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[Star Wars: The Old Republic hosting a weekend trial while plague expands]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/star-wars-the-old-republic-hosting-a-weekend-trial-while-plague/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/star-wars-the-old-republic-hosting-a-weekend-trial-while-plague/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/star-wars-the-old-republic-hosting-a-weekend-trial-while-plague/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Magnificent Seven Physicians? Minus three.
If you're one of the few souls that hasn't yet tried Star Wars: The Old Republic just yet, this weekend is your next chance. With the Rakghoul Plague racing across the galaxy, BioWare is inviting potential new players to take a look at the game from April 19th at 1:01 a.m. EDT until April 23rd at 3:00 a.m. EDT. As in previous weekend events, players will be able to pick up their trial characters and continue leveling them in the event that they purchase the full game afterward.

Of course, if you're already in the game, you're probably less concerned about new players and more concerned with the aforementioned plague. Darth Hater has assembled a guide for players including the latest updates to this ongoing world event running until April 24th, which should be more than enough to help players unlock rewards and see all there is to see during the outbreak. Just be prepared -- there are probably going to be a lot of new people over the weekend not fully versed in containment procedures.

MassivelyStar Wars: The Old Republic hosting a weekend trial while plague expands originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaelectronic-artsfree-triallucasartsrakghoul-plaguesci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorswtor-rakghoul-plagueswtor-world-eventthe-old-republictortrialweekendweekend-passworld-eventTue, 17 Apr 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare kicks off SWTOR's third weekend free trial]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/bioware-kicks-off-swtors-third-weekend-free-trial/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/bioware-kicks-off-swtors-third-weekend-free-trial/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/bioware-kicks-off-swtors-third-weekend-free-trial/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Star Wars: The Old Republic - agent and bounty hunter
So you still haven't played Star Wars: The Old Republic, eh? Well, BioWare's not giving up on you yet. The company is trotting out its third Weekend Pass Free Trial starting today, and you've got through April 9th to join in the fun.

As in the previous events, there's no payment or credit card required, and you'll get full access to the game's first 15 levels, all eight character classes, all the origin worlds, and your factional capital.

Also as before, your previously canceled account (or your previous Weekend Pass Free Trial account) is not valid, since these events are designed specifically for new blood. More details are available on the official SWTOR website.

MassivelyBioWare kicks off SWTOR's third weekend free trial originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaelectronic-artsfree-triallucasartssci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstar-wars-the-old-republic-trialsubsubscription-feeswtorswtor-trialthe-old-republictortrialweekend-pass-free-trialThu, 05 Apr 2012 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Bring your pals to The Old Republic with a newly extended Friends Trial]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/03/bring-your-pals-to-the-old-republic-with-a-newly-extended-friend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/03/bring-your-pals-to-the-old-republic-with-a-newly-extended-friend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/03/bring-your-pals-to-the-old-republic-with-a-newly-extended-friend/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Screenshot -- Star Wars: The Old Republic
The galaxy can be a big, cold, and lonely place, and BioWare knows it. That's why the studio has decided to increase the number of friends that players can invite to join them in Star Wars: The Old Republic courtesy of a seven-day free trial. Whereas before players were only able to invite a paltry three friends at a time, now burgeoning social butterflies can drag up to 25 of their friends into The Old Republic.

It's worth noting, of course, that the free trial period does come with some limitations. Friends invited for the free trial will only be able to progress to level 15, and trial characters can play only "on their Origin World, Capital World, at the Fleet, [in] a Warzone, and in their first Flashpoint." But if you've got some friends who are on the fence about subscribing to the game, those seven days just might be enough to get them hooked. So get out there, rally your friends, and get to conquering the galaxy.

MassivelyBring your pals to The Old Republic with a newly extended Friends Trial originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7-day-free-trial7-day-trialbiowareeaelectronic-artsfree-trialfriendsfriends-triallucasartssci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorthe-old-republictortrialTue, 03 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare announces free SWTOR weekend pass]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/bioware-announces-free-swtor-weekend-pass/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/bioware-announces-free-swtor-weekend-pass/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/bioware-announces-free-swtor-weekend-pass/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Star Wars: The Old Republic - nightclub district
BioWare has invited the masses in to try its Star Wars: The Old Republic MMO free of charge this weekend. Beginning on Thursday, March 15th, TOR's first Weekend Pass Free Trial will allow newbies who lack a previously active account to jump into the story-heavy online title, and the best part is that there's no payment method required.

The trial includes all eight classes, their starter planets and faction capitals, and PvP warzones and low-level flashpoints. The event kicks off at 1:01 a.m. EDT on Thursday, and it wraps up at 3:00 a.m. EDT on Monday, March 19th.

[Source: BioWare press release]

MassivelyBioWare announces free SWTOR weekend pass originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaelectronic-artsfree-triallucasartssci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorswtor-free-trialswtor-free-weekend-passswtor-trialthe-old-republictortrialweekend-passTue, 13 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR's Guild Summit kicks off -- and lurkers are welcome [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/swtors-guild-summit-kicks-off-and-lurkers-are-welcome/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/swtors-guild-summit-kicks-off-and-lurkers-are-welcome/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/swtors-guild-summit-kicks-off-and-lurkers-are-welcome/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

SWTOR
BioWare has assembled guilds from all across the world this week for a Star Wars: The Old Republic Guild Summit, and proceedings have already begun. Over 160 guilds have assembled in Austin, Texas, from places as far away from Norway, Brazil, and France.

The good news is that even if you're not reading this post from a spot on the summit floor, you can still tune into the panels and discussions via livestream. Today's events include a patch 1.2 presentation (which is coming "soon"), discussions about operations and flashpoints, and panels covering PvP, the Legacy system, the economy, roleplaying, guild features, and the user interface.

BioWare also announced its Friends of Star Wars program, which will give all current players the ability to give three one-week trials to others to check out the game. Finally, BioWare teased a new world events system.

Check out all of the action on SWTOR's Guild Summit livestream right now!

[Update: TORWars managed to record a shaky-cam version of the GU 1.2 Legacy video. It's now tucked behind the cut!]

Continue reading SWTOR's Guild Summit kicks off -- and lurkers are welcome [Updated]

MassivelySWTOR's Guild Summit kicks off -- and lurkers are welcome [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Mar 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.2-patchbiowareeaelectronic-artsfree-trialfriends-of-star-warsgame-update-1.2guild-banksguild-summitlegacy-systemlivestreamlucasartspatch-1.2sci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorthe-old-republictortrialupdate-1.2Mon, 05 Mar 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Has a free trial ever blown you away?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/26/the-daily-grind-has-a-free-trial-ever-blown-you-away/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/26/the-daily-grind-has-a-free-trial-ever-blown-you-away/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/26/the-daily-grind-has-a-free-trial-ever-blown-you-away/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

I enjoyed Star Trek Online at launch. I'm a little reluctant to play it again because I don't have time and I worry I'd fall back in love.
We all form opinions about games we don't play. That's just good sense -- it lets us figure out what games we're probably going to like or dislike based on what we've heard. But sometimes a game gives us either a free trial or the option to play without a subscription fee. And sometimes just that little bit of play is enough to bring us around from being ambivalent about a game to needing a subscription right now.

Sure, most of the time, the trial just confirms what you already know -- or worse yet, it turns out to be far worse than you had expected. But there's always the chance, however small, that you'll be floored by the game; the designers certainly hope that's what happens. Have you ever experienced that moment? Or have all of the games you've tried for free wound up being the same as you expected from reviews and previews?

Every morning, the Massively bloggers probe the minds of their readers with deep, thought-provoking questions about that most serious of topics: massively online gaming. We crave your opinions, so grab your caffeinated beverage of choice and chime in on today's Daily Grind!

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Has a free trial ever blown you away? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 26 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actually-really-goodculturefree-trialgame-trialgame-trialsopinionsubscription-optionaltdgthe-daily-grindtrialtrial-playSun, 26 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sub up or lose out: Final Fantasy XIV suspending accounts Thursday]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/02/sub-up-or-lose-out-final-fantasy-xiv-suspending-accounts-thursd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/02/sub-up-or-lose-out-final-fantasy-xiv-suspending-accounts-thursd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/02/sub-up-or-lose-out-final-fantasy-xiv-suspending-accounts-thursd/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Final Fantasy XIV
A month ago we reported that Square-Enix is finally ready to transition Final Fantasy XIV to a subscription model. This comes after more than a year of an unlimited free trial for users while the dev team shored up the title following its rocky release. It's important to note that this change happens this week -- specifically on Friday the 6th.

Square-Enix's account system has notified players that "the free trial period for the following service will soon end. Please note that after the end date, you will be billed service fees for your automatically continuous options."

No player will get charged against their will as the company is suspending all accounts on the 5th so that everyone can have a choice whether to subscribe or not. Until the launch of Final Fantasy XIV's 2.0 patch, the game will be available for a discounted rate of $9.99 a month, assuming that you're sticking with just one character (additional characters are $3 apiece). After 2.0, the subscription cost will increase to the standard rate $12.99/month.

MassivelySub up or lose out: Final Fantasy XIV suspending accounts Thursday originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.0discountfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivfinal-fantasy-xiv-2.0free-trialpatch-2.0promotionsquaresquare-enixsubscriptionsubscription-billingsubscription-costunlimited-free-trialMon, 02 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aventurine hosting free Darkfall weekend, quadruple XP]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/aventurine-hosting-free-darkfall-weekend-quadruple-xp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/aventurine-hosting-free-darkfall-weekend-quadruple-xp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/aventurine-hosting-free-darkfall-weekend-quadruple-xp/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Darkfall - Mahirrim fighting
If you've ever wanted to see what all the Darkfall fuss is about, this weekend would be a great time to clear your calendar. Aventurine is making the fantasy sandbox accessible to everyone for free, and the devs are also quadrupling the normal experience gain through Sunday.

Previously active accounts have been reactivated, and new players can sign up on the game's official website prior to rolling a character. Darkfall is set in the harsh realm of Agon, a huge medieval fantasy world filled with dungeons, dangerous mobs, and open PvP. The game also features full corpse-looting, crafting, and clan-based warfare.

Check out our Darkfall Choose My Adventure series for an in-depth look at the title's gameplay and community, and be sure to hit up the gallery below for the latest screenshots.

Gallery: Darkfall main gallery


[Source: Aventurine press release]

MassivelyAventurine hosting free Darkfall weekend, quadruple XP originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agonaventurinebonus-xp-weekendcorpse-lootingdarkfallfantasyfree-trialfree-weekendopen-pvppvpquadruple-xpsandboxxp-bonusFri, 18 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE apologizes for delay of SWG customer loyalty free trials]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/25/soe-apologizes-for-delay-of-swg-customer-loyalty-free-trials/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/25/soe-apologizes-for-delay-of-swg-customer-loyalty-free-trials/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/25/soe-apologizes-for-delay-of-swg-customer-loyalty-free-trials/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Screenshot -- Star Wars Galaxies
Many Star Wars Galaxies players were disappointed to find that the free membership trials promised to them by October 15th had not been delivered. Well, Sony's sorry too, but don't worry: The company is making it up to players by... actually activating the free trials this time!

An official post over at the Star Wars Galaxies forums apologizes for the delay and offers players free trials for five SOE titles: DC Universe Online, Star Wars: Clone Wars Adventures, Free Realms, EverQuest, and EverQuest II. While most of these games are technically free-to-play, Sony's offer will upgrade all prior SWG account-holders to paid membership status for each game until December 31st of this year. So if you had a SWG account in good standing prior to October 15th, head on over to the official forum thread for details on how to claim your free trials.

MassivelySOE apologizes for delay of SWG customer loyalty free trials originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 25 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apologyclone-wars-adventuresdc-universe-onlinedcuoeqeq-2eq-iieverquesteverquest-2everquest-iifree-realmsfree-trialfree-trialsshutdownsoesony-online-entertainmentstar-wars-galaxiesswgTue, 25 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gods and Heroes entices players with extended trial, lower cost and a new class]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/gods-and-heroes-entices-players-with-extended-trial-lower-cost/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/gods-and-heroes-entices-players-with-extended-trial-lower-cost/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/gods-and-heroes-entices-players-with-extended-trial-lower-cost/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Gods and Heroes
Gods & Heroes wants you to play it. Like, really, really bad. So much so, in fact, that the Roman-themed MMO is launching a multi-pronged campaign on potential players in an attempt to rope them into the game.

The first prong of the campaign is an extended free trial. Starting today, players can check out the full game for a week by simply signing up on the site. "By extending the trial period from three to seven days, new players will have a chance to really dig into the heart of the game and we know they'll like what they find," Heatwave's Anthony Castoro said.

The cost of Gods & Heroes is coming down as well, hitting a more reasonable $29.99 for both boxed and digital versions of the game. Castoro hopes that this will help interested parties get past any financial barriers and will widen the playerbase: "The community has spoken and our analytics confirm that players really enjoy Gods & Heroes once they've experienced it."

Finally, Heatwave is adding a chunk of new content to the game, including the ranged Scout class and a free archer minion for loyal subscribers. The undead minion Batillus will be granted to players who subscribed prior to August 1st.

MassivelyGods and Heroes entices players with extended trial, lower cost and a new class originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7-day-trialAnthony-CastoroarcherBatillusbonuscostdiscountfree-trialgods-and-heroesheatwaveheatwave-interactiverangedranged-classscoutseven-day-trialtrialThu, 01 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE releases new War of Zek trailer for EverQuest II]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/soe-releases-new-war-of-zek-trailer-for-everquest-ii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/soe-releases-new-war-of-zek-trailer-for-everquest-ii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/soe-releases-new-war-of-zek-trailer-for-everquest-ii/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

EverQuest II - army of Zek
When poet and philosopher George Santayana wrote that only the dead have seen the end of war, it's doubtful he had Rallos Zek in mind. Sony Online Entertainment, on the other hand, has made quite a good living off of the fictional warlord god, and EverQuest II's latest game update bears both his name and the famous quote as its tag line.

The War of Zek debuted on the live servers yesterday, and despite some equipment and AA bugginess, managed to bring a bunch of interesting tweaks to EQII. Today SOE has released a teaser trailer to hype the newly updated game, and it's heavy on high-end content including Zek himself, as well as a cadre of raid-geared players hellbent on bringing him down. Check it out after the cut, and don't forget that EQII has also reinstated its 14-day free trial.

Continue reading SOE releases new War of Zek trailer for EverQuest II

MassivelySOE releases new War of Zek trailer for EverQuest II originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 26 Aug 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eq2eq2-gu-61eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfree-to-playfree-trialgame-updategame-update-61george-santayanagu-61new-contentonly-the-dead-have-seen-the-end-of-warpatchrallos-zeksoeSony-Online-Entertainmentthe-war-of-zektrailertrialvideowar-of-zekzekFri, 26 Aug 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest II beefs up its free trial]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/25/everquest-ii-beefs-up-its-free-trial/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/25/everquest-ii-beefs-up-its-free-trial/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/25/everquest-ii-beefs-up-its-free-trial/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

EverQuest II
Sony Online Entertainment is going to great lengths to rope in prospective EverQuest II players, as today the company announced that it is vastly improving its free trial for the game. Assuming that you're not interested in EQII's free-to-play version, you might want to check out these changes and see if they're enough to tempt you into a taste or two.

The beefed-up trial includes two weeks -- 14 days -- of commitment-free play in the core game plus the first seven expansions up through the recent Destiny of Velious. In addition, SOE is sweetening the deal by giving trial players a Superior Experience potion that bumps up advancement for two hours as well as a Green Journeyman's Cloak that contains a respectable 25% speed boost.

It's a good of as time as any to give EverQuest II a try, especially since the much-anticipated GU61 lands on the live servers today.

MassivelyEverQuest II beefs up its free trial originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 25 Aug 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>14-day-trialdestiny-of-veliouseq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iifree-trialgreen-journeymans-cloakgu61soesony-online-entertainmentsuperior-experience-potiontrialThu, 25 Aug 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[City of Heroes retires free trials, reopens Winter Chalet]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/city-of-heroes-retires-free-trials-reopens-winter-chalet/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/city-of-heroes-retires-free-trials-reopens-winter-chalet/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/city-of-heroes-retires-free-trials-reopens-winter-chalet/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

City of Heroes screenshot - Winter Chalet
Freedom is coming for City of Heroes fans, and that means the existing free trial for the superhero MMO will soon be redundant. As of August 17th, players will find they can no longer create free trial accounts nor make use of the game's refer-a-friend feature (although Paragon Studios promises to unveil a replacement buddy program in the next few weeks). Free trial accounts opened before the August 17th deadline will last their full duration, so if you want to check out the game before it officially goes free-to-play later this year, the time is now!

Current players will find even more reasons to appreciate their subscriptions: As of this morning, Paragon has toggled on a few elements of the game's winter event, including the Winter Chalet and ski slopes. It's more like sledding in August than Christmas in July, but now you have a reason to drag those cold-weather costumes out of storage.

MassivelyCity of Heroes retires free trials, reopens Winter Chalet originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Aug 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buddy-programcity-of-heroesCity-of-Villainscohcovcoxfree-trialfree-trialsfreedomncsoftparagonparagon-studiosrefer-a-friendskiingsuperherowinter-chaletwinter-eventMon, 15 Aug 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Heatwave opens free trials for Gods and Heroes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/02/heatwave-opens-free-trials-for-gods-and-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/02/heatwave-opens-free-trials-for-gods-and-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/02/heatwave-opens-free-trials-for-gods-and-heroes/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Following fresh on the heels of Gods and Heroes' recent content update, Heatwave Interactive announced today that it is beginning a free trial promotion. The free trial gives three days of access to all of the game's currently available content.

Anthony Castoro, CEO of Heatwave Interactive, states, "The free trial unlocks the Gods & Heroes experience - it's our invitation for anyone passionate about mythology and legend to immerse themselves in this epic adventure of ancient Rome." If that sounds like your cup of tea, then you can access the new trial at the official site.

MassivelyHeatwave opens free trials for Gods and Heroes originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Aug 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3-day3-day-trialfree-trialgods-and-heroesgods-and-heroes-rome-risingheatwaveheatwave-interactivemythologyromethree-day-trialtrialTue, 02 Aug 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Warcraft's Rage of the Firelands brings indefinite free trial]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/28/world-of-warcrafts-rage-of-the-firelands-brings-indefinite-free/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/28/world-of-warcrafts-rage-of-the-firelands-brings-indefinite-free/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/28/world-of-warcrafts-rage-of-the-firelands-brings-indefinite-free/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

In a display of what can only be described as showmanship (given the fact that we can probably count on one hand the number of people who haven't dabbled in World of Warcraft at this point), Blizzard has announced that the coming of WoW's patch 4.2 will also herald the arrival of something known as the World of Warcraft Starter Edition.

That's right, now that the Rage of the Firelands is upon Azeroth, the Alliance and Horde are going to need all the help they can get. Thankfully, the free trial -- which previously spanned 14 days -- now lasts indefinitely, though trial players are capped at level 20 until they purchase the full game. Do note that the Starter Edition does not include Cataclysm content but does include some Burning Crusade content such as the ability to roll Blood Elves and Draenei. And for those who decide to upgrade, the World of Warcraft Battle Chest (which includes vanilla WoW and The Burning Crusade expansion) is on sale for a paltry $19.99.

And of course, there's more to patch 4.2 than the Starter Edition, and our sister site WoW Insider has your bases covered.

MassivelyWorld of Warcraft's Rage of the Firelands brings indefinite free trial originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Jun 2011 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battle-chestblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcataclysmfree-trialpatch-4.2rage-of-the-firelandsstarter-editiontrialworld-of-warcraftworld-of-warcraft-free-trialworld-of-warcraft-starter-editionwowwow-free-trialTue, 28 Jun 2011 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Aion patch 2.5 goes live, free trial program introduced]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/25/aion-patch-2-5-goes-live-free-trial-program-introduced/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/25/aion-patch-2-5-goes-live-free-trial-program-introduced/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/25/aion-patch-2-5-goes-live-free-trial-program-introduced/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

It's time to spread your wings and take to the skies once again as Aion's patch 2.5 (which we were fortunate enough to personally explore not long ago) goes live today. The new update from NCsoft introduces two new areas of content: the new Esoterrace instance and the Empyrean Crucible. Players will be conquering both of these new areas in style with the addition of stunning graphical updates and new character customization options. New skills and PvP gear will help players to triumph over their enemies with finesse, while the new mentor system allows low-level players to get a helping hand from their elders.

If you're not a current Aion player but you're still dying to take these new features for a spin, then you're in luck -- NCsoft is celebrating the new update by introducing a free trial program. Players in the program will be able to jump into the world of Atreia for 10 days and experience 20 levels' worth of content, all for free. You can choose your side and join the battle at the Aion official site.

MassivelyAion patch 2.5 goes live, free trial program introduced originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 May 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionaion-emyprean-callingaion-patchempyrean-callingempyrean-crucibleesoterraceesoterrace-instancefree-trialgraphical-updategraphics-updategraphics-upgradementormentor-systemncsoftpatchpatch-2.5trialWed, 25 May 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Perpetuum launches 15-day free trial]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/09/perpetuum-launches-15-day-free-trial/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/09/perpetuum-launches-15-day-free-trial/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/09/perpetuum-launches-15-day-free-trial/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Perpetuum's newest expansion officially went live last week, and Terra Incognita brought a bunch of changes to the world of Nia. Chief among them is the doubling of the game world's size, and the extra space makes all the more sense when coupled with the sci-fi sandbox's new free trial.

Said trial gives you 15 days of game time, during which you're free to putter around in your giant mech, exploring six new islands and raining death down on NPCs and your fellow players. The trial does come with a couple of restrictions, namely the inability to trade or join a corporation. Other than that, you can build and fight to your heart's content, as well as check out all the new expansion features like the highway fast travel system, new modules, and a highly customizable event notification system. Head to the official Perpetuum website to sign up!

MassivelyPerpetuum launches 15-day free trial originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 May 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alpha-zonesavataravatar-creationsbeta-zonescorporation-recruitmentexpansionsfast-travelfree-trialnew-modulesniaperpetuumsandboxsci-fitrialtrial-restrictionsMon, 09 May 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Allies once again invited to saddle up for RIFT's world event]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/allies-once-again-invited-to-saddle-up-for-rifts-world-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/allies-once-again-invited-to-saddle-up-for-rifts-world-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/allies-once-again-invited-to-saddle-up-for-rifts-world-event/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

This weekend's shaping up to be an exciting one for the citizens of RIFT. First up is the long-awaited second phase of the River of Souls world event. As you may recall, the first phase was prolonged by an additional week while Trion Worlds worked out some technical issues. According to in-game notices, the second phase is scheduled to go live tomorrow.

To celebrate the event -- and hopefully entice additional players to the game -- Trion is offering another Allies of the Ascended weekend trial to anyone who hasn't purchased the game. By going to the Allies page, new and returning trial players can snag a code for a weekend of free RIFT game time.

The Allies of the Ascended weekend will go up at 1:00 p.m. EDT today and will continue until Monday, April 18th at 1:00 p.m EDT.

MassivelyAllies once again invited to saddle up for RIFT's world event originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 Apr 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allies-of-the-ascendedalsbetheventfree-game-timefree-play-weekendfree-trialfree-weekendin-game-eventriftrift-planes-of-telarariver-of-soulstriontrion-worldsworld-eventFri, 15 Apr 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bring your friends to RIFT for free this weekend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/bring-your-friends-to-rift-for-free-this-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/bring-your-friends-to-rift-for-free-this-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/bring-your-friends-to-rift-for-free-this-weekend/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

You have to hand it to Trion. It's pulling out all the stops to mitigate the dreaded one-month population churn that often accompanies a newly released MMORPG. First it was a series of live events and a smattering of new content for the title's 4-week anniversary, and now comes word of the Allies of the Ascended promotion.

From April 1st through April 4th, current RIFT subscribers can bring a friend, loved one, or any other type of acquaintance to the world of Telara for free. An ally code "will grant new players (excludes existing RIFT subscribers) a digital download of RIFT and access to certain features of this game during the Allies of the Ascended event."

Check the email associated with your RIFT account for further details, or head to the official website to get started.

MassivelyBring your friends to RIFT for free this weekend originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 31 Mar 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allies-of-the-ascendedfantasyfree-trialplanes-of-telarapromotionrift-trialtelaratrialtriontrion-world-networktrion-worldsThu, 31 Mar 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ryzom to go freemium on March 9th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/03/ryzom-to-go-freemium-on-march-9th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/03/ryzom-to-go-freemium-on-march-9th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/03/ryzom-to-go-freemium-on-march-9th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

If you've played Ryzom before, it probably left a very unique taste in your mouth. Even after several years you would be hard-pressed to find an MMO that has such unique features as a weather system that actually affects gameplay, migrating mobs with predator/prey relationships, a skill-based system that allows players to explore many different activities, mounts and pack creatures that can actually be killed in the line of duty, and such a rich landscape, primed for roleplay! Ryzom is easily one of the favorite games of some of the staff at Massively.

For a while, the game featured a trial island on which players could achieve a fraction of the 250 max levels in the game, but that option was put to a time limit. After March 9th, however, it looks like new players will be able to not only leave the trial island but reach a max level of 125 -- after which all experience stops. Also, a player can continue to enjoy the game like this forever -- for free. It's essentially a unlimited free trial option, and it firmly places Ryzom in the freemium category. Don't forget, though, that the game continues to depend on subscriptions to make money, so feel free to use that option to unlock the entire game.

While there are still many questions, keep an eye on Massively or head to the official site to check it out. The discussion has already started on the official forums!

MassivelyRyzom to go freemium on March 9th originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 Mar 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbreakingendless-trialf2pfree-to-playfree-trialfreemiumftpRyzomtrialvelvet-rope-modelwinch-gatewinch-gate-property-limitedThu, 03 Mar 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Vault kicks off Mortal Online free trial]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/24/star-vault-kicks-off-mortal-online-free-trial/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/24/star-vault-kicks-off-mortal-online-free-trial/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/24/star-vault-kicks-off-mortal-online-free-trial/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

FFA PvP sandboxes are increasing in number, and with Darkfall hogging the spotlight, Earthrise recently releasing, and Xsyon gearing up for launch, it's easy to forget about Mortal Online. The indie title from Star Vault has recently announced a free trial designed to draw more players to the world of Nave, and you can try out the game for 14 days sans payment (or even credit card information).

Signing up is as easy as visiting the official website, and you'll want to note that trial players are limited to 600 skill points and a skill cap of 60. You can also get a leg up on creating your avatar by taking a look at the community-produced character creation tutorial after the cut.

Continue reading Star Vault kicks off Mortal Online free trial

MassivelyStar Vault kicks off Mortal Online free trial originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Feb 2011 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>14-day-trialcharacter-creationfantasyfree-trialmortalmortal-onlinepvpsandboxskill-pointsskillsstar-vaultstarvaulttrailertrialvideoThu, 24 Feb 2011 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix staff restructuring, seeking "new direction" for Final Fantasy XIV [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/10/square-enix-staff-restructuring-seeking-new-direction-for-fin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/10/square-enix-staff-restructuring-seeking-new-direction-for-fin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/10/square-enix-staff-restructuring-seeking-new-direction-for-fin/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Square Enix dropped a bomb on its fanbase early this morning with an announcement of a staff restructuring, a plan for a completely new direction for Final Fantasy XIV, and a delay of the PlayStation 3 version of the game.

Producer Hiromichi Tanaka has stepped down, leaving behind an apology to fans for the "inability to fully satisfy users with the initial release of Final Fantasy XIV." Taking his place as Producer/Director is Naoki Yoshida. While this change received the most attention in the announcement, there are nine other managerial changes taking place to create an entirely new core team for FFXIV.

What will this team be working on? President and CEO Yoichi Wada says that there will be a new direction for the game: "we ask our customers to be patient until we are able to confidently present them with a concrete plan outlining Final Fantasy XIV's new direction. The free trial period will be extended until that time."

While the extended free trial is nice for fans, those anticipating the PlayStation 3 release are going to have to wait a bit longer: "Regarding the PlayStation 3, it is not our wish to release a simple conversion of the Windows version in its current state, but rather an update that includes all the improvements we have planned. For that reason, we have made the difficult decision to delay the release of the PlayStation 3 version beyond the originally announced date of March 2011."

[Update: Seems something similar is happening to the FFXI team as well.]

MassivelySquare Enix staff restructuring, seeking "new direction" for Final Fantasy XIV [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 Dec 2010 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingffxivFinal-Fantasyfinal-fantasy-xivfree-trialHiromichi-Tanakanaoki-yoshidaplaystation-3ps3squaresquare-enixyoichi-wadaFri, 10 Dec 2010 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIV players get another free month of playtime]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/16/final-fantasy-xiv-players-get-another-free-month-of-playtime/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/16/final-fantasy-xiv-players-get-another-free-month-of-playtime/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/16/final-fantasy-xiv-players-get-another-free-month-of-playtime/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

More than a month ago, Square-Enix announced that players of Final Fantasy XIV would be receiving an extension to the free trial period of the game, citing that the game was not as polished as originally hoped and it was only fair not to bill for a cycle. It was a gesture of goodwill without much precedent, but most players should be very pleasantly surprised that the free trial is being extended once again. Another 30 days of free time are being granted to all players, up to and including those who had planned to cancel their billing once the free period wore off.

In addition to this announcement, the November version update is being given a tentative date of November 25th, just after the point when most free periods would have expired. This means that early adopters have received a grand total of 90 days of free playtime -- but any account with a character created through November 19th will receive the free trial extension as well. While the free time won't mollify ardent critics, Final Fantasy XIV's players can still enjoy the fact that they can play or not play the game for another month without worrying about subscriptions one way or the other.

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XIV players get another free month of playtime originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Nov 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>extra-free-timeffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivfree-monthfree-playtimefree-timefree-trialsquaresquare-enixtrialtrial-extensionTue, 16 Nov 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIV grants players a month of freedom and revamped markets]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/15/final-fantasy-xiv-grants-players-a-month-of-freedom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/15/final-fantasy-xiv-grants-players-a-month-of-freedom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/15/final-fantasy-xiv-grants-players-a-month-of-freedom/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Player opinions have been strongly mixed on Final Fantasy XIV, something that hardly needs to be reiterated. Even the game's supporters have occasionally been a touch leery about paying for their first month of the game with the current state of polish. Which means that it should be good news for players all around that Square-Enix is extending the normal "free month" to encompass an additional month, placing early adopters out of the realm of billing until November.

Aimed primarily at purchasers of the collector's edition with its headstart, the extension will be credited to any and all accounts created before October 19th. Billing will be credited for another 30 days, giving a total of 60 days free time within the game world. The official announcement assured the community that the development team is listening to all the feedback received, and wishes to thank Final Fantasy XIV's players for their devotion to the game. Considering that the game has just seen its first pass of reorganization for the market system and a director dispatch on the game's future, it's a morning of good news for the game's players.

[Thanks to Bartillo and FusionX for the tip!]

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XIV grants players a month of freedom and revamped markets originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 Oct 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>billingbreakingcostearly-launchextensionffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivfree-extensionfree-monthfree-timefree-triallaunchmarket-reorganizationmarket-wardsnew-titlespatchpatchesplaytimepricingsquaresquare-enixupdateversion-updateFri, 15 Oct 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Are free trials good for MMOs?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/08/the-daily-grind-are-free-trials-good-for-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/08/the-daily-grind-are-free-trials-good-for-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/08/the-daily-grind-are-free-trials-good-for-mmos/#commentsFiled under: ,

A couple days ago we chatted about the nature of open betas, and whether or not any testing goes on in these periods. The overwhelming majority of respondents seemed to favor the notion that stress testing is the primary reason for open beta from a developer's perspective, while free trials and sneak peaks were the primary motivators for consumers.

When it comes to MMORPGs, trials are an interesting beast. Early in a game's life cycle, it seems to me that trials do more harm than good, as the goal of every developer is to move a lot of product and/or convert a lot of the tire-kickers into subscribers or cash shop patrons. Extensive trials actively work against these goals, especially when games are new, buggy, and light on content compared to how they usually look a couple years down the road. If stress testing really is the main reason for an open beta, and MMOs are almost always inferior products at launch, why then do developers not simply stress test in closed beta phases, selectively screening their applicants for actual testers instead of the folks who are only interested in getting a free look at the game?

What do you think, Massively readers? Have free trials (or open betas) saved you from purchasing an MMORPG? Do you think game companies are shooting themselves in the foot with open betas and early trials?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Are free trials good for MMOs? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free-trialmmo-trialopinionthe-daily-grindtrialtrial-periodtrialsWed, 08 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free Love for the holiday weekend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/free-love-for-the-holiday-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/free-love-for-the-holiday-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/free-love-for-the-holiday-weekend/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Those who lament that nothing innovative and interesting is being done in the field of MMOs are probably unfamiliar with LOVE, a project seeking to redefine pretty much any core assumptions about the genre. Players build and create, levels are based upon relationships with other players, and the entire world is a surrealistic masterpiece of a landscape. Oh, and the entire project is the work of one man, Eskil Steenberg. It's the sort of thing that would be well worth checking out, and during the holiday weekend, you can do precisely that.

From 6 PM GMT on Friday until noon on Monday, LOVE will be having its first free weekend, giving players curious about the actual mechanics of the game a chance to log in and take a close look at how the game works. That runs the majority of the Labor Day weekend, a fine time to log in and get some serious construction going. Keep an eye on the official site or on GamingLove for more information on registration.

[Thanks to bartillo for the tip!]

MassivelyFree Love for the holiday weekend originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cooperationeskil-steenbergexperimental-gamesfree-trialfree-weekendindependent-gamesindy-gameslabor-daylabor-day-weekendloveone-man-mmo-studioplayer-cooperationquel-solaartrialThu, 02 Sep 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest II Extended sounds the call to soft launch [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/20/everquest-ii-extended-sounds-the-call-to-open-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/20/everquest-ii-extended-sounds-the-call-to-open-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/20/everquest-ii-extended-sounds-the-call-to-open-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

It's weird to think that it was less than a month ago when we first heard that SOE was going to launch a free-to-play version of its popular EverQuest II. It's weirder still when you consider just how fast EverQuest II Extended progressed to the open beta launch stage, as the F2P experience became available to the public yesterday with Platinum membership arriving at the end of the month.

This isn't the first time SOE has experimented with various plans to lure players into Norrath, including a 14-day free trial and the EQII Passport limited subscription. Unlike those previous plans, EverQuest II Extended is being treated as a wholly separate game on unique servers, and is offering free play without a time limit. SOE claims that this is a first for the industry: two versions of the same game operating in parallel in order to offer players a choice between payment plans.

One interesting aspect of the Extended beta soft launch is that there will be no wipe -- on the contrary, any characters, progression and purchases made by players during this period will carry over to the live version. Extended offers a variety of payment options, from completely free to a full year's subscription, depending on your level of interest. Even if you're an EQII newbie, there's no reason to avoid checking out the game to see if it might tickle your fancy.

[Update: SOE has contacted us to let us know that they're calling this a launch now, instead of an open beta, due to the fact that no character info is being wiped. The post has been updated to reflect the new terminology]

MassivelyEverQuest II Extended sounds the call to soft launch [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Aug 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaeq2-passporteqii-passportEverQuest-2everquest-2-extendedeverquest-iieverquest-ii-extendedextendedfree-trialopen-betaplatinum-membershipsoeSony-Online-EntertainmentFri, 20 Aug 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mog Log: Layers upon layers of questions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/31/the-mog-log-layers-upon-layers-of-questions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/31/the-mog-log-layers-upon-layers-of-questions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/31/the-mog-log-layers-upon-layers-of-questions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

There's a lot coming down the pipeline for fans of both Final Fantasy XIV and Final Fantasy XI. And there are a lot of questions to be asked, even though not all of them quite mirror those of your beloved author. (Those questions are generally shouted at the sky, insinuating it can hear me and that it needs to give me a beta key.) But while I'm not busy staring at a harsh, uncaring sky, I can certainly offer you a fair number of answers.

hatri1181 asks:
"I scored really low on the benchmark, but my system beats the living hell out of the min specs. Does that make any sense to anyone else?"

Yes. The benchmark isn't totally accurate, as many people were screaming as soon as it was released, and it features several odd points. Points such as being sponsored by one of two major GPU manufacturers, and highlighting the most congested areas of gameplay with no options to turn settings down, only up -- the sort of things that have resulted in people being fully capable of running the benchmark and having scores telling them they could not.

Continue reading The Mog Log: Layers upon layers of questions

MassivelyThe Mog Log: Layers upon layers of questions originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 31 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>benchmarkbenchmark-applicationconsolesfeaturedffff11ff14ffxiffxivfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xifinal-fantasy-xivfree-trialfree-trialsopinionpartyparty-formingparty-mechanicspcquest-auto-complete-9000squaresquare-enixsystem-requirementssystemstrialsverisimilitudeSat, 31 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Try Age of Conan: Rise of the Godslayer free for 10 days]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/02/try-age-of-conan-rise-of-the-godslayer-free-for-10-days/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/02/try-age-of-conan-rise-of-the-godslayer-free-for-10-days/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/02/try-age-of-conan-rise-of-the-godslayer-free-for-10-days/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The Age of Conan expansion Rise of the Godslayer has been out for a while now, and if you're a former player who hasn't tried it yet, Funcom is eager for you to take a look.

Everyone likes free stuff, so how about 10 free days of Rise of the Godslayer? From now until July 15th, former Age of Conan subscribers are invited to download and play the expansion at no cost for ten days. Of course, Funcom hopes you'll enjoy it enough to buy it, and there is a little bonus if you do just that. If you purchase on or before July 15th, you'll receive the "Tortage Survival pack," a bundle of goodies that includes a pile of starter weapons and ten double-XP potions.

The expansion's trial is available for download now, and newcomers to the game are always welcome to check out the trial of the full game, available on the Age of Conan site.

MassivelyTry Age of Conan: Rise of the Godslayer free for 10 days originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Jul 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanage-of-conan-rise-of-the-godslayeraocfree-trialfuncomrise-of-the-godslayerFri, 02 Jul 2010 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Aventurine offers 14-day Darkfall free trial]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/02/aventurine-offers-14-day-darkfall-free-trial/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/02/aventurine-offers-14-day-darkfall-free-trial/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/02/aventurine-offers-14-day-darkfall-free-trial/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Aventurine has officially announced a 14-day free trial for their PvP-centric fantasy MMORPG known as Darkfall. Lead developer Tasos Flambouras brings us the good news via the game's forums.

"After our experience with the 1 euro/dollar trial and after several further improvements we feel that we're ready to offer a free trial which won't disrupt the current user experience and will help with making the game available to a larger playerbase and getting new players into the game," he writes. He goes on to state that North American and European customers will receive priority handling in the event of overcrowding.

You can check out the European trial client or the American trial client to get started.

[Thanks to everyone who let us know!]

MassivelyAventurine offers 14-day Darkfall free trial originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 Jun 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>14-day-trialagonaventurinedarkfallfree-trialpvptasostasos-flambourasWed, 02 Jun 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online offering veteran rewards and free trials]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/30/star-trek-online-offering-veteran-rewards-and-free-trials/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/30/star-trek-online-offering-veteran-rewards-and-free-trials/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/30/star-trek-online-offering-veteran-rewards-and-free-trials/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Star Trek Online players and former players got a little surprise in their inbox this morning -- the promise of rewards if you were still playing, and the chance to get back in if you stopped. Quite apart from the recent update to the game's first large content patch, Cryptic is rolling out three new features to players: Veteran Rewards, a demo, and an upcoming free trial weekend.

The demo, not quite available yet but promised in the very near future, will work along the lines of the Champions Online demo: unlimited time, but gameplay itself limited to the first few missions and areas. For lapsed players or new players who prefer limited time and unlimited content, there's a free weekend coming up starting on May 7th. Again much like its sister game, there are no limitations on gameplay, just time: May 7th at 10 AM PST until May 10th 10 AM PST.

Of course, if you're an extant player none of these options are terribly engaging to you -- but the newly-added veteran rewards most likely are. Rolling in each 100 days, the rewards allow another free respec each interval, special costume pieces, and a small skill point buff on low-level characters. Take a look at the full page for all the rewards, which are the latest in a large dose of good news for Star Trek Online fans.

MassivelyStar Trek Online offering veteran rewards and free trials originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Apr 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdemofreefree-trialfree-weekendrespecst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotrek-onlinetrialupcoming-eventsveteran-rewardsFri, 30 Apr 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What spurs you to try a game?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/31/the-daily-grind-what-spurs-you-to-try-a-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/31/the-daily-grind-what-spurs-you-to-try-a-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/31/the-daily-grind-what-spurs-you-to-try-a-game/#commentsFiled under: , ,

For most of us, MMOs can be loosely grouped into three categories. The first consists of games that you're playing or no longer wish to play, where you bought the box and dove in for better or worse. In the second category are games that you have zero interest in playing. But the third category is the most nebulous in some ways -- games that you want to try but haven't for whatever reason. Sometimes it's a lack of time, sometimes it's a feature or two you'd rather see implemented before you commit. Sometimes it's even just a matter of wanting to see if the game has a future, which can be a terribly self-fulfilling prophecy.

But there's a hurdle there, even if it's just a small one. So what pushes you off the fence, so to speak, and gets you to try a new game? Is it an upcoming expansion? A free trial or a discounted upgrade? Friends enjoying the game, perhaps even gifting it to you? Or do you just wait a little on new games to see how they shake down, making a commitment only when you think it will be well-placed?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What spurs you to try a game? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>expansionsfree-trialfriendsopinionssalestdgthe-daily-grindwhat-you-should-be-playingWed, 31 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online streamlines trial transition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/26/warhammer-online-streamlines-trial-transition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/26/warhammer-online-streamlines-trial-transition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/26/warhammer-online-streamlines-trial-transition/#commentsFiled under: , ,

It's been a while since Warhammer Online moved to an unlimited free trial, allowing players to experience the Tier 1 game without any time restrictions. It seems to have been a pretty good move for the game, and they're obviously happy enough with how it's been going to sweeten the deal for trial players. Previously, players would have to purchase a full copy of the game to continue with their adventures; now, they just need to start up a monthly subscription. The first month will be billed and the player's account will immediately be unlocked for the entire game.

Of course, it's not quite the same as buying an official copy -- you don't get the extra free month of gameplay, nor any of the actual peripherals in the box. But it's a good step to making Warhammer Online more accessible for players who enjoy the trial and want to jump right in. Considering that there's been recent positive talk about both the reaction to the unlimited trial and the possibilities of an expansion, here's hoping that the easier barrier to entry is a step toward revitalizing the game.

MassivelyWarhammer Online streamlines trial transition originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 26 Mar 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>account-upgradebillingea-gamesea-mythicea-warhammerea-warhammer-onlineelectronic-artsfree-trialmythicmythic-eamythic-entertainmenttrial-upgradeupgradewarwar-eawarhammerwarhammer-eawarhammer-onlinewarhammer-online-eaFri, 26 Mar 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Global Agenda offering free trials]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/25/global-agenda-offering-free-trials/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/25/global-agenda-offering-free-trials/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/25/global-agenda-offering-free-trials/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

You're all our friends here on Massively, or at least we'd like to think so. That's why we're doing what friends who play Global Agenda do for their friends who are curious about the game but don't want to commit. We're sending you along to the link to sign up for a free trial to the game that lets you experience how the game runs for... well... as long as you'd like. Once you have the trial, you have it forever. You can see why Hi-Rez Studios is encouraging people to tell their friends not yet in the game to take a look.

Of course, their are limitations -- specifically, there are a limited number of trials available, meaning that if you're interested you need to sign up by April 1st. There are also level and content restrictions, as detailed by the official disclaimer. But none of that should stop the people curious about how the game plays out from signing up in hopes of getting in for free. If there's one thing we've heard over in over in comments about Global Agenda's rapid-fire patches, it's the want for a trial -- and here it is. Isn't that friendly?

MassivelyGlobal Agenda offering free trials originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 25 Mar 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free-trialfriendsga-trialglobal-agendaglobal-agenda-hi-rezglobal-agenda-trialhi-rezhi-rez-global-agendahi-rez-stdioes-global-agendahi-rez-studiostrialunlimited-trialThu, 25 Mar 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Would you pay for a trial?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/25/the-daily-grind-would-you-pay-for-a-trial/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/25/the-daily-grind-would-you-pay-for-a-trial/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/25/the-daily-grind-would-you-pay-for-a-trial/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The developers of Darkfall introduced a new trial offer yesterday: 7 days for one dollar, or one euro, depending on where you are located. News of the offer sparked quite a response from our readers, with most of them expressing pretty strong feelings one way or the other.

Valid points were given on both sides of the argument. On one hand, nearly every game that offers a trial period offers it completely free, with no strings or costs attached, so it's a bit startling when a game suddenly requests credit card information. Not to mention that credit card information isn't something that people throw out lightly these days. On the other hand -- as many of our readers pointed out -- adding the $1 fee will deter a fair amount of people who have too much time and not enough parental supervision, and are only interested in joining the game to make it unpleasant for others.

So what do you think? Dollar, or no dollar?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Would you pay for a trial? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 25 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>darkfallfree-trialpaid-trialtdgthe-daily-grindtrialThu, 25 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free trials ahoy for Lineage II]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/free-trials-ahoy-for-lineage-ii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/free-trials-ahoy-for-lineage-ii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/free-trials-ahoy-for-lineage-ii/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Has it been a while since you stepped into Aden? Or perhaps you were never formally introduced to the world of Lineage II but always wanted to give it a shot? Well thanks to NCsoft's newest trial program, you now have a chance.

Lineage II's new 14-day free trial program is welcoming both new users and returning players back to experience the newest free expansion to the game, Gracia Epilogue. While returning players won't be able to use their old accounts, they can use the trial keys to create a brand new account that will let them play up to level 40 with three characters for the 14 days.

So if you've been looking for a game to fill your need to spill blood and siege castles, this might be a good time to try out Lineage II to see if it's for you.

MassivelyFree trials ahoy for Lineage II originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>14-day-trialfree-trialgracia-epiloguel2lineage-2ncsoftpvptrialMon, 08 Feb 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Are unlimited trials more tempting?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/23/the-daily-grind-are-unlimited-trials-more-tempting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/23/the-daily-grind-are-unlimited-trials-more-tempting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/23/the-daily-grind-are-unlimited-trials-more-tempting/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Free trials can be... stressful. We recently even had a piece about trying to make the most of the limited time in them, if the point must be stressed. That's no doubt the reason why several companies have begun moving away from unlimited access for a brief time, and started to spread their trials out for as long as the player wishes. Warhammer Online, Champions Online, Free Realms, and Alganon all allow players a chance to try a limited portion of the game for as long as they want. And for someone without a lot of time, it's a perfect way to expand your window of playtime.

Of course, if you've got plenty of time to devote to the trial, it's a bit obnoxious to hit a hard limit before having really gotten to explore the meat of the game at all. For some players, the fact that they're giving away the starting area or first few levels tends to imply they're not good enough to pay for in the first place. Do you find unlimited free trials more tempting or less than the traditional model? Or do you see it as a sign that the game is in trouble or otherwise undesirable?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Are unlimited trials more tempting? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alganonappealchampions-onlinecofrfree-realmsfree-trialtdgthe-daily-grindtimed-trialunlimited-trialwarwarhammer-onlineWed, 23 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Champions Online launches new demo program]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/22/champions-online-launches-new-demo-program/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/22/champions-online-launches-new-demo-program/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/22/champions-online-launches-new-demo-program/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


So you're interested in Champions Online, but you lack a friend playing the game who could give you a trial code. You've missed out on the free weekends the game has offered, and you're not quite adventurous enough to drop the full price of the retail box sight unseen. What's to be done?

Well, as of now, the proper answer is to give the brand-new demo program a try. Following in the vein of Warhammer Online, those interested in Millenium City's superheroic population can now create two different characters and enjoy romping about in an unlimited free trial of the starting area. The opening area, in which players defend the city from an alien invasion, introduces most of the game's core mechanical concepts and allows the player to start brushing shoulders with the big names in the game's lore.

The only real limitations are the number of characters, and the hard limit of level 15, which itself takes quite a bit of work to reach in the starter zone. While it's not quite the rush of the various free-to-play weekend within the game, it keeps things nice and accessible, and should certainly help anyone curious about the gameplay get a firmer handle on Champions Online. The fact that it's on Steam as well is just icing on the cake.

[ Thanks to Edward R. for the tip! ]

MassivelyChampions Online launches new demo program originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 Dec 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>champions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-studiosdemofree-demofree-to-playfree-trialmillenium-citysteamunlimited-demoTue, 22 Dec 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Making the most of the free trial period]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/21/making-the-most-of-the-free-trial-period/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/21/making-the-most-of-the-free-trial-period/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/21/making-the-most-of-the-free-trial-period/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


The whole point of a free trial is to get you to buy the game. This is a fact of the genre, and we all know it. Correspondingly, we don't usually sign up for the free trial unless we're relatively certain we'd like to try the game in the first place. But all too often, we try the game for one session, and then we miss the rest of the free trial period and never really form a cohesive opinion about the game. So the company doesn't get your money, you don't get to try the game, and your characters languish forever in the waiting room.

Needless to say, this isn't ideal for anyone. You want to make the absolute most out of your free time in the game, whether you signed up for a free 12-hour trial or you've got a game with an endless free trial a la Warhammer Online. Doing so is something that takes a little extra work, before and after playing, but the upshot is that you get to more completely enjoy the game you're playing and decide if you really want to spend money on it every month. Read on for how to keep yourself in the game, engaged, and aware of whether or not the game deserves your subscription.

Continue reading Making the most of the free trial period

MassivelyMaking the most of the free trial period originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Dec 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxfeaturedffxifinal-fantasy-xifree-trialtime-managementtrial-tipstrying-new-gameswarwarhammer-onlineworld-of-warcraftwowMon, 21 Dec 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth free trials are back in time for the holidays]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/15/fallen-earth-free-trials-are-back-in-time-for-the-holidays/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/15/fallen-earth-free-trials-are-back-in-time-for-the-holidays/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/15/fallen-earth-free-trials-are-back-in-time-for-the-holidays/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Just last week on our Fallen Earth/Wild West MMO article, many of the commenters were looking for a Fallen Earth free trial. Now we're happy to announce that the Fallen Earth team is offering a 10-day free trial straight from their main site. In addition, they're also offering a 20% discount (now $39.99 USD) on all purchases of the game through their online store.

Of course the timing on this promotion is well-timed with their newest Social patch and holiday event. "We've made the process of accessing Fallen Earth much easier for players," said Jessica Orr, marketing manager for Fallen Earth. "With the addition of the free trial, we'd like to invite everyone to join in the Fallen Earth holiday festivities!"

So if you're interesting in sampling the wasteland excitement, head on over to their free trial page and try it out for yourself!

MassivelyFallen Earth free trials are back in time for the holidays originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>discountfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfree-trialholiday-2009icarus-studiospost-apocalypticsaleTue, 15 Dec 2009 15:00:00 EST