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[Star Wars: The Old Republic community Q&A addresses mobile apps, ops, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/star-wars-the-old-republic-community-qanda-addresses-mobile-apps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/star-wars-the-old-republic-community-qanda-addresses-mobile-apps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/star-wars-the-old-republic-community-qanda-addresses-mobile-apps/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- Star Wars: The Old Republic
It's time once again for another riveting episode of Star Wars: The Old Republic's community Q&A. This time around, the BioWare team covers a variety of concerns from SWTOR players ranging from the addition of a /roll command to the possibility of a mobile app. SWTOR's lead combat designer Damion Schubert had a bit to say regarding the latter, teasing that "it's almost as if this [crew skills] design was created specifically with [a mobile app] in mind, doesn't it?" Unfortunately the studio isn't prepared to give an ETA on the feature, "as [it] is a significant technical endeavour."

Non-Force-using healers also have plenty to look forward to as well, as the Q&A reveals that they'll be getting some love in patch 1.2, while Consulars and Inquisitors will have their heals brought back into line so that all healing classes and specs are (theoretically) viable. To get the full details on these subjects and more, just click on through the link below to the community Q&A at SWTOR's official site. Oh, and while we're at it, the game is on sale for $49.99 US on Origin, so if you want to get in the game and see what all the hubbub's about, now's your opportunity to do so while keeping a cool Hamilton to yourself. The sale is only happening for a limited time, though, so be sure to act quickly.

MassivelyStar Wars: The Old Republic community Q&A addresses mobile apps, ops, and more originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareclass-balanceclassesdealdealseaelectronic-artshealerhealershealingmobile-appoperationsopsoriginq-and-aqasalesalesstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorFri, 17 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaderboard: Tanks vs. healers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/leaderboard-tanks-vs-healers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/leaderboard-tanks-vs-healers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/leaderboard-tanks-vs-healers/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Leaderboard
While often seen as a symbiotic pairing against the greatest threats the video game world has ever known, tanks and healers have nevertheless fostered a rivalry of sorts. Both see their role in a group as being paramount to success, but which is more vital? Which takes more skill? Which is under-appreciated by fellow teammates?

I know what you're thinking. You're thinking, "This is a chicken-or-egg scenario! How can I choose when both are vital to survival? I love both! Don't make me pick!" Now you're lying on the floor, cradling your head and whimpering.

Seriously, stop being a Charlie Brown and take a side! Are tanks more important due to their scarcity and skill that it takes to juggle aggro and take all the pain meant for others? Are healers the mostly unsung heroes of raids, forced to stare at shrinking green bars instead of getting to eyeball the action?

Let's put this bickering to rest, daddy wants to take a nap. Have it out after the jump: tanks vs. healers. I expect that this will put an end to centuries of violence surrounding the subject.

Continue reading Leaderboard: Tanks vs. healers

MassivelyLeaderboard: Tanks vs. healers originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charlie-brownchicken-or-eggcombat-rolesfeaturedhealerhealershealingleaderboardpollpollsrolerolestanktankingtanksMon, 13 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the Mask: The choice of team support]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/behind-the-mask-the-choice-of-team-support/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/behind-the-mask-the-choice-of-team-support/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/behind-the-mask-the-choice-of-team-support/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Champions Online screenshot
Last week's Behind the Mask covered Champions Online's super team support solo monster, the Mind, but I thought it would be prudent to cover the other ways a player can support a team. Some of this will tread existing ground, as I've already talked about the Mind and Grimoire archetypes in previous editions, and both have one of the four team support options.

I'll be covering the Mind's passive in more detail, taking a brief look again at the Grimoire's passive as well as covering the other two options, Seraphim and Medical Nanites. While we don't have a Celestial archetype just yet, it is only a matter of time before Cryptic adds one, so this will give a bit of a preview for what a Celestial healer plays like.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: The choice of team support

MassivelyBehind the Mask: The choice of team support originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aura-passivebehind-the-maskchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosdefensef2pfeaturedfree-to-playhealerhealershealingperfect-world-entertainmentpweteam-supportThu, 27 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What was your favorite experience as a healer?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/03/the-daily-grind-what-was-your-favorite-experience-as-a-healer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/03/the-daily-grind-what-was-your-favorite-experience-as-a-healer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/03/the-daily-grind-what-was-your-favorite-experience-as-a-healer/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

If you're going to play a game in which your allies will rush forward into their imminent death despite your best efforts, someone's going to need to take the task of keeping them from death. Sometimes the healer is up on the front lines like the Warrior Priests of Warhammer Online, but most often your job in the healer is to stand back and keep everyone alive in spite of their determination to stand in fire. It's not a glamorous job, but boy is it ever important.

From games like World of Warcraft that require a dedicated healer to games like City of Heroes where your "healer" may have no direct healing spells, the third part of the holy trinity sees the least direct action but still tables a lot of responsibility. So what's your favorite experience from taking on the role of the walking band-aid? Were you stuck in a group with members who couldn't keep themselves alive at all if not for your healing? Or is there a particular game that always made healing feel more fun than any other task in the game?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What was your favorite experience as a healer? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classesgroup-contentgroupshealershealingholy-trinityopinionpartiesparty-contenttdgthe-daily-grindWed, 03 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: Class builds -- Cleric]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/wings-over-atreia-class-builds-cleric/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/wings-over-atreia-class-builds-cleric/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/wings-over-atreia-class-builds-cleric/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Last week we discussed how personality influences class choice, so after some deep reflection, you have decided that it is time to reveal your true nature and be reborn as a cleric in Aion! Either that, or maybe you just wanted to solo some dungeons to horde all the loot. *cha-ching* Perhaps you already became one to impress that really cute voice in vent who is always looking for a healer. Whatever your reason, the life of servitude is for you. Now what?

Welcome to Build-a-Cleric. While some Daevas are content to just play with what they get from drops or quests, a number actually want to outfit their characters the best they can. Even if leveling too quickly to worry about uber gear thanks to mentoring and an easier grind, it is never a bad idea to keep an eye on endgame. And with the plethora of manastones, armor sets, weapons, and stigmas available -- not to mention advice, both solicited and unsolicited -- it can be a daunting task to maximize your potential. So to help you wade through the possibilities, Wings Over Atreia will be exploring each class individually and highlighting popular and effective builds. With any luck, some advance knowledge will help you make informed decisions and avoid the catastrophes of expending all of your energies in obtaining the wrong gear for your needs. Nothing shouts broke like having to re-socket entire sets or enchant new ones!

Roll up your sleeves and explore various builds for Aion's Cleric class after the cut.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: Class builds -- Cleric

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: Class builds -- Cleric originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Jul 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionaion-gamearmorarmor-setarmor-set-bonusesarmor-setsblockclass-buildsclericfeaturedhealerhealer-dpshealersHPmagic-boostMagic-ResistanceMBMRnc-softnc-soft-aionncsoftncsoft-aionpriestweapon-set-bonusesweapon-setsweaponsWings-Over-AtreiaMon, 11 Jul 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA releases Community Play Event numbers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/18/tera-releases-community-play-event-numbers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/18/tera-releases-community-play-event-numbers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/18/tera-releases-community-play-event-numbers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

If you're a TERA fan but not lucky enough to score an invite to En Masse Entertainment's recent Community Play Event (CPE), you can take heart in the fact that the company has released some information pertaining to all the players who did attend. We know, there's the potential for some salt in the wound here, but En Masse's Jon Tuite nonetheless has some interesting factoids relating to character races, classes, leveling trends, and many other data points.

It seems that Castanics were the most popular race during the recent CPE, and humanoid races in general accounted for a whopping 68% of all characters. Tuite also points out that the Baraka race was the least popular (7% of the population) and postulates that the lack of a female version could be the culprit.

In terms of class and party dynamics, the CPE data aren't far removed from your average fantasy MMO (i.e., there were a plethora of DPS types, fewer tanks, and even fewer healers). These stats are the tip of the proverbial iceberg, and you can indulge in more number-crunching at the official TERA website.

MassivelyTERA releases Community Play Event numbers originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 18 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archetypesclassescommunity-play-eventcpedemographicsdpsen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyhealersjon-tuitemathnom-nom-nomnumbersracestanksteratera-onlineMon, 18 Apr 2011 12:00:00 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[Lost Pages of Taborea: Balancing vs. viable vs. fun]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/28/lost-pages-of-taborea-balancing-vs-viable-vs-fun/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/28/lost-pages-of-taborea-balancing-vs-viable-vs-fun/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/28/lost-pages-of-taborea-balancing-vs-viable-vs-fun/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Thoughts of class-balancing, class-viability and triple-class combinations have been swimming in my head lately. In the wake of RIFT's open beta, Frogster announced that Runes of Magic will be moving to a triple-class system in early April. Along with a lot of speculation on how this will change RoM, there's talk of how badly three-class combos will upset class-balancing where some already feel classes are skewed.

Viable and balanced are pretty subjective terms in the MMO genre that make it hard for any two players to be on the same page. I find it even more confusing when some make it sound like there's a mass exodus to RIFT because of -- in part -- the idea that RoM's classes are more out of tune than yours truly trying to sing Zombie. These ideas are highly speculative. I'd like to throw my own opinions in about what makes a class in RoM viable, what not to look for when trying to find balance, and why we may not want to squeeze every possible class combination into the holy trinity of healer, DPS and tank.

Continue reading Lost Pages of Taborea: Balancing vs. viable vs. fun

MassivelyLost Pages of Taborea: Balancing vs. viable vs. fun originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 28 Feb 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balancebalancingbreaking-the-moldbrokenclassesdpsdual-classfeaturedfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactivehealersholy-trinityimbalanceimbalancedjeremy-strattonlost-pages-of-taboreariftromrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmenttankviableMon, 28 Feb 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: Making the cut]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/25/wings-over-atreia-making-the-cut/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/25/wings-over-atreia-making-the-cut/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/25/wings-over-atreia-making-the-cut/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


"What position are you applying for?" The interviewer listens and nods.

"Mmhmm. Thank you. Now, what special skills can you bring to the team?"

"Please list all previous experience and describe your major accomplishments." A pause.

"Have you the required equipment to adequately perform your duties?"

The interviewer is quiet while sizing up the applicant.

"I'm sorry, but you just don't quite have what we are looking for. Next!"

Sound familiar? No, this isn't a job interview -- this is the rigmarole many players experience simply to get into a group in NCsoft's Aion. You might think that time of day or availability of people in the right level range would have the most affect on forming up a group, whether in a legion or a PUG. Instead, players often must contend with an entirely different beast before even stepping foot into an instance: group elitism.

Unless you have a regular group of friends with identical play times or a very supportive legion, you are apt to occasionally find yourself in the situation of seeking a group while traipsing about Atreia. Even with a regular group, there are going to be times you are left more-or-less on your own and just want to get something done. Thus begins the (oft times unpleasant) task of creating or finding a group. Like a microcosm of drama played out in short spurts, group formation showcases a variety of less-than-desirable attributes: greed; envy; lust; selfishness; and inflated egos. Just how exclusive can this process become? Your inclusion could ride solely on your class, equipment, or skill set, and have nothing to do with your ability and skill as a player. Heck, even your name may keep you out of groups.

Join me past the cut to explore elitism in group dynamics in Aion.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: Making the cut

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: Making the cut originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Oct 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionaion-gamearchetypeArchetypesatreiaclassesclericdramaelitismfeaturedgearedgroupinggroupshealersinstanceslegionnamesnamingnc-softnc-soft-aionncsoftncsoft-aionpugpugsreputationskillskill-setskillst-labstanktankingtemplartheobomosWings-Over-AtreiaMon, 25 Oct 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Waging WAR: A healer's survival guide]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/21/waging-war-a-healers-survival-guide/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/21/waging-war-a-healers-survival-guide/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/21/waging-war-a-healers-survival-guide/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

This week, Waging WAR steps back from all the news and hype of Gamescom and GamesDay and focuses in on the healing archetypes in Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning. As we all know by now, Greg plays a healer and he's put together a guide for those who kill by mending the wounds of those who kill by bludgeon or blade.

In my time in WAR I've learned a thing or two. No, I'm not writing about my extensive knowledge of how various terrains taste (the sand on the beaches of Nordenwatch and the cobbled brick streets of Praag have become favored delicacies). I'm writing about how to be an effective healer in WAR. While I am by no means invincible or infallible, I do consider myself a decent, relatively resilient and capable PvP tank (let's not kid ourselves here -- who needs plate when you can wear robes, right?). I have some advice to share with those who are interested in endgame PvP/RvR healing, or even those who are already there but seek to add an edge to their game.

To achieve enlightenment, click the Read More button.

Continue reading Waging WAR: A healer's survival guide

MassivelyWaging WAR: A healer's survival guide originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 21 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ailmentsarchmageBioWareBioware-MMObioware-mythiccleansedetauntEAea-mythicfeaturefeaturedfeaturesgearguideguideshealerhealer-survival-guidehealershealers-survival-guideinitiativelinimentsmobilitymythicmythic entertainmentmythic-eaMythic-EntertainmentMythicEntertainmentPositioningranged-healerrenownrenown-levelrenown-pointsrenown-rankrvrsurvivalSurvival-GuidetalismanswarWarhammer-OnlinewillpowerSat, 21 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's hands-on with Rift: Planes of Telara's dynamic content]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/18/massivelys-hands-on-with-rift-planes-of-telaras-dynamic-conte/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/18/massivelys-hands-on-with-rift-planes-of-telaras-dynamic-conte/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/18/massivelys-hands-on-with-rift-planes-of-telaras-dynamic-conte/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Just a few weeks ago, I was invited to attend Trion Worlds' Gamer's Day in San Francisco to get some hands-on time with a couple of the company's upcoming titles, including Rift: Planes of Telara. If Rift seems to have come out of nowhere, that might be due both to the acquisition of EverQuest II veteran Scott Hartsman to head the project as executive producer, and to a clever name change meant to reflect the team's shift in development focus.

In fact, that shift in development focus is precisely what I was at Trion's studio to test -- I got to check out the Rifts themselves in all their glory, in the context of the greater dynamic content system that the developers are so excited about. Massively's writers have been able to play and report on character creation and the starting areas of Rift several times over the last year or so, including earlier this summer at E3. But until today's embargo lift (coinciding with the reveal at Gamescom), no one had quite seen the fabled planar invasions and takeovers in action.

Now we have.

Continue reading Massively's hands-on with Rift: Planes of Telara's dynamic content

MassivelyMassively's hands-on with Rift: Planes of Telara's dynamic content originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Aug 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementAchievementsaddonsalphaalpha-testbattlegroundsbuildscallingCapture-the-flagcharacter-creationcharge-barclericclunkcollectionCollectionscraftingdefiantDemodynamic-contentEarth-Elementalelementalistepic-mountfeaturedfootholdfootholdsgallerygloamwoodgraphicsgroupgroupinggroupsguardianhealershealinghell-levelsheroes-of-telaraholy-city-of-sanctuminstanceinstancesinterfaceinvasionjumpingjust-say-no-to-hell-levelslootmapmapsminimapmodsp2ppay-to-playpetsphilosophyplaneplanesplanes-of-telarapublic-questspvpquestingrealm-of-the-faerespecresurrectionriftrift-planes-of-telarariftsscott-hartsmanscreenshotsshadowlandssoul-walkSteamPunkstrategerystrategysubscriptionswimmingtalent-treestalentstavril-plazatelaratrailertriontrion-worldsUIvideowarfrontwarfrontsWed, 18 Aug 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Waging WAR: A healer's advice for melee-DPS]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/07/waging-war-a-healers-advice-for-melee-dps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/07/waging-war-a-healers-advice-for-melee-dps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/07/waging-war-a-healers-advice-for-melee-dps/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Waging WAR starts the month of August with a look at archetypes in Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning and the way they work together in RvR and scenarios. Although Greg's rules apply to pretty much any class-based, group-based, PvP-centric game, he prefers to think of them as particular to WAR, since there's a bunch of game-specific slang in there that he's too lazy to change.

Having a role to play is integral to the massively multiplayer online experience, but when the term "roleplay" comes up, it usually means something very specific and closely related to dramatic acting. Taken in a broader sense, it means that we choose our roles when we project the most imaginative aspect of our psychic selves and ask the question "who (or what) do I want to be?" Thus, our vicarious adventures begin. For the purposes of social gaming, it should come as no surprise that those classes usually fit another staple in the MMO universe -- the role trinity of tanker, healer, and damager. While the bond between the healer and tanker is obvious, the unspoken pact between healer and damager is just as sacred and yet all too easily forgotten. For those who were unaware such a promise existed, it goes something like, "I, the healer, promise to keep you alive so you can kill stuff in the face (better)." However, in many cases, the damaging character is delegated an expendable role, compared to the tank's priority or the healer's own survival. These are exceptions that the melee-damager is usually aware of and even comfortable with.

But today I'm not here to challenge those roles like I normally would when talking about damage-healer hybrids. As a specialized healer, I've defined a few, easy-to-remember rules that I believe every melee-damage player should follow in group situations (PUG or premade - there is little difference when it comes to these rules). Solo play is an entirely different realm and beyond the scope of this column; I want to focus on the special synergy between healer and melee-damager, and to dispense advice to those brave, wayward souls in their never-ending quest to face blades as they bring their own to bear.

I'll bestow these tidbits of wisdom after the break.

Continue reading Waging WAR: A healer's advice for melee-DPS

MassivelyWaging WAR: A healer's advice for melee-DPS originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 07 Aug 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWarebioware-mmorpgbioware-mythicdpsdpsingEAea-mythicfeaturefeaturedhealer-questionshealersholy-trinitymeleemelee-combatmelee-DPSmmommorpgmythicmythic entertainmentmythic-eaMythic-EntertainmentMythicEntertainmentsquared-addontankTrinitywaging-warWarhammerwarhammer-eaWarhammer-OnlineWarhammer-Online-Age-of-Reckoningwarhammer-online-eaSat, 07 Aug 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the Mask: The plight of a healer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/01/behind-the-mask-the-plight-of-a-healer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/01/behind-the-mask-the-plight-of-a-healer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/01/behind-the-mask-the-plight-of-a-healer/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Last Sunday, I got to meet up with some of our awesome readerbase and try out the Serpent Lantern adventure pack with them. We also made the Massively supergroup, originally named "That One Massively SG." If you'd like to join, send a message in the Massively chat channel (titled Massively); everyone in the SG has invite privileges. As always, you can also send a message or friend request to me at @Auspicious.

Either way, our run through Serpent Lantern was cut a little short, mostly due to personal stuff (people have lives too!), but it let me make a lot of observations about the team dynamics in Champions Online. I'm not new to teaming in CO, but even I was surprised by the way the Serpent Lantern handles big teams.

The short answer is that playing with other people is fun, but feeling like I have no control over whether or not I die is not fun. After the break, we'll go through the long answer.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: The plight of a healer

MassivelyBehind the Mask: The plight of a healer originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Jul 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>behind-the-maskchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosfeaturedhealerspvetanksThu, 01 Jul 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Waging WAR: Patch 1.3.6 and the proverbial DPS-Healer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/19/waging-war-patch-1-3-6-and-the-proverbial-dps-healer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/19/waging-war-patch-1-3-6-and-the-proverbial-dps-healer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/19/waging-war-patch-1-3-6-and-the-proverbial-dps-healer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

There aren't very many companies that open up planned patch changes to their players and fans for discussion; however, Mythic is one that does. This week, Waging WAR focuses on the suggested career balance changes for the Zealot and Runepriest coming in patch 1.3.6 for Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning. We'll cover the issue as well as the proposed solution for these careers. We'll also discuss the impact that these changes might have on the affected careers and on the community in general. There's also a part where Greg throws some drama at the fan and rants about "DPS-Healers."

Let's start by clarifying the main issue and the proposed change. Currently, the other healing careers (Archmage, Shaman, Warrior Priest and Disciple of Khaine) have their mastery paths organized by the role which they might play (i.e. damage focus, healing focus, etc.); whereas, the Zealot and Runepriest don't. Their mastery paths are organized by the delivery method of their healing (i.e. over time, direct, or area). The problem is, after deciding whether to specialize offensively or defensively and gearing to that role (a freedom of choice that they should be given), the Zealot and Runepriest are left with only one-half of an effective skill-set -- the other half of their skills being rendered ineffective by role choice and gear itemization. To bring these careers in line with their archetypical cousins, a new mechanism is proposed which gives Zealots and Runepriests a chance to retain some effectiveness in skills that are outside their chosen role.

Continue reading Waging WAR: Patch 1.3.6 and the proverbial DPS-Healer

MassivelyWaging WAR: Patch 1.3.6 and the proverbial DPS-Healer originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 19 Jun 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archmagecareersdeveloper-chatdeveloper-forumdevelopersdpsdps-healerdps-stancedpsingEAea-mythicforumshealerhealer-gearhealershealingmythicmythic-eaMythic-Entertainmentofficial-forumsofficial-websitepatch-1.3.6pvprunepriestwaging-warWarhammerwarhammer-eaWarhammer-OnlineWarhammer-Online-Age-of-Reckoningwarhammer-online-eazealotzealotsSat, 19 Jun 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Medic ships, part 1: The healers of EVE]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/21/eve-evolved-medic-ships-part-1-the-healers-of-eve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/21/eve-evolved-medic-ships-part-1-the-healers-of-eve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/21/eve-evolved-medic-ships-part-1-the-healers-of-eve/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

The holy trinity of tank, healer and damage-dealer is present in every MMO, including EVE Online. While most MMOs dedicate these roles to specific classes, ships in EVE can do all three at the same time. When running missions solo, for example, a ship will need to tank incoming damage, repair it and deal damage themselves. Setting up a ship for solo PvE becomes a balancing act between the three roles. Too little tank and you'll find yourself in trouble, but too little damage and you'll take forever to kill NPCs.

As part of a gang, however, remote armour repair and shield transfer modules allow pilots to specialise into a traditional healer role. Rather than having each player repair their own damage, it can be much more effective to have a dedicated medic ship to repair anyone that gets shot at. There are even specialised ships for would-be healers in EVE, from entry-level cruisers to advanced Tech 2 Logistics ships and massive capital ships. Medic ships can be an effective part of any gang, whether you're tackling a tough level 4 or 5 mission or engaging in large-scale gang PvP.

In this first part of a two-part look into dedicated healers in EVE Online, I look at the more affordable ships and modules available and the best strategy for healing in PvE.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Medic ships, part 1: The healers of EVE

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Medic ships, part 1: The healers of EVE originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 21 Mar 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amarrcaldariccpccp-eveccp-gamesdpseveeve-ccpeve-evolvedeve-mmorpgeve-onlinefeaturedgallentegroupgroupsguardianguidehealerhealershealinglogisticsminmataroneirossolotanktankingtipstips-and-tricksSun, 21 Mar 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What's the most important part of the trinity?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/14/the-daily-grind-whats-the-most-important-part-of-the-trinity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/14/the-daily-grind-whats-the-most-important-part-of-the-trinity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/14/the-daily-grind-whats-the-most-important-part-of-the-trinity/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

While the structure of the jokingly-named "holy trinity" in MMOs -- tanks, healers, and damage dealers -- isn't universal, it's certainly common enough to be recognizable. Even in games without pre-defined classes, such as Champions Online, have a group structure oriented toward the three roles.

But you can't have classes without a struggle between them, and there's always a discussion in relation to the trinity about which part is the most important. Tanks point to their relative scarcity and the pressure of their job, Healers point to their relative scarcity and the importance of their job, and DPS points to the fact that healers and tanks can't keep their stunts up forever if nobody is killing the target.

So where do you fall in this debate? Which part of the trinity do you think is the most important to a group's success, and which one is the most superfluous? Do you think that (by astonishing coincidence) the role you play most frequently is the most important one, or do you think it's lower on the scale and you play it for other reasons?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What's the most important part of the trinity? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 14 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>class-mechanicsclassesdpsgroupinghealersholy-trinitytankstdgthe-daily-grindworld-of-tankswotSun, 14 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mog Log: Those grapes were probably sour anyway]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/13/the-mog-log-those-grapes-were-probably-sour-anyway/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/13/the-mog-log-those-grapes-were-probably-sour-anyway/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/13/the-mog-log-those-grapes-were-probably-sour-anyway/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

So, guess what beta I didn't get an invitation for. You can go consult with the instant replay if you want, I can wait.

I know that everyone is stunned. I certainly was. Of course, I assuaged my sadness by telling myself that I didn't really want to be in their stupid beta anyway, because I bet it smells bad and it sets my computer on fire. That line of reasoning worked real well. I don't honestly think my column got me kicked from the running for a Final Fantasy XIV beta slot, but it's a bit more reassuring than the idea that I just didn't get picked for some other reason. (I'm putting money on Square-Enix not knowing I exist, for the record.)

All things considered, I can live without the beta, even though I'm chomping at the bit to play the game. But I'm not the only person, place, or thing not currently darting about the world of Eorzea. And as long as I'm on a streak of making long-winded predictions, why break with formula? There are three other things that I suspect aren't in the beta either, and I intend to make a guessing game out of seeing how close I am to the truth.

Continue reading The Mog Log: Those grapes were probably sour anyway

MassivelyThe Mog Log: Those grapes were probably sour anyway originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 13 Mar 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betadpsfeaturedffff11ffxiffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xifinal-fantasy-xivgame-mechanicsgroupinggroupshealerspartiesparty-structurepartyingsquare-enixstatisticstankstestingxbox-360Sat, 13 Mar 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Starting out in Vana'diel: See no evil, hear no evil, smell... no evil?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/31/starting-out-in-vanadiel-see-no-evil-hear-no-evil-smell-n/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/31/starting-out-in-vanadiel-see-no-evil-hear-no-evil-smell-n/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/31/starting-out-in-vanadiel-see-no-evil-hear-no-evil-smell-n/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Hola mi amigos! Hoy es la dia de Vana'diel! *clears throat* Ahem, sorry about that. Hello adventurers, and welcome to another edition of Starting out in Vana'diel! Today's topic is actually one that I find quite cool about Final Fantasy XI, especially when you compare it to other MMOs. It's the mechanic that puts the fear of Promathia into every adventurer's step.

Today's column is all about the different monster aggro types -- yes, there are different types. You want to find out more? Come, follow me, and let's find out more!

Continue reading Starting out in Vana'diel: See no evil, hear no evil, smell... no evil?

MassivelyStarting out in Vana'diel: See no evil, hear no evil, smell... no evil? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 31 Mar 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aggressiveaggrodamagefeaturedffxifinal-fantasy-xiguidehatehealershealsjoystiqfeatureskupomagicscentsightsoundspellssquare-enixstarting-out-in-vanadieltankthreatwhite-mageTue, 31 Mar 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A moment of thanks for our healers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/12/a-moment-of-thanks-for-our-healers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/12/a-moment-of-thanks-for-our-healers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/12/a-moment-of-thanks-for-our-healers/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Do you have a friend (or friends, if you're really lucky) in your MMO of choice that choose to play healer? If so, do you thank them every once in a while for their continued efforts in nothing more than keeping you and everyone else alive? Or are you the type of player that endlessly jabs those who would chose to do nothing but heal for not keeping you alive every single encounter?

If your answer was "yes" to any of those questions, then it would be worth your time to head on over to Rock, Paper, Shotgun and read through a wonderfully written article concerning healers and gratitude.

For as long as men and women have been shooting magical missiles or wielding swords and shields there have been other men and women behind them keeping them alive. Be it World of Warcraft or Everquest, the role of healer has always been one of mixed blessings. So we'd like to take this moment to thank our healers, because without you guys we'd all be dead, dying or at the very least un-buffed.

MassivelyA moment of thanks for our healers originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 12 Feb 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardeqeverquesthealershealingrock-paper-shotgunworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 12 Feb 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Adventures From the Back Row: The cost of healing]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/05/adventures-from-the-back-row-the-cost-of-healing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/05/adventures-from-the-back-row-the-cost-of-healing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/05/adventures-from-the-back-row-the-cost-of-healing/#commentsFiled under: ,

The healer gets a bad rap. In guild drama stories the healer is always some emo kid with a divisive personality. They're loot whores who sell their services to the highest bidder. They're fickle, unreliable showboaters who delay raids by hours while they shop for spells at the broker. And, of course, there is some truth to that.

Most healers I know, though, are the kind of folks who don't look for any of that kind of attention. The art of healing in most Massively Multiplayer games puts you at the back of the party. There, you can shine without being the star of the show. You can contribute without having to compete for the top of the DPS chart, and it's highly unlikely anyone will yell at you for pulling an unwanted mob.

For a lot of people that role in the back row is counter-intuitive to the reason they play Massive games. Seeing the big numbers appear above the heads of monsters is the ultimate goal of those hours of grinding, and anything that detracts from that is of secondary concern. The most extreme examples of that philosophy make for legendary pick-up group stories, the folks who say thing like 'gtg, cat's on fire' or 'gtg, mom died.'

Continue reading Adventures From the Back Row: The cost of healing

MassivelyAdventures From the Back Row: The cost of healing originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Nov 2007 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventures-from-the-back-rowfeaturedhealershealingmedicMon, 05 Nov 2007 19:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Today in Warcraft]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/10/04/today-in-warcraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/10/04/today-in-warcraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/10/04/today-in-warcraft/#commentsFiled under: ,

News

Features

Discussions

  • Is Blizzard exploiting WoW players?
    Is Blizzard doing something unethical by producing and selling World of Warcraft? Rather than just the ol' "MMO games are too addictive" angle, an article in Australia's The Age (seriously, it's always the Aussies) has a new twist: game companies like Blizzard are actually "exploiting" their own players by implementing a reward system that keeps people playing.
  • Draenei skin, or seeing Azeroth through all five senses
    I love the question that juliamarcela over on Livejournal asks: What does Draenei skin feel like? Sure, they're probably not scaly or slimy, but it probably feels different than most skin we know.

MassivelyToday in Warcraft originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Oct 2007 16:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardbrewfestbrewfest-wowdraeneihealershealingMMOspatch-2.2.3patchesshamanspell-damagewarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 04 Oct 2007 16:05:00 EST