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 Mog Log: The Legacy rewards and what they mean]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/26/the-mog-log-the-legacy-rewards-and-what-they-mean/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/26/the-mog-log-the-legacy-rewards-and-what-they-mean/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/26/the-mog-log-the-legacy-rewards-and-what-they-mean/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Mog Log header by A. Fienemann
So, who here remembers the Final Fantasy XIV launch? I certainly do; I was there and I've been here since, after all. And who here remembers how the game launched to critical acclaim and overwhelming popularity?

Yeah, okay. I liked the game at launch, but that was more because of the underlying philosophies and approaches, not because the whole thing was polished to a fine shine. It was almost two years ago now, and the game has had to go through a lot of growing pains in that time, fixing a lot of elements that didn't work and adjusting stuff that was almost there but not quite. It's been a long process of hammering out fixes and improvements, one that included a long stretch of no subscription fee as the game cleaned itself up.

We're nearly at the end of that process now, but Square-Enix is trying to show everyone that the company appreciates players who have been around during the game's teething troubles. That's the Legacy program in a nutshell -- a chance for players to signify having been around for an extended period of time. A badge of honor, a show of loyalty, and arguably another little bit of bait to get people to subscribe now instead of later.

Continue reading The Mog Log: The Legacy rewards and what they mean

MassivelyThe Mog Log: The Legacy rewards and what they mean originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 26 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoleconsolesculturecustomer-loyaltycustomersfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivlegacylegacy-campaignmog-logopinionrewardssquaresquare-enixsquenixsubscriber-rewardsthe-mog-logSat, 26 May 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon to offer special limited-time deals on TERA, RIFT, others [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/amazon-to-offer-special-limited-time-deals-on-tera-rift-others/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/amazon-to-offer-special-limited-time-deals-on-tera-rift-others/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/amazon-to-offer-special-limited-time-deals-on-tera-rift-others/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

TERA screenshot
Have you been watching TERA via livestreams and wistfully wishing you could jump in and join but you haven't wanted to plunk down the cash at launch? Well as long as you don't mind not having a box to display on your shelf, your waiting has actually paid off! Amazon is kicking off a 12-day digital "MAYhem" sale today and offering select MMO titles at a significant discount on specific days. Those deals are as follows:
Mark your calendar if you don't want to miss these offers.

[Update: We've added in the TERA sale on May 26th as well.]

[Source: Amazon press release]

MassivelyAmazon to offer special limited-time deals on TERA, RIFT, others [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 May 2012 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonamazon.comblueholebluehole-studiosconsoleconsolesen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyffff11ff14ffxiffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xifinal-fantasy-xivriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrsquaresquare-enixterathree-faction-pvptriontrion-worldsThu, 17 May 2012 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mog Log: A look forward to Final Fantasy XIV pets]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/12/the-mog-log-a-look-forward-to-final-fantasy-xiv-pets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/12/the-mog-log-a-look-forward-to-final-fantasy-xiv-pets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/12/the-mog-log-a-look-forward-to-final-fantasy-xiv-pets/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The Mog Log header by A. Fienemann
Pet classes and I have an odd relationship. I don't generally like them, but I like having them there, and when they're done right, I'm very fond of the option. Final Fantasy XIV currently has a grand total of none of them; we have not even a summoner or beastmaster to call our own, but we've been told that this is all changing in version 2.0. And with November just half a year away, it's time to start thinking about what form these pets are going to take.

Of course, this isn't virgin territory for the game series. Final Fantasy XI featured four different pet classes, which have had differing levels of success over time. And even though Final Fantasy XIV isn't meant to be Final Fantasy XI in a new skin, the game can certainly take some inspiration from its predecessor even while forging a unique legacy. And hey, we've got at least three of the four pets from the previous game in Eorzea at this point. So let's talk about the past set of pets, where we are in the present game, and how those systems might make it into the main game.

Continue reading The Mog Log: A look forward to Final Fantasy XIV pets

MassivelyThe Mog Log: A look forward to Final Fantasy XIV pets originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 12 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilitiescoming-updatesconsoleconsolesfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivffxiv-version-2.0final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivfinal-fantasy-xiv-2.0mog-logopinionpet-classespetssquaresquare-enixsquenixsuggestionsthe-mog-logupdatesversion-2.0Sat, 12 May 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mog Log: Blindsided by FFXIV's patch 1.22]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/28/the-mog-log-blindsided-by-ffxivs-patch-1-22/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/28/the-mog-log-blindsided-by-ffxivs-patch-1-22/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/28/the-mog-log-blindsided-by-ffxivs-patch-1-22/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The Mog Log header by A. Fienemann
I had different plans for this week's column until I realized that Final Fantasy XIV's patch 1.22 had sneaked up on me like the monster in a slasher film, except instead of stabbing me and laughing, it just brought a bunch of new content, so the metaphor doesn't really work. I'm not sure exactly how I missed the patch's coming so quickly, but I'm happy to see it's finally on the live servers.

Of course, in a lot of ways, this patch is smaller than its predecessors, though not in terms of content, obviously. No, it's a smaller patch by virtue of the fact that it's a pure content patch. New systems are in short supply, but new things to do are in abundance. It's a focus patch, in other words. Recent patches have vehemently focused on trimming up the mechanics and making sure that the game plays nicely with all sorts of content; this patch focuses instead on what you can do with all of your shiny abilities and classes and so forth. And aside from a couple of missed opportunities, it succeeds at that beautifully.

Continue reading The Mog Log: Blindsided by FFXIV's patch 1.22

MassivelyThe Mog Log: Blindsided by FFXIV's patch 1.22 originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 28 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoleconsolesfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivffxiv-patch-1.22final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgrand-companieshamlet-defensemog-logopinionpatchpatchessquaresquare-enixsquenixthe-mog-logupdatesSat, 28 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIV launches patch 1.22]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/final-fantasy-xiv-launches-patch-1-22/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/final-fantasy-xiv-launches-patch-1-22/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/final-fantasy-xiv-launches-patch-1-22/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

A man with a plan. Also a sword.
Feel as if the last major Final Fantasy XIV patch just had too much to absorb at once? Well, you're going to be a bit stuck today if that's the case because patch 1.22 has just gone live and brought with it another host of improvements, updates, and changes. The good news is that this patch doesn't contain the same number of system changes as the previous patch, but that's because of the sheer amount of new content included.

The patch adds another four ranks to the Grand Companies, another set of quests, the new Garuda battle, the first of the hamlet defense points, and more besides. Players will also be able to obtain new items from crafting, gathering, and victory in the Garuda fight, and they'll be able to see the first hints of what will happen to the world as the era draws to a close. Servers are expected to be back online later tonight, and players will no doubt have plenty to explore once they can log in again.

[Thanks to Alex for the tip!]

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XIV launches patch 1.22 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoleconsolesfantasyffff14ffxivffxiv-patch-1.22final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgame-updatesmajor-patchesmajor-updatesnewspatchpatch-1.22patch-daypatchessquaresquare-enixupdatesWed, 25 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New preview available for Final Fantasy XIV's Garuda fight]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/new-preview-available-for-final-fantasy-xivs-garuda-fight/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/new-preview-available-for-final-fantasy-xivs-garuda-fight/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/new-preview-available-for-final-fantasy-xivs-garuda-fight/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Many-winged angel.
The primals are among the greatest forces within Eorzea, something that Final Fantasy XIV players are no doubt acutely aware of after the clash with Ifrit. The second primal battle is coming, pitting players against Garuda, deity of the Ixali. That means another pitched battle against a superior foe in the Howling Eye, a battle which the official site has just recently previewed with a video of the fight in hard mode and a video preview of the new weapon rewards.

According to the lore, the Ixali revere Garuda as the Empress of Birds, a soaring deity who maintains an appetite for the flesh of land-dwelling creatures. She is the incarnate strength of the bird-men as well as a source of great terror. But just as with Ifrit, players who defeat her can expect to have a variety of fantastic weapons, as illustrated in the video just past the break. Just be careful -- if you aren't on the ball when you fight her, you could find yourself completely blown away.

[Thanks to Alex for the tip!]

Continue reading New preview available for Final Fantasy XIV's Garuda fight

MassivelyNew preview available for Final Fantasy XIV's Garuda fight originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boss-battlesconsoleconsolesendgamefantasyffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgarudalorenew-contentpreviewprimalprimalssquaresquare-enixvideovideo-previewvideosTue, 24 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Previously on MV TV: The week of April 14th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/22/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-april-14th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/22/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-april-14th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/22/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-april-14th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Previously On logo
So you accidentally missed your favorite MassivelyTV livestream featuring your favorite Massively personality or writer? Don't worry; we'll forgive you as long as you promise to bookmark our MassivelyTV guide and check back on this weekly recap. That way you are sure not to miss another stream, and you wouldn't need to come back to us, begging for a link. You could also follow Massively on Twitter, one of the best ways to be alerted to new things.

This week we featured a Tboo Thursday, one of our most popular livestreams, which stars resident APB: Reloaded expert Taryn. We also had some more World of Warcraft Mists of Pandaria action from Richie, a bit of newbie content in EverQuest II with MJ at the helm, a quick introduction to skybox building in Second Life hosted by me, Mike's return to EVE Online in his shiny new Drake, and Adventure Mike's leap back into Final Fantasy XIV. Pretty exciting stuff if you're into giant rats, explosions, beautiful sunsets, and piles of bullets.

Continue reading Previously on MV TV: The week of April 14th

MassivelyPreviously on MV TV: The week of April 14th originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 22 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apb-reloadedbeau-hindmanBlizzardccpEQ2eve-onlineEverQuest-2everquest-iif2pfeaturedffxivfinal-fantasy-xivfree-to-playftpgamersfirstlinden-labLiveStreamLiveStreamingmassivelytvmists-of-pandariamj-guthriepreviously-on-mv-tvsecond-lifeSOESony-Online-EntertainmentSquare-Enixtwitchtwitch-tvvideoWorld-of-WarcraftSun, 22 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mog Log: Giving a shotgun to a bear]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/21/the-mog-log-giving-a-shotgun-to-a-bear/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/21/the-mog-log-giving-a-shotgun-to-a-bear/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/21/the-mog-log-giving-a-shotgun-to-a-bear/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The Mog Log header by A. Fienemann
Final Fantasy XI was my first MMORPG, and as such it's shaped a lot of my attitudes toward the genre as a whole. The problem was that inasmuch as one could be a typical player of the game, I was not. The details aren't relevant; what is relevant is that I would frequently look at patch notes, sort of squint a bit, and assume that any number of the features were aimed at the audience that I was not a part of. After all, there was no way the developers would add in a feature if literally no one in the game's community wanted it, right?

Time has made it clear that this was most definitely not the case. Maybe it's due to the difference between American and Japanese audiences, maybe it's something lost in the translation, or maybe it's just Square's periodic bursts of insanity manifesting itself, but Final Fantasy XIV carries on in the proud decision of listening to players and taking entirely the wrong message away. I'm incredibly impressed by the vast majority of Naoki Yoshida's work, but there are a lot of features that have been added or are being added that seem to have completely missed the point of player requests.

Continue reading The Mog Log: Giving a shotgun to a bear

MassivelyThe Mog Log: Giving a shotgun to a bear originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 21 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoleconsolesfantasyfeaturedfeaturesffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivmisaimed-featuresmog-logopinionpatch-featurespatchessquaresquare-enixsquenixthe-mog-logwhat-is-this-i-cant-evenSat, 21 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIV beckons former players with Legacy and Welcome Back campaigns]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/final-fantasy-xiv-beckons-former-players-with-legacy-welcome-ba/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/final-fantasy-xiv-beckons-former-players-with-legacy-welcome-ba/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/final-fantasy-xiv-beckons-former-players-with-legacy-welcome-ba/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Final Fantasy XIV - welcome back and legacy campaigns
Square-Enix is rolling out the welcome mat for former players of its Final Fantasy XIV MMORPG.

The company has announced two new promotional campaigns, the first of which is aimed at players who have paid for at least 90 days of sub time since January 6th, 2012. You should be getting an email from Square if you're eligible, and you'll receive a discount on your monthly sub ($9.99 for 30 days) as well as 40 playable character slots on your account (with a maximum of eight per world).

Legacy members will also get an exclusive chocobo mount with version 2.0 as well as the option to have their names listed in the update's credits.

Square's second announcement concerns the Welcome Back Campaign, which is intended to stoke the interest of former players with inactive service accounts. Eorzean ex-patriots can come back for free between May 9th and May 20th. During the 10-day trial, you can take part in the "once-in-a-lifetime" Seventh Umbral Era content and experience the new job system and inn room updates. Finally, Naoki Yoshida has published a new producer's letter that expounds on the campaigns as well as the game's future.

[Thanks to William for the tip!]

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XIV beckons former players with Legacy and Welcome Back campaigns originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoleconsoleseorzeafantasyffff14ffxivffxiv-campaignsffxiv-legacyffxiv-welcome-backfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivlegacy-campaignnaoki-yoshidasquaresquare-enixwelcome-back-campaignFri, 20 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Free-to-play holdouts]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/the-perfect-ten-free-to-play-holdouts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/the-perfect-ten-free-to-play-holdouts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/the-perfect-ten-free-to-play-holdouts/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Perfect Ten
In the increasingly diminishing field of subscription-only MMOs, two distinct camps have formed. There is the Old Guard that has its established playerbase and is simply not interested in jumping on board the F2P train, and then there are the New Kids on the Block (which would make an excellent band name, by the way), who argue that their premium features and AAA content warrant a subscription in the F2P age.

A few years ago, doing a list of the final few F2P holdouts would have been a ridiculous proposition, but now it's actually difficult to get to 10 of these. Each company has a different reason that it hasn't given these games more flexible payment options (FPO should replace F2P; pass it on!), and while some have addressed this publicly, others say nothing and leave us to speculate on it.

For today's Perfect Ten, we're going to look at the 10 biggest current F2P holdouts in the industry and muse about what's going on behind the scenes. Will this list be impossible to do in a few years or will subscription-only titles come back in a big way? Hey, I don't predict things; I just make lists.

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Free-to-play holdouts

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Free-to-play holdouts originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Apr 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Mog Log header by A. Fienemann
Final Fantasy XIV has changed a lot since launch. That's kind of the thing you say about every game, but usually you can see most of the telltale signs of where the game had been. That's not quite the case with the huge, sweeping changes that Eorzea has undergone. You can see some of the comparisons, but a lot of mechanics have been widely overhauled and altered so that it barely even feels like the same game.

This, of course, is not stuff you catch as a casual observer. Heck, there are things I don't notice because I'm knee-deep in Final Fantasy XIV and have gotten more accustomed to the changed version over the new version. So I thought this would be a good week to try taking a step back and looking at all of the things that have changed in the game since launch... or at least the major points that you might not have caught.

Continue reading The Mog Log: Ain't what she used to be

MassivelyThe Mog Log: Ain't what she used to be originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 14 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Mog Log header by A. Fienemann
The Final Fantasy series, particularly the online installments, is all about class. This is not entirely surprising, since the series has built up a series of character types that, while sometimes kind of random, are beloved just the same. The jumping spear-wielding Dragoons, dual-wielding and sword-throwing Ninjas, the ubiquitous Summoners... if these concepts don't exist in some form within a game, it raises some eyebrows. It's a symptom of the linking the games by certain broad pseudo-mythological concepts rather than by any actual continuity.

We've gotten our Job system in Final Fantasy XIV, we've got our classes to the point that they're at least somewhat balanced, and we've got a new version on the horizon. The question, then, is what we're getting next. What new classes or jobs can we look forward to? What do we need? What gaps are obvious within the Final Fantasy pantheon, and what is just lacking in terms of a traditional MMO setup?

Continue reading The Mog Log: Head of the newer class

MassivelyThe Mog Log: Head of the newer class originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 07 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classclassesconsoleconsolesfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivjobjobsmog-lognew-classesnew-jobsopinionspeculationsquaresquare-enixsquenixthe-mog-logSat, 07 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Previously On MVTV: The week of March 24th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/01/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-march-24th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/01/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-march-24th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/01/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-march-24th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Previously On banner
Ah, spring is in the air. You know what that means! That means that we get to sit inside, away from all of the sunshine and pollen, and watch others play through video games that we just don't have access to or haven't given a chance yet. This week, we worked hard to bring you some more of our digital adventures and got some of our biggest viewership numbers ever! Remember, if you come across a game we haven't covered yet or want to see a certain title covered, take the time to tell us. Give us the website, why we should look at it, and any other information you think we need to know, and you just might see it live on MVTV!

First Blake jumped into Global Agenda for his Lunchtime Livecast; then Richie took some time to try out the Mists of Pandaria beta for World of Warcraft. Adventure Mike explored some content in Final Fantasy XIV, while plain old Mike burned some space dust in EVE Online and cast many spells in RIFT. I decided to look at Nadirim because it's been a while and gave the Rise and Shiny treatment to Remanum.

Be sure to bookmark our livestream MV Guide, a sort of TV Guide for our livestreams. That way you can blame only yourself when you miss one of our awesome streams!

Continue reading Previously On MVTV: The week of March 24th

MassivelyPreviously On MVTV: The week of March 24th originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 01 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanBlizzardccpeve-onlinef2pfeaturedfinal-fantasy-xivfree-to-playftpLiveStreamLiveStreamingmists-of-pandarianadirimpreviously-on-mv-tvremanumriftSquare-Enixtravian-gamestriontwitchtwitch-tvvideoWorld-of-WarcraftSun, 01 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mog Log: Ishgardbul, not Ala Mhigonople]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/31/the-mog-log-ishgardbul-not-ala-mhigonople/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/31/the-mog-log-ishgardbul-not-ala-mhigonople/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/31/the-mog-log-ishgardbul-not-ala-mhigonople/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Mog Log header by A. Fienemann
There are three cities that players can select to call home in Final Fantasy XIV, but there are five cities of importance. Over the past few weeks I've looked at the former group, but that leaves two important places to be covered. At the same time, those cities are by necessity harder to talk about because we haven't set foot in either. Everything we know about them is secondhand, via quests and inference and in one case the ability to longingly gaze over an ornate stone bridge.

Ishgard and Ala Mhigo both cast long shadows over Eorzea, but neither one is accessible to players. There are details about both swimming through the game, but it's always secondhand, always with one or two pieces gleaned from outside sources. In its own way, this makes both cities more alluring -- because one we know to be the heart of darkness and the other could be almost anything when the gates finally swing open. If, in fact, they ever do.

Continue reading The Mog Log: Ishgardbul, not Ala Mhigonople

MassivelyThe Mog Log: Ishgardbul, not Ala Mhigonople originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 31 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ahead, like some vast, predatory... wait, that's a different franchise.
Patch 1.21 has just gone live, but many fans of Final Fantasy XIV are already looking ahead to patch 1.22. And it's understandable -- the game is kicking into the final stretch before the major relaunch, and that means new conflicts and new quests as the era draws to a close. Producer Naoki Yoshida recently released a new producer's letter detailing the list of features slated for inclusion with this next update, including the hamlet defense feature that was trimmed from patch 1.21.

This penultimate patch before version 2.0 will also see the conflict between Eorzea and the Empire escalate further, illustrated by the presence of a new Imperial stronghold for players to assault. There will be new Imperial weapons as a result, along with new quests and new Grand Company ranks. Currently slated for the end of April, this patch can be expected to deliver a number of improvements to the game, even if it may wind up being delayed a bit in the end.

MassivelyNewest letter from Naoki Yoshida outlines the plans for Final Fantasy XIV's next patch originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoleconsolesfantasyffff14ffxivffxiv-patch-1.21ffxiv-patch-1.22final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgame-updatesnaoki-yoshidanewspatchpatchesproducers-lettersquaresquare-enixupcoming-updatesupdatesMon, 26 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mog Log: Living large in Limsa Lominsa]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/24/the-mog-log-living-large-in-limsa-lominsa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/24/the-mog-log-living-large-in-limsa-lominsa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/24/the-mog-log-living-large-in-limsa-lominsa/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Mog Log header image by A. Fienemann
Limsa Lominsa isn't like the other cities in Final Fantasy XIV chiefly because it's not a city. You can argue the definition, but cities are generally places where a group of people decided to settle down and stay for an extended period of time. Limsa Lominsa is more like what would happen if everyone went for a hike, a lot of people wound up double-parked, and then in the aftermath, all of the hikers just threw up their hands and decided to stay where they were instead of going home.

Even if you ignore the city's ridiculous origin, however, you're stuck with a city that's still ridiculous in its own way. The city's government is determined by boat races, the local pirates come standard so long as they adhere to a few fairly simple rules, and pretty much everyone has an eye toward becoming the top dog. The result is a place that's refreshingly open about all of its dangers, but despite that, it's no less threatening. You'll be threatened by brute force rather than subterfuge, but you're still facing down the wrong end of a weapon.

Continue reading The Mog Log: Living large in Limsa Lominsa

MassivelyThe Mog Log: Living large in Limsa Lominsa originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 24 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Mog Log header by A. Fienemann
So patch 1.21 has finally come out, after what feels like a wait of several thousand years. It's the biggest patch since the last one, certainly, and headlining the whole thing is the introduction of the Job system. Final Fantasy XIV players the world over can finally experience the game as one of the iconic classes that have pretty much been the other shoe waiting to drop since the game's launch. But there's also chocobo barding, new dungeons, new functional improvements, private rooms... the usual confluence of many separate elements in a single patch. It's the biggest one since the last one, in other words.

The problem this patch faces with its marquee element, of course, is that jobs are something players have anticipated for so long that there's no right way to do them. However jobs get put into the game, some players will be happy and some won't. The best outcome has never been a perfect implementation so much as an implementation that's done consistently and hits the right notes. And that's arguably what happened, but that doesn't necessarily mean I'll agree that this was the best implementation possible.

Continue reading The Mog Log: Point two one

MassivelyThe Mog Log: Point two one originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 17 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoleconsolesfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivffxiv-patch-1.21final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgame-mechanicsgame-updatesjobsmog-logopinionpatchpatchessquaresquare-enixsquenixthe-mog-logupdatesSat, 17 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 192: When it's ready]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/massively-speaking-episode-192-when-its-ready/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/massively-speaking-episode-192-when-its-ready/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/massively-speaking-episode-192-when-its-ready/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Diablo III
Massively Speaking Episode 192 recovers from the aftermath of last week's GDC, as Justin and Bree regain full mic privileges and prepare to sing a duet in celebration. In this episode, we wrap up the GDC craziness, talk about Diablo III's PvP circumcision, and celebrate the release of a couple of significant patches.

Have a comment for the podcasters? Shoot an email to podcast@massively.com. We may just read your email on the air!

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Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 192: When it's ready

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 192: When it's ready originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetbiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrantbrianna-roycecash-shopconconferenceconsoleconsolesconventiond3ddodiablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeaelectronic-artsf2pfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivfree-to-playgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012gdcgdc-2012gothic-fantasyhumorjustin-olivettilord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolucasartsmassively-speakingmultiplayeronline-multiplayeropinionpodcastpodcastingpodcastsprius-onlineroguelikerpgsci-fisquaresquare-enixstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorthe-old-republictorturbineturbine-entertainmentTue, 13 Mar 2012 15:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 192Massively.com Staff01:07:51podcasts<![CDATA[The Mog Log: Staying off the grid in Gridania]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/10/the-mog-log-staying-off-the-grid-in-gridania/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/10/the-mog-log-staying-off-the-grid-in-gridania/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/10/the-mog-log-staying-off-the-grid-in-gridania/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Mog Log
At first glance on a trip through Final Fantasy XIV's cities, Gridania probably seems like the nicest city in Eorzea. Ul'dah always has the smile of a used car salesman, Limsa Lominsa stinks of fish and is full of pirates, Ishgard isn't welcoming even without the dragons, and Ala Mhigo sort of has a bad case of Garlean occupation. But Gridania is built in the middle of rather nice forest territory, and it doesn't seem to suffer from any of the power struggles or unfriendly residents that your other options have. Sure, the forest can be a bit tempermental, but it's a peaceful spot.

But as you may have guessed, it only looks that way until you actually spend some time there. Then you realize that the city is not nearly so welcoming as you initially thought -- it's a hotbed of activity, stuffed to the brim with spirits that do not necessarily have the best interests of adventurers or anyone else at heart. Gridania doesn't suffer the internal conflicts of the other cities, but that's mostly because the place is already being crushed too thoroughly by all of the external threats it has to face just to keep treading water.

Continue reading The Mog Log: Staying off the grid in Gridania

MassivelyThe Mog Log: Staying off the grid in Gridania originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 10 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backgroundbackstoryblack-shroudcitiesconsoleconsolesfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgridanialoremog-logopinionregionssquaresquare-enixthe-mog-logSat, 10 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIV unveils the full scope of patch 1.21]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/final-fantasy-xiv-unveils-the-full-scope-of-patch-1-21/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/final-fantasy-xiv-unveils-the-full-scope-of-patch-1-21/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/final-fantasy-xiv-unveils-the-full-scope-of-patch-1-21/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

No, it's not Vivi.
The time is now -- Final Fantasy XIV's sweeping patch 1.21 is going live. That means players can experience the new Job system, do battle in two new instanced dungeons, and relax in their new private rooms. The patch notes make it clear that as with most of the game's patches, there's a lot going on even beyond the headlining features for the update, including intra-city teleportation services, new achievement categories to explore, and new ways for players to spend guild marks.

Patch 1.21 also brings along a revision to the food and medicine of the game, with food serving universally as a small long-term buff and medicines working as short effects or buffs with a big impact. The team has also revised accessories, doing away with the previous mechanic of slot costs. And that's not even touching upon new missions for provisioning from the Grand Companies, the introduction of chocobo barding, or any number of other smaller features added with the list. It's a lot of stuff to absorb, and it should keep adventurers happy for quite some time.

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XIV unveils the full scope of patch 1.21 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buffsconsoleconsolesdungeonsexperiencefantasyffff14ffxivffxiv-patch-1.21final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivfoodgame-mechanicsgame-updatesinstanced-dungeonsinstanced-raidsjob-systemjobslevelingmedicinenewspatchpatchesrestsquaresquare-enixupdatesThu, 08 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIV's Naoki Yoshida talks patch 1.21 and the future]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/final-fantasy-xivs-naoki-yoshida-talks-patch-1-21-and-the-futur/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/final-fantasy-xivs-naoki-yoshida-talks-patch-1-21-and-the-futur/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/final-fantasy-xivs-naoki-yoshida-talks-patch-1-21-and-the-futur/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

You'd think a character in a Final Fantasy game would be used to strange glowing stuff by now.
This Friday will see the release of Final Fantasy XIV's latest and greatest patch, 1.21. It's bringing the long-awaited Job system, several updates to the game's consumable items, new quests, new options for mounts, and the usual plethora of other improvements. Fans of the game have been eagerly watching the updates, keeping an eye on what's around the bend, and getting ready to enjoy everything the new patch has to offer.

But even 1.21 isn't the big end goal of the game; that's the 2.0 relaunch happening in November. We had a chance to ask a few questions of the game's producer, Naoki Yoshida, regarding both the updates coming with patch 1.21 and Final Fantasy XIV's ongoing road of improvement as version 2.0 draws nearer. So what can players look forward to when they download the patch? What's coming before the relaunch? And how fashionable will your new armor make your chocobo look?

Continue reading Final Fantasy XIV's Naoki Yoshida talks patch 1.21 and the future

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XIV's Naoki Yoshida talks patch 1.21 and the future originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coming-updatesconsoleconsolescontentfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivffxiv-patch-1.21ffxiv-version-2.0final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivimprovementsinterviewjob-systemjobsnaoki-yoshidanew-updatesquestssquaresquare-enixupdatesThu, 08 Mar 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Cutter's Cry previewed for Final Fantasy XIV]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/cutters-cry-previewed-for-final-fantasy-xiv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/cutters-cry-previewed-for-final-fantasy-xiv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/cutters-cry-previewed-for-final-fantasy-xiv/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

The place is sadly a bit monochrome.
When patch 1.21 goes live for Final Fantasy XIV on Friday, it brings along with it two new instanced raids. The first one, Cutter's Cry, sounds like it won't be a fun time for your character in the first place; after all, it's on the road between Thanalan and Mor Dhona, which isn't going to be a pleasant route. The fact that a powerful chimera was once known to be within the cave only makes things worse. And while a group of adventurers supposedly defeated the beast some 30 years ago, the beast has been heard within the depths again...

The dungeon is meant to be an extremely challenging encounter for players at level 45 and up, and the preview video shows off several characters in full Job regalia tackling its challenges. There are the beasts you'd expect to find within a cave in Thanalan, of course, including the requisite antlings and peistes. And of course, there's something worse waiting at the end -- but you can take a look at the video and see that for yourself.

Continue reading Cutter's Cry previewed for Final Fantasy XIV

MassivelyCutter's Cry previewed for Final Fantasy XIV originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backstoryconsoleconsolescutters-crydungeonfantasyffff14ffxivffxiv-patch-1.21final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivinstanced-dungeoninstanced-raidlorepreviewsquaresquare-enixvideovideosWed, 07 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Get a job in Final Fantasy XIV]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/get-a-job-in-final-fantasy-xiv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/get-a-job-in-final-fantasy-xiv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/get-a-job-in-final-fantasy-xiv/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

I won't pay, I won't pay, say no way. Na - na - why don't you get a job?
With patch 1.21, players in Final Fantasy XIV will have a new way to improve their characters. Leveling a class won't be changing, but the job system will allow characters to reach the full potential of a given discipline. The latest preview goes into depth about the process of unlocking and improving each of the new jobs, with each job requiring a primary class at level 30 and a supplementary class at level 15.

Once a job is unlocked, players can equip the job's Soul Crystal to switch to the specific job. This will allow the player access to job-specific skills, but it will also carry limitations -- players will be limited in the number of actions that can be equipped from other classes, and they can only use actions from specific classes. If you're more of the crafty sort, of course, you won't be getting in on the new jobs, but you will be able to take advantage of the newly streamlined recipes for accessories, food, and medicines. So there's a little something for everyone.

MassivelyGet a job in Final Fantasy XIV originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoleconsolescraftingfantasyffff14ffxivffxiv-patch-1.21final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgame-mechanicsjobjobsnewspatchespreviewsrecipessquaresquare-enixupdatesMon, 05 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mog Log: Apparently I enjoy receiving hate mail]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/03/the-mog-log-apparently-i-enjoy-receiving-hate-mail/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/03/the-mog-log-apparently-i-enjoy-receiving-hate-mail/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/03/the-mog-log-apparently-i-enjoy-receiving-hate-mail/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Mog Log header image by A. Fienemann
I like Final Fantasy XI, and not just because it was the game that introduced me to how awesome MMOs could be, although that's certainly a part of it. I like the game because it has a lot of things that are genuinely likable, several elements that are well-designed, and some really excellent parts that stand out even now. So keep in mind that everything I'm about to say is said on behalf of a Final Fantasy XI fan.

Specifically, the rant that's about to ensue about how the idea of remaking it is a terrible idea.

This suggestion crops up pretty regularly, largely among people still disappointed that Final Fantasy XIV was what it was at launch. There's some thought that somehow cloning FFXI with the models from Final Fantasy XIV would lead to a glorious revival. And I can understand the thought process, but there are two very good reasons why that shouldn't happen -- not won't, which is already obvious, but shouldn't.

Continue reading The Mog Log: Apparently I enjoy receiving hate mail

MassivelyThe Mog Log: Apparently I enjoy receiving hate mail originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 03 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bad-ideascolumncolumnsconsoleconsolesdo-overfantasyfeaturedffff11ff14ffxiffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xifinal-fantasy-xivmog-logopinionredosremakesremaking-gamessquaresquare-enixthe-mog-logSat, 03 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIV pushes patch 1.21 back to March 9th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/final-fantasy-xiv-pushes-patch-1-21-back-to-march-9th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/final-fantasy-xiv-pushes-patch-1-21-back-to-march-9th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/final-fantasy-xiv-pushes-patch-1-21-back-to-march-9th/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

FFXIV
Patience, they say, is a virtue -- and no one is more patient than the Final Fantasy XIV community. This patience will be tested once more as the imminent 1.21 patch has been delayed until March 9th to accommodate further work and testing.

If someone is to blame, it's Producer Naoki Yoshida, who admits that "the sheer volume" of his suggestions prompted the delay. But it will be worth it, he promises.

In a new producer's letter, Yoshida hypes the patch and in particular its changes to magic casting. These changes will be "almost identical" to what the game will see when it hits 2.0. He's extremely excited to announce that adjustments to alchemy and culinary professions -- the medicines and food, specifically -- are almost complete. Finally, he reports that the team is deep into testing the two new instanced raids that are coming with the patch.

Yoshida also thanked the community for its feedback over the upcoming server merges.

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XIV pushes patch 1.21 back to March 9th originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Mar 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.21alchemycraftingculinarydelayffxivffxiv-patch-1.21final-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivmagic-castingNaoki-Yoshidapatchpatch-1.21patch-delayproducers-letterraidraidsseserver-mergeserver-mergessquare-enixupdateThu, 01 Mar 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Why I Play: Final Fantasy XIV]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/29/why-i-play-final-fantasy-xiv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/29/why-i-play-final-fantasy-xiv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/29/why-i-play-final-fantasy-xiv/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

One of the first shots I took from beta.
From the moment I set foot in the beta to Final Fantasy XIV, I was hooked. This, if you somehow managed to miss everything going on around the game's launch, was the exact opposite of most players' reactions. Most people found the interface clunky and counterintuitive, the main form of content repetitive, and the combat system awkward and frequently frustrating.

Here's the thing: None of those statements is wrong. The game has made enormous progress over the past year toward fixing those issues, but the players like yours truly who do enjoy the game don't love these elements. They love the game that lies underneath all of that, the design elements that shine through despite a lot of hoops you have to jump through first.

I enjoyed the game at launch. I enjoy the game now, and based on what I've seen so far, I'm going to enjoy the game in the future. There's something very special about the game amidst all of the downsides, something that made me decide back in beta that even if this game is going to take extra work to play, it's going to reward the effort.

Continue reading Why I Play: Final Fantasy XIV

MassivelyWhy I Play: Final Fantasy XIV originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 29 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>complexityculturefeaturedffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgame-mechanicsgatheringmechanicsopinionsquaresquare-enixwhy-i-playWed, 29 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mog Log: Ul'dah on 15 gil a night]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/25/the-mog-log-uldah-on-15-gil-a-night/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/25/the-mog-log-uldah-on-15-gil-a-night/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/25/the-mog-log-uldah-on-15-gil-a-night/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Mog Log header by A. Fienemann
In a way, each of the cities in Final Fantasy XIV resembles a non-capital city from Final Fantasy XI. Gridania has shades of Kazham; Limsa Lominsa has shades of Norg. But Ul'dah has a clear line to Al Zahbi, center of Aht Urhgan. It's the jewel of the wasted, barren region of Thanalan, a bustling hub of commerce, a place where even the lowliest adventurer might find fortune and fame in the arenas or via careful self-promotion.

Of course, it's also the most dangerous. Sure, there are spirits woven throughout Gridania and pirates in every corner in Limsa Lominsa, but Ul'dah is filled with those who'd smile to your face and then shiv your spine as soon as you turn around. Beneath a glittering facade lies a horrid hive of cruelty, and the journey to the top the city is rife with backstabbing and strife. If you're not a native, you might not realize just how bad the place really is -- or how far the city's powerful members are willing to go to ensure that Ul'dah remains at the center of trade.

Continue reading The Mog Log: Ul'dah on 15 gil a night

MassivelyThe Mog Log: Ul'dah on 15 gil a night originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 25 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>citiescolumncolumnsfeaturedffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivlocationslorenationsopinionsquare-enixthe-mog-loguldahSat, 25 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mog Log: Get together]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/18/the-mog-log-get-together/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/18/the-mog-log-get-together/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/18/the-mog-log-get-together/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The Mog Log header by A. Fienemann
Grouping with other players is inconvenient. It can also be a lot of fun, but it takes more work to get a half-dozen people running in the same direction compared to just operating on your lonesome. But you're a lot more likely to stick with a game if you can find other people to play with, and thus both Final Fantasy XI and Final Fantasy XIV have offered different approaches to grouping and encouraging parties.

When I started playing MMOs back when Final Fantasy XI launched, I wound up being soured by the game's insistence on grouping for a long while. These days, I can take a much more objective view of both sides because for all the hiccups that the system brings, Final Fantasy XIV's much more open environment has its own pitfalls -- some a result of basic game design, some a result of the less demanding approach. But why just look at this from the top down?

Continue reading The Mog Log: Get together

MassivelyThe Mog Log: Get together originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 18 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Final Fantasy XIV server merge chart
Only four days ago, Square-Enix announced that it would be reevaluating the previously announced Final Fantasy XIV server merges based on player feedback. Well, it looks like the reassessment is complete, and the server merge details have been solidified. In a post on FFXIV's Lodestone website, the studio announced that server merges will be taking place next month on Tuesday, March 27th. The stated reason for the server merge is "to improve the player experience during the period up to the launch of FFXIV version 2.0." The studio goes on to add that "new worlds may be added in the future, for example after the relaunch or when player numbers increase."

Beginning on March 1st, players will be able to use the site's world transfer application page in order to declare their destination servers. It's worth noting that the early bird gets the worm, and by worm we mean server of choice, due to the fact that once a world reaches its population cap, it will (obviously) no longer be available as a destination. To get the full details on the upcoming server transfers, just click on through the link below to the official Lodestone announcement.

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XIV server merges reassessed; merges to take place in March originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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RIFT - dungeon group
A wise man once described current-gen MMOs as "playing alone together." OK, truthfully I don't know who said that, nor do I know if he is particularly wise, but it resonated (and it's also applicable to a new editorial at Gamasutra that focuses on improving the community aspects of our favorite genre).

The piece looks at several current games -- including Final Fantasy XIV, RIFT, and Dungeons and Dragons Online -- and analyzes how they both succeed and fail at bringing players together. Particular attention is paid to mentoring systems, though EverQuest II's is omitted. What ultimately emerges from the lengthy read is a portrait of a challenging issue that has its roots in both operational and design considerations, and while the piece doesn't offer any particular solution, it does provide quite a lot of food for thought.

MassivelyEditorial examines MMO mentoring, community dynamics originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>communityddodungeons-and-dragons-onlineeditorialeq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfantayffxivfinal-fantasy-xivfree-to-playgroupingmentormentor-systemmentoringopinionplaying-alone-togetherriftWed, 15 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIV previewing player residences for patch 1.21]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/final-fantasy-xiv-previewing-player-residences-for-patch-1-21/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/final-fantasy-xiv-previewing-player-residences-for-patch-1-21/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/final-fantasy-xiv-previewing-player-residences-for-patch-1-21/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Living in the inn may not be glamorous, or quiet, or safe, or fun, or convenient, or... I forgot where this was going.
Among all the cues that Final Fantasy XIV took from Final Fantasy XI, there was an obvious omission -- housing. Players have been forced to live without private rooms thus far in the game, but in patch 1.21, that's going to change. The first version of housing will be rolled out with the next major patch, with a small explanation having just recently been posted to the official site.

Following the patch, players can acquire a private residence after completing a quest handed out in the inn. These quests can be accepted any time after a player finishes the first installment of the storyline quest, making them rather easy to pick up. When logging out in a private room, players will acquire rest experience to hasten leveling, replacing the previous system of Guardian's Aspect. While it's a bare-bones implementation, it's a foundation to ensure that the game's major revamp coming in November will have something to build off of -- and there's more promised for the future.

[Thanks to Derrick for the tip!]

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XIV previewing player residences for patch 1.21 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ffff14ffxivffxiv-patch-1.21final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivhousingnewspatch-previewspatchesplayer-housingplayer-residencepreviewssquaresquare-enixupdatesTue, 14 Feb 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 186: Polysyllabic daydreams]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/massively-speaking-episode-186-polysyllabic-daydreams/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/massively-speaking-episode-186-polysyllabic-daydreams/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/massively-speaking-episode-186-polysyllabic-daydreams/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Massively Speaking Episode 186 is the episode that fans will forever decry as the one that jumped the shark. In our defense, the shark was just sitting there in the Massively office parking lot and we were looking for an excuse to try out our new dirt bike anyway.

This week we're joined by Jeremy Stratton, who provides expert analysis on the perks and pitfalls of free-to-play. He was also the first to clear the shark without major blood loss, so bully for him!

Have a comment for the podcasters? Shoot an email to podcast@massively.com. We may just read your email on the air!

Get the podcast:
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Listen here on the page:



Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 186: Polysyllabic daydreams

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 186: Polysyllabic daydreams originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diablo-iiiearthrisefeaturedfinal-fantasy-xivfirefallfree-to-listenfree-to-playmassively-metamassively-speakingpodcastriftstar-trek-onlinetwitterTue, 14 Feb 2012 09:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 186Massively.com Staff01:03:18podcasts<![CDATA[Square Enix reassessing Final Fantasy XIV server merges]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/square-enix-reassessing-final-fantasy-xiv-server-merges/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/square-enix-reassessing-final-fantasy-xiv-server-merges/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/square-enix-reassessing-final-fantasy-xiv-server-merges/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Screenshot -- Final Fantasy XIV
Last week, Square-Enix announced that it would be performing a series of server merges on Final Fantasy XIV come this March, during which time the server roster was to be pruned from 18 servers to 10. Maybe you noticed our use of the past tense in the previous sentence. That's because a post on the official FFXIV website declares that Squenix is rethinking the merges in the wake of fan feedback on the matter. The studio isn't prepared to provide any further details but does state that "in order to ensure that the most desirable and effective outcome is achieved, [the company] will be reassessing the method of the merger process." Details will be made public on Lodestone as soon as they come to light, so if you're one of the many who would be affected by the merges, keep an eye on the Lodestone front page.

MassivelySquare Enix reassessing Final Fantasy XIV server merges originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivmergermergesserver-mergeserver-mergerserver-mergersserver-mergessquaresquare-enixsquenixMon, 13 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mog Log: Who mourns for Eorzea?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/11/the-mog-log-who-mourns-for-eorzea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/11/the-mog-log-who-mourns-for-eorzea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/11/the-mog-log-who-mourns-for-eorzea/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Mog Log header by A. Fienemann
Final Fantasy XIV takes place in Eorzea, which is one of the continents of Hydaelyn. It's also the smallest continent, and it's generally sort of off in the middle of nowhere. The land is surrounded by tiny islands, it's filled with bickering city-states of varying influence, and it generally seems to be seen as a place that's both wild and not always particularly pleasant. And from the player's perspective... well, we don't even see all of the continent.

So every single player adventure has taken place on a small portion of the smallest continent in the world. And yet despite this, this tiny little land mass has apparently become massively important.

The Garlean Empire is preparing to sweep into the land with all its might, and the land has become a hotbed of activity as the various city-states try to stop stabbing one another long enough to mount a defense. But all of that prompts the question about what, precisely, makes Eorzea noteworthy. Why is this tiny little corner so important?

Continue reading The Mog Log: Who mourns for Eorzea?

MassivelyThe Mog Log: Who mourns for Eorzea? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 11 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backstorycolumncolumnseorzeafeaturedffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivloreopinionsquaresquare-enixthe-mog-logSat, 11 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIV previews its revamp to food and medicine]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/10/final-fantasy-xiv-previews-its-revamp-to-food-and-medicine/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/10/final-fantasy-xiv-previews-its-revamp-to-food-and-medicine/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/10/final-fantasy-xiv-previews-its-revamp-to-food-and-medicine/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Kicking it up approximately 14% of a notch.
Final Fantasy XIV's foods and medicines have always been a major part of the game -- after all, both Culinarians and Alchemists focus on producing precisely those items. Unfortunately, the items have been awkward to make, unwieldy to use, and frequently unclear in their effects. That's why the game's next major patch is bringing along a major overhaul to the system, giving the two categories of item clear roles and more transparent effects.

While the full list of item changes is not unveiled in the preview, the general philosophy is laid out in detail. Food items provide long-term buffs (including a small experience gain) with lesser overall values and a very short cooldown between uses. Medicines, on the other hand, provide a short-term buff with a long cooldown, but the buff is significantly larger. These changes will also tie into a revamp of several recipes to account for ingredient locations and overall synthesis difficulty. It's something to look forward to in the game's next major patch, and it promises to make your character's eating habits much easier to manage.

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XIV previews its revamp to food and medicine originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buff-systemsbuffsconsumablesffff14ffxivffxiv-patch-1.21final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivfoodmedicinepatchpatchesrevampsquaresquare-enixupdatesFri, 10 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIV merging servers in March]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/final-fantasy-xiv-merging-servers-in-march/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/final-fantasy-xiv-merging-servers-in-march/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/final-fantasy-xiv-merging-servers-in-march/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Final Fantasy XIV - newbie town
Square-Enix is slimming down its server roster for Final Fantasy XIV. After a year of free-play services due to its troubled launch, FFXIV began charging traditional subscription fees last month. Now, Square says that it will be merging servers beginning on March 27th, and the current lineup will be trimmed from 18 to 10.

Character transfers are mandatory for players on one of the affected shards, and the transfer period starts on March 1st and continues through the 19th. Kotaku reports that the new servers will have temporary names (New World 01, 02, etc.), but Square states that "name assignments will be announced after the transfer selection period has ended."

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XIV merging servers in March originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eorzeafantasyff-14ffxivfinal-fantasy-xivserver-mergeserver-mergessquaresquare-enixThu, 09 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mog Log: One year, two courses]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/04/the-mog-log-one-year-two-courses/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/04/the-mog-log-one-year-two-courses/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/04/the-mog-log-one-year-two-courses/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Mog Log header by A. Fienemann
Today does not quite mark the two-year anniversary of The Mog Log. That was back on January 24th, but I decided to run just a wee bit late with annual retrospectives. We're now close enough to the year mark for argument's sake, which gives me a chance to look back at how the past year of the column has shaken out, what's gone right, and what hasn't. That ties into the issue that one invariably finds when a single column covers two games: There's a split.

Whether or not you like Final Fantasy XIV, you can't argue that the past year has brought an onslaught of changes to the game. On the flip side, there's been less going on in Final Fantasy XI than in any of the game's previous years of operation. As a result, I've had a difficult dilemma to try to juggle: There's one game moving at high speed and one staying rather stagnant, but I don't want to give undue attention to one over the other.

Continue reading The Mog Log: One year, two courses

MassivelyThe Mog Log: One year, two courses originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 04 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>columncolumnsfeaturedffff11ff14ffxiffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xifinal-fantasy-xivmeanderingmeta-columnopinionretrospectivesquaresquare-enixthe-mog-logSat, 04 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Newest Final Fantasy XIV producer's letter talks patch 1.21 release]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/newest-final-fantasy-xiv-producers-letter-talks-patch-1-21-rele/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/newest-final-fantasy-xiv-producers-letter-talks-patch-1-21-rele/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/newest-final-fantasy-xiv-producers-letter-talks-patch-1-21-rele/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Of course, in real life, Yoshida is the one who can spit fire.
It's been a little quiet on the Final Fantasy XIV front since the new year, but the team behind the game has been hard at work preparing the launch of patch 1.21. And it's going to be quite a massive patch, as outlined in Naoki Yoshida's most recent producer's letter for the fans. Not only does it contain the addition of the long-awaited Job system, but it also includes UI improvements, housing, two new instanced raids, a food and medicine overhaul, and a variety of smaller changes.

While the team had originally aimed for a launch in the second week of February, Yoshida notes that the patch will likely be delayed two weeks due to the sheer amount of content going in. He also discusses what he calls temporary server merges prior to the launch of 2.0 in November; as he puts it, the main concern is allowing players, especially from European regions, to have an ample playerbase to adventure with. It's a bit of unpleasant news for Final Fantasy XIV players, but it's packed in amidst many things to look forward to.

MassivelyNewest Final Fantasy XIV producer's letter talks patch 1.21 release originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coming-patchesdevelopmentffff14ffxivffxiv-patch-1.21final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivnaoki-yoshidanewspatchesproducers-letterserver-mergesserverssquaresquare-enixupdatesMon, 30 Jan 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mog Log: Weakness is strength]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/28/the-mog-log-weakness-is-strength/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/28/the-mog-log-weakness-is-strength/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/28/the-mog-log-weakness-is-strength/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The Mog Log header by A. Fienemann
If you think about characters in the online Final Fantasy games compared to the console-based equivalents, you have to come to a kind of demoralizing conclusion: Your character online is pretty weak. In Final Fantasy XI, you can cap out your Black Mage and you'll still never learn Ultima. In Final Fantasy X, by the time you have your Black Mage using Ultima, you've still got most of the endgame ahead of you. Final Fantasy XIV might move the power scale upward, but at this point your character hasn't even actually mastered being a Paladin, much less summoning anything. Final Fantasy VII, by contrast, gave us three different versions of Bahamut to summon just to keep him relevant, and he was still nowhere near the best.

And you know what? It makes the games much more fun to have these barriers in place.

Players have been clamoring for high-end summons in Final Fantasy XI since forever ago, and the fact that it's not even on the visible horizon for Final Fantasy XIV is disheartening to some. But there's something to be said for a play environment where these touchstones of power remain out of reach, certainly for now and possibly forever.

Continue reading The Mog Log: Weakness is strength

MassivelyThe Mog Log: Weakness is strength originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 28 Jan 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilitiesbackstorycolumncolumnsculturefeaturedffff11ff14ffxiffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xifinal-fantasy-xivgame-mechanicsloreopinionpower-levelspowersskillssquaresquare-enixsummonsthe-mog-logSat, 28 Jan 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIV adds direct subscription options]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/final-fantasy-xiv-adds-direct-subscription-options/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/final-fantasy-xiv-adds-direct-subscription-options/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/final-fantasy-xiv-adds-direct-subscription-options/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Final Fantasy XIV
As Final Fantasy XIV forges ahead with its revived subscription model, Square-Enix is showing signs that it is listening to its customer base in regards to options. The company announced that players can now directly subscribe to the game with a credit or debit card through the account system.

Previously, Final Fantasy XIV utilized a convoluted system that required players to purchase an intermediary currency called Crysta, which was then spent on monthly subscription options. Not only did players find this complex and unnecessary, but there were issues with buying more Crysta than one actually needed.

According to the company, the ability to directly subscribe via credit card was "by far the most popular request received from the community." FFXIV began charging for subscriptions earlier this month after more than a year of free service.

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XIV adds direct subscription options originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accountcredit-card-paymentscrystadebit-card-paymentsff14ffxivfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivpayment-methodssesquaresquare-enixsubscriptionsubscription-optionsThu, 26 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST