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[SOE renames Fan Faire, sets official dates]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/soe-renames-fan-faire-sets-official-dates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/soe-renames-fan-faire-sets-official-dates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/soe-renames-fan-faire-sets-official-dates/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

As corporate re-brandings go, this one isn't as wince-inducingly awful as something like, say, the Syfy Channel. Still, Sony Online Entertainment's Fan Faire had a nice ring to it, but now we're obliged to refer to the company's annual fan convention as SOE Live.

Senior marketing VP Laura Naviaux says the change is due to SOE's MMO diversification. While the company is still known for its EverQuest and EverQuest II flagships, it's also put considerable time and effort into DC Universe Online and PlanetSide 2, neither of which conjures images of ye olde renaissance faire.

This year's SOE Live will happen at Bally's in Las Vegas from October 18th through the 21st. Naviaux says that SOE die-hards can relax, since the event will be the same Fan Faire they've been enjoying for years despite the name change. "Previous event attendees can rest assured that we are not removing any of our established activities in order to accommodate the new players; rather, they can expect even more to make this the ultimate SOE fan experience," she said.

[Source: SOE press release]

MassivelySOE renames Fan Faire, sets official dates originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consconvetionseventsfan-conventionsfan-fairefan-faire-2012laura-naviauxMiscellaneousreal-world-eventssoesoe-fan-fairesoe-livesoe-live-las-vegasSony-Online-EntertainmentMon, 26 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do exclusive in-game event items annoy you?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/the-daily-grind-do-exclusive-in-game-event-items-annoy-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/the-daily-grind-do-exclusive-in-game-event-items-annoy-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/the-daily-grind-do-exclusive-in-game-event-items-annoy-you/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Star Wars Galaxies - 2010 Galactic Gathering painting
I was looking longingly at an ad for EVE Online's Fanfest a few minutes ago. I say longingly because it's a bit late to be booking airfare to Iceland for a couple weeks hence, to say nothing of getting off work. The event seems like a good time, though, and the icing on the cake is the in-game swag that CCP distributes to attendees.

Sony Online Entertainment does something similar for its annual Fan Faire shindig, and I remember tons of exclusive items on display in the virtual homes of Star Wars Galaxies fans who made the annual pilgrimages to Las Vegas.

It's bad enough that I never made it to Fan Faire, but it was infinitely worse that I wasn't able to get my collection-obsessed paws on rare no-trade paintings and whatnot (yeah, first-world problems, yada yada). What about you, morning crew? Do exclusive in-game event items rub you the wrong way?

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 exclusive in-game event items annoy you? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesconsoledaily-grinddustdust-514eveeve-onlinefan-fairefanfestfanfest-2012fanfest-rewardsfeaturedfpsinternet-spaceshipsmmofpsopinionplaystationplaystation-3ps3real-world-eventssandboxsci-fishootersoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstar-wars-galaxiesswagswgtdgthe-daily-grindThu, 15 Mar 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A Vanguard fifth anniversary year-in-review]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/a-vanguard-fifth-anniversary-year-in-review/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/a-vanguard-fifth-anniversary-year-in-review/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/a-vanguard-fifth-anniversary-year-in-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Vanguard screenshot
It's that time again -- time to look back on a year of Vanguard: Saga of Heroes and see what changed and what stayed exactly the same. The game is now five years old, and the last year has been relatively exciting for the community. Vanguard is just one of those titles that seems to want to last forever. The playerbase is loyal, mature, and truly dedicated to this aging title. Will the players' efforts pay off?

We took a look back on the last year to see what the larger announcements were. There were some surprises and even updates (yes, actual updates to the game), something that is still affecting the community. While other games might publish monthly or even weekly updates, the Vanguard players are the camels of the greater MMO community and have learned to live off very little development fuel.

Bear in mind that as I type this, an update is being played through on the test server.

Continue reading A Vanguard fifth anniversary year-in-review

MassivelyA Vanguard fifth anniversary year-in-review originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarybeau-hindmanbirthdaycorpse-runningdeath-mechaniceqeverquestf2pfan-fairefeaturedfree-to-playftphardcorelive-gamerpatchesretrospectivesilium-grantsiliusSOESony-Online-EntertainmentupdatesvanguardVanguard-Saga-of-HeroesMon, 30 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE's Fan Faire 2012 moving to the Fall]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/soes-fan-faire-2012-moving-to-the-fall/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/soes-fan-faire-2012-moving-to-the-fall/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/soes-fan-faire-2012-moving-to-the-fall/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Fan Faire participants
It's never too early to start planning for next year's convention season, and Sony Online Entertainment has announced that its annual Fan Faire get-together is vacating its traditional summer slot starting in 2012. SOE's Las Vegas shindig will move to the Fall, and the company is currently offering up a public vote to determine the exact dates.

Participants can select between the weekends of September 13th through September 16th, September 27th through September 30th, or October 18th through October 21st.

In a post on SOE's official boards, Linda "Brasse" Carlson explains that the bump is mostly due to the availability of the venue, which in turn keeps costs down and enables SOE to continue hosting the fan-friendly event.

MassivelySOE's Fan Faire 2012 moving to the Fall originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 10 Aug 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brassecontestconventionseventsfan-eventsfan-fairefan-faire-las-vegasfandomlinda-carlsonpollpollingreal-world-eventssoesoe-fan-faireSony-Online-EntertainmentWed, 10 Aug 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Fan Faire videos show off new EverQuest II tradeskill goodies]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/25/fan-faire-videos-show-off-new-everquest-ii-tradeskill-goodies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/25/fan-faire-videos-show-off-new-everquest-ii-tradeskill-goodies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/25/fan-faire-videos-show-off-new-everquest-ii-tradeskill-goodies/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Sony Online Entertainment's Fan Faire came and went a couple of weeks ago, but EverQuest II news coming out of the annual convention was so dense that various fan sites are still collating and publishing it.

EQ2Wire released its latest dev panel videos over the weekend, with a focus on tradeskills and housing as well as a lengthy question-and-answer session. The tradeskill and housing panel introduced a couple of upcoming prestige homes, the house rating system scheduled to go live with GU61, tradeskill apprentices, and a new Frostfell group crafting instance.

The Q&A panel covered a huge range of topics, and rather than try and summarize them all here, we'll direct you to the transcript at EQ2Wire as well as the videos embedded after the cut.

Continue reading Fan Faire videos show off new EverQuest II tradeskill goodies

MassivelyFan Faire videos show off new EverQuest II tradeskill goodies originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Jul 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingeq2everquest-2everquest-iif2pfan-fairefan-faire-2011fantasyfree-to-playhousingquestion-and-answersoeSony-Online-EntertainmenttradeskillsvideoMon, 25 Jul 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: Fan Faire 2011 guild leader panel]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/the-guild-counsel-fan-faire-2011-guild-leader-panel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/the-guild-counsel-fan-faire-2011-guild-leader-panel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/the-guild-counsel-fan-faire-2011-guild-leader-panel/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

As you know from this column, I'm a big fan of guilds. So it's probably no surprise that I went to Fan Faire with a special goal of meeting up and talking to guild leaders from a variety of SOE games. Last year, I teamed up with Adam Trzonkowski, my former podcasting co-host and author of the book The Guild Leader's Companion, and together we recorded a show with several guild leaders from EverQuest, EverQuest II, Star Wars Galaxies and Free Realms. This year, we met again, and had a chance to catch up with a few returnees as well as some new faces. Joining the discussion this year were leaders from DC Universe Online, EQ, EQII, and RIFT.

Judging by the turnout, you could say that guilds are like snowflakes. We had Rick Hall and his juggernaut guild Heroes, the oldest guild on the Luclin server in EverQuest. He's carrying a roster of hundreds, and regularly raiding 54-man raid content. Added to the list of "long in the tooth" guilds were Legion of the White Rose in EQII, led by Kendricke, and Iniquity, who has moved from EQII to RIFT, and is led by Adam. The league Absolute Justice in DCUO, led by Arctic Titan, is not only playing in a different genre of MMO, they're on a completely different platform, the PS3. Twilight Company, led by Megera in EQII, is mainly a tradeskill guild, which set it apart from the others in attendance. And last, but not least, is Revelry and Honor, my guild from EverQuest II, and now led by Maesyn, Nauralea, and Andaraiel. Read on for a peek at what has led to their success, and some amazing war stories along the way.

Continue reading The Guild Counsel: Fan Faire 2011 guild leader panel

MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: Fan Faire 2011 guild leader panel originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Jul 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>absolute-justiceAdamTrzonkowskiArctic-Titanbackflaggingdc-universe-onlinedcuoeq2eqiieverquestEverQuest-2everquest-iifan-fairefan-faire-2011guild-counselguild-leadershipguild-managementguildsircKendrickelegion-of-the-white-roseprogressionraid-progressionrevelry-and-honorrick-hallrifttwilight-companyThu, 21 Jul 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Tattered Notebook: Exec. Producer Dave Georgeson on EverQuest II and EverQuest Next]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/18/the-tattered-notebook-exec-producer-dave-georgeson-on-everques/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/18/the-tattered-notebook-exec-producer-dave-georgeson-on-everques/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/18/the-tattered-notebook-exec-producer-dave-georgeson-on-everques/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

If there's one thing that came out of Fan Faire about EQ Next, it's that no one will talk about EQ Next. No matter who you talked to, any time the subject came up, the answer was always, "I can't talk about that." However, Executive Producer Dave "SmokeJumper" Georgeson sat down with Massively during Fan Faire to talk more about EverQuest II, and during that interview, he did give a tiny glimpse into what that game would be like.

In this week's Tattered Notebook, Massively gets the scoop on Beastlords, the dungeon builder, Freeport's revamp, and much more.

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: Exec. Producer Dave Georgeson on EverQuest II and EverQuest Next

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: Exec. Producer Dave Georgeson on EverQuest II and EverQuest Next originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 18 Jul 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>akil-hooperaltsbeastlordbeastlordscitadelcrushbonedave-georgesondesign-your-own-dungeondungeon-builderdungeon-finderemily-tayloreqeq-nexteq2eqiieverquesteverquest-2EverQuest-iieverquest-nextfan-fairefan-faire-2011freeportgame-of-thronesitemizationnasa-moon-shotorcpetpet-classplanetside-2ps2revamprich-waterstattered-notebookveliouswarderwarlockMon, 18 Jul 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Week in Review: Downshifting from Fan Faire]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/17/week-in-review-downshifting-from-fan-faire/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/17/week-in-review-downshifting-from-fan-faire/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/17/week-in-review-downshifting-from-fan-faire/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

At the end of every week, we round up the best and most popular news stories, exclusive features, and insightful columns published on Massively and then present them all in one convenient place. Miss a big MMO or WoW Insider story last week? You've come to the right post.

Our very own Karen Bryan was on the scene at Sony Online Entertainment's annual Fan Faire, rushing around like a frenzied kobold to snatch up all of the latest news and community reactions. Whether it was talking with a bearded female Dwarf about community relations, learning about exciting new downloadable content for DC Universe Online, or digesting the OMG-awesome-crazy EverQuest II news, she had our back. And now we all owe her a Wookiee life debt. Pay up!

Join us past the break for a glimpse into this week's other top MMO stories!

Continue reading Week in Review: Downshifting from Fan Faire

MassivelyWeek in Review: Downshifting from Fan Faire originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 17 Jul 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc-universe-onlinedcuodwarfeq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iifan-fairefan-faire-11fan-faire-2011featuredjoystiqkaren-bryanlife-debtmassively-metaroundupsoesony-online-entertainmentthe-brassetop-storiesweek-in-reviewweekly-recapweekly-roundupwookieewow-insiderSun, 17 Jul 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest II Freeport and Beyond panel video released]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/15/everquest-ii-freeport-and-beyond-panel-video-released/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/15/everquest-ii-freeport-and-beyond-panel-video-released/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/15/everquest-ii-freeport-and-beyond-panel-video-released/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Earlier this week our own Karen Bryan brought you the details on all the EverQuest II happenings from last week's Fan Faire 2011. Today, EQ2Wire has added some lengthy video coverage to the mix in the form of an hour-long recording of the initial EQII dev panel entitled Freeport and Beyond.

The proceedings are captained by producer Dave Georgeson, and the panel features more info than one news post can adequately cover. The highlights include Game Update 61 (to be launched in late August), the new dungeon creator functionality, itemization and AA revamps, the addition of AA functionality to the crafting game, the Age of Discovery expansion, and of course, the Freeport revamp. That's just the tip of the proverbial iceberg, so grab your favorite beverage and click past the cut to view the hour-long video.

MassivelyEverQuest II Freeport and Beyond panel video released originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 Jul 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-discoverydave-georgesondungeon-creatoreq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iiexpansionf2pfan-fairefan-faire-2011fantasyfree-to-playfreeport-revampgame-update-61gu-61videoFri, 15 Jul 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: The no-class edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/the-mmo-report-the-no-class-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/the-mmo-report-the-no-class-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/the-mmo-report-the-no-class-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

This week the MMO Report was shot at 12 o'clock Tyrian Standard Time, which most likely means that you were fast asleep or eating lunch. To help you catch up on what you may have missed, we will give you a quick overview of what Casey Schreiner had to say about this week's MMO news.

First off, the host extraordinaire mentions Massively by name when regarding the new hide-outs in the Champions Online. It appears he is most fond of the Mother's Basement venue. However, the Moon Base may have caught his eye, too. Secondly, Casey reaffirms his love for EVE Online, or not... maybe it is just his enthralling voice that keeps us glued to our computer monitors as he discusses the trailer that tells us why we should love EVE. Next, our intrepid host stealthily guides us through all the non-American names associated with the surreal MMO Glitch. Lastly, he breezes over the new The Secret World trailer before reaching into his glorious mail bag and pulling out some memes.

Jump past the cut to witness the full splendor of this week's MMO Report, and don't miss next week's Fan Faire edition that is all about SOE's event in Los Vegas.

Continue reading The MMO Report: The no-class edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: The no-class edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Jul 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casey-schreinerCCPchampions-onlineCOcryptic-studiosEVEeve-onlineFan-fairefan-faire-2011FuncomG4TVGlitchhumorSOEthe-mmo-reportthe-secret-worldtiny-specktrialerstswThu, 14 Jul 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: A chat with Linda "The Brasse" Carlson]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/the-guild-counsel-a-chat-with-linda-the-brasse-carlson/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/the-guild-counsel-a-chat-with-linda-the-brasse-carlson/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/the-guild-counsel-a-chat-with-linda-the-brasse-carlson/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

By night, she's the impeccably-dressed, bearded dwarf that MCs Fan Faires and never turns down a good pint of ale. But by day, she's the Community Relations Director for SOE, and she dons several different caps as part of her job with the company.

At Fan Faire, she took the time to speak with Massively about a variety of topics, including forum wars, social media, the future of SOE's Facebook games, and even a revamp of the popular Guide program in EQ and EQII.

Read below the cut for highlights from the interview.

Continue reading The Guild Counsel: A chat with Linda "The Brasse" Carlson

MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: A chat with Linda "The Brasse" Carlson originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Jul 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>community-managerdungeon-overlordEverquestEverQuest-2everquest-iifacebookfan-fairefan-faire-2011fortune-leagueguide-programguidesguild-counsellinda-carlsonsocial-mediasoesoe-fan-faire-11soe-fan-faire-2011the-agency-covert-opsthe-brassetwitterThu, 14 Jul 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE Fan Faire 2011: The future of Clone Wars Adventures with Senior Producer Todd Carson]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/09/fan-faire-11-the-future-of-clone-wars-adventures-with-senior-p/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/09/fan-faire-11-the-future-of-clone-wars-adventures-with-senior-p/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/09/fan-faire-11-the-future-of-clone-wars-adventures-with-senior-p/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Clone Wars Adventures is a unique MMO that links together a children's game with the TV show on Cartoon Network. Todd Carson, the Senior Producer of CWA, sat down with Massively to talk about some of the new content that's coming for fans, as well as a new storyline in game that will complete the transition between season three and four of the TV series.

Read on for highlights from the interview, including a closer look at the Battle for Iceberg 3, new housing items, and even some new mounts!

Continue reading SOE Fan Faire 2011: The future of Clone Wars Adventures with Senior Producer Todd Carson

MassivelySOE Fan Faire 2011: The future of Clone Wars Adventures with Senior Producer Todd Carson originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 09 Jul 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clone-wars-adventurescwaf2pfan-fairefan-faire-11fan-faire-2011free-to-playiceberg-threetodd-carsonSat, 09 Jul 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Planetside 2 to feature persistent territory control, huge battles, and player-generated content]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/08/planetside-2-to-feature-persistent-territory-control-huge-battl/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/08/planetside-2-to-feature-persistent-territory-control-huge-battl/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/08/planetside-2-to-feature-persistent-territory-control-huge-battl/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Sony Online Entertainment's big Planetside 2 announcement came and went last night, and while we don't have a release date as of yet, we do have a trailer, plenty of screenshots, and a fairly detailed fact sheet and official press release thanks to the folks at Fan Faire.

For you rookies, Planetside 2 is a re-imagining of the popular MMOFPS, and SOE is deploying its new Forgelight MMO engine in order to make thousand-player online battles a reality. Planetside 2 will feature three factions that will seem familiar to long-time fans, and players will be able to choose between the Terran Republic, the New Conglomerate, or the Vanu Sovereignty before heading off to the kill zones. Choice also plays into Planetside 2's character advancement, as the game boasts what SOE is calling a "free-form class-based system" complete with skill trees and unique combat roles.

Weapons, vehicles, and outfits are all customizable, and SOE's fact sheet also drops a curious player-generated content hint relating to the game's mission system. "Both SOE and players will be able to drive content, easing new players into the game and allowing veterans to feed content to players," says the press release.

Finally, Planetside 2 will feature that rarest of MMO prizes: a reason for all the fighting. The core gameplay revolves around holding territories and controlling resources (as opposed to just a match timer). "Battles will last for days or weeks, and finally taking control of the base means it's yours until someone can take it back," SOE says.

MassivelyPlanetside 2 to feature persistent territory control, huge battles, and player-generated content originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 08 Jul 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sony Online Entertainment's annual Fan Faire starts this week, but if you can't make it to Las Vegas for the festivities you'll still have a front row seat.

Gamebreaker is teaming up with SOE to provide live pre-show coverage beginning July 7th at 6:00 p.m. PDT. SOE bossman John Smedley's community address will happen an hour later and if you can't check it out on Gamebreaker because you're playing EverQuest or EverQuest II, you can listen in by joining the Vivox-powered Station Voice service. For EQ users, it's as easy as enabling voice chat and clicking on the event button in the UI. For EQII, type: /vcjoinuri confctl-3583@e2p.vivox.com Fan Faire.

If you're planning to watch the Gamebreaker livestream, you'll need to register and claim your virtual ticket. Head to the official SOE forums for full instructions.

[Update: Corrected pre-show coverage time]

MassivelyWatch SOE Fan Faire address live on Gamebreaker, or listen in-game originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Jul 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eqeq-2EQ-IIEQ2eventseverquestEverQuest-2fan-fairefan-faire-2011gamebreakergamebreaker-tvjohn-smedleylivestreamreal-world-eventssoeSony-Online-EntertainmentstreamstreamingWed, 06 Jul 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Tattered Notebook: Fan Faire knowns and unknowns]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/27/the-tattered-notebook-fan-faire-known-and-unknowns/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/27/the-tattered-notebook-fan-faire-known-and-unknowns/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/27/the-tattered-notebook-fan-faire-known-and-unknowns/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

As we inch closer to Fan Faire, speculation begins to mount about what news EverQuest II fans will finally get to hear. Last year, players were smarting from the announcement of EQII Extended, the free-to-play server, and it seemed to deflate the mood among EQII Fan Faire attendees. This year, EQII is full of knowns and unknowns, to borrow a phrase from former Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld. We have known knowns, which are things that we know we know. And then there are known unknowns, or things that we know but we actually don't know. Lastly, there are unknown unknowns, which are things that we don't know we don't know. That's where things are in EQII currently. Confused? Me too! This week's Tattered Notebook will look at what we know and what we hope to find out more about at this year's Fan Faire.

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: Fan Faire knowns and unknowns

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: Fan Faire knowns and unknowns originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 27 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dave-georgesondestiny-of-veliousdominoemily-tayloreqeq-nextEQ2eq2xEQIIeqII-extendedeverquestEverQuest-2everquest-iieverquest-nextfan-fairefan-faire-2011featuredfreeportfreeport-revampitemizationjohn-smedleysentinels-fatesmokejumpersoesoe-fan-faireSony-Online-Entertainmenttattered-notebookthe-tattered-notebookveliousMon, 27 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Tattered Notebook: Fan Faire survival guide]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/20/the-tattered-notebook-fan-faire-survival-guide/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/20/the-tattered-notebook-fan-faire-survival-guide/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/20/the-tattered-notebook-fan-faire-survival-guide/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It's hard to believe, but in just a couple of weeks, Fan Faire will once again be upon us. What started as a simple fan celebration eight years ago has become a massive showcase of Sony Online Entertainment games, fan spirit, and of course, amazing costumes.

There's a lot going on, and the weekend really flies by quickly. Whether you're going for the first time or you're a multi-year vet, this week's Tattered Notebook offers up several handy tips to help you make the most of Fan Faire. Read on for all the details!

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: Fan Faire survival guide

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: Fan Faire survival guide originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Jun 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ballysbilly-dollbrassebuffetdc-universe-onlinedcuoeqeq-nextEQ2eq2xEQIIeverquesteverquest-2everquest-2-extendedeverquest-iieverquest-nextfan-fairefan-faire-2011featuredguideguildguildslas-vegasplanetside-2planetside-nextsoeSony-Online-Entertainmentsurvival-guidethe-agency-facebookvegasMon, 20 Jun 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PlanetSide Next to be unveiled at SOE Fan Faire]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/17/planetside-next-to-be-unveiled-at-soe-fan-faire/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/17/planetside-next-to-be-unveiled-at-soe-fan-faire/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/17/planetside-next-to-be-unveiled-at-soe-fan-faire/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Even eight years after its launch, Sony Online Entertainment's PlanetSide still retains a healthy (and borderline fanatical) playerbase. This is almost certainly owed largely to the fact that PlanetSide remains one of the scant few MMOFPS games on the market. PlanetSide players, though, have been thirsting for more for quite some time. Thankfully, it appears the wait will soon be over.

Rumors have been flying for what seems like ages alongside a few sparse screenshots, but PlanetSide Next will soon be officially unveiled at the upcoming SOE Fan Faire this July. John Smedley, President of SOE, announced on his Twitter, "For all you PlanetSide Next fans, stay tuned for a big announcement at our upcoming Fan Faire in Vegas!" You heard the man! Keep your weapons in their holsters for just a while longer and keep an eye on Massively because we'll be sure to have all the freshest information as soon as it's out.

MassivelyPlanetSide Next to be unveiled at SOE Fan Faire originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Jun 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fan-fairefan-faire-2011john-smedleymmofpsplanetsideplanetside-nextsoesoe-fan-fairesoe-fan-faire-2011sony-online-entertainmentsony-online-entertainment-fan-fairesony-online-entertainment-fan-faire-2011Fri, 17 Jun 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony Online Entertainment announces Backstage Blogger contest]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/16/sony-online-entertainment-announces-backstage-blogger-contest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/16/sony-online-entertainment-announces-backstage-blogger-contest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/16/sony-online-entertainment-announces-backstage-blogger-contest/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Are you a blogger? Do you want to go to the Sony Online Entertainment Fan Faire this year? Then you should enter SOE's Backstage Blogger contest! The rules are simple: Make a video or written blog to show the SOE team how much you adore your favorite SOE title(s) and send it in! A panel of judges will rate the submissions and select four lucky winners from the pool of applicants.

Those four fortunate folks will be awarded an all-access pass to the Sony Online Entertainment Fan Faire as well as a Sony Bloggie Touch Camera Kit and the ability to publish their posts from the convention on the SOE Station Blog for the duration of the Fan Faire. If you think you've got a shot at the prize, then head on over to the official forum post for the full set of rules and policies. Good luck, readers!

MassivelySony Online Entertainment announces Backstage Blogger contest originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Jun 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backstage-bloggercontestfan-fairefan-faire-2011soesoe-fan-fairesoe-fan-faire-2011sony-fan-fairesony-fan-faire-2011sony-online-entertainmentsony-online-entertainment-fain-fairesony-online-entertainment-fan-faireThu, 16 Jun 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2011: EverQuest II's Dave Georgeson in 3-D]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/08/e3-2011-everquest-iis-dave-georgeson-in-3-d/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/08/e3-2011-everquest-iis-dave-georgeson-in-3-d/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/08/e3-2011-everquest-iis-dave-georgeson-in-3-d/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

If you're going to fly, why not fly with a little style -- and in 3-D? At E3, we were able to grab some facetime with Dave "Smokejumper" Georgeson, EverQuest II's executive producer, as he showed us the next dimension of MMO gameplay while we checked out some of the new aerial races in the game.

"We wanted to do a little more with the flying creatures than to go from Point A to Point B," Georgeson said, referencing EQII's aerial races. "So we put in these flying race courses, which is a good test ground for showing off 3-D."

It's one of those things that has to be seen to be believed. The 3-D effect while flying is, in a word, awesome. The user interface is up close, your character is somewhere in the middle, and the environment is in the background. The effect is very noticeable when you turn, which happens a lot while flying.

Hit the jump to hear more of Georgeson's thoughts on 3-D in EverQuest II as well as a get tantalizing sneak peek at the game's future!

Continue reading E3 2011: EverQuest II's Dave Georgeson in 3-D

MassivelyE3 2011: EverQuest II's Dave Georgeson in 3-D originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 Jun 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3-daerial-racechildren-of-warclasscontent-updatedave-georgesondavid-georgesondungeon-findere3e3-2011eq2eqiieverquest-iiexpansionf2pfan-fairefeaturedflightfree-to-playfreeportglidersgugu-61interviewleaperslfgnew-classpeople-finderqeynossmokejumperWed, 08 Jun 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE Fan Faire site back up, early-bird pricing extended]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/20/soe-fan-faire-site-back-up-early-bird-pricing-extended/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/20/soe-fan-faire-site-back-up-early-bird-pricing-extended/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/20/soe-fan-faire-site-back-up-early-bird-pricing-extended/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Following the chaos of the PSN breach, the Sony Online Entertainment Fan Faire website is now back up. To sweeten the deal for their fans, Sony has extended early-bird pricing until May 31, allowing attendees to get an all-access pass -- usually $129 -- for the discounted price of $119. The all-access pass includes all of the perks of the standard day-passes plus a copy of the most recent expansions for both EverQuest and EverQuest II, unique in-game items for SOE titles, and access to evening events for those of drinking age.

The Fan Faire itself is a gathering to celebrate all things SOE. Prominent faces from SOE will be hosting panels to give players and fans a look behind-the-scenes at their favorite games. It's also an excellent opportunity to schedule a meet-up with your in-game friends and to get together in a friendly, exciting environment. If you're interested in attending, registration is open at the official site.

MassivelySOE Fan Faire site back up, early-bird pricing extended originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 May 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eqeq2eqiieverquesteverquest-2everquest-iieverquest-ii fan-faire-2011fan-fairefan-faire-2011soesoe-fan-fairesoe-fan-faire-2011sony-online-entertainmentFri, 20 May 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE announces Fan Faire 2011 open registration]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/soe-announces-fan-faire-2011-open-registration/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/soe-announces-fan-faire-2011-open-registration/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/soe-announces-fan-faire-2011-open-registration/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Summer is fast approaching, and if you're partial to Sony Online Entertainment's various MMOs, you know that Fan Faire is coming up quickly as well. This year's event is going down at Bally's Hotel in Las Vegas from July 7th through July 9th. Attendees can look forward to developer panels, live game tournaments, live quests, and of course, rubbing elbows with fellow SOE fans and industry luminaries.

All-Access passes are currently on sale for $119.00, and the early-bird pricing gets you admission to forums, panels, and round-tables as well as a t-shirt, gift bag, exclusive in-game items, and digital copies of both EverQuest and EverQuest II expansion packs.

Single-day passes are also available (they'll set you back $39.00), and you can view all the details at the official Fan Faire website.

MassivelySOE announces Fan Faire 2011 open registration originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Apr 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dev-chatseqeq2eqiieventseverquesteverquest-2everquest-iiexpansionsfan-fairefan-faire-2011fantasymmo-industrypanelsprizesreal-world-eventsroundtablessoesoe-fan-faire-2011Sony-Online-EntertainmentWed, 06 Apr 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: What every leader should know about recruiting]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/20/the-guild-counsel-what-every-leader-should-know-about-recruitin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/20/the-guild-counsel-what-every-leader-should-know-about-recruitin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/20/the-guild-counsel-what-every-leader-should-know-about-recruitin/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

We've all been there -- you came up with "Your Vision," the paint's dry on the guild hall, and you're ready to select some quality members, but instead you're surrounded by chirping crickets and tumbleweeds. You patiently wait for people to start knocking on your door, but that turns to desperation as you resign yourself to the fact that someone, anyone, is better than an empty guild. Next thing you know, you have a healthy-sized roster, but you're now leading the misfit robots from Wall-E.

Before slipping down the slope of inevitable drama and potential collapse, check out this handy list of dos and don'ts to help you with recruiting.

Continue reading The Guild Counsel: What every leader should know about recruiting

MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: What every leader should know about recruiting originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 Jan 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>everquesteverquest-iiFan-fairefeaturedguild-dramaguild-leadershipguild-managementGuild-RecruitingguildsrecruitingvanguardThu, 20 Jan 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Did you go to a game convention last year?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/12/the-daily-grind-did-you-go-to-a-game-convention-last-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/12/the-daily-grind-did-you-go-to-a-game-convention-last-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/12/the-daily-grind-did-you-go-to-a-game-convention-last-year/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It is, in many ways, the ultimate gamer's pilgrimage -- to make the long trek to attend a gaming convention. Whether it be PAX, Dragon*Con, Fan Faire, BlizzCon, Leipzig or GamesCom, it's surprising the amount of money, time, effort and willingness to stand in line with sweaty people that we put up with just to see the latest games and talk to our favorite developers.

It's hard to explain the allure of these conventions to outsiders, but there's something thrilling in seeing crowds of people who share your same hobby and get excited over all the same stuff you do. Plus, there's the swag. OH, the swag!

Did you make your pilgrimage in 2010? Did you manage to get away to a fabulous retreat (from reality) and attend a game convention? And was it everything you'd hoped, or did it let you down?

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: Did you go to a game convention last year? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzconconsconventionconventionsdragon-condragonconfan-fairegamescomLeipzigopinionpaxpenny-arcade-expopilgrimagesoe-fan-fairespandex-is-a-privilege-not-a-rightswagtdgthe-daily-grindWed, 12 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: New Year's resolutions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/30/the-guild-counsel-new-years-resolutions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/30/the-guild-counsel-new-years-resolutions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/30/the-guild-counsel-new-years-resolutions/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

This past year for me has been the best year of my guild-leading life, primarily because I'm surrounded by terrific players who are also terrific people. We've had times when key members step away from raiding, and immediately I'll have several members volunteer to roll up new characters to fill the void and meet class needs. We've had issues, as all guilds do, and we have had disagreements, but I'm guilded with people who are classy enough and level-headed enough to understand the big picture and give the benefit of the doubt.

As I raise my glass to toast my guildmates, I also look forward to next year. As guild leaders know, you can never rest on your laurels, and I have several New Year's resolutions. Read on to see what I hope to accomplish, and then share your resolutions for 2011.

Continue reading The Guild Counsel: New Year's resolutions

MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: New Year's resolutions originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 30 Dec 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>end-of-the-year-2010fan-fairefeaturedguildguild-adviceguild-dramaguild-leadershipguild-managementguild-meetguild-meetupguild-websiteguildsnew-years-resolutionsPAXpax-eastraidingThu, 30 Dec 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Tattered Notebook: Six years of EverQuest II]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/the-tattered-notebook-six-years-of-everquest-ii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/the-tattered-notebook-six-years-of-everquest-ii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/the-tattered-notebook-six-years-of-everquest-ii/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

I looked down at the dog-eared journal and shivered. As excited as I was to finally be in possession of The Tattered Notebook, I recalled the fates of its previous owners. First, seemingly out of madness, Seccia made a sudden and unexpected career change to blog about kittens. Now, Scarve, a Ratonga, has disappeared in the night, leaving behind only a wedge of cheese, this tattered notebook, and a tiny stuffed Kerran doll. Rumors spread of his appearance among a shadowy cult of Gnomish tinkerers, but it's unclear whether he's with them by choice or by force.

Regardless, I took a deep breath and opened the cover. What a perfect time to begin adding my entries to the journal, right at the celebration of EverQuest II's six-year anniversary! To celebrate, the game is holding its second annual Festival of Heroes, from November 19-30. In honor of this milestone, my first entry into The Tattered Notebook is a retrospective of those past six years, with an eye towards the future.

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: Six years of EverQuest II

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: Six years of EverQuest II originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Nov 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-packanniversaryappearance-slotbillybirthdaybloodline-chroniclesdesert-of-flamesechoes-of-faydwereqEQ2EQIIeverquesteverquest-2everquest-iiexchangeexchange-serversf2pfallen-dynastyfan-fairefan-faire-2010featuredfestival-of-heroesfree-to-playfreemiumhousingkingdom-of-skymarketplaceNorrathplayer-housingRetrospectiverise-of-kunarksentinels-fateSOEsoe-eq-2SONYSony-Online-Entertainmentsplitpaw-sagathe-shadow-odysseythe-tattered-notebookMon, 08 Nov 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Tattered Notebook: Flying mounts and what's Next]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/16/the-tattered-notebook-flying-mounts-and-whats-next/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/16/the-tattered-notebook-flying-mounts-and-whats-next/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/16/the-tattered-notebook-flying-mounts-and-whats-next/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Well, it's been quite the week and a half for EverQuest fans, with not one but two expansion announcements, a few more details on the upcoming EQII Extended service courtesy of various Fan Faire panels, and of course the speculation supernova surrounding the pseudo-reveal of EQNext (is it really a reveal though if we know virtually nothing about it?). You might think that here at the Tattered Notebook, we'd be quivering with excitement for more EQNext info, or salivating at the prospect of a return to Velious as well as gearing up to visit the House of Thule.

You'd be right, but all of that pales in comparison to two very special words (no, not Station Cash):

Flying frickin' mounts.

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: Flying mounts and what's Next

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: Flying mounts and what's Next originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>destiny-of-veliouseq-nextEQ2eq2-extendedeq2xEQIIeqII-extendedeqnexteverquestEverQuest-2everquest-2-extendedeverquest-iifan-fairefeaturedflying-frickin-mountsflying-mountsjohn-smedleyopinionsoeSony-Online-Entertainmentthe-tattered-notebookthe-tattered-notebook-jef-reahardveliousMon, 16 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars Galaxies puts up producer's notes from Fan Faire]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/15/star-wars-galaxies-puts-up-producers-notes-from-fan-faire/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/15/star-wars-galaxies-puts-up-producers-notes-from-fan-faire/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/15/star-wars-galaxies-puts-up-producers-notes-from-fan-faire/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The big showstoppers at Sony Online Entertainment's Fan Faire this year were the presentations on the EverQuest franchise and DC Universe Online, without a doubt. But to neglect Star Wars Galaxies is unfair to the game's long history, as well as to the fact that the game had quite a presentation at the celebrated event. In a recent producer's note, Teesquared shared several photos from the event as well as the notes from the Galactic Gathering panel, outlining everything planned for the game in the not-too-distant future.

While the photos are nice for fans who missed it, the notes are the meaty part of the announcement, discussing everything from the next major content update to future event plans. The Witches of Dathomir is the next planned major content push, with repeatable content and a number of new clothing options for players. Big plans are also on the horizon for the Galactic Civil War, including invasions in space with capital ships and integration for player-created cities. It looks to be an interesting ride for the future of Star Wars Galaxies, so players are advised to take a look at the full notes for a hint of what's coming.

MassivelyStar Wars Galaxies puts up producer's notes from Fan Faire originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 15 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>content-updatesconventionsfan-fairefan-faire-2010future-updatesgalactic-civil-wargalactic-gatheringgatheringsproducer-notereal-world-eventssoesony-online-entertainmentstar-wars-galaxiesstar-wars-mmoswgteesquaredSun, 15 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fan Faire 2010: John Smedley and the SOE crew talk EverQuest Next]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/07/fan-faire-2010-john-smedley-and-the-soe-crew-talk-everquest-nex/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/07/fan-faire-2010-john-smedley-and-the-soe-crew-talk-everquest-nex/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/07/fan-faire-2010-john-smedley-and-the-soe-crew-talk-everquest-nex/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


EverQuest Next, the surprise news out of this year's Fan Faire, has certainly gathered a lot of attention from the general MMOGsphere since word broke about the game last night. Across Twitter, Facebook, and myriad blogs, many people are wondering just precisely what the plans are, and what this new incarnation of the world of Norrath might be like.

Well, the developers behind the game sat down with attendees at Fan Faire not only to show off screenshots and concept art from EverQuest Next, but also to solicit questions and ideas from the SOE-devoted -- and they've captured it all on video for those of us who couldn't make it! While they stress that this is all in the very early stages, there are some great insights on the thinking behind this reboot of their beloved franchise. There's also some information on what players can expect with regard to support for subscribers of EverQuest and EverQuest II once EverQuest Next comes out. If you're hungry for more details straight from the people behind this surprising new title, then check out the videos behind the break!

Continue reading Fan Faire 2010: John Smedley and the SOE crew talk EverQuest Next

MassivelyFan Faire 2010: John Smedley and the SOE crew talk EverQuest Next originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 07 Aug 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>discussioneqeq2eqiieverquesteverquest-2everquest-iieverquest-nextfacebookfan-fairefan-faire-2010john-smedleypanelsoesony-online-entertainmentvideoSat, 07 Aug 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fan Faire 2010: DCUO panel video offers more superpowered info]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/07/fan-faire-2010-dcuo-panel-video-offers-more-superpowered-info/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/07/fan-faire-2010-dcuo-panel-video-offers-more-superpowered-info/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/07/fan-faire-2010-dcuo-panel-video-offers-more-superpowered-info/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

With an exciting backstory trailer having recently been released at San Diego Comic-Con, many have been anxiously scanning for any new scrap of information about DC Universe Online -- especially with release coming soon! Thankfully, for those who were unable to attend this year's Fan Faire, the team members at Sony Online Entertainment have posted video from the panel to their Facebook page.

These three videos offer a great overview of the game for everyone from relative newcomer to DC devoted, as well as explaining things in a bit more detail than we'd previously heard. There's also a brief Q&A with the audience afterward that may or may not answer some of your own questions. If you're curious for more news about DC Universe Online (or perhaps still on the fence about pre-ordering) then be sure to check out the hot new panel videos after the break!

[Via Misanthrope at DCUOSource]

Continue reading Fan Faire 2010: DCUO panel video offers more superpowered info

MassivelyFan Faire 2010: DCUO panel video offers more superpowered info originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 07 Aug 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc-comicsdc-universe-onlinedcuoevent horizonEventHorizonfan-fairefan-faire-2010ff-2010ff2010PaneleSoneczneSOE-Seattlesony-online-entertainmentvideo gameVideoGameSat, 07 Aug 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fan Faire 2010: EQII flying mounts, EQNext art revealed [updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/fan-faire-2010-eqii-flying-mounts-eqnext-art-revealed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/fan-faire-2010-eqii-flying-mounts-eqnext-art-revealed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/fan-faire-2010-eqii-flying-mounts-eqnext-art-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The EverQuest franchise looks to be the big winner at this year's Fan Faire event, as several large announcements regarding the games in the long-running series were featured in SOE president John Smedley's community address. EQ2Wire's Feldon has the details on the short presentation.

In addition to restating the features coming your way when EQII Extended hits in mid-August, Smedley discussed the next EverQuest expansion, House of Thule, which adds several new dungeons as well as player housing and launches on October 14th. EverQuest II players will have a to wait a bit longer for their expansion, Destiny of Velious, which debuts on February 8th. The wait will likely be well worth it, however, as flying mounts will be introduced in many of the game's zones.

Finally, Smedley revealed a presentation slide labeled "The Future of EverQuest" and preceded to show off the first concept art in-game art from the cryptically titled EverQuest Next, which you can view in our gallery below. He also hinted that more information would be forthcoming as Fan Faire wraps up this weekend.

[Update: We received a note from SOE clarifying that the screenshot here is not mere concept art -- it's actual in-game art. Only makes you more curious, doesn't it!]

Gallery: EverQuest Next

MassivelyFan Faire 2010: EQII flying mounts, EQNext art revealed [updated] originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Aug 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>concept-artdestiny-of-veliouseqEQ2EQIIeqnexteverquestEverQuest-2everquest-iieverquest-nextfan-fairefan-faire-2010flying-mountshouse-of-thulejohn-smedleynew-dungeonsplayer-housingFri, 06 Aug 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE takes you behind the scenes at Fan Faire]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/10/soe-takes-you-behind-the-scenes-at-fan-faire/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/10/soe-takes-you-behind-the-scenes-at-fan-faire/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/10/soe-takes-you-behind-the-scenes-at-fan-faire/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ever wondered what it was like to throw a huge party like Sony Online Entertainment's Fan Faire? The official EverQuest II website takes you behind the scenes at Fan Faire 2010 via a new article that features SOE Events Team member Dawn Wilson. Members of the Events Team talk about everything from live quest planning, to logistics, to the rewards of a small team putting on a large event.

"Because this is 100% an SOE venture I most enjoy the pride we get when we see how happy everyone is with our hard work. We are a small department and at times it is hard to think how we will get everything done for the summer events. When we are there and it looks amazing and everyone is having a great time, it is the best feeling," Wilson says.

Read all about it on the official EQII website.

MassivelySOE takes you behind the scenes at Fan Faire originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 10 Jul 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Thinking about heading to Sony Online Entertainment's annual Fan Faire gala, but not sure if your favorite developer or community liaison will be in attendance? Fear not, as Ashlanne has posted an exhaustive list of attendees on the official Station community forums.

This year's event, scheduled to take place August 5th - 8th in Las Vegas, will feature a veritable who's who of SOE talent, including developers from EverQuest, EverQuest II, Star Wars Galaxies, Free Realms, Pox Nora, and The Agency Covert Ops.

You can visit the official Fan Faire website for more information and the official Station forums for the full guest list.

MassivelySOE releases Fan Faire attendee list originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 28 Jun 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ashlanneeqEQ2EQIIeverquestEverQuest-2everquest-iiEverquest2fan-fairefan-faire-2010fan-faire-attendeesfree-realmspox-norasoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstar-wars-galaxiesswgthe-agency-covert-opsMon, 28 Jun 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE announces Backstage Blogger contest]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/soe-announces-backstage-blogger-contest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/soe-announces-backstage-blogger-contest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/soe-announces-backstage-blogger-contest/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Want to see your name in lights, as well as take a peek behind the curtain at Sony Online Entertainment's annual Fan Faire convention? You're in luck, because SOE wants you (and three other guest bloggers) to record your experiences from the event that's happening August 5th - 8th in Las Vegas.

Contest winners will be awarded a Sony bloggie Camera Kit, a Fan Faire Platinum Pass, and access to post both written and video entries on the official Station blog throughout the event.

Submissions will be accepted from June 16th to July 1st, and should show how much you love your favorite SOE titles. Written and video format entries are acceptable, so be sure to check out the full contest details at the official site.

MassivelySOE announces Backstage Blogger contest originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Jun 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backstage-bloggerbloggie-cameracontestfan-fairefan-faire-2010soesoe-fan-faireSony-Online-EntertainmentThu, 17 Jun 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Single-game conventions, or multi-title meccas?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/28/the-daily-grind-single-game-conventions-or-multi-title-meccas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/28/the-daily-grind-single-game-conventions-or-multi-title-meccas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/28/the-daily-grind-single-game-conventions-or-multi-title-meccas/#commentsFiled under: , ,

When it comes to gaming conventions, the options for MMO players seem to get bigger every year. (Not that we're complaining, mind you!) You can get a taste of the MMO world within a bigger convention like PAX or the MMO track at Dragon*Con. Alternately, fans of a particular game or company have more and more choices to check out -- EVE FanFest; BlizzCon, SOE's Fan Faire, and now Jagex's RuneFest. Add to that the LFG Expo, which promises to give us more MMOs in one space than we've seen before, and you can see where a gamer might not know which to pick!

But with all the myriad choices opening up to us, we wondered this morning just how you like MMOs in your conventions? Are you more inclined to hit company-specific MMO conventions, so you can immerse yourself in a particular game (or series of games)? Do you prefer the large conventions where Mario and Magic: The Gathering fans mingle with murlocs? Or are you chomping at the bit for a convention like L4G, which should give players a huge choice of MMO diversity under one roof?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Single-game conventions, or multi-title meccas? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzconconventionconventionsfan-fairefanfestlfg-expommoopinionpaxrunefesttdgthe-daily-grindWed, 28 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Tattered Notebook: The forum thread round-up]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/27/the-tattered-notebook-the-forum-thread-round-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/27/the-tattered-notebook-the-forum-thread-round-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/27/the-tattered-notebook-the-forum-thread-round-up/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Greetings fellow Norrathian travelers! This week, right on the heels of the Dave Georgeson interview, we're back to investigating the issues in the community.

So far, this Tier'dal investigator has uncovered some community gold! Plus, we've got some big events coming up for the EverQuest II community, including the annual Fan Faire registration and the Mr. and Ms. Norrath contest! And, of course, I'm still looking for great tip threads for all of the new (and old) players who are wondering on how to play their MMOs better.

So come along and check out what's been documented in this week's notebook entry!

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: The forum thread round-up

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: The forum thread round-up originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Apr 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>communityeq-2eq-iiever-quest-2ever-quest-iieverquest-2everquest-iifan-fairefan-faire-2010featuredforumsmr-norrathms-norrathsoe-eq-2soe-eq-iisony-eq-2sony-eq-iithe-tattered-notebookTue, 27 Apr 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Registration opens for SOE's Fan Faire]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/08/registration-opens-for-soes-fan-faire/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/08/registration-opens-for-soes-fan-faire/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/08/registration-opens-for-soes-fan-faire/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,


Fans of EverQuest, EverQuest II, Star Wars Galaxies, and Free Realms have a big reason to get excited -- the seventh annual SOE Fan Faire opened up registration Tuesday. Just as a reminder to everyone who missed our previous announcement, the event will run on the weekend of August 5-8 at Bally's Las Vegas. Fan Faire will take place right in the center of the Vegas Strip, in the same venue as last year. That means even if you find a spare moment away from the events, there will be plenty of nearby attractions to go see.

The events already announced at Fan Faire include:
  • Developer panels
  • Contests
  • Live gaming tournaments
  • Tons of prize giveaways
  • A vendors area for all your memorabilia needs
In addition, SOE is giving away a whole mess of bonus items to people who register for the whole weekend, including free digital copies of the upcoming EverQuest and EverQuest II expansions.

Enough to get you excited? The hopes of breaking news for DC Universe Online is enough to get us hyped up. If you're a big fan of SOE's various titles and have a little vacation time, now might be a good time to start planning!

MassivelyRegistration opens for SOE's Fan Faire originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Apr 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ballys-hoteldc-universe-onlinedcuoeq-2eq-ieq-iieverquest-1everquest-2everquest-ieverquest-iieverquest-online-adventuresfan-fairefan-faire-2010free-2-playfree-realmsfree-realms-soefree-realms-sonyfree-to-playlas-vegasLegends-of-Norrathmxosoesony-onlinesony-online-entertainmentstar-wars-galaxiesswgThu, 08 Apr 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE announces dates for Fan Faire 2010]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/04/soe-announces-dates-for-fan-faire-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/04/soe-announces-dates-for-fan-faire-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/04/soe-announces-dates-for-fan-faire-2010/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

For fans of Sony Online Entertainment's stable of MMO titles, the time has come once again to start making plans for Fan Faire. It looks like we'll all be heading back to Bally's Hotel in Las Vegas from August 5-8 for a weekend chock-full of all manner of crazy gaming fun with MMO friends.

This year, they're offering everything from day passes at $35 on up to a Platinum badge which -- for $135 -- will net you access to all events, plus an additional in-game item, a special swag bag boasting more than just regular Fan Faire goodies, access to a VIP lounge, and even private VIP events. Add to that the room discounts starting at $65 a night for a swanky hotel right on the main Vegas strip, and this could well be a great vacation that just happens to include the awesome fun of this year's SOE Fan Faire.

For now, there's no details on the schedule of events, but we wouldn't be surprised to see Alan "Brenlo" Crosby wedging people into t-shirts three sizes too small, as well as an appearance by of one of our favorite Dwarves. If previous years are any indication, this is a should-not-miss event for any serious SOE fan.

MassivelySOE announces dates for Fan Faire 2010 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Mar 2010 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingdc-universe-onlinedcuoeqeq2eqiieqoaeverquesteverquest-2everquest-iieverquest-online-adventuresfan-fairefan-faire-2010las-vegaspssoesony-online-entertainmentthe-agencyvanguardvegasvgThu, 04 Mar 2010 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Fan Faire extras on the latest official SOE podcast]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/06/fan-faire-extras-on-the-latest-official-soe-podcast/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/06/fan-faire-extras-on-the-latest-official-soe-podcast/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/06/fan-faire-extras-on-the-latest-official-soe-podcast/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you're reading this post, we will assume that you are probably interested in getting all the goods on this year's SOE Fan Faire. And why wouldn't you with all the announcements? SOE announced expansions for both EverQuest and EverQuest 2, plus lots of incoming goodies for Free Realms and even Star Wars Galaxies -- although your mileage may vary when it comes to zombies in your Star Wars.

Anyhow, the podcast was recorded live at the event, which means you'll be hearing plenty of immediate reactions and thoughts on news and then-current happenings. Sadly, there doesn't seem to be any information regarding The Agency or DC Universe Online, much like at the actual event itself. Nevertheless, anyone interested in the previously mentioned games or live podcasts with jump-on guests will find something to enjoy here.

MassivelyFan Faire extras on the latest official SOE podcast originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 06 Jul 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ashlannebrenlodc-universe-onlineeqeq2everquesteverquest-2fan-fairefan-faire-2009free-realmssoesony-online-entertainmentstar-wars-galaxiesthe-agencyMon, 06 Jul 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE trademark filings hint at new EverQuest and EverQuest II expansions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/17/soe-trademark-filings-hint-at-new-everquest-and-everquest-ii-exp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/17/soe-trademark-filings-hint-at-new-everquest-and-everquest-ii-exp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/17/soe-trademark-filings-hint-at-new-everquest-and-everquest-ii-exp/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Sony Online Entertainment's fantasy MMOs EverQuest and EverQuest II may be due for new expansions if what Kody over at Curse has unearthed holds true. SOE has filed trademarks for two new EQ properties with the US Patent and Trademark Office. They are EverQuest: Underfoot and EverQuest II: Sentinel's Fate.

It's a good find, but more of a tease than anything right now as no further details are available about either expansion. As Curse notes though, SOE Fan Faire is very close, just over a week away, and an announcement could be made then.

Have a look at what Kody has to say about the potential for new EverQuest expansions in his post at Curse.

MassivelySOE trademark filings hint at new EverQuest and EverQuest II expansions originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 17 Jun 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cursecurse.comeqeq-2everquesteverquest-2expansionsfan-fairefan-faire-2009fantasykodypatentssoesoe-fan-fairesony-online-entertainmenttrademarksWed, 17 Jun 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Get a sneak peek at SOE Fan Faire '09's in-game items]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/01/get-a-sneak-peek-at-soe-fan-faire-09s-in-game-items/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/01/get-a-sneak-peek-at-soe-fan-faire-09s-in-game-items/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/01/get-a-sneak-peek-at-soe-fan-faire-09s-in-game-items/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

E3 may be the show on everyone's minds right now, but SOE is doing what they can to make sure that people don't forget that they have their very own event later in the month. They've put up a preview of some of the digital schwag that attendees will receive for coming to SOE Fan Faire 2009, and the new rule this year is that you'lll be able to get one in-game item for each game you have an active account for -- no need to choose just one anymore.

The preview has pictures and some details about the items, and there's one in particular that will probably get the most attention: the Dianoga Dumpster for Star Wars Galaxies players will spit up collection items if fed once a week for a month, and besides that, it just looks kinda cool. Other neat items include a statue of Firiona Vie for EverQuest II, and a flying dragon mount for Vanguard, although, that one might divide people due to its bright pinkish-purple color. Registration for the fan faire is still open, so if you simply must have a pink dragon, now's the time to book.

MassivelyGet a sneak peek at SOE Fan Faire '09's in-game items originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Jun 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dianoga-dumpstereverquest-2everquest-iifan-fairefan-faire-2009firiona-viein-game-itemsschwagsoesoe-fan-fairesony-online-entertainmentstar-wars-galaxiesvanguardMon, 01 Jun 2009 11:00:00 EST