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[DDO expansion screens show off dryads, werewolves]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/ddo-expansion-screens-show-off-dryads-werewolves/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/ddo-expansion-screens-show-off-dryads-werewolves/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/ddo-expansion-screens-show-off-dryads-werewolves/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Dungeons and Dragons Online - dryads
Want the latest Dungeons and Dragons Online expansion screenshots? We've got them for you in our gallery below, and they focus on dryads and werewolf monsters from the forthcoming Menace of the Underdark patch. The shots are set in the Eveningstar region of the Forgotten Realms, which players will initially encounter after porting over from DDO's original Eberron locale.

Menace of the Underdark will add quite a bit of new content to DDO, including a new Druid class, epic destinies, and an old familiar campaign setting. The expansion is now available for pre-order on Turbine's website. It launches on June 25th.

[Source: Turbine press release]

Gallery: Dungeons and Dragons Online: Menace of the Underdark

MassivelyDDO expansion screens show off dryads, werewolves originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 May 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddodnddryadsdungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineexpansionf2pfantasyfree-to-playgallerymenace-of-the-underdarkscreenshotsturbineturbine-entertainmentwerewolvesWed, 23 May 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online releases 17th expansion, Inferno]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/eve-online-releases-17th-expansion-inferno/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/eve-online-releases-17th-expansion-inferno/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/eve-online-releases-17th-expansion-inferno/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

EVE Online - incoming missiles
CCP is a pretty polarizing topic in MMO circles these days. Whether you love or hate the studio's flagship EVE Online title and the community that surrounds it, one thing you can't say is that the devs lack a work ethic. Today marks the release of EVE's 17th expansion, and when we say expansion, we don't mean a glorified content patch that's been dipped in PR sauce.

Inferno boasts a reworked war declaration system, substantial faction warfare updates, a new mercenary marketplace, enhanced graphics, new missile and launcher effects, and a host of other features focusing on everything from inventory to new modules and ship balancing.

CCP has also released a slick new Inferno trailer, which we have for you right after the cut.

[Source: CCP press release]

Continue reading EVE Online releases 17th expansion, Inferno

MassivelyEVE Online releases 17th expansion, Inferno originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 May 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gameseveeve-expansioneve-onlineexpansionexpansionsinfernoinferno-trailerinferno-videointernet-spaceshipsmissile-launcerssandboxsci-fitrailervideowar-declarationTue, 22 May 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Preparing for the Inferno expansion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/20/eve-evolved-preparing-for-the-inferno-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/20/eve-evolved-preparing-for-the-inferno-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/20/eve-evolved-preparing-for-the-inferno-expansion/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

EVE Evolved title image
The Inferno expansion is set to launch on Tuesday May 22nd, promising a complete revamp of EVE Online's war declaration system and a whole host of new modules. If you're in a wardec corp, you'll need to make a few adjustments to the way you operate when the patch goes live. The minimum war fee will increase to 50 million ISK even if you're declaring war on a small corporation, making very small corps less-appealing targets. The fee increases based on the number of members in the target corp, but it doesn't start increasing until around the 130-member mark. If you want to get your money's worth, you'll be best off picking a target corp with 100-150 members or selecting very high-value small targets.

Be very wary of wardeccing large alliances after the patch. While the previous war system swung in favour of the attacker, the new system has gone to the opposite extreme. Large corps and alliances are now significantly more costly and dangerous to declare war on, especially as the defender can now call mercenaries into the war at any time. Players have complained that the increasing war costs could be abused by getting all alliance members to add alts to the corp, but this would be a logistical nightmare to apply in practice and would increase fees by only a few hundred million ISK. If alt padding becomes a problem, CCP will undoubtedly step in and revise the fee structure.

In this week's EVE Evolved, I look at the new modules and gameplay changes coming in Tuesday's Inferno expansion and give some tips on preparing for the patch.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Preparing for the Inferno expansion

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Preparing for the Inferno expansion originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 20 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ancillaryarchaeologybhaalgornblobblobbingblueprintblueprintsccpccp-gamesdominixeveeve-evolvedeve-onlineexpansionexplorationfeaturedfleetganghackinginfernolabsmagnetometricmagsheathneutraliserpvpradarresearchsandboxsci-fishield-boostershield-tankingtanktankingtech-1tech-2wormholeSun, 20 May 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Perpetuum expansion coming May 30th, bringing terraforming, new land masses]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/20/perpetuum-expansion-coming-may-30th-bringing-terraforming-new/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/20/perpetuum-expansion-coming-may-30th-bringing-terraforming-new/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/20/perpetuum-expansion-coming-may-30th-bringing-terraforming-new/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Perpetuum robot duel
A couple of weeks ago, we told you about Perpetuum's new player-build settlements functionality and its new test server. Now, the devs at Avatar Creations have even more exciting news: an expansion!

It's called Gamma Frontier, and Avatar calls it the biggest expansion since the game went live over 18 months ago. Player corporations will be able to build home bases, launch industrial projects, and colonize the new Gamma islands (not to mention defend them from invasion-minded players).

The expansion also features extensive new terrain-shaping abilities. Avatar has given players full control over the land, including the ability to form hills, dig holes, and level the surrounding terrain as they see fit. Due to complications with pre-existing systems and landmasses, the terraforming capabilities are available only on the new Gamma islands (24 in total). Click past the cut to see a brief video of terraforming in action, then head to the Perpetuum website to read all the expansion details.

[Source: Perpetuum newsletter]

Continue reading Perpetuum expansion coming May 30th, bringing terraforming, new land masses

MassivelyPerpetuum expansion coming May 30th, bringing terraforming, new land masses originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 20 May 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatar-creationsexpansiongamma-frontiergamma-islandsniaperpetuumperpetuum-expansionplayer-built-settlementsplayer-citiesplayer-contentplayer-generated-contentsandboxsci-fiterraformingtrailertrailersuser-generated-contentvideovideosSun, 20 May 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online: Inferno website goes live]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/eve-online-inferno-website-goes-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/eve-online-inferno-website-goes-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/eve-online-inferno-website-goes-live/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

EVE Online
Pay attention: The universe is going to war on May 22nd. That's awfully nice for the universe to schedule these things and give us a heads up, don't you think? If that isn't enough, the makers of EVE Online: Inferno have given us the official expansion website with an infolicious, nougaty center.

The brand-new website has information on EVE's 17th expansion, including details on the graphics update, the war declaration system, the mercenary marketplace, the unified inventory, and more. According to the website, "Inferno invites new players with a lower barrier to entry, empowers veterans with more control over their wars, and entices combatants of all types with advanced new weaponry."

Our own EVE Online columnist Brendan has been busy covering the expansion, with analysis on Inferno's mining system and the PvP revamp.

MassivelyEVE Online: Inferno website goes live originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gameseveeve-onlineeve-online-infernoexpansioninfernointernet-spaceshipsofficial-sitesandboxsci-fispreadsheets-onlinewebsiteFri, 11 May 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Druids, Drow, and destinies in an epic DDO expansion tour]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/druids-drow-and-destinies-in-an-epic-ddo-expansion-tour/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/druids-drow-and-destinies-in-an-epic-ddo-expansion-tour/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/druids-drow-and-destinies-in-an-epic-ddo-expansion-tour/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

DDO
On Thursday, Turbine will take the wraps off of Dungeons and Dragons Online: Menace of the Underdark and commence with the closed beta. It's a heady time for both the team and playerbase, as this 2007 title steps into the big leagues of expansion-holding MMOs. And because we know you hate waiting for all the goods, we joined Turbine on the test server for an advance look at some of the hottest features coming with June's launch.

On the phone with us was Senior Producer Eric Boyer, Community Specialist Amanda Grove, and Design Director Ian Currie. "We want to show players how big the expansion pack is and how much it'll be changing the game," Boyer began, telling us that levels one through 20 were merely "heroic" -- now it'll be time to make the move into epic territory.

From a look at the much-anticipated Druid and the previously vague Epic Destinies to a lightning tour of your first day in the Forgotten Realms, the team was out to convince us that Menace of the Underdark is fully worthy of the "expansion" moniker. How's it looking so far? Take a look for yourself!

Continue reading Druids, Drow, and destinies in an epic DDO expansion tour

MassivelyDruids, Drow, and destinies in an epic DDO expansion tour originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 May 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amanda-grovebetacharacter-customizationddodnddrowdruiddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeberronepic-destiniesepic-destinyepic-destiny-systemeric-boyerEveningStarexpansionf2pfantasyfate-pointsforgotten-realmsfree-to-playhands-onian-currielevel-cap-increaselord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromenace-of-the-underdarkmoriapreviewthe-darkeningturbineturbine-entertainmenttwist-of-fateuiupdate-15wolf-packWed, 09 May 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[See Eveningstar under siege in new DDO expansion screenshots]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/see-eveningstar-under-siege-in-new-ddo-expansion-screenshots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/see-eveningstar-under-siege-in-new-ddo-expansion-screenshots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/see-eveningstar-under-siege-in-new-ddo-expansion-screenshots/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Dungeons and Dragons Online - Eveningstar under siege
Another week, another set of screenshots for Dungeons and Dragons Online's new Menace of the Underdark expansion. This time around, we've got two new areas to explore: the town of Eveningstar (and some night battles set therein) and the Ruins of Temple Mystra.

DDO players can check these areas out after leaving Eberron behind and stepping into Turbine's version of the beloved Forgotten Realms campaign setting. The expansion, DDO's first, is slated for June 25th. Head to the official website for more, but not before you peruse our screenshot gallery below.

Gallery: Dungeons and Dragons Online: Menace of the Underdark


[Source: Turbine press release]

MassivelySee Eveningstar under siege in new DDO expansion screenshots originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddoddo-expansionddo-gallerydnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeveningstarexpansionf2pfantasyfree-to-playgalleriesmenace-of-the-underdarkscreenshotsturbineturbine-entertainmentWed, 25 Apr 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Mining returns with Inferno]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/22/eve-evolved-mining-returns-with-inferno/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/22/eve-evolved-mining-returns-with-inferno/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/22/eve-evolved-mining-returns-with-inferno/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

EVE Evolved title image
Inferno is right around the corner, with the Escalation to Inferno patch due to hit in two days on Tuesday, April 24th. The patch prepares EVE Online for the coming PvP apocalypse with titan balance tweaks, a new interactive status effect bar, and two very important changes to the NPC drop tables: Manufacturable tech 1 modules will be removed from NPC drop tables, and Rogue Drone NPCs will have their mineral drops replaced with ISK bounties. These are changes players have been suggesting for years, and together they have the potential to bring back mining as one of the most profitable professions in EVE.

If someone asked you where all the minerals come from to build the thousands of ships destroyed in EVE on a daily basis, you might say that you assume most of it comes from mined ore. Mining was originally the biggest source of minerals in the game and one of the most profitable professions, but over the years, that's changed. When level 4 missions added an infinite source of battleship-sized NPCs to high-security space, mission-running quickly overtook mining as the most profitable profession, and bizarrely, as a very good source of minerals. When the drone regions were later released, ratting there also became a huge mineral faucet far in excess of that produced through mining.

In this week's EVE Evolved, I look at the problems faced by mining as a source of minerals and speculate on what will happen to mining as a profession when the Inferno expansion hits.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Mining returns with Inferno

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Mining returns with Inferno originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 22 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesescalationescalation-to-infernoeveeve-evolvedeve-onlineexpansionfeaturedhulkindustrialindustryinfernologisticsmineralsminersminingnullsecopinionorerorqualsandboxsci-fizydrineSun, 22 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine talks Eberron vs. Forgotten realms in new DDO video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/turbine-talks-eberron-vs-forgotten-realms-in-new-ddo-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/turbine-talks-eberron-vs-forgotten-realms-in-new-ddo-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/turbine-talks-eberron-vs-forgotten-realms-in-new-ddo-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Dungeons and Dragons Online - spider queen
Turbine has released the next installment in its Menace of the Underdark dev diary series. The video clip runs for two-and-a-half minutes and features various developer personalities discussing Dungeons and Dragons Online's jump from one fantasy world to another.

"It's really important to us that Faerun feels unique and is more true to the classic high-fantasy setting," says producer Fernando Paiz. Whereas Eberron featured elements of fantasy-tech and magicpunk, the Forgotten Realms is one of the more iconic and traditional high fantasy settings around. As such, Turbine says, it has collaborated closely with Wizards of the Coast to ensure the authenticity of the expansion experience.

So what is the link between these two different realms? In a word, Lolth, the drow spider-queen goddess who is powerful enough to connect the worlds. Turbine remains mum on the specifics, though, so you'll have to check out the expansion to see for yourself.

[Source: Turbine press release]

Continue reading Turbine talks Eberron vs. Forgotten realms in new DDO video

MassivelyTurbine talks Eberron vs. Forgotten realms in new DDO video originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Apr 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beyond-the-gamebeyond-the-web-trailerddoddo-expansionddo-expansion-videoddo-videodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineexpansionf2pfantasyforgotten-realmsfree-to-playmagicpunkmenace-of-the-underdarkmenace-of-the-underdark-videoturbineturbine-entertainmentvideoFri, 20 Apr 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Is there such thing as too much new content?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/the-daily-grind-is-there-such-thing-as-too-much-new-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/the-daily-grind-is-there-such-thing-as-too-much-new-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/the-daily-grind-is-there-such-thing-as-too-much-new-content/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Buffet!
Getting the best value for your money has always been a concern with MMOs. As players, we want to see our dollar stretch as much as possible, and developers want to make sure they're creating enough content to keep their hardcore players happy as well as maintaining that early experience to keep new players coming in. But can it ever be just too much?

I've found myself drifting away from a few MMOs after a new expansion or content update makes me feel completely lost. I played the game to max level, thinking I was doing good to finally join my friends in endgame content, only to have a new expansion nullify that feeling.

So tell us your opinions, dear readers. Have you ever experienced content overload in a game, or do you welcome the content avalanche with open arms?

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: Is there such thing as too much new content? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Apr 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contentcontent-overloaddaily-grindexpansionopiniontdgthe-daily-grindupdateFri, 20 Apr 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine shows off new DDO expansion beasties]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/turbine-shows-off-new-ddo-expansion-beasties/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/turbine-shows-off-new-ddo-expansion-beasties/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/turbine-shows-off-new-ddo-expansion-beasties/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Dungeons and Dragons Online - dire carebear
Those coy devils at Turbine have released another batch of screenshots hyping the upcoming expansion pack for Dungeons and Dragons Online. As you're probably aware, the Menace of the Underdark update will transport players from Eberron to the Forgotten Realms. As such, there are certain iconic D&D monsters that simply must make an appearance.

Chief among these are the drider, the dire bear, the green dragon, and the draegloth. We've got these and a few more available for your perusal in our DDO gallery below, so give them a good look before you head to the game's official site for more info on the expansion. And hurry up already; the new content is coming June 25th!

[Source: Turbine press release]

Gallery: Dungeons and Dragons Online: Menace of the Underdark

MassivelyTurbine shows off new DDO expansion beasties originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddoddo-expansiondnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineexpansionf2pfantasyfree-to-playgallerymenace-of-the-underdarkscreenshotsturbineturbine-entertainmentxpacTue, 17 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Fixing the wardec system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/15/eve-evolved-fixing-the-wardec-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/15/eve-evolved-fixing-the-wardec-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/15/eve-evolved-fixing-the-wardec-system/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

EVE Evolved title image
EVE Online's new Inferno expansion is almost here, bringing with it a massive PvP revamp. CCP will try to resurrect the dead faction warfare system, and new modules will be introduced to significantly shake up the PvP landscape for the first time in several years. The war declaration system is also getting a complete overhaul, with the goal of forcing the aggressor to commit to the war and making wars more structured and meaningful. Unfortunately, the implementation described at Fanfest doesn't look like it will achieve that and doesn't fix any of the system's other problems.

The attacking corp can no longer stop a war mid-week, and the defender can hire mercenaries to join his war, but this doesn't add any risk for the attacking corp and doesn't force it to commit. The attacker can always stop paying the war bill, and the war will then finish at the end of the week. As most empire wardecs are initiated by small shell corps full of PvP alts, the attacking players won't mind logging out for a few days if the war backfires. The current war system is plagued with issues, from a complete lack of victory conditions to the fact that the attacker can pay for the war indefinitely. It allows bizarre asymmetries, like tiny alt corps declaring war on major military alliances, and offers no way for even the most militarily powerful defender to win the war.

In this week's EVE Evolved, I lay out some of the problems with EVE Online's upcoming wardec revamp and propose an alternative system that fixes them.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Fixing the wardec system

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Fixing the wardec system originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 15 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gameseveeve-evolvedeve-onlineeve-universityexpansionfanfestfeaturedgame-designinfernopvpsandboxsci-fiwarwardecSun, 15 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New DDO trailer goes behind the scenes on Underdark expansion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/new-ddo-trailer-goes-behind-the-scenes-on-underdark-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/new-ddo-trailer-goes-behind-the-scenes-on-underdark-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/new-ddo-trailer-goes-behind-the-scenes-on-underdark-expansion/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Dungeons and Dragons Online - Menace of the Underdark combat
Can't get enough of Turbine's new Dungeons and Dragons Online expansion, eh? We can't either, and fortunately the firm has released a new trailer that takes us behind the scenes on the making of the Menace of the Underdark content.

The clip features producer Fernando Paiz, who calls the expansion the largest content push in the game's six-year history. Since the expansion is delving into a new IP (the Forgotten Realms, as opposed to DDO's original Eberron setting), the devs have had to adjust their thinking in terms of both content and art direction. Turbine's Jeff De Puy says that "almost all the monsters [the devs are] creating for Forgotten Realms are epically large and big."

How epically large and big? You'll have to click past the cut and view the video to find out.

Continue reading New DDO trailer goes behind the scenes on Underdark expansion

MassivelyNew DDO trailer goes behind the scenes on Underdark expansion originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Apr 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>art-directionbeyond-the-webbeyond-the-web-trailerddoddo-beyond-the-webddo-expansiondnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineexpansionf2pfantasyfernando-paizforgotten-realmsfree-to-playjeff-de-puymenace-of-the-underdarkturbineturbine-entertainmentvideoWed, 11 Apr 2012 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wizard101 prepares to send players to Avalon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/wizard101-prepares-to-send-players-to-avalon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/wizard101-prepares-to-send-players-to-avalon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/wizard101-prepares-to-send-players-to-avalon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Yeah, yeah, what's behind me, I know. Very funny.
Wizard101 always sends its players to fantastic new places with each expansion. Obviously the bar is set pretty high when the core game already features a magical setting, but each new zone seems to aim at a very different location. The upcoming new expansion Avalon is no exception; it's sending players into a realm filled with fallen knights, warrior queens, and other elements inspired by Arthurian and Celtic myths. It also gives players a chance to explore the pasts of several important lore characters, such as the villainous Morganthe.

But lore alone doesn't make for a fun expansion. Avalon also offers players four new utility spells per school, new pets and mounts, and six new zones to explore as characters head to the new level cap of 80. There are also new gardening levels and new gardening spells, certain to bring a smile to the face of every burgeoning virtual botanist. So if you feel like you've seen all there is to see in Wizard101, don't worry -- that'll change soon enough.

[Source: KingsIsle press release]

MassivelyWizard101 prepares to send players to Avalon originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avalonexpansionf2pfamilyfantasyfree-to-playkid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentnewspatchpatchesupdatewizard101wizard101-avalonMon, 09 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Rise of Isengard report card]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/the-road-to-mordor-rise-of-isengard-report-card/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/the-road-to-mordor-rise-of-isengard-report-card/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/the-road-to-mordor-rise-of-isengard-report-card/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

LotRO
It's been a half-year since Lord of the Rings Online's third expansion, Rise of Isengard, opened the doors to Dunland and beyond. It was an interesting expansion compared to what came before in several ways: It finally took us into the pages of The Two Towers, it introduced Rohan and the Rohirrim, and it introduced what I consider to be the most compelling villain this game has seen to date.

While the game's hinted and alluded to Saruman and his White Hand back-up dancers leading up to RoI, the expansion finally unveiled the mastermind behind many of the machinations of Middle-earth's mischief. His was not an overt city-crushing type of evil; instead, he's a crafty politician-type who attempts to woo and seduce minds to his cause. More than the Witch-king of Angmar or Sara Oakheart, Saruman gives us a perfect target for our justified outrage. This is a guy we don't want to see succeed, ever.

So with six months under our belt, I thought it would be a great time to evaluate as much of Rise of Isengard as I've experienced with the ol' report card treatment. Where does it get good marks -- and where does it need tutoring?

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Rise of Isengard report card

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Rise of Isengard report card originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 07 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>evaluationexpansionf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromines-of-moriaopinionpvereport-cardreviewriders-of-rohanrise-of-isengardroad-to-mordorrohanrohirrimsiege-of-mirkwoodskirmishthe-road-to-mordorturbineturbine-entertainmentSat, 07 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX East 2012: Menace of the Underdark brings big changes to Dungeons and Dragons Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/pax-east-2012-menace-of-the-underdark-brings-big-changes-to-dun/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/pax-east-2012-menace-of-the-underdark-brings-big-changes-to-dun/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/pax-east-2012-menace-of-the-underdark-brings-big-changes-to-dun/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Dungeons and Dragons Online concept art
Dungeons and Dragons Online players are in for a whole new world of adventure when Menace of the Underdark launches this summer. The expansion, due to release on June 25th, will send players into the Forgotten Realms to fight against the Queen of Spiders, Lolth. Executive Producer Fernando Paiz and Senior Producer Eric Boyer welcomed us into their lair... er, Turbine's booth... to talk about the upcoming expansion at this year's PAX East. Read on for our preview!

Continue reading PAX East 2012: Menace of the Underdark brings big changes to Dungeons and Dragons Online

MassivelyPAX East 2012: Menace of the Underdark brings big changes to Dungeons and Dragons Online originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 07 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conconventionddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeric-boyerexpansionexpof2pfantasyfeaturedfernando-paizfree-to-playinterviewinterviewsmenace-of-the-underdarkpaxpax-2012pax-eastpax-east-2012penny-arcade-expopreviewpreviewsturbineturbine-entertainmentSat, 07 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blizzard opens the Mists of Pandaria floodgates for 100,000 annual passholders]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/blizzard-opens-the-mists-of-pandaria-floodgates-for-100-000-annu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/blizzard-opens-the-mists-of-pandaria-floodgates-for-100-000-annu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/blizzard-opens-the-mists-of-pandaria-floodgates-for-100-000-annu/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Kick, punch, it's all in the mind. If you wanna test me, I'm sure you'll find that the things I'll teach ya are sure to beat ya, but nevertheless you'll get a lesson from teacher.
As everyone who isn't willfully ignoring recent news is aware, World of Warcraft's Mists of Pandaria expansion is currently undergoing beta testing, and we know that many of you can't wait to get your hands on all the new content for yourselves. Well, if you're a World of Warcraft annual passholder, today might just be your lucky day.

Bashiok stopped by the official forums to let players know that Blizzard is in the process of sending out a whopping 100,000 MoP beta invites to annual passholders. Bashiok closes the announcement by reminding players that all annual passholders will be invited to the beta before any opt-ins, though there's no telling how many of them are still awaiting invites or how long it will take before the poor/cheap among us get a crack at Pandaria, but hopefully it will be soon rather than soon[TM].

MassivelyBlizzard opens the Mists of Pandaria floodgates for 100,000 annual passholders originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionannual-passbetabeta-invitationbeta-invitationsbeta-invitebeta-invitesbeta-testblizzardblizzard-entertainmentexpansionexpansionsfantasymists-of-pandariamopwarcraftworld-of-warcraftworld-of-warcraft-annual-passwowwow-annual-passFri, 30 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine releases new DDO expansion screens, shows off Eveningstar cavern]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/turbine-releases-new-ddo-expansion-screens-shows-off-eveningsta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/turbine-releases-new-ddo-expansion-screens-shows-off-eveningsta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/turbine-releases-new-ddo-expansion-screens-shows-off-eveningsta/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Dungeons & Dragons Online - Eveningstar cavern
A new Menace of the Underdark update is here, and no, we're not talking about the latest antics of elected officials in EVE Online. You're probably aware by now that Turbine is branching out its Dungeons & Dragons Online foothold to include portions of the beloved Forgotten Realms campaign setting. Players crossing over from Eberron to the Realms will first encounter a mystical forest cavern underneath the new Eveningstar region. Turbine has released a handful of screenshots to show off the new zone, and we've collected them for you in the gallery below.

The MotU expansion is due on June 25th, and in it, adventurers will explore the "vast subterranean world of the underdark" as well as play around with a new Druid class and an increased level cap.

[Source: Turbine press release]

Gallery: Dungeons and Dragons Online: Menace of the Underdark

MassivelyTurbine releases new DDO expansion screens, shows off Eveningstar cavern originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeveningstareveningstar-cavernexpansionf2pfantasyfree-to-playgalleriesgallerymenace-of-the-underdarkscreenshotscreenshotsturbineturbine-entertainmentTue, 27 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: New info from Fanfest 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/25/eve-evolved-new-info-from-fanfest-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/25/eve-evolved-new-info-from-fanfest-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/25/eve-evolved-new-info-from-fanfest-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

EVE Evolved title image
The annual EVE Online Fanfest is starting to become a major event in the gaming calendar, thanks to CCP's partnership with Sony and the addition of DUST 514 and World of Darkness talks to the event schedule. This year, CCP flew gaming journalists to the event to give the press hands-on time with DUST and demonstrate the game's impressive realtime integration with EVE Online. Massively, unfortunately, is not permitted to accept such travel stipends, which meant that we couldn't produce in-depth coverage and interviews as we did last year, so instead we've pieced together information from the talks that were streamed to viewers at home.

The theme of this year's Fanfest was unmistakably DUST 514 and its integration with EVE Online. Attendees got first-hand experience with DUST 514 and a free pass to enter the beta in April. There was even a live demonstration of the EVE-DUST link during which a battleship delivered an air strike directly into a DUST match in realtime. There were several talks on EVE's upcoming Inferno expansion and its PvP revamp, with details of new modules and gameplay designed to shake up the PvP landscape for the first time in several years. Players report leaving Fanfest this year with a very real sense that CCP is back on track and recovering from the aftermath of Monoclegate.

In this week's colossal EVE Evolved, I piece together some of the information from EVE Fanfest 2012 and consider what it means for EVE players.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: New info from Fanfest 2012

MassivelyEVE Evolved: New info from Fanfest 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 25 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesccp-veritasconsolecrucibledustdust-514eveeve-evolvedeve-fanfesteve-fanfest-2012eve-onlineexpansionexpansionsfanfestfanfest-2012featuredfpshilmar-peturssonincarnainfernolagmmofpsplaystationplaystation-3ps3sandboxsci-fishootertime-dilationtorfi-frans-olafssontrailertrailersvideovideosSun, 25 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE's Inferno expansion launches May 22nd, precursor patch April 24th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/eves-inferno-expansion-launches-may-22nd-precursor-patch-april/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/eves-inferno-expansion-launches-may-22nd-precursor-patch-april/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/eves-inferno-expansion-launches-may-22nd-precursor-patch-april/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

EVE Online title image
EVE Online aims to revamp PvP in its upcoming Inferno expansion. In addition to continuing the good work that started with Crucible, Inferno will revamp the wardec system, iterate on faction warfare, and introduce new ships and modules for players to smash to pieces. It sounds like the perfect PvP expansion, and today at the EVE Fanfest, CCP revealed some firm details of exactly what the wardec and faction warfare revamps will entail.

A new wardec interface will make wars easier to follow; loopholes like the wardec shield used by EVE University will be closed; and a new mercenary marketplace will be introduced. Faction warfare system ownership will be given more consequences, such as making it impossible for enemy militias to dock in the system. During the EVE Keynote speech today, CCP announced that Inferno will be hitting on May 22nd and that it will be CCP's first ever expansion preceded by a precursor patch. CCP intends to introduce new content with the patch that will prepare the way for the main expansion, but exactly what form that preparation will take has been kept a secret.

MassivelyEVE's Inferno expansion launches May 22nd, precursor patch April 24th originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Runes of Magic - Fires of Shadowforge logo
Frogster is prepping for the next chapter in its Runes of Magic saga, and the company says it's going to be a doozy. Chapter 5 is called Fires of Shadowforge, and not only will it bring the requisite new zones, dungeons, and quests, but players will also have access to a new race and two new classes.

The Shadowforge Dwarves have been hidden beneath the ground of Taborea for some time now, perfecting their dark arts and blacksmithing skills as well as founding a kingdom in the continent's network of caves. Thus far Frogster is remaining coy about the gameplay associated with the new race and the two new arcane-based classes (the Sorcerer and the Champion), but the company says it will publish skill info and other details in the coming weeks.

[Source: Frogster press release]

MassivelyRunes of Magic Chapter 5 features new race, two new classes originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Mar 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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World of Warcraft
In the wee hours of this morning, the press NDA for World of Warcraft's Mists of Pandaria expansion came tumbling down, and our sister site WoW Insider has a bounty of coverage to share. The much anticipated -- and much debated -- expansion is slated for release this year and will include a new continent, the Monk hero class, the Pandaren race, pet battles, a level cap increase, and a massive overhaul of the game's talent system.

World of Warcraft players are undoubtedly fixated on the expansion, as January's 4.3 patch was announced to be the last major update to the game before MoP arrives. You can check out all of the juicy info squeezed from the press beta groves after the jump, including hands-on impressions and insights you won't find anywhere else!

Continue reading All the World of Warcraft: Mists of Pandaria previews you can shake an empty fist at

MassivelyAll the World of Warcraft: Mists of Pandaria previews you can shake an empty fist at originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionbattlegroundsblizzardblizzard-entertainmentexpansionfantasyfirst-impressionsmedia-eventmists-of-pandariamists-of-pandaria-talentsmonkmonk-classndapandarenpet-battlespress-eventpress-ndapreviewpvpsiege-of-orgrimmartalenttalent-treetalent-tree-revamptalentsuiwarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowMon, 19 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Should new expansions include old expansions?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/the-daily-grind-should-new-expansions-include-old-expansions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/the-daily-grind-should-new-expansions-include-old-expansions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/the-daily-grind-should-new-expansions-include-old-expansions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

World of Warcraft
When Cataclysm launched, a friend of mine who hadn't played since the days of Vanilla World of Warcraft wanted to join in the fun, but when he saw the cost of catching up -- nearly full box prices for The Burning Crusade and Wrath of the Lich King, on top of Cataclysm itself -- he balked and decided to stick with cheaper games. Blizzard's policy on charging for full expansions long after they were new always did seem weird to me, since I grew up on Ultima Online and EverQuest, whose earlier expansions usually came bundled for free along with the newest one. Why keep barriers to entry (or re-entry) unnecessarily high?

So I'm happy to see recent sales on WoW's earlier expansions and a free Cataclysm for returning players via the new scroll of resurrection deal, but I can't help but wonder whether it's too late. How many of you have skipped over a game because of the cost of "catching up"? Do you think new expansions should always include the previous ones gratis?

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: Should new expansions include old expansions? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Mar 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrianna-royce-tdgcataclysmdaily-grindeqeverquestexpansionexpansionsfantasyopiniontbctdgthe-burning-crusadethe-daily-grindUltima-Onlineuovanilla-wowwarcraftworld-of-warcraftwotlkwowwrathWrath-of-the-Lich-KingMon, 19 Mar 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Rebalancing EVE's ships]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/18/eve-evolved-rebalancing-eves-ships/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/18/eve-evolved-rebalancing-eves-ships/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/18/eve-evolved-rebalancing-eves-ships/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

EVE Evolved title image
Recently we heard the glorious news that CCP will be overhauling EVE Online's entire roster of tech 1 ships as part of the Inferno expansion. The overhaul will start with changes to the skill requirements for destroyers and battlecruisers and culminate in the complete removal of ship tiers and the introduction of new structured ship lines. Countless new ship types have been released since EVE launched in 2003, but there has never really been a unifying design policy on ship skills and combat roles. Now, eight years down the line, adding new ships has become a struggle in avoiding making older ones obsolete. Drastic change is needed, and when the Inferno expansion hits, that's exactly what we'll get.

When a new EVE player is ready to get into something larger than a frigate, he's currently faced with the choice of training for a destroyer or skipping it and heading straight to cruisers. Similarly, players often skip from cruisers straight to slow, bulky battleships even though battlecruisers are probably the most effective ship class for new pilots. A new system is on the way this summer, one that aims to fix this problem by introducing new racial versions of the destroyer and battlecruiser skills that must be trained on the way to bigger ships. This change should make training progression much clearer for new pilots and is just the tip of the iceberg of awesome plans in the works for the summer expansion.

In this week's EVE Evolved, I examine EVE Online's upcoming ship revamp and tell you how you may be able to get free skillpoints when the patch goes live.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Rebalancing EVE's ships

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Rebalancing EVE's ships originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 18 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balancebalancingbattlecruiserbattlecruisersbuffccpccp-gamesdestroyerdestroyerseveeve-evolvedeve-onlineexpansionfeaturedinfernonerfopinionrebalancingsandboxsci-fiSun, 18 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine enlists Chance Thomas to score LotRO, DDO expansions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/06/turbine-enlists-chance-thomas-to-score-lotro-ddo-expansions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/06/turbine-enlists-chance-thomas-to-score-lotro-ddo-expansions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/06/turbine-enlists-chance-thomas-to-score-lotro-ddo-expansions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Chance Thomas
If you were disappointed by the absence of new music in Lord of the Rings Online's last couple of expansions, then today is a good opportunity to break out the headphones in celebration. Composer Chance Thomas has announced that Turbine contracted him to create an "all-original orchestral, choral and acoustic ensemble score" for this fall's Riders of Rohan.

It's not just LotRO audiophiles who have cause to rejoice, either: Thomas is also on board with creating the music for Dungeons and Dragons Online's first expansion, Menace of the Underdark.

Thomas' career in video game music dates back to the late '90s with Quest for Glory V. LotRO players know him best as one of the composers for both Shadows of Angmar and Mines of Moria. Menace of the Underdark will release June 25th, while Riders of Rohan is scheduled for some time this fall.

MassivelyTurbine enlists Chance Thomas to score LotRO, DDO expansions originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chance-thomascomposerddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineexpansionexpansionsf2pfantasyfree-to-playlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromenace-of-the-underdarkmines-of-moriamusicriders-of-rohanscoreshadows-of-angmarsoundtrackturbineturbine-entertainmentTue, 06 Mar 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: Ode to 3.0, second verse]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/wings-over-atreia-ode-to-3-0-second-verse/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/wings-over-atreia-ode-to-3-0-second-verse/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/wings-over-atreia-ode-to-3-0-second-verse/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Wings Over Atreia header
Encore!

You are my expansion,
My favorite expansion,
You'll make me happy
With a house and more.
You have to know, dear,
How much I want you!
Please hurry the expansion to my door!

Just when I thought I was getting a handle on waiting for Aion's sorta-soon-to-be-released 3.0 patch, NCsoft went and announced a slightly less nebulous launch date of "this spring." Our patch-to-be even has the auspicious privilege of having a name: Ascension. And you know a name means extra special! WOOO! I, of course, started a requisite wing-flapping celebratory dance, but my tune soon changed: As exciting as this news was, I quickly realized that the more concrete the knowledge, the more I wanted it to release already. GAH -- this wait is truly taxing my patience! There is just so much to look forward to.

Last week I regaled you with a stirring, soulful rendition of anticipation for 3.0. Together we explored just a few of the goodies in store for patient and -- luckily for me -- not-so-patient Daevas alike. This week the recital continues, and as promised, Wings Over Atreia takes another peek at more of the features coming our way and highlights some of the more tantalizing additions and changes, including new fortresses with their own unique siege system, XP changes, mounts, and more.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: Ode to 3.0, second verse

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: Ode to 3.0, second verse originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 27 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3.03.0-patchaionaion-3.0aion-ascensionaion-crucibleaion-gameexpansionfeaturedgrind-reductionmountmountsnc-softnc-soft-aionncsoftncsoft-aionpatch-3.0reducing-grindreducing-xp-grindsiegesiegessiegingvehiclevehiclesxp-grindMon, 27 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Setting the universe on fire]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/26/eve-evolved-setting-the-universe-on-fire/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/26/eve-evolved-setting-the-universe-on-fire/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/26/eve-evolved-setting-the-universe-on-fire/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

EVE Evolved title image
This week CCP Games announced the name and focus of EVE Online's upcoming summer expansion. The Inferno expansion aims to re-invigorate PvP with some long overdue gameplay changes. CONCORD-sanctioned wars will be iterated on for the first time in half a decade, and faction warfare will hopefully be getting the updates it should have received in 2008. Following on from the success of the Crucible expansion with its hundreds of small features and gameplay changes, Inferno will also contain dozens of small gameplay changes, usability fixes, and minor improvements.

We'll hear more about DUST 514 in the coming months as CCP reveals more concrete details of the game's link to EVE Online and the motivations behind planet-bound wars. Incarna fans will apparently also see some movement, with Team Avatar focusing on avatar-based updates for this release. While Inferno is a rather uninspired name and coincidentally would make three of the last four expansions start with the word "in," the expansion's content is genuinely exciting. Fundamental changes are coming to EVE's PvP mechanics for the first time in several years. CCP hasn't revealed the exact changes, but that hasn't stopped players from speculating on what might be heading their way.

In this week's EVE Evolved, I speculate on the changes coming in the upcoming Inferno expansion and what changes I think might be coming to EVE's PvP.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Setting the universe on fire

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Setting the universe on fire originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 26 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apocryphabounty-hunterbounty-huntingccpccp-gamesconsolecrucibledustdust-514empyrean-ageeveeve-evolvedeve-fanfesteve-fanfest-2012eve-onlineexpansionexpansionsfanfestfeaturedfirefpsgame-mechanicsincarnainfernommofpson-fireopinionplaystationplaystation-3ps3pvpsandboxsci-fishooterspeculationsummerwarwardecSun, 26 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Spiral Knights update introduces new mission types and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/spiral-knights-update-introduces-new-mission-types-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/spiral-knights-update-introduces-new-mission-types-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/spiral-knights-update-introduces-new-mission-types-and-more/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Screenshot -- Spiral Knights
It's been a little while since we heard from Three Rings' free-to-play dungeon-crawling title, Spiral Knights, but today we have some new information regarding the game's latest patch, and it brings a whole new degree of structure to the title in the form of new mission types. The team is adding four different types of missions in order to give players a solid path of progression as well as a quick fix for players who don't have a ton of time on their hands.

The first of the four mission types is known as a rank mission. Rank missions comprise the main campaign of Spiral Knights and will allow players to climb the ranks of the organization. Each rank mission will grant players pre-set awards in addition to any loot found on the mission itself. Prestige missions, the second type of mission, are daily tasks that will reward players with prestige. Players with high prestige scores will receive an unspecified bonus sometime in the future. The third mission type, expansion missions, operate similarly to rank missions in that they "feature set rewards," but the missions must first be "unlocked with purchase," though as of now we don't know whether that means a microtransaction or an in-game-currency purchase. Lastly, we have arcade missions, which are the same arcade missions that players know and love, except now they can be joined directly from the mission interface instead of making you run to the arcade itself.

For the full details on all the new mission types and features being added in the new patch, just head on over to the Spiral Knights forums and take a look.

MassivelySpiral Knights update introduces new mission types and more originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcadearcade-missionsdungeon-crawlerdungeon-crawlingexpansionexpansion-missionsf2pfree-to-playmissionmission-typemission-typesmissionspatchpatchesprestigeprestige-missionspverankrank-missionssegaspiral-knightsthree-ringsupdateupdatesThu, 23 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Unraveling DDO's Web of Chaos: Turbine talks Update 13]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/unraveling-ddos-web-of-chaos-turbine-talks-update-13/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/unraveling-ddos-web-of-chaos-turbine-talks-update-13/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/unraveling-ddos-web-of-chaos-turbine-talks-update-13/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

DDO
The vanguard of the free-to-play MMO movement is bearing down on the industry this spring, as Dungeons and Dragons Online prepares for its sixth birthday, its 13th update, and its first expansion. We sat down with Turbine Executive Producer Fernando Paiz and Senior Producer Eric Boyer to talk about this coming Monday's Update 13 and what players have to look forward to once it goes live.

Update 13 comes at what could be seen as a renaissance in the game's history. Following DDO's transition to F2P, Turbine saw an upsurge in players and profits that continues to this day. Paiz said that "the game is doing very well," and while he did not disclose numbers, he feels that DDO's status as one of the first F2P adaptations gave it a lead that others have yet to overtake.

Even so, with only five updates in 2011, it's hard to deny that DDO has faded into the background somewhat as newer titles and more recent F2P transitions hogged the spotlight. Turbine means to rectify this: "I think it's safe to say that this year we're making some noise again," Paiz said confidently. He went on to share just why this Monday's patch will be one of the most pivitol in DDO's history.

Continue reading Unraveling DDO's Web of Chaos: Turbine talks Update 13

MassivelyUnraveling DDO's Web of Chaos: Turbine talks Update 13 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>6th-anniversaryanniversaryddoddo-storedungeons-and-dragons-onlineeberroneric-boyerexpansionf2pfeaturedFernando-Paizforgotten-realmsfree-to-playgalleryin-game-storeinterviewlolthmenace-of-the-underdarkscreenshotssixth-anniversayspinner-of-shadowsstormreachtometurbineturbine-entertainmentupdate-13web-of-chaoswizards-of-the-coastThu, 23 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online announces an impending Inferno]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/eve-online-announces-an-impending-inferno/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/eve-online-announces-an-impending-inferno/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/eve-online-announces-an-impending-inferno/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

EVE Online
EVE Online Senior Producer Jonathan Lander says now that some of the nitty-gritty reorganization within CCP has been completed, the devs "are back in the serious business of making EVE better and better."

Citing several small releases over the next few months as proof, Lander lets loose with the announcement of the game's next big expansion: Inferno. Inferno will hit EVE "just before the summer" and will attempt to bring EVE's conflicts to a whole new level. Concord-sanctioned warfare and factional warfare will be getting tweaks as a result of this focus. More specific details about Inferno will be revealed at the EVE Fanfest in March.

And while he won't go into specifics (yet), Lander says that CCP will reveal "more concrete steps" of how both EVE Online and DUST 514 are connected in the next couple of months.

MassivelyEVE Online announces an impending Inferno originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesdev-diarydust-514eveeve-fanfesteve-onlineeve-online-infernoexpansioninfernoJonathan-Landerpatchproducers-letterWed, 22 Feb 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The wait is over: Aion's 3.0 and F2P conversion announced]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/the-wait-is-over-aions-3-0-and-f2p-conversion-announced/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/the-wait-is-over-aions-3-0-and-f2p-conversion-announced/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/the-wait-is-over-aions-3-0-and-f2p-conversion-announced/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Aion screenshot
Over the weekend, a dramatic change in the official website alerted astute Daevas that something was up. Well speculation be gone: All betting pools for the anticipated announcement of Aion going free-to-play in North America are closed! Today, NCsoft revealed not only a time frame for the much anticipated 3.0 patch -- dubbed Aion: Ascension -- but also the news that the title will convert to F2P in at the same time. Already free-to-play in Europe, the game will have a model that is "truly free," according to NCsoft, giving all Daevas the opportunity to experience all content, including lands, dungeons, quests, and levels.

Ascension will bring with it the long-awaited housing and mount systems shown in the visions trailer many moons ago in addition to two new zones, six new instances, and an increased level cap (60) along with many tweaks, fixes, and other features.

NCsoft will also be hosting a Rallying the Troops event to give new players a head start in experiencing the game. This event is an extended trial with an increased level cap of 40 and no time limit. Veterans will enjoy a head start as well with free reactivation for 14 days. Need an extra incentive to check the game out (again)? A permanent boost in XP will also be implemented to help Daevas prepare for the upcoming new lands that can only be accessed by levels 55+.

Eager Daevas and Daevas-to-be can expect these changes this spring. We will keep you posted with more details as they become available! In the meantime, the full press release is behind the break.

Continue reading The wait is over: Aion's 3.0 and F2P conversion announced

MassivelyThe wait is over: Aion's 3.0 and F2P conversion announced originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3.03.0-patchaionaion-3.0aion-ascensionannouncementascensionbreakingexpansionf2pf2p-conversionsfree-to-playfree-to-play-conversionncsoftncsoft-aionpatch-3.0Tue, 21 Feb 2012 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: Ode to 3.0]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/wings-over-atreia-ode-to-3-0/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/wings-over-atreia-ode-to-3-0/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/wings-over-atreia-ode-to-3-0/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Wings Over Atreia header
*cue pitch pipe*

Twinkle, twinkle, little patch,
How I wonder where you're at?
In the East they play with ease,
In the West you're just a tease!
Twinkle, twinkle, three point oh,
Hurry please I want you so!

I've tried to be patient. I really have. I even avoided any wayward glances at Aion's Korean patch notes (translated, of course) for 3.0. That way, I could contain my excitement a little better. I mean, we already know I am dying for housing, and I also know mounts are involved. But there is always so much more, and I was trying to make the wait more bearable. I stood firm in my resolve.

Then I broke down. I peeked. And oh how the many-tendriled beast of anticipation took hold of me once again! Of course there is always the requisite "fixed this bug" and "changed that appearance" filler, but when mining deeper, you also find some definite valuable nuggets. Aion's next patch has some "how cool," some "oh wow, that's really unexpected," and some "about time!" thrown in as well. From new zones to new instances to new features, there is plenty coming our way. Don't want to tax your scroll wheel and sift through the entire patch notes yourself? Wings Over Atreia delves in to uncover some of the most tantalizing treasures for you.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: Ode to 3.0

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: Ode to 3.0 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3.0-patchaion-3.0aion-ascensionAturam-Sky-Fortressbeshbeshmundir-templeDorgal-Manordungeondungeon-crawldungeon-crawlingdungeonsexpansionfeaturedincreased-level-capLandis-Forestlevel-caplevel-cap-increasenew-contentnew-landsnew-zonespatch-3.0patchesRentus-Baserole-playrole-playingroleplayroleplayerroleplayersSand-Lords-LairSarpanskill-changesSRSteel-RakeTahmesTiamarantaWings-Over-AtreiaMon, 20 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Darkness falls on Forsaken World in latest expansion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/darkness-falls-on-forsaken-world-in-latest-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/darkness-falls-on-forsaken-world-in-latest-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/darkness-falls-on-forsaken-world-in-latest-expansion/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Forsaken World: Nightfall logo
Y'all better prepare your night-vision goggles because night is swiftly approaching Perfect World Entertainment's free-to-play title Forsaken World, and it's all thanks to the game's upcoming expansion, Nightfall. The recently announced update will take players to the far reaches of Eyrda with new quests, shinier shinies, and -- perhaps most interestingly -- the gift of flight. That's right, when Nightfall hits the live servers, players will be able to soar through the skies to experience "new bosses, dungeons, and events designed specifically for flying."

But maybe you've got more of a PvP bent to your playstyle. Don't worry; PWE is on the case. Forsaken World's Immortal Rift, which previously played host to massive guild wars, is being repurposed as "an all-out land conquering system," which will pit guild against guild against guild in a knock-down-drag-out brawl for territorial dominance. But that's enough chatter from us, so how about you click on past the cut for the expansion's teaser trailer, then head on over to Forsaken World's official site to get in on the fun.

Continue reading Darkness falls on Forsaken World in latest expansion

MassivelyDarkness falls on Forsaken World in latest expansion originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>expansionexpansionsf2pflightflyingforsaken-worldforsaken-world-nightfallfree-to-playnightfallperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweteaserteaser-trailertrailertrailersupdateupdatesvideovideosThu, 16 Feb 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aika prepares for battle on March 8th with Epic II: Hestia]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/aika-prepares-for-battle-on-march-8th-with-epic-ii-hestia/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/aika-prepares-for-battle-on-march-8th-with-epic-ii-hestia/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/aika-prepares-for-battle-on-march-8th-with-epic-ii-hestia/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Aika
Aika players may have seen strife and war, but they may be unprepared for the sheer magnitude of devastation heading their way. On March 8th, the game will receive its latest major update, Epic II: Hestia, and the world will never be the same again.

Epic II: Hestia is a top-heavy expansion for the game, bringing plenty to see and do for level-capped players. It will be be adding not only several new regions to the game but 24-person level-80 raids and a half-dozen additional gear sets as well.

To assist players in preparing for the epic (II) conflict, gPotato is giving all players level 60 and below a 50% XP boost so that they can get into the endgame by the time March 8th rolls around. You can check out a few screenshots from the upcoming expansion below!

[Source: gPotato press release]

Gallery: Aika Epic II

MassivelyAika prepares for battle on March 8th with Epic II: Hestia originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aikaaika-epic-ii-hestiacontent-updateepic-iiepic-ii-hestiaexpansionf2pfree-to-playgallerygpotatohestiapatchscreenshotsupdatexp-boostWed, 15 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Allods Online releases Game of Gods patch notes [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/allods-online-releases-game-of-gods-patch-notes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/allods-online-releases-game-of-gods-patch-notes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/allods-online-releases-game-of-gods-patch-notes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

This game is known to gods as 'fishing.'
If you're looking forward to the latest Allods Online expansion, Game of Gods, you've only got one more day to wait. But if you can't even wait that long without some kind of updates, then you're in luck. The patch notes for version 3.0 have been posted, giving players a full rundown of all the changes and additions coming to the game in light of this sweeping expansion. And it's not just the marquee features being brought in -- there are plenty of smaller changes, quality of life improvements, and other little gems.

The marquee items, of course, are all still there. The game's level cap will be raised to 51, and the new Bard class will be added to the game for players to enjoy. New areas and new ship mechanics are also being added to keep players engaged. But there are other new features, such as the addition of "overflow" slots to player bags, stat rearrangement for caster classes, and new performance options for older computers. It promises to be a huge patch, so before you go playing tomorrow, peruse the patch notes today.

[Update: Added the new expansion trailer after the cut.]

Continue reading Allods Online releases Game of Gods patch notes [Updated]

MassivelyAllods Online releases Game of Gods patch notes [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allodsallods-onlineallods-online-game-of-godsallods-version-3.0astrum-nivalexpansionf2pfree-to-playgala-netgame-of-godsgpotatopatchpatch-notespatchesTue, 14 Feb 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Winner of Mabinogi's Merchant of Venice contest highlighted]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/winner-of-mabinogis-merchant-of-venice-contest-highlighted/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/winner-of-mabinogis-merchant-of-venice-contest-highlighted/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/winner-of-mabinogis-merchant-of-venice-contest-highlighted/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Mabinogi screenshot
If you are familiar with the Mabinogi-hosted contest from November called The Merchant of Venice, California, then you know that the popular free-to-play developer and publisher Nexon asked players to participate in order to win a free trip to the company's California studios to play, relax and discuss the new content. The event celebrated the release of the Merchant of Venice update. The addition gave players the ability to literally transport goods across the lands of Mabinogi. Players gain levels, earn in-game cash that can be used to buy special items and weapons, and gain access to better items to be traded. All expansions in the popular free-to-play title are free.

Sayre, a player from the Mari server, was invited to meet the developers, tour the office and even give some advice about how to make the game better. He received a free Alienware computer, 500 USD in cash and three nights in a hotel right on Venice Beach! In order to qualify for the contest drawing, players were required to have reached merchant level 9 in each of the game's towns.

Click past the cut to watch an exclusive preview of the tour!

Continue reading Winner of Mabinogi's Merchant of Venice contest highlighted

MassivelyWinner of Mabinogi's Merchant of Venice contest highlighted originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmancontestexpansionf2pfree-to-playftpmabinogimerchant-of-venicenexonnexon-americavideoTue, 07 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Vault memo reveals Mortal Online expansion date]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/05/star-vault-memo-reveals-mortal-online-expansion-date/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/05/star-vault-memo-reveals-mortal-online-expansion-date/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/05/star-vault-memo-reveals-mortal-online-expansion-date/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Mortal Online title image
Fansite Sandboxer.org reports that it has discovered the release date of Mortal Online's upcoming expansion The Awakening in a Star Vault report to investors. We had to do some digging to find the original Swedish document Sandboxer was referring to, but we were able to confirm that the memo does contain the expansion's release month and further as-yet unannounced information.

The Awakening is slated for an April 2012 release, with May and June dedicated to magic and balance updates. The company expects to break even on a monthly basis between July and August of this year and sign a deal with publishers in August. Star Vault's plan is to have the game published in China between July and September and then release an as-yet unannounced expansion in October, with another in April next year.

MassivelyStar Vault memo reveals Mortal Online expansion date originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 05 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>expansionfantasymortal-onlinenewsrelease-datesandboxstar-vaultswedishthe-awakeningSun, 05 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Perfect World International begins its Descent]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/perfect-world-international-begins-its-descent/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/perfect-world-international-begins-its-descent/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/perfect-world-international-begins-its-descent/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

It's nice that Ms. Mutant Snake Lady here still has a bared midriff. The alternative would be too awful to contemplate.
If you're an avid player of Perfect World International, February 15th will be the day that it all goes down. That's the launch date for the game's latest expansion, Descent, which brings along a variety of improvements and upgrades to the game. Despite the low implications of the name, the expansion will be focusing on high-level conflict, with a new zone open to players of level 95 and up to explore. Said zone includes new quest hubs, two new dungeons, and of course several new pieces of equipment.

Progress through the zone will also bring characters into contact with the three Orders, forcing players to choose between the Orders for special character perks and improvements. Even without membership, however, each class will be gaining some new and unique skills that should alter the current distribution of abilities rather than reinforce existing roles. If this sounds right up your alley, check out the full expansion trailer just past the cut, and mark your calendar in advance.

Continue reading Perfect World International begins its Descent

MassivelyPerfect World International begins its Descent originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>descentexpansionexpansionsf2pfree-to-playpatchesperfect-world-entertainmentperfect-world-internationalpwepwipwi-descenttrailertrailersupdatesvideovideosFri, 03 Feb 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Massively: Thieving on the fast track edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/ask-massively-thieving-on-the-fast-track-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/ask-massively-thieving-on-the-fast-track-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/ask-massively-thieving-on-the-fast-track-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

These are the markers used to cross our names off the credits. What? It's not the most tenuous connection I've used.
One of our readers was kind enough to point us to two sites that, once again, were stealing our posts without crediting our authors or anything like that. (I don't mean "this post looks suspiciously similar"; I mean abusing copy and paste.) Unfortunately, while we're aware of these things, there's not a whole lot we can do other than request that the sites get taken down. Sometimes it works, and sometimes it doesn't, but it's all we can do. I guess it's nice to be good enough that your work is worth stealing without credit? That's something.

This week's installment of Ask Massively isn't going to focus on that, however. Instead, we're going to focus on the recent spate of MMO litigation and the potential for a boxed RIFT expansion. If you have a question you'd like to see answered in a future installment of Ask Massively, mail it along to ask@massively.com or leave a comment in the field below. Questions may be edited slightly for clarity and/or brevity.

Continue reading Ask Massively: Thieving on the fast track edition

MassivelyAsk Massively: Thieving on the fast track edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-massivelyBethesda-Softworksbottersboxed-expansioncolumncolumnsexpansionfalloutfallout-onlinefeaturedinterplayjagexlawsuitlawsuitslitigationmmo-industryopinionplagiarismriftscrapingsite-scrapingtriontrion-worldsThu, 02 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Allods Online: Game of Gods coming February 15th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/allods-online-game-of-gods-coming-february-15th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/allods-online-game-of-gods-coming-february-15th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/allods-online-game-of-gods-coming-february-15th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Allods Online - Some dude fighting some ghost thing
We knew that Allods' latest expansion was coming soon. We didn't know exactly when, though. Thanks to gPotato, we're now comfortable penciling in February 15th on our free-to-play fantasy calendar.

Game of Gods is "the biggest expansion ever to hit Allods Online," and it will bring a new Bard class, objective-driven PvP arenas, and new raids to the table. New weapons and armor, new allods and astral layers, and some sort of loot-drop lottery card system are also on the way. That's not all, though, and the game's official website has a full listing of the patch's features and functionality.

[Source: gPotato press release]

MassivelyAllods Online: Game of Gods coming February 15th originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allodsallods-onlineastrum-nivalbardclassesexpansionf2pfantasyfree-to-playgame-of-godsgpotatonew-contentpatchesWed, 01 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST