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[Leaderboard: Hobbits vs. Gnomes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/leaderboard-hobbits-vs-gnomes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/leaderboard-hobbits-vs-gnomes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/leaderboard-hobbits-vs-gnomes/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Leaderboard
We shorties have been looked down upon our entire lives, so it's not without some sympathy that I champion the cause of the shorter races in MMOs. Happily, there are a lot of them, and they have their ardent supporters, with the added bonus of seemingly irritating the "Tallies" around them.

Yet out of all of the diminutive races in online games, two seem to stand out as the kingpins of the Shortie Empire. The first is Hobbits, the classic heroes of Tolkien's novels as well as Lord of the Rings Online. With their genial attitude, disregard for shoes, and fondness for multiple breakfasts, they've endeared themselves to millions and influenced the development of the RPG genre. The second is Gnomes, the tenacious inventors of the underworld who seem to pop up in every MMO that isn't afraid of a steampunk fringe.

So if a Hobbit and a Gnome fell into a pit together and there was only one breakfast to be had, which would go hungry and which would be satisfied? In other words, which race rules more than the other? Vote after the jump!

Continue reading Leaderboard: Hobbits vs. Gnomes

MassivelyLeaderboard: Hobbits vs. Gnomes originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battle-royalf2pfantasyfree-to-playgnomegnomeshobbithobbitsleaderboardlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroone-on-oneone-vs-oneopinionpollpollssecond-breakfastturbineturbine-entertainmentversusvotevotesvotingvsMon, 16 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Six wonders of the newbie world]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/11/the-road-to-mordor-six-wonders-of-the-newbie-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/11/the-road-to-mordor-six-wonders-of-the-newbie-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/11/the-road-to-mordor-six-wonders-of-the-newbie-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

LotRO
As I reported last week, I've recently rerolled as a Hobbit Minstrel in an effort to refresh my attitude toward the game, to get a different perspective, and to continue my series in which I go through all of the single-player quests in the game.

It's been, in a word, smashing.

Having been away from the tamer lands of Eriador for so long, I had forgotten the charm and serenity that these lowbie areas exude. Plus, it's always fun leveling up a brand-new character, since there are plenty of goals and ways to develop your character that your level-capped toons have long since surpassed.

As I've been plugging away at Bree-land quests, I began to make a mental list of exactly what's so special about the low-level game in Lord of the Rings Online. The mental list became an actual one, and after a period of milling and refining, I've baked it into a nice loaf of observations to share with you.

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Six wonders of the newbie world

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Six wonders of the newbie world originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 11 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beginnerbeginner-zonesbreebree-landcharacter-advancementered-luinf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhobbithobbitslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolowbielowbie-zonesnewbienewbie-zonesthe-road-to-mordorthe-shireturbineturbine-entertainmentSat, 11 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Thoughts on Update 5]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/19/the-road-to-mordor-thoughts-on-update-5/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/19/the-road-to-mordor-thoughts-on-update-5/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/19/the-road-to-mordor-thoughts-on-update-5/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

LotRO
Update 5: Saruman's Obviously Not Compensating for Anything With That Tower will undoubtedly be the last hurrah of Lord of the Rings Online -- this year, that is. It's an interesting update that looks to patch in the rest of Rise of Isengard's content (namely, the instance cluster) and provide a little something-something for players who have already reached the end of the epic storyline and are looking for more.

Earlier this week I took a dev tour through some of the main parts of the update, and while I wasn't able to see all of it (such as the non-raid instances), what I did preview certainly filled my head with opinions, analysis and further questions. Generally I came away pleased with what we're going to experience next month, although the comments section of the tour showed split feelings on what's in store for the patch.

Is this a case of too little, too late for those dissatisfied with Rise of Isengard's release? Will it breathe new life into dungeon-running, especially for the many soloers out there? Is it what this game needs right here and now? Hit the jump and I'll give you my honest thoughts on it all, both the good and the bad.

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Thoughts on Update 5

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Thoughts on Update 5 originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 19 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clustercoffeecurrencydungeon-finderf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhaunted-burrowhobbithobbitsinstanceinstance-clusterinstance-finderinstance-joininstancesisengardisengard-clusterlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotropreviewriftrise-of-isengardsarumanthe-prince-of-rohanturbineturbine-entertainmentupdate-5winter-homeworld-of-warcraftwowSat, 19 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Not all who wander are lost]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/the-road-to-mordor-not-all-who-wander-are-lost/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/the-road-to-mordor-not-all-who-wander-are-lost/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/the-road-to-mordor-not-all-who-wander-are-lost/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Road to Mordor
These are exciting times for Lord of the Rings Online, for sure. The Fellowship -- and hundreds of thousands of groupies following in its wake -- has moved south, and we are growing ever closer to Mordor and Mt. Doom. In a month, Middle-earth will grow significantly with the addition of Rise of Isengard, and level-capped players will suddenly have a whole new buffet of content to devour.

It's also a good era for exposure for the game, as plenty of people will get to see the expansion at Gamescom and PAX, not to mention those already in the beta proper. While we haven't heard anything about the game's finances or player numbers lately, there's no reason to believe that it's not still going strong.

That said, I want to take a step back today, as I sometimes do, and look at the larger picture. How is LotRO positioned against the current competition and the heavy-hitters yet to come? What does Turbine need to be working on over the next year or two? Are we just wandering aimlessly, or is the path laid out for journey for a long time to come?

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Not all who wander are lost

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Not all who wander are lost originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanall-who-wander-are-not-lostcharacter-developmentcontent-pathered-luinexpansionf2pfeaturedfree-to-playfuture-plansgamescomgamescom-2011guild-wars-2gw2hobbithousinghousing-revampkate-paizmordornon-combat-petspaxpax-2011pax-primepax-prime-2011player-housingproducers-lettersophies-choicestar-wars-the-old-republicswtorterathe-hobbitthe-road-to-mordorthe-secret-worldtolkientreasure-hunttswturbineturbine-entertainmentupdate-3vanity-petsFri, 19 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Storyteller]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/24/one-shots-storyteller/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/24/one-shots-storyteller/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/24/one-shots-storyteller/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

I'm always captivated with NPC life in MMOs -- what these not-so-essential characters are doing in the background of our unbridled heroism. Here's a charming scene in Lord of the Rings Online's Hobbiton, where a matronly storyteller is spinning a yarn for two fascinated children and one sleeping slacker. My only regret is that you never hear the story; I guess that's between these characters and them alone.

This past week, Massively writers spotlighted some of their personal favorite One Shots. Starting tomorrow will be free-for-all week for you, our readers. Send any eye-catching, beautiful, scary, or generally epic screenshot to oneshots@massively.com, and we'll pick the best of the best for this week's One Shots!

Gallery: One Shots: 2011

MassivelyOne Shots: Storyteller originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 24 Jul 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>galleryhobbithobbitonlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotronpcone-shotsscreenshotscreenshotsstorystorytellerstorytellingSun, 24 Jul 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO gives us a glimpse into Isengard's Dunland]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/20/lotro-gives-us-a-glimpse-into-isengards-dunland/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/20/lotro-gives-us-a-glimpse-into-isengards-dunland/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/20/lotro-gives-us-a-glimpse-into-isengards-dunland/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Dunland, one of Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard's three new zones, promises to be a treat for bold Hobbits and nebbish Elves alike. Today we've gotten a better picture of what Dunland will look like as Turbine's released six screenshots giving us a feel for the wide range of vistas we'll be encountering.

Dunland is located at the southern reaches of the Misty Mountains, with hilly, swampy and woodsy areas awaiting our discovery. The zone is dominated by the many clans of the Dunland peoples who are being tempted by Saruman into joining the forces of the Enemy.

We've got a little over two months to go until LotRO's latest expansion hits the streets, so take your time to peruse all six of these new screenshots in the gallery below:

Gallery: Lord of the Rings Online Core Gallery

MassivelyLotRO gives us a glimpse into Isengard's Dunland originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Jul 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clansdunlanddunland-clansdunlanderselvesexpansiongalleryhobbithobbitslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromisty-mountainsrise-of-isengardsarumanscreenshotsswampturbineturbine-entertainmentzoneWed, 20 Jul 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: What if?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/11/the-road-to-mordor-what-if/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/11/the-road-to-mordor-what-if/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/11/the-road-to-mordor-what-if/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

By the time you read this, I'll be scurrying around PAX East in Boston, feeling much like a Hobbit: unable to see over the crowd, far out of my element, and deeply wishing I purchased shoes. I'll of course be talking with the folks at Turbine to see what information I can wheedle out of them about the future of this terrific game, so if you don't hear from me again, I'm most likely languishing in a PR dungeon somewhere for being too nosy.

It's a good week, therefore, to be thinking about the future. My mind never stops thinking about future possibilities for any franchise, and even if they never come to be, these speculations are a great pastime of any fan. I'm always wondering "What if?" as I play Lord of the Rings Online -- what if I could mug Frodo and become the Ring-bearer? What if those lazy bums finally finished the repairs to the tavern in Frogmorton? What if Elves could kill innocent woodland creatures and go to the dark side?

Playing "What if?" with LotRO is tougher than with other games because of the limitations imposed by the IP. Despite what some say, Turbine's struggled hard to stay within the boundaries of lore and setting, and while that's helped the company to be creative in ways that it might not have otherwise, it does present some unique obstacles that aren't present in competing MMOs.

So to celebrate PAX, LotRO, and the future, here's a column of "What ifs?" for your consumption!

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: What if?

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: What if? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 Mar 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beornboat-mountsdwarfeaglesearth-kinelfelvesentseriadorfar-downsfeaturedfrodofrogmortongondorgray-havenshalf-elfhalf-elvenhobbitlindonlord-of-the-rings-onlinelossothlotromammothsmanMinhiriathmounted-combatOliphantspaxpax-eastrangersring-bearerrohanshapeshiftersledssouthfarthingspeculationstar-wars-galaxiesteam-saurontower-hillsturbineturbine-entertainmentvalawargswhat-ifwizardsFri, 11 Mar 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Rating Eriador]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/the-road-to-mordor-rating-eriador/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/the-road-to-mordor-rating-eriador/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/the-road-to-mordor-rating-eriador/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Lately I've been playing world traveler with my level 43 Lore-master as he's bouncing all over Middle-earth in what used to be the high-level zones of the game: Trollshaws, Angmar, Forochel, Misty Mountains, and Eregion. Once again, I'm struck by just how cohesive this place feels -- it's not a collection of Sonic the Hedgehog-themed areas (Green Zone 1, Lava Zone 4, etc.) but a world that connects together in a tangible, real way. Even though it's fiction.

Until November 2008, Eriador was the only place in Middle-earth that we could explore, and although some criticized Lord of the Rings Online for not shipping with, well, every locale in J.R.R. Tolkien's imaginarium open for business, it was a smart decision. The devs could take this section of the world and focus on building depth and detail instead of spreading it thin, like butter scraped over too much bread. As a result, Eriador remains a wonderful starting point -- not to mention the bulk of any current player's journey -- and many of us have grown attached to these familiar sights and sounds as a result.

Today I'd like to take a brief overview of all of Eriador's zones (we'll leave Rhovanion for another day) and rate them from best to worst in terms of zone design, questing, and that slippery cool-factor that's hard to define. Where would I suggest a summer vacation home and where would be an ideal spot for a penal colony? Hit the jump and let's run it down.

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Rating Eriador

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Rating Eriador originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 Feb 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>angmarbreebree-landcrazy-cat-ladydwarfelfenedwaithered-luineregioneriadorettenmoorsevendimeverswimfeaturedforochelhobbitjrr-tolkienlone-landslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromanmiddle-earthmisty-mountainsmountsnorth-downsplayer-vs-monster-playerpvmpRhovanionshiresonicsonic-the-hedgehogthe-shiretoofertrollshawsturbinetwofervolume-1weathertopFri, 25 Feb 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: My wish list for 2011]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/14/the-road-to-mordor-my-wish-list-for-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/14/the-road-to-mordor-my-wish-list-for-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/14/the-road-to-mordor-my-wish-list-for-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

January is always a month of denial for me because it usually takes a full 30 days for the reality of a new year to settle into my skull. It can't be a new year! I just, just got used to the old one! I'm going to forget the real year when I sign my checks and then I'll be denounced as a fraud! What horrible teenage fad will be inflicted on us this year?

Seriously, Ke$ha was the final straw for me. She's like all four horsemen of the apocalypse melted down and recast as a talentless banshee with an ironic dollar sign smack in the middle of her name. But that's my problem.

A new year also means a virgin slate for all of our MMOs. What happened last year was so last year -- now we turn our eyes to the future. We know a little of what's upcoming for Lord of the Rings Online, but that doesn't mean we can't have wishes. You know what they say: If wishes were horses, I'd have the Steed of Night.

So in honor of '11, I've come up with an 11-point wish list of what I'd love to see in LotRO this year. I fully expect Turbine to drop everything -- everything -- to get on it!

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: My wish list for 2011

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: My wish list for 2011 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 14 Jan 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011a-casual-stroll-to-mordorcosmetic-outfitcosmetic-weaponsfeaturedhobbithousingiconsinstance-joinitem-storekeshalegendary-itemslegendary-weaponslfflfglilooking-for-fellowshiplord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolotro-storemiddle-earthnew-yearpiesplayer-housingsteed-of-nightthe-road-to-mordorturbineturbine-entertainmentturbine-pointsuiuser-interfacevovoice-overvolume-2wardrobewish-listWorld-of-WarcraftFri, 14 Jan 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lord of the Rings Online invaded by mysterious relics, takes home "MMO of the year"]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/lord-of-the-rings-online-invaded-by-mysterious-relics-takes-hom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/lord-of-the-rings-online-invaded-by-mysterious-relics-takes-hom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/lord-of-the-rings-online-invaded-by-mysterious-relics-takes-hom/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Hobbit Bungo Grubb is upset, and he has a good right to be -- after all, a stout black rock appeared in his pipe-weed fields and spoiled his crops something fierce. In a strongly worded letter reposted on Lord of the Rings Online's website, Grubb complains about the source of this menace:

"Right in the middle of my field, someone had placed a tall stone block bearing unpleasant symbols... Furthermore, this stone artifact, or relic, or what-have-you, is a public nuisance! Anyone who gets too near it begins to feel most unhealthy, and cannot bear to look at the thing for too long."

While the reason and consequence of this relic is unclear, the fact is that many like it are popping up all over Middle-earth. Players can track down five of these mysterious relics to earn the ominous-sounding "Calm Before the Storm" title. Is this the prologue to the Rise of Isengard later this year or something different entirely?

In other LotRO news, PC Gamer awarded the game "MMO of the Year" for 2010, saying that "when it came to keeping us entertained all year long with small updates, plus throwing us the occasional party with huge loads of free content, LotRO treated its fans the best." Congrats to Turbine for this award!

MassivelyLord of the Rings Online invaded by mysterious relics, takes home "MMO of the year" originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awardbungo-grubbcalm-before-the-stormhobbitlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromiddle-earthmmo-of-the-yearmysterious-relicpc-gamerrise-of-isengardturbineTurbine-EntertainmentTue, 11 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Figgy pudding]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/17/the-road-to-mordor-figgy-pudding/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/17/the-road-to-mordor-figgy-pudding/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/17/the-road-to-mordor-figgy-pudding/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

For those of us who celebrate the holidays, right now is an insanely busy time of the year. There are presents to be wrapped, eggnog to be nogged, and looks of annoyance to be thrown at the radio when the music station decides to play that Do They Know It's Christmas? song for the sixth time that hour.

It also means that winter holidays are hitting most major MMOs, including our beloved Lord of the Rings Online. This year, the Yule Festival is marked by the addition of a whole new area -- Winter-home -- and players are already neck-deep in the quests, snowball fights and theatrical hilarity. Turbine's done a spectacular job this year infusing a lot more life and fun into the festivals, from the shrew stomping this past spring to the Haunted Burrow this fall. Winter-home is, in many ways, a perfect capstone to a terrific year for the game, and it's a pretty enjoyable event from what I've seen so far.

So grab that cute Hobbit or Dwarf and join me as we travel to the merriment of Winter-home this week!

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Figgy pudding

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Figgy pudding originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Dec 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-casual-stroll-to-mordora-christmas-carolBah-humbugcharles-dickenschristmascosmeticcosmetic-outfitdickensdo-they-know-its-christmasdwarfeating-contestfeast-beastfeaturedfrostbluff-theaterfrostbluff-theatreglittering-yule-steedglobehaunted-burrowhobbitholiday-eventin-game-eventlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromuppetpretty-in-pinkrich-vs-poorrise-of-isengardshakespeareshrew-stompingsnowball-fightsparkle-ponysparkleponystatler-and-waldorftolkienturbinewinter-homeyule-festivalFri, 17 Dec 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: A conspiracy of hats]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/10/the-road-to-mordor-a-conspiracy-of-hats/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/10/the-road-to-mordor-a-conspiracy-of-hats/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/10/the-road-to-mordor-a-conspiracy-of-hats/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The hat, as they say, makes the man. Or the woman. Or the Dwarf.

Unfortunately, in Lord of the Rings Online, the hat often makes the man completely silly. I'm not quite sure how it happened, but the hats in LotRO have garnered the reputation as being goofy as all get out. Sure, this is hardly a fresh observation, but I've wanted to address it in this column for a while now, so it might as well be today!

Rumor has it that Turbine's artists drew upon actual medieval outfits to lend an authentic, renaissance faire vibe to the game. This is perhaps why there is such a distinct fashion style in LotRO that you don't see in other MMOs. Our modern sensibilities, with such fashion achievements as tank tops and crocs, make hauberks and codpieces seem quaint and ridiculous. Truly, we are seeing the height of human civilization in 2010.

So while it's laudable that Turbine tried to give us the real deal, that doesn't quite excuse the fact that many of the hats -- especially the light armor versions -- are unbearably weird. It's as if, as The Pix'led Life speculated, there's a conspiracy of hats afoot: "Let's see what we can make them swallow!" one artist cackles. "Ooh, I know -- how about 16 varieties of dunce hats?" laughs another.

I kid, I kid. There are 17.

Hit the jump and let's take a terrifying journey through headgear that seeks to conquer Sauron by making the Enemy laugh himself to death.

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: A conspiracy of hats

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: A conspiracy of hats originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 Dec 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-casual-stroll-to-mordoramidalabig-birdbumpkinbunnyburger-kingcaptain-panakachickencodpiececosmeticcrocsdevildunce-hatdwarffall-festivalfashionfeathersfeaturedgoatgu-comicshatshauberkhave-it-your-wayheadwearhobbitlampshadelord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromedievalsauronsaw-xiistar-warsthe-man-in-the-iron-maskthe-pixled-lifetriple-dog-dareturbineTurbine-EntertainmentFri, 10 Dec 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Community check-up]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/26/the-road-to-mordor-community-check-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/26/the-road-to-mordor-community-check-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/26/the-road-to-mordor-community-check-up/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


It's a quiet week around these here parts, what with the Thanksgiving holiday in NA and the lull before the November Update hits on the 29th. As such, I thought it'd be a great time to catch up on the current state of the community, especially as we've seen so many new bloggers and sites and podcasts arrive on the scene in the past year.

I've always said that Lord of the Rings Online is truly blessed with not just a stellar community but an active one as well. Some MMOs see very little in the way of fan-created sites, keeping most of the community action centered on official forums and the like. However, when it comes to LotRO, we have not only the MyLotro.com blogs set up by Turbine, but a cornucopia of web delights fashioned by hard-working players.

So to say "Thanks!" to this wonderful community, today I want to highlight some of the best LotRO resource websites, blogs and podcasts that consistently go above and beyond in making our slice of the MMO landscape a delight to visit.

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Community check-up

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Community check-up originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 26 Nov 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ales-and-talesarmorblogsclasscommunityezinefeaturedfishinggearhobbitimmersionlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolotro-wikimapmusicmusic-systemmylotromylotro.compodcastPodcastsresourcesturbineTurbine-EntertainmentwardenweaponswikiFri, 26 Nov 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Will our journey take us back to The Hobbit?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/12/the-road-to-mordor-will-our-journey-take-us-back-to-the-hobbit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/12/the-road-to-mordor-will-our-journey-take-us-back-to-the-hobbit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/12/the-road-to-mordor-will-our-journey-take-us-back-to-the-hobbit/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


The next few years promise to be exciting ones for fans of Middle-earth. Ever since The Return of the King debuted in theaters in 2003, audiences have clamored for more of Tolkien on the big screen -- specifically, The Hobbit. After nearly a decade of back-and-forth negotiating and legal entanglements, it appears that this The Hobbit movies are finally going to happen, with Sir Peter Jackson once again in the director's chair and Martin Freeman taking on the lead role as Bilbo.

That's smashing news for movie buffs, but what does this have to do with Lord of the Rings Online -- y'know, that MMO we sometimes talk about in this column? It could be "very little," with Turbine proceeding on its merry way and perhaps enjoying the free boost to playership as movie buffs hunt around for a game to extend the experience. However, if the company were smart, it would be laying out the groundwork right now to synergize the heck out of the movie with a similar in-game experience.

For a while now, I've been chewing on the notion that Turbine could incorporate the events, locations and characters of The Hobbit into LotRO -- in fact, several of the key pieces are already in place. Could our journey in LotRO eventually take us back to the era of Bilbo's grand adventure? How would such a thing even work?

Hit the jump and I will smack your brain so hard with ideas that you'll forget all of your piano lessons. It's OK -- you didn't really need them.

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Will our journey take us back to The Hobbit?

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Will our journey take us back to The Hobbit? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Nov 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>back-to-the-futurebattle-of-the-five-armiesbilbobilbo-bagginschrono-triggerdwalinenedwaithf2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpgloingoblin-townhobbithobbit-playlonely-mountainlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromartin-freemanmcflymiddle-earthmirkwoodmisty-mountainspeter-jacksonreturn-of-the-kingrhovanionrhunrivendellsession-playsmaugthe-greatest-little-hobbit-of-them-allthe-hobbitthe-return-of-the-kingthe-simarilliontime-traveltimelinetolkientolkien-enterprisestrollshawsturbineTurbine-EntertainmentFri, 12 Nov 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Off to the races]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/05/the-road-to-mordor-off-to-the-races/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/05/the-road-to-mordor-off-to-the-races/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/05/the-road-to-mordor-off-to-the-races/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

A long time ago in this column, back in an age of sweet innocence that I like to call "April 2010," I spent a bit of time commenting on the nine classes in Lord of the Rings Online and how they appeal to different playstyles. Today, as I sit here swaddled in a blanket, drinking tea and desperately trying to wish this cold away, I want to write the companion piece to that article, dealing with races.

LotRO is somewhat unique in the MMO landscape in that it is pretty confined to four and only four playable races outside of PvMP. As much as we love the Pale Folk, I highly doubt we'll ever be given another racial choice for the lifespan of the game -- at least, not without some fiddly logic on Turbine's part. Besides, the four races we're given -- Dwarf, Man, Hobbit and Elf -- are the iconic grouping of the books, and trying to add a gnome or giant or well-intentioned half-orc to the Quest would just come off as silly.

Anyway, if you're starting out in LotRO or mulling over an alt, there's a lot more to consider when picking a race than just "what looks good" (although I'm not going to tell you looks aren't important, no I am not). Races influence your starter zone, traits, special skills and class picks. Join us as we jump down the rabbit hole and emerge in a magical land full of words and screenshots!

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Off to the races

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Off to the races originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Nov 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>class-pairingsdwarfelffeaturedfemale-dwarfguidehobbitlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromannationalitiespale-folkrace-guideracesracialracial-guideracial-traitssauronshireturbineFri, 05 Nov 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine pimps Gandalf in a new LotRO commercial]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/09/turbine-pimps-gandalf-in-a-new-lotro-commercial/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/09/turbine-pimps-gandalf-in-a-new-lotro-commercial/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/09/turbine-pimps-gandalf-in-a-new-lotro-commercial/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

G4 posted a new Lord of the Rings Online F2P commercial that's sure to leave a goofy grin on your face. In it, a crowd in a modern metropolis chants "Free Middle-earth!" outside of the LotRO offices. Inside, a cute hobbit receptionist holds down the fort until the elevator dings and the Big Guy comes out -- Gandalf, rocking a bit of the old (with his trademark hat and staff) and the new (in a swanky suit).

He steps out to the crowd and delivers the words they've been longing to hear: "YOU... SHALL NOT... PAY!" Cue one staff strike and the crowd goes wild.

Turbine's obviously showing a bit of its humorous side as it celebrates the new payment model. You can view the full video below and then head over to www.lotro.com to download the client.

Continue reading Turbine pimps Gandalf in a new LotRO commercial

MassivelyTurbine pimps Gandalf in a new LotRO commercial originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 Sep 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfree-middle-earthfree-to-playG4gandalfhobbitlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroturbineyou-shall-not-payThu, 09 Sep 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Latest LotRO free-to-play screens show new starting areas]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/29/latest-lotro-free-to-play-screens-show-new-starting-areas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/29/latest-lotro-free-to-play-screens-show-new-starting-areas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/29/latest-lotro-free-to-play-screens-show-new-starting-areas/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Part of the transition to free-to-play for The Lord of the Rings Online includes some cosmetic changes here and there. We got a glimpse of that a few weeks ago, and now Turbine is giving us a look at another area that's undergone some changes.

The man and hobbit starting areas will have a new look when free-to-play arrives this fall. You'll see some familiar faces, and you'll still have the standard assortment of shadowy figures, backstory, and angry creatures to fight, but things will look a bit different.

Check out the newest addition to the gallery below for a look at the new man and hobbit starting areas.

Gallery: Lord of the Rings Online free-to-play screenshots

MassivelyLatest LotRO free-to-play screens show new starting areas originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Jul 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfree-to-playftphobbitlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolotro-starting-areasmanstarting-areasturbineThu, 29 Jul 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Weatherstock '10 takes the stage in LotRO this Saturday]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/10/weatherstock-10-takes-the-stage-in-lotro-this-saturday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/10/weatherstock-10-takes-the-stage-in-lotro-this-saturday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/10/weatherstock-10-takes-the-stage-in-lotro-this-saturday/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

You know how your hippie relatives are forever bragging about how they went to Woodstock during the Summer of Free Love, and how your generation will never experience something that historical and muddy? Well, now you can get all up in their faces and say, "Yeah, but were you at Weatherstock in Lord of the Rings Online, dealing with lag and hobbits underfoot? I thought not!"

Weatherstock has become a tradition on the US Landroval server, a yearly gathering of bands and music lovers at the summit of Weathertop (aka Amon Sul) in the Lone-lands. Where once Frodo and Aragorn fought off the Nazgûl, these grounds now will be covered in song and spirits. Organized by the Lonely Mountain Band kinship, Weatherstock will feature three hours of music as 10 bands face off to win prizes. However, only one group will be chosen by the crowd and declared the best.

The player-run event is very organized, with "Freakout Zones" and cheap goodies available. If you play on another server and want to check Weatherstock out, lowbie characters will be protected by event security, who are tasked with beating down enemy mobs on the road to the summit. You can surf the crowd at Weatherstock on Saturday, June 12th, 7pm EST on the Landroval server.

MassivelyWeatherstock '10 takes the stage in LotRO this Saturday originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Jun 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amon-sularagornbattle-of-the-bandsfreakout-zonesfrodohippie-lovehobbitlandrovallonely-mountain-bandlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotronazgulplayer-run-eventssummer-of-free-loveturbineweatherstockweathertopwoodstockThu, 10 Jun 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose my Adventure: Meet Gibbi the Hobbit]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/12/choose-my-adventure-meet-gibbi-the-hobbit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/12/choose-my-adventure-meet-gibbi-the-hobbit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/12/choose-my-adventure-meet-gibbi-the-hobbit/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


Join me as I brave my way through lands unknown in an adventure dictated entirely by you, the Massively readers! Vote for everything from game played to character creation to ultimate goal and watch it unfold in a series of journals and galleries here on the site. Then, as the ultimate goal is reached, we'll do it all over again in a new game!

All through the week you voted on what type of character I should make to begin my journey through this Choose my Adventure in Lord of the Rings Online. My new male Hobbit Warden has begun his new life on the Brandywine server and is ready for action!

So without further ado, I present to you Gibbi of the Harfoots! His story is a sad one, but he has determined that his life needs some adventure, which is very unbecoming of a hobbit. Unless you count those meddlesome Tooks, of course. Follow along after the jump for his background story, another poll for next week and a list of playtimes where we can all play together and you can have your chance to be involved in his evolving story.

Continue reading Choose my Adventure: Meet Gibbi the Hobbit

MassivelyChoose my Adventure: Meet Gibbi the Hobbit originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Aug 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>choose-my-adventurecommunityfeaturedhobbitin-characterlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroroleplayingturbineWed, 12 Aug 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Know Your LotRO Lore: Celebrating the holidays Hobbit style]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/30/know-your-lotro-lore-celebrating-the-holidays-hobbit-style/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/30/know-your-lotro-lore-celebrating-the-holidays-hobbit-style/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/30/know-your-lotro-lore-celebrating-the-holidays-hobbit-style/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Welcome to Know Your LotRO Lore, a new weekly column here at Massively showcasing the lore of J.R.R. Tolkien's world as it intersects with Turbine's Lord of the Rings Online.

For some, the holidays are already over, but for many they've just begun. Throughout Middle-earth, none are known better for their love of celebrating those holidays than the Hobbits. We've talked about the Hobbits here before on Know Your LotRO Lore, but with the winter festivities in full swing, we thought this would be the perfect opportunity to explain more specifically about just why those Hobbits are so infamous for their partying.

Continue reading Know Your LotRO Lore: Celebrating the holidays Hobbit style

MassivelyKnow Your LotRO Lore: Celebrating the holidays Hobbit style originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 30 Dec 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredfestivalhobbitholidayjoystiqfeatureslithelord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroparty-treethe-shireturbineyuleTue, 30 Dec 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Know Your LotRO Lore: Gollum]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/23/know-your-lotro-lore-gollum/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/23/know-your-lotro-lore-gollum/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/23/know-your-lotro-lore-gollum/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Welcome to Know Your LotRO Lore, a new weekly column here at Massively showcasing the lore of J.R.R. Tolkien's world as it intersects with Turbine's Lord of the Rings Online.

In this week's installment of Know Your LotRO Lore, we're going to cover one of the most popular non-Fellowship characters throughout all of Tolkien's works: Gollum. Known for his certain unhealthy obsession with the "precious" One Ring, the true origins of Gollum are often unknown to all but the most studied of lore buffs.

Follow along as we discover the very beginnings of the Gollum creature: how he began and what he became. As always, we'll also cover his role in Lord of the Rings Online, and we've included an extra special extension of that where we speculate on his progression throughout the future of the game.

Gallery: Know Your LotRO Lore

LothlorienThe EntsGimliThe ValarOrcs and Goblins

MassivelyKnow Your LotRO Lore: Gollum originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Dec 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bilbo-bagginscodemastersfeaturedgollumhobbitknow-your-lotro-lorelord-of-the-rings-onlinelorelotrosmeagolthe-one-ringturbineTue, 23 Dec 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Much too bright to sneak here!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/12/one-shots-much-too-bright-to-sneak-here/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/12/one-shots-much-too-bright-to-sneak-here/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/12/one-shots-much-too-bright-to-sneak-here/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


It's been a while since we've been able to feature a Lord of the Rings Online One Shot. Of course, we figure that's because everyone is buried in Moria and is way too busy playing to send us screenshots. However, with the holidays now being in full swing for many areas, it appears some folks have wandered out of the Mines to once again send us some Lord of the Rings Online love. Today's One Shots is a great screenshot of one of those tricksy Hobbits, ReijMan, who noted: So much for sneaking around here! ^_^ Picture is taken south of Thorin's gate, outside on Frerin's court when I was doing the Yule Festival.

Have you been enjoying the holidays in your favorite MMORPG? If so, we want to see some screenshots of what's going on for you! Just take a quick screenshot and send it to us here at oneshots AT massively DOT com along with your name and what game it's from. You're welcome to add your own note, message, or holiday shout-out to your friends in there, but it's not required. Then grab a cocoa and relax; we'll take care of the rest!

Gallery: One Shots

MassivelyOne Shots: Much too bright to sneak here! originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Dec 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hobbitlord-of-the-rings-onlinelortoone-shotsreijmanscreenshotscreenshotsstealth-failyule-festivalFri, 12 Dec 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: This is why we love rainstorms]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/16/one-shots-this-is-why-we-love-rainstorms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/16/one-shots-this-is-why-we-love-rainstorms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/16/one-shots-this-is-why-we-love-rainstorms/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Truly, storms can range from a simple shower that just freshens the land up, to torrential storms that make you wonder if you'll see the sun again. But when those storms are gone, and the light returns, you can occasionally spot a lovely rainbow in the sky, just like the one above captured in Lord of the Rings Online by the Hobbit Minstrel Bubotuber. He let us know that he ran across this particular view in Needlehole, in the Northern Shire, just after a rain storm there. It is definitely a lovely view!

Have you seen any particular areas in your game -- or any weather effects -- that you really think are lovely, scary, or just interesting? All MMOs are welcome -- we don't care how new or old, big or small! Just send those screenshots in to us here at OneShots AT Massively.com, and be sure to include a quick description!

Gallery: One Shots

MassivelyOne Shots: This is why we love rainstorms originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 16 Aug 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bubotuberhobbitlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroone-shotsrainbowscreenshotscreenshotsturbineSat, 16 Aug 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blogging into Mordor: Finding the perfect name for your Hobbit.]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/23/blogging-into-mordor-finding-the-perfect-name-for-your-hobbit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/23/blogging-into-mordor-finding-the-perfect-name-for-your-hobbit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/23/blogging-into-mordor-finding-the-perfect-name-for-your-hobbit/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,


Looking for a name for your little halfling? Unwilling to settle for "Frodow" "Samwizze" or "Bihlbo"? Have you already named your character one of these but are looking to change it to something decent and lore-abiding? This guide will help you to find the perfect name for your hobbit and avoid the wrath incurred when you turn on your role-playing flag with the name "Kneestabberxx". You will also find tips on choosing a surname. If you've already named your hobbit but are looking to construct an interesting back-story, this guide might be useful to you as well!

J. R. R. Tolkien gave each different race and culture in the game its own customs and naming systems. Looking at the names of different hobbits can tell you things about them -- where they might have been born, what family they might be a part of. This gives you the opportunity to give your character a back-story if you wish, though simply using this guide to choose a cool name is good as well. And there is nothing wrong with taking some of the names here and using them in other games! Always make sure to read the naming guidelines of whatever game you play so that you do not break any rules and face punishment. In The Lord of the Rings Online, using a name that is even close to a character from the lore (such as Frodo, Lobelia, or Pippin) is strictly against the rules. So if you want a name that sounds hobbity and not a violation of the rules, you have to get creative. Luckily, Tolkien himself was creative and named enough of these creatures to give us an idea of how to do it!

Even after reading this guide remember that the best name is the one you enjoy seeing and think fits your character, no matter how much you play it. What you think of your hobbit's name is more important than what other people think as long as it doesn't violate the naming conditions of your game.

Continue reading Blogging into Mordor: Finding the perfect name for your Hobbit.

MassivelyBlogging into Mordor: Finding the perfect name for your Hobbit. originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 May 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredhalflinghobbitlord-of-the-rings-onlinelorelorebooklotronamingnaming-policyshiretolkienturbineFri, 23 May 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Choosing your race in Middle-earth: Dwarf and Hobbit]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/25/choosing-your-race-in-middle-earth-dwarf-and-hobbit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/25/choosing-your-race-in-middle-earth-dwarf-and-hobbit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/25/choosing-your-race-in-middle-earth-dwarf-and-hobbit/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Here is the second half of our Lord of the Rings Online guide to races, which covers some tips and tricks to help players starting out in Middle-earth and those who've been wandering its lands as well. As we said with the first half of our guide, its purpose isn't to say which race is the best pick for which class --but to just give some insight. So without further delay, lets get to everyone's favorite cranky, stout race -- Dwarves!

Continue reading Choosing your race in Middle-earth: Dwarf and Hobbit

MassivelyChoosing your race in Middle-earth: Dwarf and Hobbit originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Feb 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burglardwarvesered-luinfeaturedguardianhobbithunterlittle-delvinglord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromiddle-earthracessilver-deep-mineMon, 25 Feb 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO Leveling Guide: Man and Hobbit in Archet]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/19/lotro-leveling-guide-man-and-hobbit-in-archet/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/19/lotro-leveling-guide-man-and-hobbit-in-archet/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/19/lotro-leveling-guide-man-and-hobbit-in-archet/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Leveling 1-5 in Archet

Lord of the Rings Online is a great game. It has been met with much acclaim and has managed to establish itself in an ever-growing field of MMOs that reside in the shadow of World of Warcraft. The game, however, is not without its critics and detractors. However, what they cannot deny is that LotRO manages to wrap itself comfortably in Tolkien's lore of Middle-earth.

When first logging on to LotRO and presented with the choice of races, the one that arguably stands out the most would be the loveable (or loath-able) Hobbit. Elves, dwarves, men; been there done that. Hobbits, however, unique to Tolkien's imagination, offer a different experience. What I present to you is a guided tour through the first five levels of a Hobbit in Lord of the Rings Online. So, take your shoes off and get ready to blow some smoke rings. (Note: Massively.com does not condone nor endorse the smoking of anything ... real or fictional.)

Continue reading LotRO Leveling Guide: Man and Hobbit in Archet

MassivelyLotRO Leveling Guide: Man and Hobbit in Archet originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 19 Dec 2007 18:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archetfeatureguidehobbithow-tolord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolotro-leveling-guidemenquestsWed, 19 Dec 2007 18:12:00 EST<![CDATA[The life of a Hobbit: Pies and Postal quest guides at TTH]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/19/the-life-of-a-hobbit-pies-and-postal-quest-guides-at-tth/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/19/the-life-of-a-hobbit-pies-and-postal-quest-guides-at-tth/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/19/the-life-of-a-hobbit-pies-and-postal-quest-guides-at-tth/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

As everyone knows, a large portion of a Hobbit's existence is occupied with consuming pies, and nosing around other Hobbit's business. But behind the scenes, there are the middlemen that allow this to continue. Who delivers these pies? Who moves the mail that other Hobbits have the pleasure of trying to sneak a peek at? If you know where to start, you could very well be fulfilling these duties, and be rewarded for your efforts to boot.

TenTonHammer has made a guide that covers the Lord of the Rings Online Shire delivery quests, including the Postal Delivery and Pie Delivery quest lines. These quests involve sprinting around the Shire -- sound familiar? -- trying to avoid the Nosey or Hungry Hobbits (depending on which type of delivery you are making) and steering clear of water to get your package to its destination. Of course, it's much easier when you've got a game plan, so check out the guide before you begin your courier career.

MassivelyThe life of a Hobbit: Pies and Postal quest guides at TTH originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 19 Dec 2007 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deliveryhobbithow-tolotromailpiepiespostpostalshirethe-shireWed, 19 Dec 2007 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Playing with family (and friends!)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/14/one-shots-playing-with-family-and-friends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/14/one-shots-playing-with-family-and-friends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/14/one-shots-playing-with-family-and-friends/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Jose sends in this screenshot of himself and his sons (a Guardian and two Hunters) in the Shire in Lord of the Rings Online. He explains the group shot:

The landscape photo was taken at a leisure moment near our ancestors' home in Bywater (the land just on the back is our grand- grandfather's... some of the best wine making land around) and it was a family reunion after days slaying orcs and goblins in the war-infested lands of Middle-Earth.

Who do you spend your game-time with? We want to hear about it -- and see it! -- for our next edition of One Shots! Send your screenshots and stories to oneshots@massively.com. You may see it featured here tomorrow, same time, same place!

Gallery: One Shots

MassivelyOne Shots: Playing with family (and friends!) originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 14 Dec 2007 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hobbithobbitslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroshiretubineFri, 14 Dec 2007 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[More LotRO house brokers added to meet demand]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/10/28/more-lotro-house-brokers-added-to-meet-demand/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/10/28/more-lotro-house-brokers-added-to-meet-demand/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/10/28/more-lotro-house-brokers-added-to-meet-demand/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Following Book 11's update and the addition of player housing, the allure of one's own Hobbit-hole or sturdy Dwarven lodging has brought droves of people to the brokers -- so much so, in fact, that Turbine has made a post on their official Lord of the Rings Online forums to say that there will be a few more brokers on the way.

The extra auctioneers will be showing up to assist their overburdened co-workers in Bree-land, The Shire, and both the Dwarven and Elvish regions of Ered Luin homesteads. However, take note that these guys are temps -- the post states that they "may depart at any time" -- so it is likely that once demand dies down, they will be out of a job. Click below to read Turbine's post and find out the exact locations for the brokers.

MassivelyMore LotRO house brokers added to meet demand originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 28 Oct 2007 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>book-11breakingbree-landbrokersdwarvenelvishered-luinhobbithousinglord-of-the-ringslotroplayer-housingshadows-of-angmarshirethe-shireturbineSun, 28 Oct 2007 08:00:00 EST