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[The end of Exteel]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/29/the-end-of-exteel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/29/the-end-of-exteel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/29/the-end-of-exteel/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Set the flags to half-mast, put on your blackest mech armor, and raise a glass with us: As of September 1st, Exteel is shutting its doors and powering down its giant fighting 'bots. NCsoft announced the game's cancellation with a bittersweet consolation prize in the form of a late August event where all parts and mechs will be sold for one NCcoin apiece.

Exteel has been around since December 2007, a mere month after Massively itself opened its doors. While it was never a title to garner a huge amount of attention, Exteel's combination of a mech-based setting, PvP-centric play and microtransaction funding made it unique to the MMO genre.

NCsoft said that the game was no longer "financially viable," adding, "We know that we have many loyal players who love Exteel. Although this decision was a painful one, in the end it was a business decision that had to be made. We encourage everyone to play and have fun with the game that you love in the time you have left."

MassivelyThe end of Exteel originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Jul 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cancelcancellationcancelledexteelf2pfree-to-playftpmechmechanaughtmicrotransactionsncsoftpvpshutting-downThu, 29 Jul 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NCsoft's open letter to the Aion community targets all players of NCsoft games]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/27/ncsofts-open-letter-to-the-aion-community-targets-all-players-o/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/27/ncsofts-open-letter-to-the-aion-community-targets-all-players-o/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/27/ncsofts-open-letter-to-the-aion-community-targets-all-players-o/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


It's not everyday that we find a letter addressed to an entire company's audience when it's posted on a specific game site, but that's what NCsoft West's executive producer, Lance Stites has done with his recent letter to the Aion community.

To sum up his letter, it's been a busy series of restructuring the company and preparing for their next big release: Aion. While much of the focusing has been on Aion, the company isn't looking away from Lineage, Lineage II or Exteel. Those are still high on the company's priority list, according to Stites.

But things are going along smoothly for Aion, as more voice overs are currently being recorded, the localization is continuing smoothly, and tutorial videos are in production. It sounds like Aion really is the golden game of the studio, but it's also nice to hear about all of the staffing changes going on with the other games.

For the full letter and all of the nitty gritty of what's going on with the studio, head on over to Aion's website and check out Stites's report.

MassivelyNCsoft's open letter to the Aion community targets all players of NCsoft games originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 27 Jun 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionexecutive-producerexteellance-stitesletterlineagelineage-2ncsoftncsoft-westopen-letterSat, 27 Jun 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Shopping list: Milk, bread, MMO game time cards...]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/28/shopping-list-milk-bread-mmo-game-time-cards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/28/shopping-list-milk-bread-mmo-game-time-cards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/28/shopping-list-milk-bread-mmo-game-time-cards/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,


Let's face it, getting time cards for your favorite game is a necessity. It's up there with the milk, bread, and eggs that you need for your daily survival. We have enough stories about MMO withdrawal to fill a shopping cart, so why not sell our addiction where we can easily grab it?

NCsoft got the message and is pushing their time cards out to the masses by partnering up with Target, Rite Aid, and Best Buy. Now you too can literally walk down the street to the drug store and pick up your favorite addiction -- more play time. More importantly, if you're a subscriber to City of Heroes/Villains, grab yourself a time card because it will unlock an in-game jet pack for you to use.

The approach isn't anything new, as Nexon has already been providing their cash cards to customers of 7-Eleven convenience stores for some time now. What all of this does show is a marketing push by more game companies to get their cards into the mainstream market of consumer products.

Lastly, as a friendly reminder, when you're running out to get those "essentials" at Rite-Aid or Target before that "big storm" hits, remember your desktop computer doesn't work when the power is out.

MassivelyShopping list: Milk, bread, MMO game time cards... originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 28 Jul 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7-117-elevenbest-buycash-cardcity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovexteell2lineagelineage-2maple-storyncsoftnexonrgtrrite-aidseven-eleventabula-rasatargettime-cardtime-cardstrMon, 28 Jul 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NCsoft's upcoming summer tour around the Globe]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/13/ncsoft-s-upcoming-summer-tour-around-the-globe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/13/ncsoft-s-upcoming-summer-tour-around-the-globe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/13/ncsoft-s-upcoming-summer-tour-around-the-globe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,


NCsoft is taking a whirlwind summer tour across the Globe. First stop is in San Diego, California at Comic-Con where games, geeks, and comics will collide on July 23-27. The NCsoft booth (#5920) will feature game stations set up for attendees to play CoX, Exteel, Tabula Rasa and other NCsoft games. Also City of Heroes fanzine artist, Dave Hamann will be present to draw character sketches.

In Europe, during July 29-31 Aion: Tower of Eternity will be playable to western journalists. This will be the first time in a year since the last firsthand look took place. NCsoft Europe is hosting the event at their Brighton England, locale and this is a select press event. However, one of the biggest gaming events is taking place August 20-24 in Leipzig, Germany. NCsoft is headed there and will be present at the Leipzig Games Convention in a big way. Attendants there will find a special surprise in Hall 3 Booth B20, Aion will be setup on several demo kiosks for the public to play, the first time outside South Korea.

Continue reading NCsoft's upcoming summer tour around the Globe

MassivelyNCsoft's upcoming summer tour around the Globe originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 13 Jul 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionarenanetcity-of-heroescomic-concoxdan-hamanndungeon-runnersexteelguild-warsleipzig games conven...leipzig-germanyLeipzigGamesConven...ncsoftncsoft-europepaxpax-2008penny-arcadeseattletabula-rasaSun, 13 Jul 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet to host 2nd annual PAX afterparty]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/05/arenanet-to-host-2nd-annual-pax-afterparty/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/05/arenanet-to-host-2nd-annual-pax-afterparty/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/05/arenanet-to-host-2nd-annual-pax-afterparty/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Once again, NCsoft and ArenaNet will be making an appearance at Seattle's Penny Arcade Expo this year. The NCsoft booth (#642) will be packed full goodies during the weekend of August 29th through the 31st, and they will be showing off some of their new and old favorites, including Exteel, Dungeon Runners, Guild Wars, City of Heroes, Tabula Rasa and the brand new Aion.

As they did last year, ArenaNet will be holding contests where participants can win valuable prizes. Developers will also be on hand to meet and greet with the players. Possibly the most exciting news is the fact that ArenaNet will hold another after-party at the Game Works across the street from the Washington State Convention & Trade Center, as they did last year. This is your chance to meet the folks at ArenaNet in a more casual setting and even challenge a few to an arcade game or two!

MassivelyArenaNet to host 2nd annual PAX afterparty originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 05 Jul 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionarenanetcity-of-heroesdungeon-runnersexteelguild-warsncsoftpaxpax-2008penny-arcade-exposeattletabula-rasawashington-convention-centerSat, 05 Jul 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exteel fiction "Divided We Stand"]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/01/exteel-fiction-divided-we-stand/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/01/exteel-fiction-divided-we-stand/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/01/exteel-fiction-divided-we-stand/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


In a game that is mostly arena PvP between giant bipedal robots, we'd imagine that would be about all we'd need to know, right? We have all we need in the game with giant weapons, mechanaught add-ons and a hundred different ways to blast holes in our enemies. Or do we? Well, as it turns out, Exteel actually has a back story, and you can find it over at GameZone.

In this story, we learn about the struggle between four colonies on the recently-inhabited planet of Natha. Each of these colonies has their own ideals and their own reasons for warring against the others. Some are refugees from Mars, some from Saturn and some from Jupiter, but they're all at war with each other. The reason they were once unified has crumbled away, and now they must continue their skirmishes in their metal behemoths until a resolution is found.

MassivelyExteel fiction "Divided We Stand" originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Jul 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backstoryexteelloremechanaughtnathancsoftpvpTue, 01 Jul 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exteel's top ranking players and clans now viewable online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/28/exteels-top-ranking-players-and-clans-now-viewable-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/28/exteels-top-ranking-players-and-clans-now-viewable-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/28/exteels-top-ranking-players-and-clans-now-viewable-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


You guys sure do talk a lot of crap in-game. Let's see if those bragging rights really do belong to your clan. Now everyone really knows who the heck the top bots in Exteel are with the latest ranking feature on the Exteel website is live which displays player and clan ranks. There is no extra software to install, no manual profiles to keep up to date, all you have to do is log on and smash each other into smithereens. You can also search for clans and pilots too see where they stand, there's actually some jerk out there named Legolas. You know what to do if you see that player roaming in-game. Both ranking lists will update every 24 hours, early in the morning and the ranking system is currently in-beta so players can expect more features later down the road.

Be sure to check out our Exteel coverage, or jump right into the game by downloading the Exteel client.

MassivelyExteel's top ranking players and clans now viewable online originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 28 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exteelfree-to-playgame-rankingsmechanaughtmechsmetricsncsoftplayer-rankspvpranksrobotsSat, 28 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exteel: Boomrocker is a go]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/26/exteel-boomrocker-is-a-go/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/26/exteel-boomrocker-is-a-go/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/26/exteel-boomrocker-is-a-go/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Heaviest of Exteel's early-era Mechanaughts, the Boomrocker is also one of the best support models available for pilots who can afford the armor and upkeep. Admittedly, it's slower and heavier than newer models, but it's also sturdier, and has a greater capacity for heat regulation. Additionally, the head is equipped with dual Mechanaught Processing Units (MPUs), so you can purchase and equip two skills at the same time.

Weighing in at 54K credits, the price tag is not minor, but it's also not prohibitive. And when you consider its classification as a Heavy, when the Trooper is classified as a Medium, it's a fairly sweet deal for the dosh. Yes, it's a support unit, but when you consider how much damage it can deal in close-quarters fighting, support can also equate to kicking opposing Mechanaught butt.

Now, a word of warning: we've already mentioned that it's not the fastest bird off the blocks, and it doesn't have the highest mobility. If you do get into a fight where you wind up on the front lines instead of supporting your troops, conserve your energy and reroute it to weapons and shields: don't try to boost or jump unless you can't avoid it, because the Boomrocker is just an eensy bit of a pig when it comes to sucking down the juice. Still, between the armor and the weaponry you're packing, the tradeoff in protection and penetration should more than make up for the occasional sphincter-loosening worry when the your team observes the solid biowaste impacting the rotary impellers.

Gallery: Exteel Boomrocker

Concept

MassivelyExteel: Boomrocker is a go originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Jun 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boomrockerexteelfree-to-playmechanaughtmechanaught-processing-unitmpuncsoftThu, 26 Jun 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exteel introduces Clan Mode]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/exteel-introduces-clan-mode/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/exteel-introduces-clan-mode/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/exteel-introduces-clan-mode/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Exteel is set to release its newest patch very soon, and in it we'll see the implementation of Clan Mode where players will be able to create and manage their own clans from the Exteel website. These clans will have their own set of restrictions on use, but seem to be something the Exteel players have wanted for a long time.

To create a clan, you'll need to be at least level 20, and to join a clan, you'll need to be at least level 15. The clans are only able to enter clan battles once they have 8 or more players, but if that number ever dips below 8, they will have 37 days to re-enlist, or the clan will dissolve. The clan battles themselves are much like Team Deathmatch, but the points are deducted from the opposing team's score for each kill and assist, instead of adding to your own score. This new Clan Mode patch also brings with it 7-day items, changes to the online store, four new weapons and much more. Check out the complete patch notes for more details.

MassivelyExteel introduces Clan Mode originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clan-modeexteelncsoftpatchTue, 24 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jae Hwan Kim on Exteel]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/jae-hwan-kim-on-exteel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/jae-hwan-kim-on-exteel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/jae-hwan-kim-on-exteel/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Exteel is already six months into launch, and it stays kind of quiet not often talked about in MMOG circles. If you haven't heard about this one it's a free-to-play MMOG where players can take up giant robots and smash each other into bits like retro-rats. Several Massively readers even gave it the thumbs up in our launch post. As for recent news we covered the Trooper recently, and the new Last Stand battle mode that interjects a PvE element into the game. The latest information comes from Jae Hwan Kim, Exteel US Producer, in this interview with WarCry.

A genuine concern exists regarding Exteel's well being and sustainability because the game is an Eastern esque MMOG supported by micro transactions. There is a lot more room for failure in the Western market for this type of MMOG. According to Kim, Exteel is doing great and broke a concurrency record last week which is always good news for any MMOG. Also in the interview Kim talks about a few new features coming soon such as the new Clan battle mode, NCcoin versus in-game credits, along with his quick thoughts on game balance. Be sure to check out the official Exteel website where you can download the relatively small client.

MassivelyJae Hwan Kim on Exteel originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 Jun 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deathmatchexteelfree-to-playinterviewjae-hwan-kimnccoinncsoftrmtrobotswarcryFri, 13 Jun 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the Curtain: Why bother?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/behind-the-curtain-why-bother/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/behind-the-curtain-why-bother/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/behind-the-curtain-why-bother/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

What is it that keeps us playing, months and years after our first trip through the character generation screen?

The obvious answer is that we're still having fun. Maybe you've been playing World of Warcraft since release or earlier, you've got an alt of every class, epics to make a GM weep with envy, but you still get that little tingle of excitement every time you log on, that keeps you coming back for more.

What kind of enjoyment do you get from your MMO? Hopefully you are actually having fun with it. If not, I suggest you seek help, or go play Vanguard. Just kidding, maybe.

That being said, how do you quantify 'fun'? Exactly what is it about WoW or EVE Online or any other MMO that keeps you coming back for more? The steep climb to yet another epic flying mount in WoW has pushed me perilously close to burn out over the past few weeks (the impending release of the new 40K rulebook may also be a factor) so I've been thinking, more than usual, about what keeps us going in situations like this.

Continue reading Behind the Curtain: Why bother?

MassivelyBehind the Curtain: Why bother? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Jun 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>behind-the-curtainburn-outeveeve-onlineexteelfeaturedfree-to-playgalaxiesworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 12 Jun 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A look at Exteel's Trooper Mechanaught]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/a-look-at-exteels-trooper-mechanaught/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/a-look-at-exteels-trooper-mechanaught/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/a-look-at-exteels-trooper-mechanaught/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


In previous developer letters from NCsoft, we learned about some of the entry-level Mechanaughts available in Exteel, their free-to-play robotic wargame MMO. In the most recent letter, we learn much more about the advanced Mechanaught known as the Trooper. This bipedal robot is the successor to the Frontliner and can absorb more damage, use energy more efficiently, regenerate energy faster, is much more responsive, and is a lot more accurate.

Also in this letter we get some detailed information on the Last Stand battle mode. This is an extremely useful mode where players can battle against scores of AI opponents and hone their skills, winning matches and accumulating hard-earned money for PvP battles. Plus, Last Stand matches can be played with a fewer group of players without the concern for finding enough people for balanced teams. All you need is some friends and that's it!

MassivelyA look at Exteel's Trooper Mechanaught originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Jun 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exteelfree-to-playfrontlinermechanaughtncsoftpvprobotstrooperFri, 06 Jun 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[TurpsterVision: An MM-No?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/turpstervision-an-mm-no/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/turpstervision-an-mm-no/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/turpstervision-an-mm-no/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Rock 'em Sock 'em Vision!
Every Tuesday think "T" for Turpster and take the "a" in "day", capitalise it, remove the little bit in the middle, turn it upside down and you get a "V". Put the two together and you'll have TV for TurpsterVision -- the best Internet video podcast on Massively! (Never mind that business about it being the only video podcast on Massively...)

I've made my name here at Massively reviewing MMOs; it's what I do. This week brought to my attention that not all the games here at Massively are as massive as you might believe - no I haven't gone and reviewed a game where you play as a tiny ant fighting other tiny ants...on a grain of sand. Though I must admit that it sounds like a totally awesome idea! It would rock, so consider it copyrighted. Instead, using my patented Random Augmented Nuclear Dart Yaw machine, or the R.A.N.D.Y Machine for short, I have managed to select a game that I don't think quite belongs here.

Continue reading TurpsterVision: An MM-No?

MassivelyTurpsterVision: An MM-No? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Jun 2008 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3rd-personexteelfeaturedmmorpgshooterslasherthird-personthird-person-shooterturpsterturpster-visionturpstervisiontvTue, 03 Jun 2008 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively exclusive: Exteel's dev paper #5]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/massively-exclusive-exteels-dev-paper-5/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/massively-exclusive-exteels-dev-paper-5/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/massively-exclusive-exteels-dev-paper-5/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


If giant robot fighting is your thing (and, really, who doesn't love a good giant robot fight every now and again?), than NCsoft's free-to-play Exteel is your game. Today the NCsoft developers have passed along a dev paper where they discuss the Trooper Mechanaught, highlight available weapons, and cover the game's Last Stand battle mode. Want to hear what the developers have to say? Read on!

Gallery: Exteel Dev Paper #5

Continue reading Massively exclusive: Exteel's dev paper #5

MassivelyMassively exclusive: Exteel's dev paper #5 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 May 2008 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exteelfeaturedftpmicrotransactionnccoinncsoftThu, 22 May 2008 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Dungeon Runners' retail box unveiled]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/dungeon-runners-retail-box-unveiled/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/dungeon-runners-retail-box-unveiled/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/dungeon-runners-retail-box-unveiled/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Will all the hubbub these days about digital delivery and early access programs, game-makers are really starting to deemphasize the importance of boxed products occupying shelves in a retailer environment. Still, you have to imagine that it's something of a thrill for a smaller developer to see their free product occupy the same shelf as the big boys, and look splendid doing it.

That's why we were happy to see the boys behind Dungeon Runners were finally releasing a retail version of their eminently amusing free MMO just a year after its release. The boxed version comes with 6 months of membership access for the discounted rate of $19.99, the exclusive and oft-talked about Bling Gnome, and an offer to try out Exteel, if you're so inclined. Not a bad deal, all told, and hopefully it'll expand their audience.

MassivelyDungeon Runners' retail box unveiled originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 May 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bling-gnomedigital-deliveryDRdungeon-runnersexteelncsoftretail-boxThu, 22 May 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exteel's Unofficial Full Metal Mayhem Tournament announced]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/16/exteels-unofficial-full-metal-mayhem-tournament-announced/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/16/exteels-unofficial-full-metal-mayhem-tournament-announced/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/16/exteels-unofficial-full-metal-mayhem-tournament-announced/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


The announcement was made recently that NCsoft developer HawkSteel has assembled his own unofficial Exteel tournament, without the official support of NCsoft. The idea behind this tournament is to get teams of players to battle each other in a round-robin style format to determine the overall winner by accumulating Tournament Points (TPs). Each team battles another team per round in three separate matches in the following battle modes: Capture the Flag, Team Deathmatch and Territory Control.

There are no prizes, as the tournament winners will only feed off of the prestige and honor of being the best of the best. Be sure to check out the extensively-detailed rules over at the official site for more information. May the best laser-gun-wielding-robot win!

MassivelyExteel's Unofficial Full Metal Mayhem Tournament announced originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 May 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exteelfree-to-playin-game-eventncsofttournamentFri, 16 May 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A look at Exteel's Frontliner Mech and battle modes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/21/a-look-at-exteels-frontliner-mech-and-battle-modes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/21/a-look-at-exteels-frontliner-mech-and-battle-modes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/21/a-look-at-exteels-frontliner-mech-and-battle-modes/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


There just comes a time in every mechanaught's life when he needs a change. Whether it's a part upgrade or a full-blown makeover, we think we might just have the answer you've been looking for if you're an Exteel player in search of greener pastures, or wherever mechs graze.

According to a recent NCsoft dev letter, the Frontliner is a prime choice if you're ready to make that leap from the Pinkett. It features several new offensive and defensive weapon choices to defeat your opponent. Plus it introduces players to the durability rating, which basically means you'll need to keep an eye on the status of your mech a little more-closely in order to repair at regular intervals.

Continue reading A look at Exteel's Frontliner Mech and battle modes

MassivelyA look at Exteel's Frontliner Mech and battle modes originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Apr 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deathmatchexteelfrontlinerncsoftpinkettteam-deathmatchupgradeMon, 21 Apr 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars won't use NCsoft's microtransaction system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/21/guild-wars-wont-use-ncsofts-microtransaction-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/21/guild-wars-wont-use-ncsofts-microtransaction-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/21/guild-wars-wont-use-ncsofts-microtransaction-system/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

NCsoft's recently announced NCcoin system is currently only in use by the mech title Exteel. Despite that, it's obviously a technology that the mega-MMO publisher has plans for. Future titles might make very interesting use of the microtransactional model. That said, the company took pains this week to stress that already-released games are not going to be retrofitted with the NCcoin system if it's not appropriate.

Speaking with Eurogamer, a representative for the company indicated that Guild Wars will not be making use of NCcoin anytime soon."NCcoin will not be retrofitted in games that have business models that do not work with a micro-transaction system. We will, however, work to have NCcoin incorporated in as many of our games as possible. What role NCcoin will play in our future console offerings is yet to be determined." Further comments in the article indicate that the NCcoin system is ultimately about choice; NCsoft wants to offer consumers as many options as possible.

MassivelyGuild Wars won't use NCsoft's microtransaction system originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Apr 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelsexteelguild-warsmictrotransactionsnccoinncsoftrmtMon, 21 Apr 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Microtransactions, the NCcoin of the realm]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/16/microtransactions-the-nccoin-of-the-realm/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/16/microtransactions-the-nccoin-of-the-realm/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/16/microtransactions-the-nccoin-of-the-realm/#commentsWith all of the discussion about in-game advertisements going on, I thought I'd bring your attention to something else NCsoft is using to provide additional services in-game. Now whether you believe Exteel is a MMO or not, it's the flagship for NCsoft's micro-transaction model using NCcoin, and it's a great way to see if the model's going to work before potential roll-out to other titles. "But Jon," you might ask, "what is NCcoin?" Well, let me 'splain.

NCcoin is a dollar-per-penny in-game transaction process that allows you to purchase in-game equipment, upgrades and enhancements using real-world coinage. Unlike gold farming schemes, however, this isn't a third party asking you to spend $59.99 for 60 million influence. NCcoin is currently available in 100, 500, 1000 and 2000 denominations, and for that you pay $1, $5, $10 or $20, respectively. According to NCsoft NA president Chris Chung, "NCsoft's goal is to bring more and more people into the online gaming market, and part of achieving that goal is to continue to diversify how customers can pay and play."

MassivelyMicrotransactions, the NCcoin of the realm originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 Apr 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Chris-ChungExteelGold-FarmingMicro-transactionsNCcoinNCsoftWed, 16 Apr 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[NCsoft Europe launches first podcast]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/11/ncsoft-europe-launches-first-podcast/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/11/ncsoft-europe-launches-first-podcast/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/11/ncsoft-europe-launches-first-podcast/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


NCsoft Europe launched its first official podcast today, and it's full of City of Heroes goodness. Why should us Yanks bother?

Sure, in the inaugural episode Stephen Reid ("Rockjaw" from the CoH EU forums) talks about an upcoming European community event (happening in Birmingham, UK, March 2st-24th), but he also chats with Matt "Positron" Miller (Lead Designer of City of Heroes), and gets the scoop on Manticore and Sister Psyche's wedding from none other then the real life couple behind the heroes themselves, Sean and Jen Dornan-Fish. Sean is the Lead Content Designer on several unannounced NCsoft projects, and works on CoH and Exteel. Jen is a freelance CoH writer (and anthropology professor). There's even some Guild Wars love thrown in for good measure as they speak to Martin Kerstein (European Community Team Lead for GW) about the Bonus Mission Pack.

Click on over to the NCsoft EU site where you can download the podcast and the transcript.

MassivelyNCsoft Europe launches first podcast originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Mar 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city-of-heroesExteelGuild-WarsJen-Dornan-FishManticoreMartin-KersteinMatt-MillerNCsoftNCsoft-EuropePodcastPositronRockjawSean-Dornan-FishSister-PsycheStephen-ReidTue, 11 Mar 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NCsoft bombards Facebook]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/ncsoft-bombards-facebook/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/ncsoft-bombards-facebook/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/ncsoft-bombards-facebook/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


The social networking site Facebook is the MySpace for older folks like yours truly. NCsoft has apparently come to realize that these social networking sites are really just an extension of Massive Multiplayer Online Games and as such sees them as a viable means to spread the love and promote a few of their games. Currently they have individual pages for Richard Garriott's Tabula Rasa, Dungeon Runners and Exteel.

As of this writing the TR page has 107 fans, the DR page has 112, and Exteel has 72. What I want to know is... where's the CoX love? Clickety-click on over and start connecting with fellow gamers. Ya never know who you might run into.

MassivelyNCsoft bombards Facebook originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Feb 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>City-of-HeroesCity-of-VillainsCoHCoVCoXDRDungeon-RunnersExteelFacebookNCsoftRichard-Garriottsocial-networkingTabula-RasaTRWed, 20 Feb 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NCsoft's North American head honcho speaks to the masses]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/24/ncsofts-north-american-head-honco-speaks-to-the-masses/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/24/ncsofts-north-american-head-honco-speaks-to-the-masses/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/24/ncsofts-north-american-head-honco-speaks-to-the-masses/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Chris Chung, the new president over at NCsoft North America, has been a busy man since taking up the position a few weeks ago. Between his interviews with IGN and 1Up, Massively, and other sundry blurbs here and there, he still felt it necessary to address the masses directly - blog style. And it's a fantastic read.

His latest statement doesn't give us any additional earth shattering news about what the company is going to do under his rein - that's been covered ad nauseam, but it does give us a much better perspective on who Chris Chung the person is. I found his honestly particularly comforting because NCsoft is "my" gaming company. While I don't much care for Guild Wars or Lineage II (even though they are absolutely breathtaking in their graphical beauty), I play every one of their other games (Exteel, CoX, Tabula Rasa, Dungeon Runners), played Auto Assault from beta until it ran out of gas, and I can't wait to get my hands on Aion.

It humanizes him in a manner that we don't see too often -- in any industry. He talks openly about how it can be a burden taking over for someone as experienced and respected as Robert Garriott. He believes that he got the job as president not because of some special talent, but the lack thereof. Perhaps the most insightful thing Chris talked about was his managerial style. I can relate because I too am a manager. What, you think I do this full time? While I'm not a manager for a company as large as NCsoft, the tenants stay the same: it's all about taking care of the people. And because I understand that, the thing that will stick with me the most is this quote: my job is to make sure that the employees here at NCsoft do what they do best and that the management team takes care of their needs so we can continue to produce great products for this industry.

If you've been leery of all the changes at NCsoft... don't be. They're in good hands.

MassivelyNCsoft's North American head honcho speaks to the masses originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Jan 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AionAuto-AssaultChris-Chungcity-of-heroescity-of-villainsDev-CornerDungeon-RunnersExteelGuild-WarsLineage-IINCsoftNCsoft-North-AmericaPresidentTabula-RasaThu, 24 Jan 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[State of the NCsoft Union address]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/21/state-of-the-ncsoft-union-address/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/21/state-of-the-ncsoft-union-address/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/21/state-of-the-ncsoft-union-address/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Robert Garriott, the soon-to-be former President of NCsoft North America, dropped a "State of the Union" style press release yesterday regarding the massive online gaming company. It's a brief but insightful rundown detailing what they've done with their Intellectual Properties (Tabula Rasa, Guild Wars, City of Heroes, Lineage, Dungeon Runners, etc.) in the past year, and what they intend do with them in the coming year. Garriott also mentioned new projects they're working, like AION: Tower of Eternity, and the recently signed pact with Sony where NCsoft will be producing products for the PlayStation 3. While no details were given on exactly what those products may be, Garriott said the first one should be released by the end of 2008. This new deal includes porting "existing titles in interesting new ways or utilizing new IPs." Hmmm, intriguing.

Of particular interest to me was Robert's comments regarding the City of Heroes property. Back in early November NCsoft acquired the entire IP from Cryptic Studios - lock, stock and two smoking blaster barrels. Like wildfire the CoX forums were consumed by doomsayers and speculators decrying that this was the beginning of the end. Not so. According to Garriott, they loved the property so much they wanted to re-invest in it, and the best way to do that was to buy it. Since then they've created a whole new studio (NCsoft NorCal) and hired the entire CoH development team. If that wasn't enough to give even the most cynical gamer a glimmer of hope, they're currently hiring more people to take CoX to a "whole.. nutha... level."

Last but least... as reported yesterday, Robert Garriott will be leaving his post as President of NCsoft's North American business and moving into a role of global business development and planning. Taking his place will be NCsoft's current vice president of worldwide product development, Chris Chung, who has been with the company for some time. The change will take effect on January 1, 2008.

A Happy New Year indeed! All in all, I'd say the future looks very bright for NCsoft.

MassivelyState of the NCsoft Union address originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 21 Dec 2007 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>City-of-HeroesCoHCoXDungeon-RunnersExteelLineageNCsoftRichard-GarriotRobert-GarriottTabula-RasaTRFri, 21 Dec 2007 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exteel is live and ready for the masses]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/04/exteel-is-live-and-ready-for-the-masses/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/04/exteel-is-live-and-ready-for-the-masses/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/04/exteel-is-live-and-ready-for-the-masses/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Players waiting to tear it up on some Mechanaughts in NCsoft's latest MMO, Exteel can jump right in now that the game is live after a successful open beta. There is no database wipe, so any players that participated in the open beta will be able to play with their same wrecks. Exteel is an online 3rd person shooter featuring customized mechs, and the gameplay more or less revolves around beating the living crap out of your opponents with a large arsenal of weaponry. Our own Chris Chester posted a first impression look during the open beta that is definitely worth reading if you are considering playing the game.

Any Massively readers give Exteel a spin during the open beta? What did you think? Does RMT kill this for you? I'd rather deal with the RMT aspects in this type of MMOG than have to shell out for another subscription to be honest with you.

MassivelyExteel is live and ready for the masses originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Dec 2007 19:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingexteelfpslaunchmechnccoinncsoftnew-titlesplayer-versus-playerpvprmtTue, 04 Dec 2007 19:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Wall o' thumbs: new galleries this week]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/20/wall-o-thumbs-new-galleries-this-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/20/wall-o-thumbs-new-galleries-this-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/20/wall-o-thumbs-new-galleries-this-week/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Submitted for your approval: here's a collation of all our new eye candy this week.

Galleries

Dofus Gallery

Inside the butchers shopButchers training shopPractising a craft skill interfaceThe inventory screenForest glade + monsters!

Exteel Gallery

First Impressions: Flyff


EverQuest: Secrets of Faydwer
Kerafym statue in CrystallosKerafym's emblem in CrystallosA room of pods in CrystallosA laser beam experiment in Meldrath's Majestic MansionDamage to the Fortress Mechanotus

EverQuest II: Rise of Kunark
Defender of KunarkBones of Iksar WarriorMetal golemTimorous Deep at SunriseErollisi Mantrap

EverQuest II: Sarnak starter guide Gallery
Chrykori Village riseCitizen Niba'OuzCiv-Parser Di'XinCollectableCollectable NPCs

MassivelyWall o' thumbs: new galleries this week originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Nov 2007 01:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browsercasualdofuseverquesteverquest-iiexpansionsexteelflyffgalleriesrise-of-kunarkscreenshotssecrets-of-faydwerwall-o-thumbsTue, 20 Nov 2007 01:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Yesterday on Massively: November 15, 2007]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/16/yesterday-on-massively-november-15-2007/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/16/yesterday-on-massively-november-15-2007/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/16/yesterday-on-massively-november-15-2007/#commentsFiled under:


Another day in Massively and we've got all the news from all of your MMOs, including our first impressions of just-out of-NDA Exteel. For a run-down of the day's eventsin delicious link format, keep reading!

Contests

Features

Continue reading Yesterday on Massively: November 15, 2007

MassivelyYesterday on Massively: November 15, 2007 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Nov 2007 05:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exteelmassivelytoday-on-massivelytomFri, 16 Nov 2007 05:30:00 EST<![CDATA[First Impressions: Exteel]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/15/first-impressions-exteel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/15/first-impressions-exteel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/15/first-impressions-exteel/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


In a business climate where a game like World of Warcraft can sustain a player base of over eight million paying subscribers, everybody wants their game to be an MMO. Call it a trend, call it the flavor of the month, call it whatever you want -- "massively multiplayer online" is a moniker that sells game units. Where we used to assign the term to the strict domain of UO and EQ clones largely dominated by elves of various sorts, all different kinds of games are jumping on the money train, and NCsoft's Exteel is really no exception. It's a game that, up until now, we had assumed would be just another MMO. I can safely say that we were quite wrong.

As of this afternoon, NCsoft has lifted the NDA restricting discussion of the Exteel beta, so we thought we'd give you a run-down of our impressions of the game as it has progressed so far, including a gallery full of screenshot love from the tutorial through our first few battles in the open beta.

Gallery: Exteel Gallery

Continue reading First Impressions: Exteel

MassivelyFirst Impressions: Exteel originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Nov 2007 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaexteelfeaturedhands-onjoystiqfeaturesncsoftpreviewshooterThu, 15 Nov 2007 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Exteel open beta pushed back a day]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/14/exteel-open-beta-pushed-back-a-day/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/14/exteel-open-beta-pushed-back-a-day/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/14/exteel-open-beta-pushed-back-a-day/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

In an announcement late last night on their official site, NCsoft officially pushed back the start date for the Exteel open beta from today to Thursday the 15th, though they did not state a reason. They also revealed that while they were going to enact a complete character wipe of characters from the closed beta, players will be able to retain their characters from the open beta through to the final release, a welcome surprise to many who put in some time with the beta. As an added bonus, players who were part of the closed beta test will get access to the game later today as originally scheduled, giving them a one day head start on the rest of the public, as well as a special "Sky Blue" paint can to thank them for their efforts.

If rootin' tootin' anime-style mechs swinging swords and blasting each other with machine guns sounds like something you'd be interested in, we'll be bringing you our first-hand impressions of Exteel later today, so stay tuned.

MassivelyExteel open beta pushed back a day originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Nov 2007 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabreakingclosed-betadelayexteelncsoftopen-betaWed, 14 Nov 2007 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Exteel enters open beta on the 14th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/12/exteel-enters-open-beta-on-the-14th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/12/exteel-enters-open-beta-on-the-14th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/12/exteel-enters-open-beta-on-the-14th/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We're not sure how we let this one slip past us. NCsoft announced last week that Exteel, their third-person mech shooter set in a persistent universe, would be moving to the open phase of beta testing starting this Wednesday at 2PM CST. Effectively, this means that whoever wants to try their hand at the game will be free to download the client, and the silence that has been enforced on beta testers through the NDA will be lifted.

Some have questioned whether Exteel really qualifies as an MMO to the degree that NCsoft has been claiming it does in their press and marketing materials. While it has certain elements on the check-list, like persistent characters who retain experience, gear, and abilities from game to game, it is fundamentally a third-person shooter. Perhaps it falls under the category of pseudo-MMO? I guess we'll find out for sure this Wednesday.

[Thanks Kevin]

MassivelyExteel enters open beta on the 14th originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Nov 2007 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closed-betaexteelgiant-mechsncsoftNDAopen-betapseudo-MMOMon, 12 Nov 2007 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NCsoft picks up advertising partner for Dungeon Runners, Exteel]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/10/25/ncsoft-picks-up-advertising-partner-for-dungeon-runners-exteel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/10/25/ncsoft-picks-up-advertising-partner-for-dungeon-runners-exteel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/10/25/ncsoft-picks-up-advertising-partner-for-dungeon-runners-exteel/#commentsFiled under: , ,

NCsoft has raised the curtain on a new advertising deal with Double Fusion that will pave the way for new in- and around-game advertising in both Dungeon Runners and the as-yet-unreleased giant robot game, Exteel. Evidently, the idea is to open up new sources of revenue for these titles, where they were previously relying entirely on a small monthly fee charged to players for tiered services like voice chat, access to banks, and stackable potions.

The specifics of this advertising-based approach remain cloudy. It's unclear whether players can continue to pay the optional monthly fee to opt out of the ads, or whether playing the free, advertising-supported version will now net you membership benefits. We support advertising as an alternative revenue stream in principle, as long as we don't start seeing billboards hawking deodorant in the middle of dungeons. Regardless, Dungeon Runners is a heck of a lot of fun for a free game (though the verdict is still out on Exteel), so we'll keep you posted on the specifics of this deal as it develops.

MassivelyNCsoft picks up advertising partner for Dungeon Runners, Exteel originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 25 Oct 2007 14:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adsadvertisingadwaredouble-fusiondungeon-runnersexteelfeesfreencsoftThu, 25 Oct 2007 14:36:00 EST