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 Game Archaeologist: When dead MMOs come back to life]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/01/the-game-archaeologist-when-dead-mmos-come-back-to-life/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/01/the-game-archaeologist-when-dead-mmos-come-back-to-life/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/01/the-game-archaeologist-when-dead-mmos-come-back-to-life/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Hellgate Tokyo
Maybe I'm alone in this, but my jaw just dropped when I came home this past week to see that Massively posted the news that Shadowbane is coming back to life. Granted, it's only going to happen in China, but still, that's pretty incredible. Shadowbane's been in the ground for three years now, and if I had to pick an MMO that deserved resurrection, this particular one would be farthest from my mind (no offense if you liked the game; it's just that there are so many others that are even more worthy).

But how can this not give you hope? Many of us have lost an MMO we loved or at least had a decked-out character populating the character select screen, and the thought of that game coming back against all odds is a goosebump-rising one. It may also smack of justice served, as some MMOs fail not because of faulty gameplay but because of mismanagement by the studio, complex legal wrangling, or bad marketing.

Today let's look at a few examples of dead MMOs that were brought back to life and what this may mean for the future of the industry. Zombie MMOs! Not, you know, MMOs with zombies.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist: When dead MMOs come back to life

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist: When dead MMOs come back to life originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-reloadedapbapb-reloadedapbrchangyouclassicclassic-mmoclassic-mmosclassicsclone-wars-adventurescrimediablodiablo-clonef2pfallen-earthfantasyfaxion-onlinefeaturedflagshipfree-realmsfree-to-playfrogsterg1galaxiesgame-archaelogistgamersfirsthanbitsofthellgatehellgate-globalhellgate-londonhellgate-tokyojohn-smedleylego-universemythosmythos-europemythos-globalnostalgiaopinionPirates-of-the-Burning-Seapvprebootredbanaresurrectionrevivalsandboxsci-fishadowbanesoesony-online-entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-galaxiesswgswgot3t3funtabula-rasathe-game-archaeologistthe-matrix-onlinevanguardzombie-mmozombiesTue, 01 May 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE president John Smedley announces that all players will be able to play on any server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/soe-president-john-smedley-announces-that-all-players-will-be-ab/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/soe-president-john-smedley-announces-that-all-players-will-be-ab/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/soe-president-john-smedley-announces-that-all-players-will-be-ab/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

I can't handle this emotional rollercoaster, SOE.
It's no secret that Sony Online Entertainment has been in more than a little hot water in the wake of the recently announced region locks that were to be put in place following the studio's deal with ProSiebenSat.1, but there may still be a silver lining on the horizon. SOE president John Smedley tweeted earlier today that the studio has "come up with a plan to allow ALL players to play on any servers they want." While details are still to come, this should be incredibly welcome news for players of SOE titles who weren't looking forward to playing without their international friends.

Smedley promises us that there are "more details to follow," so stay tuned and hopefully we'll have some idea of what's in the works before too long.

MassivelySOE president John Smedley announces that all players will be able to play on any server originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 27 Feb 2012 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alaplayaculturedramadrama-llamaeq2everquesteverquest-iifiascogaming-cultureindustryjohn-smedleymmo-culturemmo-industryplanetsideplanetside-2prosiebensat.1region-lockregion-lockssoesoe-prosiebensat.1sony-online-entertainmentMon, 27 Feb 2012 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist chats with John Smedley about EQMac's salvation]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/the-game-archaeologist-chats-with-john-smedley-about-eqmacs-sal/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/the-game-archaeologist-chats-with-john-smedley-about-eqmacs-sal/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/the-game-archaeologist-chats-with-john-smedley-about-eqmacs-sal/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

John Smedley
A week ago I sat here writing up what I thought was going to be the epitaph for EverQuest's odd foray into an Apple-only product, EverQuest Macintosh. The word came down from on high that with the coming of free-to-play, EQMac's diminutive server population would be ushered out the doors as Al'Kabor got sent to the retirement home.

That was a week ago. Boy, what a difference a week makes, right?

Since the writing of that article, we received word that not only did Sony Online Entertainment reverse its decision to kill EQMac but that it will be making the server completely free for its community for the indefinite future. I learned that while under the influence of a 102-degree fever, so I initially thought it was just my brain cooking in my skull. But no, it was the truth. So what happened in the span of that week? Why did SOE do a 180 and keep alive an ancient relic of its flagship MMO?

For the whole, unadulterated truth, I called up SOE President John Smedley to get the full scoop on the wild rollercoaster he's taken this loyal community on these past few weeks. Finding out what he said will only cost you one click. It's worth it, trust me.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist chats with John Smedley about EQMac's salvation

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist chats with John Smedley about EQMac's salvation originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classicclassic-mmosclassicseqeq-maceverquesteverquest-macf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgame-archaelogistinterviewinterviewsjohn-smedleyopinionsoesony-online-entertainmentthe-game-archaeologistTue, 21 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Reports of EverQuest Mac dying have been greatly exaggerated]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/reports-of-everquest-mac-dying-have-been-greatly-exaggerated/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/reports-of-everquest-mac-dying-have-been-greatly-exaggerated/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/reports-of-everquest-mac-dying-have-been-greatly-exaggerated/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

It gets knocked down, but it gets up again.
Nothing gold can stay, it seems. EverQuest on the Macintosh, affectionately dubbed EQMac, was announced as facing a shutdown in wake of the game's impending free-to-play transition. John Smedley confirmed this, players mourned, and our own stalwart Game Archaeologist lamented its passing. And so, as the game approaches its final month, Smedley has... apparently rescinded the entire thing via a late-night Twitter post that has taken the entire EQMac community by surprise.

Yes, there is apparently both a Santa Claus and a Tooth Fairy, because John Smedley has stated that not only are the EQMac fans "a wonderful group of players," the game will be left running. Better yet, it will continue to run as-is and with no subscription fees. If you're part of the fanbase, no, you don't need to pinch yourself, this is actually a thing that is happening. Further details are to be announced soon, but just the facts alone should make fans very happy.

MassivelyReports of EverQuest Mac dying have been greatly exaggerated originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applebreakingeqeqmaceverquesteverquest-macjohn-smedleymacintoshnewsnews-itemsoperating-systemosshutdownssoesony-online-entertainmentTue, 14 Feb 2012 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist mourns the end of EQMac]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/the-game-archaeologist-mourns-the-end-of-eqmac/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/the-game-archaeologist-mourns-the-end-of-eqmac/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/the-game-archaeologist-mourns-the-end-of-eqmac/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

EQMac
In 2003, Sony Online Entertainment tried an experiment to reach out to the (then) small-but-growing community of Mac users. The company released EverQuest Macintosh Edition -- quickly abbreviated to EQMac -- which incorporated the core game and the first four expansions of EverQuest: The Ruins of Kunark, The Scars of Velious, The Shadows of Luclin, and The Planes of Power. Because EQMac was a separate version of the game, SOE segregated Apple players on their own server called Al'Kabor and then, for all intents and purposes, abandoned them as the "real" EverQuest continued to expand and advance.

While the population didn't exactly explode, especially as the progression of time rendered EQMac stuck in a type of video game amber, a singular community of dedicated, helpful players formed, and they became proud of their hardcore home. According to many of them, EQMac was the way EverQuest was always meant to be played, frozen in time at the release of one of the game's best expansions. It was a mark of pride to say that you played on Al'Kabor, especially now as massive AAA MMOs dwarf the original EQ -- to say nothing of this odd EQ spinoff.

Yet, as SOE posted, "all good things must end," and with the news that EverQuest is being prepped for free-to-play, EQMac players learned that they would not be joining the rest. Unless higher powers intervene, on March 29th, Al'Kabor will be turned off for good. As such, I felt this was a good time to look briefly at the history of this unique title and the testimonies of its passionate fans.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist mourns the end of EQMac

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist mourns the end of EQMac originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eqeq-maceqmaceqmac.comeqoaeverquesteverquest-iieverquest-maceverquest-macintosheverquest-macintosh-editioneverquest-online-adventuresfeaturedhobartjohn-smedleylord-of-the-rings-onlineosxplanes-of-powersoesony-online-entertainmenttgathe-game-archaeologistthe-planes-of-powerthe-ruins-of-kunarkthe-scars-of-veliousthe-shadows-of-lucinTodd-Schmidtworld-of-warcraftTue, 14 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest Mac fans fight for survival; SOE responds]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/31/everquest-mac-fans-fight-for-survival-soe-responds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/31/everquest-mac-fans-fight-for-survival-soe-responds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/31/everquest-mac-fans-fight-for-survival-soe-responds/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

EverQuest Mac
While many players are celebrating the announcement of EverQuest's upcoming free-to-play transition, there is one EQ community that was crushed by the news. The small but dedicated fanbase of EverQuest: Macintosh Edition found out that with F2P, EQMac and its one server would be sunsetted on the same date.

EQMac fans have begun to stage a campaign to save their favorite game, but it looks like there will be no budging SOE's mind on the matter. SOE President John Smedley took to the forums today to answer specific questions about the shutdown. "It breaks my heart to have to do this," he laments, before admitting that it's a done deal. Smedley cites the fact that the codebase is so ancient that only one SOE programmer knows how to work it, the player population is too small, and SOE was never that "proud" of the version.

However, Smedley promised that he will run a poll to see if there's enough interest in a Mac port of the current version of EverQuest. If the response is big enough, he says, the company will consider doing it. Meanwhile, the game will be available for current players free of charge until the March 29th shutdown. SOE has a celebration planned for its final hurrah.

EQMac came out in 2003 and was unique for remaining "frozen in time" in the years since, receiving no further active development or expansions. We will be covering this game and its shutdown more in-depth in a future Game Archaeologist column, so stay tuned.

MassivelyEverQuest Mac fans fight for survival; SOE responds originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleeqeq-forumseqmaceverquesteverquest-macintosheverquest-macintosh-editionf2pforumsfree-to-playjohn-smedleymacmac-editionmac-portmac-versionpollshutdownsmedleysoeSony-Online-EntertainmentsunsetsunsettingTue, 31 Jan 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[This Week in MMO: Lawsuits edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/this-week-in-mmo-lawsuits-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/this-week-in-mmo-lawsuits-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/this-week-in-mmo-lawsuits-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

This Week in MMO
It's that time again, folks. Gary Gannon and guests Mike B. and Mike Schaffnit bring you this week's edition of This Week in MMO, and today the spotlight is set on the Bethesda-Interplay lawsuit, which was recently resolved in Bethesda's favor. Meanwhile, console gamers everywhere are surely pleased to hear that they won't be left out of Blizzard's upcoming Diablo III, as it was recently confirmed that the game will be making the jump to consoles as well as PC. And finally, to top it all off, the guys have a chat about SOE CEO John Smedley's thoughts on the free-to-play business model and PlanetSide 2's newest trailer. If you've got an hour to kill, just click on past the cut for the full episode.

Continue reading This Week in MMO: Lawsuits edition

MassivelyThis Week in MMO: Lawsuits edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bethesdabethesda-interplay-lawsuitconsolesdiablo-iiigary-gannoninterplayjohn-smedleylawsuitmike-bmike-schaffnitplanetside-2this-week-in-mmotwimmovideovideosThu, 12 Jan 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[John Smedley: EverQuest II seeing 'amazing growth' following F2P]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/john-smedley-everquest-ii-seeing-amazing-growth-following-f2p/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/john-smedley-everquest-ii-seeing-amazing-growth-following-f2p/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/john-smedley-everquest-ii-seeing-amazing-growth-following-f2p/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EQII
Following a rocky and often-troubling year for Sony Online Entertainment in 2011, it's got to be good to have a clear win for the team. So we certainly can't begrudge SOE President John Smedley from climbing to the mountaintops to trumpet EverQuest II's success following its full free-to-play transition last month.

According to a series of tweets, Smedley says that the numbers are looking impressive: "We are seeing some amazing growth in EQII. 40% increase in daily logins since going F2P, 300% increase in new players, and 200% increase in item sales. Plus we have added a lot of new subs. All during the time that some really good competition hit the market."

Smedley also says that SOE is "very excited" with its partnership with ProSiebenSat.1, which grants exclusive publishing rights in Europe to eight of the studio's titles, including EverQuest, DC Universe Online, and Star Wars: Clone Wars Adventures.

MassivelyJohn Smedley: EverQuest II seeing 'amazing growth' following F2P originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc-universe-onlinedcuoeq2eqiieverquesteverquest-2everquest-iif2pfree-to-playjohn-smedleypartnershipProSiebenProSiebenSat.1soesony-online-entertainmentstar-wars-clone-wars-adventuresTue, 10 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The most popular Massively stories of 2011]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/04/the-most-popular-massively-stories-of-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/04/the-most-popular-massively-stories-of-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/04/the-most-popular-massively-stories-of-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Popular picture
When you consider the most popular debate subjects or recent conversational trends, you might think about politics or religion or even pop culture. So when the bloggers of Massively looked back on the previous year to take stock of which articles and categories were the most popular by pageview, we were surprised at the results. The year 2011 was unorthodox, and the list of the most popular posts reflects that.

There are some obvious topics, the ones any loyal reader of Massively would expect to see, but others represent a dramatic shift in the subjects and games readers most enjoyed reading and responding to.

So what were the most popular stories and categories of 2011? Onward!

Continue reading The most popular Massively stories of 2011

MassivelyThe most popular Massively stories of 2011 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenanetbetabetawatchBioWareBlizzardccpchoose-my-adventuredc-universe-onlinedust-514eve-onlineeverbloomExpansionsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpGuild-Wars-2interviewjohn-smedleykingsisle-entertainmentLiveStreamlord-of-the-rings-onlinemists-of-pandariamonocle-gatencsoftPlaystation3riftSOESONYSony-Online-Entertainmentstar-wars-the-old-republicswtortitantrionturbinewizard101World-of-WarcraftWed, 04 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE's John Smedley expresses regrets over SWG mishaps]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/soes-john-smedley-expresses-regrets-over-swg-mishaps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/soes-john-smedley-expresses-regrets-over-swg-mishaps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/soes-john-smedley-expresses-regrets-over-swg-mishaps/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Star Wars Galaxies
Star Wars Galaxies may be no more, but its legacy lives on in memories, discussion, and hindsight analysis. Sony Online Entertainment's John Smedley had a frank talk with Industry Gamers in which he owns up to the mistakes of how the studio handled the title, particularly surrounding the much-maligned Combat Upgrade and New Game Enhancements.

What would Smedley do if he could go back and give it another try? His first regret is launching the game before the space combat system was done, and his second is that SOE didn't talk and listen to its players more. "We would have encouraged more in-depth discussion with the community surrounding the idea of any game modifications," he said.

Smedley is highly optimistic for the studio's future, particularly in its fervent belief in the free-to-play business model: "We think that 'Free to Play, Your Way' is our future. Giving players choices is the theme of how we're moving forward as a company, which means greater flexibility for our player base."

MassivelySOE's John Smedley expresses regrets over SWG mishaps originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Dec 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>combat-upgradecommunitycuf2pfree-to-playjohn-smedleynew-game-enhancementsngeplayersregretssmedsmedleysoesony-online-entertainmentspace-combatstar-wars-galaxiessunsetswgWed, 21 Dec 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[John Smedley gives interesting tweets on DC Universe Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/john-smedley-gives-interesting-tweets-on-dc-universe-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/john-smedley-gives-interesting-tweets-on-dc-universe-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/john-smedley-gives-interesting-tweets-on-dc-universe-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Not pictured: John Smedley dancing in his office.
DC Universe Online is one of the most recent games to make the business model change over to free-to-play, but that alone isn't an assurance of a game's success. The proof, as they say, is in the pudding. And according to the latest Twitter posts by John Smedley on his feed, that pudding is exceptionally rich; Since the business model switch, the game's revenues have been up an astonishing 700% per day, with 53% of the revenue coming from the PlayStation 3 players.

The playerbase is growing, as well, with about a 6% increase per day. Apparently, 85% of players are returning players, and it would seem that many of them are happy with what they see judging by the growth in both revenue and total population. Enough to purchase more characters, even -- extra character slots are one of the most popular items in the cash shop, with the Vanguard of the Heavens skin being the other most popular item. It's an interesting set of numbers, showing that the proof is most certainly in the pudding -- and it's quite a lot of pudding.

MassivelyJohn Smedley gives interesting tweets on DC Universe Online originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Nov 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modeldcdc-comicsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuof2pfree-to-playfree-to-play-successjohn-smedleysoesony-online-entertainmenttweetstwitterMon, 21 Nov 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DC Universe Online boasts 1000% playerbase growth]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/dc-universe-online-boasts-1000-playerbase-growth/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/dc-universe-online-boasts-1000-playerbase-growth/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/dc-universe-online-boasts-1000-playerbase-growth/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- DC Universe Online
DC Universe Online has been free-to-play for just under a week now, but SOE is already reporting huge spikes in player population. SOE president John Smedley has been tweeting constantly since the transition, with the most recent tweet announcing that population is up 1000% from its pre-F2P numbers.

It's not all sunshine and butterflies over in DCUO-land, however. Players have been experiencing a number of issues with the F2P transition, such as astoundingly long server queues, endless loading screens, and other gameplay-inhibiting problems. Smedley says that the team is "on it," though.

If you want to be part of the game's booming playerbase, just head on over to the game's official site (or download the game on Steam) and jump on in.

MassivelyDC Universe Online boasts 1000% playerbase growth originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 Nov 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boostdc-comicsdc-universe-onlinedcuof2pfree-to-playgrowthjohn-smedleyplayer-baseplayerspopulationpopulation-growthsoesony-online-entertainmenttransitionMon, 07 Nov 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DCUO registers 120,000 new players, sees concurrent user spike [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/dcuo-registers-120-000-new-players-sees-concurrent-user-spike/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/dcuo-registers-120-000-new-players-sees-concurrent-user-spike/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/dcuo-registers-120-000-new-players-sees-concurrent-user-spike/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

DC Universe Online - moon over Gotham
If the early returns are any indication, DC Universe Online's free-to-play conversion is looking pretty successful. Sony Online Entertainment boss John Smedley recently tweeted that the superhero MMO picked up 120,000 new player registrations since its Tuesday evening cutover.

Smedley also said that concurrent users swelled 400% during the same time period. The one downside to the title's newfound popularity is the login queues. Earlier this year SOE consolidated all of the game's launch-day shards down to a few "megaservers" and PC Gamer reports that login queues are paying the price as a flood of F2P tire-kickers descends on Gotham City and Metropolis en masse.

[Update: John Smedley sent out another tweet on Friday heralding even more good news for SOE: "Over 330k new players. Concurrent usage is up 600% in DCUO! F2P FTW!"]

MassivelyDCUO registers 120,000 new players, sees concurrent user spike [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelsdc-comicsdc-universedc-universe-onlinef2pfree-to-playim-batmanjohn-smedleysoeSony-Online-EntertainmentsuperheroThu, 03 Nov 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[John Smedley talks EverQuest, DC Universe Online, and future projects]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/17/john-smedley-talks-everquest-dc-universe-online-and-future-pro/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/17/john-smedley-talks-everquest-dc-universe-online-and-future-pro/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/17/john-smedley-talks-everquest-dc-universe-online-and-future-pro/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

EverQuest - inspiring passionate jigs in statues since '98.
It's impossible to deny the huge influence that EverQuest has had on the face of MMOs, something reflected by its recent induction into the GDC Hall of Fame. According to John Smedley, however, the game is in no way experiencing a decline. In a recent interview, he compares the game to several older gaming franchises such as Dungeons & Dragons, noting that he hopes to keep the game vibrant and updating for several years to come.

Smedley also touches briefly on EverQuest Next, saying that he hopes the team can deliver something akin to the re-envisioning of the Star Trek franchise in the 2009 film. He goes on to discuss the change in DC Universe Online, the possibility for future projects on the upcoming PS Vita, and other projects further on down the line. It's an interesting look at what's next for a game that's defined the MMO since its launch.

MassivelyJohn Smedley talks EverQuest, DC Universe Online, and future projects originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 17 Oct 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc-universe-onlinedcuodevelopmenteqeqneverquesteverquest-nextfuture-developmentsinterviewjohn-smedleysonysony-online-entertainmentMon, 17 Oct 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC Online 2011: A nostalgia trip with the original EverQuest team]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/14/gdc-online-2011-a-nostalgia-trip-with-the-original-everquest-te/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/14/gdc-online-2011-a-nostalgia-trip-with-the-original-everquest-te/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/14/gdc-online-2011-a-nostalgia-trip-with-the-original-everquest-te/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

This year, GDC Online presented the Hall of Fame award to SOE's classic EverQuest. The game is currently 12 years old, and as legendary presenter Richard Garriott put it, "It perfected the commercial genre" of MMO games. Several members of the original team attended the awards ceremony, and Massively was honored to have a chance to sit and speak with them. Even if you aren't an old school vet, you'll enjoy this trip down memory lane with Brad McQuaid, John Smedley, and the rest of the team. Read on for highlights from the interview.

Continue reading GDC Online 2011: A nostalgia trip with the original EverQuest team

MassivelyGDC Online 2011: A nostalgia trip with the original EverQuest team originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 14 Oct 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bill-trostbrad-mcquaidbrian-canaryeqeverquestfeaturedfippygdcgdc-onlinegdc-online-2011gdc-online-hall-of-famegeoffrey-zatkininterviewinterviewsjohn-smedleyroger-uzunrussell-shanksryan-palaciosoeSony-Online-EntertainmentFri, 14 Oct 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest joins Ultima Online in GDCOA's Hall of Fame]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/everquest-joins-ultima-online-in-gdcoas-hall-of-fame/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/everquest-joins-ultima-online-in-gdcoas-hall-of-fame/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/everquest-joins-ultima-online-in-gdcoas-hall-of-fame/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

GDCOA
EverQuest may not be the recent hotness that everyone's talking about, but its impact on the MMO genre continues to be felt to this day. As such, it's great to see this classic game reaping its reward, as the Game Developers Choice Online Awards inducted EQ into the Hall of Fame yesterday.

EverQuest was chosen for its lengthy advancements in MMO gaming, including it's focus on raiding and guild improvements. It now joins old-time competitor Ultima Online as the only other title in GDCOA's Hall of Fame.

Sony Online Entertainment's John Smedley graciously accepted the honor: "When we set out to create EverQuest, many felt it was an unattainable stretch of the imagination. As it turns out, EverQuest exceeded even our wildest expectations. Twelve years later, we are about to release its 18th expansion, and have big plans for its future. We are incredibly proud of its impact on the industry and the community we have built. Tonight's honor is a testament to the hard working individuals who have contributed to EverQuest -- both past and present."

MassivelyEverQuest joins Ultima Online in GDCOA's Hall of Fame originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awardawardseqeverquestGame-Developers-Choice-Online-Awardsgames-developers-conferencegdcgdcoahall-of-famejohn-smedleysoesony-online-entertainmentultima-onlineuoThu, 13 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Tattered Notebook: What if live servers go free-to-play?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/01/the-tattered-notebook-what-if-live-servers-go-free-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/01/the-tattered-notebook-what-if-live-servers-go-free-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/01/the-tattered-notebook-what-if-live-servers-go-free-to-play/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

EQII gold chest
For the past few weeks of The Tattered Notebook, I've explored EverQuest II's Extended server, Freeport, to see what gameplay is like on the other side of the wall that separates it from its subscription-based cousins. This week, I'm going to look at the scenario that all EQII players consider: making all servers free-to-play. It's a very complicated issue, and there are excellent arguments on both sides, but there are a few factors that tend to tip the scales.

I don't have nearly enough space in this column to touch on every issue involving a free-to-play transition, so I'm going to focus on a few of the most important ones and give my thoughts on what would need to happen if EQII did indeed go free-to-play on all servers.

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: What if live servers go free-to-play?

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: What if live servers go free-to-play? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 01 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eq-2eq-iieq2eq2xeqiiEverQuest-2everquest-2-extendedeverquest-iieverquest-ii-extendedextendedf2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreeportjohn-smedleykaren-bryanlaralyn-mcwilliamspvpsmokejumpersoeSony-Online-Entertainmenttattered-notebookSat, 01 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Smedley helps us understand free-to-play]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/28/free-for-all-smedley-helps-us-understand-free-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/28/free-for-all-smedley-helps-us-understand-free-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/28/free-for-all-smedley-helps-us-understand-free-to-play/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Free Realms screenshot
John Smedley has been in this business a long, long time. Under his eye, Sony Online Entertainment has released some of the most influential and controversial titles out there. It should surprise no one that he has had to become very flexible when it comes to his customers, but he's also very decisive when it comes to fluctuations in the market.

One of those fluctuations is the coming of free-to-play gaming and unlimited trial payment models. Of all the audiences in the world of gaming, SOE's tend to skew a bit older. These are players who might not appreciate all changes and who definitely know what they like. And so when Smedley and SOE released freemium titles like Free Realms and rolled out free versions of one of their most popular titles, EverQuest II, some said it would be the end of SOE.

Well, they're still here. And Smedley was kind enough to take some time to talk to me about this very subject. Click past the cut for more!

Continue reading Free for All: Smedley helps us understand free-to-play

MassivelyFree for All: Smedley helps us understand free-to-play originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Sep 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc-universe-onlinedcuofeaturedfrfree-realmsinterviewinterviewsjohn-smedleyleague-of-legendslolplanetsideriot-gamessmedleySOESony-Online-EntertainmentvanguardVanguard-Saga-of-HeroesvgWed, 28 Sep 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[This Week In MMO: Rated M for mature edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/this-week-in-mmo-rated-m-for-mature-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/this-week-in-mmo-rated-m-for-mature-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/this-week-in-mmo-rated-m-for-mature-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

TWIMMO: World of Darkness
It's another Thursday, and another week for Gamebreaker.TV's This Week in MMO. What's in store for this installment? Massively's very own Editor-in-Chief Shawn Schuster and Community Manager Rubi Bayer join regular host Gary Gannon in "mature" discussion about MMOs.

First up, Gary, Shawn, and Rubi run through the topic of the mature rating in MMOs such as CCP's World of Darkness. Then our intrepid hosts guide us through the magical and technological starting zone for the Asura in Guild Wars 2. Also, saving Metropolis just became cheaper -- free, in fact! Shawn and Rubi discuss DC Universe Online's entry to the free-to-play market. Where is the future of MMO-subscription models going? Freemium? When Shawn spoke to SOE President John Smedley, Smed certainly favored it.

Moving on to another action-based game, Rubi reveals TERA's PR speak within its endgame Q&A statements, and Shawn admits that the small raid size in The Secret World isn't quite big enough for him.

Catch all that and more in the full Gamebreaker.TV video after the break!

Continue reading This Week In MMO: Rated M for mature edition

MassivelyThis Week In MMO: Rated M for mature edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetAsurablue-hole-studiosccpDCdc-universe-onlineEAElectronic-Artsen-masse-entertainmentendgamef2pfree-to-playfreemiumftpFuncomgamebreaker-tvgary-gannonGuild-Wars-2GW2humanjohn-smedleync-softncsoftRaid-Sizeraidsrubi-bayershawn-schusterSOESonySony-Online-Entertainmentstarting-zoneterathe-secret-worldTSWVampireWarner-BrosWODworld-of-darknessThu, 22 Sep 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[John Smedley talks free-to-play across the industry]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/john-smedley-talks-free-to-play-across-the-industry/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/john-smedley-talks-free-to-play-across-the-industry/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/john-smedley-talks-free-to-play-across-the-industry/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The whole Sinestro Corps thing was a really nice opportunity to answer a question I'd long wondered about, followed by a slew of colored rings to answer questions I had never had and frankly never wanted answered.
If you've somehow missed the news from earlier today, John Smedley had a chat with us about the impending switch to a free-to-play model for DC Universe Online. So it might not come as a big surprise that he's penned a recent editorial on GamesIndustry.biz regarding the current state of MMO business models and where the industry is heading. It also probably won't surprise most people to see that he envisions the free model overtaking subscriptions, but his reasoning might.

As Smedley sees it, free-to-play has a number of advantages, but one of the big ones is that it levels the playing field between big developers and smaller outfits when the games can both be played up-front without an initial investment. It's also more commonly accepted as a worldwide model, which matters in an industry that increasingly looks to other markets aside from the US. Sony Online Entertainment is slowly moving into the free-to-play realm itself, and only time will tell if the model will be a success for DCUO, but it's interesting to see the thought process behind the model expanding on a regular basis.

Look for our own interview with Smed regarding his thoughts on the growing free-to-play trend, coming soon.

MassivelyJohn Smedley talks free-to-play across the industry originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Sep 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessbusiness-modelsf2pfree-to-playindustry-personalitiesinsider-opinionsjohn-smedleymmo-industrynewsopinionsoesony-online-entertainmentMon, 19 Sep 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: SOE's John Smedley reveals F2P model for DC Universe Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/massively-exclusive-soes-john-smedley-reveals-f2p-model-for-dc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/massively-exclusive-soes-john-smedley-reveals-f2p-model-for-dc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/massively-exclusive-soes-john-smedley-reveals-f2p-model-for-dc/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

DC Universe Online - Batman and Robin PvP
For those of us who lack Batman's financial resources, maintaining several monthly MMO subscriptions can be a challenge. Sony Online Entertainment recognizes this, and as a result, the company has just announced that DC Universe Online will be officially joining the freemium revolution toward the end of October.

The new business model will feature a familiar tiered access plan with three membership levels. The Free, Premium, and Legendary plans feature full access to the current game while offering different levels of "convenience and flexibility." Free players will be limited to two character slots, and new "downloadable game packs/updates, additional character slots, powers, and more" will be available for purchase via microtransactions.

Premium players, i.e., folks who have spent at least $5 US on the game (including former subscribers and in-game item purchasers), will receive additional character slots, inventory slots, and higher cash limits. Legendary players will take home "maximum features and benefits" including free DLC, more than 15 character slots, and more than 80 inventory slots, all for the regular $14.99 monthly fee. DCUO will also continue to be available on SOE's Station Pass (and subscribing to the monthly all-in-one service nets you Legendary status in DCUO as well as access to all of SOE's MMORPGs).

Finally, Massively sat down with SOE president John Smedley and producer Lorin Jameson to chat about the new model, and you can find that transcription after the break.

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: SOE's John Smedley reveals F2P model for DC Universe Online

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: SOE's John Smedley reveals F2P model for DC Universe Online originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Sep 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmanbreakingbusiness-modelcash-shopcomicsconveniencedc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuoexclusivef2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumgotham-citygreen-lanterninterviewitem-shopitem-storejohn-smedleylegendarylorin-jamesonmassively-exclusivemetropolismicrotransactionsnon-recurring-paymentplaystion-3premiumps3rmtsoesony-online-entertainmentsuperherosupermantiered-accesswonder-womanMon, 19 Sep 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamebreaker's This Week in MMO: John Madden edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/gamebreakers-this-week-in-mmo-john-madden-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/gamebreakers-this-week-in-mmo-john-madden-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/gamebreakers-this-week-in-mmo-john-madden-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

TWIMMO: EP62
Video game enthusiasts, pay attention. Each week, Gary Gannon and the crew at Gamebreaker.TV bring you the latest MMO news with their weekly show called This Week In MMO. The show rotates through a panel of personalities to bring you the latest news and opinions from MMO gaming. Sometimes these panels include reporters from our very own website, like Editor-in-Chief Shawn Schuster and Community Manager Rubi Bayer; even EVE expert Brendan Drain and SWTOR columnist Larry Everett have made appearances on the show.

This week, Gary is joined by ZAM's Mike B aka Fony and Hillary "Pokket" Nicole to talk about PlanetSide 2, Star Wars: The Old Republic, subscription models, WildStar, Lord of the Rings Online, Mortal Online, Astronaut the MMO, and why women don't like voiceover. First up: PlanetSide 2 will be free-to-play, and SWTOR may be the last subscription MMO. Is anyone surprised? The panel weighs in on whether WildStar mechanics are more of the same or maybe this game has something new. Mike B and Pokket discuss how LotRO is making Isengard appear more epic. We also find out why Mortal Online territorial control is not for the faint of heart. Lastly, is anyone interested in being an astronaut anymore?

If you like intelligent, fun discussion about the latest in MMOs (in video format), you should check out the recorded version of This Week In MMO right after the cut, or live every Wednesday evening!

Continue reading Gamebreaker's This Week in MMO: John Madden edition

MassivelyGamebreaker's This Week in MMO: John Madden edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>astronaut-moon-mars-and-beyondgamebreaker-tvgary-gannonHillary-Nicolejohn-smedleylord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroMike-Bmortal-onlineplanetside-2podcastrise-of-isengardstar-wars-the-old-republicSWTORThis-Week-In-MMOTWIMMOvideoWildStarThu, 15 Sep 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Beta and bucks: John Smedley discusses PlanetSide 2's future]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/beta-and-bucks-john-smedley-discusses-planetside-2s-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/beta-and-bucks-john-smedley-discusses-planetside-2s-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/beta-and-bucks-john-smedley-discusses-planetside-2s-future/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

PlanetSide 2
In an interview with Chinese site 17173.com, SOE's John Smedley shared some revealing details about PlanetSide 2, including the fact that the upcoming MMO shooter will be free.

MMOsite carried the English version of the story early this morning, but there were a few points that were lost in translation. So we contacted Smedley for clarification, and he said that while he had previously mentioned that the game will be "some form of free-to-play," SOE is not prepared to announce specifics just yet, but we should "expect something that will be very player friendly." He mentioned that a Blizzard-style auction house won't be a part of that plan but that he was fond of what League of Legends had done with its system.

It's also his opinion that Star Wars: The Old Republic will be the last large-scale MMO with a subscription fee. "The game looks great," Smedley commented, "and I will be playing myself. BioWare is doing an awesome job."

Smedley also made mention of PlanetSide 2's beta schedule. SOE is aiming to begin wider testing of the title later this year or early next year in North America, but the company doesn't know for sure just yet.

PlanetSide 2 is aiming to be bigger and better than the original, with battlefields holding up to 2,000 players at the same time, a flexible skill system that allows players to fine-tune their troops and engage in crafting, and a struggle to control territory between three factions. Interestingly enough, Smedley said that the factions might not always be at each other's throats; the PlanetSide 2 team has plans to launch PvE world events such as alien invasions where all players will put aside their differences to combat a shared threat.

MassivelyBeta and bucks: John Smedley discusses PlanetSide 2's future originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Sep 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>17173.comauction-housebetabuy-to-playdiablo-3diablo-iiif2pfree-to-playjohn-smedleymmosite.complanetsideplanetside-2planetside-nextps2soeSony-Online-Entertainmentstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorterritory-controlThu, 08 Sep 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PlanetSide 2 may feature space-based gameplay]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/planetside-2-may-feature-space-based-gameplay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/planetside-2-may-feature-space-based-gameplay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/planetside-2-may-feature-space-based-gameplay/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Planetside 2 - soldiers
A few more PlanetSide 2 details have emerged thanks to a presentation given by Sony Online Entertainment's John Smedley and Matt Higby at a recent SyndCon gathering. The duo explained how PlanetSide 2's dynamic weather system will affect combat and that smoke resulting from prolonged firefights will also play a role. The catch here, according to FPSguru, is that these features "may not be in at launch, but [are] definitely in the long-term plan."

Speaking of iteration, Smedley also drew comparisons to EVE Online's "outside-in" approach (specifically, the fact that CCP began with a space game and added planet-based gameplay at a later date). PlanetSide 2 will reverse this process, beginning with a single continent, "then add[ing] more continents and eventually, planets," Smedley said. Plans for space-based gameplay are also on the table.

There's a bit more to the article including riffs on certifications (i.e., skills) and the inevitable cash shop. Head to FPSguru for more details.

MassivelyPlanetSide 2 may feature space-based gameplay originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>certificationsdynamic-weatherjohn-smedleylong-term-plansmatt-higbymmo-shootermmofpsplanetside-2sci-fishooterskillssmokesoeSony-Online-Entertainmentspace-based-gameplayweatherweather-effectsMon, 15 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LucasArts releases an official statement to Star Wars Galaxies fans]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/15/lucasarts-releases-an-official-statement-to-star-wars-galaxies-f/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/15/lucasarts-releases-an-official-statement-to-star-wars-galaxies-f/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/15/lucasarts-releases-an-official-statement-to-star-wars-galaxies-f/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

For a majority of MMO players, the announcement that Star Wars Galaxies was shutting down came as no surprise. However, many SWG loyalists have been extremely upset by the turn of events, blaming everything from the hacks on Sony earlier this year to the impending release of Star Wars: The Old Republic. SOE CEO John Smedley stated in his interview with us that the security breach and SWG's shutdown were unrelated. Furthermore, Community Manager of SWTOR, Stephen Reid, stated emphatically on the TORWars podcast that there was no relationship between the date of SWG shutting down and the release of The Old Republic. Lastly, GamePro posted a statement directly from LucasArts about the efforts put into keeping the MMO alive:
The decision to shut down the game has not been an easy one. SOE and LucasArts investigated every option to keep the game open, including taking it to a free to pay model. However, that model just isn't financially viable. Changing the business model for an experience like Star Wars Galaxies takes a major investment and overhauling of the existing infrastructure of the game. We're unfortunately at a point in our life cycle where a change of this magnitude is just not possible. The harsh reality is that we've reached a point where the game is no longer a sustainable business. None of us wanted to see this point, but we're extremely proud of the last eight years of the game and the community that has supported it.

We have a lot planned between now and December and we want to make sure that from now until then, we send off Star Wars Galaxies in a style befitting such a great game. We'll be right there in the game with everyone else, counting down until the end, making sure we connect with all the friends we've made over the past eight years. It may be bittersweet, it may feel like it's happening before it should, but we have approximately five months remaining where we can all enjoy the game together. We sincerely hope the community will join us.
Read the article on GamePro and check out Massively's full interview with Smedley for more information.

MassivelyLucasArts releases an official statement to Star Wars Galaxies fans originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 Jul 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWareclosing-serversgameprojohn-smedleyLucasArtsSonySony-Online-EntertainmentStar-Warsstar-wars-galaxiesstar-wars-the-old-republicStephen-ReidsunsettingswgswtortorTORWarsFri, 15 Jul 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE Fan Faire 2011: Planetside panel and interview with Creative Director Matt Higby]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/08/soe-fan-faire-2011-planetside-panel-and-interview-with-creative/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/08/soe-fan-faire-2011-planetside-panel-and-interview-with-creative/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/08/soe-fan-faire-2011-planetside-panel-and-interview-with-creative/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Sony Online Entertainment President John Smedley and members of the Planetside 2 development team sat down with press to talk more about the highly-anticipated sequel to the original Planetside. Joining Smedley were Creative Director Matt Higby, Senior Art Director Trammell Isaac, and Executive Producer Josh Hackney.

Smedley began by talking about how Planetside 2 is both an MMO and a FPS game, and that there are very few titles in that particular genre. He added that it will be a remarkable experience, and that he feels they can deliver in a way that no one else has. Read past the cut for more details.

Continue reading SOE Fan Faire 2011: Planetside panel and interview with Creative Director Matt Higby

MassivelySOE Fan Faire 2011: Planetside panel and interview with Creative Director Matt Higby originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 08 Jul 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fan-faire-2011john-hackneyjohn-smedleymatt-higbyplanetside-2SOEsony-online-entertainmenttrammel-isaacsFri, 08 Jul 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE Fan Faire 2011: Community address highlights]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/08/soe-fan-faire-2011-community-address-highlights/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/08/soe-fan-faire-2011-community-address-highlights/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/08/soe-fan-faire-2011-community-address-highlights/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

As the lights dimmed and a certain familiar bearded dwarf took the stage, SOE's Fan Faire officially got underway. After a hearty welcome from SOE Community Manager Linda "The Brasse" Carlson, fans were treated to some highlights of what to expect from the panels and events of the coming weekend through a keynote address by SOE President John Smedley.

But before all the fancy trailers and big announcements, Smedley made a personal apology to fans for the security breach this past spring. In addition, he unveiled a new tool to protect player accounts -- the Vasco Data Security key fob. He said it's an extra layer of security that will protect against hacking, and it will go live in all SOE games as of tomorrow. All Fan Faire participants get a free key fob, and there will be iPhone and Android versions on the way as well.

Read on for a look at all of the highlights from the community address!

Continue reading SOE Fan Faire 2011: Community address highlights

MassivelySOE Fan Faire 2011: Community address highlights originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 08 Jul 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brasseclone-wars-adventureseverquesteverquest-2fan-faire-11fan-faire-2011free-realmsjohn-smedleylinda-carlsonplanetside-2soesony-online-entertainmentFri, 08 Jul 2011 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch SOE Fan Faire address live on Gamebreaker, or listen in-game]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/watch-soe-fan-faire-address-live-on-gamebreaker-or-listen-in-ga/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/watch-soe-fan-faire-address-live-on-gamebreaker-or-listen-in-ga/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/watch-soe-fan-faire-address-live-on-gamebreaker-or-listen-in-ga/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Sony Online Entertainment's annual Fan Faire starts this week, but if you can't make it to Las Vegas for the festivities you'll still have a front row seat.

Gamebreaker is teaming up with SOE to provide live pre-show coverage beginning July 7th at 6:00 p.m. PDT. SOE bossman John Smedley's community address will happen an hour later and if you can't check it out on Gamebreaker because you're playing EverQuest or EverQuest II, you can listen in by joining the Vivox-powered Station Voice service. For EQ users, it's as easy as enabling voice chat and clicking on the event button in the UI. For EQII, type: /vcjoinuri confctl-3583@e2p.vivox.com Fan Faire.

If you're planning to watch the Gamebreaker livestream, you'll need to register and claim your virtual ticket. Head to the official SOE forums for full instructions.

[Update: Corrected pre-show coverage time]

MassivelyWatch SOE Fan Faire address live on Gamebreaker, or listen in-game originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Jul 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eqeq-2EQ-IIEQ2eventseverquestEverQuest-2fan-fairefan-faire-2011gamebreakergamebreaker-tvjohn-smedleylivestreamreal-world-eventssoeSony-Online-EntertainmentstreamstreamingWed, 06 Jul 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Tattered Notebook: Fan Faire knowns and unknowns]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/27/the-tattered-notebook-fan-faire-known-and-unknowns/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/27/the-tattered-notebook-fan-faire-known-and-unknowns/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/27/the-tattered-notebook-fan-faire-known-and-unknowns/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

As we inch closer to Fan Faire, speculation begins to mount about what news EverQuest II fans will finally get to hear. Last year, players were smarting from the announcement of EQII Extended, the free-to-play server, and it seemed to deflate the mood among EQII Fan Faire attendees. This year, EQII is full of knowns and unknowns, to borrow a phrase from former Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld. We have known knowns, which are things that we know we know. And then there are known unknowns, or things that we know but we actually don't know. Lastly, there are unknown unknowns, which are things that we don't know we don't know. That's where things are in EQII currently. Confused? Me too! This week's Tattered Notebook will look at what we know and what we hope to find out more about at this year's Fan Faire.

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: Fan Faire knowns and unknowns

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: Fan Faire knowns and unknowns originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 27 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dave-georgesondestiny-of-veliousdominoemily-tayloreqeq-nextEQ2eq2xEQIIeqII-extendedeverquestEverQuest-2everquest-iieverquest-nextfan-fairefan-faire-2011featuredfreeportfreeport-revampitemizationjohn-smedleysentinels-fatesmokejumpersoesoe-fan-faireSony-Online-Entertainmenttattered-notebookthe-tattered-notebookveliousMon, 27 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exclusive: Smedley on the sunsetting of Star Wars Galaxies [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/24/exclusive-smedley-on-the-sunsetting-of-star-wars-galaxies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/24/exclusive-smedley-on-the-sunsetting-of-star-wars-galaxies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/24/exclusive-smedley-on-the-sunsetting-of-star-wars-galaxies/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

When I penned this week's Soapbox about Star Wars Galaxies and the NGE, I had no idea what was in store for MMO gamers today. In fact, I was so confident that the pre-eminent MMO sandbox was going to be around forever (or at least another eight years) that I reassured commenters that there was no need to fear Star Wars: The Old Republic. The two games might both feature the Star Wars IP, but their goals are so dramatically different -- one being a dialogue-driven themepark, the other being a player-driven sandbox -- that they shouldn't conflict unduly. Surely Star Wars fans could play both indefinitely and enjoy both types of gameplay.

Unfortunately, on Thursday we learned that just won't be so. Sony Online Entertainment has announced that Star Wars Galaxies will be shutting down on December 15th of this year, marking what is in my mind the most significant sunset of a major MMO to date (and a personally painful one for many on the staff at Massively, including me). I know what you're thinking, and no, the impending closure is due neither to the hackings nor to a dwindling playerbase. Past the break, an audibly regretful John Smedley, President of SOE, sits down with us to chat about SWG's sunset, explaining the reasons that led to the decision and offering a new hope for the future.

Continue reading Exclusive: Smedley on the sunsetting of Star Wars Galaxies [Updated]

MassivelyExclusive: Smedley on the sunsetting of Star Wars Galaxies [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 Jun 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebreakingchroniclesClone-Wars-AdventurescwaeaElectronic-Artseq2EQIIEverQuest-2everquest-iifeaturedgalaxiesinterviewinterviewsjohn-smedleylucasartssandboxsmedleysoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-galaxiesstar-wars-the-old-republicstorytellersunsetswgswtortcgthe-old-republictortrading-card-gameFri, 24 Jun 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Soapbox: The Uncle Owen paradox]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/the-soapbox-the-uncle-owen-paradox/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/the-soapbox-the-uncle-owen-paradox/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/the-soapbox-the-uncle-owen-paradox/#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.

This week, the venerable Star Wars Galaxies celebrates its eighth year of existence. I was there in the beginning -- before the beginning, in fact. I did what a lot of you early SWG players probably did: I had a guild and a guild city, multiple accounts, a booming business as a chef, and a character who could entertain and fight. Even then, we realized how different SWG was from its immediate predecessors like EverQuest and Dark Age of Camelot. We'd returned to the earlier age of Ultima Online, of persistent worlds (as the term was used back then). It was more a world than a game, and in it we could roleplay whatever we liked, to a point. Nowadays, we'd call it a sandbox.

Old-school MMO gamers know well that the sandbox is under attack. Some will blame it on EverQuest, some on World of Warcraft, some on the free-to-play phenomenon. Among the Massively commenters, there's a large contingent of gamers who consider SWG's own NGE to be the beginning of the end of the classic sandbox. I can't say they're wrong when it comes to the philosophy governing new MMOs, but the sandbox isn't dead yet.

Continue reading The Soapbox: The Uncle Owen paradox

MassivelyThe Soapbox: The Uncle Owen paradox originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 Jun 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingeighth-anniversaryfeaturedgalaxiesgame-developmenthaters-gonna-hatejohn-smedleylucasartsluke-skywalkernew-game-enhancementsngenostalgiaopinionpersistent-worldpre-ngepwsandboxsmedleysoapboxsoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-galaxiesswgtcgthe-soapboxthemeparktrading-card-gameuncle-owenuncle-owen-experienceveteranswhinersTue, 21 Jun 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PlanetSide Next to be unveiled at SOE Fan Faire]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/17/planetside-next-to-be-unveiled-at-soe-fan-faire/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/17/planetside-next-to-be-unveiled-at-soe-fan-faire/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/17/planetside-next-to-be-unveiled-at-soe-fan-faire/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Even eight years after its launch, Sony Online Entertainment's PlanetSide still retains a healthy (and borderline fanatical) playerbase. This is almost certainly owed largely to the fact that PlanetSide remains one of the scant few MMOFPS games on the market. PlanetSide players, though, have been thirsting for more for quite some time. Thankfully, it appears the wait will soon be over.

Rumors have been flying for what seems like ages alongside a few sparse screenshots, but PlanetSide Next will soon be officially unveiled at the upcoming SOE Fan Faire this July. John Smedley, President of SOE, announced on his Twitter, "For all you PlanetSide Next fans, stay tuned for a big announcement at our upcoming Fan Faire in Vegas!" You heard the man! Keep your weapons in their holsters for just a while longer and keep an eye on Massively because we'll be sure to have all the freshest information as soon as it's out.

MassivelyPlanetSide Next to be unveiled at SOE Fan Faire originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Jun 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fan-fairefan-faire-2011john-smedleymmofpsplanetsideplanetside-nextsoesoe-fan-fairesoe-fan-faire-2011sony-online-entertainmentsony-online-entertainment-fan-fairesony-online-entertainment-fan-faire-2011Fri, 17 Jun 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Two years of Free Realms: A retrospective]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/28/two-years-of-free-realms-a-retrospective/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/28/two-years-of-free-realms-a-retrospective/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/28/two-years-of-free-realms-a-retrospective/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

"It's your world."

Those three words sum up Free Realms, and it's no coincidence that it's the title song for the game. It's hard to believe that the game is only two years old -- much has changed since launch, and in many ways, this young MMO has been a pioneer in the market.

To celebrate Free Realms' second birthday, we're going to take a look back at some highlights. From pet training, to Chatdy's name change, to its Guinness World Record, the game has experienced many milestones. Read on for a retrospective as well as a peek at the future.

Continue reading Two years of Free Realms: A retrospective

MassivelyTwo years of Free Realms: A retrospective originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Apr 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chatdychattydomofeaturedfree-realmsfree-realms-birthdayguinness-book-of-world-recordsits-your-worldjohn-smedleylaralyn-mcwilliamsminigamesnick-parkinsonpet-trainerplaystation-3playstation3ps3soeSony-Online-Entertainmentthe-darestrailervideoThu, 28 Apr 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[John Smedley thinks Free Realms is on track for 100 million players]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/05/john-smedley-thinks-free-realms-is-on-track-for-100-million-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/05/john-smedley-thinks-free-realms-is-on-track-for-100-million-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/05/john-smedley-thinks-free-realms-is-on-track-for-100-million-play/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

If you think World of Warcraft's 12 million players is impressive, SOE dares you to think bigger -- a lot bigger. John Smedley told GamesIndustry.biz that he sees Free Realms growing to up to 100 million players over time.

Before last week's PlayStation 3 launch, Free Realms boasted 17 million players, a number that is sure to increase now that the game is available on a console as well.

But 100 million? Smedley doesn't think that's so far-fetched: "[Seventeen million] is a phenomenal number, and we're very pleased with its success -- and it's really keeping going. I don't see this thing stopping until it hits 100 million. I think it could take five or six years -- that should give you some idea [of the time frame we're looking at]. But I don't see any reason why it can't go to 100 million, because there are so many kids out there."

Smedley also hopes that the PS3 won't be the only console to which Free Realms and other SOE titles migrate, citing the recently announced NGP as a potential candidate: "Sony's announced the NGP, and if that isn't a perfect machine for doing MMOs on, then I don't know what is. So it's too soon to tell for sure but I think you're going to start seeing free-to-play gaming on consoles as well."

MassivelyJohn Smedley thinks Free Realms is on track for 100 million players originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 05 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>100-millionfree-realmsgamesindustry.bizjohn-smedleyngpplayerbaseplaystation-3ps3soesony-online-entertainmentworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 05 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE layoffs affect timetable for PlanetSide Next [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/04/soe-layoffs-affect-timetable-for-planetside-next/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/04/soe-layoffs-affect-timetable-for-planetside-next/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/04/soe-layoffs-affect-timetable-for-planetside-next/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Last week we got the bad news that Sony Online Entertainment laid off 205 employees and shuttered the Denver, Seattle, and Tucson studios. The announcement was coupled with the news that that The Agency, the long-anticipated "spy-fi" MMO, was also being canceled. The intent, SOE said, was to focus on its upcoming MMOs based on its extant IPs: PlanetSide Next and EverQuest Next.

However, in the wake of all the layoffs, there will also apparently be a delay in the development time-frame for PlanetSide Next. According to a statement by John Smedley, President of Sony Online Entertainment, the game "will be out a little later in the year" but the team is focused on "pulling out all the stops to make it great." It's sad news, but we're certain that a lot of PlanetSide fans would rather have a great, polished game over a game pushed out quickly to meet a now-unrealistic development schedule.

Update: SOE's John Smedley has posted several reassuring comments to the PlanetSide Universe forums:
Recently (a few weeks ago actually) we made the call to update the game to a new internally developed engine. Doing that meant delaying the game, but we thought it was in the best interests of PlanetSide Next. It also means delaying releasing further info for a little while. I will let you all know more when we firm up the schedule. The likely next step is a larger scale release of information and the beta signups going up. As I've said previously current Planetside subs will be included automatically.
Normally when we do game announcements we do a much bigger concerted information push all at once and these kind of one off posts don't happen. In this case I feel like the PlanetSide audience has hung in with us for a long time and I really want to involve you all more in advance of the official info. However what happens is everything gets carried across the net and the actual info gets changed. I'm sorry for that happening. We will do our best to keep you informed early. But that necessarily means that sometimes when things change you have to be ready for that too.
(Thanks to Matt for the tip!)

MassivelySOE layoffs affect timetable for PlanetSide Next [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 04 Apr 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>developmentjohn-smedleylayoff-repercussionsmmofpsplanetsideplanetside-nextrelease-dateschedulesoeSony-Online-EntertainmenttimetableMon, 04 Apr 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free Realms makes your world on PS3!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/29/free-realms-makes-your-world-on-ps3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/29/free-realms-makes-your-world-on-ps3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/29/free-realms-makes-your-world-on-ps3/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

It's your world on PlayStation 3 now! The hottest family game for the PC and Mac is now for your PS3 console, too. Free Realms, which made a name for itself as the first AAA free-to-play title, launched as the fastest growing MMO for Sony Online Entertainment back in April of 2009. The game is hoping to follow in the footsteps of the other SOE title on PS3, DC Universe Online, by making a distinguished mark for MMOs on consoles.

In a press release statement, CEO John Smedley said, "Our games extend the current lifecycle of the console with the added value offer of bringing tens of thousands of people together, in a game world, to socialize at community events, compete in combat activities and engage in a diversity of gameplay experiences, for years to come" Perhaps the future of MMOs is not only in crossing genres but also in crossing platforms. So what's next for SOE? Possibly a pure-console MMO? Maybe, but expending the MMO console market can never be a bad thing.

Catch the video promo after the cut, then for more information about Free Realms jump on over to the official website.

Continue reading Free Realms makes your world on PS3!

MassivelyFree Realms makes your world on PS3! originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 29 Mar 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consolef2pfree-realmsfree-to-playftpjohn-smedleylaunchPlaystation3ps3SOESONYSony-Online-EntertainmentTue, 29 Mar 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Celebrate EQ's 12 years with a look back and an interview with John Smedley]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/16/celebrate-eqs-12-years-with-a-look-back-and-an-interview-with-s/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/16/celebrate-eqs-12-years-with-a-look-back-and-an-interview-with-s/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/16/celebrate-eqs-12-years-with-a-look-back-and-an-interview-with-s/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Time grows many layers, and this is especially true in MMORPGs. After all, not only are new quests, stories and chunks of content added to a game as it goes along, but the players themselves add their own memories and experiences to the mix. MMOs truly are virtual worlds, and they change over time and become richer. EverQuest is no exception. After 12 years of adventure, danger, and story-telling, the game shows no signs of stopping.

What is planned for the game? How will the last 12 years affect the decisions for the next 12 years? EverQuest has been one of the flagships of the genre, but how does a game of its age maintain any type of market visibility? Massively sat down with SOE President John Smedley, EQ Assistant Lead Designer Alan VanCouvering, and Associate Producer Harvey Burgess to find out. We'll also be taking a look back at the long history of Norrath and will even throw in some nuggets about EverQuest Next.

Click past the cut and let's take a look!

Continue reading Celebrate EQ's 12 years with a look back and an interview with John Smedley

MassivelyCelebrate EQ's 12 years with a look back and an interview with John Smedley originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>12th-anniversaryAlan-VanCouveringanniversarybeau-hindmanbirthdaychampions-of-norratheqEQ2EQIIeverquestEverQuest-2everquest-iieverquest-nexteverquest-online-adventuresfeaturedfippy-darkpawhappy-birthdayhardcoreharvey-burgessinterviewjohn-smedleyNorrathshadows-of-luclinSOESony-Online-EntertainmentWorld-of-Warcraftwowwow-cloneWed, 16 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX East 2011: Free Realms coming to the PS3 on March 29th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/11/free-realms-coming-to-the-ps3-on-march-29th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/11/free-realms-coming-to-the-ps3-on-march-29th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/11/free-realms-coming-to-the-ps3-on-march-29th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Apparently 17 million registered PC and Mac users are the tip of the iceberg for Sony Online Entertainment. The company's family-friendly Free Realms MMORPG is heading to the Playstation 3 on March 29th in an attempt to bring massively multiplayer enlightenment to the unwashed console masses (and reel in a few million new users in the process).

Free Realms originally took a bow in 2009 on Windows PCs and has since seen its pirates, ninjas, pets, and genre-bending gameplay appear on Apple's OS X operating system as well. The title is initially free-to-play, with premium account options available to gamers who want to access an additional 400 quests and level all their jobs up to 20. Free Realms also features a cash shop that will be available via the Playstation Store.

"Free Realms continues to break new ground in the gaming industry -- it will be the first free-to-play MMO to hit any console, the first family-friendly MMO to hit any console, and the second MMO, after our recent release of DC Universe Online, to hit the PlayStation3 to date," says SOE president John Smedley. Head past the break for an exclusive interview with Free Realms lead designer Stephen Bokkes and producer Nick Parkinson.

Gallery: Free Realms PS3 Gallery

Continue reading PAX East 2011: Free Realms coming to the PS3 on March 29th

MassivelyPAX East 2011: Free Realms coming to the PS3 on March 29th originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 Mar 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cash-shopconsolesf2pfamily-friendlyfarmingfarming-systemfeaturedfree-realmsfree-to-playgalleriesgalleryitem-shopjohn-smedleynick-parkinsonpaxpax-2011pax-east-2011pet-trainerplaystation-3ps3soeSony-Online-Entertainmentstephen-bokkesFri, 11 Mar 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist goes PlanetSide: The highlights]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/08/the-game-archaeologist-goes-planetside-the-highlights/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/08/the-game-archaeologist-goes-planetside-the-highlights/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/08/the-game-archaeologist-goes-planetside-the-highlights/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Unlike fantasy, the sci-fi genre has had a rocky relationship with MMORPGs. While studios have tried just as hard to make and promote them, there seems to be a curse that hovers over most of these games. From the canceled (Earth & Beyond, The Matrix Online, Tabula Rasa) to the radically retinkered (Star Wars Galaxies) to the relatively niche (Anarchy Online, Star Trek Online), sci-fi struggles to be seen as relevant and embraced as its bigger brother. That isn't to say that these games or the genre is worthless, just that it's a harder sell to both investors and players to throw players into the future than the mythical past. Fortunately, the industry hasn't given up on these games, and some of these titles -- such as EVE Online -- have proven that they're worth pursuing.

And if science fiction is a difficult sell, first-person shooters are doubly difficult in the MMO space. After all, it's not as though the world is suffering a shortage of FPS titles that can be played without a monthly subscription. To convince players to part with a monthly payment, the studio has to make a powerful, compelling case as to why its MMOFPS is worthy of that premium price.

Enter PlanetSide, circa 2003. While sci-fi MMOs, multi-faction PvP and online shooters had been done separately at that point, PlanetSide stepped up to the plate to combine all three into a persistent war on an alien planet. Due to popular demand, this month we'll be setting our sights to the far reaches of the galaxy and beyond as we explore one of the more unique MMOs in existence.

Today let's take a look at what made PlanetSide a unique twinkle in SOE's eyes by counting down the highlights of this futuristic war.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist goes PlanetSide: The highlights

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist goes PlanetSide: The highlights originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 Feb 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinanarchy-onlineapbauraxisdark-age-of-camelotearth-and-beyondeve-onlinefactionsfeaturefeaturedfirst-person-shooterfpsglobal-agendajohn-hewittjohn-smedleymagmmofpsplanetsideplanetside-nextreal-time-combatsci-fiscience-fictionsoesony-online-entertainmentstar-trek-onlinestar-wars-galaxiestabula-rasathe-matrix-onlinethree-front-warvehiclesworld-war-ii-onlinewwii-onlineTue, 08 Feb 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Five by five: PlanetSide Next reveals the Reaver]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/04/five-by-five-planetside-next-reveals-the-reaver/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/04/five-by-five-planetside-next-reveals-the-reaver/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/04/five-by-five-planetside-next-reveals-the-reaver/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

For a new MMO that's supposedly launching this year, we've heard precious little about the tentatively titled PlanetSide Next so far. Today, our knowledge grows by an inch as PlanetSide Universe got its hands on an exclusive picture of one of the new ships of the game, the Reaver.

Like the ships in other screenshots we've seen, this is a model and not necessarily representative of the actual vehicle in-game. Still, it definitely looks like it means business, and evokes the image of modern attack helicopters minus the rotor blades.

SOE's John Smedley has talked up this MMO sequel as having "massive battles on a scale no other FPS will touch." The studio is looking at late Q1/early Q2 2011 for a release window for the game. The first beta testers will be current PlanetSide players, so if you want to get a look at the future, it may behoove you to jump on board the present.

Gallery: PlanetSide Next

MassivelyFive by five: PlanetSide Next reveals the Reaver originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Feb 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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