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[A sneak peek at Guild Wars 2's PvP Scholar armor [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/31/a-sneak-peek-at-guild-wars-2s-pvp-scholar-armor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/31/a-sneak-peek-at-guild-wars-2s-pvp-scholar-armor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/31/a-sneak-peek-at-guild-wars-2s-pvp-scholar-armor/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Guild Wars 2
Admit it: You aren't always out just for the thrill of the experience -- you want the bling-bling to go with it. A shopping spree, with your sword playing the role of "credit card" and each corpse a potential bonanza of fashion acquisitions. That's okay; we're not here to judge you.

In fact, if fancy armor gets your motor running, Guild Wars Insider has a treat for you: two pictures of Guild Wars 2's PvP Scholar armor set modeled by a majestic Norn Elementalist. While the armor may not maximize skin coverage, the detail and design is certainly fetching.

These pictures were taken inside of the PvP lobbies, which are breathtaking environments all to themselves. The picture on the left was taken in the Battle of Khylo lobby.

ArenaNet has been rolling out the news of Guild Wars 2's PvP system ever since Gamescom last year.

[Thanks to Seven for the tip!]

[Update: Guild Wars Insider has posted up additional screenshots of PvP, pets, and even more armor.]

MassivelyA sneak peek at Guild Wars 2's PvP Scholar armor [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetarmorbattle-of-khylogamescomguild-warsguild-wars-2guild-wars-insidergw2norn elementalistNornElementalistpvppvp-armorpvp-lobbyscholar-armorscreenshotsTue, 31 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA podcast highlights convention news]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/02/tera-podcast-highlights-convention-news/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/02/tera-podcast-highlights-convention-news/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/02/tera-podcast-highlights-convention-news/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

TERA - castanic female
Episode five of the official TERA podcast is in the can, and it's also available for your listening pleasure on the TERA website. The show finds En Masse community manager Evan "Scapes" Berman talking with producer Chris Hager and COO Patrick Wyatt for approximately 20 minutes.

The subject?

Convention season, of course, and the gang talks about everything from the TERA Gamescom demo to the preparation necessary to convey a certain message to members of the gaming media. The trio also mentions the challenges inherent in answering difficult questions on stage at a major convention, and Wyatt even chats briefly about his experiences working on Blizzard's seminal StarCraft RTS.

MassivelyTERA podcast highlights convention news originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Sep 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arboreabehind-the-sceneschris-hageren-masseen-masse-entertainmentevan-bermanfantasygamescommmo-industryofficial-podcastpatrick-wyattpaxpax-primepax-prime-2011scapesteratera-onlineFri, 02 Sep 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR lead spills the beans about the Eternity Vault raid]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/swtor-lead-spills-the-beans-about-the-eternity-vault-raid/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/swtor-lead-spills-the-beans-about-the-eternity-vault-raid/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/swtor-lead-spills-the-beans-about-the-eternity-vault-raid/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

SWTOR: Eternity Vault
At Gamescom this past week, Star Wars: The Old Republic concentrated on showing off endgame to prove to players that it is indeed an MMO. At the press conference just prior to the convention, Lead Designer Gabe Amatangelo demonstrated the very first part of the Eternity Vault raid content you will find in TOR. The demonstration group wiped on the second encounter, but we were assured that there was more. But how much more?

Thanks to The-Force.eu, we now know. Amatangelo explained the encounters to the German fansite as follows: "The Eternity Vault has five. It has five encounters. 'Bosses' is such a loose term. One of them, you have to hack this puzzle. You've got to split up the group, and you've got to fight back a bunch of different waves while people are trying to solve a puzzle in tandem." This information should comfort some fans of the game; there is more to this dungeon than a simple tank-and-spank.

More SWTOR information is headed our way as we gear up for PAX. Stay tuned this weekend as we give you the latest information from our reporters on the show floor in Seattle.

MassivelySWTOR lead spills the beans about the Eternity Vault raid originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 24 Aug 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWareDarth-HaterEAElectronic-Artseternity-vaultgabe-amatangelogamescomgamescom-2011LucasArtsPAXpax-primepax-prime-2011raidsStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorThe-Force.euthe-old-republictorWed, 24 Aug 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Friends, Romans, noobs, lend me your ear: Gods & Heroes devs answer community questions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/friends-romans-noobs-lend-me-your-ear-gods-and-heroes-devs-ans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/friends-romans-noobs-lend-me-your-ear-gods-and-heroes-devs-ans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/friends-romans-noobs-lend-me-your-ear-gods-and-heroes-devs-ans/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Heatwave dev team
Sometimes it makes a world of difference to put a name to a face, especially when it comes to the often-mythologized field of MMO development. The Gods & Heroes team recently sat down in front of a camera to not only answer community questions but give you a sense of who the team members are, how they function together, and what they look like.

Topics on hand for the discussion included Heatwave Interactive's favorite memories from Gamescom, fixing problems with the latest patch, the combat range changes, the ongoing production blog that one of the devs is writing, promotions for Steam and other distributors of the game, a "targeted marketing campaign" that's going to launch in the next couple of weeks, and a future update tenatively scheduled for mid-October.

You can watch the full USTREAM recording of the dev chat after the jump!

Continue reading Friends, Romans, noobs, lend me your ear: Gods & Heroes devs answer community questions

MassivelyFriends, Romans, noobs, lend me your ear: Gods & Heroes devs answer community questions originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 24 Aug 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>community-dev-chatcommunity-q-and-adev-chatgamescomgamescom-2011gods-and-heroesheatwaveheatwave-interactivepatchpromotionq-and-asteamustreamWed, 24 Aug 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Monday night Huttball! [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/23/hyperspace-beacon-monday-night-huttball/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/23/hyperspace-beacon-monday-night-huttball/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/23/hyperspace-beacon-monday-night-huttball/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Hyperspace Beacon: Monday night Huttball!
If memory serves me, the first MMO that integrated an actual sport into its game design was Free Realms. Although soccer was not implemented at launch, players could not miss the soccer fields, and eventually, the developers did put those fields to good use.

I certainly don't believe the Star Wars: The Old Republic developers had Free Realms in mind when they created the newly announced Warzone Huttball, but that does not negate the fact that most MMOs do not have sports that are just sports. I'm not sure this is because developers take the setting too seriously and therefore don't think outside the box in regard to side adventures players can have, but you will be hard-pressed to see many other MMOs introduce a sporty game into their core.

Needless to say, Huttball excites me even more about SWTOR, and I've even considered creating a character just to play Huttball. Beyond the jump, I breakdown the rules of Huttball and speculate on the further possibilities of the game. Join me.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Monday night Huttball! [Updated]

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Monday night Huttball! [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWareEAElectronic-Artsendgameesportsfeaturedfree-realmsGamescomgamescom-2011guild-warshuttballhyperspace-beaconLucasArtsnar-shaddaaplayer-versus-playerPvPStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtortatooine-choppersthe-old-republictorwarzonesTue, 23 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA['Blow your minds': The Secret World dreams of large-scale PvP]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/23/blow-your-minds-the-secret-world-dreams-of-large-scale-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/23/blow-your-minds-the-secret-world-dreams-of-large-scale-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/23/blow-your-minds-the-secret-world-dreams-of-large-scale-pvp/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Secret World
While the big news from The Secret World out of Gamescom was its April 2012 launch window, that's not all the developers had to say about this creeptastic title. Ragnar Tornquist opened up to Ten Ton Hammer about the game's epic large-scale PvP fights between the three factions of the Dragons, the Illuminati, and the Templars.

Unlike The Secret World's smaller PvP battlefields, the warzones are persistent with a much larger population. So instead of waiting for a match, experienced players can hop right into a warzone for the glory and honor of their faction. In the warzones, players can capture respawn points to help out their faction and work on their secret society ranking while doing it. Tornquist said that the first warzone is in a Chinese city, although it doesn't have a name yet.

Tornquist stated that the game should provide players with "several hundred hours" of PvE experience, not to mention the title's PvP and optional internet quests that will have the dedicated hunting through websites for arcane clues.

Funcom's project lead thinks the total sum of The Secret World will be unlike anything we've ever seen before: "When the story and the respective events are ready to show off, we are going to blow your minds."

Massively'Blow your minds': The Secret World dreams of large-scale PvP originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Aug 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternate-reality-gameargbattlefieldbattlefieldsbetafuncomgamescomgamescom-2011large-scale-pvplaunchpersistent-pvppvpRagnar-Tornquistthe-secret-worldtswwarzonewarzonesTue, 23 Aug 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom wrapups for WildStar tease a few more nuggets of information]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/gamescom-wrapups-for-wildstar-tease-a-few-more-nuggets-of-inform/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/gamescom-wrapups-for-wildstar-tease-a-few-more-nuggets-of-inform/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/gamescom-wrapups-for-wildstar-tease-a-few-more-nuggets-of-inform/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Torchlight meets Firefly, or late 90s Disney meets Firefly? You decide.
It remains to be seen what's going to come of it in the future, but WildStar certainly made an impressive showing during its debut at Gamescom 2011. Of course, outside of a trailer and some very early gameplay, potential players still know very little about the meat of how the game plays. But there are nuggets to be found in the wrap-up posts, a few interesting answers that should pique further interest in the upcoming title.

The fact that the game will include PvP is almost a no-brainer, but the endgame has been stated to be diverse for all players. If you don't enjoy raiding, the game will still have a world story for players to explore and get engaged by. The world will feature both open areas and instances, as well, with a definite spread of different ways to ensure that players can experience the game with their friends. Last but not least, classes will be versatile and armor will be heavily customizable -- the game is being shaped to be something where each player can make his or her mark and have a unique look.

If the game interests you, our own staffers will be getting a hands-on experience with WildStar on Friday.

MassivelyGamescom wrapups for WildStar tease a few more nuggets of information originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 22 Aug 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balancecarbinecarbine-studioscontentendgamegamescomgamescom-2011ncsoftnew-titlespreviewspvpraidingupcoming-titleswildstarwsMon, 22 Aug 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: Information overload]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/flameseeker-chronicles-information-overload/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/flameseeker-chronicles-information-overload/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/flameseeker-chronicles-information-overload/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Guild Wars 2 Gamescom booth
Early last week I had a fail-proof strategy in place for handling Gamescom. I'd diligently watch the Guild Wars 2 news coming from the event, and at the end of the week, do a nice neat wrap-up for all of you.

It's OK, you can laugh -- I am. Talk about trying to empty the ocean with a teaspoon! There is one thing I can wrap up for you: Last week there were ArenaNet blog posts and site updates, over a dozen interviews and articles written, nine photo galleries (one from ArenaNet), 17 video interviews, and over 100 game footage videos.

So how do you even begin to process all of that, especially when you consider that there's another wave coming in just a few days? Follow along after the jump and let's take a look!

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: Information overload

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: Information overload originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 22 Aug 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbattle-of-khylofeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesgamescomgamescom-2011guild-warsguild-wars-2gw2jon-petersjonathan-sharpMartin-Kersteinmatt-witterncsoftpvpMon, 22 Aug 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2's crafting system detailed and demonstrated]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/21/guild-wars-2s-crafting-system-detailed-and-demonstrated/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/21/guild-wars-2s-crafting-system-detailed-and-demonstrated/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/21/guild-wars-2s-crafting-system-detailed-and-demonstrated/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Guild Wars 2 crafting
Guild Wars 2 fans, it's time to get out your smithing hammers and fire up your forges. Freshly imported from Gamescom 2011 is a new video outlining Guild Wars 2's crafting system. The game offers eight different professions, and -- like many other MMOs -- you are granted your choice of two of those professions at any given time.

However, unlike many MMOs that give you a set list of recipes based on your crafting level and then limit you to crafting only those recipes, Guild Wars 2's system allows players to experiment with different combinations of materials to see if they form a new recipe. Only guy on the server who's figured out how to make that badass warhammer? Don't tell anyone and monopolize the market!

Also gone are the days of skill points. Rather than giving crafting recipes a somewhat random chance to give you a skill-up, Guild Wars 2's crafting system provides you with an experience bar for your tradeskill, with each completed recipe providing a set amount of experience toward the next level.

But what if you're not happy with your profession choices? While the game only allows you to have two active professions at any given time, you're able to freely swap one profession for another while retaining progress made in your former profession. So if you want to drop your level 50 profession to mess around with another, you can pick back up where you left off at a later time.

For the developer commentary and a whopping 20 minutes of hands-on time with two different professions, hop on past the cut for the full video.

[Thanks to Paul for the tip!]

Continue reading Guild Wars 2's crafting system detailed and demonstrated

MassivelyGuild Wars 2's crafting system detailed and demonstrated originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 21 Aug 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetcraftcraftingforgegamescomgamescom-2011guild-wars-2gw2ncsoftprofessionprofessionstradeskilltradeskillsworkstationSun, 21 Aug 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What was the juiciest reveal at Gamescom?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/21/the-daily-grind-what-was-the-juiciest-reveal-at-gamescom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/21/the-daily-grind-what-was-the-juiciest-reveal-at-gamescom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/21/the-daily-grind-what-was-the-juiciest-reveal-at-gamescom/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

NCsoft booth photo
Every summer, the Massively staff spends time lurching from con to con in a drunken haze of MMO reveals. And every summer, we mull over those reveals, mentally ranking each one for quality, practicality, guts, and comic-relief. Gamescom has provided another such opportunity. WildStar? 2007 called; it wants Tabula Rasa back. The Secret World in April? Ambitious. Otherland? About time. Huttball? Wait. Really? Huttball?

Then again, we'll play just about anything. So you tell us: What would you deem the best reveal of Gamescom?

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: What was the juiciest reveal at Gamescom? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 21 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebrianna-royce-tdgcarbine-studioseaElectronic-Artsfuncomgamescomgamescom-2011gamigohuttballncsoftopinionotherlandrevealsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtortabula-rasatdgthe-daily-grindthe-old-republicthe-secret-worldtortswwildstaryes-really-huttballSun, 21 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2011: More details on RIFT's patch 1.5]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/20/gamescom-2011-more-details-on-rifts-patch-1-5/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/20/gamescom-2011-more-details-on-rifts-patch-1-5/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/20/gamescom-2011-more-details-on-rifts-patch-1-5/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Solo dungeons - less grouping calories, same dungeon taste.
RIFT hasn't been out for all that long, but the game is already rapidly approaching its fifth major patch since launch. A recent demonstration at Gamescom reveals more of what will be coming along with the patch, which promises more options for endgame players as well as for players without a great deal of time. For the former group, the game is adding a new Planar Achievement System that will give players points to spend in unique supplemental skill trees, adding some fine-tuning and character customization.

For the latter group of players who don't have time to delve into large-scale group content, solo instances will be added, with one or two players easily able to clear the area depending on equipment. Hammerknell will be one of the first sorts of this dungeon, allowing players a chance to see more of the game as a whole. Higher-end players aren't forgotten, however, with a new Master Mode added to give dungeons extra sting and rewards. It looks like patch 1.5 will be a good time for all RIFT fans, whatever their level of commitment to the game.

MassivelyGamescom 2011: More details on RIFT's patch 1.5 originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 20 Aug 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternate-advancementgame-patchesgamescomgamescom-2011hard-modemajor-patchesmaster-modenewspatchesplanar-achievement-systempreviewsriftrift-patch-1.5rift-planes-of-telarascaling-dungeonssolo-dungeonsspecial-advancementtriontrion-worldsupdatesSat, 20 Aug 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2011: CCP talks DUST 514 microtransactions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/20/gamescom-2011-ccp-talks-dust-514-microtransactions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/20/gamescom-2011-ccp-talks-dust-514-microtransactions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/20/gamescom-2011-ccp-talks-dust-514-microtransactions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Dust 514 - dropship
Joystiq caught up with CCP at Gamescom, and the Icelandic dev house responsible for EVE Online and its first-person shooter spin-off called DUST 514 dropped a few hints as to how the microtransaction business model will function in the latter game.

DUST, which is launching exclusively on the Playstation 3 in 2012, will carry an initial $20 digital download fee, after which the user will receive access to the game as well as approximately $20 worth of virtual currency. "You're basically getting that bundle of cash that you're using to start the game, and from there if you choose to play for free and just grind, you're welcome to do that," a CCP rep said.

CCP also said it expects many gamers to avoid DUST'S shooter gameplay altogether and focus on playing the market, as many capsuleers do in EVE Online. Head to Joystiq for the full report.

MassivelyGamescom 2011: CCP talks DUST 514 microtransactions originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 20 Aug 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelsccpccp-gamesdustdust-514economyeveeve-onlinegamescomgamescom-2011marketsmicrotransactionsnew-edenreal-world-eventsrmtsandboxsci-fiSat, 20 Aug 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Not all who wander are lost]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/the-road-to-mordor-not-all-who-wander-are-lost/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/the-road-to-mordor-not-all-who-wander-are-lost/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/the-road-to-mordor-not-all-who-wander-are-lost/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Road to Mordor
These are exciting times for Lord of the Rings Online, for sure. The Fellowship -- and hundreds of thousands of groupies following in its wake -- has moved south, and we are growing ever closer to Mordor and Mt. Doom. In a month, Middle-earth will grow significantly with the addition of Rise of Isengard, and level-capped players will suddenly have a whole new buffet of content to devour.

It's also a good era for exposure for the game, as plenty of people will get to see the expansion at Gamescom and PAX, not to mention those already in the beta proper. While we haven't heard anything about the game's finances or player numbers lately, there's no reason to believe that it's not still going strong.

That said, I want to take a step back today, as I sometimes do, and look at the larger picture. How is LotRO positioned against the current competition and the heavy-hitters yet to come? What does Turbine need to be working on over the next year or two? Are we just wandering aimlessly, or is the path laid out for journey for a long time to come?

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Not all who wander are lost

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Not all who wander are lost originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanall-who-wander-are-not-lostcharacter-developmentcontent-pathered-luinexpansionf2pfeaturedfree-to-playfuture-plansgamescomgamescom-2011guild-wars-2gw2hobbithousinghousing-revampkate-paizmordornon-combat-petspaxpax-2011pax-primepax-prime-2011player-housingproducers-lettersophies-choicestar-wars-the-old-republicswtorterathe-hobbitthe-road-to-mordorthe-secret-worldtolkientreasure-hunttswturbineturbine-entertainmentupdate-3vanity-petsFri, 19 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2011: Get an eyeful of Trion's promo reel]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/gamescom-2011-get-an-eyeful-of-trions-promo-reel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/gamescom-2011-get-an-eyeful-of-trions-promo-reel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/gamescom-2011-get-an-eyeful-of-trions-promo-reel/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

RIFT Gamescom
One of the cool parts of visiting any video game convention is to check out all of the trailers blasting over each booth. A good trailer not only raises goosebumps but conveys crucial information about the game in a short span of time: the game's tone, genre, playstyle, graphics, lore, and ability to have a bad-ass hero fall from a great height to land on one knee with a fist on the ground.

We've gotten ahold of some of the visual goodies Trion Worlds has been showing at its booth this week at Gamescom, highlighting both RIFT and End of Nations. The promo reel, which you can watch after the jump, begins with a combination of RIFT's cinematics and in-game footage. Then, around the 10-minute mark, the video shifts focus to the upcoming free-to-play End of Nations, ending with an interview with some of the devs. Unfortunately for non-German speakers, all but the interview may be linguistically inaccessible to your ears, but you should be able to follow along just fine.

We also have several new official RIFT screenshots to show you, just in case you haven't gotten enough of this rip-roaring title!

Gallery: RIFT: Core Gallery

Continue reading Gamescom 2011: Get an eyeful of Trion's promo reel

MassivelyGamescom 2011: Get an eyeful of Trion's promo reel originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Aug 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demo-reelend-of-nationseongalleriesgallerygamescomgamescom-2011interviewpromo-reelriftscreenshotstriontrion-worldsvideoFri, 19 Aug 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2011: LotRO's Rise of Isengard screen captures on display]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/gamescom-2011-lotros-rise-of-isengard-screen-captures-on-displ/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/gamescom-2011-lotros-rise-of-isengard-screen-captures-on-displ/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/gamescom-2011-lotros-rise-of-isengard-screen-captures-on-displ/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Lord of the Rings Online - Isengard map
If you're not in Turbine's Rise of Isengard beta, A Casual Stroll to Mordor has some Gamescom screen caps you might be interested in seeing. Even if you are in the testing phase for Lord of the Rings Online's next expansion, it's worth a look-see if only to glimpse a few things you might've missed.

The screens were captured on a cell phone camera, so the quality isn't worth writing home about, but they do show off an early version of the Isengard map as well as new wound pots, Forthbrond Village, a portion of the Gap of Rohan, the tower of Orthanc, and Saruman impaled on a giant spike just like in the movies! OK, just kidding about that last part, but it was funny seeing you lore-monkeys twitch.

MassivelyGamescom 2011: LotRO's Rise of Isengard screen captures on display originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Aug 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfantasyforthbrond-villagefree-to-playgamescomgamescom-2011gap-of-rohanisengardlord-of-the-ring-onlinelord-of-the-ringslotromapsmiddle-earthreal-world-eventsrise-of-isengardrise-of-isengard-betaturbinewound-potsFri, 19 Aug 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2011: Paradox releases new Salem teaser]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/gamescom-2011-paradox-releases-new-salem-teaser/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/gamescom-2011-paradox-releases-new-salem-teaser/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/gamescom-2011-paradox-releases-new-salem-teaser/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Salem - permadeath MMO
A couple of months ago, we were treated to a sneak peek of Salem, the new browser-based MMO from Paradox Interactive. Aside from its colonial America setting and Salem witch trial underpinnings, the defining feature of this odd MMORPG is permadeath.

Today, Paradox has a released a new trailer for the title at Gamescom, and though there's no gameplay footage to be had, the atmosphere conjured by the clip is nothing short of bizarre. The video runs a tad over a minute and a half, and perhaps the most interesting thing about it is a subtitle that shows up after the ending title and proclaims that Salem is "the crafting MMO."

It's the crafting MMO with permadeath and a PvP focus, if previous Paradox releases still hold true, and if that doesn't tweak your curiosity, well, head past the cut and watch the video anyway.

Continue reading Gamescom 2011: Paradox releases new Salem teaser

MassivelyGamescom 2011: Paradox releases new Salem teaser originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedconsconsequencesconventionscraftingfantasygamescomgamescom-2011horrorpermadeathpvpsalemsalem-witch-trialstrailervideoFri, 19 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: What is this I don't even edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/the-mmo-report-what-is-this-i-dont-even-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/the-mmo-report-what-is-this-i-dont-even-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/the-mmo-report-what-is-this-i-dont-even-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Screencap -- The MMO Report
Welcome once again to Massively's coverage of The MMO report, where we get to imagine that this entire article is read by a 1930s radio announcer.

The first order of business today is the record-breaking scam perpetrated in EVE Online, followed by the energy and weapon ability changes in the most recent test build of Guild Wars 2. Then we've got The Old Republic's first show of endgame content in the form of the Eternity Vault being showcased at Gamescom. Meanwhile, The Secret World announces a release date, slating the game for April 2012 with beta signups beginning on August 26th. LEGO Universe's transition to a free-to-play model rounds out the selections before a trip into Uncle Casey's Mailbag for some schmemes and other goodness.

So jump on past the cut and check it out. Oh, and don't ask about the beginning. We don't know either.

Continue reading The MMO Report: What is this I don't even edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: What is this I don't even edition originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Aug 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eveeve-onlinegamescomgamescom-2011guild-wars-2gw2lego-universemmo-reportscamstar-wars-the-old-republicthe-mmo-reportthe-old-republicthe-secret-worldtortswvideovideosFri, 19 Aug 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New End of Nations trailer goes meta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/new-end-of-nations-trailer-goes-meta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/new-end-of-nations-trailer-goes-meta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/new-end-of-nations-trailer-goes-meta/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- End of Nations
You can't fight here, this is the war room! Wait, you can? Nevermind, carry on. Today we have a new trailer from Gamescom highlighting Trion Worlds' End of Nation's metagame. The developers are careful to note that anyone can contribute to their nation's war effort, whether you're a green novice or a hardened veteran.

The trailer also takes some time to highlight the different types of battle maps available to players, from the standard PvP map to the monumental mega maps, which feature up to 50 players on the map, each will a full army. The battles raging on each of these maps will determine which faction controls the territory, and each territory grants its controlling faction a different advantage. It's up to the players to decide which territory would most benefit their faction's current needs, and then to bring the firepower and capture the territory. For the full trailer, blast your way past the cut.

Continue reading New End of Nations trailer goes meta

MassivelyNew End of Nations trailer goes meta originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>end-of-nationseongamescomgamescom-2011metametagamemmortsrtsstrategytrailertrailerstriontrion-worldsvideovideosThu, 18 Aug 2011 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Need for Speed World's Gamescom trailer has a lead foot]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/need-for-speed-worlds-gamescom-trailer-has-a-lead-foot/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/need-for-speed-worlds-gamescom-trailer-has-a-lead-foot/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/need-for-speed-worlds-gamescom-trailer-has-a-lead-foot/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Need for Speed World
Does the revving of an engine make your knees weak? Do the sleek curves of a Porsche make your heart beat faster? Yeah, me neither. But if pretty cars going really fast happens to blow up your skirt, then we've got a present for you.

Straight from Gamescom 2011, Need for Speed World is kicking it into high gear with an adrenaline-pumping new trailer. Fasten your seatbelts and hang on for your life as a Porsche 911 GT3 RS goes head-to-head with a Lamborghini Murcielago LP 640 (don't they just sound expensive?) in a frenetic race through Rockport. Of course, the other racer isn't the only hazard to your health in Need for Speed World; you also have to dodge and weave through incoming traffic and keep an eye out for the pesky five-o. For the full trailer, shift gears on past the cut.

Continue reading Need for Speed World's Gamescom trailer has a lead foot

MassivelyNeed for Speed World's Gamescom trailer has a lead foot originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artsf2pfree-to-playgamescomgamescom-2011need-for-speedneed-for-speed-worldnfswracerracingtrailertrailersvideovideosThu, 18 Aug 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2011: Guild Wars 2 shows off 40 minutes of gameplay]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/gamescom-2011-guild-wars-2-shows-off-40-minutes-of-gameplay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/gamescom-2011-guild-wars-2-shows-off-40-minutes-of-gameplay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/gamescom-2011-guild-wars-2-shows-off-40-minutes-of-gameplay/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Guild Wars 2 character customization
Hey Guild Wars 2 fans, bummed that you're not at Gamescom right now getting your paws, claws, or ferns on the game? We have the next best thing: nearly 40 minutes of video footage for you to digest.

On the Gamescom floor, ArenaNet's Chris Lye took time to walk Wartower.de through the full Guild Wars 2 demo for the event. During the tour, he shows us character customization, the Asura, and the Charr starting experience, capping it off with a giant dragon boss encounter.

So what's Lye looking forward to playing the most when the game goes live? "I've already found it: the Asura Thief. I love the size, I love the animations on the Asura, and I love how great they are as Thieves."

Grab some popcorn and settle in for the full video after the jump!

Continue reading Gamescom 2011: Guild Wars 2 shows off 40 minutes of gameplay

MassivelyGamescom 2011: Guild Wars 2 shows off 40 minutes of gameplay originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetasuracharrchris-lyechristopher-lyedemodemonstrationdragondynamic-eventsgamescomgamescom-2011guild-wars-2gw2thiefthievesvideowartowerThu, 18 Aug 2011 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2011: Wargaming.net reveals World of Battleships and World of Tanks trailers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/gamescom-2011-wargaming-net-reveals-world-of-battleships-and-wo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/gamescom-2011-wargaming-net-reveals-world-of-battleships-and-wo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/gamescom-2011-wargaming-net-reveals-world-of-battleships-and-wo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

World of Battleships - trailer still
Wargaming.net is having a busy Gamescom, as the company has not one, but three MMORPGs to hype. Yesterday we brought you a first look at World of Warplanes via an exclusive in-depth interview, and today we've got two new trailers for your perusal (one for World of Battleships and one for World of Tanks).

World of Battleships is, of course, the newest thoroughbred in Wargaming.net's stable, and the Gamescom trailer is a high-quality affair that captures the heavy metal feel of the game and the awesome power inherent in the warships that players will be steering across the high seas. Unfortunately there's not a lot of gameplay footage (and what little there is is highly stylized and subjected to various video filters), so we'll have to wait for a followup clip to get a close look at visuals, game mechanics, and the like.

The World of Tanks trailer is also heavy on the CG and features a series of violent vignettes designed to show off a few of the game's more noteworthy armored vehicles. You'll find both clips after the cut.

Continue reading Gamescom 2011: Wargaming.net reveals World of Battleships and World of Tanks trailers

MassivelyGamescom 2011: Wargaming.net reveals World of Battleships and World of Tanks trailers originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmocgcg-trailereventsgamescomgamescom-2011historicalreal-lifereal-world-eventstrailersvideowarwargaming.networld-of-battleshipsworld-of-tanksThu, 18 Aug 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2011: Transformers Universe reveals the Brawler]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/gamescom-2011-transformers-universe-reveals-the-brawler/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/gamescom-2011-transformers-universe-reveals-the-brawler/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/gamescom-2011-transformers-universe-reveals-the-brawler/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Transformers Universe
Gamescom, roll out! At this week's convention, Jagex set up a Transformers Universe booth to demonstrate some of the customization that will be in next year's game and give players a taste of the choices they'll be making when the game goes live.

The team also used this opportunity to talk about the first revealed class, the Brawler, and show concept art of these hulking piles of scrap metal and stubborn perseverance.

Senior Producer Kris Jones says that the Brawler will be the front line of defense in a fight: "Players who like to engage as the tank in co-op team play will be drawn to this Brawler Class. The strength and resilience of this class makes it the perfect choice for those who like to get up close in a battle environment, for those who like a good brawl."

You can check out the Brawler in the gallery below. Transformers Universe is slated for a 2012 release, and interested players are encouraged to sign up to receive more info about the upcoming beta.

Gallery: Transformers Universe

MassivelyGamescom 2011: Transformers Universe reveals the Brawler originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brawlerbumblebeeconcept-artgallerygamescomgamescom-2011jagexjagex-gameskris-jonestanktransformerstransformers-universeThu, 18 Aug 2011 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2011: SWTOR wins Best Online Game and introduces Huttball]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/gamescom-2011-swtor-wins-best-online-game-and-introduces-huttba/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/gamescom-2011-swtor-wins-best-online-game-and-introduces-huttba/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/gamescom-2011-swtor-wins-best-online-game-and-introduces-huttba/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

SWTOR: Nar Shaddaa
The excitement revolving around Star Wars: The Old Republic at Gamescom 2011 apparently cannot be contained. Even those voting for the best-in-show cannot help but recognize BioWare's MMO for its achievements. Although Electronic Arts' single-player title Battlefield 3 won the top slot, The Old Republic was voted Best Online Game. Indeed, this game is powerful as analysts have foreseen.

In addition to taking home the Best Online Game title, the EA booth introduced a new PvP arena that features something different from the typical faction vs. faction combat. In the new Warzone, called Huttball, players of opposing teams attempt to grab the center ball and score points by crossing over their opponents' goal line. And it just wouldn't be Nar Shaddaa without a little bloodshed, right? Instead of just trying to recapture the ball from the opposite team, you are welcomed -- nay, encouraged -- to strike your enemy down with all your hatred! If that enemy happens to be of the same faction, he's fair game in Huttball. Remember, what happens in Nar Shaddaa stays in Nar Shaddaa.

Darth Hater nabbed some footage of Huttball in action. If you speak German or absolutely have to catch the latest TOR visuals, force leap past the break for the footage.

Continue reading Gamescom 2011: SWTOR wins Best Online Game and introduces Huttball

MassivelyGamescom 2011: SWTOR wins Best Online Game and introduces Huttball originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 17 Aug 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-3best-online-gameBioWareEAElectronic-Artsgamescomgamescom-2011huttballLucasArtsnar-shaddaapvpStar-WarsStar-wars-sportsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republicthe-pittorWed, 17 Aug 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2011: ASTA video talks design philosophy and DAoC inspiration]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/gamescom-2011-asta-video-talks-design-philosophy-and-daoc-inspi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/gamescom-2011-asta-video-talks-design-philosophy-and-daoc-inspi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/gamescom-2011-asta-video-talks-design-philosophy-and-daoc-inspi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

ASTA - caster
Last month we brought you a brief blurb about ASTA, the new fantasy MMORPG from NHN. The CryEngine3-powered title is making its official debut at this week's Gamescom in Cologne, Germany, and a six-minute video trailer has surfaced that shows off quite a bit of detail about the new title.

The clip features a lot of concept art, behind-the-scenes shots, and talking-head developer interviews as well as an English-dubbed voiceover that's heavy on lore and backstory bits. There's also a lot of commentary regarding ASTA's design philosophy as well as how the developers are striving to avoid Asian MMO cliches to create a title that is original yet familiar.

Finally, the video lets us in on the fact that ASTA is aimed at players "who are not very good at controlling the keyboard and the mouse simultaneously." Despite its apparent simplicity, ASTA will be featuring RvR and PvP mechanics designed specifically to facilitate large-scale conflict rather than small-party skirmishes or duels. Dark Age of Camelot fans may be interested to know that the ASTA video specifically references the older title as inspirational material, and you can find that and more after the cut.

Continue reading Gamescom 2011: ASTA video talks design philosophy and DAoC inspiration

MassivelyGamescom 2011: ASTA video talks design philosophy and DAoC inspiration originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 17 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>astacryengine-3daocdark-age-of-cameloteastern-fantasyfantasygame-mechanicsgamescomgamescom-2011loremechanicsnhnpvpreal-world-eventsrealm-vs-realmrvrtrailervideoWed, 17 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: Wargaming.net answers our World of Warplanes questions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/massively-exclusive-wargaming-net-answers-our-world-of-warplane/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/massively-exclusive-wargaming-net-answers-our-world-of-warplane/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/massively-exclusive-wargaming-net-answers-our-world-of-warplane/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

World of Warplanes - key art
Flight sim fans are abuzz over Wargaming.net's recent World of Warplanes announcement, and many are casting an expectant eye toward this year's Gamescom in Cologne, Germany. The reason? Wargaming.net is set to officially reveal the action MMO that features a large selection of aircraft from pre-World War II to the jet age.

Today we're pleased to bring you an exclusive interview with Wargaming.net project manager Alexander Zezulin, so join us after the cut for loads of details on the game, including the debut trailer from Gamescom. Much like its World of Tanks predecessor, World of Warplanes looks to make squad-based vehicular combat more accessible to a wide audience while maintaining a sense of historical accuracy when it comes to said vehicles.

Gallery: World of Warplanes

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: Wargaming.net answers our World of Warplanes questions

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: Wargaming.net answers our World of Warplanes questions originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 17 Aug 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoalexander-zezulinaviationexclusivef2pfeaturedflight-simfree-to-playgame-mechanicsgamescomgamescom-2011historicalinterviewmassively-exclusivemechanicssquad-based-combatwarwargaming.networld-of-warplanesworld-war-2world-war-iiwowpww2wwiiWed, 17 Aug 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek - Infinite Space launches website with stellar promotion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/star-trek-infinite-space-launches-website-with-stellar-promotio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/star-trek-infinite-space-launches-website-with-stellar-promotio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/star-trek-infinite-space-launches-website-with-stellar-promotio/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Star Trek Infinite Space
We've been watching Star Trek - Infinite Space ever since eyeballing it at E3 earlier this year, and we're happy to say that Gameforge's upcoming title has taken the next step toward the final frontier by launching the official website for the game.

The site is somewhat bare-Bones right now, with a sign-up to receive more information, screenshots, the trailer, and a news blog. What's interesting is that Gameforge is offering players an incentive to enlist in Starfleet by offering the chance to reserve your name, get beta key priority, and receive an exclusive item once you enter your retinal scan (or, y'know, fill out the form).

Star Trek - Infinite Space is on display at this week's Gamescom, and we look forward to hearing more about this action-based free-to-play MMO.

MassivelyStar Trek - Infinite Space launches website with stellar promotion originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Aug 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bare-bonesbetabeta-accessclosed-betae3gameforgegamescomgamescom-2011hes-dead-jimofficial-siteoh-the-punsstar-trekstar-trek-infinite-spacestarfleetwebsiteTue, 16 Aug 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2011: gamigo reveals Otherland trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/gamescom-2011-gamigo-reveals-otherland-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/gamescom-2011-gamigo-reveals-otherland-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/gamescom-2011-gamigo-reveals-otherland-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Otherland - female avatar in red
Prior to this week's Gamescom, blurbs about the Otherland MMO popped up once a year or so, if that. Now we're bringing you the second bit of news in as many days, courtesy of the trailer announcement that follows hot on the heels of yesterday's developer interview at IGN.

The video clip showed up on publisher gamigo's YouTube portal this afternoon with a curious action MMORPG label in tow. We say curious here because "action" isn't the first word that springs to mind when discussing Tad Williams' Otherland novels, nor is there a lot of action in the four-minute trailer. There is a lot of eye candy and appropriately bizarre cyberpunk trappings, though, and all of it is presented through the glossy stylings of the Unreal 3 engine.

The free-to-play title is scheduled to release sometime next year, and you can get a glimpse of what awaits you in the teaser after the cut.

Continue reading Gamescom 2011: gamigo reveals Otherland trailer

MassivelyGamescom 2011: gamigo reveals Otherland trailer originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Aug 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cyberpunkf2pfree-to-playgamescomgamescom-2011gamigomultiverseotherlandsci-fitad-williamstrailerunreal-3unreal-enginevideoTue, 16 Aug 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's guide to Gamescom 2011]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/massivelys-guide-to-gamescom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/massivelys-guide-to-gamescom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/massivelys-guide-to-gamescom/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Gamescom 2011
If you've never been to Gamescom before, let's simply put it this way: It's big. Really, really big. Forget most any convention you've attended; this is likely to be even bigger. Billing itself as the world's largest games event, Gamescom sees well over a quarter-million fans, journalists and exhibitors crowd into the Koelnmesse in Cologne, Germany to check out hundreds of games and companies.

Due to its size and worldwide prominence, Gamescom is a significant event for anyone following the MMO genre (and video games in general). There are plenty of MMO studios gearing up to share first looks, exclusive reveals, detailed Q&A sessions, and exciting hands-on demos for attendees.

Naturally, Massively will be paying close attention to all of the news coming out of Gamescom this week. For those attending the convention or merely looking to keep abreast of all of the games, studios, and information forthcoming, we've compiled a guide to the hottest tickets at Gamescom as well as a comprehensive exhibitor list of MMO studios after the break.

Continue reading Massively's guide to Gamescom 2011

MassivelyMassively's guide to Gamescom 2011 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activision-blizzardage-of-wulinalderaananetapbapb-reloadedarenanetastabiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcarbine-studiosconventionconvention-guidecryengine-3defiancedota-2eaea-biowareelectronic-artsend-of-nationsfeaturedfirefallfor-the-love-of-god-not-gamesconfrogsterfuncomgamersfirstgamescomgamescom-2011gamigoglobal-agendagpotatogrimlandsguideguild-wars-2gw2hi-rezhi-rez-studiosjagged-alliance-onlinejeremy-gaffneylord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromassively-guidenexonnhnred-5-studiosriftrise-of-isengardsmitestar-wars-the-old-republicswtorsylvari-weekthe-old-republicthe-secret-worldtortribes-ascendtriontrion-worldsturbineufo-onlinevalvevindictuswargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-of-warcraftworld-of-warplaneswowTue, 16 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2011: EA and BioWare announce Warhammer MOBA [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/gamescom-2011-ea-and-bioware-announce-warhammer-moba/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/gamescom-2011-ea-and-bioware-announce-warhammer-moba/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/gamescom-2011-ea-and-bioware-announce-warhammer-moba/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Warhammer Online: Wrath of Heroes
If you've always wondered what Warhammer would look like as a MOBA, EA and BioWare have your answer. Warhammer Online: Wrath of Heroes was just announced at this year's Gamescom, and the fantasy title will feature three-team PvP with six players per side. Another new wrinkle highlighted in the game's press materials is the ability to swap heroes on the fly and "confound your foes and dominate the battlefield," according to BioWare.

The gameplay looks fast, frenetic, and accessible, and EA is positioning the title to capture a piece of the burgeoning free-to-play MOBA market. GameReactor also reports that the new game's scenarios will be built around pre-existing scenarios from Warhammer Online. We'll bring you more on Wrath of Heroes in our Not So Massively column, and in the meantime you can watch the preview clip after the cut.

[Update: You can also sign up now for the beta on the official site!]

Continue reading Gamescom 2011: EA and BioWare announce Warhammer MOBA [Updated]

MassivelyGamescom 2011: EA and BioWare announce Warhammer MOBA [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Aug 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarecel-shadedeaea-biowareelectronic-artsf2pfantasyfree-to-playgamescomgamescom-2011mobapvptrailervideowarhammer-online-wrath-of-heroeswrath-of-heroesTue, 16 Aug 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2011: The Secret World launching April 2012 [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/gamescom-2011-the-secret-world-launching-april-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/gamescom-2011-the-secret-world-launching-april-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/gamescom-2011-the-secret-world-launching-april-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The Secret World
The secret is out: Funcom announced today at Gamescom that it will launch The Secret World in April 2012.

The highly anticipated title revolves around secret societies, real-world conspiracies, urban legends, and tricky mysteries. This launch will put the title in a head-to-head battle with TERA, which releases next spring as well.

Funcom also said that it will be inviting players to register starting August 26th for the upcoming beta. The invitation process will be made through "an interactive social media campaign," keeping with the title's fondness for ARGs and viral campaigning.

We'll be keeping an eye on Funcom this week to see what the company has to say about its launch plans.

[Updated: Hit the jump to watch the newest trailer for The Secret World!]

Gallery: The Secret World: GDC 2011

Continue reading Gamescom 2011: The Secret World launching April 2012 [Updated]

MassivelyGamescom 2011: The Secret World launching April 2012 [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Aug 2011 10:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>april-2012betabeta-applicationbreakingclosed-betafuncomgamescomgamescom-2011launchreleaseterathe-secret-worldtswTue, 16 Aug 2011 10:35:00 EST<![CDATA[EA livestreaming The Old Republic at 10:00 a.m. EDT [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/ea-livestreaming-the-old-republic-at-10-00-a-m-edt/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/ea-livestreaming-the-old-republic-at-10-00-a-m-edt/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/ea-livestreaming-the-old-republic-at-10-00-a-m-edt/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

EA Gamescom
It's the start of Gamescom, and this morning Electronic Arts will be making its big presentation to the crowd and to the world at large through its livestream of the event. As part of the presentation, BioWare will be putting on a multiplayer demonstration of Star Wars: The Old Republic for the press and viewing public.

[Update: You can watch the EA press conference livestream at GameTrailers or after the jump!]

Continue reading EA livestreaming The Old Republic at 10:00 a.m. EDT [Updated]

MassivelyEA livestreaming The Old Republic at 10:00 a.m. EDT [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Aug 2011 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowaredarth-haterdemoeaelectronic-artsgamescomgamescom-2011livestreammultiplayer-demopress-conferencestar-wars-the-old-republicswtortotorTue, 16 Aug 2011 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet unveiling Guild Wars 2 changes with Gamescom demo]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/arenanet-unveiling-guild-wars-2-changes-with-gamescom-demo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/arenanet-unveiling-guild-wars-2-changes-with-gamescom-demo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/arenanet-unveiling-guild-wars-2-changes-with-gamescom-demo/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Guild Wars 2 sylvari character customization
Hardcore Guild Wars 2 fans who had a nice neat list of what they wanted to check out at Gamescom may be revising their lists pretty extensively.

A new ArenaNet blog entry popped up this evening and surprised everyone with details on sweeping changes to major elements of GW2. The list is long and varied, covering a wide range of game elements. For example, energy potions, planned game items that were debated fiercely among the fanbase, have been done away with -- in fact, skills no longer cost energy. In place of the energy potion button you'll find a new, energy-based dodge mechanic.

Skill acquisition has completely changed for several reasons. According to developer Jon Peters, the previous method "wasn't helping teach people the game, it didn't fit with how skills actually worked, and it didn't carry over the fun collection element that made the original Guild Wars unique."

There are several more changes to hear about. Jon details them -- and gives new details on the demo -- in the full ArenaNet blog post.

MassivelyArenaNet unveiling Guild Wars 2 changes with Gamescom demo originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Aug 2011 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetgamescomgamescom-2011guild-wars-2gw2jon-petersncsoftMon, 15 Aug 2011 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Conspiracy unleashed: Funcom reveals The Secret World plans for Gamescom]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/conspiracy-unleashed-funcom-reveals-the-secret-world-plans-for/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/conspiracy-unleashed-funcom-reveals-the-secret-world-plans-for/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/conspiracy-unleashed-funcom-reveals-the-secret-world-plans-for/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Secret World
The mass global conspiracy to hide the insidious secrets from the public cracked wide open as Funcom revealed that The Secret World is set to reveal the truth at Gamescom.

If you're 16 years or older and attending the convention, head over to Hall 6 to check out Funcom's closed theater where a 20-minute live demo of one of the game's dungeons, The Polaris, will take place. Developers will also be on hand to talk about dungeon crawling, combat, progression, the skill wheel, and boss fights during the presentation.

All players, regardless of age, can take an "initiation test" to see what secret society they should join -- sort of like a much more sinister sorting hat or guidance counselor.

The studio will also be talking to the press about large-scale PvP, so hopefully we'll be learning more details about this aspect of the game next week!

MassivelyConspiracy unleashed: Funcom reveals The Secret World plans for Gamescom originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Aug 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dungeoneventevent-coveragefuncomgamescomgamescom-2011initiationinitiation-testlarge-scale-pvppvpskill-wheelthe-polaristhe-secret-worldtswFri, 12 Aug 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR will focus on endgame for Gamescom]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/swtor-will-focus-on-endgame-for-gamescom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/swtor-will-focus-on-endgame-for-gamescom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/swtor-will-focus-on-endgame-for-gamescom/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

SWTOR: Gamescom
With the largest gathering of European gamers less than a week away, the community team for Star Wars: The Old Republic has finally nailed down its plans for Gamescom in Cologne, Germany. As with all other conventions the BioWare developers have attended since Gamescom last year, the origin worlds for each of the classes will be available for visitors to the EA booth (inside Hall 6 of the Koelnmesse). But this year, the focus is on something a bit more high-level: Endgame.

First, chosen members of the community that have applied through the SWTOR forums will fight hands-on in the Alderaan PvP warzone. Also, throughout the weekend, BioWare staff will demonstrate the Eternity Vault raid adding to endgame focus.

Gamescom runs August 17th to the 21st, and the showroom floor opens at 4 a.m. EDT (10 a.m CET) Thursday and Friday, and 3 a.m. EDT (9 a.m. CET) Saturday and Sunday. If you're a SWTOR fan, you don't want to be late!

MassivelySWTOR will focus on endgame for Gamescom originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Aug 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alderaan-warzoneBioWareEAElectronic-Artsendgameeternity-vaultgamescomgamescom-2011LucasArtsorigin-wprldsStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorFri, 12 Aug 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[We who are about to PvP salute you: Guild Wars 2 to partake in e-sports at Gamescom]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/we-who-are-about-to-pvp-salute-you-guild-wars-2-to-partake-in-e/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/we-who-are-about-to-pvp-salute-you-guild-wars-2-to-partake-in-e/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/we-who-are-about-to-pvp-salute-you-guild-wars-2-to-partake-in-e/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Guild Wars 2
If we aren't warring between guilds, it's not a Guild Wars title, right? Fortunately, ArenaNet thinks so too, and the studio has great plans for the PvP portion of its upcoming Guild Wars 2. Conventioneers heading to this month's Gamescom will not only get to check out the game in its shiny glory, but have the opportunity to participate in bloodthirsty PvP matches for the world to see.

The Electronic Sports League (ESL) will be hosting PvP matches of Guild Wars 2 in its arena during the trade show, and everyone is invited to tune in to watch. Matches will take place between individuals and guilds, with a few developers mixing it up as well. These PvP bouts will then be broadcast on the ESL website, and developer showmatches will be followed by Q&A sessions about the PvP portion of the game.

Guild Wars 2 has a busy schedule at Gamescom, with plenty of developer panels, demos, and prize giveaways planned.

MassivelyWe who are about to PvP salute you: Guild Wars 2 to partake in e-sports at Gamescom originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Aug 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenaarenanetdeveloper-showmatchese-sportselectronic-sports-leagueeslesportsgamescomgamescom-2011guild-warsguild-wars-2gw2pvppvp-arenaq-and-ashowmatchesFri, 12 Aug 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Jagged Alliance Online premieres new Gamescom trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/jagged-alliance-online-premieres-new-gamescom-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/jagged-alliance-online-premieres-new-gamescom-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/jagged-alliance-online-premieres-new-gamescom-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Jagged Alliance Online
"They gave us a mission. They never told us what it was about."

So begins the newest trailer for Jagged Alliance Online, gamigo's turn-based tactical RPG that features mercenaries, guns, and plenty of strategy. The trailer begins with your typical action movie setup: Rugged heroes get involved in a mission gone bad and are hung out to dry by their superiors. Rather than to roll over to die, they pick up a few thousand rounds of ammunition and head out seeking a little revenge.

After the introduction, the trailer does show a few seconds of in-game footage from Jagged Alliance Online, as bodies fly when hit with bullets and explosions rule supreme.

Jagged Alliance Online will be at this month's Gamescom, and get a preview of the game's convention trailer after the jump.

Continue reading Jagged Alliance Online premieres new Gamescom trailer

MassivelyJagged Alliance Online premieres new Gamescom trailer originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Aug 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gameplay-footagegamescomgamescom-2011gamigojagged-alliancejagged-alliance-onlinejaommortstactical-rpgtacticstrailerturn-based-mmovideowarFri, 12 Aug 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bombshell: End of Nations to be free-to-play]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/11/bombshell-end-of-nations-to-be-free-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/11/bombshell-end-of-nations-to-be-free-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/11/bombshell-end-of-nations-to-be-free-to-play/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

End of Nations
Conquering the world just got a lot more affordable, as Trion Worlds announced that its MMORTS End of Nations will be released as a top-notch free-to-play title. This decision means that players can not only obtain a copy of the client for free, but play through the solo, co-op, and the persistent-world multiplayer conquest modes as well.

Trion's Dave Luehmann hopes this will give End of Nations a competitive advantage when it launches: "Being able to offer a premium game such as End of Nations for free sets us apart in this industry. At Trion, we strive to innovate online gaming while emphasizing the delivery of the best core gameplay experience available. Our decision to release End of Nations as a AAA free-to-play title is guided by these principles."

Trion will be offering an optional subscription package and a game store to enhance players' experience. The store will sell customization and convenience items, and Trion has clearly stated that it will not be selling "pay-to-win items" through it.

During our hands-on impressions from last year, we noted that the title was probably not best suited for a monthly subscription, so it's good to see Trion freeing the game from that business model. End of Nations will be available to players at this month's Gamescom.

MassivelyBombshell: End of Nations to be free-to-play originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 11 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aaaco-opconvenience-itemsDave-Luehmannend-of-nationseonf2pfree-to-playgame-storegamescomgamescom-2011item-storemmortsoptional-subscriptionpay-to-winpersistent-worldPetroglyph-Gamessubscriptiontriontrion-worldswarThu, 11 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Trion details RIFT, End of Nations, and Defiance plans for Gamescom]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/trion-details-rift-end-of-nations-and-defiance-plans-for-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/trion-details-rift-end-of-nations-and-defiance-plans-for-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/trion-details-rift-end-of-nations-and-defiance-plans-for-games/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

RIFT
Trion is one of many MMO companies gearing up for a big showing at this month's Gamescom, and a new interview with Adam Gershowitz, David Luehmann, and Rob Hill lets fans in on what they can expect regarding the world of Telara.

For starters, there will be a lot of lip service given to RIFT's "Endgame for All" initiative, specifically the new Chronicle instances coming with the 1.5 patch. Gershowitz also mentions the Hammerknell weekend warfront and says its a way for Trion to "spice up the normal warfront grind" via new gameplay and additional rewards. Said new gameplay takes the form of a new mode called escalation, which is essentially the Telaran equivalent of capture-the-flag.

The interview also touches on Trion's End of Nations and Defiance titles, both of which will also be featured at Gamescom (though it's worth noting that Defiance will be restricted to industry previewers as Trion says the title "isn't quite ready for its player debut").

MassivelyTrion details RIFT, End of Nations, and Defiance plans for Gamescom originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 10 Aug 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.5-patchadam-gershowitzcapture-the-flagconsconventionsctfdavid-luemanndefianceend-of-nationsescalationfantasygamescomgamescom-2011gamescom-not-gamescongrindinterviewsreal-world-eventsriftrob-hillsci-fitelaratriontrion-world-networktrion-worldsweekend-warfrontsWed, 10 Aug 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NCsoft shares its Gamescom schedule with the public]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/ncsoft-shares-its-gamescom-schedule-with-the-public/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/ncsoft-shares-its-gamescom-schedule-with-the-public/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/ncsoft-shares-its-gamescom-schedule-with-the-public/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

NCsoft Gamescom
Gamescom is barreling right at us, and NCsoft is prepared to ride that train for all it's worth. The game publisher, along with ArenaNet and Carbine Studios, has announced its schedule of events for the European trade show later this month.

Guild Wars 2 will, of course, feature heavily in the company's presentations. Along with several big-screen live demos, ArenaNet plans to host several Q&A panels covering design, art, PvP, and more. There's even a costume competition planned and several chances to score sweet loot from the dev team.

The NCsoft booth will be located in Hall 9 at A11, and the company has provided several ways that travelers can keep track of the weekend's events via social media. Visitors will have the opportunity to check out these new games in addition to chatting up the many developers who will be on hand for the event.

MassivelyNCsoft shares its Gamescom schedule with the public originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 10 Aug 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetcarbinecarbine-studiosconventioneventgamescomgamescom-2011guild-wars-2gw2hands-onncsoftpanelpvpq-and-aq-and-a-paneltrade-showWed, 10 Aug 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Firefall hands-on coming to Gamescom and PAX]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/new-firefall-hands-on-coming-to-gamescom-and-pax/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/new-firefall-hands-on-coming-to-gamescom-and-pax/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/new-firefall-hands-on-coming-to-gamescom-and-pax/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Firefall
Those heading to Gamescom and PAX Prime later this month have a treat on waiting for them: a hot new demo of Firefall, the free-to-play persistent world shooter. Red 5 Studios is gracing both conventions with a hands-on experience to let players see if it lives up to the growing hype.

The Gamescom crowd can expect to enjoy the full demo and some intense coop events, while PAXers will get to see additional multiplayer maps as Firefall debuts its open-world experience.

Not heading to either convention? Red 5 hopes you don't give up hope, and invites you to sign up for the Firefall beta program, which is currently in the friends and family stage but is set to expand significantly after PAX. Firefall is slated to launch this December, which is not a minute too soon to those anticipating this title.

Enough talk -- it's time for action! Hit the jump to check out the awesome new trailer showcasing Firefall's gorgeous cel-shaded look, crazy action scenarios, and glowy glider wings.

Continue reading New Firefall hands-on coming to Gamescom and PAX

MassivelyNew Firefall hands-on coming to Gamescom and PAX originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Aug 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betacel-shadedclosed-betademofirefallfor-the-love-of-god-not-gamesconfriends-and-familygamescomgamescom-2011paxpax-2011pax-primepax-prime-2011red-5red-5-studiostrailervideoMon, 08 Aug 2011 15:00:00 EST