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[Blizzard's not talking about its unannounced MMO at BlizzCon this year, either]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/blizzards-not-talking-about-their-unannounced-mmo-at-blizzcon-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/blizzards-not-talking-about-their-unannounced-mmo-at-blizzcon-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/blizzards-not-talking-about-their-unannounced-mmo-at-blizzcon-t/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

BlizzCon logo
Remember that one time when Blizzard accidentally leaked some info stating that it's working on a new MMO (codenamed "Titan"), and we all got excited? And then BlizzCon happened, and we all thought the studio would tell us more, but it didn't? And then remember when that happened the next year, too? Well, it's happening again this year.

In a clarification statement to IGN, Blizzard has confirmed that it will not be discussing the "unannounced MMO" during BlizzCon 2011. This follows a VentureBeat interview with M2 Research senior analyst Billy Pidgeon, who predicted that news of Titan must be breaking at this October's event.

Oh well, we still have emote dance contests and the Foo Fighters, right?

MassivelyBlizzard's not talking about its unannounced MMO at BlizzCon this year, either originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Sep 2011 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardblizzconblizzcon-2011emote-dance-contestignproject-titantitanunannounced-mmoThu, 29 Sep 2011 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Firefall blows up bugs in the new gameplay trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/29/firefall-blows-up-bugs-in-the-new-gameplay-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/29/firefall-blows-up-bugs-in-the-new-gameplay-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/29/firefall-blows-up-bugs-in-the-new-gameplay-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Gamers have asked for an FPS that they can play with friends in a persistent world, and Red 5 Studios is delivering. Firefall, the free-to-play brainchild of Mark Kern, showcases a world with hundreds of players contesting for resources in the virtual space of Fortaleza, Brazil 222 years in the future.

IGN granted us a glimpse into this world of kill-or-be-killed with the Firefall gameplay trailer. The two minutes of pure action starts with dynamic squad missions, continues past player gear and abilities, and then launches you into epic world events.

Blast past the break to experience the trailer for yourself, and don't forget to sign up for the beta on the official FireFall website.

[Thanks, Dylan, for the tip]

Continue reading Firefall blows up bugs in the new gameplay trailer

MassivelyFirefall blows up bugs in the new gameplay trailer originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Jul 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>firefallgameplayignmark-kernred-5red-5-studiosred5Red5-StudiostrailervideoFri, 29 Jul 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[All MMOs 20% off at Direct2Drive]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/06/all-mmos-20-off-at-direct2drive/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/06/all-mmos-20-off-at-direct2drive/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/06/all-mmos-20-off-at-direct2drive/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Looking to pick up some MMORPGs on the cheap? You could go for one of the hundreds of free-to-play titles crowding the market, or if you're looking for something a bit more traditional, Direct2Drive's latest sale might interest you. From now through January 10th (at 10:00 a.m. PST to be exact), you'll enjoy 20% discounts on what D2D deems "top tier MMOs." Titles include (but aren't limited to) the Guild Wars trilogy, World of Warcraft, City of Heroes: Going Rogue, and Champions Online.

The discount also applies to MMO pre-orders, so if you're looking for that extra nudge needed to push you towards an early purchase of RIFT or DC Universe Online, look no further.

MassivelyAll MMOs 20% off at Direct2Drive originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 06 Jan 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20-offchampions-onlinecity-of-heroesd2ddc-universedc-universe-onlinedigital-downloaddirect-2-drivefantasyguild-warsignpromotionsriftrift-planes-of-telarasalesoesuperherotriontrion-world-networktrion-worldsWorld-of-WarcraftwowThu, 06 Jan 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist and the NeverEnding Quest: The highlights]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-neverending-quest-the-highlights/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-neverending-quest-the-highlights/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-neverending-quest-the-highlights/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

To many veteran MMO players, the opening horns of EverQuest's score are enough to trigger vivid memories, violent hallucinations, and an unstoppable desire to leap through the computer screen to return to Norrath. It all depends, of course, on which MMO you first cut your teeth, and while many gamers would claim titles like World of Warcraft as their first, there is a large contingent who will confess that EQ was their first MMO lover.

In fact, before WoW came on the scene in 2004, EverQuest was the gold standard of MMOs for a half-decade -- it was insanely popular, perfectly addictive, and absolutely revolutionary. It was a giant that roamed the virtual lands of those days, a giant that continues to forge new grounds well over a decade from its inception.

It was 1995 when John Smedley realized the potential for online gaming and roped in Brad McQuaid and Steve Clover to start putting together an online RPG for SOE. What began as a small project ballooned into a crazy endeavor as the growing team created a monster RPG the likes the world had never seen before -- a game that would forever shape the MMO genre.

This month, the Game Archaeologist is going after one of the biggest treasures of recorded history as we unearth the secrets to EverQuest's popularity, legacy, and longevity. The first step on our journey is to look at some of the highlights that made EQ what it is today.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist and the NeverEnding Quest: The highlights

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist and the NeverEnding Quest: The highlights originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Jan 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.5-dacAlex-Afrasiabiasherons-callbrad-mcquaidclone-wars-adventuresdc-universe-onlinedcuodikumuddingdkpdoomDuke-Nukem-3De-deqeq-iieq2evercrackedevercracked-the-phenomenom-of-everquesteverquestEverQuest-2everquest-2-extendedeverquest-iiexpansionsfarmfree-realmshouse-of-thuleignj-allen-brackjace-halljeff-kaplanjohn-smedleykunarkmeridian-59mezzmudnerfnichenorrathPirates-of-the-Burning-Seaplanetsideprocraph-kosterrezrob-pardoshadows-of-luclinsoesonySony-Online-Entertainmentstar-wars-galaxiesstation-accesssteve-cloversubscription-numberssubscriptionsswgthe-game-archaeologistthe-matrix-onlinethe-ruins-of-kunarkultima-onlineunderfootuovanguardverantverant-interactiveWorld-of-WarcraftwowTue, 04 Jan 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Direct2Drive offers last minute shopping deals]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/24/direct2drive-offers-last-minute-shopping-deals/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/24/direct2drive-offers-last-minute-shopping-deals/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/24/direct2drive-offers-last-minute-shopping-deals/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Still stressing over what to get the gamer on your Christmas shopping list? Never fear, as IGN's Direct2Drive digital download service has come to the rescue with a few last minute holiday deals. While the sale (which lasts until 10:00 a.m. PST on December 27th) covers games from all genres, there are a couple of particularly noteworthy MMORPG steals.

All SOE titles (excluding DC Universe Online) are 50% off -- including all of EverQuest II's expansions. You can also take advantage of the Choose Your Savings promotion through the end of the year by spending preset amounts and using the associated promo codes when placing your order:
  • spend $49.95, save 25% with code BAHHUMBUG
  • spend $29.95, save 15% with code SCROOGED
  • spend $19.95, save 10% with code GRINCH

MassivelyDirect2Drive offers last minute shopping deals originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 Dec 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>christmasd2ddirect2driveend-of-year-2010EQ2eqiiEverQuest-2everquest-iiholiday-2010ignpromotionsshoppingsoeSony-Online-EntertainmentvanguardVanguard-Saga-of-HeroesFri, 24 Dec 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Square-Enix working hard to "regain trust" with players and investors]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/05/square-enix-working-hard-to-regain-trust-with-players-and-inve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/05/square-enix-working-hard-to-regain-trust-with-players-and-inve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/05/square-enix-working-hard-to-regain-trust-with-players-and-inve/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

It's been a rocky couple months for Final Fantasy XIV. Due to extensive feedback from the playerbase and mixed reviews, Square-Enix extended the free trial period for new players to a full two months -- a rarity in the industry -- as the company worked to shore up FFXIV's weaker points.

Due to all this, Square-Enix has been watched closely by investors and players regarding the future course of the game. President Yoichi Wada recently stated during a money report that the company is doing all it can to improve the situation: "We're quickly working on reforms... We'd like to put our full power into regaining trust."

Eurogamer reports that FFXIV has sold 630,000 units worldwide as of September 30th, including 230K in Europe and 210K in North America. According to IGN, FFXIV was the third-best selling title from the company in the past six-month period. Square-Enix points to a couple bright spots in the near future -- a partnership with China's Shanda Games and the upcoming spring 2011 release of Final Fantasy XIV on the PS3 -- that should help boost sales.

MassivelySquare-Enix working hard to "regain trust" with players and investors originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Nov 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chinaeurogamerff14ffxivfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivignps3salesshanda-gamessquare-enixtrial-periodyoichi-wadaFri, 05 Nov 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Global Agenda looks back at its first six months]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/17/global-agenda-looks-back-at-its-first-six-months/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/17/global-agenda-looks-back-at-its-first-six-months/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/17/global-agenda-looks-back-at-its-first-six-months/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It's been a whirlwind six months for Hi-Rez Studios. In that time frame the studio released its MMOFPS Global Agenda, converted the game to a "buy it once and play it forever" model similar to Guild Wars, released a major expansion named Sandstorm, and finally released the game in boxed format. Now, the devs have taken a moment to breathe, reflect, and answer some questions for the folks over at IGN as to what they set out to do, what lessons they've learned, and what players can expect in the upcoming months.

The interview focuses on discussing the shift of payment options, what it's like to create and continue running an MMOFPS hybrid, and whether or not others may be looking in that same general direction. While short, it offers an interesting peek into the minds behind the ever-evolving Global Agenda and offers some wide-ranging discussion on the games market in general.

MassivelyGlobal Agenda looks back at its first six months originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Sep 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fpsglobal-agendahi-rezhi-rez-studiosigninterviewmmommofpssandstormsandstorm-patchFri, 17 Sep 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the scenes with Guild Wars 2 cinematics and demo]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/18/behind-the-scenes-with-guild-wars-2-cinematics-and-demo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/18/behind-the-scenes-with-guild-wars-2-cinematics-and-demo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/18/behind-the-scenes-with-guild-wars-2-cinematics-and-demo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

ArenaNet scheduled quite a few hands-on sessions for Guild Wars 2 at Gamescom this week, and the first reports are beginning to show up from those lucky enough to get playtime on the first day.

IGN has an overview posted with plenty of exciting new details on character creation, events, weapons, and much more. The demo included quite a few events that the writer stumbled across and a battle with an "enormous, purple, glowing dragon," presumably an unrecognized Shatterer. If you've not seen the write-up yet, it's definitely worth your time.

While you're at it, pay a visit to the ArenaNet blog as well. The crew back in Seattle is keeping busy, and there is a new blog entry with a video entitled "Creating Guild Wars 2 cinematics."

Finally, don't forget to watch for Massively's recap of the Gamescom events on Monday!

MassivelyBehind the scenes with Guild Wars 2 cinematics and demo originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Aug 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetarenanet-blogcinematicsgamescomgamescom-2010guild-wars-2guild-wars-2-demogw2ignncsoftvideoWed, 18 Aug 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World reveals London: "Biggest hub in the game"]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/16/the-secret-world-reveals-london-biggest-hub-in-the-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/16/the-secret-world-reveals-london-biggest-hub-in-the-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/16/the-secret-world-reveals-london-biggest-hub-in-the-game/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The team behind The Secret World has revealed more information on one of the game's key areas, and Lead Developer Ragnar Tornquist says it's the "biggest hub in the game."

London is home base for the Templar faction, and while members will have access to more areas than others, it looks to be a fascinating area for all players to explore. On the surface there are some entertaining -- albeit dangerous -- events to participate in, such as dance competitions and fight clubs, but as you explore you'll find something a bit darker.

In keeping with the basic story, the barrier between this world and the next is thin in London, and inter-faction bickering can become the least of your worries pretty quickly.

Check out the full story on IGN.

[via IGN]

MassivelyThe Secret World reveals London: "Biggest hub in the game" originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Aug 2010 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>funcomIGNlondonRagnar-Tornquistsecret-worldtemplarthe-secret-worldTSWMon, 16 Aug 2010 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 unveils the game's lighter side]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/30/guild-wars-2-unveils-the-games-lighter-side/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/30/guild-wars-2-unveils-the-games-lighter-side/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/30/guild-wars-2-unveils-the-games-lighter-side/#commentsFiled under: ,

We've learned a lot of core news about Guild Wars 2 lately -- everything from class reveals to character creation has been served up to eager fans.

The latest batch of new information about Guild Wars 2 takes a look at some of the lighter aspects of gameplay. IGN spent some time chatting with the developers and came away with a wealth of new information on events outside the central storyline.

Bar brawls, daily achievements, kill counts, and interaction with NPCs were all covered. We even got hints of some possible side games or minigames, such as a shooting gallery.

Check out the full interview at IGN.

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 unveils the game's lighter side originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 30 Jun 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Achievementsanetarenanetfeatsguild-wars-2GW2IGNminigamesncsoftpersonalityWed, 30 Jun 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Complement your Star Wars: The Old Republic character with companions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/27/complement-your-star-wars-the-old-republic-character-with-compa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/27/complement-your-star-wars-the-old-republic-character-with-compa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/27/complement-your-star-wars-the-old-republic-character-with-compa/#commentsFiled under: , ,

What would Han be without Chewie, Luke without R2-D2, Robin Hood without Little John, or Hall without Oats? Pretty darn boring if you ask Bioware. This is the key reason for adding companion characters to Star Wars: The Old Republic. A lot of MMOs like to build the adventure around one lone character conquering the big bad. In a world with a lot of people who are all the best, why would anyone need anyone else? Bioware's Creative Director and Lead Designer, James Ohlen, tells IGN in an interview today, "Companion characters have a significant impact on the player's experience. They are integral to the player's storyline."

So other characters can play a significant role in storyline progression and plot. What about combat? Sure, a lot of games have characters you can talk to and interact with, but they aren't important to battling the enemy. "Each companion has a specific role, whether it be additional DPS, tanking, healing or crowd control. Companions also have special abilities that can be activated to significantly change what's going on during a battle," Ohlen says further in the article.

Read more of the article on IGN. Then let us know what role you think companions are going to play, and how you would like to see them used in SWTOR.

[Update] the official site has been updated to include companions. In KOTOR tradition they have a blue twi'lek: Vette.

MassivelyComplement your Star Wars: The Old Republic character with companions originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 May 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWarecompanionhall-and-oatsignjames-ohlenStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorswtor-fan-fridayTORThu, 27 May 2010 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Former Ensemble staffer talks about cancelled Halo MMO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/12/former-ensemble-staffer-talks-about-cancelled-halo-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/12/former-ensemble-staffer-talks-about-cancelled-halo-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/12/former-ensemble-staffer-talks-about-cancelled-halo-mmo/#commentsFiled under: ,

Here's a blast from the past for you: Halo MMO. The project from Ensemble studios -- codenamed Titan -- left a lot of disappointed fans when Ensemble closed and development was canceled.

We've not heard much from that area for several months, but IncGamers got a chance today to speak to Dusty Monk for some new information on the now-defunct MMO. Dusty -- now the founder of Windstorm Studios -- was a staffer for Ensemble and pretty heavily focused on the Halo project. He's got some interesting things to say about what could have been: "We had all this incredible talent, we had the right people, the right passion, we had a phenomenally successful IP - the Halo IP."

If you're a Halo fan thinking wistfully about what could have been, you'll definitely want to check out what else he had to say in this interview with IncGamers.

[Thanks to Belinda for the tip!]

MassivelyFormer Ensemble staffer talks about cancelled Halo MMO originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Apr 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dusty-monkensemble-studiosHalohalo-mmoignwindstorm-studiosMon, 12 Apr 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer 40k devs on unusual pricing structure and WoW-killing]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/03/warhammer-40k-devs-on-unusual-pricing-structure-and-wow-killing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/03/warhammer-40k-devs-on-unusual-pricing-structure-and-wow-killing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/03/warhammer-40k-devs-on-unusual-pricing-structure-and-wow-killing/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

"WoW-killer" is a cliched term these days, and many MMO fans continue to keep a weather eye out for the game that will take down the juggernaut of the gaming world.

No thanks, say the developers behind Warhammer 40k. Brian Farrell is the CEO and President of THQ, the company behind Warhammer 40k, and he has no desire to go after that title. "What we love about the Warhammer 40K MMO is that it's different in that it's a sci-fi, futuristic-based world. We're not competing directly in the orcs and elves fantasy environment that World of Warcraft is in. We can differentiate ourselves."

Farrell feels that there is plenty of room for more than one great title, particularly since the game is a completely different type of MMO. In addition to addressing the WoW question, Farrell also offered up some interesting information regarding the pricing structure for Warhammer 40k, indicating that it will vary depending on what part of the world you are playing in.

Warhammer40k will be revealed fully at E3 this June, but for now you can take a look at more of what Farrell had to say recently over at IGN.

MassivelyWarhammer 40k devs on unusual pricing structure and WoW-killing originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Mar 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Brian-Farrelle3e3-2010ignthqWarhammer-OnlineWoW-killerWed, 03 Mar 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tornquist gives more juicy details on The Secret World]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/02/tornquist-gives-more-juicy-details-on-the-secret-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/02/tornquist-gives-more-juicy-details-on-the-secret-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/02/tornquist-gives-more-juicy-details-on-the-secret-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

To date, the development team of The Secret World has almost been a secret society unto itself. We've heard whispers and tantalizing tidbits that have piqued our curiosity, seen teaser sites, and caught the occasional tweet from the front lines. Now, the floodgates are starting to open, and more details are coming to light for those craving information.

An interview with Ragnar Tornquist has just gone up on IGN and it is chock-full of tasty details about what players can expect from The Secret World. Along with the interview, there's also a pile of eerie concept art illustrating some of the many different monsters we'll see in the game -- from brain-munching zombies to mutated boss monsters. There's also some great news on how the development is going, owing in part to the work already done for Age of Conan.

So if you've been hungry for more details and a sneak-peek into more of the terrible things that await us as we take steps into The Secret World, then you'll want to head over to IGN and check out the full interview. It looks like Tornquist and the team at Funcom are creating a fascinating modern-day monster of an MMO for us to enjoy.

MassivelyTornquist gives more juicy details on The Secret World originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Mar 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>funcomigninterviewkingsmouthRagnar-Tornquistthe-secret-worldtswTue, 02 Mar 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth drops preview patch notes for new tradeskill, gambling and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/12/fallen-earth-drops-preview-patch-notes-for-new-tradeskill-gambl/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/12/fallen-earth-drops-preview-patch-notes-for-new-tradeskill-gambl/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/12/fallen-earth-drops-preview-patch-notes-for-new-tradeskill-gambl/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Even though most Fallen Earth fans knew these features were coming, it's still great to see them in writing. In a patch note preview post in the forums yesterday, the Fallen Earth team announced that their much-anticipated Construction tradeskill and gambling taverns will be entering the game this Monday, December 14th.

Construction will bring the ability for players to build camps in the wasteland, complete with their own vaults, merchant NPCs, mailboxes and more. The new gambling system will introduce slot machines, Blackjack tables and more to taverns throughout the Grand Canyon Province. In addition to these major features, the First Night preparations will be added, including special quests and rewards for the winter event celebrations. Pages of bug fixes also accompany this patch, so head on over to the forums to check out the preview of this Monday's patch notes and check out some extensive developer diaries and video on the update over at IGN for more information.

MassivelyFallen Earth drops preview patch notes for new tradeskill, gambling and more originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 12 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>constructionfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcgamblingicarus-studiosignsocial-patchtradeskillsSat, 12 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online VFX Lead on updating visual style of the IP]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/24/star-trek-online-vfx-lead-on-updating-visual-style-of-the-ip/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/24/star-trek-online-vfx-lead-on-updating-visual-style-of-the-ip/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/24/star-trek-online-vfx-lead-on-updating-visual-style-of-the-ip/#commentsFiled under: , ,


IGN recently posted a Star Trek Online dev diary written by the game's VFX Lead Michael Cavallaro. "Creating the visual style of Star Trek Online was no easy task," said Cavallaro. "You might think that everything we would be creating has already been done, but not only are references several years old but they vary across the board." If you factor in how the effects changed between the various series and movies, you can see how preserving the look of Star Trek as viewers know it posed a challenge for the Cryptic Studios devs.

The idea, Cavallaro related, was for the Cryptic devs to draw upon elements from the original Star Trek series and update that now-retro 60's sci-fi look for a contemporary audience. The trick was to do so while keeping said elements recognizable from the original IP.

Continue reading Star Trek Online VFX Lead on updating visual style of the IP

MassivelyStar Trek Online VFX Lead on updating visual style of the IP originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-studiosdev-blogdev-diaryignmichael-cavallaronew-titlessci-fistar-trekstar-trek-onlinestovfxvfx-leadTue, 24 Nov 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Klingons make their first Star Trek Online video appearance]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/17/klingons-make-their-first-star-trek-online-video-appearance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/17/klingons-make-their-first-star-trek-online-video-appearance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/17/klingons-make-their-first-star-trek-online-video-appearance/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Just when you thought you'd seen enough Star Trek Online space combat videos to keep you satisfied for a day or two, Cryptic Studios whips out a Klingon focused trailer that's sure to get your Pepto Bismol colored blood beating through those hardened, warrior-like veins.

That's right, Klingons are in this game! We almost forgot with all that Federation love coming from Cryptic ever since the game was announced. But that's okay, because Klingon's are accustomed to waiting in secrecy for the right moment to strike. This is only the first small disruptor blast in what's sure to be a volley of ferocious strikes far greater than any puny Federation ship could handle.

See the glory of the Klingon Empire after the break.

Continue reading Klingons make their first Star Trek Online video appearance

MassivelyKlingons make their first Star Trek Online video appearance originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 17 Oct 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ataricombatcrypticcryptic-studiosdisruptorfederationignklingonklingon-empireklingonspepto-bismolspacestar-trek-onlinestotrailervideoSat, 17 Oct 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Alganon to be exclusively distributed through Direct2Drive]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/12/alganon-to-be-exclusively-distributed-through-direct2drive/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/12/alganon-to-be-exclusively-distributed-through-direct2drive/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/12/alganon-to-be-exclusively-distributed-through-direct2drive/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Alganon fans, you're going to want to make sure you're keeping an eye on Direct2Drive, as Quest Online has announced an exclusive partnership to sell the game solely through the online digital distribution service.

Pre-ordering the game before the launch date of October 31st will net you a variety of incentives, including beta access, study bonuses, mounts, family heirlooms, and more! While we don't have any exact information to offer on what those items are, it still sounds like a nice plethora of stuff for buying the game early.

Of course, partnering with D2D means partnering with IGN, and that means that Alganon's beta will be conducted exclusively through Fileplanet. Those guys over there will be the keepers of the Alganon beta keys from here on out, so look to them if you're interested in the game's upcoming open beta.

MassivelyAlganon to be exclusively distributed through Direct2Drive originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Oct 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alganonbetabeta-keybreakingdigital-distributiondirect2drivedownloadable-gamefantasyfileplanetignopen-betaquest-onlineMon, 12 Oct 2009 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nearly 20min worth of SWTOR gameplay video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/25/nearly-20min-worth-of-swtor-gameplay-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/25/nearly-20min-worth-of-swtor-gameplay-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/25/nearly-20min-worth-of-swtor-gameplay-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


If nearly 20 minutes of Star Wars: The Old Republic gameplay footage narrated by BioWare developers themselves is the kind of thing you get excited about, then today is a very exciting day for the both of us.

IGN is hosting the video that's so huge it comes in four parts. Here's where it gets awesome: It'll show you lengthy gameplay for the Bounty Hunter, Smuggler and Sith Warrior classes in addition to some of the game's planets. Plus, BioWare gives you something of a director's commentary of what's happening with each of the classes. In effect, it's almost pure nerdnip.

Even at almost 20 minutes long, we found ourselves feeling like it all went by far too quickly and there's a definite possibility we may re-watch it again. That seems like a good sign of things to come, at least for BioWare and not so much for our social lives. Check out all four videos after the break.

Continue reading Nearly 20min worth of SWTOR gameplay video

MassivelyNearly 20min worth of SWTOR gameplay video originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 25 Aug 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebounty-hunterdeveloper-walkthrougheaelectronic-artsgamescomignlucasartssith-warriorsmugglerstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republicvideoTue, 25 Aug 2009 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GamesCom offers a closer look at the Sith Warrior class]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/21/gamescom-offers-a-closer-look-at-the-sith-warrior-class/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/21/gamescom-offers-a-closer-look-at-the-sith-warrior-class/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/21/gamescom-offers-a-closer-look-at-the-sith-warrior-class/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

It seems Star Wars: The Old Republic is the next big thing. We've been raving about it for months and this week's GamesCom gave the press and, more importantly, the public a chance to get down and dirty with BioWare's biggest project to date. IGN took the time to nip to the Jedi Temple and revealed that BioWare were spoiling attendees with a brand spanking new demo focusing on the Sith, specifically the Warrior class.

Indeed they report this demo was basically a back to basics with this mysterious sect, focusing on their training on Korriban - could this be their starter area? They report it examines their mentality and beliefs within the Star Wars universe. After all, if you're going to roll a Sith you need to understand how their minds work as well as taking them down pits and killing giant worms. The piece is amazingly detailed and does more than enough to whet the appetites of Star Wars fans as well as Team Massively. Check it out by clicking here and you might want to start thinking up evil-sounding names while you're at it.

MassivelyGamesCom offers a closer look at the Sith Warrior class originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 21 Aug 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamescomgamescom 2009gamescom-09gamescom-2009Gamescom2009ignstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorswtor-demoFri, 21 Aug 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Champions Online melee powers trailer, plus teleporting]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/04/champions-online-melee-powers-trailer-plus-teleporting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/04/champions-online-melee-powers-trailer-plus-teleporting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/04/champions-online-melee-powers-trailer-plus-teleporting/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


We know plenty of you have been itching to see all of Champions Online's melee powers in motion, and that's what you'll get with this recently released trailer at IGN. Additionally, Cryptic's seen fit to show off the teleportation travel power, which we're completely in love with and know you'll be too if you're a melee user. There's nothing quite as awesome as appearing out of thin air, right behind your soon-to-be victim.

In fact, we may have cackled the first few times we did it in-game. Okay, we still cackle now, just a little.

Some props are in order to whoever was responsible for editing this trailer, because it certainly does a good job showing off all the awesome powers. Watch closely for the Martial Arts and Dual Blade powers, because in our humble opinion those are the coolest of the bunch. Then again, there's something to be said for Supernatural chains and reality-distorting Might. Check out the video after the break.

Continue reading Champions Online melee powers trailer, plus teleporting

MassivelyChampions Online melee powers trailer, plus teleporting originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Aug 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atarichampionschampions-onlinecrypticcryptic-studiosignmelee-combattrailervideoTue, 04 Aug 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New details emerge on SWTOR's healing and space components]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/27/new-details-emerge-on-swtors-healing-and-space-components/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/27/new-details-emerge-on-swtors-healing-and-space-components/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/27/new-details-emerge-on-swtors-healing-and-space-components/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


So it looks like those lucky buggers over at IGN sat down with a couple Star Wars: The Old Republic developers and pelted them with as many questions from the community as possible. The results have made our day much brighter, and we're sure yours will benefit in much the same way.

While a lot of the questions were deflected in one way or another -- as this is a game that's probably not coming out for a while -- some tiny new pieces of information did surface. For instance, much of the community has been wondering about healing. Will the game go with the "Holy Trinity" or is something else planned? The answer appears to be a little bit of both. It sounds as though each class has the opportunity to invest resources into healing abilities. Although, BioWare is quick to point out that parties will definitely want some "healers" in higher-level situations.

Insofar as space combat is concerned, it appears that BioWare isn't talking about it, yet. Yes, they didn't flat out deny its existence in the game nor did they give confirmation, so for now we'll have to wait. A large part of the interview merely confirms things we've already known or suspected. Planets will have multiple zones, PvP is important to the team, customization will be very important and all the stuff you'd expect from a game this immense.

MassivelyNew details emerge on SWTOR's healing and space components originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 27 Jul 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaelectronic-artsgroup-dynamicshealingholy-trinityignlucasartsstar-warsswtorthe-digital-continuumMon, 27 Jul 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Black Prophecy interview confirms station walking feature, post-release]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/12/black-prophecy-interview-confirms-station-walking-feature-post/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/12/black-prophecy-interview-confirms-station-walking-feature-post/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/12/black-prophecy-interview-confirms-station-walking-feature-post/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Let's face it, playing a sci-fi MMO where your ship is essentially your avatar is a deal breaker for some gamers. Typically we're referring to EVE Online when 'ship-as-avatar' discussions come up, but CCP's game will soon have company in the sci-fi MMO genre, with Jumpgate Evolution and Black Prophecy both on the way. Anyone who's played EVE knows that, yes, you do create a portrait-style avatar during character creation but what you see throughout gameplay is your ship. This will also be the case with Black Prophecy, although character avatars will be 3-D. Black Prophecy's developer Reakktor Media revealed that they'd like to take this a step further and introduce the ability to walk about in stations, post-launch.

Black Prophecy's development director Simon Bachmann mentioned this in a recent interview. Simon told Sheila "Jube" Lewis at IGN's Voodoo Extreme: "Your ship is your game character which you can equip like you equip your player avatar in any other MMO. Next to your ship you will also have a fully customizable 3D avatar of your pilot which will appear in conversations with NPCs or other players. This special avatar will become more important in the so called 'Station walking' feature which we plan to implement in one of the future game updates post release."

Continue reading Black Prophecy interview confirms station walking feature, post-release

MassivelyBlack Prophecy interview confirms station walking feature, post-release originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 12 Jul 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-prophecybusiness-modelsigninterviewsjubemmo-industrynew-titlesreakktorreakktor-mediasci-fisheila-lewissimon-bachmannvoodoo-extremeSun, 12 Jul 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Champions Online is open with its missions, that are open]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/21/champions-online-is-open-with-its-missions-that-are-open/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/21/champions-online-is-open-with-its-missions-that-are-open/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/21/champions-online-is-open-with-its-missions-that-are-open/#commentsFiled under: , ,


If you're like us, then you always appreciate it when game developers open up and share their design process. And while this latest Champions Online developer diary on Open Missions may not have the most crunchy pieces of information -- or really any new stuff, for that matter -- it does a great job illustrating how Cryptic formulates their open missions.

You may be more familiar with Warhammer Online's original concept, Public Quests. Although it probably does both games a disservice to compare the two mechanics all too much, because they do different things for different settings.

What's presented here for Champions Online has us very curious to see how creative Cryptic can get with zones that are set underwater and even potentially in space. That's of course assuming there's a moon zone or something -- but why wouldn't there be something that awesome in the game?

MassivelyChampions Online is open with its missions, that are open originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 21 Jun 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atarichampionschampions-onlinecrypticcryptic-studiosdeveloper-diaryelectronic-artsignmythicwarwarhammer-onlineSun, 21 Jun 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Cities XL dev blog explains integration of gameplay with social networking]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/17/cities-xl-dev-blog-explains-integration-of-gameplay-with-social/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/17/cities-xl-dev-blog-explains-integration-of-gameplay-with-social/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/17/cities-xl-dev-blog-explains-integration-of-gameplay-with-social/#commentsFiled under: ,


Cities XL is a game in development at Monte Cristo Multimedia that's ... well, it's a little hard to explain, as it's quite different from the titles we typically cover at Massively. Essentially, Cities XL is an MMO variant of popular 'builder' games where players can create urban landscapes with all that entails, plus businesses and industries, even determining the makeup of city populations (age, education, wealth). The cities designed and established by players can become part of a global, interconnected system, giving rise to all sorts of interactions in this persistent world. (It should be noted that Cities XL can be played in single-player mode as well.)

There's a Cities XL dev blog at IGN that's taken a look at some of the features that will be in place with the Planet Offer (fully interactive), namely how a user's profile page will integrate social networking into Cities XL play. The blog entry states: "You will be informed in real time of everything that is happening around your game."

Continue reading Cities XL dev blog explains integration of gameplay with social networking

MassivelyCities XL dev blog explains integration of gameplay with social networking originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 17 May 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cities-xlcity-buildercity-buildingdev-blogdev-blogsignmonte-cristomonte-cristo-multimediaplanet-offersocial-networkingSun, 17 May 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tunneling travel video appears for Champions Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/12/tunneling-travel-video-appears-for-champions-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/12/tunneling-travel-video-appears-for-champions-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/12/tunneling-travel-video-appears-for-champions-online/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


We told you about it in our expansive hands-on previews of the game, but now you can see it for yourself. The latest travel power video for Champions Online is here, and it's Tunneling! Now you can pop up behind your enemies Tremors-style, the maul them with whatever powers you've happened to choose.

Just don't do it to us, because that's totally not cool.

Burrowing, or Tunneling if you like, can be a lot of fun and is surprisingly faster than you'd think for a movement power that involves digging through the ground. Between this and swinging, we get the feeling that players are going to be dropping in and popping up all over the place come launch day in July. Check out the full video after the break.

Continue reading Tunneling travel video appears for Champions Online

MassivelyTunneling travel video appears for Champions Online originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 12 May 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atariburrowingchampionschampions-onlinecrypticcryptic-studiosigntravel-powertremorstunnelingTue, 12 May 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Champions Online dev diary by comic book writer John Layman]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/01/champions-online-dev-diary-by-comic-book-writer-john-layman/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/01/champions-online-dev-diary-by-comic-book-writer-john-layman/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/01/champions-online-dev-diary-by-comic-book-writer-john-layman/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The next major superhero MMO to be released will be Champions Online, based off of the pen-and-paper RPG system and in development at Cryptic Studios, slated to be released in mid-July 2009. To add even more superhero cred to the game, Cryptic has hired writers well-versed in the comics industry like John Layman, of both Marvel and Wildstorm fame.

IGN is hosting a Champions Online developer diary written by Layman that focuses on his work at Cryptic Studios. Layman introduces what he does,"I'm the writer-guy for Champions Online, a comic book writer imported specifically to write a comic book themed game. And, just like writing comics, coming up with the right words, concepts, and plots is the very first part of a very long chain of work." He writes about the process of hashing out the best ideas with other Cryptic notables like Jack Emmert, Randy Mosiondz, and Brian Gilmore, and then working to tailor those concepts to 'comic book-ese' that works for Champions Online.

Continue reading Champions Online dev diary by comic book writer John Layman

MassivelyChampions Online dev diary by comic book writer John Layman originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 01 May 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brian-gilmorechampions-onlinecryptic-studiosdev-diarydeveloper-diaryignjack-emmertjohn-laymanmarvelnew-titlesrandy-mosiondzstar-trek-onlinesuper-herosuperherowildstormwriterwritingFri, 01 May 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Masthead Studios announces GNi as worldwide server host for Earthrise]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/21/masthead-studios-announces-gni-as-worldwide-server-host-for-eart/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/21/masthead-studios-announces-gni-as-worldwide-server-host-for-eart/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/21/masthead-studios-announces-gni-as-worldwide-server-host-for-eart/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Masthead Studios is a relative newcomer to the massively multiplayer online game industry and is presently developing the post-apocalyptic MMO Earthrise, a sandbox game where players will vie for control over finite resources in a large, open world. As players of another prominent sandbox MMO know very well, ensuring smooth operations in an unsharded game requires a substantial investment in server technology. To this end, Masthead Studios has partnered with server infrastructure provider GNi to host Earthrise.

GNi's 'Infrastructure as a Service' (IaaS) offers "dedicated storage, network, and server capacity on a pay-as-you-grow model." With this week's announcement, Masthead Studios joins companies like Vivox and Frogster Interactive Pictures AG as a GNi client.

[Via IGN]

MassivelyMasthead Studios announces GNi as worldwide server host for Earthrise originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 Apr 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelsearthrisefrogstergniiaasigninfrastructureinfrastructure-as-a-servicemasthead-studiosmmo-industrypost-apocalypticsandboxsci-fiserversvivoxTue, 21 Apr 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Swinging travel powers and expansive cities in Champions Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/19/swinging-travel-powers-and-expansive-cities-in-champions-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/19/swinging-travel-powers-and-expansive-cities-in-champions-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/19/swinging-travel-powers-and-expansive-cities-in-champions-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


The ability to swing around has long been one of the most requested travel powers from many a caped player. And so it's with great joy that we announce this video showcasing the newest travel power in Champions Online, swinging! Now, ill themed adult-orientated jokes aside, this new video has really got us excited for the forthcoming launch of Cryptic's next game, because it give a brief glimpse of Millennium City's expansive scale.

Actually, we'd be lying if we told you that the expansiveness of the city in the video wasn't more astonishing than the characters monkeying it up with their hook guns. Although speaking of hook guns, it'd be a nice comicbook classics nod if players were able to attack bad guys with said devices -- even though they were never meant to be used like that.

Check out the entire video after the break.

Continue reading Swinging travel powers and expansive cities in Champions Online

MassivelySwinging travel powers and expansive cities in Champions Online originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 19 Apr 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atarichampionschampions-onlinecrpyticcryptic-studiosignmillennium-cityswingingtravel-powersvideoSun, 19 Apr 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth dev diary focuses on introducing new players to PvP]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/07/fallen-earth-dev-diary-focuses-on-introducing-new-players-to-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/07/fallen-earth-dev-diary-focuses-on-introducing-new-players-to-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/07/fallen-earth-dev-diary-focuses-on-introducing-new-players-to-pvp/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Fallen Earth is one of three post-apocalyptic massively muliplayer online games currently in development that are a far cry from the fantasy titles which have proven most popular in the MMO world. IGN scored an exclusive two part developer diary from Fallen Earth writer and content developer Wes Platt who discusses creating the PvP starter town of Terance. Namely, he explains how and why the Fallen Earth team has been putting so much work into Terance and the challenges and pitfalls faced in differentiating the PvP-centric area from other more standard towns in the game.

The first part is "Building the Town of Terance". It paints a picture of a post-apocalyptic aftermath setting where a psychotic artificial intelligence, long since sealed away underground by its corporate progenitors and forced into a century of dormancy, is woken with dire consequences. Now powered up, the AI -- TETRAX -- prepares once again to work towards the extermination all human beings in its vicinity. Human beings in Terance may find themselves on the run, hunted by AI-directed zombies called Diggers, as well as mutants and vermin.

Continue reading Fallen Earth dev diary focuses on introducing new players to PvP

MassivelyFallen Earth dev diary focuses on introducing new players to PvP originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Apr 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aidev-diarydeveloper-diarydiggersfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcgame-designgame-mechanicsignmissionsmutantspost-apocalypticpvpquestssci-fistarter-townstarter-zonesstorylinetetraxverminwes-plattTue, 07 Apr 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CrimeCraft trailer gives a brief glimpse into the urban crime MMO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/24/crimecraft-trailer-gives-a-brief-glimpse-into-the-urban-crime-mm/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/24/crimecraft-trailer-gives-a-brief-glimpse-into-the-urban-crime-mm/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/24/crimecraft-trailer-gives-a-brief-glimpse-into-the-urban-crime-mm/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


The massively multiplayer online game industry will soon be getting an influx of space-based science fiction titles as well as earthbound post-apocalytic MMOs. Another new realm that is going to be explored by game developers like Vogster Entertainment is the urban crime MMO. Their debut massively multiplayer title will be CrimeCraft. We don't have many details on the game beyond the trailer they released and the info they've published so far on their site, but we do know that it's a persistent world 'next-gen' shooter built on the Unreal 3 engine.

We've found another glimpse into what Vogster has been up to, though. IGN Videos has a (very) brief trailer showing the CrimeCraft characters with narration explaining obtaining and modifying your weapons. We weren't inspired enough by the trailer to commit crimes of our own by stealing and embedding it for you here, so you'll have to head over to IGN to check out the video footage. We're hoping to speak with Vogster at GDC this week and find out more about this title, so keep your eyes open for more on this urban crime MMO.

MassivelyCrimeCraft trailer gives a brief glimpse into the urban crime MMO originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Mar 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimecrimecraftignign-videostrailersurbanurban-crimevideovideosvogstervogster-entertainmentTue, 24 Mar 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aion: Ishalgen zone trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/22/aion-ishalgen-zone-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/22/aion-ishalgen-zone-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/22/aion-ishalgen-zone-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The folks at IGN tossed up a trailer of the Ishalgen zone in Aion this past Friday. It's some pretty wild stuff; a flyby of the zone to a techno-styled string arrangement, showing off the impressive color scheme and varied landscape within the game. Not much action here, but it's quite the visual smorgasbord.

Check out the video after the jump.

Continue reading Aion: Ishalgen zone trailer

MassivelyAion: Ishalgen zone trailer originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 22 Mar 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionignishalgenncsofttrailervideoSun, 22 Mar 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare CM on community management then and now]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/22/bioware-cm-on-community-management-then-and-now/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/22/bioware-cm-on-community-management-then-and-now/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/22/bioware-cm-on-community-management-then-and-now/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


If the community is on board with your game and/or message, they will help propel your game toward success. That success can be temporary, however, because if they're not on board, they may turn on you quickly and sharply. Word of mouth travels fast, especially on the Internet and the primary job of the community management team is to keep that voice with you, not against you.

How do they do this? BioWare Austin Community Manager, Sean Dahlberg gives us some insight after ten years in the field. The SW:TOR CM explains that in the past, community management mostly entailed administrating game forums and passing developer messages along to the players. Because the job wasn't taken as seriously as it is today, CMs were often the last to know about major game changes or the rationale behind them, which made the job very difficult.

While the job is still difficult today, community managers are now informed of major changes in advance and actually given a voice with upper management. They are essentially the liaison between fans, consumers, developers, and the publisher. They also facilitate communication, help retain customers, and even gain new ones. Sean says the field of community management is still in its infancy and that he's interested to see where it will go from here.

MassivelyBioWare CM on community management then and now originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 22 Mar 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarecommunity-managementignsean-dahlbergstar-wars-the-old-republicSun, 22 Mar 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Champions Online video delves deep into the waters of Lemuria]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/05/champions-online-video-delves-deep-into-the-waters-of-lemuria/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/05/champions-online-video-delves-deep-into-the-waters-of-lemuria/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/05/champions-online-video-delves-deep-into-the-waters-of-lemuria/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


We've been waiting for the first video featuring Lemuria to -- pardon the pun -- surface, and now we're happy to report that it's here! On top of the visually stunning fly through of Champions Online's mid-level underwater zone, IGN also has an interview with Bill Roper that covers a good amount of ground concerning the first questions that popped into our head when Lemuria was originally revealed.

Namely, Roper answers our burning questions on fire-based powers underwater and breathing mechanics. A pill developed by the in-game faction called UNTIL will allow heroes to breath with ease and for the sake of fun. Who wants to resurface every five or ten minutes, anyhow?

And as for the water-unfriendly powers, Cryptic is simply taking the "this is a comic book-based world" approach and not messing with anything. However, travel powers apparently aren't going to work underwater, which makes sense. We only hope there's some way to compensate people who spend some time underwater. Giving out a water propeller backpack after completing the first few quest chains couldn't hurt.

MassivelyChampions Online video delves deep into the waters of Lemuria originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Mar 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ataribill-roperchampionschampions-onlinecrypticignlemuriatrailerunderwatervideoThu, 05 Mar 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ION Conference returns for 2009, changes name to LOGIN]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/20/ion-conference-returns-for-2009-changes-name-to-login/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/20/ion-conference-returns-for-2009-changes-name-to-login/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/20/ion-conference-returns-for-2009-changes-name-to-login/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Massively's readers who follow the online game industry may be familiar with Evergreen Events. They're the people who brought us the Online Game Development Conference (OGDC 2007) and the ION Game Conference (2008). The next step in the annual conference's evolution entails gaining a new name -- the LOGIN Conference.

LOGIN 2009 will be three and a half days of lectures, panels, roundtables, and keynotes focused on the online game industry. Thus far details about speakers are scarce, but one keynote speaker has been announced for LOGIN 2009 -- Charlie Stross, author of Halting State, a thriller that deals heavily with virtual worlds. The call for more speakers remains open, and if ION was any indication of what to expect, a number of industry luminaries are likely to have a presence at LOGIN.

LOGIN will take place in Seattle, Washington, from May 11-14, 2009. Massively will have more info for you about LOGIN as we get closer to the conference.

MassivelyION Conference returns for 2009, changes name to LOGIN originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Jan 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charlie-strossconferenceevergreen-eventsignionjubekeynoteloginlogin-09login-2009mmo-industrysheila-lewisvault-hubTue, 20 Jan 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Two delicious DC Universe Online 'preview doughnuts']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/two-delicious-dc-universe-online-preview-doughnuts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/two-delicious-dc-universe-online-preview-doughnuts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/two-delicious-dc-universe-online-preview-doughnuts/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


We've found two freshly baked DC Universe Online informo-doughnuts for your consumption. Now, while the Crispy Gamer doughnut is a bit smaller, it's also lightly crisped with a pinch of humor and will leave you surprisingly satisfied by the end of your meal. Way to live up to the name, crispy! On the other hand, IGN's doughnut is much bigger overall and even has a few new pieces of information regarding character creation and progression baked right into its creamy center. However, you'll have to chew your way through the slightly stale exterior in order to get to that warm, gooey information.

Which doughnut should an adventurous reader pick? If you're like us, just eat both! Don't worry about the dizziness and urge to punch your stomach repeatedly aftewards -- that's completely natural.
Did you enjoy this? We've donned our capes and tights to explore SOE's DC Universe Online in-depth. Come explore more of Metropolis and Gotham with your friends at Massively!

MassivelyTwo delicious DC Universe Online 'preview doughnuts' originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ces2009crispy-gamerdc-universe-onlinedcuodoughnutsignsoesony-online-entertainmentsuperheroMon, 12 Jan 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free Realms impressions from CES 2009]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/11/free-realms-impressions-from-ces-2009/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/11/free-realms-impressions-from-ces-2009/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/11/free-realms-impressions-from-ces-2009/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Sony Online Entertainment had a presence at the 2009 Consumer Electronics Show, and offered a hands-on demo of their much-vaunted title Free Realms. For those who haven't previously heard of this game -- and why it's already caught the attention of the gaming press -- it's a massively multiplayer online game geared towards younger players (E10+ ESRB rating) with parental controls providing another layer of security from evil netizens. Despite this target demographic, and perhaps because of the sweet simplicity of the game's concepts and unique art style shown off thus far, a fair number of adults are eager to play it as well.

Added to its appeal is that Free Realms will be playable on both PC and the PS3; it's one of the three upcoming PC/Console MMOs on the way from Sony -- along with The Agency and DC Universe Online. Free Realms will have most of the trappings of your standard fantasy MMO fare -- which might seem like the kiss of death coming from a company already offering multiple fantasy MMO titles -- but Free Realms will have its own unique twists that differentiate it from most other MMOs on the market. Free Realms is slated for release in Q2 2009, free of charge, and will be funded through microtransactions, purchasable extras, and in-game ads.

Matt Casamassina from IGN has written an excellent preview of Free Realms and nails down some details which were hazy until CES 2009. While the IGN Free Realms preview is short, it's simply packed with details about the game and worth checking out if Free Realms appeals to you.

MassivelyFree Realms impressions from CES 2009 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 11 Jan 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browsercesconsolesdc-universe-onlinefantasyfree-realmsfree-to-playignkidsmatt-casamassinammo-industrypcps3soesony-online-entertainmentthe-agencySun, 11 Jan 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ten 2008 machinima worth checking out]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/03/ten-2008-machinima-worth-checking-out/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/03/ten-2008-machinima-worth-checking-out/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/03/ten-2008-machinima-worth-checking-out/#commentsFiled under: , ,

IGN has put together a top ten 2008 machinima movie list that's most definitely great for killing some time, should you have any in need of slaying. The list is surprisingly diverse, with movies created in Age of Conan, City of Heroes, Pirates of the Burning Sea, Guild Wars and of course World of Warcraft.

We're not too surprised to see an Oxhorn Christmas Tree and a Snacky's Journal 4 take the top two slots, as both series are always incredibly worth-while -- Snacky's Journal 4 won the 2008 Blizzcon Movie Contest. Although we highly recommend checking out The Return of The Revenge of Dr. Mechanico, as it's an amazingly wonderful use of City of Heroes as a storytelling device. Also, if you've really got some time to pass, take a look at Election Duel if you're in any way a politically-minded type with a sense of humor. Good stuff!

MassivelyTen 2008 machinima worth checking out originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 03 Jan 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanarenanetblizzardcity-of-heroesflying-labfuncomguild-warsignmachinimancsoftoxhornpirates-of-the-burning-seasnackys-journalsoeworld-of-warcraftSat, 03 Jan 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Diary of a game hopper]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/diary-of-a-game-hopper/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/diary-of-a-game-hopper/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/diary-of-a-game-hopper/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Are you a game hopper? Do you find yourself continuously dissatisfied with the quality of MMOs, yet continue to jump on the latest and greatest upon release? I think it's safe to say that there are many game hoppers out there, especially as the quantity of games sharply increases.

In a recent editorial piece at IGN, Char gives us an idea of what it's like to be a fairly extreme version of a game hopper. As an example, "I have been known to be out in the world somewhere, questing or adventuring when I will just stop, log out then head to the account screen of the particular game in question and just cancel, never to go back." The article goes on to explain reasons that they've left a particular game and moved on to others. If you often find yourself doing the same thing, or feeling the same way about the current selection of MMOs, you may want to take a look at this article. It's entertaining, and brings up some very valid points on how some games can so easily lose their customers.

MassivelyDiary of a game hopper originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Dec 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chargame-hoppergamer-addignmulti-boxingThu, 18 Dec 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Top 10 things we all want in a KotOR MMO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/19/top-10-things-we-all-want-in-a-kotor-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/19/top-10-things-we-all-want-in-a-kotor-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/19/top-10-things-we-all-want-in-a-kotor-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Knights of the Old Republic MMO concept has been laid out there, despite no "official" announcement, and excitement is brewing everywhere. What would this MMO bring to the table? How would they successfully create another Star Wars-based online world and make it at least competitive in today's crowded MMO market?

Enter IGN's "Top 10 Things We Want in a KOTOR MMO" list. This list was compiled by the folks on IGN's PC Team to let us know what they think would make the game exciting and successful. Some of the features they've cited include space combat comparable to TIE Fighter, player-run territories (planets?) and no over-saturation of Jedis. Check out the complete list at their site for more, and let us know what you'd add to that list.

MassivelyTop 10 things we all want in a KotOR MMO originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Sep 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaignknights-of-the-old-republickotorkotor-mmokotorolucasartsstar-warsswtortop-10Fri, 19 Sep 2008 16:00:00 EST