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[Guild Wars 2 wants you to play with your friends no matter what]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/guild-wars-2-wants-you-to-play-with-your-friends-no-matter-what/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/guild-wars-2-wants-you-to-play-with-your-friends-no-matter-what/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/guild-wars-2-wants-you-to-play-with-your-friends-no-matter-what/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Guild Wars 2
"Whenever we design a new feature we always ask ourselves how it impacts our players' ability to play with their friends," ArenaNet's Eric Flannum stated about Guild Wars 2. In an interview focused on connecting players together, Flannum made it clear that the team was looking for every possible opportunity to pave the way for social hookups.

Flannum addressed the specifics of how Guild Wars 2's servers work in relation to transfers. While there is a traditional paid transfer service (which can be used only every seven days), all players will have the ability to hop over to friends' servers as a guest. Player team-ups are further made possible by the dynamic level-adjusting system that scales players down to the zone they're occupying.

This process is made easier by ArenaNet's decision to make friend lists and guilds account-wide instead of specific to a server. So while each guild has a home server, other chapters can exist elsewhere. Flannum also said that the team is carefully structuring its PvP system so that it will be free from potential abuse by server guesting.

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 wants you to play with your friends no matter what originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 May 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbetaeric-flannumfantasyfriend-listfriends-listgroupgroupingguildguild-wars-2guildsgw2home-serverhome-worldhookupsinterviewncsoftpc-gamerpvpserverserver-transferssocialteamteamingteamupsTue, 08 May 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: How do you handle random party invites?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/the-daily-grind-how-do-you-handle-random-party-invites/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/the-daily-grind-how-do-you-handle-random-party-invites/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/the-daily-grind-how-do-you-handle-random-party-invites/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Independent woman -- TERA
I don't know why, but sometimes I get discouraged when a random person sends me a party invite while I'm in the middle of questing. I know it sounds odd, but when I'm not playing with my regular group of friends or guildies, I like to just play alone. When someone whispers me to ask if he can join me, I usually turn him down (politely!), but if I get a random party invite without so much as a hello, I simply ignore it.

My own antisocial issues aside, I want to know how you feel about this topic. Do you think a random invite is a healthy way to find companions and possibly friends, or do you see it as an invasion of privacy while you're trying to quest?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: How do you handle random party invites? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 May 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antisocialdaily-grindgroupingopinionparty-inviterandomsolotdgthe-daily-grindFri, 04 May 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: After beta action report]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/01/flameseeker-chronicles-after-beta-action-report/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/01/flameseeker-chronicles-after-beta-action-report/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/01/flameseeker-chronicles-after-beta-action-report/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Guild Wars 2 -- you have NO IDEA how long I've been waiting to use my own screenshots
Well there you have it, ladies and gents: The first Guild Wars 2 beta weekend over which people had direct control over their participation has come and gone. It was quite the exciting weekend, and it's amazing to see the volume and content of feedback being provided. If you missed out on a chance to get your hands on the game, feel free to form some vicarious impressions; there's tons of footage out there from oodles of people. Massively has a few streams recorded, and I have a niggling feeling that someone will have plenty of extra footage.

It was great to be back in the game, it was great to get to talk about stuff with people and stream and share pictures, but mostly it was great to see the world populated the way it really needs to be to feel alive and whole. Beta being beta, that brought its own set of challenges and learning experiences -- mostly for ArenaNet -- but on the whole I hope that most people agree that this was, if not a truly delightful weekend (I can't expect everyone to share my taste in games), then at least a solid and informative one.

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: After beta action report

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: After beta action report originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 May 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbetabeta-weekendbwe1fantasyfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesgroupingguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw1gw2multiplayerncsoftopinionoverflow-serverpreviewTue, 01 May 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX East 2012: Hands-on with Perfect World's Raiderz]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/pax-east-2012-hands-on-with-perfect-worlds-raiderz/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/pax-east-2012-hands-on-with-perfect-worlds-raiderz/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/pax-east-2012-hands-on-with-perfect-worlds-raiderz/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Raiderz - giant frogger boss
TERA isn't the only upcoming MMO to feature big-ass monsters and action combat. Perfect World Entertainment showed us a demo of Raiderz at last weekend's PAX East, and producer Mark Hill was pretty enthusiastic about the game's level of polish. He also made a point of highlighting the amount of free gameplay the company will be making available to fans later this year.

"We really want to blow people away with how much free content they're getting out of a really top-notch game," he said. Join us after the cut to see what Raiderz has to offer.

Continue reading PAX East 2012: Hands-on with Perfect World's Raiderz

MassivelyPAX East 2012: Hands-on with Perfect World's Raiderz originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoconconventiondemoeventsexpof2pfeaturedfree-to-playgroup-contentgroupinghands-onmark-hillmonster-huntingpaxpax-2012pax-eastpax-east-2012penny-arcade-expoperfect-world-entertainmentplayer-skillpreviewpreviewspweraiderzreal-world-eventsskillsMon, 09 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Making the 'jump' from Guild Wars to Guild Wars 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/making-the-jump-from-guild-wars-to-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/making-the-jump-from-guild-wars-to-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/making-the-jump-from-guild-wars-to-guild-wars-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Black Citadel Forest, Guild Wars 2
The second Guild Wars 2 press beta weekend has come and gone, and Massively was there every step of the way. Stay tuned throughout the day today for even more guides, impressions, videos, and Q&As to get you ready for the highly anticipated sequel to Guild Wars.

Guild Wars 2 is on the way (when it's ready), and classic Guild Wars players probably understand that soon they'll be competing with a younger sibling -- a smarter, more attractive one who's sure to get more of mom's attention. And while we're sure that some of the more stalwart Guild Wars 2 fans are also Guild Wars players, not all veterans of the first edition are dedicated to licking up every drop of sequel info squeezed out of blogs, conventions, and betas. Those veterans might just be wondering, what exactly can Guild Wars 2 offer them, other than Hall of Monuments tie-ins? What's changed? What's the same? What will they love, what will they hate, and what could possibly make them jump ship to the new hotness?

The first and most important thing you must know is that yes, you can jump in Guild Wars 2! Seriously, though, jumping is more than just a thing you do with your spacebar when you're bored; it's a symbol of boundlessness. Guild Wars 2 itself is trying to jump a lot higher than its elder brother, and probably the essential difference between the games is that feeling that the walls have come down and gravity is letting loose. That alone should urge classic players to take a peek, but if that's not enough for you, fire up your Jeremy Soule soundtracks (yes, he's onboard for an encore!) and read on...

Continue reading Making the 'jump' from Guild Wars to Guild Wars 2

MassivelyMaking the 'jump' from Guild Wars to Guild Wars 2 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetauction-hallbetacash-shopcharacter-creationclosed-betaclosed-beta-3comparisondeathdeath-penaltydungeonsdynamic-contenteconomyendgameeye-of-the-northfantasyfeaturedgeargemsgroupgroupingguideguidesguild-warsguild-wars-2guild-wars-2-betaguild-wars-2-guideguild-wars-2-previewguildsgvggwgw2hall-of-monumentshands-onhominterfacejumpjumpingloremap-travelncsoftpreviewpreviewspropheciespvpquestsrenown-heartrmtsidekickingskill-pointtrading-posttyriauiuser-interfaceworld-vs-worldworld-vs-world-vs-worldwvwwvwvwMon, 26 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: How much grouping should be required in a game?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/the-daily-grind-how-much-grouping-should-be-required-in-a-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/the-daily-grind-how-much-grouping-should-be-required-in-a-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/the-daily-grind-how-much-grouping-should-be-required-in-a-game/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

However much grouping a game requires, there will always be a camp arguing a game has too much and another arguing it has not enough. This is inevitable.
A good group arguably makes any game more fun. No matter how much fun you're having in any game, be it Star Wars: The Old Republic or Global Agenda or whatever else, there are players who believe it's better when you're running with other people, telling jokes or roleplaying or even just working in unison. Of course, others would point out that's all if you have a good group. A bad group can turn even something fun into a real misery, which sort of defeats the purpose of playing a game. And that's not getting into the time it takes to form a group or coordinate several people... or the fact that some players just prefer not to group.

So how much grouping should an MMO require out of its players? Should pretty much all content require a group, forcing players to work together and build a real sense of community at the expense of any solitary play? Or should pretty much all content not require a group, letting everyone group with players as they wish without hard restrictions -- and making large chunks of the game single-player for all intents and purposes?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: How much grouping should be required in a game? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 11 Mar 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contentdaily-grindendgamegame-contentgame-mechanicsgroup-playgroupinggroupslevelingopinionsolosolo-playsoloingtdgthe-daily-grindSun, 11 Mar 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Have you ever been a part of a regular group?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/the-daily-grind-have-you-ever-been-a-part-of-a-regular-group/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/the-daily-grind-have-you-ever-been-a-part-of-a-regular-group/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/the-daily-grind-have-you-ever-been-a-part-of-a-regular-group/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Daily Grind
This week I'm trying an experiment: My friend and I are attempting to pull together a (semi-)regular adventuring group for Dungeons and Dragons Online. It's an iffy proposition, as I've been part of a couple of other regular groups before and they've never lasted long (I blame my loud, abusive rants over Vent). But the idea is infectious, and I'm not giving up on trying them out.

Regular groups -- if you can pull them off and stick with them -- can offer a singular experience in which friends bond over a continuous shared journey, one in which they become a fully functional team from the onset. Plus, being part of one means that no content is too big or too small, and one never need worry about having to troll the LFG channel or dungeon finders for strangers.

So I'm curious: How many of you have been a part of a regular MMO group? How do you make it work, and what did you take away from it?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Have you ever been a part of a regular group? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventuring-groupddodungeons-and-dragons-onlinefeaturedgroupgroupingopinionpenny-arcaderegular-grouptdgthe-daily-grindWed, 22 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mog Log: Get together]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/18/the-mog-log-get-together/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/18/the-mog-log-get-together/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/18/the-mog-log-get-together/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The Mog Log header by A. Fienemann
Grouping with other players is inconvenient. It can also be a lot of fun, but it takes more work to get a half-dozen people running in the same direction compared to just operating on your lonesome. But you're a lot more likely to stick with a game if you can find other people to play with, and thus both Final Fantasy XI and Final Fantasy XIV have offered different approaches to grouping and encouraging parties.

When I started playing MMOs back when Final Fantasy XI launched, I wound up being soured by the game's insistence on grouping for a long while. These days, I can take a much more objective view of both sides because for all the hiccups that the system brings, Final Fantasy XIV's much more open environment has its own pitfalls -- some a result of basic game design, some a result of the less demanding approach. But why just look at this from the top down?

Continue reading The Mog Log: Get together

MassivelyThe Mog Log: Get together originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 18 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>columncolumnsdesignfeaturedffff11ff14ffxiffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xifinal-fantasy-xivgroupinggroupslevelingopinionsquaresquare-enixthe-mog-logSat, 18 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pathfinder Online will let players run the kingdom]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/pathfinder-online-will-let-players-run-the-kingdom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/pathfinder-online-will-let-players-run-the-kingdom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/pathfinder-online-will-let-players-run-the-kingdom/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The game itself has no real art yet, but the pen-and-paper game has quite a few nice pieces.
If you've played the Pathfinder tabletop game that Pathfinder Online is based upon, you know that you need to have grouping. After all, the former is all about bands of adventurers exploring the wilds. So it's fitting that the most recent developer blog is all about the game's methods of managing groups and playing in different numbers. And this isn't just a matter of parties or solo play -- at the high end, players can be running entire kingdoms as a social unit.

Solo play is meant to be somewhat discouraged, as the blog notes it will be a much more difficult road for a dedicated lone wolf. Parties will be the next step up, holding an undetermined number of players (the working target has about 24 players at the high end). Above those are chartered companies, settlements, and as mentioned, entire new player-run kingdoms. It's going to produce some interesting dynamics to have player organizations in such abundance, but the developers seem to have some confidence in their initial designs.

MassivelyPathfinder Online will let players run the kingdom originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blogdesigndeveloper-blogsearly-designgoblinworksgroupinggroupspaizopaizo-publishingpartiespartypathfinderpathfinder-onlineplayer-housingplayer-nationsplayer-settlementspreviewssolosolo-playerWed, 15 Feb 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Editorial examines MMO mentoring, community dynamics]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/editorial-examines-mmo-mentoring-community-dynamics/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/editorial-examines-mmo-mentoring-community-dynamics/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/editorial-examines-mmo-mentoring-community-dynamics/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

RIFT - dungeon group
A wise man once described current-gen MMOs as "playing alone together." OK, truthfully I don't know who said that, nor do I know if he is particularly wise, but it resonated (and it's also applicable to a new editorial at Gamasutra that focuses on improving the community aspects of our favorite genre).

The piece looks at several current games -- including Final Fantasy XIV, RIFT, and Dungeons and Dragons Online -- and analyzes how they both succeed and fail at bringing players together. Particular attention is paid to mentoring systems, though EverQuest II's is omitted. What ultimately emerges from the lengthy read is a portrait of a challenging issue that has its roots in both operational and design considerations, and while the piece doesn't offer any particular solution, it does provide quite a lot of food for thought.

MassivelyEditorial examines MMO mentoring, community dynamics originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>communityddodungeons-and-dragons-onlineeditorialeq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfantayffxivfinal-fantasy-xivfree-to-playgroupingmentormentor-systemmentoringopinionplaying-alone-togetherriftWed, 15 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WildStar's Troy Hewitt talks about the game's design philosophy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/wildstars-troy-hewitt-talks-about-the-games-design-philosophy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/wildstars-troy-hewitt-talks-about-the-games-design-philosophy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/wildstars-troy-hewitt-talks-about-the-games-design-philosophy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

It never goes smooth! Why can't it ever go smooth?
It's likely to be a while longer before anyone gets to lay hands on WildStar's beta, much less the finished game, but there's still a lot to look forward to. A recent interview with producer Troy Hewitt might help salve a bit of that anticipation as Hewitt discusses the game's design philosophy and content systems. As he explains, Carbine Studios embraced the idea that players should be allowed to play how they want, when they want, and with whomever they want.

This extends to the game's content at multiple levels; Hewitt explains that solo and group content shouldn't be at odds, that even people who prefer to level and play solo are still enjoying the fact that they experience a persistent world with other players. There's also a lot of talk about players crafting their own stories as they explore the game world, something augmented by the game's split between different player types. Take a look at the full interview if you're following the game avidly, as there are plenty of interesting tidbits -- even if you might have preferred a release date.

MassivelyWildStar's Troy Hewitt talks about the game's design philosophy originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbinecarbine-studioscontentdesigndesign-philosophygroupgroupinginterviewncsoftnew-titlesnewspreviewssolosoloingtroy-hewittupcoming-titleswildstarMon, 13 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DC Universe Online's upcoming game update is all about easier grouping]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/dc-universe-onlines-upcoming-game-update-is-all-about-easier-gr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/dc-universe-onlines-upcoming-game-update-is-all-about-easier-gr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/dc-universe-onlines-upcoming-game-update-is-all-about-easier-gr/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

The proposal for Super Wimp Raids, where the enemies just stare at you menacingly, was summarily rejected.
If you've been enjoying DC Universe Online ever since the game switched business models, odds are good you're looking toward the endgame by now. Game Update 9, which is coming soon, will make getting into that endgame even easier via the addition of Novice Raids. This new difficulty setting still allows players to experience all the storyline of Fortress of Solitude, Kahndaq, and the Batcave, but the difficulty will be notched down so that players can get a better feel for what they're doing.

Of course, if you're not into the endgame rush, you've still got something to look forward to with the new role-optional alerts system. In essence, players will now be able to queue for Alerts without needing to put together a balanced group; in the event that a role is missing, a team buff will be applied to ensure that the area can still be cleared. That means that even with nothing but Damage characters, you can still explore all of DC Universe Online's group content, something that should allow for some novel player approaches once the update goes live.

[Update: SOE has also issued a statement about plans for the game's PvP in 2012. The full quote is after the cut.]

Continue reading DC Universe Online's upcoming game update is all about easier grouping

MassivelyDC Universe Online's upcoming game update is all about easier grouping originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alertsdcdc-comicsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuoendgamef2pfree-to-playgroup-contentgroupingnovice-raidspatch-previewspatchesraidsrole-optional-alertssoesony-online-entertainmentMon, 30 Jan 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: Does SWTOR need a better LFG tool?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/29/the-guild-counsel-does-swtor-need-a-better-lfg-tool/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/29/the-guild-counsel-does-swtor-need-a-better-lfg-tool/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/29/the-guild-counsel-does-swtor-need-a-better-lfg-tool/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

swtor
Often, this column has focused on guilds and communities in MMOs, both the good and the bad. With the launch of Star Wars: The Old Republic, it's interesting to look at the ways in which a community is slowly gelling on each server. Already there are players I'm bumping into more and more often, and while I tend to huddle around guildies most of the time, I find that I enjoy things much more when I'm surrounded by a good community of players.

There's already been a lively discussion among SWTOR fans about whether the current LFG tool is good enough or something more is needed. Do we need something more "meaty" to help do the job of grouping for us or not? Read on for some pros and cons, and weigh in on whether more is needed to help bring the community closer.

Continue reading The Guild Counsel: Does SWTOR need a better LFG tool?

MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: Does SWTOR need a better LFG tool? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Dec 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowaredungeon-findereaelectronic-artsfeaturedgroupinggroupsguild-counselguild-managementguildsinstance-finderkaren-bryanlfglfg-toollooking-for-grouplucasartsopinionsci-fistar+wars+the+old+republicstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstarwarstheoldrepublicswtorswtor+lfgswtor+newsswtor-dungeon-finderswtor-lfg-toolswtorlfgswtornewsthe+old+republicthe-old-republictheoldrepublictorThu, 29 Dec 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Latest Elsword patch introduces enhanced PvP, grouping incentives]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/latest-elsword-patch-introduces-enhanced-pvp-grouping-incentive/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/latest-elsword-patch-introduces-enhanced-pvp-grouping-incentive/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/latest-elsword-patch-introduces-enhanced-pvp-grouping-incentive/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- Elsword
Kill3rCombo's anime-style sidescroller Elsword has just received a brand-new update that adds a few new features for players to enjoy. PvPers will surely be overjoyed by the newly enhanced PvP system, which boasts new matchmaking functionality and the addition of Arena Points. Arena Points are earned by players through participation in matchmade games and can be used to purchase new weapons.

Social players will find that partying up now grants increased experience points, which should provide greater incentive to adventure as a group. The final two Velder town levels are now available, and so are two new pets which will assist players on their adventures. To get in on the fun, head on over to Elsword's official site.

[Source: Kill3rCombo press release]

MassivelyLatest Elsword patch introduces enhanced PvP, grouping incentives originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Nov 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arena-pointsbeat-em-upelswordelsword-onlinef2pfree-to-playgroupinghack-and-slashkill3rcombomatchmakingpatchpvpvelderThu, 10 Nov 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Social gaming]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/01/hyperspace-beacon-social-gaming/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/01/hyperspace-beacon-social-gaming/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/01/hyperspace-beacon-social-gaming/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Hyperspace Beacon: Social gaming
As a roleplayer, I primarily do social things in MMOs. I take on a character, then via local chat, I communicate as if I were a smuggler attempting to swindle a gangster out of a few more credits. However, that's not the only kind of social gaming found in Star Wars: The Old Republic. Group activities of all sorts have sparked friendships that have lasted years. The people I adventure with mostly started in Star Wars Galaxies, then moved to City of Heroes, then went back to Galaxies, and now are headed to SWTOR. Because of the breadth of the internet, we have never met each other in person, but I still consider them close friends.

The social dynamics have always been a byproduct of MMOs. However, few online games give direct rewards for being social. In fact, there was a time shortly after the Combat Upgrade when Star Wars Galaxies actually punished players for grouping up by giving less XP. Perhaps the reasoning was that the larger the group, the more mobs players could kill in the same amount of time, but at the time the solo XP far outweighed the loss in group XP. Thankfully, that was eventually fixed.

In my recent venture into the SWTOR beta, I noticed several different social activities for which the game rewards players. Follow me past the cut and we will discuss them.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Social gaming

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Social gaming originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Nov 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auction-houseBioWarecarrick-stationEAElectronic-Artsfeaturedgalactic-trade-networkgary-gannongroupingGTNjames-ohlenLucasArtsquestingsocial-gamingsocial-pointssocial-vendorStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorTue, 01 Nov 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest II adds dungeon finder, double Station Cash weekend on tap for Europe]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/everquest-ii-adds-dungeon-finder-double-station-cash-weekend-on/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/everquest-ii-adds-dungeon-finder-double-station-cash-weekend-on/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/everquest-ii-adds-dungeon-finder-double-station-cash-weekend-on/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

EverQuest II - ratonga and tier'dal in Nektropos Castle
Love it or loathe it, the increasingly popular dungeon finder mechanic has finally made its way to Norrath. Today's EverQuest II patch features a variation on the random grouping tool initially made famous in World of Warcraft.

Adventurers can queue solo or as a group by clicking the dungeon finder icon on their EQII menus, and it's worth noting that signing up for a random dungeon will net you a 25% XP boost.

Other patch details worth mentioning include a, ahem, rebalance of the Dirge mythical effect as well as a Troubador revamp. Finally, European EQII fans should be pleased to know that this weekend features a double Station Cash promotion to celebrate the availability of pre-paid SOE game cards at retailers throughout the region.

MassivelyEverQuest II adds dungeon finder, double Station Cash weekend on tap for Europe originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 06 Oct 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonus-station-cashdouble-station-cashdungeon-finderdungeonseq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfree-to-playgroupingnorrathpatchpromotionsrandom-dungeonsrandom-groupingsoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstation-cashxp-boostThu, 06 Oct 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragonica's New Origin expansion launches today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/dragonicas-new-origin-expansion-launches-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/dragonicas-new-origin-expansion-launches-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/dragonicas-new-origin-expansion-launches-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Dragonica - screenshot
Today's a big day for Dragonica fans, as the two-year-old title is gearing up to launch its New Origin - Rise of the Drakan expansion this afternoon. A new press release from Gala Networks Europe tells us that the patch is the biggest in the game's history and includes a new race, new dungeons, new mounts, a fellowship party system, and a level cap increase.

As the title suggests, the new race is the Drakan, and it's unlocked once players reach level 20. There are two new Drakan classes, the Amazonian and the Shaman, and both of them are playable to the new level cap (80).

Once you've obtained your spiffy new Drakan warrior and explored the new Drakan town of Kareuza, you'll probably want to partake of the game's new dungeon system. Parties are now able to brave the depths of Dragonica's dungeons with eight players (up from the previous four), and the expansion introduces a couple of new instances in the form of the Akia Cave and Black Claw Nest. More info is available on the game's official website.

[Source: Gala Networks Europe press release]

MassivelyDragonica's New Origin expansion launches today originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Sep 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>akia-caveamazonianblack-claw-nestdragonicadrakandungeondungeonsexpansionf2pfantasyfellowship-systemfree-to-playgala-networksgala-networks-europegpotatogroupinglevel-cap-increasenew-mountsnew-origin-expansionnew-racepatchespress-releaseshamanTue, 20 Sep 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Soapbox: Groupthink]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/06/the-soapbox-groupthink/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/06/the-soapbox-groupthink/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/06/the-soapbox-groupthink/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

More cats make everything better. True story.
Disclaimer: The Soapbox column is entirely the opinion of this week's writer and does not necessarily reflect the views of Massively as a whole. If you're afraid of opinions other than your own, you might want to skip this column.

I can pinpoint exactly the moment that the luster of World of Warcraft's big old-game-changing expansion wore off for me. And it didn't take very long, just long enough for me to pick up a quest named It's Raid Night Every Night for my Dwarf. It was an unremarkable quest in every way, with the only really clever-ish bit being the title that slyly winks at players about one of the game's criticisms.

Except that it's not exactly an unfair criticism. If you were at the level cap and wanted to keep playing the game with anything approaching forward motion, it was raid night every night. The joke left a bad taste in my mouth.

Of course, this isn't an article about WoW except in passing and by association. It's about the temptation and tendency to have group content as the panacea, as the overwhelming focus of any new content. It's about why we get so much content that focuses on large group efforts, and why that isn't necessarily such a good thing -- for the players or even the developers.

Continue reading The Soapbox: Groupthink

MassivelyThe Soapbox: Groupthink originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contentcontent-designcultureendgameendgame-contentfeaturedgroup-contentgroupinggroupsopinionpartiespartyparty-contentscaling-contentsoapboxthe-soapboxTue, 06 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you like having the freedom to play solo?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/13/the-daily-grind-do-you-like-having-the-freedom-to-play-solo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/13/the-daily-grind-do-you-like-having-the-freedom-to-play-solo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/13/the-daily-grind-do-you-like-having-the-freedom-to-play-solo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Groups are always great for dramatic screenshots.
MMOs are social experiences at their core, but there's still something about having freedom on your character of choice. At times, everyone likes to step away from being responsible for other people, and operating solo means that you get to take full credit for your own success and failure. But the quality of that operation depends on the game -- Final Fantasy XI characters were largely helpless solo past a certain point, while there's little in Star Trek Online that a solo player can't handle with some patience.

Obviously, being able to get plenty done solo means that you can indulge your time in the game more freely and not have to worry too much about other availability. But it also does detract from the grouping experience, and it can lead to a rahter one-note game where every enemy has to fall prey to the same solo tactics. So do you think solo-friendly game are a good thing? Do you want your games to feature a fair amount of self-reliance, or do you miss the old days where parties were the default for content?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do you like having the freedom to play solo? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 13 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>culturedesigngame-designgame-mechanicsgroupinggroupsopinionplaystylesolosoloingtdgthe-daily-grindSat, 13 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: And 2.6 came to pass...]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/wings-over-atreia-and-2-6-came-to-pass/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/wings-over-atreia-and-2-6-came-to-pass/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/wings-over-atreia-and-2-6-came-to-pass/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Not as heralded as its companions that came before, Aion's patch 2.6 hit North American servers this past Wednesday. But just because it wasn't cool enough for its own name (like Assault on Balaurea or even Empyrean Calling) doesn't mean it is without some goodies of its own. Granted, the patch isn't an Atreia-shattering deluge of content, but as I have stated previously, adding small chunks of content more frequently is better for keeping players interested and engaged in the game. And besides, 2.6 is one step closer to 3.0!

This patch introduced a solo version of the Empyrean Crucible for your crucible-insignia-hording pleasure, a new auto-group feature, some UI changes, a new pet, skill tweaks, and other assorted tidbits. This past weekend I experienced as many aspects of the new patch as I could in order to bring you a peek at life after the patch.

Is Stormwing really easier to beat? Can you really get platinum medals from the pet? How challenging is the Challenge? For the answers to these and more, join me past the break.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: And 2.6 came to pass...

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: And 2.6 came to pass... originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Aug 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.6-patchaionaion-crucibleaion-gameCrucible-Challengeempyrean-cruciblefeaturedgroupgroupingGrouping-mechanicsnc-softnc-soft-aionncsoftncsoft-aionpatchpatch-2.6patchespetpetsplatinum-medalssolo-instancesolo-instancesStormwingUIupdateupdatesWings-Over-AtreiaMon, 08 Aug 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: Mentors, schmentors]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/06/wings-over-atreia-mentors-schmentors/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/06/wings-over-atreia-mentors-schmentors/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/06/wings-over-atreia-mentors-schmentors/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ahhh, the unadulterated bliss of traipsing about the promised land of milk and honey -- otherwise known as Atreia post 2.5. The siren call of the Empyrean Crucible, the plink of new tokens in the cube, the sounds of laughter as Daevas play with their newest cuddly little companions... what's that, you say? It is not all fluffy kittens and rainbows and sparkle ponies? *Gasp* How can that be?!

Last week, we touched on a number of the additions and improvements brought to Aion with the latest patch, Empyrean Calling. However, after the novelty of the the new features had worn off a bit, the negative impact of some of these improvements became apparent; no matter how much is put into a system, there will always be pros and cons. Such can be said of the new mentoring system.

Even while adding more to the gameplay of some, this system is taking away from it for others. Some were heard to be cursing mentoring from day one. Additionally, I venture to raise some concerns about long-term consequences that may not be considered in the rush to take advantage of the short-term gains. Sure, there are the benefits, but nothing comes without a cost. Nothing.

So what could be so bad about mentoring in Aion? Slip past the cut and I'll fill you in.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: Mentors, schmentors

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: Mentors, schmentors originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 06 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.5-patchaionaion-gameEmpyrean-CallingfeaturedgroupingGrouping-mechanicsmentormentor-systemmentoringmentoring-systemnc-softnc-soft-aionncsoftncsoft-aionpatch-2.5petsWings-Over-AtreiaMon, 06 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lost Pages of Taborea: The poor, lonely looking-for-group tool]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/lost-pages-of-taborea-the-poor-lonely-looking-for-group-tool/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/lost-pages-of-taborea-the-poor-lonely-looking-for-group-tool/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/lost-pages-of-taborea-the-poor-lonely-looking-for-group-tool/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Karen's recent article about RIFT's new looking-for-group tool got me thinking about Runes of Magic's own LFG tool. It seems like such a nifty function, but it hardly ever gets used in RoM. It's such an interesting tool that I'm happy to see in the game, but it also seems to be better on paper than in practice. Part of the reason might be that it's slightly clumsy to use for the first time, which I'll get to a little later. LFG tools are one of those things that a lot of players ask for nowadays, but they only ever seem to be used minimally unless the devs attach incentives.

Let's turn caps-lock off, stop shouting in world chat, and take a closer look at RoM's LFG tool.

Continue reading Lost Pages of Taborea: The poor, lonely looking-for-group tool

MassivelyLost Pages of Taborea: The poor, lonely looking-for-group tool originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 May 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>application-boarddungeon-finderfeaturedfinding-groupsfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactivegroupinggrouping-mechanicsjeremy-strattonlfglfg-toollooking-for-grouplooking-for-group-toollost-pages-of-taboreapick-up-grouppick-up-groupspugpugsromrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentMon, 23 May 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Webzen readying Soul of the Ultimate Nation: Episode 2, preview server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/webzen-readying-soul-of-the-ultimate-nation-episode-2-preview/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/webzen-readying-soul-of-the-ultimate-nation-episode-2-preview/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/webzen-readying-soul-of-the-ultimate-nation-episode-2-preview/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

New content is on the way for fans of Soul of the Ultimate Nation, and Webzen has just announced the impending release of a global trial server for the game's Episode 2 patch. The new shard will go live on April 28th, and it aims to give players a preview as well as collect feedback prior to the patch's official release.

Episode 2 brings major changes to the game including a new leveling system, itemization changes, and new quests. Webzen's press release states that the revamp should "please various gamers with its simple yet strategic gameplay."

In addition to the leveling adjustments, Episode 2 introduces the custom passives system whereby players may tweak their avatars' abilities via customizable buffs. The mechanic is intended to encourage grouping between new and old players, and the resultant buffs will stay active as long as the party remains intact. Head to the official Soul of the Ultimate Nation website for more info.

MassivelyWebzen readying Soul of the Ultimate Nation: Episode 2, preview server originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Apr 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>custom-passive-systemcustom-passivesepisode-2f2pfantasyfree-to-playglobal-trial-servergroupingleveling-changesnew-itemsnew-questsparty-buffspress releasePressReleasesoul-of-the-ultimate-nationsoul-of-the-ultimate-nation-episode-2suntrial-serverwebzenThu, 14 Apr 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Perfect World releases RaiderZ trailer, promises monster slaughter]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/13/perfect-world-releases-raiderz-trailer-promises-monster-slaught/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/13/perfect-world-releases-raiderz-trailer-promises-monster-slaught/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/13/perfect-world-releases-raiderz-trailer-promises-monster-slaught/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Perfect World Entertainment just released a teaser page and trailer for its upcoming action MMO RaiderZ. We won't be getting a true taste of the gameplay until E3, but the trailer shows off some of the fast-paced action that is promised to change the entire world of monster hunting. We weren't aware that there was a world of monster hunting, but it had better be ready to be rocked.

In the trailer we get to see different characters battling with all types of unusual, enormous critters that look like they would be a handful for any warrior. The website and trailer indicate the need for grouping with others, so gather some friends and click past the cut to check out the trailer!

Now get out there -- those monsters won't hunt themselves!

Continue reading Perfect World releases RaiderZ trailer, promises monster slaughter

MassivelyPerfect World releases RaiderZ trailer, promises monster slaughter originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Apr 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmobeau-hindmanfree-to-playgroupingmonster-huntingperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweraiderztrailervideoWed, 13 Apr 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: What's in it for me?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/04/wings-over-atreia-whats-in-it-for-me/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/04/wings-over-atreia-whats-in-it-for-me/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/04/wings-over-atreia-whats-in-it-for-me/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

That does it. No more Ms. Nice Wings. This time I am just going to unleash! Let my rant all hang out. Admittedly, I am not normally one to complain; I can see the good in most every situation, and I can roll with the punches like it's an Olympic event. But even my feathers get ruffled sometimes. It's true! And sometimes you just can't bite your tongue anymore or all you will have is a very sore tongue.

Now I know I am not a rant-master like Jef, but even fledgling ranters must begin somewhere. And this week, I found just such a place: immature, self-serving, can't-pull-their-thumbs-outta-their-ears-unless-there-is-something-in-it-for-them-gamers in Aion. You know the type -- those who think the world revolves around them. Those whose spoiled-rotten antics ruin groups and legions alike and who are the reason why many a block list is so full. They without whom drama would die a quick death and be a forgotten plague. They're the bane of chat channels everywhere -- they are the trolls.

Throw yourself past the cut for a look at some recent Aion tantrums and sure-fire ways to minimize the effects of blatant immaturity. Careful, though -- I cannot be held responsible for any resemblance to gamers near you.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: What's in it for me?

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: What's in it for me? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 04 Apr 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionaion-gamebuffbuff-leaves-in-a-huffhuffdaevas-of-our-livesdramafeaturedgroup-dynamicsgroupinggroupsimmatureimmaturitync-softnc-soft-aionncsoftncsoft-aionrantrantsselfishselfishnesssiegesiegessingle-playersingle-player-gamestantrumtantrumsteamworktrolltrollsWings-Over-AtreiaMon, 04 Apr 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Alter-Ego: Five powers that make Ice nice]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/02/alter-ego-five-powers-that-make-ice-nice/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/02/alter-ego-five-powers-that-make-ice-nice/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/02/alter-ego-five-powers-that-make-ice-nice/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Last week we took a look into the Fire powerset in DC Universe Online, one of the two tanking powersets available to heroes and villains who want to spend their time at the front lines of the fight. As noted last week, the Fire powers make tanking a snap by simply soaking damage through the use of self-healing. Ice, by contrast, is all about mitigating damage through armor abilities, which help tanks shrug off smackdowns that would leave other players knocked out and drooling on themselves.

While my Ice tank is just shy of DC Universe Online's endgame at the moment, I have spent time running her in groups, reading just about anything I could put my mitts on about tanking powerset suggestions, and fiddling with my own build as I progress. I feel pretty comfortable recommending five great powers to consider for an Icy-tanking hotbar, since I've seen these oft repeated. I find them useful in my everyday play now -- even if I'm not quite up to smacking the biggest baddies around yet. So if you're curious as to what much research (and faceplanting) has unearthed as five of the best Ice tanking powers, then join me behind the break!

Continue reading Alter-Ego: Five powers that make Ice nice

MassivelyAlter-Ego: Five powers that make Ice nice originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 02 Apr 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuofeaturedfrostygroupingiceice-powersetice-tankice-tankingpower-loadout-suggestionspvesoesonysony-online-entertainmenttanktank-roletankingSat, 02 Apr 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: Endgame = end of game?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/28/wings-over-atreia-endgame-end-of-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/28/wings-over-atreia-endgame-end-of-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/28/wings-over-atreia-endgame-end-of-game/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

It happens. All good things must come to an end... except (hopefully) your favorite MMORPG. After all, the whole idea of the MMO is to keep going endlessly, right? To supposedly ever-evolve -- there is no final "win" that concludes the story as in single-player RPGs. However, what do you do when you hit the level cap and have "been there and done that" with everything in game? I guess that's the disadvantage of not having a sandbox; as much I love the graphics and my friends in NCsoft's Aion, there really is just a finite list of things to do.

Now before anyone gets up-in-arms or sneers "I told you so," no, I am not quitting and I haven't given up on the game. I still enjoy it. It just so happens that my mind zeroed in on the topic this week as I logged in over the course a few days and just stared at my screen, wondering what I wanted to do. While I was feeling under the weather a bit (which dampened my endurance and enthusiasm to complete any major dungeons), I started wondering about what there actually is to do in Aion after you reach and sit at maximum level for a while.

For me, the two things that keep me interested in my virtual worlds are the community and friends that I find in game as well as exploring and experiencing new things. One involves the company providing regular content updates; the other allows for player-created content. But once there is nothing left to explore or experience, friends can drift away... so what does that leave? Pondering this subject and watching the community around me actually brought up some expected -- and some not quite expected -- answers.

Join me past the cut to look at different ways Daevas spend their time in Atreia and how they keep their interest sparked.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: Endgame = end of game?

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: Endgame = end of game? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 28 Mar 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionaion-gamealtaltsatreiabeshmundir-templecontentdark-portaleventsfeaturedgoalgoal-settinggoalsgoalsettinggroupingnc-softnc-soft-aionncsoftncsoft-aionpvpriftingrifting-changesskinssolosoloingsoloing-instancestrolltrollsudas-templeupdatesWings-Over-AtreiaMon, 28 Mar 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Forsaken World launch trailer debuts]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/14/forsaken-world-launch-trailer-debuts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/14/forsaken-world-launch-trailer-debuts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/14/forsaken-world-launch-trailer-debuts/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

What's the launch of a brand-spanking-new MMORPG without a similarly wet-behind-the-ears trailer to go with it? In service to that tradition, Perfect World Entertainment has just released a sleek new video that coincides with the debut of its latest free-to-play effort.

Forsaken World officially launched on March 9th, and even if you've already played it, you'll want to take a peek at the two-minute teaser that shows off a bevy of lush location shots as well as numerous big bads. If you haven't played the game yet, well, we submit that the launch trailer may very well get you hot, bothered, and ready to do just that. Luckily for you, we've got the clip available for your viewing pleasure just past the cut.

Forsaken World is a deeper, darker fantasy MMO from the makers of Jade Dynasty, Battle of the Immortals, and Perfect World International. The title boasted an astonishing 3500 developers during its construction phases and is now available for download via the official Forsaken World website.

Continue reading Forsaken World launch trailer debuts

MassivelyForsaken World launch trailer debuts originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 Mar 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfantasyforsaken-worldfree-to-playgroupinglaunchnew-titlesparty-dynamicsperfect-world-entertainmentpvepwequestingtrailervideoMon, 14 Mar 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Should the MMO holy trinity be a thing of the past?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/13/the-daily-grind-should-the-mmo-holy-trinity-be-a-thing-of-the-p/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/13/the-daily-grind-should-the-mmo-holy-trinity-be-a-thing-of-the-p/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/13/the-daily-grind-should-the-mmo-holy-trinity-be-a-thing-of-the-p/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Dungeons, lairs, and instances, oh my! No, Toto, you are definitely not in Kansas anymore. No matter what game you play, there is usually some sort of division of roles that a toon you roll takes on -- some characters are support, some are up-font and center, and others stick to the side and unload what their mama gave them. Undeniably, the holy trinity seems to be something of a standard in most MMOs -- you are going to have to make a choice at some point about how you actually play.

But maybe some day you wouldn't have to choose a spec, roll a new toon, or make compromises in your class picks. Dreams of being a healer who can actually kick some serious winged-monkey butt could be a thing of the future. Or maybe it will never happen. That's why I pose the following to all of you: If the holy trinity became a thing of the past, how would you envision your favorite game changing? Would you rather see every class be able to use a mix of skills? Could it actually work, or would it just create games full of clone characters?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Should the MMO holy trinity be a thing of the past? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 13 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>class-mechanicsclassesdpsgroupinghealersholy-trinitytankstdgthe-daily-grindtrinitySun, 13 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Embark Beach and Mercenary Heroes coming to Guild Wars]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/03/embark-beach-and-mercenary-heroes-coming-to-guild-wars/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/03/embark-beach-and-mercenary-heroes-coming-to-guild-wars/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/03/embark-beach-and-mercenary-heroes-coming-to-guild-wars/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Do you play Guild Wars with nothing to lose and nothing to prove? Then you might wind up dancing with yourself in the newest update to the game, which will add a new system of Mercenary Heroes -- turning other characters on your account into special heroes just for your use. And since this update also gives players the option to have a full party of seven heroes, there's plenty of reason to improve alts and play with them even on other characters.

Of course, that's the least of the features packed into the new update, and you may not even need the new heroes with the introduction of the group-focused Embark Beach. Allowing players transport to a multitude of locations and missions, the outpost serves as a waypoint for players to find groups and get right into the action of a mission without any trouble. It's also a hub for services, making it an ideal place for players to congregate and look for any needed assistance.

That's not even touching upon the new daily quests in Pre-Searing Ascalon, the changes to the Survivor title track to make it earnable on an existing character even after that character has died, and a new Minion UI feature. In short, Guild Wars players have plenty to dance about in the new update, whether by themselves or with others.

Gallery: Guild Wars Core Gallery

MassivelyEmbark Beach and Mercenary Heroes coming to Guild Wars originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 Mar 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetawardsbreakingembark-beachf2pfree-to-playgallerygroup-contentgroupingguild-warsguild-wars-propheciesgwheroesmercenary-heroesncsoftnewspartiesparty-formationpatchesplayer-culturepropheciesscreenshotscreenshotssubscription-freetitle-trackstitlesupcoming-patchesupdatesThu, 03 Mar 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exploring Eberron: One isn't the loneliest number]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/exploring-eberron-one-isnt-the-loneliest-number/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/exploring-eberron-one-isnt-the-loneliest-number/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/exploring-eberron-one-isnt-the-loneliest-number/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Two weeks ago on Exploring Eberron, I talked about my preview of the Crystal Cove event in Dungeons and Dragons Online. Design director Ian Currie and producer Eric Boyer joined me on the Lamannia server to show me around the upcoming event. It was a great time, but I was still very curious about how the event would go once it arrived on the live servers.

The thing about a developer tour is that you get to see the best of everything -- and that is both a blessing and a curse. It's great on one hand, because I can see the event and have the details explained to me without my having to navigate the hectic and busy aspect of a crowd of players all participating at once.

On the other hand, there was an important question that I really couldn't find the answer to until the event was live and I tried it on my own. One of the things I love about DDO is that it acknowledges and provides for the solo player. Right from character creation, the game tells you which classes are and are not good for soloing, and the addition of casual mode offered even more options. It seemed that a server-wide event like this might have a harder time keeping up that tradition, and I wanted to find out for myself.

So how did it go? Follow along after the jump and see!

Continue reading Exploring Eberron: One isn't the loneliest number

MassivelyExploring Eberron: One isn't the loneliest number originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 Feb 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-coveddoDungeons-and-Dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeventexploring-eberronf2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpgroupingsoloingturbineTurbine-EntertainmentFri, 25 Feb 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you like cross-server dungeon finders?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/24/the-daily-grind-do-you-like-cross-server-dungeon-finders/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/24/the-daily-grind-do-you-like-cross-server-dungeon-finders/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/24/the-daily-grind-do-you-like-cross-server-dungeon-finders/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

There's little doubt that World of Warcraft has brought a lot of change to the MMO space in a few short years. One of the more recent Blizzard innovations is the dungeon finder tool, a cross-server matchmaker that throws together ad-hoc groups for the game's 5-man instances. Released in early December of 2009, the mechanic has proven to be a boon for casual players who are pressed for time or are looking to power through content.

The dungeon finder doesn't earn universal high marks, however, and players who use PUGs to recruit for their guilds (or those who simply like to make new friends) are often put off by the disposable (and largely silent) nature of many dungeon finder groups.

For today's Daily Grind, we'd like to know how you feel about the wham-bam-thank-you-ma'am-don't-talk-to-me-just-kill-the-boss mentality that's showing up with greater frequency in current-gen MMOs. Do you blame the dungeon finder? Do you care?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do you like cross-server dungeon finders? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anti-socialblizzardBlizzard-Entertainmentcasualdungeon-finderfantasygame-discussiongamer-discussiongroupingmmo-discussionmmo-hot-topicsmmo-issuesmmo-topicsmmorpg-discussionmmorpg-hot-topicsmmorpg-topicsopinionsocialsolotdgthe-daily-grindWorld-of-WarcraftwowThu, 24 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Storyboard: Swapping tales]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/storyboard-swapping-tales/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/storyboard-swapping-tales/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/storyboard-swapping-tales/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

A few weeks back, I took the opportunity to explain why roleplaying is most definitely not storytelling. So this week, I'm going to directly undermine every single part of that column and talk about running a steady story via roleplaying. If you haven't noticed by this point, I'm a big fan of subverting expectations.

My usual impish sense of humor aside, the two exist rather comfortably alongside one another. A long-running storyline in-game doesn't require you to have arcs and movements and motivations planned out -- rather, it's the natural outgrowth of character arcs and interactions from months or years of play. You lose much in the way of narrative consistency or overall theme, but you gain a sprawling organic network of developing plotlines.

So keeping a long-term story running is more a matter of letting time build on an existing base. But getting that existing base functioning and keeping it on an even keel isn't always a simple task, and that's what we're going to examine. There are a lot of ways to keep a story going in the game, but the better the foundation, the better it'll be.

Continue reading Storyboard: Swapping tales

MassivelyStoryboard: Swapping tales originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Feb 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backstoriesbackstorycastcharacterscolumnfeaturedgroupinginteractionsinterconnectionloreopinionroleplayingrpstoryboardstorylinesFri, 18 Feb 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Incursion guide -- Combat strategies]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/13/eve-evolved-incursion-guide-combat-strategies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/13/eve-evolved-incursion-guide-combat-strategies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/13/eve-evolved-incursion-guide-combat-strategies/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

With the final release of EVE Online's Incursion expansion, Sansha fleets began invading constellations across New Eden. Hell-bent on revenge against the empire nations that rejected him, Sansha's unholy army of borg-like cybernetic soldiers is united in a singular goal -- to bring his disturbing brand of order to the galaxy. The incursions have been running for several weeks now, and players are quickly adapting to EVE's latest group PvE challenge. In last week's EVE Evolved, I began a series of guides to tackling incursions with an article on fleet composition and group tanking strategies.

Even with a well-composed group, it's still possible to fail encounters if the fleet doesn't exercise good target-calling and combat strategies. With some Sansha ships fielding remote repairers and others throwing ECM, energy neutralisers, and massive torpedoes at players, taking on an encounter isn't just a matter of tanking it and flinging missiles in all directions. Fleet commanders must be able prioritise the enemy ships in order of the danger they present to the fleet. Clear target-calling will help a fleet to focus fire and get targets down quickly, and good prioritisation of targets can mean the difference between victory and defeat.

In this week's second part of the EVE Evolved guide to incursions, I explain two popular target-calling strategies and look into prioritising targets in order to minimise the risk to your fleet. I end with a list of high-priority NPCs with special abilities that you'll need to keep an eye on.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Incursion guide -- Combat strategies

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Incursion guide -- Combat strategies originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 13 Feb 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>callingccpccp-eveccp-gamescommandingcoombateveeve-ccpeve-evolvedeve-mmorpgeve-onlinefeaturedfleetgroupgroup-pvegroupingguideguidesincursionincursionspveraid-leadingsanshasanshas-nationtargetSun, 13 Feb 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mog Log: Let's talk about EXP, baby]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/12/the-mog-log-lets-talk-about-exp-baby/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/12/the-mog-log-lets-talk-about-exp-baby/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/12/the-mog-log-lets-talk-about-exp-baby/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

If there was one thing I always hated about Final Fantasy XI, it was the leveling process. Not the grouping for levels, which was fun and often a good distraction from the monotony of camping and grinding. (It was obnoxious trying to level Dragoon, sure, but that was excellent motivation to spend more time as a healer.) No, it was something much simpler -- the actual speed of the level-to-level process, or more accurately, the earth-shattering lag between levels that only increased as you got higher.

Both Final Fantasy XIV and Final Fantasy XI are on the horns of an experience change, with the former having happened and the latter still to be seen as of this writing (I'm working fairly far ahead, so watch the patch drop this week). Seeing as how leveling is kind of a big deal until you've reached the level cap in everything, the changes are worth examining for what they add to the game and for whether or not the changes are actually worthwhile and useful.

Continue reading The Mog Log: Let's talk about EXP, baby

MassivelyThe Mog Log: Let's talk about EXP, baby originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 12 Feb 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>experiencefeaturedffff11ff14ffxiffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xifinal-fantasy-xivgroup-contentgroupinglevelingleveling-curveopinionsolo-contentsquaresquare-enixthe-mog-logSat, 12 Feb 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A Mild-Mannered Reporter: Stricken pack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/09/a-mild-mannered-reporter-stricken-pack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/09/a-mild-mannered-reporter-stricken-pack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/09/a-mild-mannered-reporter-stricken-pack/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

It's been a while since the Incarnate system went live, and we've had a little time to get used to the ideas that the Issue 19 Strike Pack brought to the table. Not a full shakedown, mind you, but enough to make it clear what the fairly minor addition actually does for the nascent endgame. Whether or not it brings anything positive to City of Heroes is still up for debate. Depending on whom you're talking to, it either nicely handles a few weaknesses of the current Incarnate design or it's a step in a bad direction.

As usual, I don't think the answer is anywhere near that simple. The Strike Pack is a good thing in many ways, and not just because of the addition of the higher tiers of Incarnate abilities. I love giving people more reason to run Task Forces, definitely, but if there's a serious problem introduced by this it goes right back to the same endgame problems that City of Heroes has always had, problems that I'm not completely sure even Issue 20 will fix.

Continue reading A Mild-Mannered Reporter: Stricken pack

MassivelyA Mild-Mannered Reporter: Stricken pack originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 Feb 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxendgameendgame-progressionfeaturedgame-designgame-mechanicsgame-patchesgroupingi19incarnateincarnate-systemissue-19issue-19-strike-packncsoftopinionparagonparagon-studiospatchessolostrike-packupdatesWed, 09 Feb 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: Solo vs. group]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/07/wings-over-atreia-solo-vs-group/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/07/wings-over-atreia-solo-vs-group/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/07/wings-over-atreia-solo-vs-group/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

OK, now get your collective minds all out of the gutter! There we go. Of course, the title speaks to gaming styles and preferences in Aion. Lately, I've had the topic of grouping crop up in different discussions, from the trend of decreasing group sizes (Star Wars Galaxies had groups of 20, then Lineage II had groups of nine, followed by other games with a maximum group size of six) to questioning the need to group at all. To group, or not to group: Is that really the question?

I touched on this topic a bit a few weeks ago, but an adventure this past week brought my attention back to it; I discovered that you no longer need a full group for one of the more frustrating quests in the game (once you factor in trying to get a group when the rift is up and not have it camped on the other side by the enemy!). Instead, you can complete the quest with just two or three Daevas, a feat unheard of previously due to the difficult dungeon in enemy territory.

Granted, we completed our quest, which would have been impossible otherwise given the circumstances. But on a broader scale, what's with the trend of phasing out group content in MMOs and catering to the solo crowd? This phenomenon puzzles me. When a game is an MMO (read "massively multiplayer"), why discourage grouping by making almost all content accessible to the solo crowd -- especially in Aion (where learning good group dynamics can be crucial in large scale warfare)? In a time when social skills seem to be struggling to survive, why open yet another opportunity for people to avoid interaction?

Type /Invite and join me past the cut to examine this phenomenon and weigh in with your preferred gaming style in our comments.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: Solo vs. group

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: Solo vs. group originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 Feb 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionaion-gameBeluslanbeshmundir-templefeaturedgroupinggrouping-incentivesgroupslootnc-softnc-soft-aionncsoftncsoft-aionpugpugsrngsolosoloingudas-templeWings-Over-AtreiaxenoMon, 07 Feb 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Incursion in progress]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/30/eve-evolved-incursion-in-progress/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/30/eve-evolved-incursion-in-progress/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/30/eve-evolved-incursion-in-progress/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

In a blaze of fire and glory, Sansha Kuvakei's fleet clashed with players in a major offensive in Yulai. Although his AI-controlled Sansha battleships numbered in the hundreds, the sheer force of capsuleer defense initiatives was brought down on Kuvakei's fleet like a hammer. With the Sansha ships under heavy fire, the fleet opened additional wormholes to call in reinforcements. Amidst the busy buzz of lasers scorching hulls, capsuleers hurling missiles, and CONCORD rescue operations, space itself warped as several massive Sansha supercarriers emerged from the incoming wormholes. Sansha Kuvakei played his biggest and most fearsome card as a show of the incredible forces he now commands. And capsuleers burned them to ashes in defiance.

Since the battle in Yulai, Sansha's Nation has begun launching full-scale occupations of constellations across New Eden. Many players dove straight into the fray without adequate preparation, and Sansha's forces were not forgiving. While most NPC pirate ships found in EVE Online are weak with a very basic AI, the new Sansha ships are both smart and deadly. They use everything from ECM and energy neutralisers to stealth bomber technology and logistic support. Thousands of player ships were destroyed in the first day of fighting as people worked out, through a system of trial and error, how best to tackle EVE's latest supervillain. As the dust settled, I began to get a solid impression of how well the feature is working and whether it really is the breath of fresh air EVE's PvE has been sorely lacking all these years.

In this week's EVE Evolved, I give my first impressions of the Sansha incursions in an attempt to demystify some of the discussion surrounding them and share some basic tips for getting involved.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Incursion in progress

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Incursion in progress originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 30 Jan 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-eveccp-gamesdungeondungeonseveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlinefeaturedgroup-pvegroupingincursionincursionslogisticspick-up-grouppugpuggingpugspvepvpraidingsanshasanshas-nationsupercarriersSun, 30 Jan 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Beta 5 patch notes posted for RIFT]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/beta-5-patch-notes-posted-for-rift/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/beta-5-patch-notes-posted-for-rift/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/beta-5-patch-notes-posted-for-rift/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

If you've been following RIFT closely over the past few weeks, you know that the fifth beta event has just begun. That means it's time for a new batch of updates, and the staff at Trion Worlds has come through. The notes for the newest event have been posted, and they contain an exhaustive number of changes, including a much-requested public grouping system and a number of UI improvements. There's also the usual collection of bugfixes and changes based on testing feedback.

Many players had requested some sort of open grouping system to coincide with the game's dynamic events, and the new public group system facilitates just that. Although the system still requires clicking a few buttons and flagging yourself as open for public groups, it streamlines the process of getting everyone organized and cooperative during a rift battle. RIFT testers and fans should take a look at the full list of changes before diving into the newest event.

MassivelyBeta 5 patch notes posted for RIFT originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 25 Jan 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-eventbeta-event-5beta-testingdynamic-eventsgroupingin-game-eventpatchpublic-eventspublic-groupingriftrift-beta-5rift-planes-of-telaratesting-eventtriontrion-worldsupdatesTue, 25 Jan 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sansha incursions have begun in EVE Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/sansha-incursions-have-begun-in-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/sansha-incursions-have-begun-in-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/sansha-incursions-have-begun-in-eve-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

The moment EVE Online players have been waiting for has finally arrived. Sansha's Nation has begun its plan of regular incursions into known space. Using terrifying advanced technology suspected to be of Sleeper or Jovian origin, the Nation has begun sending masses of troops through controlled wormholes into constellations across New Eden. The powerful new Sansha ships found in these sites are controlled by a borg-like hive mind composed of the millions of citizens abducted from planets during last year's Sansha raid events. The Sansha ships are even named after the system their crews were abducted from, an eerie reminder that we could do nothing to prevent the Sansha raids.

To find out where the nearest incursion to you is, open your mission journal and go to the incursions tab. If you can't see any incursions in the global report after refreshing it several times, you may need to clear your cache. To do this, press the escape key to open up the game options, go into the "Reset Settings" tab and click the button next to the text "clear all cache files." This will restart your game and the incursions will be visible. Once you arrive at a constellation that's under siege, a new chat channel will automatically open to help coordinate resistance efforts in that constellation. Players who are thinking of getting into the incursions are urged to proceed with caution and use only ships they would be willing to lose, as these upgraded Sansha ships are deceptively powerful for their size classes. If you'd like to take part in the incursions with other Massively readers, join the Massively channel in-game for instructions on how to get involved with the official Massively Mob corporation.

To give some background to the events taking place right now all over EVE, CCP has released a new video trailer putting the Sansha threat in context. Skip past the cut to watch the video, embedded in HD.

Continue reading Sansha incursions have begun in EVE Online

MassivelySansha incursions have begun in EVE Online originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 25 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-eveccp-gameseveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlineexpansiongroupgroup-pvegroupinggroupsincursionincursionspvesanshasanshas-nationtrailervideoTue, 25 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST