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[The Road to Mordor: Four more years, four more years!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/22/the-road-to-mordor-four-more-years-four-more-years/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/22/the-road-to-mordor-four-more-years-four-more-years/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/22/the-road-to-mordor-four-more-years-four-more-years/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

While four years is not a nice round number -- or even a halfway number like five -- it's a substantial milestone for any MMORPG. Debuting in early 2007, Lord of the Rings Online introduced something we'd never seen before: a fully realized 3-D virtual Middle-earth where we could not only enjoy a deep MMO but explore the lands and meet the people we'd only read about before.

It might not be a universal truth that all LotRO players are big Tolkien fans, but I'm sure enough that it's a sizable chunk of the playerbase. There's something special about the IP that gives a weight and richness to the game, especially when a long-time reader of the books is given leave to actually go on adventures through Eriador, Moria and Mirkwood. It's a giant sight-seeing tour of lore, a thrill with every brush one has with the source material.

It's heady to consider that four years ago we were but starting on this journey, feeling out the mechanics of combat, crafting and pie-running. Four years later, LotRO has emerged to be one of the most significant MMOs of the past decade, growing strong with no signs of slowing down.

Hit the jump as we reminisce about the ups, the downs, and the off-the-beaten-path hikes of our beloved game as it celebrates its fourth anniversary.

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Four more years, four more years!

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Four more years, four more years! originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Apr 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4th-anniversaryaaron-campbellacadam-merskyanniversaryasherons-callatlas-of-middle-earthblizzardddodungeons-and-dragons-onlineepic-storylineeriadoreurogamerf2pfeaturedfourth-anniversaryfree-to-playgame-chroniclesjeffrey-steefeljrr-tolkienlegendary-itemslord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrometacriticmiddle-earthmirkwoodmoriapvmpradianceseoulshadows-of-angmarskirmishessouth-koreatolkienturbineturbine-entertainmentwarner-broswbworld-of-warcraftwowwow-cloneFri, 22 Apr 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: A year in Middle-earth]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/31/the-road-to-mordor-a-year-in-middle-earth/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/31/the-road-to-mordor-a-year-in-middle-earth/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/31/the-road-to-mordor-a-year-in-middle-earth/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

What a difference a year makes, eh? One year ago, and you didn't have to put up with me yammering at you every Friday like a hyperactive badger with a personality disorder. One year ago, and we weren't free-to-play-anything, Turbine was its own company, the festivals were nowhere near as cool as they are today, and shrews freely roamed the land without fear of reprisal.

So in my last Road to Mordor (of the year, stop rejoicing over there!), I thought it'd be great to look back at the wild rollercoaster that was 2010 in Lord of the Rings Online. I also thought I'd get an easy column out of all this, but that was before I had to read through 1,337 posts and my eyeballs began to lose pressure.

January

Stuff happened. Let's move on.

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: A year in Middle-earth

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: A year in Middle-earth originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 31 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarybilboclosed-betacodemasterscontestcraftingddodungeons-and-dragons-onlinee3end-of-the-year-2010enedwaithexpansioneyeball-pressuref2pfall-festivalfree-to-playfrostbluff-theatrehaunted-burrowisengardisengard-private-preview-programjeff-jungejeffrey-steefelkate-paizlord-of-the-rings-onlinelore-masterlotrolotterieslotterylua-scriptingmoddingmodsoath-of-the-rangerspaxpax-2010pax-primeqareputation-mountsrise-of-isengardrune-keepersapienceshrew-stompingshrewssiege-of-mirkwoodspring-festivalsteed-of-nightsummer-festivalsyp-is-so-dreamytalk-like-a-pirate-daythe-road-to-mordorthird-anniversaryturbineturbine-entertainmentvaultvolume-iii-book-1wardrobewarner-broswbwinter-homeyule-festivalFri, 31 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Soapbox: Respect the IP (or, why MMOs can't)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/16/the-soapbox-respect-the-ip-or-why-mmos-cant/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/16/the-soapbox-respect-the-ip-or-why-mmos-cant/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/16/the-soapbox-respect-the-ip-or-why-mmos-cant/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


Disclaimer: The Soapbox column is entirely the opinion of this week's writer and does not necessarily reflect the views of Massively as a whole. If you're afraid of opinions other than your own, you might want to skip this column.

Luke: What a piece of junk!

Han: She'll make point five past lightspeed. She may not look like much, but she's got it where it counts, kid. I've made a lot of special modifications myself. But we're a little rushed, so if you'll just get on board, we'll get out of here.

Luke: Lawlz. You can't pilot that thing. It's a YT-1300 and you're a Rebel-aligned Smuggler!

Han: %&*$ ...

Ah yes, continuity. It might as well be a four-letter word, at least when it comes to MMORPGs based on existing intellectual properties. Sure, producers pay a lot of lip service to faithfully recreating beloved works in an online space, but the reality inevitably ends up looking like the love child of Frankenstein's monster and a duck-billed platypus.

Why then do we keep seeing MMOs riffing on Star Wars, Star Trek, Tolkien, and even Battlestar Galactica? Easy money, of course. A better question, and one I hope to answer at the conclusion of today's Soapbox, is why "MMORPG" automatically equals butchered continuity. In a nutshell, why is it so hard to respect the IP?

Continue reading The Soapbox: Respect the IP (or, why MMOs can't)

MassivelyThe Soapbox: Respect the IP (or, why MMOs can't) originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Nov 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanbiowarecanonconancontinuitycrypticcryptic-studiosfeaturedfuncomintellectual-propertyipip-based-mmosjeffrey-steefellord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelorelore-nazismmo-prime-directiveopinionrespect-the-ipsoapboxsoapbox-jef-reahardSOESony-Online-Entertainmentstar-trekstar-trek-onlinestar-warsstar-wars-galaxiesstar-wars-the-old-republicswgswtorthe-soapboxtolkienturbineTurbine-EntertainmentTue, 16 Nov 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDCO 2010: Running MMOs for the long haul]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/09/gdco-2010-running-mmos-for-the-long-haul/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/09/gdco-2010-running-mmos-for-the-long-haul/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/09/gdco-2010-running-mmos-for-the-long-haul/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

In a year that seems overshadowed by the premature demise of big-budget titles, the question on everyone's mind is just what does it take to not only successfully launch an MMO, but keep it going for the long haul?

At GDC Online this past week, several devs who find themselves struggling with this very issue got together for an informative panel entitled "Strategies for Successfully Running an MMO from Launch and Beyond." At the panel, Lorin Jameson (SOE), Nathan Richardsson (CCP), Jeff Hickman (EA Mythic), Jeffrey Steefel (Turbine), Rich Vogel (EA-Bioware) and Min Kim (Nexon) stepped up to the plate take a swing at the common pitfalls, the unseen consequences and the harsh realities of the industry.

So if you're curious about why some titles thrive while others fall apart or why a particular MMO makes it to launch and beyond while another fades into obscurity, hit the jump and see what these industry experts have to say about the enormous and complex task of getting an MMO to lift off -- and then keeping it soaring for as long as possible.

Continue reading GDCO 2010: Running MMOs for the long haul

MassivelyGDCO 2010: Running MMOs for the long haul originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 09 Oct 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbbiowarecan-you-spot-the-texas-icon-in-the-title-pictureccpCCP-Gamesea-biowareea-mythiceveeve-onlinefeaturedgame-developers-conferencegdc-online-2010gdcogdco-2010jeff-hickmanjeffrey-steefellorin-jamesonmaple-storymaplestorymin-kimmythicnathan-richardssonnexonrich-vogelsoeSony-Online-Entertainmentturbineultima-onlineuoworld-of-warcraftwowSat, 09 Oct 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Kate Paiz takes LotRO's Exec Producer reins from Jeffrey Steefel]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/07/kate-paiz-takes-lotros-exec-producer-reins-from-jeffrey-steefel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/07/kate-paiz-takes-lotros-exec-producer-reins-from-jeffrey-steefel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/07/kate-paiz-takes-lotros-exec-producer-reins-from-jeffrey-steefel/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

For Lord of the Rings Online fans and players, this past weekend was undoubtedly one of the busiest news periods for the title since launch. Once official word hit that LotRO was indeed going free-to-play, players had FAQs and charts and numerous interviews to read, digest and figure out what it meant for the future of the game.

It's understandable that a second big announcement would get lost amid the flurry of F2P frenzy, especially since it was packaged in with the F2P announcement itself. However, now that things have settled somewhat, it's important to recognize a significant leadership change at Turbine. Kate Paiz has taken over as Executive Producer for the title, following in Jeffrey Steefel's footsteps, who has moved on to a new project at Turbine.

According to her introduction letter, Paiz worked as a producer for both There.com and DDO, and helped to supervise the latter's transition into its successful hybrid F2P model. This experience will be invaluable for LotRO's new evolution, and she couldn't be happier: "Given my background, it's hardly surprising that I believe very strongly in the power of providing gamers with a choice in how they pay and play our games." Considering that one of her first public acts as Executive Producer was to handle the bombardment of interviews and forum questions about LotRO's upcoming model, one could say that her new position was forged in the fires of Mt. Doom itself.

MassivelyKate Paiz takes LotRO's Exec Producer reins from Jeffrey Steefel originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 Jun 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddodungeons-and-dragons-onlineexecutive-producerf2pfree-to-playjeffrey-steefelkate-paizlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromt-doomtherethere.comtheres-no-crying-in-lotroturbineMon, 07 Jun 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX 2009: Turbine tells us all about Siege of Mirkwood part 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/08/pax-2009-turbine-tells-us-all-about-siege-of-mirkwood-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/08/pax-2009-turbine-tells-us-all-about-siege-of-mirkwood-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/08/pax-2009-turbine-tells-us-all-about-siege-of-mirkwood-part-2/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Continue reading PAX 2009: Turbine tells us all about Siege of Mirkwood part 2

MassivelyPAX 2009: Turbine tells us all about Siege of Mirkwood part 2 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>combathorsesjeffrey-steefellord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromy-lotromylotropaxpax-2009rohansiege-of-mirkwoodskirmishskirmishesturbineTue, 08 Sep 2009 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX 2009: Turbine tells us all about Siege of Mirkwood ]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/08/pax-2009-turbine-tells-us-all-about-siege-of-mirkwood/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/08/pax-2009-turbine-tells-us-all-about-siege-of-mirkwood/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/08/pax-2009-turbine-tells-us-all-about-siege-of-mirkwood/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

This last weekend at PAX 2009 we had the opportunity to sit down with Lord of the Rings Online's executive producer Jeffrey Steefel. He gave us a sneak peek at some of the new zone and instanced content coming in Siege of Mirkwood, as well as many of the new features. So if you're skeptical or just plain curious, we think you'll be most intrigued to see what knowledge we've uncovered after venturing deep into Mirkwood and all the way into Sauron's fortress of Dol Guldur.

Continue reading PAX 2009: Turbine tells us all about Siege of Mirkwood

MassivelyPAX 2009: Turbine tells us all about Siege of Mirkwood originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Yesterday's announcement of the mini expansion Siege of Mirkwood for Lord of the Rings Online was devoid of a date or a price, which was a deliberate choice on Turbine's part according to our PAX interview with the Executive Producer on the game. However, during our forthcoming interview with Jeffrey Steefel he informed us that fall is in fact the release date and once further testing is finished a more exact date will be announced.

As for the price, Turbine seems to be trying something new with a $19.99 base price and some special promotional deals leading up to the release of the new expansion. Keep an eye out for our forthcoming interview about all things Siege of Mirkwood, including the combat and mount changes that we think you're going to find quite intriguing.

MassivelyPAX 2009: LotRO Siege of Mirkwood coming this fall for $20 originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 05 Sep 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Lore is something that can engross a person anywhere from several minutes to several hours. In the case of Lord of the Rings fans, it probably leans towards hours and hours. The core books written by Tolkien alone are quite exhaustive in detail.

With Mines of Moria's release well behind us on the calendar, Kill Ten Rats interviewed Turbine's Jeffrey Steefel about how the expansion's team took Tolkien's lore and crafted it into what now exists within the game world. It's an enriching read for anybody interested in adapting lore into MMOs, or anything Lord of the Rings related in general.

Of course, KTR and Steefel aren't the only Lord of the Rings Online fans addicted to extensive storytelling. We've got our own regular column dedicated to the very subject of all things lore related, with a huge focus on the virtual Middle-earth and its backstory.

MassivelyTurbine's Jeffrey Steefel on implementing LotRO's lore originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Mar 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jeffrey-steefelkill-ten-ratsknow-your-loreknow-your-lotro-lorelord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelorelotromines-of-moriamoratolkienturbineMon, 16 Mar 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Podcast Episode 34]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/04/massively-speaking-podcast-episode-34/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/04/massively-speaking-podcast-episode-34/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/04/massively-speaking-podcast-episode-34/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Massively Speaking Episode 34 is all about Lord of the Rings Online and the game's first expansion, Mines of Moria. Shawn and Michael are joined by Jeffrey Steefel, Producer at Turbine, to talk about the new classes, content, and dungeon-crawling goodness added in this gigantic expansion. They even talk about the future of the game a bit! Well worth checking out.

Have a comment for the podcasters? Shoot us an email to podcast AT massively DOT com. Maybe we'll read your letter on the air!

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Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Podcast Episode 34

MassivelyMassively Speaking Podcast Episode 34 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Dec 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredjeffrey-steefeljoystiqfeatureslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromassively-speakingmines-of-moriapodcastThu, 04 Dec 2008 09:30:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 34Massively.com Staff43:13podcasts<![CDATA[Lord of the Rings Online producer 'not worried about World of Warcraft']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/25/lord-of-the-rings-online-producer-not-worried-about-world-of-wa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/25/lord-of-the-rings-online-producer-not-worried-about-world-of-wa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/25/lord-of-the-rings-online-producer-not-worried-about-world-of-wa/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Everybody has worries, even Turbine's executive producer Jefferey Steefel. While we don't know what worries him, we do know what doesn't: World of Warcraft. In an interview with MTV Multiplayer, Steefel revealed that Lord of the Rings Online didn't see much of a dent from Age of Conan or Warhammer Online's launch. In fact, much like World of Warcraft, Steefel says most players who left eventually came back. This definitely explains why he's not worried about Wrath of the Lich King and it's launch a week prior to Mines of Moria -- he's got numbers to back it up.

So what's the big secret? Is Turbine employing the power of the one ring? Well, according to Steefel there's a couple of reasons, "Somebody who's really looking for that heavy [Player vs. Player] or [Realm vs. Realm] experience, they're going to go play 'Warhammer.' But if they're looking for the best [Player vs. Environment] game, it's clearly 'LotRO.' Period. Plus, it's 'Lord of the Rings!'" Seems like a solid argument, although none of it would matter if Lord of the Rings Online wasn't an incredibly well-made game.

Steefel even points to this fact when asked why games like Tabula Rasa fail while others succeed, saying, "Consumers aren't so forgiving anymore, and I think that's why [MMOs] are starting to have difficulty." Blizzard certainly played a role in that, although it was bound to happen with time, anyhow.

MassivelyLord of the Rings Online producer 'not worried about World of Warcraft' originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 25 Nov 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanblizzardfuncomjeffrey-steefellord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromines-of-moriamythictabula-rasaturbinewarcraftwarhammer-onlineworld-of-warcraftwotlkwowwrath-of-the-lich-kingTue, 25 Nov 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine: Horsemanship to become "important" when LotRO reaches Rohan]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/24/turbine-horsemanship-to-become-important-when-lotro-reaches-r/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/24/turbine-horsemanship-to-become-important-when-lotro-reaches-r/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/24/turbine-horsemanship-to-become-important-when-lotro-reaches-r/#comments Alright, it's time for that gaming industry tradition of speculation based on vague quotes from developers! In an interview with Ten Ton Hammer, The Lord of the Rings Online executive producer Jeffrey Steefel spoke about future updates to the game, saying that the best is yet to come because now that Turbine has moved into Moria, the really interesting and fully-fleshed-out stuff from Tolkien's source material is only a few steps away.

Among those interesting things is the land of Rohan, which fans of the books and movies will remember is a kingdom that prides itself on breeding and grooming the finest horses in Middle-earth. Steefel went on to say: "When we get to Rohan, does horsemanship become important? Yeah! Us and our horses would be strung up if we got to Rohan someday and didn't pay attention to horses. And it's just a matter of when."

Mounts in LotRO have admittedly always been a bit basic (but in a good way!), so this could mean any number of things, but perhaps the most exciting possibility would be Age of Conan-esque mounted combat. Go ahead and meditate on that for a bit, and read the interview for a few more vague quotes about the future of LotRO and the company's console plans if you feel compelled.

MassivelyTurbine: Horsemanship to become "important" when LotRO reaches Rohan originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 24 Nov 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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In an interview with videogaming247, Turbine bigwig Jeffrey Steefel said that he expects The Lord of the Rings Online to become the second viably successful western MMO in Asia (after World of Warcraft), should his team get the Chinese launch right. The two MMO-playing communities have historically had very different tastes, but Steefel believes western devs are finally figuring out how to break into the east. "That's where a big part of the global gaming market is and it's been that way for a long time," he said, "but we're only just now figuring how western games can begin to tap into that market.

Steefel also noted -- as many of Blizzard's competitors have been keen to do -- that much of WoW's growth in recent months has been in Asia, not in America or Europe. Guess he's hoping to capture a little of that Blizzard cross-cultural mojo when his game launches in China and Korea. We're aware Asia is a long way away for most of our readers, so for those of you who could care less: check out our own interview with Steefel for subjects a little closer to home. Shameless, aren't we?

MassivelyJeffrey Steefel: LotRO will be the second western MMO to succeed in Asia originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 19 Nov 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asiablizzardchinainterviewjeffrey-steefelkorealord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroturbineworld-of-warcraftwowWed, 19 Nov 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's exclusive pre-launch Moria interview with Jeffrey Steefel]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/18/massivelys-exclusive-pre-launch-moria-interview-with-jeffrey-st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/18/massivelys-exclusive-pre-launch-moria-interview-with-jeffrey-st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/18/massivelys-exclusive-pre-launch-moria-interview-with-jeffrey-st/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Executive Producer for Lord of the Rings Online Jeffrey Steefel is one of the most convivial MMO-makers in the industry. Sitting down to talk to him always ends up with some useful information, a friendly conversation about a game and an industry that can be a little hard to approach. It was a pleasure, then, to chat with Mr. Steefel just last night, the night before the release of LotRO's first expansion. Mines of Moria is now live, and from the sounds of things the servers and players are having a great time of it.

Join us for our chat, then, as we talk about the Moria Beta test experience, new content coming into the game today that has nothing to do with the Moria expansion, and even a bit about the future of the game!

Gallery: Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria Gallery

Continue reading Massively's exclusive pre-launch Moria interview with Jeffrey Steefel

MassivelyMassively's exclusive pre-launch Moria interview with Jeffrey Steefel originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Nov 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>expansionfeaturedinterviewjeffrey-steefellaunchlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromines-of-moriaturbineTue, 18 Nov 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine to announce console MMO plans early next year]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/07/turbine-to-announce-console-mmo-plans-early-next-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/07/turbine-to-announce-console-mmo-plans-early-next-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/07/turbine-to-announce-console-mmo-plans-early-next-year/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


We've all known about Turbine's plans for a console MMO for a few months now, but in a recent interview with videogaming247.com, Lord of the Rings Online's Executive Producer Jeffrey Steefel mentioned the fact that an announcement will be coming early next year on what type of "products" Turbine aims to release for the console.

"What we're doing now is the early development work and the work with the hardware manufacturers to understand where they're heading in the online space, where the connectivity between the console and internet is really headed," Steefel said in the interview. Since Turbine's recent work with Warner Bros, the speculations have been across the board from a Harry Potter MMO, to LotRO being ported to the console or even an entirely new project. The biggest news of this interview though is the fact that he mentions "products", plural. Guess we'll just need to wait a few months to know for sure. In the meantime, we should be able to keep ourselves busy.

MassivelyTurbine to announce console MMO plans early next year originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 07 Nov 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>console-mmoconsolesjeffrey-steefellord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroturbineFri, 07 Nov 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Is LotRO coming to the console?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/29/is-lotro-coming-to-the-console/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/29/is-lotro-coming-to-the-console/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/29/is-lotro-coming-to-the-console/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


In previous interviews with Turbine, we've heard about their interest in developing an MMO on the console. There was speculation of a Harry Potter MMO, following some venture funding by Warner Bros, but now we have a piece of information that might put the console spotlight back on Lord of the Rings Online.

According to a job posting on Turbine's website, they're looking to hire a Senior User Interface Engineer who "may be refactoring existing user interfaces or implementing completely new user interfaces for systems such as combat, skills, inventory, treasure, and social systems." Does this mean LotRO? There's no question that LotRO is Turbine's largest and most successful game, and this topic has been discussed before. In fact, LotRO's Executive Producer, Jeffrey Steefel has mentioned in the past that "we have the Lord of the Rings license for use on all platforms, and we're determined to use it."

Would you want to see LotRO on a console? Tell us your thoughts!

MassivelyIs LotRO coming to the console? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 29 Sep 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingcodemastersconsoleconsole-mmojeffrey-steefellord-of-the-rings-onlinelotronewsturbineMon, 29 Sep 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO's Jeffrey Steefel looks beyond Mines of Moria]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/26/lotros-jeffrey-steefel-looks-beyond-mines-of-moria/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/26/lotros-jeffrey-steefel-looks-beyond-mines-of-moria/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/26/lotros-jeffrey-steefel-looks-beyond-mines-of-moria/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


By now, we all should know quite a bit about Lord of the Rings Online's newest expansion, Mines of Moria, slated for release later this year. We know about the two new classes and the new area to explore, but what about the future after Moria? This has only been touched-on previously, but in two recent interviews with Executive Producer Jeffrey Steefel, we get word of Turbine's plans with the franchise.

First, Steefel mentions the fact that they're aiming to release another expansion this time next year, and that there will be several new books released between now and then. While this has been discussed before, he mentions the act that these books will all take place in and around Lothlorien. Does this mean we may see the next expansion focusing on Rohan? Oh, wouldn't that be amazing.

Continue reading LotRO's Jeffrey Steefel looks beyond Mines of Moria

MassivelyLotRO's Jeffrey Steefel looks beyond Mines of Moria originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 26 Sep 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adam-merskycodemastersjeffrey-steefellord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromines-of-moriarock-paper-shotgunstrategy-informerturbineFri, 26 Sep 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mines of Moria press event reveals Balrog footage]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/25/mines-of-moria-press-event-reveals-balrog-footage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/25/mines-of-moria-press-event-reveals-balrog-footage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/25/mines-of-moria-press-event-reveals-balrog-footage/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


On September 23rd, Turbine and Codemasters Online set up an exclusive private press event in London, England for predominant fansites to get a hands-on presentation of the newest expansion for Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria. This event was hosted and narrated by Executive Producer Jeffrey Steefel.

One of these fansites in attendance, The Madhouse Tavern, was lucky enough to grab some shaky-cam footage of this gameplay, including the infamous Balrog. As Steefel guides the onlookers through the Balrog's cave, he mentions the fact that this is now "officially the worst beast in Middle-earth" with a whopping 513,250 hit points! The footage shows the lead-up to the monumental creature, and then a bit more as it proceeds to kick some player butt. Check out the video embedded just after the jump, and the Madhouse Tavern's complete write-up of the event at their website for more information!

Continue reading Mines of Moria press event reveals Balrog footage

MassivelyMines of Moria press event reveals Balrog footage originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 25 Sep 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balrogcodemastersfansitesjeffrey-steefellord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromines-of-moriathe-madhouse-tavernturbineThu, 25 Sep 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PvMP changes coming with LotRO: Mines of Moria]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/08/pvmp-changes-coming-with-lotro-mines-of-moria/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/08/pvmp-changes-coming-with-lotro-mines-of-moria/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/08/pvmp-changes-coming-with-lotro-mines-of-moria/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Often times, players want to know why there's no open or "proper" PvP in Lord of the Rings Online. The system they have in place now is very unlike what most other games consider a player vs player environment. To many, this is a good thing, but to others, it detracts from the game. To fully understand the reasoning behind no open PvP system in LotRO, one must first fully comprehend the lore. J.R.R. Tolkien's world is extremely important to Turbine (despite what some may think with the introduction of the Rune-keeper), so the way they incorporate popular game mechanics into their heavily lore-based PvE game is a constant battle.

Over at Pumping Irony, Scott gives us his impressions of how this could all work. He talks about all of the reported changes coming to PvMP with Mines of Moria, and mentions his understanding of the lore and how the current world of Eriador is mostly unaware of their impending doom from the forces of Sauron. This is an excellent point as many players have no idea that this is the case. Scott also brings up some great points about the future of LotRO PvMP and how Jeffrey Steefel himself has hinted at an expanded system coming after Moria. Check out Scott's post and let us (and him) know what you think.

MassivelyPvMP changes coming with LotRO: Mines of Moria originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Sep 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ettenmoorsjeffrey-steefellord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromines-of-moriamonster-playpvmpturbineMon, 08 Sep 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX08: Hands-on with Mines of Moria]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/02/pax08-hands-on-with-mines-of-moria/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/02/pax08-hands-on-with-mines-of-moria/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/02/pax08-hands-on-with-mines-of-moria/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,


This weekend at PAX 2008, Massively had the opportunity to be a part of the first-ever public preview of Mines of Moria with Lord of the Rings Online Executive Producer Jeffrey Steefel. During this showing, Steefel showed us many of the main features of this first expansion for LotRO, including the Legendary Weapon system, the two new classes, the vastness of the mines themselves and much more.

The overall impression we got from this presentation was that this expansion is going to be epic. Just the sheer size of the world, which includes the mines themselves, more of Eregion and into Lothlorien, will be immense. This, combined with the game mechanic changes and additions to just about every aspect of gameplay, will speak volumes (pun!) about the potential of Turbine with this franchise.

Follow along on our journey through Moria>>

Gallery: PAX08: Mines of Moria Preview

Moria mapInside the Great DelvingFighting a MorrovalThe Great Delving mapForging a Legendary weapon

MassivelyPAX08: Hands-on with Mines of Moria originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Sep 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredjeffrey-steefeljoystiqfeatureslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromines-of-moriapax-08pax-2008turbineTue, 02 Sep 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX08: Day three impressions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/01/pax08-day-three-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/01/pax08-day-three-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/01/pax08-day-three-impressions/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Day three is now behind us, marking the end of PAX 2008. Sunday showed a crowd of gamers just as strong as the first two days, and there is no doubt that the attendance numbers from this year blew away last year's figures. As far as panels for this last day, there was an interesting mix of MMO development-type panels with a particularly interesting one called "MMO and Virtual World Business Models" that we will be reviewing in more depth later. Plus, who could forget the intriguing "How to Get Your Girlfriend into Gaming" panel?

So now we look forward to the future of this mega expo. If next year's PAX grows as much as the previous years have progressed, they're going to need a larger booth floor, no doubt about it. As this blogger sifts through the bags of free swag and begins the recovery process, you can look forward to more coverage of interviews with Jon Radoff of GamerDNA, Jeffrey Steefel of Turbine on Mines of Moria, Dane Caruthers of NCsoft on Tabula Rasa, Adam Powell and Aaron Matthew of Meteor Games on Twin Skies and much much more!

Gallery: PAX 2008 General Gallery

MassivelyPAX08: Day three impressions originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Sep 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamerdnajeffrey-steefelmeteor-gamesmines-of-moriancsoftpanelspax-08pax-2008penny-arcade-expotabula-rasatwin-skiesMon, 01 Sep 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine offers last chance at Moria beta test, new screens]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/29/turbine-offers-last-chance-at-moria-beta-test-new-screens/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/29/turbine-offers-last-chance-at-moria-beta-test-new-screens/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/29/turbine-offers-last-chance-at-moria-beta-test-new-screens/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The first expansion to Lord of the Rings Online, the Mines of Moria, is quickly approaching a launch-ready state. For fans of the world of Tolkien, Turbine is offering a few final chances to enter into the Moria beta test. Interested players just need to navigate to the official Moria website, to enter their names into the hat. The official release calls for players to take up the banner, and quotes LotRO executive producer Jeffrey Steefel on his enthusiasm for the new content.

Said Steefel, "The Legendary Items system where players can craft unique and powerful weapons and armor that will grow in power and value is just one of the breakthrough features that will further establish The Lord of the Rings Online as one of the world's premium online games." You can find the full release below the cut, along with five new screenshots of the upcoming expansion. Also feel free to click through to our Moria gallery, which has the new screens as well as all of our previous great looks at the mine under the mountain.

Gallery: Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria Gallery

Continue reading Turbine offers last chance at Moria beta test, new screens

MassivelyTurbine offers last chance at Moria beta test, new screens originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Aug 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>expansionjeffrey-steefellord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromines-of-moriaturbineFri, 29 Aug 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's exclusive interview with Turbine: Moria and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/12/massivelys-interview-with-turbine-moria-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/12/massivelys-interview-with-turbine-moria-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/12/massivelys-interview-with-turbine-moria-and-more/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Recently, we were fortunate enough to sit down with some of the fine folks at Turbine to discuss a few more details on their newest content patch and the future of Lord of the Rings Online. During this play session, we got a load of screenshots and an in-game video to document the amazing content that will launch with Book 14: The Ring-forges of Eregion.

The details of that play session are coming soon in another post and gallery, but for now, we'll tide you over with an exclusive interview with Jeffrey Steefel, Adam Mersky, Meghan "Patience" Rodberg and Aaron Campbell of Turbine. In it, we cover everything from the challenges Turbine may face with global distribution, to the reasoning behind introducing two new classes with Mines of Moria. Follow along after the jump for the complete interview.

Continue reading Massively's exclusive interview with Turbine: Moria and more

MassivelyMassively's exclusive interview with Turbine: Moria and more originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 12 Jul 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aaron-campbelladam-merskycodemastersfeaturedinterviewjeffrey-steefeljoystiqfeatureslotrolotro-book-14meghan-rodbergmines-of-moriarune-masterturbinewardenSat, 12 Jul 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New information on LotRO: Mines of Moria]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/new-information-on-lotro-mines-of-moria/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/new-information-on-lotro-mines-of-moria/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/new-information-on-lotro-mines-of-moria/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Lord of the Rings Online's Book 14 hasn't even released yet, and already we're getting previews of their first paid expansion: Mines of Moria. In a recent interview with Jeffrey Steefel, the folks at Total PC Gaming were able to squeeze out some new info on Mines of Moria, including the top question on everyone's mind: Will we fight the Balrog?

Of course the answer is yes. How many global protests would erupt if players discovered they wouldn't have the opportunity to fight the mighty Balrog? Not only that, the Mines promise to be much more than were shown in the movie. Considering the fact that Forochel was created from a few paragraphs of Tolkien's work, Moria should be an amazing experience. Be sure to read the entire interview for more of Steefel's take on what Moria will bring and just how much further we still have to explore in Middle-earth.

MassivelyNew information on LotRO: Mines of Moria originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Jul 2008 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balrogcodemastersjeffrey-steefellord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolotro-book-14mines-of-moriatotal-pc-gamingturbineThu, 10 Jul 2008 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO interview reveals more on Book 14]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/lotro-interview-reveals-more-on-book-14/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/lotro-interview-reveals-more-on-book-14/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/lotro-interview-reveals-more-on-book-14/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


In the second part of MMORPG's interview with Lord of the Rings Online's Executive Producer Jeffrey Steefel, we learn more about the final stages of development with LotRO's Book 14. Steefel discusses exactly how this final book of the first volume will unfold before the Mines of Moria expansion arrives on the scene. He also mentions the fact that Moria will not be considered Book 15, but instead be referred to as the first book of Volume 2.

Despite the wild success of the fishing system, there will not be another hobby introduced until Moria, he says. The live event system, which has been in under-the-radar development since launch, is the largest focus of Book 14 . With a little help from their cohorts at Asheron's Call, they will build a new event-triggering system based on a number of variables including a schedule, a time of day, a specific day or other in-game triggers. This feature seems to add more dimension to what has already proven to be one of the most incredible parts of this immersive game.

MassivelyLotRO interview reveals more on Book 14 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Jun 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingcodemasterseventsjeffrey-steefellotrolotro-book-14mines-of-moriammorpg.comturbineTue, 24 Jun 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[More Jeffrey Steefel goodness regarding the Korean LotRO launch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/more-jeffrey-steefel-goodness-regarding-the-korean-lotro-launch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/more-jeffrey-steefel-goodness-regarding-the-korean-lotro-launch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/more-jeffrey-steefel-goodness-regarding-the-korean-lotro-launch/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


In line with the recent interview at MMORPG.com, Lord of the Rings Online's Jeffrey Steefel speaks in another interview with Ten Ton Hammer regarding the plans to bring LotRO to Korean audiences. This is something that has been discussed for quite a long time now, but with the Korean release imminent, we now get into the details of this launch and what LotRO hopes to offer to this specific audience.

One of the most important points made in this article is the projected number of players who could potentially be involved with this game at launch. While Steefel is reluctant to give figures, he says that with half the population of Korea playing online games (which would be a potential market of almost 37 million people), "the numbers could be astounding," he says.

MassivelyMore Jeffrey Steefel goodness regarding the Korean LotRO launch originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Jun 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jeffrey-steefelkoreakoreanlotrolotro-book-14nhnten-ton-hammerMon, 23 Jun 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO's Korean launch may alter western business model]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/lotros-korean-launch-may-alter-western-business-model/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/lotros-korean-launch-may-alter-western-business-model/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/lotros-korean-launch-may-alter-western-business-model/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Turbine is busy gearing up for its Korean launch of Lord of the Rings Online. The title is currently in closed beta in Korea and moving toward limited open beta. Fantasy titles are hugely popular in the country, but the enthusiasm with which beta testers are greeting LotRO has likely been spurred on by the popularity of the films directed by Peter Jackson.

MMORPG's Jon Wood recently caught up with LotRO Executive Producer Jeffrey Steefel to discuss Turbine's plans in the east. They discussed some of the details about LotRO's forthcoming Korean launch, which revealed how this might impact North American and European subscribers.

Continue reading LotRO's Korean launch may alter western business model

MassivelyLotRO's Korean launch may alter western business model originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Jun 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asiabetabusiness-modelsfantasyfree-to-playgame-mechanicsitem-malljeffrey-steefelkorealocalizationlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrommorpgmonsterpeter-jacksonpvpquestsubscriptionturbineFri, 20 Jun 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New LotRO Book 13 developer diary video is released]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/18/new-lotro-book-13-developer-diary-video-is-released/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/18/new-lotro-book-13-developer-diary-video-is-released/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/18/new-lotro-book-13-developer-diary-video-is-released/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


If you feel you've missed out on some of the features from the recently-released Book 13: Doom of the Last-king for Lord of the Rings Online, where the heck have you been? Well, not to fret because we have a new developer diary in video form starring LotRO's Executive Producer Jeffrey Steefel. In it, he talks about their fifth major update since launch, and some of the new features that have been introduced.

The details of their newest region is discussed a bit, including the new environmental effects and creatures you'll encounter there. Plus, now you'll know the proper way to pronounce Forochel without embarrassing yourself on voice chat! Fishing is also discussed, as is the new fellowship enhancements to the quest log and the mustering horn which is used to summon group members quickly. Be sure to check out this new video below for all the exciting information.

Continue reading New LotRO Book 13 developer diary video is released

MassivelyNew LotRO Book 13 developer diary video is released originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Jun 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>developer-diaryfellowshipfishingforocheljeffrey-steefellotrolotro-book-13mustering-hornvideoWed, 18 Jun 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine's Jeffrey Steefel looks ahead to the Mines of Moria]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/21/turbines-jeffrey-steefel-looks-ahead-to-the-mines-of-moria/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/21/turbines-jeffrey-steefel-looks-ahead-to-the-mines-of-moria/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/21/turbines-jeffrey-steefel-looks-ahead-to-the-mines-of-moria/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The CVG site has up a talk with Turbine's Jeffrey Steefel, looking out to the future of Lord of the Rings Online. It's a good discussion of not only the issues facing the game in the coming months, but the entire subscription-based MMO marketplace. The site asks some tough questions and Steefel has some good answers: like, why is an expansion for a primarily patch-supported game even neccessary?

The Turbine Executive Producer was upfront about their reasoning: "At the end of the day so much is going online, but retail is still very important. It's still a place where people learn about games, it's a place where if you're not on the shelf, at least from time to time, somehow there's implication you're not viable." Steefel also touches on how they keep their community as convival as it is, the 'world vs game' problem very MMO faces, and the ever-present console question. In his mind, the problem isn't how to get MMOs on consoles. The problem is, why aren't the big three helping companies like Turbine to get their products onto couches?

MassivelyTurbine's Jeffrey Steefel looks ahead to the Mines of Moria originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 May 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jeffrey-steefellord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromines-of-moriamoriaturbineWed, 21 May 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively interview with LotRO's Jeffrey Steefel on Book 13]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/31/massively-interview-with-lotros-jeffrey-steefel-on-book-13/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/31/massively-interview-with-lotros-jeffrey-steefel-on-book-13/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/31/massively-interview-with-lotros-jeffrey-steefel-on-book-13/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Recently we sat down with Lord of the Rings Online's Executive Producer Jeffrey Steefel to shake him down for every last bit of Mines of Moria expansion info he was holding back from us. We were confident his resolve to deny us exclusive information would crumble under our steely gaze and he would gush forth with exhaustive overviews of the new classes as well as divulge the closely held secrets of the Middle-earth adventures that would await us this Fall.

Ok, it didn't quite go like we planned, but at least we learned more about what they had planned for their upcoming Book 13 free content update. And that's just as good as leet beta infoz, right? Right?

Continue reading Massively interview with LotRO's Jeffrey Steefel on Book 13

MassivelyMassively interview with LotRO's Jeffrey Steefel on Book 13 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 31 Mar 2008 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eriadorfeaturedfishingforochelhobbiesjeffrey-steefellossothlotrolotro-book-13lotro-fishinglotro-hobbiesmines-of-moriaMon, 31 Mar 2008 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[More on Moria: Massively interviews Turbine's Jeffrey Steefel]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/17/more-on-moria-massively-interviews-turbines-jeffrey-steefel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/17/more-on-moria-massively-interviews-turbines-jeffrey-steefel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/17/more-on-moria-massively-interviews-turbines-jeffrey-steefel/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,



After last Friday's exciting announcement from Turbine -- the Mines of Moria LotRO expansion -- we were hungry for more. Fortunately, we got it: we managed to sit down with executive producer Jeffrey Steefel, the man behind the news, to quiz him on MoM and all things LotRO. Read on for more on Volume II, nerfbats and an insight into Turbine's development process.

For more LotRO coverage don't miss our player Q&A report, teasers and rundown of the teaser site -- and keep your eyes glued to Massively, as we'll bring you all the MoM news we can over the coming months!

Gallery: Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria Gallery

Continue reading More on Moria: Massively interviews Turbine's Jeffrey Steefel

MassivelyMore on Moria: Massively interviews Turbine's Jeffrey Steefel originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 17 Mar 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>book-13book-14codemastersconnect08expansionfeaturedinterviewjeffrey steefeljeffrey-steefelJeffreySteefeljoystiqfeatureslord of the rings onlinelord-of-the-rings-onlineLordOfTheRingsOnlinelotromines of moriamines-of-moriaMinesOfMoriamompatchsteefelturbineMon, 17 Mar 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Double video goodness from LotRO Book 12]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/14/double-video-goodness-from-lotro-book-12/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/14/double-video-goodness-from-lotro-book-12/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/14/double-video-goodness-from-lotro-book-12/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


After extended maintenance yesterday, the Lord of the Rings Online servers are finally up with the Book 12 The Ashen Wastes content patch locked and loaded. We've already drooled over all the new features in our earlier post, so we'll spare you the rehash here. Instead, you can watch a trailer for Book 12 where LotRO's Executive Producer, Jeffrey Steefel, rehashes it for us. What a sweet guy.

We also have a second video that tells the story behind the latest content. Even if you're not a LotRO fan, it's worth a look. The voice work and storytelling are very good.

The videos can be clicked full screen and are embedded after the jump.

Continue reading Double video goodness from LotRO Book 12

MassivelyDouble video goodness from LotRO Book 12 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Feb 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ashen-wastesbook-12dev-diaryfeaturedjeffrey-steefellord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroThu, 14 Feb 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lorebook entry looks at the heart of evil in LotRO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/20/lorebook-entry-looks-at-the-heart-of-evil-in-lotro/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/20/lorebook-entry-looks-at-the-heart-of-evil-in-lotro/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/20/lorebook-entry-looks-at-the-heart-of-evil-in-lotro/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Carn Dûm -- the seat of evil in western Middle-earth. 'Twas in this fortress that the Witch-king of Angmar reigned as an oppressor of men, elves, dwarves, and hobbits alike until he was chased off by two heroes. It's home to evil men, orcs, trolls, and some evils that do not sleep. In other words, it's awesome, and you can read all about it in Turbine's new official Lorebook entry.

Carn Dûm is one of the places that Turbine has expanded beyond what was contained in the books. While Angmar (of which Carn Dûm is a part) was, as the entry says, "only mentioned in passing in J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings," Turbine has filled in the gaps with their own bits of gameplay and lore in The Lord of the Rings Online. The entry also utilizes the Google-based map of Middle-earth that Jeffrey Steefel was talking about in the Ten Ton Hammer interview we covered yesterday.

MassivelyLorebook entry looks at the heart of evil in LotRO originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Nov 2007 20:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>angmarcarn-dumjeffrey-steefellord-of-the-rings-onlinelorelorebooklotroten-ton-hammertolkienturbinewitch-king-of-angmarTue, 20 Nov 2007 20:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine talks Korean LotRO, Book 11, Book 12, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/19/turbine-talks-korean-lotro-book-11-book-12-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/19/turbine-talks-korean-lotro-book-11-book-12-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/19/turbine-talks-korean-lotro-book-11-book-12-and-more/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

There's a lot of buzz going for The Lord of the Rings Online. Book 11 was recently released, and it was the game's biggest update so far. Book 12 is in the works. Most importantly from a big-picture standpoint, Turbine has secured deals to launch the game in the Korean and Chinese markets.

Turbine's Jeffrey Steefel and Adam Mersky talk to Ten Ton Hammer about all these things and more in a new interview. The Korean launch looks like it might go very well, and it appears that Book 12 will be all about "customization." We've already picked up some details about new options for player housing, but that's only the beginning. Players will soon be able to change their characters' hair at a barber shop.

Book 12 will also introduce some sort of system that will allow players to "maintain what they present outwardly to the other players and modify their stats in two different channels," meaning a player will have options if he or she really wants that new piece of armor that has great stats but that looks ridiculously out of place on his or her character.

Cool! No details yet on how exactly that will work, though.

MassivelyTurbine talks Korean LotRO, Book 11, Book 12, and more originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Nov 2007 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adam-merskyasiabook-11book-12chinacustomizationinterviewjeffrey-steefelkorealord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroten-ton-hammerturbineMon, 19 Nov 2007 16:31:00 EST<![CDATA[New LotRO dev diary video: Player housing]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/16/new-lotro-dev-diary-video-player-housing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/16/new-lotro-dev-diary-video-player-housing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/16/new-lotro-dev-diary-video-player-housing/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Lord of the Rings Online producer Jeffrey Steefel has released another one of his video dev diaries. These are a series of short videos that explain different features of the game for people who haven't played before.

This installment covers the newly introduced Player Housing of Book 11. Jeffery covers the Neighborhood concept, the different racial homes, the various housing sizes as well as decorating, permissions and upkeep. It's an excellent introduction for those interested in this aspect of the game.

MassivelyNew LotRO dev diary video: Player housing originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Nov 2007 15:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>book-11deluxe-housinghousing decorationhousing-permissionshousing-storagejeffrey-steefelkinship-housesneighborhoodsvideo-dev-diariesvideo-dev-diaryFri, 16 Nov 2007 15:07:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO reps talk demographics, casual play, console plans]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/06/lotro-reps-talk-demographics-casual-play-console-plans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/06/lotro-reps-talk-demographics-casual-play-console-plans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/06/lotro-reps-talk-demographics-casual-play-console-plans/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Yesterday Gamasutra published a five page interview about The Lord of the Rings Online with Turbine's Jeffrey Steefel and Adam Mersky.

According to the interview, one third of LotRO players are over 35 because the license drew people new to MMOs -- people who came for "The Lord of the Rings first, the MMO second." Fans of LotRO often claim the game's community is more mature than that of competing games. "Sometimes game communities can be rough, just because of the nature of the competitiveness and the nature of the age range of people playing, and this is a pretty mature, fun place to be a part of," said Steefel.

Steefel and Mersky also talked about the challenges of dealing with gold farmers, what the real definition of "casual games" might be, the pluses and minuses of adapting a famous work of literature, the competition, and Turbine's option to produce massively multiplayer games for consoles. As is the case with most Gamasutra interviews, the discussion is an excellent read if you want an inside look.

MassivelyLotRO reps talk demographics, casual play, console plans originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 Nov 2007 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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A new Lord of the Rings Online developer diary has been posted on IGN.com, under the title of Raids. Upon watching it, however, it seems that it is more about explaining the basics of Fellowships and Kinships, only touching on raids briefly.

If you're an experienced LotRO player, this video won't contain too much to excite you, but it is a nice introduction to the game's partying and guild systems for any beginner. Fellowship Maneuvers are brought up, and this is probably the best nugget of information that anyone starting out in the game could take from the video.

So if you feel like some informative light entertainment -- and aren't too busy decorating your new crib -- click below and let executive producer Jeffrey Steefel fill you in on LotRO's team features.

MassivelyLotRO dev video diary: Raids originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 03 Nov 2007 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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What has it got in its pocketses?!Tentonhammer have got a great interview up on their site with the executive producer of Lord of the Rings Online, Jeffrey Steefel, discussing all things Book 11. (LotRO Books are roughly equivalent to major content patches in other MMOs)

A lot of the new content in the update is discussed, ranging from the three-piece, 12-man Balrog raids, to... usable cowbell & bagpipe musical instruments. Blue Öyster Cult would be proud. It also features player characters first encounter with the wonderfully crazy Gollum, with promises that he'll play a major role in the LotRO storyline -- although what kind of role is still being kept under wraps, it's probably not a wild guess to assume he'll be causing a lot of trouble. Nassty hobbitses!

Player housing (covered just a few days ago by us) is discussed too. It's a strange -- risky? -- move incorporating player housing into a patch, rather than an expansion pack or, as in certain popular other MMOs, not at all -- yet Jeff comes across as enthusiastic about the subject, and Turbine appear to have thought it through carefully. He also does everything except say "there will be an expansion!" without ... actually saying it. But we all know it's coming, amiright?

Book 11 also included some love for the Loremaster & Minstrel classes, the latter of which sorely needed some outside of healing.

The interview is three pages long, and definitely worth a read if you're a LotRO fan.

MassivelyJeffrey Steefel on all things Book 11 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Nov 2007 22:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balrogbalrog-raidsbook-11executive-producergolluminterviewjeffrey-steefelloremasterLotROminstrelplayer-housingturbineThu, 01 Nov 2007 22:35:00 EST