Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What is your favorite internet spaceship?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/29/the-daily-grind-what-is-your-favorite-internet-spaceship/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/29/the-daily-grind-what-is-your-favorite-internet-spaceship/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/29/the-daily-grind-what-is-your-favorite-internet-spaceship/#commentsFiled under: , ,

When we talk about intergalactic transportation, there is no end to the variety of shapes and sizes of starships. Even within specific genres of science fiction, the starships are consistently inconsistent. In Star Wars, the Imperial ships are very angular, whereas the Mon Calamari ships are kind of puffy. If you look at Star Trek, you see a multitude of cultural differences between the spacecraft. Federation ships are very pristine, clean, and diplomatic. On the other had, Klingon ships carry the mark of the aggressive species that created them.

Many MMOs have introduced us to ships we can pilot in a virtual world. Star Wars Galaxies and Star Trek Online were mentioned above, but there is also EVE Online and Taikodom -- not to mention games still in development like Star Wars: The Old Republic and Jumpgate Evolution. So in the spirit of EVE fanfest, we are asking today: What is your favorite internet spaceship?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What is your favorite internet spaceship? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 29 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AtariccpCrypticEVEeve-onlineGamersfirstgazillion-entertainmentinternet-spaceshipsJGEjumpgate-evolutionNetdevilsci-fiscience-fictionSOESonyspacespaceshipStar-Trekstar-trek-onlineStar-WarsStar-Wars-GalaxiesSTOSWGtaikodomthe-daily-grindTue, 29 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NetDevil lays off large portion of its staff [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/24/netdevil-lays-off-large-portion-of-its-staff/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/24/netdevil-lays-off-large-portion-of-its-staff/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/24/netdevil-lays-off-large-portion-of-its-staff/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

When it comes to game development, it's somewhat common to see a layoff or realignment of development team members shortly after the release of a title. However, it appears that NetDevil's most recent round of layoffs came as a complete surprise to its employees. After all, the company's most recent release, LEGO Universe, is well past that initial post-launch phase, having gone live back in October 2010, and both Jumpgate Evolution and Fortune Online are (at least supposedly) under development currently at the studio. There are jobs posted on the hiring page, as well.

However, it appears that the developer, owned by Gazillion Entertainment, is on shaky ground as of this morning, according to rumors. The truly horrible thing about this isn't that some developers were laid off -- it's how the affected employees found out. It appears that some of the NetDevil employees were notified that they were going to be laid off via Facebook postings before they were officially contacted by the company, according to a blog posting by Toby Cochran, who worked as a character/creature animator on LEGO Universe. Apparently an image showing a tombstone with the inscription "NetDevil R.I.P. Oct 1997-Feb 2011" started making the rounds on social networking sites shortly thereafter, indicating a far bleaker picture than just that of layoffs.

We've reached out to NetDevil and Gazillion Entertainment for comment on the rumors and what, if anything, it will mean for the development of Jumpgate Evolution and Fortune Online. We'll be sure to update this post as soon as we have further information. In the meantime, we hope that all the talented, hard-working NetDevil employees who were affected are able to land fabulous new well-paying spots elsewhere, continuing to do what they love.

[Update: We received the following statement from NetDevil: "The transition of members of our team to the LEGO Group allows us to conclude the work-for-hire segment of NetDevil's business and lets us expand our internally-published, free-to-play game businesses based on our own properties and licensed properties. Gazillion is wholly focused on developing, operating, and publishing the next generation of browser-delivered games," said David Brevik, President and COO. "We're proud of the LEGO Universe game that our team built, and we are certain that it has a bright future."]

MassivelyNetDevil lays off large portion of its staff [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Feb 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessemployeesfacebookFOfortune-onlinegazilliongazillion-entertainmentJGEjumpgate-evolutionlayoffslego-universeLUmmo-industrynet-devilNetDevilrumorsocial-networkingtoby-cochranThu, 24 Feb 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Codemasters files suit over Jumpgate Evolution delays]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/06/codemasters-files-suit-over-jumpgate-evolution-delays/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/06/codemasters-files-suit-over-jumpgate-evolution-delays/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/06/codemasters-files-suit-over-jumpgate-evolution-delays/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

We have all been waiting for Jumpgate Evolution for quite some time, but perhaps no one quite as much as Codemasters. As a matter of fact, the company is so tired of waiting on the game to come out that it's decided to file a civil complaint against Netdevil and its parent company Gazillion Entertainment for the delays in publishing the eagerly anticipated sci-fi space shooter.

While the announcement on Codemasters' official Jumpgate Evolution site doesn't offer anything beyond the generic "yes, we did this, here's what court we filed it in, no other comment at this time" statement, the court document itself makes for interesting (if dry) reading. Essentially, Codemasters charges that Netdevil failed to meet contractual guidelines, which called for the studio to ship the game by February 24th, 2009. During that time, Codemasters paid almost 1.4 million USD to Netdevil to help underwrite the game's development and for "art assets." Codemasters is also seeking compensation due to setting up servers, website, community team, etc. for the European version of Jumpgate Evolution. Ultimately, it boils down to a pretty standard breach of contract that offers Codemasters' share of interest back to Netdevil and Gazillion in return for all monies invested in the project to date. Whether or not this brouhaha will cause any changes to the timetable for Jumpgate Evolution will remain to be seen. We'll keep an eye out as the case progresses.

[Thanks, Merketh!]

MassivelyCodemasters files suit over Jumpgate Evolution delays originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 06 Dec 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breach-of-contractCodemasterscodemasters-onlinegazilliongazillion-entertainmentjgejumpgatejumpgate-evolutionlawsuitnetdevilMon, 06 Dec 2010 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Oh my! A Jumpgate Evolution leak -- not really]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/20/oh-my-a-jumpgate-evolution-leak-not-really/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/20/oh-my-a-jumpgate-evolution-leak-not-really/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/20/oh-my-a-jumpgate-evolution-leak-not-really/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Earlier today an unannounced video slipped onto YouTube claiming to be a "Jumpgate Evolution Play Test." The JGE forums lit up with speculation as to the source of the video, yet the true source was not even known to the JGE forum moderator, Alpha. In the thread regarding the leak, Alpha said, "I don't know where this video is from (or how old the footage is, or indeed anything about it), but really, given that the team is really small right now, the devs are going to know who shot that footage."

She was correct, because just a few hours later, OhSnap (Kara Kroupa, Marketing Coordinator at NetDevil) replied with a detailed explanation of what exactly happened. According to OhSnap, the video "showed up on youtube first because I asked the emissaries to spread it around before I made the video announcement. With all intention to explain the details here later." Unfortunately, Alpha had not read the information regarding the video when she first replied to the post, so she treated it as a breach of the NDA. Fortunately, there was no real issue, and no damage was done save to Alpha's keyboard, which now has OJ sprayed on it from her laughing at finding out the "leak" was intentional.

Now, after months of quiet, we have some Jumpgate Evolution footage! Take a look after the break at this "leaked" real footage of gameplay of the citadel.

[Thank you, Notturno for the link to the video]

Continue reading Oh my! A Jumpgate Evolution leak -- not really

MassivelyOh my! A Jumpgate Evolution leak -- not really originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Oct 2010 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gazilliongazillion-entertainmentJGEjumpgatejumpgate-evolutionKara-Kroupaleakleakedleaked-videoleaksnetdevilOhSnapvideoWed, 20 Oct 2010 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New Jumpgate Evolution forums now live]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/03/new-jumpgate-evolution-forums-now-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/03/new-jumpgate-evolution-forums-now-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/03/new-jumpgate-evolution-forums-now-live/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Jumpgate Evolution forum members will be happy to hear that the old JGE forums are a thing of the past.

The new forums went online today, replacing the old ones that a NetDevil staffer referred to as "broken in many ways." As with many new sites, this one still has a few bugs to be fixed and additions to be made, so the News and Announcements forum contains a welcome post with a list of known issues.

That post explains how players can bring their login information to the new forum and gives a list of features that are still in the completion process. The forums and subforums are all functional -- though missing a few bells and whistles -- so check them out for yourself!

MassivelyNew Jumpgate Evolution forums now live originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 03 Oct 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>forumforumsgazilliongazillion-entertainmentjgejumpgatejumpgate-evolutionnetdevilSun, 03 Oct 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Should Star Trek Online fans fear the competition?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/captains-log-should-star-trek-online-fans-fear-the-competition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/captains-log-should-star-trek-online-fans-fear-the-competition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/captains-log-should-star-trek-online-fans-fear-the-competition/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Good afternoon, cadets and admirals. Welcome to this week's edition of Captain's Log, your ever-expanding guide to Star Trek Online. Last time, we discussed some basics of ground combat, and I promised more to come. But I've decided to change course a bit, so we'll cover those next week.

Instead, I thought it might be fun to discuss what's on every Earth nerd's mind right now: E3! The Electronic Entertainment Expo has engines on full impulse this week in Los Angeles, and amid all the grand news we don't care about -- I was counting on the 3DS to not be totally awesome so I wouldn't have to replace my DSiXL! Curses! -- the MMO news is flying fast and furious. With all the news and shiny images of forthcoming space-based MMOs, should fans worry that STO's days are numbered?

Continue reading Captain's Log: Should Star Trek Online fans fear the competition?

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Should Star Trek Online fans fear the competition? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Jun 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galacticaBigpointBioWarebioware-swtorblack-prophecycaptains-logCCP-Gamescrypticcryptic-studiosdark-millenium-onlinee3e3-2010eve-onlinefeaturedincarnaJGEjge-gamejumpgate-evolutionnetdevilPhilip-Reisbergerreakktor-mediasci-fi-mmost-onlineStar-TrekStar-Trek-MMOstar-trek-onlineStar-Warsstar-wars-galaxiesstar-wars-mmostar-wars-the-old-republicstar-wars-tortrek-onlineWarhammer-40KThu, 17 Jun 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Executive Producer of Jumpgate Evolution gives information on game's status]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/07/executive-producer-of-jumpgate-evolution-gives-information-on-ga/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/07/executive-producer-of-jumpgate-evolution-gives-information-on-ga/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/07/executive-producer-of-jumpgate-evolution-gives-information-on-ga/#commentsFiled under: , ,

After what feels like an endless period of silence from the developers of Jumpgate Evolution, Executive Producer Lance Robertson has delivered a surprisingly detailed forum post on the game's development.

So what's going on over there? Why all the silence and delays? Apparently, those delays are due to the extensive overhaul to the entire game: "...the team made the crucial decision to completely overhaul JGE's game systems, while also refocusing specifically on the game play experience we wanted to make: space warfare on a massive scale." Much of the game was removed completely and replaced to fit the team had in mind.

And the media blackout? "We couldn't discuss game features, because we were no longer sure what would make it into the game and what wouldn't. We couldn't talk about story, because it was being completely rewritten. There was so much that we wanted to share, but things were just at too early of a stage to discuss without the risk of disappointing you, our community. When we announce something, we ought to be as confident as possible that it will stay in the game - although in game development, there are no guarantees."

The full story is an interesting read, as it explains what has been going on with Jumpgate Evolution, and what will be happening from here on out.

MassivelyExecutive Producer of Jumpgate Evolution gives information on game's status originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 Jun 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>JGEjumpgate-evolutionlance-robertsonnetdevilMon, 07 Jun 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Indian company purchases fifty percent stake in Codemasters]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/06/indian-company-purchases-fifty-percent-stake-in-codemasters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/06/indian-company-purchases-fifty-percent-stake-in-codemasters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/06/indian-company-purchases-fifty-percent-stake-in-codemasters/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


While some gamers in the US may not be immediately familiar with Codemasters, we know our readers across the pond will immediately recognize them as the company with the rights to publish Lord of the Rings Online, Dungeons and Dragons Online, and (the "who-knows-when-it-will-release") MMO Jumpgate Evolution overseas. With that said, last year we heard that the COO at Codemasters, Tony Williams, decided to step down from Chief Organizational Officer. Not too long after that, there were rumors that Warner Brothers was looking into buying the company. Today, it seems that a company from India called Reliance Big Entertainment has pounced, and now owns a 50% stake in Codemasters.

Apparently, Reliance Big Entertainment is very well known in India. It's subsidiary company, Zapak Digital Entertainment, owns the largest online gaming portal in the country as well. This gaming-specific company will be the one in charge of overseeing the investment in UK-based Codemasters.

As to what this could mean for MMO gamers in the EU, we'll have to wait and see. Perhaps Reliance/Zapak will see fit to close the gap in differences from the Turbine-controlled version of Lord of the Rings Online. Or perhaps this new company will finally roll the Codemasters version of Dungeons and Dragons Online over to the same free-to-play model that has been such a huge success for Turbine in the States. No matter what, this is going to be interesting to watch.

[via Joystiq]

MassivelyIndian company purchases fifty percent stake in Codemasters originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 Apr 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>codemasters-onlineCodemasters-Studios-Guildfordddo-module-7dungeons-and-dragons-online-unlimitedEUfree-to-play-fpsjgejumpgate-evolutionlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotro-book-14reliance-big-entertainmentUkTimeszapakzapak-digital-entertainmentTue, 06 Apr 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A significant update on Jumpgate Evolution's progress]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/10/a-significant-update-on-jumpgate-evolutions-progress/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/10/a-significant-update-on-jumpgate-evolutions-progress/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/10/a-significant-update-on-jumpgate-evolutions-progress/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

NetDevil's Scott Brown has emerged from the black depths of development on Jumpgate Evolution to give an update to the commmunity. In fact, he's given quite a substantial -- if not brief -- update about the various game elements being hammered into proper working order.

The topics covered are Battlespace, mission structure, faction definition and improvements being made to the previously lackluster enemy AI. So basically, NetDevil has been working to revamp the game ever since its June 2009 release date was changed into a To Be Announced state, leaving fans wondering when they'd be able to get their space fighter action on. We've posted Scott's bullet point update beyond the break, for those interested.

Continue reading A significant update on Jumpgate Evolution's progress

MassivelyA significant update on Jumpgate Evolution's progress originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 10 Mar 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>communitygazilliongazillion-entertainmentjgejge-gamejumpgatejumpgate-evolutionnetdevilscott-brownspacespace-fighterspace-gameupdateWed, 10 Mar 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jumpgate Evolution brings on a new Executive Producer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/24/jumpgate-evolution-brings-on-a-new-executive-producer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/24/jumpgate-evolution-brings-on-a-new-executive-producer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/24/jumpgate-evolution-brings-on-a-new-executive-producer/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Any of you die hard Dark Age of Camelot fans out there? We hope you're paying attention, because NetDevil just brought Lance Roberston aboard their Jumpgate Evolution team as executive producer. For those not in the know: Lance's career blossomed as he rose through the ranks at Mythic Entertainment while working on Dark Age of Camelot. As such, he possesses extensive experience developing MMOs with both PvP and PvE focuses. He also helped to ship Warhammer Online as a senior producer, before the unfortunate events we're all aware of over at Electronic Arts.

Jumpgate Evolution is a three faction game that deals with PvP and PvE. Sound familiar? It should, as DAoC's tri-factions were one of its selling points back in the day. Lance also benefits from having experience in the "what do do" and "what not to do" areas of PvP/PvE MMO development, so we're certain he'll prove to be an immensely useful member of the JGE team.

MassivelyJumpgate Evolution brings on a new Executive Producer originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daocdark-ageof-cameloteaelectronic-artsexecutive-producergazilliongazillion-entertainmentjgejumpgate-evolutionlance-roberstonmythicmythic-entertainmentnetdevilwarwarhammer-onlineTue, 24 Nov 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Five exciting MMOs in 2010, part 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/09/the-digital-continuum-five-exciting-mmos-in-2010-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/09/the-digital-continuum-five-exciting-mmos-in-2010-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/09/the-digital-continuum-five-exciting-mmos-in-2010-part-2/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Five exciting MMOs in 2010, part 2

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Five exciting MMOs in 2010, part 2 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareblizzardeaelectronic-artsgazilliongazillion-entertainmentjgejumpgate-evolutionlucasartsnetdevilstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-digital-continuumtorworld-of-warcraftwowMon, 09 Nov 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gazillion layoffs hit Romero's Slipgate Ironworks]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/18/gazillion-layoffs-hit-romeros-slipgate-ironworks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/18/gazillion-layoffs-hit-romeros-slipgate-ironworks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/18/gazillion-layoffs-hit-romeros-slipgate-ironworks/#commentsFiled under: ,


Whatever Gazillion Entertainment's secret mastermind plot is, their next step has been to create an unfortunate situation for a suspected 50 now ex-employees at Slipgate Ironworks. The reasoning? According to Gazillion, "As part of our focus on reaching the widest possible audiences with breakthrough MMO entertainment, we decided to change the format of our project at Slipgate Ironworks to better achieve this aim," So, whatever unannounced MMO the team was working on is now canned, it would seem.

At least there's a silver lining, in some sense. Gazillion also stated, "-the other Slipgate staff are already in discussions around the many open positions across our slate of projects." You know what? We'd make another world conquering joke here, but that'd be too easy. Instead, we're just going to sit in our chair, pet our cat and sip this lovely whipped latte. Oh, whoops, guess we just can't help ourselves sometimes.

Seriously though, next year is going to be interesting, because the official statement alludes to something being released from the publisher next year. Unless they're just talking about Jumpgate Evolution -- at least, we hope that comes out by next year -- and then we're not really sure why they just didn't say as much.

MassivelyGazillion layoffs hit Romero's Slipgate Ironworks originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 18 Oct 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamasutragazilliongazillion-entertainmentjgejohn-romerojumpgate-evolutionlayofflayoffsnetdevilslipgate-ironworksSun, 18 Oct 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Creating the sound and music of Jumpgate Evolution]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/12/creating-the-sound-and-music-of-jumpgate-evolution/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/12/creating-the-sound-and-music-of-jumpgate-evolution/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/12/creating-the-sound-and-music-of-jumpgate-evolution/#commentsFiled under: , ,


We've been wondering what's happening over at NetDevil with Jumpgate Evolution of late. It's been a bit quiet on the news front, but we've come across a recent dev blog from Jumpgate Evolution Producer Hermann Peterscheck that explains the importance of audio in this sci-fi MMO.

Peterscheck explains NetDevil's approach to audio in a space game and the various steps taken to ensure the game sounds as good as it looks. He writes, "Try imagining Star Wars without John Williams' sound track or James Earl Jones' booming Darth Vader voice. Poor audio on top of great video can really deteriorate production value. The trouble with audio is that it generally comes late in the development cycle and all too often as an afterthought."

Continue reading Creating the sound and music of Jumpgate Evolution

MassivelyCreating the sound and music of Jumpgate Evolution originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 12 Sep 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiodev-blogdev-blogshermann-peterscheckjgejumpgate-evolutionmusicnew-titlessci-fisoundSat, 12 Sep 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jumpgate Evolution dev blog looks at balancing combat]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/30/jumpgate-evolution-dev-blog-looks-at-balancing-combat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/30/jumpgate-evolution-dev-blog-looks-at-balancing-combat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/30/jumpgate-evolution-dev-blog-looks-at-balancing-combat/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


As player-versus-player pew-pewing is one of the biggest draws for those interested in the upcoming Jumpgate Evolution, there's no wonder that a lot of attention has been given to balancing the game's combat. The most recent Jumpgate Evolution dev blog entry from lead producer Hermann Peterscheck, titled "Combating Combat", shed some light on how class balance came to be where it's at now.

The post goes on to say that from the very beginning, balance was approached with PvP in mind, as NetDevil realized that it would be easier to tweak PvE accordingly at a later stage. Starting with just one class of ship, additional classes were introduced over time and put through their paces in daily play tests. Petersheck noted that the goal was to have each class feel truly unique and not simply have a bit less of this stat, or a bit more of that one:

"It's very tempting to just throw a bunch of classes of ships together in order to say things like 'our game has 15 classes of ships!' but this, we believe, is the wrong direction. People want meaningful and strong choices and not lots of meaningless, empty choices. Currently we plan to have 4-6 classes, but they will each have nearly endless possible configurations within those groups."

It's a promising design philosophy, to be sure. Check out the rest of Peterscheck's article at the JGE dev blog.

MassivelyJumpgate Evolution dev blog looks at balancing combat originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 30 Jul 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balanceclass-balancecodemasterscombating-combatdev-blogdeveloper-bloghermann-peterscheckjgejumpgate-evolutionnetdevilThu, 30 Jul 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jumpgate Evolution interview drops details on PvP]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/17/jumpgate-evolution-interview-drops-details-on-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/17/jumpgate-evolution-interview-drops-details-on-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/17/jumpgate-evolution-interview-drops-details-on-pvp/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


NetDevil's upcoming sci-fi MMO Jumpgate Evolution is notable for its aggressive, joystick-style approach to PvP. Needless to say, it's a game we're really looking forward to trying, we're just not sure about when that's going to be. Without a solid ETA on when the title will launch, we're just keeping up with NetDevil's updates on Jumpgate Evolution's development. They've recently announced some new info about the game's move towards a player-driven economy, but we'd imagine most of our readers are more interested in JGE's PvP. That's the focus of an interview with the title's lead producer Hermann Peterscheck that we've just come across over at MMORPG.com.

Jon Wood spoke with Peterscheck about how PvP will factor in the game's lore, and vice versa. Peterscheck explained how each of the nations has a personality or a character, which they've been trying to convey with the lore released for the militaristic Octavians, the profit-motivated Solrain, or the mystic Quantar. NetDevil's goal is to present enough 'character' for each nation that players can identify with that faction and bring that into their gameplay.

Continue reading Jumpgate Evolution interview drops details on PvP

MassivelyJumpgate Evolution interview drops details on PvP originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Jul 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hermann-peterscheckinterviewsjgejon-woodjumpgate-evolutionloremmorpg.comnetdeviloctavianpvpquantarracessci-fisolrainFri, 17 Jul 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jumpgate Evolution lead producer on how the game is shaping up]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/07/jumpgate-evolution-lead-producer-on-how-the-game-is-shaping-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/07/jumpgate-evolution-lead-producer-on-how-the-game-is-shaping-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/07/jumpgate-evolution-lead-producer-on-how-the-game-is-shaping-up/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


We think that Jumpgate Evolution is a promising game, one that will inject aggressive joystick-style PvP combat into the MMO scene and provide a change of pace from the slower, more tactical sci-fi titles. Massively doesn't have an ETA on the game's launch yet, but we are following how the game is developing, as communicated in interviews with the gaming press and fansites as well.

We recently mentioned Jumpgate Evolution's aims to establish a player-driven economy in the game, which we noted our readers had a mixed response to. We've also come across some more info about the game in an interview JGE lead producer Hermann Peterscheck gave to I4U News.

Continue reading Jumpgate Evolution lead producer on how the game is shaping up

MassivelyJumpgate Evolution lead producer on how the game is shaping up originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Jul 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cockpitgame-mechanicshermann-peterschecki4ui4u-newsinterviewsjgejoystickjumpgate-evolutionlead-producermmo-industrypvepvpsci-fiTue, 07 Jul 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jumpgate Evolution economy changing to player-driven system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/05/jumpgate-evolution-economy-changing-to-player-driven-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/05/jumpgate-evolution-economy-changing-to-player-driven-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/05/jumpgate-evolution-economy-changing-to-player-driven-system/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Some gamers were disheartened when NetDevil opted to delay the Jumpgate Evolution launch in order to refine some aspects of gameplay, but we're hoping the extra time they've bought for themselves will equate to a more polished release. One of those aspects of the game they're improving is Jumpgate Evolution's economy, which is the subject of an interview that producer Hermann Peterscheck gave to JGERadio's "Tikigod."

Throughout the interview, Peterscheck emphasizes that Jumpgate Evolution's economy should, by design, function in ways similar to a real world economy (but hopefully with a lot less fail) -- a far more dynamic system than one driven by NPC vendors. Peterscheck says, "I actually think the changes make the economy more alive. What we have done is moved away from an AI-based economy to a player-driven economy."

Continue reading Jumpgate Evolution economy changing to player-driven system

MassivelyJumpgate Evolution economy changing to player-driven system originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 05 Jul 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auction-housecraftingeconomygame-mechanicshermann-peterscheckinterviewsjgejgeradiojumpgate-evolutionnetdevilplayer-drivenpositional-valueproducersci-fiSun, 05 Jul 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Reign of the shooters]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/15/the-digital-continuum-reign-of-the-shooters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/15/the-digital-continuum-reign-of-the-shooters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/15/the-digital-continuum-reign-of-the-shooters/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


This year, a bleating signal is ringing out from all corners of the MMO industry. It calls to our attention a new order on the horizon: the order of shooter MMOs.

Can it be coincidence that everywhere you look at this year's E3, most of the exciting upcoming MMOs are shooters in one way or another? I'm looking forward to Final Fantasy XIV as much as the next fan, but there's only one or two traditional looking concepts that have my interest.

Moving through my mental list of must-play MMOs reveals a very obvious pattern. Jumpgate Evolution, All Points Bulletin, CrimeCraft and even aspects of Star Wars: The Old Republic are looking shooter-like. I mean, come on, cover mechanics for the Smuggler class? Now you're just teasing me into a squelching geek heat, BioWare.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Reign of the shooters

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Reign of the shooters originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Jun 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbbiowarecrimecraftfeaturedffxivfinal-fantasy-xivfpsfrogsterjgejumpgate-evolutionmagnetdevilrealtime-worldsshootersquare-enixstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-digital-continuumMon, 15 Jun 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Jumpgate Evolution screens show fighters in action]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/11/new-jumpgate-evolution-screens-show-fighters-in-action/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/11/new-jumpgate-evolution-screens-show-fighters-in-action/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/11/new-jumpgate-evolution-screens-show-fighters-in-action/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Massively recently took a look at Jumpgate Evolution at E3 2009, and we liked what we saw, which would be clear to anyone who listened to the latest Massively Speaking podcast. We put up some of the new screenshots for you to accompany our most recent feature story on Jumpgate Evolution, but the team at NetDevil released 14 new screenshots today.

We've added them to our core Jumpgate Evolution gallery, so have a look through our images below for the latest shots of the Quantar and Solrain fighters in action.

Gallery: Jumpgate Evolution Gallery

MassivelyNew Jumpgate Evolution screens show fighters in action originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 11 Jun 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>galleriesjgejumpgate-evolutionnetdevilquantarsci-fiscreenshotssolrainsolrain-empireThu, 11 Jun 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: Jumpgate Evolution's E3 trailer evokes that space opera drama]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/01/e3-2009-jumpgate-evolutions-e3-trailer-evokes-that-space-opera/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/01/e3-2009-jumpgate-evolutions-e3-trailer-evokes-that-space-opera/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/01/e3-2009-jumpgate-evolutions-e3-trailer-evokes-that-space-opera/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


When attempting to entice potential players with your game it never hurts to remind them of that television show or movie they love so very much, and how that it's possible to live out their fantasies of said other property in your own. This rule of thumb is why the E3 2009 trailer for Jumpgate Evolution over at G4TV's website is so very good. The trailer is quite successful in making us want to pop in our Battlestar Galactica reboot DVDs and watch them all over again.

Release day may no longer be in June -- or any month for that matter -- but our hopes are set in beta expanding sometime soon. You can find the full trailer after the break, in all its evocative and dramatic glory.
Massively is on the ground in Los Angeles this week and covering all the latest E3 MMO news coming from the convention. Check out our breaking coverage (or all the Joystiq network E3 reporting) and keep your eye on Massively's front page for the latest developments.

Continue reading E3 2009: Jumpgate Evolution's E3 trailer evokes that space opera drama

MassivelyE3 2009: Jumpgate Evolution's E3 trailer evokes that space opera drama originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Jun 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>codemasterse3-2009gazillion-entertainmentjgejumpgate-evolutionnetdeviltrailervideoMon, 01 Jun 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Competition for EVE Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/25/eve-evolved-competition-for-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/25/eve-evolved-competition-for-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/25/eve-evolved-competition-for-eve-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,


Although the most popular MMOs of today are in the fantasy genre, a niche within the MMO market has always existed for sci-fi games. For quite some time, EVE Online has dominated this niche with a steadily growing playerbase that has now exceeded 300,000 paying subscribers. It's been noted that releases in the fantasy market tend not to affect EVE Online, showing that it's not directly competing with games in the fantasy market. Perhaps the target markets of sci-fi and fantasy MMOs have very little overlap or perhaps the gameplay in EVE is unique enough that no real alternatives exist. Whatever the reason, EVE has been blessed with a relative lack of competition since its release in 2003. But with four major sci-fi MMOs on the horizon, could the game's creators CCP be in for a rough ride?

In this speculative opinion piece, I examine how EVE reacted to competition in the past and suggest how it may react to the next wave of sci-fi MMOs to hit the market.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Competition for EVE Online

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Competition for EVE Online originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 May 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black prophecyBlackProphecybpccpccp-gamescompetitioneveeve-evolvedeve-onlinefeaturedjgejoystiqfeaturesjumpgate-evolutionopinionpvpreleasestar trekstar trek onlinestar warsStarTrekStarTrekOnlineStarWarsstosubscriptionsswtorMon, 25 May 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively interview: Jumpgate Evolution and the art of ship design]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/22/massively-interview-jumpgate-evolution-and-the-art-of-ship-desi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/22/massively-interview-jumpgate-evolution-and-the-art-of-ship-desi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/22/massively-interview-jumpgate-evolution-and-the-art-of-ship-desi/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


We recently had a chance to speak with Darren Klein, NetDevil's art director for Jumpgate Evolution. He's got plenty to say about the design process that goes into creating the ships for their upcoming space shooter MMO. It's a very interesting read, too. Example: you wouldn't have guessed that it only takes about five days to design a ship from start to finish.

Not only do we have an interview, we've got a couple exclusive new screens from the game to check out in our gallery. Follow the link below for the complete interview.

Gallery: Jumpgate Evolution Gallery

Continue reading Massively interview: Jumpgate Evolution and the art of ship design

MassivelyMassively interview: Jumpgate Evolution and the art of ship design originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 May 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>codemastersdarren-kleinfeaturedgazillion-entertainmentjgejumpgate-evolutionnetdevilshipshipsFri, 22 May 2009 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Stargate Worlds studio head leaves company for Gazillion Entertainment]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/13/stargate-worlds-studio-head-leaves-company-for-gazillion-enterta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/13/stargate-worlds-studio-head-leaves-company-for-gazillion-enterta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/13/stargate-worlds-studio-head-leaves-company-for-gazillion-enterta/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Dan Elggren has apparently left troubled Stargate Worlds developer Cheyenne Mountain Entertainment / Firesky for recently announced Gazillion Entertainment. This news certainly doesn't bode well for CME, who've been having financial trouble for a long while now. Dan is merely the most recent departure, although he seems to have weathered the storm longer than most.

What does this mean for Stargate Worlds? Well considering all the financial issues and employee departures, it sadly points to a game that's less and less likely to ever see launch day. Frankly, it'd probably take a funding miracle to finish the project and in this currently downtrodden economy most investors probably won't be taking much risk.

Moreover, what do we make of this MMO industry vacuum that is Gazillion Entertainment? They also picked up Jumpgate Evolution developer NetDevil last year while in stealth mode, and something tells us they're not done absorbing talent just yet. So much is known about the company and yet much more remains a mystery. Maybe they've got enough money to release Stargate Worlds, although they may not have the mind. Whatever ends up happening, we're sorry to see anything like this ever happen to an MMO, pre or post launch.

MassivelyStargate Worlds studio head leaves company for Gazillion Entertainment originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 May 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingcheyenne-mountain-entertainmentcmedan-elggrenfireskygazilliongazillion-entertainmentjgejumpgate-evolutionnetdevilsgwstargatestargate-worldsWed, 13 May 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jumpgate Evolution Special Edition box art revealed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/01/jumpgate-evolution-special-edition-box-art-revealed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/01/jumpgate-evolution-special-edition-box-art-revealed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/01/jumpgate-evolution-special-edition-box-art-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


We don't know about you, but some of us on the Massively staff are really looking forward to the new breed of sci-fi MMOs on the horizon, some of which have release dates just around the corner. Jumpgate Evolution, in development at NetDevil, is a prominent example and will offer gamers a different take on space-faring MMOs than what's presently available with EVE Online -- dynamic joystick-style flight control, that twitch-style play that some gamers have been waiting for.

We don't have a firm release date for Jumpgate Evolution just yet, we know it's in June, but the first image of the game's Special Edition box art has surfaced on the site of a UK retailer, GAME. It lists the following contents:

Continue reading Jumpgate Evolution Special Edition box art revealed

MassivelyJumpgate Evolution Special Edition box art revealed originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 01 May 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artbox-artbreakinggamejgejumpgate-evolutionlaunchesnetdevilsci-fispecial-editionFri, 01 May 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Scott Brown elaborates on design philosophy behind Jumpgate Evolution]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/28/scott-brown-elaborates-on-design-philosophy-behind-jumpgate-evol/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/28/scott-brown-elaborates-on-design-philosophy-behind-jumpgate-evol/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/28/scott-brown-elaborates-on-design-philosophy-behind-jumpgate-evol/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Gamasutra caught up with NetDevil president Scott Brown to play a demo of and talk about his upcoming space MMO, Jumpgate Evolution. Fans already know about the various ships, career paths, and large-scale battles from recent interviews and part one of a "making of" production video, so they decided to discuss more of the design philophy behind the game instead.

Scott says his 13-person team has been trying to concoct the perfect "easy to learn, difficult to master" formula that will provide an accessible but challenging experience for players. He also believes players should be able to solo in JGE, but be encouraged to group as well. One feature he hints at is a "soft grouping" mechanic that will prevent solo players hunting in the same area from stealing each others' kills.

Instead of trying to incorporate fantasy-based MMO roles like tanking, healing, and DPSing, NetDevil gained their inspiration for careers from modern air and naval combat. Scott also believes that PvE- and PvP-oriented players may not mix, so the team has been considering a special PvE PvP-only server-type. Ultimately, beta testing will determine whether or not this happens. Speaking of beta, don't miss your chance to sign up because the game is set to launch in June.

MassivelyScott Brown elaborates on design philosophy behind Jumpgate Evolution originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Apr 2009 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>codemastersgamasutragroupinginterviewjgejumpgate-evolutionnetdevilpvepvpscott-brownTue, 28 Apr 2009 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Champions Online dated for release on July 14th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/24/champions-online-dated-for-release-on-july-14th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/24/champions-online-dated-for-release-on-july-14th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/24/champions-online-dated-for-release-on-july-14th/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


During an event in the UK today, Cryptic's Bill Roper revealed that Champions Online will officially launch on July 14th 2009 in both the United State and Europe. The launch date, while a tiny bit further than expected, is probably for the better since Jumgpate Evolution is releasing in the middle of June anyhow. If both of these games hit in the same month, we'd probably lose our minds.

Finally having a definitive release date is incredibly exciting and means we can now commence the tailoring of our superhero costume that we'll wear on launch day in order to celebrate. Of course, you won't be seeing that because well let's face it, we're going to be staying home waiting for Champions Online in the mail, dressed like the No Pants Man.

Keep your eyes sharp, as we're sure there'll be additional information from this event sometime soon.

MassivelyChampions Online dated for release on July 14th originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 Apr 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ataribill-roperbreakingchampionschampions-onlinecodemasterscrypticcryptic-studioseuropehero-gamesjgejumpgate-evolutionnetdevilrelease-dateFri, 24 Apr 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Which sci-fi MMOs are you looking forward to?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/23/the-daily-grind-which-sci-fi-mmos-are-you-looking-forward-to/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/23/the-daily-grind-which-sci-fi-mmos-are-you-looking-forward-to/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/23/the-daily-grind-which-sci-fi-mmos-are-you-looking-forward-to/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Star Wars: The Old Republic, Earthrise, Fallen Earth, Star Trek Online, Jumpgate Evolution, Global Agenda, Black Prophecy, the Fallout MMO (maybe), Blackstar, Otherland, StarGate Worlds, and even more. It seems that if you're a hardcore sci-fi fan, now is a really good time to be an MMO player with all the options coming soon in terms of upcoming MMOs. You've got everything from the blended fantasy/sci-fi to favorite movie and gaming IPs to all-new concepts to dig into and enjoy. Of course, with such a large influx coming, this morning we thought we'd ask you what some of your most anticipated sci-fi MMOs are? Which ones are you trying like mad to get into the betas for? Which ones are just kind of "meh" on your radar? If you've got more than one, which one do you think might reign supreme among your choices?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Which sci-fi MMOs are you looking forward to? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-prophecyblackstarbpearthrisefallen-earthfalloutfallout-mmofegaglobal-agendajgejumpgate-evolutionmmommofpsmmorpgotherlandsci-fisgwstar-trek-onlinestar-wars-the-old-republicstargate-worldsstoswtorThu, 23 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jumpgate Evolution full ship type details plus new screenshots]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/21/jumpgate-evolution-full-ship-type-details-plus-new-screenshots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/21/jumpgate-evolution-full-ship-type-details-plus-new-screenshots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/21/jumpgate-evolution-full-ship-type-details-plus-new-screenshots/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


If you're looking forward to Jumpgate Evolution as much as we are, then you'll be happy with today's press release via Codemasters concerning player ships -- in fact, you'll be ecstatic. The reason being that below the cut you'll find information on every single ship type and it's progression within the game.

We're talking Combat Fighters, Advanced Fighters, Support Gunboats, Combat Gunboats, Runners and Freighters. If all that information isn't enough, the press release also lays out the advancement paths of each ship type. The new screens are also pretty mindblowingly awesome, as well. While we're fairly certain that the world "mindblowingly" isn't actually word, for lack of a better thing to say, that will have to do.

So what are you waiting for? Check it out and join us in salivating over what's looking to be one amazing space shooter MMO.

Gallery: Jumpgate Evolution Gallery

Continue reading Jumpgate Evolution full ship type details plus new screenshots

MassivelyJumpgate Evolution full ship type details plus new screenshots originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 Apr 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>codemastersjgejumpgatejumpgate-evolutionnetdevilsci-fiscreensscreenshotsshipsspacespace-shooterTue, 21 Apr 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jumpgate Evolution gives us a dev diary sneak peek]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/09/jge-dev-diary-video-wt/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/09/jge-dev-diary-video-wt/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/09/jge-dev-diary-video-wt/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


If you've been itching for more information on the upcoming sci-fi space shoot-em-up Jumpgate Evolution, then you'll be thrilled to hear that Netdevil and Codemasters Online are rolling out a series of developer diary videos. The first video released today features Hermann Peterscheck, Lead Producer of Jumpgate Evolution, who talks about some of the inspirations that have gone into this game. Additionally, he takes some time to delve into just why they opted for a space shooter as an MMO project. As if that weren't enough, he shows off some gorgeous footage of game-play, and goes further into what the experience should be like for players in Jumpate Evolution, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the game's production ideals.

Netdevil and Codemasters Online have told us that they'll be bringing out a second developer diary video soon, chock full of more tantalizing details for MMO fans to drool over. The word is that the second installment will feature Jumpgate Evolution's Art Director Darren Klein, and will take players further down into the wormhole by looking into the art - and the reasoning - as to the visual style Jumpgate Evolution is taking. If you still haven't signed up for the beta for the game, head over to their main site and get signed up!

For now, enjoy the hot new dev video goodness behind the break!

Continue reading Jumpgate Evolution gives us a dev diary sneak peek

MassivelyJumpgate Evolution gives us a dev diary sneak peek originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 Apr 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betadev-diaryhermann-peterscheckjgejumpgate-evolutionnetdevilnew-titlesvideoThu, 09 Apr 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Jumpgate Evolution trailer is very definition of large scale battles]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/02/new-jumpgate-evolution-trailer-is-very-definition-of-large-scale/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/02/new-jumpgate-evolution-trailer-is-very-definition-of-large-scale/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/02/new-jumpgate-evolution-trailer-is-very-definition-of-large-scale/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


The newest trailer for Jumpgate Evolution is nearly 100% all combat, aside from the brief moments of textual drama. And with all that combat comes a pretty large sense of scale that we've really only seen in a few MMOs since the genre's inception. This and wonderful joyous action being NetDevil's specialty, it comes as no surprise.

Between the announcement of the game's minimum requirements and all of these gameplay videos, we're feeling very assured in our belief that Jumpgate Evolution is shaping up to be a visually stunning title that doesn't demand the world of our hardware. And so long as there aren't any significant bugs or crashes to desktops going on once the game releases, we'll probably be able to call the game 2009's most technically and visually impressive MMO.

Check out the full trailer after the break, or download the HD version directly from Big Download's super-fast file service.

Continue reading New Jumpgate Evolution trailer is very definition of large scale battles

MassivelyNew Jumpgate Evolution trailer is very definition of large scale battles originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Apr 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>codemastersgameplaygazillion-entertainmentjgejumpgatejumpgate-evolutionnetdevilsci-fispacetrailervideowhen-darkness-fallsThu, 02 Apr 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Minimum specs and new screens for Jumpgate Evolution revealed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/02/minimum-specs-and-new-screens-for-jumpgate-evolution-revealed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/02/minimum-specs-and-new-screens-for-jumpgate-evolution-revealed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/02/minimum-specs-and-new-screens-for-jumpgate-evolution-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


With the month of March behind us and April in full effect, June continues to creep closer and closer. This is of deep significance for anyone awaiting the release of NetDevil's Jumpgate Evolution, as is today's announcement of the game's minimum hardware requirements.

If this was a game of limbo, we'd have to say that NetDevil just won this month's tournament by creating one of the most technically limber MMOs we've seen in quite some time. How will the game actually look at lower setting has yet to be seen, although space games tend to scale down pretty well. We're also interested to see what the recommended specs look like, but for now you can consider us very impressed.

Check out the minimum requirements just beyond the cut.

Gallery: Jumpgate Evolution Gallery

Continue reading Minimum specs and new screens for Jumpgate Evolution revealed

MassivelyMinimum specs and new screens for Jumpgate Evolution revealed originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Apr 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingcodemastersgazillion-entertainmentjgejumpgatejumpgate-evolutionjunenetdevilsystem-requirementsThu, 02 Apr 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC09: Jumpgate Evolution developer video walkthrough]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/27/gdc-09-jumpgate-evolution-developer-video-walkthrough/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/27/gdc-09-jumpgate-evolution-developer-video-walkthrough/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/27/gdc-09-jumpgate-evolution-developer-video-walkthrough/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


With its June release nearing and beta even closer than that, Jumpgate Evolution was looking pretty hot at GDC09 this week -- although that may have something to do with the game running on three monitors.

Much of the information in the video isn't entirely new, aside from the discussion of open PvP which seems to involve the building and defending/attacking of space stations. Beyond that, we get a very close look at the sexy UI that NetDevil has put together. Also, have we mentioned that this game looks downright gorgeous?

We're pretty sure that we've mentioned that at least five or twenty times. Check out the second half of the walkthrough after the break.

Continue reading GDC09: Jumpgate Evolution developer video walkthrough

MassivelyGDC09: Jumpgate Evolution developer video walkthrough originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 27 Mar 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atarideveloper-walkthroughgdcgdc-2009jgejumpgate-evolutionnetdevilpvpFri, 27 Mar 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NetDevil acquired by Gazillion Entertainment... last July]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/18/netdevil-acquired-by-gazillion-entertainment-last-july/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/18/netdevil-acquired-by-gazillion-entertainment-last-july/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/18/netdevil-acquired-by-gazillion-entertainment-last-july/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


We've got good news that also happens to be a bit strange. Remember that new publisher that's now bringing us the Marvel MMO? Well, it turns out that NetDevil was actually acquired in July 2008 by the newly revealed Gazillion Entertainment. NetDevil's Scott "Scorch" Brown says in his post on the official Jumpgate Evolution forums that the choice was made due to Gazillion's shared view on game development. Specifically, the two companies value lots of focus testing, vertical slice development, iterating until things are great and only releasing games when they are ready.

The strange part is of course the announcement of an acquisition that occured over half a year ago. We're assuming the delay was due to Gazillion wanting to make a big announcement splash, but it's dark business magic like this that make us scratch our heads sometimes.

Is this news and that of Codemaster's chief operating officer unexpectedly departing from the company connected? It's hard to say, but at this point it's anybody's guess as to what's really going on.

MassivelyNetDevil acquired by Gazillion Entertainment... last July originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Mar 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>codemastersgazillion-entertainmentjgejumpgatejumpgate-evolutionlego-universemarvelmarvel-mmonetdevilscott-brownWed, 18 Mar 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively speaks at length with Jumpgate Evolution's Hermann Peterscheck Pt. 3]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/16/massively-speaks-at-length-with-jumpgate-evolutions-hermann-p3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/16/massively-speaks-at-length-with-jumpgate-evolutions-hermann-p3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/16/massively-speaks-at-length-with-jumpgate-evolutions-hermann-p3/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Continue reading Massively speaks at length with Jumpgate Evolution's Hermann Peterscheck Pt. 3

MassivelyMassively speaks at length with Jumpgate Evolution's Hermann Peterscheck Pt. 3 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Mar 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Continue reading Massively speaks at length with Jumpgate Evolution's Hermann Peterscheck Pt. 2

MassivelyMassively speaks at length with Jumpgate Evolution's Hermann Peterscheck Pt. 2 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Mar 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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With its June launch looming just a few months away, we spoke with Jumpgate Evolution's Hermann Peterscheck. Within this interview you can find information on topics such as digital distribution, beta, hardcore mode and plenty more.

And if that somehow doesn't sate your thirst for information, then check out our previous interviews with Hermann, which contain all sorts of additional, informative goodies.

Gallery: Jumpgate Evolution Gallery

Continue reading Massively speaks at length with Jumpgate Evolution's Hermann Peterscheck

MassivelyMassively speaks at length with Jumpgate Evolution's Hermann Peterscheck originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Mar 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activision-blizzardblizzardcodemastersdigital-distributionfeaturedhardcore-modehermann-peterscheckjgejumpgatejumpgate-evolutionlicenselicense-systemnetdevilsteamvalveworld-of-warcraftwowMon, 16 Mar 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA['Enter the Fray' in Jumpgate Evolution's latest trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/22/enter-the-fray-in-jumpgate-evolutions-latest-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/22/enter-the-fray-in-jumpgate-evolutions-latest-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/22/enter-the-fray-in-jumpgate-evolutions-latest-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


NetDevil has released a new Jumpgate Evolution trailer showing off quite a bit of gameplay footage, including our first look at the much-promised capital ship battles.

It'd be an understatement to say that as fans of things like space shooters, Battlestar Galactica and the original Star Wars trilogy, this trailer delivers a lot of excitement. In fact, we hope that Codemasters and NetDevil can figure out how to get stuff like this alongside any upcoming space movies or television series.

June 2009 and beta can't come soon enough, but until then we'll keep updating you with the latest information and news regarding Jumpgate Evolution. Check out the video after the break.

Continue reading 'Enter the Fray' in Jumpgate Evolution's latest trailer

Massively'Enter the Fray' in Jumpgate Evolution's latest trailer originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 22 Feb 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galacticacodemasterscodemasters-onlinejgejumpgatejumpgate-evolutionjunenetdevilstar-warstrailerSun, 22 Feb 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New looks into Jumpgate Evolution]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/19/new-looks-into-jumpgate-evolution/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/19/new-looks-into-jumpgate-evolution/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/19/new-looks-into-jumpgate-evolution/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


The folks over at MMORPG.com seem to have smuggled a few more screenshots out of Jumpgate Evolution for everyone's perusal. Eleven new images of the game have been added to their online gallery, each one quite gorgeous and jaw dropping. The screenshots themselves are centered around the various types of ships and starbases that can be encountered in the game, as well as some locales like jumpgates and asteroid fields.

We have to keep reminding ourselves that this is a very fast paced space shooter that requires both speed and precision, but how are we suppose to be precise when we're looking at how pretty everything in the game is? We just hope they make everything into a blur, otherwise it's going to be really hard for us to pull away from the scenery to shoot down some enemies.

MassivelyNew looks into Jumpgate Evolution originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Feb 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asteroid-fieldjgejumpgatejumpgate-evolutionmmorpg.comscreenshotsspace-combatThu, 19 Feb 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Join the Jumpgate Evolution developer chat this Tuesday, February 24th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/19/join-the-jumpgate-evolution-developer-chat-this-tuesday-februar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/19/join-the-jumpgate-evolution-developer-chat-this-tuesday-februar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/19/join-the-jumpgate-evolution-developer-chat-this-tuesday-februar/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


If you happen to have some Jumpgate Evolution questions burning in your brain, then next Tuesday on February 24th we recommend that you join in a developer chat over on Stratics. The actual chat will be held via IRC, which you can find a handy-dandy guide to right here in case you're not overly familiar with the application. For everyone else, here's a list of equally handy, as well as dandy, servers to join:

  • irc.glowfish.de EU - Germany 6667 6668
  • stratics.frws.com USA - Colorado 6667 6668 7000
  • stratics.afraidyet.net USA - Texas 6667 6668
  • irc.gamers-irc.org USA - Colorado 6667 6668 7000
We'll be following up on any transcipts that hit the net afterwords, so if for some reason you're unable to make it (or IRC boggles your mind) you can still partake in new Jumpgate Evolution information as you see fit.

MassivelyJoin the Jumpgate Evolution developer chat this Tuesday, February 24th originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>codemastersdev-chatdeveloper-chatircjgejumpgate-evolutionnetdevilstraticsThu, 19 Feb 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What beta are you dying to get into?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/13/the-daily-grind-what-beta-are-you-dying-to-get-into/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/13/the-daily-grind-what-beta-are-you-dying-to-get-into/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/13/the-daily-grind-what-beta-are-you-dying-to-get-into/#commentsFiled under: , ,


With all the games in beta right now, there's a huge list going here at the Massively offices of what betas everyone wants in on. There's Jumpgate Evolution, Champions Online, Darkfall, Fallen Earth, and more coming into beta all the time - almost all of which have our interest right now. The coin-tosses in the virtual massively offices to see who lands which invites will be fast and furious, but to bring us to our question today... With so many interesting titles coming up, we know we can't be the only ones excited about all the new games coming. What beta - or betas - are you really hoping to get in to?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What beta are you dying to get into? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 Feb 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabetaschampions-onlinecodarkfallfallen-earthfejgejumpgate-evolutiontdgthe-daily-grindFri, 13 Feb 2009 08:00:00 EST