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[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[A Mild-Mannered Reporter: How City of Heroes almost died]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/a-mild-mannered-reporter-how-city-of-heroes-almost-died/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/a-mild-mannered-reporter-how-city-of-heroes-almost-died/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/a-mild-mannered-reporter-how-city-of-heroes-almost-died/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

A Mild-Mannered Reporter header by A. Fienemann
If it hasn't become clear over the past two and a half years, I really enjoy speculation. I like crazy theories, I like exploring possibilities, I like thought exercises, and so forth. There's some speculation that I find particularly ill-informed or lacking in some fundamental point of logic, but that doesn't mean I don't learn about them first.

Why am I making a point out of this? Because I've developed a theory about the state of City of Heroes, and I want to make it clear before I launch into this somewhat grim theory that I'm basing this entirely on outside observations. I want it to be clear that I could, in fact, be totally wrong, and when I say that City of Heroes nearly committed unintentional suicide a couple of years ago, I don't want that to be seen as some grand behind-the-scenes revelation.

And if it weren't obvious from that line, yes, that's where I'm going. I think Going Rogue nearly gutted City of Heroes and burned the whole game to the ground. And I think everything the game has done since can be directly traced back to that expansion.

Continue reading A Mild-Mannered Reporter: How City of Heroes almost died

MassivelyA Mild-Mannered Reporter: How City of Heroes almost died originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 May 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-mild-mannered-reportercity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcoh-going-rogueconspiracyconspiracy-theoriescovcoxcrazy-theoriescrazypantscultureexpansionsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreedomgoing-roguemild-mannered-reporterncsoftopinionparagonparagon-studiosspeculationsuperherosuperheroesWed, 09 May 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Conquer Online expansion includes new pirate class]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/conquer-online-expansion-includes-new-pirate-class/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/conquer-online-expansion-includes-new-pirate-class/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/conquer-online-expansion-includes-new-pirate-class/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Conquer Online - pirate trailer
You might recall that Conquer Online made the jump from free-to-play PC MMO to iPad action RPG last December. Today NetDragon has announced the title's first expansion, called Invasion of Pirates. Unsurprisingly the content drop features a new Pirate class. You can see a video of it in action after the break.

The class wields pistols and rapiers, and NetDragon describes the resulting gameplay as the "most fiery, action-packed combat" in Conquer Online. The expansion pack is currently free if you download Conquer Online HD in the iPad App Store.

[Source: NetDragon press release]

Continue reading Conquer Online expansion includes new pirate class

MassivelyConquer Online expansion includes new pirate class originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conquer-onlineconquer-online-expansionexpansionsf2pfree-to-playinvasion-of-piratesipadmobilepirate-classtrailervideoThu, 26 Apr 2012 13:00:00 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[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[Blizzard already talking about post-Pandaria WoW expansions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/blizzard-already-talking-about-post-pandaria-wow-expansions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/blizzard-already-talking-about-post-pandaria-wow-expansions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/blizzard-already-talking-about-post-pandaria-wow-expansions/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

World of Warcraft - More expansions post-Pandaria?
So World of Warcraft is getting a new expansion. Old news, right? Mists of Pandaria, kung-fu pandas, yada yada. Well, not so fast.

CVG is reporting that Blizzard has officially confirmed expansion number five, and COO Paul Sams told the site that the dev team already has plans for several more expansions after that. Details are sketchy, of course, but it sounds like WoW is pretty far removed from the state of decline that recent sub losses seemed to indicate.

The first post-Pandaria expansion is currently "an idea, a general framework," and Sams says that Blizzard's Chris Metzen has already pitched WoW's sixth expansion and is "pretty geeked up about it." In fact, he says, the devs "already know what they're going to be doing for multiple expansions ahead."

MassivelyBlizzard already talking about post-Pandaria WoW expansions originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentchris-metzenexpansionsfantasymists-of-pandariapaul-samspost-pandaria-expansionswarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowwow-expansionsFri, 23 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine reveals shape-shifting DDO Druid class]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/turbine-reveals-shape-shifting-ddo-druid-class/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/turbine-reveals-shape-shifting-ddo-druid-class/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/turbine-reveals-shape-shifting-ddo-druid-class/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Dungeons and Dragons Online - Druid shapeshifting
Turbine has a present for all you would-be shape-shifters out there, and it takes the form of the new Druid class coming with Dungeons and Dragons Online's new Menace of the Underdark expansion.

The content drops on June 25th, and the Druid will be available as a premium playable class (and free to VIPs). The Druid is primarily a caster, but he's also proficient with daggers, sickles, staves, and clubs. His signature ability allows him to transform into a winter wolf, a dire bear, a water elemental, or a fire elemental. Each shape has its own set of spells, and the class also features a Druidic oath that boosts resistances to entanglement, poison, and other natural ailments.

More info on the expansion is available via Turbine's official website.

[Source: Turbine press release]

MassivelyTurbine reveals shape-shifting DDO Druid class originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classesddodnddruiddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineexpansionsf2pfantasyforgotten-realmsfree-to-playmenace-of-the-underdarkshape-shiftingshapeshifterturbineturbine-entertainmentTue, 20 Mar 2012 11:00:00 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[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[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[Turbine releases new DDO Web of Chaos images]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/turbine-releases-new-ddo-web-of-chaos-images/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/turbine-releases-new-ddo-web-of-chaos-images/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/turbine-releases-new-ddo-web-of-chaos-images/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Dungeons and Dragons Online - Lolth
Dungeons and Dragons Online's new Forgotten Realms-themed expansion is on its way, but before it arrives on your desktop, Turbine will be upgrading the game via a prequel patch called Web of Chaos. Update 13 includes three new quests (the Lords of Dust, Servants of the Overlord, and Spinner of Shadows) as well as new veteran status that allows players to start their characters at level seven.

The update features new items too, and we've got a preview of the patch in our DDO gallery below. Check it out for the latest screenshots featuring Lolth and the Drow.

[Source: Turbine press release]

Gallery: Dungeons and Dragons Online Update 13 Preview

MassivelyTurbine releases new DDO Web of Chaos images originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddoddo-update-13drowdungeons-and-dragons-onlineexpansionsf2pfree-to-playgallerylolthmenace-of-the-underdarkpatchesscreenshotsturbineTurbine-Entertainmentunderdarkupdate-13web-of-chaosFri, 17 Feb 2012 11:00:00 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[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[Allods Online bringing out Game of Gods next month]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/allods-online-bringing-out-game-of-gods-next-month/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/allods-online-bringing-out-game-of-gods-next-month/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/allods-online-bringing-out-game-of-gods-next-month/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

I always assumed the gods had a pretty good game. Like, say, a version of Risk where you get free bacon.
If you're a dedicated Allods Online player, you've got something to be very excited about. The game's next expansion, Game of Gods has been announced for release in February, bringing what's being described as a year's worth of content to players in North America and Europe. This announcement is concurrent with the release of a corresponding mini-site previewing some of the upcoming features while still leaving teasers. Players will be able to explore over 100 new quests, take part in a new 10-boss raid, and enjoy the new Bard class.

But in true TV-product-announced style, there's still more, including a bump in the level cap, and epic quest to improve your character permanently, and expanded astral space to explore. There's also a teaser trailer and gameplay trailer just after the break to drum up further excitement. While an exact date in February hasn't yet been announced, considering that the month is nearly over it likely won't be too long.

[Source: Gala-Net press release]

Continue reading Allods Online bringing out Game of Gods next month

MassivelyAllods Online bringing out Game of Gods next month originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allodsallods-onlineastrum-nivalexpansionsgala-netgame-of-godsgpotatopatchespreviewsteaserstrailertrailersupdatesvideovideosThu, 19 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mortal Online announces a new expansion called Awakening]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/13/mortal-online-announces-a-new-expansion-called-awakening/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/13/mortal-online-announces-a-new-expansion-called-awakening/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/13/mortal-online-announces-a-new-expansion-called-awakening/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

All that brilliant architecture left no budget for paint.
Mortal Online has already launched one expansion, but the game's second expansion in its two years of operation will soon join the first. Awakening has just been announced and is set to bring a variety of improvements to the game. The centerpiece is the introduction of Tindrem, the eponymous Tindremic capital and the home of the Emperor. The sprawling city encompasses several districts, but there's more to the city than the orderly facade it presents to travelers.

The expansion will provide more than simply a new city, however. It offers improved artificial intelligence and a better user interface to players, along with new dungeons in which players can test their skills against improved enemy intelligence. There's also a new set of special Trade Brokers in the cities, dyes for clothing and armor, and several other improvements that should be cheered by every Mortal Online player.

[Thanks to James for the tip!]

MassivelyMortal Online announces a new expansion called Awakening originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 Jan 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aiareasartificial-intelligenceawakeningcitiesexpansionsmomortal-onlinemortal-online-awakeningnew-areasnew-citiesnewspatchesstar-vaultuiupdatesuser-interfaceFri, 13 Jan 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Development on EVE in 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/08/eve-evolved-development-on-eve-in-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/08/eve-evolved-development-on-eve-in-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/08/eve-evolved-development-on-eve-in-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

EVE Evolved title image
Following the summer drama that came to be known as monoclegate, the past six months have been challenging for EVE Online's players and developers alike. When players learned that cash-shop clothing was priced higher than its real-life equivalent, the quirky story of the $80 monocle swept across gaming blogs like wildfire. The story's tone soon turned a great deal more sinister with the leak of an internal company newsletter titled Greed is Good, and a second leaked memo from CCP's CEO added more fuel to the flames. Ultimately, players spoke with their wallets; subscriptions fell by at least 8%, and with no financial backup plan, CCP was forced to lay off 20% of its staff worldwide.

The staff members who remained were faced with the task of turning things around, and with the feature-packed Crucible expansion, they did so spectacularly. In just a few short months, hundreds of high-profile features, graphical overhauls, and quality of life improvements breathed new life into a neglected universe. I think most players recognise that this has been a genuine turn-around from within CCP, but some are still skeptical that the company has really reformed. The question on everyone's mind is whether CCP can really keep up this quality of development in the coming year as it delivers two full expansions and integrates EVE with DUST 514.

Perhaps nobody is better qualified to assess that than CSM delegate and former CCP game designer Mark "Seleene" Heard, who recently attended the December CSM summit and witnessed first-hand the aftermath of monoclegate and Crucible's development.

In this week's EVE Evolved, I delve into Mark's CSM Summit report to find out how development at CCP has changed, what we can expect in 2012, and how monocle-gate has affected CEO Hilmar Veigar Pétursson.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Development on EVE in 2012

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Development on EVE in 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 08 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20122012-predictionsccpccp-abathurccp-eveccp-gamescouncil-of-stellar-managementcsmcsm-delegatecsm-summitdecemberdevelopmentDominiondust-514eveeve-ccpeve-evolvedeve-mmorpgeve-onlineexpansionexpansionsfeaturedgame-developmentgraphicshilmarhilmar-peturssonhilmar-v-peturssonhilmar-veigar-peturssonmark-heardmmofpsmonoclegatesandboxsci-fiseleeneSun, 08 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Warcraft is going down in Europe... in price, that is]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/world-of-warcraft-is-going-down-in-europe-in-price-that-is/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/world-of-warcraft-is-going-down-in-europe-in-price-that-is/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/world-of-warcraft-is-going-down-in-europe-in-price-that-is/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Of course, if you're playing WoW and don't have the expansions, something seriously weird is going on, but whatever.
Reports of the demise of World of Warcraft have been greatly exaggerated, but the price of the game is falling. This isn't entirely unexpected, but the game's two more recent expansions have just seen a significant drop in their EU prices, with Wrath of the Lich King dropping to €19.99 and Cataclysm dropping to €29.99. If you've been playing the game in Europe but have yet to pick up the later expansions, this might be your incentive.

While some retailers have instituted their own price cuts in the time since the release of these expansions, these latest price drops come from the upper management at the company rather than being a limited-time sale or a reduction of overstock. The price move seems to be a result of the newly free-to-play nature of the early game and the upcoming Mists of Pandaria. No word yet on whether or not a similar official price drop will be mirrored in the US.

MassivelyWorld of Warcraft is going down in Europe... in price, that is originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Jan 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activision-blizzardblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcataclysmexpansionsmists-of-pandariamopnewspriceprice-dropsprice-reductionpricesworld-of-warcraftwotlkwowwrath-of-the-lich-kingFri, 06 Jan 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Conquer Online details upcoming Invasion of Pirates expansion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/04/conquer-online-details-upcoming-invasion-of-pirates-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/04/conquer-online-details-upcoming-invasion-of-pirates-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/04/conquer-online-details-upcoming-invasion-of-pirates-expansion/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Conquer Online
Conquer Online, NetDragon's free-to-play fantasy MMO, is getting a taste of the high seas come January 11th as the team launches the game's newest expansion, Invasion of Pirates. The expansion will introduce the new Pirate class, which will allow players to use new weapons and abilities while also finally letting them take sides in a real Pirates vs. Ninjas battle.

The Pirate class itself can utilize pistols and rapiers, and its abilities rely on stamina, "with many of the skills requiring a cooldown period." As such, the key to winning a battle as a Pirate is, according to the press release, determined by how well a player can string the Pirate's attacks, buffs, and other abilities into an effective combo. The studio adds that while the Pirate will certainly have a steep learning curve, "with a little strategy and know-how, the new class can easily become the most deadly in PvP battles." For the full details on the new expansion, or to get in on the action yourself, head on over to Conquer Online's official site.

MassivelyConquer Online details upcoming Invasion of Pirates expansion originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classconquerconquer-onlineexpansionexpansionsf2pfree-to-playinvasion-of-piratesnetdragonnew-classpatchpatchespiratepirate-classpiratesWed, 04 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The most popular Massively stories of 2011]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/04/the-most-popular-massively-stories-of-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/04/the-most-popular-massively-stories-of-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/04/the-most-popular-massively-stories-of-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Popular picture
When you consider the most popular debate subjects or recent conversational trends, you might think about politics or religion or even pop culture. So when the bloggers of Massively looked back on the previous year to take stock of which articles and categories were the most popular by pageview, we were surprised at the results. The year 2011 was unorthodox, and the list of the most popular posts reflects that.

There are some obvious topics, the ones any loyal reader of Massively would expect to see, but others represent a dramatic shift in the subjects and games readers most enjoyed reading and responding to.

So what were the most popular stories and categories of 2011? Onward!

Continue reading The most popular Massively stories of 2011

MassivelyThe most popular Massively stories of 2011 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenanetbetabetawatchBioWareBlizzardccpchoose-my-adventuredc-universe-onlinedust-514eve-onlineeverbloomExpansionsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpGuild-Wars-2interviewjohn-smedleykingsisle-entertainmentLiveStreamlord-of-the-rings-onlinemists-of-pandariamonocle-gatencsoftPlaystation3riftSOESONYSony-Online-Entertainmentstar-wars-the-old-republicswtortitantrionturbinewizard101World-of-WarcraftWed, 04 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mog Log: The 2012 forecast]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/31/the-mog-log-the-2012-forecast/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/31/the-mog-log-the-2012-forecast/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/31/the-mog-log-the-2012-forecast/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

The Mog Log header by A. Fienemann
As we enter the twilight of 2011, I can say with absolute certainty that my predictions for Final Fantasy XI and Final Fantasy XIV were wrong, which is fine, since when I made them last year I seem to recall saying to myself that I was predicting more on the basis of "should happen" than "will likely happen." I was overly optimistic about several things, overly pessimistic about a couple of others, and going in a completely different direction from the design team on the rest -- which is fine by me, actually.

That having been said, whether proving that I'm not afraid of failure or that I don't know when to quit, I'm coming back for another round of predictions for this coming year. But there's one major variable in the equation that's horrible to try and account for, and that's Final Fantasy XI. I can easily see the game going one of two ways, and while I think one's a bit more likely, there seem to be more divergent futures for it than for Final Fantasy XIV.

Continue reading The Mog Log: The 2012 forecast

MassivelyThe Mog Log: The 2012 forecast originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 31 Dec 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012-predictionscolumncolumnsdevelopmentexpansionsfeaturedffff11ff14ffxiffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xifinal-fantasy-xivmmo-industryopinionpredictionssquaresquare-enixthe-mog-logSat, 31 Dec 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Fitting the Gallente Talos]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/25/eve-evolved-fitting-the-gallente-talos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/25/eve-evolved-fitting-the-gallente-talos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/25/eve-evolved-fitting-the-gallente-talos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

EVE Evolved title image
Among the hundreds of changes brought by EVE Online's recent Crucible expansion, the new tier 3 battlecruisers certainly rank as player favourites. Rather than giving each race a bigger, tougher battlecruiser, CCP gave the new ships the ability to fit battleship-class weapons but heavily limited their defensive capabilities. All four tier 3 battlecruisers are turret-based, letting them output massive damage with close-range guns or hit for solid damage at battleship sniping distances.

As with all new ships, it can be difficult to figure out how to fit the new tier 3 battlecruisers to make full use of their unique combination of high damage output and high mobility. Last week I looked at three viable setups for the Caldari Naga, which proved to be an absolute monster with 1,000-1500 DPS when using close-range blaster setups and a terrifying 650 DPS when sniping at 100km-130km. This week I take a similar look at the Gallente Talos, a ship designed specifically for close-range combat. I explore a traditional armour-tanked blaster fitting with dual webs, a shield-based variant that packs a huge 1,500 DPS punch, and two long-range blaster fits that give the Naga a run for its money.

In this week's EVE Evolved, I explore four solid PvP fittings for the Talos, with both shield and armour setups.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Fitting the Gallente Talos

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Fitting the Gallente Talos originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 25 Dec 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlecruiserbattlecruisersbattleshipbattleshipsblasterblastersccpccp-eveccp-gamescrucibleeveeve-ccpeve-evolvedeve-mmorpgeve-onlineexpansionexpansionsfeaturedfleetfleetsgallenteguideguideshybridhybrid-weaponshybridsnagapvpship-fittingsnipersnipingtalostier-3Sun, 25 Dec 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE shows off EQII Dungeon Maker video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/22/soe-shows-off-eqii-dungeon-maker-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/22/soe-shows-off-eqii-dungeon-maker-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/22/soe-shows-off-eqii-dungeon-maker-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

EverQuest II - dungeon run
EverQuest II isn't the first title that springs to mind when we think of player-generated content. After all, it's one of the genre's foremost themeparks, and its predecessor laid the groundwork for the linear MMO as we know it.

Sony Online Entertainment has managed to fit quite a few diverse gameplay options into the usual box, though, and the latest example is the new Dungeon Maker toolset. The Dungeon Maker was included in this month's Age of Discovery expansion, and it basically allows players to build their own instanced content and publish it for everyone to enjoy. There are over a dozen pre-set layouts that can be populated with obstacles and NPCs, the latter of which can be set to patrol and otherwise interact with adventurers.

Players can explore player-made labyrinths with custom pre-set adventuring characters, and soon, with their own avatars. Since EQII is a progression game at heart, SOE has of course included a dungeon currency system wherein players collect marks for completing custom content and then spend said marks to acquire the building blocks for making additional dungeons. Check out the new Dungeon Maker video after the break for a few more details.

Continue reading SOE shows off EQII Dungeon Maker video

MassivelySOE shows off EQII Dungeon Maker video originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Dec 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-discoverydungeon-makereq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iiexpansionsf2pfantasyfree-to-playplayer-contentplayer-generated-contentsandboxsoeSony-Online-EntertainmenttrailervideoThu, 22 Dec 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Jade Dynasty: Legacy expansion goes live]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/16/jade-dynasty-legacy-expansion-goes-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/16/jade-dynasty-legacy-expansion-goes-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/16/jade-dynasty-legacy-expansion-goes-live/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Jade Dynasty
Last week we reported that Perfect World Entertainment's free-to-play title Jade Dynasty would be receiving a new update known as Jade Dynasty: Legacy. The company announced in a press release today that the update has now gone live, and players can experience all of the joys of the Legacy update on the live servers.

With this new update, players can explore the mysteries of Incense Valley as one of two new classes: the pyromancy-practicing Incense Valley Mage and the melee expert Forta. Players will need to band together with their allies in order to conquer the treacherous Crimson Peaks instance, which is touted as being "one of the largest in the game." For the full details, and to get in on the action yourself, just head on over to Jade Dynasty's official site.

[Source: Perfect World Entertainment press release]

MassivelyJade Dynasty: Legacy expansion goes live originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Dec 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classclassesexpansionexpansionsf2pfortafree-to-playincense-valleyincense-valley-magejade-dynastyjade-dynasty-legacylegacynew-classnew-classespatchpatchesperfect-world-etertainmentpweupdateupdatesFri, 16 Dec 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Flyff releases New Beginnings to the German and French servers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/flyff-releases-new-beginnings-to-the-german-and-french-servers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/flyff-releases-new-beginnings-to-the-german-and-french-servers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/flyff-releases-new-beginnings-to-the-german-and-french-servers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

C'est bien dans la francais, n'est-ce pas?
MMOs are a worldwide phenomenon. Sometimes that can be hard to see from the perspective of the many American gamers knee-deep in the hobby, but there are games and releases taking place all over the world. Case in point: The European version of Flyff has seen a big new release with the addition of the New Beginnings expansion, with both the German and French servers receiving the new content. The patch adds three new mid-level dungeons as well as over 100 new quests to help players new and old enjoy Flyff in depth.

To help promote the patch, the community team is launching a Lights, Camera, Action! promotion. A group of eight players can register and then upload a video to Own3D.tv, with in-game rewards coming as the video accumulates more likes and shares. The total value of all potential rewards goes up to 1,000 Euros, which should help encourage the French and German players of the game to get in on the action. There's also a trailer for the patch just after the break, although if you're not familiar with French, the language barrier might be an issue.

[Source: gPotato press release]

Continue reading Flyff releases New Beginnings to the German and French servers

MassivelyFlyff releases New Beginnings to the German and French servers originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Dec 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europeanexpansionsf2pflyfffree-to-playfrenchgala-netgermangpotatolanguageslocalizationsnew-beginningspatchestrailertrailersupdatesvideovideosThu, 15 Dec 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Touring a galaxy reborn]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/11/eve-evolved-touring-a-galaxy-reborn/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/11/eve-evolved-touring-a-galaxy-reborn/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/11/eve-evolved-touring-a-galaxy-reborn/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

EVE Evolved title
EVE Online recently celebrated the release of its incredible Crucible expansion, noted as one of the most feature-heavy expansions in the game's history despite the majority of its features being produced in a period of just a few weeks. Two years' worth of graphical upgrades, features, balance upgrades and quality-of-life fixes hit Tranquility all at once, and the response from players has been incredibly positive.

Last week I rounded up all the information there is to know about the Crucible expansion, but reading articles and news posts is no substitute for hands-on experience. This week I took a tour around parts of New Eden to explore the incredible new graphics Crucible delivered. As I have a background in graphics programming, the graphical upgrades are obviously the most exciting change for me. The astounding background nebulae are even more impressive when you know just how difficult it would be to build a nebula system that looks this incredible from any location.

In this week's EVE Evolved, I explore a reborn galaxy and catalogue my adventures in a massive HD gallery.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Touring a galaxy reborn

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Touring a galaxy reborn originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 11 Dec 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amarrcaldariccpccp-eveccp-gamescrucibleengine-trailseveeve-ccpeve-evolvedeve-mmorpgeve-onlineexpansionexpansionsexplorationexplorerfeaturedgalaxygallentegallerygraphicsgraphics-enginegraphics-programminggraphics-updatehands-onhighseclowsecminmatarnebulanebulaenebulasnew-edennullsecscreenshotscreenshotsspacewarpwarp-drivewarpingSun, 11 Dec 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Firing Line: Gravity-defying gameplay edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/09/the-firing-line-gravity-defying-gameplay-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/09/the-firing-line-gravity-defying-gameplay-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/09/the-firing-line-gravity-defying-gameplay-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Firing Line
Hullo shooter fans, and welcome back to Massively's weekly dose of pew pew news and views. The past seven days were quiet ones for three of the The Firing Line's "big four" MMO shooters, as newsmakers on the PlanetSide 2, Global Agenda, and Firefall dev teams were all silent.

Thankfully there were a couple of cool DUST 514 tidbits to chew on, but before we get to those, I'd like to call your attention to some interesting Tribes: Ascend, APB: Reloaded, and CrimeCraft news that you may have missed.

Continue reading The Firing Line: Gravity-defying gameplay edition

MassivelyThe Firing Line: Gravity-defying gameplay edition originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aimbotsall-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-reloadedapbapb-reloadedcheatscrimecraftdustdust-514expansionsfeaturedfiring-linegang-warsgangwarshi-rezhi-rez-studiosmmo-shooternews-roundupopinionpatchesshooterthe-firing-linetribestribes-ascendFri, 09 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blizzard talks Mists of Pandaria talent tree tweaks]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/blizzard-talks-mists-of-pandaria-talent-tree-tweaks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/blizzard-talks-mists-of-pandaria-talent-tree-tweaks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/blizzard-talks-mists-of-pandaria-talent-tree-tweaks/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Angry panda says don't mess with my talent trees
Blizzard lead systems designer Greg "Ghostcrawler" Street has penned a small novella on the official World of Warcraft website. The subject of the text dump is talent trees, and more specifically, how they'll be affected by the game's upcoming Mists of Pandaria expansion.

Street addresses 10 of the most common concerns that players have voiced regarding the changes, and some of his answers are more interesting than you might think.

As an example, many WoW players have said that the talent revamp will result in fewer choices across the board. Street admits that this sentiment is "ultimately correct," though he does qualify that with an assertion that players will have more choices that matter. Head to Battle.net to read the rest of his explanations.

MassivelyBlizzard talks Mists of Pandaria talent tree tweaks originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Dec 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardBlizzard-Entertainmentchangechoiceexpansionsfantasyghostcrawlergreg-streetmists-of-pandarianerfsplayer-choicetalent-treesworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 08 Dec 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE releases EQII Age of Discovery expansion, Freeport revamp, F2P model]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/06/soe-releases-eqii-age-of-discovery-expansion-freeport-revamp-f/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/06/soe-releases-eqii-age-of-discovery-expansion-freeport-revamp-f/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/06/soe-releases-eqii-age-of-discovery-expansion-freeport-revamp-f/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

EverQuest II - Sinking Sands boss fight
There are big days, and there are big days, and today is definitely the latter when it comes to EverQuest II. First of all, as producer Dave "Smokejumper" Georgeson says in his newly minted producer's letter, "today we stop requiring any sort of payment."

Yes, free-to-play is here (again, and across the board this time). That's just the tip of the iceberg, though. Today also marks the introduction of the much-ballyhooed Freeport revamp along with the rest of Game Update 62, and oh yeah, did we forget to mention the Age of Discovery expansion?

If so, the short version of AoD includes the dungeon-maker tool, mercenaries, the Beastlord class, and a ton of customization and collectible updates sure to make your stay in Norrath even more enjoyable. We could tell you about 20 additional alternate advancement points, a new launchpad and website, new social networking integration, and more, but then you'd have no reason to check out the official forums for yourself. Check out the official AoD trailer after the break.

Continue reading SOE releases EQII Age of Discovery expansion, Freeport revamp, F2P model

MassivelySOE releases EQII Age of Discovery expansion, Freeport revamp, F2P model originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 Dec 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-discoverybeastlordbusiness-modelsdave-georgesondungeon-makereq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iiexpansionsf2pfantasyfree-to-playfreeportfreeport-revampgame-update-62gu-62mercenariessmokejumpersoeSony-Online-EntertainmentvideoTue, 06 Dec 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Clone Wars Adventures releases Umbara combat zone trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/clone-wars-adventures-releases-umbara-combat-zone-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/clone-wars-adventures-releases-umbara-combat-zone-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/clone-wars-adventures-releases-umbara-combat-zone-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Clone Wars Adventures
Star Wars: Clone Wars Adventures is getting a new expansion known as Battle of Umbara. And just for giggles, the update will be hitting the live game on December 15th, which is the first day of Star Wars: The Old Republic's head start. Sony Online Entertainment has released a short video to show players what they have to look forward to from the Umbara combat zone when the update goes live on the 15th. Along with the new combat zone, the expansion will also bring new mission instances, zone-wide events, and more.. If you want to check the game out, you can sign up for free on the game's official site. Otherwise, just click on past the cut for the video.

Continue reading Clone Wars Adventures releases Umbara combat zone trailer

MassivelyClone Wars Adventures releases Umbara combat zone trailer originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 30 Nov 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battle-of-umbaraclone-wars-adventurescombat-zonecwaexpansionexpansionsf2pfree-to-playsoesony-online-entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-clone-wars-adventuresumbaravideovideoszoneWed, 30 Nov 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Perpetuum expansion launches December 1st, anniversary tourney this weekend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/perpetuum-expansion-launches-december-1st-anniversary-tourney-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/perpetuum-expansion-launches-december-1st-anniversary-tourney-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/perpetuum-expansion-launches-december-1st-anniversary-tourney-t/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Perpetuum - robot concepts
Perpetuum's latest expansion is rapidly approaching, and Avatar Creations has pumped out a good bit of info to make sure sci-fi sandbox fans are aware of all the goings-on in its maiden MMORPG. The Intrusion 2.0 patch hits tomorrow and brings with it substantial improvements to the mission and rendering engine systems, a new robot, and new conquerable outpost mechanics.

Prior to the expansion, outpost conflict was fairly random, but now thanks to a concept called stability that lets corporations gradually increase their influence over a given facility, Avatar is allowing enterprising players to get a lot of more mileage out of the system as they build their empires across the planet Nia.

As we reported last week, the devs are also hosting a tournament to celebrate the game's one-year anniversary, and you can read Avatar's description of the events after the break.

Continue reading Perpetuum expansion launches December 1st, anniversary tourney this weekend

MassivelyPerpetuum expansion launches December 1st, anniversary tourney this weekend originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 30 Nov 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1-year-anniversaryanniversaryavataravatar-creationsexpansionexpansionsgame-mechanicsintrusionintrusion-2.0niaone-year-anniversaryperpetuumplayer-contentWed, 30 Nov 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Uncharted Waters Online sets sail for Tierra Americana]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/26/uncharted-waters-online-sets-sail-for-tierra-americana/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/26/uncharted-waters-online-sets-sail-for-tierra-americana/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/26/uncharted-waters-online-sets-sail-for-tierra-americana/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

In 1492, Columbus managed to find the two monarchs least capable of double-checking his horrible math.
If you're basing a game in the Age of Exploration, however loose its historical basis may be, you have to eventually wind up dealing with the Americas. That's the case for Uncharted Waters Online, which has just launched the large Tierra Americana expansion to set players into the New World. America is the place to establish Pioneer Cities, special player-created towns that can be built up by player companies and then visited by others.

That's only part of the update, however, which also includes the cities of Paris and Firenze. Paris is, of course, the city of culture and fashion; it lets players show off their discoveries and try to set new trends in the fashion world. Firenze, meanwhile, offers crafters special improvements and gives new incentives to player-made goods. The update also features new ships and updates to the ship systems, giving Uncharted Waters Online's players ways to ensure that they traverse the newly expanded ocean in style and safety.

MassivelyUncharted Waters Online sets sail for Tierra Americana originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 26 Nov 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crafterscraftingexpansionexpansionsf2pfashionfree-to-playlarge-updatesnetmarblenewspatchesplayer-created-citiestierra-americanauncharted-watersuncharted-waters-onlineupdatesSat, 26 Nov 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Tattered Notebook: Will Age of Discovery be the last EQII expansion?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/26/the-tattered-notebook-will-age-of-discovery-be-the-last-eqii-expans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/26/the-tattered-notebook-will-age-of-discovery-be-the-last-eqii-expans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/26/the-tattered-notebook-will-age-of-discovery-be-the-last-eqii-expans/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

EQiI Jester
It's amazing how much can change in just over a year. At the end of last summer, we were wrapping up Fan Faire and looking forward to Destiny of Velious, the upcoming expansion and the first of what was supposed to be a two-part expansion. This past weekend, just over a year later, I was headed to #OccupyNorrath to check out the planned protest, part of which was aimed at the cost of the new expansion, Age of Discovery. While the protest was light, to put it mildly, there has been quite a bit of rumbling on the forums about this upcoming expansion and the fact that while it might be heavy on features, it's pretty light on new content.

Now, when I question whether Age of Discovery will be the last EverQuest II expansion, I'm certainly not predicting that all production will cease and desist in the game afterwards. But I think it's worth asking whether we're seeing a shift away from the traditional expansion model. Let's take a look back the past year and a half because I think it offers hints that might help explain the bigger picture for the game.

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: Will Age of Discovery be the last EQII expansion?

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: Will Age of Discovery be the last EQII expansion? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 26 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aqe-of-discoverydave-georgesondestiny-of-veliouseq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iiexpansionsfeaturedfree-to-playkaren-bryanrise-of-kunarksentinels-fateshadow-odysseysoeSony-Online-Entertainmenttattered-notebookSat, 26 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Assembly Required: Happy birthday Perpetuum!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/25/some-assembly-required-happy-birthday-perpetuum/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/25/some-assembly-required-happy-birthday-perpetuum/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/25/some-assembly-required-happy-birthday-perpetuum/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Some Assembly Required - blueprint header
Welcome back to Some Assembly Required, dear readers. This week marks something of a milestone for Perpetuum, the sci-fi sandbox set in the distant future on a far-flung planet known as Nia. Yes, the mech-based MMORPG has survived its first year (without a free-to-play conversion crutch!), and more than that, it's even grown a little bit. That's no small feat for an indie title in today's overcrowded MMO marketplace, never mind a niche sandbox that's been called a ground-based EVE Online.

Join me after the break for a recap of Perpetuum's first 12 months.

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: Happy birthday Perpetuum!

MassivelySome Assembly Required: Happy birthday Perpetuum! originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 Nov 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1-year-anniversaryanniversaryanniversary-retrospectiveavataravatar-creationsccpccp-gameseveeve-onlineexpansionexpansionsfeaturedgame-mechanicsintrusionintrusion-2.0niaone-year-anniversaryopinionperpetuumplayer-contentplayer-economyplayer-generated-contentretrospectivesandboxsarsci-fisome-assembly-requiredterra-incognitaFri, 25 Nov 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A look back at a cataclysmic year for World of Warcraft]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/23/a-look-back-at-a-cataclysmic-year-for-world-of-warcraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/23/a-look-back-at-a-cataclysmic-year-for-world-of-warcraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/23/a-look-back-at-a-cataclysmic-year-for-world-of-warcraft/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The Year of the Dragon Who Perches On Stuff While Dripping Lava.
It's been a big year for World of Warcraft, especially considering that the MMO behemoth is currently hitting its seventh year of operation. Considering its nigh-ubiquitous nature in the MMO sphere, it's hard to imagine that there was a time without it. And this past year of the game almost perfectly synchronizes with the latest expansion, Cataclysm, an expansion that was bound and determined to head back to the old and re-work everything up to new standards.

So how did that work out? What's been happening with the game over the past year? Let's pick up in December because that's when the story really begins, a story that involves a dragon smashing huge chunks of both continents to pieces. The result was a complete revamp of the game's lower-level areas, the addition of several new high-level areas, and a redesign of the way the game handled progression. It kicked off a war against primal forces and Old Gods for players, and that's without even getting in to the mechanical shifts.

Continue reading A look back at a cataclysmic year for World of Warcraft

MassivelyA look back at a cataclysmic year for World of Warcraft originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activision-blizzardanniversaryblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcataclysmexpansionsfeaturedmists-of-pandariamopopinionretrospectivetbcthe-burning-crusadeworld-of-warcraftwotlkwowwow-cataclysmwrathWrath-of-the-Lich-KingWed, 23 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[[Updated] Celebrate the launch of Veil of Alaris by winning a signed copy of the EverQuest art book]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/16/celebrate-the-launch-of-veil-of-alaris-by-winning-a-signed-copy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/16/celebrate-the-launch-of-veil-of-alaris-by-winning-a-signed-copy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/16/celebrate-the-launch-of-veil-of-alaris-by-winning-a-signed-copy/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

EverQuest book page
EverQuest's 18th expansion launched yesterday, complete with a level cap raise and plenty of new content and tweaks. Veil of Alaris is an exciting addition to the game for both players and developers, and the EverQuest team has decided to mark the occasion with a little gift.

The developers have sent us a copy of EverQuest: The 10th Anniversary Collector's Edition, a large hardcover book filled with interviews, art, the original storyline, and much more. There's also one more little detail: our copy is signed by the original development team from 1999. That's right, just inside the cover are the signatures of the 18 people who first created the world of EverQuest. Of course, we're not keeping it for ourselves; we're passing it on to one of you.

So what do you need to do to get your hands on this book? Simply leave us a comment here telling us about your earliest experience with EverQuest. It can be anything you like -- people you met, your overall thoughts and impressions as you entered the world, even a particular quest or battle that made you say, "This is it -- I love this game."

Leave your comment before this Friday, November 18th, at 11:59 p.m. EST. We'll choose and contact our favorite over the weekend and send the book to the winner Monday. Ready? Head down memory lane, and good luck!

[UPDATE: Our winner has been chosen and contacted. Thanks to all who entered!]

CONTEST FAQ OFFICIAL RULES

Massively[Updated] Celebrate the launch of Veil of Alaris by winning a signed copy of the EverQuest art book originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestcontestseqeverquesteverquest-bookeverquest-the-10th-anniversary-collectors-editionexpansionsgiveawaygiveawayssoeSony-Online-Entertainmentveil-of-alarisWed, 16 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest: Veil of Alaris goes live today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/everquest-veil-of-alaris-goes-live-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/everquest-veil-of-alaris-goes-live-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/everquest-veil-of-alaris-goes-live-today/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

EverQuest: Veil of Alaris logo
It's been a long time coming, but EverQuest's 18th expansion, Veil of Alaris, is now live. Players can now progress all the way to level 95 while adventuring through a variety of new zones. Guilds can now purchase customizable guild plots and guild halls, allowing them to display their uniqueness through their residences. And of course, there are a wealth of new quests to complete, new monsters to kill, and new loot to pillage. For the full set of notes on what's new with the expansion, head on over to the EverQuest official site, and don't forget to check out our own Karen Bryan's exclusive tour of the expansion.

MassivelyEverQuest: Veil of Alaris goes live today originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Nov 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eqeverquestexpansionexpansionsguild-hallsguild-plotslevel-caplevel-cap-increasesoesony-online-entertainmentveil-of-alarisvoaTue, 15 Nov 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online's Crucible expansion coming Nov 29th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/eve-onlines-crucible-expansion-coming-nov-29th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/eve-onlines-crucible-expansion-coming-nov-29th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/eve-onlines-crucible-expansion-coming-nov-29th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

EVE Online - Crucible nebula background
CCP's feel-good post count has been building to a fever pitch in recent weeks, and today the company has announced the ultimate win-back promotion in the form of EVE Online's 15th major expansion. The content drop is called Crucible, and it's currently scheduled to debut on November 29th.

"Crucible evolves the graphics, interface, and game mechanics with over three dozen updated and improved features based on feedback and challenges put forth by its players. This is EVE re-forged," CCP says on the expansion's teaser page. The web portal also provides a handy collated list of the aforementioned developer updates, and in spite of what was unquestionably the rockiest summer in the sci-fi sandbox title's eight-year existence, the future is looking pretty bright.

MassivelyEVE Online's Crucible expansion coming Nov 29th originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Nov 2011 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingccpccp-gamescrucibleeveeve-crucibleeve-onlineexpansionexpansionsflying-in-spacenew-contentnew-edennew-shipsTue, 15 Nov 2011 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest: Veil of Alaris walkthrough video highlights the Pillars of Alra]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/everquest-veil-of-alaris-walkthrough-video-highlights-the-pilla/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/everquest-veil-of-alaris-walkthrough-video-highlights-the-pilla/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/everquest-veil-of-alaris-walkthrough-video-highlights-the-pilla/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- EverQuest: Veil of Alaris
EverQuest: Veil of Alaris is only about a week from release, and SOE is keeping the hype train a-goin' with a new zone walkthrough video. This time around, the focus is on a zone known as the Pillars of Alra, where each of the eponymous pillars of the zone is dedicated to a different school of magic. To get a look at the new zone and hear what the designers of the Pillar of Alra have to say about the area, head on past the cut and check out the video.

Continue reading EverQuest: Veil of Alaris walkthrough video highlights the Pillars of Alra

MassivelyEverQuest: Veil of Alaris walkthrough video highlights the Pillars of Alra originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eqeverquestexpansionexpansionspillars-of-alrasoesony-online-entertainmentveil-of-alarisvideovideoswalkthroughzone-previewzone-walkthroughMon, 07 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aion 3.0 trailer details housing, new dungeons, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/05/aion-3-0-trailer-details-housing-new-dungeons-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/05/aion-3-0-trailer-details-housing-new-dungeons-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/05/aion-3-0-trailer-details-housing-new-dungeons-and-more/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Aion - 3.0 mount
Aion fans rejoice! The near-mythical 3.0 update is coming to Korea inside of a week (which means it's a few months removed from the American servers, of course). If the new Korean trailer is any indication, though, it should be well worth the wait.

The four-minute clip takes us inside the Promised Land patch's player housing mechanics, not to mention six new instanced areas and a variety of open world locales. You can also glimpse the patch's assorted air and ground mounts. We reported on some early looks at the 3.0 content last month, but the new trailer is even more extensive. Head past the cut to view it in full, and then mosey over to MMO Culture for a few new screenshots.

Continue reading Aion 3.0 trailer details housing, new dungeons, and more

MassivelyAion 3.0 trailer details housing, new dungeons, and more originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 05 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3.0aionaion-3.0aion-promised-landatreiaexpansionsfantasyhousingmountsncsoftnew-dungeonspatchesplayer-housingpromised-landtrailervehiclesvideoSat, 05 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Meet the Caldari Naga, EVE's latest battlecruiser]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/meet-the-caldari-naga-eves-latest-battlecruiser/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/meet-the-caldari-naga-eves-latest-battlecruiser/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/meet-the-caldari-naga-eves-latest-battlecruiser/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EVE Online - Caldari Naga concept
Minmatar? Check. Gallente? Yep. Amarr? Roger roger. Caldari? It's about time! EVE Online's battlecruiser rollouts are now complete thanks to today's introduction of the Naga. Like its three factional counterparts, the new ship is coming courtesy of EVE's winter expansion. Also, like the previous reveals, the Naga is the brainchild of an EVE player and it first appeared during last summer's Design a Starship competition.

In addition to its fearsome lines and considerable bulk, the Naga is "equally capable of fitting large torpedo launchers, large rail guns or even blasters, [and] is easily the most flexible weapons platform of the four new battlecruisers," according to the latest CCP dev blog. Head to the official site for further info and additional images.

MassivelyMeet the Caldari Naga, EVE's latest battlecruiser originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Nov 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlecruisercaldariccpccp-gamesdesign-a-starshipdev-blogdev-diaryeveeve-onlineexpansionsinternet-spaceshipsnaganew-edennew-shippew-pewsandboxsci-fiFri, 04 Nov 2011 11:00:00 EST