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 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: Thoughts about Guild Wars 2's living story]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/flameseeker-chronicles-thoughts-about-guild-wars-2s-living-sto/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/flameseeker-chronicles-thoughts-about-guild-wars-2s-living-sto/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/flameseeker-chronicles-thoughts-about-guild-wars-2s-living-sto/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

subtitle LIS HAS OPINIONS
With Guild Wars 2's first multi-month living story arc drawing to a close, I thought this might be a good time to do a little bit of reflection on how the living story is treating Guild Wars 2 so far. Sure, what we've seen so far isn't necessarily indicative of the way things are always going to be, but it's a good starting point. (In fact, it's our only starting point. Unless, of course, you like rampant and foundless speculation as a starting point. This is, after all, the internet.)

To expand the conversation a bit, I think we're including holiday updates as part of the living story. It's seasonal, but it also fits into the grander scheme of providing changing content to keep the world moving and to keep players engaged. That means that what we've seen to date includes all of Flame and Frost, Wintersday, Halloween, and the Lost Shores event. Also, I guess the Super Adventure Box? I mean, it's returning and it had a lore tie-in and stuff. Maybe? I'm not sold.

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: Thoughts about Guild Wars 2's living story

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: Thoughts about Guild Wars 2's living story originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 May 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbuy-to-playfantasyfeaturedflame-and-frostflame-and-frost-preludeflame-and-frost-razingflame-and-frost-retributionflame-and-frost-the-gathering-stormflameseeker-chroniclesguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw1gw2halloweenliving-storylost-shoresncsoftopinionpontificationshadow-of-the-mad-kingthe-lost-shoreswintersdayTue, 07 May 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: The Guild Wars 2 end-of-the-year awards]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/18/flameseeker-chronicles-the-guild-wars-2-end-of-the-year-awards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/18/flameseeker-chronicles-the-guild-wars-2-end-of-the-year-awards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/18/flameseeker-chronicles-the-guild-wars-2-end-of-the-year-awards/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Flameseeker Chronicles The Guild Wars 2 awards
The end of the year seems to be a good time for awards -- all the cool kids are doing it, and Massively is nothing if not cool. Guild Wars 2 has been around long enough for me to have made some favorites. I've talked about features and things I loathe and love before, but now it's time to call out specific NPCs and instances, rather than general features. Before we get any further with this: These awards are purely my own opinion. Disagree with me? Great; write your own end-of-the-year awards. The more, the merrier.

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: The Guild Wars 2 end-of-the-year awards

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: The Guild Wars 2 end-of-the-year awards originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Dec 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetawardawardsbest-ofbuy-to-playend-of-the-year-awardsfantasyfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw1gw2halloweenmad-kingmad-king-thornencsoftopiniontoymaker-tixxwintersdayTue, 18 Dec 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Halloween events, tournaments and character reveals]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/05/not-so-massively-halloween-events-tournaments-and-character-re/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/05/not-so-massively-halloween-events-tournaments-and-character-re/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/05/not-so-massively-halloween-events-tournaments-and-character-re/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
League of Legends introduced its upcoming third competitive season with an article explaining how European teams can qualify to enter next year's championship and compete for massive cash prizes. Dota 2 temporarily turned MMO this week with its Diretide Halloween map that turns the game into a collection quest and then a 10-man raid.

SMITE revealed its new god Loki, adding a deadly backstabbing assassin to the game's growing roster of characters. Guardians of Middle-Earth also released its first two real hard carries this week with a Battle Profile on Ori and Agandaûr, two characters whose ability power scales up with each use. Heroes of Newerth's inclusive competitive league HoNTour got off to a great start this week despite early setbacks.

Upcoming action RPG Path of Exile spruced up its website this week and released its anticipated PvP arena patch. Diablo III players have reported that monsters with the Reflect Damage affix are almost impossible to kill in higher Monster Power levels. Finally, the first Firefall Fest saw special guests Athene, Felicia Day, and Wil Wheaton trying the game for the first time, and Blacklight: Retribution released its Evacuation update.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Halloween events, tournaments and character reveals

MassivelyNot So Massively: Halloween events, tournaments and character reveals originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Nov 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoaction-rpgAgandaûrAgandaurathenebattlenetblacklightblacklight-retributionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcompetitive-gamingconsoled3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidiretidedotadota-2e-sporte-sportsesportesportsevacuationf2pfantasyfeaturedfelicia-dayfirefall-festfpsfree-to-playgothic-fantasygrinding-geargrinding-gear-gamesguardians-of-middle-earthhalloweenheroes-of-newerthhonhontourleagueleague-of-legendslokilollord-of-the-ringslotrmiddle-earthmmofpsmobamonolithmonolith-studiosmonster-powermultiplayernewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayeroripath-of-exileperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentplaystation-networkpoeprofessional-gamingps3psnpvppvp-arenapvp-arenaspwereflect-damageriotriot-gamesround-uprounduprpgs2s2-gamestournamentvalvevideowarner-broswil-wheatonxboxxbox-360xbox-livexbox360Mon, 05 Nov 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Teaming up with Hi-Rez for some Halloween SMITE]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/02/teaming-up-with-hi-rez-for-some-halloween-smite/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/02/teaming-up-with-hi-rez-for-some-halloween-smite/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/02/teaming-up-with-hi-rez-for-some-halloween-smite/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Teaming up with HiRez for some Halloween SMITE
Halloween is a holiday when people typically dress up in outlandish costumes and go out hunting for treats. This year, I got to put a bit of a different spin on it by dressing up as a mythological god and going out to hunt for gold and items in some games of SMITE. Hi-Rez invited Massively along for its Halloween stream earlier this week, and I tagged along for some great fun. Despite being relatively inexperienced with the game, Reason Gaming's Lassiz was along for the ride as well, and his professional play helped lead us to a decisive victory.

Although it's still in closed beta, SMITE currently boasts a surprisingly large playerbase with hundreds of thousands of players and a very unique twist on the MOBA style. If you're looking for more information or a way to try the game for yourself, read on!

Continue reading Teaming up with Hi-Rez for some Halloween SMITE

MassivelyTeaming up with Hi-Rez for some Halloween SMITE originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Nov 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>babyloniancompetitivef2pfeaturedfirst-impressionsfree-to-playgodsgreekhalloweenhi-rezhi-rez-studiosholiday-gamingmobamultiplayermultiplayer-online-battle-arenamythologicalmythsnorsepvpreason-gamingromanSmiteFri, 02 Nov 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What are your plans for MMO Halloween?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/31/the-daily-grind-what-are-your-plans-for-mmo-halloween/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/31/the-daily-grind-what-are-your-plans-for-mmo-halloween/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/31/the-daily-grind-what-are-your-plans-for-mmo-halloween/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Daily Grind What are your plans for MMO Halloween
Did you wake up this morning and forget it's Halloween? Or were you already dressed in your costume the night before just so that you could get a jump start on the day's activities? Either way, let us be the first to welcome you to this special day of the year -- especially for MMOs.

Most every online RPG celebrates the season with quirky scares, eerie delights, and the celebration of the macabre. Massively attempted to round up all of the official events for you, and even that guide is just scratching the surface of possibilities for today.

So what are your plans for MMO Halloween, and what are you going dressed up as?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What are your plans for MMO Halloween? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 31 Oct 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daily-grindhalloweenhalloween-2012october-31stopiniontdgthe-daily-grindWed, 31 Oct 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 222: Trick or treat!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/30/massively-speaking-episode-222-trick-or-treat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/30/massively-speaking-episode-222-trick-or-treat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/30/massively-speaking-episode-222-trick-or-treat/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Massively Speaking Episode 222
Never accuse us here at Massively of being prejudiced against dinosaurs. We love them. Sure, they're scaly, bitey lizard/bird/demon monstrosities, but they do make great mounts and steaks. Oh, and MMOs. We desperately need more dinos in our MMOs, which is why we applaud Wizard101 for doing so this week.

Have a comment for the podcasters? Shoot an email to podcast@massively.com. We may just read your email on the air!

Get the podcast:
[iTunes] Subscribe to Massively Speaking directly in iTunes.
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Listen here on the page:



Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 222: Trick or treat!

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 222: Trick or treat! originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 30 Oct 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aztecabiowarebrantbrianna-royceconquesteaelectronic-artsf2pfamilyfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playhalloweenhalloween-2012historicalhumorjustin-olivettikid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlucasartsmassively-speakingopinionpodcastpodcastingpodcastspvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtortanktanksthe-old-republicthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptortriontrion-worldsturbinewarwargaming.netwizard101world-of-tankswotTue, 30 Oct 2012 17:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 222Massively.com Staff00:47:58podcast<![CDATA[Fallen Earth and APB: Reloaded go trick-or-treating]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/30/fallen-earth-and-apb-reloaded-go-trick-or-treating/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/30/fallen-earth-and-apb-reloaded-go-trick-or-treating/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/30/fallen-earth-and-apb-reloaded-go-trick-or-treating/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Fallen Earth and APB Reloaded go trickortreating
GamersFirst is bringing scary back to two of its biggest titles for Halloween. The publisher announced special events and seasonal sales for APB: Reloaded and Fallen Earth, some of which are happening at this very moment.

Players in APB can get a preview of the upcoming Asylum District as they go there to compete in the Fright Club. A costume contest is scheduled for October 31st as well, and GMs will be present to lead a grand parade through the streets. Finally, the pumpkin-happy devs are throwing another Pumpkin Head Customization Contest with even better prizes than last year.

In the vast wasteland of Fallen Earth, survivors are encouraged to go trick-or-treating with the devs for exclusive items. The location of said trick-or-treating will be hinted at in chat. Fallen Earth is also selling its cosmetic gear for half off starting tomorrow.

MassivelyFallen Earth and APB: Reloaded go trick-or-treating originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 30 Oct 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-reloadedapbapb-reloadedapbrcrimedealf2pfallen-earthfefree-to-playg1gamersfirsthalloweenhalloween-2012post-apocpost-apocalypticpromotionpvpsandboxsci-fiwastelandsTue, 30 Oct 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: The good, the mad, and the Lunatic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/30/flameseeker-chronicles-the-good-the-mad-and-the-lunatic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/30/flameseeker-chronicles-the-good-the-mad-and-the-lunatic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/30/flameseeker-chronicles-the-good-the-mad-and-the-lunatic/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Flameseeker Chronicles The good, the mad, and the Lunatic
Things have been getting spookier and spookier around the land of Tyria. If you're a Guild Wars 2 player, I sincerely hope for your own sake that you've been able to get some time in-game in the last few days. A lot has been going on -- there've been scavenger hunts, dark tales unfolding, spectral energy levels rising, maddening races up clock towers, and so much more!

Have you been missing out? Trying to decide how best to spend your precious holiday time in-game? Let's take a look at some of the big changes that have been creeping in with the shadow of the Mad King.

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: The good, the mad, and the Lunatic

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: The good, the mad, and the Lunatic originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 30 Oct 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-i-want-for-christmas-is-the-crossinganetarenanetascent-to-madnessclock-towerfantasyfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw1gw2halloweenhalloween-2012halloween-eventholidayjumping-puzzlelunatic-courtlunatic-inquisitionmad-kingmad-king-2012mad-king-thornmad-kings-clock-towermoba-likencsoftopinionoswald-thornpvpreapers-rumblespvpTue, 30 Oct 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The War Z's Halloween beta launch includes new content, special offers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/30/the-war-zs-halloween-beta-launch-includes-new-characters-citie/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/30/the-war-zs-halloween-beta-launch-includes-new-characters-citie/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/30/the-war-zs-halloween-beta-launch-includes-new-characters-citie/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The War Z's Halloween beta launch includes new characters and new areas
Halloween might be the only time of the year when no one is surprised by streets full of zombies. And for players waiting to get into the spirit by destroying the ravenous flesh-eating hordes, The War Z's closed beta client is ready and willing. Today's launch features new content in the form of all-new zombies to slaughter, new skins, special holiday-themed items, and a map that has doubled in size.

And for folks who previously missed out on the Legend package, Hammerpoint Interactive is offering it again for a limited time. Purchasing this package will grant a player full access to the game, $30 of in-game funds, six months of server hosting, three weekend pass keys for friends, and special player recognition both in-game and on the forums. For more information, check out the official site.

[Source: Hammerpoint Interactive press release]

MassivelyThe War Z's Halloween beta launch includes new content, special offers originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 30 Oct 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apocalypsebetabeta-accessf2pfree-to-playfreemiumhalloweenHammerpoint-Interactivemicrotransactionmicrotransactionspost-apocalypticpremiumthe-war-zWar-ZzombiesTue, 30 Oct 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch Nathan Fillion, Wil Wheaton, and Felicia Day play Firefall]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/30/firefall-treats-players-to-fest-videos-and-a-halloween-patch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/30/firefall-treats-players-to-fest-videos-and-a-halloween-patch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/30/firefall-treats-players-to-fest-videos-and-a-halloween-patch/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Firefall treats players to Fest videos and a Halloween patch
You can't beat getting some Halloween treats without having to go out in the rain knocking on doors. It's no trick -- Red 5 Studios is giving out plenty of goodies to FireFall fans this week. First up is hours of video featuring famous gamer stars checking out the upcoming shooter.

Last week, the studio livestreamed FireFall Fest, an event depicting a number of celebrities -- Nathan Fillion, Wil Wheaton, and Felicia Day, to name just a few -- playing FireFall along with the community. But even if you missed an episode or two, Red 5 has saved the recordings for your viewing pleasure. Check out the highlight reels of day one and day six after the break, then head to the official site for links to watch the full two-plus-hour videos for each day.

FireFall is also offering fans a special Halloween patch. Along with spooky masks and other appropriate decor, beta players will find new monsters to kill and new abilities to use. For a full list of all of the Halloween goodies, head to the patch notes.

Continue reading Watch Nathan Fillion, Wil Wheaton, and Felicia Day play Firefall

MassivelyWatch Nathan Fillion, Wil Wheaton, and Felicia Day play Firefall originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 30 Oct 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaf2pfirefallFireFall-Festfirst-person-shooterfpsfree-to-playHalloweenhalloween-2012Halloween-eventslivestreamsmmo-shooterpvpred-5red-5-studiossci-fishootervideowarTue, 30 Oct 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Golden Joysticks, new heroes, and insane character builds]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/29/not-so-massively-golden-joysticks-new-heroes-and-insane-charac/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/29/not-so-massively-golden-joysticks-new-heroes-and-insane-charac/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/29/not-so-massively-golden-joysticks-new-heroes-and-insane-charac/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
Diablo III lost to Skyrim at this year's Golden Joystick awards, but it was named as a runner-up in two categories. Blizzard also reduced the difficulty of increased Monster Power levels this week by about 25%, and one player managed to design an insane Barbarian build capable of dealing 2.6 million damage per second. Path of Exile followed up with the fourteenth crazy character build in its Build of the Week series, and the devs revealed that the New Zealand government has not provided any support for the game.

League of Legends was voted the runner-up for the Golden Joystick Best MMO award despite the fact that it's not an MMO. Developers revealed some interesting updates for the game's 3v3 Twisted Treeline battleground, and officially released a new champion named Elise the Spider Queen. Heroes of Newerth revealed its own new hero this week, an adorable support character called Pearl the Bubble Mage.

Dota 2 added classic hero Centaur in this week's beta update, and Rise of Immortals published some more details of its upcoming Battle for Graxia revamp. Guardians of Middle-Earth revealed its newest combatants this week, fearless warrior Éowyn and ruthless Orc warlord Mozgog. Finally, Blacklight: Retribution raised its level cap to 40 in preparation for the upcoming Evacuation update.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Golden Joysticks, new heroes, and insane character builds

MassivelyNot So Massively: Golden Joysticks, new heroes, and insane character builds originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 29 Oct 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoaction-rpgÉowynbattle-for-graxiabattlenetbfgblacklightblacklight-retributionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbubblebubble-magebubble-magibuild-of-the-weekcentaurcompetitive-gamingconsoled3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidominiondotadota-2e-sporte-sportseliseeowynesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfpsfree-to-playgolden-joystickgolden-joystick-awardsgothic-fantasygovernmentgovernment-grantgrinding-geargrinding-gear-gameshalloweenheoheroes-of-newerthhonleague-of-legendslollord-of-the-ringslotrmiddle-earthmmofpsmobamonolithmonolith-studiosmonster-powerMozgogmultiplayernew-zealandnewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayerpath-of-exileperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpetroglyphpetroglyph-gamesplaystation-networkpoeps3psnpvppweriotriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsroiround-uprounduprpgs2s2-gamessilencerspiderspider-queensupportSupport-classtwisted-treelinevalvevideowarner-brosxboxxbox-360xbox-livexbox360Mon, 29 Oct 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 preparing a Halloween surprise for tomorrow]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/27/guild-wars-2-preparing-a-halloween-surprise-for-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/27/guild-wars-2-preparing-a-halloween-surprise-for-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/27/guild-wars-2-preparing-a-halloween-surprise-for-tomorrow/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Guild Wars 2 preparing a Halloween surprise for tomorrow
Is it a "surprise" when you know it's coming? Perhaps it's a convenient surprise that's considerate of your busy schedule. In any case, Guild Wars 2's Halloween event is building up to a big moment that happens... tomorrow. The dev team posted a heads-up for gamers to be in a certain location at a certain time on Sunday:
Act 2 of the Guild Wars 2 Halloween event is live -- enjoy the festivities! DO NOT MISS Act 3 of Shadow of the Mad King which kicks off at the lion statue in Lion's Arch at [3:00 p.m. EDT] on Sunday, Oct 28 with a very special, one-time only surprise!
Will this be a trick or a treat -- or both! -- from the Mad King Thorn? We'll just have to wait and see with the rest of you until it happens.

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 preparing a Halloween surprise for tomorrow originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 27 Oct 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenaneteventfantasyguild-wars-2gw2halloweenhalloween-2012halloween-eventin-game-eventncsoftsurpriseSat, 27 Oct 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Halloween around the virtual world]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/26/halloween-around-the-virtual-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/26/halloween-around-the-virtual-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/26/halloween-around-the-virtual-world/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Halloween around the virtual world
Spooks and specters, ghouls and ghosts, festivals and frippery -- it must be Halloween season once again in MMOs! For a variety of reasons, Halloween gives blanket permission to studios to go nuts with typically the best in-game holiday of the year. I figure it's because MMO players are already in the spirit of wearing costumes, getting "treats" from corpses, and exploring all manner of creepy areas. Toss in a few pumpkins and see if you can squeeze in an homage to the Slender Man, and you're golden.

So whether or not you're young enough to trick-or-treat without shame, you most certainly can enjoy the eerie atmosphere that impish game developers create. Here's a quick roundup of several in-game Halloween events happening right now around the virtual world.

Continue reading Halloween around the virtual world

MassivelyHalloween around the virtual world originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 26 Oct 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eventevent-guideguidehalloweenhalloween-2012halloween-guidein-game-eventFri, 26 Oct 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DDO unearths upgraded Endless Dead festival]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/24/ddo-unearths-upgraded-endless-dead-festival/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/24/ddo-unearths-upgraded-endless-dead-festival/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/24/ddo-unearths-upgraded-endless-dead-festival/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

DDO unearths upgraded Endless Dead festival
Don't be surprised that the Endless Dead are back in Dungeons and Dragons Online; after all, they're endless. We should be grateful that they bother coming only once a year instead of crashing weddings all summer. Turbine's added several improvements to its Halloween event and is excited to show you a good (and spooky) time.

The festival, which begins tomorrow and runs through November 4th, includes a special instance, cool prizes, and plenty of undead bad guys coming up for another round with your sword-and-shield. The team has increased the size of the monsters, added items like night black coffee (mmm), and dangled the possibility of accessing the Summoning Chamber, a special instance created for the event.

Get a bloody eyeful of the scares to come in the gallery below!

Gallery: DDO Endless Night 2012

MassivelyDDO unearths upgraded Endless Dead festival originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 24 Oct 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineendless-nightendless-night-festivalf2pfantasyfree-to-playgalleryhalloweenhalloween-2012screenshotsturbineturbine-entertainmentWed, 24 Oct 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA revs up Masquerade Mayhem event]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/23/tera-revs-up-masquerade-mayhem-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/23/tera-revs-up-masquerade-mayhem-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/23/tera-revs-up-masquerade-mayhem-event/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

TERA revs up Masquerade Mayhem
Creepy and kooky, mysterious and ooky, that's TERA's Masquerade Mayhem in a nutshell. The game's first Halloween event kicks off today with a huge assortment of activities, events, and prizes to behold.

Players will be treated to free gifts just for logging in, although it'll take some blood, sweat, and fears to earn the special costumes and mount during this event. A giant pumpkin ghost named Gourdo is haunting the various towns, and players can earn goodies by slinging pies at him. How do you get pies? From killing pie-toting mobs, of course.

En Masse also has a themed dungeon for players to investigate, but don't forget to take a break on the 30th to partake in the Masquerade Ball. You can get a pie-full of Masquerade Mayhem event in the official video after the break!

Continue reading TERA revs up Masquerade Mayhem event

MassivelyTERA revs up Masquerade Mayhem event originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Oct 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiosen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasygourdohalloweenhalloween-2012halloween-eventin-game-eventmasquerade-mayhemteravideoTue, 23 Oct 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer's Daemon Moon Rising event now playing]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/23/warhammers-daemon-moon-rising-event-now-playing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/23/warhammers-daemon-moon-rising-event-now-playing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/23/warhammers-daemon-moon-rising-event-now-playing/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Warhammer's Daemon Moon Rising event now playing
If you haven't firmed up your MMO Halloween plans, we've got another event to tell you about. Warhammer Online's Daemon Moon Rising shindig is going on now through November 1st.

It features a Daemonball Rally public quest, a Daemon Mask event quest, and the High Pass Cemetery Scenario which offers extra influence if you participate wearing a Daemon Mask. There are seasonal drops aplenty, too, including crafting components for talisman-makers. Full event details are available on the official Warhammer website.

MassivelyWarhammer's Daemon Moon Rising event now playing originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Oct 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daemon-moon-risingeaelectronic-artsendless-trialfantasyhalloweenhalloween-eventin-game-eventsmythicmythic-entertainmentpvprvrwarwarhammerwarhammer-onlineTue, 23 Oct 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: Preparing for the Mad King in Guild Wars 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/23/flameseeker-chronicles-preparing-for-the-mad-king/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/23/flameseeker-chronicles-preparing-for-the-mad-king/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/23/flameseeker-chronicles-preparing-for-the-mad-king/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Flameseeker Chronicles Preparing for the Mad King
By now, Lion's Arch probably looks a little different than we're used to. It had already taken on a decidedly ghoulish cast in Guild Wars by Friday, so I guess the Mad King's influence shifted by a few calendar days over the course of the 250 years between Guild Wars and Guild Wars 2.

Longtime fans of the original game don't need a lot of convincing to get anxious for the fulfillment of the spooky foreshadowing that's been going on for the past week or two. For those of you whose knowledge of Tyrian lore is either developing or a wee bit rusty, let's take a look at what's in store.

Let us begin with a question. Why can't you borrow money from a Dwarf?

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: Preparing for the Mad King in Guild Wars 2

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: Preparing for the Mad King in Guild Wars 2 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Oct 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetextra-lifeextra-life-2012fantasyfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw1gw2halloweenholidayholiday-eventsjokesking-thornlions-archmad-king-thornncsoftopinionpatchpatchesshadow-of-the-mad-kingthe-shadow-of-the-mad-kingthornupdateupdatesTue, 23 Oct 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Behind the scenes of MOBA development]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/22/not-so-massively-behind-the-scenes-of-moba-development/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/22/not-so-massively-behind-the-scenes-of-moba-development/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/22/not-so-massively-behind-the-scenes-of-moba-development/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
Diablo III's patch 1.0.5 launched this week, bringing in a brand-new Monster Power system and the Infernal machine endgame event. Upcoming action RPG Path of Exile announced that it will begin open beta in December, complete with a full three acts of content and a PvP arena system.

In MOBA news, League of Legends announced details of its massive Halloween update with new icons, ward skins, and brand-new transforming champion Elise, the Spider Queen. Heroes of Newerth's new competitive league was delayed this week due to technical difficulties, and SMITE revealed its newest God Freya, Queen of the Valkyries.

Dota 2 players came up with some surprising results on the most effective team compositions by analysing the details of 39,626 matches, and Wrath of Heroes released its new Garden of Morr scenario. Upcoming MOBA Prime World revealed details of its Outpost game mode in which two teams escort huge battle robots toward each other. And Monolith Studios gave us our second peek behind the scenes of development on upcoming console MOBA Guardians of Middle-earth.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Behind the scenes of MOBA development

MassivelyNot So Massively: Behind the scenes of MOBA development originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 22 Oct 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoaction-rpgarenabattlenetbetabiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentchampioncompetitive-gamingconsoleconsole-mobad3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotadota-2e-sporte-sportseaelectronic-artseliseesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreyagarden-of-morrgothic-fantasygrinding-geargrinding-gear-gameshalloweenheroes-of-newerthhoninfernalinfernal-machineleague-of-legendslollord-of-the-ringslotrmiddle-earthmobamonolithmonolith-studiosmonster-powermultiplayermythicmythic-entertainmentnewsnivalnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayeropen-betaoutpostpath-of-exileplaystation-networkpoeprime-worldps3psnpvevppvppvp-arenariotriot-gamesround-uprounduprpgs2s2-gamesspiderspider-queenstatisticsuberuber-bossesubersvalvevideowarhammerwarhammer-wrath-of-heroeswarner-broswohwrath-of-heroesxboxxbox-360xbox-livexbox360Mon, 22 Oct 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[APB: Reloaded previews new map for Halloween festivities]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/22/apb-reloaded-previews-new-map-for-halloween-festivities/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/22/apb-reloaded-previews-new-map-for-halloween-festivities/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/22/apb-reloaded-previews-new-map-for-halloween-festivities/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

APB Reloaded previews new map for Halloween festivities
Like in most virtual worlds, APB: Reloaded's San Paro is preparing for Halloween. In honor of the occasion, a new map will be brought out for two weeks of celebration. The appropriately themed Asylum map will be used to host a Fright Club, which will replace the regular Fight Club starting today.

Trick and Treat, the respective Halloween Contacts for Criminals and Enforcers, will be chilling in the Asylum with missions to hand out. Players will be able to go through six levels of holiday missions. In addition, players will be able to smash pumpkins -- and smashing pumpkins unlocks titles! Not only will players unlock the Pumpkin Chaser, Murderer, Assassin, and Terminator titles unlocked at various numbers of pumpkins smashed, but the top player in each world for pumpkin smashing will unlock the title of Pumpkin King or Queen.

Two contests will round out the festivities: the Headless Gunman Pumpkin Head Contest and the Halloween District Parade Costume Contest. Check out the official contest forums for all the details on that heap o' goodness.

MassivelyAPB: Reloaded previews new map for Halloween festivities originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 22 Oct 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-reloadedapbapb-reloadedapbrasylumcontestcontestscrimef2pfight-clubfree-to-playfright-clubg1gamersfirsthalloweenhalloween-eventholidayholiday-eventpvpsan-parotreattricktrick-and-treatMon, 22 Oct 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2: Shadow of the Mad King begins today [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/22/guild-wars-2-shadow-of-the-mad-king-begins-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/22/guild-wars-2-shadow-of-the-mad-king-begins-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/22/guild-wars-2-shadow-of-the-mad-king-begins-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Guild Wars 2 Shadow of the Mad King begins
The Mad King Thorn is back and he's more loony than ever! Guild Wars 2 unleashes the Mad King today in its first big update for the game. ArenaNet said that this update includes a mind-blowing 80 new pieces of content that revolve around a four-act story running from October 22nd through the 31st.

In addition to the new story, the Shadow of the Mad King update includes trick or treating, special crafting recipes, decorations across the world, mini-dungeons, achievements, and themed events.

The Mad King was a crowd favorite in the original Guild Wars, so there's certainly high expectations to see what he'll be doing this time around.

[Update: The team will be hosting a livestream devoted to the update today at 4:30 p.m. EDT.]

MassivelyGuild Wars 2: Shadow of the Mad King begins today [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 22 Oct 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenaneteventfantasyguild-warsguild-wars-2gw2halloweenhalloween-2012in-game-eventmad-kingmad-king-thornncsoftpatchshadow-of-the-mad-kingtrick-or-treattrick-or-treatingupdateMon, 22 Oct 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2's Shadow of the Mad King video, content schedule]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/18/arenanet-shares-shadow-of-the-mad-king-content-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/18/arenanet-shares-shadow-of-the-mad-king-content-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/18/arenanet-shares-shadow-of-the-mad-king-content-update/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

GW2
The Mad King hasn't been seen in Tyria for 250 years, which means it's about time for a reappearance! Guild Wars 2 is on the verge of its first major content update, and ArenaNet just shared a schedule for the Halloween story. Act one will begin on October 22nd, with the subsequent acts following on the 26th, 28th, and 31st. To whet your appetite for this spooky update, there's also a new video with a content tease, so head on over to the content page or check it out past the break.

If Guild Wars is more your speed, remember that traditional Halloween festivities will be commencing Friday, October 19th.

Continue reading Guild Wars 2's Shadow of the Mad King video, content schedule

MassivelyGuild Wars 2's Shadow of the Mad King video, content schedule originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Oct 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbreakingcontent-updatefantasyguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw2halloweenmad-kingncsoftpatchpatchesshadow-of-the-mad-kingupdateupdatesvideovideosThu, 18 Oct 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA aims to scare the pants off you with new Halloween event]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/16/tera-aims-to-scare-the-pants-off-you-with-new-halloween-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/16/tera-aims-to-scare-the-pants-off-you-with-new-halloween-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/16/tera-aims-to-scare-the-pants-off-you-with-new-halloween-event/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

TERA aims to scare the pants off you with new Halloween event
TERA is joining the MMO Halloween tradition this year with its own event that promises a loot-fest of giveaways for characters level 40 to 60. Dubbed the Spirit Rally, this festival will run from 3 p.m. EDT on Tuesday, October 16th, to 3 p.m. EDT on Monday, October 22nd, and promises not tricks but treats in the form of high-level charms, crystals, potions, and more.

This event is launching on the heels of a new content patch that adds a hard mode for Manaya's Core, a special achievement for level 60 characters, oodles of skill changes for the Berserker class, and more. Check out the complete patch notes for more details.

MassivelyTERA aims to scare the pants off you with new Halloween event originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Oct 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>berserkerblueholebluehole-studiosen-masseen-masse-entertainmenteventfantasyhalloweenspirit-rallyteraTue, 16 Oct 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mad King comes to Guild Wars 2 on October 22nd]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/12/the-mad-king-returns-to-guild-wars-2-on-october-22nd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/12/the-mad-king-returns-to-guild-wars-2-on-october-22nd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/12/the-mad-king-returns-to-guild-wars-2-on-october-22nd/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Mad King returns in Guild Wars 2's Halloween event
Mad King Thorn hasn't been seen in Tyria for over 250 years. Well, lore years, that is. He was actually seen this time about a year ago in the original Guild Wars, which as you know has since given way to its much-heralded sequel.

Guild Wars 2's first Halloween event is called Shadow of the Mad King, and ArenaNet has announced that it will go live on October 22nd. Look for "new minigames, new dynamic events, and more," according to the blurb on the GW2 official site. There's even "an epic adventure in four acts" that runs through October 31st!

MassivelyThe Mad King comes to Guild Wars 2 on October 22nd originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Oct 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenaneteventsfantasyguild-wars-2gw2gw2-mad-kinghalloweenhalloween-eventsin-game-eventsmad-king-thornncsoftshadow-of-the-mad-kingFri, 12 Oct 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Funcom hints at Halloween tricks and treats in The Secret World]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/04/funcom-hints-at-halloween-tricks-and-treats-in-the-secret-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/04/funcom-hints-at-halloween-tricks-and-treats-in-the-secret-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/04/funcom-hints-at-halloween-tricks-and-treats-in-the-secret-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Funcom hints at Halloween tricks and treats in The Secret World
In a blog post prefaced with a spoiler alert, Senior Designer Tanya Short delved into The Secret World's upcoming Halloween event that was initially mentioned when The Cat God went live. Players already know that Halloween plays prominently in the game, as holiday decorations abound throughout Solomon Island, and Ragnar Tornquist himself likened it to Christmas in terms of holiday importance for TSW.

The official spook day content will be released around October 15th. According to Short, players can look forward to a more light-hearted experience than the main plot. In fact, she states, "Halloween should be more like 'an episode of Buffy.'" The storyline will begin in Kingsmouth and will flesh out a couple of cat characters who have been waiting in the wings as well as add depth to the stories of two known characters. Stonehenge is also in the spotlight, and players can get a Head-O-Lantern for a limited time.

For more details (and a close up look at Irusan, King of Cats), check out the full dev blog.

MassivelyFuncom hints at Halloween tricks and treats in The Secret World originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Oct 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dev-blogdev-diaryeventfactionfantasyfuncomHalloweenHalloween-eventhorrorin-game-eventin-game-eventsmythologyRagnar-Tornquistsci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedTanya-Shortthe-secret-worldtswThu, 04 Oct 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Vanguard patch ushers in the Festival of the Grim Harvest]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/02/vanguard-patch-ushers-in-the-festival-of-the-grim-harvest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/02/vanguard-patch-ushers-in-the-festival-of-the-grim-harvest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/02/vanguard-patch-ushers-in-the-festival-of-the-grim-harvest/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

This woman looks fairly grim. She's probably not harvesting much, but we'll meet halfway.
It's that time again -- the time when every game world finds a way to celebrate something like Halloween. Of course, in a world where the dead actually do wander the world on a regular basis, the festivities take on a slightly different tone. Vanguard, for example, has ushered in the Festival of the Grim Harvest, an event celebrating the time of year when the veil between the world of the living and dead grows thin and all manner of hauntings take place.

Players looking to take part in the festival can offer their assistance to the mourning widower Jett Helond or investigate the mounting undead presence surrounding New Targonor. There are also returning enemies from previous festivals and new themed items in the Marketplace. Last but not least, the patch ushers in some performance and optimization improvements for the game client. Vanguard players can check the full notes for more details and a few welcome bugfixes.

MassivelyVanguard patch ushers in the Festival of the Grim Harvest originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Oct 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfantasyfestivalsfree-to-playhalloweenhalloween-2012in-game-eventspatchpatch-notespatchessandboxsoesonysony-online-entertainmenttelonvanguardvanguard-saga-of-heroesvgTue, 02 Oct 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DCUO welcomes you to the Witching Hour]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/01/dcuo-welcomes-you-to-the-witching-hour/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/01/dcuo-welcomes-you-to-the-witching-hour/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/01/dcuo-welcomes-you-to-the-witching-hour/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

DCUO welcomes you to the Witching Hour
It's easily to be amused how MMOs bend over backwards to come up with an original way to title Halloween and Christmas events. DC Universe Online is throwing in this year with the Witching Hour, a brand-new event in Gotham City.

The entire town is getting a spooky (and pumpkiny) makeover when the event goes live with Game Update 19. It's not all decorations, of course; there are plenty of activities to experience as well. The main villain of the event is Klarion the Witch Boy, who is stealing powers and using them for... mild mischief. But he's not all bad, since he's throwing a massive party that players will have to crash.

SOE has plenty of rewards for good little trick-or-treaters, such as trinkets and outfits. The Witching Hour is scheduled for early October.

MassivelyDCUO welcomes you to the Witching Hour originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Oct 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>christmasconsoleconsolesdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuoeventf2pfree-to-playgame-update-19gu19halloweenklarionplaystation-3playstation3ps3soesony-online-entertainmentsuperherosuperheroesthe-witching-hourworst-villain-name-everMon, 01 Oct 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Get crafty for the Guild Wars 2 Halloween contest [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/01/get-crafty-for-the-guild-wars-2-halloween-contest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/01/get-crafty-for-the-guild-wars-2-halloween-contest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/01/get-crafty-for-the-guild-wars-2-halloween-contest/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Get crafty for the Guild Wars 2 Halloween contest
Do you like Guild Wars 2? Do you like Halloween? Do you like chances to win graphics cards and other goodies? That's an incredibly convenient set of likes you've got there because it means that the Guild Wars 2 Halloween contest is pretty perfect for you. That is, it's perfect if you like making dioramas. You like dioramas, don't you? We knew you did.

Contest dates and other bits of information of that nature haven't been announced yet, but the ArenaNet team wants you thinking of what sort of Guild Wars 2sy, Halloween-y scene you'd like to bring to life. Hit up the contest teaser page, and get those spooky and creative juices flowing!

[Update] ArenaNet has now posted the official rules for the contest! Contestants have until 3:00 p.m. EDT on Monday, October 22nd, to enter. Read the official rules for further information.

MassivelyGet crafty for the Guild Wars 2 Halloween contest [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Oct 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetAWW-YISSS-MAD-KING-THORNE-TIMEdioramadiorama-contestfantasyguild-wars-2gw2halloweenhalloween-contestncsoftMon, 01 Oct 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Funcom rehires staff, confirms TSW group investigation missions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/01/funcom-rehires-staff-confirms-tsw-puzzle-raids/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/01/funcom-rehires-staff-confirms-tsw-puzzle-raids/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/01/funcom-rehires-staff-confirms-tsw-puzzle-raids/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Funcom rehires staff, confirms TSW puzzle raids
New Game Director Joel Bylos dropped several juicy tidbits about the future of The Secret World on the Flash Point podcast. One of the biggest of these is that Funcom is growing once more following recent layoffs. "We have already brought back three people," he said, "It gives us hope and it's great to see those faces back at the office."

He said that a second auxiliary weapon -- which players assume to be the chainsaw -- is coming with next month's Issue 4, and the Halloween event scheduled in a couple weeks will have players digging through Irish lore books. If you like the game's investigation missions, you'll be pleased to hear that The Secret World will be introducing group versions of these types of quests.

But will the team be able to keep up with the monthly updates? Bylos is firmly confident that it can be done, as the structure for issue development is in place.

Bylos admits that it's "absolutely vital" for the studio to advertise the game better and communicate clearly what the game is to potential players. He also said that the team is working on helping players overcome the game's higher difficulty, particularly with starter decks that are coming soon and easier story boss fights.

[Thanks to Elania for the tip!]

MassivelyFuncom rehires staff, confirms TSW group investigation missions originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Oct 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auxiliary-weaponschainsawchainsawsfactionfantasyfuncomhalloweenhalloween-eventhorrorinterviewirishirish-loreissue-4joel-bylosmythologypreviewrehiresci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedthe-secret-worldtswMon, 01 Oct 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars is giving players another shot at hats]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/09/guild-wars-is-giving-players-another-shot-at-hats/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/09/guild-wars-is-giving-players-another-shot-at-hats/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/09/guild-wars-is-giving-players-another-shot-at-hats/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

FREE HATS HOW I GET HAT
If you're up in New England, you may be one of the millions of people who got to experience an extra-spooky Halloween this year in light of the complete lack of power to your home. And among the many other problems you faced, you weren't able to take part in the finale of the holiday event for Guild Wars and couldn't obtain your free hat. While the developers behind the game won't replace all of your spoiled food, they are giving players a second shot at getting a hat.

If you're wondering how you get hats, the post announcing the extension helpfully explains that they're obtained in exchange for Halloween items traded to a special hat vendor NPC being spawned in Lion's Arch and Kamadan. Said hat vendor will be in town most likely some time next week and will remain in place for about a week, giving everyone a chance at a special holiday hat -- albeit a little belated.

MassivelyGuild Wars is giving players another shot at hats originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 Nov 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetarenanet-guild-warscommunitycultureeventsguild-warsguildwarsgwhalloweenhalloween-2011halloween-hathatsholiday-hathow-do-get-hatin-game-eventsncsoftWed, 09 Nov 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Trion's Hal Hanlin and Mike Daugherty give details on RIFT's update 1.6]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/trions-hal-hanlin-and-mike-daugherty-give-details-on-rifts-upd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/trions-hal-hanlin-and-mike-daugherty-give-details-on-rifts-upd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/trions-hal-hanlin-and-mike-daugherty-give-details-on-rifts-upd/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Rift Ember Isle
RIFT has gained a reputation for its fast and furious pace of updates, and doesn't appear to be ready to shed that image any time soon. Players are currently participating in the Ashes of History world event, and learning some clues about a mysterious new island, which is due soon with Update 1.6. In addition to the launch of a new overland zone, Ember Isle, there will be new group content, new zone invasion mechanics, and a new feature called "Instant Adventures." Design Director Hal Hanlin and Content Lead Mike Daugherty took some time to talk to Massively about Update 1.6. Read on for highlights from the interview.

Continue reading Trion's Hal Hanlin and Mike Daugherty give details on RIFT's update 1.6

MassivelyTrion's Hal Hanlin and Mike Daugherty give details on RIFT's update 1.6 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ashes-of-alaremberstormfeaturesgolden globesGoldenGlobeshalloweeninstant-adventuresKaren OKarenOMike ShanahanMikeShanahanriftrtrsyFri, 04 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape sings, gobbles, and slays its way through November]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/02/runescape-sings-gobbles-and-slays-its-way-through-november/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/02/runescape-sings-gobbles-and-slays-its-way-through-november/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/02/runescape-sings-gobbles-and-slays-its-way-through-november/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

RuneScape
RuneFest, Halloween, and Bot Nuking Day may be over, but the RuneScape team is far from taking time off for good behavior. If anything, the devs' eyes are as big as their stomachs as they detailed plans for the game leading up to Thanksgiving.

Speaking of the holiday, a turkey invasion led by the fearsome Captain Turkerton is imminent and only the players will be able to negotiate a truce before the gobblepocalypse arrives. As incentive for participating in the event, RuneScape is planning to award Thanksgiving crests and turkey pets for the diplomatically savvy.

Jagex has a lot more on its plate for November, including revamping elements of the interface, overhauling the website design, and introducing the Slayer-centric Polypore Dungeon. Additionally, the November quest, "One Piercing Note," is a first for the game: a fully voice-acted experience that will incorporate singing and dancing into the story!

Following Bot Nuking Day and the resulting dip in population, Jagex has consolidated several servers into new multi-country European worlds. The team is also hard at work addressing some current issues with players having problems logging in and experiencing lag. A fix is scheduled for later today.

MassivelyRuneScape sings, gobbles, and slays its way through November originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 Nov 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bot-nuking-daycaptain-turkertoneuropeeuropean-serversfully-voicedhalloweenholidayin-game-eventjagexnovembernovember-previewnovember-updatePolypore-Dungeonrsrunefestrunefest-2011runescapeslayerthanksgivingthanksgiving-2011turkeyturkey-invasionuivoicevoice-overwebsiteWed, 02 Nov 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist and the Classic MMOs in October]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/01/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-classic-mmos-in-october/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/01/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-classic-mmos-in-october/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/01/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-classic-mmos-in-october/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

SWG
Today we're going to start a new feature of this column in which we devote a week to catching up with previous Game Archaeologist spotlights and see what's going on in these classic MMOs. I figured that it was a shame to give these titles a big burst of publicity and then dump them like yesterday's news. After all, if these games' communities are still alive and kicking, and if the developers are churning out new content, then it's worth a monthly mention, don't you think?

I won't just be regurgitating news here; I'll also peek at the various official forums to see what the community is talking about and highlight discussions and debates that are of interest. Not every classic MMO will be featured every month in this space, as I'll try to rotate around to make sure they all get their fair share of mentions.

October was an interesting month for classic MMOs in that several of them produced extremely newsworthy stories that got front-page mention on Massively. On a special note, I won't be covering Asheron's Call today as we're prepping a special anniversary tribute for later this month!

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist and the Classic MMOs in October

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist and the Classic MMOs in October originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Nov 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daocdark-age-of-cameloteqeq2eqiieverquesteverquest-iifeaturedhalloweenmoviepumpkin-moon-risingscott-jenningssoestar-wars-galaxiessunsetswgtgathe-game-archaeologistveil-of-alarisTue, 01 Nov 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: Zola's a little cranky, and so am I]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/flameseeker-chronicles-zolas-a-little-cranky-and-so-am-i/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/flameseeker-chronicles-zolas-a-little-cranky-and-so-am-i/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/flameseeker-chronicles-zolas-a-little-cranky-and-so-am-i/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Halloween is here! OK, technically Halloween has been in Tyria for a week and a half, but Mad King Thorn is here today! By now, everyone's hit Lion's Arch and Kamadan to pick up festival masks, we've mobbed the King in the hopes of getting chosen for Rock Paper Scissors, and we've laughed at his delightfully horrible jokes. (And before you even ask, yes, the pumpkin-on-head joke still cracks me up.)

I've thoroughly enjoyed almost all of Halloween 2011 in Guild Wars. Yep, I said almost. There's a single aspect of this festival that stands out very strongly and unpleasantly to me. Follow along after the jump, and let's talk it over.

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: Zola's a little cranky, and so am I

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: Zola's a little cranky, and so am I originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 31 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetdont-fear-the-reapersfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesguild-warsgwhalloweenhalloween-2011mad-king-thornncsoftopinionquestssolo-questsMon, 31 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaderboard: MMO trick vs. MMO treat]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/leaderboard-mmo-trick-vs-mmo-treat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/leaderboard-mmo-trick-vs-mmo-treat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/leaderboard-mmo-trick-vs-mmo-treat/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Leaderboard
Ah, Halloween. It's the time of the year that every single MMO in existence reveals its deep-rooted bigotry against pumpkins and our already decorated virtual funhouses are given yet another layer of pretend nonsense. Not that I'm complaining, mind you -- I adore Halloween in MMOs. It's my favorite holiday, virtual or real, and I'm always anxious to see what the crazed minds of maddened developers have come up with in their spare time between logging TPS reports.

Today's Leaderboard is simple: Do you want a cool new trick in your MMO or a tasty treat? A "trick" being new quests, special content, or a fun spookhouse to explore, and a "treat" being nifty Halloween rewards that you can consume, wear, or otherwise show off to the 2,540 other folks who got the same exact thing.

It's trick-or-treat today on Massively, so which side do you support, and how far are you willing to go? If they pull a knife, you pull out a bag of candy corn -- that's the Halloweentown way!

Continue reading Leaderboard: MMO trick vs. MMO treat

MassivelyLeaderboard: MMO trick vs. MMO treat originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 31 Oct 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>halloweenhalloween-2011halloweentownleaderboardopinionpollpollstps-reporttreattricktrick-or-treatMon, 31 Oct 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth's Halloween sale refunds all G1 Credits spent]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/29/fallen-earths-halloween-sale-refunds-all-g1-credits-spent/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/29/fallen-earths-halloween-sale-refunds-all-g1-credits-spent/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/29/fallen-earths-halloween-sale-refunds-all-g1-credits-spent/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- Fallen Earth
Who amongst Fallen Earth's wasteland wanderers doesn't love saving money? No one, that's who. In light of that fact (and in celebration of Halloween), GamersFirst is providing a 100% rebate on every G1 Credit spent in the Fallen Earth cash shop from now until November 3rd. That mount you've always wanted? Snag it! Not satisfied with your character name? Change it! Those deliciously steampunk brass goggles you've always wanted? Rock 'em!

Not only will you receive a complete rebate on all G1 Credits spent (that means everything is free, for the economically disinclined), but many everyday items have had their prices slashed as well. For the full details on what's on sale, head on over to the Fallen Earth official site.

MassivelyFallen Earth's Halloween sale refunds all G1 Credits spent originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 29 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brass-goggles-are-awesomef2pfallen-earthfefree-to-playgamersfirsthalloweenhalloween-saleicarusicarus-studiossaleSat, 29 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New RIFT video is dressing up for Halloween]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/28/new-rift-video-is-dressing-up-for-halloween/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/28/new-rift-video-is-dressing-up-for-halloween/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/28/new-rift-video-is-dressing-up-for-halloween/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

But no clowns.
It's always a bit of a scary time in RIFT's setting of Telara. After all, it's rough to think that at any moment the sky could tear open right next to your favorite restaurant and turn it into a shrieking pit of death. So you can imagine that things get even jumpier around this time of year, what with everyone seeing death around every corner and undead in every shadow. What's a resident of Telara to do?

Well, fortunately, there are Ascended running around to keep the world safe on a day-to-day basis. But as the video just past the break shows, when you're facing something a bit more frightening than the average day, you need to call on a more formidable set of allies. Check on past the cut to see RIFT's holiday spectacular in all its glory, a reminder that even in these times of darkness, there are knights around every corner.

[Source: Trion Worlds press release]

Continue reading New RIFT video is dressing up for Halloween

MassivelyNew RIFT video is dressing up for Halloween originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 28 Oct 2011 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>halloweenhalloween-2011holidayholiday-eventhumorriftrift-planes-of-telaratriontrion-worldsvideovideosFri, 28 Oct 2011 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Supremacy hands out treats to beta testers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/star-supremacy-hands-out-treats-to-beta-testers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/star-supremacy-hands-out-treats-to-beta-testers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/star-supremacy-hands-out-treats-to-beta-testers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Star Supremacy
As Star Supremacy continues its star trek through beta and toward release, Barbily Games has a few treats (but not tricks) in store for testers. After gathering feedback and bug reports from players in the beta, the dev team has whipped up a few hefty updates that should improve the game end-to-end. These updates include an improved UI, a chat system, alliances, item trading, and a tutorial.

And even though the team is mired in beta craziness, there's always time for a little Halloween fun. The Star Supremacy devs have issued a challenge to players to find hidden GM bases. Those that do will be rewarded with special in-game items, such as pumpkin helmets and longevity tokens.

Finally, Barbily is giving away gaming headsets to a few lucky fans that have "liked" the game's Facebook page. The drawing will happen when the page reaches 30,000 likes.

Star Supremacy will be heading into open beta on November 15th.

[Source: Barbily Games press release]

MassivelyStar Supremacy hands out treats to beta testers originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>barbilybarbily-gamesbetaclosed-betacontestf2pfacebookfree-to-playgiveawayhalloweenhalloween-2011in-game-eventopen-betapatchprizeprizesrewardsstar-supremacytrick-or-treatupdateThu, 27 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Will you be participating in MMO Halloween festivities?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/25/the-daily-grind-will-you-be-participating-in-mmo-halloween-fest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/25/the-daily-grind-will-you-be-participating-in-mmo-halloween-fest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/25/the-daily-grind-will-you-be-participating-in-mmo-halloween-fest/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Guild Wars Halloween
Halloween is here! OK, it's not quite here yet, but the parties have started in a host of MMOs out there. Our Halloween round-up from yesterday includes over 20 celebrations, which brings up the question: Will you be attending any of them?

Festivals might include special event quests, seasonal NPCs, spooky costumes for your characters, and of course Halloween-themed goodies dropping from monsters throughout the land. It's a once-a-year celebration that pulls focus pretty hard in the weeks leading up to Halloween. Is that focus a good thing to you? Do you indulge in the festivities, costumes, and piles of virtual candy, or do you wait anxiously for things to return to your regularly scheduled gaming?

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: Will you be participating in MMO Halloween festivities? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 25 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>commentshalloweenhalloween-2011in-game-eventsopiniontdgthe-daily-grindTue, 25 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A haunted Halloween MMO tour [Update]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/24/a-haunted-halloween-mmo-tour/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/24/a-haunted-halloween-mmo-tour/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/24/a-haunted-halloween-mmo-tour/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Halloween events
While many real world holidays receive digital treatments in MMOs, it always seems like Halloween is the most popular. Perhaps it's because MMOs are already into the spirit of the season, with characters dressing up, "trick or treating" mobs for their candy, and tackling spooky, scary areas where doom is sure to lurk. Or perhaps developers just really like pumpkins and haunted houses. Who doesn't?

With most MMOs sporting Halloween content, it's a safe bet that there's something for you in your favorite game. So hop on the hayride and get ready for a tour through the most terrifying, cute, and boo-tastic Halloween events in town!

[Update: Added more festivals... for justice!]

Continue reading A haunted Halloween MMO tour [Update]

MassivelyA haunted Halloween MMO tour [Update] originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 24 Oct 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>event-roundupfeaturedhalloweenhalloween-2011halloween-eventshalloween-roundupholiday-rounduprounduptrick-or-treatMon, 24 Oct 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[City of Heroes' Cord 'Thinktank' Carney details Dr. Kane's Mansion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/city-of-heroes-cord-thinktank-carney-details-dr-kanes-mansi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/city-of-heroes-cord-thinktank-carney-details-dr-kanes-mansi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/city-of-heroes-cord-thinktank-carney-details-dr-kanes-mansi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- City of Heroes
Halloween is almost here, and of course that means that many MMOs are gearing up for seasonal events. One of those MMOs is Paragon Studios' City of Heroes. A new addition to the festivities this year is Dr. Kane's Mansion, and World Designer Cord "Thinktank" Carney has taken time out of his busy schedule to talk a bit about the creation of City of Heroes' Halloween event and Dr. Kane's Mansion.

One of the key challenges, Carney says, was balancing the event so that it's accessible to new players brought in by the game's free-to-play transition as well as ensuring that it isn't a cake-walk for veterans. Also of note is the task of making the event feel dynamic and alive by providing a variety of NPCs you can speak to, a multitude of triggered events, and so forth. For the full article on the making of Dr. Kane's Mansion, head on over to the official City of Heroes site.

MassivelyCity of Heroes' Cord 'Thinktank' Carney details Dr. Kane's Mansion originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 Oct 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcord-carneycovcoxdr-kanes-mansionf2pfree-to-playfreedomhalloweenhalloween-2011halloween-eventncsoftparagonparagon-studiosseasonal-eventthinktankThu, 20 Oct 2011 14:30:00 EST