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[Flyff getting revamped with Flyff Gold]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/flyff-getting-revamped-with-flyff-gold/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/flyff-getting-revamped-with-flyff-gold/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/flyff-getting-revamped-with-flyff-gold/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- Flyff
The world of gPotato's long-running free-to-play MMO Flyff is about to change in a big way. In a press release today, the studio announced the upcoming July launch of Flyff Gold, which will add a whole slew of features and revamps, many of which have been requested by the community. According to the press release, players can look forward to "a fresh new look and dynamic interface," as well as features such as "achievements redeemable for item shop goodies" and a "set-and-forget consignment marketplace for easy trading," plus much more.

To celebrate the update's imminent release, gPotato is beginning "game-wide log-in and level-up events" that will reward players for, as the name would imply, logging in and leveling up. These events make for the perfect time for new players to jump into the game and get some shiny loot in preparation for the Flyff Gold release. For more details on the game's upcoming additions, you can go check out Flyff Gold's teaser site.

[Source: gPotato press release]

MassivelyFlyff getting revamped with Flyff Gold originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 May 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consignment-shopconsignment-shopsf2pfly-for-funflyffflyff-goldfree-to-playgpotatoredeemable-achievementsrevampui-revampupdateupdatesFri, 25 May 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Assembly Required: A virtual world roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/some-assembly-required-a-virtual-world-round-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/some-assembly-required-a-virtual-world-round-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/some-assembly-required-a-virtual-world-round-up/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Some Assembly Required header
If you are perusing this column, chances are you are a fan of virtual worlds and the sandbox genre. Join the club! (Dues will be due on the third Tuesday.) The aspect that compels many aficionados to delve into a game is the ability to make an impact on the world in some small respect instead of making them into Hive Member 1593072 running a static, predetermined gauntlet. How that impact is accomplished, however, varies; there are multiple features that can facilitate it, and which ones are considered most important depends on the player.

With the loss of one of the best sandbox games just last month, some players may be feeling a void. Others still are looking/hoping for the "ultimate" sandbox that contains nearly every virtual world feature. Certainly, there are some upcoming games that make some drool-worthy promises, but what about playing something now? There are actually games out on the market that have at least one aspect of the genre, if not more.

To start off the new year, Some Assembly Required looks at some of the top features of virtual worlds and lists games that incorporate these features. While this list isn't exhaustive (considering the sheer number of games when you include all of the smaller free-to-play titles, I'd run out of column space!), it is a comprehensive enough overview to point you toward some games worth playing that perhaps you hadn't considered before.

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: A virtual world roundup

MassivelySome Assembly Required: A virtual world roundup originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaionaion-gameAnarchy-Onlineaocccpccp-eveccp-gameschampions-onlinecharacter-creationcharacter-customizationcity-of-heroescocohcraft-of-godscraft-of-the-godscraftingcrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdaocdark-age-of-camelotdarkfalleden-eternaleq-1eq-2eq-ieq-iieveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlineever-quest-1ever-quest-2ever-quest-iever-quest-iieverquest-1everquest-2everquest-ieverquest-iifallen-earthfeaturedfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-xiflyffFuncomglitchguild-housinghousingking-of-kings-3liden-labs-second-lifelinden-labslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroluna-onlinemabinogimission-architectnc-softnc-soft-aionncsoftncsoft-aionnotorious-gamesparagonparagon-cohparagon-studioesplanetsideplayer-generated-contentplayer-generated-missionsplayer-housingplayer-run-economyrunescapeRyzomsecond-lifesecond-life-linden-labsslsl-liden-labssoe-eq-1soe-eq-2soe-eq-isoe-eq-iisome-assembly-requiredsony-eq-1sony-eq-2sony-eq-isony-eq-iisquare-enixst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotrek-onlineturbineTurbine-EntertainmentUltima-OnlineUOvanguardVanguard-Saga-of-Heroesvirtual-worldwar-of-the-immortalswizard-101xbox-360XsyonFri, 06 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: Favorite moments from the Massively livestream]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/the-guild-counsel-favorite-moments-from-the-massively-livestrea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/the-guild-counsel-favorite-moments-from-the-massively-livestrea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/the-guild-counsel-favorite-moments-from-the-massively-livestrea/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

SWG final moments
I'm sure you know about Massively's ever-expanding video channel. But what you might not know is that over the past year, I've done a little MMO walkabout, sampling as many different games as I could on my character Mmognaut. What I was particularly interested in was branching out and getting to know the communities that make these games what they are, and the Massively livestream was a great way to do that while giving the viewers a chance to experience it too.

Through livestreaming and Twitch TV, I've had a great opportunity to explore dozens of MMOs over the past year, often with my co-host Jeremy Stratton. In my weekly column here, I often focus on common issues that happen within a guild, but I've also looked at MMO communities on the whole, and that should include the community that's grown here at Massively. What's really neat is that there's an overlapping at times during these shows, where the in-game communities of the MMO we're showcasing mesh with the Massively community, and it's made for some fantastic moments. Join me in this week's Guild Counsel as I look back over my favorite moments from the past year.

Continue reading The Guild Counsel: Favorite moments from the Massively livestream

MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: Favorite moments from the Massively livestream originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allodsallods-onlineclone-wars-adventurescommunitycrafting-critterscwadarek-connoledc-universe-onlinedcuoderek-cannoleeq-2eq-iieq2eqiiEverQuest-2everquest-iifallen-earthfeaturedflyffflyff-world-championshipg1gamersfirstgpotatoguild-counselinvictusjeremy-strattonlivestreamlydia-popemassively-livestreamrabidfishsoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstar-wars-galaxiesstar-wars-the-old-republicswgtony-jonestwitch-tvvanguardVanguard-Saga-of-HeroesvindictuszatoziaThu, 05 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flyff releases New Beginnings to the German and French servers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/flyff-releases-new-beginnings-to-the-german-and-french-servers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/flyff-releases-new-beginnings-to-the-german-and-french-servers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/flyff-releases-new-beginnings-to-the-german-and-french-servers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

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

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

[Source: gPotato press release]

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europeanexpansionsf2pflyfffree-to-playfrenchgala-netgermangpotatolanguageslocalizationsnew-beginningspatchestrailertrailersupdatesvideovideosThu, 15 Dec 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Try the newest Flyff expansion exclusively from Massively]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/try-the-newest-flyff-expansion-exclusively-from-massively/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/try-the-newest-flyff-expansion-exclusively-from-massively/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/try-the-newest-flyff-expansion-exclusively-from-massively/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Flyff
The open beta for Flyff's newest expansion has gone through a brief delay, not quite meeting its original set date of October 28th. While that's definitely not abnormal -- most MMO players prefer a polished product over one hustled out the door -- Flyff players are certainly looking forward to the day when they can get their hands on V18:Rennaissance.

That day has arrived, and you can download the open beta exclusively through Massively. It couldn't be simpler; just use this download link and you're on your way!

If you're looking for something to do while the beta client is installing, we've got you covered on that front as well. We've received some gift packages from gPotato, each containing seven event gift boxes, a pair of angel wings that last for three days, and 10 Scrolls of Amplification. Those can be used in the current live version of Flyff, so grab your code, apply it in game, and have fun!

TO THE GIVEAWAY

MassivelyTry the newest Flyff expansion exclusively from Massively originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestcontestsexpansionf2pflyffflyff-v18free-to-playgiveawaygiveawaysgpotatoopen-betarenaissanceThu, 03 Nov 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Flyff expansion grants players a New Beginning]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/new-flyff-expansion-grants-players-a-new-beginning/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/new-flyff-expansion-grants-players-a-new-beginning/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/new-flyff-expansion-grants-players-a-new-beginning/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Flyff
The dust only recently settled on the Flyff World Championship, and Gala Networks Europe has announced a new update coming to the game. The expansion, known as New Beginning, brings a load of new content for European Flyff players. Many of the game's mechanics -- such as the loot system, legendary quests, and the upgrade system -- have been entirely revamped.

Meanwhile, three new dungeons are available for players looking to test their mettle, and of course new, powerful rewards for said dungeons will be available. Over 100 new scenario and dungeon quests have been added as well, ensuring that players won't lack things to do. The update will be hitting the French and German servers in December.

[Source: Gala Networks Europe press release]

MassivelyNew Flyff expansion grants players a New Beginning originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 31 Oct 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dungeondungeonsexpansionf2pfly-for-funflyfffree-to-playgala-netgala-networks-europegpotatogpotato-europemechanicsnew-beginningquestsrevamprevampedMon, 31 Oct 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Invictus dominates Flyff World Championship]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/invictus-dominates-flyff-world-championship/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/invictus-dominates-flyff-world-championship/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/invictus-dominates-flyff-world-championship/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Flyff
The dust has settled, the battles won, and United States team Invictus has emerged victorious from the $100,000 Flyff World Championship. Teams from around the world fought to progress through an elimination ladder to become the champions, but in the end it was two teams from North America -- Invictus and SOD -- that faced off for the grand prize. Invictus dominated the fights, winning five out of six on October 15th.

As the new champion, Invictus was awarded $50,000, unique in-game armor, and a trip to Korea to meet the makers of Flyff and attend G-Star 2011. The runner-up team, SOD, walked away with a respectable $20,000 and the special armor for its members.

All Flyff players can enjoy the residue of the championship by logging in and leveling up for a chance to win prizes. The game is also planning its next content patch, which will go into open beta on October 28th.

Stay tuned to Massively as we will be talking to Invictus later this week!

[Source: gPotato press release]

MassivelyInvictus dominates Flyff World Championship originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>championshipelimination-ladderflyffflyff-world-championshipg-starg-star-2011gpotatogstarin-game-eventinvictusprizespromotionsodTue, 18 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flyff World Championship offering prizes to players as the tournament continues]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/flyff-world-championship-offering-prizes-to-players-as-the-tourn/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/flyff-world-championship-offering-prizes-to-players-as-the-tourn/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/flyff-world-championship-offering-prizes-to-players-as-the-tourn/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Classing it up for a championship
Think you're a pretty good Flyff player? We hate to be the bearers of bad news, but your opportunity to call yourself among the best is pretty well fading. The first Flyff world championship is currently ongoing, with the sixteen finalists now competing for the opportunity to be crowned the best team of players in the world. Two teams have already been eliminated, with livestreaming coverage of the events available on the official championship channel.

But maybe you don't consider yourself one of the best in the world and don't usually care about these sorts of events. That's all right -- you've still got reason to enjoy it. Players will receive a special item every day just for logging in, as well as another item for every level they gain, from September 28th until October 31st. It's an all-around excellent opportunity for Flyff fans to enjoy the game, whether struggling for the top spot or just leveling for fun.

[Source: Press release]

MassivelyFlyff World Championship offering prizes to players as the tournament continues originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Sep 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>competitive-gamingeventsf2pflyffflyff-world-championshipfree-to-playgala-netgpotatoin-game-eventpromotionsreal-world-eventMon, 26 Sep 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hear all about the Flyff World Championship (and get a Flyff gift pack too!)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/hear-all-about-the-flyff-world-championship-and-get-a-flyff-gif/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/hear-all-about-the-flyff-world-championship-and-get-a-flyff-gif/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/hear-all-about-the-flyff-world-championship-and-get-a-flyff-gif/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

A Flyff player
If you like flying, tournaments, and cash (and who doesn't!), then you might be interested in participating in the Flyff World Championship. Flyff, which is short for "fly for fun," is a fantasy, free-to-play MMO, and right now, over 250 teams from around the world are competing in a $100,000 tournament to decide which guild is top dog. The regional preliminaries are already underway, and later in the fall, qualifying teams will battle it out for cash prizes and special in-game items.

Massively talked to a couple of participants to learn what it takes to compete in the Flyff World Championship. Ozmix, leader of Snails of Doom, and Reyals, from Invictus, are two of the top guilds in the competition, and they talked to us about their experiences in the tournament so far. And if you're interested in trying out Flyff, you're in luck! Massively is giving away coupon codes for a Flyff gift pack, which includes several handy items for new players and veterans alike. Read on for the interview, and claim your gift pack key using the button below!

[Sorry, all codes have been claimed]

Continue reading Hear all about the Flyff World Championship (and get a Flyff gift pack too!)

MassivelyHear all about the Flyff World Championship (and get a Flyff gift pack too!) originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Aug 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestcontestseflyffflyffflyff-world-championshipfwcgala-labgala-labsgiveawaygiveawaysgpotatoguildsinterviewinterviewsinvictuskeykey-giveawaykeysozmixreyalssnails-of-doomtournamentMon, 15 Aug 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: The best-looking games in free-to-play]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/free-for-all-the-best-looking-games-in-free-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/free-for-all-the-best-looking-games-in-free-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/free-for-all-the-best-looking-games-in-free-to-play/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Eden Eternal screenshot
Of all of the wacky arguments I have heard over the last few years, the "are video games art?" one has got to take the prize for most ridiculous. Sure, you can argue either side of anything, but to ask whether or not games are art just seems to be an attempt to assuage some boredom. We can also ask whether this life is really real, just in case we hadn't already been put to sleep. Art is what the artist says it is, period.

Art is also in the eye of the beholder. Our games are spread across a wide spectrum of styles, and many of us have very strong feelings about what we like and will not tolerate. I have seen people turn down great games simply because of the way a screenshot looked. Heck, I've done it myself. With as many games as I look at every week, occasionally it is smart (and fun) to organize them into lists. This week I am taking stock of my game list and figuring out the games that I feel look the best. Of course, you might not think so.

I decided to leave off games that are in testing or not available for the public yet. Click past the cut and see if you agree with me!

Continue reading Free for All: The best-looking games in free-to-play

MassivelyFree for All: The best-looking games in free-to-play originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 10 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeriaaeria-gamesanimebeau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedClone-Wars-Adventurescwadragon-nesteden-eternalf2pfamilyfaxionfaxion-onlinefeaturedflyfffree-for-allfree-to-playftpjagexjunebudjunebud-abkidsmilmonexonrappelzrunescapesoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstar-warsutvutv-true-gamesvindictusWed, 10 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[gPotato players pitch in to help Japan relief effort]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/14/gpotato-players-pitch-in-to-help-japan-relief-effort/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/14/gpotato-players-pitch-in-to-help-japan-relief-effort/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/14/gpotato-players-pitch-in-to-help-japan-relief-effort/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

While March's earthquake and tsunami in Japan is no longer in the headlines, relief and recovery efforts go on -- and will continue for some time to come. Gamers have been generous in answering the call to help by their favorite MMOs, and today we've received word that gPotato players have donated €22,151 to help with the Red Cross' relief efforts.

This hefty sum was raised through the sale of special in-game items created in response to the disaster. These items appeared in Rappelz, Flyff, Castle of Heroes and Terra Militaris. Players who purchased one of these items between March 25th and April 30th saw their money go entirely to the Red Cross. This was a part of a global effort by Gala Networks that ultimately raised over €50,000.

Gala Networks Europe CEO Hyun Hur has a few words for those who participated: "We're hugely proud of the amount our players have raised for the Irish Red Cross and that our community is so kind-hearted."

MassivelygPotato players pitch in to help Japan relief effort originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 Jun 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>castle-of-heroesearthquakef2pflyfffree-to-playfundraiserg-netgala-networksgala-networks-europegpotatoHyun-Hurirish-red-crossjapan-tsunamirappelzred-crossreliefrelief-effortterra-militaristsunamiTue, 14 Jun 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Which came first, the grind or the grinding?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/free-for-all-which-came-first-the-grind-or-the-grinding/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/free-for-all-which-came-first-the-grind-or-the-grinding/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/free-for-all-which-came-first-the-grind-or-the-grinding/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Grinding is an interesting thing. I've thought about it a lot lately in an effort to come to grips with the fact that I just don't play MMOs like my friends do. Oh, don't get me wrong; I can log in and blow away five hours of my life on a title, just like I did last night with the newly relaunched APB: Reloaded. Holy moly, I can play that game forever, especially if I have a friend with me. I can also spend countless hours in other games, exploring and generally acting like some kind of virtual hippie, never touching a sword or destroying a foe. A lot of the time, combat just feels repetitive.

Exploring for hours and driving a car into mailboxes over and over really shouldn't count as grinding though, should it? Grinding is, in my opinion, defined by the repetition of the exact same action (or close to it) for a long time, usually in the pursuit of a single goal. The thing is, the grind has been around since the dawn of graphical MMOs. Hasn't it?

But what started the grind? Was the desire for grind already there? Is the playerbase just better-suited for grinding? Click past the cut and let's chat about it. Grab some tea.

Continue reading Free for All: Which came first, the grind or the grinding?

MassivelyFree for All: Which came first, the grind or the grinding? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 Jun 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apbapb-reloadedbeau-hindmanBlizzardBlizzard-Entertainmentcity-of-heroescoheaElectronic-Artseqeverquestf2pfeaturedflyfffree-for-allfree-to-playftpgamersfirstgrindgrindingncsoftopinionparagon-studiosrappelzrose-onlinesoeSony-Online-Entertainmentthe-grindUltima-OnlineuoWorld-of-WarcraftwowWed, 01 Jun 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Would I play RIFT for free?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/free-for-all-would-i-play-rift-for-free/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/free-for-all-would-i-play-rift-for-free/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/free-for-all-would-i-play-rift-for-free/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Today I got the email informing me that my RIFT subscription had expired. I bought it when it came out and enjoyed the beta, but suddenly the hard decision was upon me. Was I going to subscribe to the game? Was I going to pay 15 dollars a month for basic access to the wonderful world that Trion has created?

There is a lot that goes into a decision like subscribing to a game, even when that decision feels easy. A subscription is really a vote of confidence, especially considering that we have no idea what the game might become or where it might go in the future. That automatic payment says so much about our trust in a company and its product, even though lately it seems more and more people are not trusting it like they once did.

Click past the cut and let's discuss, and I'll tell you whether or not I subscribed.

Continue reading Free for All: Would I play RIFT for free?

MassivelyFree for All: Would I play RIFT for free? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Apr 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmancash-shopdiscountf2pfeaturedflyfffree-for-allfree-to-playftpmabinogiNexonnexon-americarappelzriftrift-planes-of-telararose-onlinetriontrion-worldsWed, 06 Apr 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microtransaction items for Japanese aid in gPotato's stores]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/26/microtransaction-items-for-japanese-aid-in-gpotatos-stores/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/26/microtransaction-items-for-japanese-aid-in-gpotatos-stores/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/26/microtransaction-items-for-japanese-aid-in-gpotatos-stores/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The earthquake that hit Japan on March 11th may no longer be at the forefront of gamers' minds, but the country is still reeling from the impact. NCsoft and CCP Games have both announced efforts to help aid the Japanese people with charitable donations, and it looks like gPotato has decided to encourage players to donate as well. The company has added new merchandise into the microtransaction stores for several games that, items that will grant players a unique look as well as donating all profits to the Red Cross.

Rappelz, Flyff, and Luna Plus are all offering capes for players, while Tales Runner offers a shirt and Iris Online offers a kitten hat. (Sadly, the cat in question is not Maru.) One hundred percent of profits will be donated to the Red Cross to aid in relief efforts, and the items cannot be purchased with "free" currency. The items will be available until March 31st, so if you play the games and haven't yet donated, now would be the time.

MassivelyMicrotransaction items for Japanese aid in gPotato's stores originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 26 Mar 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charitydisaster-reliefdonationflyffgala-netgpotatoiris-onlinejapan-earthquakejapanese-earthquakeluna-plusprofitsrappelzreal-world-eventred-crosstales-runnerSat, 26 Mar 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flyff releases V17 sneak peek]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/06/flyff-releases-v17-sneak-peek/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/06/flyff-releases-v17-sneak-peek/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/06/flyff-releases-v17-sneak-peek/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

If you've played MMOs for any length of time, you're no doubt aware that the ability to soar through our favorite virtual worlds isn't exactly widespread. While flying mounts have appeared in AAA games including World of Warcraft, Vanguard, and soon, EverQuest II, few games let you soar with abandon like Flyff (which stands for Fly For Fun). The free-to-play title has been giving players the gift of flight since 2005 due to the fact that it's main form of post-20 transportation is via some sort of airborne apparatus.

Flyff's newest expansion, V17, looks to continue this trend and is also adding a new Colosseum System designed to allow players to battle bosses for loot rewards. A Cooperation System is also in the cards, as are a boatload of new quests, a new dungeon, and a entirely new zone. Check out Flyff's official website for more info on the V17 expansion as well as the game's 20+ character classes, and be sure to view the V17 trailer after the jump.

Continue reading Flyff releases V17 sneak peek

MassivelyFlyff releases V17 sneak peek originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 06 Jan 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>colosseum-systemcooperation-systemexpansionf2pflyffflyff-onlineflyff-v17free-to-playgalagpotatonew-zonepatchespreviewsneak-peektrailerv17videoThu, 06 Jan 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Flyff's Rise of the Muran expansion now live, complete with catgirls, achievements and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/02/flyffs-rise-of-the-muran-expansion-now-live-complete-with-catg/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/02/flyffs-rise-of-the-muran-expansion-now-live-complete-with-catg/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/02/flyffs-rise-of-the-muran-expansion-now-live-complete-with-catg/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

When it comes to the free-to-play business model, US-based early-adopter Gala-Net has certainly raised a few eyebrows with its light-hearted fantasy MMO Flyff. Also known as Fly For Fun, Flyff has now had its doors open for several years and is showing no signs of slowing down. The game's latest expansion, Rise of the Muran has just gone live, bringing players a whole array of new content and gameplay just in time for Christmas.

The expansion raises the game's level cap to 139 and includes a new third job evolution system, introducing eight new classes to the game. Players can now take on the roles of Templar, Slayer, Harlequin, Crackshooter, Force Master, Seraph, Mentalist, and Arcanist. Also included for players is a new guild housing system, in which high-level guilds can bid on huge shared buildings. As if that wasn't enough, Rise of the Muran opens a new area of the game for exploration -- the lost region of Kaillun. It's here in the safe city of Eillun that a new race of friendly cat-like creatures known as the Muran live. With all the new content to explore, new classes to try out and a brand new achievement system coming in, there's sure to be a lot for Flyff fans to do while wrapped up warmly in their houses this winter.

MassivelyFlyff's Rise of the Muran expansion now live, complete with catgirls, achievements and more originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Dec 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>catcatgirlsexpansionexpansionsexplorationf2pfly-for-funflyfffree-to-playguild-housinglevel-caplevel-cap-increasemeow-meow-meow-meow-meowmuranrise-of-the-muranThu, 02 Dec 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: You know what they say about magnets...]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/10/free-for-all-you-know-what-they-say-about-magnets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/10/free-for-all-you-know-what-they-say-about-magnets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/10/free-for-all-you-know-what-they-say-about-magnets/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Have you ever been trying to get to sleep, only to have a neighbor honk his horn or bang on the wall? At first, it's the startling volume or unusual nature of the sound that keeps you from sleeping. He quiets down, however, and you begin to doze off again. The next time the noise you hear is much, much quieter -- but he's still making noise. From then on, every noise you hear will keep you from getting to sleep, despite the fact that the volume of your fan or the crickets' chirping is much louder.

Claims of access to information set me off the same way. When I hear someone say that "free-to-play gamers spend more than the average subscription player," I am at first confused by the layers of non-information in the sentence, then angry that someone else might read that and take it as fact, then a little saddened as I realize that some people literally do take things they read on the internet as fact.

Anyway, this will make sense in the end, I hope. Want to read the rest? I won't tell you how -- it's the first conversational hurdle for you to jump over.

Continue reading Free for All: You know what they say about magnets...

MassivelyFree for All: You know what they say about magnets... originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 10 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanf2pfeaturedflyfffree-for-allfree-to-playftpgpotatolord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroopinionPretentiousturbinevideoWed, 10 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Thirteen spooky free-to-play Halloween events]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/27/free-for-all-13-spooky-free-to-play-halloween-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/27/free-for-all-13-spooky-free-to-play-halloween-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/27/free-for-all-13-spooky-free-to-play-halloween-events/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Ah, Halloween. The dark Xmas. Around our house, Halloween is king. Despite the fact that we have no kids to dress up and parade around the neighborhood, we will still hand out tons of candy to all the trick-or-treaters. Until that spooky night, however, we love to spend the time exploring different Halloween events in our favorite MMORPGs.

MMOs are perfect for such events -- they have the players to fill them out, the ability to host whatever kind of event they want, and a lot of optional blood and gore. Some of the events fit perfectly in their game-world, and some stick out like a stock broker on D&D night. Either way, there is always a lot of fun to be had, and sometimes very cool loot to snag! (Like that sweet ride pictured above -- got it on my first try.)

Read on for some of my favorite events -- none of them costing a dime.

Continue reading Free for All: Thirteen spooky free-to-play Halloween events

MassivelyFree for All: Thirteen spooky free-to-play Halloween events originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Oct 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alganonbeau-hindmancostume-contestf2pfeaturedflyfffree-realmsfree-to-playFreejackftpglobal-agendagrand-fantasiahalloweenin-game-eventsmabinogiMapleStorypuzzle-piratesvindictuswizard-101zentiaWed, 27 Oct 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDCO 2010: gPotato's Tara Einis on Iris Online and Allods' cash shop]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/11/gdco-2010-gpotatos-tara-einis-on-iris-online-and-allods-cash/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/11/gdco-2010-gpotatos-tara-einis-on-iris-online-and-allods-cash/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/11/gdco-2010-gpotatos-tara-einis-on-iris-online-and-allods-cash/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

When I heard that I had landed an interview with Tara Einis of gPotato (publisher of Allods Online, the upcoming Iris Online, and many others), I immediately began daydreaming about poring over hours and hours of audio and transcribing hard-hitting interviews filled with fiery give-and-takes. Instead, I found myself calmly wanting to know about gPotato's general cash-shop practices, long history in free-to-play, and reaction to Allods' perceived "debacle."

I also found evidence for my theory that the company is, yes, still publishing games and still excited for the future. It should be no surprise, though -- gPotato has maintained a hefty presence in the world of free-to-play for longer than most. So, what are we going to see next? What did gPotato have planned for the future? Turns out quite a lot.

Continue reading GDCO 2010: gPotato's Tara Einis on Iris Online and Allods' cash shop

MassivelyGDCO 2010: gPotato's Tara Einis on Iris Online and Allods' cash shop originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Oct 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allodsallods-onlinebeau-hindmanf2pfeaturedflyfffree-to-playfreemiumftpgame-developers-conferenceGDCgdc-2010gdc-online-2010gdcogdco-2010gpotatogpotato-euinterviewInterviewsiris-onlineluna-onlinetara-einisMon, 11 Oct 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Remembering my first F2P experiences]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/14/free-for-all-remembering-my-first-ftp-experiences/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/14/free-for-all-remembering-my-first-ftp-experiences/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/14/free-for-all-remembering-my-first-ftp-experiences/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

I sit here, racking my brain, trying to think of the very first free-to-play game that I experienced. It's been quite a long time, at least seven years. As a quick history, I started in MMORPGs in '99, by bringing home a box of Ultima Online for my wife to look at. She laughed at me at first, but soon I would return home from work to find her in the middle of a marathon gaming session. We then switched to EverQuest and then to City of Heroes. In between those major choices, I spent a lot of time exploring the internet for new games.

I want to say that one of the first free-to-play games I found was FLYFF, or possibly ROSE Online. It's hard to remember exactly. I searched old emails and found a few references to some games, but I can only verify start dates like February of 2004 for games like There or Second Life. On a side-note, my EVE account started on July 30th, 2004. Regardless, I can remember my first experiences with free-to-play games. I recall the grindy-yet-beautiful worlds I visited, marveling at high-level players who must have played for six months solidly in order to achieve their greatness.

Continue reading Free for All: Remembering my first F2P experiences

MassivelyFree for All: Remembering my first F2P experiences originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Jul 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Anarchy-OnlineArchLordbeau-hindmancash-shopcity-of-heroesCOHeverquestf2pfacebookfeaturedflyfffree-for-allfree-to-playftpmaple-storyrose-onlinesecond-lifethereUltima-OnlineUOWorld-of-WarcraftwowWed, 14 Jul 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flyff adds a new expansion, wings, and a reason to grind your life away]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/11/flyff-adds-a-new-expansion-wings-and-a-reason-to-grind-your-li/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/11/flyff-adds-a-new-expansion-wings-and-a-reason-to-grind-your-li/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/11/flyff-adds-a-new-expansion-wings-and-a-reason-to-grind-your-li/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


It's a Flyffy day today as the free-to-play game's newest expansion, "The Lost Continent" arrives on the servers and brings a whole new continent to the world.

Centering around a darker atmosphere than the upbeat game usually provides, the new continent of Shaduwar adds in some dark dungeons and dangerous new enemies to the game. But, that's not all. Finally, for the game being centered around flying characters since its inception, they're adding wings to the game. It only took them, what, four years to add wings to the game about flying? Better late than never, if you ask us.

Plus, Flyff users will now have incentive to log on and play in the form of a 35 day marathon "Play for Rewards" contest. All players have to do is simply log onto Flyff each day for one hour, and the game will tally up the days you do this. Every five days, the game will provide you with a rewards pack, and on the 35th day of playing you'll be entered in to win a 50" HDTV. The team is giving 4 of those bad boys away, making this quest certainly worth the hour per day grind.

MassivelyFlyff adds a new expansion, wings, and a reason to grind your life away originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestexpansionflyffgala-netgpotatohdtvplay-for-rewardsthe-lost-continentv14wingsWed, 11 Nov 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flyff expansion "Act V" to hit European servers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/12/flyff-expansion-act-v-to-hit-european-servers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/12/flyff-expansion-act-v-to-hit-european-servers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/12/flyff-expansion-act-v-to-hit-european-servers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


European Flyff followers of the German and French variety, you have fun to look forward to! Flyff's next expansion, Act V, is going to be adding two new dungeons and an entire new continent for you to explore! Not a bad addition at all for the low low price of free.

Flyff's new continent, the lands of Harmonin, is a land of beauty at first sight. The jungles are lush, the lands are beautiful, and the monsters are... deadly? The island, in truth, is a corrupted land that conceals a curse. High level monsters lurk in the wilds, waiting to feast on tender MMO adventurer flesh.

Continue reading Flyff expansion "Act V" to hit European servers

MassivelyFlyff expansion "Act V" to hit European servers originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Oct 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europeexpansionfly-for-funflyfffrancefree-to-playfrenchgermangermanygpotatopatchupdateMon, 12 Oct 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[gPotato to unveil new project at GamesCom]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/10/gpotato-to-unveil-new-project-at-gamescom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/10/gpotato-to-unveil-new-project-at-gamescom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/10/gpotato-to-unveil-new-project-at-gamescom/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


The gPotato games portal, hosted by Gala Networks Europe in Dublin, Ireland, will be on hand in force for the upcoming GamesCom convention in Cologne where they will announce and unveil a new MMO project for the portal.

The new project, which will be demoed at the convention, comes with a tentative release date of early 2010. The genre or nature of the new project has not been released either, so it's anybody's guess as to what the new title will be.

gPotato currently hosts some of the more popular free-to-play MMOs, including Dragonica, Rappelz, Flyff, and Allods Online. Those four games will be on hand at the convention as well for demonstration, so it's sure to be a game filled good time over at the gPotato booth!

MassivelygPotato to unveil new project at GamesCom originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 10 Aug 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allodsallods-onlineannouncementconventiondragonicaflyffgala-netgala-networks-europegamescomgamescom-09gpotatonew-projectnew-titlerappelzMon, 10 Aug 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New race and a housing system are unveiled for the next expansion of Fly for Fun]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/20/new-race-and-a-housing-system-are-unveiled-for-the-next-expansio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/20/new-race-and-a-housing-system-are-unveiled-for-the-next-expansio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/20/new-race-and-a-housing-system-are-unveiled-for-the-next-expansio/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Fly For Fun, of Flyff as it's also known, is a manga styled game which bills itself as "the first free-to-play MMORPG to offer players the opportunity to fly around the world of Madrigal using magic brooms, bikes or skateboards" and has a new expansion arriving soon called "Act IV: New Shores". gPotato have unveiled two of the new features in this expansion, the Rainbow Race and the housing system.

The Rainbow Race will allow players to, once a week, sign up to the race and show off their flying skills while competing in various mini-games at each checkpoint in order to complete the race. Rewards from this race range from temporary buffs, gPotato cash shop items or precious Orichalques and Lunar Stones. Also being added is player housing, which will allow players to create a customized environment in which to socialize. Player housing will be available to all players of all levels for free.

MassivelyNew race and a housing system are unveiled for the next expansion of Fly for Fun originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 May 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fly-for-funflyffgPotatoWed, 20 May 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively webcomic: Grinders - The Nyangnyang Dilemma]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/03/massively-webcomic-grinders-the-nyangnyang-dilemma/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/03/massively-webcomic-grinders-the-nyangnyang-dilemma/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/03/massively-webcomic-grinders-the-nyangnyang-dilemma/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Grinders is a weekly cartoon here at Massively devoted to chronicling your adventures in your favorite MMOs! If you have a funny story or just a funny character, submit your tale complete with a screenshot to lemuel.pew@weblogsinc.com. The best will be etched in stone and displayed in the town square for all to see. Or just put in the comic.

Gallery: Grinders Webcomic


Lemuel PewLemuel Pew is a webcomic artist and MMO player with the attention span of a guppy. Between sketching gamers in cartoon form and making too many alts in City of Heroes, he draws an online comic called Blank It. Feel free to watch his Twitter at your own risk.

MassivelyMassively webcomic: Grinders - The Nyangnyang Dilemma originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Apr 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comicfantasyfeaturedflyffgrindershumorjoystiqfeatureswebcomicFri, 03 Apr 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[First Impressions returns!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/03/first-impressions-returns/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/03/first-impressions-returns/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/03/first-impressions-returns/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


At last check we had identified and indexed well over 250 MMOs of just about every shape, size and color available for gamers from 8 to 80 - and up! Unfortunately, there just aren't enough hours in the day to cover every single game out there as in-depth as we'd like. That said, we are pretty insanely dedicated to MMOs and love to play them... So what's a blog to do?

After kicking the idea around, we've decided to bring back First Impressions for those readers who want to know about more games than just the mainstream. For now, we'll give you a brief look back at some of the staff's favorite past Impressions, as a taste of the fun to come. Be sure to come back next Wednesday and join me as we start a new journey through strange and fantastic worlds of First Impressions!

First Impressions: Dungeon Runners
Dungeon Runners is a game by NCsoft that trades off of the popularity of Blizzard titles WoW and Diablo II, but does it with a sense of humor. More properly, we should really say it does it with a healthy dose of snark and silliness. That's okay, we like it that way.
First Impressions: Jumpgate Evolution
Sometimes we get a ridiculously early look at a game in development. Wondering what Jumpgate Evolution was like in earlier beta days, or perhaps still waiting on your invite? Take a peek behind the scenes with Jennie.

Continue reading First Impressions returns!

MassivelyFirst Impressions returns! originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Dec 2008 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dungeon-runnersfirst-impressionfirst-impressionsflyffjumpgate-evolutionnot-a-reviewperfect-worldrequiem-bloodymaresword-of-the-new-worldWed, 03 Dec 2008 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[News from the Wider MMO World: September 2, 2008]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/02/news-from-the-wider-mmo-world-september-2-2008/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/02/news-from-the-wider-mmo-world-september-2-2008/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/02/news-from-the-wider-mmo-world-september-2-2008/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,


The MMO genre is more than World of Warcraft, Age of Conan, and Warhammer Online. Here's what's going on in the rest of the world.

Dreamlords the Reawakening makes deal to move to Russia
Lockpick Entertainment has signed an agreement with Akella Games, Russian distributors of Planetside, Everquest 2, and Pirates of the Burning Sea, to localize and distribute Dreamlords the Reawakening. "Our goal is to reach out to new audiences and the Russian market is fast growing and with Akella's expertise we're able to do just that," said David Rosén, CEO of Lockpick Entertainment. "We hope that collaboration between our two companies will benefit both parties and that such an interesting genre will draw gamer's attention" said Alexander Trifonov, Managing Director of Akella Online. Closed beta testing is expected to begin in early September.

Pet Evolution Manuals debut on Grand Chase
Three different Pet Evolution Manuals are available at the shop in Grand Chase, allowing knights to evolve their pets at levels 0, 20, and 40. There will also be prizes for each knight that evolves and raises their pet to level 10. Prizes for winning pets include nutrient shots, pet food, gacha coins, and pet skills. Additionally, players who log on between the hours of 4 and 8 PM every day will receive double xp and double gp, in the Afterschool Adventure Hour.

Continue reading News from the Wider MMO World: September 2, 2008

MassivelyNews from the Wider MMO World: September 2, 2008 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Sep 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeria-gamesakella-gamesdark-age-of-camelotdreamlords-the-reawakeningeverquest-2fallen-earthflyffgrand-chaselockpick-entertainmentnewsnews-of-the-wider-mmo-worldpi-storypirates-of-the-burning-seaplanetsidesagaTue, 02 Sep 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Get your grind on a different way with Street Gears]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/09/get-your-grind-on-a-different-way-with-street-gears/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/09/get-your-grind-on-a-different-way-with-street-gears/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/09/get-your-grind-on-a-different-way-with-street-gears/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Gala Networks Europe, holders of Flyff and Rappelz, have announced their third and newest MMO, Street Gears. SG is based around inline skating, with an anime aesthetic and extreme gameplay that combines racing with track skating. It's being developed by NFlavor, who created Rappelz, and who have given it a cel-shaded look that's sure to appeal.

As with the other two titles in their stable, Street Gears will be free-to-play, and will become available in June on the gPotato portal. GameTrailers has the trailer up, so check it out!

MassivelyGet your grind on a different way with Street Gears originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 May 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animecel-shadedextremeflyffgala-networks-europegpotatoinline-skatingnflavorrappelzstreet-gearstrailerFri, 09 May 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rappelz reaches 50,000 European users in under a month]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/14/rappelz-reaches-50-000-european-users-in-under-a-month/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/14/rappelz-reaches-50-000-european-users-in-under-a-month/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/14/rappelz-reaches-50-000-european-users-in-under-a-month/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Warcry brings us the news that Rappelz, made by the fine folks at Gala Networks (who also made Flyff), has attracted over 50,000 active users in the less-than-one month since the game has debuted French and German versions. Two new servers have opened to accommodate the influx of new accounts: the French Kentauros, and the German Bastet, both named after in-game creatures.

To further celebrate the success of the launch, Gala has increased the experience gain to 1.5 until March 18th. Rappelz's gameplay features a system by which you may capture and tame creatures to fight alongside you in combat. Hmm. Do we also gotta catch 'em all? Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, I choose you!

MassivelyRappelz reaches 50,000 European users in under a month originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 14 Mar 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>basteteuropean-launchflyfffrenchgala-networksgermankentaurosocdpokemonrappelzFri, 14 Mar 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[O Death, where is thy sting?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/05/o-death-where-is-thy-sting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/05/o-death-where-is-thy-sting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/05/o-death-where-is-thy-sting/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

What does your choice of playing a warrior say about you as a person? Probably not a lot, considering that you're likely to try many different classes during the course of your stay in any given MMO. Or, to turn it around: what can you tell about the person driving that warrior you just saw run by? Taken like that, the intent behind this question becomes more obvious. We've gotten the 'roleplaying' part down solid. You choose to play a particular role -- which in this case we might re-term 'function' -- and that gets some emotional response. We drive our avatars around with varying degrees of personal investiture in them, but sometimes it feels to me as though we're merely cogs in a great machine, bent toward the purpose of simply furthering gameplay, rather than participating in a greater story with far-reaching consequences. And if it isn't Guild Wars, it's Flyff. If it isn't City of Heroes, it's Anarchy Online. The mechanisms are the same, the quests are similar. Visuals aside, where is the uniqueness? What's the point? Where is the purpose?

What is it that makes watching a good movie so engaging, and why is that not inherent in MMO gameplay? Why is there so much more of an emotional investment in a good book than in your game of choice? No matter how much you may enjoy playing your character, there is an inherent element that's lacking. Is it the uniqueness of personality?

Continue reading O Death, where is thy sting?

MassivelyO Death, where is thy sting? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 Dec 2007 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anarchy-onlinecity-of-heroesdeathflyfffrodoguild-warslord-of-the-rings-onlinemassivelymount-doomriskroleplayingsecond-lifeworld-of-warcraftWed, 05 Dec 2007 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wall o' thumbs: new galleries this week]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/20/wall-o-thumbs-new-galleries-this-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/20/wall-o-thumbs-new-galleries-this-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/20/wall-o-thumbs-new-galleries-this-week/#commentsFiled under: , ,

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

Galleries

Dofus Gallery

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

Exteel Gallery

First Impressions: Flyff


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

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browsercasualdofuseverquesteverquest-iiexpansionsexteelflyffgalleriesrise-of-kunarkscreenshotssecrets-of-faydwerwall-o-thumbsTue, 20 Nov 2007 01:30:00 EST<![CDATA[First Impressions: Flyff]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/16/first-impressions-flyff/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/16/first-impressions-flyff/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/16/first-impressions-flyff/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,


Flyff is a play-for-free 3D MMO with that anime style that today's youth hungers for. In my quest to devour all MMOs in existence, I took it upon myself to give Flyff a shot. Akela: He plays weird stuff so you don't have to.

Here's the immediate take-away: Even though their tagline is 'Fly for fun', it's not immediately clear how the flying will occur. A lot of their advertising features great-looking airships, people soaring through the air on their own, fabulous critters wafting along, etc. In my initial hour, though, Flyff gameplay followed the standard, whacking things with a sword until they dropped loot like so many naughty piñatas.

Gallery: Flyff

Continue reading First Impressions: Flyff

MassivelyFirst Impressions: Flyff originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Nov 2007 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airshipsarchitecturecasualcombatfeaturedflyffflyingfountain-of-dead-personfree-to-playhairstyleskevlarmassivelymurderdeathkillscreenshotsskillsFri, 16 Nov 2007 13:00:00 EST