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[The Daily Grind: What game do you wish you had time for?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/the-daily-grind-what-game-do-you-wish-you-had-time-for/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/the-daily-grind-what-game-do-you-wish-you-had-time-for/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/the-daily-grind-what-game-do-you-wish-you-had-time-for/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Fallen Earth - dude looking at zombies
There's no shortage of MMOs, and whether your tastes include big budget titles like The Secret World or EverQuest II or small-scale niche products like Glitch or Darkfall, these are the salad days in terms of choice.

While you probably won't find many folks complaining about the genre explosion we've witnessed over the past few years, it is becoming harder to see it all, even though the free-to-play movement has removed many of the financial obstacles inherent in the game-hopping lifestyle. There's always one game (or two, or seven) that you never seem to have time for, despite the fact that it looks really cool and dammit you're going to make time for that starting... sometime.

For me, that game is Fallen Earth, and I'm bummed out by the fact that I'm still saying that two years after its launch. What about you, Massively folk? Is there a game (or games) that you keep meaning to play?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What game do you wish you had time for? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fallen-earthfeaturedgame-discussiongamer-discussiongamers-firstgamersfirsticarusicarus-studiosmmo-discussionmmo-hot-topicsmmo-issuesmmo-topicsmmorpg-discussionmmorpg-hot-topicsmmorpg-topicsopinionpost-apocalypticsci-fitdgthe-daily-grindThu, 08 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth partners with MAINGEAR for Play2Win contest]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/16/fallen-earth-partners-with-maingear-for-play2win-contest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/16/fallen-earth-partners-with-maingear-for-play2win-contest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/16/fallen-earth-partners-with-maingear-for-play2win-contest/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Fallen Earth
Are you in the market for a spankin'-new gaming rig? Of course you are. Well, GamersFirst wants to help you out. The company has partnered with MAINGEAR to run a contest that will reward one lucky winner with a shiny new MAINGEAR F131 gaming PC. But there's a catch, of course. In order to win the custom Fallen Earth computer, players must venture into the wastelands of Fallen Earth to collect MAINGEAR computer parts from unique resource nodes scattered about the world. Whoever has the most parts when the contest ends on December 14th will be declared the winner. Head over to MAINGEAR's website for the full contest rules, and then sign up to play at the Fallen Earth official site and get to scavengin'.

[Source: GamersFirst press release]

MassivelyFallen Earth partners with MAINGEAR for Play2Win contest originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 Nov 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestf2pfallen-earthfefree-to-playgamersfirsticarusicarus-studiosmaingearplay2winWed, 16 Nov 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth's Halloween sale refunds all G1 Credits spent]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/29/fallen-earths-halloween-sale-refunds-all-g1-credits-spent/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/29/fallen-earths-halloween-sale-refunds-all-g1-credits-spent/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/29/fallen-earths-halloween-sale-refunds-all-g1-credits-spent/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- Fallen Earth
Who amongst Fallen Earth's wasteland wanderers doesn't love saving money? No one, that's who. In light of that fact (and in celebration of Halloween), GamersFirst is providing a 100% rebate on every G1 Credit spent in the Fallen Earth cash shop from now until November 3rd. That mount you've always wanted? Snag it! Not satisfied with your character name? Change it! Those deliciously steampunk brass goggles you've always wanted? Rock 'em!

Not only will you receive a complete rebate on all G1 Credits spent (that means everything is free, for the economically disinclined), but many everyday items have had their prices slashed as well. For the full details on what's on sale, head on over to the Fallen Earth official site.

MassivelyFallen Earth's Halloween sale refunds all G1 Credits spent originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 29 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brass-goggles-are-awesomef2pfallen-earthfefree-to-playgamersfirsthalloweenhalloween-saleicarusicarus-studiossaleSat, 29 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Two years after the fall of the world: Fallen Earth's second anniversary]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/two-years-after-the-fall-of-the-world-fallen-earths-second-ann/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/two-years-after-the-fall-of-the-world-fallen-earths-second-ann/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/two-years-after-the-fall-of-the-world-fallen-earths-second-ann/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Fallen Earth second anniversary
It's no secret that Fallen Earth is somewhat of a staff favorite here at Massively. While its combat system may not hold the same polish of other titles, it more than makes up for it in sheer exploration, incredibly deep crafting, an engagingly different game world, and the dark humor that seeps into every aspect of the game. In fact, Massively is what convinced me to give Fallen Earth a shot when it came out two years ago.

At the time, I was just a regular gamer looking for something a little different than the elves-'n'-fantasy fare that 99% of MMOs were dishing my way. Fallen Earth's semi-familiar setting -- modern guns, post office boxes, motorcycles, sunglasses, giant mutated ants -- was at once familiar and foreign. It took me two solid tries to get into the game, but once I did, I was hooked.

I've always felt bad that Fallen Earth never got more popular than it already is, although I can understand why. The post-apocalypse setting is enough to weird players out, and the paradigm shift from getting your gear via looting to building your own gear via crafting takes some getting used to. Plus, the troubles that Icarus Studios ran into early on didn't help matters any.

Fortunately, the future looks bright for Fallen Earth, and as it celebrates its second anniversary, we should look back at this past year to see just how far this cult MMO has come. Clones, assemble!

Continue reading Two years after the fall of the world: Fallen Earth's second anniversary

MassivelyTwo years after the fall of the world: Fallen Earth's second anniversary originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2nd-anniversaryability-pointsalpha-countyanniversaryapboneclawchotacombat-overhaulf2pfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfeaturedfree-to-playgamersfirstglobaltechicarusicarus-studiosMarie-Croallplayer-housingprogress-townssecond-anniversarysectorsector-foursector-oneterminal-woodsThu, 22 Sep 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth dev diary talks economic changes, world events, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/fallen-earth-dev-diary-talks-economic-changes-world-events-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/fallen-earth-dev-diary-talks-economic-changes-world-events-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/fallen-earth-dev-diary-talks-economic-changes-world-events-and/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Fallen Earth - cooking
Earlier today we told you about the Fallen Earth devs answering a few of your free-to-play questions. Now it's time to dive a bit further down the rabbit hole courtesy of this month's state of the game update.

Producer Marie Croall checks in with us to talk about the game's two-year anniversary celebration, which includes "PvP, PvE, and RP components." She also says that the event will be run at EU- and US-friendly times (though said times aren't specified as of yet).

In terms of game updates, the major portion of the September recap concerns the ongoing economic changes. Inconsistencies dealing with recipe and component rarity have been dealt with, and the dev team has "redone the placement of most of the nodes in the game" to make the rarer nodes more of an incentive to enter PvP-enabled areas. Finally, Croall says that the release of the new world event system has been bumped back to coincide with the free-to-play conversion on October 12th. Grab your favorite wasteland beverage and read all the details at the official Fallen Earth dev blog.

MassivelyFallen Earth dev diary talks economic changes, world events, and more originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Sep 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingdev-blogdev-diaryeconomic-changeseconomic-tweakseconomyfallen-earthgamersfirsticarusicarus-studiosmarie-croallpatchespost-apocalypticrare-recipesrarityrecipessci-fiState-of-the-gameupdatewastelandworld-event-systemworld-eventsTue, 20 Sep 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth devs answer your F2P questions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/fallen-earth-devs-answer-your-f2p-questions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/fallen-earth-devs-answer-your-f2p-questions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/fallen-earth-devs-answer-your-f2p-questions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Fallen Earth - sunrise
You've got questions about Fallen Earth's free-to-play conversion, and the dev team's got answers. The latest Fallen Earth blog entry spills the beans on everything from what happens to existing subscriptions to character slots to various functionality limitations.

Surprisingly, GamersFirst is allowing free-to-play customers to make use of the auction house, mail, and trading systems, but this may change "if gold farmers get totally out of control." There's also good news for pre-existing Fallen Earth subscribers who would like to convert to a free-to-play account but are worried about losing access to their alts. "If you had ever bought the game or paid for a subscription, those character slots were included with your game, so they belong to you regardless of the change in business model," writes Joseph "Linus" Willmon. Head to the official Fallen Earth dev blog for more.

MassivelyFallen Earth devs answer your F2P questions originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Sep 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auction-housecharacter-slotsdev-blogdev-diaryf2pfallen-earthfree-accountsfree-to-playgamersfirstgold-farmersgold-farmingicarusicarus-studiosjoseph-willmonmailpost-apocalytpicsci-fitradeTue, 20 Sep 2011 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth set to go free-to-play on October 12th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/02/fallen-earth-set-to-go-free-to-play-on-october-12th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/02/fallen-earth-set-to-go-free-to-play-on-october-12th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/02/fallen-earth-set-to-go-free-to-play-on-october-12th/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The dawn of a new era. See what I did there?
It's been two and a half months since we heard the news that GamersFirst acquired Fallen Earth and planned to implement a free-to-play business model. In those months, the question on everyone's lips was "When?"

Tonight we finally get our answer: GamersFirst has released a new dev blog announcing an October 12th free-to-play conversion date, details of a "mostly-finalized structure of free accounts and Premium Subscriptions," and appreciation gifts for veterans.

While the date and details are exciting, the Fallen Earth team is bringing more to the table for players. There is a new world event system coming as well as some celebratory events for Fallen Earth's second birthday. You can check out all the details on the Fallen Earth dev blog.

MassivelyFallen Earth set to go free-to-play on October 12th originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Sep 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfallen-earthfree-to-playgamersfirsticarusicarus-studiosFri, 02 Sep 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Proposed Fallen Earth F2P chart separates the scavengers from the commanders]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/30/proposed-fallen-earth-f2p-chart-separates-the-scavengers-from-th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/30/proposed-fallen-earth-f2p-chart-separates-the-scavengers-from-th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/30/proposed-fallen-earth-f2p-chart-separates-the-scavengers-from-th/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Fallen Earth membership chart
While we didn't get much out of GamersFirst at PAX this past week about Fallen Earth's plans for this fall and the free-to-play conversion, it looks like news will find a way nevertheless. Creep the Prophet posted a proposed (please note that word) membership matrix for Fallen Earth when the F2P switch is triggered.

Similar to other F2P charts we've seen, this boasts a variety of subscription levels, from the F2P "Scavenger" to the ultra-deluxe "Commander." The good news is that a majority of the game would, under this matrix, become simply free to all, including all zones, all levels, and skills. Free players will face a few restrictions, including crafting limitations, no access to global chat, only one character slot, and a slower rate of gaining XP and AP. The better subscription levels offer discounts to the game's store, faster progress in the game, monthly gifts, and a full range of features.

Subscribers will also receive an in-game "aura," that will allow them to share some of these bonuses with their less-fortunate F2P brothers and sisters.

No prices have been attached to this chart, and it could be subject to change between now and the F2P conversion, which should happen sometime between October and December.

MassivelyProposed Fallen Earth F2P chart separates the scavengers from the commanders originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 30 Aug 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>commandercraftingcreepcreep-the-prophetf2pfallen-earthfefree-to-playgamersfirsticarusicarus-studiosmembership-chartmembership-matrixpaxpax-prime-2011scavengersubscriber-chartsubscriptionTue, 30 Aug 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Fallen Earth dev blog talks fixing the economy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/new-fallen-earth-dev-blog-talks-fixing-the-economy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/new-fallen-earth-dev-blog-talks-fixing-the-economy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/new-fallen-earth-dev-blog-talks-fixing-the-economy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Fallen Earth - nice economy
What does the Fallen Earth dev team mean when it says "fixing the economy?" The latest dev blog has your answer, and there's nary a tax cut, stimulus plan, or partisan political argument in sight. Instead, producer Marie Croall waxes on about what's wrong with wasteland supply and demand, with a specific focus on crafting component drops and rarity.

The end goal is to "give value to basic, improved, and advanced recipes," and Croall hopes this will happen as a result of the team's manipulation of the market. "We had to, in some cases, actually create rarity where there was none or -- in the case of cooking components -- create common items where there were only rare and uncommon," she explains.

Fallen Earth's cooking mechanic is also receiving special attention, due in part to the large number of required components and the lack of rare ingredients in the current game build. The dev team is also taking a hard look at consumable buffs, and Croall states that more details on the upcoming fixes will be available as the patch nears release.

MassivelyNew Fallen Earth dev blog talks fixing the economy originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 24 Aug 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>commoncookingcraftingcrafting-componentsdev-blogdev-diaryeconomyfallen-earthfixing-the-economyicarusicarus-studiosmarket-manipulationnon-combat-gameplaypost-apocalypticraressci-fitradeskillinguncommonwastelandWed, 24 Aug 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: It's fixed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/wasteland-diaries-its-fixed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/wasteland-diaries-its-fixed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/wasteland-diaries-its-fixed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Victors at Blockade
During the past couple of weeks, I haven't been playing Fallen Earth too much. I have been waiting for some changes to come along. I found the new combat system to be a bit too slow-paced and dull. It was very centered around healing. He who healed the best generally won the fights. I prefer a system in which he who deals the most damage is more likely to win. There are, of course, other tactical considerations involved in both types of combat, but the overall feel was just plain wrong in the healer-centric combat system.

I'm happy to report that some changes have been made to the system. There are still a few things I don't like about the 1.9 patch, but 1.9.2 fixed almost all of these issues. I won't say it was a perfect patch, but it was very close. There are still some minor issues I'd like to see addressed, but these are probably conscious design choices that are working as intended. In this post, I'd like to cover what has changed, why it's so great, and what we will see in the coming months. The urge to log into Fallen Earth is coming back to me, and it is all due to this new patch. After the cut, I'll explain why.

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: It's fixed

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: It's fixed originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Aug 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alpha-countyblockadecitadelcombat-systemecoomy-overhaulfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfast-travelfeaturedgamersfirsthealingicarusicarus-studiospowerprecisionpvepvpsector-4staminaterritory-controlFri, 12 Aug 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Aye aye, Cap'n Tightpants!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/one-shots-aye-aye-capn-tightpants/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/one-shots-aye-aye-capn-tightpants/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/one-shots-aye-aye-capn-tightpants/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

One Shots Fallen Earth
Today's One Shots takes us to Fallen Earth's wasteland, where visitors to Watchtower in Sector 1 will find a subtle nod to Firefly.
Icarus Studios didn't go over the top when creating Captain Reynolds. He's not wearing a brown coat and chatting about spaceships, but the name alone is familiar enough that most fans will smile in recognition.
We're celebrating pop culture in our MMOs this week. Developers sneak references in all over games, whether it be via NPCs, quests, or items, and we want to see your favorites. Grab a screenshot, tell us a bit about what it is, and send it to oneshots@massively.com. We'll be featuring the best of these all week.

It's also time to start thinking about next week's One Shots theme, and we'll be revisiting an old favorite: environments. Snap a screenshot of your favorite MMO vista and send it in, and we'll feature it on One Shots next week!

Gallery: One Shots: 2011

MassivelyOne Shots: Aye aye, Cap'n Tightpants! originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Aug 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fallen-earthfireflygalleriesgalleryicarusicarus-studiosone-shotsscreenshotscreenshotsFri, 12 Aug 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth state of the game talks 1.9.2, economics, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/11/fallen-earth-state-of-the-game-talks-1-9-2-economics-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/11/fallen-earth-state-of-the-game-talks-1-9-2-economics-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/11/fallen-earth-state-of-the-game-talks-1-9-2-economics-and-more/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Fallen Earth
Curious -- and perhaps a tad impatient -- regarding the status of Fallen Earth's free-to-play transition? We were, and fortunately for everyone, producer Marie Croall just penned a dev blog that's given us a bit more insight into the goings-on around the wasteland as of late.

The good news is that "the heavy lifting is over" in terms of the account and services migration to GamersFirst. Croall says that the Fallen Earth team is a smidge over halfway through the entire transition process, so for now it'll still cost you a few bucks to log in and get your post-apocalyptic sandpark fix.

Croall spends some virtual ink talking about this month's fast travel/1.9.2 patch, and she also goes into a bit more detail on the combat changes that came with it. Finally, she touches on the game's second anniversary (yeah, it's been two years already!), which happens next month and will also herald some economic changes designed to make the game's well-regarded crafting system pack a little more punch. There's more too, but much of it is farther down the development pipeline, and we highly recommend heading to the official Fallen Earth dev blog to check it out.

MassivelyFallen Earth state of the game talks 1.9.2, economics, and more originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 11 Aug 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.9.22-year-anniversarycraftingdev-blogdev-diaryeconomyf2pfallen-earthfast-travelfree-to-playgamers-firstgamersfirsticarusicarus-studiosmarie-croallpost-apocalypticsandparksci-fiwastelandThu, 11 Aug 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth 1.9.2 debuts tomorrow, expands fast travel options]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/fallen-earth-1-9-2-debuts-tomorrow-expands-fast-travel-options/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/fallen-earth-1-9-2-debuts-tomorrow-expands-fast-travel-options/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/fallen-earth-1-9-2-debuts-tomorrow-expands-fast-travel-options/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

There's a lot going on in the wasteland these days, and the Fallen Earth dev blog updated with a bird's eye view of all the shenanigans over the weekend. First and foremost, the 1.9.2 patch is on the way (it's currently scheduled for tomorrow, in fact), and the blog entry has the patch notes ready for your perusal.

Along with the requisite combat, skills, and recipe updates, the big news is the expansion of the game's fast travel mechanics. Players are now able to zip between certain LifeNet pod locations, with additional destinations becoming available as LifeNet's supplies are restocked. The fast travel system necessitates mission turn-ins at each pod location that a player wishes to use, and the mechanic also features level, chip, and knowledge requirements.

That's not all there is to 1.9.2, of course, and the update notes are pretty extensive. Head to the Fallen Earth dev blog to read new info on progress towns, mission updates, and a laundry list of other tweaks.

MassivelyFallen Earth 1.9.2 debuts tomorrow, expands fast travel options originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 09 Aug 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.9.21.9.2-patchf2pfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfast-travelfree-to-playgamersfirsticarusicarus-studiosinstant-travellifenetlifenet-podpatchespost-apocalypticsci-fiskill-basedtravelupdateswastelandTue, 09 Aug 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GamersFirst's Fallen Earth account transitions begin today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/29/gamersfirsts-fallen-earth-account-transitions-begin-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/29/gamersfirsts-fallen-earth-account-transitions-begin-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/29/gamersfirsts-fallen-earth-account-transitions-begin-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Today's the big day for Fallen Earth and GamersFirst account integration, and the Icarus team has posted a brief how-to on the game's official website. Fallen Earth will go dark at approximately 5:00 p.m. EDT, and "the process is expected to take quite some time."

When the server comes back up, players will need a free GamersFirst account to log in, and they'll also be prompted to merge their old Icarus accounts with the new account before continuing. Credit card payment information will automatically transfer, but Paypal users will need to manually update their info on the account settings page.

Finally, ClickandBuy will no longer be an option for subscription accounts, and the Fallen Earth team is inviting former users to continue their subs via Paypal or traditional credit card payments. Icarus also points out that today's migration has nothing to do with either game content or the impending free-to-play conversion (i.e., subscriptions will still be required for game access after today's merge is complete).

MassivelyGamersFirst's Fallen Earth account transitions begin today originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>account-conversionaccount-migrationaccountsf2pfallen-earthfree-to-playgamersfirstgamersfirst-accounticarusicarus-studiosmmo-industrypost-apocalypticsci-fiserver-downtimewastelandFri, 29 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth subscriber appreciation gifts detailed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/26/fallen-earth-subscriber-appreciation-gifts-detailed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/26/fallen-earth-subscriber-appreciation-gifts-detailed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/26/fallen-earth-subscriber-appreciation-gifts-detailed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

If you're a Fallen Earth subscriber, you're about to get a few thank you gifts from Icarus and GamersFirst. A new blurb on the post-apocalyptic MMORPG's website outlines the goodies in store for loyal wastelanders that stay subbed from August through October.

Fancy white boots, hats, and jackets are the order of the day, so if you've ever had the urge to dress your clone like a pimp or an extra from the Matrix, now's the time. The devs are giving away some pretty cool pets as well, and you'll take home a skin dog, a chupacabra, and an old creeper if you stay subbed for all three months.

Subscribers "won't have to buy these or do anything out of the ordinary to get them; they will gravitate towards you like mosquitoes to freshly exposed skin," says the Fallen Earth website. It's also worth noting that these gifts are not part of the veteran rewards system which Icarus says will be taking effect when the free-to-play transition is complete.

MassivelyFallen Earth subscriber appreciation gifts detailed originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Jul 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chupacabraf2pfallen-earthfree-to-playgamers-firstgamersfirsticarusicarus-studiosold-creeperpetspost-apocalypticrewardssci-fiskindog-petsubscriber-rewardsveteran-rewardswastelandTue, 26 Jul 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GamersFirst talks Fallen Earth account changes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/gamersfirst-talks-fallen-earth-account-changes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/gamersfirst-talks-fallen-earth-account-changes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/gamersfirst-talks-fallen-earth-account-changes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

If you're a current Fallen Earth subscriber, you'll want to head over to the official Fallen Earth dev blog to get the skinny on the upcoming account shenanigans scheduled to take place on August 1st and beyond.

In a nutshell, Fallen Earth's acquisition by GamersFirst has necessitated that all users acquire a GamersFirst account to log into the game. Never fear, though, it's a free account, and it's just another step in the changeover process. In fact, GamersFirst's Joseph "Linus" Willmon writes that the account gymnastics are part of "phase two, where we fully integrate Fallen Earth into the GamersFirst publishing platform." Phase one has already been completed, and it involved a lot of behind-the-scenes hardware moves and the like.

This week's Fallen Earth dev blog contains a complete rundown of the rest of the changes scheduled to occur in phase two, including payment and subscription tweaks.

MassivelyGamersFirst talks Fallen Earth account changes originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Jul 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>account-changeoveraccount-migrationaccountsdev-blogf2pfallen-earthfree-to-playg1gamersfirstgamersfirst-accounticarusicarus-studiosjoseph-willmonlinuspost-apocalypticsci-fiwastelandThu, 21 Jul 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: And the rocket's red glare]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/19/one-shots-and-the-rockets-red-glare/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/19/one-shots-and-the-rockets-red-glare/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/19/one-shots-and-the-rockets-red-glare/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

I searched high and low for an old Tabula Rasa screenshot for my turn at the One Shots helm today, but hooking up old hard drives did not sound like a fun morning to me. So I've decided to show off my new bazooka (that I'm borrowing from the clan) on my Fallen Earth character, Ampersand.

I'm a huge fan of the guns in Fallen Earth, and this Omega Arms Valkyrie will literally blast your face off. It looks a bit odd on a scrap-armored CHOTA, but I'm willing to break immersion to melt some faces.

All this week, we Massively writers are spotlighting some of our personal favorite One Shots. What exciting stories revolve around our screenshots? Stay tuned to find out. Next week, after staff picks week, 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 next week's One Shots!

Gallery: One Shots: 2011

MassivelyOne Shots: And the rocket's red glare originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 Jul 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ampersandbazookaface-meltingfallen-earthgamersfirsticarusicarus-studiosone-shotsrocket-launcherTue, 19 Jul 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth dev blog talks builds, combat mechanics, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/12/fallen-earth-dev-blog-talks-builds-combat-mechanics-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/12/fallen-earth-dev-blog-talks-builds-combat-mechanics-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/12/fallen-earth-dev-blog-talks-builds-combat-mechanics-and-more/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Let it never be said that the devs at GamersFirst and Icarus fail to communicate with Fallen Earth players. The latest wasteland-flavored dev blog is longer than your average George R. R. Martin novel, and just about as complex.

This week's installment is heavy on builds and mechanical info following the recent combat revamp, and theorycrafters, min-maxers, and folks whose eyes don't glaze over at the thought of number-driven minutiae will no doubt find it instructive.

There's also a brief mention of current subscriber rewards, as well as some hinting at the various subscriber levels (and premium access benefits) that the dev team is still in the process of tweaking. Read all about it at the official Fallen Earth dev blog.

MassivelyFallen Earth dev blog talks builds, combat mechanics, and more originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 12 Jul 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buildscombat-buildscombat-mechanicscombat-revampdev-blogdev-diaryfallen-earthgame-mechanicsgamersfirsticarusicarus-studiospost-apocalypticsci-fiskill-buildsskillswastelandTue, 12 Jul 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Icarus and GamersFirst collaborate on new MMO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/12/icarus-and-gamersfirst-collaborate-on-new-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/12/icarus-and-gamersfirst-collaborate-on-new-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/12/icarus-and-gamersfirst-collaborate-on-new-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Icarus Studios and Gamersfirst's Reloaded Productions have announced today that the two studios will be partnering yet again on an upcoming MMORPG. The game, titled Hailan Rising, will be based on Icarus' xScape platform, which is being modified to support Unity 3D.

Hailan Rising is "slated to be the industry's first full scale PvP-based Fantasy MMORPG developed in Unity 3D," and places players in the role of one of eight character classes in the post-apocalyptic fantasy world of Hailan. After the world is destroyed by a huge flood, land is at a premium, so players must battle it out for the newly created islands and the resources they hold. For more information on this upcoming title, head over to the game's official site.

Gallery: Hailan Rising Core Gallery

MassivelyIcarus and GamersFirst collaborate on new MMO originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 12 Jul 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fantasygamersfirsthailanhailan-onlineicarusicarus-studiospost-apocalypticpvppvp-basedunityunity-3dunity-engineunity3dxScapeTue, 12 Jul 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth launches Alpha County expansion [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/fallen-earth-launches-alpha-county-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/fallen-earth-launches-alpha-county-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/fallen-earth-launches-alpha-county-expansion/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Welcome to Alpha County, wasteland wanderers! That's right, the big day is here, as GamersFirst has finally launched (see below) the newest expansion to Fallen Earth. What does this new addition bring to Fallen Earth players? Well... (deep breath!) the largest addition is the eponymous Alpha County zone, which provides endgame-level players with a wealth of new content. The expansion brings the level cap to 55 and introduces a brand-new conflict town called Blockade. Also included are new areas known as Progress Towns. These towns are PvP-centric areas that players can fight over, command, defend, and hopefully, hold.

The expansion also brings a wealth of combat balance changes and new skill lines. The new system "allows for wider varieties of player builds and roles in combat." In addition, skills will no longer increase alongside the character's base statistics, thereby requiring more specialized skill investment in order to receive the most powerful abilities. New players aren't getting left in the dust either, as they will now begin the game with 30 Advancement Points from the get-go, allowing them to take steps toward customizing and defining their characters much earlier in the game. For more information, and to jump into the post-apocalyptic wasteland of Fallen Earth for yourself, head on over to the game's official site.

[Update: And it's just been announced that the Alpha County update is delayed until tomorrow. So there's that.]

MassivelyFallen Earth launches Alpha County expansion [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Jul 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alpha-countyblockadecombat-balanceexpansionexpansionsfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfegamersfirsticarusicarus-studiosprogression-townsWed, 06 Jul 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: Playstyles]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/01/wasteland-diaries-playstyles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/01/wasteland-diaries-playstyles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/01/wasteland-diaries-playstyles/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Most MMOs have three playstyles. Well, that's incorrect; they actually have any number of play-styles with varying degrees of three types of play. PvE (player vs. environment) is the style of play in which the antagonists are a part of the gameworld itself. PvP (player vs. player) pits the players against each other. And RP (roleplaying) has the players vying for... whatever they decide they need to vie for. Most players engage Fallen Earth (or any MMO, for that matter) with a mix of the three.

Fallen Earth is a great setting for the RPers. Its vastness and its interesting-looking locales make for a variety of backdrops. The interesting locales usually make for some great locations for open world PvP. And there are hundreds and hundreds of PvE missions here, there, and everywhere. All three types of players can get a lot out of Fallen Earth if they approach the game properly. The purpose of this post is to help you along with getting what you can out of the game with your preferred playstyle. So without any further ado, click past the cut and read on.

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: Playstyles

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: Playstyles originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 01 Jul 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alpha-countyauction-houseblockadeCraftercraftingfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfefeaturedgamersfirsticarusicarus-studioslevel-capPlayStylepvepvproleplayRolePlayingRPsocialtraderFri, 01 Jul 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth announces cash shop sale]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/29/fallen-earth-announces-cash-shop-sale/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/29/fallen-earth-announces-cash-shop-sale/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/29/fallen-earth-announces-cash-shop-sale/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Even after the apocalypse, price-slashing still appears to be a running tradition. GamersFirst announced today that everything in the Fallen Earth cash shop must go! Or something like that, anyway. Many Fallen Earth cash shop items have had their prices lowered drastically, with the sale lasting until the launch of Alpha County on July 6th.

The selection of items on sale is extensive, with extra character slots -- usually $30 -- dropping to a comparatively dirt-cheap $11. Faction resets drop from $15 to $9, and many other items, such as a fashionable pair of brass goggles and a terrifyingly fowl (ha ha) prairie chicken mount, have had their prices lowered by 50% or more. So if you're a Fallen Earth player looking to part with your hard-earned cash, head on over to the official site for the full sale listings.

MassivelyFallen Earth announces cash shop sale originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 29 Jun 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alpha-countybad-punscash-shop-salefallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfegamersfirsticarusicarus-studiosmicrotransactionsmmm-brass-gogglespost-apocalypsepost-apocalypticprairie-chickensaleWed, 29 Jun 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth dev blog talks Alpha County, factional territory control, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/27/fallen-earth-dev-blog-talks-alpha-county-factional-territory-co/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/27/fallen-earth-dev-blog-talks-alpha-county-factional-territory-co/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/27/fallen-earth-dev-blog-talks-alpha-county-factional-territory-co/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

There's a new Fallen Earth dev blog in town, and it's so big that it requires the input of two devs. Producer Marie Croall outlines the game's upcoming development schedule and even drops a release date for the much-anticipated Alpha County/Progress Towns/combat changes patch. That date is July 6th, and Croall provides a recap for those of you who've forgotten about the fact that the update will raise the level cap to 55 and introduce new resources, gear, missions, and a town to fight over.

Croall also hints at upcoming changes to Fallen Earth's fast travel system, and she's quick to point out that the team isn't "dumbing anything down -- just putting emphasis on the features that drive the game." Speaking of features, we learned that a world event system is coming, as is faction territory control. It sounds as if the details haven't been ironed out just yet, as Croall doesn't offer any specifics. She also invites players to ask plenty of questions "so [they] can explore all angles together."

GamersFirst's Joseph "Linus" Willmon checks in to update players on the status of the PTS as well as the new monitoring tools that G1 is putting in place to isolate those pesky server performance issues. Finally, there's a quick blurb about skill and faction respec items that have been added to the Fallen Earth store. Catch up on all of this and more at the official Fallen Earth dev blog.

MassivelyFallen Earth dev blog talks Alpha County, factional territory control, and more originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 27 Jun 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dev-blogdev-diaryf2pfactional-territory-controlfactional-warfarefallen-earthfree-to-playgamersfirsticarusicarus-studiosjoseph-willmonmarie-croallpost-apocalypticrespecssci-fiterritory-controlwastelandMon, 27 Jun 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: Coming soon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/24/wasteland-diaries-coming-soon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/24/wasteland-diaries-coming-soon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/24/wasteland-diaries-coming-soon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Due to the new partnership between Fallen Earth and GamersFirst, there are some huge changes coming in the very near future and massive changes headed our way before the end of the year. Sector 4 is going to be released soon along with a major re-write of the skills and abilities system. There are still a great many questions that remain unanswered, but the developers on both sides have dropped some subtle and not-so-subtle hints here and there.

There are still many players asking questions in global chat and on the forums that have been answered already. A few of the answers given have left me scratching my head, but I'm still optimistic at this point. But there's still a lot of confusion within the community about what is coming and when. I've dug up many of the responses to the toughest questions by Marie Croall of Fallen Earth and Joe Willmon of GamersFirst, who are holding their cards close to their chests but have nevertheless given up some good info. After the cut, I'll try to clarify what's going on in the short and long term, but it may result in some speculation on both our parts.

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: Coming soon

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: Coming soon originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 Jun 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alpha-countydynamic-contentf2pfactionsfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfeaturedfree-to-playgamersfirsthousingicarusicarus-studiosjoe-willmonmarie-croallpatchplayer-housingrespecrevampsector-4subscriptionsubscription-modelwasteland-diariesFri, 24 Jun 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: Weapon balance]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/17/wasteland-diaries-weapon-balance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/17/wasteland-diaries-weapon-balance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/17/wasteland-diaries-weapon-balance/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Rock, scissors, paper. It's not quite that simple when referring to the three weapon classes in Fallen Earth. You have the two ranged disciplines: rifles and pistols. And then you have melee weapons. They all have distinct advantages in combat, and they are all viable in PvP and PvE when played properly. There is a lot of debate about weapon balance on the forums and in the game (gotta love global chat) about weapon balance.

I come from the school of thought that believes the weapons are currently as balanced as they have ever been. Many people will disagree with me on that point. But the vast majority of people who agree that the combat is well-balanced in Fallen Earth's current system are my contemporaries who have been PvPing since alpha, beta or launch. Many newer, less experienced players feel that certain weapon classes are overpowered or useless. I say that is not the case. Continue past the cut and I'll explain why I feel that way.

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: Weapon balance

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: Weapon balance originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Jun 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilitiesclassesdual-wieldingfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfefeaturedgamersfirsticarusicarus-studiosknockdownmeleepistolpvepvpriflerocket-launchershotgunsniper-riflesubmachingunweapon-balanceweapon-classesweaponsFri, 17 Jun 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Inaugural Fallen Earth dev blog talks PvE, PvP, and roleplay content]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/16/inaugural-fallen-earth-dev-blog-talks-pve-pvp-and-roleplay-con/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/16/inaugural-fallen-earth-dev-blog-talks-pve-pvp-and-roleplay-con/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/16/inaugural-fallen-earth-dev-blog-talks-pve-pvp-and-roleplay-con/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Yesterday we broke the news that GamersFirst had acquired Fallen Earth and has set about molding the post-apocalyptic sci-fi title into a free-to-play experience. Today we're happy to tell you about the new Fallen Earth dev blog and its lengthy inaugural post.

The entry comes courtesy of associate game director Joseph "Linus" Willmon, and he expends a good deal of virtual ink on topics that include the free-to-play roadmap, various changes that will result from the conversion, a transition time frame, and post-F2P design priorities. While the entire post is quite intriguing for fans of the game's grungy wasteland shtick, that last bit is particularly interesting since it specifically targets three groups of players (one of which is almost universally ignored in dev circles) and promises them content updates.

"Anyone who's played Fallen Earth knows there are three core groups -- sometimes always at odds with one another -- that form the basis of the community: PvP players, PvE players, and roleplayers. The design priorities for the future will look towards building specific features and content aimed at each group, making the world much more robust and, we hope, exciting to experience," Willmon writes.

MassivelyInaugural Fallen Earth dev blog talks PvE, PvP, and roleplay content originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Jun 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>designdesign-prioritiesdev-blogdev-diaryfallen-earthgamersfirsticarusicarus-studiosjoseph-willmonlinuspost-apocalypticpvepvproleplayrpsci-fiwastelandThu, 16 Jun 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GamersFirst announces acquisition of Fallen Earth with new F2P business model]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/gamersfirst-announces-acquisition-of-fallen-earth-with-new-f2p-b/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/gamersfirst-announces-acquisition-of-fallen-earth-with-new-f2p-b/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/gamersfirst-announces-acquisition-of-fallen-earth-with-new-f2p-b/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

After last month's announcement by GamersFirst that the company is taking over the hardware side of Fallen Earth, most of us made the obvious connection that the post-apocalyptic MMO would be heading into free-to-play territory. Even while hinting at it in a recent E3 interview, GamersFirst never really came out and said anything definitively.

Well, it has now. Today, GamersFirst has given us the exclusive news that it will be taking over the operations of Fallen Earth immediately. Of course, following all other games in the GamersFirst library, Fallen Earth will also adopt a F2P business model.

But what does this mean for the development of Fallen Earth? Will GamersFirst take over production and content design? Just how free will the game be? Follow along after the jump for answers to those questions and more.

Continue reading GamersFirst announces acquisition of Fallen Earth with new F2P business model

MassivelyGamersFirst announces acquisition of Fallen Earth with new F2P business model originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Jun 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acquisitionBjorn-Book-LarssonBreakingNewsexercisef2pfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfefree-to-playgamersfirsticarusicarus-studiosjoe-rushjoseph-willmonmarie-croallrahul-sandilreloaded-productionsWed, 15 Jun 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2011: GamersFirst talks Fallen Earth and F2P]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/09/e3-2011-gamersfirst-talks-fallen-earth-and-f2p/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/09/e3-2011-gamersfirst-talks-fallen-earth-and-f2p/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/09/e3-2011-gamersfirst-talks-fallen-earth-and-f2p/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Last week the devs at Icarus Studios dropped the first hints of their collaboration with noted free-to-play developer GamersFirst. Despite a lot of speculation and anticipation (fueled in part by the fact that the Fallen Earth website went offline for a few hours for updates), no free-to-play announcement was forthcoming.

Yesterday at the annual E3 convention in Los Angeles, our own Rubi Bayer managed to corner GamersFirst's Darek Connole to ask him what the heck is going on in terms of wasteland business models and future development considerations.

Is Fallen Earth's cash shop expanding? Is the game going free-to-play? GamersFirst remains coy on both subjects, but you can check out the full interview after the cut for more details.

Continue reading E3 2011: GamersFirst talks Fallen Earth and F2P

MassivelyE3 2011: GamersFirst talks Fallen Earth and F2P originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 Jun 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelsdarek-connolee3e3-2011f2pfallen-earthfeaturedfree-to-playgamersfirsticarusicarus-studiosinterviewinterviewsmarketingmicrotransactionsprpreviewssci-fiwastelandThu, 09 Jun 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA['Major' Fallen Earth announcement coming May 31st]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/27/major-fallen-earth-announcement-coming-may-31st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/27/major-fallen-earth-announcement-coming-may-31st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/27/major-fallen-earth-announcement-coming-may-31st/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Maintenance breaks may typically be frustrating, boring patches of non-activity for MMO gamers, but next Tuesday promises to be different for Fallen Earth. According to the official site, the team has a "major" announcement scheduled during the May 31st downtime -- one you won't want to miss.

The announcement will take place during two live podcasts with Senior Game Designer Marie Croall. During the podcasts, Croall will discuss the game's present and future to the dedicated wastelanders out there.

You can catch the podcast and announcement on Fallen Earth's Ustream channel on May 31st at 3:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. EDT. Alternatively, players may use Ventrilo to catch the action and even submit their own questions.

What will this announcement be? We're not sure, but it looks to be a long weekend wait until we find out!

Massively'Major' Fallen Earth announcement coming May 31st originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 27 May 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>announcementfallen-earthfefireside-chaticarusicarus-studioslive-podcastmarie-croallpodcastustreamventventrilloFri, 27 May 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth lets players take a stroll through Alpha County]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/16/fallen-earth-lets-players-take-a-stroll-through-alpha-county/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/16/fallen-earth-lets-players-take-a-stroll-through-alpha-county/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/16/fallen-earth-lets-players-take-a-stroll-through-alpha-county/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Long-awaited and heavily anticipated, Fallen Earth's Alpha County has long been the game's promised land, an environment that's at once near and far. But the release is just around the corner, and the developers are giving players a chance to peek behind the walls just a little bit early. Starting tomorrow, May 17th, Alpha County is going live on the public test server, giving all of the game's players the chance to wander around in a strange new territory.

For players who want to dive into the story on the actual release and no sooner, fear not -- the announcement promises that the test server won't offer any spoilers as to storyline. But players will be able to explore a new environment and get a feel for the lay of the land, even if they can't get a feel for every new piece of content right out of the gate. Fallen Earth players had best prepare for the test server sneak peek, as it's only a day away.

MassivelyFallen Earth lets players take a stroll through Alpha County originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 May 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alpha-countyfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfeicarusicarus-studiosnew-areasnew-environmentsnewspatchespreviewpublic-testpublic-test-servertest-serverupcoming-patchesMon, 16 May 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth dev talks progress town layouts and destructible buildings]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/11/fallen-earth-dev-talks-progress-town-layouts-and-destructible-bu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/11/fallen-earth-dev-talks-progress-town-layouts-and-destructible-bu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/11/fallen-earth-dev-talks-progress-town-layouts-and-destructible-bu/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Progress towns have been on the minds of Fallen Earth fans -- and developers -- for quite a while now. The unique mechanics, which offer a newfangled approach to long-standing player city designs, are currently on the game's public test server, where three separate towns exist for players to capture and rebuild.

In a new interview at MMORPG Center, Icarus Studios' lead scripter Doug Goodall talks a bit about the mechanics of Fallen Earth's entry into the dynamic content wars, including interesting blurbs on destructible buildings and pre-defined layouts. "There are no pre-defined positions. The layout of the town is entirely up to the players," Goodall explains.

While rebuilt progress town structures cannot be destroyed by enemy players, the buildings and defenses can be razed by NPC enemies bent on attacking the settlement. If this happens, Goodall says that crafters will not be reimbursed for the materials expended in the construction process. What if you mess up during the placement phase? "A refund [...] may be added to let players recover from placement errors," Goodall notes.

MassivelyFallen Earth dev talks progress town layouts and destructible buildings originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 May 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city-defensesdefensesdestructible-buildingsdoug-goodalldynamic-contentfallen-earthicarusicarus-studiosplayer-citiesplayer-housingplayer-townspost-apocalypticprogress-townprogress-townssci-fitown-layoutwastelandWed, 11 May 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Join the Fallen Earth Decontamination Team]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/join-the-fallen-earth-decontamination-team/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/join-the-fallen-earth-decontamination-team/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/join-the-fallen-earth-decontamination-team/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Attention all wasteland wanderers! Are you interested in helping Icarus Studios keep Fallen Earth tidy and neat? Well, at least by post-apocalyptic wasteland standards, anyway. Do you think you have what it takes to ruthlessly search for and destroy bugs and exploits without feeling pity, remorse, or fear? Do you know your way around the shattered remains of the Grand Canyon like the back of your hand?

Yes? Then boy do we have an opportunity for you! The Fallen Earth Decontamination Team is looking for new recruits. All it takes is a short questionnaire, a bit of personal information, and the desire and ability to "think outside of the box and not only seek out and report on bugs and issues in Fallen Earth but also help to find reproducible steps for other bugs that have been reported."

If this sounds like your idea of a good time, then head on over to the Decontamination Team's page, fill out the application, and send it off to the head honchos over at Fallen Earth. In no time, you could be helping to make the Arizona wasteland a happier -- but probably not much healthier, what with the Shiva virus and all -- place.

MassivelyJoin the Fallen Earth Decontamination Team originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 May 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>decondecon-teamdecontaminationdecontamination-teamfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcicarusicarus-studiospost-apocalypticWed, 04 May 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth state of the game talks combat tweaks, progress towns, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/02/fallen-earth-state-of-the-game-talks-combat-tweaks-progress-tow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/02/fallen-earth-state-of-the-game-talks-combat-tweaks-progress-tow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/02/fallen-earth-state-of-the-game-talks-combat-tweaks-progress-tow/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

It's the beginning of another month in the wasteland, and that means that in addition to scavenging for scrap metal and dodging ginormous prairie chickens, denizens of Fallen Earth are heading to the game's official website to check out the latest state of the game address.

Much of producer Marie "Aro Sei" Croall's letter concerns progress towns, Alpha County, and combat tweaks. While we've previewed progress towns before, there is an interesting nugget in this month's letter that details a new form of related currency. Croall calls it "a PvE form of death toll" and explains that it is intended to reward players for capturing and building one of the three progress towns.

She also takes the time explain the changes to minimum skill levels, which is an important consideration when it comes to players spending their hard-earned stat points. Finally, there's a bit of discussion about post-Alpha County development plans including an objective system and potential world events. Check out all the details at the Fallen Earth website.

MassivelyFallen Earth state of the game talks combat tweaks, progress towns, and more originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 May 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alpha-countyaro-seifallen-earthgame-mechanicsicarusicarus-studiosmarie-croallminimum-skillsobjective-systempost-apocalypticproducers-letterprogress-townssci-fistat-pointsstate-of-the-gameworld-eventsMon, 02 May 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Global Chat: Game design edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/01/global-chat-game-design-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/01/global-chat-game-design-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/01/global-chat-game-design-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Welcome to this week's Global Chat! We love hearing what you have to say at Massively, and we love it even more when we can share the best comments with all of our readers. Massively staffers will be contributing some of their favorite comments every week, so keep an eye out every Sunday for more Global Chat!

This week is all about game design. From housing to combat to races, our readers had some great comments on it all. Follow along after the jump to see some of our best conversation from the week!

Continue reading Global Chat: Game design edition

MassivelyGlobal Chat: Game design edition originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 01 May 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetclaytondoracommenterscommentscommunitycommunity-chatdevilseifallen-earthfeaturedgames-campusglobal-chatguild-wars-2gw2icarusicarus-studiosncsoftopinionscarlet-legacytk421242Sun, 01 May 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: So you want to be a crafter?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/29/wasteland-diaries-so-you-want-to-be-a-crafter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/29/wasteland-diaries-so-you-want-to-be-a-crafter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/29/wasteland-diaries-so-you-want-to-be-a-crafter/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Fallen Earth has a complex, robust crafting system. The vast majority of the items in the game can be crafted from things you find lying on the ground. I am not exaggerating when I say "vast majority" because it's well over 90%. You can literally level your way to the cap simply by scavenging and crafting. It used to be much easier, but it is still possible. Tradeskills are different from other skills in Fallen Earth in that you raise them through use rather than spending AP on them. The system itself can be quite daunting when you are first starting out, but once you have a basic grasp of how it works, the rest is pretty intuitive.

In this post, I'll touch on the basics of crafting. I'm no expert, but I do have a completely maxed-out social/crafter that has most of the game's recipes in his repertoire. You may know what you are doing, but I think even the most learned of crafters might learn something from this piece. The novice crafter will learn a few simple tricks (tricks that I wished I had known when I was just starting out) that will make his life a little easier out there. It's tough when you just want to make something with your hands and there are legions of bloodthirsty miscreants trying to kill you. So grab your toolkits and click past the cut for more.

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: So you want to be a crafter?

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: So you want to be a crafter? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Apr 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auction-houseconflict-townscrafterscraftingcrafting-queuecrafting-systemfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfeaturedicarusicarus-studiosmaterialsmerchantsnodespvp-zonesrecipesresearchsalvagingscavengingscavenging-nodestradeskillsFri, 29 Apr 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A sneak peek at Fallen Earth's Progress Towns]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/28/a-sneak-peek-at-fallen-earths-progress-towns/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/28/a-sneak-peek-at-fallen-earths-progress-towns/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/28/a-sneak-peek-at-fallen-earths-progress-towns/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Coming soon to a public test server near Fallen Earth is one of the more exciting pieces of content the game has seen: Progress Towns! Icarus Studios wanted to take the concept of a player-built town and make it something truly special.

Progress Towns are the next iteration of Fallen Earth's attempt to include player housing, which started with patch 1.2's camps. With the this new system, players will be able to build up their own towns from the ruins of old ones. Three such towns will be in place for testing: Progress in Sector 2, Stronghold in Sector 3, and Citadel in Deadfall.

Before players can move in and start performing stunning makeovers, they'll have to fight enemy mobs who've declared squatter's rights. Once the battle is won, the area becomes player-controlled and can be improved upon by using the construction skillset. Progress Towns can be built up to house many useful features, such as merchants, mailboxes, and defensive structures. Once enough construction takes place, special merchants will appear and offer unique crafting components in exchange for a new form of currency.

Don't get too comfortable, however. These towns will always be under the threat of enemy raiders looking to take back what once was theirs! This slice of player-generated content will appear on the test servers next week, but you can get a sneak peek at Progress Towns in the gallery below right now!

Gallery: Fallen Earth

MassivelyA sneak peek at Fallen Earth's Progress Towns originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Apr 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>campscitadelconstructiondeadfallfallen-earthfegalleryicarusicarus-studiospatch-1.2player-campsplayer-generated-contentplayer-housingpreviewprogressprogress-townspveraiderssneak-peekstrongholdThu, 28 Apr 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: Don't fear the reaper]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/22/wasteland-diaries-dont-fear-the-reaper/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/22/wasteland-diaries-dont-fear-the-reaper/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/22/wasteland-diaries-dont-fear-the-reaper/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Dying in Fallen Earth is not much different than it is in most other games. It's usually just a temporary setback or a very minor inconvenience. But for some, it seems to be more than that. In this week's Wasteland Diaries, I would like to ponder what might go through the mind of a gamer when he takes a dirt-nap in-game. In the past few decades I've spent playing PC games, I've seen some pretty over-the-top reactions to dying. I've tried to infer what might be going through some of these extremely emotional people's minds when they buy the farm. Various death penalties evoke wildly different emotions in general, so I'll start there.

When you die in Fallen Earth, you lose all of your current non-stance buffs. Most buffs can be easily re-applied, except for your food, drinks and other consumables. It's still not a major loss, especially now that food and drink components are ultra-cheap. If there's nobody around to rez you, you must respawn at the cloner and take a 5% durability hit on your equipped gear. It's still not a big deal. And you'll get cumulative cloning sickness, which can get pretty nasty, but you have to die a lot in a short period of time to warrant tier five. And the sickness only lasts five minutes. After the cut, I'll delve deeper into the plight of the struck-down avatar and try to determine what it all means.

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: Don't fear the reaper

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: Don't fear the reaper originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Apr 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buffscloner-sicknessconsumablesdeathdeath-penaltyfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfeaturedfpsicarusicarus-studioslifenetmmorpgplayer-lootingpvprespawnshooterFri, 22 Apr 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: RP-PvP]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/wasteland-diaries-rp-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/wasteland-diaries-rp-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/wasteland-diaries-rp-pvp/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

In Fallen Earth, I spend most of my time PvPing. Well, actually, I probably spend most of my time waiting or preparing to PvP. I engage in PvE content out of necessity. In order to be effective in PvP, one needs levels and chips and gear. If this stuff could be earned through PvP alone, then that's all I would ever do. The situation has gotten better with the FCP rewards and XP for PvP, but it still isn't really enough. The other prominent playstyle in Fallen Earth, one I usually shy away from, is roleplaying. Some people will never do it, and some people are always in character. Most of us fall somewhere in between. This week I dipped my toe into the RP field.

I would normally never decide to attend a roleplaying event, but lately I've been trying to broaden my horizons. Knowing there was a possibility of some PvP action solidified my decision to head down to New Flagstaff for Rowdy's Bunker of Blues. This is an event held every Wednesday night at the bunker bar by the pond in the center of the city. There was a live DJ and free drinks (plus the aforementioned possibility of a fight), so why not? After the cut, I'll describe what happened there and how I did when I threw my hat into the RP arena.

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: RP-PvP

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: RP-PvP originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 Apr 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bunker-barchotaenforcerfactional-warfarefactionsfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfeaturedfreedom-defense-corpshaiettaicarusicarus-studioskaosnew-flagstaffoffice-parkpark-citypvprole-playroleplayroleplayersRolePlayingrprp-pvpsaintssocial-clothingFri, 15 Apr 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth shows off Alpha County in the newest State of the Game]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/12/fallen-earth-shows-off-alpha-county-in-the-newest-state-of-the-g/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/12/fallen-earth-shows-off-alpha-county-in-the-newest-state-of-the-g/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/12/fallen-earth-shows-off-alpha-county-in-the-newest-state-of-the-g/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

If you were hoping to find out that Alpha County in Fallen Earth was a last bastion of uncorrupted civilization... well, we have some bad news for you. But in all likelihood you expected nothing of the sort, and thus the previews of the new region included in April's State of the Game letter will come as no surprise. Since the release seems to be just around the corner, this month's update is all about the surreal landscape and wasted environment players will be exploring in this newest region.

Accompanied by a surfeit of screenshots, the letter talks once more about the technical challenge involved with bringing this newest region into the game. A new style of terrain means checking extensively to make sure that critters are behaving correctly when engaged by players, and the variety of new weapons and items available means that there's a lot of testing to make sure that nothing breaks the game's structure. Fallen Earth players will want to take a look at the full preview for all the details and several pictures of the latest part of the wasteland.

MassivelyFallen Earth shows off Alpha County in the newest State of the Game originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 12 Apr 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>developmentenvironmentsfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfeicarusicarus-studioslorenewspatchespending-updatespreviewsstate-of-the-gameupdate-previewsupdatesTue, 12 Apr 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: Car wars]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/wasteland-diaries-car-wars/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/wasteland-diaries-car-wars/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/wasteland-diaries-car-wars/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Lately, I've been doing a lot of crafting in Fallen Earth. I have a lot of materials stockpiled, and it seems they are just taking up space. So I've been putting together some vehicles (Interceptor Speedsters, to be precise). They take about four days each to make; that's in real time, mind you. There isn't much of a demand for them right now. In fact, they sell very inexpensively on the auction house. I'm not really sure what I'm going to do with them, but I guess it can't hurt to have a couple on hand.

Fallen Earth is unique in the sense that you can't purchase a mount from a vendor NPC. You can get them from the rewards merchant or buy them from the Fallen Earth store, but the usual method of acquiring one is to craft it or buy it from the auction house. Some are even quest rewards. But the majority of the mounts out there are provided by the playerbase. In this post, I'll look at the evolution of vehicular combat in Fallen Earth and what we might hope and expect to see in the future. So put the pedal to the metal and zip past the cut for more.

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: Car wars

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: Car wars originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 08 Apr 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carscavalrydune-buggiesexilefallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfeaturedhaiettahorsesicarusicarus-studiosInterceptorMachineGunmotorcyclesmountspark-citypvprepairrepair-kitsoldiers-of-fortunevehiclesvehicular-pvpwolves-of-warZanesvilleFri, 08 Apr 2011 17:00:00 EST