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[Vanguard update brings new loyalty rewards for subscribers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/vanguard-update-brings-new-loyalty-rewards-for-subscribers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/vanguard-update-brings-new-loyalty-rewards-for-subscribers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/vanguard-update-brings-new-loyalty-rewards-for-subscribers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Vanguard
As Vanguard straddles the line between its old subscriber-only business model and this summer's free-to-play transition, the team is still plugging away at minor updates to the game. Today's patch brings a smattering of updates and fixes as well as the May loyalty rewards for current subscribers.

Active players will get to haul away five goodies from SOE, including a brown sloop ship, unique tack and barding, and a "Kamelott Overland Onslaught Life-Sustaining Exo-Skeleton" mount. Players can also pick up free supply crates and veteran's caches (the latter are available only for level 50+ characters) every 44 hours.

The update also fixed a few small issues with quests, retweaked some skills for Rogues and Bards, and changed a couple of items to make them work properly.

SOE will continue to dish out loyalty rewards until Vanguard goes F2P.

MassivelyVanguard update brings new loyalty rewards for subscribers originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 May 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bardbardsf2pfantasyfree-to-playgame-updatekooleloyalty-rewardspatchpatch-notesrogueroguessandboxsoesonysony-online-entertainmenttelonupdateupdate-notesvanguardvanguard-saga-of-heroesvgWed, 09 May 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Skyshrine's the limit: EverQuest II delivering new update April 17th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/the-skyshrines-the-limit-everquest-ii-delivering-new-update-ap/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/the-skyshrines-the-limit-everquest-ii-delivering-new-update-ap/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/the-skyshrines-the-limit-everquest-ii-delivering-new-update-ap/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

EverQuest II
It wouldn't be EverQuest II without a dragon or two, and come April 17th, players will be able to bask in as much flamebreath as they can handle. It's on this date that SOE will release the much-anticipated Game Update 63, and with it, the dragon city of Skyshrine and the new area of the Withered Lands.

Skyshrine is a dragon citadel where good and evil dragons dwell, and as of the update's release, it will be coming under siege by mysterious forces. Only the most daring players will be brave enough to explore the nooks and crannies of this city -- and plunder it for its tempting treasure. If Skyshrine isn't enough for excitement, the Withered Lands offer plenty of challenges (over 100 quests) for those who can navigate the formerly glorious region that's been twisted by dark corruption.

Game Update 63 will also include many additional features for players. For those who have the Destiny of Velious expansion, the level cap will be raised to 92, the Skyshrine and Withered Lands areas opened for adventuring, prestige class talents added, and an awesome Drake mount dangled as a major reward. Age of Discovery expansion holders can also get their hands on a new dungeon maker theme and adventurers, tradeskill apprentices, and an elite mercenary for hire.

[Source: SOE press release]

MassivelyThe Skyshrine's the limit: EverQuest II delivering new update April 17th originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Mar 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-discoverycontent-updatedestiny-of-veliouseq-2eq-iieq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfree-to-playgame-updategame-update-63gu-63gu63patchskyshrineskyshrine-citadelsoesonysony-online-entertainmentupdatewithered-landsTue, 13 Mar 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Star Wars zombies]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/hyperspace-beacon-star-wars-zombies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/hyperspace-beacon-star-wars-zombies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/hyperspace-beacon-star-wars-zombies/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Hyperspace Beacon: Star Wars zombies
Tomorrow, Star Wars: The Old Republic will launch its first content update, and you will most like be up to your eyeballs in Rakghouls and Hutts... or maybe you've not made it to 50 yet because you've been absorbed in the story and leveling alts. According to BioWare developers, there are 200 hours of gameplay in each class story, so even if someone were to have played eight hours a day every day over the last month, he would only have one level 50. I say, don't feel bad if you haven't hit 50 yet. It means that you are enjoying the game the way it was meant to be enjoyed and not skipping anything.

That said, it's not going to hurt to learn about this new update, although I suggest that, if you're into the story as much as I am, you don't read the patch notes... spoilers! Dang, BioWare, could you be a bit more ambiguous about the PTS patch notes next time? It's like someone leaning over halfway through the first screening Empire Strikes Back and saying, "Oh, by the way, Darth Vader is Luke's father." NOOOOO! It's impossible!

Being someone who is interested in the story revolving around SWTOR, I do love the continued use of Rakghouls in the newest update. Sure, some would call it an easy storytelling trope (zombies and all that). I'll admit it. I'm not going to hide behind "these are ghouls, not zombies." I love the story, but in truth these are Star Wars zombies. But I do find the history of the Rakghouls interesting. Honestly, I don't know how much of the story has been retcon'd after their first appearance in BioWare's first venture into the Star Wars IP, Knights of the Old Republic, but the roots of the Rakghouls stem from the birth of the Sith Empire. I love the way it all comes together.

[Update: BioWare postponed the patch to the 18th after the column was written. The first paragraph has been changed to reflect that.]

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Star Wars zombies

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Star Wars zombies originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWareEAElectronic-Artsfeaturedgabe-amatangeloGame-UpdateLucasArtsPatch-1.1Rise-of-the-Rakghoulsspace-zombiesStar-WarsStar-Wars-The-Old-RepublicSWTORThe-Old-RepublicTORzombiesTue, 17 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[FFXIV's 1.19 patch features new group content, Ifrit primal]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/ffxivs-1-19-patch-features-new-group-content-ifrit-primal/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/ffxivs-1-19-patch-features-new-group-content-ifrit-primal/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/ffxivs-1-19-patch-features-new-group-content-ifrit-primal/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Final Fantasy XIV - Ifrit
It's patch day in the world of Eorzea, and today's 1.19 update looks to bring quite a bit of new content to Final Fantasy XIV. Said content includes a new confrontation with Ifrit, a fiery primal who waits for brave adventurers at the end of one of the game's newest quests.

Final Fantasy XIV's lodestone has all the details, and apparently the Ifrit encounter comes in two distinct flavors. One is designed for level 30 light parties (four members), while the other is a hard-mode run intended for eight-man level 50 groups.

Ifrit wears his badassery on his sleeve if the accompanying video clip is any indication, and the lodestone entry describes him as "a demon spawned by the seven hells" whose exhalations "produce heat of such torridity as to reduce iron to pools of white-hot liquid." See for yourself after the break.

Continue reading FFXIV's 1.19 patch features new group content, Ifrit primal

MassivelyFFXIV's 1.19 patch features new group content, Ifrit primal originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Oct 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dungeoneorzeafantasyffxivFinal-Fantasyfinal-fantasy-patch-1.19final-fantasy-xivgame-updatehard-modeifritlodestonepatch-1.19primalsquareSquare-EnixTue, 04 Oct 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Off the rails: Star Wars Galaxies introduces atmospheric flight]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/off-the-rails-star-wars-galaxies-introduces-atmospheric-flight/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/off-the-rails-star-wars-galaxies-introduces-atmospheric-flight/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/off-the-rails-star-wars-galaxies-introduces-atmospheric-flight/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Star Wars Galaxies screenshot
If you're still on the fence about reactivating Star Wars Galaxies in order to participate in the sunset events from now until December 15th, today's news just might push you over to the dark side... er light side. One of those!

This morning, Sony Online Entertainment published Game Update 21, the highlight of which is atmospheric flight. For real.
With atmospheric flight, you will be able to travel the skies above and see the worlds of Star Wars Galaxies in a new way. To launch into atmospheric flight, or to return to the ground, you can use your ship's icon in your datapad. Whether you are looking to host a peaceful event in your yacht with the Theed Waterfall as a backdrop or prove your piloting skills against another player over the desert of Tatooine, atmospheric flight will offer a unique way to experience Star Wars Galaxies.
The patch notes indicate that players can launch directly into space while piloting through planetary atmosphere, and you'll need some skill to navigate as ships will take damage if crashed into the ground. GU21 also heralds the "Final Battle," which presumably is another stage in the ongoing Galactic Civil War sunset events.

Remember, today is literally your last chance to reactivate and give the game a proper send-off.

MassivelyOff the rails: Star Wars Galaxies introduces atmospheric flight originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 07:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atmospheric-flightflightgalactic-civil-wargame-updategcwgu21patchshipssoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-galaxiesstarshipsunsetsunset-eventsswgupdateThu, 15 Sep 2011 07:30:00 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[Vanguard goes on a bug bash with a new update]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/vanguard-goes-on-a-bug-bash-with-a-new-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/vanguard-goes-on-a-bug-bash-with-a-new-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/vanguard-goes-on-a-bug-bash-with-a-new-update/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Vanguard
If you're rubbing your eyes in disbelief, fret not, you're hardly alone. After a sea of silence from the Vanguard team, the struggling MMO is getting its first update in a very long time -- since January 2010, as a matter of fact.

This "bug bash" update is precisely what it says: a patch dedicated to fixing a number of troublesome errors in the game. These changes will impact the UI, repeatable events, items, abilities, and quests.

While the patch itself would be seen as a routine update in any other game, the fact that Vanguard players are seeing something after all this time is cause to celebrate. A month ago Sony Online Entertainment promised the community that it hadn't forgotten about Vanguard, so hopefully this patch is an indicator that the company plans to make good on its promise to support and expand the game.

MassivelyVanguard goes on a bug bash with a new update originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 10 Aug 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugbug-bashbug-fixesbugsfan-faire-2011game-updatepatchsoesony-online-entertainmentupdatevanguardWed, 10 Aug 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Universe update adds progression system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/lego-universe-update-adds-progression-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/lego-universe-update-adds-progression-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/lego-universe-update-adds-progression-system/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

LEGO Universe has the creative aspects of MMOs and online gaming down pat. After all, we're talking LEGOs (edit: LEGO BRICKS OMG, LEGO BRICKS) here, and if there's one word that's synonymous with the long-running Danish toy line, that word is build.

What's there to do in LEGO Universe when your creativity runs dry, though? Thanks to the game's latest content update, traditional MMO character-building is now a viable option. Player minifigures may progress through 40 levels of content, unlocking points, achievements, and equipment along the way.

That's not all, as the latest LEGO Universe patch also features four new faction kits (Specialized Adventurer, Shinobi, Inventor, and Space Ranger), each of them aligned with one of the game's four Nexus Force factions and each offering players the opportunity to rank up and explore "new gear, powers, and abilities." Last but not least, the new LEGO Universe update brings a new instance challenge in the form of the Avant Gardens, and a big nasty known as the Spider Queen awaits players who are creative enough to make it through to the final battle.

MassivelyLEGO Universe update adds progression system originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avant-gardensbuildingcreativityequipmentf2pfamilyfree-to-playgame-updategeargrindinventorkidslegolego-universelegoslevel-upleveling-systemlevelsminifigure-levelspatchpress-releaseprogressionshinobispace-rangerspecialized-adventurerspider-queenMon, 08 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Tanks trailer shows off two new maps]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/11/world-of-tanks-trailer-shows-off-two-new-maps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/11/world-of-tanks-trailer-shows-off-two-new-maps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/11/world-of-tanks-trailer-shows-off-two-new-maps/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

All's been fairly quiet on the World of Tanks front since the free-to-play World War II action MMO went live last April. Today, Wargaming.net has released a new video heralding the upcoming 0.6.4 game update.

The setup is a series of idyllic scenery shots that look to be taken directly from the picturesque landscape of any number of fantasy MMOs. The tranquility doesn't last for long, though, as various tank squads are shown rolling through the countryside and shelling their enemies with abandon. This particular video exists to show off the two new maps coming in the 0.6.4 patch, and despite a relatively short running time (1:30), it does a darn fine job. The Mountain Pass and Prairies regions are vast and rather beautiful -- and a stark contrast to the scarred steel of the player-controlled tanks using the landscape for cover.

Check out all the details after break, and be sure to head to the official World of Tanks website to read the 0.6.4 patch notes.

Continue reading World of Tanks trailer shows off two new maps

MassivelyWorld of Tanks trailer shows off two new maps originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 May 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>0.6.40.6.4-patchf2pfree-to-playgame-updatemapsmountain-passnew-mapspatchprairiestrailerupdatevideowargamingwargaming.networld-of-tankswotWed, 11 May 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest II prepares for The Children of War game update]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/12/everquest-ii-prepares-for-the-children-of-war-game-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/12/everquest-ii-prepares-for-the-children-of-war-game-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/12/everquest-ii-prepares-for-the-children-of-war-game-update/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Sony Online Entertainment's premier franchise EverQuest II has continued grow year after year. Following on the heels of EQII's latest expansion Destiny of Velious, the developers have announced a new update. Set to release on May 17th, the new addition to the EverQuest II storyline, The Children of War, will be the 60th update for the fantasy MMORPG. What's in store for fans? Well, are three new dungeons, a new battleground, new pvp armor, new daily missions, and three new raids enough to whet your appetite?

The Children of War update tells us the story of Rallos Zek and the Fortress of Drunder. This ruthless general plans to lead his war parties up the cliffs leading to the Western Waste to pillage the power of Roehn Theer. Only the bravest warriors and adventurers will be able to circumvent his massive crusade.

Check out the four new screenshots added to the gallery below, then for all the new content information, fly over to the EverQuest II official web site.

Also, SOE is inviting former players to come back to the game and experience Norrath again. From April 14th to April 21st, eligible account-holders will be able to log in for seven days to claim their winged mounts, hang out with old friends, and fight some new enemies.

Gallery: EverQuest II Updates

MassivelyEverQuest II prepares for The Children of War game update originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 12 Apr 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Children-of-wardestiny-of-veliousdovEQ2eq2XEQIIeqiixEverQuest-2EverQuest-IIFortress-of-Drundergame-updateGU60patchRallos-ZekSOESonySony-Online-EntertainmentThe-Children-of-Warupdateupdate-60Tue, 12 Apr 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape March update schedule revealed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/01/runescape-march-update-schedule-revealed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/01/runescape-march-update-schedule-revealed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/01/runescape-march-update-schedule-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Lest you think this week is all about exclusive GDC news and the launch day of a little fantasy title that you might've heard of, Jagex has given us a heads up regarding its planned update schedule for RuneScape.

The month of March will see several game tweaks, and first up is the Elemental Workshop IV quest and the Artisan's Workshop (which will bring an update to the game's smithing skill). Bonus XP is coming as well, with an entire weekend devoted to leveling up twice as fast (or half as long, however you'd like to look at it). Either way, mark your calendars for March 11th through March 13th.

Finally, Jagex will be updating the Ring of Wealth, trolls and Trollheim visuals, and adding a new Clockwork Syringe quest that features "home insurance claims, a hazing interrogation, long drops, vengeful seagulls, Barrel Busters, and a boatload of zombio-mechanical madness," according to a Jagex press release. Head to the official RuneScape website for further details.

MassivelyRuneScape March update schedule revealed originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Mar 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clockwork-syringedouble-xpelemental-workshopf2pfree-to-playgame-updatejagexjagex-game-studiosring-of-wealthrunescapetrollheimupdateszombio-mechanicalTue, 01 Mar 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Chris Cao spreads the love for the next DCUO update]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/01/chris-cao-spreads-the-love-for-the-next-update-to-dcuo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/01/chris-cao-spreads-the-love-for-the-next-update-to-dcuo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/01/chris-cao-spreads-the-love-for-the-next-update-to-dcuo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

DC Universe Online has become the fastest-selling game for Sony Online Entertainment. Playstation 3 and PC players alike enjoy diving deep into the world of DC comics. Developers of this highly successful MMO promised monthly content, and they are delivering in spades -- or should we say hearts? This month's update from SOE promises to be full of hearts, love, and cats. What? Cats? Yes, cats. In addition to adopting the usual MMO February/Valentine's Day theme, DCUO is featuring everyone's purrfect cat burglar: Catwoman.

Game Director Chris Cao spoke with us yesterday about the new content coming out later this month. He was not shy about answering our questions about the update or about the issues players are having with the game. So follow us after the break as we visit SOE's secret Batcave to talk to Chris Cao about the past, present, and future love of DC Universe Online.

Gallery: DCUO -- February update

Continue reading Chris Cao spreads the love for the next DCUO update

MassivelyChris Cao spreads the love for the next DCUO update originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Feb 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>catwomanchat-systemchat-updateschris-caoDCdc-comicsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuoexclusivefeaturedfebruarygame-updateinterviewInterviewspatchPlaystation-3PS3SOESonySony-Online-Entertainmentupdatevalentines-dayWarner-BrosTue, 01 Feb 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Zentia offers lots of goodies in upcoming patch 1.2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/26/zentia-offers-lots-of-goodies-in-upcoming-patch-1-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/26/zentia-offers-lots-of-goodies-in-upcoming-patch-1-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/26/zentia-offers-lots-of-goodies-in-upcoming-patch-1-2/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

When it comes to irreverent, fun, free-to-play games that some of the crew here at Massively are fond of, Zentia has managed to earn a spot on that listing. Sure, the brightly-colored landscape may not be in everyone's style, but games that don't take themselves seriously definitely should be! Along with the promise of everyday shrimp versus crab battles, Zentia's upcoming 1.2 patch will add in a lot of things that players have been looking forward to.

Aside from a new zone, new mounts, pets, items and more things of a normal nature that players expect in large updates, patch 1.2 will also offer up many other changes. Among the plans are a new Marriage system, a way to earn even more experience, and a Consignment system that will allow players to sell their items to other players server-wide. For now, while we wait for more details, we have a teaser trailer after the jump, offering a first look into this upcoming Zentia expansion, as well as a few new screenshots tucked into the gallery below. But really, epic shrimp versus crab battles... Do we need to say more?

Gallery: Zentia Screenshots

Continue reading Zentia offers lots of goodies in upcoming patch 1.2

MassivelyZentia offers lots of goodies in upcoming patch 1.2 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 26 Jan 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ChangyouChangyou.comconsignmentf2pfree-to-playgame-updatemarriagemarriage-systemmountsnew-zonepetszentiazentia-mmozentia-patch-1.2Wed, 26 Jan 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO's (re)writs of the Rune-keeper]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/04/lotros-re-writs-of-the-rune-keeper/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/04/lotros-re-writs-of-the-rune-keeper/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/04/lotros-re-writs-of-the-rune-keeper/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Considering how effective the Rune-keeper class is, the developers at Turbine have made a lot of changes to its skills. This class' strength lies in damage and healing -- a nuker/healer, if you will. This fit the plans for Lord of the Rings Online quite well, but there were some things missing in the flavor of the advanced classes. As Designer Brian Aloisio explains in the November Developer Diary, "The Rune-keeper currently sits at top tier in both damage and healing output. Because of this, the goals we have set for this update did not focus on increasing or decreasing net effectiveness, but on adding variety, customization and more dynamic skill interaction to achieve these results." He adds that the changes are adding more "advanced" to the advanced class. Aloisio also confesses that the Trait Set bonuses were bugged, and instead of fixing bonuses, team has reinvented the Trait Sets.

To give you an example, the Words of Grace-traited Rune-keepers were capable of healing in any instance, but they lacked non-healing options. So the advanced class' skills were extremely flat. To spice things up, heal-based RKs will now have a slightly different power rotation and have a couple of non-healing abilities, yet they are still an efficient healing class. Be sure to catch the full Developer Diary to see the specifics about your favorite advanced class changes.

MassivelyLotRO's (re)writs of the Rune-keeper originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Nov 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brian-aloisiodeveloper-diarygame-updatehealinglord-of-the-rings-onlinelotronukerpatchrune-keeperrune-keeper-healingrune-keeper-traitstraittrait-setturbineupdatewords-of-graceThu, 04 Nov 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Tattered Notebook: GU58 reactions and a happy ratonga]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/18/the-tattered-notebook-gu58-reactions-and-a-happy-ratonga/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/18/the-tattered-notebook-gu58-reactions-and-a-happy-ratonga/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/18/the-tattered-notebook-gu58-reactions-and-a-happy-ratonga/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


So the yin/yang monster has caught up with me this week, and it's taken the form of EverQuest II's latest game update. A few weeks ago, my Ratonga alter-ego was positively crushed under the weight of the awful spell effect changes wrought by EQII's Game Update 57. He was so upset, in fact, that he called me during a meeting and insisted I write a rather ranty column about it, complete with sidebar pictures depicting the gruesome before-and-after details.

Happily, GU58 has arrived to right that horrible wrong (as well as add some other cool stuff). Turn the page to see what else the folks at SOE have stirred into the pot for the denizens of Norrath.

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: GU58 reactions and a happy ratonga

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: GU58 reactions and a happy ratonga originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 18 Oct 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingdungeoneq-2eq-iiever-quest-2ever-quest-iieverquest-2everquest-iifeaturedgame-updategu-58opinionsoe-eq-2soe-eq-iiSONYsony-eq-2sony-eq-iiSony-Online-Entertainmentspell-effectsthe-tattered-notebookthe-tattered-notebook-jef-reahardMon, 18 Oct 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Atlantica adds Empress Himiko, teleportation]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/31/atlantica-adds-empress-himiko-teleportation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/31/atlantica-adds-empress-himiko-teleportation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/31/atlantica-adds-empress-himiko-teleportation/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Free-to-play fantasy MMORPG maker Ndoors has just announced a new patch for Atlantica Online. The update brings a wide range of new features including a new Mercenary (Himiko), new Mercenary-only fashion accessories, and the ability to trade in unwanted mounts, decor, and clothing in exchange for AT Points.

Ndoors has also added the Decoration Book, in addition to the pre-existing Mount and Clothing Books, which will allow players to store their decorations as well as earn further Collection Points. Also, players can now earn new magic skill books by trading their elements to the Jules de Goncourt NPC.

Equipment repair has also been streamlined in the new update via changes to the Atlas Ore system. Atlas Ore fragments are now all that is necessary to repair equipment, and they can now be obtained by dismantling full Ores. Finally, the folks at Ndoors have given players a map save location, enabling teleports anywhere on the map.

Check out the patch notes for full details.

MassivelyAtlantica adds Empress Himiko, teleportation originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>at-pointsatlanticaatlantica-onlineatlas-oregame-updatehimikojules-de-goncourtmercenaryndoorspatchWed, 31 Mar 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Brenlo talks EverQuest II's future]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/30/brenlo-talks-everquest-iis-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/30/brenlo-talks-everquest-iis-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/30/brenlo-talks-everquest-iis-future/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Alan 'Brenlo' Crosby, Sony Online Entertainment's Senior Producer for EverQuest II, has dropped an epic forum post on the official boards detailing the future of the long-running MMORPG. For starters, he talks about the game's technical issues, specifically the recent server performance concerns. "Some servers are struggling a bit with the new load created by returning players, Battlegrounds, more items in the database, etc and are not reacting well. This is our engineering team's number one priority<," he said.

He also touches on the much anticipated New Halas zone, indicating that it will finally see the light of day in the next patch and will be well worth the wait in terms of extended content, housing, and art design. Tweaks to the traveling system and itemization will also be made, and, though no specifics were given, feedback was solicited on both accounts. Battleground updates and tweaking are also in the pipeline, as is a new Storyteller UI system that promises to tie together Norrath's many quests in service of a larger, more meaningful story.

Finally, Brenlo hinted at alternate rule set servers, mentioning PvP, permadeath, and progression as possibilities. He also dropped a few hints at the upcoming development cycle for this fiscal year. <"You should see at least one raid each update, of which there are four major updates planned for the next fiscal year. Details of those to follow but I can say they will be a mix of reworked content e.g. Lavastorm revamp, and all new content. Through the next year, we plan to bolster our events as well, eventually having one event each calendar month, providing more entertainment for you,"he said.

MassivelyBrenlo talks EverQuest II's future originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 30 Mar 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternate-rule-seteq2everquest-2everquest-iigame-updatenew-halasnorrathprogressionsoesony-online-entertainmentstoryteller-systemTue, 30 Mar 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mabinogi's Alchemy update brings in new boss]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/03/mabinogis-alchemy-update-brings-in-new-boss/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/03/mabinogis-alchemy-update-brings-in-new-boss/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/03/mabinogis-alchemy-update-brings-in-new-boss/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

With the most recent patch to the American Mabinogi servers, Nexon introduced the Alchemist to the world. Since then, players have been pitting their skills in special Shadow Missions against the evil denizens of the Shadow Realm. But now there's a new threat looming on the horizon, bringing with it all new challenges.

Added to the game with the update is a special boss monster available to players towards the end of the Alchemist storyline, Claimh Solas, who is described as the "fiercest and most terrifying" of the newly added monsters. Claimh Solas will spawn once a week, on Saturdays, for players to band together into groups and take down in a special arena dedicated to the fight. While he starts out as a dangerous monster, players will have to battle together to weaken him and summon the golden dragon from the Mabinogi: Dragon update to assist them in taking him down. However, he will then respawn in a different form, his demonic wings replaced by swords to be used against his attackers.

So if you're one of the many folks hanging out while Mabinogi goes through extended downtime, it's a good time to plan out leveling through the Alchemy story -- or seeing which friends will be around on Saturday, if you're already there. With that said, if you're one of the people who hasn't checked out Mabinogi but this sounds interesting to you, we've included the trailer for the recent Alchemy update behind the break.

Continue reading Mabinogi's Alchemy update brings in new boss

MassivelyMabinogi's Alchemy update brings in new boss originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Mar 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alchemistclaimh-solasf2pfree-to-playgame-updatemabinoginexonnexon-americaWed, 03 Mar 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest II's Shards of Destiny game update goes live]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/24/everquest-iis-shards-of-destiny-game-update-goes-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/24/everquest-iis-shards-of-destiny-game-update-goes-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/24/everquest-iis-shards-of-destiny-game-update-goes-live/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


EverQuest II's next game update Shards of Destiny is now live, and that means that players can take advantage of a number of new features. We've summed up the biggest ones just below:

  • Chronomagic: Visit some new "mysterious erudites" that have moved into Freeport, Kelethin, Neriak, Qeynos and Gorothyn, to lower your adventuring level for a small cost. This allows for grouping with lower levels, and a lot of older content has been revamped with more frequent bosses and changed loot rarities to make this option more attractive. There are also 37 new missions related to going back and seeing dungeons of differing levels.
  • Achievements: A new way to compete with other players. Most achievements will just give Achievement Points, but some will offer non-stat item rewards. Achievement categories include Exploring, Dungeons, Quests, Raids, Player versus Player, and Tradeskills.
  • Miragul's Planar Shard: a x4 raid zone and the first in EverQuest II to have a scaled difficulty feature.
  • The Shard of Love: Choose to help or hinder the Sisters of Erollisi, beginning by visiting either a Disciple of Love or a Disciple of Hate.
  • Teleportation Spires Event: Rewards are up for grabs for those who can assist the Quellithulians with the reactivation of the Ulterian Teleportation Spires.
Check out the full patch notes here, and before you head in-game, dip past the break to see the official Shards of Destiny trailer.

Continue reading EverQuest II's Shards of Destiny game update goes live

MassivelyEverQuest II's Shards of Destiny game update goes live originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Sep 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievement-pointsachievementschronomagiceq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iigame-updatemiraguls-planar-shardshard-of-loveshards-of-destinysoesony-online-entertainmentteleportation-spires-eventThu, 24 Sep 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest's Ancient Heroes game update brings a "classic EQ" experience]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/15/everquests-ancient-heroes-game-update-brings-a-classic-eq-exp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/15/everquests-ancient-heroes-game-update-brings-a-classic-eq-exp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/15/everquests-ancient-heroes-game-update-brings-a-classic-eq-exp/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


There are a lot of players and former players of EverQuest that would love to see a server that is locked down to just the first few expansions, or maybe none at all. While the latest game update, Ancient Heroes (which goes live today) doesn't bring a new server, there will be a new "classic EQ" experience introduced to the game. An NPC in the Plane of Knowledge will transform your character into a level 50 (the level cap once upon a time) decked out in launch-era equipment, and send you off to fight the Kobolds in Nagafen's Lair or the Frogloks of Guk -- or even to raid the old dragons, Lady Vox (pictured above) and Lord Nagafen. There will be new rewards waiting for those that choose to take up arms in old-school fashion.

This character morphing is the primary focus of the Ancient Heroes update, but in fact, there is more character morphing to be had with some new Marketplace items. A Potion of Amnesia will allow you to change your character's name, and a Potion of Disgenderment will flip their gender -- both changes are permanent, though you should just be able to buy another potion if need be. The Witness Protection Pack combines the two new potions, for those situations where you've really driven your reputation into the ground and need to start afresh.

Continue reading EverQuest's Ancient Heroes game update brings a "classic EQ" experience

MassivelyEverQuest's Ancient Heroes game update brings a "classic EQ" experience originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Sep 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ancient-heroesclassic-eqclassic-everquestdragonseverquestfrogloksgame-updategender-changeguklady-voxlord-nagafennagafens-lairpatchpotion-of-amnesiapotion-of-disgendermentraidingsoesony-online-entertainmentunderfootwitness-protection-packTue, 15 Sep 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest II producer's letter looks at "Shards of Destiny"]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/28/everquest-ii-producers-letter-looks-at-shards-of-destiny/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/28/everquest-ii-producers-letter-looks-at-shards-of-destiny/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/28/everquest-ii-producers-letter-looks-at-shards-of-destiny/#commentsFiled under: , ,


EverQuest II's senior producer Alan "Brenlo" Crosby has penned his latest letter to the community, mainly to talk about the next big Game Update Shards of Destiny and its arrival on the Test Server. While the patch isn't slated to go live until late September, players on Test can try out some of the new features already. One new system that is being introduced is Chronomagic, which allows players to reduce their level by speaking to an NPC in town, meaning they can play with lower level friends or simply revisit earlier content. Another Shards of Destiny addition is housing renovations, providing more space and room for items.

If you're just after new content, the patch will have some of that too. There will be a new x4 dungeon called Miragul's Planar Shard, and Erollisi Marr's Shard of Love ought to bring some romance to Norrath. EverQuest II will also be jumping on the achievement bandwagon, adding their own Achievement System. All of the above isn't coming for another few weeks, but Brenlo did mention a small patch that just went in a few days ago too. It added a field to the "Welcome" screen that lists the current Daily Mission, as well as the current "Hot Zone". In the past, EQII's Hot Zones were temporary experience bonuses, but the term's meaning has been changed to indicate zones with an increased fabled item drop-rate. Not too shabby.

MassivelyEverQuest II producer's letter looks at "Shards of Destiny" originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 28 Aug 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alan-crosbybrenlodaily-missionsdungeonserollisi-marreverquest-2everquest-iigame-updatehot-zonesmiraguls-planar-shardshard-of-loveshards-of-destinysoesony-online-entertainmentFri, 28 Aug 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Vanguard's "Halls of the Pantheon" update goes live]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/20/vanguards-halls-of-the-pantheon-update-goes-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/20/vanguards-halls-of-the-pantheon-update-goes-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/20/vanguards-halls-of-the-pantheon-update-goes-live/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Vanguard has been patched with its "Halls of the Pantheon" game update, which marks the first level cap increase for the game. The new level cap is 55, and we're already hearing from the community that getting through the five extra levels is going to take a bit of work. The titular Halls of the Pantheon will have players proving themselves to the gods of Telon in return for great rewards. The feature list for the patch is fairly long, but here are some of the highlights:

Feature Details:
  • 200 new quests
  • 1000+ new items
  • 2 new flying mounts
  • Choose your alignment and reap the rewards
  • Find out the truth behind the schemes of Kamelott
  • Become a god warrior and unlock the way to the Halls of Shattered Souls
  • Craft enhancements making them more powerful
  • Craft god armor
  • Craft a unique epic weapon for each class
  • New item mods
  • New resistances

Level Increase:

  • New level cap is 55
  • 95 new abilities
  • Spell crafting added
  • Item levels increased
  • New crafting related quest series
The full feature list can be found at the Vanguard community site.

MassivelyVanguard's "Halls of the Pantheon" update goes live originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 May 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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