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[The Game Archaeologist uncovers Shadowbane: The battle-scarred blogger]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/the-game-archaeologist-uncovers-shadowbane-the-battle-scarred-b/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/the-game-archaeologist-uncovers-shadowbane-the-battle-scarred-b/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/the-game-archaeologist-uncovers-shadowbane-the-battle-scarred-b/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Shadowbane
I've long since enjoyed doing this column because, to me, it feels like the next best thing to having been there back in the day, playing these games. No one MMO player can occupy all titles at once, so experiences are bound to pass us by. Fortunately, the gamers who were there have long memories and are often more than willing to share a story or two if given half the chance.

After last week's initial foray into our Shadowbane retrospective, I fished around for a hearty veteran of the minotaur wars who was willing to step up and answer a few questions without succumbing to post-traumatic stress disorder. Within a minute, my good friend Grimnir bit into the topic, and I reeled him in as he flopped and gasped for air. At some point, this metaphor got away from me, but no worries. Hit that jump and let's cast our nets down memory river and see what we can dredge up!

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist uncovers Shadowbane: The battle-scarred blogger

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist uncovers Shadowbane: The battle-scarred blogger originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 09 Aug 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blogbloggerdaocdark-age-of-camelotdarkfalldramaeveeve-onlinef2pfactionfeaturedfishing-metaphorfree-to-playgankgankergankinggrimnirgrimnirs-grudgesguild-vs-guildmudmudsopen-world-pvppkpkersplayer-citiespolitical-systempoliticspvpracial-divideracismrebootriftsandboxshadowbanethe-game-archaeologisttrash-talkubisoftwarwarhammer-onlineworld-of-warcraftwowwow-cloneTue, 09 Aug 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Darkfall tempts sandbox vacationers with special pricing deals]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/03/darkfall-tempts-sandbox-vacationers-with-special-pricing-deals/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/03/darkfall-tempts-sandbox-vacationers-with-special-pricing-deals/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/03/darkfall-tempts-sandbox-vacationers-with-special-pricing-deals/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Are you looking to get away from it all? Does your themepark day job leave you dreaming of sunny sandbox beaches and skill-based progression at your own pace? Do you yearn for long days filled with crafting and exploration and steamy nights where gank-or-be-ganked is the commonly heard call of the wild?

We didn't think so.

But if you did have these base cravings, Aventurine's new Darkfall second anniversary promotion would likely be right up your alley. If you're a former subscriber, you've probably received an email outlining all the details. If you're an Agonian virgin, head to the Darkfall Epic Blog for more information on the special $9.95 client pricing and the $24.95 three-month subscription deals. Hurry up though, as the sandbox vacation deal of the decade ends on April 1st!

MassivelyDarkfall tempts sandbox vacationers with special pricing deals originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 Mar 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3-month-subscriptionagonaventurineaventurine-sadarkfalldealsgankget-away-from-it-allpromotionspvepvpsandboxsandbox-vacationsubscription-discountThu, 03 Mar 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Questionable EVE attack deals 30 billion ISK in damage]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/10/questionable-eve-attack-deals-30-billion-isk-in-damage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/10/questionable-eve-attack-deals-30-billion-isk-in-damage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/10/questionable-eve-attack-deals-30-billion-isk-in-damage/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It's often said that EVE Online is a game that revolves around PvP. Even people who engage only in PvE aren't safe from the wrathful influence of other pilots. Players are almost forced to compete with each other in a ruthless open sandbox where all the rules are thrown out the window. Even in the relative safety of high-security space, the threat of harm isn't completely removed. Scams, spies, corporate infiltrations and suicide attacks are a common occurrence in New Eden, forcing players to stay aware of their surroundings and exercise good judgment. This week, a player by the name of Solarius became the unfortunate target of EVE's more ruthless player element. Solarius, CEO of Quantanamo Corporation, was running missions in high-security space in his Paladin when players destroyed his ship in a coordinated suicide attack.

What makes this particular suicide attack special is the sheer magnitude of the loss. Solarius had fit the ship with an impressive array of rare and expensive officer modules, putting the total value of his ship at over 30 billion ISK. Since a destroyed ship drops around half of its modules as loot, flying a ship with such an expensive setup is almost guaranteed to draw some unwanted attention. Pilots from the corporations Honorless Internet Jerks, Ex Obscuritas, Suddenly Ninjas, Alarm Clock Corp and Defner.org jointly participated in the attack and split the proceeds from the loot. To put the magnitude of this kill into perspective, 30 billion ISK could currently buy over 80 PLEX, which is around seven years of game time. To buy the same number of PLEX with cash would cost over $1200 U.S., making this a costly warning to all EVE players that you're never completely safe in New Eden.

MassivelyQuestionable EVE attack deals 30 billion ISK in damage originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 10 Oct 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-eveccp-gameseveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlinegankiskplexpvpsolariussuicide-ganksuicide-squadSun, 10 Oct 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE player destroys over $1000 worth of game time]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/08/eve-player-destroys-over-1000-worth-of-game-time/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/08/eve-player-destroys-over-1000-worth-of-game-time/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/08/eve-player-destroys-over-1000-worth-of-game-time/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Like many MMOs, EVE Online has a problem with players buying ISK from shady websites to short-cut the ISK-making process. On the other end of the spectrum, many players are great at making ISK but unable to afford the monthly subscription. To kill two birds with one stone, CCP created PLEX. Sixty-day game time codes purchased for cash can be converted into two 30-day Pilots License Extensions, which become items in the game. The PLEX can then be traded to other EVE players for ISK, creating a legitimate way to buy ISK without fear of being hit by the ban-hammer. Players with some ISK to spare can buy PLEX from the market and redeem them for game time, essentially playing for free. It's an innovative system, and until recently it was a completely safe market to deal in.

Continue reading EVE player destroys over $1000 worth of game time

MassivelyEVE player destroys over $1000 worth of game time originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 08 Aug 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>billionbreakingccpccp-eveccp-gameseveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlinegankiskpilot-license-extensionplexpvpSun, 08 Aug 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hulkageddon III ends with an estimated 288 billion ISK in damage]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/29/hulkageddon-iii-ends-with-an-estimated-288-billion-isk-in-damage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/29/hulkageddon-iii-ends-with-an-estimated-288-billion-isk-in-damage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/29/hulkageddon-iii-ends-with-an-estimated-288-billion-isk-in-damage/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Much to the dismay of miners everywhere, EVE Online's infamous Hulkageddon event made a return earlier this month. In this irregularly-scheduled fan-run event, ruthless pilots compete to kill as many mining barges as possible within a short period of time. While some kills are found in wormhole space and nullsec as part of a standard PvP roaming squad, most tend to be the result of suicide attacks carried out in high security space. As most miners stay in highsec, this is where most of the targets for the Hulkageddon are found.

Opponents of the event argue that it causes unnecessary hardship for ordinary EVE players who enjoy mining. The event's organiser, infamous pirate Helicity Boson, responds to critics with her belief that it's a perfectly valid way to play the game. In an exclusive interview with Massively before the event began, she suggested that any pilot paying attention could see the suicide attacks coming and would have plenty of time to escape. A significant portion of mining barge kills during the Hulkageddon are also believed to be macro-miners, adding another dimension to this already controversial issue.

The latest Hulkageddon ran from the 9th of July to the 18th, ending with an estimated 288 billion ISK worth of mining ships destroyed. To put that figure into perspective, it would cost you over $16,550 US Dollars to buy that much ISK legitimately by purchasing game time codes and selling them in-game for ISK. The prize-giving for the event was recently conducted, with a single ruthless player by the name of "Phil MacMannon" taking the vast majority of the prizes. With the event concluded, miners can finally breathe a sigh of relief and get back to eating every asteroid in sight.

MassivelyHulkageddon III ends with an estimated 288 billion ISK in damage originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Jul 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-eveccp-gameseveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlinegankgriefinghelicity-bosonhulkageddon-3hulkageddon-iiiminersminingpvpsuicideThu, 29 Jul 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Changes to EVE Online's PLEX make it possible to loot game time]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/11/changes-to-eve-onlines-plex-make-it-possible-to-loot-game-time/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/11/changes-to-eve-onlines-plex-make-it-possible-to-loot-game-time/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/11/changes-to-eve-onlines-plex-make-it-possible-to-loot-game-time/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

When it comes to fighting the gold-sellers, Icelandic game developer CCP Games took an innovative approach to the problem. Players of EVE Online can buy game time with cash and then trade it with other players as in-game "Pilots License EXtensions" (PLEX). This lets people with cash to spare effectively purchase ISK from other players, while those with plenty of in-game ISK can effectively play for free. With a legitimate method for buying ISK, players needn't face the inevitable threat of bans and key-loggers from nefarious sources. Fearing that the market for PLEX might not take off if they were at risk of being lost during transport. To combat this issue, CCP made it impossible to move them from the station they were redeemed at.

In a new devblog, CCP Zulu explains plans to remove all the transport restrictions on PLEX. In addition to being able to undock with a PLEX in your cargo hold, you'll also be able to place them into courier contracts. When these changes come into effect, you might see someone hauling game time from station to station. If you plan to move any PLEX around, be extremely wary of suicide attacks. EVE's darker social element routinely scans passers-by in high-security space, looking for juicy targets to gank. The possibility of finding game time amongst the loot may send them into overdrive. The changes are due to come into effect on Tuesday the 13th of July.

MassivelyChanges to EVE Online's PLEX make it possible to loot game time originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 11 Jul 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-eveccp-gamesccp-zulueveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlinegame-timegame-time-cardgankpiracypirateplexpvprmtsuicidesuicide-gankSun, 11 Jul 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lost Pages of Taborea: PvP culture]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/05/lost-pages-of-taborea-pvp-culture/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/05/lost-pages-of-taborea-pvp-culture/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/05/lost-pages-of-taborea-pvp-culture/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Even though I'm not a very competitive player, I sometimes like having the additional options found in PvP servers. In fact, my main character has been on one since Runes of Magic's open beta, and I've come to really appreciate the fun that can be had on it. Simply being a spectator of all the random and exciting fights has been enough to outweigh the annoyance of being a target for more than a few gankings.

RoM's fully open PvP system makes for an interesting cultural perspective in which the players create the equilibrium of peace and conflict. It may be surprising -- or not -- given the somewhat harsh rules, but life on a PvP server is a fairly peaceful experience. This week I take a look at the past and present of RoM's PvP system. What are some of the system's implementations? How have players adjusted to self-govern? Why isn't there rampant chaos? It's an interesting learning experience if you're new to RoM or you've never played on a PvP server, but it's also a great retrospective for you veterans to get involved with.

Continue reading Lost Pages of Taborea: PvP culture

MassivelyLost Pages of Taborea: PvP culture originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>death-penaltyexp-debtexperience-debtfeaturedfrogsterfrogster-interactivegankgankinggriefingguild-siegeguild-warsguildsplayer-vs-playerpvprespawnromrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentsiege-warsspawn-pointMon, 05 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lock up your mining barges, the Hulkageddon cometh to EVE Online!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/03/lock-up-your-mining-barges-the-hulkageddon-cometh-to-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/03/lock-up-your-mining-barges-the-hulkageddon-cometh-to-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/03/lock-up-your-mining-barges-the-hulkageddon-cometh-to-eve-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Like it or loathe it, EVE Online's infamous fan-run Hulkageddon event is back with its teeth sharpened. During this unofficial week and a half of torture, some of the game's more vicious players band together with one common goal -- the complete eradication of mining ships. Organised by pirate Helicity Boson back in October 2009, the first event was met with strong vocal opposition by miners. Cries that the unofficial event sanctioned griefing and calls for Helicity to be banned flooded the forums, sparking intense debate into what is and isn't acceptable in the sandbox.

Despite opposition, the event made a return early this year, with January's Hulkageddon II destroying a record 278 billion ISK in mining barges and exhumers. With Hulkageddon III scheduled to begin next week on the 9th of July, continuing until July 18th, miners across EVE are in for a rough time. If January's event is any indication, even pilots in high security space aren't safe from attack. Suicide tactics have always been a popular way to kill barges, with packs of destroyers able to kill a Hulk before CONCORD arrive.

Skip past the cut to read our in-depth interview with Helicity Boson on the upcoming carnage and how to stay safe.

Continue reading Lock up your mining barges, the Hulkageddon cometh to EVE Online!

MassivelyLock up your mining barges, the Hulkageddon cometh to EVE Online! originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 03 Jul 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-eveccp-gameseveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlineeventeventsfan-eventfeaturedgankgankinghelicityhelicity-bosonhulkageddonhulkageddon-3hulkageddon-iiipvpsuicidesuicide-gankSat, 03 Jul 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online ship insurance changes to come with Tyrannis]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/30/eve-online-ship-insurance-changes-to-come-with-tyrannis/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/30/eve-online-ship-insurance-changes-to-come-with-tyrannis/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/30/eve-online-ship-insurance-changes-to-come-with-tyrannis/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EVE Online's insurance system has been a hot topic of debate over the years. Under the current system, ships have a fixed base value calculated according to the minerals used in their production. Platinum insurance costs 30% of this base value for three months worth of coverage and if the ship is destroyed in that time, 100% of the base value in ISK is deposited into your wallet. It's a safety net designed to lower the cost of losing ships and promote PvP. The main drawback of the system is that the values it uses for minerals are fixed and haven't changed since EVE came out in 2003. The prices of the various minerals that go into a ship have changed drastically over the years but insurance costs and payouts have remained constant.

Skip past the cut for a breakdown of the problems with the current insurance system and details of CCP's new plans.

Continue reading EVE Online ship insurance changes to come with Tyrannis

MassivelyEVE Online ship insurance changes to come with Tyrannis originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 30 Mar 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-eveccp-gamesdeathdeath-penaltydev-blogdevblogeconomyeveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlineexpansionfeaturedgame-mechanicsgankinsurancemarketmineralmineralspvpsuicidetyrannisTue, 30 Mar 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Staying safe in high security space]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/28/eve-evolved-staying-safe-in-high-security-space/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/28/eve-evolved-staying-safe-in-high-security-space/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/28/eve-evolved-staying-safe-in-high-security-space/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

One of EVE Online's defining factors is the idea that you're not completely safe anywhere in the game. If you're not docked in a station or securely logged off, there's always a chance that someone will pick a fight with you. Many pilots opt to stay in the relative safety of high security space but even this isn't an absolutely safe area. Suicide attacks, corporate wars, can flippers and loot thieves are a common sight in New Eden and if you don't know how to handle them, you could find yourself on the business end of a 150mm railgun.

In this guide for newer EVE players, I look at the main threats you could be exposed to in high security space and how to keep yourself safe in spite of them.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Staying safe in high security space

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Staying safe in high security space originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 28 Feb 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aggressionccpccp-eveccp-gamescorpcorporationeveeve-ccpeve-evolvedeve-mmorpgeve-onlinefeaturedGame-Mechanicsgankguidehighsechulkageddonhulkageddon-2hulkageddon-iisafesafetysuicidetipstips-and-trickstrickwarSun, 28 Feb 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Corporate Infiltration for fun and profit, part 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/27/eve-evolved-corporate-infiltration-for-fun-and-profit-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/27/eve-evolved-corporate-infiltration-for-fun-and-profit-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/27/eve-evolved-corporate-infiltration-for-fun-and-profit-part-2/#commentsContinue reading EVE Evolved: Corporate Infiltration for fun and profit, part 2

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Corporate Infiltration for fun and profit, part 2 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 27 Sep 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>assassinationccpccp-gameseveeve-onlinegankghscguiding-hand-social-clubinfiltrationISKistvaan shogaatsuIstvaanShogaatsupiracyprofessionalsprofitspystylevectorSun, 27 Sep 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Corporate Infiltration for fun and profit]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/27/eve-evolved-corporate-infiltration-for-fun-and-profit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/27/eve-evolved-corporate-infiltration-for-fun-and-profit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/27/eve-evolved-corporate-infiltration-for-fun-and-profit/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,


Of all the EVE Online stories I've heard over the years, none have impressed and inspired me as much as those detailing a well-planned corporate heist. These aren't your run-of-the-mill contract scammers or corp hanger thieves. A professional corporate spy can earn the deepest levels of trust, destroy a corporation from the inside out, rob its members of their most prized possessions and then disappear without a trace. They're the people that pull the strings of war in the background, pitting alliances against each other to meet their own ends. The Guiding Hand Social Club's famous 2005 heist remains to this day possibly the single most impressive story in EVE history and serves as a benchmark of value and style for a heist that has seldom since been matched.

When I'm not busy writing about EVE or running sleeper anomalies with my buddies, I find myself delving more and more into the dark side of EVE. From wormhole piracy and courier contract theft to full-blown corporate infiltration, this year has bestowed on me a great deal of experience in the dirty underworld of EVE. In this article, I explain how to infiltrate a corp successfully and capitalise on the opportunities it throws at you.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Corporate Infiltration for fun and profit

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Corporate Infiltration for fun and profit originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 27 Sep 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>assassinationccpccp-gameseveeve-onlinefeaturedgankghscguiding-hand-social-clubinfiltrationISKistvaan shogaatsuIstvaanShogaatsupiracyprofessionalsprofitspystylevectorSun, 27 Sep 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daze of Darkfall Week 4: The terror of Agon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/07/the-daze-of-darkfall-week-4-the-terror-of-agon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/07/the-daze-of-darkfall-week-4-the-terror-of-agon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/07/the-daze-of-darkfall-week-4-the-terror-of-agon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


It's the last week already? Well that went fast! It seems like only yesterday when I woke up in a daze to find my computer had "Thank you for purchasing Darkfall, n00bcakes!" splashed across its screen. Yet, here we are, four weeks later! My clan's city now looks like a real place of habitation instead of a pile of smashed rubble, combat is starting to become more commonplace than one attack every week, and I'm actually wearing armor instead of being naked most of the time. Amazing how things change over time.

This week's events seem to all come down to one sentence: "Are you concerned about the security of your stuff?" (NSFW) You should be concerned, as my clan's warbands were taking what they wanted from cities and hamlets, all with me in tow. What happens when I get exposed to "hardcore PvP?" Well I guess you'll just have to read and find out.

Continue reading The Daze of Darkfall Week 4: The terror of Agon

MassivelyThe Daze of Darkfall Week 4: The terror of Agon originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 07 Aug 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Lucky for me one of my clanmates ran along and saw me, quickly reviving me. I jumped up, put on my polearm, and ran pretty aimlessly into combat. Two polearm swings later, I got shot in midair while jumping. I fell over dead (again) and was ganked this time. Awwww.

My game reloaded and I found myself back at the bindstone, but I was in quite a predicament. Remember the bloodwall? Yeah, well, our invaders had killed everyone on there pretty easily, as they were obviously AFK. Well, they too had respawned at the bindstone... and I spawned in the middle of them. You can't clip other people in Darkfall. You can't push them (except with certain weapons) either. I was trapped in a pile of AFK meat, unable to actually get out.

"Sera, where are you at, why aren't you defending?" one of my guild leaders asked. I took the moment to explain to him how I was unable to defend as I was stuck in a pile of AFK people. Really, really, stuck.

"If I could compare it to another MMO, I'd say it's like PlanetSide's combat crossed with EVE's rules."
"I'll be the judge of that," he gruffly responded, as if he didn't believe me. He walked over to the bindstone, found me jumping up and down in the middle of an AFK pile like an idiot, my purple hair barely making it over the heads of the many orks and mahirim (wolf people) and then lowly said over Ventrilo, "Sera's exempt from defense until we get her out..."

But not all is bad and stuck in a pile of corpses

After things had calmed down and I had been freed from the corpse pile, however, we were attacked three more times. Out of those three times we had won twice -- succeeding in driving the offenders off or killing them all. We were obviously getting better at this stuff, and it provided an interesting experience for someone like myself.

To be honest, it feels like a deathmatch, except without guns. The enemies invade and you pelt them with arrows and/or magic. They get close and you pull out two-handed weaponry or a one-handed weapon with a shield. You attempt to gang up on someone and kill them, while they attempt the same. Then, one side gets obviously defeated while the other side quickly overruns. It's all very predictable.

If I could compare it to another MMO, I'd say it's like PlanetSide's combat crossed with EVE's rules. Fighting is focused on cities (or bases) where you attack or defend to hold/steal what's there, except losing hurts and there's no fancy recall into combat. PlanetSide is snappy when it comes to combat because that's PlanetSide's focus -- Darkfall focuses on outcomes, like EVE does. Therefore, combat is not snappy in Darkfall, it's a brief experience punctuated with death and loss.

I did survive for one of the battles where we won, if that's what you're wondering. I did archery (I like archery) and even got down and dirty with my polearm. I didn't gank anyone, but perhaps I'll get that honor another time.

One more week

Well, we're winding down. There's only one more week left in The Daze of Darkfall. I can't speak too much on the clan's activities and plans, but I can say this: There will be raids. Lots and lots of raids. Perhaps now I get to see what it's like on the other side of this thing.

I know what you're looking for -- week 1 and week 2. Well, look no further than here!

MassivelyThe Daze of Darkfall Week 3: Keep rollin', rollin', rollin', yeah pt. 2 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 29 Jul 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Hey there avid Darkfall readers! It's week three of The Daze of Darkfall, and that means we only have one week left in our feature! Time sure does fly when you're getting your butt kicked in defense of your city!

And that is totally what I did this week! Yes, that's right, it's time for a real look into "hardcore" PvP and raiding! I was out in the PvE sections killing skeletons, I was defending our city against enemy invaders, and I was working with others in harvesting camps.

So this is it. This is the cream of the Darkfall crop. This is what people say is the most amazing part of this game. Is it? Will it live up to the hype? Skip along with me after the break, and we'll go through week three, step by step.

Continue reading The Daze of Darkfall Week 3: Keep rollin', rollin', rollin', yeah

MassivelyThe Daze of Darkfall Week 3: Keep rollin', rollin', rollin', yeah originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 29 Jul 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>afkaventurinecity-defensecombatdarkfalldarkfall-onlinefeaturedgankgearharvestingjoystiqfeaturesna1north-americanpvpraidingthe-daze-of-darkfallWed, 29 Jul 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Earthrise devs on risk vs. reward with mechas in organized ganks and looting]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/22/earthrise-devs-on-risk-vs-reward-with-mechas-in-organized-ganks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/22/earthrise-devs-on-risk-vs-reward-with-mechas-in-organized-ganks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/22/earthrise-devs-on-risk-vs-reward-with-mechas-in-organized-ganks/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The post-apocalyptic MMO Earthrise will have PvP game mechanics tightly integrated into the sandbox game. Given the statements made by Earthrise developer Masthead Studios in the past, it's confirmed that full player looting will be both a driver and reward for PvP in this game. It's interesting to note that the inclusion of mechas in Earthrise will likely play a pivotal role in organized ganks or piracy of a sort.

The Earthrise devs explained more about this today in "Mechas, Transit, and Loot" on the game's official forums. The game's community manager Moll writes: "Goliaths of steel used for combat and transit, mechas are definitely not invulnerable to damage and destruction. It takes a bit of effort, but even carefully planned and armed attacks can disrupt a planned resource transportation route and destroy a mecha."

Continue reading Earthrise devs on risk vs. reward with mechas in organized ganks and looting

MassivelyEarthrise devs on risk vs. reward with mechas in organized ganks and looting originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 22 Jun 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>community-managerearthrisefull-lootingganklogisticslootlootingmasthead-studiosmechmechamechasmollpiracypost-apocalypticpvpqotwquestion-of-the-weeksandboxsci-fiMon, 22 Jun 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: A stealth bomber adventure]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/11/eve-evolved-a-stealth-bomber-adventure/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/11/eve-evolved-a-stealth-bomber-adventure/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/11/eve-evolved-a-stealth-bomber-adventure/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,


Stealth bombers were originally advanced frigates aimed at an ambush predator role. They launched cruise missiles at foes from a distance and dealt very high damage to small ships like cruisers and other frigates. With the changes in the recent EVE Online expansion, they've been re-focused into an anti-battleship role. They now fling massive torpedoes that deal impressive damage to large targets but poor damage to smaller ships. In addition, they were switched from an ambush predator role intended to use normal cloaking devices to a pack hunter role able to warp while cloaked using a covert ops cloaking device.

It's all very well to speculate, but how well do the new stealth bombers actually perform? I took a gang of stealth bomber pilots out on the town for a tense PvP test drive. In this gallery article, I show a visual record of our adventure and go on to give my opinion on the new stealth bombers after a night of EVE PvP.

Gallery: A stealth bomber adventure

Nemesis fittingTorpedoesCloakTarget PainterFrigates

Continue reading EVE Evolved: A stealth bomber adventure

MassivelyEVE Evolved: A stealth bomber adventure originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 May 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gameseveeve-evolvedeve-onlinefleetgalleryganggankgroupingopinionpvpscreenshotsstealth bomberStealthBombertipstorpedoMon, 11 May 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer: Where are all the gank groups (part 2)?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/28/warhammer-where-are-all-the-gank-groups-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/28/warhammer-where-are-all-the-gank-groups-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/28/warhammer-where-are-all-the-gank-groups-part-2/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


I'm sure many players are applauding the fact that Mythic has systematically eradicated gank groups from the RvR experience in WAR, however, it is saddening for many others. Gank groups were the elite of the elite in DAOC, and whether you liked them or not (or died to them or not), they played a huge part in the RvR scene.

Put aside for a moment all the crashing cities and fortresses, overpowered crowd control abilities, class balance issues, and general bugs and performance problems in WAR. Does it not seem that for a game that was supposed to take RvR to the next level, it actually seems to have devolved it? If the holy trinity of class-balance is healing, tanking, and DPSing, it is my humble opinion that the holy trinity of RvR is the zerg, PuG, and gank group. I'm simply left wondering, where have all the gank groups gone?

The previous paragraphs illustrate what is hindering gank groups from gaining traction in WAR. With a few minor shifts in design, I believe it is possible to reunite the RvR trinity.

Step one is to overhaul crowd control. Every class should not have an arsenal of debilitating CC abilities like they currently do because combat becomes less about strategy and more about button-mashing CC when many players gather together. Step two is to place fewer rewards on objectives and more rewards on player kills. Step three will arrive with Land of the Dead if properly implemented. Hopefully, the zergs and PuGs fight over the main RvR campaign and there will be incentives for gank groups to do well in Nehekhara. Either way, the dual-endgame focus should split up the zergs substantially.

The final step lies with the players. Mythic can only guide us so far and unless more guilds are willing to organize 6-12-man gank groups, they simply won't happen in WAR. A PR push from Mythic might help but the best chance for this to blossom will come when a few pioneering guilds take up the mantle and own it. Open challenges on server forums are highly encouraged!

MassivelyWarhammer: Where are all the gank groups (part 2)? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Apr 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dark-age-of-camelotgame-designgankland-of-the-deadmythic-entertainmentorganizationpick-up-grouppvprvrwarwarhammer-onlinezergTue, 28 Apr 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer: Where are all the gank groups?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/28/warhammer-where-are-all-the-gank-groups/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/28/warhammer-where-are-all-the-gank-groups/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/28/warhammer-where-are-all-the-gank-groups/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


You will commonly find gank groups in many PvP games. Gank groups are simply organized, pre-made groups, usually formed by members of the same guild that work extremely well together. Usually, a gank group will destroy a pick-up group (PuG) and zerg because they employ smarter tactics, keep cooler heads, and communicate more effectively.

Gank groups were very common back when I played Dark Age of Camelot from 2001-2004. These 8-man special-ops teams would sweep in at high speed, disable as many enemies as they could with crowd control, and then quickly pick off targets one or two at a time. Most PuGs and zerglings would panic, which made the job that much easier.

The true challenge would come when your gank group met an enemy gank group in the open field. The outcome would come down to a combination of skill, gear, timing, communication, ability timers (realm and master level), and even luck. Taking part in a gank group vs. gank group skirmish was probably the most adrenaline-inducing MMO experience I have had in an MMO and one I have been searching for in every new PvP MMO I try.

Continue reading Warhammer: Where are all the gank groups?

MassivelyWarhammer: Where are all the gank groups? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Apr 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fleet warfare in EVE Online is a big step up from the small, casual PvP gangs discussed in last week's PvP Masterclass article. In this guide, I explore the day to day activities of EVE's largest combat machinations, from 30-man faction warfare gangs to 300-man territorial fleets. In stark contrast to a small and highly mobile gang, a large fleet is a lumbering hulk that favours combined firepower and good co-ordination over all else. Massive fleets of hundreds of pilots routinely clash in the outskirts of EVE's lawless 0.0 space. But when they move at the speed of their slowest member and are really only as good as their fleet commander, what can you do to make sure your fleet is a success?

Fight-by-numbers:
The essence of fleet warfare is that using more ships is usually better. By focusing all attacks on one enemy at a time, a larger fleet has a very high damage potential. It also allows a more diverse range of ship types to take part in the fight such as an electronic warfare wing or sniper squadron. Forming a large fleet usually requires some planning and co-ordination, making them less suited to casual PvP and more suited to organised assaults on specific targets like POS.

Read on as I tackle the question of how to make a fleet effective from the perspective of both the fleet's individual members and the fleet commander.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: PvP masterclass - Fleet warfare

MassivelyEVE Evolved: PvP masterclass - Fleet warfare originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 02 Nov 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alignblobbuffer tankBufferTankccpcombatcommandercorpcorporationempireeveeve-evolvedeve-onlinefactionfactional-warfarefcfeaturedfleet commanderFleetCommandergankgroupingguidejoystiqfeaturesprofessionspvpsci-fiwarwarfareSun, 02 Nov 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Learning to pull the trigger in EVE Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/25/learning-to-pull-the-trigger-in-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/25/learning-to-pull-the-trigger-in-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/25/learning-to-pull-the-trigger-in-eve-online/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Not a day goes by without someone in EVE Online being cut down by the guns, lasers, missiles or drones of another player, given how PvP-centric the game is. Only in EVE, you don't just respawn and all's well. There's often more... drama... involved. A ship lost, implants obliterated, screams of it being unfair or "Whyyyy?!" echo in Local or on the forums. This can be a brutal game at times, and most every player in EVE learns their lessons the hard way. Much of what's said on this is typically from the perspective of the victim. But what about the person behind those guns? Is it always easy for them to pull the trigger?

EVE Online blogger Black Claw addresses that sense of regret that carebears go through when turning towards piracy in "Feeling guilty?" After all, many pirates were once the 'innocent' victims of someone else when they were starting out. Black Claw writes about what it's like to make the transition from a PvP victim to a killer.

Continue reading Learning to pull the trigger in EVE Online

MassivelyLearning to pull the trigger in EVE Online originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 25 Oct 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Continue reading EVE Evolved: The making of EVE Online, part 2

MassivelyEVE Evolved: The making of EVE Online, part 2 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 05 Oct 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>castorccpcold warColdWarconcordempyrean-ageeveeve-onlineexodusexpansionfactional-warfaregankhilmarjoystiqfeatureslaunchpatchred moon risingRedMoonRisingrevelationsrmrsecond genesisSecondGenesisserversuicidetrinitySun, 05 Oct 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[What draws players to EVE while keeping others away?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/17/what-draws-players-to-eve-while-keeping-others-away/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/17/what-draws-players-to-eve-while-keeping-others-away/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/17/what-draws-players-to-eve-while-keeping-others-away/#commentsFiled under: , ,


EVE Online is the type of game that doesn't have the broad appeal of fantasy that titles like World of Warcraft. Certainly, it attracts a number of players who are looking for an edgier game experience where actions have consequences. For some, the consequences can be steep, causing those gamers to shy away from EVE. Being wary of your fellow pilots is always a good idea, but it's not all piracy and suicide ganks. The game offers freedom to do what you want in the sandbox, but most EVE pilots stay on the right side of the law.

Sam Guss is a writer at EVE-Mag.com, an up and coming site that focuses on EVE Online, who wrote a piece that caught our eye at Massively. His article is titled "Is EVE for You?" and looks at what the attraction to the game is for him, and speculates about the wider appeal of EVE to other dedicated players. If you're an EVE fan, what is it that sets the game apart from other MMOs? And for those that don't play EVE Online, what aspects of the game keep you away?

MassivelyWhat draws players to EVE while keeping others away? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 17 Aug 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capsuleercarebearcarebearsccpccp-gamesconsequenceseveeve-mageve-onlinegankhardcorehighseclowsecopinionpilotpiracypiraterewardrewardsriskriskssam-gusssandboxsci-fisuicide-gankSun, 17 Aug 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The 7 Deadly Sins of EVE Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/15/the-7-deadly-sins-of-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/15/the-7-deadly-sins-of-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/15/the-7-deadly-sins-of-eve-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


EVE Online is by design a darker game than most other MMOs, which means certain actions unthinkable in other games are allowed in EVE's setting of New Eden. It's a game that rewards cunning and brutally punishes stupidity.

Players can assume many roles in New Eden, but the villains in a story are often the most interesting. In EVE, you get to be one. While there are many wrongs a pilot in New Eden can commit, these are seven of the worst. Some players specialize in one of these 'sins,' while others manage to indulge in all seven.

Gallery: The 7 Deadly Sins of EVE Online

PiracyScammingSuicide GankingNinja SalvagingEspionage

MassivelyThe 7 Deadly Sins of EVE Online originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boosterscan-flippercan-flippingccpccp-gamescrimedrugsespionageeveeve-onlinefeaturedgankgatecampgatecampingghscguiding-hand-social-clubistvaanjoystiqfeaturesnew-edenninja-salvagingpiracypirateroleplayingscammingscamssinsinssmugglersuicide-ganktheftthiefveroneveto-corpvillainvillainsFri, 15 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Is EVE Online going soft?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/10/eve-evolved-is-eve-online-going-soft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/10/eve-evolved-is-eve-online-going-soft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/10/eve-evolved-is-eve-online-going-soft/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EVE Online has always been regarded as one of the harshest MMOs on the market, with solid death penalties and a steep learning curve to its PvP. After five successful years, many players now fear that EVE's development has shifted in the opposite direction. It all started when the minutes of CCP's recent meetings with the Council of Stellar Management (CSM) were published on the official EVE forums. These notes showed CCP's position on the 27 separate issues the CSM brought to their attention. Discussion on the issues, ranging from Black Ops battleships to PvP aggression timers, was opened to the public exactly one month ago and CCP's position on them has been a topic of hot debate ever since.

Controversy:
Among the most controversy-laden issues on the table are two recent devblogs covering important balance changes slated for EVE's near future. The first major announcement was the infamous "nano nerf" that sparked off over 130 pages of highly charged debate. This was followed later by another devblog announcing major nerfs to suicide ganking. Combined with CCP Noah's recent comment suggesting that war declarations amount to griefing, many players are beginning to question the direction EVE's development is headed in.

Is EVE Online starting to go soft? In this article, I ask whether the development direction of EVE has changed and examine what it means for the game's future.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Is EVE Online going soft?

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Is EVE Online going soft? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 10 Aug 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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CCP Games has addressed the long-standing problem of suicide ganking in EVE Online in their latest dev blog, titled "Serious Security." CCP Fear stepped up to inform the player base that, yes, the devs do take the issue of suicide ganking seriously, and that they're going to take action. The proposed changes, outlined below, are not going into effect immediately, nor do they impact actions taken as part of Empire war declarations. However, they will be implemented with the next major update to EVE, which will be Empyrean Age 1.1, rolling out this Fall. The dev blog focuses on CONCORD improvements and the increased consequences of suicide ganks.

CCP Fear states: "We have been looking at suicide ganking and overall security standing issues, and how these features affect the general landscape of EVE. We are not happy with the current ease of suicide ganking and the relative 'no hassle' it has become. In many cases, unsuspecting victims have no chance to escape, nor any help from CONCORD. We want to change this."

Continue reading Era of suicide ganking in EVE Online coming to a close

MassivelyEra of suicide ganking in EVE Online coming to a close originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Aug 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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EVE Online is a game where you're vulnerable to PvP in the safest of places. Even in high security systems where CONCORD will destroy any ship that attacks you, you're still vulnerable in the few seconds before the police arrive. Because of this, swarms of players in cheap ships are able to kill larger targets by synchronising their initial volleys. In recent years, suicide attacks have turned into a viable profession, with the primary targets being industrial ships and freighters carrying a high value of items.

Safety versus consequences:
A common misconception among newer players is that CONCORD are there to provide safety for players in high security space. Rather than provide direct safety to the player being attacked, they instead provide consequences for the attacker. While many other MMOs physically limit when and where you can attack someone, EVE starts with the assumption that PvP is possible everywhere and then adds punishments for engaging in safe areas. The attacking ships are destroyed and the security status of their pilots is lowered. If they lose too much security status, they won't be able to safely enter high security systems any more.

Suicide attacks are on the rise in New Eden and cries for CCP to step in and resolve the situation have reached new highs. So what's the problem and how can it be avoided? Read on as I delve into the world of suicide ganking.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Suicide ganking investigated

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Suicide ganking investigated originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Jul 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpeveeve-evolvedeve-onlineexploitfeaturedgankgriefingjoystiqfeaturessuicideMon, 21 Jul 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pirates of the Burning Sea to eliminate ganking, restore ambush gameplay]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/01/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-to-eliminate-ganking-restore-ambush/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/01/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-to-eliminate-ganking-restore-ambush/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/01/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-to-eliminate-ganking-restore-ambush/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Is ganking really such a bad thing? That's the question Isildur addresses in his latest Pirates of the Burning Sea dev blog, where he outlines how ganking evolved in the game -- and how it got out of control. "Ganking has a long and difficult history within our design and development process, so it's a hard question to answer with a simple 'we hate it' or 'we love it," Isildur said. To really understand why the Flying Lab Software developers are torn on the issue of ganking, Isildur explained their concept of 'ambush gameplay' and the contradictions it brings to game mechanics.

Isildur explains how the creators of Pirates of the Burning Sea envisioned the act of piracy. The scenario he outlines involves a lone pirate (or small group of pirates), who catch an unwary merchant by surprise, defeat him and loot, then escape before reinforcements can arrive. This is the ambush gameplay Isildur and the team at Flying Labs pictured -- rewarding for pirates, disheartening for lone merchants. To put a more visual spin on it -- a player sets sail from port, perhaps hoping for an uneventful trip. But then, a sail appears on the horizon. Is it a friend or enemy? As the unknown ship comes into view, so does its pirate flag, signaling a possible fight to the death. But the introduction of the Open Sea to the game changed all this. In some respects, Pirates of the Burning Sea developed in ways contrary to the original spirit of the game.

Continue reading Pirates of the Burning Sea to eliminate ganking, restore ambush gameplay

MassivelyPirates of the Burning Sea to eliminate ganking, restore ambush gameplay originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 01 Jun 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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