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[Mount & Blade: Warband DLC features 250-player battles]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/mount-and-blade-warband-dlc-features-250-player-battles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/mount-and-blade-warband-dlc-features-250-player-battles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/mount-and-blade-warband-dlc-features-250-player-battles/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Mount and Blade: Warband - Napoleonic Wars
A Mount & Blade MMO is something we've wanted to see for a long time. While that's not exactly happening, 250-player battles is probably the next best thing. Paradox has just released a new DLC pack for Mount & Blade: Warband called Napoleonic Wars. It brings the game's signature real-time combat to 19th century Europe and gives players the ability to use soldiers, artillery, and even battlefield musicians to wage epic multiplayer battles.

Napoleonic Wars features five nations, a wide range of artillery pieces, over 220 new units, an Engineer class that uses barricades, trenches, and explosives. There's also a new commander battle mode for your squad-leader gameplay needs. The DLC pack will set you back $9.99. Oh, and don't forget to check out the launch trailer after the cut.

[Source: Paradox press release]

Continue reading Mount & Blade: Warband DLC features 250-player battles

MassivelyMount & Blade: Warband DLC features 250-player battles originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250-player-battlesbattlefield-musiciansdlcengineerfantasyflying-squirrelhistoricalmount-and-blademount-and-blade-dlcmount-and-blade-expansionmount-and-blade-warbandmount-and-blade-warband-napoleonic-warsnapoleonic-warsparadoxParadox-InteractivetaleworldstrailersvideowarFri, 20 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hunker down and blow up: Meet PlanetSide 2's Engineer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/hunker-down-and-blow-up-meet-planetside-2s-engineer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/hunker-down-and-blow-up-meet-planetside-2s-engineer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/hunker-down-and-blow-up-meet-planetside-2s-engineer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

PlanetSide 2
If PlanetSide 2's recent Infiltrator class reveal didn't grab you by the throat and say, "Play me with very last, dying gasp in your rapidly-turning-blue body," then SOE would like to try again with the Engineer. PS2's Engineer got a promotion from his old duties as a wrench monkey, opting instead for blowing enemies up with high-yield explosives and creating tough-as-nails fortifications to protect his teammates.

Engineers are granted an Advanced Construction Engine that turns them into a walking, smart-talking factory. With this tool, Engineers can deploy anti-personnel and anti-vehicle turrets, anti-tank mines, and protective shield generators. In addition, the class will fill a vital role when it comes to repairing vehicle and suit damage

In direct combat, the Engineer will rely on a trustworthy assortment of assault weapons, such as shotguns and SMGs. SOE predicts that the Engineer will be most valuable in holding a position and starting a siege against an enemy stronghold.

MassivelyHunker down and blow up: Meet PlanetSide 2's Engineer originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabetasclassclass-revealclassesengineerfortificationsfpsinfiltratorminesmmo-shootermmofpsplanetsideplanetside-2ps2sci-fishootersoesonysony-online-entertainmentturretsWed, 28 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[An outsider's look inside Guild Wars 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/an-outsiders-look-inside-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/an-outsiders-look-inside-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/an-outsiders-look-inside-guild-wars-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

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

My Guild Wars 2 beta weekend started off with a whimper instead of a bang. As I fired up the client and got a load of that sexy 2/dragon logo prior to character creation, one of the video cards in my gaming tower decided to give up the ghost. I didn't know this at the time, and as I slogged through the game's opening sequence, I wondered why it was running like pure Charr poo even with the settings dialed down.

I could barely move around the starter village, and after 15 minutes or so, I closed the client in disgust. Later I fired up EverQuest II on that same system and experienced similar subpar performance, so I quickly downloaded the GW2 beta to my laptop.

Ah, now that was more like it. Here was the Tyria I'd glimpsed via screenshots and video over the past few weeks, and I rolled up an Engineer to help determine whether ArenaNet has anything to offer a crusty old newb.

Continue reading An outsider's look inside Guild Wars 2

MassivelyAn outsider's look inside Guild Wars 2 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetclassesdivinitys-reachengineerfantasygame-mechanicsguild-warsguild-wars-2guild-wars-2-betaguild-wars-2-beta-impressionsguild-wars-2-impressionsguild-wars-2-newbguild-wars-2-previewguild-wars-2-questsguild-wars-2beta-impressionsgwgw2impressionsncsoftquestingMon, 26 Mar 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Now that all Guild Wars 2 professions are revealed, which will you play?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/16/the-daily-grind-now-that-all-guild-wars-2-professions-are-revea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/16/the-daily-grind-now-that-all-guild-wars-2-professions-are-revea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/16/the-daily-grind-now-that-all-guild-wars-2-professions-are-revea/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Sylvari Mesmer in Guild Wars 2
Earlier this week, the internet exploded with a leaked reveal of Guild Wars 2's eighth profession: the Mesmer. The official reveal soon followed, with some of the most amazing skill videos and game mechanics to ever hit an MMO class. OK, so I'm a Mesmer fanboi. Sue me.

But now that we can flip through the entire array of Guild Wars 2 professions, we're left with the question about what class to play... or play first.

Will you be burning stuff with the Elementalist, bashing stuff with the Warrior, or shooting stuff with the Ranger? Perhaps you'd like to pander to your inner kleptomaniac by playing a Thief or dance with the dead as a Necromancer. Throw in the Guardian, Engineer, and Mesmer, and it's fairly impossible to pick just one.

So which will you play first? Let us know your profession plans for Guild Wars 2 in the comments below.

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: Now that all Guild Wars 2 professions are revealed, which will you play? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetclasseselementalistengineerguardianguild-wars-2mesmerncsoftnecromanceromg-i-want-to-play-them-allopinionprofessionsrangertdgthe-daily-grindthiefwarriorFri, 16 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: C-C-C-Combo maker]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/flameseeker-chronicles-c-c-c-combo-maker/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/flameseeker-chronicles-c-c-c-combo-maker/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/flameseeker-chronicles-c-c-c-combo-maker/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Flameseeker Chronicles
Sing hallelujah, for the Guild Wars 2 news drought is over! (The information gates may now slam shut for another excruciating period of time, but I'm choosing not to think about that.) Jon Peters brought us all sorts of exciting information on pets, Engineer changes, and cross-profession combos last week on the ArenaNet blog.

Now that we've had some time to absorb the news and talk it over, I wanted to take some time to look at it more closely, particularly the cross-profession combos. Follow along after the jump and let's get started!

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: C-C-C-Combo maker

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: C-C-C-Combo maker originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetclassclassescross-profession-combosengineerfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesguild-wars-2gw2massively-overpoweredmvopncsoftwar-in-krytawikMon, 07 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[More pets, more combos, more burning: ArenaNet brings big changes to Guild Wars 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/more-pets-more-combos-more-burning-arenanet-brings-big-change/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/more-pets-more-combos-more-burning-arenanet-brings-big-change/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/more-pets-more-combos-more-burning-arenanet-brings-big-change/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Scooby vs. Smokey. Round one: FIGHT!
If you're anything like us here at the Massively offices, you've been feeling a bit starved for Guild Wars 2 news. ArenaNet's been extremely quiet for weeks now, and just as fans were beginning to despair of hearing anything, the information gates swing wide.

The ArenaNet blog has a shiny new update courtesy of designer Jon Peters this morning, and it's a doozy. It brings all sorts of new details on pet improvements, the Engineer's big upgrade, and the ever-fascinating cross-profession combos. Follow along after the break for all the news!

Continue reading More pets, more combos, more burning: ArenaNet brings big changes to Guild Wars 2

MassivelyMore pets, more combos, more burning: ArenaNet brings big changes to Guild Wars 2 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Nov 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetarenanet-blogcross-profession-combosengineerguild-wars-2gw2jon-petersncsoftpetsFri, 04 Nov 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Class spotlight - Tactical]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/captains-log-class-spotlight-tactical/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/captains-log-class-spotlight-tactical/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/captains-log-class-spotlight-tactical/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Star Trek Online tactical patch
Captain's Log, Stardate 65168.1...

Hello, computer (and players)! Welcome to Captain's Log and the second installment in a three-part series focusing on the classes within Star Trek Online. After exploring some of the amazing powers available to those who roll a Science captain, we shift our focus away from support and healing this week to dive into the realm of DPS. While this realm can be filled with members of all three classes, Tactical captains, if specced correctly, take the trophy each and every time.

Ever since the game launched early last year, my main toon has always been a Tactical captain. During the time I leveled up, I tested out different types of ships at each rank. While flying a science ship as a Tactical captain was fun during the early stages of leveling, I would definitely suggest flying an escort, or if you must, a cruiser, when you first make it to Rear Admiral. I am sure there are some Tacticals out there flying Science classes, but I feel that the Bridge Officer stations equipped on escorts allow the best Tactical abilities to come into play. But enough about telling you what to do -- let's move onto talking about some of the best attack powers in the game.

Ensign, warp 10! It's time to help our reads unload some DPS on their next enemy...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Class spotlight - Tactical

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Class spotlight - Tactical originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Sep 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilityattack-patternattack-pattern-betaattack-pattern-omegabeam-array-fire-at-willcannon-rapid-firecaptains-logclassclass-spotlightcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosengineerengineer-officerfeaturedguideguidesKAkhitomer-accordlivestreammotion-acceleratoroverwatchrally-crysciencescience-officerskill-treeskill-tree-blockst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestealth-moduleSTFstosto-class-spotlightstun-grenadesuppressing-firetacticaltactical-officertactical-teamtorpedo-high-yieldtrek-onlineThu, 01 Sep 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2011: Spacetime Studios on the Legends franchise]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/10/e3-2011-spacetime-studios-on-the-legends-franchise/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/10/e3-2011-spacetime-studios-on-the-legends-franchise/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/10/e3-2011-spacetime-studios-on-the-legends-franchise/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Blackstar has a new name to capitalize on the Legends brand -- it's now known as Star Legends: The Blackstar Chronicles. At this year's E3, we caught up with Spacetime Studios' Fernando Blanco to see how the revived project (as well as the company's hit Pocket Legends) is coming along.

Star Legends is only a month away from launch, and Spacetime hopes that the Pocket Legends fever will spread to its sci-fi brother. The name's been changed to communicate the studio's intent to provide an ongoing story rather than a one-shot experience. The game will launch with the first 20 levels of content, but Spacetime has grand plans to expand this much further.

Blanco gave us some of the backstory to the game: In the far future, humans are exploring the cosmos and have stumbled upon a resource-rich area. Corporations, as they are wont to do, have swooped in to exert their dominance but have come across hostile aliens in the process. War breaks out, invasions start popping up all over the place, and you're called in to clean up the mess -- and make a quick buck in the process.

Hit the jump to hear more about Star Legends' classes and gameplay!

Continue reading E3 2011: Spacetime Studios on the Legends franchise

MassivelyE3 2011: Spacetime Studios on the Legends franchise originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 Jun 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidarcherbetablackstarblackstar-mmocommandodark-legendsdroide3e3-2011engineerf2pfeaturedFernando-Blancoflash-mobfree-to-playhorrormagemobile-mmooperativepocket-legendspreviewpreviewspromotionspacetimespacetime-studiosstar-legendsverizonwarriorwesternFri, 10 Jun 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Unusual MMO weapons]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/02/the-perfect-ten-unusual-mmo-weapons/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/02/the-perfect-ten-unusual-mmo-weapons/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/02/the-perfect-ten-unusual-mmo-weapons/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Swords. Staffs. Maces. Spears. Wands. Bows. Crossbows. Double-crossbows. Hammers. Wolverine claws. Daggers. Axes.

Deadly? Yes. Fashionable? Not so much. I mean, really. A two-handed sword is so 1299. Now, a deep dish Chicago-style pizza with the works flung into an enemy's gullet -- that's progressive thinking!

Because I'm deeply bored with the usual suspects in most MMO armories, I wanted to spend a day praising devs who said, "Screw it. We're going weird, and we're not going to regret it, even when our bosses call us into their offices demanding why such lunacy ended up in a professional game."

So forget everything you think you know about weapons because your pitiful armament has yet to scratch the surface of the wild, wild universe of things that can be used to kill you in game. This Perfect Ten column is sponsored by Grizzly Bear Rocket Launchers, Ltd. after the jump.

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Unusual MMO weapons

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Unusual MMO weapons originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Jun 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionbagpipebanana-scythebfg-9000Breezeboots-Frigid-Gnashercasey-joneschicago-style-pizzacity-of-heroescohdandeliondandelionsdervishdiablo-2diablo-iiengineereqeverquesteverquest-2everquest-iifallen-earthfeaturedfishfluffy-pillowgnomish-pirategolf-clubgolf-clubsgorillasgrim-reaperGrizzly-Bear-Rocket-Launchersguild-warslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromanhole-coverminstrelperfect-10perfect-tenpillow-fightpillow-fightspirateroguescytheshieldsoespannerthe-perfect-tentmntwarhammer-onlinewirtwirts-legworld-of-warcraftwowwrenchThu, 02 Jun 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet dispels the controversy regarding the Guild Wars 2 Engineer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/26/arenanet-dispels-the-controversy-regarding-the-guild-wars-2-engi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/26/arenanet-dispels-the-controversy-regarding-the-guild-wars-2-engi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/26/arenanet-dispels-the-controversy-regarding-the-guild-wars-2-engi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

An abundance of controversy erupted over the Engineer class from Guild Wars 2 when it was announced last week. Some fans of the game even went so far as to question whether the class even belongs in a fantasy game. Thanks to ArenaNet's Community Manager Regina Buenaobra, we now have answers to some of the burning questions the fans have had about this explosive class.

Guild Wars 2 is set 250 years after the events in the original Guild Wars. "Technology has advanced a great deal, and we wanted the engineer to personify this progress. And frankly, we didn't want to feel constrained by typical conventions as to what is or is not acceptable in a fantasy story," Buenaobra explains in the Engineer FAQ on the official website.

Now we know that the class fits with the timeline, but this does not explain the other issue fans have with this class. Why would the nature-loving Sylvari be interested in this type of technology? Buenaobra notes, "Players in general are exceptional and unusual figures, heroes who stand out among their people. Just as there are asura warriors and norn necromancers, it's not unheard of for an inquisitive, mechanically-inclined sylvari to become an engineer."

Check out the full FAQ on the Guild Wars 2 official site for answers to other important Engineer questions.

MassivelyArenaNet dispels the controversy regarding the Guild Wars 2 Engineer originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 May 2011 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetclassclassescontroversyengineerengineer-classFAQguild-warsGuild-Wars-2gw2ncsoftRegina-BuenaobraThu, 26 May 2011 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: Eric Flannum on GW2's Engineer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/25/massively-exclusive-eric-flannum-on-gw2s-engineer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/25/massively-exclusive-eric-flannum-on-gw2s-engineer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/25/massively-exclusive-eric-flannum-on-gw2s-engineer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Unless you've been spelunking near the center of the earth for the past few days, you're likely aware that ArenaNet recently unveiled Guild Wars 2's seventh class. Chances are high that you're also aware of said class's affinity for turrets, guns, and various contraptions meant to rain death down upon any unfortunate enemies that cross its path.

Today, Massively presents a new interview with Guild Wars 2 lead designer Eric Flannum. Naturally, the guest of honor at this Tyrian banquet of exclusivity is the Engineer, and Flannum (along with several other ANet dignitaries) provides us with a few tasty mechanical appetizers before getting down to the lore-centric main course.

Bon appetit after the cut.

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: Eric Flannum on GW2's Engineer

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: Eric Flannum on GW2's Engineer originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 May 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andrew-mcleodanetarena-netarenanetclassesengineereric-flannumexclusivefeaturedgame-mechanicsguild-warsguild-wars-2gw2interviewjohnathan-sharpmike-fergusonncsoftthe-engineerturretturretstyriaWed, 25 May 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: Analyzing the Engineer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/flameseeker-chronicles-analyzing-the-engineer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/flameseeker-chronicles-analyzing-the-engineer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/flameseeker-chronicles-analyzing-the-engineer/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The big Guild Wars 2 news of the week, of course, was the Engineer reveal. This was possibly the most interesting reveal to me because it was so controversial. It was such a love-it-or-hate-it class, and even those who loved it had a few reservations here and there.

I count myself among that number -- the Engineer looks like all kinds of awesome to me, but even I had to pause here and there and say, "Wait what?" The skill videos, for example, looked like some sort of weird Rube Goldberg version of combat to me at first -- doing things in five steps that could be done in one. I got over that pretty quickly because it was so obvious that the videos were designed to show off as much of the Engineer's arsenal as possible in a relatively short amount of time.

There were so very many points of contention out there, some I took into consideration, and some I bypassed. (ArenaNet stole the Engineer from RIFT? Seriously?) But a couple of points stood out to me, so follow along after the jump as I delve into them!

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: Analyzing the Engineer

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: Analyzing the Engineer originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 May 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetclassclass-revealsclassesengineerfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesguild-wars-2gw2ncsoftMon, 23 May 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2's explosive seventh class: The Engineer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/19/guild-wars-2s-explosive-seventh-class-the-engineer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/19/guild-wars-2s-explosive-seventh-class-the-engineer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/19/guild-wars-2s-explosive-seventh-class-the-engineer/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Guild Wars and Guild Wars 2 fans, did you love the Commando class? Were you disappointed that it was all an elaborate joke? Did you love the idea of detonating bombs, flinging grenades, and setting mines in Guild Wars 2?

Well, this is going to be a good day for you, because ArenaNet has announced the seventh profession: the Engineer. While it's not the Commando class per se, the Engineer is described as "a master of mechanical mayhem" and looks to be the class that will fulfill all of your most explosive gameplay wishes.

Ready to check it out in depth? We've got five skill videos right in a row and a rundown of the Engineer's abilities, so follow along after the jump and let's take a look!

Continue reading Guild Wars 2's explosive seventh class: The Engineer

MassivelyGuild Wars 2's explosive seventh class: The Engineer originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 May 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alchemyanetarenanetclassclass-revealengineerengineer-classfeaturedguild-wars-2guild-wars-2-engineergw2gw2-engineerncsoftpotionssteampunkturretturretsThu, 19 May 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Dudes smashing other dudes to bits]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/16/not-so-massively-dudes-smashing-other-dudes-to-bits/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/16/not-so-massively-dudes-smashing-other-dudes-to-bits/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/16/not-so-massively-dudes-smashing-other-dudes-to-bits/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Welcome to Not So Massively, our weekly roundup of the top news from popular multiplayer online battle arenas (MOBAs) and other multiplayer online games that aren't quite MMOs. Published every Saturday, the column covers games such as League of Legends, Heroes of Newerth, Defense of the Ancients, Bloodline Champions, and more.

There are plenty of games out there that are almost MMOs but have a different take on persistence or aren't quite massive enough. Last week saw the start of Not So Massively, our brand-new weekly column dedicated to all those games that aren't quite MMOs. We covered some exciting news from a variety of multiplayer online battle arena games, including the results of League of Legends' charity drive in aid of Japan, a first look at a new hero on the way for Heroes of Newerth, Rise of Immortals officially launching closed beta, and development plans for Bloodline Champions.

In this week's Not So Massively, I look at Heroes of Newerth's Engineer changes, League of Legends' new champion Brand, and first details of Rise of Immortals character Ichorr.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Dudes smashing other dudes to bits

MassivelyNot So Massively: Dudes smashing other dudes to bits originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 16 Apr 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artart-spotlightbrandengineerfeaturedgameplayheroheroes-of-newerthHoNichorrleague-of-legendsLoLmobamonkey-kingnot-so-massivelypatchpetroglyphriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsroiroundupS2-Gamesserver-downtimespider-minethe-nomadtrailervideoSat, 16 Apr 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Waging WAR: Coming soon, to a theatre of WAR near you]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/02/waging-war-coming-soon-to-a-theatre-of-war-near-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/02/waging-war-coming-soon-to-a-theatre-of-war-near-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/02/waging-war-coming-soon-to-a-theatre-of-war-near-you/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

We interrupt this week's scheduled career spotlight on Waging WAR to bring you Greg's impressions of the latest and greatest news from the floors of GamesDay: UK regarding Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning and the new RvR content coming soon to a theatre of WAR near you.

OK. So. Take everything you know about the Tier 4 RvR Campaign in WAR and press the "Delete" button right now. In fact, press it a few times. Actually, keep going. Keep pressing it until all you're left with is three pairings with three zones each, each zone containing four battlefield objectives and two keeps, and two cities as the capstone for each realm. OK. Now access that part of your brain that stores silly words and euphemisms regarding "the problem with WAR." See that entry for "Waithammer?" Delete it. "PvDoor?" Press the button. Actually, just go wild. Take every criticism you've ever had for WAR's endgame and just throw it out. We're talking total tabula rasa here (and not the ill-fated game). OK, stop. That should do. With an open mind and absolutely no knowledge of in-game mechanics, you're now primed to understand what I'm about to describe regarding the changes that are on their way, and more importantly, why I believe those changes are so critical to the glorious future of WAR.

If your curiosity is even remotely piqued, click the "Read more" button.

Continue reading Waging WAR: Coming soon, to a theatre of WAR near you

MassivelyWaging WAR: Coming soon, to a theatre of WAR near you originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 02 Oct 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Pets of any kind can pose some issues in games. On the one hand, you want both temporary and permanent pets to provide a utility; on the other hand, you don't want someone crippled without the pet. Warhammer Online has a number of classes that use both permanent and temporary companions, and as part of the next update for the game, the team is working on making the engineer's turrets and the magus's daemons more useful for players in combat.

Both daemons and turrets will now scale with the owner's stats, allowing their growth to keep better pace with more powerful characters. Equally important, however, is the new stacking buff that both types will receive when the engineer or magus remains near their pet. The buff will increase damage gradually while the player remains nearby, up to a 20% buff to damage output. Take a look at the full details from the development team in this small preview, a welcome promised bone for Warhammer Online players.

MassivelyWarhammer Online details plans for buffing turrets and daemons originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 Sep 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buffsdaemonsdamagedamage-scalingdevelopmentea-gamesea-mythicea-warhammerea-warhammer-onlineelectronic-artsengineerfuture-updatesgear-scalingmagusmythicmythic-eamythic-entertainmentpet-scalingpetspreviewsturretswarwar-eawarhammerwarhammer-eawarhammer-onlinewarhammer-online-eaTue, 14 Sep 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Wormhole piracy 101]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/16/eve-evolved-wormhole-piracy-101/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/16/eve-evolved-wormhole-piracy-101/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/16/eve-evolved-wormhole-piracy-101/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,


If it seems like I've gone wormhole crazy lately, that's because I have. The wormholes that arrived with the Apocrypha expansion have infiltrated and enriched many different aspects of EVE Online, from exploration and corporate goals to small gang PvP and piracy. In previous articles, I looked at preparing for an expedition, untangled the mystery of the Sleepers and told the story of a tense week for Total Comfort alliance in the Sleeper's den. After a week spent hunting wormhole-dwellers for fun and profit, this week's EVE Evolved is dedicated to the fine art of being an interstellar cut-throat as I delve into the world of wormhole piracy.

Wormhole piracy is one of the few professions where small gang warfare is most prevalent. While many pirates have already begun including wormhole systems in their roaming gangs, our corporation (and I'm sure others) have come across a much more effective method. By setting up your own pirate staging base inside a wormhole system, your corp can use its regular outgoing wormholes to wreak havoc in systems all across EVE. Using this method, it's possible to spring attacks on people without anyone even seeing you coming. Whether you're planning surprise attacks on 0.0 systems or hunting in the 2500 new unknown sleeper systems, wouldn't you like to run your own pirate way-station?

Read on for an informative guide on using wormholes to wreak havoc around EVE and make a profit in the process.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Wormhole piracy 101

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Wormhole piracy 101 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 16 Aug 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ask Cryptic is a regular Q&A series from Cryptic Studios that addresses player questions on Star Trek Online and Champions Online. While previous Q&A's answered a random set of questions posed by the fans, the latest Ask Cryptic for Star Trek Online is a bit more focused on one topic: ground combat.

Unlike other sci-fi MMOs both on the market and in development, Star Trek Online will have those ill-fated away teams from the Star Trek IP. While things didn't always go smoothly on all those away missions in the shows and films, it could make for some fun gameplay. We're hoping so at least, and what the STO devs have explained about away teams gives us a better idea of what to expect.

Continue reading Cryptic Studios devs explain ground combat in Star Trek Online

MassivelyCryptic Studios devs explain ground combat in Star Trek Online originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 03 Aug 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>away-teamaway-teamsbridge-officerscaptainscombatcryptic-studiosengineernew-titlespverekhansci-fisciencestar-trekstar-trek-onlinestotacticalMon, 03 Aug 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: Global Agenda hands-on with executive producer Todd Harris]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/e3-2009-global-agenda-hands-on-with-executive-producer-todd-har/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/e3-2009-global-agenda-hands-on-with-executive-producer-todd-har/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/e3-2009-global-agenda-hands-on-with-executive-producer-todd-har/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Global Agenda is coming right along nicely -- we last saw the game in action at GDC, and today at E3, executive producer Todd Harris was nice enough to sit down and show us a never-before-seen part of the game: PvE gameplay.

We started off by checking out the character creator, which has come along quite a bit. They've built a very in-depth face creator -- there are about eight or ten different factors to switch between (eyes, mouth, and so on), and for each one, there are seven or eight sliders to adjust and tweak. Which allows for quite a few different variations, as you might imagine. Hair and skin color can also be edited, but Harris told us that body shape will generally be determined by the armor you wear (which is more or less determined by the class you choose).

Gallery: Hi-Rez Studios and Global Agenda Gallery

When bots attackThe juggernautBancroft helps out
Massively is on the ground in Los Angeles this week and covering all the latest E3 MMO news coming from the convention. Check out our breaking coverage (or all the Joystiq network E3 reporting) and keep your eye on Massively's front page for the latest developments.

Continue reading E3 2009: Global Agenda hands-on with executive producer Todd Harris

MassivelyE3 2009: Global Agenda hands-on with executive producer Todd Harris originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Jun 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boostclassese3-2009engineerglobal-agendahands-onhi-rez-studiosmassivelymedicreconroboticsscoutshooterskillsteam-fortress-2third-persontodd-harrisWed, 03 Jun 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online 1.0.6 patch adds new classes, tidal wave of updates]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/02/warhammer-online-1-0-6-patch-adds-new-classes-tidal-wave-of-upd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/02/warhammer-online-1-0-6-patch-adds-new-classes-tidal-wave-of-upd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/02/warhammer-online-1-0-6-patch-adds-new-classes-tidal-wave-of-upd/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


All those Warhammer Online players who where playing along with the Heavy Metal event in November will be happy to know that today the fruits of their labor has arrived. That's right: Today, Mythic brings us Black Guards and Knights of the Blazing Sun! For those who didn't finish the full Heavy Metal event, don't worry, the classes will become available to everyone next week. Servers are going down at 3:30AM PST / 6:30AM EST for North American players with Oceanic servers following at 9:00AM EST. No specific time-frame was given for the updating process, so we'll just have to sit tight and wait it out.

New classes aren't the only thing found in this patch, however. There's a ton of general game updates, performance updates, bug fixes and class tweaks coming with the 1.0.6 patch, too. In fact, there are so many class tweaks that Bright Wizards, Chosen, Engineers, Ironbreakers, Maguses (Magi?), Shadow Warriors, Sorcerers, Squig Herders and Swordmasters are all getting their mastery points refunded. Combat also seems to be a big focus, with a ton of improvements to auto-attack animations, ability responsiveness, morale responsiveness and root responsiveness.

All in all, we're pretty impressed with Mythic on this patch, as it delivers some substantial changes that many players have been waiting to see.
Warhammer Online Coverage Did you enjoy this? Make sure to check out our Warhammer guides: Massively's Character Creation Guide and our WoW Player's Guide to Warhammer. Plus, don't miss any of our ongoing coverage as Massively goes to WAR!

MassivelyWarhammer Online 1.0.6 patch adds new classes, tidal wave of updates originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Dec 2008 06:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Anyone interested in taking a look at some of the highest armor sets offered in Warhammer Online should check out the latest grab bag from Mythic, as it features many of them. In fact, it features exactly eight sets, with two images for the classes who can wear them. Something that immediately stands out about the appearance of the higher level armor is that Mythic's able to put together some very cool looking stuff. We're especially fond of the Black Orc, Marauder and Engineer armor sets featured.

With the December class additions coming, we're really looking forward to seeing some armor sets for the Black Guard and Knight of the Blazing Sun. In fact, a little voice in our heads (not the bad kind!) tells us that Mythic could have reason to be going full throttle for those particular armor sets.

MassivelyLatest WAR grab bag shows off high-level armor originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 25 Oct 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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As a kid, I grew up on Star Trek: The Next Generation. Mostly because my parents watched it constantly, but also because I found that I enjoyed the show. Another staple of my nerd-influenced upbringing was a steady diet of Star Trek movies. Since those formative years I've also watched Deep Space Nine, Babylon 5, Voyager and more recently Battlestar Galactica. So it's safe to say I'm at least a casual sci-fi and space nerd. In fact, when I'm not entrenched in some form of entertainment, I tend to spend my extra time over at the official website of Astrophysicist Neil DeGrasse Tyson.

Of course Star Trek has never been purely about Science. It's always been -- to me, at least -- a mixture of social-political issues, engaging drama and several degrees of actual science. Different writers and directors have, over several decades, writ large their envisioned versions of Star Trek, with varying amounts of the three critical factors that make up a Star Trek experience. So, obviously, I now find myself wondering what Cryptic Studio's massively multiplayer online version is going to be like.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Pondering Star Trek Online

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Pondering Star Trek Online originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 16 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andorianbabylon-5battlestar-galacticacaptainccpcrypticcryptic-studiosdeep-space-ninedoctorengineereve-onlinefeaturedgornhumanjoystiqfeaturesklingonneil-degrasse-tysonorionscience-officerspace-shipstar-trekstar-trek-nemesisstar-trek-onlinestotactical-officervoyagervulcanSat, 16 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[From Tabletop to Desktop: WAR's Order careers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/from-tabletop-to-desktop-wars-order-careers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/from-tabletop-to-desktop-wars-order-careers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/from-tabletop-to-desktop-wars-order-careers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


It's been a month since we last took a look at how Warhammer Online's Destruction classes have made the transition from the old-school tabletop game to a full-fledged MMO experience, and a lot has happened. We've shown you a huge amount of new coverage with our Massively Goes to WAR series, and even got some more hands-on details of each of the game's many classes. We know that the guild beta is practically within our reach, and the open beta never leaves our minds, though it still lies just over the horizon.

Since our last look at the WAR's tabletop roots was so well-received, we went back to the drawing board to bring you part two - focusing this time on the races on the side of Order. If you plan on joining the ranks of the Dwarfs, Empire, or High Elves and lack the proper appreciation for how the game's classes came to be, read on!

From Tabletop to Desktop: WAR's Order careers >>>>>

Gallery: WAR Careers from Tabletop to Desktop - Order

IronbreakerIronbreakerSwordmasters of HoethSwordmasterKnights of the Blazing Sun

MassivelyFrom Tabletop to Desktop: WAR's Order careers originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 Jul 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archmagebright-wizardclassesdwarfsea-mythicempireengineerfeaturedhammererhigh-elvesironbreakerjoystiqfeaturesknight-of-the-burning-sunmassively-goes-to-warrunepriestshadow-warriorswordmasterWARwarhammer-onlinewarrior-priestwhite-lionwitch-hunterWed, 02 Jul 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively goes to WAR: Spotlight on the Dwarven Engineer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/massively-goes-to-war-spotlight-on-the-dwarven-engineer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/massively-goes-to-war-spotlight-on-the-dwarven-engineer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/massively-goes-to-war-spotlight-on-the-dwarven-engineer/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Our time last Thursday talking Warhammer classes with Josh Drescher and Adam Gershowitz was illuminating on many levels. For example, did you know that the user interface for every class in the game has been given a complete makeover? Not only will every class receive a neat widgety component (ala the Goblin Shaman's Mork n' Gork heads), but the bar itself is themed to the class's role.

The action bar for the Dwarven Engineer, as you might imagine, is a sight to see. This defensive ranged specialist is a unique addition to the MMO landscape. And yet, we couldn't help but feel the stunty's gameplay was incredibly familiar somehow. In fact, the experience of playing an Engineer in Warhammer Online bears a lot of resemblance to that of the Team Fortress 2 Engineer. If the little dwarf had complained "Spies sappin' ma sentry!" it would hardly have been surprising. Read on below for more on this highly skilled specialist ... and a few words about the Chaos Magus all the way at the end.

Continue reading Massively goes to WAR: Spotlight on the Dwarven Engineer

MassivelyMassively goes to WAR: Spotlight on the Dwarven Engineer originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Jun 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adam-gershowitzengineerfeaturedjosh-drescherjoystiqfeaturesmassively-goes-to-warteam-fortress-2warwarhammer-onlineTue, 03 Jun 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hellgate: London class overview]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/07/hellgate-london-class-breakdown/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/07/hellgate-london-class-breakdown/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/07/hellgate-london-class-breakdown/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

I am having a blast playing Hellgate: London, but it took me a while to sort through the different classes and choose one for playthrough. After dabbling with them all, I have settled on the Summoner as my current favorite. Following is a very general breakdown of the different classes to help you choose which one to try.

The Templars
These are the melee classes. They have some good survivability skills, especially when surrounded by mobs.

Guardians: This is the standard tank class -- sword, shield, the best armor, etc. They can also do a decent amount of melee damage and can acquire a healing aura at level 2 which heals the Guardian more as the number of mobs attacking increases.

Blademaster: DPS Melee. If you like dual wielding blades, the Blademaster is your class. They can also carry shields if you like and get auras of their own like the Guardians.

Continue reading Hellgate: London class overview

MassivelyHellgate: London class overview originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Nov 2007 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blademastercabalistclassclassesEAengineerevokerfeaturedflagship-studiosguardianhellgate-londonhunterjoystiqfeaturesmarksmansummonertemplarWed, 07 Nov 2007 13:30:00 EST