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 Digital Continuum: What's up with APB?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/04/the-digital-continuum-whats-up-with-apb/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/04/the-digital-continuum-whats-up-with-apb/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/04/the-digital-continuum-whats-up-with-apb/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


I'm not entirely sure what's going on with All Points Bulletin and the only reason I'm bothered enough to consider worrying about a game that we know only fractions of is because those fractions are amazingly potent pieces of excitement. The depth of customization, the level-less progression wrapped around a GTA style game make for powerful appeal.

I was hoping that because it'd been a year since the last GDC, when All Points Bulletin was first revealed to a dumbstruck media, we would be treated with a delightful updated look at the game. That just wasn't the case at GDC 2009, and frankly it has me slightly worried.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: What's up with APB?

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: What's up with APB? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 04 Apr 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbe3e3-2009featuredfinal-fantasygdcgdc-2009gdc08realtime-worldsthe-digital-continummvivoxSat, 04 Apr 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fully public APB beta on its way]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/fully-public-apb-beta-on-its-way/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/fully-public-apb-beta-on-its-way/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/fully-public-apb-beta-on-its-way/#commentsFiled under: , ,


We haven't heard too much in the past month about the cops and robbers MMO All Points Bulletin from developer Realtime Worlds. At least not until recently, we haven't. While gameplay information may still be scare at least we now know that APB is entering its Alpha stage with an eventual fully public beta on the horizon. This information all comes from Mario Rizzo, Realtime Worlds' business development manager.

While it's no official announcement, it is the next best thing. We can certainly understand why a public beta would do a game like All Points Bulletin a lot of good -- it's not exactly your typical MMO or sandbox action game. Heck, it's very likely that many players will simply be enamored with the character creation process that was such a smash hit at GDC this year. You can count on us spending the first hour or two of our time with the game's beta making an awesome character.

MassivelyFully public APB beta on its way originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Jun 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinalphaapbbetagdc08mario-rizzoopen-betapublic-betarealtime-worldsWed, 11 Jun 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Freaky Creatures gets a new video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/freaky-creatures-gets-a-new-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/freaky-creatures-gets-a-new-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/freaky-creatures-gets-a-new-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ever since we first talked about seeing Freaky Creatures at GDC08, we've wanted to provide gameplay video that shows off the slickness of the game itself, and now there's finally something for hungry minds to consume.

The video is offered in three formats, high, medium, and low. There's some great footage of creature customization, a look at most of the creature types, and of course the gameplay which is much as we remember it being at the GDC event. Go ahead, whet your appetite for destruction!

MassivelyFreaky Creatures gets a new video originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 May 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>freaky-creaturesgameplaygdc08videoWed, 28 May 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Cryptic is hiring ... but for what?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/23/cryptic-is-hiring-but-for-what/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/23/cryptic-is-hiring-but-for-what/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/23/cryptic-is-hiring-but-for-what/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Cryptic Studios has announced that they're hiring people "to work on our upcoming next-gen MMOGs." This alludes to Jack Emmert's earlier remark at GDC 08, when he mentioned a "secret sci-fi project". And now that it's clear that Cryptic is growing, it just adds delicious fuel to the fire.

A look at their Current Openings page reveals that every department has openings, which is good for would-be respondents, but reveals nothing for clue-seekers. As always, we'll let you know as soon as anything leaks, but this blogger dares to hope for the official resurrection of Star Trek Online.

[Thanks, Christine!]

MassivelyCryptic is hiring ... but for what? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 May 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cryptic-studiosemploymentgdc08jack-emmertsecret-projectstar-trek-onlineFri, 23 May 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New All Points Bulletin preview refreshes memories]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/07/new-all-points-bulletin-preview-refreshes-memories/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/07/new-all-points-bulletin-preview-refreshes-memories/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/07/new-all-points-bulletin-preview-refreshes-memories/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


If you somehow missed All Points Bulletin back when it made some serious waves at GDC '08, then here is your chance to get all caught up. GamesRadar has a preview up that pretty much sums up what we know so far about the title. While the preview is short, it only serves as a reminder to why we're prepared to give a pinky finger or two for this title. Well, the pinky finger offer is only good if the game is able to deliver on its promises, as we're somewhat attached to them.

We're pretty excited to see how development of the game will progress now that developer Realtime Worlds has secured $50 million in funding. Our imaginations are going fairly wild thinking about what new features could make it into the game now.

[via WarCry]

MassivelyNew All Points Bulletin preview refreshes memories originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 May 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbgamesradargdc08realtime-worldsWed, 07 May 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tokyo content developer offers a mobile future for MMOs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/19/tokyo-content-developer-offers-a-mobile-future-for-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/19/tokyo-content-developer-offers-a-mobile-future-for-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/19/tokyo-content-developer-offers-a-mobile-future-for-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Gamasutra just recently put up notes from a unique lecture given at this year's Game Developer's Conference. David Collier, president of the Japanese group Pikkle KK, offered up a Tokyo-focused vision of the future of MMOs. For millions of players in Asia, a series of casual flash games played mutliplayer via cellphones are all the MMO they need or want. Collier explained the sheer appeal of these titles, which cross age- and gender-boundaries; some 40% of male teens are playing one of these titles, called Mobile Game Town.

The Flash Lite format is part of the reason behind these services' success. Quick, simple downloads allow for instant action, and the portability of the Flash experience ensures there is minimal need to tweak titles for specific platforms. These games are also very lucrative, offering easy access to customers for advertisers. Collier's comments on the future of the medium are fascinating, as bigger players and high-profile developers step into the ring.

Continue reading Tokyo content developer offers a mobile future for MMOs

MassivelyTokyo content developer offers a mobile future for MMOs originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 19 Apr 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternate-reality-gamecellphonegdc08microtransactionsmobilemobile-game-townmobile-mmoSat, 19 Apr 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The architects of EVE society talk player elections]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/19/the-architects-of-eve-society-talk-player-elections/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/19/the-architects-of-eve-society-talk-player-elections/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/19/the-architects-of-eve-society-talk-player-elections/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

The Game Developer's Conference is a fantastic time to get under the surface of new announcements and game concepts. At GDC, the newest and greatest element in CCP's EVE Online - the one everyone wanted to talk about - was the ambulation system coming soon to a space station near you. Unfortunately the only place the developers of the unique single-server space title were willing to talk about that was 'on-stage' during a session. We covered that session and so we knew there was no way we were getting it any better than that ... but with some time free in the busy CCP schedule we still had the chance to ask some questions.

So instead CCP CEO Hilmar Petursson, EVE Online's very own in-house economist Dr. Eyjólfur "Eyjo" Guðmundsson, and Community Researcher/Developer Petur Oskarsson gathered around a small table in their jet-black show booth to answer some questions about a slightly more esoteric subject: the Council of Stellar Management. Earlier today we brought you the general details, but this afternoon we have the word straight from the researcher's mouth. Why set up a governing body? What are the benefits? How does this tie into CCP's economic research mandate? And ultimately ... what does it mean for you as a player?

Read on to find out.

Continue reading The architects of EVE society talk player elections

MassivelyThe architects of EVE society talk player elections originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 19 Mar 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpcouncil-of-stellar-managementeveeve-onlinefeaturedgdc08gdcfanboyinterviewjoystiqfeaturesWed, 19 Mar 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The marriage of mobile gaming and MMOs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/17/the-marriage-of-mobile-gaming-and-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/17/the-marriage-of-mobile-gaming-and-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/17/the-marriage-of-mobile-gaming-and-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The convergence of mobile phones and Massively Multiplayer games is something we've been talking about since the site launched. Whether it's a mobile tie-in to World of Warcraft or the possibilities of the iPhone SDK, it seems to be a goal of many developers to tie the virtual and real worlds together via your cell. A discussion held at last month's Game Developer's conference went over a number of different MMO-appropriate elements from mobile gaming, and might give you some idea of what the MMOmobile future might look like.

Game designer Dan Roy was the speaker at that particular event, and ran down the numerous ways that mobile communications can hook into MMO worlds. He cited the 'show off' factor of having a max level character, and offered that socializing with fellow players would be enhanced by a cell-connected virtual world application. He spent some time describing a few games that go whole-hog, putting an entire virtual experience onto a mobile platform. He seemed somewhat dismissive of several of these games, saying of Ragnarok Mobile Mage, "It sucks. It's terribly designed." His closing thoughts surround the possibility of even tying combat into a mobile app - weighty thoughts for future designers.

Are any of these ideas at all interesting to you? Would you use a mobile client to check your in-game mail, for example? Or how your auction house bids are going?

MassivelyThe marriage of mobile gaming and MMOs originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 17 Mar 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armada-kingdomsgdc08mobileragnarok-mobile-magethe-violet-sectorMon, 17 Mar 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC08: Are virtual item sales the way of the future?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/08/gdc08-are-virtual-item-sales-the-way-of-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/08/gdc08-are-virtual-item-sales-the-way-of-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/08/gdc08-are-virtual-item-sales-the-way-of-the-future/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


With the stigma associated with the term RMT -- or "real money trading" -- companies such as Live Gamer and Ping0 have an uphill battle when selling their legitimized RMT services to many gamers. At GDC recently, Live Gamer's Andrew Schneider and ping0's Steve Goldstein tried to explain to a skeptical crowd why their forms of RMT trading are the future of gaming.

Though you hear a lot about WoW gold, all online games have a large secondary market for currency. These services are all operated outside of the publisher's terms of service or EULA and are very inefficient, both for the player and the company. The RMT industry is littered with account and credit card theft -- and when a customer's account has been compromised, they don't call the RMT traders: they call the game's customer support line. It's an immense waste of resources for the game company and a huge hassle for the player involved. (Has your World of Warcraft account ever been stolen? If so, you know it can take weeks to get everything restored.) If game companies don't address RMT issues themselves, they're just going to have problems with black market RMT. Live Gamer seems to offer a, "if you can't beat 'em, join 'em" approach with their attempts to run a legitimate RMT business.

Continue reading GDC08: Are virtual item sales the way of the future?

MassivelyGDC08: Are virtual item sales the way of the future? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 08 Mar 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eulagdcgdc08gdc08fanboylivegamerrmtsoetosSat, 08 Mar 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Chronicles of Spellborn: demo video good, another big delay bad]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/05/chronicles-of-spellborn-demo-video-good-another-big-delay-bad/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/05/chronicles-of-spellborn-demo-video-good-another-big-delay-bad/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/05/chronicles-of-spellborn-demo-video-good-another-big-delay-bad/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Good idea: Show off your Massively Multiplayer game at Game Developer's conference! The long-in-development title Chronicles of Spellborn showed off gameplay and core features to the site OnlineWelten. The Germans had a camera on-hand, and you can enjoy the lengthy resulting video either on their site, or embedded below the cut.

Bad idea: Postpone the launch of your already long-delayed title well into 2008. The official site notes that the developers now plan to release Spellborn sometime in Q2 of this year - right into the timeframe of Warhammer Online and (possibly) Wrath of the Lich King. This already incredibly niche title is going to have a stiff fight on its hands, and it's a real shame that they're postponing it right into the path of these mass-market behemoths.

Some of the features are definitely worth checking out, though; check below the cut for that great OnlineWelten video.

Continue reading Chronicles of Spellborn: demo video good, another big delay bad

MassivelyChronicles of Spellborn: demo video good, another big delay bad originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 Mar 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingchronicles-of-spellborndelaygdc08spellbornvideoWed, 05 Mar 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[We built this city: Age of Conan's constructible PvP city system previewed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/05/we-built-this-city-age-of-conans-constructable-pvp-city-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/05/we-built-this-city-age-of-conans-constructable-pvp-city-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/05/we-built-this-city-age-of-conans-constructable-pvp-city-system/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

During the week of GDC we talked briefly about the mounted combat in Age of Conan, part of the demo run for us by Gaute Godager. There was a great deal more to the demo, though, content very much worth talking about. The event started by reshashing the game's starting point, your rise from slave to adventurer in the wake of a ship wreck. We've discussed that experience, both in our own coverage of the game and in reference to work done by other sites.

Probably the most interesting element of the demo, though, was the so-far little seen guild and guild city elements. Essentially a sort of RTS-lite element plopped down in the dead center of the game's endgame PvP, Age of Conan's city construction takes the crafting and housing elements we've seen in other games and explodes them out in some interesting directions. Read on for details on this new way of tackling a well-known game system.

Gallery: GDC 08: Age of Conan Preview

Continue reading We built this city: Age of Conan's constructible PvP city system previewed

MassivelyWe built this city: Age of Conan's constructible PvP city system previewed originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 Mar 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaocendgamefeaturedfuncomgdc08gdc08fanboyguildguild-cityjoystiqfeaturesplayer-housingpvpWed, 05 Mar 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A brief Fallen Earth update]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/03/a-brief-fallen-earth-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/03/a-brief-fallen-earth-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/03/a-brief-fallen-earth-update/#commentsFiled under: , ,

So what's new with Fallen Earth? Well not a whole lot of new information is discussed in this article covering some information from this year's GDC. However, what little info there is packs a pretty good punch in the satisfaction gland for the post-apocalyptic Fallen Earth fan.

For starters, it sounds like mounts -- in the form of ATVs -- are in for the early levels. The reason behind this choice seems to stem from the large expanses players will have to traverse -- so we're not entirely certain that low-level mounts are really all that different from no mounts with less distance to travel in-world.

Unfortunately, we still can't be sure until the game comes out -- which could still be a little while even with 75% of the content already in the game. Having three to four thousand missions doesn't really tell us much, but since the lead designer of Fallen Earth Lee Hammock says the polish isn't there yet, we can assume it'll be some time before we see launch. We're still very interested in this title, simply because we're suckers for the dirty, gritty, post-apocalyptic future-scape massively games.

MassivelyA brief Fallen Earth update originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 03 Mar 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atvsfallen-earthgdc08lee-hammockmountspost-apocalypticMon, 03 Mar 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC08: Highlights from GDC]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/03/gdc08-highlights-from-gdc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/03/gdc08-highlights-from-gdc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/03/gdc08-highlights-from-gdc/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,


Don't miss our roundup of all the highlights from GDC 2008:


Gallery: GDC 08: The Gallery

MassivelyGDC08: Highlights from GDC originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 03 Mar 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gdc08highlightsroundupsMon, 03 Mar 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MMORPG highlights from GDC08]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/02/mmorpg-highlights-from-gdc08/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/02/mmorpg-highlights-from-gdc08/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/02/mmorpg-highlights-from-gdc08/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,


The Game Developers Conference of 2008 has ended, but the coverage Massively churned out on current and emerging MMOs lives on. We know you aren't chomping at the bit to wade through the dozens and dozens of articles we published covering the latest developments in the sexy, sexy world of online gaming development. No worries, we've done it for you.

From our arrival to our hands-on coverage to our relentless hounding of big name developers, follow us on a magical, mystery tour through best of Massively's GDC08 adventures.

Gallery: GDC 2008 Pre-show

Continue reading MMORPG highlights from GDC08

MassivelyMMORPG highlights from GDC08 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 02 Mar 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardcryptic-studiosfeaturedgdc08gdc08-highlightsjoystiqfeaturesperpetualturbineSun, 02 Mar 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC08 Highlights: Age of Conan, Requiem: Bloodymare and All Points Bulletin]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/02/gdc08-highlights-age-of-conan-requiem-bloodymare-and-all-poin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/02/gdc08-highlights-age-of-conan-requiem-bloodymare-and-all-poin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/02/gdc08-highlights-age-of-conan-requiem-bloodymare-and-all-poin/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,


Age of Conan

Conan gets mounted

One of the hottest tickets for MMO enthusiasts at GDC08 was the Funcom session showing off new features in their upcoming Age of Conan. Mounted combat was the eye candy of the day. Game Director Gaute Godager walked our team through the basics of head to head battles astride War Horses, War Mammoths and War Rhinos. For the reading-averse, you can also listen to an audio recording of the presentation.

Gallery: GDC 08: Age of Conan Preview

Continue reading GDC08 Highlights: Age of Conan, Requiem: Bloodymare and All Points Bulletin

MassivelyGDC08 Highlights: Age of Conan, Requiem: Bloodymare and All Points Bulletin originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 02 Mar 2008 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conan-podcastcrackdowndave-jonesdeveloper-podcastfuncomgaute-godagergdc08gdc08-highlightsgdc08-podcastgothicgravity-interactivelast.fmmassively-podcastmounted-combatrealtime-worldssouth-koreavehicle-customizationwar-horsewar-mammothwar-rhinoSun, 02 Mar 2008 12:59:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC08 Highlights: Eve Online, FusionFall and Lego Universe]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/02/gdc08-highlights-eve-online-fusion-fall-and-lego-universe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/02/gdc08-highlights-eve-online-fusion-fall-and-lego-universe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/02/gdc08-highlights-eve-online-fusion-fall-and-lego-universe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,


EVE Online

Eve Online talks new ships and avatars

CCP's Senior Technical Producer Torfi Frans Olafsson had a lot to say about EVE Online's upcoming space station environments. At present, EVE's player characters are little more than still portraits -- in the playable portion of the game you are primarily represented as your ship, which you can use to navigate and explore the game world. Players will one day have the ability to exit their ship and interact with other characters as a human avatar. We still don't have an exact release date, but we scored the details on the proposed gameplay and development process.

Gallery: GDC08: EVE Online's space stations


Continue reading GDC08 Highlights: Eve Online, FusionFall and Lego Universe

MassivelyGDC08 Highlights: Eve Online, FusionFall and Lego Universe originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 02 Mar 2008 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cartoon-networkccpeve-avatargambledongdc08gdc08-highlightsgrigon-entertainmentmark-hansenqringrichard-weilrobert-knopfsam-lewisseal-onlinespace-stationSun, 02 Mar 2008 12:58:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC08 Highlights: Freaky Creatures, Habbo and Love]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/02/gdc08-highlights-freaky-creatures-habbo-and-love/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/02/gdc08-highlights-freaky-creatures-habbo-and-love/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/02/gdc08-highlights-freaky-creatures-habbo-and-love/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,


Freaky Creatures

"This is like Pokémon, but far, far cooler."

Drive to toy store. Buy cool monster action figure. Discover flash drive buried in packaging. Use it to upload a digital version of your creature and then pit that bad boy in head-to-head combat against other players and their pet arsenal online. That, my friends, is Freaky Creatures. Don't pretend you're not drooling to learn more.

Gallery: GDC08: Freaky Creatures

Continue reading GDC08 Highlights: Freaky Creatures, Habbo and Love

MassivelyGDC08 Highlights: Freaky Creatures, Habbo and Love originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 02 Mar 2008 12:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abandon-interactiveeskil-steenbergflash-drivegdc08gdc08-highlightsmonster-pvppokemonsulka-haroworlds-in-motionSun, 02 Mar 2008 12:57:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC08 Highlights: The future of Virtual Worlds and the end of GDC08]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/02/gdc08-highlights-the-future-of-virtual-worlds-and-the-end-of-gd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/02/gdc08-highlights-the-future-of-virtual-worlds-and-the-end-of-gd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/02/gdc08-highlights-the-future-of-virtual-worlds-and-the-end-of-gd/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,


The Future of MMOs

The Future of MMOs panel liveblog

Team Massively was there to live blog one of the most anticipated panels of GDC08. On it were a few names you might have heard of, like Cryptic Studios' Jack Emmert, Nexon's Min Kim, BioWare's Ray Muzyka, and Rob Pardo (who has apparently worked on some sort of popular fantasy game). We blogged a blow-by-blow account of the jabs, cuts, and parries from these Massive genre heavyweights.

Gallery: GDC08: The Future of MMOs

Continue reading GDC08 Highlights: The future of Virtual Worlds and the end of GDC08

MassivelyGDC08 Highlights: The future of Virtual Worlds and the end of GDC08 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 02 Mar 2008 12:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareblizzardcryptic-studiosfuture-of-mmo-panelgdc08gdc08-highlightsgirl-scholarshipjack-emmetmin-kimnetdevilnexonraph-kosterray-muzykarob-pardosoevideo-capturevideo-recordingvoice-chatwil-wrightworlds-in-motionxfireSun, 02 Mar 2008 12:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Pong creator Nolan Bushnell to enter MMO space]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/29/pong-creator-nolan-bushnell-to-enter-mmo-space/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/29/pong-creator-nolan-bushnell-to-enter-mmo-space/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/29/pong-creator-nolan-bushnell-to-enter-mmo-space/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

The man many call 'the Father of Videogames' -- as he is responsible for founding Atari and creating Pong -- Nolan Bushnell was recently interviewed by GameSpot at this year's GDC. The piece reads along smoothly enough, with Bushnell offering up his opinion on the marginalization of game arcades since the 80s, how to monetize casual games, and the importance of socialization.

On this line of questioning, GameSpot asks 'Do you have anything in massively multiplayer games?' After a long pause, Bushnell confirms he does with a single 'yes', but reveals no further details, saying intriguingly ' ... as compelling as World of Warcraft is, it too shall find that there are other ways to play a game.'

It's a given that he knows a lot about the industry, but that's not necessarily a quality guaranteed to create a fun game. However, he does know quite a bit about creating social spaces, which could be a big advantage in designing an MMO. What do you think, could something interesting come from Nolan Bushnell?

MassivelyPong creator Nolan Bushnell to enter MMO space originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Feb 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcadesatarichuck-e-cheesefather-of-videogamesgamespotgdc08interviewnolan-bushnellpongsocial-spacesworld-of-warcraftFri, 29 Feb 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What would you pay for?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/29/the-daily-grind-what-would-you-pay-for/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/29/the-daily-grind-what-would-you-pay-for/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/29/the-daily-grind-what-would-you-pay-for/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

At this year's Game Developer's Conference, a lot of hay was made over the concept of microtransactions and the free-to-play model. Attendees seemed split right down the middle, some for, some against. It wouldn't be a stretch to characterize the Massively readership as similarly split. But for those of you who love your free-to-play MMOs, is there anything that would get you to pay a monthly fee?

Many titles have the option to both play free and pay a monthly; Dofus, for example, and Second Life too, to polarize the offerings. Are there any such models that have shot themselves in the foot by making the paid content not appealing enough to energize users to pay? If not, what will it take?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What would you pay for? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Feb 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dofusfree-to-playfuture-of-mmosgame-developers-conferencegdc08microtransactionsmonthly-feesecond-lifethe-daily-grindFri, 29 Feb 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Chronicles of Spellborn gets a video'd walkthrough at GDC]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/28/chronicles-of-spellborn-gets-a-videod-walkthrough-at/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/28/chronicles-of-spellborn-gets-a-videod-walkthrough-at/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/28/chronicles-of-spellborn-gets-a-videod-walkthrough-at/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

For those of you unfamiliar with Khaeon Games' Chronicles of Spellborn, here's a 40-minute developer-led tour through its opening stages, including character creation at this year's GDC.

A great deal of time is spent going over the character's stats ... a bit more than I'd have had the patience to sit through, personally. Right around the 17 minute mark the character finally starts running around. Nice tidbits: you have a chance to pick up a piece of hardware that an opponent carries and wear it yourself, but not before taking it to an armorer or equivalent to have it fitted. The atmosphere of the world is nice and angsty. Combat is reminiscent of Age of Conan, where there is no lock-on targeting, and it's dependent upon facing.

There's some promise here; sign up for the beta at their official site.

[Thanks, Garold!]

MassivelyChronicles of Spellborn gets a video'd walkthrough at GDC originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Feb 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanchronicles-of-spellborngameplaygdcgdc08khaeon-gamesvideoThu, 28 Feb 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC08: Bigger is not always better]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/26/gdc08-bigger-is-not-always-better/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/26/gdc08-bigger-is-not-always-better/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/26/gdc08-bigger-is-not-always-better/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


One good thing about being in such a net-savvy industry is that when you miss something, like the GDC presentation by NetDevil's Scott Brown and Hermann Peterscheck, somebody will inevitably put the powerpoint online for everybody to see. The NetDevil guys, currently working on Jumpgate Evolution and LEGO Universe, are well-known for their honesty and candor. So when they lay out their model for the future of the MMO industry, we're inclined to listen to them. Their premise is that the exponential growth that has been observed by many parties within the MMO space may in fact be somewhat illusory. While revenues for the industry as a whole continue to sky-rocket, the money and subscription numbers continue to be concentrated in only a few, extremely successful games.

Take one look at all the canceled titles and commercial failures that litter the landscape. They have a point. The advice that they lay out for burgeoning developers is to forgo huge teams, shiny graphics, fancy rec-rooms, and other accoutremonts for a lean team, lower minimum spec, sensible work conditions, and a realistic development timetable that won't lead to costly delays. Perhaps most importantly, they say that trying to take on the big boys with a $4 million budget is tantamount to suicide. Smaller development teams can actually make more money than big budget titles in the long-run if they find their niche and stick to it. Or as one slide says, "A little greatness is always better than a lot of mediocrity."

Gallery: GDC08: Small teams big dreams with Netdevil

MassivelyGDC08: Bigger is not always better originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Feb 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto-assaultdevelopmentgdcgdc08hermann-peterscheckindustrynetdevilprofitscott-brownsuccessTue, 26 Feb 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC08: Cartoon Network's FusionFall]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/26/gdc08-cartoon-networks-fusionfall/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/26/gdc08-cartoon-networks-fusionfall/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/26/gdc08-cartoon-networks-fusionfall/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,


We were invited to check out Cartoon Network's upcoming kid-focused MMO FusionFall, and while clearly still in development, it shows a lot of potential. Developed in part by Korea's Grigon Entertainment, makers of Seal Online, QRing, and Gambledon, this is a title with a great deal of pedigree under the hood. Among the notable names on this project are Sam Lewis, former systems and content designer for Star Wars Galaxies; Robert Knopf, recently of Ultima Online; and Richard Weil, the community relations manager for many MMOs, including City of Heroes/Villains, Lineage I and II, Tabula Rasa, and Auto Assault.

With so many experienced and creative people behind it, FusionFall definitely stands to make a splash in the 8 - 14 year old demographic that Cartoon Network is shooting for. This isn't to say they don't have a few challenges ahead of them, however. We'll explore this, and show you the trailer, after the break.

Gallery: Cartoon Network's FusionFall

now that she had the Zipper Pull of Power, somewhere a giant's pants were falling down

Continue reading GDC08: Cartoon Network's FusionFall

MassivelyGDC08: Cartoon Network's FusionFall originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Feb 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d-platformerauto-assaultben-10bloocartoon-networkcity-of-heroescity-of-villainsdee-deedexterfeaturedfusionfallgalactusgambledongame-developers-conferencegdcgdc08gdcfanboygrigon-entertainmentlineagelineage-2marvel-universe-onlinenanoplanet-fusionpowerpuff-girlsqringrichard-weilrobert-knopfsam-lewisseal-onlinestar-wars-galaxiestabula-rasatoontown-onlineultima-onlineTue, 26 Feb 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC08: Raph Koster's 'Reinventing MMOs, a Metaplace 'antemortem'']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/25/gdc08-raph-kosters-reinventing-mmos-a-metaplace-antemortem/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/25/gdc08-raph-kosters-reinventing-mmos-a-metaplace-antemortem/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/25/gdc08-raph-kosters-reinventing-mmos-a-metaplace-antemortem/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,


Raph Koster, president of Areae, and Sean Riley, Lead Programmer, held a panel the final day of GDC '08 called 'Reinventing MMOs: a Metaplace 'antemortem'', which was all about dissecting why the concept of MMOs needs updating. Going in, I was hoping for insight, which I got, but wasn't expecting a lot of technical talk, which I also got.

And the takeaway I got from this session is this: Koster's doing some good, forward-thinking work, but Metaplace doesn't really shine for me just yet. Details on both after the break.

Continue reading GDC08: Raph Koster's 'Reinventing MMOs, a Metaplace 'antemortem''

MassivelyGDC08: Raph Koster's 'Reinventing MMOs, a Metaplace 'antemortem'' originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Feb 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>areaefeaturedfurygame-developers-conferencegdcgdc08gdcfanboyguild-warslord-of-the-rings-onlinemetaplacemythosraph-kosterreinventing-mmossean-rileysecond-lifetabula-rasaworld-of-warcraftMon, 25 Feb 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC08: The how, what, and why of LEGO Universe]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/24/gdc08-the-how-what-and-why-of-lego-universe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/24/gdc08-the-how-what-and-why-of-lego-universe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/24/gdc08-the-how-what-and-why-of-lego-universe/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Though anyone who has played the existing LEGO games would understand their charm, from an outside perspective you might be wondering why LEGO needed to go to the massively multiplayer scale. At GDC this past week, Mark Hansen, Director of Business Development for LEGO, explained the ideas behind their MMO to be, LEGO Universe. It's all about playing with LEGOS, of course! Playing and building with LEGOs is a creative experience, an imaginative experience -- and LEGO wanted a version of their product that would relevant for children of the 21st century who had grown up (and are growing up) around computers and technology.

Gallery: GDC08: LEGO Universe

Continue reading GDC08: The how, what, and why of LEGO Universe

MassivelyGDC08: The how, what, and why of LEGO Universe originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 24 Feb 2008 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredgdcgdc08gdc08fanboyjoystiqfeatureslegolego-universenetdevilSun, 24 Feb 2008 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC08: Requiem: Bloodymare]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/24/gdc08-requiem-bloodymare/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/24/gdc08-requiem-bloodymare/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/24/gdc08-requiem-bloodymare/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,


After our previous posts on Gravity Interactive's upcoming title Requiem: Bloodymare, we were interested enough to want to see more of the game, and lucky enough to be invited to do so at the Game Developer's Conference this year. Already playing in Korea, R:B will enter closed beta in about a month's time.

Expecting a simplified hack 'n' slash with overdone Gothic elements, R:B surprised us with some really cool features and a deep character growth system. Our full report and trailer after the break!

Gallery: Requiem: Bloodymare

Reese's PiecesOh, the humanity!Got a headache? I've got the solutionI'm too sexy for this gameMan, I almost feel bad for the guy

Continue reading GDC08: Requiem: Bloodymare

MassivelyGDC08: Requiem: Bloodymare originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 24 Feb 2008 02:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beast-possessionbloodybreakingdna-systemfeaturedgame-developers-conferencegdcgdc08gdcfanboygravity-interactiverequiem-bloodymareworld-of-warcraftSun, 24 Feb 2008 02:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Just what is Cryptic working on?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/22/just-what-is-cryptic-working-on/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/22/just-what-is-cryptic-working-on/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/22/just-what-is-cryptic-working-on/#commentsFiled under: ,

GDC is nearly over and despite chatting up a couple of Cryptic employees and PR (maybe we should have plied them with booze), we're no closer to knowing what exactly Cryptic Studios has up its sleeves. Conversations with multiple Cryptic-folk suggested we check out the March issue of Game Informer for news -- so, of course, we ran right out and scoured the stores until we found a copy of our very own. It gave us oodles of information about their upcoming game Champions Online and a brief teaser of two projects (suggested to be two of many), only referred to as X1 and X2. From Game Informer's images, both appear to be in a fantasy setting. During a panel yesterday, Emmert mentioned a "secret sci-fi project" (our hope is that it's Star Trek Online, but we don't know anything for sure). And on Cryptic's home page there's a selection of concept art that ranges from lush fantasy environments to run-down modern cityscapes to military combat. (But definitely nothing that looks like Trek.) So just what is Cryptic working on? We'll have to keep calling their PR department once an hour asking, "Can you tell us now?" "What about now?"

Gallery: Cryptic's works in progress

MassivelyJust what is Cryptic working on? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Feb 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-studiosemmertgdcgdc08gdc08fanboyjack-emmertFri, 22 Feb 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC08: An evening with Will Wright minus friends (video)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/22/gdc08-an-evening-with-will-wright-minus-friends-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/22/gdc08-an-evening-with-will-wright-minus-friends-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/22/gdc08-an-evening-with-will-wright-minus-friends-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

I applied for, and received an invitation to 'An Evening with Will Wright and Friends', held in Mezzanine, a swanky club in San Francisco's SOMA district on Thursday evening. I didn't know what exactly to expect, but I knew two things: 1) It wasn't going to be about Spore, and 2) It was Will Freaking Wright. How did I know Spore wasn't on the offering? 'Cause we're all kind of Spore'd out, aren't we?

I was right about the lack of Spore, but was pleasantly surprised and gratified to hear Will speak on a variety of topics -- James Bond, cosmonauts, Gilligan's Island as the predecessor of Neil Gaiman's The Sandman comics, Godzilla, Care Bears, Lost, Walt Disney, Battlestar Galactica, Spiderman, and Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance -- before finally wrapping it all up with the observation that the stories that resonate with us are deconstructible; we can reduce them to components, and using those components, build our own stories.

Finally, accepting questions from the audience, I asked him what advice he'd give NASA as they create their MMO. His friends never showed up, but man, Will Wright is always worth a listen. He knows his stuff so well and is such a wonderful speaker ... check out the video I shot after the break, and you'll see what I mean.

Continue reading GDC08: An evening with Will Wright minus friends (video)

MassivelyGDC08: An evening with Will Wright minus friends (video) originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galacticacare-bearscosmonautseventfeaturedgdcgdc08gdc08fanboygilligans-islandgodzillajames-bondlostnasaneil-gaimansan-franciscosomaspidermansporethe-sandmanwalt-disneywill-wrightzen-and-the-art-of-motorcycle-maintenanceFri, 22 Feb 2008 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC08: Jack Emmert on Cryptic's success (and failure)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/22/gdc08-jack-emmert-on-cryptics-success-and-failure/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/22/gdc08-jack-emmert-on-cryptics-success-and-failure/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/22/gdc08-jack-emmert-on-cryptics-success-and-failure/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Yesterday morning, Cryptic Studios' chief creative officer, Jack Emmert, talked to attendees at GDC about Cryptic's successes (and failures) with City of Heroes (and other games). He was surprisingly frank, starting things off with a list of CoH's strengths and weaknesses. For strengths, he cited character customization, fun moment to moment game play, Flight/Superspeed/Superjump, plenty of character slots, no loot. For weaknesses, he told the crowd about how the game had few goals outside of leveling, its lack of PvP, the repetitiveness of the instances, the lack of an end-game, the lack of guild mechanics, no loot. Whether you love Cryptic's City of... games or hate them, read on for a discussion of where they went wrong and where they went right.

Continue reading GDC08: Jack Emmert on Cryptic's success (and failure)

MassivelyGDC08: Jack Emmert on Cryptic's success (and failure) originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Feb 2008 10:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>championschampions-onlinecocohcovcoxcrypticcryptic-studiosemmertfeaturedgdcgdc08gdc08fanboyjack-emmertjoystiqfeaturesncsoftFri, 22 Feb 2008 10:05:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC08: LEGO Universe more than mere child's play]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/21/gdc08-lego-universe-more-than-mere-childs-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/21/gdc08-lego-universe-more-than-mere-childs-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/21/gdc08-lego-universe-more-than-mere-childs-play/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


When we first heard that NetDevil was beginning development tentatively titled LEGO Universe late last year, our minds boggled at the creative possibilities. After all, creativity is really what LEGO is all about, using one's imagination to take a mere thought or idea and recreate it with multi-colored blocks. Sure, the game is being aimed primarily at youngsters between the ages of 8 and 12, but that's never stopped me from enjoying or getting excited about the franchise before. The game's main mechanic will essentially give players more blocks to play with and more real estate to play with it the more of the game's colorful work they explore. They describe a world where one player can build a fortified LEGO castle and try and stop a friend from invading it. They make it sound so simple one wonders what's taking Warhammer Online so long?

What's perhaps more interesting is the clever merchandising tie-in being planned for the game that the team is talking about at GDC. According to their director for business development, players will be able to order real, packaged LEGO sets based on their virtual creations. While this has the potential to be extremely cool for savvy youths and eccentric adults alike, it also betrays LEGO's ulterior motive. Not content merely with fistfuls of money from software sales and further brand exposure, now they want to sell you stuff in the game too. Again, there is a potential for something really cool here, but only if their focus is on a fun MMO experience and not on working on a device that prints money. When your director for business development is described as the "guiding force" behind the game instead of a crummy old designer, you've already made the first step towards turning my LEGO-loving heart to stone.

MassivelyGDC08: LEGO Universe more than mere child's play originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Feb 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>childrendirector-of-business-developmentgdc08kidslegolego-universelegosmerchandisingNetDevilThu, 21 Feb 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC08: Massively is Live at the Future of MMOs panel]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/21/gdc08/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/21/gdc08/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/21/gdc08/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,



Today at GDC Massively is liveblogging a sort of 'MMO Keynote', a panel entitled simply "The Future of MMOs". A simple title, perhaps, but probably the most anticipated event for Massive game designers and fans alike. On it are a few names you might have heard of, like Cryptic Studios' Jack Emmert, Nexon's Min Kim, BioWare's Ray Muzyka, and Rob Pardo (who has apparently worked on some sort of popular fantasy game). Moderated by MMORPG.com's Jon Woods, it's sure to offer some insights into the games of tomorrow.

Below the cut is our blow-by-blow account of the jabs, cuts, and parries from these Massive genre heavyweights. The last time I saw a get-together like this was at the Austin Game Conference, and the result was a spectacular confrontation. If ... you know ... you like MMOs. Otherwise it's a bunch of guys talking generalities about "those addictive games".

If the idea of the mind behind World of Warcraft talking about the games that he loves, along with observations from one of the founders of BioWare, combined with the insights of a tabletop gaming champion and a pioneer of Korean gaming doesn't interest you ... why are you here?

Read on!

Gallery: GDC08: The Future of MMOs

Continue reading GDC08: Massively is Live at the Future of MMOs panel

MassivelyGDC08: Massively is Live at the Future of MMOs panel originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Feb 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareblizzardbreakingcryptic-studiosfeaturedgdc08gdc08fanboyjack-emmertmaplestorymin-kimnexonray-muzykarob-pardoworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 21 Feb 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC08: Cryptic's secret project]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/21/gdc08-cryptics-secret-project/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/21/gdc08-cryptics-secret-project/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/21/gdc08-cryptics-secret-project/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Jack Emmert, Chief Creative Officer at Cryptic Studios, gave an interesting talk about using episodic content (read: patches) in the morning's (yes, it's still morning in California!) first round of GDC sessions. While we'll be posting a detailed write-up of the session later today, Emmert dropped a tidbit that, like any good piece of gossip, we simply must share. Talking about what Cryptic was working on, Emmert mentioned the recently announced Champions Online as well as what he called "a secret sci-fi project."

We could hardly resist squeaking with glee as this bit of information might lend some credence to rumors that Cryptic might be acquiring the Star Trek Online license. Of course, this is all speculation -- it's entirely possible Cryptic is working on an original IP or other sci-fi license. Right now we know:
  1. STO developer Perpetual closed up shop and announces the Trek license had been given to an unnamed developer in the Bay area.
  2. Cryptic was in talks with Perpetual for... something. We presume they were after some of Perpetual's development team, but no one would confirm or deny whether the STO license was involved.
  3. Cryptic is now working on a sci-fi project.
This may not be proof, but if you put these pieces of news together it seems highly likely that they've become involved in STO's development in some way.

MassivelyGDC08: Cryptic's secret project originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Feb 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingcrypticcryptic-studiosgdcgdc08gdc08fanboyperpetualperpetual-entertainmentscifistoThu, 21 Feb 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC08: Xfire's video capture beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/21/gdc08-xfires-video-capture-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/21/gdc08-xfires-video-capture-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/21/gdc08-xfires-video-capture-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

We missed this story last month, but our intrepid on-the-ground crew at GDC has found it out for us: Xfire, the PC chat client/game launcher/social networking tool, has introduced a beta video capture module into their application. Taking a cue from sites and services like WeGame, they are using their own video codec (xfcodec, which unfortunately won't work with a few video applications yet), and letting you record video on the fly during any Xfire-enabled game. We're told that a future version will enable you to upload your videos directly to your Xfire profile.

As you can see above, despite YouTube's horrible compression, the video itself doesn't look too bad. And James Woodcock, who took this video, says that while the audio still has a few issues, the video quality before compression is "exceptional." Not everybody is thrilled -- the client can sometimes cause lag and drop frames -- but Xfire says they want to hear about any issues you have. Anyone tried it yet?

MassivelyGDC08: Xfire's video capture beta originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Feb 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betacapturegdc08gdc08fanboylagqualityvideowegamexfireyoutubeThu, 21 Feb 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC08: Building brands in virtual worlds]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/21/gdc08-building-brands-in-virtual-worlds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/21/gdc08-building-brands-in-virtual-worlds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/21/gdc08-building-brands-in-virtual-worlds/#commentsFiled under: ,


We've seen a lot of interesting things at the Worlds in Motion Summit which took place at GDC earlier this week, we found this post-mortum of Scion's virtual campaign in There.com fascinating. While we tune out commercials and skim over print advertisements as much as anyone, but well thought-out interactive advertisements in virtual worlds still feel novel and interesting. (Well, okay, some of them aren't.) So what made Scion's campaign stand out? Read on for an analysis.

Gallery: GDC08: Club Scion

Continue reading GDC08: Building brands in virtual worlds

MassivelyGDC08: Building brands in virtual worlds originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Feb 2008 10:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brandbrandsfeaturedgdcgdc08gdc08fanboymakenamarketingmetaversatilitysciontherethere.comtrilogyThu, 21 Feb 2008 10:53:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC08: Thinking outside the virtual world]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/21/gdc08-thinking-outside-the-virtual-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/21/gdc08-thinking-outside-the-virtual-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/21/gdc08-thinking-outside-the-virtual-world/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Tuesday afternoon, Michael Acton Smith, CEO of Mind Candy, presented attendees at the GDC's Worlds in Motion summit with an interesting look at the confluence between real goods and virtual worlds. For some background on where Smith is coming from, Mind Candy "creates games and puzzles that span multiple media.... [they] use all forms of technology to tell stories and interact with... [their] audiences." They run Perplex City, an alternate reality game that uses clues puzzles in the real world combined with web-based resources to create a unique type of gameplay. Their upcoming game Moshi Monsters is an adoptable pet game geared towards kids. Smith says it's a "new type of virtual pet experience." The pets will be very alive with their own emotions (driven by a behavior engine which will cause your pet to act different ways depending on how you treat it) that will be reflected in the pet's animations. The game will also incorporate a number of social tools, so both you and your pet monster can hang out with friends. And, of course, there will be toys, oh glorious toys. (Some already available, though the game itself is still in beta and closed to the public.)

Gallery: GDC08: Worlds in Motion summit day 2

Continue reading GDC08: Thinking outside the virtual world

MassivelyGDC08: Thinking outside the virtual world originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Feb 2008 07:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>barbiegirlsbe-bratzbeanie-babiesbuild-a-bearbuild-a-bearvillefeaturedgdcgdc08gdc08fanboyhabbohabbo-hotelmaplestorymichael-acton-smithmind-candymoomoshi-monstersneopetsshining-starsthinkgeektoyswebkinzwimworld-of-warcraftworlds-in-motionwowThu, 21 Feb 2008 07:14:00 EST<![CDATA[How Ken Levine (maker of BioShock) plays World of Warcraft]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/how-ken-levine-maker-of-bioshock-plays-world-of-warcraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/how-ken-levine-maker-of-bioshock-plays-world-of-warcraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/how-ken-levine-maker-of-bioshock-plays-world-of-warcraft/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Ken Levine is best known for his work on such games as Thief, System Shock 2 and (most recently) BioShock. Before a talk at GDC this morning about the storytelling BioShock we noticed a World of Warcraft icon very prominent in the quicklaunch bar on his Mac. Over the course of the lecture Levine reinforced his online influences by several times referencing some of Blizzard's talented design. We chatted with him for a few minutes after the talk ended, and he confirmed that he's a big fan of the game. In fact, he just recently leveled a druid to 57 - solo, as that's the way he generally plays.

He also touched on the depth of WoW's design in a response to differences between BioShock and System Shock 2: "Feature-wise it's not really that different from System Shock 2. We wanted to make sure every player understood what they were doing on an instictual level - not that they were doing 2d6 of fire damage. That meant there were limitations. In a game like WoW, on the other hand, they can make stuff that's incredibly deep because you're watching the numbers scroll by. My friend Joe likes to brag "My tank has 12,612 armor points!" Which in a game is a distinction that's meaningful to some extent - some people really like min/maxing, some people area really about the world, and I didn't want to get trapped in the middle."

MassivelyHow Ken Levine (maker of BioShock) plays World of Warcraft originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Feb 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bioshockfeaturedgdc08gdc08fanboyhowtheyplaywowken-levinepvesoloingworld-of-warcraftWed, 20 Feb 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC08: Blizzard's approach to MMOs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/gdc08-blizzards-approach-to-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/gdc08-blizzards-approach-to-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/gdc08-blizzards-approach-to-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Rob Pardo, Senior Vice President of Game Design, spoke earlier today on Blizzard's approach to multiplayer game design at GDC. Sister site WoW Insider has a complete liveblog of the session, featuring best practices learned regarding game balance, PvP and UI design, player psychology and more. Head over to check out the full transcript from the talk and the Q&A session plus a gallery of all the slides.

Gallery: GDC08: Blizzard's approach to MMOs

MassivelyGDC08: Blizzard's approach to MMOs originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Feb 2008 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardfeaturedgame-designgamedevGDC08multiplayerpvprob-pardostarcraftuiwarcraftwowWed, 20 Feb 2008 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC08: SOE goes voice chat crazy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/gdc-08-soe-goes-voice-chat-crazy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/gdc-08-soe-goes-voice-chat-crazy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/gdc-08-soe-goes-voice-chat-crazy/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Sony Online Entertainment has announced the most comprehensive voice chat plan ever, according to a press release dropped at GDC today. They've teamed up with a company called Vivox to not only bring integrated voice chat into all of their games, but also some features that MMO players have never even dreamed of. Vivox says they'll be able to bring voicemail into games, join raid chats via landline or cell phone, and even use voice manipulation over the connection.

Apparently the voice chat service will be also available just through Sony's Launcher, so you won't need to be in-game to use the applications. Gamers will have buddy lists, and games will all have volume controls and channel controls, but the other features they brag about apparently won't be available at launch-- while voice and guild chat channels will be available right away, the other features, like voicemail and "voice fonts," are only "anticipated" for later. Still, John Smedley, SOE President, is quoted in the release as being excited about bringing the two services together, so only time will tell how it will all work.

Time, and our interviews, that is. Massively has a few correspondents on the floor at GDC right now, and we are planning to speak with both Vivox and SOE before the end of the week. Stay tuned for more on these services and just what they'll entail for players in-game.

MassivelyGDC08: SOE goes voice chat crazy originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Feb 2008 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingchatgame-developers-conferencegdcgdc08gdc08fanboylauncherraidingsoesonyvivoxvoice-chatvoice-fontsWed, 20 Feb 2008 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC08: EVE Online's space stations]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/gdc08-eve-onlines-space-stations/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/gdc08-eve-onlines-space-stations/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/gdc08-eve-onlines-space-stations/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


In this morning's first panel, CCP's Senior Technical Producer Torfi Frans Olafsson had a lot to say about EVE Online's upcoming space station environments. At present, EVE's player characters are little more than still portraits -- in the playable portion of the game you are primarily represented as your ship, which you can use to navegate and explore the game world. Initially announced in a 2006 dev blog, EVE will one day have the ability to exit your ship and interact with other characters as a human avatar rather -- we still don't have an exact release date (though at GDC07 they gave a 2008 date, so there's a chance it may be included in the upcoming Kali 4 expansion, about which little is known), but we have some details on the gameplay and the development process after the break.

Gallery: GDC08: Building EVE social environments

Continue reading GDC08: EVE Online's space stations

MassivelyGDC08: EVE Online's space stations originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Feb 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingccpeveeve-onlinefeaturedgdcgdc08gdc08fanboyjoystiqfeaturesWed, 20 Feb 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE announces G.I.R.L. scholarship program]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/soe-announces-g-i-r-l-scholarship-program/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/soe-announces-g-i-r-l-scholarship-program/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/soe-announces-g-i-r-l-scholarship-program/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

We had the chance to hit up Sony Online Entertainment's soiree at GDC and were privy to their announcement about a scholarship program designed to educate and recruit women into the video game industry: the Gamers In Real Life (G.I.R.L. -- see what they did thar?) scholarship program offers a $10,000 tuition scholarship towards an education at any Art Institutes school where currently enrolled, plus a paid internship at one of SOE's studios in Austin, Denver, San Diego or Seattle. Applications will be accepted beginning April 1, 2008 and ending May 31, 2008, with winners announced on or about June 30, 2008. Entries will be judged by a panel of industry professionals at SOE.

The event featured a Q&A session with some of SOE's female production and executive staff including Torrie Dorrell (SVP Global Sales and Marketing), Courtney Simmons (Director of Corporate Communications and PR), Sherry Floyd (Producer, SOE Seattle), Laura Naviaux (Director, Global Brand Marketing), Taina Rodriguez (Publicist), Tracey Seamster (Game Designer), and Heather Sowards (Media Producer). Hit up the gallery for pics of the event and some gratuitous screens from The Agency.

Gallery: GDC08: SOE and GIRL party

MassivelySOE announces G.I.R.L. scholarship program originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Feb 2008 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredgamers-in-real-lifegdc08gdc08fanboygenderGIRLscholarshipSOEthe-agencywomen-in-gamingWed, 20 Feb 2008 08:30:00 EST