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[Runes of Magic weekend event psyches players up for Chapter V]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/runes-of-magic-weekend-event-psyches-players-up-for-chapter-v/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/runes-of-magic-weekend-event-psyches-players-up-for-chapter-v/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/runes-of-magic-weekend-event-psyches-players-up-for-chapter-v/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Runes of Magic
Runes of Magic is counting down the days until its next major update, Chapter V: Fires of Shadowforge, and Frogster is throwing five exciting events to pep up its playerbase during the wait. The Big Five, as the company is calling it, is currently at the halfway mark as its third event that will take place over the holiday weekend.

From May 25th through May 29th, Runes of Magic players can visit the Helping Hands in one of several locations in the game to get an incredible buff. This two-hour buff will boost experience, talent point, and rare loot gain for all who accept it. Players can receive the buff once a day for the duration of the event.

The highlight of Chapter V is most definitely the addition of a pair of new classes: the Champion and the Warlock. Also coming with Chapter V are the playable Shadowforge Dwarves, a new starter zone, and additional high-level instances. The update will release on June 12th.

MassivelyRunes of Magic weekend event psyches players up for Chapter V originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>big-fivebig-five-eventbuffchampionchapter-5chapter-veventf2pfantasyfires-of-shadowforgefree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactivein-game-eventplayer-buffromrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentShadowforge-Dwarvestaboreathe-big-fivewarlockThu, 24 May 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Archlord hosts first combined server guild tournament]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/archlord-hosts-first-combined-server-guild-tournament/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/archlord-hosts-first-combined-server-guild-tournament/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/archlord-hosts-first-combined-server-guild-tournament/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Archlord
Plenty of guilds talk the big talk and DPS the raid meters, but when the chips are down and the final call is uttered, which one guild will stand on top of the mountain of geek corpses and be proclaimed "Champion?" In most MMOs, that would be rhetorical nonsense, but not in Archlord, where guilds will compete in the first World Guild Championship to earn a $10,000 prize and the recognition of their peers.

The game's first combined server guild tournament kicks off on June 11th and features pitched PvP battles between guilds to climb the bracket and claim the big prize. All participants will be given a preset character with standard gear in order to minimize any in-game advantages.

In order to preregister for the tournament, guilds will have to complete a special in-game quest. Registration for the World Guild Championship runs from now through May 30th, with the official brackets announced a few days later on June 4th.

Archlord will be hosting special in-game events and handing out fun prizes for everyone during this time.

MassivelyArchlord hosts first combined server guild tournament originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 May 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archlordbracketchampionshipcontesteventf2pfree-to-playguild-pvpin-game-eventpvppvp-tournamenttournamentwebzenworld-guild-championshipworld-vs-worldThu, 17 May 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DUST 514 handing out first beta keys tomorrow [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/dust-514-handing-out-first-beta-keys-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/dust-514-handing-out-first-beta-keys-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/dust-514-handing-out-first-beta-keys-tomorrow/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

DUST 514
Did you drop your name into CCP Games' hat as a potential tester for DUST 514? Then tomorrow might be a lovely day for you, as the studio is emailing out the first round of closed beta keys for registered participants after a short delay from its original key-handing-out schedule.

It is unknown how many keys will be sent out and to whom. Last month, CCP told Fanfest attendees that they would be among the first to test the anticipated MMOFPS. The DUST 514 website states that the studio is sending out Fanfest keys first and keys to standard registered players "soon after."

To celebrate the release of the closed beta keys, CCP is holding a "special event" over the weekend. The details of this event are forthcoming.

[Update: CCP has confirmed that beta registration has begun today and that EVE players and Fanfest attendees will get first pick.]

MassivelyDUST 514 handing out first beta keys tomorrow [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 May 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-keybeta-keysccpccp-gamesclosed-betaconsoledustdust-514eveeve-onlineeventfanfestfanfest-2012fpsin-game-eventmmofpsplaystationplaystation-3ps3shooterweekend-eventThu, 17 May 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CCP launching EVE Online drop pod into the stratosphere tomorrow]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/ccp-launching-eve-online-drop-pod-into-the-stratosphere-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/ccp-launching-eve-online-drop-pod-into-the-stratosphere-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/ccp-launching-eve-online-drop-pod-into-the-stratosphere-tomorrow/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Not bad!
EVE Online players are well-accustomed to flitting about the depths of space in internet spaceships, but tomorrow, CCP Games will be taking its first jaunt into real-life space with the launch of a high-altitude balloon from just north of CCP headquarters.

The balloon will carry a replica EVE pod (pictured above) containing the names of EVE Online players high into Earth's stratosphere before landing (hopefully) in the middle of Kleifarvatn, a lake on the Rekhjanes peninsula in Iceland. Iceland Telecom will be providing a live video feed and GPS tracking of the balloon, and three HD cameras aboard the balloon will allow fans to view the entirety of the balloon's journey after the pod is recovered (by the Icelandic Coast Guard, no less). For the full details and links to the live video stream and GPS tracking, just head on over to the official announcement at EVE Insider.

MassivelyCCP launching EVE Online drop pod into the stratosphere tomorrow originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 May 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gameseveeve-onlineeventeventshigh-altitude-ballooninternet-spaceshipsmiscreal-world-eventreal-world-eventssandboxsci-fiskyward-spherespreadsheets-onlineTue, 08 May 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: Once more into the rift, my friends]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/wings-over-atreia-once-more-into-the-rift-my-friends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/wings-over-atreia-once-more-into-the-rift-my-friends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/wings-over-atreia-once-more-into-the-rift-my-friends/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Wings Over Atreia
A rifting we will go
A rifting we will go
Hi-ho, the derry-o
A rifting we will go!

The Asmo makes a slice!
The Asmo makes a slice...

Ahh, the frivolity of travel songs; they entertain and amuse as well as pass the time while you're en route to your destination, even in Aion. And where am I headed while chanting this little ditty? Why, deep into the dangers of enemy territory, of course! Care to join me?

If you haven't traveled through a rift in Aion, you are missing out on one of the core features of the game, not to mention depriving yourself of some fun. Admittedly, rifting has a bad rap and can be quite a polarizing topic in discussion, but don't be fooled -- it's not just for PvPers. Not everyone who rifts is looking to completely gank others; even carebears can experience and enjoy the thrill of sneaking somewhere fraught with dangers! So what's stopping you from slipping through that colorful swirl?

Let me borrow the immortal words of wisdom from a shoe: Just do it! But before you go, let Wings Over Atreia offer a few handy tips to help you make the most of the experience.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: Once more into the rift, my friends

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: Once more into the rift, my friends originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 May 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionAPbroken-allianceeventf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playhaving-funhintshumorin-game-eventin-game-eventsncsoftopinionPvPriftingrifting-eventtipstips-and-trickswings-over-atreiaMon, 07 May 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online celebrates nine years of internet spaceships]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/eve-online-celebrates-nine-years-of-internet-spaceships/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/eve-online-celebrates-nine-years-of-internet-spaceships/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/eve-online-celebrates-nine-years-of-internet-spaceships/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- EVE Online
Break out the cake and presents because EVE Online is turning nine years old on May 6th! That's right, the internet's premier spaceship/spreadsheet simulator is almost a decade old, and CCP Games is doing it up big-time with this year's anniversary gift packages.

Beginning on May 4th, players will have the opportunity to choose one of eight fabulous prize packages that include goodies such as ships, skill books, implants, mining crystals, and more. To take a look at all of the wonderful goodie bags that CCP has prepared for you, just head on over to the EVE Online official dev blog and check out the full announcement.

MassivelyEVE Online celebrates nine years of internet spaceships originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Apr 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9th-anniversaryanniversaryccpccp-gameseveeve-onlineeventeventsgiftgift-packgift-packagegift-packagesgift-packsgiftsinternet-spaceshipsninth-anniversarysandboxsci-fispreadsheets-onlineMon, 30 Apr 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online announces junior officer appreciation weekend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/star-trek-online-announces-junior-officer-appreciation-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/star-trek-online-announces-junior-officer-appreciation-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/star-trek-online-announces-junior-officer-appreciation-weekend/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- Star Trek Online
We all know how the story goes: Starfleet captain goes out on an away mission, kills some of the locals, and comes back home to a hero's welcome. Bah! What about the little guys? What about the poor redshirts who were callously thrown to the lions so that their captains could sit and watch from the comfort of space, huh? Well thankfully, Cryptic Studios is not blind to the contributions of Star Trek Online's junior officers, and the studio has announced a junior officer appreciation weekend in their honor.

From today, April 27th, until Monday, April 30th, STO players will be able to give back to their valued junior officers in the form of up to 50% bonus commendation experience for all duty officer assignments. In addition, captains can receive a free purple-quality duty officer "with a unique active roster power," and any duty officer packs opened during the course of the event will each contain a free additional green-quality or better duty officer, so if you're looking to pad out your junior officer roster after the redshirt massacre that happened last mission, now's the perfect time to do so. Just head on over to the STO official site for the full details.

MassivelyStar Trek Online announces junior officer appreciation weekend originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 27 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-studioseventeventsexperience-bonusf2pfree-to-playin-game-eventin-game-eventsjuinor-officer-appreciation-weekendperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoxp-bonusFri, 27 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch 17 minutes of unadulterated Blade & Soul PvP footage]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/22/watch-17-minutes-of-unadulterated-blade-and-soul-pvp-footage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/22/watch-17-minutes-of-unadulterated-blade-and-soul-pvp-footage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/22/watch-17-minutes-of-unadulterated-blade-and-soul-pvp-footage/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Blade and Soul
There's nothing that South Korean gamers love more than hot-blooded PvP, which is why they went bananas to see NCsoft's Blade & Soul's player-vs.-player combat live at the recent Soul Party 2.

In two filmed videos by ThisIsGame.com, testers give the game's intense, kinetic action a workout during a 20v20 PvP match. The characters' full range of motion is on display in these clips, as are their various methods of impaling, soul-sucking, and fireballing opponents.

Blade & Soul recently announced its adorable Summoner class, which will be playable when the game heads into its third closed beta test on May 9th. And yes, you have our full permission to stay up past your bedtime to watch the following PvP bout.

Continue reading Watch 17 minutes of unadulterated Blade & Soul PvP footage

MassivelyWatch 17 minutes of unadulterated Blade & Soul PvP footage originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 22 Apr 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betablade-and-soulcbtcbt3closed-betaclosed-beta-testeventfantasymartial-artsmartial-arts-mmoncsoftncsoft-koreapvppvp-eventsoul-party-2summonervideoSun, 22 Apr 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Outbreak]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/hyperspace-beacon-outbreak/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/hyperspace-beacon-outbreak/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/hyperspace-beacon-outbreak/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Hyperspace Beacon: Outbreak
A year ago at PAX East, I spoke to Community Manager Stephen Reid about events in Star Wars: The Old Republic. He asked and answered a popular question at the time: "Will [SWTOR] have events where we randomly spawn NPCs for players to fight? No, but we will have events." He couldn't elaborate, but it did leave me wondering what that could possibly mean, especially when later at PAX East, Lead Writer Daniel Erickson said that SWTOR would not break the fourth wall by holding holiday-type events.

Earlier this year, Update 1.1: Rise of the Rakghouls brought us a new flashpoint called Kaon Under Siege. A ship crash landed in the heart of the Tion Hegemony, taking the Rakghoul virus off the planet Taris and spreading it to a new world. Both the Republic and the Empire sought to find the source of this outbreak. Like all flashpoints, Koan Under Siege is instanced and separate from the rest of the open world.

Relatedly, and quite surprisingly, BioWare started its first world event without announcing it on the official website or even letting anyone know that it was happening. On Sunday morning, everyone who was stopping by Carrick or Vaiken station could overhear an announcement that the planet Tatooine had been quarantined due to an outbreak of the Rakghoul virus.

So started my investigation...

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Outbreak

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Outbreak originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowaredaniel-ericksoneaelectronic-artseventeventsfeaturedhyperspace-beaconin-game-eventlucasartsmini-gamesopinionoutbreakrakghoulRise-of-the-Rakghoulssci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicStephen-Reidswtortatooinethe-old-republictorworld-eventTue, 17 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jagex announces Transformers Universe plans for BotCon 2012, includes sneak-peek and name reservations]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/jagex-announces-plans-for-botcon-2012-includes-sneak-peek-and-n/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/jagex-announces-plans-for-botcon-2012-includes-sneak-peek-and-n/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/jagex-announces-plans-for-botcon-2012-includes-sneak-peek-and-n/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Transformers Universe logo
Transformers fanatics everywhere are surely gearing up for the official Transformers fan convention, BotCon 2012, which will be taking place in Dallas, Texas, from April 26th until the 29th. Well, Jagex is giving fans of its upcoming MMO Transformers Universe a reason to be even more excited for the con: Attendees will have the opportunity to pledge their allegiances to the Autobots or Decepticons and reserve their in-game character names.

On top of that, members of Jagex's Transformers Universe development team will be hanging out at Jagex's con booth, and fans will be able to "meet with members of the development team, attend a behind closed doors Transformers Universe panel discussion, and preview the latest game trailer ahead of its public release." So if you want to get a sneak-peek at Transformers Universe and reserve your favorite character name for the game's release, just set your sights on BotCon 2012 and transform and roll out.

[Source: Jagex press release]

MassivelyJagex announces Transformers Universe plans for BotCon 2012, includes sneak-peek and name reservations originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Apr 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>botconbotcon-2012browserbrowser-basedeventeventsf2pfree-to-playhasbrojagexjagex-game-studiosname-reservationname-reservationsreal-world-eventreal-world-eventstfutransformerstransformers-universeThu, 12 Apr 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log Supplemental: Klingon Awareness Week and First Contact Day]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/03/captains-log-supplemental-klingon-awareness-week-and-first-con/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/03/captains-log-supplemental-klingon-awareness-week-and-first-con/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/03/captains-log-supplemental-klingon-awareness-week-and-first-con/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Image
In the midst of writing up the wonderful interviews I had with members of Cryptic Studios' Star Trek Online development team, I saw that the game's April calendar was posted and contained some interesting new events. This was the sign that it was all right for me to discuss the new Klingon mission that is set to be released on Thursday, April 5th! So today, I will lightly touch upon my experience with testing the mission in this column. I don't expect to be delivering spoilers, so everyone will be able to experience it for himself when it debuts.

In releasing the new mission, Cryptic decided to take advantage of a community-based effort called Klingon Awareness Week (KAW) and set the release date to occur right in the middle of the event. This week also sees the return of First Contact Day events for the Federation side, which will showcase its own unique rewards. Let's dig in to each of these great events!

Continue reading Captain's Log Supplemental: Klingon Awareness Week and First Contact Day

MassivelyCaptain's Log Supplemental: Klingon Awareness Week and First Contact Day originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Apr 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captains-logcaptains-log-supplementalcrypticcryptic-studioseventf2pfeaturedfirst-contact-dayfree-to-playklingonklingon-awareness-weekopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoTue, 03 Apr 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Darkness presented at EVE Fanfest 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/24/world-of-darkness-presented-at-eve-fanfest-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/24/world-of-darkness-presented-at-eve-fanfest-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/24/world-of-darkness-presented-at-eve-fanfest-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

World of Darkness title image
Ever since CCP Games merged with White Wolf, it has been developing the World of Darkness MMO. The game is nowhere near complete, and fans worried that last year's heavy layoffs at the Atlanta office had slowed the game's production. We haven't heard much about World of Darkness since then, but today at the EVE Online Fanfest, a few new details were revealed. Attendees were shown some early in-game footage of a city and given a mix of information we already knew and snippets of new information.

CCP wants to draw in the largely female World of Darkness fanbase. The game will have a focus on fashion, and CCP will control the theme of that fashion rather than letting players design their own clothes. The game will be based in the Vampire: The Masquerade universe, with an initial focus on vampires before the introduction of the other factions. Vampires will use human blood as a currency; it will be the resource they'll compete over, making human cities the central locations they will inhabit. When mages and other character types are released, they will compete for different resources.

The game will have a single-shard world, with sandbox territorial warfare for control of cities mirroring EVE Online's nullsec warfare. Developers investigated using real cities for the game but found that "real cities were generally boring." Presenters told fans that the team will "be using stylised versions, but they will be named after real cities." Each city will be lorded over by a player prince, who will under rare circumstances be potentially subjected to permadeath. The world's original vampire clans will be available on release, and CCP confirmed that it won't be using vampire generations as a form of leveling system but instead will be doing something different with it.

MassivelyWorld of Darkness presented at EVE Fanfest 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 24 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gameseveeve-fanfesteve-fanfest-2012eve-onlineeventeventsfanfestfanfest-2012fantasyfashiongothichorrorsandboxsci-fisupernaturalvampirevampireswhite-wolfwodworld-of-darknessSat, 24 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online's 2012 Fanfest kicks off with free livestreams]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/22/eve-onlines-2012-fanfest-kicks-off-with-free-livestreams/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/22/eve-onlines-2012-fanfest-kicks-off-with-free-livestreams/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/22/eve-onlines-2012-fanfest-kicks-off-with-free-livestreams/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

It's that time of the year again, when thousands of EVE Online fans from across the globe fly to Iceland for the party at the top of the world. Every year, Fanfest is packed with high-profile reveals, sneak previews at what's to come, panels discussing hot topics, and round tables giving players the opportunity to discuss their ideas directly with developers.

For EVE players, Fanfest is more than just a party with some reveals thrown in; it's a place to meet players as enraptured with the game as they are, to share epic stories of battles won and lost, and to be a part of a truly global game community. Fanfest is three days of living in a world where the virtual universe of New Eden is real and the online exploits of its inhabitants are legend.

Last year, Massively attended the EVE Fanfest and brought you in-depth first-hand coverage of the event, but this year we take a back seat to the live reporting of EVE TV. Live streaming of the event has just begun and will continue for three full days. A full list of the talks, panels, speeches and events that will be streamed is available on the official EVE TV schedule. Each day's events will also be repeated during the night for those viewing from the US. Head over to our official Fanfest livestream page to watch the action!

MassivelyEVE Online's 2012 Fanfest kicks off with free livestreams originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Mar 2012 08:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesconsoledustdust-514eveeve-fanfesteve-fanfest-2012eve-onlineeve-tveventeventsevetvfanfestfpsinternet-spaceshipslivestreamLiveStreamingmmofpsplaystationplaystation-3ps3sandboxsci-fishooterspreadsheets-onlinestreamThu, 22 Mar 2012 08:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Diablo III shows signs of release]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/not-so-massively-diablo-iii-shows-signs-of-release/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/not-so-massively-diablo-iii-shows-signs-of-release/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/not-so-massively-diablo-iii-shows-signs-of-release/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
Diablo III saw its clearest signs of release ever this week after a succinct tweet from Jay Wilson and the announcement that PvP is being cut from release in favour of getting the game out sooner. Firefall revealed its plans for attending events and trade shows this year and showed off its world-building tools and talent in an awesome new video devblog. Blacklight: Retribution continued its open beta with the release of a new map set in a laboratory during a virus outbreak. Developers also revealed the game's newest hero, Grendel the heavy weapons and explosives specialist.

It's been a slow week for news in the MOBA world, with developers pulling out all the stops for GDC 2012 and planning for upcoming events at PAX East 2012 and beyond. This week League of Legends announced that several of the game's classic skins will soon be retired and are available temporarily for a 75% discount. Riot Games detailed plans for its upcoming events at PAX East, and the IntelEM tournament finals went off without a hitch. The latest Dota 2 patch added a new passive bot difficulty mode that forces bots to stay in their lanes and introduced a series of balance tweaks.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Diablo III shows signs of release

MassivelyNot So Massively: Diablo III shows signs of release originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgaibattlenetbetablacklightblacklight-retributionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbotscompetitive-gamingcontainmentd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotae-sporte-sportsesportesportseventeventsf2pfantasyfeaturedfpsfree-to-playgothic-fantasygrendelheavy-weaponsjay-wilsonleague-of-legendslolmapmatt-danielmatt-dewaldmmofpsmobamorgan-rominemultiplayernewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayerpax-eastpax-east-2012perfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpvppwered-5-studiosriotriot-gamesround-uprounduprpgsign-of-releasevideoMon, 12 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aion's Rallying the Troops event begins Feb 27th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/25/aions-rallying-the-troops-event-begins-f/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/25/aions-rallying-the-troops-event-begins-f/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/25/aions-rallying-the-troops-event-begins-f/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Aion screenshot
If the recent news about Aion's upcoming conversion to free-to-play has sparked your interest or you had left previously but want to pop back in for a little look-see, NCsoft is offering the perfect opportunity to do just that! Starting February 27th, Rallying the Troops will allow Daevas and Daevas-to-be to jump into the stunning world of Atreia for free, getting a head start on preparing for the much anticipated 3.0 patch, Ascension.

Each player, whether new, returning, or currently subscribed, will receive bonuses during that time, including double XP, a 30% boost in AP, and crucible insignias. New recruits need only make an account to begin playing a free extended trial. Returning veterans will play for free through March 12th. All those currently serving, along with the returning veterans, will benefit from more medals and relic loot drops from fortresses.

As an added incentive, everyone who subscribes by March 12th will receive a free set of Daevanion armor. If you have ever had the desire to check Aion out, there is no time like the present... starting Monday, of course.

MassivelyAion's Rallying the Troops event begins Feb 27th originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 25 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3.03.0-patchaionaion-3.0aion-crucibleaion-gameAPascensionCrucibleDaevanion-armordouble-xpdouble-xp-weekenddouble-xp-weekendseventnc-softnc-soft-aionncsoftncsoft-aionpatchpatch-3.0rallying-the-troopsveteransSat, 25 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's own Eliot Lefebvre will tell your site how not to suck at PAX East]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/massivelys-own-eliot-lefebvre-will-tell-your-site-how-to-not-su/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/massivelys-own-eliot-lefebvre-will-tell-your-site-how-to-not-su/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/massivelys-own-eliot-lefebvre-will-tell-your-site-how-to-not-su/#commentsFiled under: , ,

PAX East logo
Are you planning on heading to Boston, Massachusetts for PAX East 2012? If you are, then boy have we got a treat for you. On Sunday, April 8th, our very own Eliot Lefebvre will be joining members of Guild Wars Insider, Darth Hater, ArenaNet, and Vox Games on a panel informatively titled How To Make Gaming Sites That Don't Suck. It is what it says on the tin, folks.

So if you've got a blog lying around and you're not sure what to do with it, let this panel of experts tell you how to turn it into the next big thing. Or at least let them tell you why Papyrus and Comic Sans are not legitimate font choices. Please? If nothing else, just show up, ask questions, and show our favorite cynical curmudgeon some love.

MassivelyMassively's own Eliot Lefebvre will tell your site how not to suck at PAX East originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>elioteliot-is-famouseliot-lefebvreeventeventspanelpanelspaxpax-eastpax-east-2012penny-arcade-expopenny-arcade-expo-eastpenny-arcade-expo-east-2012real-world-eventreal-world-eventsFri, 24 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A second look at The Secret World]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/a-second-look-at-the-secret-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/a-second-look-at-the-secret-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/a-second-look-at-the-secret-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World has M60s, apparently
Funcom recently held another special hands-on event for The Secret World at its Montreal, Canada offices, where we sent freelancer François Blondin to cover all the exciting details. Enjoy his latest preview of the game!

Last weekend, I nabbed a second look at Funcom's upcoming MMO The Secret World, now scheduled for a June 19th release. I was going in with high expectations, having been blown away by my first playtest of this modern-world-based MMO, and I'll say that this second visit managed to convince me that this game is on the right track to impress gamers with fresh gameplay, vicious puzzles, an ability wheel full of synergies, and new elite abilities at the top tiers of weapon specializations.

I spent wasted a lot of time during my first visit testing out different builds, but I missed out on some content while doing that, and I realized that abilities and builds are something you'll come to naturally as you progress through the game as you earn ability points, choose where you want to go, and decide how you want to specialize. This time around, I got to spend more time exploring the game world, trying out missions, and blowing things up.

Gallery: The Secret World

Continue reading A second look at The Secret World

MassivelyA second look at The Secret World originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 Feb 2012 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ankhbrent-ellisondungeondungeonseventfeaturedfuncomgalleriesgalleryhands-onimpressionsmartin-bruusgaardmontrealmysterypreviewpreviewsscreenshotscreenshotsthe-ankhthe-secret-worldtswFri, 24 Feb 2012 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Are you a bad enough dude to survive Xsyon's Mutant Maze?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/are-you-a-bad-enough-dude-to-survive-xsyons-mutant-maze/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/are-you-a-bad-enough-dude-to-survive-xsyons-mutant-maze/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/are-you-a-bad-enough-dude-to-survive-xsyons-mutant-maze/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Also the president might have been kidnapped by a giant bear.
Do you feel lucky when you log into Xsyon? Do you feel as if you can go anywhere and do anything in complete safety? Then perhaps you'd like to test your skills this weekend when the game unleashes the Mutant Maze event starting at 3 p.m. EST (12 p.m. PST). Open to everyone who wishes to take part, the event will teleport all volunteers to the designated grounds at the start and teleport them back at the conclusion... but there's no certainty you'll emerge victorious.

So what is the Mutant Maze? It's a labyrinth filled with all sorts of nasty mutants, hence the name. Players will be able to keep the spoils of their kills, and there's a special prize for completing a round of the maze by both surviving and finding the exit successfully. There are three total rounds, enough to test the game's most seasoned veterans -- but for the glory of a prize, won't you spend a weekend ambling through a maze filled with enormous bears?

[Source: Notorious Games press release]

MassivelyAre you a bad enough dude to survive Xsyon's Mutant Maze? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>challengeseventin-game-eventlabyrinthlimited-time-eventsmazemutant-mazenotorious-gamesspecial-eventsupcoming-eventsxsyonWed, 22 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO's buried treasure resurfaces in a new dev diary]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/10/lotros-buried-treasure-resurfaces-in-a-new-dev-diary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/10/lotros-buried-treasure-resurfaces-in-a-new-dev-diary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/10/lotros-buried-treasure-resurfaces-in-a-new-dev-diary/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

LotRO
Deep under the soil of Middle-earth are riches galore, and only the Dwarves know where to dig. Fortunately for players, the Dwarves are totally fine with interlopers coming along to try their luck at finding a bit of buried treasure -- and they've even made an event out of it.

While we previously saw a test run of the Buried Treasure event in Lord of the Rings Online, Turbine's put forth a dev diary that indicates we should be seeing more of it fairly soon. The event challenges players to flock to a treasure field, grab some picks, and get diggin' for booty. There's a strategy behind it that utilizes trained animals and dowsing sticks to find the best goods, although treasure hunters can just start digging randomly as well.

The treasure will vary in size and quality, ranging from special mounts and cosmetic gear to more picks and barter tokens. While players can earn picks in-game through a repeatable quest, Turbine will also be selling them through the LotRO store for those who want to speed up their winnings.

The dev diary posted several pictures of the nifty rewards that can be mined and states that the event is "seasonally agnostic," coming and going at various times during the year.

MassivelyLotRO's buried treasure resurfaces in a new dev diary originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buried-treasureburied-treasure-eventcosmeticcosmetic-outfitdev-diaryeventf2pfree-to-playin-game-eventlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolotro-storemountoutfitoutfitspickstreasure-hunter-picktreasure-huntingtreasure-hunting-pickturbineturbine-entertainmentFri, 10 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online encourages murder most foul]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/warhammer-online-encourages-murder-most-foul/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/warhammer-online-encourages-murder-most-foul/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/warhammer-online-encourages-murder-most-foul/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Warhammer Online
In the happy, carebear world of Warhammer Online, we've reached the time of year when the clouds break to let in a ray of sunshine that warms the souls of all it touches and sprinkles hearts with... oh, forget it. It's Murder-o-Rama, aka the Night of Murder.

Mythic's annual WAR bloodfest centers around players attempting to appease a gruesome Elf god by taking out contracts on each other's lives. From February 9th through the 22nd, players will try to complete Tome of Knowledge tasks by completing "Marked for Death" quests and killing those with a dripping red skull-and-crossbones over their heads.

The rewards are worth the effort, though, with items like Lobbin' Noggins, Khaine's Caress, and a fun pike sporting your opponent's head that you can slam down next to a defeated foe. It's the yearly holiday your mother always warned you about, but you never listened then and you're probably not going to start now.

MassivelyWarhammer Online encourages murder most foul originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carebearea-mythiceventin-game-eventmurdermurder-markmythicMythic-Entertainmentnight-of-murderwarwarhammer-onlineWed, 08 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Earn prizes in Allods Online's 14-day giveaway event]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/05/earn-prizes-in-allods-onlines-14-day-giveaway-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/05/earn-prizes-in-allods-onlines-14-day-giveaway-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/05/earn-prizes-in-allods-onlines-14-day-giveaway-event/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Allods Online title image
To celebrate the upcoming release of Allods Online's patch 3.0, gPotato is giving away prizes to players who log in on the days leading up to and following the patch. The event starts on February 7th and will run until February 21st, with the patch arriving in the middle on February 14th. Players who log in for a full hour each day during the event will receive progressively valuable rewards, with the best reward saved for those who log in for an hour during all 14 days.

Prizes start with special coins for the first day and rapidly ramp up to consumables and costumes, with a Sinister Lion mount for players who log in during all 14 days. To qualify each day, one hour must be spent playing the game before midnight by your server's clock; the time can be split across multiple characters on your account and the prizes are limited to one set per account. gPotato requests that all players entering the contest log out before midnight each day as staying logged in may make you ineligible for that day. As this is a tiered event, players who miss even a single day will never be able to get the top prize of a Sinister Lion mount. For a full list of prizes and contest terms, head over to the official contest announcement.

MassivelyEarn prizes in Allods Online's 14-day giveaway event originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 05 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allodsallods-onlineastrum-nivalcompetitioncontestcostumeseventf2pfantasyfree-to-playgala-netgpotatomountnewsplay-for-rewardsprizessinister-lionSun, 05 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xsyon announces newest Guide-run event: The Grand Cart Race]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/xsyon-announces-newest-guide-run-event-the-grand-cart-race/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/xsyon-announces-newest-guide-run-event-the-grand-cart-race/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/xsyon-announces-newest-guide-run-event-the-grand-cart-race/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- Xsyon
Earlier this month, we reported on a player-run event being held in Notorious Games' sandbox MMO Xsyon, and bear-fighting was involved. Today, the team has put out an announcement for a new Guide-run event, though unfortunately bear-fighting is not involved. What is involved, though, is cart racing.

The event, known formally as The Grand Cart Race, will begin at 3:00 p.m. EST on this coming Sunday, January 29th. Players are encouraged to bring their own carts to race, but if you haven't built or traded for a cart yet, don't worry; the guides will be handing out loaners for the duration of the event. The team doesn't reveal what exactly the race will entail, but mentions that "there will be different stages of the course aimed at taking advantage of each of the features of the carts." For the full details, check out the event's official thread on the game's forums, then prepare to do it up NASCAR: post-apocalypse-style.

MassivelyXsyon announces newest Guide-run event: The Grand Cart Race originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cartcart-racecart-racingcartseventeventsgm-run-eventguide-run-eventin-game-eventin-game-eventsnotorious-gamessandboxsandboxesthe-grand-cart-racexsyonThu, 26 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively hosts Star Trek Online free-to-play launch event]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/13/massively-hosts-star-trek-online-free-to-play-launch-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/13/massively-hosts-star-trek-online-free-to-play-launch-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/13/massively-hosts-star-trek-online-free-to-play-launch-event/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

STO
On Tuesday, January 17th, Star Trek Online will be officially free-to-play!

In celebration of the launch, Massively will be joining Cryptic Studios in welcoming all new and veteran captains. The team is hosting several fun events ranging from costume and trivia events to livestreamed character creation tutorials and dance parties!

Please join me, Massively's humble STO columnist, as I pair up with STO's Community Manager Brandon Felczer to stream our way through all the fun. You could win up to 5000 STO Promotional Points! All livestreamed events can be viewed during and after the event on Massively's Twitch channel, and all other communications can be monitored on the "F2PLaunchParty" chat channel in-game. The fun begins at 1:00 p.m. EST on Tuesday, so check out the official schedule of events after the break.

Continue reading Massively hosts Star Trek Online free-to-play launch event

MassivelyMassively hosts Star Trek Online free-to-play launch event originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brandon-felczercrypticcryptic-studioseventeventsf2pf2p-conversionfree-to-playlaunchlivestreamperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwerelaunchsci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestostreamingsubspace-radiotrek-radioFri, 13 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Supremacy needs space-men to help Santa find his space-sleigh!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/star-supremacy-needs-space-men-to-help-santa-find-his-space-slei/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/star-supremacy-needs-space-men-to-help-santa-find-his-space-slei/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/star-supremacy-needs-space-men-to-help-santa-find-his-space-slei/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Star Supremacy
Fun fact about Santa: Not only does he have to visit all of the houses across the world in the span of a single night, but apparently he's on galaxy duty as well. Jolly St. Nick will be making the rounds in Star Supremacy during the game's Xmas event, during which he'll be making appearances on the neutral planets twice a day. He's not there for pleasantries, however; Santa needs players to help him find his sleigh, and he's prepared to dish out Christmas stocking bounties as rewards.

Barbily Games is also preparing to roll out its Gemini update, which will bring back three PvP systems for players to conquer. The update will also include a helping hand to lowbies' energy regeneration, new equipment, improved construction, and the ability to retreat.

You can get a good look at the update in our new Star Supremacy gallery below!

Gallery: Star Supremacy

MassivelyStar Supremacy needs space-men to help Santa find his space-sleigh! originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Dec 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>barbilybarbily-gameschristmaseventf2pfree-to-playgalleriesgallerygeminigemini-updatein-game-eventmmortsretreatsantascreenshotscreenshotsstar-supremacyxmasWed, 21 Dec 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Illyriad keeps players on edge with new live event]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/17/illyriad-keeps-players-on-edge-with-new-live-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/17/illyriad-keeps-players-on-edge-with-new-live-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/17/illyriad-keeps-players-on-edge-with-new-live-event/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Illyriad screenshot
Who says MMOs don't have live events anymore? Triple-A titles, listen up: Your F2P brethren are doing what you won't. On Thursday, the citizens of Illyriad awoke to find that a massive rift had opened in the Northern section of the in-game map. A forum post later detailed the events and told of a mage from the Circle of Five who had recently been tampering with magical uses for the body parts of animals. Soon after, a blast was "felt by all for hundreds of miles in every direction." Scouts, armies and caravans were dispatched from curious cities. The next night, skeleton armies poured from the rift and attacked the investigators.

Illyriad is a free-to-play MMORTS that features city-building, resource management, deep strategy, free-for-all PvP, and a player-driven market. Thanks to HTML5, it works on any device. If dynamic live world events sound interesting to you, check the game out at the official site.

MassivelyIllyriad keeps players on edge with new live event originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 17 Dec 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-baseddynamic-eveneventf2pffa-pvpfree-to-playillyriadillyriad-gameslive-eventsmmortspvpSat, 17 Dec 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars' Wintersday 2011 brings new costumes, holiday cheer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/guild-wars-wintersday-2011-brings-new-costumes-holiday-cheer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/guild-wars-wintersday-2011-brings-new-costumes-holiday-cheer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/guild-wars-wintersday-2011-brings-new-costumes-holiday-cheer/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Screenshot -- Guild Wars Wintersday '07
It's the most wonderful time of the year in Tyria because Wintersday 2011 has begun. And there's certainly no shortage of events for Guild Wars players looking to get into the Wintersday spirit. Lion's Arch, Kamadan, Ascalon City, and the Eye of the North will all provide players with holiday quests, while more pugnacious revelers can get into the spirit of the season with 8v8 snowball tournaments.

As usual, players can take part in the annual Grenth vs. Dwayna holiday event in order to receive a spiffy Wintersday mask, and two new costumes are also available for purchase in the NCsoft store. The new costume sets, known as Augur of Kormir and Vision of Lyssa, are available for $6.99 US each. Players can also buy them as a bundle for the discounted price of $9.99 US, or they can shell out $29.99 US for the Limited Edition Pantheon Pack, which includes six deity-themed costumes. But act quickly! The limited edition pack is available only until January 16th. For the full details, head on over to Guild Wars' official Wintersday site.

[Thanks to Tanek for the correction!]

MassivelyGuild Wars' Wintersday 2011 brings new costumes, holiday cheer originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Dec 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetaugur-of-kormircostumecostumesdwaynaeventeventsgrenthguild-warsgwin-game-eventin-game-eventskormirlyssancsoftvision-of-lyssawintersdaywintersday-2011Thu, 15 Dec 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest II previews new live event: A Goddess Risen]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/eq2-live-event-preview/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/eq2-live-event-preview/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/eq2-live-event-preview/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- EverQuest II
EverQuest II only just released its latest expansion, Age of Discovery, but already it's gearing up for its latest in-game live event, A Goddess Risen. To help ring in the event, Sony Online Entertainment has decided to give players a behind-the-scenes look at what the event will entail.

Game designer Nathan "Kaitheel" McCall explains that the event will take place within the Shard of Love, but it's not the same Shard of Love that players may know from past visits. Things have changed within the Shard, but what does it have to do with A Goddess Risen? Kaitheel says we'll just have to head to the Shard of Love when the event goes live tomorrow to find out for ourselves. In the mean time, click on past the cut for the full video.

Continue reading EverQuest II previews new live event: A Goddess Risen

MassivelyEverQuest II previews new live event: A Goddess Risen originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Dec 2011 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-goddess-risenage-of-discoveryeq-iieq2eventeventseverquest-2everquest-iif2pfree-to-playin-game-eventin-game-eventslive-eventlive-eventsshard-of-lovesoesony-online-entertainmentthe-shard-of-loveWed, 14 Dec 2011 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Join the fight to reclaim Atlantica Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/10/join-the-fight-to-reclaim-atlantica-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/10/join-the-fight-to-reclaim-atlantica-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/10/join-the-fight-to-reclaim-atlantica-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Atlantica Online
Atlantica Online has become a much more dangerous place to visit as of late, ever since a horde of monsters led by the evil Riederan invaded the place. But you won't let a little thing such as XP-filled loot piñatas keep you from fighting back, right? We didn't think so.

Starting tomorrow and continuing through January 8th, Atlantica Online players will rise to meet the challenge of these invaders during a massive in-game event. When Riederan's Invasion is triggered, players have a scant half-hour to slaughter 10,000 monsters per town before the town's defenses fail. The event is programmed to scale so that mobs will match the players' levels.

Participate in the event and precious rewards and buffs will drop into your lap. Bet that's the best news your lap's heard all day! To help players out with the invasion, Atlantica Online has introduced a new hero, the sorceress Mwindo. Mwindo can use her primal monsoon magic and staff to bring the pain to the baddies.

[Source: Nexon press release]

MassivelyJoin the fight to reclaim Atlantica Online originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 10 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlanticaatlantica-onlineclasseventf2pfree-to-playin-game-eventinvasionloot-pinatasmwindonexonRiederanRiederans-InvasionSat, 10 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Iris Online celebrates its first birthday]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/23/iris-online-celebrates-its-first-birthday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/23/iris-online-celebrates-its-first-birthday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/23/iris-online-celebrates-its-first-birthday/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Screenshot -- Iris Online
Iris Online publisher gPotato has a very optimistic outlook on sharing a birthday with a holiday, saying that "you can either be sad that all your friends are busy doing holiday things or you can throw such a tremendous party that they make time to drop by and visit you!" Of course, the studio is choosing the latter (we still feel for you, people with late-December birthdays) to celebrate Iris Online's first birthday.

The celebration begins today and runs until November 26th. For the duration of the festivities, players will be granted experience, skill, and battlefield point boosts. Drop and enhance rates will also be increased, and to top it off, any player who's been part of Iris Online since September will be given a unique costume just for logging in. To get in on the celebration, just head to the game's official site.

[Source: Gala-net press release]

MassivelyIris Online celebrates its first birthday originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Nov 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarybirthdaycelebrationeventeventsf2pfirst-anniversaryfirst-birthdayfree-to-playgala-netgpotatoin-game-eventin-game-eventsirisiris-onlineWed, 23 Nov 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT gets into the holiday spirit with the Fae Yule world event]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/22/rift-gets-into-the-holiday-spirit-with-the-fae-yule-world-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/22/rift-gets-into-the-holiday-spirit-with-the-fae-yule-world-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/22/rift-gets-into-the-holiday-spirit-with-the-fae-yule-world-event/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Aww lookit the Corgi
It's that time of year again, it would seem. A time for mirth, merriment, and fending off an evil dragon to ensure that it isn't able to enslave an entire race of magical creatures. Well, that's what's going on in Telara, anyway, thanks to RIFT's Fae Yule celebration. The event, which started today, will span six weeks and will feature "fancy holiday hats, new quests, a grumpy mead-guzzling satyr, and other festive items."

But of course, this is Telara, so the festivities simply wouldn't be complete if Crucia, the evil dragon of air, didn't decide to make an appearance. She's already tired of the Fae's newfound freedom and wants to wrest them back into servitude. It's up to players to make sure she does not succeed. And to top it off, Trion is presenting players with experience, favor, prestige, plaque, and planarite bonuses this weekend only. So what are you waiting for, Telarans? Get a move on.

[Source: Trion Worlds press release]

MassivelyRIFT gets into the holiday spirit with the Fae Yule world event originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>christmascruciaeventeventsfae-yuleholidayholidaysin-game-eventin-game-eventsin-game-holidayrifttriontrion-worldsTue, 22 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: Tickets please]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/wings-over-atreia-tickets-please/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/wings-over-atreia-tickets-please/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/wings-over-atreia-tickets-please/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Wings Over Atreia header
As we barrel through November and get closer to the holidays, my thoughts have turned to turkey, pie, rolls, pie, and candied yams... did I mention pie? It's not that I can't think of anything else (pie), but I always look forward to family, food, and free time during the upcoming holidays -- free time meaning more gaming and less working! Unfortunately, a few other things are slipping in and interrupting the thoughts of impending gluttony for many Aion players.

Everyone deeply immersed in Atreia knows that two of the most frequent topics of discussion this past week (ignoring all troll comments, of course) have been Star Wars: The Old Republic with its impending effect on Aion and the reduction in arena tickets that went into effect after last Wednesday's maintenance. While Wings Over Atreia took a look at the forthcoming release of TOR last week, I might have altered my predictions a bit had the announcement about the arena tickets happened sooner than right before publishing.

Could one event really affect the balance? Check out past the cut to examine the NCsoft's action, the community's reaction, and the possible repercussions.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: Tickets please

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: Tickets please originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Nov 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>22.7-patch75 L10075L100aionaion-gamearena-ticketsarenasbait-and-switchcommunity-relationsCrucible-Coliseumcustomer-complaintseventfeaturednc-softnc-soft-aionncsoftncsoft-aionopinionpatch-2.4pvppvp-arenapvp-arenasWings-Over-AtreiaMon, 21 Nov 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Assembly Required: EQII's Festival of Discord]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/11/some-assembly-required-eqiis-festival-of-discord/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/11/some-assembly-required-eqiis-festival-of-discord/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/11/some-assembly-required-eqiis-festival-of-discord/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Some Assembly Required header
Over the last few months, Some Assembly Required has covered features within games (such as quest-building tools, music, and housing) as well as overviews of full games themselves, not to mention some existential ranting on the life and times of the sandbox genre. This week, we focus on another aspect: player events.

Most player-created events range from RP tavern nights to full-blown tests of skill to races and scavenger hunts. These events are smaller affairs involving either a group of close friends, a guild, or perhaps even a mixture of a few guilds. However, there are occasions when events can grow larger... much larger. Such is the case with EverQuest II's Festival of Discord. Not only is this a server-wide festival designed and hosted by players, but it is fully supported by Sony Online Entertainment. And let me tell you, SOE has pulled out all the stops!

Want to see what this festival is all about or (better yet) make some of these events on EQII's Antonia Bayle server in person? Grab your cloak and join me past the break for a rundown of the festival, its history, and even events yet to come!

Gallery: EQII's Festival of Discord

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: EQII's Festival of Discord

MassivelySome Assembly Required: EQII's Festival of Discord originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eq-2eq-iieventever-quest-2ever-quest-iieverquest-2everquest-iifeaturedlive-eventlive-eventsplayer-contentplayer-generated-contentrole-playRolePlayersRolePlayingSandboxSARsoe-eq-2soe-eq-iisome-assembly-requiredsony-eq-2sony-eq-iiFri, 11 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape dev panel highlights incredible success of bot bans]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/30/runescape-dev-panel-highlights-incredible-success-of-bot-bans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/30/runescape-dev-panel-highlights-incredible-success-of-bot-bans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/30/runescape-dev-panel-highlights-incredible-success-of-bot-bans/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

RuneScape title image
Over the past few weeks, we've heard a great deal about browser MMO RuneScape's struggle against botting and RMT. The bot problem has become progressively worse over the past year, with bot makers countering every change developers made to stop their bots from working. This week developer Jagex celebrated bot-nuking day as it deployed a massive update designed to permanently stop all of the popular reflection and injection bots from working.

At this year's annual RuneFest event, Jagex CEO Mark Gerhard presented a fantastic insider panel on the facts and figures behind bot-nuking day. Mark explained the company's position -- that normal players botting to speed up gameplay was counter to the goals of RuneScape. "We don't want your computer to play with our computer," he told attendees, "we want you to have fun with our community." Before delving into facts and figures, Mark reminded attendees of the element of unfairness that bots create. "I want to know that if I'm putting in 30 minutes this evening, that that 30 minutes is equal to everyone else's 30 minutes."

Want to know how many million accounts were banned since bot-nuking day? Read on for a summary of the facts and figures from the talk and to watch the full video in HD.

Continue reading RuneScape dev panel highlights incredible success of bot bans

MassivelyRuneScape dev panel highlights incredible success of bot bans originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 30 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banbanningbansbot-nuking-daybotsbottingcluster-fluttererdev-diarydev-paneleventeventsevents-real-lifemark-gerhardnewsrunefestrunefest-2011videoSun, 30 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape celebrates 'bot-nuking day' this Tuesday]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/23/runescape-celebrates-bot-nuking-day-this-tuesday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/23/runescape-celebrates-bot-nuking-day-this-tuesday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/23/runescape-celebrates-bot-nuking-day-this-tuesday/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

RuneScape title image
Last week we reported that veteran browser MMO RuneScape was losing its ongoing war on bots. Players have begun botting on a massive scale, and it's become increasingly difficult to distinguish bots from ordinary players. Developer Jagex asked for help from the playerbase in solving the botting problem and announced its intention to continue fighting legal battles against the creators of bot programs.

In a new community update this week, Jagex Chief Executive Officer Mark Gerhard announced the release of a new doomsday weapon in the war on bots. In an upcoming patch on October 25th, Jagex will be "launching our most formidable bot-busting weapon in our history, targeting what we believe to be 98% of the bots seen in game." This update permanently prevents reflection bots from working and the effects should be immediately visible in-game. To celebrate "bot-nuking day", Tuesday's patch brings four days of events and minigame bonuses for regular players.

[Thanks to David for the tip!]

MassivelyRuneScape celebrates 'bot-nuking day' this Tuesday originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 23 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>botbot-nuking-daybotsbottingbrowsereventeventsfantasyfree-to-playjagexpatchrunescapespamwar-on-botsSun, 23 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Atlantica Online celebrates three years with in-game events]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/atlantica-online-celebrates-three-years-with-in-game-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/atlantica-online-celebrates-three-years-with-in-game-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/atlantica-online-celebrates-three-years-with-in-game-events/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Atlantica Online
Atlantica Online, Nexon's quirky tactical MMORPG, has been running for three whole years now. You know what that means, right? Anniversary celebration time! From now until November 16th, players can celebrate Atlantica's third anniversary by participating in a variety of in-game events.

For starters, there's the Hunt for the Warlord's Poem. Players have to hunt down monsters that have stolen fragments of Khun Phaen's poetry. Completing this task will net players "Khun Phaen's Carrier Pigeon, a Title: People's Champion, Khun Phaen Skill Books, and other essentials."

If you'd rather put your combative skills to the test, you can take part in the third anniversary Grand Championship Battle Royale, which will take place on October 31st at 6:00 a.m. EDT and again at 6:00 p.m. EDT. The top four players will receive a prize of precious NX Credit.

Lastly, Nexon is asking players to take a picture of either themselves or their avatars with a sign reading "Happy Anniversary Atlantica!" Players who submit such a picture will be entered into a drawing for 20,000 NX.

For the full details, head on over to Atlantica Online's official site.celebrates three years with in-game events

MassivelyAtlantica Online celebrates three years with in-game events originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3rd-anniversaryanniversaryatlanticaatlantica-onlinebirthdayeventeventsf2pfree-to-playin-game-eventin-game-eventsnexonnexon-americanexon-entertainmentthird-anniversaryTue, 18 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Universe offers $15,000 US in prizes in the Nexus Force Championships]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/lego-universe-offers-15-000-us-in-prizes-in-the-nexus-force-cha/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/lego-universe-offers-15-000-us-in-prizes-in-the-nexus-force-cha/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/lego-universe-offers-15-000-us-in-prizes-in-the-nexus-force-cha/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

LEGO Universe title image
Given the age of the average MMO gamer, it's safe to say most of us grew up with the amazing creative freedom of LEGO. The LEGO franchise has given rise to countless computer games over the years, including kid-friendly MMORPG LEGO Universe. The game recently went free-to-play, and now a huge contest has been released to encourage people to give the game a try.

The eight-week-long Nexus Force Championships start today, challenging players to win as many in-game events and contests as possible before December 8th. Participants will collect points for winning contests and events in a bid to win some truly massive prizes. The single player with the highest number of points at the end of the eight weeks will win around $5,000 US worth of LEGO sets and a new laptop. In total, over $15,000 US of prizes will be given out during the event.

[Source: LEGO Universe Press Release]

MassivelyLEGO Universe offers $15,000 US in prizes in the Nexus Force Championships originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Oct 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestcontestseventeventslegolego-universenewsnexus-force-championshipsprizesThu, 13 Oct 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Paragon Studios games for charity with Extra Life]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/paragon-studios-games-for-charity-with-extra-life/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/paragon-studios-games-for-charity-with-extra-life/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/paragon-studios-games-for-charity-with-extra-life/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Screenshot -- City of Heroes
Paragon Studios, being the charitable bunch that it is, has announced that on Saturday, October 15th, it will be taking part in the Extra Life charity event. The game-for-charity marathon benefits the Children's Miracle Network and its associated hospitals, making it a more-than-worthy endeavor.

The studio will be streaming its contribution to the event on its Ustream channel this Saturday, so players can tune in, relax, and banter with the devs. And of course, if you're feeling particularly generous, you can donate to Paragon's Extra Life marathon. For more information about the event, check out its official site, and be sure to tune in to Paragon's stream this Saturday.

MassivelyParagon Studios games for charity with Extra Life originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Oct 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charitycity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxeventextra-lifegame-for-charitygaming-marathonparagonparagon-studiosstreamstreamingThu, 13 Oct 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC Online 2011: BioWare's Damion Schubert takes a wrecking ball to the casual vs. hardcore model]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/gdc-austin-2011-biowares-damion-schubert-takes-a-wrecking-ball/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/gdc-austin-2011-biowares-damion-schubert-takes-a-wrecking-ball/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/gdc-austin-2011-biowares-damion-schubert-takes-a-wrecking-ball/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

GDC - Damion Schubert
"I'm trying to finish a product, Star Wars: The Old Republic, which I am not going to talk about today." Thus began BioWare's Damion Schubert's seminar, Double Coding: Making Online Games for Both the Casual and the Hardcore, at this year's GDC Online. "This is more of a weary man, sort of stream-of-consciousness design theory talk."

Schubert wanted to call the talk "Moving Beyond Double Coding," which is a term that comes from cartoons, of all places. Double coding is content that reaches two different groups of people at the same time. Looney Tunes, for example, would entertain both adults and kids because the writers and animators designed it so.

With MMOs, Schubert says that devs are often trying to double code the games for both casual and hardcore players. This is where the well-known slogan "easy to play, hard to master" originates. He held up Blizzard as a primary example of this model. Blizzard's "donut," as Schubert calls it, has a casual outer ring and a hardcore center for both types of players. By double coding, Blizzard ensures that casual players can invite their hardcore friends to experience the game and vice-versa.

However, this model is faltering, and Schubert pinpoints why after the jump!

Continue reading GDC Online 2011: BioWare's Damion Schubert takes a wrecking ball to the casual vs. hardcore model

MassivelyGDC Online 2011: BioWare's Damion Schubert takes a wrecking ball to the casual vs. hardcore model originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Oct 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>benchmarksbiowareblizzardcasualclassesconventiondamien-schubertdamion-schubertdesign-theoryeventfeaturedgame-design-theorygdcgdc-2011gdc-onlineGDC-Online-2011hardcoreinvestmentlifestylemetricspainrolesspectrumstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 13 Oct 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT's Ashes of History world event begins tomorrow]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/11/rifts-ashes-of-history-world-event-begins-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/11/rifts-ashes-of-history-world-event-begins-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/11/rifts-ashes-of-history-world-event-begins-tomorrow/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

RIFT title image
Since RIFT's release, the developers at Trion Worlds have staged frequent world events and mini-events to add some variety to the game. A brand-new Ashes of History world event kicks off tomorrow, putting players against the elemental forces of earth and fire. The event begins as disease-spreading Golden Maw cultists discover artifacts in the sea of Telara and begin plotting to use them for their own ends.

The world event opens up new daily quests for players to try out, and participants will be able to collect a rare Magma Opal currency from frequent rift events and invasions. The opals can be spent on rare equipment, companion pets and an exclusive Ash Strider mount.

Gallery: RIFT Ashes of History event

MassivelyRIFT's Ashes of History world event begins tomorrow originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Oct 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ashes-of-historyeventeventsgallerygolden-mawmagma-opalnewsriftriftstelaratriontrion-worldsworld-eventworld-eventsTue, 11 Oct 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[CCP announces EVE Fanfest 2012 dates]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/ccp-announces-eve-fanfest-2012-dates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/ccp-announces-eve-fanfest-2012-dates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/ccp-announces-eve-fanfest-2012-dates/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EVE Online - fanfest drunkeness
CCP has just announced its plans for EVE Online's eighth annual Fanfest. The drunken buffoonery celebration will take place March 22nd through March 24th at the shiny new Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Center in Reykjavik, Iceland.

CCP Tyr has posted the details on EVE's official website, and there's a loose itinerary that includes a poker tournament, a battle of the bands, chessboxing, and hey, there might even be some EVE- and Dust 514-related presentations and assorted tomfoolery if things go according to plan.

Tyr says that further info -- including flight, accomodation, and access pass availability -- will be forthcoming as the event draws closer.

MassivelyCCP announces EVE Fanfest 2012 dates originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Sep 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gameschessboxingdrunken-buffoonerydust-514eveeve-onlineeventeventsfanfestfanfest-2012real-world-eventssandboxsci-fitomfooleryMon, 19 Sep 2011 11:00:00 EST