Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Five years of EVE Evolved]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/21/eve-evolved-five-years-of-eve-evolved/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/21/eve-evolved-five-years-of-eve-evolved/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/21/eve-evolved-five-years-of-eve-evolved/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

EVE Evolved title image
About five years ago, on April 27th, 2008, I joined the Massively team and wrote the very first issue of the EVE Evolved column. Five years later, the column is still going strong and delivering its weekly dose of EVE Online to thousands of readers. I used to worry about running out of ideas to write about, but regular game updates and hilarious player shenanigans mean there's always something interesting going on in New Eden. When EVE hits its 10th anniversary in May, this column will have been running for just over half of the game's lifetime. In that time, I've written over 250 in-depth articles, guides, in-game stories and opinion pieces on EVE Online and a few on DUST 514.

As usual, I'll be celebrating this anniversary by rounding up this year's column highlights and giving away two 30-day Pilot's License Extensions to two lucky readers. To enter the competition, write a comment explaining which EVE Evolved articles from this year you liked best and what topics you'd like to see covered in the coming year. You will need an active EVE account to claim the prize, so be sure to include your character name in your comment if you want to be in with a chance. If you'd rather not give out your character name or don't have an EVE account but would like to give the game a go, you can sign up a new trial account and use the name of your new character.

In this week's EVE Evolved, I look back at the highlights from the column's fifth year!

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Five years of EVE Evolved

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Five years of EVE Evolved originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 21 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetanniversaryapocryphaasakaibaitingbounty-hunterbounty-huntingccpccp-gamesconsolecrimewatchcruisersdecadedustdust-514eoneveeve-evolvedeve-onlineexpansionexpansionsexplorationfeaturedfive-year-anniversaryfive-yearsfpsfrigatesgame-designguideguideshistoryhulkinfernolowsecmmofpsnyphurodysseyopinionopinion-piecepiracyplaystationplaystation-3ps3pvepvpretributionrisk-vs-rewardsandboxsci-fiship-fittingship-fittingsship-setupsshooterspeculationstoriesstorystorytellingthe-battle-for-caldari-primewormholewormholesSun, 21 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Top ten ganks, scams, heists and events]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/28/eve-evolved-top-ten-ganks-scams-heists-and-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/28/eve-evolved-top-ten-ganks-scams-heists-and-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/28/eve-evolved-top-ten-ganks-scams-heists-and-events/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

EVE Evolved title image
It's been called "boring," "confusing," and "the world's biggest spreadsheet," but every now and then a story emerges from sci-fi MMO EVE Online and grabs the gaming world's attention. Tales of massive thefts, colossal battles, high-value kills, record-breaking scams, political dirty deals, and controversial player-run events never fail to grip us. Perhaps it's the fact that these events have such huge impacts in the EVE sandbox that captures our imaginations, or maybe we just want to watch with morbid curiosity as a virtual society self-destructs.

Whether it's innocent interest in quirky stories or a secret sense of schadenfreude that keeps us glued to EVE's most illicit events, the game continues to deliver them with startling regularity. Most scams, thefts, and high-profile battles will never make the news, instead becoming another forgotten part of EVE's history or just a story for a few friends to reminisce about. But those stories that do reach the news always draw in a huge audience that wouldn't play EVE in a million years but can't get enough of its engrossing stories.

In this week's EVE Evolved, I run down a list of ten incredible EVE kills, scams, heists, and sandbox events that have made it into the news over the years.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Top ten ganks, scams, heists and events

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Top ten ganks, scams, heists and events originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 28 Oct 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1000-dollars6000-dollarsalliancealliance-warfarealliancesaperture-harmonicsband-of-brothersccpccp-gamesdisbanddisbandeddisbandingdynasty-bankingebankeconomicseconomyemergenceemergent-gameplayeveeve-evolvedeve-onlineexploitfeaturedgankghscgoonswarmguiding-hand-social-clubheisthulkhulkageddoninfinity-guniskkillLXQ2-Tphaser-incpoliticalpoliticspvpsandboxscamsci-fisomer.blinkstealstealingsuicide-gankthefttitantitans4utrillion-iskworld-recordwormholewormholesSun, 28 Oct 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online $6,000 ship kill may be a hoax]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/23/eve-online-6-000-ship-kill-may-be-a-hoax/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/23/eve-online-6-000-ship-kill-may-be-a-hoax/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/23/eve-online-6-000-ship-kill-may-be-a-hoax/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

EVE Online title image
EVE Online player "stewie Zanjoahir" made history yesterday when he reportedly lost a tiny ship with cargo worth over $6,000 US. Now it appears that the value of the kill may not have been accurate or that the kill could even be a hoax. Evidence that the kill may not be authentic surfaced last night as players found that three Hulk blueprints listed on the kill were marked as originals. That would make them priceless items that change hands for over 500 billion ISK each, which would raise the kill's value to a ludicrous 1.71 trillion ISK ($51,685 US).

It's believed that many of the original blueprints in the kill were actually cheaper blueprint copies. One possible explanation for the aberration is that there was an error in the EVE API that supplied the original kill data to third-party killboard websites. It's also possible that the kill was marked as API Verified without actually being checked, in which case the kill may have never even happened. An alternative version of the kill valued at only 34 billion ISK ($1,024 US) has also surfaced, but this was manually uploaded and so isn't verified at all.

CCP Games posted the kill on its Facebook page and Twitter feed, but didn't officially confirm the kill or its value. We reached CCP for comment, but privacy concerns prevented the company from confirming or denying the kill's authenticity. If this monumental kill turns out to be an error or a hoax, the next-highest value confirmed EVE kill would be Bjoern's Avatar class titan destroyed in March 2011. The titan was kitted out with expensive officer modules and came to a total value of over 128 billion ISK. As the price of PLEX was much lower in 2011, this would have bought 355 PLEX worth a total of $6,212.50 US.

MassivelyEVE Online $6,000 ship kill may be a hoax originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Oct 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>60006000-dollarsatronbillionbillionsblueprintblueprint-copiesblueprint-originalsBluePrintsbposbreakingccpccp-gameseveeve-onlinefakefrigatehoaxhulkkillnewsnullsecPLEXpvpsandboxscamsci-fisolar-citizensstewie-Zanjoahirthousandthousand-dollarstiny-shipTue, 23 Oct 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[CCP rebalancing EVE mining barges, exhumers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/03/ccp-rebalancing-eve-mining-barges-exhumers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/03/ccp-rebalancing-eve-mining-barges-exhumers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/03/ccp-rebalancing-eve-mining-barges-exhumers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

CCP rebalancing EVE mining barges, exhumers
CCP is revamping EVE Online's mining barges and exhumers this summer, and the latest company dev blog features a bit of behind-the-scenes info on how the process is going.

In a nutshell, there's a new mining frigate on the way, and current mining frigates will no longer be mining frigates. "The goal here is to allow players to choose a barge that fits their specific play style rather than lead them on a journey from the worst barge to the best one," CCP says.

Other changes include reduced skill requirements for both barges and exhumers. This "might not make [mining] any more exciting, but at least miners will have to make some meaningful decisions before they undock," according to the devs.

That's just the tip of the iceberg, of course, so head to the official EVE Online website for more.

MassivelyCCP rebalancing EVE mining barges, exhumers originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Aug 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gameseveeve-onlineexhumershulkinternet-spaceshipsminingmining-bargessandboxsci-fiship-rebalancingspreadsheets-onlineFri, 03 Aug 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online reveals ship revamp details, shows off new mining ship]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/14/eve-online-reveals-ship-revamp-details-shows-off-new-mining-shi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/14/eve-online-reveals-ship-revamp-details-shows-off-new-mining-shi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/14/eve-online-reveals-ship-revamp-details-shows-off-new-mining-shi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EVE Online title image
Back in march, EVE Online developer CCP Games announced its ambitious plan to revamp EVE Online's entire range of ships. Dozens of new ships have been added over the game's nine year history, and now developers are reorganising them into specific ship lines that fulfill most distinct roles. A big part of the system is the removal of ship tiers for tech 1 ships, a change that will see all of the currently underused low-tier ships boosted and given new roles. In a new devblog today, CCP released the first concrete details on how that will take place.

Miners will be happy to know that all barges will be given a hitpoint increase to make them harder to suicide kill, and that all three mining barges will be specialised to support a particular style of mining. The Covetor and Hulk will have the biggest mining yield but their small cargo holds and poor defenses will limit them to mining ops with haulers on hand. The Retriever and Mackinaw will have smaller yields but huge specialised ore bays, making them better ships for AFK mining and ninja mining. The Procurer and Skiff will have the lowest mining yields but their battleship-sized tank will make it difficult to suicide gank. Finally, a new entry level ORE mining frigate will be released for new players.

MassivelyEVE Online reveals ship revamp details, shows off new mining ship originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Jun 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamescovetoreveeve-onlinehulkinfernomackinawminingpatchprocurerpvpretrieverrevampsandboxsci-fishipShip-CombatshipsSkiffThu, 14 Jun 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Marvel Heroes whips up Avengers movie costumes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/13/marvel-heroes-whips-up-avengers-movie-costumes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/13/marvel-heroes-whips-up-avengers-movie-costumes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/13/marvel-heroes-whips-up-avengers-movie-costumes/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Marvel Heroes whips up Avengers movie costumes
If you haven't seen this summer's Avengers movie, you totally should, and if you have, then you might be interested to hear that the upcoming Marvel Heroes is embracing the blockbuster's wardrobe.

The superhero MMO will be including the film versions of Thor's, Iron Man's, Black Widow's, Hawkeye's, Hulk's, and Captain America's costumes. The game's devs assured players that the costumes won't just be for eye candy alone but "will also tie in key game systems in fun and unique ways."

Marvel Heroes will offer many costume variants based on both the comics and the films, although the devs say that covering all of them might be a task that only a true superhero could accomplish. "Some of those experimental looks didn't exactly stand the test of time," the announcement explains.

MassivelyMarvel Heroes whips up Avengers movie costumes originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Jun 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avenger-movie-costumesavengersblack-widowcaptain-americacostumesf2pfree-to-playgazilliongazillion-entertainmenthawkeyehulkiron-manmarvelmarvel-heroesmarvel-universemarvel-universe-onlinemoviemovie-costumesmovie-tie-inmuosecret-identitysuperherosuperheroesthe-avengersthe-hulkthortie-inWed, 13 Jun 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Hulk hunting in highsec]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/03/eve-evolved-hulk-hunting-in-highsec/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/03/eve-evolved-hulk-hunting-in-highsec/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/03/eve-evolved-hulk-hunting-in-highsec/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

EVE Evolved title image
As it's a sandbox game, a big part of what makes EVE Online special is the interesting things players make and do within the game world that developers didn't anticipate. It's ultimately the players who collectively shape the game world, in extreme cases even overturning some of the developed game mechanics. Most players think of high-security space as a safe place to mine and run missions, with CONCORD police keeping a watchful eye on players and destroying any ship that breaks the law. But in EVE you're never truly safe anywhere but inside a station. With the right ship setup, it's possible to kill a target in the few seconds before the police ships arrive to turn you into a smoking wreck.

In 2008, GoonSwarm alliance launched its infamous JihadSwarm campaign aiming to suicide gank every mining barge in high-security space. The imaginary safety bubble that miners had lived in for years burst, and highsec mining temporarily became one of the game's most dangerous professions. When Helicity Boson later kicked off the first Hulkageddon event, pirates competed to see who could destroy the most mining barges, and miners in high-security space were prime targets. Hulkageddon went on to become a regular event, with achievements to be won and billions of ISK in sponsored prizes. Recently, Hulkageddon V took an interesting turn when Goonswarm Federation pledged to keep the event running permanently by paying players 100 million ISK for every 10 tech 2 mining barges they kill.

In this week's EVE Evolved, I look at Hulkageddon from both sides of the fence, with tips on how to suicide gank mining barges and how to stay safe when mining.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Hulk hunting in highsec

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Hulk hunting in highsec originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 03 Jun 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gameseveeve-evolvedeve-onlinefeaturedgankgankergankinggoongoonsgoonswarmguidehelicity-bosonhighsechulkhulk-huntinghulkageddonhulksminerminingpiracypirateprofessionspvpsafetysandboxsci-fisuicide-gankSun, 03 Jun 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Mining returns with Inferno]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/22/eve-evolved-mining-returns-with-inferno/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/22/eve-evolved-mining-returns-with-inferno/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/22/eve-evolved-mining-returns-with-inferno/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

EVE Evolved title image
Inferno is right around the corner, with the Escalation to Inferno patch due to hit in two days on Tuesday, April 24th. The patch prepares EVE Online for the coming PvP apocalypse with titan balance tweaks, a new interactive status effect bar, and two very important changes to the NPC drop tables: Manufacturable tech 1 modules will be removed from NPC drop tables, and Rogue Drone NPCs will have their mineral drops replaced with ISK bounties. These are changes players have been suggesting for years, and together they have the potential to bring back mining as one of the most profitable professions in EVE.

If someone asked you where all the minerals come from to build the thousands of ships destroyed in EVE on a daily basis, you might say that you assume most of it comes from mined ore. Mining was originally the biggest source of minerals in the game and one of the most profitable professions, but over the years, that's changed. When level 4 missions added an infinite source of battleship-sized NPCs to high-security space, mission-running quickly overtook mining as the most profitable profession, and bizarrely, as a very good source of minerals. When the drone regions were later released, ratting there also became a huge mineral faucet far in excess of that produced through mining.

In this week's EVE Evolved, I look at the problems faced by mining as a source of minerals and speculate on what will happen to mining as a profession when the Inferno expansion hits.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Mining returns with Inferno

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Mining returns with Inferno originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 22 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesescalationescalation-to-infernoeveeve-evolvedeve-onlineexpansionfeaturedhulkindustrialindustryinfernologisticsmineralsminersminingnullsecopinionorerorqualsandboxsci-fizydrineSun, 22 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A look at Luvinia Online's Berserker and Watchman]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/17/a-look-at-luvinia-onlines-berserker-and-watchman/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/17/a-look-at-luvinia-onlines-berserker-and-watchman/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/17/a-look-at-luvinia-onlines-berserker-and-watchman/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

As Luvinia Online's heading toward closed beta testing here in the states, Outspark is trying to pump up interest in the title by highlighting the game's classes. Two of the revealed classes are the Berserker and Watchman, subsets of the Fighter and Scout roles.

The Berserker is your typical barbarian-who-unleashes-his-inner-Hulk character, utilizing rage to increase his damage, hit multiple targets, and pump up critical strikes. As Outspark says, "The heavens hath no fury like a Berserker scorned!"

On the flip side of rage is the Watchman's cool, collected poise. She uses ranged skills, traps and tricks to frustrate and kill enemies from afar, preferring the use of a bow over melee weapons. An interesting mechanic to the class is that the farther the Watchman is from her target, the more damage she does.

You can take a peek at the many classes of Luvinia Online, including the class grid, in the gallery below!

Gallery: Luvinia-Online

MassivelyA look at Luvinia Online's Berserker and Watchman originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Jun 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>berserkerbetabeta-testingclassclassesclosed-betagalleryhulkluvinialuvinia-onlineoutsparkscoutwarriorwatchmanFri, 17 Jun 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Quaggan SMASH: Guild Wars 2 reveals its most cute -- and deadly -- race yet]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/quaggan-smash-guild-wars-2-reveals-its-most-cute-and-deadly/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/quaggan-smash-guild-wars-2-reveals-its-most-cute-and-deadly/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/quaggan-smash-guild-wars-2-reveals-its-most-cute-and-deadly/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Look at that guy up there? Isn't he just the cutest thing ever? Oh, ignore the teeth -- Quaggans are big softies, really.

ArenaNet is back with another exposé on the races of Guild Wars 2. This time the studio's focusing on the Quaggan, which it calls "our most cuddly race." But what do cuddles and creatures that look as though they should already be sold as plushie dolls through the ArenaNet gift shop have to do with the rough-and-tumble fantasy world of Guild Wars 2?

While the peaceful and polite race wouldn't normally make waves, the Quaggans have an interesting ability to "hulk out" and go on rampages when they get mad. As the saying goes, "Do not make Quaggan angry. You would not like Quaggan when Quaggan is angry." Therefore Quaggans have to be mellow to avoid a non-stop WWE battle royal -- although at times, unleashing their inner aggression can save their hides. It's this dynamic ArenaNet latched onto while fleshing out the race's place in the world.

You can read more about the dolphin-like Quaggans over on the ArenaNet blog.

MassivelyQuaggan SMASH: Guild Wars 2 reveals its most cute -- and deadly -- race yet originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Jun 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbackgroundbattle-royalegift-shopguild-wars-2gw2hulkhulk-outkraitplushiesQuagganquaggansraceraceswweWed, 15 Jun 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Hero Squad Online showcases Gladiator Hulk]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/27/super-hero-squad-online-showcases-gladiator-hulk/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/27/super-hero-squad-online-showcases-gladiator-hulk/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/27/super-hero-squad-online-showcases-gladiator-hulk/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Hail, emperor, we who are about to SMASH salute you! Gazillion Entertainment announced today that a new warrior has entered the Super Hero Squad Online Colosseum. Gladiator Hulk (who was actually introduced in the Asgard update) looks smashing (ah ha ha) in his gladiator's armor and is ready to dominate the arenas and smash some skulls.

In addition to introducing the new combatant, Gazillion says that the game has been updated with extra missions for players to come, see, and conquer. For a look at Gladiator Hulk in action, you can check out the gallery below or jump on past the cut for a trailer showcasing Hulkimus Maximus going Roman on some unfortunate souls. And of course, to join the fray you can click on over to the Super Hero Squad Online official site.

Gallery: Super Hero Squad Online

Continue reading Super Hero Squad Online showcases Gladiator Hulk

MassivelySuper Hero Squad Online showcases Gladiator Hulk originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 27 May 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfree-to-playgalleriesgallerygazilliongazillion-entertainmentgladiator-hulkhulkhulk-smashmarvelscreenshotscreenshotsshsosuper-hero-squad-onlinethe-amazing-societytrailertrailersvideoFri, 27 May 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Account creation opens wide for Super Hero Squad Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/16/account-creation-opens-wide-for-super-hero-squad-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/16/account-creation-opens-wide-for-super-hero-squad-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/16/account-creation-opens-wide-for-super-hero-squad-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Shh... don't say "open beta" around these superheroes, but it looks as though Super Hero Squad Online may be doing the next best thing. The ultra-cute, ultra-powerful Marvel MMO is now accepting accounts from everyone -- even that supervillain down the street. Previously, you needed a beta code to get a sneak peek at the game, but it looks as though that barrier's been smashed by lil' Hulk.

Super Hero Squad Online also has moved its secret website lair to www.HeroUp.com, which is where you'll need to go to create your own preview account. Currently, all players are assigned a silver-level membership, which limits you to four heroes, although gold-level memberships are on the way.

Along with the website move and open accounts, SHSO has added additional heroes (such as War Machine and Silver Surfer), new daily missions, a tutorial, and improved safe chat. Gazillion says that the game is up and running 24/7 now, so you have plenty of time to see what's what!

MassivelyAccount creation opens wide for Super Hero Squad Online originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 16 Apr 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaclosed-betagazilliongazillion-entertainmentgold-membershiphulkopen-betashsosilver-membershipsilver-surfersuper-hero-squadsuper-hero-squad-onlinethe-amazing-societyuniversal-accountwar-machineSat, 16 Apr 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE's Hulkageddon IV event begins today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/19/eves-hulkageddon-iv-event-begins-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/19/eves-hulkageddon-iv-event-begins-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/19/eves-hulkageddon-iv-event-begins-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Once or twice per year, EVE Online players across the world are gripped by the desire to destroy everything in sight. During the nine-day Hulkageddon bloodbath, players compete to destroy as many mining ships as possible. A variety of prizes are then handed out to individuals and corporations with the most kills or for special achievements completed during the event. The event was first organised by pirate Helicity Boson back in 2009, and so far it has been responsible for the destruction of several hundred billion ISK worth of Hulks and other mining ships.

The event has come under fire for promoting griefing, as the primary method of gaining kills is the use of suicide attacks in high-security space. Hulkageddon supporters argue that it's a perfectly legitimate way to play the game, and EVE's sandbox-style game design and rules do permit it. Whether you like it or hate it, Hulkageddon has become a regular EVE tradition. To avoid a grim fate, miners should probably take a break between February 19th and February 28th. Head over to the official forum thread for full details of the impending carnage and the prize fund available for participants.

MassivelyEVE's Hulkageddon IV event begins today originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 19 Feb 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CcpCcp-eveCcp-gamesEveEve-ccpEve-mmorpgEve-onlineGriefingHelicity-bosonHulkHulkageddonPiratePvpSuicide-gankSat, 19 Feb 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Mining 101 -- Mining efficiency]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/16/eve-evolved-mining-101-mining-efficiency/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/16/eve-evolved-mining-101-mining-efficiency/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/16/eve-evolved-mining-101-mining-efficiency/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Mining is one of EVE Online's oldest and most iconic activities, with a significant in-game community and several helpful guides. Although many players would rather pick up railguns and blow each other to bits than pick up mining lasers to hoover up some rocks, mining can be a very relaxing way to make ISK. In last week's first part of the EVE Evolved guide to mining, I examined at some of the most basic mining topics. I looked at the Retriever as an entry-level mining ship for new players, strategies for mining on your own, and the basic structure of a group mining operation.

Although it's a relatively quick and easy profession to get into, there's a lot more to mining than meets the eye. Both miners and haulers have several skills, ships and modules available to upgrade their effectiveness and make the most of their play time. Finding out the best ore to mine or the best location to mine it also isn't quite as straightforward as it seems, which often makes it difficult to find a good mining spot. Once you've mined your ore, it's also not obvious how to get the most ISK out of it. Do you refine it yourself and sell the minerals, or will the raw ore be worth more on the open market?

In this week's second part of the EVE Evolved guide to mining in EVE, I look at mining efficiency and how to make the most ISK for your invested time.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Mining 101 -- Mining efficiency

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Mining 101 -- Mining efficiency originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 16 Jan 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-eveccp-gamescovetoreveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlinefeaturedfluidorbithulkmackinawminingorcaorerefinerefiningSun, 16 Jan 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Get your Darkfall Fun Hulks this summer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/13/get-your-darkfall-fun-hulks-this-summer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/13/get-your-darkfall-fun-hulks-this-summer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/13/get-your-darkfall-fun-hulks-this-summer/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

If you've ever wanted to toodle around the world of Agon on a one-man sled with a huge cannon mounted on the front, Aventurine has the summer update for you. While we'll stop short of categorizing the Greek developer's PvP-centric Darkfall as a whimsical game, there is no denying the fact that its developers are packing a sense of humor into the title along with all the blood spurts and horrific sound effects.

Resfelm, Aventurine's community liaison, brings us word of a new craftable vehicle called the Fun Hulk, and while it's not green, prone to fits of anger, or the star of a bad Ang Lee film, it does feature the aforementioned cannon and is much easier to craft than a full-sized warhulk.

In addition to the vehicle, Darkfall's devs are introducing new items called Use Flags (which when used in conjunction with your new ride) provide you with the tools to set up your own starting line, finish line, and waypoints. This being Darkfall, player racing events are more likely to resemble Death Race 2000 than Mario Kart, as the Fun Hulks can damage other Fun Hulks and can take damage from anything.

MassivelyGet your Darkfall Fun Hulks this summer originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Jul 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ang-leeaventurinedarkfalldeath-race-2000fun-hulkhulkmario-kartplayer-eventsplayer-racingpvpresfelmsandboxsummer-updateuse-flagwarhulkTue, 13 Jul 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New EVE Quarterly Economic Newsletter talks wormholes and tech 3]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/11/new-eve-quarterly-economic-newsletter-talks-wormholes-and-tech-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/11/new-eve-quarterly-economic-newsletter-talks-wormholes-and-tech-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/11/new-eve-quarterly-economic-newsletter-talks-wormholes-and-tech-3/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Four times per year, CCP Lead Economist Dr. Eyjólfur Guðmundsson and his team of researchers publish the Quarterly Economic Newsletter (QEN). In addition to providing trackable statistics on EVE Online's in-game market, each issue focuses heavily on analysing one particular topic. This quarter's report focuses on wormhole systems and the state of the tech 3 market. Updated player demographics show more and more players entering wormhole space, with a drop in the number of characters in high-security space. Statistics for the number of jumps in wormhole space over the past year show a similar trend of growing activity.

This QEN provides some enlightening graphs on the popularity of various tech 3 offensive subsystems and how tech 3 material costs have changed in EVE over the past year. Perhaps most illuminating is the sharp rise in the use of tech 3 strategic cruisers in locations that put them at risk. While the majority are being flown in mission hubs and market systems, over 35% were found outside the safety of high-security space. In addition to this quarter's focus on wormholes, the report contains the usual graphs tracking in-game prices, trade volumes, ships in use and other useful metrics.

MassivelyNew EVE Quarterly Economic Newsletter talks wormholes and tech 3 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 Jun 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-eveccp-gameseconomicseconomyeveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlineeyjolfur-gudmundssonhulkinterstellar-kreditiskmarket-trendsmmo-industryqenquarterly-economic-newsletterFri, 11 Jun 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Hero Squad Online: No more "nameless sidekicks"]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/19/super-hero-squad-online-no-more-nameless-sidekicks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/19/super-hero-squad-online-no-more-nameless-sidekicks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/19/super-hero-squad-online-no-more-nameless-sidekicks/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,


These days, it takes a lot to impress me. Oh sure, I love MMOs. But sometimes I feel I'm in a rut, waiting for something new and different. Something that doesn't just have a "new" sticker, but actually has some new hook that will keep me happily playing -- not grinding -- more than a month. Something that will make me feel good about being a gamer again. Something cute and friendly that actually relieves stress rather than creating more.

That's why I was so surprised by Marvel Super Hero Squad Online, the official premiere of which I was lucky enough to attend yesterday in downtown San Francisco. (The folks at Gazillion Entertainment and The Amazing Society put on a great show!) I certainly didn't walk into the event expecting SHSO to pique more than my passing fancy. Comic book-themed games are definitely something I love, and Marvel couldn't be hotter right now, but let's be honest -- SHSO's press release and early screenshots suggest an overtly family-friendly, even kid-oriented, cartoony romp. I figured the game would be Free Realms in capes, and that Massively's readers would probably be more interested in the other Marvel MMO (simultaneously in development by Gazillion with Gargantuan Studios).

Well, I'm pleased to report that my preconceptions about Super Hero Squad Online were mostly wrong, and now I've got a new upcoming game to add to my "gotta buy" list. Join me on the flipside of the break and find out why SHSO seems poised to *POW* *ZAP* *BLAMMO* the casual MMO sweet spot!

Gallery: Super Hero Squad Online

Continue reading Super Hero Squad Online: No more "nameless sidekicks"

MassivelySuper Hero Squad Online: No more "nameless sidekicks" originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 19 May 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cartoon-networkgargantuan-studiosgazillion-entertainmentHulkinvisible-womaniron-manjay-minnjean-greymarvelmarvel-comicsmarvel-comics-gamesmarvel-comics-mmorpgmarvel-universemarvel-universe-mmospider-manStephen-Reidstormsuper-herosuper-hero-squadsuper-hero-squad-onlinethe-amazing-societythe-thingunity-enginewar-machineWed, 19 May 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Marvel Super Hero Squad Online revealed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/13/marvel-super-hero-squad-online-revealed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/13/marvel-super-hero-squad-online-revealed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/13/marvel-super-hero-squad-online-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Marvel fans, rejoice, your one shining MMORPG moment has been officially announced. Gazillion Entertainment today unveiled Super Hero Squad Online, which gives players the ability to master the talents of Marvel universe notables including Spider-Man, Wolverine, Hulk, Iron Man, War Machine, and more.

"Everyone who has wanted to be Silver Surfer, Wolverine, Captain America or any of the amazing Marvel heroes and villains will find the game has something for them," stated Jason Robar, Vice President and Studio Manager for The Amazing Society, the Gazillion subsidiary responsible for development of the title.

In addition to combat gameplay and the ability to don the tights of your favorite anti-hero, Super Hero Squad Online will feature social spaces and customization options. "You'll swing through Super Hero City as Spider-Man or zap the bad guys with Cyclops' optic blasts in high-voltage missions. Or you can just hang out in a high-energy, immersive world filled with other Marvel fans," said Creative Director Jay Minn.

Watch the official website for more details, and be sure to catch the teaser trailer debut this Friday, May 14th, at 12:30am on SPIKE's GameTrailers TV.

MassivelyMarvel Super Hero Squad Online revealed originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 May 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakinghulkiron-manmarvelmarvel-comics-mmorpgmarvel-onlinespider-mansuper-hero-squad-onlinethe-amazing-societyThu, 13 May 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Latest EVE Quarterly Economic Newsletter shows effect of Hulkageddon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/25/latest-eve-quarterly-economic-newsletter-shows-effect-of-hulkage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/25/latest-eve-quarterly-economic-newsletter-shows-effect-of-hulkage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/25/latest-eve-quarterly-economic-newsletter-shows-effect-of-hulkage/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

EVE Online is a game that's often lauded for its sandbox style and realistic economic structures. Every quarter, CCP Lead Economist Dr. Eyjólfur Guðmundsson and his team of researchers wade through mountains of EVE usage logs to find some interesting economic statistics. In their Quarterly Economic Newsletters (QEN), CCP deliver graphs tracking in-game prices, trade volumes, ships in use and a whole host of other useful metrics.

Read on for an overview of this QEN's main highlights.

Continue reading Latest EVE Quarterly Economic Newsletter shows effect of Hulkageddon

MassivelyLatest EVE Quarterly Economic Newsletter shows effect of Hulkageddon originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 25 Feb 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-eveccp-gamesdrakeeconomicseconomyeveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlineeyjolfur-gudmundssonhulkhulkageddonhulkageddon-2hulkageddon-iiinterstellar-kreditiskmarket-trendsmmo-industryqenquarterly-economic-newsletterThu, 25 Feb 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hulkageddon II event begins in EVE today, miners despair]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/hulkageddon-ii-event-begins-in-eve-today-miners-despair/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/hulkageddon-ii-event-begins-in-eve-today-miners-despair/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/hulkageddon-ii-event-begins-in-eve-today-miners-despair/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


A player-run event called "Hulkageddon" kicked off in EVE Online today, the second such event to be held in the game. Hulkageddon II is the brainchild of EVE player Helicity Boson, a pirate who flies with The Python Cartel, and is essentially a contest that rewards the destruction of exhumer (Hulk and Mackinaw) mining ships. The most recent Quarterly Economic Newsletter released by EVE developer CCP Games indicated that the Hulk is the most flown ship in the game, which provides plenty of targets for gankers in the contest.

Hulkageddon exists much to the detriment of the game's numerous miners, seeing as it's a galaxy-wide demolition derby using the very ships they pilot, but has proven very popular with other players the first time around in 2009. Although it's only been a matter of hours since Hulkageddon II began, the event's killboard shows over 250 mining ships destroyed (along with 40 of their pilots). That number will, no doubt, climb over the course of this week. Also, the tears may be just a bit sweeter given the fact that Hulk prices rose sharply in the weeks preceding Hulkageddon II, the result of changes made to Tech II manufacturing requirements with the Dominion expansion.

Whether you're interested in taking part in the contest or want to know what you're in for over the next week, here are a few details about Hulkageddon II:

Continue reading Hulkageddon II event begins in EVE today, miners despair

MassivelyHulkageddon II event begins in EVE today, miners despair originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Jan 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsccpccp-gamescontestseveeve-onlineexhumergankinghelicity-bosonhulkhulkageddon-2hulkageddon-iihulkgeddonmackinawplayer-run-eventspython-cartelsci-fisuicide-ganksthe-python-cartelThu, 07 Jan 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Quarterly Economic Newsletter for EVE Online released]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/16/quarterly-economic-newsletter-for-eve-online-released/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/16/quarterly-economic-newsletter-for-eve-online-released/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/16/quarterly-economic-newsletter-for-eve-online-released/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,


EVE Online is unique among MMOs in that its economy is so complex and dynamic that CCP Games hired an economist, Dr. Eyjólfur Guðmundsson, to keep track of how the market evolves. One would imagine this is no easy task, with an overall trade value of all EVE markets ranging between 2 and 2.5 trillion isk per day. Lead Economist CCP Dr. EyjoG released a Quarterly Economic Newsletter (QEN) for EVE Online today, which is 18 pages full of data which should keep EVE's market and industry-oriented players happy (and hopefully make up for the delayed QEN, which Dr. EyjoG addresses in his announcement).

The Q1 2008 QEN kicks off with an editorial, and here are some brief highlights of what follows:
  • Demographics (number of accounts, most and least populated regions)
  • Price Level Changes (Mineral prices, Primary Producer Price Index, Secondary Producer Price Index, and Consumer Price Index)
  • Mining ship production and losses (with the venerable "Hulk" exhumer losses accounting for a staggering 6 trillion isk in destroyed property in Q1 2008)
  • Market Snapshots
  • Five years of EVE Market history
If you're interested in reading the Q1 2008 economic newsletter, you'll find the download link to the PDF in Dr. EyjoG's dev blog. A discussion of his findings is already underway on the EVE forums.

MassivelyQuarterly Economic Newsletter for EVE Online released originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Oct 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-dr-eyjogccp-gamesdevdev-blogdr-eyjogeconomisteconomyeveeve-onlineeyjolfur-gudmundssonforumshulkindustryiskmarketmineralsminingnewsletterqenquarterly-economic-newslettertradetradingThu, 16 Oct 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Fanfest 2008 PvP Tournament to be unconventional]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/31/eve-fanfest-2008-pvp-tournament-to-be-unconventional/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/31/eve-fanfest-2008-pvp-tournament-to-be-unconventional/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/31/eve-fanfest-2008-pvp-tournament-to-be-unconventional/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

One of the highlights of the annual EVE Online Fanfest in Reykjavik is the PvP Tournament, which draws strong competitors from the most powerful alliances and relative unknowns alike. As you'd expect, the PvP Tournament has always been purely about annihilating the opposing side or conversely losing horribly in front of a live audience of EVE fans. The 2008 PvP tournament, however, will be a little... different.

CCP Claw has dubbed this year's tournament "The Super Ultimate EVE Online Mining Tournament of Awesomeness." Why, that name just rolls off your tongue. But the changes coming to the tournament aren't limited to an unwieldy name; players will need to mine for ore while under heavy fire from the opposing team. "Any method within the rules can be used to accomplish this and stop your opponent from doing the same. Mining ore for yourself, killing enemy miners and looting their wrecks, stealing from enemy jetcans, or just outright destroying the opposing team are all within the rules," CCP Claw states.

Continue reading EVE Fanfest 2008 PvP Tournament to be unconventional

MassivelyEVE Fanfest 2008 PvP Tournament to be unconventional originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 31 Jul 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-clawccp-gamesccp-taeraeveeve-fanfesteve-onlinefanfesthulklaserminingpvpreykjaviksci-fitournamentThu, 31 Jul 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Mining, the forgotten profession]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/08/eve-evolved-mining-the-forgotten-profession/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/08/eve-evolved-mining-the-forgotten-profession/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/08/eve-evolved-mining-the-forgotten-profession/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Five years since launch, space-faring MMO EVE Online is still going strong. Over the years, the game has evolved from its simple roots into a complex game packed full of content. Virtually every element of the game has drastically changed since launch to keep it new and interesting. Every free expansion brings new ships, modules and missions for all players. Some expansions have even brought us impressive new gameplay elements like the faction warfare system. One thing that unfortunately hasn't changed significantly over the years is the Mining profession. But why hasn't it been updated?

Nostalgia:
Back in 2004, EVE was a very different place. The universe was sparsely populated and the cost of new ships meant most players avoided war like the plague. Mining was the primary moneymaking profession and dedicated mining corps were commonplace. While mining was just as boring then as it is today, it was the easiest and fastest way of gathering minerals for production. Today, mining is one of the least profitable professions and isn't even close to being the best way of gathering minerals for production.

What happened over the years that has ruined the mining profession? I'll tell you what happened...

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Mining, the forgotten profession

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Mining, the forgotten profession originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 Jul 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpeconomyeveeve-evolvedeve-onlinefeaturedhulkjoystiqfeaturesmarketmineralsminingTue, 08 Jul 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[When carebears attack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/16/when-carebears-attack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/16/when-carebears-attack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/16/when-carebears-attack/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


CrazyKinux from The Drone Bay podcast, and of course one of Massively's EVE Online columnists, had an interesting find which he recently shared on his site. "When Carebears Attack" isn't the newest video out there, but given the absolute hammering that miners have been taking in Empire space over the past few months, it's quite timely. Here we see an exhumer pilot named 'JNB' who's fed up with ore thieves and being griefed in general, simply for being a miner.

While not technically griefing as it's considered a fair use of game mechanics, 'can flipping' is the time-honored tradition of a thief sneaking up on a mining vessel and replacing the floating cargo container (being mined into for greater efficiency) with his own, bearing the same name. When the miner or his hauler unknowingly removes ore from the thief's can, the innocent party becomes criminally flagged -- ironically, for being a thief himself -- and then is predictably blown apart by his antagonist. Concord, i.e. 'the police' in EVE, takes no action against the can flipper. Tired of this use of game mechanics, the carebear in this video snaps and starts hunting down griefers in a repurposed Hulk, which is little more than a fancy mining vessel; it's completely unfit for PvP... or is it? The footage shows the miner racking up a respectable kill count by using his normally defensive drones as vicious little attackers. It turns out some carebears have teeth after all.

MassivelyWhen carebears attack originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Jun 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesdronedroneseveeve-onlineexhumergame-mechanicsgriefinghulkhumorminerminingpvprevengesci-fivideoMon, 16 Jun 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Marvel Universe Online: how would it have worked?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/22/marvel-universe-online-how-would-it-have-worked/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/22/marvel-universe-online-how-would-it-have-worked/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/22/marvel-universe-online-how-would-it-have-worked/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Here's a question I haven't heard anyone ask. I'm a dyed-in-the-wool Marvel Comics geek; I know what both MODOK and AIM stand for; I remember Wolverine from when he wore those silly little eye-wings and whiskers on his mask; heck, I recall Nick Fury heading up the Howling Commandos. So I was pretty excited to hear about the Marvel Universe MMO. I had fantasies of playing as my favorite character (Adam Warlock, in case anyone's interested) until I realized that the game couldn't possibly work that way.

Think on it for a second: how many players would want to be Gambit, or the Hulk, or the Punisher? If even just two people, then there's a problem with identity. Even if you were to get around the problem with a suffix, i.e., Punisher213, then the brand has been diluted, and it no longer means anything. So, how would this MMO have worked?

Continue reading Marvel Universe Online: how would it have worked?

MassivelyMarvel Universe Online: how would it have worked? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Feb 2008 07:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adam-warlockavengerscyclopsdaredevildc-comicsgambithawkeyehowling-commandoshulkiron-manmaraudersmarvel-comicsmarvel-universe-onlinematt-murdockmodoknick-furypunisherserpent-societythe-visionthorwolverineFri, 22 Feb 2008 07:30:00 EST