Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 prepares for Southsun showdown]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/guild-wars-2-prepares-for-southsun-showdown/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/guild-wars-2-prepares-for-southsun-showdown/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/guild-wars-2-prepares-for-southsun-showdown/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Guild Wars 2 prepares for Southsun showdown
The big baddie of Guild Wars 2's recent living story has been called out. He's Canach, a renegade who thinks that that the answer to every urban planning problem is "more monsters." The Sylvari is behind a plot to use the creatures of Southsun to free settlers from the grasp of the Consortium.

A showdown with Canach is set to happen when the next chapter of the game's living story rolls out on May 28. The update, titled Last Stand at Southsun, will contain a solo dungeon where players will go mano-a-planto with Canach. ArenaNet says that those who defeat Canach will then open up new group content to tackle.

Other changes on deck include a zone-stomping monster and plenty of changes to world-vs.-world content. Southsun living story events, achievements, and rewards will be available until June 11th.

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 prepares for Southsun showdown originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbuy-to-playcanacheventfantasyguild-wars-2gw2in-game-eventlast-stand-at-southsunliving-storyncsoftsouthsunsouthsun-coveworld-vs-worldwvwMon, 20 May 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tattered Notebook: A guide to EQII's Moonlight Enchantments (with new stuff!)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/tattered-notebook-a-guide-to-eqiis-moonlight-enchantments-an/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/tattered-notebook-a-guide-to-eqiis-moonlight-enchantments-an/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/tattered-notebook-a-guide-to-eqiis-moonlight-enchantments-an/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Tattered Notebook A guide to EQII's Moonlight Enchantments and new stuff!
Lately, there have been a number of topics all vying for my attention here in Tattered Notebook. In a couple of instances, some of them got a little rough and started pushing the others around to try for a better place in line. Yet all the while, EverQuest II's Moonlight Enchantments has been patiently waiting. So as a reward (we do like to reward good behavior here!), that quiet little topic is getting the spotlight in a special bonus edition. And the timing couldn't be more perfect!

You see, initially this guide was just going to focus on speed to help you get through that short two-day event that comes but once a month on the 20th and 21st in EQII. Now, however, we get to delve into the changes and new things coming to the Enchanted Grottoes, from even more housing items (yes, that's on top of the new additions in March) to two new repeatable quests to earn the tokens to buy the items. And with this month's festival right around the corner, having a game plan ready to get the most out of those two days will benefit new and old players alike.

Continue reading Tattered Notebook: A guide to EQII's Moonlight Enchantments (with new stuff!)

MassivelyTattered Notebook: A guide to EQII's Moonlight Enchantments (with new stuff!) originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 18 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>decoratingeqeq-2eq-iieq2eqiieverquesteverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgrottogrottoeshousinghousing-itemsin-game-eventMoonlight-Enchantmentmoonlight-enchantmentsnew-itemsnew-questsopinionsoesonysony-online-entertainmenttattered-notebookthe-tattered-notebookSat, 18 May 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: Shugo Kingdom returns to Aion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/wings-over-atreia-shugo-kingdom-returns-to-aion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/wings-over-atreia-shugo-kingdom-returns-to-aion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/wings-over-atreia-shugo-kingdom-returns-to-aion/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Wings Over Atreia Shugo Kingdom returns to Aion
Who says we can't get what we want? I wanted the Shugo Kingdom Adventure event to return to Aion, and I'm getting my wish. Booyah! No, really, it's true: Starting after maintenance on May 22nd, Daevas who've flown over level 50 will again be able to journey for a limited time to the long lost vaults of the Shugo Kingdom in search of great and glorious treasure. And by treasure, I mean a trove of chests filled with AP items, Stormwing armor pieces and weapons, or even rare sets of wings. Of course what you get depends on how many keys you have and a little luck, so there's no harm in starting your sacrifices to Aion's RNG gods now.

Did you miss out on the event last time but are looking forward to it this go around? Or maybe you need a refresher because the trauma of not getting that one item caused you to block all knowledge of the zone from your mind? Either way, this edition of Wings Over Atreia will give you a heads up on what to expect. And as an added bonus, Associate Producer Sean Orlikowski shared his tips and tricks for making the most of your Shugo Kingdom Adventures.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: Shugo Kingdom returns to Aion

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: Shugo Kingdom returns to Aion originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 18 May 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionascensionbe-a-Shugodungeonseventf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playguideImperial-Tombin-game-eventinstancencsoftopinionSean-OrlikowskiShigosShugo-Kingdom-AdventureStormwing-loottruly-freewings-over-atreiaSat, 18 May 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Allods Online pops the cork on its second anniversary]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/allods-online-pops-the-cork-on-its-second-anniversary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/allods-online-pops-the-cork-on-its-second-anniversary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/allods-online-pops-the-cork-on-its-second-anniversary/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Allods Online pops the cork on its second anniversary
Considering how long Allods Online was launched-but-not-officially-launched, we think it's slightly inaccurate to acknowledge gPotato's claim that this is the title's second anniversary. Still, any excuse for a party, right? Starting today, Allods Online is featuring plenty of events, giveaways, and store sales to mark the occasion.

Active players have another shot at taming a free grey wolf or earning a "Noble Hero" costume set during the anniversary. There's also a few special NPCs who will be accepting anniversary coins in exchange for an array of special goodies. If you're of a mind to spend some money, all of the item shops wares are available for 20% off through the 13th.

GPotato is also giving veteran players 250 premium crystals and an anniversary gift package for those who have been in the game prior to today. The anniversary event goes from now until June 10th.

MassivelyAllods Online pops the cork on its second anniversary originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2nd-anniversaryallodsallods-onlineanniversaryanniversary-eventastrum-nivaleventf2pfantasyfree-to-playgala-netgiveawaygpotatoin-game-eventmail-ru-gamesmail.ru-gamesmailru-gamessalesecond-anniversaryFri, 10 May 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Age of Wushu hosts a Royal Celebration]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/age-of-wushu-hosts-a-royal-celebration/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/age-of-wushu-hosts-a-royal-celebration/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/age-of-wushu-hosts-a-royal-celebration/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Age of Wushu hosts a Royal Celebration
Party like it's 2013! Snail Games invites players in the world of Jianghu to join in a special Age of Wushu Royal Celebration starting today. This celebration will have various events sprinkled throughout the month, from earning rewards just for just logging in to chances to face and fight world bosses for their loot. And the rewards themselves range from gift packs to buff items to VIP bonuses.

Want to earn a special gift pack? Log in for one hour a day and you'll get one for each day. Players who manage to spend at least two hours online every day for the entire week will earn a much larger reward that includes a 30-day mount and a number of buffs and bonuses. Gain even more rewards for leveling school inner skills and for being a VIP. The event is open to all players regardless of school or skills. For a full listing of the events and their accompanying rewards, check out the official event schedule.

[Source: Snail Games press release]

MassivelyAge of Wushu hosts a Royal Celebration originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-wulinage-of-wushuasiachinachinesechinese-mmoeventgpotatogvgin-game-eventin-game-eventskidnappingmartial-artsming-dynastypvprewardsRoyal-Celebrationsandboxsnail-gamessnail-games-usawushuwuxiaFri, 10 May 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online's Crystalline Entity strikes back]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/08/star-trek-onlines-crystalline-entity-strikes-back/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/08/star-trek-onlines-crystalline-entity-strikes-back/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/08/star-trek-onlines-crystalline-entity-strikes-back/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Star Trek Online's Crystalline Entity strikes back
The Crystalline Entity encounter in Star Trek Online is back, as Cryptic has refurbished the event to make it better than ever before. Starting on April 11th, players will be able to tackle the Entity in 10-person encounters while completing a brand-new project for the game.

Systems Designer Jeremy Randall explains that the team wasn't happy with the original Crystalline Entity encounter and thus brought it back to the drawing board to make it more engaging. The reworked event now has new features and allows players of all types to participate. The Tholians are now involved as well, although their role is somewhat of a mystery.

As part of the reintroduction of the event, Cryptic is running a three-week promotion where players can earn crystal shards for defeating the entity. One shard can be earned per day, and it takes 14 shards to complete the project. The reward for doing so is 50,000 dilithium Ore, 1,000 fleet marks, and a unique crystal shard space non-combat pet.

MassivelyStar Trek Online's Crystalline Entity strikes back originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Apr 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-studioscrystalline-entityencountereventf2pfree-to-playin-game-eventjeremy-randallperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotholiansMon, 08 Apr 2013 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you like experience boost events?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/06/the-daily-grind-do-you-like-experience-boost-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/06/the-daily-grind-do-you-like-experience-boost-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/06/the-daily-grind-do-you-like-experience-boost-events/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

My Smuggler is 35. She probably can't hit 50 in time. But maybe...
If you've got one last alt in Star Wars: The Old Republic that you want at 50 before the expansion goes live, this weekend is the time to make it happen. You've got doubled experience gains, after all. For someone like me who has reached the level cap multiple times over, the fact that I could suddenly jump in and scream up in levels has been a very pleasant departure from the norm over the last few weekends.

However, that came with a downside. Sure, during the weekends I could blast through leveling, but during the rest of the week I found I didn't want to touch any characters that were still leveling. Why push hard when I could just wait and get another experience rush?

A lot of games like to turn on increased experience gains at various points, usually during weekends. Do you like these experience boost events? Or do you feel they cheapen the leveling experience as a whole?

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: Do you like experience boost events? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 06 Apr 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daily-grinddouble-experienceexperienceexperience-boostgame-mechanicsin-game-eventlevel-gaininglevelingopiniontdgthe-daily-grindweekend-eventSat, 06 Apr 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online celebrates First Contact Day on April 5th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/star-trek-online-celebrates-first-contact-day-on-april-5th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/star-trek-online-celebrates-first-contact-day-on-april-5th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/star-trek-online-celebrates-first-contact-day-on-april-5th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

No, you may not hijack the Enterprise.
If you believe the Star Trek franchise, April 5th will be a very important day in 50 years as the day that humanity makes its first contact with the Vulcans. It's definitely an important day in Star Trek Online as a result of the lore. To commemorate the in-universe historical event, the game will be hosting a special event from April 5th until April 11th. Players will be able to visit the Utopia Planitia shipyards orbiting Mars and celebrate Starfleet's legacy by meeting its latest and greatest ship.

The latest incarnation of the Enterprise will be docked at the shipyards during this time, allowing players to meet the crew of the NCC-1701-F and pick up a non-combat replica of the Phoenix. Klingon players won't be left out of the celebration, as the Day of Honor will be running concurrently around Qo'Nos and players can pick up a special bat'leth. So whether you're part of the Federation or the Empire, it'll be a week of celebration for days that aren't very special now but will be in the future.

MassivelyStar Trek Online celebrates First Contact Day on April 5th originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Apr 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backstorycrypticcryptic-studioseventsf2pfirst-contact-dayfree-to-playin-game-eventloreperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpetspwesci-fisettingspecial-eventsstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoTue, 02 Apr 2013 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Exclusive: Champions Online challenges players to take on the Forum Malvanum]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/22/exclusive-champions-online-challenges-players-to-take-on-the-fo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/22/exclusive-champions-online-challenges-players-to-take-on-the-fo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/22/exclusive-champions-online-challenges-players-to-take-on-the-fo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Wait, how will you get wheel spikes on this?
Champions Online players have just braved a full-scale invasion in the appropriately named Lemurian Invasion event. So now the superheroes of Millennium City get to take a long weekend and possibly head to the beach, right? Hardly. A new challenge approaches in the form of the upcoming Forum Malvanum event, throwing heroes into a pitched arena battle run by a mysterious alien race. But it's not quite what you might think.

The aliens behind these gladiatorial games have been running challenges across the galaxy for quite some time, and they've now invited Earth's champions to participate. Should the heroes emerge victorious, they'll reap the rewards of galaxy-spanning wealth and power. Not that you can expect the games of an intergalactic race obsessed with bloodsports to be particularly fair...

Leaving aside the perpetual nightmare that is a superhero's life, this even promises to offer several additions for players. Aside from the almost mandatory new lockbox, the event will contain new content including an arena showdown and a mission focused around a high-speed race. We also had a chance to sit down and ask producer Tom Edwards a few more questions about the upcoming event. Read on!

Gallery: Champions Online Main Gallery

Continue reading Exclusive: Champions Online challenges players to take on the Forum Malvanum

MassivelyExclusive: Champions Online challenges players to take on the Forum Malvanum originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenachampionschampions-onlinechampscocrypticcryptic-studioseventf2pfeaturedforum-malvanumfree-to-playin-game-eventinterviewinterviewslockboxesnewsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpreviewpweracerace-eventssuperherosuperheroesTom-EdwardsvehiclesFri, 22 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Chronoportals return to EverQuest II today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/21/chronoportals-return-to-everquest-ii-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/21/chronoportals-return-to-everquest-ii-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/21/chronoportals-return-to-everquest-ii-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Chronoportals return to EverQuest II today
In 2011, a new event was added to EverQuest II's calendar, one that paid homage to the fantasy game's older sibling, EverQuest. Now each year around the anniversary of EQ, Chronoportals return to the land of Norrath, allowing EQII players the chance to travel through time to experience the nostalgia of the game that started it all.

Scattered throughout Norrath, Chronoportals are available for every 10 levels. They send players to a specific EQ land where they can then participate in as many time rifts as their level allows. However, due to minimum level requirements, only the highest levels will be able to travel through every one. There are also three new paintings available from the event merchants.

The event ends at precisely 2:59 a.m. Friday, March 29th, so if you want to check out a bit of EQ history and hear some amusing quips that celebrate it (like how to best spawn The Ancient Cyclops in Southern Desert of Ro), time is limited.

MassivelyChronoportals return to EverQuest II today originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Chronoportal-eventChronoportalseqeq-2eq-iieq1eq2eqiieverquesteverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfree-to-playhomage-to-EQin-game-eventsoesonysony-online-entertainmenttime-travelThu, 21 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Runes of Magic celebrates its 4th Anniversary]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/19/runes-of-magic-celebrates-its-4th-anniversary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/19/runes-of-magic-celebrates-its-4th-anniversary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/19/runes-of-magic-celebrates-its-4th-anniversary/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Runes of Magic celebrates its 4th Anniversary
Our favorite birthdays are the ones when the guests get gifts instead of giving them. Apparently Runes of Magic feels the same, as Gameforge is pulling out the stops to make the 4th anniversary of the game one for the history books.

Runes of Magic's 4th anniversary page has the scoop on all of the gifts, contests, events, and bonuses to be enjoyed over the next week. Players will get a lot of goodies just for logging in and leveling up, although there are additional quests if you want to reap all of the rewards. Players will also enjoy buffs to XP, talent points, and drop rates through the 25th.

Finally, Gameforge released a special video that shows the progress of Runes of Magic from beta to today, ending with several impressive statistics. If you don't watch it, you'll go mad always wondering what it might have been. We'd hate to see that.

Continue reading Runes of Magic celebrates its 4th Anniversary

MassivelyRunes of Magic celebrates its 4th Anniversary originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 Mar 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4th-anniversaryanniversarycontesteventf2pfantasyfree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactivegameforgegameforge-berlingiftin-game-eventpromotionrewardromrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmenttaboreavideoTue, 19 Mar 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Champions Online dev blog goes behind-the-scenes of the Lemurian Invasion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/16/champions-online-dev-blog-goes-behind-the-scenes-of-the-lemurian/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/16/champions-online-dev-blog-goes-behind-the-scenes-of-the-lemurian/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/16/champions-online-dev-blog-goes-behind-the-scenes-of-the-lemurian/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Champions Online's Lemurian Invasion
Last week, Champions Online's Lemurian Invasion event hit the live servers, and since then players have been valiantly fighting to defend the world against the alien forces. But as the latest Champions devblog notes, "an invasion force like the Lemurians doesn't come out of nowhere." With that in mind, Cryptic has released a brand-new devblog that takes players behind the curtain for a look at the making of the Lemurian invasion. In the post, Champions Online's new Live Producer, Tom "Lord Gar" Edwards, takes players on a brief tour of the process behind creating a live event.

Edwards details all of the hard work that went into the Lemurian Invasion, from the event's initial conception to 3-D models, animations, and playtesting. But perhaps more importantly, he takes a few paragraphs to talk about the future: "[In] the first half 2013, [Cryptic's] plan is to release several story arcs of a similar scale to the Lemurian invasion." He adds that "each arc will have a lockbox, some smaller missions, and then a larger mission at the end." According to Edwards, each mission will " have its own themed rewards and new items [that will] sometimes focus on character improvements, and some on vehicles." Champions' next arc will involve "gladiatorial combat" and will focus on the aforementioned character improvements.

Edwards promises that more info is coming soon. Until then, how about heading over to the Champions Online devblog for all the tasty Lemurian Invasion details?

[Thanks to Matixzun for the tip!]

MassivelyChampions Online dev blog goes behind-the-scenes of the Lemurian Invasion originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 16 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>behind-the-sceneschampionschampions-onlinechampscocrypticcryptic-studiosdevblogdevblogseventeventsf2pfree-to-playfreemiumin-game-eventin-game-eventslemurian-invasionlive-eventlive-eventsmaking-ofmicrotransactionmicrotransactionsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpremiumpwesuperherosuperheroesSat, 16 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest's 14th anniversary celebration begins early]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/15/everquests-14th-anniversary-celebration-begins-early/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/15/everquests-14th-anniversary-celebration-begins-early/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/15/everquests-14th-anniversary-celebration-begins-early/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

EverQuest anniversary celebration begins early
Hey there, EverQuest! You're looking mighty fine for a 14-year-old game. What's that, you say? You want us to come party with you? And you're willing to start a little early?

Indeed, tomorrow is EverQuest's 14th anniversary, and SOE is kicking off the celebrations a day early. New anniversary missions that were designed at 2012's SOE Live are now active, as is all of the previous anniversary content. Double XP is also in effect to give your characters a boost.

The developers released a few fun facts about EverQuest for its anniversary, including that the number of NPCs (344,935) is more than how many people live in Tampa Florida. Also, if you created a character on launch day in 1999, then according to Norrath time, that character would be 280 years old.

MassivelyEverQuest's 14th anniversary celebration begins early originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 Mar 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>14th-anniversaryanniversarybonus-xpbonus-xp-weekendeqeq1eventeverquestf2pfantasyfree-to-playin-game-eventsoesoe-livesonysony-online-entertainmenttriviaFri, 15 Mar 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Lemurian Invasion of Champions Online is going out with a splash]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/the-lemurian-invasion-of-champions-online-is-going-out-with-a-sp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/the-lemurian-invasion-of-champions-online-is-going-out-with-a-sp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/the-lemurian-invasion-of-champions-online-is-going-out-with-a-sp/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Why would you make a hovertank that goes underwater?
Invaders from the deep have threatened Champions Online players for a while now, but it's time to deep-six the Lemurian threat for good. The latest patch to the game is giving players a chance to do just that with a new queued event capping off the multi-week invasion, providing a fight against evil for fabulous new toys. Or you can buy new toys, if that's more your speed.

The Lemurian forces are trying to summon something enormous to overtake Millennium City, and high-level players will be pitted against the bulk of this army and its ominiously named Bleak Harbinger. Fail, and Millennium City falls. Succeed, and you might be able to pick up a Lemurian hovertank. Oh, and the city won't be destroyed. There are also new hoverbikes available from both the Drifter and the C-Store, helping ensure that heroes who want to take on the invasion will have good equipment to do so before it ends on March 27th.

[Thanks to matixzun for the tip!]

MassivelyThe Lemurian Invasion of Champions Online is going out with a splash originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 08 Mar 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>championschampions-onlinechampscocrypticcryptic-studiosendgameeventf2pfree-to-playin-game-eventitemsloreperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesuperherosuperheroesvehiclesFri, 08 Mar 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Path of Exile's season one race events start February 23rd]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/path-of-exiles-season-one-race-events-start-february-23rd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/path-of-exiles-season-one-race-events-start-february-23rd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/path-of-exiles-season-one-race-events-start-february-23rd/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Path of Exile's season one race events start February 23rd
Path of Exile is bringing back the popular race events from beta and organizing them into seasons. Race events are limited-duration challenges that put players into a new character and a fresh economy to compete against each other for various prizes.

The first season of these events will begin on February 23rd and continue through April 7th. It will be made up of 109 events that take place solely on the weekends, and it will feature different start times so that players across the globe won't be at a significant disadvantage based on location.

There are several ways to win prizes through these races. Players accumulate reward points that contribute to both season and lifetime prize tiers, and they can win additional goodies if they place in the top ranks for multiple events and the season as a whole.

[Thanks to Josh for the tip!]

MassivelyPath of Exile's season one race events start February 23rd originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Feb 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmodiabloeventf2pfantasyfree-to-playgrinding-geargrinding-gear-gamesin-game-eventpath-of-exilepoeprizesrace-eventrace-eventsroguelikeseason-1season-oneWed, 20 Feb 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: SWTOR reinvents the Ilum wheel]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/19/hyperspace-beacon-swtor-reinvents-the-ilum-wheel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/19/hyperspace-beacon-swtor-reinvents-the-ilum-wheel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/19/hyperspace-beacon-swtor-reinvents-the-ilum-wheel/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Hyperspace Beacon SWTOR reinvents the Ilum wheel
For about a year, Star Wars: The Old Republic fans have been waiting to see how the BioWare design team would reinvent Ilum. The first incarnation discouraged PvP by making the objectives give no PvP incentive. It was easier, faster, and more beneficial for players to just ignore enemy players. The second incarnation failed even harder. At the time, there was a major disparity between the two factions, so the larger faction would easily overpower the smaller faction. This did not actually encourage PvP either because the smaller faction just stopped showing up and only the larger faction benefited from the zone. At that point, BioWare decided to remove all objectives from the area and work on a revamp.

Last Tuesday, players were introduced to the third incarnation of the Ilum PvP zone. This time around, the zone contains a mix of group-on-group PvP, world bosses, and of course, PvE fetch/kill quests. How does it stack up to the previous incarnations? How does the reputation grind and Gree event fit into this equation? Should former players return to the game to try out the changes?

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: SWTOR reinvents the Ilum wheel

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: SWTOR reinvents the Ilum wheel originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 Feb 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaelectronic-artsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playGreehyperspace-beaconIlumimpressionsin-game-eventk-lor-sluglucasartsopen-world-pvpopinionPvePvPsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorwampaTue, 19 Feb 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars: The Old Republic drops patch 1.7 on Tuesday]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/10/star-wars-the-old-republic-drops-patch-1-7-on-tuesday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/10/star-wars-the-old-republic-drops-patch-1-7-on-tuesday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/10/star-wars-the-old-republic-drops-patch-1-7-on-tuesday/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Who doesn't want to be best friends with a group of cthonic nightmares?
It's almost time to see what you can do about your reputation in Star Wars: The Old Republic. Patch 1.7 is bringing the new reputation system as well as the new Relics of the Gree event to the live servers on Tuesday, February 12th. The maintenance window for the patch is five and a half hours, although as with most major patches, there's always the chance that it'll run a little longer because of unforeseen issues.

If you've still got more questions about what the reputation system will add to the game, a recent development blog answers those questions. Notably, this patch has not been up for testing on the test server, possibly to keep the event a bit more of a secret. Whatever the case, players will get to put their hands on the changes in just a couple of days, so get ready to travel across the galaxy and get some props from galactic reputation.

[Thanks to Jose for the tip!]

MassivelyStar Wars: The Old Republic drops patch 1.7 on Tuesday originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 10 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaelectronic-artseventf2pfree-to-playin-game-eventlucasartspatchpatch-maintenancepatchesreputationreturn-of-the-greesci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorswtor-patch-1.7the-old-republictorupdateupdatesSun, 10 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online posts third anniversary details]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/29/star-trek-online-posts-third-anniversary-details/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/29/star-trek-online-posts-third-anniversary-details/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/29/star-trek-online-posts-third-anniversary-details/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Star Trek Online posts third anniversary details
As you may have heard on our latest Massively Speaking podcast, Star Trek Online is on the verge of celebrating its third anniversary -- and the developers want to make sure that it's one that players won't soon forget. Cryptic Content Designer Charles Gray has the skinny on what Starfleet and KDF captains can expect in the coming days.

The ever-popular Q will show up to throw parties in Spacedock and Qo'noS from January 31st through February 14th. If you're willing to help Q out with a little assignment, he's supposed to reward you handsomely in return.

The big news is of the new featured episode that will be rewarding a souped-up version of the Ambassador Class or Kamarag Class starship if it's completed during the event. The episode centers around a strange anomaly that has connections with Tholian experiments and the 24th century. Time travel in Star Trek? Whoduthunk it! Cryptic says that it will deliver specs on the new ships soon.

MassivelyStar Trek Online posts third anniversary details originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 29 Jan 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ambassador-classanniversarycharles-graycrypticcryptic-studiosenterprise-ceventf2pfeatured-episodefree-to-playin-game-eventpartyperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweqsci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestothird-anniversaryupdateTue, 29 Jan 2013 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Touring Telon: Six years of Vanguard]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/29/touring-telon-six-years-of-vanguard/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/29/touring-telon-six-years-of-vanguard/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/29/touring-telon-six-years-of-vanguard/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Touring Telon Six years of Vanguard
Few MMO gamers can forget the legendary bad launch of Vanguard and the drama that surrounded its development. Even fewer MMO gamers can remember what the game was like, as the population started small and stayed small. For a half-decade, the title wallowed in relative obscurity compared to the rest of SOE's lineup, and in fact, many predicted that it would be canned.

As we know now, SOE decided to go a different way. The studio threw its faith behind Vanguard last year by relaunching it as a free-to-play MMO and giving it an actual development team once more. While Vanguard isn't in the league of major sluggers in the industry, the title is now thriving and seeing a renaissance that players new and old are enjoying.

To celebrate Vanguard's 6th anniversary, we got on the phone with Producer Harvey Burgess and Game Designer Corey LeFever to take a brief tour around the latest content in the game and to talk about the road from F2P to the future.

Continue reading Touring Telon: Six years of Vanguard

MassivelyTouring Telon: Six years of Vanguard originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 29 Jan 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversaryanniversary-eventcity-of-brasscorey-lefeverdruidsf2pfantasyfree-to-playharvey-burgessin-game-eventinterviewisle-of-dawnrevampsandboxsoesonysony-online-entertainmenttelonvanguardvanguard-saga-of-heroesvgTue, 29 Jan 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Prepare to celebrate the Canthan New Year in Guild Wars]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/25/prepare-to-celebrate-the-canthan-new-year-in-guild-wars/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/25/prepare-to-celebrate-the-canthan-new-year-in-guild-wars/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/25/prepare-to-celebrate-the-canthan-new-year-in-guild-wars/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Celebration means putting a dragon mask on a lion statue, because party.
It's time to celebrate the new year! What, why are you rolling your eyes and saying that happened weeks ago? This is the Canthan New Year we're talking about in Guild Wars, a chance for Canthan citizens and less-fortunate Tyrian adventurers to take part in games and festivities while hoping to please the celestial animals for a fortunate new year. And this time around, there are more than a few surprises waiting in the wings even for veteran players.

This year's festival starts at 3:00 p.m. EST on January 31st and runs through February 7th, the start of a new policy for the game that will keep all events running for at least a week on fixed dates every year. Players will be able to aid in the preparation of the celestial animal feast, have their fortunes read, and play games on the Shing Jea Boardwalk. There will also be racing events in the Rollerbeetle Racing Arena and combat events in the Dragon Arena if you prefer. And there are special minipets to unlock as well as the promise of a mystery reward if the Celestial Animals are pleased with their meal. So even if you thought you were done with celebrating another year, you might want to pop back into Guild Wars and get back to the celebration.

MassivelyPrepare to celebrate the Canthan New Year in Guild Wars originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 Jan 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetcanthan-new-yearevent-rewardsfantasyguild-warsgwin-game-eventin-game-eventslimited-time-eventloreminigamesncsoftnew-year-celebrationspecial-eventFri, 25 Jan 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dark Age of Camelot runs bonus weekend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/dark-age-of-camelot-runs-bonus-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/dark-age-of-camelot-runs-bonus-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/dark-age-of-camelot-runs-bonus-weekend/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Dark Age of Camelot runs bonus weekend
Mythic has a special treat for the Dark Age of Camelot players who patiently waited through some recent downtime: a generous bonus weekend starting... right now.

The bonus weekend affects the different server rulesets in a variety of ways. All servers will generate 200% more XP and 200% more bounty points in specific areas. Realm points are also being handed out like candy, although you'll need to consult the master chart to figure out how your server benefits.

The bonus weekend goes from today (Wednesday) through Monday, January 28th.

MassivelyDark Age of Camelot runs bonus weekend originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Jan 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebonusbonus-weekendbonus-xpcamelotclassic-mmodaocdark-age-of-cameloteaelectronic-artseventfantasyin-game-eventmythicmythic-entertainmentmythologypvprvrWed, 23 Jan 2013 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Firefall blasts its doors open for a beta weekend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/22/firefall-blasts-its-doors-open-for-a-beta-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/22/firefall-blasts-its-doors-open-for-a-beta-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/22/firefall-blasts-its-doors-open-for-a-beta-weekend/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

The monocle makes it clear that while this man is shooting up bugs, he is doing so with the stiffest of upper lips.
Are you ready to strap on some armor, load up a gun, and go shoot things like they've never been shot before? The staff behind Firefall certainly hopes so because the game is opening its gates on Friday, January 25th, for the first of three upcoming beta weekend events. Everyone can log in and play for free starting at 1 p.m. EST, but the developers have also decided to sweeten the pot slightly by adding a contest to the weekend festivities.

The Skillshot Contest will be running during the open event and is available to all participants in the beta, even normal closed testers. Take a video or screenshot of your best moments for a chance to win prize packs including new Razer mice and Firefall gear. In addition, all participants will receive a special decal in-game to place on their battleframes. If you still need a little more convincing, you can check out a new trailer for the weekend just past the break.

[Source: Red 5 Studios press release]

Continue reading Firefall blasts its doors open for a beta weekend

MassivelyFirefall blasts its doors open for a beta weekend originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 Jan 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-promotionbeta-weekendbetascontestf2pfirefallfpsfree-to-playin-game-eventmmo-shooteropen-betaopen-beta-weekendpromotionpvpred-5red-5-studiossci-fishooterspecial-promotionthird-person-shootertrailertrailersvideovideoswarTue, 22 Jan 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Return to Ekrund now in Warhammer Online's live event]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/22/return-to-ekrund-now-in-warhammer-onlines-live-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/22/return-to-ekrund-now-in-warhammer-onlines-live-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/22/return-to-ekrund-now-in-warhammer-onlines-live-event/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Return to Ekrund now in Warhammer Online's live event
A week ago, it was only a tease hinted at on Twitter. Now, it's a sure thing: The Return to Ekrund live event is on Warhammer Online servers. The event takes place in or around Ekrund, the tier one starting area for Dwarven Oathbreakers. Players can work through the many steps of the event to earn special rewards. Event tasks include safely escorting Dwarf historians, killing enemy Greenskins, piecing together puzzles, and more.

Worried about turning into a chicken because your level is too high for a starting zone event? Don't be! Higher level players are tweaked in the RvR lakes (the PvP areas) and returned to a level fit for the area. However, don't expect to keep all your high-powered skills and your fast mount when you level down; you actually only get access to the skills, abilities, and tactics of that level!

MassivelyReturn to Ekrund now in Warhammer Online's live event originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 Jan 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artsendless-trialfantasyin-game-eventlive-eventlive-eventsmythicmythic-entertainmentpvpReturn-to-Ekrundrvrwarwarhammerwarhammer-onlineTue, 22 Jan 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online transmits plans for next two seasons, mid-year event]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/11/star-trek-online-transmits-plans-for-next-two-seasons-mid-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/11/star-trek-online-transmits-plans-for-next-two-seasons-mid-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/11/star-trek-online-transmits-plans-for-next-two-seasons-mid-year/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Star Trek Online transmits plans for next two seasons, midyear event
Executive Producer Dan Stahl is hardly shy in tackling the myriad Ask Cryptic questions, and today's Star Trek Online queries proved to be no different for him. While there was a hodge-podge of questions from players, it seemed as though the focus for many was on the future of the game and Season 8 in specific.

Stahl said that Season 8 is due in the first half of the year, possibly in May, although there will be some content arriving this month for the three-year anniversary of the game. He promises that Klingons will "get some love" in Season 8 and hints at the vast wealth of additions coming with the update: "[It] will focus on adding new missions and storyline to the game in the form of a new adventure zone, new episodes, and another big feature, which is yet to be revealed."

Following Season 8, Cryptic will then roll out a mid-year event and Season 9. The mid-year event was compared to the game's current winter event, with the possibility of taking place on Risa.

Stahl is quite pumped for the year in general: "Season 8 and Season 9 are both going to be BIG releases. I'm very much looking forward to them because they represent the first big releases we will have been able to do with the increase to our live team staff."

MassivelyStar Trek Online transmits plans for next two seasons, mid-year event originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 Jan 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-crypticcommunity-q-and-acrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahleventf2pfree-to-playin-game-eventkdfklingonperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweq-and-arisasci-fiseason-8season-9star-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestowinter-eventFri, 11 Jan 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Asheron's Call heeds the Darkest Night]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/11/asherons-call-heeds-the-darkest-night/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/11/asherons-call-heeds-the-darkest-night/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/11/asherons-call-heeds-the-darkest-night/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Asheron's Call harkens the Darkest Night
It seems quite fitting to the season for Asheron's Call to name its newest event Darkest Night. The January event continues the game's story with an attempt to put down Hoshino Kei once and for all.

Several new quests are being added to the game for the event, and an interesting "tell the story from the villain's point of view" lore tidbit gives some insight into the challenges that lie ahead for adventurers. There is also a quartet of screenshots from the event that include a lock with no key, a treasure room, a deadly pit, and a key. Hm. Going to be hard to figure that one out, eh?

MassivelyAsheron's Call heeds the Darkest Night originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 Jan 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acasherons-callclassic-mmodarkest-nighteventfantasyin-game-eventloresandboxscreenshotsstoryturbineturbine-entertainmentFri, 11 Jan 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Archlord combines Zian and Gracia servers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/09/archlord-combines-zian-and-gracia-servers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/09/archlord-combines-zian-and-gracia-servers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/09/archlord-combines-zian-and-gracia-servers/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Look, captain! Server merges ahead!
The world of Chantra is about to get a lot cozier: Archlord will undergo a server consolidation on January 30th that will combine the Gracia and Zian servers. Gracia characters that have been accessed since July 1st, 2012, will be merged without any transfer requests, but players are encouraged to check the eligibility of their character transfers. Prior to the merge (and ensuing epic battles), players will be supported with free cash shop items and will be able to celebrate the combination with "various events." The first Archlord (and guild members) after the consolidation will be rewarded with unique items.

[Source: Webzen press release]

MassivelyArchlord combines Zian and Gracia servers originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 Jan 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archlordconsolidationf2pfree-to-playin-game-eventmergepvpserver-mergewebzenWed, 09 Jan 2013 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MechWarrior delivers whopping update with twin dragon 'Mechs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/18/mechwarrior-delivers-whopping-update-with-twin-dragon-mechs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/18/mechwarrior-delivers-whopping-update-with-twin-dragon-mechs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/18/mechwarrior-delivers-whopping-update-with-twin-dragon-mechs/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

MechWarrior delivers year's largest update with twin dragon 'Mechs
Right in time for the holidays, Piranha Games has delivered a whopping gift for all of its players in the form of the year's largest content update for MechWarrior Online.

Let's tick off the list, shall we? First up is the brand-new conquest mode, which allows players to capture and hold five different locations. Next is the addition of three new 'Mechs: the Twin Dragons and the Stalker Assault. Following that, players will enjoy an economy update, a bonus to currency acquisition for new players, a night map of River City, new ways to customize a 'Mech's look, and cool holiday items. Finally, the team's throwing in plenty of bug and performance fixes free of charge.

If you give one of the new 'Mechs a try, definitely let us know how it handles! We've got the trailer for this update after the cut.

[Source: Piranha Games' press release]

Continue reading MechWarrior delivers whopping update with twin dragon 'Mechs

MassivelyMechWarrior delivers whopping update with twin dragon 'Mechs originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Dec 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>content-updatef2pfree-to-playin-game-eventmechmechsmechwarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemwonew-yearsnew-years-daypatchpiranhapiranha-gamessci-fiupdatevideoTue, 18 Dec 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Unwrapping the mystery of GW2's Wintersday boxes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/15/unwrapping-the-mystery-of-gw2s-wintersday-boxes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/15/unwrapping-the-mystery-of-gw2s-wintersday-boxes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/15/unwrapping-the-mystery-of-gw2s-wintersday-boxes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Fan video unwraps the mystery of GW2's Wintersday boxes
You've heard plenty about it, from the history behind the holiday to the schedule of festivities. And now it is upon us! Yes folks, Wintersday in Guild Wars 2 is finally here with its assortment of seasonal activities and holiday-themed goodies. And among those goodies are special mystery gift boxes available in the gem store. What exactly comes in a mystery box? That's what Massively's Richie Procopio, aka Bog Otter, aimed to find out in his latest video.

Richie understands that folks may be wary of spending their gems on the unknown. The boxes are said to contain up to five personalized Wintersday gifts plus an additional themed item as well as a chance to contain new minipets and rare, themed weapon skin tickets. But is it worth the risk? To give you a better idea of what random loot awaits fans in the mystery boxes, Richie -- rechristening himself Bog Guinea Pig -- took the risk upon himself and unwrapped a number of boxes for you in his video. Check out what gifts he received after the break.

Continue reading Unwrapping the mystery of GW2's Wintersday boxes

MassivelyUnwrapping the mystery of GW2's Wintersday boxes originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 15 Dec 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetBog-Otterbuy-to-playfantasyguild-wars-2gw2holiday-itemsin-game-eventin-game-eventsmystery-boxesncsoftpreviewRichie-ProcopiovideoWintersdaySat, 15 Dec 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Winter holidays around the virtual world]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/14/winter-holidays-around-the-virtual-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/14/winter-holidays-around-the-virtual-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/14/winter-holidays-around-the-virtual-world/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Winter holidays around the virtual world
Ho, ho, holy crap -- there are a lot of in-game events this time a year! It must be that people are in a celebrating mood or something. Well, we've survived a rocky and exciting 2012, and with any luck we'll make it through the apocalypse to open gifts and eat large dead animals with loved ones.

Getting around to all of your favorite in-game festivities can be a full-time job, especially if you don't know what's new and when the events are wrapping up. We've tried to help you out with our annual holiday guide, so pack a snowball and leap with us into the thick of the excitement!

Continue reading Winter holidays around the virtual world

MassivelyWinter holidays around the virtual world originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>celebrationcelebrationschristmaschristmas-2012event-guideeventsfeaturedfestivitiesfestivityguideholidayholiday-2012holiday-event-guideholiday-guideholiday-roundupin-game-eventin-game-eventsroundupFri, 14 Dec 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT releases Update 2.1, begins Fae Yule]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/rift-releases-update-2-1-begins-fae-yule/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/rift-releases-update-2-1-begins-fae-yule/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/rift-releases-update-2-1-begins-fae-yule/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

RIFT releases first postexpansion content update
You've gotten a taste of the new festival content, you've seen the huge raid, but nothing will prepare you for RIFT's 2.1 update quite like this post will. Trion Worlds took the curtain off of its first post-Storm Legion update today, triggering the game's seasonal Fae Yule celebration as well.

The centerpiece of Update 2.1 is a 20-person raid called Endless Eclipse. The new endgame raid is not the only challenge being added, as Trion's patched in a new expansion-themed chronicle, updated the PvP conquest system for level 60 battles, and added weekly crafting quests for high-level adventurers.

With Fae Yule's second round in the game, Trion's shoved in plenty of more activities and rewards. There's a nifty sledding minigame, holiday-themed instant adventures, lots of dailies, and merry decorations for players' dimensions.

This update comes out on the heels of Trion's announcement that the studio was suffering layoffs.

MassivelyRIFT releases Update 2.1, begins Fae Yule originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Dec 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.12.1-updatechristmaschristmas-2012conquestendless-eclipseeventfae-yulefantasyfestivalholidayholiday-2012in-game-eventinstant-adventurespvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsupdate-2.1Wed, 12 Dec 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2's Wintersday event schedule announced]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/11/guild-wars-2s-wintersday-event-schedule-announced/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/11/guild-wars-2s-wintersday-event-schedule-announced/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/11/guild-wars-2s-wintersday-event-schedule-announced/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Guild Wars 2 Wintersday art
The most wonderful time of the year is heading to Tyria this Friday, which is when ArenaNet will be kicking off Guild Wars 2's Wintersday celebrations. It all begins on Friday, December 14th, in Lion's Arch, where Zommoros the djinn will transform his home, the Mystic Forge, into a giant snow globe. There, players can take part in a new jumping puzzle (which happens to be a giant snowman), have snowball fights with other players, and be part of a chorus of holiday bells.

But that's only the beginning. Each day after that, Toymaker Tixx will be making his way to each of the capital cities of Tyria, with each stop featuring new and exciting holiday activities. He'll begin in the Sylvari Grove on the 15th and end his journey in Lion's Arch. But of course, Tixx's being an Asura means that his toys probably aren't the most stable of constructions, and the holiday event will go out with a bang as the toys in Tixx's workshop go haywire, bringing about Toypocalypse! It's up to players to "defend Tixx's present-delivering dolyaks and the gigantic toy-making machine from waves of maniacal toys." So get on out there, Tyrians; spread some holiday cheer and save Wintersday.

MassivelyGuild Wars 2's Wintersday event schedule announced originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Dec 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenaneteventeventsfantasyguild-wars-2gw2holiday-eventholiday-eventsin-game-eventin-game-eventsncsoftschedulewintersdayTue, 11 Dec 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: Have a holly, jolly Wintersday]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/11/flameseeker-chronicles-have-a-holly-jolly-wintersday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/11/flameseeker-chronicles-have-a-holly-jolly-wintersday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/11/flameseeker-chronicles-have-a-holly-jolly-wintersday/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

No holiday is complete without a terrifying element to give nightmares to small children
Wintersday is steadily creeping up on Tyria -- on both Tyrias, as it were: Guild Wars is getting its annual holiday decorations starting the 13th, and Guild Wars 2 will join in the festivities on the 14th. The holiday event lasts through January 2nd for Guild Wars and 3rd for Guild Wars 2, so maybe don't fret so much on when you're going to get in to enjoy the goings-on. That's a nice change from the somewhat abbreviated schedule of the October and November content updates.

But be warned, hero: There's a war on Wintersday. Don't believe me? Read on to find out.

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: Have a holly, jolly Wintersday

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: Have a holly, jolly Wintersday originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Dec 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetfantasyfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw1gw2holidayholiday-eventI NEED HATin-game-eventINeedHatncsoftopiniontoymaker-tixxwar-on-wintersdayWAT-DO-FOR-HATWHAT-DO-FOR-HATwintersdayTue, 11 Dec 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[APB locks and reloads for Christmas]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/apb-locks-and-reloads-for-christmas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/apb-locks-and-reloads-for-christmas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/apb-locks-and-reloads-for-christmas/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

APB locks and reloads for Christmas
All Points Bulletin is preparing for a bloody Christmas siege -- and if you can get through this holiday event without saying, "Now I have a machine gun. Ho ho ho," then you are better people than we. The game is kicking off its holiday festivities on Wednesday, December 12th, and has a few twists from last year's event.

During the event, players will need to seek out Elves for a few new missions. These Elves aren't messing around, either; they're prepared to hand out weapon skins and cool threads for the street-tough. The studio also floated the rumor that there will be a snowball grenade launcher up for grabs.

The studio has a 12-day promotion starting on December 13th for shoppers. Each day, the cash shop will hand out a different surprise gift to those dropping money on the title.

[Source: Reloaded Productions press release]

MassivelyAPB locks and reloads for Christmas originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 10 Dec 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-reloadedapbapb-reloadedapbrchristmaschristmas-2012crimef2pfree-to-playg1gamersfirstholidayholiday-2012holiday-eventin-game-eventpromotionpvpsnowball-grenade-launcherMon, 10 Dec 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wintersday is coming to Guild Wars]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/08/wintersday-is-coming-to-guild-wars/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/08/wintersday-is-coming-to-guild-wars/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/08/wintersday-is-coming-to-guild-wars/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Wintersday is coming to Guild Wars
Just because Guild Wars 2 is getting a big, exciting Wintersday patch doesn't mean that the original Guild Wars will be barren. Starting at 3:00 p.m. EST on December 13th, the game will have holiday decorations up in a few major cities. You'll be able to pick up Wintersday quests in Lion's Arch, Kamadan, and the Eye of the North.

Snowball fights and tournaments will be making a comeback, as will the repeatable quests in the Secret Lair of the Snowmen. These activities will all be available until 3:00 p.m. EST on January 2nd. The finale event will run in Lion's Arch and Kamadan every three hours from 3:01 a.m. EST on January 1st until 3:01 a.m. EST on January 2nd.

According to the official website, two brand-new costumes, representing Lyssa and Kormir, will be available. We're betting that's a clerical error, since you can go to the game's store and buy Lyssa and Kormir costumes right now.

MassivelyWintersday is coming to Guild Wars originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 08 Dec 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenaneteventsfantasyguild-warsgwholidayholiday-eventin-game-eventncsoftwintersdaySat, 08 Dec 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PlanetSide 2 players score a double XP weekend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/06/planetside-2-players-get-a-double-xp-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/06/planetside-2-players-get-a-double-xp-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/06/planetside-2-players-get-a-double-xp-weekend/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The writer of this post is not a bad enough dude to capture any territory from anyone, up to and including reclaiming the bed from the cat.
Are you a bad enough dude to capture territory for your chosen faction in PlanetSide 2? Quite possibly. But a lot of players have had difficulty even logging into the game due to usual launch week issues. That hasn't stymied the game's popularity any, but if you were hoping to get some sort of compensation for your trouble, you're in luck. The team has announced via Twitter that players will get double the XP this weekend as a reward for sticking out server instability.

But wait! You already have an experience boost applied, you don't want it to go to waste! Not to worry; it's also been confirmed that players with a 10% boost active will still benefit from both boosts at once, resulting in even faster gains. So whether you've been heavily impacted by the launch issues or not, you can take pride in leveling faster over the next couple of days.

MassivelyPlanetSide 2 players score a double XP weekend originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 06 Dec 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-xpdouble-xp-weekendfpsin-game-eventlaunch-weekmmo-shootermmofpsplanetsideplanetside-2ps2sandboxsci-fiserver-issuesshootersoesonysony-online-entertainmenttwitterweekend-eventxpThu, 06 Dec 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online reveals holiday rewards]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/04/star-trek-online-reveals-holiday-rewards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/04/star-trek-online-reveals-holiday-rewards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/04/star-trek-online-reveals-holiday-rewards/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Star Trek Online reveals holiday rewards
If the sound of Q's Winter Wonderland returning in Star Trek Online got you excited yesterday, then just wait until you see the rewards. The developers posted on the bounty of goods that players can earn and win during this holiday event.

To earn the rewards, players will need to accumulate collectables by participating in the various holiday activities. Those collectables can be traded with other players and cashed in to purchase Tribbles, winter jackets (now with stylish midriffs!), scarves, winter weaponry, and snowmen pets.

Fleets can work together to build a Breen ship ornament in their starbase. However, the big prize of the event is a Breen Chel Grett Warship. The warship is free for the taking to captains who run the footrace 25 times out of the 35 days of the event.

MassivelyStar Trek Online reveals holiday rewards originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Dec 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breenbreen-warshipchristmaschristmas-2012crypticcryptic-studiosf2pfree-to-playholidayholiday-2012in-game-eventmidriffperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweqs-winter-wonderlandrewardsscarvessci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestowinter-wonderlandTue, 04 Dec 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online expands Q's Winter Wonderland]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/03/star-trek-online-expands-qs-winter-wonderland/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/03/star-trek-online-expands-qs-winter-wonderland/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/03/star-trek-online-expands-qs-winter-wonderland/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Star Trek Online expands Q's Winter Wonderland
Q's Winter Wonderland -- Star Trek Online's holiday event -- is preparing to return to the sci-fi title on Thursday, December 6th. When it arrives, players will discover a few new tricks up Q's sleeve in this enchanted wonderland.

The dev team has added a central gazebo with vendors, a snowball fight against magically animated snowmen, and a footrace down a slippery path. There are plenty of new rewards as well, including costumes, winter gift boxes, and the ability to breed epohh pets. All of the old activities will be returning as well.

The event continues through January 14th and can be accessed by talking to Q at Qo'noS or Earth Spacedock.

MassivelyStar Trek Online expands Q's Winter Wonderland originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 03 Dec 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>christmaschristmas-2012crypticcryptic-studiosf2pfootracefree-to-playholidayholiday-2012in-game-eventperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweqqs-winter-wonderlandsci-fisnowball-fightstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoMon, 03 Dec 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Asine Hitama's Team claims top prize in EVE Online New Eden Open]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/03/asine-hitamas-team-claims-top-prize-in-eve-online-new-eden-open/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/03/asine-hitamas-team-claims-top-prize-in-eve-online-new-eden-open/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/03/asine-hitamas-team-claims-top-prize-in-eve-online-new-eden-open/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

That done blowed up real good
Although in-game tournaments are nothing new to EVE Online, one with a cash prize is. And over the past few weekends, teams have been vying for a $10,000 jackpot in the first ever New Eden Open. After working through the brackets of the double-elimination tournament, the final match-up pit the top two teams in a best-of-five series. In the end, Asine Hitama's Team ultimately beat RONIN and the Pixies to claim first place and the cash along with in-game prizes.

Third place was determined in a best-of-three match series, where Goggle Internet Crime Fighters topped the Expendables. Congratulations to the winners! For more details on how the tournament played out, see EVE Evolved's in-depth look and watch the matches in their entirety on CCP's own3D channel.

MassivelyAsine Hitama's Team claims top prize in EVE Online New Eden Open originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 03 Dec 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cash-rizeccpccp-gameseveeve-onlinein-game-eventinternet-spaceshipsnew-eden-opensandboxsci-fispreadsheets-onlinetournamentwinnersMon, 03 Dec 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Vanguard expands F2P perks, introduces lockboxes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/29/vanguard-expands-f2p-perks-introduces-lockboxes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/29/vanguard-expands-f2p-perks-introduces-lockboxes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/29/vanguard-expands-f2p-perks-introduces-lockboxes/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Vanguard expands F2P perks, introduces lockboxes
Vanguard has become even more accommodating to free players as today's update lifted the restriction against such players using uncommon items. SOE says that this now opens the door for free players to equip almost 20,000 additional items and weapons.

It seems that Vanguard isn't able to escape all the trends of free-to-play, however. As the Festival of Gloriann rolls in next month, so do new lockboxes to the game. These lockboxes have a chance of containing a rare item like festive horses and cool pets, but are only openable by using cash shop-purchased keys.

The patch also contains tweaks to the newly opened City of Brass, a resurrection gem in the marketplace, and performance tweaks.

MassivelyVanguard expands F2P perks, introduces lockboxes originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Nov 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cash-shopchristmaschristmas-2012city-of-brassf2pfantasyfestivalFestival-of-Gloriannfree-to-playin-game-eventitem-shoplockboxlockboxesmarketplacesandboxsoesonysony-online-entertainmenttelonvanguardvanguard-saga-of-heroesvgThu, 29 Nov 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 welcomes Wintersday next month]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/27/guild-wars-2-welcomes-wintersday-next-month/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/27/guild-wars-2-welcomes-wintersday-next-month/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/27/guild-wars-2-welcomes-wintersday-next-month/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Guild Wars 2 welcomes Wintersday next month
While hardcore Guild Wars players probably knew to expect it, the news that Wintersday is coming to Guild Wars 2 is welcome nevertheless! ArenaNet has just announced that the game's second holiday will be arriving on December 14th and will continue until January 3rd.

Modern Wintersday is a Tyrian holiday that binds several different celebrations together with the mutual love of toys. An Asuran Santa Claus, Toymaker Tixx, will be traveling to all of the major cities to hand out toys to the good little boys and girls. And yes, that means you, even though you've been flirting with the "naughty list" this year.

The official Wintersday page is sparse as of yet, but keen-eyed visitors can spot some cool pieces of concept art, including one of Tixx's awesome airship.

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 welcomes Wintersday next month originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Nov 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetcelebrationchristmaschristmas-2012concept-arteventfantasyguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw2holidayin-game-eventin-game-holidayncsofttixxtoytoymaker-tixxtoyswintersdaywintersday-2012Tue, 27 Nov 2012 16:00:00 EST