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 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Rumor: Bluehole is recruiting for TERA sequel]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/rumor-bluehole-is-recruiting-for-tera-sequel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/rumor-bluehole-is-recruiting-for-tera-sequel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/rumor-bluehole-is-recruiting-for-tera-sequel/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Rumor Bluehole is recruiting for TERA sequel
According to respected Korean news source ThisIsGame, Bluehole Studio is looking to add more people to its team for either a sequel to TERA or a whole new MMO entirely.

Some are saying that this will, indeed, be a sequel to TERA, but this has yet to be confirmed by Bluehole, hence the rumor tag. The studio is currently hiring for several positions, including server programmers, UI designers, artists, and more.

[Thanks to everyone who tipped us on this!]

MassivelyRumor: Bluehole is recruiting for TERA sequel originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 May 2013 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiosen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfantasyfree-to-playsequelterathisisgameTue, 14 May 2013 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: A light in the dark]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/12/one-shots-a-light-in-the-dark/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/12/one-shots-a-light-in-the-dark/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/12/one-shots-a-light-in-the-dark/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

One Shots A light in the dark
Reader Andrew is quite impressed with the look of Neverwinter, saying that it is visually "amazing!" Without descending into hyperbole, I have to agree. It's a good-looking title with plenty of interesting details if you take the time to stop and smell the corpses.

Corpses? Well, Andrew is standing in the middle of a whole bunch of dead folks here with his spectral flashlight (AA batteries not included). I wouldn't touch that treasure chest if I were you, Andrew. I'm guessing it might be a mimic. Oh no!

As we stumble through the dark, what other visions might we encounter in this week's One Shots?

Continue reading One Shots: A light in the dark

MassivelyOne Shots: A light in the dark originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 12 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoblueholebluehole-studiosbring-back-one-shotscrypticcryptic-studiosdnden-masseen-masse-entertainmenteqeq1everquestf2pfantasyfree-to-playgalleriesgalleryneverwinterone-shotsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpics-or-it-didnt-happenpwereader-screenshotsreader-submissionssci-fiscreenshotscreenshotssoesonysony-online-entertainmentstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoterauser-submissionsSun, 12 May 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: The dark night dashes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/05/one-shots-the-dark-night-dashes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/05/one-shots-the-dark-night-dashes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/05/one-shots-the-dark-night-dashes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

One Shots The dark night rises
Just because you have passing familiarity with Superman and Batman doesn't mean you know jack about the real superheroes who do all of the dirty work while the headliners steal the signal light. For instance, have you met this guy? If you haven't, let reader Russell make your acquaintance.

"This is my Brawling Juggernaut in DC Universe Online, known by many as Orange Crush," Russell begins with aplomb. "Here he is in pursuit of justice, on the way to laying some Crush down on the villains of our great and beloved Gotham City!"

Will Orange Crush arrive in time? Tune in to the rest of this column after the break!

Continue reading One Shots: The dark night dashes

MassivelyOne Shots: The dark night dashes originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 05 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareblueholebluehole-studiosbring-back-one-shotsbuy-to-playconsoleconsolesdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuoeaelectronic-artsen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfactionfantasyfree-to-playfuncomgalleriesgalleryhorrorlucasartsmythologyone-shotspics-or-it-didnt-happenplaystation-3playstation3ps3reader-screenshotsreader-submissionssci-fantasysci-fiscreenshotscreenshotssecret-worldskill-basedsoesony-online-entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubscriptionlesssuperherosuperheroesswtorterathe-old-republicthe-secret-worldtortswuser-submissionsSun, 05 May 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA celebrates first anniversary, teases future content]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/tera-celebrates-first-anniversary-teases-future-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/tera-celebrates-first-anniversary-teases-future-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/tera-celebrates-first-anniversary-teases-future-content/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

TERA Castanics
Fantasy action MMO TERA turns one year old today, and En Masse is celebrating by throwing a month-long party through the end of May. The firm is awarding players with in-game raffle items, mystery boxes "filled with rare and valuable prizes," and a new 10- and 20-person Kelsaik raid.

TERA's future looks bright, too, as En Masse has a 20v20 battleground update complete with strongholds, tanks, cannons, and airships waiting in the wings. The devs also have a new player-driven alliance system scheduled for the very near future.

Finally, En Masse has put together an anniversary infographic filled with esoterica like the number of accounts created (over 1.5 million), the ratio of male to female avatars (44.18 percent to 55.82 percent), and more. View the full graphic after the cut.

[Source: En Masse press release]

Continue reading TERA celebrates first anniversary, teases future content

MassivelyTERA celebrates first anniversary, teases future content originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 May 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiosen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfantasyfree-to-playteratera-anniversarytera-infographictruly-freeWed, 01 May 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA NA surpasses 1.4 million accounts, celebrates with in-game event]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/tera-na-surpasses-1-4-million-accounts-celebrates-with-in-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/tera-na-surpasses-1-4-million-accounts-celebrates-with-in-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/tera-na-surpasses-1-4-million-accounts-celebrates-with-in-game/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

TERA - This guy is about to fight some Dracoloths
The North American version of TERA has surpassed 1.4 million player accounts according to En Masse.

TERA made the free-to-play switch in February and has since added additional servers, a new dungeon, and a PvP battle arena. En Masse is celebrating its uptick with an in-game event called Dracoloths Rising. From March 20th through March 24th, even bigger big-ass-monsters are roaming the wilds of Arborea and serving as loot pinatas for opportunistic adventurers.

[Source: En Masse press release, also, thanks Ken!]

MassivelyTERA NA surpasses 1.4 million accounts, celebrates with in-game event originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>big-ass-monstersblueholebluehole-studiosdracoloths-risingen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfantasyfree-to-playteratera-1.4-million-accountstera-f2pWed, 20 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[F2P doubles TERA playerbase]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/13/f2p-doubles-tera-playerbase/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/13/f2p-doubles-tera-playerbase/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/13/f2p-doubles-tera-playerbase/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

F2P doubles TERA playerbase
While some like to say that switching to free-to-play is the death knell for a game, the opposite sure looks to be true for TERA. Whether it is because of the lure of the action combat model, the graphics, the fact that no content is locked behind a payment gate, or something else entirely, folks have flocked to the fantasy game since it went F2P a month ago. In fact, TERA's playerbase has swelled by over 500,000, doubling the number of registered users to over one million and causing Gameforge to open up six new servers in order to meet the demand.

Will the momentum hold? Only time will tell. But for now, F2P is definitely suiting TERA. For more on the free-to-play conversion, read Massively's exclusive interview with Associate Producer Patrick Sun.

MassivelyF2P doubles TERA playerbase originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Mar 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiosen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfantasyfree-to-playteraWed, 13 Mar 2013 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA invites new players to power level]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/tera-invites-new-players-to-power-level/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/tera-invites-new-players-to-power-level/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/tera-invites-new-players-to-power-level/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

TERA invites new players to powerlevel
Have you been waiting for a good reason to check TERA out for the first time? If free-to-play isn't enough incentive, En Masse has created a "No Sleep 'Til 60!" promotion that rewards brand-new players who log in and power-level to the endgame.

The promotion begins tomorrow and is open only to players who do not have a TERA account. By hitting certain milestones, players will accumulate rewards that increase the higher they get. The first tier of prizes begins at level 30 with the best being reserved for those who get to level 60 by March 26th.

The prizes include strongbox keys, XP boosts, reputation boosts, mirrored shades, mounts, and an extra character slot.

MassivelyTERA invites new players to power level originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Mar 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studioscontesten-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfantasyfree-to-playpower-levelpowerlevelprizespromotionteraMon, 11 Mar 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Standing room only]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/24/one-shots-standing-room-only/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/24/one-shots-standing-room-only/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/24/one-shots-standing-room-only/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

One Shots Standing room only
I love Bards and Bard-type classes. Always have, always will. There's something wonderfully against-the-typical-fantasy-grain about them in how they prefer a good solo on a harp to cleaving things in two with axes.

Reader Rebecca sent us in her Bard doing an impromptu woodland concert: "Here my Bard Rozily is strumming a tune in Northern Highlands as the snow begins to drift down. Sometimes in Vanguard you have to stop and enjoy the scenery."

Absolutely! Also, you may want to look into the fact that the lute seems to have severed your forearm. Check out the full picture and so much more after the jump!

Continue reading One Shots: Standing room only

MassivelyOne Shots: Standing room only originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 24 Feb 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbiowareblueholebluehole-studiosbring-back-one-shotsbuy-to-playeaelectronic-artsen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfantasyfree-to-playgalleriesgalleryguild-wars-2gw2lucasartsncsoftone-shotspics-or-it-didnt-happenreader-screenshotsreader-submissionssandboxsci-fiscreenshotscreenshotssoesonysony-online-entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtortelonterathe-old-republictoruser-submissionsvanguardvanguard-saga-of-heroesvgSun, 24 Feb 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Middle-earth cowboys]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/17/one-shots-middle-earth-cowboys/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/17/one-shots-middle-earth-cowboys/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/17/one-shots-middle-earth-cowboys/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

One Shots Middleearth cowboys
The recent Riders of Rohan expansion in Lord of the Rings Online has brought out the cowboy and cowgirl in a lot of us. Must be the emphasis on horseback riding over scenic plains while savage attacks are waged on settlements. It's here that we begin our journey through snapshots in MMO life this week.

Reader Binklewyst sets the scene for our first One Shots: "Riding over a low hill on the plains of Rohan, I stopped my warhorse to admire a view of the Faldham fortification. In the distance to the right is the evil Nink-hai warcamp."

Saddle up, pard'ners. The frontier awaits us after the jump!

Continue reading One Shots: Middle-earth cowboys

MassivelyOne Shots: Middle-earth cowboys originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 17 Feb 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbiowareblueholebluehole-studiosbring-back-one-shotsbuy-to-playeaelectronic-artsen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfantasyfree-to-playgalleriesgalleryguild-wars-2gw2lord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolucasartsncsoftone-shotspics-or-it-didnt-happenreader-screenshotsreader-submissionssci-fiscreenshotscreenshotsstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorterathe-old-republictorturbineturbine-entertainmentuser-submissionsSun, 17 Feb 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Interview: TERA's Patrick Sun on free-to-play]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/11/massively-interview-tera-s-patrick-sun-on-free-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/11/massively-interview-tera-s-patrick-sun-on-free-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/11/massively-interview-tera-s-patrick-sun-on-free-to-play/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

TERA Combat
Action-MMO TERA officially went free-to-play last week, and with the transition came a number of questions regarding payment tiers, transition plans, and En Masse's vision for the future of the game. Will TERA turn into a "pay-to-win" graveyard, or will it be another shining example of how to do free-to-play just right?

We sat down with associate producer Patrick Sun to find out.

Continue reading Massively Interview: TERA's Patrick Sun on free-to-play

MassivelyMassively Interview: TERA's Patrick Sun on free-to-play originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiosen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiuminterviewinterviewsmicrotransactionmicrotransactionspatrick-sunpremiumteraMon, 11 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA doubling its dungeon drop rate through Monday]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/08/tera-doubling-its-dungeon-drop-rate-through-monday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/08/tera-doubling-its-dungeon-drop-rate-through-monday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/08/tera-doubling-its-dungeon-drop-rate-through-monday/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

TERA double loot drop weekend
If you're still on the fence about checking out TERA's new free-to-play flavor, maybe this will change your mind: double loot drops! En Masse is running a bonus event that begins at noon Friday and continues through noon on Monday.

All TERA dungeons will feature double the normal drop rate, which means "more weapons, more gear, more cash -- more everything," according to the announcement on the game's official website.

MassivelyTERA doubling its dungeon drop rate through Monday originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 08 Feb 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiosdungeondungeonsen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfantasyfree-to-playteratera-double-loot-dropFri, 08 Feb 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA free-to-play launches today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/05/tera-free-to-play-launches-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/05/tera-free-to-play-launches-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/05/tera-free-to-play-launches-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

TERA Berserker
It's launch day for TERA: Rising, the free-to-play evolution of En Masse Entertainment's fantasy action MMO. The company is releasing new content, new servers, and a new cinematic trailer to celebrate.

The Crucible of Flame dungeon heads up the in-game goodies alongside a three-on-three PvP battleground map. Players now have the option of joining an existing TERA server or starting fresh on either the new PvE or new PvP shard. TERA's F2P model features no content restrictions for free players, and previous account holders are automatically granted Founder status.

Head past the break for the launch-day cinematic.

[Source: En Masse press release]

Continue reading TERA free-to-play launches today

MassivelyTERA free-to-play launches today originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 05 Feb 2013 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiosen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfantasyfree-to-playteratera-cinematictera-risingtera-trailervideoTue, 05 Feb 2013 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA: Rising's cash shop will be delayed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/04/tera-risings-cash-shop-will-be-delayed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/04/tera-risings-cash-shop-will-be-delayed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/04/tera-risings-cash-shop-will-be-delayed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

TERA Rising's cash shop will be delayed
You may have heard a bit about TERA transforming into TERA: Rising and going free-to-play on February 5th (or, as we like to call it, tomorrow). That's still happening: You'll get to log in for free and play for free and do things for free and it'll be just wonderful. However, if you were hoping to drop some dough to pick up things like a mount, costumes, or elite status, you'll be out of luck for a few days.

Valkyon Outfitters, the place where meatspace money turns into cyberspace loot and 1337ness, will take a few extra days to be ready for business. You'll have to make do with checking out all the awesome new content without the benefit of a brand-new costume until the shop is ready to open its doors.

We know it'll be tough, but you can do this. Just wait a few more days to start flinging your money at the game.

MassivelyTERA: Rising's cash shop will be delayed originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 04 Feb 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studioscash-shopen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfantasyfree-to-playteratera-risingvalkyon-outfittersMon, 04 Feb 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[En Masse Entertainment unveils TERA: Rising patch notes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/02/en-masse-entertainment-unveils-tera-rising-patch-notes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/02/en-masse-entertainment-unveils-tera-rising-patch-notes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/02/en-masse-entertainment-unveils-tera-rising-patch-notes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- TERA
On February 5th, En Masse Entertainment will be bringing TERA to the masses with TERA: Rising, which will see the game transition to a free-to-play business model. To help give players a leg-up on the competition, En Masse has released the patch notes for the upcoming update, and the list of changes is rather extensive. Some highlights include the introduction of the three-on-three Champions' Skyring battleground, the new competitive dungeon Crucible of Flame, a number of tweaks to many of the game's classes, and of course the much-needed crafting overhaul. The notes state that the game's crafting system "has been overhauled to streamline the process and simplify the amount of additional materials needed."

But because of the game's change to F2P, one of the biggest chunks of the upcoming patch is the addition of various account tiers. Accounts are divided into Elite Status, Standard, and Founder. The Founder account type will be granted to players who purchased TERA prior to the F2P conversion, Standard accounts will be given to new F2P players, and Elite Status is available via a $14.99 US per month subscription. For the full patch notes and all the juicy details on the switch to F2P, head on to TERA's official site to sate your curiosity.

MassivelyEn Masse Entertainment unveils TERA: Rising patch notes originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 02 Feb 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiosen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfantasyfree-to-playpatchpatch-notesteratera-risingSat, 02 Feb 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA F2P starts February 5]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/30/tera-f2p-starts-february-5/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/30/tera-f2p-starts-february-5/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/30/tera-f2p-starts-february-5/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

TERA F2P starts February 5
En Masse has set a date for TERA's free-to-play conversion, and that date is February 5th. The company will also add new content to the fantasy title including a three-on-three PvP battleground and the Crucible of Flame dungeon.

TERA's F2P offerings include three player tiers (standard, founder, and elite), all of which feature full access to the game's content. Founders receive additional character slots, bank tabs, and a special mount, while elite players get dungeon bonuses, additional quests, daily items, mounts, and store discounts.

[Source: En Masse press release]

MassivelyTERA F2P starts February 5 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 30 Jan 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiosen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfantasyfree-to-playteratera-f2ptera-risingWed, 30 Jan 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Slumbering death]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/27/one-shots-slumbering-death/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/27/one-shots-slumbering-death/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/27/one-shots-slumbering-death/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

One Shots Slumbering death
Reader John's going to get me to actually say something nice about TERA. Are you ready for it? Because this doesn't happen often. Here's my compliment: It's a beautiful-looking game. Really. I can't deny that there's a special level of polish and eye when it comes to its visuals.

Anyway, John sent us in this captivating picture of a place that might look pretty in the daylight, but you probably don't want to be loitering after nightfall. "I just started playing TERA upon hearing about the F2P conversion. This is my Amani Berserker traveling through the low-level Valley of Titans and stopping behind a pair of rock giants. These rock giants are all over the place here -- I wonder what will happen if they ever wake up?"

Dance party? That's my guess. See John's full-color photo in all its glory after the break in addition to other terrifying vistas.

Continue reading One Shots: Slumbering death

MassivelyOne Shots: Slumbering death originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 27 Jan 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionanetarenanetback-to-betabetablizzardblizzard-entertainmentblueholebluehole-studiosbring-back-one-shotsbrowserbrowser-basedbuy-to-playcasualen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfantasyflashfree-to-playgalleriesgalleryglitchguild-wars-2gw2hipsterncsoftone-shotspics-or-it-didnt-happenreader-screenshotsreader-submissionssandboxscreenshotscreenshotsteratinyspeckunlauncheninguser-submissionswarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowSun, 27 Jan 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA outlines free-to-play restrictions in a new chart]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/26/tera-outlines-free-to-play-restrictions-in-a-new-chart/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/26/tera-outlines-free-to-play-restrictions-in-a-new-chart/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/26/tera-outlines-free-to-play-restrictions-in-a-new-chart/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Don't ask why, it's on a chart. It must be true if it's on a chart.
By this point, we're all familiar with how transitions happen from subscription games to subscription-optional games. There are usually three tiers of membership; subscribers get the most stuff, and former subscribers get a few extra perks. In TERA's case, however, the restrictions outlined in a handy new chart suggest that it's not just subscribers getting a lot of extra benefit out of the change, as anyone who purchased the game in the past will get hefty rewards.

Founders (that is, players who had purchased a boxed or digital copy of the game) will have access to eight character slots, a special title, and a special mount. Subscribers who had not previously purchased the game will be limited to two slots with more purchasable. Of course, subscribers also get shortened dungeon cooldowns, more auction house listings, and several bonus daily items. Looking to get in on the Founder benefits? You'll have to move quickly; digital sales of the game will be discontinued upon free-to-play launch, and no further boxes will be produced, so you'll want to buy soon to secure your benefits.

[Thanks to Justin for the tip!]

MassivelyTERA outlines free-to-play restrictions in a new chart originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 26 Jan 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiosboxed-copybusiness-modelsdigital-copyen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfantasyformer-subscribersfree-to-playnewssubscriber-benefitsteraSat, 26 Jan 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Second Wind: Taking another look at TERA]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/25/second-wind-taking-another-look-at-tera/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/25/second-wind-taking-another-look-at-tera/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/25/second-wind-taking-another-look-at-tera/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

TERA Header
I am beautiful. Seriously, I'm the best-looking game character that has ever pretended to live. Not only am I gorgeous, I'm lethal. With my massive lance, heavy shield, and ridiculously tight dress, I can make short work of pretty much any foe with the stones to come at me. I am as dangerous as I am attractive, and that is saying quite a bit.

This is TERA. Launched in the west by En Masse Entertainment back in May, the fantasy MMO promised gorgeous graphics, fast-paced action combat and a different way to experience a now-familiar formula. Lured in by pretty trailers and compelling class descriptions, I picked up the collector's edition of the game just before release. I played for a few weeks, streamed it a couple of times, and promptly forgot it existed. When my initial 30 days expired, I never subscribed for more.

But now TERA is going free-to-play. And since En Masse was kind enough to give me (and everyone else) a couple of free weeks of playtime before the F2P transition, I figured now was as good a time as any to revisit the title and see if removing my wallet from the equation would be enough to keep me engaged.

The answer? Perhaps.

Gallery: TERA PAX 2012

Continue reading Second Wind: Taking another look at TERA

MassivelySecond Wind: Taking another look at TERA originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 Jan 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiosen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumhands-onmicrotransactionmicrotransactionspost-launchpremiumPrettyre-reviewroundtablesecond-impressionssecond-looksecond-windteratera-freetranscriptupdated-impressionsFri, 25 Jan 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Memorable marketing campaigns]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/24/the-perfect-ten-memorable-marketing-campaigns/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/24/the-perfect-ten-memorable-marketing-campaigns/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/24/the-perfect-ten-memorable-marketing-campaigns/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Perfect Ten Memorable marketing campaigns
I took only a single marketing class in college, so by no means am I an instant expert in anything but being on the receiving end of marketers' nefarious experiments to manipulate me so that I buy their stuff. I did take away the lesson that all marketers are professional liars who have no shame or dignity. Pretty much the same as a blogger, so I guess I have a backup career.

Believe it or not, MMOs get off easy when it comes to notorious marketing campaigns. Anything on the following list, good or bad, is a pale shadow of what we've seen in the larger video game industry. Still, there have been plenty of attempts to promote MMOs in ways that make us either applaud or laugh at the studio (and sometimes both at once, which takes coordination).

After doing some staff polling and internal polling, here are 10 memorable marketing campaigns from the era of MMORPGs. Maybe they're all winners in that they got noticed by at least one person, even if they're the most foolish notions in history. Here we go!

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Memorable marketing campaigns

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Memorable marketing campaigns originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionadadsadvertisingadvertizingarcheagebiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentblueholebluehole-studioscivonyclassic-mmoconquestcrypticcryptic-studioscypherseaelectronic-artsen-masseen-masse-entertainmenteq-2eq-iieq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iievonyf2pfantasyfeaturedflash-mobfpsfree-to-playgaglobal agendahi-rezhi-rez-studioshumorlord-britishlucasartsmarketingmmofpsmythicmythic-entertainmentnexonopinionp10perfect-10perfect-tenperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentplay-me-my-lordpvppweriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararounduprvrsandboxsci-fishootersoesonysony-online-entertainmentspy-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstoswtorterathe-old-republicthe-perfect-10the-perfect-tenthird-person-shooterthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptop-10top-10-listtop-tentop-ten-listtortpstriontrion-worldsultimaultima onlineuowarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 24 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[En Masse reactivates all TERA accounts for seven days]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/16/en-masse-reactivates-all-tera-accounts-for-seven-days/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/16/en-masse-reactivates-all-tera-accounts-for-seven-days/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/16/en-masse-reactivates-all-tera-accounts-for-seven-days/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

TERA seven-day reactivation
If you're a former TERA player thinking of coming back to the game after it goes free-to-play next month, you'll be pleased to know that you can log in right now without paying a dime. En Masse originally reactivated the accounts of all past subscribers for seven days, but there were some technical difficulties that made it, well, difficult for some folks to get in game.

To compensate, the firm has added additional game time to everyone's acccount, so all you need to do is patch up and remember your password. Full details are viewable on the official TERA website.

MassivelyEn Masse reactivates all TERA accounts for seven days originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 Jan 2013 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiosen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyteratera-free-gametimetera-reactivationtera-seven-days-of-gametimeWed, 16 Jan 2013 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Will you play TERA when it's free?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/10/the-daily-grind-will-you-play-tera-when-its-free/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/10/the-daily-grind-will-you-play-tera-when-its-free/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/10/the-daily-grind-will-you-play-tera-when-its-free/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

TERA Aman on the Island of Dawn
TERA and I have a strange relationship. During the buildup to En Masse's fantasy game I wrote dozens of articles about it, spent considerable amounts of time studying up on it via fansites and foreign news reports, and generally got pretty excited by it all the way around.

At launch, I enjoyed it to a degree, but for whatever reason it didn't sustain my interest past the free month that came with my collector's edition. I'm tempted to pick it up again now, though, but my flirtation has less to do with the business model and more to do with being re-exposed to the game's gorgeous visuals via the new trailer.

What about you, Massively readers? Will you play TERA next month after the F2P conversion, and if so, is the business model the main reason why?

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: Will you play TERA when it's free? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Jan 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiosdaily-grinden-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfantasyfree-to-playopiniontdgteratera-f2pthe-daily-grindThu, 10 Jan 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA going free-to-play in February]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/09/tera-going-free-to-play-in-february/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/09/tera-going-free-to-play-in-february/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/09/tera-going-free-to-play-in-february/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

TERA dungeon boss
TERA is officially going free-to-play this February. The exact date has yet to be released, but En Masse Entertainment has collected all of the other pertinent details in a lengthy F2P FAQ that you can find on the official website.

The new game service will feature three tiers: Founder, Elite, and Standard. Standard is TERA's free offering, while Elite is the usual $14.99 per month subscription option. Founder status is acquired by purchasing and redeeming a copy of the game and is good for life. Some of the free-to-play limitations include character slots (two per server with the option to purchase more), bank slots (72 with the option to purchase more), and various brokerage fees and taxes. There are no race, class, or content limitations, although Elite players do get dungeon cooldown bonuses.

A full list of account tier differences may be found in the official FAQ. You can also check out the F2P announcement trailer after the cut.

Continue reading TERA going free-to-play in February

MassivelyTERA going free-to-play in February originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 Jan 2013 08:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arboreablueholebluehole-studiosbreakingbrian-knoxen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfantasyfree-to-playteratera-f2ptrailervideoWed, 09 Jan 2013 08:15:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA drops to $5 on Amazon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/04/tera-drops-to-5-on-amazon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/04/tera-drops-to-5-on-amazon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/04/tera-drops-to-5-on-amazon/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Unfortunately you cannot mass-buy the game for five bucks a pop and then get several months of subscription for one account.
The holiday season is over. You've gotten games for the holidays, in all likelihood, and you probably also picked up a new game or a dozen over on Steam. But you're still looking to pad out your game library just a wee bit, maybe with something a bit more MMO-related. What can you do? Well, you could pick up TERA for $5 at Amazon right now. Yes, less than the price of subscribing for a month.

Too good to be true? Well, there are limitations. The only version thusly on sale is the digital download, meaning that if you'd rather have a physical copy, you'll have to pay a bit more. It's also only the standard digital edition with no extra bells or whistles. Still, it's the game and a month of subscription time for less than a fast food lunch, so if you still haven't tried the game and have a desire to do so, your time is now.

[Thanks to Segun for the tip!]

MassivelyTERA drops to $5 on Amazon originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Jan 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonblueholebluehole-studiosdigital-downloaddirect-downloaden-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasylow-pricepromotionsale-pricesalesteraFri, 04 Jan 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[En Masse names Lee new CEO, hires veteran Nexon exec]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/03/en-masse-names-lee-new-ceo-hires-nexon-veteran/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/03/en-masse-names-lee-new-ceo-hires-nexon-veteran/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/03/en-masse-names-lee-new-ceo-hires-nexon-veteran/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

En Masse logo
En Masse Entertainment may not be switching TERA to a free-to-play model in America just yet, but the firm has hired an executive from F2P giant Nexon. A new press release details the appointment of Soo Min Park, a 12-year Nexon veteran who will serve as En Masse's COO.

The company has also announced that former VP of Publishing Chris Lee will take over as CEO, while Brian Knox will move into an executive producer role.

"The additions to our management team are all about building the foundation for a strong future in 2013 and beyond," said Lee. "Publishing games in today's marketplace requires a group of leaders with diverse backgrounds in order to succeed. Now, En Masse is in an even better position to bring fun and innovative games to players."

[Source: En Masse press release]

MassivelyEn Masse names Lee new CEO, hires veteran Nexon exec originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 Jan 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiosbrian-knoxchris-leeen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasysoo-min-parkteraThu, 03 Jan 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Big TERA content update in the works, game going F2P in Korea and Japan]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/26/big-tera-content-update-in-the-works-game-going-f2p-in-korea-an/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/26/big-tera-content-update-in-the-works-game-going-f2p-in-korea-an/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/26/big-tera-content-update-in-the-works-game-going-f2p-in-korea-an/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

TERA - New dungeon content
NHN is reportedly taking steps to convert the Korean and Japanese versions of TERA to a free-to-play business model. MMO Culture says that TERA Korea will be F2P as of January 10th, while TERA Japan will finish its changeover in mid-February.

Free accounts will be restricted to three or four character slots depending on the region as well as longer dungeon cool-down times. Characters will be allowed 72 storage slots.

TERA is also getting a major content update in the near future. The patch includes a revamped political system, "content centered around guilds and the community," large-scale PvP events, sieges and airships, and new dungeons. NHN has released a story-focused teaser video for the update which you can view after the cut (there are no subtitles). Thus far En Masse has not commented on any business model changes for the American client.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in!]

Continue reading Big TERA content update in the works, game going F2P in Korea and Japan

MassivelyBig TERA content update in the works, game going F2P in Korea and Japan originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 26 Dec 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiosen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfantasyfree-to-playteratera-f2ptera-japantera-koreaWed, 26 Dec 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Laser light shows]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/23/one-shots-laser-light-shows/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/23/one-shots-laser-light-shows/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/23/one-shots-laser-light-shows/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

One Shots Laser light shows
Ancient civilizations always seem to have the flair for the dramatic, especially if they were sitting on suspiciously advanced technology. We begin our trip through One Shots today with a look at Star Wars: The Old Republic's newest PvP warzone and its so-called "ancient" artifacts.

Reader John was captivated by the look of this machine: "It would be fair to say that much of SWTOR looks like either the traditional fantasy MMOs we've all played before or a series of corridors. With Ancient Hypergates, however, BioWare has delivered an incredible-looking area that feels perhaps like a cross between Mass Effect and Halo, though of course the lightsaber battles that take place across this arena add the necessary 'Star Wars' touch."

Carry on, my wayward sons and daughters, and join us as we dive further into the visuals of MMOs than any who have come before.

Continue reading One Shots: Laser light shows

MassivelyOne Shots: Laser light shows originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 23 Dec 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>back-to-betabetabiowareblueholebluehole-studiosbring-back-one-shotsbrowserbrowser-basedcasualeaelectronic-artsen-masseen-masse-entertainmenteq-2eq-iieq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyflashfree-to-playgalleriesgalleryglitchhipsterlucasartsone-shotspics-or-it-didnt-happenreader-screenshotsreader-submissionssandboxsci-fiscreenshotscreenshotssoesonysony-online-entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorterathe-old-republictinyspecktorunlauncheninguser-submissionsSun, 23 Dec 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA update letter hints at 2013 dungeon, battleground, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/20/tera-update-letter-hints-at-2013-dungeon-battleground-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/20/tera-update-letter-hints-at-2013-dungeon-battleground-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/20/tera-update-letter-hints-at-2013-dungeon-battleground-and-more/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

TERA's Christmas header
En Masse community manager Catherine "Minea" Park has published a new post on TERA's official website. The letter serves as a recap for the game's 2012 updates as well as a brief preview of what to expect from the world of Arborea in 2013.

First up is the new Crucible of Flame dungeon, followed by Champions' Skyring which is a three-on-three battleground that restricts the use of consumable items. En Masse will also be implementing two new reputation factions, and crafting and gathering will be "streamlined and simplified a bit by decreasing the amount and number of different ingredients needed to craft among other changes."

Full details are yours via the links below.

MassivelyTERA update letter hints at 2013 dungeon, battleground, and more originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 Dec 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studioscatherine-parkchampions-skyringcrucible-of-flameen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasymineateraThu, 20 Dec 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA entices players to buy boxed copies with a totally sweet lion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/13/tera-entices-players-to-buy-boxed-copies-with-a-totally-sweet-li/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/13/tera-entices-players-to-buy-boxed-copies-with-a-totally-sweet-li/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/13/tera-entices-players-to-buy-boxed-copies-with-a-totally-sweet-li/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Sorry, I was waiting on a panther.
You are a discerning consumer. You've looked at the the box for TERA many a time, and you've said to yourself, "I would enjoy this game... but not yet. No, I want to wait until buying this box gives me an awesome lion to ride around as a mount. I will name her Karen." If this sounds like you, good news! Your oddly specific desire has been rewarded with the game's newest promotion!

So how do you go about getting this completely awesome lion mount, technically referred to by the game as the tawny huntress? You just buy a boxed copy of the game and enter the authorization code backwards. The promotion also rewards you with two emeralds and two semi-enigmatic scrolls, but the lion is the centerpiece. However, this promotion is only valid for boxed copies of the game bought on or after December 12th. If you already have a box, you're a bit out of luck, but anyone waiting on a free lion has just lucked out.

MassivelyTERA entices players to buy boxed copies with a totally sweet lion originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Dec 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiosboxboxed-copyen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasygame-promotionlionmountpromotionpromotional-offerretail-boxteratotally-sweet-lionThu, 13 Dec 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA holiday event wants you to kill Santa]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/11/tera-holiday-event-wants-you-to-kill-santa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/11/tera-holiday-event-wants-you-to-kill-santa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/11/tera-holiday-event-wants-you-to-kill-santa/#commentsFiled under: , ,

TERA holiday event has you killing Santa
What could possibly more fun than hunting down and killing Santa? How about doing it in a corset and fishnets?

From December 14 to January 2, TERA is inviting players to find both Fat and Tiny Santas in game during their Santa's Slay event. Holiday drop loot includes themed cosmetic items, enchanting gear, and high-level consumables. You also have a chance to win a Santa cap that's exclusive to this event.

Check out more info on the event's official announcement.

MassivelyTERA holiday event wants you to kill Santa originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Dec 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiosen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyholidayholiday-2012lootsantasanta-clausesantas-slayteraTue, 11 Dec 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[En Masse reveals a friendlier free trial with TERA's Discovery Edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/06/en-masse-reveals-a-friendlier-free-trial-with-teras-discovery-e/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/06/en-masse-reveals-a-friendlier-free-trial-with-teras-discovery-e/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/06/en-masse-reveals-a-friendlier-free-trial-with-teras-discovery-e/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

En Masse reveals a friendlier free trial with TERA's Discovery Edition
En Masse Entertainment has taken the wraps off a new trial program for its fantasy MMORPG, TERA.The Discovery Edition is an improvement of the previous version that increases the level cap and removes the seven-day restriction.

To sign up, you'll need an En Masse account and not much else. There are some limitations, however, chief among them a 200-gold cap, two characters per server, a level cap of 28, and max gathering and crafting skills of 150 and 100, respectively. There are also a few chat restrictions. You can see them, as well as the rest of the Discovery Edition specifics, at the official TERA website.

[Thanks to Davey for the tip!]

MassivelyEn Masse reveals a friendlier free trial with TERA's Discovery Edition originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 Nov 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiosdiscovery-editionen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyfree-trialteratera-discovery-editiontera-trialtrialTue, 06 Nov 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA Producer Chris Hager leaves En Masse]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/05/tera-producer-chris-hager-leaves-en-masse/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/05/tera-producer-chris-hager-leaves-en-masse/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/05/tera-producer-chris-hager-leaves-en-masse/#commentsFiled under: , ,

TERA Producer Chris Hager leaves En Masse
TERA Producer Chris Hager has left the fields of action combat and big-ass monsters, according to the studio. A PR rep released the following statement to Massively: "Yes, we can confirm Chris Hager is no longer with En Masse Entertainment. We wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors."

Bluehole Studios' Harns Kim first made mention of Hager's departure on his Twitter feed.

It is unclear whether Hager left of his own volition or was let go. Prior to working for En Masse, Hager was with NCsoft, developing titles like Guild Wars, Lineage II, and Aion.

[Thanks to Maniac for the tip!]

MassivelyTERA Producer Chris Hager leaves En Masse originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Nov 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionblueholebluehole-studiobluehole-studioschris-hageren-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyfiredguild-warshards-kimlayoffleftlet-golineage-iincsoftteraMon, 05 Nov 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Where the demons dwell]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/28/one-shots-where-the-demons-dwell/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/28/one-shots-where-the-demons-dwell/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/28/one-shots-where-the-demons-dwell/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

One Shots Where the demons dwell
In ancient times, hundreds of years before the dawn of history, lived a strange race of people, the Druids. No one knows who they were or what they were doing. That is, except for One Shots contributor Brokenwing, who sends us this gorgeous shot of Stonehenge after he completed a mission in The Secret World.

"In all Halloween missions in TSW, cats are involved," Brokenwing writes, "and you need to defeat an Incognito -- the cat god himself. In Stonehenge! At night! It's so much fun and it looks beautiful."

Welcome to a very One Shots Halloween, sponsored by The Great Pumpkin, Inc.!

Continue reading One Shots: Where the demons dwell

MassivelyOne Shots: Where the demons dwell originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 28 Oct 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetblueholebluehole-studiosbring-back-one-shotsen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfactionfantasyfuncomgalleriesgalleryguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw2horrormythologyncsoftone-shotspics-or-it-didnt-happenreader-screenshotsreader-submissionssci-fantasyscreenshotscreenshotssecret-worldskill-basedterathe-secret-worldtswuser-submissionsSun, 28 Oct 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA revs up Masquerade Mayhem event]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/23/tera-revs-up-masquerade-mayhem-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/23/tera-revs-up-masquerade-mayhem-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/23/tera-revs-up-masquerade-mayhem-event/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

TERA revs up Masquerade Mayhem
Creepy and kooky, mysterious and ooky, that's TERA's Masquerade Mayhem in a nutshell. The game's first Halloween event kicks off today with a huge assortment of activities, events, and prizes to behold.

Players will be treated to free gifts just for logging in, although it'll take some blood, sweat, and fears to earn the special costumes and mount during this event. A giant pumpkin ghost named Gourdo is haunting the various towns, and players can earn goodies by slinging pies at him. How do you get pies? From killing pie-toting mobs, of course.

En Masse also has a themed dungeon for players to investigate, but don't forget to take a break on the 30th to partake in the Masquerade Ball. You can get a pie-full of Masquerade Mayhem event in the official video after the break!

Continue reading TERA revs up Masquerade Mayhem event

MassivelyTERA revs up Masquerade Mayhem event originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Oct 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiosen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasygourdohalloweenhalloween-2012halloween-eventin-game-eventmasquerade-mayhemteravideoTue, 23 Oct 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Don't go chasing waterfalls]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/21/one-shots-dont-go-chasing-waterfalls/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/21/one-shots-dont-go-chasing-waterfalls/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/21/one-shots-dont-go-chasing-waterfalls/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

One Shots Don't go chasing waterfalls
The wisdom of TLC flows down through the ages in many forms, but perhaps the group's greatest lesson was this: Don't go chasing waterfalls; please stick to the rivers and the lakes that you're used to. In other words, if you go exploring in MMOs, you're only inviting destruction to rain down on your head, so just stay home.

Wait a minute, that's not a good lesson at all. Forget it. Right now.

Welcome back to One Shots, the column that you brought back and is now extremely lonely because only faithful reader Eric sent us in something from this past week! Admire Eric's pursuit of Guild Wars 2 waterfalls after the break, and be more like Eric by sending us in your favorite MMO screenshots with descriptions.

Continue reading One Shots: Don't go chasing waterfalls

MassivelyOne Shots: Don't go chasing waterfalls originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 21 Oct 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpganetarenanetbattlenetbiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentblueholebluehole-studiosbring-back-one-shotscash-shopd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiieaelectronic-artsen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasygalleriesgallerygothic-fantasyguild-wars-2gw2lucasartsmultiplayerncsoftone-shotsonline-multiplayerpics-or-it-didnt-happenreader-screenshotsreader-submissionsroguelikerpgsci-fiscreenshotscreenshotsstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorterathe-old-republictoruser-submissionsSun, 21 Oct 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA aims to scare the pants off you with new Halloween event]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/16/tera-aims-to-scare-the-pants-off-you-with-new-halloween-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/16/tera-aims-to-scare-the-pants-off-you-with-new-halloween-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/16/tera-aims-to-scare-the-pants-off-you-with-new-halloween-event/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

TERA aims to scare the pants off you with new Halloween event
TERA is joining the MMO Halloween tradition this year with its own event that promises a loot-fest of giveaways for characters level 40 to 60. Dubbed the Spirit Rally, this festival will run from 3 p.m. EDT on Tuesday, October 16th, to 3 p.m. EDT on Monday, October 22nd, and promises not tricks but treats in the form of high-level charms, crystals, potions, and more.

This event is launching on the heels of a new content patch that adds a hard mode for Manaya's Core, a special achievement for level 60 characters, oodles of skill changes for the Berserker class, and more. Check out the complete patch notes for more details.

MassivelyTERA aims to scare the pants off you with new Halloween event originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Oct 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>berserkerblueholebluehole-studiosen-masseen-masse-entertainmenteventfantasyhalloweenspirit-rallyteraTue, 16 Oct 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Beautiful balloon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/07/one-shots-beautiful-balloon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/07/one-shots-beautiful-balloon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/07/one-shots-beautiful-balloon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

One Shots
Massively logically selects for readers who aren't necessarily playing World of Warcraft -- if you were, you'd probably be reading our sister site WoW Insider, not this column. But I am still a WoW fan, as is this week's One Shots submitter, William. He sent in a freshly snapped pic from Mists of Pandaria with this note:
This screenshot is a little bit of a spoiler, so I won't actually say much about what's in it, but needless to say, this is one of my favourite scenes from the Pandaren starting area. The art design is fantastic in Blizzard's new expansion!
Also, panda in a balloon! William's color image is tucked after the break along with a few more of your One Shots-worthy images.

Continue reading One Shots: Beautiful balloon

MassivelyOne Shots: Beautiful balloon originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 07 Oct 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionanetarenanetback-to-betabetablizzardblizzard-entertainmentblueholebluehole-studiosbrianna-royce-oneshotsbring-back-one-shotsbrowserbrowser-basedcasualen-masseen-masse-entertainmentexpansionf2pfantasyflashfree-to-playgalleriesgalleryglitchguild-wars-2gw2hipstermistsmists-of-pandariamopncsoftone-shotspandariapandaspics-or-it-didnt-happenreader-screenshotsreader-submissionssandboxscreenshotscreenshotsteratinyspeckunlauncheninguser-submissionswarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowSun, 07 Oct 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Wings]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/23/one-shots-wings/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/23/one-shots-wings/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/23/one-shots-wings/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

One Shots
Resident Massively Aion columnist MJ Guthrie could sum up the best reason to play her favorite MMO in just one word: wings! That's something reader Leandra plainly echoes in today's featured One Shots submission. She sent us this image of her character soaring through Aion along with this note:
I've been toying around with Aion a bit and took my baby Chanter, Elanyne, for her first flight through the Abyss. I kept an eye out for Elyos, but thankfully (though somewhat disappointingly), I was able to quest in peace. I guess I'll have to level up more and then go looking to pick some fights!
You red, you dead -- that's what I always say! Leandra's flight and a few other reader screenies are tucked beyond the break.

Continue reading One Shots: Wings

MassivelyOne Shots: Wings originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 23 Sep 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionascensionblueholebluehole-studiosbrianna-royce-oneshotsbring-back-one-shotsen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfallen-earthfantasyfefree-to-playg1galleriesgallerygamersfirsthistoricalncsoftone-shotspics-or-it-didnt-happenpost-apocpost-apocalypticpvpreader-screenshotsreader-submissionssandboxsci-fiscreenshotscreenshotstanktanksteratruly-freeuser-submissionswarwargaming.netwastelandsworld-of-tankswotSun, 23 Sep 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Are live events due for a revival?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/22/the-daily-grind-are-live-events-due-for-a-revival/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/22/the-daily-grind-are-live-events-due-for-a-revival/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/22/the-daily-grind-are-live-events-due-for-a-revival/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Ultima Online
Live MMO events have long since fallen by the development wayside in the pursuit of scripted "dynamic" events. It used to be that game studios would send paid GMs into the game to roleplay with players in a tabletop-like scenario, conducting large-scale storytelling events and spawning enemies, locations, and items. Ultima Online, which celebrates its 15th birthday this week, is particularly well-known for these sorts of events, but they've seldom been replicated in later generations of triple-A MMOs.

TERA, apparently, hopes to change that with the implementation of Flash events, "spontaneous events focused on small groups of users and run by staff." They might seem a little out of place in TERA, but they could be a niche worth resurrecting. Live, impromptu events might have the disadvantage of involving only small groups of people and not the entire population, but that's exactly what makes them so intriguing for the players who happen to be in the right zone at the right time when one of these events starts.

What do you think? Do you wish more studios would get over their crush on pseudo-dynamic events and return to live events?

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 live events due for a revival? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 22 Sep 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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TERA offering group loot bonuses, instance reset scrolls
En Masse is running a new "Instance Gratification" promotion for TERA over the next two weekends. The game's official website says that the goal is community building. Given the recent server merges and the upheaval generally associated with such, we think that's probably a solid idea.

If you're level 59 or under, you'll get 50% more loot drops than normal when you group up and tackle the game's dungeon content. Players of all levels get an instance reset scroll every day as long as they log in.

The bonus weekends run from September 21st through the 24th and September 28th through October 1st.

MassivelyTERA offering group loot bonuses, instance reset scrolls originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 Sep 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiosen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasygroup-loot-bonusinstance-reset-scrollteratera-instance-resettera-loot-bonustera-weekend-bonusesThu, 20 Sep 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA's Chris Hager explains server merges and game health]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/19/teras-chris-hager-explains-server-merges-and-game-health/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/19/teras-chris-hager-explains-server-merges-and-game-health/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/19/teras-chris-hager-explains-server-merges-and-game-health/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

TERA's Chris Hager explains server merges and game health
Like a lot of MMOs released in recent years, TERA launched with a bang and then dwindled, forcing En Masse to first lay off staff back in August and then lay off servers in preparation for yesterday's realm merges. And yet the studio seems determined to keep the game alive in the West, promising content updates and small-group, impromptu flash events run by event staff, the likes of which MMO players rarely see outside of old-school games like Ultima Online.

Curious about what all these news bytes portend for the game's future, we sat down with En Masse Entertainment Producer Chris Hager to discuss the reasoning behind the server merges, the effect of the layoffs on the game, and whether TERA might just be the next title to go free-to-play.

Continue reading TERA's Chris Hager explains server merges and game health

MassivelyTERA's Chris Hager explains server merges and game health originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>argon-queenblueholebluehole-studioschris-hageren-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyfeaturedinterviewinterviewsterathe-argon-queenWed, 19 Sep 2012 09:00:00 EST