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[RuneScape 3 dev diary gets serious about audio]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/runescape-3-dev-diary-gets-serious-about-audio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/runescape-3-dev-diary-gets-serious-about-audio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/runescape-3-dev-diary-gets-serious-about-audio/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

RuneScape 3 dev diary gets serious about audio
RuneScape 3 is coming soon. To get you all excited about it, the devs have released a new video talking about audio improvements in the game. The team recently recorded an orchestral score, but that's apparently just the beginning of its plans for RuneScape 3's audio. A lot of smaller recordings have been done to provide music for menus, incidentals, and poignant story moments. Audio isn't limited to just music, though. Jagex is focusing on strong, believable voice acting to draw players into the world and narrative. Ambient sound effects are also getting some loving polish.

Skip below the cut to hear (get it?) all about the upcoming improvements.

[Source: Jagex press release]

Continue reading RuneScape 3 dev diary gets serious about audio

MassivelyRuneScape 3 dev diary gets serious about audio originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 May 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiobrowserbrowser-basedclassic-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studiorsrunescaperunescape-3runescape3sandboxThu, 16 May 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape coming to tablets this year]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/runescape-coming-to-tablets-this-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/runescape-coming-to-tablets-this-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/runescape-coming-to-tablets-this-year/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

RuneScape coming to tablets this year
RuneScape 3 is an ambitious project, especially for an MMO series as old as RuneScape's, but Jagex CEO Mark Gerhard told IGN in a recent interview that they're ready to take the wildly popular MMO to the next level. This not only means the previously announced change from a Java-based platform to HTML5, but it also means that the game will be coming to tablets by Q4 of this year.

Gerhard also added that the possibility of a smartphone connection is there as well, but only as an addition to the overall game experience. Where else can Jagex go from here? Smart TVs? Consoles? Both are possibilities, according to Gerhard.

MassivelyRuneScape coming to tablets this year originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 May 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedclassic-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studiomark-gerhardmobilersrunescapesandboxtabletsThu, 09 May 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: MMOs that died in development hell]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/the-perfect-ten-mmos-that-died-in-development-hell/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/the-perfect-ten-mmos-that-died-in-development-hell/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/the-perfect-ten-mmos-that-died-in-development-hell/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Perfect Ten MMOs that died in development hell
If you know me, you probably know that I have a weird fascination with alternate history. You know, the daydreams of historians when they're not rewriting the past to suit the latest trends. "What if?" my mind wonders, especially when it comes to MMOs.

You see, for every game that actually makes it to launch, there are several that die gasping and alone in the bowels of development hell. Sure, many of these are pathetic creatures that didn't really stand a chance anyway, but there are some that could have made an impact on the industry if they had reached release and been halfway decent. We'll never know what a world would look like with these games in them, but we can always muse, "What if?"

Continuing Perfect Ten's recent dark streak, here are 10 MMOs that died in development hell; it's to our eternal loss that we'll never get to play them.

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: MMOs that died in development hell

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: MMOs that died in development hell originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 May 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studioscheyanne-mountain-entertainmentcodemastersdark-age-of-cameloteafeaturedhalohalo-mmohumorimperator-onlinejagexjumpgatejumpgate-evolutionlevel-5microsoftmythicmythicaopinionp10perfect-10perfect-tenproject-copernicusra-salvatoreroundupstargate-worldsstellar-dawnthe-perfect-10the-perfect-tenthqtodd-mcFarlanetop-10top-10-listtop-tentop-ten-listtrue-fantasy-livetrue-fantasy-live-onlineultima-xultima-x-odysseywar40kwarhammer-40000-dark-millennium-onlineThu, 09 May 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[See RuneScape 3 revealed to the world]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/see-runescape-3-revealed-to-the-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/see-runescape-3-revealed-to-the-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/see-runescape-3-revealed-to-the-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

See RuneScape 3 revealed to the world
The secret is out and can't be shoved back in the box: RuneScape 3 is coming. Of course, we already knew that, but there was a time not so long ago that the world was ignorant of this fact. If you wondered how the global reveal of this title went for those who were there, then Jagex has a neat behind-the-scenes video showing how and what the press saw when the studio went live with the info.

In addition to the pomp and circumstance of the event, the team also used the video to reveal the first new skill of the game: Divination. What does it do? Well, the devs were not as keen to share that. Speculate away!

Check out the reveal video after the jump.

Continue reading See RuneScape 3 revealed to the world

MassivelySee RuneScape 3 revealed to the world originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedclassic-mmodivinationf2pfantasyfree-to-playglobal-revealjagexjagex-games-studiorevealrsrs3runescaperunescape-3sandboxWed, 08 May 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape 3 to offer all-new experience]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/03/runescape-3-to-offer-all-new-experience/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/03/runescape-3-to-offer-all-new-experience/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/03/runescape-3-to-offer-all-new-experience/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

RuneScape 3 to offer allnew experience
With twelve years already under its belt, and a good chunk of those years providing weekly updates, it's understandable if new players might consider RuneScape literally too big to get into. So how do you circumvent this and continue to expand the population base? Why, you throw in a major update and rename the game to RuneScape 3, of course!

In a recent interview, Jagex CEO Mark Gerhard talked to Gamasutra about how this exact approach gives the game an all-new feel that is more likely to draw in new players who might otherwise overlook it. He stated, "We could have called it RuneScape Next Age if we wanted to, and part of my thinking was, for people who haven't played this game in a year, it's going to be night and day. It's not a completely new game, but it's certainly a new experience." RuneScape 3 will have a more powerful audio engine, boosted visuals and a better draw distance, and upgrades to the UI, among other things.

Just like back with RuneScape 2, the plan is to maintain the RuneScape 3 moniker for a while, then drop the numeral and return to the original name again.

MassivelyRuneScape 3 to offer all-new experience originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 May 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedclassic-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studioluring-new-playersMark-GerhardrsrunescapeRuneScape-3sandboxupdateFri, 03 May 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape 3 beta begins]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/runescape-3-beta-begins/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/runescape-3-beta-begins/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/runescape-3-beta-begins/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

RuneScape 3 beta begins
After opening the door for potential testers, Jagex announced today that it has begun the beta for RuneScape 3. Accepted testers and gold/silver club members can go ahead and get a peek at the next iteration of the MMO. If you applied and haven't been chosen yet, Jagex promises that more invites will go out in the next few weeks.

Jagex does specify that this is an early build in the HTML5 client. As such, the studio warns that there will be noticeable bugs and glitches as the tech undergoes optimization, not to mention missing features. Testers' visual settings will be set to minimum specs initially.

RuneScape 3 will be released this summer.

MassivelyRuneScape 3 beta begins originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 17 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabrowserbrowser-basedclassic-mmoclosed-betaf2pfantasyfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studiorsrunescaperunescape-3sandboxWed, 17 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jagex reports student to police following school shooting threat]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/13/jagex-reports-student-to-police-following-school-shooting-threat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/13/jagex-reports-student-to-police-following-school-shooting-threat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/13/jagex-reports-student-to-police-following-school-shooting-threat/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The lesson of this story should be so obvious you don't need to be taught it.
For all the talk about video games causing crimes, we don't often hear about the times when they may well prevent them. Thomas Frongillo, age 18, has been arrested on charges of threatening to commit a crime after making statements about shooting up the college that he attended, but the threats were not made in person. They were made in an online game run by Jagex, most likely RuneScape, which is what led to his arrest.

Frongillo allegedly said, "I'm going to shoot up my school tomorrow," and indicated a knowledge of firearms to other players in the game. He also made anti-Semitic comments and had indicated shooting at small wildlife in previous chat sessions. Jagex employees notified the police, and he is currently on bail pending his court date on April 19th. Frongillo's lawyers claim that the statements were made in jest and that the young man had no intention of carrying out any acts of violence.

MassivelyJagex reports student to police following school shooting threat originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 13 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimescriminalculturegame-violencejagexlegalreal-lifereal-worldthreatsvideo-game-violenceviolenceSat, 13 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape 3 beta registration starts April 3]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/01/runescape-3-beta-registration-starts-april-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/01/runescape-3-beta-registration-starts-april-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/01/runescape-3-beta-registration-starts-april-3/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

There was a RuneScape 2?
Jagex has announced RuneScape 3's beta program via a news posting on its website. There are several key dates to be aware of, including the beginning of the registration period on April 3rd.

Interestingly, the new HTML5 beta client will access the game's live servers, and testers will be able to progress and earn XP in the main game while testing! Click through to the RuneScape website for full details.

MassivelyRuneScape 3 beta registration starts April 3 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabrowserbrowser-basedclassic-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studiorsrunescaperunescape-3runescape-3-betasandboxMon, 01 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist: When sequels attack!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/the-game-archaeologist-when-sequels-attack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/the-game-archaeologist-when-sequels-attack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/the-game-archaeologist-when-sequels-attack/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Game Archaeologist When sequels attack!
Sequels are both the bane of and a fact of life for movies and video games. Well, "bane" is a strong word, and you're probably thinking of Batman right now anyway, but personally, I'm always willing to give the benefit of doubt to any continuation of a favorite franchise. While we don't see sequels pop up as often in MMOs, they do exist and have significant effects upon the original title that bears the same name.

It's here that MMOs diverge from movies and other video games. With those, the original is not in any sort of danger, other than the perception of having its legacy dragged down into the muck (Caddyshack II, anyone?) and perhaps overstaying its welcome. An MMO sequel, on the other hand, can cause serious consequences to its ancestor.

Here at Game Archaeologist, we look at classic games that have often seen their time come and go. But what happens to one of these titles when a sequel attacks? Almost anything, it turns out.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist: When sequels attack!

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist: When sequels attack! originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 23 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acac2agonanetarenanetasherons-callasherons-call-2aventurinebrowserbrowser-basedbuy-to-playclassicclassic-mmoclassic-mmosclassicsconsoleconsolesdarkfalldfeqeq-2eq-iieq1eq2eqiieverquesteverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivfpsfree-to-playgagame-archaelogistglobal agendaguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw2hi-rezhi-rez-studiosjagexjagex-games-studiojumpgatejumpgate-evolutionl1lineagelineage-1lineage-2lineage-iimmofpsncsoftneocronneocron-2nostalgiaopen-pvpopinionpvprsrunescapesandboxsci-fishootersoesonysony-online-entertainmentspy-fisquaresquare-enixthe-game-archaeologistthird-person-shootertpsturbineturbine-entertainmentultima-online-2ultima-x-odysseySat, 23 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jagex announces RuneScape 3 for summer 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/22/jagex-announces-runescape-3-for-summer-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/22/jagex-announces-runescape-3-for-summer-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/22/jagex-announces-runescape-3-for-summer-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Jagex announces RuneScape 3 for summer 2013
Jagex has announced Runescape 3! A "significant improvement on all fronts," building on the last 12 years of the original game's development and history, RuneScape 3 looks as if it's following in the footsteps of RuneScape 2 by improving on the existing game rather than serving as a standalone title.

RuneScape 3 won't require players to create a new account. Players will simply keep using the same avatars they always have. The game will take advantage of the HTML5 engine and web GL to run faster, look better, and suck players in even more deeply, though folks running with older computers will still be able to use the old Java client if they prefer. Jagex is promising more details in the coming weeks.

Skip below the cut to check out the announcement video.

Continue reading Jagex announces RuneScape 3 for summer 2013

MassivelyJagex announces RuneScape 3 for summer 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Mar 2013 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedclassic-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studionew-titlenew-titlesrsrunescaperunescape-2runescape-3sandboxvideovideosFri, 22 Mar 2013 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: The 10 best-looking browser-based MMORPGs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/free-for-all-the-10-best-looking-browser-based-mmorpgs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/free-for-all-the-10-best-looking-browser-based-mmorpgs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/free-for-all-the-10-best-looking-browser-based-mmorpgs/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Battlestar Galactica Online screenshot
Beauty, they say, is in the eye of the beholder. Keep that in mind before you tell that me the games that fill out the following list of "best-looking browser-based MMORPGs" are ugly as sin. Sure, some of them are an acquired taste, but I wanted to display just how much variety there is now in browser gaming. It's not the delivery system it once was; we have had fancier-looking Flash-based titles for a while, but now with engines like Unity or Silverlight and even HTML5 coding, we have games that look no different from their client-based counterparts.

There are still some ugly-as-sin games out there as well, but they have endearing qualities all the same. So keep that in mind; this is my top 10 list. If you want to suggest your own in the comments section, I would love to hear them!

Now, on to the list, in no particular order...

Continue reading Free for All: The 10 best-looking browser-based MMORPGs

MassivelyFree for All: The 10 best-looking browser-based MMORPGs originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Mar 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-mystical-landarcane-legendsbattlestar-galactica-onlinebeau-hindmanBigpointcity-of-steamdragons-of-atlantisdrakensang-onlineEAf2pfeaturedffafree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiuminnogamesjagexkabamkartugalord-of-ultimamad-otter-gamesmilmoopinionrunescapespacetime-studiosvelvet-ropeWed, 20 Mar 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Botters are losing the farm with RuneScape's newest anti-botting tech]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/27/botters-are-losing-the-farm-with-runescapes-newest-anti-botting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/27/botters-are-losing-the-farm-with-runescapes-newest-anti-botting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/27/botters-are-losing-the-farm-with-runescapes-newest-anti-botting/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Botters are losing the farm with RuneScape's newest antibotting tech
Have you noticed a reduction in RuneScape's bot population today? That could be because the game recently banned 20,000 gold-farming accounts in a single night! Thanks to the latest phase of RuneScape's Botwatch anti-botting technology, which targets third party clients and botting software as well as gold farmers, botters are being weeded out even better than before.

But even with one battle won, the war on botting is far from over; RuneScape maintains its zero-tolerance policy and promises ongoing advances in eradicating this infestation. In fact, Jagex is already working on the next phase of the anti-botting technology and will be rolling it out over the coming months.

MassivelyBotters are losing the farm with RuneScape's newest anti-botting tech originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Feb 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anti-bottingBotwatchbrowserbrowser-basedclassic-mmocracking-down-on-bottingf2pfantasyfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studiomass-bot-banningrsrunescapesandboxWed, 27 Feb 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Old-school RuneScape early access starts today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/old-school-runescape-early-access-starts-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/old-school-runescape-early-access-starts-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/old-school-runescape-early-access-starts-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Old-school RuneScape early access starts today
Those old-school RuneScape servers we told you about earlier this week are launching an early access period today. The shards will revisit the title as it was in late 2007, a window that Jagex says is "heralded as one of the defining periods of the game by its players."

The firm is opening up a voting period through which players will decide how much developer investment should be devoted to old-school RuneScape going forward. The options range from a basic service with critical maintenance to a full dev team that will iterate based on player input.

Jagex CEO Mark Gerhard notes that this isn't the first time his company has left major decisions in the hands of its users. In 2011, RuneScape's Free Trade and Wilderness mechanics were reintroduced to the game following a player poll. "Our players' dedication, passion, feedback, and enthusiasm all provide the compass, energy, and satisfaction that powers Jagex," he said. Jagex says that over 250,000 votes were cast in the old-school poll.

[Source: Jagex press release]

MassivelyOld-school RuneScape early access starts today originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Feb 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedclassic-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studiomark-gerhardold-schoolrsrunescaperunescape-old-schoolsandboxFri, 22 Feb 2013 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Would you pay to support a classic server?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/the-daily-grind-would-you-pay-to-support-a-classic-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/the-daily-grind-would-you-pay-to-support-a-classic-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/the-daily-grind-would-you-pay-to-support-a-classic-server/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Daily Grind Would you pay to support a classic server
The recent story of a possible new RuneScape classic server has caught my attention. Not because I have any particular attachment to RuneScape, but because I love the idea of studios offering older versions of the game (such as EverQuest Mac) for those who have a fondness for an earlier era. But what's even more interesting to me is how Jagex said that, depending on the number of players who support a 2007-era server, the studio may charge additionally for the privilege of playing on it.

That takes the conversation to a new level. It's one thing to support, in theory or in practice, a classic server, but it's another thing entirely to back up that support with cold, hard cash. Then again, classic servers are basically entirely different versions of the game that need their own maintenance and support, so some fundraising is expected.

This brings us to our question of the day. Would you not only play on a classic server of your favorite MMO -- but would you pay additionally to do it?

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: Would you pay to support a classic server? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Feb 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedclassic-mmoclassic-serverdaily-grindf2pfantasyfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studioopinionrsrunescapesandboxtdgthe-daily-grindWed, 20 Feb 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape is bringing old-school back]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/18/runescape-is-bringing-old-school-back/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/18/runescape-is-bringing-old-school-back/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/18/runescape-is-bringing-old-school-back/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Change is awful and we hate it.
There ain't no school like the old school. RuneScape players have spoken, and Jagex has listened: It's time to bring back a touch of nostalgia to the game in the form of pure old school servers, with the exact mix still to be determined. A recent announcement confirms that the servers will be coming back and reminds players to keep voting to determine the makeup of these servers. All voters will receive the first month on the throwback server for free.

For those who want more hard information from the development team, a special live forum chat will be held on Wednesday at 3 p.m. EST. Players can also begin posting to a forum thread tomorrow to help give the developers some advance idea of what to expect. If you're one of the 160,000 players who wanted to party like it's 2007, it looks as if your wish is coming true.

MassivelyRuneScape is bringing old-school back originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 18 Feb 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedclassic-mmoclassic-serversf2pfantasyfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studionew-serversold-schoolold-school-serversplayer-votingpollsrsrunescapesandboxserver-rulesetsthrowback-serversMon, 18 Feb 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Players vote for 2007-era RuneScape server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/players-vote-for-2007-era-runescape-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/players-vote-for-2007-era-runescape-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/players-vote-for-2007-era-runescape-server/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Players vote for 2007era RuneScape server
Believe it or not, an "old-school" RuneScape server may be in the making. The crazy developers over at Jagex discovered a complete backup of the game from August 2007 and are allowing the community to vote on whether or not there's interest in playing this five-and-a-half year-old copy of the game.

The poll will go live on Friday for the following two weeks, but Mod Mark wanted to explain the hows and whys of this potential project in advance. He also set milestones for voting, with the minimum for the old-school server to become a reality being 50,000 votes for a maintenance-only version. If the server project gets enough votes, Jagex will actually hire a team to develop for it.

Mod Mark did want to clarify that possibility, however: "If this idea gathers sufficient support, then we will not need to take our current talent away from all of the exciting updates to be implemented into the current version of the game, as we will be able to hire a new dedicated team to work specifically on this project."

Tell you what: Why don't we have our own unofficial pre-poll poll right now? Vote on whether you'd play on a classic server after the jump!

Continue reading Players vote for 2007-era RuneScape server

MassivelyPlayers vote for 2007-era RuneScape server originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Feb 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20072007-serverbrowserbrowser-basedclassic-mmoclassic-serverclassic-shardf2pfantasyfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studiomod-markpollrsrunescapesandboxvoteWed, 13 Feb 2013 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: Eleven MMO soundtracks you can get for free]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/22/jukebox-heroes-eleven-mmo-soundtracks-you-can-get-for-free/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/22/jukebox-heroes-eleven-mmo-soundtracks-you-can-get-for-free/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/22/jukebox-heroes-eleven-mmo-soundtracks-you-can-get-for-free/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes Eleven MMO soundtracks you can get for free
Collecting MMO soundtracks is a scattered, scavenger-like experience. Releasing video game soundtracks isn't exactly high up on studio and publisher to-do lists (although we're seeing more love from digital stores), so whether or not a title will get a music release is really a crapshoot. What does get released is never in the same place twice: Some game soundtracks are released as special editions only, some only as CDs, some as full MP3 album releases, some directly from the composer, some are buried on websites, and so on.

So I'm constantly looking everywhere trying to beef up my MMO soundtrack library, and as a result I've uncovered several scores that the studios are giving away for free. I'm all over free (legal) music, especially when it's in my area of interest!

If you've been looking to start an MMO soundtrack collection or are looking to add to what you have, I've put together a list of 11 MMO scores that you can get today free of charge. Sound good? It does to me!

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: Eleven MMO soundtracks you can get for free

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: Eleven MMO soundtracks you can get for free originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anarchy-onlineaoatlanticaatlantica-onlinebiowarebrowserbrowser-basedccpccp-gamesclassic-mmocomposercomposersddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeaelectronic-artseveeve-onlinef2pfantasyfeaturedfpsfree-musicfree-to-playfuncomgagame-musicgiveawayglitchglobal agendahi-rezhi-rez-studiosinternet-spaceshipsjagexjagex-games-studiojukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettilinuxlucasartsmacmmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmmofpsmusicnexonnexon-americanexon-koreaopinionpcplaneshiftrsrunescaperyzomsandboxsci-fantasysci-fishootersoundtracksoundtracksspreadsheets-onlinespy-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtortactical-mmothe-old-republicthird-person-shootertortpsturbineturbine-entertainmentultima-odysseyultima-xultima-x-odysseywinch-gatewinch-gate-property-limitedwinch-gate-property-lldwinchgateTue, 22 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape explains why it does what it does]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/11/runescape-explains-why-it-does-what-it-does/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/11/runescape-explains-why-it-does-what-it-does/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/11/runescape-explains-why-it-does-what-it-does/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

RuneScape explains why it does what it does
Have you ever wondered how an MMO studio plans its upcoming content delivery? A new RuneScape dev diary takes us behind the scenes at Jagex, where Mod Mark outlines the nuts-and-bolts of the process: "We think about the next 12 months of content and what we want to achieve within those 12 months and have a broad idea of what we want to achieve over the next three years. We think about what sort of players we've got and we try to make sure that the content we have planned over the next year is appropriate for all of those groups of players."

Mod Mark said that the team also considers what it's focused on recently, what areas haven't been touched on in a long time, and what parts of the game may have become dated. Content additions and improvements are then scheduled according to the time available to the team.

One lesson to take away is that it always takes the development team a lot more time and effort to create new content than players assume. Sometimes even a single quest may spend up to a year in development before being pushed to live.

You can watch the full dev diary after the jump!

Continue reading RuneScape explains why it does what it does

MassivelyRuneScape explains why it does what it does originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>behind-the-scenesbrowserbrowser-basedclassic-mmodev-diarydeveloper-diaryf2pfantasyfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studiomod-markrsrunescapesandboxupdatesFri, 11 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 231: Defying the odds]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/08/massively-speaking-episode-231-defying-the-odds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/08/massively-speaking-episode-231-defying-the-odds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/08/massively-speaking-episode-231-defying-the-odds/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Massively Speaking Episode 231
While Bree is delivering a ransom to try to secure what's left of Shawn's beard, MJ and Teri join Justin for the first Massively Speaking of 2013! It might have been a relatively slow news week, but there was still enough talk around the water cooler to make us sit up and say, "Why do we have that water cooler again?"

Have a comment for the podcasters? Shoot an email to podcast@massively.com. We may just read your email on the air!

Get the podcast:
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Listen here on the page:



Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 231: Defying the odds

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 231: Defying the odds originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 Jan 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-gamesage-of-empires-onlineanetarenanetarkark-hunterarkfallbiowarebrantbrianna-roycebrowserbrowser-basedbuy-to-playclassic-mmodefianceeaelectronic-artsf2pfantasyfeaturedfpsfree-to-playguild-wars-2gw2humorjagexjagex-games-studiojustin-olivettilucasartsmassively-speakingmmofpsncsoftopinionpodcastpodcastingpodcastspvprsrunescapesandboxsci-fisecret-of-monkey-islandstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorsyfythe-old-republictortransmedia-synergytriontrion-worldstvxboxTue, 08 Jan 2013 10:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 231Massively.com Staff00:59:31podcast<![CDATA[RuneScape turns 12, releases gaudy statistics]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/04/runescape-turns-12-releases-gaudy-statistics/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/04/runescape-turns-12-releases-gaudy-statistics/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/04/runescape-turns-12-releases-gaudy-statistics/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

RuneScape screenshot
Take a moment and think back to what you were doing on January 4, 2001. Kinda hard to recall isn't it? We bet that a few of you were playing a new MMO called RuneScape, though, and if you were, well, congratulations on being an MMO nerd before being an MMO nerd was cool.

Jagex's browser title turns 12 years old today, and the company has queued up a list of impressive statistics that include more than 486 million hours of gaming achieved by RuneScape players in 2012. Those players killed each other over 3.2 billion times, too. Jagex also says that the game passed the 200 million account mark last July.

Today's press release isn't all about gaudy numbers, though. Updates for 2013 will include a Grandmaster-level quest, Wilderness Warbands, Construction skill revamps, an improved grouping system, and a customizable UI. Finally, Jagex is running a number of events this month as part of its birthday celebration.

[Source: Jagex press release]

MassivelyRuneScape turns 12, releases gaudy statistics originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Jan 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarybrowserbrowser-basedclassic-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studiorsrunescaperunescape-anniversaryrunescape-eventsrunescape-turns-12sandboxFri, 04 Jan 2013 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape adding level 90 boss fight and weapons]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/02/runescape-adding-level-90-boss-fight-and-weapons/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/02/runescape-adding-level-90-boss-fight-and-weapons/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/02/runescape-adding-level-90-boss-fight-and-weapons/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

RuneScape adding level 90 boss fight and weapons
RuneScape's hitting 2013 above and below the belt like a rabid wolverine who has aspirations of being a champion kickboxer. Jagex posted a hefty preview of new and returning content that should hit the game this month, including never-before-seen level 90 weapons.

These weapons are a reward for defeating a new boss, the Kalphite King. Mr. King comes in his own battle instance so all can participate and loot his quivering remains.

Apart from that exciting news, the RuneScape team plans to add a task set across the Kharidian Desert, new demon flash mobs (not the dancing variety), more rewards to Squeal of Fortune, and the return of a pair of wolf boss mobs.

MassivelyRuneScape adding level 90 boss fight and weapons originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013browserbrowser-basedclassic-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studioKalphite-KingpreviewrsrunescapesandboxWed, 02 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: The second annual Frindie Awards]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/02/free-for-all-the-second-annual-frindie-awards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/02/free-for-all-the-second-annual-frindie-awards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/02/free-for-all-the-second-annual-frindie-awards/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Frindie Awards logo
It's time once again for the Frindie Awards, my attempt to shine some light on the best indie, browser-based, free-to-play, and unusual MMOs that are all-too-often ignored by press -- and players. This one is for the little guys! Well, mostly. It's also for those games that seem to have passed under the collective radar of Massively readers or that seem to be very misunderstood.

Picking the winners this year is just as hard as it was last year, maybe even harder. 2012 was an incredible year for MMOs, so I would rather have just put together an article that highlights every single favorite. In the end, it's more helpful to make myself pick out a winner. It's a rare thing for some of these games to even receive a nod on a major website, something I still can't figure out. Either way, it's best to think of all of the MMOs on this list as my favorites from 2012.

Anyway, let's get to the awards!

Continue reading Free for All: The second annual Frindie Awards

MassivelyFree for All: The second annual Frindie Awards originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 Jan 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-mystical-landalganonarcane-legendsasherons-callbeau-hindmanbrowsercastle-empireclub-penguindeepworldderek-smartdrakensang-onlinef2pfeaturedffaforge-of-empiresfree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumfrindiefrindie-awardsfrindiesgameglobeglitchhabbo-hotelinnogamesistariajagexlife-is-magiclinden-labmilmonadirimopinionrunescapeRyzomsalemSandboxsecond-lifeSOESony-Online-Entertainmentspacetime-studiosSquare-EnixStar-Stablethe-matrix-onlinethe-missing-inkThereThere Will Be Bloodtiny-specktravianturbineVanguard-Saga-of-Heroesvelvet-ropewakfuwurm-onlineWed, 02 Jan 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape offers limited-time Premier Club memberships]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/21/runescape-offers-limited-time-premier-club-memberships/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/21/runescape-offers-limited-time-premier-club-memberships/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/21/runescape-offers-limited-time-premier-club-memberships/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

RuneScape offers limitedtime Premier Club memberships
2013 is just around the corner, and RuneScape has big plans for the year, including another huge update and plenty of new content. To make sure that no one misses out on the updates, Jagex is introducing a special set of membership packages for a limited time. Called the Premier Club, these memberships come in tiers -- bronze, silver, and gold.

Each tier grants special bonuses and benefits; some bonuses include a 10% store discount, RuneCoins, beta access, and armor. The gold package also grants all 2012 promotional items. The bronze package gives three months of membership for $21.95, the silver is six months for $39.95, and the gold lasts 12 months and costs $74.95.

If you want to get your hands on one of these packages, you'll have to act fast. Players must subscribe to RuneScape between December 20, 2012 and January 31, 2013 in order to take advantage of this offer. For more details, check out the official FAQ.

[Source: Jagex press release]

MassivelyRuneScape offers limited-time Premier Club memberships originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 21 Dec 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedclassic-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playholiday-offerjagexjagex-games-studiomembershipsPremier-Clubrsrunescapesandboxspecial-dealFri, 21 Dec 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: End of the world edition, December 17 - 23, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/17/the-stream-team-end-of-the-world-edition-december-17-23-201/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/17/the-stream-team-end-of-the-world-edition-december-17-23-201/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/17/the-stream-team-end-of-the-world-edition-december-17-23-201/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Stream Team End of the world edition, December 17 23, 2012
It's the end of the world as we know it, and I feel fine! Why? Because we've got The Stream Team to keep us company in the final week! So even if the world ends on December 21st, there are plenty of wacky Massively antics to keep us entertained. What's on the schedule this time around? Plenty -- see for yourself.

But wait, if the world is ending, why bother extending the schedule past the fateful date of destruction? Well, it just looked too unbalanced when chopped in half! And besides, if the world ends with a zombie apocalypse, who's to say that we won't enjoy some shows even when we become zombies? Speaking of endings, what is your prediction for the final finale?

Continue reading The Stream Team: End of the world edition, December 17 - 23, 2012

MassivelyThe Stream Team: End of the world edition, December 17 - 23, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 17 Dec 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-wulinage-of-wushuaionanetarenanetascensionasherons-call-2asiabiowarebrowserbrowser-basedbuy-to-playccpccp-gameschampionschampions-onlinechampschinachinesechinese-mmocity-of-steamclassic-mmococonsoleconsolescrypticcryptic-studiosdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuodota-2eaelectronic-artseq-2eq-iieq2eqiieveeve-onlineeverquest-2everquest-iif2pfactionfallen-earthfantasyfar-cry-3fefeaturedfree-to-playfuncomg1gamepotgamersfirstgoblinGoodgame-Empiregpotatoguild-wars-2gvggw2Habbo-Hotelhardcorehi-rezhi-rez-studioshistoricalhorrorinternet-spaceshipsjagexjagex-games-studiojet-likidnappinglivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamslord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolucasartsmartial-artsmassively-metamassively-tvmechanistmechanist-gamesmetaming-dynastymobamultiplayer-online-battle-arenamv-guidemv-tvmvguidemvtvmythologyncsoftopen-pvpperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpermadeathpkplayer-killingplaystation-3playstation3pollpost-apocpost-apocalypticps3pvppwersrunescapesandboxsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldsir-techskill-basedSMITEsnail-gamessnail-games-usasoesonysony-online-entertainmentspreadsheets-onlinestar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicStarCraft-IIsteampunkstreamstream-schedulestream-teamstreamersstreamingstreamteamsubscriptionlesssuperherosuperheroesswtortanktanksThe-Lost-Titansthe-old-republicthe-secret-worldthe-stream-teamtorTorchlight-IItruly-freetswturbineturbine-entertainmenttwitchtwitch-tvwarwargaming.netwastelandswizardrywizardry-onlineworld-of-tankswotwushuwuxiaMon, 17 Dec 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Getting the most bang for your virtual buck this season]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/free-for-all-getting-the-most-bang-for-your-virtual-buck-this-s/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/free-for-all-getting-the-most-bang-for-your-virtual-buck-this-s/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/free-for-all-getting-the-most-bang-for-your-virtual-buck-this-s/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Gift Cards screenshot
So the 'rents finally came through for you this year, skipping the toaster or pair of socks and giving you gift cards for your favorite MMOs? Brilliant! Now, what do you do with all of that virtual cash? Not so fast! If you blow through that pile of pixelated dough, you're sure to regret it later. Not to worry, though; I've taken the trouble to list several methods for not only getting the most out of your internet bucks but keeping the waves of impulsive goodness washing over you for some time after.

How did I do it? Well, research really. I spent the last several years playing MMOs and spending money in cash shops. I've made plenty of buying decisions that I regretted later, so let my sufferings serve as example for you.

Continue reading Free for All: Getting the most bang for your virtual buck this season

MassivelyFree for All: Getting the most bang for your virtual buck this season originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Dec 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowser-basedcash-shopcash-shopsf2pfeaturedffafree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumjagexmabinogiNexonopinionrunescapeshoppingshopping-guideSquare-EnixSquareEnixvelvet-ropevirtual-cashvirtual-purchaseswakfuWed, 12 Dec 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Feast your eyes on the Ace of Spades launch trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/feast-your-eyes-on-the-ace-of-spades-launch-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/feast-your-eyes-on-the-ace-of-spades-launch-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/feast-your-eyes-on-the-ace-of-spades-launch-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Feast your eyes on the Ace of Spades launch trailer
Happy Ace of Spades day! Jagex's newest title, a "creative shooter," launches today, and that means just one thing: It's time for a launch trailer. Skip below the cut to get introduced to the game.

The game launches with a variety of game modes and objectives like demolition, occupation, team deathmatch, and zombie mode. Players can choose between four different classes: the heavy-hitting Commando class, the stealthy Marksman, the high-flyin' Rocketeer, and the tunneling Miner. Stealth, strength, and good ol'-fashioned slaughter all play their part in Ace of Spades.

Ace of Spades is $9.99 on Steam.

[Source: Jagex press release]

Continue reading Feast your eyes on the Ace of Spades launch trailer

MassivelyFeast your eyes on the Ace of Spades launch trailer originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Dec 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ace-of-spadescreative-shooterfpsjagexlaunchlaunchesmmofpsshootertrailertrailersvideovideosWed, 12 Dec 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dev videos hail the arrival of RuneScape's player-owned ports]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/11/dev-videos-hail-the-arrivial-of-runescapes-player-owned-ports/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/11/dev-videos-hail-the-arrivial-of-runescapes-player-owned-ports/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/11/dev-videos-hail-the-arrivial-of-runescapes-player-owned-ports/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Dev videos hail the arrivial of RuneScape's playerowned ports
Last year, Jagex announced a new feature that would allow RuneScape players to own ports from which to sail out and explore new, unmapped areas of the world. Starting today, higher-level players can claim their port and restore it by upgrading the dilapidated buildings. Gamers can then commission ships to take them to previously undiscovered lands with new lore, monsters, and races.

For more details on the new port feature (or to watch dancing devs in pirate costumes sing a jolly tune), check out the two videos after the break.

[Source: Jagex press release]

Continue reading Dev videos hail the arrival of RuneScape's player-owned ports

MassivelyDev videos hail the arrival of RuneScape's player-owned ports originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Dec 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedclassic-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playhumorjagexjagex-games-studionew-landsplayer-owned-portsrsrunescapesandboxupdatevideosTue, 11 Dec 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jagex positioning Transformers Universe as a MOBA]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/jagex-positioning-transformers-universe-as-a-moba/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/jagex-positioning-transformers-universe-as-a-moba/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/jagex-positioning-transformers-universe-as-a-moba/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Transformers Universe - needs more MOBA
If you're in the camp who thought a Transformers MMO was the worst idea in the long history of bad ideas, well, we've got good news. Jagex agrees with you, sort of, but the firm has also decided that the license is more fitting for a MOBA than an MMORPG and has adjusted the development trajectory accordingly.

"Transformers are about war; they're about action," Jagex chief creative director Alex Horton recently told Edge. "They don't carry gold, bake bread, catch fish, cut down trees. But for all they take away, they throw open so many more opportunities. Maybe there's more in a selection of characters and abilities, and the strategy in that, than there is [in] leveling a character endlessly and going through f--- loads of boss battles."

Transformers Universe will be a browser-based title. Jagex has not yet announced a release date.

MassivelyJagex positioning Transformers Universe as a MOBA originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 10 Dec 2012 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alex-hortonbrowserbrowser-basedf2pfree-to-playhasbrojagexjagex-game-studiosmobasci-fitfutransformerstransformers-mobatransformers-universeMon, 10 Dec 2012 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape offers exclusive item to celebrate Facebook milestone]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/runescape-offers-exclusive-item-to-celebrate-facebook-milestone/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/runescape-offers-exclusive-item-to-celebrate-facebook-milestone/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/runescape-offers-exclusive-item-to-celebrate-facebook-milestone/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

RuneScape offers exclusive item to celebrate one million Facebook likes
The game with over two million registered users has now reached one million likes on Facebook. To celebrate hitting this milestone, RuneScape is giving all fans an exclusive in-game item -- the Book of Face. This cosmetic item is a mask emblazoned with the RuneScape logo and the symbols of Zamorak and Saradomin, the game's two most prominent gods. However, the item won't be available long, so players who want to claim theirs will need to log in and grab it quickly!

[Source: Jagex press release]

MassivelyRuneScape offers exclusive item to celebrate Facebook milestone originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 10 Dec 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Book-of-Facebrowserbrowser-basedclassic-mmoexclusive-itemexclusive-rewardf2pFacebookfantasyfree-giftfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studiomilestonesrsrunescapesandboxMon, 10 Dec 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Get your festival on edition, December 10 - 16, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/the-stream-team-get-your-festival-on-edition-december-10-16-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/the-stream-team-get-your-festival-on-edition-december-10-16-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/the-stream-team-get-your-festival-on-edition-december-10-16-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Stream Team Get your festival on edition, December 1016, 2012
The lull is over, and now the hustle and bustle of the winter holiday season begins! Regardless of which holiday you celebrate, mid-December is a time to prepare for and enjoy the festivities. For some folks, that means lots of cooking, lots of eating, and lots of family and friends. And for many of us, we add game time in our favorite MMOs on top of all that. We are even masterful at combining any variation of all of the above! That's where Massively TV comes in handy.

Join your friends (and possibly family?) on The Stream Team in-game and in chat as you watch and even participate in various adventures across the MMO spectrum. Sandboxes and themeparks, PvP and PvE -- they are all represented. And we have a new streamer joining the ranks! So take a look at what games catch your fancy this week, welcome our new guinea pig... er streamer, and then tell us what your favorite in-game holiday festivals are.

Continue reading The Stream Team: Get your festival on edition, December 10 - 16, 2012

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Get your festival on edition, December 10 - 16, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 10 Dec 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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RuneScape doubles rewards in minigames this Winter Weekend
Wondering what to do this weekend? If you play RuneScape, you can take advantage of the special Winter Weekend running from 7 p.m. EST (midnight GMT) tonight through the same time on Sunday night. As part of an ongoing series of winter celebrations, this weekend's festivities will offer double the rewards in the following seven minigames: Castle Wars; Soul Wars; Trawler; Pest Control; Big Chinchompa; Evil Tree; and Shooting Star.

As an added bonus, anyone who is a member during the month of December also gets a special additional 50 percent XP boost for 30 minutes each day with Festive Aura. So jump on in and take advantage of these holiday specials before they disappear!

[Source Jagex press release]

MassivelyRuneScape doubles rewards in minigames this Winter Weekend originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 07 Dec 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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RuneScape screenshot
There are a few divisive topics that I can bring up in my columns that will be guaranteed to not only bring in the comments but light a fire to the comments section. I've learned that browser choice is a hot topic. PvP versus PvE will always cause players to erupt. Mac or PC? That topic will not end in civil discussion.

If I really want to hurt a reader's feelings, cause insults to be hurled at me, and provoke readers to accuse me of attempting to bring game development -- real game development -- to its knees, I can bring up graphics and gaming power. As in gaming rig. But I'll be brave this week and explain just why I prefer more primitive graphics over high-end visuals.

Continue reading Free for All: Why I prefer primitive graphics over realistic imagery

MassivelyFree for All: Why I prefer primitive graphics over realistic imagery originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 Dec 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowser-basedbrowser-based-MMOsf2pfeaturedffafree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumglitchgraphicshabbohabbo-hotelillyriadillyriad-gamesjagexmirimagiaopinionrunescapetiny-speckvelvet-ropeWed, 05 Dec 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: How RuneScape's Evolution of Combat changed my game]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/30/mmobility-how-runescapes-evolution-of-combat-changed-my-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/30/mmobility-how-runescapes-evolution-of-combat-changed-my-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/30/mmobility-how-runescapes-evolution-of-combat-changed-my-game/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

RuneScape screenshot
RuneScape has long been a favorite of mine, but I have to admit to being more of an explorer than anything. Combat was always sort of sluggish and tedious. It just wasn't very exciting. I see so many comments from players who AFK, watch television, or play a second game while simultaneously grinding in RuneScape. Luckily RuneScape is a living, breathing, open MMO that comes from the olden times of MMOs but still adds on new bits of design and updated systems. There aren't many other MMOs that are updated as often as RuneScape, and hardly any of them provides as much to do.

Along comes The Evolution of Combat. Jagex has called it the biggest thing to happen to RuneScape, probably ever, and after playing with it for a few day, I tend to agree. What does it change, though, and why do I enjoy it so much? Let me tell you.

Continue reading MMObility: How RuneScape's Evolution of Combat changed my game

MassivelyMMObility: How RuneScape's Evolution of Combat changed my game originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Nov 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedclassic-mmoevolution-of-combatf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playhotbarjagexjagex-games-studiommobilitymobilemobile-gamingmobile-mmoopinionrsrunescapesandboxsmartphonethe-evolution-of-combatFri, 30 Nov 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Justifying the subscriptions I maintain]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/28/free-for-all-justifying-the-subscriptions-i-maintain/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/28/free-for-all-justifying-the-subscriptions-i-maintain/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/28/free-for-all-justifying-the-subscriptions-i-maintain/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Wakfu screenshot
Subscriptions are a funny thing. For as long as I can remember, they've represented a level of quality to many gamers. To those players, only those funny Eastern MMOs didn't have a sub. Granted, I loved a lot of those funny Eastern games and didn't care how a game monetized itself. Watching Western players spin on a dime about subscriptions has been a pretty weird experience. The Western developers have changed as well, providing tiered services and other models that would have been seen as suspicious only years ago.

I've been known as a free-to-play guy for a while. Heck, I was originally hired here at Massively to cover free-to-play games. Now that there are more free games than not, this column has spread out a bit, covering multiple topics. Payment models do still come up, as they did this week. I thought it'd be cool to examine the subs I do maintain and why -- not press accounts or accounts from long before I began working at Massively, but accounts that I choose to pay for with my own money.

Continue reading Free for All: Justifying the subscriptions I maintain

MassivelyFree for All: Justifying the subscriptions I maintain originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Nov 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ankamabeau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedcash-shopcasualclassic-mmodie2nitef2pfantasyfeaturedffaflashfree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumglitchjagexjagex-games-studioopinionrsrunescapesandboxSquare-Enixsquenixstrategysubssubscriptionsubscriptionstiny-specktinyspecktwinoidvelvet-ropevirtual-goodswakfuWed, 28 Nov 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Evolution of Combat now live in RuneScape]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/20/evolution-of-combat-now-live-in-runescape/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/20/evolution-of-combat-now-live-in-runescape/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/20/evolution-of-combat-now-live-in-runescape/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Evolution of Combat now live in RuneScape
Two weeks ago, Jagex announced the launch date of RuneScape's big Evolution of Combat patch. And lo and behold, that day has arrived! Players can now log in and try their hands at dual wielding, explore different combat styles, and see how the all-new action bar speeds up skill training and resource gathering.

Jagex also offered players a handy launch day FAQ to explain what will happen when they first log in. All players will be teleported to a bank where they will find 15 extra slots of space available, which will come in handy since all gear will be unequipped and placed in players' inventories. Players will also find their depleted player points fully restored and task totals recalculated.

For more details about the new patch, check out the full notes.

MassivelyEvolution of Combat now live in RuneScape originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Nov 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedclassic-mmoevolution-of-combatf2pfantasyfree-to-playjagexjagex-games-studiopatchrsrunescapesandboxTue, 20 Nov 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Transformers Universe now accepting beta sign-ups]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/17/transformers-universe-now-accepting-beta-sign-ups/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/17/transformers-universe-now-accepting-beta-sign-ups/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/17/transformers-universe-now-accepting-beta-sign-ups/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Transformers universe beta signs ups, thank tipster
If you've always wanted to turn into your favorite evil or heroic robot and destroy or save the universe, your time is now! Transformers Universe has just begun accepting sign-ups for beta testing. To register, head on over to the official website and choose your allegiance.

Transformers Universe is a free-to-play title by Jagex that's aiming for a browser client release. Players will duke it out as Autobots and Decepticons. While Earth is going to be the original battleground, the game will eventually expand to the stars and beyond.

[Thanks to savvy reader Jeremy for the tip!]

MassivelyTransformers Universe now accepting beta sign-ups originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 17 Nov 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-testingbrowserbrowser-basedf2pfree-to-playhasbrojagexjagex-game-studiossci-fisign-upstfutransformerstransformers-universeSat, 17 Nov 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape's oracle predicts through 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/16/runescapes-oracle-predicts-through-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/16/runescapes-oracle-predicts-through-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/16/runescapes-oracle-predicts-through-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

RuneScape's oracle predicts 2012 and beyond
With the clock running down on 2012, one might be forgiven for overlooking the rest of the year in favor of what the next will bring. That's a mistake with RuneScape, as the devs have promised that they've saved the best for last with a couple of sizable updates to the game.

On tap for the remainder of the year is the addition of a super-tough Grandmaster-level quest, player-owned ports, and a very lonely dog that will need help come Christmas-time.

Looking ahead to 2013, Jagex revealed its ambitious plans for a variety of content as well as something called RuneScape Next Gen. The description of the latter is quite intriguing: "Featuring our innovative new browser-based technology and with big investments in graphics and gameplay, RuneScape is set to take a monumental leap forward in 2013. Higher visual and audio fidelity, improved camera mechanics and a much more customizable interface system are but a taste of what you can expect."

MassivelyRuneScape's oracle predicts through 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Nov 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20122013browserbrowser-basedchristmas-2012classic-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playholidayholiday-2012jagexjagex-games-studiopreviewrsrunescaperunescape-next-gensandboxFri, 16 Nov 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape announces launch date for Evolution of Combat patch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/07/runescape-announces-launch-date-for-evolution-of-combat-patch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/07/runescape-announces-launch-date-for-evolution-of-combat-patch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/07/runescape-announces-launch-date-for-evolution-of-combat-patch/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The previous model in which you stood in place and shouted was kind of a poor model, in hindsight.
Fans of violence in RuneScape have something to cheer about today as the release date has finally been announced for the game's massive overhaul of the combat mechanics. On November 20th, the patch goes live after five months of active testing and rebalancing based on feedback. And it's got far-reaching implications for the game as a whole -- by improving the game's combat mechanics and battle environments, the developers can introduce content that wouldn't have worked under the old system.

So what can players expect? Abilities are replacing the special attacks found on weapons with several new options for battle, and a new resource (Adrenaline) will go into activating your more powerful combat skills. Characters will also be able to make full use of both hands via dual-wielding, offering more aggressive options as well as more equipment options for mages. The announcement also promises a livestream this weekend to help players learn about and understand the changes before they go live in a couple weeks.

[Thanks to Andrew for the tip!]

MassivelyRuneScape announces launch date for Evolution of Combat patch originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Nov 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilitiesbrowserbrowser-basedcharacter-abilitiesclassic-mmocombatevolution-of-combatf2pfantasyfree-to-playgame-mechanicsjagexjagex-games-studiomechanics-patchespatchpatchesrsrunescapesandboxWed, 07 Nov 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Casual is as hardcore does and the daily gaming list]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/31/free-for-all-casual-is-as-hardcore-does-and-the-daily-gaming-li/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/31/free-for-all-casual-is-as-hardcore-does-and-the-daily-gaming-li/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/31/free-for-all-casual-is-as-hardcore-does-and-the-daily-gaming-li/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Dragon Nest screenshot
It's always a lot of fun to compare casual players to hardcore players. We've all seen many articles and had our own discussions on the topic and it never seems to stop being entertaining. After all, how much or how intensely a player plays an MMO can help predict how that player might react to market changes or to new titles, so we can easily see how developers will always be interested in the information even when we tire of it.

For me, personally, I would rather skip the whole discussion and just talk about how I play casually. I can list hours played and titles accessed, but I think it would be a better idea to sketch out a rough but typical day or week in my household to illustrate just how someone who considers himself casual is actually quite committed. Does that mean I am hardcore in certain cases? I don't care anymore, frankly. What I care about is seeing if how I play is completely alien or if there are other players out there who love to do what I do.

Let's call it a cry for help... or at least information.

Continue reading Free for All: Casual is as hardcore does and the daily gaming list

MassivelyFree for All: Casual is as hardcore does and the daily gaming list originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 31 Oct 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galactica-onlinebeau-hindmanBigpointdc-universe-onlinedcuodie2nitef2pfeaturedffafleckforge-of-empiresfree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumglitchgrepolisillyriadillyriad-gamesinnogamesjagexlagooniaopinionparallel-kingdomperblueremanumrise-and-shinyrunescapeself-aware-gamessuper-herosuperheroestiny-speckvelvet-ropeWed, 31 Oct 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape runs double XP weekend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/25/runescape-runs-double-xp-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/25/runescape-runs-double-xp-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/25/runescape-runs-double-xp-weekend/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

RuneScape runs double XP weekend
Rev up those fingers, comrades, because they're going to be put to good use this weekend. RuneScape has another double XP weekend in store for any player who wants to see his or her avatar skyrocket through the levels.

During the weekend event, all subscribed members will receive double XP for all standard skills. In addition, Jagex is tossing a bone to free players by offering them a 1.2 multiplier for the same length of time. The bonus XP stacks with other XP boosters.

The event begins at 8:00 a.m. EDT on Saturday the 27th and continues until the same time on Monday the 29th.

[Source: Jagex press release]

MassivelyRuneScape runs double XP weekend originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 25 Oct 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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