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[Not So Massively: April fool's edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/02/not-so-massively-april-fools-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/02/not-so-massively-april-fools-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/02/not-so-massively-april-fools-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

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It's that time of year again when we all forget to check our calendars and get suckered into believing outrageous April Fool's gags. This week's Not So Massively is a blend of yesterday's joke posts and the week's real news from games that aren't quite MMOs. League of Legends announced a joke 3-D mode, released the winners of the I Heart LoL contest, and delved into the game's North American playerbase as part of the ongoing world tour. Dota 2 added classic hero Lone Druid this week, and Firefall revealed its plans to scale up the beta soon.

Heroes of Newerth launched a new art contest and released its new mobile ganker Blitz, while Bloodline Champions laid on the April Fool's mischief with its Catch the Ranid game mode announcement and plans for a tournament with cheeseburgers for prizes. Rise of Immortals joined in the festivities with the announcement of its new immortal Karapyss the Crabomancer.

Blacklight: Retribution explained its datanode system and released a new troll face taunt, and Diablo III teased players with its joke Zergotchi authenticator. Diablo fansite Diablofans revealed changes to the upcoming game's Inferno mode and wrote a great April Fool's joke about releasing on the Wii. Path of Exile took a step closer to launch with a public stress test this weekend, and Torchlight II revealed the game's pets and announced that the latest build of the game will be playable at PAX East.

Continue reading Not So Massively: April fool's edition

MassivelyNot So Massively: April fool's edition originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoaction-rpgapril-foolsapril-fools-2012battlenetblacklightblacklight-retributionBlitzblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbloodline-championscatch-the-ranidcompetitive-gamingcrabomancercrabomancyd3datanodesdiablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotae-sporte-sportsesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfpsfree-to-playfuncomgothic-fantasygrinding-geargrinding-gear-gamesheroheroes-of-newerthhoninfernoinferno-modekarapyssleague-of-legendslollone-druidmmofpsmobamultiplayernewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayerpath-of-exilepenny-arcadeperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpetroglyphpetroglyph-gamespoepvppwered-5-studiosriotriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsroiround-uprounduprpgs2s2-gamesstunlockstunlock-studiosvideozergotchizombie-studiosMon, 02 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Diablo III's rune system and new MOBA heroes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/not-so-massively-diablo-iiis-rune-system-and-new-moba-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/not-so-massively-diablo-iiis-rune-system-and-new-moba-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/not-so-massively-diablo-iiis-rune-system-and-new-moba-heroes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
League of Legends discussed the Chinese community this week as part of its World Tour series. Dota 2 delivered three weeks worth of beta updates at once, including a new single draft game mode and matchmaking system. Heroes of Newerth released its latest hero this week, the fire-breathing dragon Draconis, who has massive farming capabilities. Rise of Immortals launched its latest immortal Kaos, a seemingly mortal US Marine lost in the game's fantasy land.

Diablo III took another step toward release this week by finalising a replacement for the scrapped rune stone system and cutting socketable runes from the list of potential features at the same time. Torchlight II teased players with six new screenshots, and Path of Exile discussed the design process behind the game's unique items. Finally, Blacklight: Retribution announced its public open beta, which is due to start next week.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Diablo III's rune system and new MOBA heroes

MassivelyNot So Massively: Diablo III's rune system and new MOBA heroes originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoaction-rpgbattlenetbetablacklightblacklight-retributionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcompetitive-gamingd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotadraconise-sporte-sportsesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfpsfree-to-playgothic-fantasygrinding-geargrinding-gear-gamesheroheroes-of-newerthhonimmortalkaosleague-of-legendslolmmofpsmobamultiplayernewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayeropen-betapath-of-exileperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpetroglyphpetroglyph-gamespoepvppweriotriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsroiround-uprounduprpgrunerunesrunestonerunic-gamess2s2-gamesskillstl2torchlight-iivideoMon, 20 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Squall breezes into Champions Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/22/the-squall-breezes-into-champions-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/22/the-squall-breezes-into-champions-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/22/the-squall-breezes-into-champions-online/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Champions Online
Champions Online is on a roll this week with its bevy of new archetypes to check out. First it was the Star Wars-inspired Unleashed archetype, and today Cryptic announced the arrival of its newest hero, The Squall.

As its name suggests, the Squall is a weather-based superhero who takes on the role of an avenger. By wrapping the awesome forces of nature around his little pinky, the Squall can whip up hurricanes, slap down tornadoes, and throw a big ball o' wind at enemies that are really irking him. The archetype primarily focuses on mid- and long-range attacks to repel and disorient enemies, but he suffers when bad guys get up close and personal.

The Squall archetype can be unlocked across an entire player's account for 920 Cryptic Points.

MassivelyThe Squall breezes into Champions Online originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Dec 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archetypechampionchampionschampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-pointscryptic-storecryptic-studiosf2pfree-to-playheroperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesquallstoresuperherothe-squallthe-unleashedweatherweather-manipulationThu, 22 Dec 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Diablo II ladder reset and Path of Exile livestream]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/10/not-so-massively-diablo-ii-ladder-reset-and-path-of-exile-lives/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/10/not-so-massively-diablo-ii-ladder-reset-and-path-of-exile-lives/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/10/not-so-massively-diablo-ii-ladder-reset-and-path-of-exile-lives/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
Welcome to Not So Massively, our weekly roundup of the top news from popular multiplayer online battle arenas (MOBAs) and other multiplayer online games that aren't quite MMOs. Published every Monday, the column covers games such as League of Legends, Heroes of Newerth, Rise of Immortals, Bloodline Champions and more.

With all the recent fuss over Diablo III, the game's predecessor Diablo II has gone largely unnoticed. This week we discover that the Diablo II ladder will be reset at the end of the month to give players a chance to experience the online game from the start before its sequel hits the shelves. We also introduce upcoming online FPS Hedone and invite all of our readers to tune into an exclusive Path of Exile closed beta livestream on Friday 14th.

Heroes of Newerth this week released new ranged support hero Monarch, who is a giant butterfly and therefore awesome. League of Legends enjoyed the release of ranged ganker Xerath, a champion who can practically turn himself into an electric mortar cannon. Rise of Immortals delivered early details of upcoming immortal Talia, the dual-wielding vampire queen. Finally, upcoming online FPS Blacklight: Retribution released its closed beta schedule this week, announcing that the game will be playable for selected individuals starting October 27th.

Skip past the cut for details of this week's biggest news from the world of MOBAs and other online games that aren't quite MMOs.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Diablo II ladder reset and Path of Exile livestream

MassivelyNot So Massively: Diablo II ladder reset and Path of Exile livestream originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 10 Oct 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blacklightblacklight-retributionchampiondiablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiifeaturedgrinding-gear-gameshedonehedone.tvheroheroes-of-newerthhonladder-resetleague-of-legendslivestreamlolmonarchnewsnot-so-massivelypath-of-exileperfect-world-entertainmentpetroglyphriot-gamesrise-of-immortalss2-gamestaliavideovideosxerathMon, 10 Oct 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Diablo III faces competition as it enters closed beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/12/not-so-massively-diablo-iii-faces-competition-as-it-enters-clos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/12/not-so-massively-diablo-iii-faces-competition-as-it-enters-clos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/12/not-so-massively-diablo-iii-faces-competition-as-it-enters-clos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
Welcome to Not So Massively, our weekly roundup of the top news from popular multiplayer online battle arenas (MOBAs) and other multiplayer online games that aren't quite MMOs. Published every Monday, the column covers games such as League of Legends, Heroes of Newerth, Rise of Immortals, Bloodline Champions and more.

The past few weeks have been full of Diablo III news, and this week is no exception. With the friends and family portion of the closed beta underway and no NDA imposed on participants, videos of Diablo III gameplay have been flooding the net. It seems the upcoming title will be in for some competition when it releases, however, as Diablo-inspired action RPG Path of Exile is also in closed beta.

League of Legends drops support for its Mac client this week and publishes a champion spotlight on popular champion Corki. Rise of Immortals also releases its second spotlight video, featuring health-draining immortal Lazarus. Heroes of Newerth releases Midas this week, a new damage-dealing hero with the ability to turn enemies into solid gold (at least temporarily). The oddest piece of news we received this week was that upcoming Wii-based RPG Dragon Quest X will feature MMO features and might even require a subscription fee.

Skip past the cut for details of this week's biggest news from the world of MOBAs and other online games that aren't quite MMOs.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Diablo III faces competition as it enters closed beta

MassivelyNot So Massively: Diablo III faces competition as it enters closed beta originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Sep 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-testbeta-testingcorkidiablodiablo-3diablo-3-betadiablo-iiidiablo-iii-betadragon-questDragon-Quest-Xfeaturedgrinding-gear-gamesheroheroes-of-newerthhonleague-of-legendslolmidasnewspath-of-exilerise-of-immortalsroitrailervideoMon, 12 Sep 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Dota 2 is going to be freaking awesome]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/not-so-massively-dota-2-is-going-to-be-freaking-awesome/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/not-so-massively-dota-2-is-going-to-be-freaking-awesome/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/not-so-massively-dota-2-is-going-to-be-freaking-awesome/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Welcome to Not So Massively, our weekly roundup of the top news from popular multiplayer online battle arenas (MOBAs) and other multiplayer online games that aren't quite MMOs. Published every Saturday, the column covers games such as League of Legends, Heroes of Newerth, Rise of Immortals, Bloodline Champions, and more.

In the last few years, the PC game market has seen a resurgence of competitive and co-operative online games. Some fit neatly into the category of MMO and others are traditional multiplayer match-based games, but the lines between the two have begun to blur. MOBAs and similar online games offer ongoing development a level of persistence that's closer to Guild Wars than Counterstrike, putting them firmly in the gray area we love to talk about in Not So Massively.

Last week we brought news of an ongoing legal battle between FireFall developer Red 5 and its publisher Webzen. Both Heroes of Newerth and Bloodline Champions announced details of upcoming sponsored competitive tournaments for players with cash prizes. New details were revealed for League of Legends' female tank champion Leona, Heroes of Newerth's ranged anti-juking hero Emerald Warden and Rise of Immortals ranged damage-dealing immortal Balak.

In this week's Not So Massively, we look forward to Dota 2 gameplay being showcased at next month's Gamescom convention and tell you how you could be in with a chance to win one of five Heroes of Newerth account keys worth $30 US. We also finally get to see LoL champion Leona in action this week, and enjoy two helpings of LoL fanart, cosplay and original music in Summoner Showcases 35 and 36. Finally, we find out that the Aida Arenas closed beta has been postponed indefinitely, and we get some hands-on time with the Rise of Immortals open beta.
http://massively.joystiq.com/tag/Heroes-of-Newerth

Continue reading Not So Massively: Dota 2 is going to be freaking awesome

MassivelyNot So Massively: Dota 2 is going to be freaking awesome originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Jul 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aida-arenaschampionchampion-spotlightcontestdotadota-2featuredgamerkraftheroheroes-of-newerthhonimmortalleague-of-legendsleonalolmobanewsnot-so-massivelypetroglyphPetroglyph-Gamesriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsrois2s2-gamessummonersummoner-showcasevalvewarcraft-iiiMon, 11 Jul 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Character reveals, e-sports tournaments, and legal battles]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/02/not-so-massively-character-reveals-e-sports-tournaments-and-l/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/02/not-so-massively-character-reveals-e-sports-tournaments-and-l/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/02/not-so-massively-character-reveals-e-sports-tournaments-and-l/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Welcome to Not So Massively, our weekly roundup of the top news from popular multiplayer online battle arenas (MOBAs) and other multiplayer online games that aren't quite MMOs. Published every Saturday, the column covers games such as League of Legends, Heroes of Newerth, Rise of Immortals, Bloodline Champions, and more.

Last week we saw the end of Dreamhack with some huge prizes being handed out to the winners of competitive MOBA tournaments. We got to see what high-end competitive gameplay looks like in League of Legends, Heroes of Newerth and Bloodline Champions thanks to the recorded Dreamhack matches with live commentary. We also got a look at League of Legends' new champion Yorick the gravedigger in a new champion spotlight, and we checked out Realm of the Titans' new hero HaZ'zard. We then introduced a recent dev interview with Rise of Immortals' lead designer Amanda Flock.

In this week's Not So Massively, we examine the recent legal battle between FireFall developer Red 5 and its publisher Webzen. Competitive tournament play is also still buzzing this week, with both Heroes of Newerth and Bloodline Champions looking into new sponsored tournament deals for players. League of Legends players look forward to upcoming female tank champion Leona, while Heroes of Newerth shows off its upcoming ranged anti-juking hero Emerald Warden. As it nears open beta, Rise of Immortals also revealed Balak this week, a ranged agility hero with an extremely fast attack animation.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Character reveals, e-sports tournaments, and legal battles

MassivelyNot So Massively: Character reveals, e-sports tournaments, and legal battles originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 02 Jul 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Balakbloodline-championschampionemerald-wardenfeaturedfirefallheroheroes-of-newerthhonimmortaljukingleague-of-legendslegalleonalolnot-so-massivelypetroglyphred-5red-5-studiosrise-of-immortalsstunlock-studioswebzenSat, 02 Jul 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Overpowered characters edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/04/not-so-massively-overpowered-characters-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/04/not-so-massively-overpowered-characters-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/04/not-so-massively-overpowered-characters-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Welcome to Not So Massively, our weekly roundup of the top news from popular multiplayer online battle arenas (MOBAs) and other multiplayer online games that aren't quite MMOs. Published every Saturday, the column covers games such as League of Legends, Heroes of Newerth, Defense of the Ancients, Bloodline Champions, and more.

Each week here at Massively, we're inundated with news about multiplayer games that are clearly massively popular but aren't quite MMOs. With the growing popularity of online gaming, many MOBAs and other online games have have developed bigger communities than some popular MMOs, and their developers have adopted ideas from the MMO genre.

Last week, we looked at Ubisoft's upcoming online FPS Ghost Recon Online and the huge Bloodline Champions patch 1.2 update. We also looked at Diablo III's runestone system, the Rise of Immortals cash shop and co-op PvE maps, and the Heroes of Newerth servers coming under attack. The big news of last week was undoubtedly League of Legends' ambitious player-mediated banning Tribunal going into full live testing, putting the fates of offensive players into the hands of their milder-mannered counterparts.

In this week's Not So Massively, we take an in-depth look at Heroes of Newerth's latest overpowered hero Amun Ra and League of Legends' devastating new clockwork champion Orianna. We also get a first look at the Rise of Immortals 3vE map layout, Realm of the Titans' hero Abraxas and Karma Online's upcoming closed beta.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Overpowered characters edition

MassivelyNot So Massively: Overpowered characters edition originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 04 Jun 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3veamun-rachampionclockworkfeaturedgalleryheroheroes-of-newerthhonjoymaxkarma-onlineleague-of-legendslolnot-so-massivelyoriannarealm-of-the-titansrise-of-immortalsscreenshotsserver-downtimespotlightvideovideosSat, 04 Jun 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Wait, so he wins by getting himself killed?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/21/not-so-massively-wait-so-he-wins-by-getting-himself-killed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/21/not-so-massively-wait-so-he-wins-by-getting-himself-killed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/21/not-so-massively-wait-so-he-wins-by-getting-himself-killed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Welcome to Not So Massively, our weekly roundup of the top news from popular multiplayer online battle arenas (MOBAs) and other multiplayer online games that aren't quite MMOs. Published every Saturday, the column covers games such as League of Legends, Heroes of Newerth, Defense of the Ancients, Bloodline Champions, and more.

Not all online games can be neatly classified as either a full-fledged MMO or not an MMO at all. Some games contain elements of persistence, community, and iterative development that we've come to expect only from MMOs. In last week's colossal Not So Massively, we we published an exclusive reveal of Rise of Immortals character The Netheurgist and took a look at the new LoL champion Vayne.

Following on from that, we celebrated Heroes of Newerth's first birthday with a look at its one-year Honiversary update. We also took a look at a few new games from Prime World, Realm of the Titans, and Karma Online to Blizzard's highly anticipated Diablo III. As if that weren't enough, we got an interview with END Games, the developer behind Vorp!, an online multiplayer action game based entirely in Facebook.

In this week's Not So Massively, we take another peek at the sheer creativity of the League of Legends community and get technical with Heroes of Newerth's practically suicidal hero Martyr. We also take a look at Bloodline Champions' new match replay system, Rise of Immortals' immortal Aislynn, and the latest Realm of the Titans game update arriving in time for closed beta.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Wait, so he wins by getting himself killed?

MassivelyNot So Massively: Wait, so he wins by getting himself killed? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 21 May 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aislynnbloodline-championsclockworkfeaturedgalleriesgalleryheroheroesheroes-of-newerthhonleague-of-legendslolmartyrmobanot-so-massivelyOriannarealm-of-the-titansreplayriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsrois2-gamesscreenshotscreenshotsstunlock-studiosvideovideosSat, 21 May 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Magnets, how do they work?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/07/not-so-massively-magnets-how-do-they-work/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/07/not-so-massively-magnets-how-do-they-work/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/07/not-so-massively-magnets-how-do-they-work/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Welcome to Not So Massively, our weekly roundup of the top news from popular multiplayer online battle arenas (MOBAs) and other multiplayer online games that aren't quite MMOs. Published every Saturday, the column covers games such as League of Legends, Heroes of Newerth, Defense of the Ancients, Bloodline Champions, and more.

Online gaming has taken off in a big way in recent years, but not every online game fits neatly into the category of MMO or session-based slugfest. A growing number of online multiplayer games fall somewhere in between, with ongoing development and even microtransaction-based payment schemes.

Last week we got a first look at Metal Assault, a new Metal Slug-style online game from Aeria Games. Bloodline Champions also announced a massive tournament with $5,000 US in prizes, Darkspore celebrated its official release worldwide, and Defense of the Ancients received some much-needed updates. Finally, we took a look at the gameplay behind the new League of Legends champion Rumble, the Mechanized Menace.

In this week's edition of Not So Massively, we take a first look at upcoming online multiplayer brawler Aida Arenas, introduce the first Rise of Immortals developer podcast, and announce the massive League of Legends Your DreamHack contest. We also get to grips with the HoN's magnetic new hero Flux, who went live yesterday.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Magnets, how do they work?

MassivelyNot So Massively: Magnets, how do they work? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 07 May 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aida-arenasdreamhackfeaturedfluxgamerkraftheroheroes-of-newerthhonleague-of-legendslolmobanewsnot-so-massivelypetroglyphpodcastrise-of-immortalsVayneyour-dreamhackSat, 07 May 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: What are all these games doing on my internets?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/23/not-so-massively-what-are-all-these-games-doing-on-my-internets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/23/not-so-massively-what-are-all-these-games-doing-on-my-internets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/23/not-so-massively-what-are-all-these-games-doing-on-my-internets/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Welcome to Not So Massively, our weekly roundup of the top news from popular multiplayer online battle arenas (MOBAs) and other multiplayer online games that aren't quite MMOs. Published every Saturday, the column covers games such as League of Legends, Heroes of Newerth, Defense of the Ancients, Bloodline Champions, and more.

In the past few years, we've seen a virtual revolution in online gaming. MMOs have taken off in a big way, but the latest online games to really capture our attention have been a little less than "massively." Multiplayer Online Battle Arenas and other session-based online games feature regular development updates and offer a form of persistence by tracking stats and characters, making them a lot closer to MMOs than traditional online games.

Last week we looked at the updated Engineer in Heroes of Newerth (who I can confirm is now hilariously broken and fun to play), League of Legends' new champion Brand, and the first details of Rise of Immortals character Ichorr. In this week's bumper edition of Not So Massively, we look at upcoming HoN hero Silhouette, the adorable LoL Cottontail Teemo, LoL's 24th summoner showcase, Easter updates for Bloodline Champions, Darkspore's new hero Skar, Hi-Rez Studios' new MOBA Smite, and much more.

Continue reading Not So Massively: What are all these games doing on my internets?

MassivelyNot So Massively: What are all these games doing on my internets? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 23 Apr 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artart-spotlightbattleborn-kayleconcept-artcottontail-teemodarksporeeggniterfeaturedgameplayherohero-spotlightheroes-of-newerthhi-rez-studiosHoNKatersonesevenleague-of-legendsLoLmaxismobanikasaurninjanot-so-massivelyorigamipatchpetroglyphriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsroirounduprumbleS2-Gamessilhouetteskarsmitesummoner-spotlightteemotrailervideovlogSat, 23 Apr 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Dudes smashing other dudes to bits]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/16/not-so-massively-dudes-smashing-other-dudes-to-bits/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/16/not-so-massively-dudes-smashing-other-dudes-to-bits/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/16/not-so-massively-dudes-smashing-other-dudes-to-bits/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Welcome to Not So Massively, our weekly roundup of the top news from popular multiplayer online battle arenas (MOBAs) and other multiplayer online games that aren't quite MMOs. Published every Saturday, the column covers games such as League of Legends, Heroes of Newerth, Defense of the Ancients, Bloodline Champions, and more.

There are plenty of games out there that are almost MMOs but have a different take on persistence or aren't quite massive enough. Last week saw the start of Not So Massively, our brand-new weekly column dedicated to all those games that aren't quite MMOs. We covered some exciting news from a variety of multiplayer online battle arena games, including the results of League of Legends' charity drive in aid of Japan, a first look at a new hero on the way for Heroes of Newerth, Rise of Immortals officially launching closed beta, and development plans for Bloodline Champions.

In this week's Not So Massively, I look at Heroes of Newerth's Engineer changes, League of Legends' new champion Brand, and first details of Rise of Immortals character Ichorr.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Dudes smashing other dudes to bits

MassivelyNot So Massively: Dudes smashing other dudes to bits originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 16 Apr 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artart-spotlightbrandengineerfeaturedgameplayheroheroes-of-newerthHoNichorrleague-of-legendsLoLmobamonkey-kingnot-so-massivelypatchpetroglyphriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsroiroundupS2-Gamesserver-downtimespider-minethe-nomadtrailervideoSat, 16 Apr 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: Boss world tour -- Inggison]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/11/wings-over-atreia-boss-world-tour-inggison/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/11/wings-over-atreia-boss-world-tour-inggison/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/11/wings-over-atreia-boss-world-tour-inggison/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Back in January, Wings Over Atreia brought you the first installment of a series highlighting the who, where, what, and even some how of Aion's world bosses. At that time, we took a tour around the land of Heiron and met up with those tough (and some not-so-tough) bosses who taunt players with their juicy, coveted loot. But Heiron is for youngins; this week, we will focus our tour on the playground of the highest levels, the lands of Balaurea -- specifically, Inggison.

It never fails -- the best goodies are never the easy-to-get goodies. As much as Daevas may want to get their hot little hands on some of the weapons, armor, and crafting materials dropped by these world bosses, they have to first find these giants and second actually defeat them. So much easier said than done. On the bright side, some of the mobs are easier to kill and can even be soloed (although they are also well-camped). On the not-bright side, others don't seem to show their faces as often as hungry loot-hunters would like, or they take a friend or 20 to take down. So what's a Daeva to do?

Soar past the cut for some tips, tricks, and a handy map for seeking out those Inggison bosses and convincing them to give up their loot.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: Boss world tour -- Inggison

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: Boss world tour -- Inggison originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Apr 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionaion-gamebalaureabossbosseseliteelite-grade-mobseliteseternal-grade-lootexploitexploitsfeaturedgold-armorgold-weaponherohero-grade-mobhinthintsInggisonlegendarylegendary-grade-moblootmapsnamed-mobnamed-mobsnc-softnc-soft-aionncsoftncsoft-aiontipstricksWings-Over-Atreiaworld-bossworld-bossesMon, 11 Apr 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Exploring the lands of MOBA]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/09/not-so-massively-exploring-the-lands-of-moba/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/09/not-so-massively-exploring-the-lands-of-moba/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/09/not-so-massively-exploring-the-lands-of-moba/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Welcome to Not So Massively, our brand-new weekly roundup of the top news from popular multiplayer online battle arenas (MOBAs) and other multiplayer online games that aren't quite MMOs. Published every Saturday, the column covers games such as League of Legends, Heroes of Newerth, Defense of the Ancients, Bloodline Champions, and more.

It's sometimes hard to believe that MMOs and online gaming in its current form are both relatively new. In a single generation, online gaming has gone from a technical infeasibility to a global industry worth billions. The list of MMOs is constantly growing, and the line between MMOs and other online games blurs more every year. In the past few years, we've seen a massive rise in the popularity of microtransaction-supported and free-to-play MMOs. Other online games like League of Legends and Heroes of Newerth have adopted similar strategies, using a cash shop to fund ongoing development.

There are now lots of heavily community-based games out there that for one reason or another aren't quite MMOs. The lack of shared persistent worlds in some online games or the relatively small size of server communities can render the game not-so-"massive," but persistent stats, character progression, cohesive communities, or other qualities make them more than just another online game.

In this first edition of Not So Massively, I look at the generosity of League of Legends players, a new hero on the way for Heroes of Newerth, the Rise of Immortals closed beta, plans for future development in Bloodline Champions, and other big news stories from the previous week.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Exploring the lands of MOBA

MassivelyNot So Massively: Exploring the lands of MOBA originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 09 Apr 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabloodlinebloodline-championsclosed-betadarksporedisasterdisaster-reliefdotafeaturedgameplayheroheroes-of-newerthHoNjapanleague-of-legendslee-sinlegionLoLmeditronmobanot-so-massivelypatchqq-ninjareddithonreliefriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsroundupS2-Gamesstunlock-studiosthe-nomadtournamenttrailervideoSat, 09 Apr 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: When has an MMO made you feel least like a hero?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/25/the-daily-grind-when-has-an-mmo-made-you-feel-least-like-a-hero/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/25/the-daily-grind-when-has-an-mmo-made-you-feel-least-like-a-hero/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/25/the-daily-grind-when-has-an-mmo-made-you-feel-least-like-a-hero/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


For me, it was the early days of World of Warcraft's first expansion, The Burning Crusade. After years in Azeroth, honing my uber-skills and collecting my uber-armor (everything was uber back then), I gave a battle cry and leaped through the portal to Outland with adventure in my heart.

"Oh hey, you're here," the unsurprised NPC said. "Here's a bag. Go collect boar droppings."

"Boar droppings? Shouldn't the janitor take care of that?" I replied, fingering my sword.

"They're, um, hellboars. So this poop can only be handled by a level 60 character. You have 0/6, by the way. Get cracking!"

A little part of me died that day. But I still did the quest.

Whether it's picking up poo, collecting flowers or escorting little children on their quest to find a flute, all MMOs have those moments when we have to do things that are decidedly unheroic. What were the times when an MMO made you feel least like a hero?

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: When has an MMO made you feel least like a hero? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 25 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antiheroburning-crusadedroppingsfelboarhellboarheroleavingsopinionoutlandpoopoopshizz-worktdgthe-daily-grindWorld-of-WarcraftwowSat, 25 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A Mild-Mannered Reporter: Facefirst into Praetoria]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/25/a-mild-mannered-reporter-facefirst-into-praetoria/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/25/a-mild-mannered-reporter-facefirst-into-praetoria/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/25/a-mild-mannered-reporter-facefirst-into-praetoria/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

It's finally here, and I have to admit, it's a little weird to realize it. After I spent the better part of half a year focusing on Going Rogue, the expansion has been released and is totally playable. To have the game sitting in front of me (metaphorically) after it's become such a huge part of my professional life is almost too daunting. I almost didn't even want to fire up the launcher to...

OK, yeah, that part isn't fooling anyone. Getting to play around a bit while it was in beta to see how it would play was nice, but I couldn't get myself into City of Heroes fast enough to start leveling a Loyalist and going to town on the new side of town. At the end of the day, I'm just a player like everyone reading this column, and the game I got to play on Monday evening made me very happy indeed. There's a lot to see and do, and I've tried to recap some of the disconnected thoughts in this week's column. And as a bonus, there's a sad announcement at the end! It's like a bonus, anyway.

Continue reading A Mild-Mannered Reporter: Facefirst into Praetoria

MassivelyA Mild-Mannered Reporter: Facefirst into Praetoria originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Aug 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alignmentalignment-systemcity-of-heroescity-of-heroes-going-roguecity-of-villainscohcovcoxexpansionexperiencefeaturedgame-mechanicsgoing-roguegrheromission-mechanicsmissionsparagonparagon-studiospraetoriaroguestarting-arcsstarting-areavigilantevillainWed, 25 Aug 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Heroes of EVE]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/15/eve-evolved-heroes-of-eve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/15/eve-evolved-heroes-of-eve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/15/eve-evolved-heroes-of-eve/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

In last week's EVE Evolved, I looked at a few of EVE Online's most famous outlaws. In the game's open-ended sandbox, players are free to turn to a life of crime. Around every corner, you'll find another thief making off with someone's loot, or a pirate waiting for an unsuspecting victim to pass by. Worse still are the many scam artists and market manipulators you'll find in trade hubs like Jita, making a dishonest living at the expense of other players. But it's not all doom and gloom, and not all players are the dark, nefarious types EVE is famous for.

For every low-life scammer trying to steal your hard-earned ISK, there are helpful individuals working to counteract scamming. For every war-mongering pirate preying on new players, there are hundreds of people willing to teach new players to defend themselves and stay safe. Despite all the talk of EVE's anti-social element, you'll also find a rich and diverse community, built around forums, chat channels and dozens of blogs. Programmers even spend their free time to provide the community with free tools to aid play. These are all people I would call heroes of EVE, either because they work to prevent the wrong-doings of outlaws, or because they selflessly enrich the EVE community.

In this opinion piece, I look at a few of the people and groups I consider to be true heroes of EVE. Who are your heroes?

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Heroes of EVE

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Heroes of EVE originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 15 Aug 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agonyagony-unleashedccpccp-eveccp-gameschribbacrazykinuxefteveeve-ccpeve-evolvedeve-fileseve-fitting-tooleve-mmorpgeve-onlineeve-searcheve-unieve-universityfeaturedheroheroesoutlawsscamscammingscamsthird-partywarSun, 15 Aug 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What makes you feel like a hero?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/25/the-daily-grind-what-makes-you-feel-like-a-hero/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/25/the-daily-grind-what-makes-you-feel-like-a-hero/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/25/the-daily-grind-what-makes-you-feel-like-a-hero/#commentsFiled under: , ,

There's always been a big to-do in MMORPGs about making you feel like a hero (and, hey, all RPGs ever). Dev interviews, particularly before release, usually include discussion about how such-and-such will make the player feel important, feel central to the story, feel... heroic.

Of course, when everyone else and his or her specially trained dog or cat are doing the exact same thing, it's hard to feel like a unique snowflake in the hero crowd. While NPCs are supposedly helpless and need a dashing, daring stud or studette to champion their cause, after a while it may seem like they're more "lazy bums" than "weak innocents."

Or maybe I'm wrong. Maybe there's something in MMOs that does, in fact, make you feel like a hero. Maybe it's not anything scripted by the developers, but instead happens out of the blue. Perhaps you're the healer who kept your raid alive, or the person who gave up a night to help out a lowbie in the guild. Maybe you saved a total stranger from annihilation, or you chained sixteen crits in a row until the bad guys were weeping for mercy.

What makes you feel like a hero in MMOs?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What makes you feel like a hero? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 25 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>heroheroesnpcopinionstudettetdgthe-daily-grindyou-are-not-a-unique-snowflakeSun, 25 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Emergent behavior to be produced in Trion's Heroes of Telara]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/07/emergent-behavior-to-be-produced-in-trions-heroes-of-telara/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/07/emergent-behavior-to-be-produced-in-trions-heroes-of-telara/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/07/emergent-behavior-to-be-produced-in-trions-heroes-of-telara/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Trion World Network is trying a very different approach with their fantasy based MMO, Heroes of Telara, by pushing into an area currently untouched by most MMOs -- emergence.

Emergence is one of the aspects that many MMOs aspired to, only to drop in favor of static storytelling. The problem with emergence is that simple decisions would have a compounding impact on the world. Heroes would solve problems, only to perhaps create further problems with their implemented solutions. Most game architecture can't handle decision making of that nature, as it would need developers to constantly code in the new events that would occur.

However, Heroes of Telara seems to be aspiring to that using server-side gaming. Their proposed method, as it appears in an interview between Trion's CEO, Lars Buttler, and GamesIndustry.biz, is to run the game entirely server side, letting developers change and alter the game on the fly. As Buttler puts it, "There are small events, there are big events, there is even emergent behaviour in the game that changes the game world. A lot of it is not even known to us, it's like the ghost in the machine. The game is almost alive, and that allows you to create heroes."

MassivelyEmergent behavior to be produced in Trion's Heroes of Telara originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Jul 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ceodecisionsemergenceheroheroes-of-telaralars-buttlerlive-eventsstorytellingtelaratrion-world-networkTue, 07 Jul 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The 5th Column returns as City of Heroes Issue 15: Anniversary goes live]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/29/the-5th-column-returns-as-city-of-heroes-issue-15-anniversary-g/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/29/the-5th-column-returns-as-city-of-heroes-issue-15-anniversary-g/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/29/the-5th-column-returns-as-city-of-heroes-issue-15-anniversary-g/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


It was only a few weeks ago that we wrote about the City of Heroes Issue 15 beta testing, but this latest update to the game, Anniversary, has gone live. Issue 15 brings a host of improvements to City of Heroes particularly in terms of hero and villain character customization. There are 20 new character faces to choose from, two new costume sets, and costume change emotes, which provide flashy transitions between costumes for your characters.

Issue 15: Anniversary also marks the return of The 5th Column and The Reichsman, and thus new missions at levels 45-50 -- with Villain Strikeforce and Hero Taskforce arcs, depending upon which side of the law you're on. NCsoft has more info about Issue 15 on their Anniversary overview site, and asks, "What does the opening of the Omega Team Time Capsule hold in store for Paragon City and the Rogue Isles?" The answers, we suspect, should be clear as City of Heroes and City of Villains players explore the new Issue 15 content.

MassivelyThe 5th Column returns as City of Heroes Issue 15: Anniversary goes live originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarycity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcostume-change-emotescovcustomizationgame-mechanicsherohero-taskforceheroesissue-15omega-teamomega-team-time-capsuleparagon-citypatchesrogue-islessuper-herosuperherothe-5th-columnvillainvillain-strikeforcevillainsMon, 29 Jun 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A witty motto could get you into Champions Online beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/13/a-witty-motto-could-get-you-into-champions-online-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/13/a-witty-motto-could-get-you-into-champions-online-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/13/a-witty-motto-could-get-you-into-champions-online-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Are you a little squirt that brings the hurt? A freight train that feels no pain? Perhaps you fight for honor, justice, and pepperoni panzarottis? Whatever your hero's motto or creed, it could win you a spot in Champions Online beta.

A contest to decide the catchiest creed is running from April 10 - April 17, 2009. Cryptic Studios will pick their top ten favorite entries and then let the public choose a winner in the form of a poll. First place will be awarded a closed beta spot and special forum title. Second and third place finalists will win the forum title. All ten finalists will receive a signed poster.

Submissions will be accepted until April 17, 2009 at 11:59PM PDT. The top 10 poll will arrive on April 20 and fans will have only two days to vote and decide the winner, who will be announced April 23, 2009. Hit up the official rules and submission guidelines page for a full a rundown of the contest.

MassivelyA witty motto could get you into Champions Online beta originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Apr 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betachampions-onlineclosed-betacontestcreedcryptic-studiosheromottoMon, 13 Apr 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's WAR Camp: How to get the Tracker set gear]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/03/massivelys-war-camp-how-to-get-the-tracker-set-gear/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/03/massivelys-war-camp-how-to-get-the-tracker-set-gear/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/03/massivelys-war-camp-how-to-get-the-tracker-set-gear/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Equipment does play a role in how well your character performs in Warhammer Online, so it's only natural that you'll be wanting to keep your toon outfitted in the best gear that is available to you. This week we're taking a look at the Tracker armor, which is a 3-piece set for Tier 2 players, and offers bonuses if you wear more than one piece. The set is obtained through quests that get you to kill other players, as well as Hero mobs, mixing a bit of PvE and RvR together.

The first stage of each quest involves killing a certain number of players, often of a particular class. There is then a second step to kill a Hero mob that usually requires a group. If you take the trouble to get all three pieces, you'll complete an entry in the Armory section of your Tome of Knowledge and earn yourself a new title as a nice little extra. We've gone through all of the quests needed to get the Tracker set, so click through to our gallery guide to get yourself equipped!

Gallery: Warhammer Online: WAR Camp Series

Capturing and defending keepsIt all starts in Tier 2The bottom floorThe Keep LordKeep architecture
Warhammer Online Coverage Did you enjoy this? Make sure to check out our Warhammer guides: Massively's Character Creation Guide and our WoW Player's Guide to Warhammer. Plus, don't miss any of our ongoing coverage as Massively goes to WAR!

MassivelyMassively's WAR Camp: How to get the Tracker set gear originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Oct 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-mythicequipmentfeaturedgearheromassivelys-war-campmythicsettrackerwarwarhammerwarhammer-onlineFri, 03 Oct 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Blizzard interview focuses on Wrath and the changing player experience]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/24/blizzard-interview-focuses-on-wrath-and-the-changing-player-expe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/24/blizzard-interview-focuses-on-wrath-and-the-changing-player-expe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/24/blizzard-interview-focuses-on-wrath-and-the-changing-player-expe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


As the Wrath of the Lich King expansion gets closer to release, World of Warcraft players have a number of questions about how the game experience is going to change for them as the title moves forward. Co-lead designer Tom Chilton and producer J. Allen Brack spoke with Oli Welsh from Eurogamer at the Games Convention in Leipzig, about where the Blizzard title is now, and where it's heading.

The interview touched on how Blizzard will handle instances in the Death Knight starting zone in Wrath of the Lich King, with Brack stating that instances won't actually be used. Rather, a player's environment will shift between different world states dependent upon quest progression. Other highlights of their talk include the design aspects of the hero class, faster leveling, and whether new players can really have the same experience that drew so many gamers to World of Warcraft years ago. Be sure to check out the Eurogamer interview for the full story on Wrath of the Lich King, particularly the Achievement system and how Blizzard feels about its growing competition.
One of Azeroth's millions of citizens? Check out our ongoing coverage of the World of Warcraft, and be sure to touch base with our sister site WoW Insider for all your Lich King needs!

MassivelyBlizzard interview focuses on Wrath and the changing player experience originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 24 Aug 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardclassescompetitiondesigndual-boxeurogamerexpansionsfantasygame-mechanicsgames-conventiongcherohero-classinstancesinterviewinterviewsj-allen-brackleipziglevelingoli-welshpvequest-progressionquestsrecruit-a-friendtom-chiltonworld-of-warcraftwotlkwowwrathwrath-of-the-lich-kingSun, 24 Aug 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Hero added to the Guild Wars NPC line-up]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/14/new-hero-added-to-the-guild-wars-npc-line-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/14/new-hero-added-to-the-guild-wars-npc-line-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/14/new-hero-added-to-the-guild-wars-npc-line-up/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It's been a long time since Guild Wars players have had any brand new content, so when we got word of a new Hero NPC being added soon, we got very excited. This new hero is named M.O.X. the Golem, and he is an Asuran construct, quoted as being "the ultimate in magic, mechanised party protection." He will be a Dervish class and not available in PvP at all.

However, there's more to the story. This new Hero will be made available in the new Guild Wars: The Complete Collection set due for release on September 5th, 2008. This edition will include all three Guild Wars campaigns, plus the only expansion, Eye of the North. That's not to say it will only be available through this purchased set though, as anyone who owns all three core campaigns on their account as of this Hero's September release date will get their hands on M.O.X.

MassivelyNew Hero added to the Guild Wars NPC line-up originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>guild-warsgwheromoxnpcthe-complete-collectionThu, 14 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Recognizing Champions Online's tabletop roots]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/18/recognizing-champions-tabletop-roots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/18/recognizing-champions-tabletop-roots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/18/recognizing-champions-tabletop-roots/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


One of the unexpected benefits (at least from our perspective) of Cryptic's shift from Marvel Universe Online to Champions Online is the professional relationship it fostered with the guys who managed the Champions pen and paper IP. While the crossover from paper RPG to MMO is far from straight-forward, there is a considerable brain trust from which Cryptic can draw in the creation of their game. The Escapist recently posted a terrific article which went into some depth with one such mastermind -- 16-year veteran of the franchise, Steve Long.

While Long maintains some unadulterated affection for the HERO character creation system of the pen and paper game, he seems to be of the belief that the current arrangement (with Cryptic buying the Champions IP outright and licensing it back to Hero) is going to be beneficial for both parties. While MMOs seem to be driving the overall simplification of pen and paper RPGs, Long thinks that MMOs have a lot to learn as well, especially in the areas of customization and interactivity with environments.

MassivelyRecognizing Champions Online's tabletop roots originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Jun 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>champions-onlinecrypticcryptic-studiosheropen-and-paperRPGssteve-longtabletopthe-escapistWed, 18 Jun 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sword of the New World expands with Nocturnal Sonata]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/07/sword-of-the-new-world-expands-with-nocturnal-sonata/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/07/sword-of-the-new-world-expands-with-nocturnal-sonata/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/07/sword-of-the-new-world-expands-with-nocturnal-sonata/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


IGN has a scoop on the new 'Nocturnal Sonata' expansion to Sword of the New World, an MMO also known as Granado Espada in Asia. Sword of the New World is a free-to-play title brought to North America and Europe by the K2 Network. Massively has looked at this game in the past and found it to be a quirky title; IGN describes its setting as 'the European Baroque period if it was designed by a modern anime artist'. Sword of the New World becomes even more surreal given that its old world setting is juxtaposed with a techno soundtrack.

Surreal qualities aside, the game has some interesting features, particularly the use of collectible UPCs, or Unique Player Characters. The concept is somewhat comparable to the Heroes in Guild Wars. You control up to three characters at once who are members of your 'family'; certain NPCs for whom you've successfully completed quests offer themselves up to be added to your family as UPCs and called upon to aid you in your adventures. They provide access to special hybrid classes with unique powers to match. There are over 40 such UPCs, and two more are initially being added in the Nocturnal Sonata expansion: Vincent Rio (who inflicts damage with music) and Baek Ho (martial artist extraordinaire). Yet more UPCs are to follow in the coming months, adding new gameplay possibilities to Sword of the New World. The Nocturnal Sonata expansion will be released on June 25, and closely follows the 'The Land of the Dead' expansion released only three months ago.

MassivelySword of the New World expands with Nocturnal Sonata originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 07 Jun 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>collectcollectibleexpansionfantasyfree-to-playgranado-espadaguild-warsheroheroesignk2-networkk2-network-incland-of-the-deadnocturnal-sonatanpcquestsurrealsword-of-the-new-worldtechnounique-player-characterupcSat, 07 Jun 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Heroic downtime]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/27/one-shots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/27/one-shots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/27/one-shots/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


When you've had a long day of fighting villains in City of Heroes and you just need to relax, there are a few places heroes like to hang out. For the dancing and partying types, you have Pocket D, conveniently located between dimensions. For the more relaxed type, you could hang out in your Supergroup's Base, but one would think that staring at the bins full of odds and ends might get boring after a little while if you didn't have some SG friends to talk to. For those who just like to people-watch, there's also Atlas Park -- home of many a costume contest. Today's One Shot comes from one such heroic reader, Matthew, who decided to get in some people-watching since it was "just another lazy Sunday night in Atlas Park."

Do you have a place you like to hang out and people-watch in your favorite game? Perhaps you know the hot spot that everyone likes to be social in? If so, why not send us a screenshot of what people are doing in your game! Just pop them in a mail to oneshots@massively.com with a quick note about what's going on, and you're done. Easy, no?

Gallery: One Shots

MassivelyOne Shots: Heroic downtime originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Mar 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlas-parkcity-of-heroescohfeaturedheroncsoftone-shotsscreenshotscreenshotsThu, 27 Mar 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Holic open beta coming up]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/07/holic-open-beta-coming-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/07/holic-open-beta-coming-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/07/holic-open-beta-coming-up/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Another one for your calendars, gamers. Holic, the MMORPG that features a slew of unusual features including User-Created-Quests and User-Created-Dungeons is heading out of closed beta and into open beta, this month, on the 17th.

Yes, its cute. Yes, its from Korea. Yes, it's 3D. Yes, you can travel by shooting yourself over vast distances out of cannons. Yes, there's a job system. Yes, there's robot pets. Did I mention it was cute and that you could travel by shooting yourself out of gigantic human cannons?

Continue reading Holic open beta coming up

MassivelyHolic open beta coming up originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 Jan 2008 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aresheroholicnetgamescions-of-fateMon, 07 Jan 2008 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fury introduces free-to-play option]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/12/fury-introduces-free-to-play-option/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/12/fury-introduces-free-to-play-option/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/12/fury-introduces-free-to-play-option/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Auran and Gamecock Media Group have made a press release announcing that a new free-to-download and free-to-play option for Fury will be available with the upcoming "Age of the Chosen" content update on December 14th. Those downloading the game for free (known as "Chosen") will be able to play as much as they want and not be charged anything, but will earn essence and gold at a reduced rate, and cannot trade with other players.

Chosen players can purchase gold with real-life money, or pay to upgrade their account to "Hero" status and earn more gold and essence and have trading privileges. Buying Fury from a retail store will now give you a Hero status account straight away. The Age of the Chosen update will also introduce a 1v1 Elimination mode, and a Carnage mode that involves two teams slaughtering NPC bots and not each other.

The changes to Fury's business model come amidst recent doubts about the game's future -- which were later quelled by Auran CEO Tony Hilliam -- and a painful reception from critics.

[Via GameSpot]

MassivelyFury introduces free-to-play option originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Dec 2007 06:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-the-chosenaurancarnagechoseneliminationfree-to-downloadgamecock-media-groupheroimmortaltony-hilliamupdateWed, 12 Dec 2007 06:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Character Creation: "I Have a Great Idea for a ..."]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/03/character-creation-i-have-a-great-idea-for-a/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/03/character-creation-i-have-a-great-idea-for-a/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/03/character-creation-i-have-a-great-idea-for-a/#commentsFiled under: ,

C8H10N402: it's the most widely-used psychoactive drug in the world, blocks adenosine - the chemical which regulates your energy metabolism - exhausts the adrenal glands, and can push your cortisol levels high enough that it runs the risk of shrinking the part of the brain necessary for memory. It's also the call sign for Caffeina, one of my newest characters on City of Heroes.

The basics of character creation are pretty similar for everyone: first, I create a character concept, and then I play around with various outfits.

Now comes the difficult part: picking a name, and testing out different power sets that seem to fit the concept. Occasionally I'll stumble upon a combination that works swimmingly from the get-go, but it usually takes a few builds to come up with a character that I feel fits the model I've built in my head. Occasionally, however, the concept is not able to be built out in a realistic manner, and I hold the character in abeyance, hoping that a future issue will supply power sets or costume options to make the character work.

Continue reading Character Creation: "I Have a Great Idea for a ..."

MassivelyCharacter Creation: "I Have a Great Idea for a ..." originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 03 Nov 2007 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Character-CreationCity-of-HeroesCity-of-VillainsControllerCoXCryptic-StudiosHeroIllusionKineticsNCsoftPower-SetSat, 03 Nov 2007 10:30:00 EST