Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Star Trek Online announces Tribble Test Weekend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/star-trek-online-announces-tribble-test-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/star-trek-online-announces-tribble-test-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/star-trek-online-announces-tribble-test-weekend/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Star Trek Online
Star Trek Online's first expansion, Legacy of Romulus, is going to be launching in less than two weeks, and to build up some hype for the new addition, the folks at Cryptic have deemed this weekend a Tribble Test Weekend. Beginning tomorrow, players can log on to the Tribble test server and get their first look at the new content coming when Legacy of Romulus goes live on the 21st.

But if that's not enough to enthuse you to play on the test server, Cryptic is sweetening the deal. Any players who log in and play on the Tribble server for at least one hour over the course of the weekend will receive a special to-be-announced reward after Legacy of Romulus is released. For the full details on this Tribble Test Weekend, just head on over to the game's official site.

MassivelyStar Trek Online announces Tribble Test Weekend originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 May 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-studiosexpansionexpansionsf2pfree-to-playlegacy-of-romulusopen-betaperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotribbletribble-test-weekendThu, 09 May 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Ten years of EVE Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/05/eve-evolved-ten-years-of-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/05/eve-evolved-ten-years-of-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/05/eve-evolved-ten-years-of-eve-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

EVE Evolved Ten years of EVE Online
Tomorrow marks a huge milestone in MMO history as sci-fi sandbox EVE Online officially turns ten years old. Released by a tiny icelandic development studio whose only previous release was a board game featuring Reykjavik's favourite cross-dressing mayor, EVE has slowly grown over the past decade to become one of the industry's biggest and most stable subscription titles. Following 2011's monoclegate scandal that led to around 8% of players quitting and CCP Games shedding 20% of its employees, this year saw EVE Online climb to new heights as it regained the playerbase's confidence and smashed the 500,000 subscriber barrier. As a special side-note, the EVE Evolved column also turned five years old last week; it has now officially been running for over half of EVE's lifetime.

The past year has been remarkably successful for CCP, with both of the year's EVE expansions being extremely well received and console MMOFPS DUST 514 finally starting to take shape. The Inferno and Retribution expansions fixed a staggering number of small issues that were broken in the game while also making big changes to bounty-hunting, piracy, and PvP across the board. We also saw huge emergent events like the Battle of Asakai, a $6,000 ship kill, and the five trillion ISK faction warfare exploit this year. With DUST 514 officially launching in just over a week on May 14th and players fired up about the upcoming Odyssey expansion, the future's looking bright for EVE Online as it heads into its second decade.

In this week's EVE Evolved, I look back at some of year's top EVE stories, stories that touched real life, and what the future holds for EVE's second decade.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Ten years of EVE Online

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Ten years of EVE Online originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 05 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>6000-dollarsanniversaryanniversary-eventbounty-huntingcapsuleerccpccp-gamesconsolecrimewatchcynocyno-vigildeaddeathdecadedustdust-514eveeve-evolvedeve-fanfesteve-fanfest-2013eve-onlineeve-sourceexpansionexpansionsexploitfaction-warfarefanfestfeaturedfpsinfernointernet-spaceshipsinterviewinterviewskillkillmailkillmailslibyammofpsnuke-them-from-orbitodysseyopinionpiracyplaystationplaystation-3ps3pvpretributionsafetysandboxsci-fisean-smithsecond-decadeship-killshooterspreadsheets-onlineten-year-anniversaryten-yearsten-years-oldthe-second-decadetrailervideovigilvile-ratweapon-safetySun, 05 May 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online dev diary details new species: The Remans]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/03/star-trek-online-dev-diary-details-new-species-the-remans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/03/star-trek-online-dev-diary-details-new-species-the-remans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/03/star-trek-online-dev-diary-details-new-species-the-remans/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Star Trek Online dev diary details new species The Remans
Star Trek Online's Legacy of Romulus expansion is slated for release in just over two weeks from now, and if you've been keeping up with the onslaught of dev diaries, you know that means new ships, new fashions, and of course, new playable alien species. The most recent dev diary from the folks at Cryptic Studios focuses on the Romulans' slightly nastier counterparts, the Remans.

Players will be able to unlock Remans as a playable species in one of two ways: They can either purchase it from the C-Store (standalone or as part of the Legacy Pack) or "achieve Tier 5 in the New Romulus Reputation." Remans, of course, come with their own unique racial traits, including the powerful Mind Drain ability, described as "a powerful single-target psychic attack which drains vital essence from the victim to the caster." Sounds rather unpleasant to us. Remans also have access to two exclusive ship materials that can alter the appearance of any Romulan vessel they own, and they'll also gain access to spiffy Reman-only uniform variants. To check out the details on the new species, head on over to the official site for the full post, and remember that Legacy of Romulus will be going live on May 21st.

MassivelyStar Trek Online dev diary details new species: The Remans originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-studiosdev-blogdev-diaryexpansionexpansionsf2pfree-to-playlegacy-of-romulusperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweremanremanssci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoFri, 03 May 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online's newest Ask Cryptic takes aim at revamps and Romulans]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/star-trek-onlines-newest-ask-cryptic-takes-aim-at-revamps-and-r/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/star-trek-onlines-newest-ask-cryptic-takes-aim-at-revamps-and-r/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/star-trek-onlines-newest-ask-cryptic-takes-aim-at-revamps-and-r/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Do you want to fly technology that's two centuries old in game lore? Apparently some people totally do.
The Romulan faction in Star Trek Online will be unique in many ways, but exactly how the addition will work within the context of the game is still unclear. That's why many of the questions in the latest edition of Ask Cryptic focus on Romulans, such as what ships they will have access to from the C-Store (all ships from a player's chosen allied faction) and how Romulans with different allies will interact (they will not be able to group together for Romulan missions but can group for cross-factional content).

Other topics of discussion include the long-anticipated revamp to Exploration, which is being moved over toward encouraging the use of the Foundry to fulfill a similar niche. Klingon progression will be improved with a full leveling path, including episodes ported over and heavily tweaked from the Federation line as well as unique bits of content just for KDF characters. For the usual buffet of questions and answers you can check out the full installment on the official site.

MassivelyStar Trek Online's newest Ask Cryptic takes aim at revamps and Romulans originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 26 Apr 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-crypticcommunity-q-and-acrypticcryptic-studiosexpansionexpansionsf2pfactionsfree-to-playgame-mechanicsgroupinglegacy-of-romulusnewsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweq-and-aquestions-and-answerssci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoteamingFri, 26 Apr 2013 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Five years of EVE Evolved]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/21/eve-evolved-five-years-of-eve-evolved/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/21/eve-evolved-five-years-of-eve-evolved/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/21/eve-evolved-five-years-of-eve-evolved/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

EVE Evolved title image
About five years ago, on April 27th, 2008, I joined the Massively team and wrote the very first issue of the EVE Evolved column. Five years later, the column is still going strong and delivering its weekly dose of EVE Online to thousands of readers. I used to worry about running out of ideas to write about, but regular game updates and hilarious player shenanigans mean there's always something interesting going on in New Eden. When EVE hits its 10th anniversary in May, this column will have been running for just over half of the game's lifetime. In that time, I've written over 250 in-depth articles, guides, in-game stories and opinion pieces on EVE Online and a few on DUST 514.

As usual, I'll be celebrating this anniversary by rounding up this year's column highlights and giving away two 30-day Pilot's License Extensions to two lucky readers. To enter the competition, write a comment explaining which EVE Evolved articles from this year you liked best and what topics you'd like to see covered in the coming year. You will need an active EVE account to claim the prize, so be sure to include your character name in your comment if you want to be in with a chance. If you'd rather not give out your character name or don't have an EVE account but would like to give the game a go, you can sign up a new trial account and use the name of your new character.

In this week's EVE Evolved, I look back at the highlights from the column's fifth year!

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Five years of EVE Evolved

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Five years of EVE Evolved originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 21 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetanniversaryapocryphaasakaibaitingbounty-hunterbounty-huntingccpccp-gamesconsolecrimewatchcruisersdecadedustdust-514eoneveeve-evolvedeve-onlineexpansionexpansionsexplorationfeaturedfive-year-anniversaryfive-yearsfpsfrigatesgame-designguideguideshistoryhulkinfernolowsecmmofpsnyphurodysseyopinionopinion-piecepiracyplaystationplaystation-3ps3pvepvpretributionrisk-vs-rewardsandboxsci-fiship-fittingship-fittingsship-setupsshooterspeculationstoriesstorystorytellingthe-battle-for-caldari-primewormholewormholesSun, 21 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What's the fastest you've hit the level cap after a raise?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/the-daily-grind-whats-the-fastest-youve-hit-the-level-cap-aft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/the-daily-grind-whats-the-fastest-youve-hit-the-level-cap-aft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/the-daily-grind-whats-the-fastest-youve-hit-the-level-cap-aft/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Unfortunately, I did not get to slap these guns on my ship. More's the pity.
I hadn't really been trying to hit the level cap in Star Wars: The Old Republic after the expansion launched. I wanted to, certainly, but I figured it would happen when it happened. Turns out that it happened very shortly after the expansion launched, thanks to a combination of early access and a whole lot of play for first impressions. As it stands, I'm pretty sure it's the fastest turnaround I've had for hitting the cap after it's been raised.

Everyone's racing to the cap when a game first launches, but when the cap is raised it's a different ball game. You know how to play the game, you've got resources on your character, and you are often in pretty good equipment to start off. So what's the fastest you've ever hit the level cap after it's been raised? A week? Four days? A few hours after the patch has gone live?

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: What's the fastest you've hit the level cap after a raise? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Apr 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capsdaily-grindexpansionslevel-caplevel-cap-raiselevel-uplevelingopinionpatchestdgthe-daily-grindupdatesTue, 16 Apr 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: EVE's Odyssey expansion could be incredible]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/31/eve-evolved-eves-odyssey-expansion-could-be-incredible/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/31/eve-evolved-eves-odyssey-expansion-could-be-incredible/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/31/eve-evolved-eves-odyssey-expansion-could-be-incredible/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

EVE Evolved title image
When EVE Online's upcoming Odyssey expansion was officially announced last week at PAX East, the anticipation from players was almost palpable. Odyssey aims to follow in the footsteps of 2009's blockbuster Apocrypha expansion by revamping the exploration system and filling the void of space with thousands of new hidden treasures. We've been promised new ships, a new scanner mechanic with sleek new UI and additional functionality, and a rebalancing of industrial resources across the game.

Though CCP is saving most of the expansion reveals for next month's EVE Fanfest and beyond, we can make some fairly educated guesses on what the expansion will contain from the press release and teaser site. It's pretty much a given that we'll get some kind of new exploration ship, and there's pretty strong evidence that moon minerals will be changing somehow. We're also almost guaranteed to get new faction battlecruisers, and the evidence is mounting that Jove space may finally be about to open for exploration.

In this week's EVE Evolved, I look at the evidence for Jove space finally opening, explain why we desperately need a new scanning system, and make some educated guesses on what else the Odyssey expansion might contain.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: EVE's Odyssey expansion could be incredible

MassivelyEVE Evolved: EVE's Odyssey expansion could be incredible originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 31 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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A day with the SWTOR expansion Rise of the Hutt Cartel
Last week, BioWare invited a crew of gaming journalists to Austin to experience the latest content for Star Wars: The Old Republic. While I couldn't personally make the trip, BioWare invited me to listen in on the presentation given by Executive Producer Jeff Hickman. The journalists in Austin paired up and began their journey on the Hutt-controlled planet of Makeb, while I, having already been testing Rise of the Hutt Cartel for a few weeks, began writing my impressions of what I saw on that planet.

Before I begin my report, I would like to lay down a couple of disclaimers. In order for me to tell the story behind Makeb, I will have to give some spoilers about the main game. If you haven't completed it, and you don't want to know how it ends, then you will not want to read the first section after the break. Secondly, if you are looking for Rise of the Hutt Cartel to fix all the issues and emotional setbacks you had with SWTOR in the first place, then you might be a little disappointed. However, if you loved the storytelling and overall gameplay of vanilla TOR, then you will absolutely love this expansion.

Continue reading Massively's hands-on with SWTOR expansion Rise of the Hutt Cartel

MassivelyMassively's hands-on with SWTOR expansion Rise of the Hutt Cartel originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Mar 2013 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alexander-freedbiowareeaelectronic-artsexpansionExpansionsf2pfeaturedfirst-impressionsfree-to-playhands-onimpressionsjeff-hickmanlucasartsopinionpreviewpreviewsrise-of-the-hutt-cartelrothcsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorMon, 25 Mar 2013 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: SWTOR, a wretched operation of Scum and Villainy, part 1]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/19/hyperspace-beacon-swtor-a-wretched-operation-of-scum-and-villa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/19/hyperspace-beacon-swtor-a-wretched-operation-of-scum-and-villa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/19/hyperspace-beacon-swtor-a-wretched-operation-of-scum-and-villa/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Hyperspace Beacon SWTOR a wretched operation of Scum and Villainy, part 1
Sometimes it's good to be me. When I mentioned that I had not had a chance to test out the latest operation in Star Wars: The Old Republic Rise of the Hutt Cartel on the public test server, one of my Twitch followers known as Jedi Consular put me in touch with the Memories of Xendor guild. You might remember that guild from my column about the tools of the raid. Its members made the real-time parser that I use all the time. MoX invited me to join a 16-man Scum and Villainy operation last Thursday. When we started the raid, I was shocked to find out that we were running hardmode. My groupmates told me they don't even run storymodes anymore. They skip right to the most difficult.

I want to give a big thank you to Tensa, Jedi Consular, and MoX guild for helping make this article possible. Because of this group of awesome gamers, I experienced the complete raid. From Dash'roode to Dread Master Styrak, we fought every boss.

SWTOR has expanded as a raiding game; each boss has its own merits and shows the game's growth from the previous raids. Read on to get my breakdown. However, I will warn you: There are major mechanics and story spoilers.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: SWTOR, a wretched operation of Scum and Villainy, part 1

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: SWTOR, a wretched operation of Scum and Villainy, part 1 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 Mar 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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And as long as I'm dreaming I'd like to see Chaos be a bit more gender-neutral.
I do not play Warhammer Online any longer, but it holds a special place in my heart. I greatly enjoyed playing the game when it was selected for Choose My Adventure back in the day, and I still hold out hope that the game will emerge from its slow stagnancy to be some sort of WAAAGH-based phoenix. The odds of that happening are low, but I'd love to see it happen just the same.

Games have a life cycle, and after a certain point, even the most beloved online title slips into a maintenance mode. But we all have titles that we'd love to see get updates once again, allowing us to relive the glory days. This isn't about games that had been shut down; this is about games that are still running but are no longer at the forefront of the gaming zeitgeist. So what game do you still hope will be revitalized, even if you don't expect it to happen? Would you like to see Ultima Online get another day in the sun, or do you just hope that Champions Online will get a big expansion and some development love?

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: What game do you still hope will be revitalized? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 05 Feb 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>active-updatesdaily-grindexpansionsmaintenance-modemajor-patchesmajor-updatesnew-contentold-gamesolder-gamesopinionpatchesstatic-gamestdgthe-daily-grindupdatesTue, 05 Feb 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XI: Seekers of Adoulin site details Geomancer abilities, Naakual bosses]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/02/final-fantasy-xi-seekers-of-adoulin-site-details-geomancer-abil/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/02/final-fantasy-xi-seekers-of-adoulin-site-details-geomancer-abil/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/02/final-fantasy-xi-seekers-of-adoulin-site-details-geomancer-abil/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Final Fantasy XI: Seekers of Adoulin's Naakuals
Some new updates have hit the Final Fantasy XI: Seekers of Adoulin official website, shining a light on the abilities of the new Geomancer job and on the Naakuals, seven of the fiercest creatures in Adoulin. The Geomancer will be bringing a number of nifty new mechanics to the table, though perhaps the most interesting of these is the job's use of luopans. Luopans are described as "geomantic catalysts" that "act as the epicenter for special spherical fields termed 'colures.'" The Geomancer can place a luopan anywhere on the ground and activate it to cast a geocolure spell, which can provide buffs to nearby allies or debuff nearby enemies.

And from the looks of things, players will need all the help they can get in order to take down the dreaded Naakuals, described as "the seven most bloodthirsty hellions that reign over the wilds surrounding Adoulin." Three of these Naakuals have been revealed on the expansion's site. The first is Tchakka, the Riptide Naakual, which takes the form of a nasty shark-like rockfin. There's also Achuka, the Firebrand Naakual, representing the dinosaur-esque gabbrath family, and Colkhab, the Matriarch Naakual, the most dangerous of the bee-like bztavian family. To have a look at these ferocious foes for yourself, head on over to the FFXI: Seekers of Adoulin official site.

[Thanks to zengarzombolt for the tip!]

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XI: Seekers of Adoulin site details Geomancer abilities, Naakual bosses originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 02 Feb 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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EVE Evolved title image
I don't normally jump out of my seat shouting "hell yes!" to an EVE Online dev blog, but this week's announcement on the direction of future expansions has me a little bit excited. In two somewhat dry and lengthy posts, Executive Producer Jon Lander and Senior Producer CCP Seagull detailed the approach they intend to take to ongoing development in 2013. Instead of announcing any big headline features or making vague promises, the developers looked back at the success of 2009's blockbuster Apocrypha expansion.

Apocrypha was hands-down the best expansion EVE has ever had, adding 2500 hidden solar systems accessible only through shifting unstable wormholes. We saw a renaissance of exploration, collaborative research, and colonisation efforts that defied EVE's war-like reputation, and moreover, we saw a rebirth of small-scale PvP. The magic sauce that made Apocrypha work was lateral design: Rather than add one massive vertical feature, the expansion offered a little something for everyone. Apocrypha was EVE at its best, and hearing that developers are going back to that style of expansion honestly makes me a little giddy!

In this week's EVE Evolved, I look at the future for EVE's expansions, why the Apocrypha model works, and why I'm optimistic for 2013 and beyond.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Bring on the big expansions!

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Bring on the big expansions! originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 20 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apocryphaccpccp-gamesccp-seagullccp-soundwaveccp-unifexcrucibledominioneveeve-evolvedeve-onlineexpansionsfantasyfeaturedgame-designgame-developmentincarnaincursioninfernojon-landeropinionretributionsandboxsci-fityranniswodworld-of-darknesswormholesSun, 20 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What was the best MMO expansion of all time?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/13/the-daily-grind-what-was-the-best-mmo-expansion-of-all-time/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/13/the-daily-grind-what-was-the-best-mmo-expansion-of-all-time/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/13/the-daily-grind-what-was-the-best-mmo-expansion-of-all-time/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Daily Grind What was the best MMO expansion of all time
Whether or not the expansion model is here to stay or on the way out in the industry is a topic for another time. Instead, I want to talk about the best expansion of all time. AOL's Neverwinter Nights supposedly had an expansion in 1992, but the modern age of expansions didn't get going until 1998's Ultima Online: The Second Age. Since then we've seen scores of add-ons to our favorite MMOs. In 2012, we had nine major expansions enter the field (and we're not even counting content updates).

A great expansion significantly improves upon the game that came before. Perhaps it adds a wealth of new content, is just superbly done, or introduces a beloved feature to the game. For you, it could be the expansion in which you fell in love with a certain MMO.

Don't hold back here; if there ever was a time to step up and be bold, now is it. Let's fight it out in the comments over the best expansion that was, is, and ever will be!

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: What was the best MMO expansion of all time? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 13 Jan 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aoldaily-grindexpansionexpansionsneverwinter-nightsopiniontdgthe-daily-grindthe-second-ageultima-onlineSun, 13 Jan 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: Hopes for the new year in Guild Wars 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/01/flameseeker-chronicles-hopes-for-the-new-year-in-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/01/flameseeker-chronicles-hopes-for-the-new-year-in-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/01/flameseeker-chronicles-hopes-for-the-new-year-in-guild-wars-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Flameseeker Chronicles Hopes for the new year in Guild Wars 2
It's the dawn of a brave new year. Guild Wars 2 is still in its infancy, really -- ArenaNet's work in this year will do a lot to shape the future and lasting impact of the game. With apparently an expansion's worth of content coming out in January and February, this certainly promises to be an exciting year. I don't know whether the following things are predictions or hopes, but they can't be all that much more inaccurate than fondling sheep guts.

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: Hopes for the new year in Guild Wars 2

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: Hopes for the new year in Guild Wars 2 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Jan 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetascalonian-catacombsbuy-to-playdungeondungeonsesportsexpansionsfantasyfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesguestingguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw1gw2legendarylegendary-weaponncsoftnew-yearsopinionpatchespredictionsspvpupdatesTue, 01 Jan 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do expansions bring you back to games you've sworn off?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/the-daily-grind-do-expansions-bring-you-back-to-games-youve-sw/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/the-daily-grind-do-expansions-bring-you-back-to-games-youve-sw/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/the-daily-grind-do-expansions-bring-you-back-to-games-youve-sw/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

EverQuest II - Withered Lands horse
This winter is overflowing with MMO expansions, and whether we're talking about the fantasy stylings of RIFT and EverQuest II or the sci-fi sandbox shenanigans on display in EVE Online, there's a little something for everyone.

That being said, I've played and grown tired of each of these titles before, a couple of them multiple times, so even though EVE's new bounty mechanics and RIFT's dimensions sound awesome, I'm having a hard time fighting through the been-there-done-that feelings long enough to give one of them another whirl. How about you, Massively readers? Do expansions bring you back to games you've written off, or do you hold fast and stay quit?

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: Do expansions bring you back to games you've sworn off? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 10 Dec 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesconquestdaily-grindeq-2eq-iieq2eqiieveeve-onlineeverquest-2everquest-iiexpansionsf2pfantasyfree-to-playinternet-spaceshipsopinionpvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrsandboxsci-fisoesonysony-online-entertainmentspreadsheets-onlinetdgthe-daily-grindthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsMon, 10 Dec 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Tattered Notebook: Experiencing experience in EQII]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/24/the-tattered-notebook-experiencing-experience-in-eqii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/24/the-tattered-notebook-experiencing-experience-in-eqii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/24/the-tattered-notebook-experiencing-experience-in-eqii/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Tattered Notebook Experiencing experience in EQII
It's time to talk about experience. No, not the experience that comes from immersing yourself in a virtual world and creating memorable moments. I'm talking about the numerical value assigned to the various things you do in game, the kind of experience everyone wants and never has enough of.

EverQuest II underwent a recent change in how experience is awarded, and it got me thinking about experience in general in our MMOs. How far have we come when it comes to the experience reward system, and will we ever arrive at a system that satisfies everyone?

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: Experiencing experience in EQII

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: Experiencing experience in EQII originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 24 Nov 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chains-of-eternityeqeq-2eq-iieq2eqiieqII-experienceeverquesteverquest-2everquest-iiexpansionsexperiencef2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playopinionsoesonysony-online-entertainmenttattered-notebookthe-tattered-notebookveliousSat, 24 Nov 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest II: Chains of Eternity launch day roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/13/everquest-ii-chains-of-eternity-launch-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/13/everquest-ii-chains-of-eternity-launch-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/13/everquest-ii-chains-of-eternity-launch-day-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

EverQuest II Chains of Eternity launch day roundup
EverQuest II's ninth expansion launches today (we know, it seems like there have been at least 127 expansions, but that's EverQuest). Chains of Eternity introduces several of what SOE is calling "must-have" features to its long-running fantasy sequel. Chief among these are new prestige abilities, a level-cap bump (to 95), and adornments that become more powerful alongside your character.

In terms of content, Chains of Eternity focuses on EQII's afterlife via the realm of Ethernere and expansive new zones like the Obol Plains and the Eidolon Jungle. The update also boasts nine new dungeons as well as the ability for players to skip part of the game's alternate advancement grind. SOE is gifting two of your level 90 characters with 280 free AA (which is the minimum threshold for beginning the journey to max level).

Head past the cut for a roundup of all our Chains of Eternity coverage.

Continue reading EverQuest II: Chains of Eternity launch day roundup

MassivelyEverQuest II: Chains of Eternity launch day roundup originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Nov 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chains-of-eternityeq-2eq-iieq2eq2-expansioneqiieqii-expansioneverquest-2everquest-iiexpansionsf2pfantasyfree-to-playlaunchlaunch-daylaunchesnorrathroundupsoesonysony-online-entertainmentTue, 13 Nov 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest II posts a preview for Chains of Eternity on the last day to pre-order]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/12/everquest-ii-posts-a-preview-for-chains-of-eternity-on-the-last/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/12/everquest-ii-posts-a-preview-for-chains-of-eternity-on-the-last/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/12/everquest-ii-posts-a-preview-for-chains-of-eternity-on-the-last/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Every girl crazy 'bout a transparent cape.
Are you ready for the ninth expansion for EverQuest II, Chains of Eternity? It's coming out tomorrow, so if you're not ready, you should probably get ready pretty quickly if you play the game. This also means that today is the last day to pre-order and get an exclusive cape as a pre-order customer. Technically you have until 2:59 a.m. EST on the 13th, but it's best to just take care of that now if you've been meaning to order it and haven't gotten around to it.

But what if you're still undecided? The team at Sony Online Entertainment has put together one last preview video to help tempt you over with information about the expansion's dungeons. It's a quick video hitting the highlights of the nine new dungeons included with the expansion, complete with commentary from the developers regarding the design and the visual points of interest. Jump past the break for the preview, and if you're still on the fence about ordering, you'll need to make up your mind quickly.

Continue reading EverQuest II posts a preview for Chains of Eternity on the last day to pre-order

MassivelyEverQuest II posts a preview for Chains of Eternity on the last day to pre-order originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Nov 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chains-of-eternitydungeondungeonseq-2eq-iieq2eq2-chains-of-eternityeqiieverquest-2everquest-iiexpansionexpansionsf2pfantasyfree-to-playnew-expansionpre-orderpreviewpreview-videoreleasesoesonysony-online-entertainmentvideovideosMon, 12 Nov 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT unveils Return to Telara promotion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/08/rift-unveils-return-to-telara-promotion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/08/rift-unveils-return-to-telara-promotion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/08/rift-unveils-return-to-telara-promotion/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- RIFT
It's time once again for the Ascended of Telara to answer the call-to-arms with yet another Return to RIFT promotion to celebrate the imminent launch of the game's first expansion, Storm Legion. From now until Sunday, November 11th, Trion Worlds is inviting new and returning players to jump into the game for five days of free gameplay leading up to Storm Legion's launch.

During this free play time, players will be able to "go hands-on with sweeping Soul changes and dive into a pivotal World Event that shatters the peace on one continent... and opens the gates to two more." It certainly sounds as if Trion has an exciting experience in store for players, whether they're returning veterans or green recruits, so if you want to get in on the excitement, just head on over to the RIFT official site for all the details.

MassivelyRIFT unveils Return to Telara promotion originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Nov 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conquestexpansionexpansionsfantasypromotionpromotionspvpreturn-to-telarariftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrstorm-legionthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsThu, 08 Nov 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT's Storm Legion beta open to all Trion account holders]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/02/rifts-storm-legion-beta-open-to-all-trion-account-holders/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/02/rifts-storm-legion-beta-open-to-all-trion-account-holders/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/02/rifts-storm-legion-beta-open-to-all-trion-account-holders/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

RIFT's Storm Legion beta open to all Trion account holders
The time for RIFT's Storm Legion expansion is almost upon us. The expansion goes live for keeps on the 13th of November, but if that's too long to wait, you're in luck! The latest and greatest beta test is open to all Trion account holders. We're guessing you're probably one of those if you're interested in the RIFT expansion.

The open beta test runs from 1:00 p.m. EDT on Friday the 2nd until 11:00 a.m. EST on Wednesday the 7th. All of the expansion's seven dungeons are available for testing, as are all the leveling zones and a battle with Crucia herself. Full details (and a link to download the beta client) can be found on the official beta page.

What are you waiting for, hero?

MassivelyRIFT's Storm Legion beta open to all Trion account holders originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Nov 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-testbeta-testingbeta-testsbetasconquestexpansionexpansionsfantasylaunchobtopen-betaopen-beta-testpvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrstorm-legionthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsFri, 02 Nov 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT's Storm Legion open beta begins November 2nd]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/25/rifts-storm-legion-open-beta-begins-november-2nd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/25/rifts-storm-legion-open-beta-begins-november-2nd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/25/rifts-storm-legion-open-beta-begins-november-2nd/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

RIFT's Storm Legion open beta begins November 2nd
Want an early look at RIFT's Storm Legion expansion? First you should read our hands-on preview. After that, you might want to consider jumping on board for the open beta test that begins November 2nd and ends on November 7th.

Trion has issued a press release noting the time frame and procedure for taking part in the expansion's final test phase. You'll need to create a beta account and download the client. You can either create a new character or transfer your live server avatars to the beta environment. The testing concludes on November 5th, and Storm Legion releases on November 13th.

[Source: Trion press release]

MassivelyRIFT's Storm Legion open beta begins November 2nd originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 25 Oct 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaconquestexpansionsfantasypvpriftrift-expansionrift-literift-planes-of-telararift-storm-legionrvrstorm-legionstorm-legion-betastorm-legion-open-betathree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsThu, 25 Oct 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What game do you feel has changed too much for you to return?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/13/the-daily-grind-what-game-do-you-feel-has-changed-too-much-for/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/13/the-daily-grind-what-game-do-you-feel-has-changed-too-much-for/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/13/the-daily-grind-what-game-do-you-feel-has-changed-too-much-for/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

I had a girlfriend who changed a lot in college. One day we were cool, the next day, wham! Cyborg.
We've all got games that we like, but sometimes even the games you want to play have to be placed on the back burner for a while. In the old days, it could be a matter of not being able to pay a subscription fee for a couple of months. That's less of an issue with free-to-play becoming ubiquitous, but there are still times when other projects, heavy workloads, or simple burnout necessitate putting a game down for a while with the intention of returning later.

Unfortunately, sometimes later comes around and you don't recognize the game any longer.

Obviously, no game will freeze in place as we take care of other issues; updates will happen and the game will change. But sometimes you turn to go back to an old favorite and find out that the game's entire progression method has been redesigned, stats have been altered, and your favorite classes or skills are nearly unrecognizable. You no longer see the game you want to return to, and you don't want to start the game all over. So what game do you feel has changed too much for you to ever go back, even if you might be tempted?

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: What game do you feel has changed too much for you to return? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 13 Oct 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alterationschangesdaily-grindexpansionsgame-changersgame-mechanicsopinionpatchestdgthe-daily-grindtoo-changedtoo-differentupdatesSat, 13 Oct 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Are you sick of gear resets?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/12/the-daily-grind-are-you-sick-of-gear-resets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/12/the-daily-grind-are-you-sick-of-gear-resets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/12/the-daily-grind-are-you-sick-of-gear-resets/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

RIFT
Earlier this week, Massively RIFT columnist Karen Bryan expressed frustration over the seemingly inevitable MMO expansion problem: gear resets. We expect new gear along with our new content, but a complete gear reset, she argued, "renders all previous raid content irrelevant." Everything you earned before an expansion may as well never have happened because you can top that gear with a new crop of easymode quests. And the realization that a gear-grind is mostly for naught can have a ripple effect on a game as disillusioned players give up on acquiring it (or bail out of the game completely).

The Daily Grind crew has discussed gear resets in relation to raid progression before, but even games without raiding face this problem. If a game has any kind of scaling gear or levels, then the addition of new content, like an expansion, is bound to generate growing pains. So where do you stand? Are you sick of gear resets, of having to effectively start over at the dawn of every expansion? Or do you see gear resets as a good thing, as a way to bridge the gear divide between players and re-experience what you loved about the game originally?

And since you're going to tell us anyway, here's a bonus question: Which MMOs have successfully avoided this problem and how?

Every morning, the Massively bloggers probe the minds of their readers with deep, thought-provoking questions about that most serious of topics: massively online gaming. We crave your opinions, so grab your caffeinated beverage of choice and chime in on today's Daily Grind!

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Are you sick of gear resets? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Oct 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brianna-royce-tdgdaily-grindexpansionexpansionsgeargear-resetgear-resetskaren-bryanopinionprogressiontdgthe-daily-grindFri, 12 Oct 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lineage II launches a teaser site for Glory Days [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/10/lineage-ii-launches-a-teaser-site-for-glory-days/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/10/lineage-ii-launches-a-teaser-site-for-glory-days/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/10/lineage-ii-launches-a-teaser-site-for-glory-days/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

She's honestly pretty tired of watching adventurers explode in golden light. It's gotten boring.
Another update for Lineage II is approaching, and this one promises to be full of glory. Days of it, even. But if you weren't sure about what the Glory Days update will offer for players, you can now stop at a handy teaser site that contains all of the upcoming features and expansions to Lineage II's existing gameplay. And there's a lot in there.

High-level players can venture to the Isle of Souls for solo or small-party play, take on Pagan's Temple for solo or group play, make a small team to infiltrate Nornil's Cave, or take part in the daily instanced raid of Nornil's Garden. Meanwhile, all players can enjoy the revised Mentoring and Reputation system, while players with a Subclass can enjoy special dual-class abilities as well as a free subclass level reset. And there's a whole revamped system of Clan Wars coming, complete with contestable halls. Really, if you're an avid Lineage II player, you might want to just look at the site.

[Update]: Glory Days will launch on October 24th.

MassivelyLineage II launches a teaser site for Glory Days [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 10 Oct 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>expansionsf2pfantasyfree-to-playglory-dayslarge-patcheslarge-updateslineagelineage-2lineage-iimini-expansionsncsoftnewspatchesupdatesWed, 10 Oct 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter at Your Own Rift: Expansion anxiety]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/10/enter-at-your-own-rift-expansion-anxiety/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/10/enter-at-your-own-rift-expansion-anxiety/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/10/enter-at-your-own-rift-expansion-anxiety/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Enter at your own Rift Expansion Anxiety
I don't know about anyone else, but I'm getting a big kick out of the little ad banner videos that RIFT is using to promote the Storm Legion expansion. The sight of a mini Scott and Russ flipping signs with promises to generic forum posts is a neat little marketing ploy. Even though I never click ad banners, and even though I'm getting the expansion, I still clicked on them just to see the video and the gameplay. It's like RIFT's version of Dumbledore smiling back through the Daily Prophet.

There's a lot I'm looking forward to in Storm Legion, but at the same time, I'm apprehensive about the changes that tend to come with the launch of any expansion. The world of Telara is changing, and Crucia is only part of that. In this week's Enter at Your Own Rift we'll look at some of the changes that MMO expansions normally bring and see how they might affect RIFT.

Continue reading Enter at Your Own Rift: Expansion anxiety

MassivelyEnter at Your Own Rift: Expansion anxiety originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 10 Oct 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conquestdimensionsenter-at-your-own-riftexpansionexpansionsfantasyfeaturedopinionpvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrstorm-legiontelarathree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsWed, 10 Oct 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CCP unveils EVE Online: Retribution, coming this winter]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/29/ccp-unveils-eve-online-retribution-coming-this-winter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/29/ccp-unveils-eve-online-retribution-coming-this-winter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/29/ccp-unveils-eve-online-retribution-coming-this-winter/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

EVE Online: Retribution
Earlier this evening at the VETO EVE fan gathering in London, CCP announced EVE Online's 18th expansion: EVE Online: Retribution. Due in December, this latest content overhaul promises to bring some of the biggest changes yet to the space-themed sandbox MMO, which is steadily ramping up for its 10th anniversary next May.

We sat down with Jon Lander and Kristoffer Touborg, EVE's executive producer and lead designer respectively, to get a first-hand look at some of Retribution's key features as well as the enormous pile of tweaks, updates, and adjustments players might expect with any CCP-helmed update. One thing is certain: After Retribution, the world of internet spaceships will never again be the same.

Continue reading CCP unveils EVE Online: Retribution, coming this winter

MassivelyCCP unveils EVE Online: Retribution, coming this winter originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 29 Sep 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>announcementbreakingccpccp-gamescorporationcouncil-of-stellar-managementcrucibleeveeve-apieve-onlineeve-ship-balanceeve-shipsexpansionexpansionsfaction-warfarefeaturedinfernointernet-spaceshipsjon-landerkristoffer-touborgnew-edenpreviewpreviewspvepvpretributionsandboxsci-fisci-techspreadsheets-onlineSat, 29 Sep 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: Dealing with returning members at the dawn of a new expansion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/27/the-guild-counsel-dealing-with-returning-members-at-the-dawn-of/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/27/the-guild-counsel-dealing-with-returning-members-at-the-dawn-of/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/27/the-guild-counsel-dealing-with-returning-members-at-the-dawn-of/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Guild Counsel New expansion, old faces dealing with returning members
The launch of an expansion is always an exciting time. There's new content to explore, new features to check out, and for guilds, a sudden influx of new and returning players. Some of those fresh faces were once on your roster, and it's not that surprising that they're suddenly showing up on your doorstep again, ready and willing to get back into things.

On the surface, the sudden roster boost might seem like a welcome scenario, especially for raiding guilds. But in reality, it can turn into a disruption that has the potential to add drama and headaches for the guild leader. In this week's Guild Counsel, we'll look at a few things to be mindful of when you're faced with a sudden influx of returning members.

Continue reading The Guild Counsel: Dealing with returning members at the dawn of a new expansion

MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: Dealing with returning members at the dawn of a new expansion originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Sep 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adviceexpansion-issuesexpansionsfeaturedguildguild-adviceguild-clashesguild-counselguild-cultureguild-leadershipguild-managementguildsleadershiploot-rulesopinionrecruitmentreturning-membersthe-guild-counselThu, 27 Sep 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Anarchy Online offers subscription bonuses]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/24/anarchy-online-offers-subscription-bonuses/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/24/anarchy-online-offers-subscription-bonuses/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/24/anarchy-online-offers-subscription-bonuses/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Anarchy Online offers subscription bonuses
Anarchy Online wants your business,- and it's prepared to undertake a fair bit of bribery to make that happen. Funcom is offering a pair of promotions for new and existing players who choose to subscribe any time between now and November 12th.

For new players, AO will dish out more bonus items the longer you stay subscribed. These bonuses include Funcom points, a luxury apartment, fancy armor, and even all of the Anarchy Online expansions.

Existing players who sign on for a 12-month subscription will get over $100 of bonuses including Funcom points, all expansions, armor, and consumables.

MassivelyAnarchy Online offers subscription bonuses originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anarchy-onlineaoapartmentclassic-mmoexpansionsf2pfree-to-playfuncomfuncom-pointsluxury-apartmentpromopromotionssalesci-fisubscriptionsubscription-promotionMon, 24 Sep 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Has EVE Online boxed itself in?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/09/eve-evolved-has-eve-online-boxed-itself-in/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/09/eve-evolved-has-eve-online-boxed-itself-in/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/09/eve-evolved-has-eve-online-boxed-itself-in/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

EVE Evolved title image
When I was first introduced to EVE Online in 2004, it was an empty shell of a game. There were only three classes of ship, no alliances or starbases, and neither exploration complexes nor level 4 missions existed yet. EVE consisted of 5,000 systems of almost completely empty space populated by less than 50,000 players. The user interface was an order of magnitude worse than it is today (if you can imagine that), and the tutorial just dropped you in the middle of space with the ship equivalent of a pea shooter and a less-than-enthusiastic "good luck!"

Though much of the game was empty, it sat before players like a blank galactic canvas. Not only could players paint their own stories into the game world, but EVE's highly active development team was updating the game at lightning speed. Players instinctively filled the voids in the game with their hopes and dreams, projecting all the things that EVE could be into the gaps. People shared ideas on the forum directly with the developers, and practically anything was possible. Things aren't quite the same today, as new ideas have to be compatible with over nine years' worth of updates, and developer CCP Games really can't afford to rock the boat and potentially lose subscriptions.

In this week's EVE Evolved, I consider whether the past nine years of development has boxed EVE in, forcing the gameplay down an ever-narrowing branch of choices.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Has EVE Online boxed itself in?

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Has EVE Online boxed itself in? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 09 Sep 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apocryphaboxed-incastorccpccp-gamesconsolecrucibledominiondustdust-514emptyempty-spaceeveeve-evolvedeve-onlineexpansionexpansionsfantasyfeaturedfpsgame-designgame-developmentgothichorrorincarnaincursioninfernoinnovationlife-cyclemmo-life-cyclemmofpsnyphuropinionpatchpatchesplaystationplaystation-3potentialps3revelationssandboxsci-fishootersupernaturaltyrannisvampireswhite-wolfwodworld-of-darknessSun, 09 Sep 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX Prime 2012: RIFT's Storm Legion approaches]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/02/pax-prime-2012-rifts-storm-legion-approaches/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/02/pax-prime-2012-rifts-storm-legion-approaches/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/02/pax-prime-2012-rifts-storm-legion-approaches/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

PAX Prime 2012 RIFT's Storm Legion approaches
The Storm Legion is coming. Even now, those touched by Crucia are preparing to unleash her will. But RIFT's Storm Legion expansion is bringing more than just dragon minion foes. A new soul for each calling, player housing instances, new continents, new dungeons, and new raids are all part of the bundle. We caught up with the Trion team at PAX to catch a glimpse of what the oncoming storm will bring.

Gallery: RIFT: Storm Legion

Continue reading PAX Prime 2012: RIFT's Storm Legion approaches

MassivelyPAX Prime 2012: RIFT's Storm Legion approaches originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 02 Sep 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conconquestconventiondimensiondimensionsexpansionexpansionsexpofantasyfeaturedhousingpaxpax-2012pax-primepax-prime-2012penny-arcade-expoplayer-housingpreviewpreviewspvpregulusriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrstorm-legionthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsSun, 02 Sep 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE to stop offering expansions for Station Cash, offers 50% off this weekend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/11/soe-to-stop-offering-expansions-for-station-cash-offers-50-off/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/11/soe-to-stop-offering-expansions-for-station-cash-offers-50-off/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/11/soe-to-stop-offering-expansions-for-station-cash-offers-50-off/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

SOE to stop offering expansions for Station Cash, offers 50% off this weekend
In the wake of the initial removal of subscriptions from the Station Cash store, Sony Online Entertainment is giving players a heads-up about the impending removal of expansions and DLC packs. Starting on Monday the 27th, players will no longer be able to purchase any expansions for EverQuest or EverQuest II or DLC packs for DC Universe Online using Station Cash. The company explains that the change is due to the substantial cost of the content development, the need to protect revenue, and the competing desire to continue running player-loved Station Cash promotions.

Along with the notification, SOE is offering a 50% off sale on expansions and DLC packs from now through 2:59 a.m. EDT on Monday, August 13th. Players can take advantage of this offer with either cash or their saved SC, but only for this limited time. After that, all purchases will be cash-only.

[Thanks to Paul for the tip!]

MassivelySOE to stop offering expansions for Station Cash, offers 50% off this weekend originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 11 Aug 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>50-percent-offconsoleconsolesdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuoDLCDLC-packseqeq-2eq-iieq1eq2eqiieverquesteverquest-2everquest-iiexpansionsf2pfantasyfree-to-playplaystation-3playstation3ps3salesoesonysony-online-entertainmentstation-cashsuperherosuperheroesSat, 11 Aug 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: LotRO's next four expansions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/11/the-road-to-mordor-lotros-next-four-expansions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/11/the-road-to-mordor-lotros-next-four-expansions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/11/the-road-to-mordor-lotros-next-four-expansions/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Road to Mordor LotRO's next four expansions
With under a month to go until Riders of Rohan hits the digital starting gate and gallops past the horse metaphor, expansions are weighing heavily upon my mind. I'm excited about horse combat and a break from traditional questing (to a point), but I'm also hoping that Lord of the Rings Online's fourth expansion will prove far more compelling than its previous one turned out to be.

LotRO may be coasting into its middle-age years (in MMOs, every year in real life is like nine for the game), but it still has quite a bit of life -- and journey -- ahead of it. Unlike every other MMO out there, this title has a specific story it's following from beginning to end. Maybe we get off the beaten path of Tolkien's works now and then, but our fate as players is intertwined with the fates of Frodo and the One Ring. It gives us the advantage of knowing more about our future in the game than we would have otherwise.

So today I'm putting on my prognostication cap and giving you all the skinny on Lord of the Rings Online's next four expansions past Riders of Rohan. I have no insider knowledge, just a gut feeling and a time-traveling buddy named Soren from the year 2020.

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: LotRO's next four expansions

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: LotRO's next four expansions originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 11 Aug 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-of-gondorclassclassesdefenders-of-helms-deepexpansionexpansionsf2pfall-of-mordorfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgondorhelms-deepjrr-tolkienlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromines-of-moriamordoropinionpredictionrhunriders-of-rohanrise-of-isengardroad-to-mordorseekers-of-rhunsiege-of-mirkwoodthe-return-of-the-ringthe-road-to-mordorthe-two-towerstolkienturbineturbine-entertainmentSat, 11 Aug 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Allods Online gives a glimpse of new expansion areas]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/20/allods-online-gives-a-glimpse-of-new-expansion-areas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/20/allods-online-gives-a-glimpse-of-new-expansion-areas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/20/allods-online-gives-a-glimpse-of-new-expansion-areas/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Allods Online gives a glimpse of new allods
The Allods Online community is aflame with excitement over the upcoming New Horizons expansion, and gPotato seems determined to keep throwing fuel on that fire. Today the company posted a brief overview of all seven new allods (zones) coming with next month's update.

These new allods range from the spooky, gloomy region of the Lost Expedition to the lush, untamed Jungles of Mboa-Mboa. There's also the demon-plagued Black Rampart, an all-female city called Fenia's Cloister, the murky depths of the Underwater Kingdom, the toasty Cinder Vale, laboratory-run-amok Zone 51, and Metal Municipality, a city undergoing civil war. All in all, it looks to be a diverse travel itinerary for any adventurer.

GPotato recently posted the trailer for New Horizons.

MassivelyAllods Online gives a glimpse of new expansion areas originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Jul 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allodsallods-expansionallods-onlineastrum-nivalexpansionsf2pfantasyfree-to-playgala-netgpotatonew-horizonspath-to-greatnessFri, 20 Jul 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lord of the Rings Online dev diary discusses 'reincarnation' of PvMP]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/19/lord-of-the-rings-online-dev-diary-discusses-reincarnation-of/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/19/lord-of-the-rings-online-dev-diary-discusses-reincarnation-of/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/19/lord-of-the-rings-online-dev-diary-discusses-reincarnation-of/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Lord of the Rings Online
Today's Lord of the Rings Online dev diary begins by stating that "over the course of LotRO's lifetime, the Ettenmoors has been updated several times." It continues, "this is not one of those times. This is a new beginning; this is a reincarnation." Those are some bold words, so what about this new incarnation of the Ettenmoors is so revolutionary?

Well, a number of things, according to the dev diary. The team is not looking for a "mystical silver bullet that magically makes everything better" but instead is looking at three primary areas to revamp. First, the team is taking a look at the many keeps, outposts, and the Delving. The current model rewards players for flipping control points to their faction's control, but there's no incentive to continue to hold them, so the studio aims to "shift the model to instead provide large benefits for having and keeping locations." Secondly, Turbine is analyzing Creep traits and skills for "usefulness, potency, and acquisition costs. Finally, all Creep classes will be receiving new skills and "an overall balance adjustment on... damage and healing" to ensure they are balanced with the Free Peoples.

The full dev blog is far too in-depth to post the whole thing here, but if you're interested in the nitty-gritty of all the PvMP changes coming with Riders of Rohan, head on over to the full post.

MassivelyLord of the Rings Online dev diary discusses 'reincarnation' of PvMP originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Jul 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dev-blogdev-diarydeveloper-blogdeveloper-diaryexpansionexpansionsf2pfantasyfree-to-playlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroplayer-vs-monster-playplayer-vs-playerpvmppvpriders-of-rohanturbineturbine-entertainmentThu, 19 Jul 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Perfect World Entertainment's Mark Hill previews Rusty Hearts: Reborn]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/19/perfect-world-entertainments-mark-hill-previews-rusty-hearts-r/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/19/perfect-world-entertainments-mark-hill-previews-rusty-hearts-r/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/19/perfect-world-entertainments-mark-hill-previews-rusty-hearts-r/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Rusty Hearts: Reborn
About a week ago, we got our first look at the first expansion to Perfect World Entertainment's side-scrolling hack-and-slash title, Rusty Hearts. On July 24th, Rusty Hearts: Reborn will be bringing a wealth of new content to the game, and I had the opportunity to sit down and chat with Mark Hill, senior product manager of Rusty Hearts, about the new update.

What's particularly interesting about Rusty Hearts: Reborn is that many of the features coming with the expansion are a direct result of player feedback. According to Hill, the studio recognized that many players were quitting the game prematurely, sometimes as early as level 5, and as such, the expansion is focused on retooling the early- and mid-game to make it more welcoming to new players. That's not to say that there's nothing for established players, however, so if you're interested in what Rusty Hearts: Reborn is bringing to the table, head on past the cut, where I'll share all of the information gleaned from my talk with Mr. Hill.

Continue reading Perfect World Entertainment's Mark Hill previews Rusty Hearts: Reborn

MassivelyPerfect World Entertainment's Mark Hill previews Rusty Hearts: Reborn originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Jul 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoanimeexpansionexpansionsf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playinterviewinterviewsmark-hillperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpreviewpreviewspwerebornrusty-heartsrusty-hearts-rebornThu, 19 Jul 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[gPotato releases Allods' New Horizons expansion trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/19/gpotato-releases-allods-new-horizons-expansion-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/19/gpotato-releases-allods-new-horizons-expansion-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/19/gpotato-releases-allods-new-horizons-expansion-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

gPotato releases Allods' New Horizons expansion trailer
Yesterday we told you about Allods Online's New Horizons expansion. Today gPotato has released a trailer that shows off a bit of what's coming when the content goes live on August 8th. You'll get new mercenary functionality, seven new astral allods (plus the ability to own one yourself), and a new PvP feature called the Smugglers' War.

The clips runs for well over four minutes, so head past the break to see for yourself.

[Source: gPotato press release]

Continue reading gPotato releases Allods' New Horizons expansion trailer

MassivelygPotato releases Allods' New Horizons expansion trailer originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Jul 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allodsallods-expansionallods-new-horizonsallods-onlineallods-videoastrum-nivalexpansionsf2pfantasyfree-to-playgala-netgpotatonew-horizonstrailervideoThu, 19 Jul 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rule your own allod in Allods Online's new expansion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/18/rule-your-own-allod-in-allods-onlines-new-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/18/rule-your-own-allod-in-allods-onlines-new-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/18/rule-your-own-allod-in-allods-onlines-new-expansion/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Rule your own allod in Allods Online's new expansion
It's only been a few days since gPotato announced a new server for Allods Online, but today the firm has even more exciting news for fans of its free-to-play fantasy MMO. An expansion called New Horizons is coming on August 8th alongside the new server launch.

Quite a bit of content is in the offing, including the ability for players to build, design, and rule their own allod (which is basically an island in the game's vast expanse of magical space known as The Astral).

The expansion also brings ship-to-ship combat, territorial and trade wars, and mercenary characters to the table. These mercs can be called upon to join parties and take down tough content that's not normally tenable for solo players or small groups. The mercs will take a share of the loot spoils, though. That's not all there is to the new patch, but you'll need to head to the official Allods website to find out more.

[Source: gPotato press release]

MassivelyRule your own allod in Allods Online's new expansion originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Jul 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allodsallods-expansionallods-onlineastrum-nivalexpansionsf2pfantasyfree-to-playgala-netgpotatonew-horizonspath-to-greatnessWed, 18 Jul 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mog Log: Unabashedly squealing about Seekers of Adoulin]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/30/the-mog-log-unabashedly-squealing-about-seekers-of-adoulin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/30/the-mog-log-unabashedly-squealing-about-seekers-of-adoulin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/30/the-mog-log-unabashedly-squealing-about-seekers-of-adoulin/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The Mog Log header image by A. Fienemann
It seems almost unbelievable, but it's here. It's coming. Seekers of Adoulin is the fifth expansion for Final Fantasy XI, the first one in what seems like an eternity, a genuinely new experience for players above and beyond the many recycled bits that have dominated the game for years now. It's a new region, a new set of challenges, all sorts of new. It's what players have been asking for for years on end, and as surreal as it seems, this is a reality. That it's not coming until next year almost seems like a footnote.

Needless to say, I'm excited. I think that if handled correctly, this is a great opportunity for Square-Enix to revitalize Final Fantasy XI in the wake of Final Fantasy XIV's relaunch later this year. It's a chance to give the game a new audience and let players come back to enjoy it on their own terms. Most of all, it's a chance to show how much life the older game really has, possibly to players who would never have seen it otherwise.

Continue reading The Mog Log: Unabashedly squealing about Seekers of Adoulin

MassivelyThe Mog Log: Unabashedly squealing about Seekers of Adoulin originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 30 Jun 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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If someone had brought a Warlock or a Shaman, this could have been prevented.
Jaina Proudmoore is one of the biggest lore figures in World of Warcraft despite the fact that her character history largely consists of trying to make reasonable compromises and being completely ignored. It's no surprise that she's the star of the newest novel based on World of Warcraft considering her prominence in the lore and her relationship to the war between the game's factions. Tides of War is written by Christie Golden and will be released in late August, setting the stage for Mists of Pandaria later this year.

While Jaina has always tried to broker a peace between the Alliance and the Horde, the novel's plot revolves around Warchief Garrosh Hellscream launching an attack against Jaina's home in Theramore, demonstrating the same legendary thinking that's alienated several of the Horde's allies. Whether or not the erstwhile diplomat will be able to retain any hopes of a peaceful resolution remains to be seen, but with Mists of Pandaria promising to focus on the conflict between the two factions, it seems likely that players will be looking at silencing the last and loudest voice for peace.

MassivelyNewest World of Warcraft novel gets a release date and cover preview originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Jun 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionbackstoryblizzardblizzard-entertainmentexpansionexpansionsfantasyjainajaina-proudmoorelorelore-characterslore-figuresmistsmists-of-pandariamopnovelnovelspandariapandastides-of-warwarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowFri, 29 Jun 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XI: Seekers of Adoulin not on PS2 outside of Japan]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/27/final-fantasy-xi-seekers-of-adoulin-not-on-ps2-outside-of-japan/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/27/final-fantasy-xi-seekers-of-adoulin-not-on-ps2-outside-of-japan/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/27/final-fantasy-xi-seekers-of-adoulin-not-on-ps2-outside-of-japan/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

On the plus side, you can probably get a PC that can run the game for the price of a hamburger.
If you're a Final Fantasy XI player still playing the game on the PlayStation 2, it looks like you're in for a disappointment. After the surprising announcement that the game was getting a new boxed expansion, it was noted that the official site didn't list PS2 support. According to community representative Matt "Baryohne" Hilton, that wasn't an accident: Seekers of Adoulin will not be available for PS2 players in North American and European markets.

Japanese players on the console will still be receiving the expansion, likely due to the higher percentage of console subscribers in Japan compared to other regions. Hilton was quick to point out that support would still be offered to PS2 players, but that's cold comfort to any console players left out of the upcoming expansion. There's been no word yet on whether or not the game will begin phasing out console support entirely, but if you consider the age of the PS2, it's entirely within the realm of possibility.

[Thanks to FusionX for the tip!]

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XI: Seekers of Adoulin not on PS2 outside of Japan originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Jun 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>baryohneconsolesdiscontinued-supportexpansionexpansionsfantasyffff11ffxifinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-ximatt-hiltonnewsplatformsplaystation-2ps2seekers-of-adoulinsquaresquare-enixsupportWed, 27 Jun 2012 19:30:00 EST