot more varied. In EVE Online, the exact right combination of factors come together to create what on a good day I can only describe as the best PvP experience I have ever had in a computer game. Rather than just being something fun to do, PvP in EVE arises as a natural consequence of normal play, used by players to push forward their own agenda in a harsh, dismal space-borne society.

Continue reading as I help you choose which type of PvP suits you the best and suggest ways to get involved in it.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: PvP masterclass - Introduction

MassivelyEVE Evolved: PvP masterclass - Introduction originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 19 Oct 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpcombatcorpcorporationempireeveeve-evolvedeve-onlinefactionfactional-warfarefeaturedgroupingguidejoystiqfeaturespiracypiratepoliticsprofessionspvpsci-fivetowarwardecwarfareSun, 19 Oct 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's WAR Camp: Tier 3 Scenario Guides pt. 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/17/massivelys-war-camp-tier-3-scenario-guides-pt-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/17/massivelys-war-camp-tier-3-scenario-guides-pt-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/17/massivelys-war-camp-tier-3-scenario-guides-pt-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Talabec Dam scenario may remind some FPS fans of a much older (but still popular) game, as it involves running a bomb or "Powder Keg" to a particular location in order to blow it sky-high. However, no one starts with the bomb in Talabec, and players must fight off the enemy team to have a chance to pick up the sole Powder Keg that lies in the middle of the map. Once this takes place, you'll either be pushing your team towards the bombing site, or trying to assassinate the bomb carrier or run his timer down and prevent the big boom! Click the button below to see our Talabec Dam gallery guide.

Gallery: Warhammer Online: WAR Camp Series

Capturing and defending keepsIt all starts in Tier 2The bottom floorThe Keep LordKeep architecture

MassivelyMassively's WAR Camp: Tier 3 Scenario Guides pt. 2 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Oct 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chaoschaos-artifacteaea-mythicempiremassivelys-war-campmythicpowder-kegscenarioscenario-guidescenariostalabec-damwarwarhammerwarhammer-onlinewindmill-of-talabeclandFri, 17 Oct 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's WAR Camp: Tier 2 Scenario Guides pt. 3]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/26/massivelys-war-camp-tier-2-scenario-guides-pt-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/26/massivelys-war-camp-tier-2-scenario-guides-pt-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/26/massivelys-war-camp-tier-2-scenario-guides-pt-3/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Stonetroll Crossing is the Tier 2 scenario for the Empire and Chaos pairing. The stars of this scenario are the Stonetrolls, who toss large chunks of rock all over the map at regular intervals. A Troll Pacifier is located in the center of the scenario, and can be used to pacify the trolls, earning points towards victory for your realm. It's not as easy as it sounds though, with both the trolls and the enemy players interrupting you every step of the way. Click through to our gallery guide below to preview the stomping grounds of these mischievous trolls.

Gallery: Warhammer Online: WAR Camp Series

Capturing and defending keepsIt all starts in Tier 2The bottom floorThe Keep LordKeep architecture

MassivelyMassively's WAR Camp: Tier 2 Scenario Guides pt. 3 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 26 Sep 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlegroundschaoseaea-mythicempiremythicostlandscenarioscenariosstonetroll-crossingtroll-countrywarwarhammerwarhammer-onlineFri, 26 Sep 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's WAR Camp: Tier 1 Scenario Guides pt. 3]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/18/massivelys-war-camp-tier-1-scenario-guides-pt-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/18/massivelys-war-camp-tier-1-scenario-guides-pt-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/18/massivelys-war-camp-tier-1-scenario-guides-pt-3/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The last stop on our tour of the Tier 1 scenarios is Nordenwatch. This scenario can be reached from the Nordland and Norsca zones, and is the home turf for the Empire and Chaos races. Similar to the Gates of Ekrund, there is one central objective that both teams will meet up at for an epic clash, almost every time. Our last gallery guide of this series features a closer look at what you can expect to find in Nordenwatch. Do you have a favorite scenario? Is there one that you can't stand and refuse to queue for? Tell us about it in the comments below.

Gallery: Warhammer Online: WAR Camp Series

Capturing and defending keepsIt all starts in Tier 2The bottom floorThe Keep LordKeep architecture

MassivelyMassively's WAR Camp: Tier 1 Scenario Guides pt. 3 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Sep 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-reckoningchaoseaea-mythicempiremythicnordenwatchnordlandnorscawarwarhammer-onlineThu, 18 Sep 2008 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively goes to WAR: Guide to the Empire starting zone]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/18/massively-goes-to-war-guide-to-the-empire-starting-zone/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/18/massively-goes-to-war-guide-to-the-empire-starting-zone/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/18/massively-goes-to-war-guide-to-the-empire-starting-zone/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Looking for a quest guide? You won't need it for Warhammer Online. The game holds your hand through every quest through a combination of in-game quest tracking, map marking and recording your every step in the Tome of Knowledge. How about a leveling guide? You won't need one of those either. Run through quests, PvP and hit the Public Quests and before you know it, you're on to the next tier of content.

What we offer you here today is a look at the points of interest in the Empire starting zone. From character creation to major quest hubs to Public Quest locations to the first Open RvR area, we have a bird's eye view of where you will be spending the first 8 levels of your fledging adventurer's life.

Gallery: Guide to the Empire starting zone

Empire Character CreationGrimmenhagen VillageGrimmenhagen farmhousesNordenwatchGrimmenhagen Fields

MassivelyMassively goes to WAR: Guide to the Empire starting zone originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Sep 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bright-wizardempirefeaturedgrimmenhagen-villlagejoystiqfeaturesmassively-goes-to-warmythic-entertainmentnordenwatchwarwar-priestwitch-hunterThu, 18 Sep 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[How to get to Altdorf, Ekrund, the Blighted Isle, or Nordland at level 1]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/06/how-to-get-to-altdorf-ekrund-the-blighted-isle-or-nordland-at/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/06/how-to-get-to-altdorf-ekrund-the-blighted-isle-or-nordland-at/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/06/how-to-get-to-altdorf-ekrund-the-blighted-isle-or-nordland-at/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

You've jumped into Warhammer Online, and you're ready to go. You've picked your class and you're happy with your class mechanics ... but perhaps you don't want to play in your race's assigned tiers. Or maybe you just want to head to the mighty human city of Altdorf. We hear it's lovely this time of year. Heading to the Order capital city or one of the other starting zones is as easy as hiking to the first RvR War Camp in your starting zone ... but where is that? If you've never played before, how do you know?

Well, we've got what you need. Click through below the cut for full details and maps on how to get to the first war camps in Nordland, the Blighted Isle, and the zone of Ekrund. Make sure you tell the Dwarven flight masters that Massively sent you!

Continue reading How to get to Altdorf, Ekrund, the Blighted Isle, or Nordland at level 1

MassivelyHow to get to Altdorf, Ekrund, the Blighted Isle, or Nordland at level 1 originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 06 Sep 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>altdorfdwarvesempirefeaturedguidehigh-elvesmassively-goes-to-warmythic-entertainmentwarwarhammer-onlineSat, 06 Sep 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively goes to WAR: An overview of Melee DPS careers for Order]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/06/massively-goes-to-war-an-overview-of-melee-dps-careers-for-orde/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/06/massively-goes-to-war-an-overview-of-melee-dps-careers-for-orde/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/06/massively-goes-to-war-an-overview-of-melee-dps-careers-for-orde/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


You don't have to side with Destruction to do some damage in Warhammer Online. Order has two melee classes that crank out the dps up close and personal in two distinctly different ways. The Empire Witch Hunter uses a combination of rapier strikes to build up Accusations and then uses them to power a devastating Execution shot from their pistols. The High Elf White Lion wades into the thick of combat with his faithful pet lion by his side using it to distract and ravage his enemies.

Read on after the jump for a more in-depth class into these two Order melee dps careers.
Warhammer Online Coverage Did you enjoy this? Make sure to check out all of our previous Warhammer Online features, and don't miss any of our ongoing coverage as Massively goes to WAR!

Continue reading Massively goes to WAR: An overview of Melee DPS careers for Order

MassivelyMassively goes to WAR: An overview of Melee DPS careers for Order originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 06 Sep 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>elves-of-warempirefeaturedhigh-elfjoystiqfeaturesmassively-goes-to-warmythic-entertainmentorder-melee-dpspath-of-confessionpath-of-inquisitionpath-of-judgementpath-of-the-axemanpath-of-the-guardianpath-of-the-hunterwarwarhammer-onlinewhite-lionwitch-hunterSat, 06 Sep 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask a WAR Beta Tester: Greenskins and Chaos and Dark Elves, oh my]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/28/ask-a-war-beta-tester-greenskins-and-chaos-and-dark-elves-oh/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/28/ask-a-war-beta-tester-greenskins-and-chaos-and-dark-elves-oh/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/28/ask-a-war-beta-tester-greenskins-and-chaos-and-dark-elves-oh/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The road to Wahammer Online's release has been a lengthy walk for everyone. We've all been through ups and downs, but now that it's almost here we're more than happy to answer whatever questions are floating about your minds. So, in our second installment of Ask a WAR Beta Tester, we offer up some insight into the cut careers, leveling time and other questions of intrigue. All for the sake of satiating your burning desire to know more. Of course, we know that no matter how many answers are given there will be more questions asked. So if you've got something banging around in your brain that we haven't addressed, feel free to post a comment containing your question.

Continue reading Ask a WAR Beta Tester: Greenskins and Chaos and Dark Elves, oh my

MassivelyAsk a WAR Beta Tester: Greenskins and Chaos and Dark Elves, oh my originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Aug 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-guardchaoschoppadark-elvesdwarvesempirefeaturedgreenskinshammererjoystiqfeaturesknight-of-the-blazing-sunmythicmythic-entertainmenttome-of-knowledgewarwarhammer-onlineThu, 28 Aug 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE exploit warning affects corp infiltration practices]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/27/eve-exploit-warning-affects-corp-infiltration-practices/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/27/eve-exploit-warning-affects-corp-infiltration-practices/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/27/eve-exploit-warning-affects-corp-infiltration-practices/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

War declarations are an essential part of EVE Online. They allow corporations and alliances to fight for control over resources, territory, or simply to get revenge on their rivals. Then again, others declare war for the opportunity to grief in Empire space. Perhaps it's this latter tendency that prompted the latest announcement from CCP Games. They're branding the monkeywrenching of rival corporations during wartime as an exploit.

GM Grimmi states: "The practice of insta-joining/leaving warring corporations for the purpose of surprising war targets, or getting them in trouble with CONCORD, is considered an exploit from here on. Reports of this will be investigated on a case by case basis and warnings will be issued at the discretion of the GM. Repeated incidents may result in bans on accounts involved." This doesn't seem to apply to 'normal' corp infiltrations, though it does beg the question of why a corporation at war would even be accepting new recruits at all. What's the protocol in your corp, do you continue to accept applicants into the fold during a wardec, or is the risk of alt spying and sabotage too great?

MassivelyEVE exploit warning affects corp infiltration practices originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Aug 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>announcementccpccp-gamesconcordcorpcorp-theftcorp-thiefcorporationdev-blogempireeveeve-onlineexploitgmgm-grimmihangar-theftmonkeywrenchingsabotagespiesspywar-decwar-declarationwar-targetwardecWed, 27 Aug 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Memoirs of a WAR beta tester]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/23/the-digital-continuum-memoirs-of-a-war-beta-tester/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/23/the-digital-continuum-memoirs-of-a-war-beta-tester/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/23/the-digital-continuum-memoirs-of-a-war-beta-tester/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


I've given my thoughts on the Dark Elf section of Warhammer Online, but now that the whole NDA is lifted I can finally speak about my experience with the beta as a whole. I've been in it for a long time. A really long time, in fact. We're talking about, well, since the thing started. Which gives me something more to say than the typical tester talking about this game. In my time interacting as a member of the beta community with Mythic -- concerning Warhammer Online, of course -- I think I've seen more progress made on any MMO in the span of about a year than I have in any other in beta. And I've been in a lot of them.

So what's the big deal? New MMOs are always facing the issue of going up against World of Warcraft's several years of polishing. Everyone has always wondered what it would take to deal with that issue, too. Mythic seems to have decided it will take raw, unadulterated determination. The kind that a child displays when presented with the opportunity to have a new toy. It also helps to have a license that Blizzard themselves once attempted to acquire because of its depth. Ironic? Only if WAR really does take a big chug out of the World of Warcraft milkshake.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Memoirs of a WAR beta tester

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Memoirs of a WAR beta tester originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 23 Aug 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-guardchaoschoppadark-elvesdwarveseaelectronic-artsempirefeaturedgreenskinshammererjoystiqfeaturesknight-of-the-blazing-sunmassively-goes-to-warmythicmythic-entertainmentpaul-barnettpaxstuntiesthe-digital-continuumwarwarhammer-onlineSat, 23 Aug 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively goes to WAR: Character creation video for Order classes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/21/massively-goes-to-war-character-creation-video-for-order-classe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/21/massively-goes-to-war-character-creation-video-for-order-classe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/21/massively-goes-to-war-character-creation-video-for-order-classe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Those who bought the Collector's Edition of Warhammer Online get their preview weekend in a few days. And open beta will start soon after that. But for those who can't wait, we've recorded video of some of the character creation options in the game.

After the jump you'll find three videos, each covering one of the races of Order: Dwarves, Empire (Human) and High Elf. We recorded both male and female choices and a number of different random variations to give you an idea of what you can do.

Looking forward to playing Destruction instead? Those racial videos are right here.

Continue reading Massively goes to WAR: Character creation video for Order classes

MassivelyMassively goes to WAR: Character creation video for Order classes originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Aug 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>character-creation-videodwarfempirefeaturedhigh-elfhumanjoystiqfeaturesmassively-goes-to-warmythic-entertainmentorder-character-creationwarwarhammer-onlineThu, 21 Aug 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The freedom of living in EVE Online's lawless space]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/10/the-freedom-of-living-in-eve-onlines-lawless-space/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/10/the-freedom-of-living-in-eve-onlines-lawless-space/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/10/the-freedom-of-living-in-eve-onlines-lawless-space/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

In EVE Online, there are few things as feared by highsec dwellers as going into 0.0 space. These lawless tracts of New Eden do come with certain perils -- as CONCORD isn't there to protect you -- but there are arguably more benefits to flying in 0.0 than there are drawbacks. Still, there will always be a dichotomy in EVE between players who like the game for the freedom 0.0 offers, and those who prefer the safety of highsec.

In 'Living the good life in 0.0,' EVE blogger Xiphos explains his choice to leave Empire space behind. "In 0.0, you are free. Free of Concord, free of hundreds of players, and free to set your own destiny... it is the untamed wild west, where fortune, power, and glory are right for the taking and few have yet to reach out and grasp it," Xiphos writes. Of course, being a member of Agony Unleashed, an EVE corp that provides in-game PvP courses, doesn't hurt in terms of knowing how to handle yourself in 0.0. Have a look at 'Living the good life in 0.0' and see Xiphos' take on the appeal of flying in lawless space. Do you agree with Xiphos' view of the game, and have you largely abandoned highsec in favor of 0.0 and all that comes with it, or simply to experience the most from the game?

[Via CrazyKinux]

MassivelyThe freedom of living in EVE Online's lawless space originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 10 Aug 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>0.0agony-unleashedbloggercarebearccpccp-gamesconcordempireeveeve-onlinehighseclawlesslowsecopinionpvprewardrisksci-fixiphosSun, 10 Aug 2008 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Diet WAR]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/12/the-digital-continuum-diet-war/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/12/the-digital-continuum-diet-war/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/12/the-digital-continuum-diet-war/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Diet Warhammer Online: same great taste, less content. Is it bad that the recently re-branded Mythic Entertainment just cut out a large portion of our Warhammer Online pie and put it in the deep freeze? Well it's certainly not good when a developer cuts content they've been talking about publicly for so long, especially when launch is only three or four months away. I've already written about why this MMO ode to classic tabletop trappings shouldn't be shoved onto shelves half-baked and I still feel like I'd rather see a delay than see so much content cut. While there have been plenty of delays already, that doesn't mean more would have been intolerable.

I'm going to try and take an honest look at what the removal of four capital cities and four classes means for Warhammer Online. I will admit that when the news first hit, a vile and seemingly ancient sort of anger began to boil up inside my lungs. It was the onset of some form of draconian rage at the removal of so much content that I'd been personally invested in as a future player. I never really got into Chaos and planned on playing Dark Elves, but now a large part of that content is gone. At first I felt anger and confusion towards Mythic. It wasn't until after that initial knee-jerk anger passed that I was able to give some real thought to their choice and was able to consider the varied consequences.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Diet WAR

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Diet WAR originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 12 Jul 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>altdorfblack-guardchaosdark-elvesdestructiondwarvesea-mythicempirefeaturedgreenskinshigh-elvesinevitable-cityjohn-riccitiellojoystiqfeaturesknight-of-the-blazing-sunmassively-goes-to-warmythicmythic-entertainmentorderpublic-queststome-of-knowledgewarwarhammer-onlineSat, 12 Jul 2008 15:30:00 EST