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[Everything you need to know about The Secret World]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-secret-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-secret-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-secret-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World - zombies incoming
So what's all this hullabaloo about The Secret World? Let's start with the basics.

The Secret World is a new MMORPG by Funcom, the studio that brought you Age of Conan, and way back when, Anarchy Online. It's also the brainchild of one Ragnar Tornquist, familiar to adventure gamers the world over thanks to Dreamfall and The Longest Journey. Like those seminal titles, The Secret World seeks to conjure an immersive, fantastical realm of myth, magic, and in some cases, horror. Unlike the adventures of April Ryan, though, The Secret World is your story, and it takes place in the video game equivalent of the real world (not to mention Hell, portions of a hollow Earth, and many other mythological settings).

There's an undeniable Lovecraftian influence, there are zombies and assault rifles, and there's a three-faction setup that asks players to join forces with noted secret societies like the Templars and the Illuminati (as well as the less-familiar Dragons). Did we mention battleground PvP, a Minecraft-inspired crafting system, and skill-based progression mechanics that depart from traditional MMORPG classes and levels in favor of player-made builds (drawn from a pool of nearly 600 distinct abilities)?

As you can see, Funcom is throwing everything at the wall, and luckily for you, Massively has been keeping tabs on the game's development for a number of years now. We've also managed to spend quite a bit of time in the beta of late. Click past the cut for a roundup of our best coverage, including guides, impressions, interviews, and basically everything you want to know about The Secret World.

Continue reading Everything you need to know about The Secret World

MassivelyEverything you need to know about The Secret World originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 May 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>factionfantasyfuncomhorrormythologypreviewpreviewsroundupsci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-rounduptswtsw-roundupFri, 25 May 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World launch delayed to July 3rd]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/the-secret-world-launch-delayed-to-july-3rd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/the-secret-world-launch-delayed-to-july-3rd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/the-secret-world-launch-delayed-to-july-3rd/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The Secret World Image
The Dragons, Templars, and Illuminati will have to wait two more weeks to dive into their organizations: Originally slated for June 19th, The Secret World's release is delayed until July 3rd. Early access will open on June 29th.

Funcom also announced the final two beta weekends. The first, titled "Hell Raised,'" will run from June 15th until June 17th and will include the Illuminati and Dragon starter experiences as well as allow players to leave Kingsmouth for the Savage Coast. The final beta weekend will be from June 22nd to June 24th; during this event players will participate in the game's PvP in both the warzone gameplay and the Eldorado battlefield.

MassivelyThe Secret World launch delayed to July 3rd originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 May 2012 07:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-weekendbeta-weekend-eventbeta-weekendsdelayed-launchfactionfantasyfuncomhorrorlaunch-delaymythologynewssci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedthe-secret-worldtswFri, 25 May 2012 07:45:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World ARG launches as social experience winds down]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/the-secret-world-arg-launches-as-social-experience-winds-down/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/the-secret-world-arg-launches-as-social-experience-winds-down/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/the-secret-world-arg-launches-as-social-experience-winds-down/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Secret World
The Secret World's Secret War social experience has run its course and come to a close after an exciting five weeks. More than 250,000 people participated in the war, rallying to the cause of their chosen secret society, filling forums with discussion and theories and welcoming each new War Challenge as it was rolled out. Along the way, players have been unlocking items for use in TSW, with a special few winning the opportunity to have their name in-game and an even more special few winning a trip to visit the dev team.

But that's the past, and now the glorious present awaits you. Three new videos have made their way onto The Secret War's page and each one holds a clue. The clues lead to different puzzles (one for each secret society) for players to solve. That's about all there is to know about these puzzles so far, but we're promised that they are "the start of a very exciting adventure" for participants -- so pull out your tinfoil hats and get crackin'!

[Source: Funcom press release]

MassivelyThe Secret World ARG launches as social experience winds down originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 May 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternate-reality-gameargfactionfantasyfuncomhorrormythologysci-fantasysecret-warsecret-war-facebooksecret-worldskill-basedthe-secret-warthe-secret-worldtswvideoThu, 24 May 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Raising hell in The Secret World's Hell Raised instance]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/raising-hell-in-the-secret-worlds-hell-raised-instance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/raising-hell-in-the-secret-worlds-hell-raised-instance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/raising-hell-in-the-secret-worlds-hell-raised-instance/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Seems legit.
Welcome to The Secret World's Overlook Motel, where the sheets are clean, the service is friendly, and there's an ominous doorway to Hell in every room. Such is the beginning of the second instanced dungeon of Funcom's upcoming horror-fantasy MMO, which sees players descending deep into the bowels of the underworld to put an end to a raging demonic war that's causing Hell to leak through to the real world.

I had the pleasure of joining Funcom's Tor Andersen on a guided tour of Hell Raised, the first in a series of three dungeons that take place in the fiery depths, and boy did I ever have a hell of a time (sorry). If you're interested in finding out what awaits players of The Secret World in the depths of Hades itself, follow along with me as I give you the ins-and-outs of surviving a confrontation in the midst of an infernal warzone.

Continue reading Raising hell in The Secret World's Hell Raised instance

MassivelyRaising hell in The Secret World's Hell Raised instance originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dungeondungeonsfactionfantasyfeaturedfuncomhands-onhell-raisedhorrorinstanceinstancesmythologypreviewpreviewssci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedthe-secret-worldtswThu, 24 May 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Anvil of Crom: Downgrading an Age of Conan account to F2P]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/the-anvil-of-crom-downgrading-an-age-of-conan-account-to-f2p/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/the-anvil-of-crom-downgrading-an-age-of-conan-account-to-f2p/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/the-anvil-of-crom-downgrading-an-age-of-conan-account-to-f2p/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The Anvil of Crom - Comparing Age of Conan's free and premium services
As I mentioned last time, I'm currently test-driving the EU servers. As such, my Age of Conan subscription fee is spoken for, and my US server characters are now relegated to free-to-play status. Since I'm still deciding on an EU main (I just rerolled after getting a PoM to 22), I figured I'd use this week's column to take a quick look at my veteran account through the eyes of a free-to-play customer.

When AoC Unchained debuted last summer, I read the account services matrix like everyone else, but to be frank, I didn't pay it much attention because I'd always been a subscriber. In the back of my mind, I figured that anyone who's halfway serious about Age of Conan would want to sub up, and my experiences this weekend have only reinforced that notion.

Continue reading The Anvil of Crom: Downgrading an Age of Conan account to F2P

MassivelyThe Anvil of Crom: Downgrading an Age of Conan account to F2P originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 May 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aaa-f2paccount-downgradeage-of-conanage-of-conan-account-downgradeage-of-conan-extended-trialage-of-conan-f2p-matrixage-of-conan-free-vs-premiumage-of-conan-unchainedanvil-of-cromaocaoc-account-downgradeaoc-advanced-ridingaoc-downgradeaoc-mountsaoc-unchainedaoc-veteran-rewardsbusiness-modelsconandowngradef2pf2p-conversionsf2p-matrixf2tfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfree-to-tryfreemiumfreemium-conversionfuncomgodslayerhyboriakhitaikhitai-f2popinionrise-of-the-godslayerthe-anvil-of-cromtrialunchainedMon, 21 May 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Anvil of Crom: Age of Conan turns four, taps SWG for crafting inspiration]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/the-anvil-of-crom-age-of-conan-turns-four-taps-swg-for-craftin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/the-anvil-of-crom-age-of-conan-turns-four-taps-swg-for-craftin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/the-anvil-of-crom-age-of-conan-turns-four-taps-swg-for-craftin/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

The Anvil of Crom - Age of Conan turns four, looks to Star Wars Galaxies for inspiration
The last time I did an anniversary retrospective for Age of Conan, we had a recent expansion, some new dungeon content, and several class revamps fresh on our minds. The year before that, we had the earth-shaking combat and itemization changes. This past year, the major development was, of course, the switch to a freemium business model, followed closely by the game's first adventure pack.

Join me after the break for a quick rundown on the last 12 months as they happened in Hyboria, as well as an anniversary interview with game director Craig "Silirrion" Morrison that sheds a bit of light on the crafting revamp.

Continue reading The Anvil of Crom: Age of Conan turns four, taps SWG for crafting inspiration

MassivelyThe Anvil of Crom: Age of Conan turns four, taps SWG for crafting inspiration originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 May 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanage-of-conan-craftingage-of-conan-star-wars-galaxiesage-of-conan-unchainedanniversaryanvil-of-cromanvil-of-crom-interviewsanvil-of-crom-specialanvil-of-crom-specialsaocaoc-anniversaryaoc-craftingaoc-interviewaoc-unchainedclassic-mmoconancraftingcraig-morrisonf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfuncomgalaxieshyboriainterviewinterviewsopinionsandboxsci-fisilirrionsoesony-online-entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-galaxiesswgswgothe-anvil-of-cromThu, 17 May 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with The Secret World's mission system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-mission-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-mission-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-mission-system/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World - Kingsmouth quest NPC
So The Secret World's mission system treads well off the beaten MMO path. It's pretty cool, actually, though portions of it may irritate quest-grinders who just want to blow through zones on their way to the game's equivalent of a max-level toon.

For the rest of us, there's a nifty interface, some challenging puzzles, and plenty of well-written quest text and dialogue to keep us entertained for weeks at a time.

Continue reading Hands-on with The Secret World's mission system

MassivelyHands-on with The Secret World's mission system originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-gamesfactionfantasyfeaturedfuncomhorrorkingsmouthmythologypreviewpreviewsragnar-tornquistsci-fantasysecret-worldsecret-world-impressionssecret-world-mission-guidesecret-world-missionsskill-basedsupply-runthe-kingsmouth-codethe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-mission-guidethe-secret-world-press-betatswtsw-guidestsw-quest-guidetsw-questingThu, 17 May 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with The Secret World's combat system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-combat-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-combat-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-combat-system/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World - Dead zombies
The Secret World's press beta hasn't been what I expected. To be frank, I'd say there are times I wish I didn't have to play it. See, my guild pals are on either the closed beta server or the public beta weekends server, both of which are quite crowded and therefore offer quite a different experience from the forlorn existence endured by my Massively Templar.

There's also the whole I-don't-get-to-keep-this-character thing, not to mention the wow-this-is-cool-and-I-don't-want-to-spoil-it-for-myself-post-launch thing.

On the other hand, I've had plenty of time to muck around with game systems and minutiae, something that my card-carrying membership in the crazy carebear immersionist secret society often precludes. For this week's press beta article, then, I thought I'd give you guys a primer on The Secret World's combat system.

Continue reading Hands-on with The Secret World's combat system

MassivelyHands-on with The Secret World's combat system originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 May 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>combatfactionfantasyfuncomhorrormythologypreviewpreviewssci-fantasysecret-worldsecret-world-combatsecret-world-guidesskill-basedthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-combatthe-secret-world-guidesthe-secret-world-press-betatswtsw-combattsw-guidesWed, 16 May 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 201: No more secrets]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/massively-speaking-episode-201-no-more-secrets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/massively-speaking-episode-201-no-more-secrets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/massively-speaking-episode-201-no-more-secrets/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World
Massively Speaking Episode 201 gets into all of your dirty little secrets -- not to mention Funcom's, as well! We're joined by Jef, who gives us the full scoop on The Secret World now that the NDA's come tumbling down. Will this be another Failcom or possibly a Fabulouscom? Only Jef knows, and he's highly resistant to torture and bribery.

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

Get the podcast:
[iTunes] Subscribe to Massively Speaking directly in iTunes.
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Listen here on the page:



Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 201: No more secrets

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 201: No more secrets originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionanetarenanetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrantbrian-greenbrian-psychchild-greenbrianna-roycebricksbrowserbrowser-basedddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineearthrisef2pfactionfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfuncomguild-wars-2gw2historicalhorrorhumorjustin-olivettilord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromassively-speakingmastheadmasthead-studiosmythologynamastenamaste-entertainmentnamaste-incncsoftnew-englandopinionparadoxparadox-interactivepermadeathpgcplayer-generated-contentpodcastpodcastingpodcastspsychochildsalemsandboxsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldskill-basedstorybricksthe-secret-worldtswturbineturbine-entertainmentvirtual-worldwarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 15 May 2012 16:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 201Massively.com Staff01:03:33podcasts<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Diablo III launch and DreamHack Summer 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/not-so-massively-diablo-iii-launch-and-dreamhack-summer-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/not-so-massively-diablo-iii-launch-and-dreamhack-summer-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/not-so-massively-diablo-iii-launch-and-dreamhack-summer-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
Diablo III became potentially the most pre-ordered PC game in history this week, breaking both Blizzard's personal pre-order records and online retailer Amazon's. The game is set to launch at midnight tonight, unlocking physical copies and digital installers. Diablo-inspired free-to-play dungeon crawler Path of Exile approaches its own launch this week with the release of its penultimate version 0.9.9 patch.

League of Legends announced its upcoming MSI Beat IT tournament at DreamHack Summer 2012, with a prize fund of $40,000 US and a series of public online qualifiers. Bloodline Champions revealed its own $10,000 DreamHack tournament, with open in-game qualifiers scheduled for next weekend. Valve announced details of the second Dota 2 world championship, a series that started with last year's $1.6 million US tournament.

Blizzard settled its lawsuit with Valve this week, renaming Blizzard DOTA to Blizzard All-Stars but securing the continued non-commercial use of the DotA name for the fan community. Heroes of Newerth released its incredibly successful new Midwars game mode, and Rise of Immortals put forth its official immortal spotlight for new immortal Nauria.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Diablo III launch and DreamHack Summer 2012

MassivelyNot So Massively: Diablo III launch and DreamHack Summer 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 May 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoaction-rpgactivisionbattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbloodline-championschampion-spotlightcompetitive-gamingd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidiablo-iii-launchdotadota-2dreamhackdreamhack-2012dreamhack-summerdreamhack-summer-2012e-sporte-sportsesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfuncomgameplaygothic-fantasygrinding-geargrinding-gear-gamesheroes-of-newerthhonimmortal-spotlightlaunchleague-of-legendslolmid-warsmidwarsmobamsimsi-beat-itmultiplayernaurianewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayerpath-of-exilepetroglyphpetroglyph-gamespoepvpriotriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsroiround-uprounduprpgs2s2-gamesspotlightstunlockstunlock-studiosthe-internationaltournamentvalvevarusvideowarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowwrath-of-the-lich-kingMon, 14 May 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Next beta weekend for The Secret World announced]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/next-beta-weekend-for-the-secret-world-announced/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/next-beta-weekend-for-the-secret-world-announced/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/next-beta-weekend-for-the-secret-world-announced/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

I maintain that this really isn't all that unusual for New England.
If you enjoyed the first peek into the secrets of Funcom's upcoming game, you'll be happy to know that The Secret World's second beta event has already been announced. The next weekend event starts on May 18th at noon EDT and runs until May 21st at 3:00 a.m. EDT. Several European sites will be giving away keys for this particular beta, but players who have pre-ordered the game beforehand will automatically have access to this event.

The new event will feature a number of new areas, quests, and storylines. Players can learn more about the residents of Kingsmouth who have held out despite the town's current state as well as meet representatives of the Orochi Corporation observing the dark occurrences. Plus, all of the previous weekend's content will be available, so if you didn't get a chance to take part in the last test, you'll have plenty to explore within the horror-filled world.

MassivelyNext beta weekend for The Secret World announced originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-testbeta-testsbeta-weekendeventsfactionfantasyfuncomhorrorin-game-eventsmythologynewssci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedtest-weekendtesting-eventsthe-secret-worldtswMon, 14 May 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World's skill system detailed in new video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/the-secret-worlds-skill-system-detailed-in-new-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/the-secret-worlds-skill-system-detailed-in-new-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/the-secret-worlds-skill-system-detailed-in-new-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World - $6.66 per gallon
If you're staring down the barrel of The Secret World's first beta weekend and you're a little bit daunted by the game's 500-plus skills or its classless progression system, don't despair. Funcom has released an eight-minute video designed to teach you the basics and get your paranormal adventures off on the right foot.

The ability wheel breaks everything down into one of three categories: melee, magic, or ranged. Each is subdivided a further three times into different types of weapons (blood magic, blades, rifles, etc.). Technically you can learn every ability in the game, but you can only equip 14 at a time (seven active and seven passive), and you're also limited to equipping two weapons simultaneously. Your 14 abilities, when paired with your weapons of choice, make up your build, and half the fun in The Secret World is trying out all the possible permutations.

Learn more after the break, and don't forget to check out our Secret World press beta impressions while you're at it.

Continue reading The Secret World's skill system detailed in new video

MassivelyThe Secret World's skill system detailed in new video originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 May 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buildsfactionfantasyfuncomhorrormythologysci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedskill-deckthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-buildstrailertswtsw-ability-wheeltsw-buildstsw-skill-videovideoFri, 11 May 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with The Secret World character creator]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/hands-on-with-the-secret-world-character-creator/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/hands-on-with-the-secret-world-character-creator/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/hands-on-with-the-secret-world-character-creator/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Image
The real secret to The Secret World is that it's the Matrix (see the above picture from the character creator that resembles Carrie-Anne Moss).

Actually, the first and most important stop for an MMO gamer is the character creator. When you're in beta, it might not be as important because the character will be tossed away in a few short weeks. However, in the live game, this character will not only be the same one you might see for years to come; it's also a reflection of you as a player. There are some players who insist on playing the ugliest races in the game, while others want the prettiest or the strongest. Personally, I lean toward playing female characters. I'm not sure what that says about me.

The creation of our character says so much about us, so it is extremely important that western RPGs and especially MMORPGs allow us to express ourselves. The Secret World's character creator has its good elements and its bad, but the most important part is how much Funcom's version allows us to express our personalities.

Continue reading Hands-on with The Secret World character creator

MassivelyHands-on with The Secret World character creator originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 May 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaoccharacter-creatoreaElectronic-ArtsfantasyfeaturedFirst-Impressionsfuncomhands-onhorrormythologyopinionpreviewpreviewssci-fantasysecret-worldthe-secret-worldtrailertrailerstswvideovideo-previewvideosFri, 11 May 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Trion dev posts ARG messages on RIFT forums]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/trion-dev-posts-arg-messages-on-rift-forums/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/trion-dev-posts-arg-messages-on-rift-forums/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/trion-dev-posts-arg-messages-on-rift-forums/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

RIFT - ARGing since 2012
Trion is taking a page out of The Secret World's ARG book if a new dev post on the RIFT forums is any indication.

A company representative has taken to posting poetry, cryptic messages, and even a numeric user handle on the title's official boards. Thus far, RIFT fans believe that the user name 3 3228466 787 is code for three-faction PvP (or possibly three-faction RvR). Is this a herald for a third RIFT faction, factional changes, more races, or something to do with the mercenary system? We're not sure.

We are sure it's entirely coincidental that Trion is doing this on the same day that Funcom has lifted part of its press embargo for The Secret World, a three-faction MMO that has been marketed via similar ARGs since 2007. We'll update the post as more info becomes available.

[Thanks to Jeff for the tip!]

MassivelyTrion dev posts ARG messages on RIFT forums originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 May 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3-faction-pvpalternate-reality-gameargfantasyfuncomhorrorriftrift-3-faction-pvprift-literift-planes-of-telararift-rvrsci-fantasysecret-worldthe-secret-worldthree-faction-pvptriontrion-worldstswFri, 11 May 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with The Secret World's Illuminati experience]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-illuminati-experience/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-illuminati-experience/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-illuminati-experience/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Illuminati
Dark days are upon us, and I, for one, couldn't be more pleased. For the past few days I've had the pleasure of exploring the dark corners of the press beta for Funcom's upcoming horror-fantasy MMO, The Secret World, and now the embargo is up and I'm finally able to share my impressions with all of you.

You may recall that I got some hands-on time with the title at PAX East earlier this year and came away from the experience fairly pleased. But that was an hour of playtime at the most, so how does the game hold up with extended play? I decided to hop into the (rather stylish) boots of an Illuminati initiate to find out for myself.

Continue reading Hands-on with The Secret World's Illuminati experience

MassivelyHands-on with The Secret World's Illuminati experience originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 May 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>factionfantasyfuncomhands-onhorrorilluminatiimpressionskingsmouthmythologypreviewpreviewssci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-press-betatswFri, 11 May 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with The Secret World's Templar experience]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-templar-experience/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-templar-experience/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-templar-experience/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World - Don't mind this hollow earth portal
Believing in The Secret World takes a certain of amount of... faith. And I'm not just talking about Funcom's less-than-stellar reputation when it comes to bug-free MMO launches. No, the very foundation of this particular title rests on a narrative about things unseen, and that cryptic, otherworldly esoterica informed every moment of my time spent in the press beta over the last couple of days.

The basic premise, of course, is that everything is true. Every myth, legend, and spook story that our rational minds scoff at has a place in this particular riff on reality.

The Secret World is also quite heretical when it comes to gameplay. It eschews the tried and true class-based approach for a complex grimoire of a skill system featuring an ability wheel made of hieroglyphs and higher math (or so it first appears). To come right to the point, though, I bought into the game almost immediately.

Gallery: The Secret World - Press Beta (Templars)

Continue reading Hands-on with The Secret World's Templar experience

MassivelyHands-on with The Secret World's Templar experience originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 May 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>factionfantasyfeaturedfuncomgame-mechanicshorrormythologysci-fantasysecret-worldsecret-world-hands-onsecret-world-previewsecret-world-templarsskill-basedskill-systemtemplar-starter-experiencetemplar-starting-experiencetemplarsthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-press-betatswtsw-skillstsw-templarsFri, 11 May 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World reaches one million beta signups]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/the-secret-world-reaches-one-million-beta-signups/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/the-secret-world-reaches-one-million-beta-signups/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/the-secret-world-reaches-one-million-beta-signups/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Secret World
It's hard to fathom how you can have "secret" societies when over a million new people know about them, but somehow we don't think Funcom's sweating the security breach. In fact, the studio seems quite proud of the fact that a million players have signed up to test The Secret World. The Facebook tie-in is also getting record views, with almost two million visits over the past few weeks.

Senior Vice President Morten Larssen sees this as a shining omen for a dark world: "Shattering our previous beta records gives us great hope for The Secret World's launch and its future. Combining this positive number with the excellent feedback we have received from both beta testers and the press that have played the game, make us very optimistic for a successful launch of The Secret World."

Anyone who's pre-ordered The Secret World can get in on tomorrow's beta weekend, the first of several that Funcom's planning in the lead up to release. This beta weekend will be focused on the Templar starting experience and the area of Solomon Island.

MassivelyThe Secret World reaches one million beta signups originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 May 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-signupsbeta-weekendfacebookfactionfantasyfuncomhorrorMorten-Larssenmythologyone-millionpre-orderpublic-betasci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedsolomon-islandtemplarthe-secret-worldtswThu, 10 May 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World announces first beta weekend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/the-secret-world-announces-first-beta-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/the-secret-world-announces-first-beta-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/the-secret-world-announces-first-beta-weekend/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- The Secret World
Beta weekends are all the rage these days, and now Funcom is getting in on the action. The studio has announced that its upcoming fantasy-horror MMO, The Secret World, will be the subject of a series of weekend beta tests, the first of which is beginning this weekend.

From Friday until Sunday, players who were lucky enough to get their hands on beta keys via preorders or giveaways will be able to jump into the boots of a Templar initiate. After undergoing the proper procedures for joining the less-than-secretive secret organization, players will be whisked away to Solomon Island, New England, where they will be tasked with finding the source of the ancient evil threatening Kingsmouth. The full details of the beta weekend, including a handy-dandy FAQ, can be found over at The Secret World's official site.

MassivelyThe Secret World announces first beta weekend originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-weekendbeta-weekendsbetascbtclosed-beta-weekendfactionfantasyfuncomhorrorkingsmouthmythologysci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedsolomon-islandtemplarthe-secret-worldtswTue, 08 May 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Anvil of Crom: Four reasons to return to Age of Conan]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/the-anvil-of-crom-four-reasons-to-return-to-age-of-conan/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/the-anvil-of-crom-four-reasons-to-return-to-age-of-conan/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/the-anvil-of-crom-four-reasons-to-return-to-age-of-conan/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Anvil of Crom - Reasons to come back to Age of Conan
A couple of weeks ago, one of Massively's more eloquent commenters referred to yours truly as "Funcom's biznitch." Well, OK, biznitch wasn't the exact word, but you get the idea. This bit of nerdrage was amusing for multiple reasons, not the least of which was that I hadn't covered (or played) Age of Conan for nearly five months at the time.

You know what, though? I do like Age of Conan, and I did miss Hyboria.

Sure it's got its issues, omissions, frustrations, and WTF-were-they-thinking design decisions, but it's also got a game world unlike any other in the MMO space. Join me after the cut for a few reasons I came back (as well as a preview of what the future holds for The Anvil of Crom).

Continue reading The Anvil of Crom: Four reasons to return to Age of Conan

MassivelyThe Anvil of Crom: Four reasons to return to Age of Conan originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanage-of-conan-euage-of-conan-unchainedanvil-of-cromanvil-of-crom-guidesaocaoc-euaoc-eu-clientaoc-unchainedconancromcrom-servereu-aoceu-clientf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfuncomguideshow-to-play-aoc-euhyboriaopinionreasons-to-return-to-age-of-conanthe-anvil-of-cromMon, 07 May 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret War draws over 200,000 players to its Facebook battle]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/the-secret-war-draws-over-200-000-players-to-its-facebook-battle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/the-secret-war-draws-over-200-000-players-to-its-facebook-battle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/the-secret-war-draws-over-200-000-players-to-its-facebook-battle/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Secret World
Funcom's Facebook prologue to The Secret World is a sizable success, even if it had a rocky beginning. The studio reports that over 200,000 players have taken the side of one of the game's three factions and are supporting their side through this "unique browser-based social experience."

Over the course of two weeks, participants have unleashed 50 million agents as part of the event, visited the site 1,200,000 times, and spent an average of 20 minutes each visit participating in the game. Since launching The Secret War, Funcom's added goals for the factions to work toward each week. The current prize is a Heart of Africa health talisman.

Two-hundred thousand participants is a solid win for Senior Vice President Morten Larssen, who sees this as an excellent way to prepare players for the factional struggle of the MMO: "This conflict has always been a key driver for activity in our own community, and we are excited to see that more and more people are coming in to join the conflict from outside the community as well."

[Source: Funcom press release]

MassivelyThe Secret War draws over 200,000 players to its Facebook battle originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agentsfacebookfactionfactionsfantasyfuncomheart-of-africahorrorMorten-Larssenmythologysci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedthe-secret-warthe-secret-worldtswThu, 03 May 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Should veterans and newbs be on equal footing?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/the-daily-grind-should-veterans-and-newbs-be-on-equal-footing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/the-daily-grind-should-veterans-and-newbs-be-on-equal-footing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/the-daily-grind-should-veterans-and-newbs-be-on-equal-footing/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Age of Conan - newb in Tortage
Age of Conan game director Craig Morrison recently tweeted a frank reply to one of his followers. The reader asked why Funcom doesn't revamp PvP items to make everyone's minigame stats equal, thereby relegating grindtastic PvP gear to the game's vanity armor slots and providing theoretical balance.

Morrison's response: "Not everyone wants a new player and a two-year veteran to be on equal footing. Many want that to count, aside from knowledge."

By "that," Morrison meant time spent playing the game and paying your character dues, as it were. This brings up an interesting debate, since MMOs have a reputation for rewarding geared players over skilled players in both PvP and PvE. What say you, Massively readers? Should veterans and newbs be on equal footing?

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: Should veterans and newbs be on equal footing? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 May 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanage-of-conan-unchainedaocaoc-unchainedconancraig-morrisondaily-grindequal-footingf2pfantasyfree-to-playfuncomgear-vs-skillhyboriaopinionsilirrionskill-vs-geartdgthe-daily-grindtime-spent-playingunchainedveterans-vs-newbsThu, 03 May 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Hero spotlights and Diablo III confirms PvP arenas in 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/not-so-massively-hero-spotlights-and-diablo-iii-confirms-pvp-ar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/not-so-massively-hero-spotlights-and-diablo-iii-confirms-pvp-ar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/not-so-massively-hero-spotlights-and-diablo-iii-confirms-pvp-ar/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
This week, League of Legends revealed plans to buff support tanks in the Varus patch and change several ability power items. Riot also plans to buff Master Yi and nerf Ryze's ability to tank and deal damage at the same time. Dota 2 released an updated user interface designed to take all the pain out of using the courier, and Bloodline Champions revealed its massive $10,000 DreamHack Summer 2012 tournament.

Diablo III revealed the Witch Doctor this week, giving Diablo II necromancer fans a peek at the closest replacement they'll get in the upcoming title. Blizzard's Jay Wilson also confirmed that PvP arenas will be released long before the end of the year. Heroes of Newerth released its new support hero Ellonia, an ice mage whose abilities focus around a stacking slow debuff. Rise of Immortals released a new immortal spotlight video on popular area-effect damage-dealer Netheurgist and encouraged players to start guilds with a contest to win 1,000 prestige points for every guild member.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Hero spotlights and Diablo III confirms PvP arenas in 2012

MassivelyNot So Massively: Hero spotlights and Diablo III confirms PvP arenas in 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgAlistarAmumubattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbloodline-championsbuffcompetitive-gamingcourierd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotadreamhackdreamhack-2012dreamhack-summerdreamhack-summer-2012e-sporte-sportsElloniaesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfuncomgothic-fantasyguildsheroes-of-newerthhonjay-wilsonleague-of-legendsLeonalolmaster-yimobamultiplayernerfNetheurgistnewsnot-so-massivelynsmNunuonline-multiplayerpatchpetroglyphpetroglyph-gamespvppvp-arenasriotriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsroiround-uprounduprpgrunic-gamesryzes2s2-gamesstunlockstunlock-studiosTarictorchlight-2torchlight-iivalvevarusvideoMon, 30 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Age of Conan dev blog outlines stamina changes, multi-spec functionality]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/age-of-conan-dev-blog-outlines-stamina-changes-multi-spec-funct/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/age-of-conan-dev-blog-outlines-stamina-changes-multi-spec-funct/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/age-of-conan-dev-blog-outlines-stamina-changes-multi-spec-funct/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Age of Conan - Strom's Keep
Funcom may be gearing up for The Secret World's imminent launch, but the company hasn't abandoned its other Dreamworld-powered MMO. Yes, Age of Conan is still going strong, as it's closing in on its fourth anniversary and pumping out updates on a semi-regular basis.

Today's traditional end-of-the-month development letter focuses on said updates, in particular a few systems changes slated for the near future. Funcom's Craig Morrison gives us an update on extensive changes to AoC's stamina mechanics, which have long been a thorn in the side of PvPers and PvEers engaged in lengthy battles. The new system boasts "a new personal resource that will be used just for sprinting. It is also not observable by other players," the dev blog states. Stamina will now be used exclusively for combos, and caster classes no longer have stamina at all.

Age of Conan is also getting multi-spec functionality with respect to the game's feat system. Switching between specs can be done almost anywhere in the game world (aside from raids and group instances). Look for these changes on the live servers "later in the summer," Funcom says.

Finally, class updates are in the works, beginning with the Tempest of Set and continuing on to the Bear Shaman, the Herald of Xotli, and the Necromancer. There's more too, so head to the official AoC site to read it all.

MassivelyAge of Conan dev blog outlines stamina changes, multi-spec functionality originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanage-of-conan-unchainedaocaoc-class-revampsaoc-staminaaoc-unchainedclassesconancraig-morrisonf2pfantasyfree-to-playfuncomhyboriapress-shift-to-drain-your-staminaunchainedMon, 30 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 198: Open beta madness!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/massively-speaking-episode-198-open-beta-madness/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/massively-speaking-episode-198-open-beta-madness/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/massively-speaking-episode-198-open-beta-madness/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Guild Wars 2
Massively Speaking Episode 198 is pumped up about open beta season, as games like Guild Wars 2, TERA, and Diablo III promote their wares through shameless stress test weekends. Does it whet the appetite or serve as a potent first dose of a drug that will drag us down into the gutters of addiction and achievement-hunting? Who cares! Jack us in to the Matrix, baby!

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

Get the podcast:
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Listen here on the page:



Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 198: Open beta madness!

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 198: Open beta madness! originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpganetarenanetbattlenetbiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentblueholebluehole-studiosbrantbrianna-roycecash-shopcity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxcrypticcryptic-studiosd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiieaelectronic-artsen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfactionfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreedomfuncomgothic-fantasyguild-wars-2gw2horrorhumorjustin-olivettilucasartsmassively-speakingmultiplayermythologyncsoftonline-multiplayeropinionparagonparagon-studiosperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpodcastpodcastingpodcastspweroguelikerpgsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldskill-basedstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstosubsubscription-feesuperherosuperheroesswtorterathe-old-republicthe-secret-worldtortswTue, 24 Apr 2012 14:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 198Massively.com Staff56:47podcasts<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist: Are graphical updates worth the hassle?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/the-game-archaeologist-are-graphical-updates-worth-the-hassle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/the-game-archaeologist-are-graphical-updates-worth-the-hassle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/the-game-archaeologist-are-graphical-updates-worth-the-hassle/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ultima Online
"I'd play this game again if the graphics were updated."

"If they re-released this game with modern graphics, it would be way more popular."

"The Game Archaeologist is my hero, and I will name my progeny in his honor."

How many times have we heard the above statements? From my perspective as someone who tries to keep tabs on classic MMOs, I see these claims quite a lot. Such sentiments pop up in nearly every other post Massively does about older games: "This title is rock-solid except for its aging visuals. Update those, and it would recapture its former glory and then some."

This has gotten me thinking whether such logic would pan out or not. With Anarchy Online's much-hyped graphics overhaul on the way, this discussion seems to crop up more often. Is the power of a graphics conversion or overhaul strong enough to pull back in previous players and fresh blood? Or is it merely slathering on new paint over a rusting hulk?

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist: Are graphical updates worth the hassle?

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist: Are graphical updates worth the hassle? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionanarchy-onlineaoblizzardblizzard-entertainmentclassicclassic-mmoclassic-mmosclassicsclienteaelectronic-artsenhanced-clientfantasyfeaturedfuncomgame-archaelogistkingdom-rebornlord-britishmythicmythic-entertainmentnostalgiaopinionsci-fithe-game-archaeologistultimaultima onlineuowarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 24 Apr 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Diablo III open beta weekend edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/not-so-massively-diablo-iii-open-beta-weekend-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/not-so-massively-diablo-iii-open-beta-weekend-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/not-so-massively-diablo-iii-open-beta-weekend-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
Diablo III's open beta weekend was a huge success, giving developers the chance to stress test the servers that will be used when the game goes live in just over three weeks. Torchlight II teased fans this week with the release of its official opening trailer, which picks up the story from the end of the first game. Web series Extra Credits ran a special episode this week discussing Firefall's plan to let players work together to push back the map boundaries and unlock new content.

Rise of Immortals rolled out a new guild system in this week's patch and released its new area-effect tank immortal, Shard. Dota 2 added classic hero Brewmaster to the beta roster, and Bloodline Champions began preparing patch 2.4 with its new healer bloodline, Dryad. Wrath of Heroes released a hero spotlight video on melee fighter Bax Dreadtoof, and League of Legends highlighted some awesome fan-made art.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Diablo III open beta weekend edition

MassivelyNot So Massively: Diablo III open beta weekend edition originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetbiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbloodline-championsbrewmastercompetitive-gamingd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotadryade-sporte-sportseaelectronic-artsesportesportsextra-creditsf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfuncomgothic-fantasyhyun90league-of-legendslilypichulolmobamonkmultiplayermythicmythic-entertainmentnewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayerpetroglyphpetroglyph-gamespvpred-5-studiosriotriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsroiround-uprounduprpgrvrshardstunlockstunlock-studiosvideowarwarhammerwarhammer-onlinewarhammer-wrath-of-heroeswohwrath-of-heroesMon, 23 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaderboard: Age of Conan's score vs. Guild Wars' score]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/leaderboard-age-of-conans-score-vs-guild-wars-score/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/leaderboard-age-of-conans-score-vs-guild-wars-score/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/leaderboard-age-of-conans-score-vs-guild-wars-score/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Leaderboard
Believe it or not, there are actually loads of incredible MMO soundtracks. Oh, I know we all bellyache about the repetitive music and how we turn it off and just listen to speed metal or Justin Bieber while we grind boars, but the scores are often wonderful when removed from infinite looping.

Today we're going to pit two of the greatest MMO soundtracks against each other as they vie for your approval. In the first corner is Age of Conan's score, which was composed by Knut Avenstroup Haugen. It's not only award-winning and famous outside of MMO circles but hauntingly beautiful to listen to as well. In the other corner is Mr. Jeremy Soule's epic Guild Wars soundtrack (we'll lump all four of them together for this poll), which many claim to be just as memorable as the game's visuals.

It's the cream of the audio crop presented for your judgment: Age of Conan's score vs. Guild Wars' score. Give each one a listen and then let us know which you'll vote for after the jump!

Continue reading Leaderboard: Age of Conan's score vs. Guild Wars' score

MassivelyLeaderboard: Age of Conan's score vs. Guild Wars' score originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanage-of-conan-unchainedanetaocaoc-unchainedarenanetbattle-royalconanf2pfantasyfree-to-playfuncomguild-warsgwhyboriajeremy-souleKnut-Avenstroup-Haugenleaderboardncsoftone-on-oneone-vs-oneopinionpollpollsunchainedversusvotevotesvotingvsMon, 23 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Funcom temporarily takes The Secret World Facebook tie-in offline]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/funcom-temporarily-takes-the-secret-world-facebook-tie-in-offlin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/funcom-temporarily-takes-the-secret-world-facebook-tie-in-offlin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/funcom-temporarily-takes-the-secret-world-facebook-tie-in-offlin/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Secret War loading screen
Earlier today Funcom pulled its new Secret War game from Facebook. The minigame launched yesterday in an attempt to drum up interest in the upcoming The Secret World MMO.

We've received a few news tips and heard a few rumors as to why the game was taken offline, so we decided to contact Funcom directly for the full scoop. Director of communications Erling Ellingsen gave us the low-down:
What's happened is that the activity levels on sharing to Facebook has been significantly higher than expected, and we have been asked by Facebook to make certain adjustments. So we are taking down the experience now and will be bringing it up again once the necessary adjustments have been made.

Even shortly after launch yesterday we had tens of thousands of people playing and sharing actively, so the interest for the experience has been very high.
And there you have it. We'll update the story as Funcom brings The Secret War back online or if there are any further developments.

[Thanks to Adam for the tip!]

MassivelyFuncom temporarily takes The Secret World Facebook tie-in offline originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>erling-ellingsenfactionfantasyfuncomfuncom-secret-warhorrormythologysci-fantasysecret-warsecret-war-facebooksecret-worldskill-basedthe-secret-warthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-facebooktswThu, 19 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: Ultimate road trip edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/choose-my-adventure-ultimate-road-trip-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/choose-my-adventure-ultimate-road-trip-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/choose-my-adventure-ultimate-road-trip-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Choose My Adventure
Let's go for another spin!

Just like Mikey of Life cereal fame, I ventured into the realm of Choose My Adventure once before, and I liked it! Grand adventures, camaraderie with readers, exploring the unknown... what more could I ask for? More time, obviously!

It ended all too soon. I was totally revved up and ready to jump right back in, but unfortunately neither pleading nor bribery worked to continue my stint as your plucky puppet (and locking the other staff members in a dark closet didn't pan out either -- they escaped), so I had to park it and wait my turn. It took much too long, but finally my time has come again. *happy dance*

Now the boss may have handed me the keys, but you will be the ones driving. The top is down, and I've got snacks and shades; all that is left to begin our adventure for the next six weeks is to pick which direction to head and floor it. Although a lot of good places have already been visited, there are plenty more to choose from. In the mood for fantasy? Capes? Nebulas? Heavy artillery? Cast your votes by Sunday, April 22nd, 2012, at 11:59 p.m. EDT for your chance to steer me to the world of your choice. Our possible destinations (in no particular order) are...

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: Ultimate road trip edition

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: Ultimate road trip edition originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Secret World - all your personal info are belong to us
There's something decidedly ironic about a conspiracy-laden game rife with (fictional) secrets and sensitive information taking to Facebook to advertise itself. Funcom's new The Secret World MMO is doing just that, though, thanks to a tie-in game called The Secret War that kicked off last night.

Docholidaymmo.com reports that the new Facebook game grants in-game prizes for The Secret World (in the form of cosmetic gear, potions, and starter weapons). Funcom is also giving away eight trips to its Montreal development studio as well as a chance to get your name embedded in The Secret World's retail client. Still not enough for you? How about chances to win access to the title's upcoming beta weekends?

You'll need to head to the official Secret War site and link your Facebook account (or your fake Facebook account, according to the report). After you've done so, each of your Facebook friends who is playing the game will go into your pool of agents and may be assigned toward the ultimate goal of world domination.

The Secret World is now available for pre-order and launches June 19th.

MassivelyFuncom giving away in-game prizes, studio trips via The Secret World Facebook tie-in originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>facebookfactionfantasyfuncomhorrormythologysci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedthe-secret-warthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-facebooktswWed, 18 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: PAX East, D3 unlocks, and MOBA news]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/not-so-massively-pax-east-d3-unlocks-and-moba-news/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/not-so-massively-pax-east-d3-unlocks-and-moba-news/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/not-so-massively-pax-east-d3-unlocks-and-moba-news/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
With just less than a month until Diablo III hits the shelves, Blizzard released another 275,000 beta keys into the wild. The share meter on the game's social media microsite also reached 30% this week and unlocked the first three pieces of exclusive content. Meanwhile, Path of Exile celebrated an incredibly successful pre-order campaign, netting over $200,000 in just six days and selling 13 of its $1,000 diamond packages.

In the land of MOBAs, League of Legends looked back on PAX East this week and celebrated some of the incredible costumes that fans turned up in. Dota 2 fixed a few behavioural problems with bots, added the ability to skip straight to kills in a game replay, and brought back the popular Random Draft game mode. Bloodline Champions revealed its new bloodline Dryad, and Rise of Immortals revealed its new crystalline tank immortal Shard. Heroes of Newerth released its third ranged agility hero in a row this week, the unfortunately named Artillery.

Continue reading Not So Massively: PAX East, D3 unlocks, and MOBA news

MassivelyNot So Massively: PAX East, D3 unlocks, and MOBA news originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoaction-rpgannieartillerybarbarianbattlenetbeta-keybeta-keysblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbloodline-championsbook-of-caincompetitive-gamingd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidiablo-iii-betadotadryade-sporte-sportsesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfuncomgothic-fantasygrinding-geargrinding-gear-gamesheroes-of-newerthhonleague-of-legendslolluxmobamultiplayernewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayeroriannapath-of-exilepaxpax-eastpax-east-2012petroglyphpetroglyph-gamespoepre-orderpvprandom-draftriotriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsroiround-uprounduprpgs2s2-gamesshardstunlockstunlock-studiosunlockvideoMon, 16 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX East 2012: Exploring the dark corners of The Secret World]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/pax-east-2012-exploring-the-dark-corners-of-the-secret-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/pax-east-2012-exploring-the-dark-corners-of-the-secret-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/pax-east-2012-exploring-the-dark-corners-of-the-secret-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- The Secret World
As anyone around the Massively offices can tell you, I am eagerly-bordering-on-obsessively awaiting the release of Funcom's latest entry into the MMO market, The Secret World. I'm all about the supernatural, occult, and paranormal, and The Secret World's "all the myths are true" philosophy is right up my alley, so when I heard that there would be a playable demo at PAX East 2012, it was all I could do not to squeal like a 12-year-old girl (and I may have done so anyway).

Of course, many people are hesitant about the title. Between The Secret World's subscription-cum-microtransactions business model and Funcom's track record of poor launches and bug-laden games, some gamers are finding themselves hesitant to get hyped up for the game's June 19th launch. Of course, I'd be lying if I said I weren't at least a bit cautious myself, regardless of my enthusiasm for the game. So how is the game shaping up? Well, sit down, grab yourself a drink, and let me tell you what I think.

Continue reading PAX East 2012: Exploring the dark corners of The Secret World

MassivelyPAX East 2012: Exploring the dark corners of The Secret World originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Apr 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Matt at PAX
Massively Speaking Episode 196 takes us to the front lines of PAX East 2012, where the Massively team combed through all the latest and greatest exhibits and demos to find all the juicy revelations and impressions that will fill your hype tanks until the next convention. Eliot and Matt join us to give us all the latest and greatest (swag).

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

Get the podcast:
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Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 196: Tales from PAX East

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 196: Tales from PAX East originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmobrantbrianna-roycecrypticcryptic-studiosdndeliotf2pfactionfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfuncomhorrorhumorjustin-olivettimassively-speakingmattmythologyneverwinteropinionpaxpax-eastpax-east-2012perfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpodcastpodcastingpodcastspwesci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedthe-secret-worldtswTue, 10 Apr 2012 16:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 196Massively.com Staff01:02:29podcasts<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Meet Diablo III's demon hunter]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/not-so-massively-meet-diablo-iiis-demon-hunter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/not-so-massively-meet-diablo-iiis-demon-hunter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/not-so-massively-meet-diablo-iiis-demon-hunter/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
With five weeks left until Diablo III launches, Blizzard started its pre-launch marketing campaign this week with a new series exploring each of the five classes. This week kicks off with a preview of the Demon Hunter. Meanwhile, Torchlight II revealed details of a new charge bar mechanic designed to keep a rapid pace of action, and dungeon crawler Path of Exile started gearing up for release with some tempting pre-order packages.

Penny Arcade made a guest appearance in League of Legends this week with a special comic introducing upcoming champion Varus. Riot also revealed the next champion due for release, armoured spectral warrior Hecarim. Rise of Immortals got the Penny Arcade treatment this week too when joke character Karapyss the Crabomancer was actually released. Bloodline Champions launched an Easter egg painting contest this week and asked players whether grades should be reset for the current competitive season.

Blacklight: Retribution officially launched this week and celebrated with the release of its first new gun, the heavy assault rifle. Finally, Wrath of heroes released its first hero spotlight video this week, introducing hybrid damage-dealer Nethys.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Meet Diablo III's demon hunter

MassivelyNot So Massively: Meet Diablo III's demon hunter originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoaction-rpgbattlenetbiowareblacklightblacklight-retributionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbloodline-championschampionchampionscomiccompetitive-gamingcrabomancercrabomancyd3demon-hunterdiablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotae-sporte-sportseaeasterelectronic-artsesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfpsfree-to-playfuncomgothic-fantasygrinding-geargrinding-gear-gamesheavy-assault-riflehecarimkarapysskarapyss-the-crabomancerleague-of-legendslolMicrotransactionsmmofpsmobamultiplayermythicmythic-entertainmentnethysnewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayerpath-of-exilepenny-arcadeperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpetroglyphpetroglyph-gamespoepvppweriotriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsroiround-uprounduprpgrunic-gamesstunlockstunlock-studiosvanusvideowarhammerwarhammer-wrath-of-heroeswohwrath-of-heroeswrath-of-the-lich-kingMon, 09 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World's PAX recap video talks PvP, progression]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/the-secret-worlds-pax-recap-video-talks-pvp-progression/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/the-secret-worlds-pax-recap-video-talks-pvp-progression/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/the-secret-worlds-pax-recap-video-talks-pvp-progression/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World - PAX East 2012 booth
If you couldn't make it to PAX on Easter sunday, you can at least catch up on the happenings around Funcom's The Secret World booth thanks to a new video that the firm recently uploaded to its YouTube portal.

The clip is about six minutes long, and it splices together random con-goer interviews with gameplay footage of The Secret World's ability wheel and progression system. Also featured is Funcom community manager Glen "Famine" Swan, who says that he is excited about the game's "persistent PvP, because [it's] doing a lot of grass-roots stuff that [he] grew up with in the MMO genre."

Famine also touches on the TSW's three-faction design as well as the fact that the PvP game is ever-changing and filled with progression-related rewards. If you're not so much into the PvP, don't fret, since you can still PvE with your friends regardless of which faction you choose. Check out the full clip after the break.

Continue reading The Secret World's PAX recap video talks PvP, progression

MassivelyThe Secret World's PAX recap video talks PvP, progression originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Leaderboard

I've noticed that whenever a studio is developing an MMO that features action combat (i.e., faster-paced combat that's more dependent on positioning, reflexes, and mouse usage), it acts as though it's developing the savior of the genre -- even though action combat is nothing new (just ask Dungeons and Dragons Online or Age of Conan). Instead of seeing it as a revolution that will bring us out of the supposed dark ages, I look at it as a different style of play that some prefer while others shun.

Both have their pros and cons. Hotbar combat allows for quick access to a wide variety of skills, levels the playing field for those of us old fogeys who aren't so tight in the reflex department, and focuses more on strategic thinking. However, it's typically slower and not as visceral as many non-MMO video games tend to be. Action combat, on the other hand, is certainly more in-line with its non-MMO contemporaries, with exciting pitched battles at the expense of time to think and a more limited selection of input.

So for today's Leaderboard, we're going to tackle the grand ol' staple of MMOs, hotbar combat, vs. the action combat upstarts. Will reflexes or brains win the day? Cast your vote after the jump!

Continue reading Leaderboard: Hotbar combat vs. action combat

MassivelyLeaderboard: Hotbar combat vs. action combat originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanage-of-conan-unchainedaocaoc-unchainedbattle-royalconanddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlinef2pfantasyfree-to-playfuncomhyborialeaderboardone-on-oneone-vs-oneopinionpollpollsturbineturbine-entertainmentunchainedversusvotevotesvotingvsMon, 09 Apr 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX East 2012: The Secret World demo]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/pax-east-2012-the-secret-world-demo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/pax-east-2012-the-secret-world-demo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/pax-east-2012-the-secret-world-demo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

He wants to believe like I want to love this game. Can I get this shirt?
Funcom's The Secret World has had a big weekend at PAX East with its first public chance for hands-on interaction! It's a game that's been stirring up quite a bit of interest; the classless, level-less progression system, secret societies, and sword-and-automatic-rifle genre-bending are just a few of its selling points. My ears tend to perk up when the game gets mentioned, so of course I was all but falling over myself to hop into the playable demo this weekend. Walking away from that experience, though, I'm unconvinced.

Continue reading PAX East 2012: The Secret World demo

MassivelyPAX East 2012: The Secret World demo originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 07 Apr 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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MMO Report
This week on The MMO Report, Casey tells everyone to stop whining about Mass Effect 3's ending, laments the loss of the "online" part of Warhammer 40K: Dark Millennium Online, touches on the World of Darkness keynote, and outlines The Secret World's preorder plans. He also reveals the identity of one of TERA's key voice actors: Michael Hogan (of Battlestar Galactica fame), who will play Samael in the final game. Finally, he pulls one measly letter from the mailbag and debates which class he represents in TERA.

Enjoy the full MMO Report after the cut!

Continue reading The MMO Report: Shut up about Mass Effect edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: Shut up about Mass Effect edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Guild Wars 2 - charr warriors
I'm not sure when this whole "beta weekend" craze began, but with The Secret World now joining the likes of TERA and Guild Wars 2 in parceling out its pre-release access, it's safe to say that staggered testing weekends are the new norm.

Personally I'm not a fan, as my weekend gaming time ranges from limited to non-existent, and if I'm hyped enough to play a marketing beta, I'd just as soon play it several hours a night. It's especially aggravating in the case of Guild Wars 2 and TERA, both of which can't even be bothered to turn on their testing servers every weekend!

What about you, morning crew? Do you like beta weekends?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do you like beta weekends? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Welcome to Hell
Last month, Massively sent freelancer François Blondin to Funcom's studio in Montreal to check out the latest and greatest from The Secret World. His original write-up from the latest Montreal event was his second look at the game, but one part was still under NDA: Hell. In this article, Frank will discuss his impressions of Hell in the game.

Remember the movie Constantine with Keanu Reeves? Remember what Hell looked like there, when he stared into the cat eyes and moved to that realm? Well, this version of Hell is just like that -- with you in the middle.

In The Secret World, Funcom brings us a stunning Hell, with burning winds that scorch the landscape, making things hard to see, silencing you completely when you're in the winds, and burning your precious skin to a crisp if you stand in it too long. You have to run from cover to cover to stop the damage you're taking and allow to use your abilities. But the cover is never safe; enemies are waiting for you.

Continue reading The Secret World reveals Hell

MassivelyThe Secret World reveals Hell originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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