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[Free for All: Istaria's updates, community, and future development]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/free-for-all-istarias-updates-community-and-future-developme/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/free-for-all-istarias-updates-community-and-future-developme/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/free-for-all-istarias-updates-community-and-future-developme/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Istaria concept art
Before anyone asks in the comments section: Yes, Istaria is still around. I've noticed that many players seem to think if something is out of their sight, it's out of every other player's mind too, but the truth is that there are many, many smallish and indie MMOs in existence that not only continue to do well but offer unique gameplay for anyone who might be interested. Istaria is even still referred to as Horizons by many, even though that change was made a long, long time ago. Despite all of the outdated opinions and its status as an "older" game, interesting things are happening in the world of Istaria.

I took some time and asked Amarie Ancalimon, Community Relations manager from Virtrium, about the latest string of patches and updates. I got plenty of information back, so let's get to it!

Continue reading Free for All: Istaria's updates, community, and future development

MassivelyFree for All: Istaria's updates, community, and future development originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 May 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amarie-ancalimonbeau-hindmandragonsf2pfeaturedffafree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumhorizonsinterviewinterviewsistariaopinionvelvet-ropevirtriumWed, 23 May 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Planet Cyrene adds to the high-stakes worlds of Entropia]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/free-for-all-planet-cyrene-adds-to-the-high-stakes-worlds-of-en/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/free-for-all-planet-cyrene-adds-to-the-high-stakes-worlds-of-en/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/free-for-all-planet-cyrene-adds-to-the-high-stakes-worlds-of-en/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Planet Cyrene screenshot
I'm not much of a shooter fan and probably never will be. Sure, I have as much fun blasting my way through monsters as the next gamer, but I rarely have the patience or physical stamina to overcome the pains and frustrations of shooter PvP. After all, my first rule of PvP applies especially well to shooters: There is always someone better than you. Planet Cyrene, the new world being added to the impressive portfolio of Entropia Universe, tasks players tasks similar to those found in Planet Calypso and mixes in PvP arenas that promise to frustrate (or delight) players, depending on their skill level. I sat down with Ed Robles III, lead developer for Planet Cyrene, to see just how nasty and expensive things might get.

Remember, this is the Entropia Universe we are talking about, and that means players will spend real money on bullets, armor, and practically everything else. Fortunately, players can earn items that are worth real money as well. Call it gambling or whatever you want, but it still seems to be a pretty successful formula.

Continue reading Free for All: Planet Cyrene adds to the high-stakes worlds of Entropia

MassivelyFree for All: Planet Cyrene adds to the high-stakes worlds of Entropia originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 May 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmaned-robles-IIIentropia-universef2pfeaturedffafree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiummmofpsopinionplanet-calypsoplanet-cyrenereal-money-transactionsvelvet-ropeWed, 16 May 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Zeroing in on my favorite free-to-play mains]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/free-for-all-zeroing-in-on-my-favorite-free-to-play-mains/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/free-for-all-zeroing-in-on-my-favorite-free-to-play-mains/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/free-for-all-zeroing-in-on-my-favorite-free-to-play-mains/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

My Vanguard main
I felt a little nostalgic this week. Heck, at my age, I feel nostalgic every time I smell chimney smoke or hear Christmas music. I suspect it will only grow more common with age. MMOs have been such a huge part of my life for well over a decade now that I feel nostalgic about many of the things that happened during that time, and for many of the characters I have grown -- and lost.

I'm not overly sentimental about it, but it is interesting how we feel about the pixelated versions of ourselves, the ones we control while sitting at a keyboard or while touching a tablet. I don't want to downplay how important gaming can be for many of us, either. Once, years ago, I met a fellow player in a social game called There. She was a wonderful person who had over time lost the ability to walk. She loved the freedom that the avatar gave her. Needless to say, she was very connected to her character.

I made a short list of some of my favorite characters from the years. As I think about it, this list says a lot about me as a gamer and about the types of games I love.

Continue reading Free for All: Zeroing in on my favorite free-to-play mains

MassivelyFree for All: Zeroing in on my favorite free-to-play mains originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 May 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbeau-turkeyChangyouf2pfeaturedffafree-for-allfree-realmsfree-to-playfreemiumglitchjagexmilmoopinionrunescapeRyzomSOESONYSony-Online-Entertainmentspellbornthe-chronicles-of-spellborntheretiny-speckVanguard-Saga-of-Heroesvelvet-ropezentiaWed, 09 May 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Why social gaming could destroy MMOs and how we can fight it]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/free-for-all-why-social-gaming-could-destroy-mmos-and-how-we-fi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/free-for-all-why-social-gaming-could-destroy-mmos-and-how-we-fi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/free-for-all-why-social-gaming-could-destroy-mmos-and-how-we-fi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

CastleVille screenshot
I am a huge fan of social media. Twitter, Facebook, Google Plus -- it all makes sense to me and has shown to be a very useful tool in not only communicating with friends but finding new games, developers, and websites. My Twitter feed provides enough news and information that I can skip any standard media. I haven't watched a local newscast for a long, long time. On top of that, I can communicate with readers in real time, sharing photos and tidbits of cool.

Has social media affected MMO gaming? It definitely has. Watch any smart developer's Twitter feed and you will see the community team interacting directly with players, answering questions, hosting contests, and helping players feel as though the developers are actual people. Social media has also changed how we connect to our games, MMO or not.

All of this means that everything is social now. Going to the dentist? Share it with your friends. Defeated a boss monster on your Xbox? Tweet it. Just picked up that epic sword in Dark Age of Camelot? Post it to your Facebook. Heck, many MMOs now have a Twitter or Facebook option built right into the client. All of this instant connectivity is nice, but it's possible that the "massively" part of MMO will soon apply to any game. What will this do to the genre?

Continue reading Free for All: Why social gaming could destroy MMOs and how we can fight it

MassivelyFree for All: Why social gaming could destroy MMOs and how we can fight it originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 May 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmancityvilledark-age-of-camelotf2pfacebookfarmvillefeaturedffafree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumgoogle-plushero-academylord-of-the-rings-onlineopinionsocialsocial-gamingsocial-networkingtwittervelvet-ropeZyngaWed, 02 May 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: New browser-based converts shine light on issues]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/free-for-all-new-browser-based-converts-shine-light-on-issues/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/free-for-all-new-browser-based-converts-shine-light-on-issues/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/free-for-all-new-browser-based-converts-shine-light-on-issues/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Fiesta Social screenshot
I recently threw out a prediction that within five years, most of our MMO content will be coming through our browsers. To be more specific, I think that most players in the United States will be enjoying their favorite MMOs within a browser. That can mean several things but does not refer to games like Free Realms, a client-based game that is only signed-into at the browser level. As with any discussion about genres, mechanics or styles in the MMO world, I have to be very specific.

It's pretty likely that a very large percentage of the US playerbase is already playing browser-based games. Look at the American market for games like RuneScape, Battlestar Galactica Online, Club Penguin, Drakensang Online, Evony, and Ministry of War and you might just find millions of players.

Next we need to consider that there are more games coming into the browser market. This new batch is essentially a group of standard, client-based MMOs that are porting themselves to the browser. I tend to be a little skeptical about some of these in the short-term, for several reasons.

Continue reading Free for All: New browser-based converts shine light on issues

MassivelyFree for All: New browser-based converts shine light on issues originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>8realmsbattlestar-galactica-onlinebeau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedclub-penguindrakensang-onlineevonyf2pfeaturedffafiesta-onlinefiesta-socialfree-for-allfree-realmsfree-to-playfreemiumftpillyriadjagexministry-of-waropinionrunes-of-magicrunescapetibiavelvet-ropeWed, 25 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: The importance of those first moments in a game]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/free-for-all-the-importance-of-those-first-moments-in-a-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/free-for-all-the-importance-of-those-first-moments-in-a-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/free-for-all-the-importance-of-those-first-moments-in-a-game/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Forum post screenshot
This week, I decided to download and install Aion. I haven't played it since beta. Although I was not impressed with it at the time, my favorite Aion columnist has been covering the game in such a way that I knew some good things had happened to the game. And after all, it's free now. Right?

I was nervous from the moment I installed the game. NCsoft hosts a notoriously odd account management system. Sure, once you break the code and understand how to make an account for your master account that signs into your game account (or something like that), it might seem elementary. Until that moment, though, the system makes you feel like an idiot. It makes you feel as though the publisher literally doesn't want you to play the game.

I had a week filled with such moments. The frustration I felt led me to today's topic.

Continue reading Free for All: The importance of those first moments in a game

MassivelyFree for All: The importance of those first moments in a game originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionaion-3.0beau-hindmancity-of-heroescompetitionf2pfirst-momentsfree-for-allfree-to-playftpgemstone-ivgripingncsoftnewbienewbiesragewhiningWed, 18 Apr 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Looking for the near-perfect MUD-like browser MMO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/free-for-all-looking-for-the-near-perfect-mud-like-browser-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/free-for-all-looking-for-the-near-perfect-mud-like-browser-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/free-for-all-looking-for-the-near-perfect-mud-like-browser-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Browser screenshot
I need your help. If you are a reader, then I need you to open your memory boxes and take a look around at the bottom. Shuffle around where all the remnants of favorite past MMOs settle and see if you can find me something. If you are a developer who is reading this, then you might indeed have some special insight into my issue.

I need a game. A special game. It must fit a certain mold that is very particularly fitted to my very specific needs and wants. It's a tall order, to say the least.

Now, I understand how to use Google. At least once a week I am asked something along the lines of "Where do you find these weird games you cover?" I am always tempted to link the questioner to Google and walk away, but generally I tell him it is a combination of different efforts: some searching, some tipping from readers, and more than a smidge of good luck. Also understand that I have a lot of good titles keeping me busy, but I tend to become sort of obsessed with little projects along the way. So what do I need this week?

I need a semi-graphical, browser-based MUD-like MMO that features great customization for characters, text, and interface, that's what.

Continue reading Free for All: Looking for the near-perfect MUD-like browser MMO

MassivelyFree for All: Looking for the near-perfect MUD-like browser MMO originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedbrowser-based-MMOsdie2nitedomain-of-heroesf2pfeaturedffafree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumgraphical-mudmagic-duelmagicduelmudopinionWed, 11 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: I got the Second Life inventory management blues]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/04/free-for-all-i-got-the-second-life-inventory-management-blues/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/04/free-for-all-i-got-the-second-life-inventory-management-blues/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/04/free-for-all-i-got-the-second-life-inventory-management-blues/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Second Life screenshot
Every year I attempt to go through my Second Life inventory in the hope that it actually works out for me. I really do want to get rid of the 7,000+ items I have after eight years in the game (my game-birthday is on May 26th!), but it's such a daunting task. Where do you start? Is organization really even needed? Well, yes it is, from what I have heard. Everyone is running in-world carrying endless pockets filled with everything possible, and that's going to cause some lag and effort on the server's part.

Also, I have an obsession with minimizing my life. I hate physical stuff. It takes up room, collects dust, and just sits there. Sure, I maintain all of my art if I can and some other important items like pictures and cute little knick-knacks, but otherwise, if I don't use it, it gets tossed, sold, or set on the curb for the junk-people to grab.

I feel the same way about Second Life. There's a mental burden that years of junk presses onto someone, digital representation or not. It's no wonder those people in that Hoarders show look so down; it's a hard life to lose the ability to throw anything away, ever.

I am making a stand, slowly. I am going to get this inventory under control by coming up with some ideas to help me along.

Continue reading Free for All: I got the Second Life inventory management blues

MassivelyFree for All: I got the Second Life inventory management blues originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanEverQuest-2everquest-iif2pfeaturedfree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumftpinventory-managementLindenlinden-labsecond-lifeSOESony-Online-EntertainmentWed, 04 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: From realistic dragons to a dragon icon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/free-for-all-from-realistic-dragons-to-a-dragon-icon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/free-for-all-from-realistic-dragons-to-a-dragon-icon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/free-for-all-from-realistic-dragons-to-a-dragon-icon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Remanum screenshot
Ah, graphics. If ever there was a deciding factor for most gamers, it would be graphics. How does a game look? How do the graphics make you feel as a player? I'm as guilty as anyone else who might consider himself to be a graphics snob of sorts, but I lean more in the opposite direction. For whatever reason, I am not as easily impressed as I once was and tend to go for more representational graphics. I'm not quite at the stage where my MMO gaming has been reduced to a blob of text on my screen, but I definitely enjoy simplicity.

The problem is that many MMOs do not provide that precise formula to hit my graphics sweet spot, or as in the more common scenario, there are parts of certain titles that I would adore if only they hadn't been packaged with the rest of the game. Ryzom, for example, is one of my favorite freemium titles. To this day, it packs more graphical punch and originality than games a quarter of its age.

Now I find myself leaning more toward very basic graphics delivered smartly through my browser. I've even gone through an Anime obsession! Yes, it's been one of those years.

Continue reading Free for All: From realistic dragons to a dragon icon

MassivelyFree for All: From realistic dragons to a dragon icon originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbeau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedf2pfeaturedffafree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumgraphicsguild-wars-2mudsnadirimopinionparallel-kingdomperblueremanumryzomtraviantravian-gamesvelvet-ropeWed, 28 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Becoming a mediocre trader in several free titles]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/free-for-all-becoming-a-mediocre-trader-in-several-free-titles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/free-for-all-becoming-a-mediocre-trader-in-several-free-titles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/free-for-all-becoming-a-mediocre-trader-in-several-free-titles/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Mabinogi ship banner
I often find myself achieving little things in many different games while other gamer buddies of mine are busily conquering actual gods or dragons within one or two particular titles. Sure, I would love to join a group of battleworn adventurers as they took down one of the final bosses in almost any game, but I rarely find the time to work a character into the ranks of the ascended.

OK, so I have time, but not if I wanted to do what I do here. That is to say, I am not dedicated to one game because it is my job to tell you readers about several games. About every game. About as many games as possible. I can't do that while maintaining a high DPS score. It's a give and take, but I love to explore, fortunately.

Let me tell you about how I love to trade or craft in some of my favorite titles and why it's important to me.

Continue reading Free for All: Becoming a mediocre trader in several free titles

MassivelyFree for All: Becoming a mediocre trader in several free titles originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedbrowser-based-mmoclassic-mmocode-clubcraftingf2pfantasyfeaturedffafletchingfree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumftpglitchjagexjagex-games-studiomabinoginexonopinionparallel-kingdomperbluersrunescapesandboxtiny-specktradetradingvelvet-ropewurmwurm-onlineWed, 21 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Free-to-play MMO versions of your favorite Nintendo games]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/free-for-all-free-to-play-mmo-versions-of-your-favorite-nintend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/free-for-all-free-to-play-mmo-versions-of-your-favorite-nintend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/free-for-all-free-to-play-mmo-versions-of-your-favorite-nintend/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Nintendo banner
I have to be honest -- I wasn't the biggest Nintendo fan. I grew up right as the whole thing was really smashing and keeping kids glued to their TVs, but I generally went outside and played more than stayed inside and played games. (Odd, huh?) Still, I had my fun with certain titles. Contra rocked my boat, along with Kid Icarus and a bit of Mario Brothers. My friends, on the other hand, were full members of the Nintendo nation. They subcribed to the magazine, played the same games for hours and hours, and generally acted as though the fate of the real world hung in the balance as they attacked that last boss monster.

Stylistically, the games have left a mark on the genre. Many of those same titles still sell as well, some of them reaching so many variations that I lost track a long, long time ago. I thought it might be fun to list off some free-to-play MMOs that remind me of those old classics. See what you think, and leave any suggestions in the comments section!

Continue reading Free for All: Free-to-play MMO versions of your favorite Nintendo games

MassivelyFree for All: Free-to-play MMO versions of your favorite Nintendo games originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmandrift-cityf2pfantasy-onlinefeaturedfree-for-allfree-realmsfree-to-playFreejackfusionfalljunebud-abmario-brosmario-brothersMario-KartmilmonintendoplatformerPlatformingrealm-of-the-mad-godside-scrollerSOESony-Online-Entertainmentspiral-knightsthe-legend-of-zeldathree-ringszeldaWed, 14 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Two years and counting]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/free-for-all-two-years-and-counting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/free-for-all-two-years-and-counting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/free-for-all-two-years-and-counting/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Free for All two year anniversary banner
On March 9th, 2012, this column will turn two years old. I thought it would be a fun idea to look back on those two years and recount what I might have learned. I've learned a lot, actually. When I was first hired to write a column about free-to-play games, I thought I would be covering relatively simple topics, stuff like "how much would you pay for a horse?" or "how many free-to-play games do you have on your hard drive?" Pretty soon I realized that free-to-play, to many people, represents a sort of gaming movement and genre rather than a payment model.

The discussions have been open, frank, and sometimes infuriating. It's easy for me to write so simply that it can seem as though I am attempting to make a larger point, and it's much easier to make much more of the term "free-to-play" than is necessary. I have seen the lines being drawn by many players who feel that free-to-play is a sort of scary neighbor who threatens the peaceful existence of their neighborhood, while many others couldn't care less.

Like I said, I have learned a lot.

Continue reading Free for All: Two years and counting

MassivelyFree for All: Two years and counting originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animeanniversarybeau-hindbeau-hindmanf2pfeaturedffafree-for-allfree-to-plfree-to-playfreemiumftpindependentindiemaplestoryopinionvelvet-ropeWed, 07 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: How I'm preparing for the release of Wakfu]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/29/free-for-all-how-im-preparing-for-the-release-of-wakfu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/29/free-for-all-how-im-preparing-for-the-release-of-wakfu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/29/free-for-all-how-im-preparing-for-the-release-of-wakfu/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Wakfu screenshot
I'm not your typical fanboy. I get excited about an upcoming game, but generally I will not believe in its greatness until I play it. Usually I can get my hands on the game before it comes out so I can see what the fuss is about, but I never find myself that ramped up until release day. Then, and only then, will I really pay attention.

Wakfu is one of those games I know is going to at least be different from its rivals. I have already played a bit in all of the betas and now know that it is far from your typical MMO. The classes are different and fun; the lore and artwork is amazing. It runs on almost any PC. The game doesn't insult the player with hand-holding and non-stop popups. It really does walk that fine line between a sandbox and a more linear game.

So how am I preparing for the release of this unique game?

Continue reading Free for All: How I'm preparing for the release of Wakfu

MassivelyFree for All: How I'm preparing for the release of Wakfu originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 29 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adviceankamaankama-gamesbeau-hindmanbetaf2pfeaturedfree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumftpIsometriclaunchlaunchesSquare-EnixSquareEnixTurn-basedwakfuWed, 29 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Comparing the payment models of Second Life and Pocket Legends]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/free-for-all-comparing-the-payment-models-of-second-life-and-po/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/free-for-all-comparing-the-payment-models-of-second-life-and-po/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/free-for-all-comparing-the-payment-models-of-second-life-and-po/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Second Life and Pocket Legends screenshots
Over the last few weeks I have been taking a look at different free-to-play payment models in the hopes of showing just how much variety there is in today's market. The term free-to-play is open to interpretation, and every time I become involved in a discussion about what the term means, I come to the same point: Show me the game and I'll tell you how "free" it is. While more titles than not can be enjoyed completely for free, it's important to note that every game needs to make money, so every developer hopes some players pay for something.

We also must note that the term "free-to-play" is almost like the term "rock-and-roll." It is a general term that can be broken into many sub-genres. In other words, don't be so uptight about the literal meaning of the word. If you are not sure, check out the game in question.

Continue reading Free for All: Comparing the payment models of Second Life and Pocket Legends

MassivelyFree for All: Comparing the payment models of Second Life and Pocket Legends originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowsercash-shopeden-eternalf2pfeaturedfree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumftpglitchjunebudlinden-lamilmomonetizationpocket-legendssecond-lifspacetime-studiostiny-speckWorld-of-WarcraftWed, 22 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Comparing the payment models of RuneScape and Illyriad]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/free-for-all-comparing-the-payment-models-of-runescape-and-illy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/free-for-all-comparing-the-payment-models-of-runescape-and-illy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/free-for-all-comparing-the-payment-models-of-runescape-and-illy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Illyriad and RuneScape maps
Last week, I introduced you to two of my favorite free-to-play or freemium payment models. Payment models are endlessly fascinating because so many players normally didn't think about them until free-to-play and freemium models stopped being something that only came from foreign shores. Now, everyone has an opinion about which payment model is the best. I tend to love simple ones, as close to simple as I can get. If a game is truly wonderful, however, I don't care if the developers ask players to cut off their right arms. I've paid my fair share and continue to do so.

In fact, in one of the most disturbing trends of the last few years, players have begun bemoaning the lack of a free version of their favorite game. I see it all the time: players publicly wishing for the time that their favorite game will go free-to-play so they can return without paying a dime. Sure, I can understand being strapped for cash and needing an easy way to get back to an old title, but come on... those titles might not be around much longer if players do not support them in the first place. I am not a fan of free-to-play because I am cheap or because I need to avoid paying developers what they deserve. I have said it before, and I will say it again: I am a fan of free-to-play because it lets me decide when I want to spend my money. There's a big difference.

So let's chat about two of my favorite game's payment models.

Continue reading Free for All: Comparing the payment models of RuneScape and Illyriad

MassivelyFree for All: Comparing the payment models of RuneScape and Illyriad originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedcash-shopeve-onlinef2pfeaturedffa-pvpfree-for-allfree-to-playftpillyriadillyriad-gamesjagexjames-niesewandMicrotransactionspayment-modelspvprunescapeWed, 15 Feb 2012 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Comparing the payment models of Glitch and Ryzom]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/free-for-all-comparing-the-payment-models-of-glitch-and-ryzom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/free-for-all-comparing-the-payment-models-of-glitch-and-ryzom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/free-for-all-comparing-the-payment-models-of-glitch-and-ryzom/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Ryzom screenshot
I thought it might be a cool idea to do a comparison of free-to-play models for my next few articles. As free-to-play has become more and more popular, cash shops and tiers of service have become much more important to how a player might enjoy or interact with a game. While the standard free-to-play model, the most popular one by far, is one that allows players to download a free client, has no subscription at all, and tacks on a cash-shop, the freemium variant is quickly becoming widespread. Freemium seems to be the model of choice for many Western games that were previously subscription-only.

The problem is that I do not really like the freemium model. I'm old-school, I guess. I enjoy the model that was imported to the States maybe eight years ago. A free client with a cash shop on top is all I need to steer my fun by. I'd rather skip any sort of tiered service as well.

There are exceptions to the rule, of course.

Continue reading Free for All: Comparing the payment models of Glitch and Ryzom

MassivelyFree for All: Comparing the payment models of Glitch and Ryzom originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowsercash-shopf2pfallen-earthfeaturedfree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumftpgamersfirstglitchMicrotransactionsRyzomSandboxtiny-speckWed, 08 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Old Second Life documentary still highlights truths]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/free-for-all-older-second-life-documentary-still-highlights-tru/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/free-for-all-older-second-life-documentary-still-highlights-tru/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/free-for-all-older-second-life-documentary-still-highlights-tru/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Second Life documentary screenshot
So I was working on this week's Free for All last night when a buddy of mine asked me if I had seen a certain older Second Life documentary. I didn't think I had before, but it turns out that my usual record of consuming everything MMO still stands, and it was fun to re-watch the older documentary again for several reasons.

One of the most important things I noticed about the film was just how universal to MMO gaming the documentary was. The issues it brought up are still issues, the problems with virtual worlds are still problems, and the fact that any technology older than six months looks laughable on film is still true. It was also encouraging to see how well Second Life has aged since 2007, but it's slightly depressing to see just how horrible MMO documentaries can be at showing the entire picture.

Continue reading Free for All: Old Second Life documentary still highlights truths

MassivelyFree for All: Old Second Life documentary still highlights truths originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2Lbeau-hindmanBlizzardBlizzard-Entertainmentdocumentariesdocumentaryf2pfeaturedfour-cornersfree-for-allfree-to-playftplinden-labphilip-rosedalesandboxsecond-lifeSLvideovideosvirtual-sexvirtual-worldsWorld-of-Warcraftwowyou-only-live-twiceWed, 01 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Looking for experiences, not challenges]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/free-for-all-looking-for-experiences-not-challenges/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/free-for-all-looking-for-experiences-not-challenges/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/free-for-all-looking-for-experiences-not-challenges/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Wurm Online screenshot
When I was around 20, I used to watch my girlfriend's younger brother play Nintendo games. It was a pretty intense scenario. He would become so angry when a boss fight took away one of his lives or when a leap at a moving platform would fail that he often chucked that poor controller at the wall. It happened again years later after we'd graduated to the internet and PC gaming. The strangest thing is that he would return to the challenge over and over until it either broke his will or his device or he finally conquered the challenge. I never quite got it. Surely such frustration sucked any enjoyment out of the entire process?

I tend to be more lazy when it comes to my digital adventure. I hate to repeat content, and I would rather leave the raiding and boss fights to those with more patience or to those who simply have a desire to win that matches their tolerance for frustrating situations. I would rather become a trader, crafter, roleplayer, explorer, or even adventurer in certain titles.

Just spare me the overwhelming challenges while I game.

Continue reading Free for All: Looking for experiences, not challenges

MassivelyFree for All: Looking for experiences, not challenges originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmancash-shopcode-clubf2pfeaturedffafree-for-allfree-to-ftpjagexMicrotransactionsraidingrolf-janssonrunescapevindictuswizard-101wizard101wurm-onlineWed, 25 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: A second look at Fallen Earth's free model]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/18/free-for-all-a-second-look-at-fallen-earths-free-model/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/18/free-for-all-a-second-look-at-fallen-earths-free-model/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/18/free-for-all-a-second-look-at-fallen-earths-free-model/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Fallen Earth screenshot
I used to be head-over-heels in love with Fallen Earth. I was on an immersion kick and had even designed a set of rules that dictated how my character would "live" in the world. Fallen Earth provided me with a lot of great tools to become immersed, and it was the type of game that really stuck out from the pack. Of course, it also sported uglier character models than Lord of the Rings Online and was more brown than a bakery at the earlier levels, but it was neat.

I gave up on the title after a while and became too busy with other games to return. Then, the free-to-play version of the title came out. I still ignored it because of scheduling, but recently I have been returning to it. I am finding a lot of bugs and an overall lack of polish that I had forgotten about, but it's still a really cool game.

So how does the free version stack up to the subscription model? How free is it? Let's take a look.

Continue reading Free for All: A second look at Fallen Earth's free model

MassivelyFree for All: A second look at Fallen Earth's free model originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmancash-shopddodungeon-and-dragonseq2eqiiEverQuest-2everquest-iif2pfallen-earthfefeaturedfree-for-allfree-to-playftpg1gamersfirstlord-of-the-rings-onlineMicrotransactionspost-apocalypticsandboxwizard101Wed, 18 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: The still-satisfying world of action MMOs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/free-for-all-the-still-satisfying-world-of-action-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/free-for-all-the-still-satisfying-world-of-action-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/free-for-all-the-still-satisfying-world-of-action-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Vindictus screenshot
Look, I'm a red-blooded American gamer. I even call it 'Merica. So it should be no surprise when I feel like getting down with a melee-based chop-'em-up or have the desire to leap, jump and bounce my way through countless levels. In other words, action. We 'Mericans love our action games. I have my particular favorites, for sure, and within that list are my favorites of favorites that get the nod for different reasons. Honestly I'm not into action-based games just for the challenge. I don't need to make repeated attempts at downing a boss to have fun. I enjoy the immediate response that an action game gives me. I love to click the mouse button and see my character's sword swing or gun fire. It's satisfying.

Of course, action games can have their drawbacks. Not only do they tend to produce a euphoric haze that can only be described as "stoner glare" and an open-mouthed state of hypnosis, but they can take a toll on delicate, drum-beaten wrists like mine as well. I take the good with the bad, I guess. Click past the cut and I'll let you know my favorite F2P action MMOs.

Continue reading Free for All: The still-satisfying world of action MMOs

MassivelyFree for All: The still-satisfying world of action MMOs originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionaction-mmobeau-hindmabrowser-baseddragon-nestdungeon-fighter-onlinef2pfeaturedffafpsfree-for-allfree-to-playftpjef-reahardjunebud-abmericanmilmommofpsNexonnexon-americaperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentrusty-heartsSide-scrollerspiral-knightsthe-firing-linethree-ringsvindictusWed, 11 Jan 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: A surprising evening of roleplay in RuneScape]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/04/free-for-all-a-surprising-evening-of-roleplay-in-runescape/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/04/free-for-all-a-surprising-evening-of-roleplay-in-runescape/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/04/free-for-all-a-surprising-evening-of-roleplay-in-runescape/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

RuneScape screenshot
Roleplay is often treated as the odd cousin of the MMO family. You know the kid I am talking about... your Aunt comes to visit and your mother tells you to hang out with him, and he ends up vomiting in your room. (Did it only happen to me?) The truth is that the odd cousin is often just misunderstood and generally a lot of fun. It might take a small leap of faith and perhaps some time, but roleplay can be a very rewarding experience.

RuneScape might not seem like a prime spot for roleplay. I hardly even heard of roleplay in the community, but I knew that the playerbase was made up of individuals from all age ranges. I thought of trying to find a good roleplay clan or trying to attend a roleplay event or two, but I didn't find the time to investigate. It began to look like roleplay was not something that happened in the game.

That was until last night. I stumbled upon some sort of spontaneous roleplay session, and it was mostly thrilling. I even interviewed a few players to see how the whole thing worked. Click past the cut and I'll tell you what I found out!

Continue reading Free for All: A surprising evening of roleplay in RuneScape

MassivelyFree for All: A surprising evening of roleplay in RuneScape originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedcasualEverQuest-2everquest-iif2pfeaturedffafree-for-allfree-to-playftpjagexLARPlarpingroleplayRolePlayingrunescapeSOESONYSony-Online-EntertainmentWed, 04 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: The first annual Frindie Awards]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/free-for-all-the-first-annual-frindie-awards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/free-for-all-the-first-annual-frindie-awards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/free-for-all-the-first-annual-frindie-awards/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Welcome, fair readers, to the first annual Free for All Frindie awards. I'm hoping that these awards not only serve to point potential players to some great new games to try but illustrate my particular gaming tastes. Sometimes it's hard to explain to people just how I keep up with so many titles and still manage to stay loyal to my "home" games, games that I am simply in love with and return to pretty much every day.

So as you read my choices, bear in mind that these are based on my opinions from my year of gaming and from my list of favorites. It's also important to note that not all of my favorites were released this year. Some of them are downright ancient games compared to the rest of the young MMO market, but as long as they released a significant amount of content in 2011, I considered them. To me, expansions and a series of patches can equal a brand-new release. Some games release so much new content per year that they might as well have been released again.

So click past the cut to see my favorites from the market of free-to-play, indie and browser-based gaming. Be sure to leave your picks in the comments section!

Continue reading Free for All: The first annual Frindie Awards

MassivelyFree for All: The first annual Frindie Awards originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Dec 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeria-gamesbeau-hindmandie2niteeden-eternalf2pfeaturedfree-for-allfree-to-playfrindiefrindie-awardsfrindiesftpglitchjagexkingsisle-entertainmentmotion-twinpocket-legendsrunescapespacetime-studiosspiral-knightsthree-rings-designtiny-speckVendetta-Onlinewizard101Wed, 28 Dec 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: What F2P and indie games can learn from SWTOR]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/free-for-all-what-f2p-and-indie-games-can-learn-from-swtor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/free-for-all-what-f2p-and-indie-games-can-learn-from-swtor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/free-for-all-what-f2p-and-indie-games-can-learn-from-swtor/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

SWTOR screenshot
As I am sure you know by now, this is the launch week for a tiny game called Star Wars the Old Republic. Launch weeks for major titles are always fun around the Massively offices. The buzz is so thick in the air that you can almost feel it. Twitter, Facebook, blogs and forums are on fire with posts about the upcoming title, questioning what will happen in the higher levels or how the lore will pan out. It's exciting, for sure, even if you are not a fan. Fortunately, there is a lot to learn from this newest AAA launch.

Fans of indie or free-to-play games might think that SWTOR will have no effect on our worlds or influence over our favorite titles. I beg to differ. SWTOR is an MMO all the same, and its launch will have effects on the industry just like the last dozen major titles did. What does it mean for a tiny game that has been lovingly crafted by one designer? What can the world of free-to-play learn from this latest major release?

Click past the cut.

Continue reading Free for All: What F2P and indie games can learn from SWTOR

MassivelyFree for All: What F2P and indie games can learn from SWTOR originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Dec 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanBioWareBlizzardf2pfeaturedfree-for-allfree-to-playftpglitchjagexriftrunescapeRyzomstar-wars-the-old-republicswtortiny-specktrionWorld-of-WarcraftWed, 14 Dec 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Checking out Rosh Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/free-for-all-checking-out-rosh-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/free-for-all-checking-out-rosh-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/free-for-all-checking-out-rosh-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Rosh Online screenshot
Recently I was asked to take a press tour for Rosh Online, a new "massive war" MMO from Ignited Games. Press tours can be a lot of fun. You get to chat with the developers and ask direct questions about specific things that are happening right then in front of you, and you get to hear detailed explanations about systems that might normally take a while to figure out while you explore deeper parts of the world.

The problem with jumping right into a game that you have never played before is that you can't really get an exact sense of what it is like to be a real, brand-new player. It's important to know how that feels so that it can be passed on to potential newbies. Either way, I enjoyed my time with Rosh Online, but I did have quite a few issues with it. I'm sure a lot will change over time, especially since this game is brand-new, but in the meanwhile I'll tell you all about it.

Click past the cut!

Continue reading Free for All: Checking out Rosh Online

MassivelyFree for All: Checking out Rosh Online originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Dec 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionbeau-hindmanf2pfeaturedffafree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumftpguild-warsignited-gamesopinionPKpvprappelzrosh-onlinerosh-online-the-return-of-karosvelvet-ropeWed, 07 Dec 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Shopping for your favorite free-to-play fanatic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/free-for-all-shopping-for-your-favorite-free-to-play-fanatic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/free-for-all-shopping-for-your-favorite-free-to-play-fanatic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/free-for-all-shopping-for-your-favorite-free-to-play-fanatic/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Free Realms screenshot
Well, November is officially over. You know what that means: The shopping season is upon us. While you might or might not celebrate any one of the numerous holidays that are coming up over the next several weeks, you are probably quite aware of the sales and seasonal happenings in your area. Times have changed, though. It only takes one trip to the local game shop to see how boxed MMOs are not as common as they once were. Digital delivery, faster internet speeds, free-to-play payment models and many more titles to choose from have all encouraged developers to skip the boxes for the most part.

So what is there to get for the free-to-play fanatic in your life? There's plenty, fortunately. It can be quite a trip to navigate the muddy waters of cash-shop goods and virtual money, and the last thing you would want to do is buy something that is not needed or wanted.

Click past the cut and I'll give you some suggestions for gift giving this season!

Continue reading Free for All: Shopping for your favorite free-to-play fanatic

MassivelyFree for All: Shopping for your favorite free-to-play fanatic originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 30 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmancash-shopcash-shop-buying-guideClone-Wars-Adventurescrucialdream-of-mirror-onlinef2pfeaturedfree-for-allfree-realmsfree-to-playftpgamersfirstlord-of-the-rings-onlineMicrotransactionsNexonrunes-of-magicultimate-gamer-cardwizard101Wed, 30 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: What I am thankful for]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/23/free-for-all-what-i-am-thankful-for/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/23/free-for-all-what-i-am-thankful-for/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/23/free-for-all-what-i-am-thankful-for/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

WoW Thanksgiving screenshot
Here in the United States we are gearing up to celebrate well, whatever it is exactly that we give as the reason to get together with friends and family and eat more than humanly possible on the last Thursday in November. To be honest, Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays because I truly do use the occasion to take stock of how good I have it and to decide what is important to me and my future.

I wanted to take similar stock with you all, my readers. After all, work can be a major part of our lives, and this is my work. Over the year and a half I really have learned a lot and became a better writer through the experience. So I am thankful for a lot.

Click past the cut and I'll tell you just what I am thankful for.

Continue reading Free for All: What I am thankful for

MassivelyFree for All: What I am thankful for originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ablegamers.combeau-hindmanbrowserf2pfeaturedfree-for-allfree-to-playftpgaygamer.netMMObilitythankfulthanksgivingUCulcerative-colitisWed, 23 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR's Outlaw's Den is a hive of scum, villainy, and all-out PvP]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/swtors-outlaws-den-is-a-hive-of-scum-villainy-and-all-out-pv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/swtors-outlaws-den-is-a-hive-of-scum-villainy-and-all-out-pv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/swtors-outlaws-den-is-a-hive-of-scum-villainy-and-all-out-pv/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

SWTOR
There's open-world PvP, and then there's open-world PvP that puts hair on your chest and then rips it out with a vengeance. Tatooine has the latter.

At the recent fan site summit in Austin, TX, Star Wars: The Old Republic's Lead PvP Designer Gabe Amatangelo revealed nirvana for PvPers with Outlaw's Den. Outlaw's Den is a PvP free-for-all (FFA) area on Tatooine for players crazy enough to risk certain death to congregate, fight, and struggle for rewards.

Because there are no rules in the area, members from the same faction can harm -- and kill -- each other, and there are no restrictions on what goes on in that space. Apart from the excitement of "anything goes" PvP combat, Outlaw's Den sports several attractive elements that make it worth visiting, including top-tier crafting materials, vendors that sell rare mounts and social gear, an auction kiosk, and a pit reserved for to-the-death duels.

One of the most interesting aspects of Outlaw's Den is that even NPCs are susceptible to being killed, opening up the possibility for individuals and guilds to kill vendors in order to keep them out of others' hands. However, nobody can capture the zone, so the fighting will extend indefinitely.

MassivelySWTOR's Outlaw's Den is a hive of scum, villainy, and all-out PvP originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareea-biowareffaffa-pvpfree-for-allfree-for-all-pvpGabe-Amatangelooutlaws-denpvpstar-wars-the-old-republicswtortatooineFri, 18 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Some thoughts from the yellow pad]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/16/free-for-all-some-thoughts-from-the-yellow-pad/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/16/free-for-all-some-thoughts-from-the-yellow-pad/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/16/free-for-all-some-thoughts-from-the-yellow-pad/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Yellow pad picture
I've had a pretty busy time over the last several days. I like to stay active when I can, easily stuffing my schedule with high-power meetings and travels to exotic lands to discuss the latest game. Heck, just the other day I was flown to Russia to meet with the insane genius behind some of my favorite titles, and we bare-chested wrestled in the snow (he lost and had to buy the second round).

Well, not exactly. I did find some pretty cool games, played with my favorite titles, and overall daydreamed my way through life. A pretty typical week, really. If you'd like to hear about a few of the cool things I found, thought, and played last week, click past the cut.

Continue reading Free for All: Some thoughts from the yellow pad

MassivelyFree for All: Some thoughts from the yellow pad originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 Nov 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowserconsoleeve-onlinef2pfeaturedfree-for-allfree-to-playftpillyriadrunescapeSandboxsingle-playerskyrimWed, 16 Nov 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Explaining the free-to-play hold-outs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/09/free-for-all-explaining-the-free-to-play-hold-outs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/09/free-for-all-explaining-the-free-to-play-hold-outs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/09/free-for-all-explaining-the-free-to-play-hold-outs/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Asheron's Call screenshot
Well, it's official. Free-to-play is not the wave of the future; it is the payment model of today. Games left and right are transforming themselves into free-to-play versions, and the never-ending stream of free-to-play games from foreign lands (a wave that started many years ago) is continuing at its usual breakneck pace. It's quite the understatement to say that we have almost too many choices in the market today. Developers have to fight harder than ever before (yes, even the big ones) for your time and money.

But there are a few old-school holdouts that still refuse to offer some kind of free access, games like Ultima Online, EverQuest, and Asheron's Call. Why is that? What could they possibly achieve by ignoring the latest trend in payment models, and why does the payment model even matter?

Click past the cut and let's discuss it.

Continue reading Free for All: Explaining the free-to-play hold-outs

MassivelyFree for All: Explaining the free-to-play hold-outs originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 Nov 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asherons-callbeau-hindmandarkfalleverquestf2pfeaturedfree-for-allfree-to-playftppayment-modelsriftstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorUltima-OnlineWed, 09 Nov 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: The real damage of botting, in the words of a botter]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/02/free-for-all-the-real-damage-of-botting-in-the-words-of-a-botter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/02/free-for-all-the-real-damage-of-botting-in-the-words-of-a-botter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/02/free-for-all-the-real-damage-of-botting-in-the-words-of-a-botter/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

RuneScape screenshot
I received an interesting email from someone the other day, someone who wanted to let me in on the lifestyle of a botter. Frankly I was a little embarrassed for the guy since he seemed to believe me to be naive about the entire process. The truth is that I have met plenty of shady characters and heard stories that would make your eyes bug out of your head. I've heard these stories from the developers and players themselves. There truly is some nasty stuff going on in MMO gaming.

The saddest thing is that cheaters honestly think that what they do cannot possibly result in much harm for the game they are botting in, cheating at, or hacking up. It's sad because the truth is that a cheater, as one person, might not have much of an impact on the game. Add up several thousands of these scam artists and the results are mindboggling. Drive by your local dump to see just how much trash can pile up, one person at a time.

I want to shine some light on just how damaging botting can be. Click past the cut.

Continue reading Free for All: The real damage of botting, in the words of a botter

MassivelyFree for All: The real damage of botting, in the words of a botter originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 Nov 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbotbotsbottersbottingf2pfeaturedffa-pvpfree-for-allfree-to-playftpgold-farminggreedhackershackingjagexmark-gerhardrunescapeWed, 02 Nov 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Why RuneScape is almost perfect for me, not bots]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/26/free-for-all-why-runescape-is-almost-perfect-for-me-not-bots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/26/free-for-all-why-runescape-is-almost-perfect-for-me-not-bots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/26/free-for-all-why-runescape-is-almost-perfect-for-me-not-bots/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

RuneScape banner
As I write this, I am eagerly awaiting the morning and the Bot Nuking Day in RuneScape. Hopefully, this means that "98 percent" of the bots in game will be busted, destroyed, banned and "nuked." Of course, I can't say that I have ever met a bot. For all I know, they are a friendly bunch, restricted only by the crippling desire to grind out items and gold. Poor fellows; this is going to hurt to watch.

Other than the bots (who otherwise seem like charming individuals,) I enjoy myself in the game. In fact, I love the game. There are few titles that reside in that warm spot in my gut (I keep my heart there), but RuneScape is one of them. If you'd like to skip the article so you can post snarky comments about how horrible Jagex is and to claim I'm not actually having fun, you have my permission.

Otherwise, click past the cut!

Continue reading Free for All: Why RuneScape is almost perfect for me, not bots

MassivelyFree for All: Why RuneScape is almost perfect for me, not bots originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 26 Oct 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbot-nuking-daybotsbrowser-basedf2pfeaturedfree-for-allfree-to-playftpjagexjagex-game-studiosjagex-ltdrunescapeWed, 26 Oct 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist answers Asheron's Call 2: The community]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/25/the-game-archaeologist-answers-asherons-call-2-the-community/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/25/the-game-archaeologist-answers-asherons-call-2-the-community/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/25/the-game-archaeologist-answers-asherons-call-2-the-community/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Game Archaeologist
Time machines are expensive, and with gas the price it is today, it's not always viable to fuel up your DeLorean and travel back to the early 2000s just to check out some of those long-gone MMOs. Fortunately, jawing about them with former players and developers is the next best method of revisiting canceled MMOs.

It's been a personal treat to spend the month covering a game I never got to see when it was live. Asheron's Call 2 seems like it was a special game that tried hard and resulted in spectacular ideas and flaws alike. We've gotten to hear from former fansite owners and a developer on the team, which leaves just one group to check in with: the players themselves.

So today it's all about reminiscing over AC2 with the players who still carry a torch for this title and perhaps have a poster of it on the ceiling over their beds. I wouldn't be surprised if there's one or two people out there who made "children" out of discarded Asheron's Call 2 boxes and have enrolled them in elementary school only to be declined because they couldn't be authenticated. That's just how much love there is out there for this game.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist answers Asheron's Call 2: The community

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist answers Asheron's Call 2: The community originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 25 Oct 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ac2aionasherons-callasherons-call-2classdeloreanfeaturedffafree-for-allhalolord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolugianmicrosoftmr-robotopvpracetime-travelturbineturbine-entertainmentwarner-broswbworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 25 Oct 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Why these are my top five]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/free-for-all-why-these-are-my-top-five/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/free-for-all-why-these-are-my-top-five/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/free-for-all-why-these-are-my-top-five/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Runescape screenshot
For some time now, my gaming habits have been morphing. I was worried that I might start having more issues gaming and with finding enough time to cover the games I wanted, but lately the opposite is happening. I have less physical issues now and I tend to do more gaming than ever before. Why is that, I wonder?

I decided to sit down and look at my top five most-played games over, say, this last month or two. I love analyzing my own playing because I am a pretty honest gamer. I will never feel obliged to a game or a group of friends; I never log in to grind or raid simply because everyone else does. If I find a game boring, or if it doesn't work out for any number of reasons, I don't play it.

Click past the cut to see my list and be sure to leave your top five games in the comments! (If you play that many.)

Continue reading Free for All: Why these are my top five

MassivelyFree for All: Why these are my top five originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Oct 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindbrowserbrowser-basedf2pfeatutedfree-for-allftpglitchillyriadillyriad-gamesjagexjunebud-ablaptopmilmomobilerunescapespiral-knightstiny-speckwurm-onlineWed, 12 Oct 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Why the term Facebook game should fade]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/free-for-all-why-the-term-facebook-game-should-fade/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/free-for-all-why-the-term-facebook-game-should-fade/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/free-for-all-why-the-term-facebook-game-should-fade/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Free for All
Last week, in the comments section of one of my other columns, a player described Glitch as "kind of like a non-violent, Facebook version of EVE Online." I was confused by the Facebook part, so I had to ask him about it. He responded by saying that it was "sort of like saying a themepark MMO is very 'World of Warcraft-ish'. So the meaning is likely going to vary from person to person and cover a lot of things: browser-based, more simplistic."

He makes a few good points. (I have the smartest readers!) At the same time, his truths shine light on a couple of very disturbing trends. Click past the cut and let's discuss them!

Continue reading Free for All: Why the term Facebook game should fade

MassivelyFree for All: Why the term Facebook game should fade originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmaneve-onlinefacebookfacebook-gamefallen-earthfeaturedfree-for-allglitchMafia WarsMafiaWarsmilmoWorld-of-Warcraftwowwow-cloneWed, 05 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Massively single-player does not an MMO make]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/21/free-for-all-massively-single-player-does-not-an-mmo-make/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/21/free-for-all-massively-single-player-does-not-an-mmo-make/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/21/free-for-all-massively-single-player-does-not-an-mmo-make/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Sims Social screenshot
Oh, the constant attempts at defining how we play. While many of them might seem strange or even laughable, they are all attempts at defining something for the sake of streamlining the sale. If you cannot describe your product to someone, especially in very few words, then it probably isn't going to sell. A while ago I attempted to define what MMORPG means, but I would never pretend that I'm the first one to attempt to do so. After all, the games have changed, the way we connect to them has changed, and the interactions we have with each other have changed. So why not the term?

Nintendo seems to think that "Massively Single-Player" makes for a good description. It's a slightly odd one, if you ask me, for many reasons. But let's look at it anyway and see how it might fit into the world of MMOs.

Click past the cut!

Continue reading Free for All: Massively single-player does not an MMO make

MassivelyFree for All: Massively single-player does not an MMO make originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanf2pfacebookfeaturedfree-for-allfree-to-playftpmassively-single-playerOblivionsimssocial-gamesthe-sims-socialWed, 21 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: News roundup from some of my favorite free-to-plays]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/14/free-for-all-news-roundup-from-some-of-my-favorite-free-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/14/free-for-all-news-roundup-from-some-of-my-favorite-free-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/14/free-for-all-news-roundup-from-some-of-my-favorite-free-to-play/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Istaria screenshot
Interesting stuff is happening all of the time in the world of indie, free-to-play, and browser-based gaming. In fact, it's hard for me to keep up with it all. I have to say that some developers make it much easier on me by contacting us here at Massively or by maintaining a good news feed on their website. Some developers (*ahem*) make tracking down news harder than it should be. Still, it's out there, and I decided to recap some of my favorites over the last few weeks.

Of course, I will always miss something or just forget to put something in. The search bar is always good for finding bits of news, or you could just visit us here every single day. Several times. And leave comments about how cool I am.

Click past the cut and let's get to it!

Continue reading Free for All: News roundup from some of my favorite free-to-plays

MassivelyFree for All: News roundup from some of my favorite free-to-plays originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ablegamersalganonbeau-hindmanf2pfeaturedfree-for-allfree-to-playftpillyriadistarialimbo-game-studiosnewsquest-onlineRyzomspiral-knightsstarjack-onlinethree-ringsvirtriumwinch-gatewinch-gate-property-limitedWed, 14 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Non-vanilla server rulesets]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/the-perfect-ten-non-vanilla-server-rulesets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/the-perfect-ten-non-vanilla-server-rulesets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/the-perfect-ten-non-vanilla-server-rulesets/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Perfect Ten
I've always thought that rulesets are a golden opportunity for MMO developers to get creative with their products and try something fresh and exciting. Unfortunately, most every MMO these days, new and old, adheres to the four "vanilla" rulesets that have been in place since Pong. You have your default PvE, your same-as-PvE-except-we-have-a-naming-policy PvE-RP, and the two player vs. player variants: PvP and PvP-RP.

Those are all well and good, but... y'know... couldn't rulesets be used to create fascinating variations on these games? It turns out that yes, yes they can.

While the vanilla rulesets are the vast majority, there does exist a group of fringe rulesets that dared to walk the different patch, er, path and made versions of MMOs that are a bold and refreshing flavor. Like blue! Sometimes these new rulesets were whipped up to inject new life into an aging title, giving players a valid reason to come back and see the game from a different perspective.

In this week's Perfect Ten, we're going to check out just how wild 'n' wacky server rulesets can get!

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Non-vanilla server rulesets

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Non-vanilla server rulesets originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Sep 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5150acage-of-conanasherons-callblood-and-glorycity-of-heroescodemasterscohcooperativedaocdark-age-of-camelotdarkfalldofuseqeqiieqmaceveeve-onlineeverquesteverquest-iiexchangefallen-earthfeaturedffafree-for-allheroiclandrovallord-of-the-rings-onlineloreplaylotroperfect-10perfect-tenpermadeathplanes-of-powerprogressionpvproleplay-encouragedrperule-setrulesetrulesetsserverserver-rulesserversshadowbaneshardshardssiege-perilousstation-exchangesubscriber-onlythe-perfect-10the-perfect-tenturbineultima-onlineuovanguardvip-onlyThu, 08 Sep 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Champions Online releases September State of the Game letter]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/02/champions-online-releases-september-state-of-the-game-letter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/02/champions-online-releases-september-state-of-the-game-letter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/02/champions-online-releases-september-state-of-the-game-letter/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Champions Online - Foxbat art
Champions Online is two years old this month (yep, really), and Cryptic executive producer Rob Overmeyer has taken to the intarwebs to pen a lengthy State of the Game manifesto. The first half of the piece is basically a recap of the game's last few months, and touches on everything from Aftershock to player hideouts.

The second portion of the letter focuses on upcoming content patches and also mentions the anniversary event (which is basically a social gathering featuring dev appearances). Upcoming content includes Comic Series 2: Whiteout, a new mini arc, and team missions called alerts that will scale to your level. Overmeyer has more to say, of course, and you can read all about it at the official Champions website.

MassivelyChampions Online releases September State of the Game letter originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alertschampionschampions-onlineChampions-Online-Free-For-Allcomic-series-2-whiteoutcrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfree-for-allfree-to-playgame-mechanicsperfect-world-entertainmentproducers-letterpwerob-overmeyerstate-of-the-gamesuperheroupdateswhiteoutFri, 02 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Champions Online celebrates two years]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/31/champions-online-celebrates-two-years/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/31/champions-online-celebrates-two-years/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/31/champions-online-celebrates-two-years/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Champions Online: DJ Madbot
It's hard to believe that Champions Online is about to celebrate its second anniversary, but it's true: Cryptic Studios just sent out the invitations to the game's anniversary party!

On Thursday, September 1st, our favorite super-heroine Sapphire takes center stage at the Renaissance Center at 1 p.m. EDT to start the festivities. She'll perform her musical set once every hour until Monday, September 5th at 2:59 a.m. EDT. Between sets, the audio automaton DJ Madbot thumps his funky beats all night long. Look for party hosts all about the center for party favors, unlocks, and missions. The party doesn't end at the Ren Center, however: Each of the zone bosses drop anniversary gives as well.

What are these party gifts you ask? Developers at Cyptic tell us that favors consist of the standard gift boxes, party bombs, and boosters, but new this year is the Noise Visualizer Device. This device sparks visual effects like "Pow!" and "Bam!" Plus, Cryptic continues giving gifts with DJ Madbot costume and Glitter Heroic Wear unlocks.

The event is open to the whole Free-For-All community, so why not stop by? At least you can find out why it looks like that robot has a box for head and maybe get one for yourself.

MassivelyChampions Online celebrates two years originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 31 Aug 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversaryCelebrationchampionschampions-onlineCOcrypticcryptic-studiosDJ-Madboteventf2pfree-for-allfree-to-playftpin-game-eventpartysapphireWed, 31 Aug 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: The end of physical media]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/31/free-for-all-the-end-of-physical-media/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/31/free-for-all-the-end-of-physical-media/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/31/free-for-all-the-end-of-physical-media/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Picture of CDs
In my ongoing journey to find my next laptop, I have begun to suffer from tunnel vision. After all, there are only so many ways to package a processor, some RAM and a graphics card or chip. Sure, sure, I can become an obsessed overclocker and work hard to squeeze the most power out of a PC possible, but instead I would rather pay for a good-quality, mid-range device. I use the heck out of the one I have now, and it was only $500.

One thing I am noticing is that I always snicker when I read websites that brag about included optical drives, which do me very little good but cost me more money. I rarely, if ever, use a CD or DVD burner. There's just no reason to. I can upload 20gb videos to my YouTube account and use services to send larger files. I rarely have a need even for that. Now that my wife and I have Pandora and Spotify, we don't even need to worry about physical libraries of music... it's streamed to us wirelessly.

What does this lack of physical media mean for the free-to-play gaming world? Well, a lot. click past the cut and we'll discuss it.

Continue reading Free for All: The end of physical media

MassivelyFree for All: The end of physical media originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 31 Aug 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmancloudf2pfeaturedfree-for-allfree-to-playftpLiveStreamOnLivestreamingstufflessstuffless-futurethe-cloudWed, 31 Aug 2011 15:00:00 EST