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[World of Tanks' 7.4 update to feature new game modes, maps]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/world-of-tanks-7-4-update-to-feature-new-game-modes-maps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/world-of-tanks-7-4-update-to-feature-new-game-modes-maps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/world-of-tanks-7-4-update-to-feature-new-game-modes-maps/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

World of Tanks - French SPG
Two new game modes are coming to World of Tanks. Encounter battle and assault will both debut with the 7.4 patch, as Wargaming.net looks to up the ante in terms of complicated combat assignments.

The patch will also expand the French tank tree as well as add two new maps to the mix. The first map is called Widepark, and it takes place amidst the ruins of a bombed out German town. The second map is called Airfield. It transports players to a Mediterranean location surrounded by temple ruins and rocky hills.

The most noteworthy 7.4 changes, though, are the game modes. Encounter battle "invites two sides to fight for one base," according to a Wargaming.net press release. Assault "sets the players in the roles of attackers and defenders where the former have superior combat capabilities," the company says.

[Source: Wargaming.net press release]

MassivelyWorld of Tanks' 7.4 update to feature new game modes, maps originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 May 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7.4-updatef2pfree-to-playhistoricalnew-mapspvptanktankswarwargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-of-tanks-7.4world-of-tanks-assaultworld-of-tanks-encounter-battleworld-of-tanks-game-modeswotWed, 23 May 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Warplanes closed beta starts May 31st]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/world-of-warplanes-closed-beta-starts-may-31st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/world-of-warplanes-closed-beta-starts-may-31st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/world-of-warplanes-closed-beta-starts-may-31st/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

World of Warplanes closed beta starts May 31st
If you've been holding out hope for an invite to the World of Warplanes global alpha, take heart. Wargaming.net has just announced that it's moving its aviation shooter into closed beta on May 31st.

The company says its "army of test pilots will be increased drastically" as a result, so be sure to sign up on the official WoWP website. World of Warplanes is a lobby-based flight combat game set during aviation's golden age. It features aircraft ranging from 1930s biplanes to 1950s jets. For more on the game, check out our recent interview with producer Anton Sitnikau.

[Source: Wargaming.net press release]

MassivelyWorld of Warplanes closed beta starts May 31st originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaclosed-betaf2pfree-to-playglobal-alphahistoricalplaneplanespvpwarwargaming.netwarplanewarplanesworld-of-warplanesworld-of-warplanes-betaworld-of-warplanes-closed-betawowpwowp-betawowp-closed-betaTue, 22 May 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaderboard: Permadeath vs. no permadeath]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/leaderboard-permadeath-vs-no-permadeath/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/leaderboard-permadeath-vs-no-permadeath/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/leaderboard-permadeath-vs-no-permadeath/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Permadeath
Permadeath is one of those game mechanics that seems destined to forever be nibbling away at the fringe of the MMO genre than invited to the cool kids' table. Many players find themselves aghast at the notion of losing all their hard-earned progress with one untimely demise, and it seems like game developers agree with them: Very few MMOs have any sort of permadeath option.

However, this most-severest-of-severe death penalties does persist. Some players elect to form guilds and meta-groups to pursue a permadeath lifestyle in their games. A few upcoming titles, such as Salem and Wizardry Online, have permadeath as a core mechanic. Even the recently released Diablo III has a "hardcore" permadeath mode for the brave at heart.

The question we put before you today is yet another nibble that may never be noticed by the mainstream, but it's important to consider: Is permadeath worth including in MMO design, even as an optional mechanic or server, or should this brand of death penalty kick the bucket once and for all? Vote after the jump!

Continue reading Leaderboard: Permadeath vs. no permadeath

MassivelyLeaderboard: Permadeath vs. no permadeath originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 May 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattle-royalbattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrowserbrowser-basedcash-shopd3ddodiablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlinef2pfantasyfree-to-playgothic-fantasyhistoricalleaderboardmultiplayernew-englandone-on-oneone-vs-oneonline-multiplayeropinionparadoxparadox-interactivepermadeathpermanent-deathpollpollsroguelikerpgsalemsandboxturbineturbine-entertainmentversusvotevotesvotingvswizardry-onlineMon, 21 May 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Firing Line: World of Warplanes producer talks matchmaking, progression]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/the-firing-line-world-of-warplanes-producer-talks-matchmaking/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/the-firing-line-world-of-warplanes-producer-talks-matchmaking/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/the-firing-line-world-of-warplanes-producer-talks-matchmaking/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Firing Line - World of Warplanes producer interview
Last week I talked a bit about a couple of flight sim shooters coming soon to a PC near you. One of them is World of Warplanes, the followup title to Wargaming.net's ubiquitous World of Tanks hit.

The World War II action MMO masters are slipping the surly bonds of earth with a new lobby-based battler that's currently flying through the early phases of its global alpha test. I had a few burning questions for the devs, including specifics on the matchmaking system, progression, and the possibility of historical scenarios. Producer Anton Sitnikau was gracious enough to answer those and more, so head past the break to see what he had to say.

Continue reading The Firing Line: World of Warplanes producer talks matchmaking, progression

MassivelyThe Firing Line: World of Warplanes producer talks matchmaking, progression originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 May 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anton-sitnikauexclusivef2pfeaturedfpsfree-to-playhistoricalinterviewinterviewsmassively-exclusivematchmakingmmofpsopinionplaneplanespvptflthe-firing-linethird-person-shootertpswarwargaming.netwargaming.net-matchmakingwarplanewarplanesworld-of-warplanesworld-of-warplanes-interviewworld-of-warplanes-matchmakingworld-of-warplanes-producer-interviewwowpwowp-interviewwowp-matchmakingFri, 18 May 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Assembly Required: I saw the wilds of Salem (and lived to tell about it)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/some-assembly-required-i-saw-the-wilds-of-salem-and-lived-to-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/some-assembly-required-i-saw-the-wilds-of-salem-and-lived-to-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/some-assembly-required-i-saw-the-wilds-of-salem-and-lived-to-t/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Some Assembly Required - Salem dev tour
I spent an hour romping through the woods of Salem last Friday with Seatribe head honcho Bjorn Johannessen. The tiny indie company (current dev population: two) is hard at work on its followup to Haven and Hearth, an acquired taste of a sandbox game notable for its no-holds barred approach that includes permadeath and the ability to summon (and kill) criminal characters -- even while their lulz-loving puppet-masters are offline.

Publisher Paradox bills Salem as "the crafting MMO," and boy it's not kidding. Over the course of this particular dev tour, I saw crazy amounts of tradeskill functionality, all kinds of cool world-building stuff, and ultimately, more than enough reasons to spend time with the game when it launches later this year.

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: I saw the wilds of Salem (and lived to tell about it)

MassivelySome Assembly Required: I saw the wilds of Salem (and lived to tell about it) originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 May 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bjorn-Johannessenbodily-humorscraftingf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgame-mechanicshistoricalhumorsmetagamenew-englandopinionparadoxparadox-interactivepermadeathpgcplayer-contentplayer-created-contentplayer-generated-contentsalemsalem-skillssandboxsarseatribeskill-basedsome-assembly-requiredtradeskillinguser-generated-contentFri, 18 May 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 201: No more secrets]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/massively-speaking-episode-201-no-more-secrets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/massively-speaking-episode-201-no-more-secrets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/massively-speaking-episode-201-no-more-secrets/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World
Massively Speaking Episode 201 gets into all of your dirty little secrets -- not to mention Funcom's, as well! We're joined by Jef, who gives us the full scoop on The Secret World now that the NDA's come tumbling down. Will this be another Failcom or possibly a Fabulouscom? Only Jef knows, and he's highly resistant to torture and bribery.

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

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



Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 201: No more secrets

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 201: No more secrets originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionanetarenanetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrantbrian-greenbrian-psychchild-greenbrianna-roycebricksbrowserbrowser-basedddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineearthrisef2pfactionfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfuncomguild-wars-2gw2historicalhorrorhumorjustin-olivettilord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromassively-speakingmastheadmasthead-studiosmythologynamastenamaste-entertainmentnamaste-incncsoftnew-englandopinionparadoxparadox-interactivepermadeathpgcplayer-generated-contentpodcastpodcastingpodcastspsychochildsalemsandboxsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldskill-basedstorybricksthe-secret-worldtswturbineturbine-entertainmentvirtual-worldwarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 15 May 2012 16:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 201Massively.com Staff01:03:33podcasts<![CDATA[World of Warplanes video diary details classes, roles]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/world-of-warplanes-video-diary-details-classes-roles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/world-of-warplanes-video-diary-details-classes-roles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/world-of-warplanes-video-diary-details-classes-roles/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

World of Warplanes - dev diary title screen
Looking for the latest World of Warplanes news? Wargaming.net has you covered with part two of its developer diary video series.

The clip introduces us to some of the dev personalities working on the game as well as the three main aircraft classes (fighters, heavy fighters, and ground attack planes). "Fighters top the food chain," according to historical consultant Yuri Pasholok. "They are the most widespread, versatile, and -- pound for pound -- the deadliest class in the game."

In comparison, ground attack birds are "slow, clumsy, and very heavy." Pasholok says, "To imagine what flying a ground attack plane is like, think of flying a tank." Why would you want to fly a tank? Well, for the ridiculous amounts of destructive firepower, of course. Finally, heavy fighters are something of a middle ground between the previous two classes. They can take a beating better than their light fighter counterparts, but their main objective is defense and interception. Click past the cut to view the full video, and be sure to check out The Firing Line this Friday for an exclusive World of Warplanes producer interview.

Continue reading World of Warplanes video diary details classes, roles

MassivelyWorld of Warplanes video diary details classes, roles originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 May 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dev-diaryf2pfightersfree-to-playground-attack-planesheavy-fightershistoricalplaneplanespvptrailervideovideo-dev-diarywarwargaming.netwarplanewarplanesworld-of-warplanesworld-of-warplanes-classeswowpwowp-classeswowp-dev-diarywowp-video-dev-diaryTue, 15 May 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Woodland critters]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/13/one-shots-woodland-critters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/13/one-shots-woodland-critters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/13/one-shots-woodland-critters/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

One Shots
TERA isn't quite two weeks old, but it's already offering up some spectacular views. Kromic on the Dragonfall server paused while riding on his mount to take this shot. He writes in,
While doing some exploring on my trusty steed in TERA, I found a great view of the capital city Velika.
His screenshot is just after the cut, along with three more images of woodland critters doing their duty to spice up our MMO scenery.

Continue reading One Shots: Woodland critters

MassivelyOne Shots: Woodland critters originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 13 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-tale-in-the-desertatitdblueholebluehole-studiosbring-back-one-shotsegenesisegypten-masseen-masse-entertainmenteq-2eq-iieq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfree-to-playgalleriesgalleryhistoricalmythologyone-shotsreader-screenshotsreader-submissionsriftrift-literift-planes-of-telarasandboxscreenshotscreenshotssoesonysony-online-entertainmenttaletellingteratriontrion-worldsuser-submissionsSun, 13 May 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Salem sandbox MMO not for the faint of heart]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/salem-sandbox-mmo-not-for-the-faint-of-heart/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/salem-sandbox-mmo-not-for-the-faint-of-heart/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/salem-sandbox-mmo-not-for-the-faint-of-heart/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Salem gameplay screenshot
Twenty minutes of gameplay doesn't seem like a lot when it comes to previewing an MMO, but PC Gamer is giving it the ol' college try with a look at Seatribe's new Salem sandbox. You know the Salem we mean. The one with... permadeath. Ooooh. Scary.

Anyhow, the piece offers up a few interesting insights, like when creative lead Bjorn Johannessen admits that the devs "have almost nothing to do with what happens" outside the game's only safe area (a colonial-era Boston). Another noteworthy tidbit is the fact that Salem doesn't display avatar names. Instead, it prompts you to name other characters for yourself (or trust that someone is who he says he is).

For more on Salem, check out the source below as well as our permadeath-flavored interview with Johannessen in Some Assembly Required.

MassivelySalem sandbox MMO not for the faint of heart originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 May 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bjorn-Johannessenbrowserbrowser-basedf2pfantasyfree-to-playhistoricalnew-englandparadoxparadox-interactivepermadeathsalemsandboxWed, 09 May 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Warplanes heavy fighter class revealed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/world-of-warplanes-heavy-fighter-class-revealed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/world-of-warplanes-heavy-fighter-class-revealed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/world-of-warplanes-heavy-fighter-class-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

World of Warplanes - heavy fighters
Wargaming.net has taken the wraps off its next World of Warplanes aircraft class. Heavy fighters are the subject of a new teaser video and a new press release, with the former featuring just over a minute of gameplay footage. Right now, the interceptors are confined to the German tech tree, but Wargaming.net promises that they'll be added to other nation rosters as well.

"Their size, power and armament allow heavy fighters to fulfill a great variety of objectives including interception, head-on attacks, and bombing, making them one of the most versatile classes of air forces," the company says.

German heavy fighters include the Fw.57, the Bf.110, the Me.410, and the Me.P.1102. Get a look at the full video clip after the cut.

[Source: Wargaming.net press release]

Continue reading World of Warplanes heavy fighter class revealed

MassivelyWorld of Warplanes heavy fighter class revealed originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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World of Tanks - French destroyer
One of these days we're going to write a story about how Wargaming.net has colonized another planet and is busy converting its indigenous population into fiendishly addicted action MMO players. Today, though, the company is settling for Korea.

The month of May brings the latest territorial expansion for the firm's ubiquitous World of Tanks brand as well as a new Korean office. "We are proud to announce that Wargaming.net is just a couple of steps away from establishing its Korean presence," says CEO Victor Kislyi. "Now that we're fully prepared to meet [the] high expectations of the Korean gaming community, I don't see any reasons for World of Tanks not to become a success."

Wargaming.net launched World of Tanks in 2011. The company is currently conducting global alpha tests for its World of Warplanes followup as well as developing World of Battleships.

[Source: Wargaming.net press release]

MassivelyWargaming.net looking to conquer Korea originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 May 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfree-to-playhistoricalpvptanktankswarwargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-of-tanks-koreawotMon, 07 May 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Tanks appreciates the military with a World of Thanks]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/world-of-tanks-appreciates-the-military-with-a-world-of-thanks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/world-of-tanks-appreciates-the-military-with-a-world-of-thanks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/world-of-tanks-appreciates-the-military-with-a-world-of-thanks/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

If you've actually been shot at in a tank, this game is probably a bit less fun.
When you log in and play World of Tanks, you're playing the entertaining part of war, the part with cool machines wreaking havoc. Real wars obviously aren't fought by logging in and choosing a tank; they're fought by brave men and women willing to lay down their lives for their country if necessary. Thus, in honor of National Military Appreciation Month, Wargaming.net is donating to several charities for American veterans with your purchases.

Four charities -- AMVETS, Homes for our Troops, the Military Families Fund, and Paralyzed Veterans of America -- will be receiving 10% of the proceeds from all American purchases of larger Gold packs and 75% of the proceeds for all American purchases of the T14 package. To help raise awareness of veteran concerns, the company will also be hosting several giveaways through the month. It's a nice nod toward the reality of armed conflicts, and it lets you play at a private little war while still donating to survivors of real battles.

MassivelyWorld of Tanks appreciates the military with a World of Thanks originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 May 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charitycharity-donationscharity-eventsf2pfree-to-playhistoricalin-game-eventsmilitarymilitary-appreciation-monthpvptanktankswarwargaming.networld-of-tankswotThu, 03 May 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Firing Line: Five reasons to love Tribes: Ascend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/the-firing-line-five-reasons-to-love-tribes-ascend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/the-firing-line-five-reasons-to-love-tribes-ascend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/the-firing-line-five-reasons-to-love-tribes-ascend/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Firing Line - Five reasons to love Tribes: Ascend
Oh, Tribes: Ascend, if only you were an MMO.

Actually, wait a minute. When I think on it, if Hi-Rez Studios' new free-to-play sci-fi shooter were an MMO, I probably wouldn't like it as much. There's something to be said for frequent updates and instant gameplay gratification, and Tribes provides those things (and more) in spades.

Continue reading The Firing Line: Five reasons to love Tribes: Ascend

MassivelyThe Firing Line: Five reasons to love Tribes: Ascend originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 27 Apr 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ascendccpccp-gamesconsolecustom-serverscustom-sharddustdust-514e-sportesporteveeve-onlinef2pfeaturedfiring-linefirst-person-shooterfpsfree-to-playhi-rezhi-rez-studioshistoricalmmofpsopinionplaneplanesplaystationplaystation-3private-serverprivate-serversprivate-shardsps3pvpraid-and-pillageshootertanktankstflthe-firing-linethird-person-shootertpstribestribes-ascendtribes-ascend-raid-and-pillagetribes-clan-servertribes-custom-servertribes-mmotribes-private-servertribes-raid-and-pillagetribes-universewarwargaming.netwarplanewarplanesworld-of-tanksworld-of-warplaneswotwowpFri, 27 Apr 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Tanks launches in Southeast Asia this week]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/world-of-tanks-launches-in-southeast-asia-this-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/world-of-tanks-launches-in-southeast-asia-this-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/world-of-tanks-launches-in-southeast-asia-this-week/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

World of Tanks - burning tank
World of Tanks has some gaudy user numbers. Even though MMO companies and PR firms are known for their Hollywood accounting when it comes to player statistics, 24 million users is a lot any way you slice it.

It's not enough for Wargaming.net, though, so the company is shipping its brand of lobby-based World War II tank action to Southeast Asia this week. The game is coming to Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Thailand, and it's bringing its arsenal of more than 150 armored vehicles with it.

Local support, distribution, marketing, and operational concerns are in the hands of SEA Gaming. World of Tanks originally launched in March of 2011 as the first game in a planned trilogy of World War II-based action titles.

[Source: Wargaming.net press release]

MassivelyWorld of Tanks launches in Southeast Asia this week originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24-million-usersf2pfree-to-playhistoricalpvpseasea-gamingtanktankswarwargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-of-tanks-southeast-asiawotThu, 26 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Firing Line: World of Tanks first-anniversary retrospective]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/the-firing-line-world-of-tanks-first-anniversary-retrospective/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/the-firing-line-world-of-tanks-first-anniversary-retrospective/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/the-firing-line-world-of-tanks-first-anniversary-retrospective/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Firing Line - World of Tanks anniversary retrospective
We've been hearing about World of Tanks for so long that it seems crazy to think the title is just now celebrating its first anniversary. Sure enough, though, Wargaming.net's lobby-based multiplayer title is barely a year old. Well, OK. It's almost two years old if you count its summer 2010 beta release, which we won't since the title up there says first anniversary.

Anyhow, what's even scarier than the passage of time is the fact that World of Tanks (and the company behind it) is showing no signs of slowing down.

Continue reading The Firing Line: World of Tanks first-anniversary retrospective

MassivelyThe Firing Line: World of Tanks first-anniversary retrospective originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfeaturedfiring-linefirst-anniversaryfpsfree-to-playhistoricalmmofpsopinionpvptanktankstflthe-firing-linethird-person-shootertpswarwargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-of-tanks-anniversaryworld-of-tanks-first-birthdayworld-of-tanks-retrospectivewotwot-anniversaryFri, 20 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE games down Monday for 24-hour maintenance]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/soe-games-down-monday-for-24-hour-maintenance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/soe-games-down-monday-for-24-hour-maintenance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/soe-games-down-monday-for-24-hour-maintenance/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

SOE logo
We imagine that the word downtime makes Sony Online Entertainment employees cringe, convulse, and eye-twitch for hours on end after last summer's disastrous hacker-induced service outage. Happily, though, the next service interruption is planned, and we've got plenty of notice.

SOE will be performing maintenance this Monday, April 23rd, and the firm says that all of its game services will be unavailable for approximately 24 hours. The downtime starts at 3:01 a.m. EDT. Commerce transactions and account management functionality will also be affected, so you might as well cross all of your SOE-related plans off Monday's calendar.

MassivelySOE games down Monday for 24-hour maintenance originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Apr 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedclassic-mmoconsoleconsolesdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuoeqeq-2eq-iieq1eq2eqiieverquesteverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfpsfrfree-realmsfree-to-playhistoricalkid-friendlykidskids-mmommofpspiratespirates-of-the-burning-seaplanetsideplaystation-3playstation3potbspsps1ps3sandboxsci-fisoesoe-downtimesoe-maintenancesoe-planned-maintenancesoe-service-interruptionsonysony-online-entertainmentsuperherosuperheroestelonvanguardvanguard-saga-of-heroesvgFri, 20 Apr 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mount & Blade: Warband DLC features 250-player battles]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/mount-and-blade-warband-dlc-features-250-player-battles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/mount-and-blade-warband-dlc-features-250-player-battles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/mount-and-blade-warband-dlc-features-250-player-battles/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Mount and Blade: Warband - Napoleonic Wars
A Mount & Blade MMO is something we've wanted to see for a long time. While that's not exactly happening, 250-player battles is probably the next best thing. Paradox has just released a new DLC pack for Mount & Blade: Warband called Napoleonic Wars. It brings the game's signature real-time combat to 19th century Europe and gives players the ability to use soldiers, artillery, and even battlefield musicians to wage epic multiplayer battles.

Napoleonic Wars features five nations, a wide range of artillery pieces, over 220 new units, an Engineer class that uses barricades, trenches, and explosives. There's also a new commander battle mode for your squad-leader gameplay needs. The DLC pack will set you back $9.99. Oh, and don't forget to check out the launch trailer after the cut.

[Source: Paradox press release]

Continue reading Mount & Blade: Warband DLC features 250-player battles

MassivelyMount & Blade: Warband DLC features 250-player battles originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250-player-battlesbattlefield-musiciansdlcengineerfantasyflying-squirrelhistoricalmount-and-blademount-and-blade-dlcmount-and-blade-expansionmount-and-blade-warbandmount-and-blade-warband-napoleonic-warsnapoleonic-warsparadoxParadox-InteractivetaleworldstrailersvideowarFri, 20 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New World of Warplanes gameplay video showcases fighters]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/new-world-of-warplanes-gameplay-video-showcases-fighters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/new-world-of-warplanes-gameplay-video-showcases-fighters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/new-world-of-warplanes-gameplay-video-showcases-fighters/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

World of Warplanes - Bf-109
Wargaming.net has released another brief gameplay video from its upcoming World of Warplanes opus. The footage focuses on fighter-class aircraft, which the firm says are designed for "offensive reconnaissance, engaging in close one-on-one dogfights, and effective attacking in groups of two or three."

Like all of WoWP's aircraft, fighters will feature various engines, ammunition types, and assorted customizable modules that allow players to tune for optimum combat performance.

World of Warplanes is currently in global alpha, but Wargaming.net says that closed beta is "coming soon." In the meantime, check out the clip after the cut.

[Source: Wargaming.net press release]

Continue reading New World of Warplanes gameplay video showcases fighters

MassivelyNew World of Warplanes gameplay video showcases fighters originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphabetaf2pfighters-videofree-to-playglobal-alphahistoricalplaneplanespvpvideowarwargaming.netwarplanewarplanesworld-of-warplanesworld-of-warplanes-videowowpwowp-fighters-videowowp-videoThu, 19 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: Ultimate road trip edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/choose-my-adventure-ultimate-road-trip-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/choose-my-adventure-ultimate-road-trip-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/choose-my-adventure-ultimate-road-trip-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Choose My Adventure
Let's go for another spin!

Just like Mikey of Life cereal fame, I ventured into the realm of Choose My Adventure once before, and I liked it! Grand adventures, camaraderie with readers, exploring the unknown... what more could I ask for? More time, obviously!

It ended all too soon. I was totally revved up and ready to jump right back in, but unfortunately neither pleading nor bribery worked to continue my stint as your plucky puppet (and locking the other staff members in a dark closet didn't pan out either -- they escaped), so I had to park it and wait my turn. It took much too long, but finally my time has come again. *happy dance*

Now the boss may have handed me the keys, but you will be the ones driving. The top is down, and I've got snacks and shades; all that is left to begin our adventure for the next six weeks is to pick which direction to head and floor it. Although a lot of good places have already been visited, there are plenty more to choose from. In the mood for fantasy? Capes? Nebulas? Heavy artillery? Cast your votes by Sunday, April 22nd, 2012, at 11:59 p.m. EDT for your chance to steer me to the world of your choice. Our possible destinations (in no particular order) are...

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: Ultimate road trip edition

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: Ultimate road trip edition originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acaeriaaeria-gamesage-of-conanage-of-conan-unchainedanarchy-onlineaoaocaoc-unchainedasherons-callchampionschampions-onlinechampschoose-my-adventurechoose-my-adventure-mj-guthriecity-of-heroescity-of-villainsclassic-mmocmacocohconanconsoleconsolescovcoxcrypticcryptic-studiosdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuoeden-eternalf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreedomfuncomhands-onhistoricalhyboriancsoftopinionparagonparagon-studiosperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentplaystation-3playstation3pollpollsps3pvppwereaders-choicesandboxsci-fisoesony-online-entertainmentstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestosuperherosuperheroestanktanksturbineturbine-entertainmentunchainedvotevotingwarwargaming.networld-of-tankswotWed, 18 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wargaming.net releases World of Warplanes video dev diary]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/wargaming-net-releases-world-of-warplanes-video-dev-diary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/wargaming-net-releases-world-of-warplanes-video-dev-diary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/wargaming-net-releases-world-of-warplanes-video-dev-diary/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

World of Warplanes - Video dev diary #1
Anxious for an update on World of Warplanes? If so, Wargaming.net has just the thing in the form of a new video dev blog that features gameplay footage and talking head interviews with various project principals.

The clip resides on Wargaming.net's YouTube portal (and we've also got it for you after the cut, below). It's entirely in Russian, but fortunately it's also packed with sub-titles for the rest of us. Much of the info is a recap if you've been following the game for some time, but there are some interesting tidbits regarding aircraft prototypes (i.e., avatars that are quite different from the usual Mustang, Spitfire, and Sturmovik suspects found in most flight sims).

The dev diary also tells us that while WoWP will initially ship with 20 planes per nation, the roster will gradually expand up to 100 aircraft for each faction.

Continue reading Wargaming.net releases World of Warplanes video dev diary

MassivelyWargaming.net releases World of Warplanes video dev diary originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dev-diaryf2pfree-to-playhistoricalplaneplanespvpvideowarwargaming.netwarplanewarplanesworld-of-warplanesworld-of-warplanes-dev-diarywowpwowp-dev-diaryTue, 17 Apr 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Tanks celebrates its first year]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/world-of-tanks-celebrates-its-first-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/world-of-tanks-celebrates-its-first-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/world-of-tanks-celebrates-its-first-year/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

World of Tanks anniversary
Bring on the armored confetti! World of Tanks is celebrating its first anniversary, and Wargaming.net is "tankful" for the over 24 million registered players worldwide. Has the growth caused some shell-shock? "Our growth over the last year has been nothing short of amazing. A year ago, no one in the company could possibly imagine that World of Tanks would have skyrocketed like this," said Wargaming.net CEO Victor Kislyi.

So what have all these users been up to over the last 12 months? They have participated in 350 million battles, fired more than 75 billion shells (scoring 48 billion direct hits), and destroyed more than eight billion armored vehicles. On top of that, World of Tanks secured the Guinness World Record for the Most Players Online Simultaneously on One MMO Server in January 2011 with 91,311 simultaneous players. The game has even broken that record multiple times, reaching a hefty 450,000 players online at one time.

WoT has no intention of resting on its laurels; Kislyi assures us that "the game isn't slowing down anytime soon." In fact, he says, "We have massive expectations for the upcoming year, and we'll continue to drive game development that will keep our players engaged and excited."

Join in the celebration: Watch the video after the cut and then check out our one-year retrospective in next week's The Firing Line.

[Source: Wargaming.net press release]

Continue reading World of Tanks celebrates its first year

MassivelyWorld of Tanks celebrates its first year originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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This is a game about basketball.
Much like its predecessor, World of Warplanes is not a game with an ambiguous title. This is a game about planes, and not the sort that flies cargo from one point on the globe to another. If flying around and getting into aerial dogfights sounds like an unappealing concept to you, well, you can pretty much just exit stage left when you hear the name.

But the lack of subtlety in the name, however noteworthy, doesn't really say much about the game itself. Is it fun to play? Does it succeed in what it sets out to do? Really, is it just World of Tanks up in the air? I can't speak to the last one, but I can say that it definitely delivers on its stated design goals. This is a game all about maximizing the rush of an aerial fight and striking a balance between crafting an in-depth flight simulation and providing accessibility to those new to the genre.

Gallery: World of Warplanes

Continue reading PAX East 2012: World of Warplanes impressions

MassivelyPAX East 2012: World of Warplanes impressions originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Apr 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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World of Tanks - 7.3 video
It was just last week that Wargaming.net rolled out patch 7.2 for its World of Tanks action title. Today the company has announced the followup, and while we don't have a release date on 7.3 as of yet, we do know that it features quite a lot of new content.

First and foremost is the revamp to the game's Soviet tech tree, which sees heavy tanks split into two separate branches. The 7.3 update also brings a new South Coast battle arena to World of Tanks as well as Dragon's Ridge, the first of the game's maps to be set in Asia.

"We've got loads of exciting new content to share with our players," said Victor Kislyi, CEO of Wargaming.net. "The new machines should give players a taste for heavy vehicles, and with the help of the upcoming battle arenas, the game will get a fresh look from both a visual and tactical point of view." You can get a visual preview of 7.3 via the video after the cut.

[Source: Wargaming.net press release]

Continue reading World of Tanks 7.3 patch revamps Soviet tech tree, brings new maps

MassivelyWorld of Tanks 7.3 patch revamps Soviet tech tree, brings new maps originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dragons-ridgef2pfree-to-playhistoricalpvpsoviet-tech-treetanktankstrailervideowarwargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-of-tanks-7.3wotFri, 06 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Warplanes is adding dragons for that extra kick of historical accuracy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/world-of-warplanes-is-adding-dragons-for-that-extra-kick-of-hist/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/world-of-warplanes-is-adding-dragons-for-that-extra-kick-of-hist/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/world-of-warplanes-is-adding-dragons-for-that-extra-kick-of-hist/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Smaus dragon
In a press release from early this morning, Wargaming.net has announced that it's adding dragons to its upcoming World of Warplanes.

I'll just let that line sink in a bit before I continue. Yes, the studio is adding dragons; there's a video and everything (included past the cut). According to the release, the "initial tech tree will include 12 dragons and will eventually expand to more than 60 creatures. Each mystical animal will have its own peculiarities and strategic employment. Players can upgrade several key characteristics including fire intensity level, color, number of claws, horns, wingspan and skin thickness."

Now, I should remind you what this Sunday is, so you can put two and two together, but it's an interesting thought nonetheless.

Will we see more early April Fool's jokes today? Stay tuned!

Gallery: World of Warplanes Dragon Faction

Continue reading World of Warplanes is adding dragons for that extra kick of historical accuracy

MassivelyWorld of Warplanes is adding dragons for that extra kick of historical accuracy originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Screenshot -- World of Tanks
The World of Tanks is about to get just a bit bigger with the advent of the game's patch 7.2, which will hit the servers tomorrow morning. The update adds two new maps, 22 new crew skills and perks, and a number of new tanks (and some adjustments to existing ones).

But hey, why settle for words when you can have sweet, explosion-filled video? Wargaming.net has released a new trailer to get players excited about the new update. So while you (im)patiently await the patch's arrival on the live servers, why don't you grab yourself some popcorn and have a look?

[Thanks to Pharaoh for the tip!]

Continue reading World of Tanks' patch 7.2 locks and loads tomorrow

MassivelyWorld of Tanks' patch 7.2 locks and loads tomorrow originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Mar 2012 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7.2f2pfree-to-playhistoricalpatchpatch-7.2patchespvptanktankstrailertrailersvideovideoswarwargaming.networld-of-tankswotThu, 29 Mar 2012 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Colonize the New World: Salem opens beta sign-ups]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/colonize-the-new-world-salem-opens-beta-sign-ups/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/colonize-the-new-world-salem-opens-beta-sign-ups/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/colonize-the-new-world-salem-opens-beta-sign-ups/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Salem
It's time to set sail for the New World with Paradox Interactive's upcoming free-to-play sandbox title, Salem. The studio announced today that beta sign-ups for the title have opened up, and anyone and everyone is welcome to jump in and give the team feedback.

But remember, folks, the untamed wilderness of the New World is a harsh and unforgiving place, and death is not something to be taken lightly. If you don't play your cards just right, you could end up six feet under with no way of returning to the world of the living. Don't worry too much, though; the folks at Paradox have released a new video to give players a bit of a heads up on how to survive the wilderness. So after you're done with the "how-to-not-die-of-dysentery" primer, just head on over to the game's official site and get in on the test.

[Source: Paradox Interactive press release]

Continue reading Colonize the New World: Salem opens beta sign-ups

MassivelyColonize the New World: Salem opens beta sign-ups originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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World of Tanks - French tank
Wargaming.net is going through quite a growth spurt, and the company's CEO says it's not just about registered user numbers boosted by freeloading players. "We probably have one of the highest payment ratios in the industry, it's around 25 to 30 percent," Victor Kislyi recently told GamesIndustry.biz.

Kislyi also offered up some impressive concurrent user numbers for World of Tanks, including 423,000 simultaneous Russian tankers that he said outstrips the entirety of EVE Online's playerbase.

As for the "pay-to-win" rhetoric often found in World of Tanks internet discussions, Kislyi says it is what it is. "For casual gameplay, which most players do most of the time, people don't usually use gold or expendables. Of course if you want to win a tournament, if you're competitive, if you play clan wars, if you want to be at the top, we think it's appropriate to expect a little bit of money from you because you already spent hundreds of hours in our game and that's much more than the value of any $50 box."

MassivelyWorld of Tanks has 20 million registered users, making double-digit million profits monthly originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Mar 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelsconcurrent-user-recordconcurrent-usersf2pfree-to-playhistoricalmmo-industrypay-to-winpvptanktanksvictor-kislyiwarwargaming.networld-of-tankswotMon, 19 Mar 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2012: Wargaming.net on World of Warplanes, clan wars, and taking over the world]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/gdc-2012-wargaming-net-on-world-of-warplanes-clan-wars-and-ta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/gdc-2012-wargaming-net-on-world-of-warplanes-clan-wars-and-ta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/gdc-2012-wargaming-net-on-world-of-warplanes-clan-wars-and-ta/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Wargaming.net had a huge presence at this year's GDC, and why not? The firm is growing at an exponential rate, and we're not just talking about the fact that it has World of Warplanes and World of Battleships coming down the pike.

CEO Victor Kislyi told me that over the past year the firm has expanded to include 700+ employees and a global presence that features development centers in Kiev, Ukraine, and Russia. The firm's flagship World of Tanks title currently boasts 18 million players worldwide, and it is paving the way for the second and third entries in a World War II trilogy.

Its clan wars mode is also the starting point for a grand vision of military combat at the squad level.

Continue reading GDC 2012: Wargaming.net on World of Warplanes, clan wars, and taking over the world

MassivelyGDC 2012: Wargaming.net on World of Warplanes, clan wars, and taking over the world originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Salem
With all of the open world sandboxy goodness going on in Salem, one might wonder if Paradox Interactive is prepared for the level of griefing that can come with such games. Interestingly enough, the team has given this some serious thought and come up with an elegant system of crime and punishment in the game world.

Player villages are protected by claims that set these areas apart from the rest of the world, and these claims can be expanded by building certain structures. Griefers who set out to do harm or mischief against villages within these claims will leave a "scent" behind that can be used to track them. There are certain skills, such as ranging and tracking, that players need to have to follow the scent to the perpetrator, however. This opens the door for players to specialize in becoming bounty hunters who protect the village by rooting out enemies.

As for punishment, well, Creative Director Björn Johannessen expects players will take justice into their own hands -- and more than one perpetrator will pay the ultimate price for violating a peaceful sanctuary.

You can watch the full discussion of Salem's crime and punishment system after the jump.

Continue reading Crime and punishment in Salem, New World-style

MassivelyCrime and punishment in Salem, New World-style originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bjorn-johannesenbrowserbrowser-basedcrimef2pfantasyfree-to-playhistoricalnew-englandparadoxparadox-interactivepermadeathpunishmentsalemsandboxThu, 08 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 190: GDC Wednesday]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/massively-speaking-episode-190-gdc-wednesday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/massively-speaking-episode-190-gdc-wednesday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/massively-speaking-episode-190-gdc-wednesday/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Massively Speaking
Massively Speaking Episode 190 brings us another installment of the wild and wacky adventures of Massively's GDC crew. Today the entire ensemble has assembled, with Shawn, Jef, Karen, and MJ hogging the mike and sharing their impressions and experiences from the convention. Also, Karen rules from the Iron Throne, so do not mess with her or she'll send you to the Wall.

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

Get the podcast:
[iTunes] Subscribe to Massively Speaking directly in iTunes.
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[MP3] Download the MP3 directly.
Listen here on the page:



Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 190: GDC Wednesday

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 190: GDC Wednesday originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-game-of-thronesbattleshipbattleshipsbigpointbiowarebrantbrianna-royceccpccp-gamesconsoledark-legendsdustdust-514eveeve-onlinef2pfeaturedfpsfree-to-playgame-of-throneshistoricalhumorjustin-olivettimassively-speakingmechmechsmechwarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemmofpsmwoopinionpiranhapiranha-gamesplaneplanesplaystationplaystation-3podcastpodcastingpodcastsps3pvpsci-fishooterspacetime-studiostanktanksthe9triontrion-worldswarwargaming-netwargaming.netwarplanewarplaneswobworld-of-battleshipsworld-of-tanksworld-of-warplaneswotwowpThu, 08 Mar 2012 15:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 190Massively.com Staff00:28:20podcasts<![CDATA[World of Tanks takes aim at southeast Asia]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/world-of-tanks-takes-aim-at-southeast-asia/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/world-of-tanks-takes-aim-at-southeast-asia/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/world-of-tanks-takes-aim-at-southeast-asia/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

World of Tanks - French tank in a field, hopefully a newish screenshot
Wargaming.net might want to think seriously about changing its name to Worldgaming.net. The studio behind World of Warplanes announced today that it's bringing its World of Tanks MMO to southeast Asia. Wargaming has formed a partnership with SEA Gaming that will bring the World War II action title to gamers in Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Thailand.

This isn't a simple port of the European or American client, either, as Wargaming.net says gamers in the region can expect full localization, a Singapore-based server group, and dedicated support services.

Online gaming in southeast Asia features an estimated 100 million players, who will generate nearly $1 billion in sales by 2015, according to market analysts at Niko Partners.

[Source: Wargaming.net press release]

MassivelyWorld of Tanks takes aim at southeast Asia originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asian-marketf2pfree-to-playhistoricallocalizationmmo-industrypvpsoutheast-asiatanktankswarwargaming.networld-of-tankswotThu, 08 Mar 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2012: Wargaming.net reveals first World of Warplanes gameplay trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/06/wargaming-net-reveals-first-world-of-warplanes-gameplay-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/06/wargaming-net-reveals-first-world-of-warplanes-gameplay-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/06/wargaming-net-reveals-first-world-of-warplanes-gameplay-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

World of Warplanes - alpha trailer
Wargaming.net is kicking the tires and lighting the fires of its newest World War II-era action MMO. World of Warplanes is currently in alpha testing, and the firm has just released a new trailer featuring plenty of PvP footage from the upcoming game.

If you're into horsepower, dogfighting, or fast-paced action gameplay, you'll want to click past the cut as soon as possible and check out a minute and a half of what Wargaming.net calls "pure adrenaline." And don't forget to check in with Massively later this week for our World of Warplanes coverage from GDC 2012.

Massively sent four resolute reporters to San Francisco to bring you back the biggest MMO news from this year's GDC, the largest pro-only gaming industry con in the world! From games like The Secret World to PlanetSide 2, we're on the case, so stay tuned for all the highlights from the show!

Continue reading GDC 2012: Wargaming.net reveals first World of Warplanes gameplay trailer

MassivelyGDC 2012: Wargaming.net reveals first World of Warplanes gameplay trailer originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalpha-footagealpha-trailerbetaf2pfree-to-playhistoricalplaneplanespvptrailervideowarwargaming.netwarplanewarplanesworld-of-warplaneswowpTue, 06 Mar 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Warplanes' Soviet tech tree revealed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/28/world-of-warplanes-soviet-tech-tree-revealed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/28/world-of-warplanes-soviet-tech-tree-revealed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/28/world-of-warplanes-soviet-tech-tree-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

World of Warplanes - La5 render
Ready for World of Warplanes' third tech tree reveal (and a load of in-Soviet-Russia jokes)? It's here, and Soviet aircraft take center stage in today's update. Twenty classic warbirds have been added to the action combat game, including the La-5 fighter and the renowned Il-2 Sturmovik.

As with the American and German tech trees, Wargaming.net says it will add additional aircraft to the Soviet tree as the game nears launch. World of Warplanes is currently undergoing global alpha testing, and you can sign up to be a part of it at the game's official website. Before you go, though, have a look at the new Soviet tech tree and a new video clip after the cut as well as new screenshots in our WoWP gallery.

[Source: Wargaming.net press release]

Gallery: World of Warplanes

Continue reading World of Warplanes' Soviet tech tree revealed

MassivelyWorld of Warplanes' Soviet tech tree revealed originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Feb 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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World of Warplanes - Dogfighting
We first heard tell of Wargaming.net's World of Warplanes way back in the summer of 2011. Since then, the company has pumped out quite a few screenshots, several interviews, and press releases regarding its aviation-themed follow-up to World of Tanks.

The game is still in testing as of today, and Wargaming.net is kicking off what it calls a global alpha designed to bring in new testers from North America, Europe, and Russia. Each region has its own website and alpha sign-up process, so head to your respective portal right away if you're itching to be a test pilot.

The current client offers access to 20-plus aircraft and two battle arenas; Wargaming.net says that "the amount of content will be growing steadily" as the test phases progress.

[Source: Wargaming.net press release]

MassivelyWorld of Warplanes accepting global alpha signups originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaaviationaviation-shooterbetabetascadillac-of-the-skyf2pfree-to-playglobal-alphahistoricalmmo-shootershooterwarwargaming.networld-of-warplanesworld-of-warplanes-alphawowpwowp-alphaThu, 23 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Planes renamed, evolves 'beyond pure aerial combat']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/world-of-planes-renamed-evolves-beyond-pure-aerial-combat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/world-of-planes-renamed-evolves-beyond-pure-aerial-combat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/world-of-planes-renamed-evolves-beyond-pure-aerial-combat/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

War Thunder: World of Planes - PBY Catalina
Gaijin has renamed its forthcoming aviation-centric World War II action MMO. The title was formerly called World of Planes (not to be confused with World of Warplanes), but will henceforth be known as War Thunder: World of Planes.

The official website has been redesigned to reflect the change, and most interestingly, Gaijin states that aviation is no longer the title's sole focus. "This name change is significant because the online multiplayer universe Gaijin is developing has evolved beyond pure aerial combat. The massive historical battles featured in War Thunder cannot be fought with aviation alone -- World of Planes is only the beginning," the site says.

What this means is anyone's guess, since Gaijin has not offered any details regarding ground- or sea-based combat as of yet. The company has released a new screenshot gallery, though, and you'll find that and more at the new official site.

MassivelyWorld of Planes renamed, evolves 'beyond pure aerial combat' originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoaviationf2pfree-to-playgaijingaijin-entertainmentground-combathistoricalnaval-combatnerdgasmwarwar-thunderwar-thunder-world-of-planesworld-of-planesworld-of-planes-renamedworld-war-2world-war-iiWed, 25 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pirates of the Burning Sea outlines plans for 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/22/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-outlines-plans-for-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/22/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-outlines-plans-for-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/22/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-outlines-plans-for-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Pirates of the Burning Sea - anchored ships
Remember Pirates of the Burning Sea? Yeah, it's still sailing along after its 2010 free-to-play conversion, and the dev team at Flying Lab Software is gearing up to celebrate the game's fourth anniversary in high pirate style.

Brain "Fodderboy" Taney has offered up a lengthy dev blog detailing what's next for the nautical MMO, and he outlines two main goals: immersion and the desire to "layer" the game.

Immersion is fairly self-explanatory (and in case it's not, Taney says that it entails bringing more authentic 18th century elements to the game). Layering requires a bit more verbiage, but it basically boils down to improving "the game experience for all the different kinds of players we have in our community (e.g., casual, hardcore, PvE-only, PvP-only, etc.)," Taney says. There's quite a bit more, of course, but you'll need to head to the official PotBS website to read about it.

MassivelyPirates of the Burning Sea outlines plans for 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 22 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brian-taneydev-blogdev-diarydevelopment-roadmapf2pflying-labflying-lab-softwarefodderboyfour-year-anniversaryfourth-anniversaryfree-to-playhistoricalimmersionlayeringPirates-of-the-Burning-SeapotbssoeSony-Online-EntertainmentupdatesSun, 22 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wargaming.net talks World of Warplanes features and functionality]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/29/wargaming-net-talks-world-of-warplanes-features-and-functionalit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/29/wargaming-net-talks-world-of-warplanes-features-and-functionalit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/29/wargaming-net-talks-world-of-warplanes-features-and-functionalit/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

World of Warplanes - Me109
Wargaming.net has published some new World of Warplanes info in part three of its ongoing community question-and-answer series.

The free-to-play World War II aviation title is shaping up to be an action-heavy game with a casual playstyle that is similar to World of Tanks. Over the course of 30 questions, Wargaming.net covers a lot ground including joystick controls (available but not required), cockpit views (not available), and airborne vs. ground spawn points.

"Aircraft will be spawned in the air at the beginning of the battle. As an option, you will be able to land the aircraft at the end of the battle and a successful landing will give you additional experience. An unsuccessful landing will break the plane and will [incur repair costs]," according to a post on the official WoWP forums.

MassivelyWargaming.net talks World of Warplanes features and functionality originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Dec 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoaviationcockpit-viewcommunity-qnadesignf2pflight-simfree-to-playgame-mechanicshistoricaljoystickjoystick-controlquestion-and-answerwarwargaming.networld-of-warplanesworld-war-2world-war-iiwowpww2wwiiThu, 29 Dec 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: World of Warplanes producer talks mechanics]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/massively-exclusive-world-of-warplanes-producer-talks-mechanics/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/massively-exclusive-world-of-warplanes-producer-talks-mechanics/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/massively-exclusive-world-of-warplanes-producer-talks-mechanics/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Wargaming.net is working overtime of late, and how could it not? The company is responsible for three separate MMORPGs, beginning with 2011's successful World of Tanks and ending with the recently announced World of Battleships. Sandwiched in the middle is World of Warplanes, an ambitious aerial arcade shooter married to traditional MMO progression mechanics. The game is currently in closed alpha testing and looks to be on track for a 2012 release.

This week saw the release of the game's first advancement tree, and we took the opportunity to ask producer Anton Sitnikov a series of questions covering everything from game mechanics to player perceptions regarding the pay-to-win stigma.

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: World of Warplanes producer talks mechanics

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: World of Warplanes producer talks mechanics originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Dec 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anton-sitnikovaviationbusiness-modelsdamagedamage-modelexclusivef2pfeaturedfree-to-playgame-mechanicshistoricalinterviewinterviewsmassively-exclusivemmo-shooterpay-to-winpayment-modelspvpshooterwargaming.networld-of-warplaneswowpWed, 21 Dec 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist crosses Meridian 59: The highlights]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/13/the-game-archaeologist-crosses-meridian-59-the-highlights/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/13/the-game-archaeologist-crosses-meridian-59-the-highlights/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/13/the-game-archaeologist-crosses-meridian-59-the-highlights/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Meridian 59
A colony founded through a magical nexus, Meridian 59 had it all going on -- until, that is, the portal to the colony collapsed and it was left to fend for itself. Monsters swarmed over the land, politics split the community into factions, and adventurers were called to rise up and become the heroes that were desperately needed. And all it took was $10.95 a month and an internet connection.

Welcome to 1996 and one of the very first -- if not the first (more on that later) -- graphical MMOs to hit the scene. Meridian 59 may not have been one of the biggest games in the genre, but it was arguably one of the most important, the John Adams to World of Warcraft's Abraham Lincoln. If you were wondering, Darkfall was Chester A. Arthur.

It seems fitting to end 2011 by touching upon this significant title that, against all odds, continues to operate today. Meridian 59 weathered studio shutdowns, newbie developers in every sense of the word, and a world that wasn't quite sure what to make of these fancy-schmancy massively interactive roleplaying games. MIRGs! Oh, that would've been such a better acronym, but I digress. Let's set the wayback machine to 1978 to see how one amateur game led to another that led to the birth of an industry.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist crosses Meridian 59: The highlights

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist crosses Meridian 59: The highlights originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3doAlan-E-Klietzandrew-KirmseArchetype-InteractivebiowareChris-KirmsecompuserveDamion-Schubertdarkfalldoomduke-nukem-3dfeaturedheretichistoricalhistoryinterplayKingdom-of-the-Nexusmeridian-59mike-sellersmudmud-likenear-death-studiospsychochildqrich-vogelrob-ellisrob-ellis-iiscepter-of-gothstar-wars-the-old-republicsteve-sellersstorybricksswtorthe-realmthe-realm-onlineultima-onlineultima-online-third-dawnuoworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 13 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The United States Army moves into Battleground Europe]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/the-united-states-army-moves-into-battleground-europe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/the-united-states-army-moves-into-battleground-europe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/the-united-states-army-moves-into-battleground-europe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

First person who mentions Private Ryan has to swim home.
If you've played a first-person shooter, watched a movie, or even turned on the History channel over the past decade, you're probably very familiar with the iconic image of the United States military forces storming the beaches of Normandy. It's an appropriate image to keep in your head today, as Battleground Europe (also known as World War II Online) has introduced the American forces to the game's mixture. The latest patch, 1.34, adds a variety of American vehicles and troops for players to access in the war between the Axis forces and the Allies.

Of course, the addition of the American forces isn't the only feature of the new patch. Several long-standing bugs have also been addressed, as well as several balance changes aimed at specific troop types. It should be a welcome patch for fans of the game, especially since it will finally be possible to take up the role of another nation in the fight.

MassivelyThe United States Army moves into Battleground Europe originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Nov 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battleground-europed-dayhistoricalpatchesunited-statesupdatesusaworld-war-2-onlineworld-war-2-online-battleground-europeworld-war-ii-onlineworld-war-ii-online-battleground-europeww2-onlinewwii-onlineMon, 21 Nov 2011 21:00:00 EST