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[MMO Family: The state of the game (at school)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/mmo-family-the-state-of-the-game-at-school/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/mmo-family-the-state-of-the-game-at-school/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/mmo-family-the-state-of-the-game-at-school/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

laptop learning
When you think of kids and video games, the question that always comes up is this: What are they getting out of playing them? Usually, MMOs, even MMOs aimed at kids, are big on fun but light on learning. So it was refreshing to see teacher Ben Bertoli launch a Kickstarter project to promote development of his personal project ClassRealm into what could be a potentially valuable tool in the classroom.

So why haven't we seen more educational MMOs, and why has there been a gap when it comes to technology at home vs. at school? In this week's MMO Family, we'll look a few issues with gaming and learning.

Continue reading MMO Family: The state of the game (at school)

MassivelyMMO Family: The state of the game (at school) originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben-bertolicasualchildrenchildrens-mmosclassrealmfamilyfamily-friendlyfeaturedibookskaren-bryankid-friendlykidskids-gamesmmo-familyopinionschools-and-gamingschools-and-technologyteachingwhere-in-the-world-is-carmen-sandiegoWed, 16 May 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ClassRealm MMO rewards kids for being good students]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/classrealm-mmo-rewards-kids-for-being-good-students/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/classrealm-mmo-rewards-kids-for-being-good-students/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/classrealm-mmo-rewards-kids-for-being-good-students/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

ClassRealm - cast of characters
Who says video games are bad for you? Not Ben Bertoli, a sixth grade teacher from Indiana who has built an MMO called ClassRealm that has students, teachers, and administrators singing his praises.

Kotaku reports that the game is basically an experience point system that rewards kids for being studious and helping their classmates. There's also an achievement system and classes and races that include wizards, zombies, ninjas, and vampires. Bertoli initially started with something approximating a Google document but has since moved on to full-blown graphics and an app that works on mobile devices as well as laptops and PCs.

Bertoli has partnered with a computer engineer, a graphic designer, and an illustrator to fully flesh out the project, and there's also a Kickstarter campaign in case you want to contribute. Bertoli and company are currently slaving away on ClassRealm in their spare time, but the rewards are well worth it. "If [kids are] struggling in a certain thing, but they are pushing hard because they want the XP, or an achievement, and then suddenly it clicks, seeing that happen is really rewarding. The student feels like, 'I was going for XP, but now I am happy that I learned something,'" Bertoli explains.

MassivelyClassRealm MMO rewards kids for being good students originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 May 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben-bertoliclass-realmclassrealmcultureeducational-mmofamilyfantasykickstarterkidsMiscellaneousmmos-in-educationMon, 07 May 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Clone Wars Adventures celebrates Star Wars Day with special deals]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/clone-wars-adventures-celebrates-star-wars-day-with-special-deal/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/clone-wars-adventures-celebrates-star-wars-day-with-special-deal/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/clone-wars-adventures-celebrates-star-wars-day-with-special-deal/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Jar Jar Binks
Did you know that May 4th is Star Wars Day? Yeah, neither did I, which apparently means my failure as a Star Wars fan is complete.

Oh, wait, I get it. May the fourth be with you!

Anyway, Sony Online Entertainment is offering free booster points as well as a special code to unlock a rare double-bladed lightsaber, all for logging in to Clone Wars Adventures. And the game has a new introductory offer that includes first-month access to premium Jedi membership levels for only $1.99. More info is yours for the reading at the official CWA site.

[Source: SOE press release]

MassivelyClone Wars Adventures celebrates Star Wars Day with special deals originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 May 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedclone-warsclone-wars-adventurescwafamilyi-miss-star-wars-galaxieskid-friendlykidslobbyminigamesci-fantasysci-fisoesony-online-entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-dayFri, 04 May 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: How helpful are those ESRB ratings?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/mmo-family-how-helpful-are-those-esrb-ratings/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/mmo-family-how-helpful-are-those-esrb-ratings/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/mmo-family-how-helpful-are-those-esrb-ratings/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

ESRB Rating
Quick, what's the ESRB rating symbol of your favorite MMO of choice? And if you know that, what are the content descriptors that account for your game's rating? If you got them right, bravo! According to the ESRB's official poll, 85% of parents with children who play video games are aware of the ratings system. For those not familiar, here's the deal: The Entertainment Software Rating Board began in 1994 with the goal of providing a standard set of ratings and descriptors to help adults choose appropriate games for children.

But the real question is, are ESRB ratings accurate when it comes to MMOs? The poll also claims that 65% of parents regularly check a game's rating before making a purchase, but are those ratings as helpful when choosing an MMO for your children? Read on for a look at why the E, T, and AO symbols might actually deserve an F.

Continue reading MMO Family: How helpful are those ESRB ratings?

MassivelyMMO Family: How helpful are those ESRB ratings? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 May 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualchildrenchildrens-mmosesrbesrb-ratingseveeverquest-iieverquestiifamilyfamily-friendlyfeaturedkid-friendlykidskids-gamesmmo-familyopinionwizard101wowWed, 02 May 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free Realms throws itself a nice big birthday bash]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/28/free-realms-throws-itself-a-nice-big-birthday-bash/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/28/free-realms-throws-itself-a-nice-big-birthday-bash/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/28/free-realms-throws-itself-a-nice-big-birthday-bash/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

This is useful for times when you're tempted to say that you'll eat your hat.
MMO birthdays are the best celebrations. Instead of getting your favorite game a lot of presents to celebrate its age, most games give the players presents. So it is in Free Realms, which celebrates its third year of operation today with a number of events and rewards for players. The most basic rewards don't require any real effort on the part of players; just logging in today nets you a Birthday Cake hat, and you can enjoy triple Station Cash for the rest of the day.

There's more to the party, however: The game's offering a number of daily quests to help Queen Valerian produce the best birthday party ever. There's also the dread monster Cakenstein, a beast assembled from... well, you can probably guess from the name. The extended events will be running until May 24th, but the Station Cash promotion and the hat are only for today. So if you're a fan of Free Realms, log in and start enjoying the festivities today!

MassivelyFree Realms throws itself a nice big birthday bash originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 28 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversaryanniversary-eventbrowserbrowser-basedconsoleconsolesf2pfrfree-realmsfree-to-playin-game-eventkid-friendlykidskids-mmoplaystation-3playstation3promotionsps3soesonysony-online-entertainmentSat, 28 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Hero Squad Online introduces Ant-Man, new Avengers costumes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/super-hero-squad-online-introduces-ant-man-new-avengers-costume/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/super-hero-squad-online-introduces-ant-man-new-avengers-costume/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/super-hero-squad-online-introduces-ant-man-new-avengers-costume/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Captain America's new WWII-era costume
Avengers, assemble! In Super Hero Squad Online, that is. The fine folks at Gazillion Entertainment announced today that in order to celebrate the upcoming release of the much-anticipated Avengers film, the latest update to the free-to-play title will allow players to assemble the original Avengers team thanks to the introduction of Ant-Man and a new World-War-II-era costume for Captain America.

As comic aficionados know, the original Avengers team (unlike the team featured in the upcoming film) consisted of Captain America, Iron Man, Thor, the Hulk, Ant-Man, and Wasp. Now that Ant-Man has joined the fray, the entire roster of original Avengers characters is now available in SHSO, and not a second too soon. The mischievous trickster-god Loki is back in business, and it's up to players to protect Baxter Plaza and the fallen remains of Asgard from his destructive antics. So what are you waiting for? Assemble your team and get to work; humanity is depending on you, heroes.

[Source: Gazillion Entertainment press release]

MassivelySuper Hero Squad Online introduces Ant-Man, new Avengers costumes originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazing-societyant-manantmanavengersavengers-assemblebrowserbrowser-basedcaptain-americacaptain-america-super-soldiercostumecostumesf2pfree-to-playgazillionkid-friendlykidsmarvelshsosuper-hero-squadsuper-hero-squad-onlinesuperherotcgthe-amazing-societytrading-card-gameww2-captain-americawwii-captain-americaWed, 25 Apr 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE games down Monday for 24-hour maintenance]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/soe-games-down-monday-for-24-hour-maintenance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/soe-games-down-monday-for-24-hour-maintenance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/soe-games-down-monday-for-24-hour-maintenance/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

SOE logo
We imagine that the word downtime makes Sony Online Entertainment employees cringe, convulse, and eye-twitch for hours on end after last summer's disastrous hacker-induced service outage. Happily, though, the next service interruption is planned, and we've got plenty of notice.

SOE will be performing maintenance this Monday, April 23rd, and the firm says that all of its game services will be unavailable for approximately 24 hours. The downtime starts at 3:01 a.m. EDT. Commerce transactions and account management functionality will also be affected, so you might as well cross all of your SOE-related plans off Monday's calendar.

MassivelySOE games down Monday for 24-hour maintenance originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Apr 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedclassic-mmoconsoleconsolesdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuoeqeq-2eq-iieq1eq2eqiieverquesteverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfpsfrfree-realmsfree-to-playhistoricalkid-friendlykidskids-mmommofpspiratespirates-of-the-burning-seaplanetsideplaystation-3playstation3potbspsps1ps3sandboxsci-fisoesoe-downtimesoe-maintenancesoe-planned-maintenancesoe-service-interruptionsonysony-online-entertainmentsuperherosuperheroestelonvanguardvanguard-saga-of-heroesvgFri, 20 Apr 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: Mind your massively multiplayer manners revisited]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/mmo-family-mind-your-massively-multiplayer-manners-revisited/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/mmo-family-mind-your-massively-multiplayer-manners-revisited/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/mmo-family-mind-your-massively-multiplayer-manners-revisited/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

south park
In this week's MMO Family column, I want to dig deeper into something that came up as a result of the last edition, and that's the perception of younger gamers as generally being too immature, being too flighty, and lacking the social skills to be fun groupmates and guildmates in our MMOs. There were some great points all around, with some arguing that kids aren't good guildmates because of their age and others even arguing that some kids are more mature than adults.

Let's look at things a little differently this week. Suppose you are guilded or grouped with your son/daughter/little brother/niece/nephew/best friend's kid/etc. You can't blow him off because of your relationship to him or her, so what do you do to make sure he or she isn't that kid who drives everyone crazy in-game? I'm revisiting one of Lisa Poisso's past articles to see what rules of age etiquette we can come up with in this crazy age of gaming.

Continue reading MMO Family: Mind your massively multiplayer manners revisited

MassivelyMMO Family: Mind your massively multiplayer manners revisited originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualchildrenchildrens-mmosfamilyfamily-friendlyfeaturedkid-friendlykidskids-gamesmmo-etiquettemmo-familymmo-mannersopinionpolite-gamersWed, 18 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: Do kids belong in guilds?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/04/mmo-family-do-kids-belong-in-guilds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/04/mmo-family-do-kids-belong-in-guilds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/04/mmo-family-do-kids-belong-in-guilds/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Guild Hall in EQII
In my regular columns at Massively, I enjoy taking a look at various topics surrounding family-friendly MMOs and common issues in guild management. So it seemed natural to take the two subjects and combine them for this week's MMO Family. Gamers are growing older, and we're seeing an increasing presence of younger players, even in the more serious "adult" games like Lord of the Rings Online and EverQuest II. For those who play MMOs with their children, it might seem reasonable to seek a guild tag for them, but that might not sit well with your guild peers.

Should kids be allowed in guilds? Are there any benefits to sharing a tag with your children, or are they better off staying unguilded?

Continue reading MMO Family: Do kids belong in guilds?

MassivelyMMO Family: Do kids belong in guilds? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advicecasualchildrenchildrens-mmosfamilyfamily-friendlyfeaturedguildguild-adviceguild-leadershipguild-managementguildskaren-bryankid-friendlykidskids-gamesleadershipmmo-familyopinionWed, 04 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[April Fool's jokes streak across the MMO community]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/01/april-fools-jokes-streak-across-the-mmo-community/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/01/april-fools-jokes-streak-across-the-mmo-community/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/01/april-fools-jokes-streak-across-the-mmo-community/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

SWTOR
It may be the weekend, but that's never stopped pranksters in the past from pulling off truly epic April Fool's jokes. Many MMO studios, bloggers, and fan site operators are lining up to take a shot at the jester's crown today, hoping that their blatant (and entertaining) lies will at least amuse, if not trick, players.

It would be fool-hardy (har har) to try to round them all up, so suffice it to say that office clowns have been quite busy thus far. From Star Wars: The Old Republic's announcement of playable ship droids and City of Heroes' offer of ludicrous marketplace sales to Blizzard's focus on educational kids games and StarCraft 2's playable supply depots to SOE scaring visitors with Chatdy, the gags are flying fast and furious. We might be the most impressed with a deeply detailed wiki entry for a Guild Wars mission called Annihilator 2: Searing Day, during which players are sent into the past to save Gwen from the G-1000.

If you've spotted any other pranks, please share them in the comments!

MassivelyApril Fool's jokes streak across the MMO community originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 01 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetapril-foolsapril-fools-dayapril-fools-day-2012arenanetbiowarebrowserbrowser-basedcity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohconsoleconsolescovcoxeaelectronic-artsf2pfantasyfrfree-realmsfree-to-playfreedomgagsguild-warsgwhumorjokeskid-friendlykidskids-mmolucasartsncsoftparagonparagon-studiosplaystation-3playstation3pranksps3sci-fisoesonysony-online-entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feesuperherosuperheroesswtorthe-old-republictortricksSun, 01 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: Is free-to-play bad for kid-friendly MMOs?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/mmo-family-is-free-to-play-bad-for-kid-friendly-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/mmo-family-is-free-to-play-bad-for-kid-friendly-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/mmo-family-is-free-to-play-bad-for-kid-friendly-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Super Hero Squad Online
If you've ever gone shopping with kids, you know how much of a nightmare-inducing proposition it can be. Everywhere from toy stores to department stores to seemingly innocuous grocery stores, there's a battle raging between parents and their children, which usually ends with tears, grey hairs, and the infamous word, "Pleeeeeease??" (Pleeeeeease should actually have its own entry in the Oxford Dictionary because it has a completely different meaning from its polite cousin, "please").

The only thing that helps parents get through it is the knowledge that they get a respite once they get home. Not so anymore, though, because there's a second front that's opened, and the new battleground is taking place on our computer screens. Those high-pitched appeals that echo throughout the store aisles are now filling our family rooms, kitchens, and dining rooms. And while many people are singing the praises of the free-to-play model in MMO games, it's actually the biggest contributor to the begging-battles at home. Let's take a look at why free-to-play and kids MMOs are not a match made in heaven.

Continue reading MMO Family: Is free-to-play bad for kid-friendly MMOs?

MassivelyMMO Family: Is free-to-play bad for kid-friendly MMOs? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualchildrenchildrens-mmosfamilyfamily-friendlyfeaturedfree-to-playjesse-schellkaren-bryankid-friendlykidskids-gameslead-genmicrotransactionsmmo-familyopinionWed, 21 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Clone Wars Adventures hits 10 million player milestone]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/clone-wars-adventures-hits-10-million-player-milestone/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/clone-wars-adventures-hits-10-million-player-milestone/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/clone-wars-adventures-hits-10-million-player-milestone/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Clone Wars Adventures
The Force is strong with Star Wars: Clone Wars Adventures -- about 10 million strong, in fact. In a press release today, Sony Online Entertainment announced that its free-to-play, family-friendly Star Wars title has reached 10 million registered players. The studio also includes a list of interesting statistics, such as the number of stages of gameplay available to players (584) and the number of trophies available to earn (96), but really, only one statistic matters.

That statistic is this: Players of Clone Wars Adventures' Stunt Gungan minigame have collectively launched Jar Jar Binks over 4.5 billion meters. For reference, that means players have effectively bounced Jar Jar to the moon and back seven times. Let's have a round of applause for these unsung heroes, shall we?

But hey, CWA players: Next time, aim for the sun.

[Source: Sony Online Entertainment press release]

MassivelyClone Wars Adventures hits 10 million player milestone originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10-million-players10-million-registered-usersbrowserbrowser-basedclone-warsclone-wars-adventurescwafamilykid-friendlykidslobbymilestoneminigameregistered-userssci-fantasysci-fisoesony-online-entertainmentstar-warsMon, 12 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: Kid-friendly MMO roundup, part 1]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/mmo-family-kid-friendly-mmo-roundup-part-1/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/mmo-family-kid-friendly-mmo-roundup-part-1/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/mmo-family-kid-friendly-mmo-roundup-part-1/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Little space heroes
With all of the buzz centered around "grown-up" MMO titles like Star Wars: The Old Republic and Guild Wars 2, it's easy for the kid-friendly games to get lost in the shuffle. There may not be as many kid titles on the horizon, but for the games that are currently out there, there's been an amazing amount of activity going on in these virtual worlds.

I decided to take a peek at some of my (and the kids') favorites, along with a few games that we've done first impressions on, to see what they've been up to lately. Since there are too many great kid-friendly MMOs out there to fit into one column, this will be the first of what will probably be many follow-up entries covering other games, so if you don't see your favorite family-friendly game here, fear not!

Continue reading MMO Family: Kid-friendly MMO roundup, part 1

MassivelyMMO Family: Kid-friendly MMO roundup, part 1 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Super Hero Squad Online - Wolverine, Iron Man, and Captain America
For those of us who grew up as sports fans during the early 1990s, the name Upper Deck is synonymous with baseball cards. Nowadays, the firm has branched out into customizable trading card games, and the latest such is a tie-in to Gazillion's kid-friendly Super Hero Squad Online MMO.

The Super Hero Squad TCG features a 300-card base set chock-full of the usual Marvel suspects. Alongside the Spider-Man, Wolverine, and Captain America cards are special loot inserts with reward codes that unlock bonus items and exclusive playable characters in SHSO. Look for booster packs at your favorite gaming retailer on April 24th.

[Source: Marvel press release]

MassivelySuper Hero Squad trading card game to feature bonus MMO content originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Mar 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualcustomizable card gameCustomizableCardGamef2pfamilyfree-to-playgazilliongazillion-entertainmentkidsmarvelmarvel-comicsshsoshso-ccgshso-tcgsuper-hero-squad-onlinesuperherotcgtrading-card-gameupper-deckThu, 01 Mar 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: What kids MMOs can learn from markers, Jackpot, and Chutes and Ladders]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/mmo-family-what-kids-mmos-can-learn-from-markers-jackpot-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/mmo-family-what-kids-mmos-can-learn-from-markers-jackpot-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/mmo-family-what-kids-mmos-can-learn-from-markers-jackpot-and/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Markers
Play is important. Whether you're a kid or a grown-up, play has an important role in our lives, and video games are taking an increasingly large percentage of our playtime these days. But for kids' play in particular, there's always a question about the quality of video game time and whether or not it's actually just a waste of time.

Kid-friendly MMOs are a relatively new segment of the MMO industry, but it often feels like they're just grown-up MMOs with kid-friendly graphics. Sometimes, the games are even stripped of the grown-up features in an attempt to make them easier, but that often results in a less than compelling game. Here's a quest; do it. Here's a creature; zap it. Here's a pet; hug it. Here are some clothes and decorative items; buy them. I may sound a bit jaded, but that's only because I think kid-friendly MMOs can be so much better than they currently are.

To do that, we have to step back and examine how kids play, and studios must concentrate game design around that. In this week's MMO Family, I'll be looking at three areas of kids' play and exploring why games should look to Magic Markers, Jackpot, and Chutes and Ladders for inspiration.

Continue reading MMO Family: What kids MMOs can learn from markers, Jackpot, and Chutes and Ladders

MassivelyMMO Family: What kids MMOs can learn from markers, Jackpot, and Chutes and Ladders originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualchildrenchildrens-mmoschutes-and-laddersfamilyfamily-friendlyfamily-friendly-mmosfeaturedfree-realmsjackpotkaren-bryankid-friendlykidskids-gameskids-mmosmagic-markersminecraftmmo-and-imaginationmmo-familyopinionWed, 22 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Hero Squad Online gets vocal with new all-star cast of talent]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/super-hero-squad-online-gets-vocal-with-new-all-star-cast-of-talent/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/super-hero-squad-online-gets-vocal-with-new-all-star-cast-of-talent/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/super-hero-squad-online-gets-vocal-with-new-all-star-cast-of-talent/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Super Hero Squad Online
Voice-acting in MMOs seems to be all the rage these days, and Gazillion Entertainment, publisher of the free-to-play Super Hero Squad Online, seems to be jumping on the bandwagon. In a press release today, the company announced that each and every hero and villain in the game will be receiving a full vocal makeover, and many characters will be voiced by the same actors who provide voice work for the Super Hero Squad television series.

Jay Minn, vice president of The Amazing Society -- the development studio behind the games -- is obviously quite pleased with the decision to give voice to the game's dozens of characters, stating that "the heroes and villains in Marvel Super Hero Squad Online have always had their own unique personalities and attitudes... We're excited and very proud to let our heroes and villains speak their minds!" The statement adds that the game currently includes over 3000 lines of spoken dialogue (with over 100 attributed to everyone's favorite Merc with a Mouth), so players can expect plenty of witty quips from their characters of choice.

To get in the game and hear the new voiceovers for yourself, just click on through the link below to Super Hero Squad Online's official site.

[Source: Gazillion Entertainment press release]

MassivelySuper Hero Squad Online gets vocal with new all-star cast of talent originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualf2pfamilyfree-to-playjay-minnkidsmarvelmarvel-comicsmarvel-super-hero-squad-onlineshsosuper-herosuper-hero-squad-onlinethe-amazing-societyvoicevoice-actingvoice-actorsvoiceoversWed, 08 Feb 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do children have a place in MMOs?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/the-daily-grind-do-children-have-a-place-in-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/the-daily-grind-do-children-have-a-place-in-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/the-daily-grind-do-children-have-a-place-in-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

World of Warcraft
Today's discussion topic needs a smidge of clarification. I'm not asking you whether or not real-life kids should be playing MMOs, as plenty already do and it's great to be raising a future crop of gold farmers and extreme fashion designers.

What I am asking is whether child NPCs have a place in MMOs. When you think about it, most of our virtual worlds are nearly devoid of anyone under the age of 18 (except if you're in certain Asian titles where it seems like nobody, including yourself, has hit puberty yet). Whole cities are bustling with merchants and kings, yet not a single child is to be seen. If there are kids, they tend to be in place for a one-time unique quest or a special event, such as World of Warcraft's Children's Week.

But with all of the war, slaughter, and volatile situations, is it a good thing that someone has whisked these kids off to safety? Would MMOs be more questionable with their content if a kid was to come stumbling along while you were skinning a boar or decapitating an Orc leader? Or would these worlds be more believable and immersive if the whole range of ages was represented?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do children have a place in MMOs? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>childrenchildrens-weekfeaturedkidkidsopinionpubertytdgthe-daily-grindunderageworld-of-warcraftwowyouthyouthsWed, 08 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE announces in-game Valentine's activities]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/06/soe-announces-in-game-valentines-activities/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/06/soe-announces-in-game-valentines-activities/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/06/soe-announces-in-game-valentines-activities/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

EverQuest II - The Shard of Love
Valentine's Day is just around the corner, and aside from mad dashes to the Hallmark store for cards and boxes of chocolate, the season is also typified by various MMO events. This year is no different, and Sony Online Entertainment is queuing up a couple of noteworthy shindigs in EverQuest II and Free Realms.

Norrathians will be celebrating Erollisi Day from February 7th through the 20th, and there are plenty of contests, quests, and love-soaked goings-on to keep everyone happy. Free Realms' Festival of Hearts lasts a bit longer (February 7th through March 8th to be exact), during which time players may partake of Valentine's Day-themed environments, quests, and reward items.

Finally, Star Wars: Clone Wars Adventures is re-introducing a few Valentine's Day items to its StationCash markeplace, and you'll find more info on each game's celebration events at their respective official sites.

[Source: SOE press release]

MassivelySOE announces in-game Valentine's activities originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clone-wars-adventureseq2eqiierollisi-dayeventseverquest-2everquest-iif2pfamilyfantasyfree-realmsfree-to-playin-game-eventskidsnorrathsci-fisoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstar-wars-clone-wars-adventuresvalentines-dayMon, 06 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MIT developing educational MMO funded by Gates Foundation]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/22/mit-developing-educational-mmo-funded-by-gates-foundation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/22/mit-developing-educational-mmo-funded-by-gates-foundation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/22/mit-developing-educational-mmo-funded-by-gates-foundation/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

MIT logo
Is gaming the answer to the math- and science-related apathy plaguing American school kids? Some folks at MIT think so, and a new press blurb outlines how the institute is developing an MMO designed to further science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education.

"In contrast to the way that (STEM) is currently taught in secondary schools -- which often results in students becoming disengaged and disinterested in the subjects at an early age -- educational games like the one to be developed give students the chance to explore STEM topics in a way that deepens their knowledge while also developing 21st-century skills," the release says.

The title is being developed in collaboration with Filament Games, and MIT's Eric Klopfer says that it will be a powerful educational tool. "This genre of games is uniquely suited to teaching the nature of science inquiry," he explains, "because they provide collaborative, self-directed learning situations. Players take on the roles of scientists, engineers and mathematicians to explore and explain a robust virtual world." The project is being financed by a $3 million grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

MassivelyMIT developing educational MMO funded by Gates Foundation originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 22 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bill-and-melinda-gates-foundationbill-gateseducationeducational-mmoengineeringeric-klopferfilament-gamesfoundationkidsmathematicsMiscellaneousmitmmo-industrysciencestemtechnologySun, 22 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: Games of chance vs. MMOs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/mmo-family-games-of-chance-vs-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/mmo-family-games-of-chance-vs-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/mmo-family-games-of-chance-vs-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Sorry!
From childhood on, I've always been a gamer. But I grew up when computers were just emerging as something that didn't just belong in the bowels of the Defense Department. My games were primarily of the board game variety, with a smattering of classic card games, and my exposure to video games didn't begin until later on.

Today, I see kids being raised on video games, and I see it as a good thing. "But board games are the good games," you might protest, and while they're still relevant today and I'm glad to see the recent revival in family board game night, a good portion of board games do not compare to what video games offer to children. This edition of MMO Family explains why!

Continue reading MMO Family: Games of chance vs. MMOs

MassivelyMMO Family: Games of chance vs. MMOs originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>board-gameschancechance-basedfamilyfamily-gamingfeaturedfree-realmskaren-bryankidskids-mmosmmo-familyparcheesipinochlerulessoeSony-Online-EntertainmentsorryWed, 11 Jan 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: LEGO Universe, autism, and heartbreak]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/mmo-family-lego-universe-autism-and-heartbreak/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/mmo-family-lego-universe-autism-and-heartbreak/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/mmo-family-lego-universe-autism-and-heartbreak/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Lego Universe
Often when the topic of video games comes up, it's followed by comments about the negatives, such as violence, antisocial behavior, or inappropriate content. But if they do have harmful effects (and it's arguable how many players really are affected in a negative way), they can also be helpful as well, yet you rarely hear a news story about the good. I've written before about how companies like IBM have studied MMO guilds in order to improve team-building and organization within their company. More recently, MMOWGLI focused on global issues, such as the future of piracy, to study what solutions players could cooperatively generate.

There are also positive benefits to children as well, and while we've touched on a few in recent columns, this week we'll focus on the impact LEGO Universe has had on autistic children. Sadly, the game will be shutting down in a few weeks, and while many parents are thankful for how much it's helped, they're also concerned about what will happen once the game is gone. Read on for a bittersweet look at how this LEGO-based game is leaving behind a legacy.

Continue reading MMO Family: LEGO Universe, autism, and heartbreak

MassivelyMMO Family: LEGO Universe, autism, and heartbreak originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aspergersautismcasualchildrenchildrens-mmosf2pfamilyfamily-friendlyfeaturedfree-to-playkaren-bryankid-friendlykidskids-gameslegolego+gameslego+universelego+universe+game+autismlego-universelegogameslegouniverselegouniversegameautismmmo-closingmmo-familymmo-kidsmmo-shut-downopinionstar-wars-galaxiessunsettabula-rasaWed, 28 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Little Space Heroes launches into orbit]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/little-space-heroes-launches-into-orbit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/little-space-heroes-launches-into-orbit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/little-space-heroes-launches-into-orbit/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Carefully falling on just the right side of the cute vs. oversaturated spectrum.
Winter is fast approaching, and that means holidays for children and parents looking for an activity to share. If you're one of those parents and you're hoping to get some time in an MMO with your kids, you may want to consider Little Space Heroes. The free-to-play browser-based game has just launched, allowing kids of all ages a chance to adventure in an online world with a strong emphasis on story and adventure.

According to the game's backstory, the evil Lord Shadowbot has stolen the Glows, the source of light in the player's galaxy. Each player must begin a quest to try to recover the Glows, restoring light and happiness and foiling Lord Shadowbot in turn. Bubble Gum Interactive has stated that its goal is to create a gaming experience fun for kids and parents alike, so if you're looking for something to try out with your little ones, this might be just the game. (You can also take a look at our first impressions of the game if you need a little more information.)

MassivelyLittle Space Heroes launches into orbit originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Dec 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brower-gamesbrowser-basedbrowser-mmosbubble-gum-interactivef2pfamilyfamily-gamesfree-to-playkid-gameskidslaunchlauncheslittle-space-heroeslshWed, 14 Dec 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[KingsIsle launches new Wizard101 Zafaria content]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/kingsisle-launches-new-wizard101-zafaria-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/kingsisle-launches-new-wizard101-zafaria-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/kingsisle-launches-new-wizard101-zafaria-content/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Wizard101 - centaur dude fighting
It's update time in the world of Wizard101, and KingsIsle has released a mammoth set of patch notes to go along with its new Zafaria content.

What's Zafaria? It's a whole new slice of the game world comprised of six unique areas that can be accessed with a Wizard101 membership or via individual purchases. The game's level cap has also been raised (to 70), and the requisite new gear is present as well. New spells can also be found in the update, as can new henchmen and improved character stats.

There's a bunch more for you to read about (including info on a new music player!), so head to the official Wizard101 website for all the details.

MassivelyKingsIsle launches new Wizard101 Zafaria content originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Nov 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfamilyfantasyfree-to-playgame-mechanicshenchmenkidskingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlevel-cap-increasewiz101wizard101zafariaFri, 18 Nov 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: First Impressions of Project Exonaut]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/16/mmo-family-first-impressions-of-project-exonaut/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/16/mmo-family-first-impressions-of-project-exonaut/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/16/mmo-family-first-impressions-of-project-exonaut/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Project Exonaut
Lately, I've been moving away from my "sword and board" mentality and instead checking out some MMOs that have faster gameplay, such as Vindictus' physics-based, arcade-style combat and Global Agenda's jetpack shooter battles. But while I've had fun grabbing gnolls by the throat and crushing them against the wall in Vindictus and fending off waves of zombies and chupacabras in Fallen Earth, the content isn't necessarily kid-friendly.

I wanted to find a game that had action, fast-paced combat, and jetpacks but still touched on all the things that make for a good family game. I stumbled on Project Exonaut, made by Cartoon Network, and decided to check it out. It's a browser-based, free-to-play game that pits you against other players in a futuristic setting. It's not quite an MMO and would probably fall under our Not So Massively heading, but I decided to try it out. Read on for a look at the game and my first impressions!

Continue reading MMO Family: First Impressions of Project Exonaut

MassivelyMMO Family: First Impressions of Project Exonaut originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 Nov 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cartoon-networkdexterexonautfamilyfamily-mmofeaturedgumballkaren-bryankidsmmo-familymmo-shooterpixarproject-exonautshooterWed, 16 Nov 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you play your favorite MMO with your kids?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/the-daily-grind-do-you-play-your-favorite-mmo-with-your-kids/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/the-daily-grind-do-you-play-your-favorite-mmo-with-your-kids/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/the-daily-grind-do-you-play-your-favorite-mmo-with-your-kids/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Guild Wars
Today's Daily Grind is for the parents -- or those who plan to be parents one of these days. It's only natural for little ones to take an interest in what mom and dad spend their leisure time with, whether it be a sport, some sort of craft, or gaming.

MMO gaming in particular lends itself to being a family activity, where Mom, Dad, and the kiddos can team up and take on the Big Bad in their chosen game (provided there are enough computers around the house). Granted, not every MMO is suitable for the younger crowd, but plenty are.

As a parent, do you round up your child for some gaming time? If so, do they join you in your game of choice, or do the two of you spend quality time in a game that you set aside to play together, like Free Realms and Wizard101? Those of you who are looking at parenthood down the road, do you plan to introduce your kids to gaming as soon as possible? Click that handy little comment button and let us know what you think!

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do you play your favorite MMO with your kids? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>childrenfamilyfamily-gaminggaming-with-kidskidsopinionparentingtdgthe-daily-grindTue, 15 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Receive the Nova Force in Super Hero Squad Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/11/receive-the-nova-force-in-super-hero-squad-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/11/receive-the-nova-force-in-super-hero-squad-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/11/receive-the-nova-force-in-super-hero-squad-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

NOVA FOOOOOOORCE
Have you ever wanted to have the Nova Force all to yourself? Well, you're in luck, as Gazillion has announced that everyone's favorite space cop is coming to Super Hero Squad Online. To get a look at what Nova's bringing to the game, jump past the cut and check out his announcement trailer. Then head over to the game's official site and join the mayhem.

[Source: Gazillion press release]

Continue reading Receive the Nova Force in Super Hero Squad Online

MassivelyReceive the Nova Force in Super Hero Squad Online originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 Nov 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfamilyfree-to-playgazilliongazillion-entertainmentkidsmarvelnovanova-forceshsosuper-hero-squad-onlinetrailertrailersvideovideosFri, 11 Nov 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: First impressions of Little Space Heroes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/02/mmo-family-first-impressions-of-little-space-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/02/mmo-family-first-impressions-of-little-space-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/02/mmo-family-first-impressions-of-little-space-heroes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Little Space Heroes
In this week's MMO Family, I took a look at an adorable new game from Bubble Gum Interactive called Little Space Heroes. It's a free-to-play, animated, space-themed game aimed at children ages 6 to 12. The game is still in beta, but players can register and get a glimpse of this virtual universe right now.

At first glance, I wasn't sure whether I'd even be able to get my two young "testers" interested in the game. They've tried similar-looking games like Club Penguin but never seemed to stick with them for very long. Surprisingly, not only did they enjoy it, but they pretty much took over, and my little space alien hero was shoved aside as we spent most of our time playing their two characters. Read on for some first impressions!

Continue reading MMO Family: First impressions of Little Space Heroes

MassivelyMMO Family: First impressions of Little Space Heroes originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 Nov 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabrowser-basedbubble-gum-interactivechildrenchildrens-mmosfamily-mmosfeaturedfirst-impressionshands-onkaren-bryankidskids-gameskids-mmoslittle-space-heroesopinionpreviewpreviewsspaceWed, 02 Nov 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaderboard: Free Realms' vs. Wizard101's unicorns]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/24/leaderboard-free-realms-vs-wizard101s-unicorns/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/24/leaderboard-free-realms-vs-wizard101s-unicorns/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/24/leaderboard-free-realms-vs-wizard101s-unicorns/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Leaderboard
In honor of the recently revived MMO Family column here on Massively, I thought that this week we'd extend the brutal beatings, clobberings, and verbal beratings to family-friendly MMOs. In many ways, Free Realms and Wizard101 are almost like siblings with so many things in common, and this extends to the use of sickeningly cute unicorn pets.

While I personally stopped paying attention to unicorns when Trapper Keepers went out of style, apparently they're still a "thing," especially with the younger market. You young 'uns, always keeping the unicorn union in business! Why don't you just let us harvest them for their magical horns which can be ground up and sprinkled on our Starbucks lattes?

Ahem. Sorry. In any event, one such instance of ultra-cuteness is enough; two is completely unnecessary and unhealthy for the well-being of our universe. So today you must decide which game's unicorns will rule as lord supreme over the hearts of tweens everywhere, and which will be sold to the salt mines to haul loads while crying rainbow tears. Vote! And let it forever be on your conscience!

[The unicorn on the left is from Wizard101; the one on the right is from Free Realms.]

Continue reading Leaderboard: Free Realms' vs. Wizard101's unicorns

MassivelyLeaderboard: Free Realms' vs. Wizard101's unicorns originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 24 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>familyfree-realmskidsleaderboardmmo-familyopinionpetpetspollrainbow-tearssalt-minesstarbuckstrapper-keeperstweensunicornunicornswizard101Mon, 24 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[KingsIsle teasing new Wizard101 content]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/kingsisle-teasing-new-wizard101-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/kingsisle-teasing-new-wizard101-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/kingsisle-teasing-new-wizard101-content/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Our friends at KingsIsle Entertainment have tipped us off to an exciting bit of news regarding Wizard101. Unfortunately we don't know quite what that news is just yet. Why the posting then? Well, that's where you lot come in.

Take a look at the image above and put on your thinking caps. KingsIsle let slip the fact that this picture is the first in a series of three to be released over the next week or so, and there's some sort of message hidden in each image. As we understand it, all three will be needed to decipher the full message, which ultimately has something to do with some "mysterious upcoming new content."

[Source: KingsIsle press release]

MassivelyKingsIsle teasing new Wizard101 content originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 21 Oct 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfamilyfantasyfree-to-playkidskingsislekingsisle-entertainmentprpress-releasepromotionswizard-101wizard101Fri, 21 Oct 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: Why games are good for family]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/19/mmo-family-why-games-are-good-for-family/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/19/mmo-family-why-games-are-good-for-family/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/19/mmo-family-why-games-are-good-for-family/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Free Realms
A couple of years ago, Massively readers engaged in a great discussion that doesn't get covered nearly as much as it should. Thanks to former Massively columnist Lisa Poisso, the column MMO Family was born, and she and the readers looked at how MMOs affect the family, both the positives and the potential dangers.

I'm excited to have the opportunity to start the column up again because I think a lot has changed in the short time since the column went on hiatus. We'll revisit a few issues that Lisa brought up and some of the more recently released MMO titles to see which ones are the best for family-centered gaming. To kick things off, I'd like to explore why MMOs are good for kids and for the family unit as a whole. When it comes to talk about kids and gaming, the discussion tends to revolve around the negatives, like violence, antisocial behavior, or lack of physical activity. No one will argue that MMOs, as with most anything, can have detrimental effects when played to excess. But to focus on the negatives is to ignore the vast amount of benefits that gaming can provide. Read on for a few examples.

Continue reading MMO Family: Why games are good for family

MassivelyMMO Family: Why games are good for family originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 19 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>club-penguindestructoidfamilyfamily-gamingfeaturedGDC-Online-2011hamza-azizkaren-bryankidsmegan-bellmind-candymmo-familymoshi-monsterspax-east-2011wizard101Wed, 19 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do cartoony graphics bother you?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/07/the-daily-grind-do-cartoony-graphics-bother-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/07/the-daily-grind-do-cartoony-graphics-bother-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/07/the-daily-grind-do-cartoony-graphics-bother-you/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Itching for Glitch
I know we've tackled this topic before, but with my new obsession with Glitch (thanks to Beau and Rubi!), I've decided to revive the topic. Just as cartoons aren't always just for kids, cartoony graphics in video games aren't always just for kids.

Glitch is a perfect example of a game that looks like it's meant for a younger crowd, but the sense of humor and content actually requires a 14-or-older rule to play the game. This has, in the past, been a barrier to entry for those players who won't play something unless it's ultra-realistic in the graphics department. But I'd like to think our opinions have lightened up in the last few years.

So what's your stance? Do you see cartoony graphics as a complete turn-off? Are you attracted by the brighter colors and whimsical mood? Or does your opinion lie somewhere in between? Let us know!

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do cartoony graphics bother you? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 07 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cartoony-graphicsglitchgraphics-snobkidsopinionstylizedtdgthe-daily-grindtiny-speckFri, 07 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Should games cut us off? [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/the-daily-grind-should-games-cut-us-off/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/the-daily-grind-should-games-cut-us-off/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/the-daily-grind-should-games-cut-us-off/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Free Realms screenshot
Recently, Free Realms instituted a troubling feature for accounts belonging to minors. Parents began noticing that after they or their children played for three hours on an account flagged "minor," the interface announced that the player had entered "fatigue gaming time" and should log out to get some exercise for his health. Moreover, fatigue time reduced all in-game gains for the player by 50% and prevented him from completing quests and spinning the loot wheel.

Gamers erupted over what they saw as Sony Online Entertainment's attempt to intrude upon the parental domain, and the company has since rolled back this feature and stated it was "unintended." Still, other games have implemented similar features. What say you, Massively readers? Are you happy for games to nanny you (and your kids), or do you think they should mind their own business?

[Update: SOE contacted us to clarify that this feature is for the Chinese version only, as part of that government's Chinese Anti Indulgence System. It was accidentally included in the US version of the game briefly, hence the "unintended" statement. It's not in the US version of the game at this time.]

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: Should games cut us off? [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brianna-royce-tdgfatigue-gaming-timefree-realmskidsmyobnannyopinionparentssoeSony-Online-Entertainmenttdgthe-daily-grindMon, 19 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The dark side of Super Hero Squad Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/07/the-dark-side-of-super-hero-squad-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/07/the-dark-side-of-super-hero-squad-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/07/the-dark-side-of-super-hero-squad-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

SHSO Villainville image
Who says good guys never go bad? In Villainville, the newest expansion to Marvel's kid-friendly Super Hero Squad Online, players can do just that. Situated beyond the borders of the pleasant Super Hero City, Villainville is home to Doctor Doom's Lethal Legion and his evil minions, and within the dark city's walls and sewers, players go beyond merely fighting the bad guys -- they can become fallen versions of some of their favorite heroes, like Dark Surfer, Red Hulk, Iron Patriot, and Red She-Hulk. Players can also explore the all-new game world and jump into new missions like Abomination Obliteration and MODOK's Mo' Problems.

SHSO, which released last year complete with housing and a trading card game, is a F2P browser-based MMO that's heavy on the comic mischief and perfect for a quick superhero-flavored dungeon romp.

Be you big kid or small, check out the new Villainville trailer behind the break!

Continue reading The dark side of Super Hero Squad Online

MassivelyThe dark side of Super Hero Squad Online originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Sep 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazing-societybrowserbrowser-baseddoctor-doomf2pfamilyfree-to-playgazilliongazillion-entertainmentkidsmarvelnewsshsosuper-hero-squadsuper-hero-squad-onlinesuperherothe-amazing-societytrailertrailersvideovideosvillainvillainsvillainvilleWed, 07 Sep 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Astronaut: Moon, Mars, and Beyond developer talks educational mission]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/astronaut-moon-mars-and-beyond-developer-talks-educational-mi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/astronaut-moon-mars-and-beyond-developer-talks-educational-mi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/astronaut-moon-mars-and-beyond-developer-talks-educational-mi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Astronaut: Moon, Mars, and Beyond - ISS
Astronaut: Moon, Mars, and Beyond has been in the news a lot lately, but just who are the folks behind the educational MMO from NASA and Project Whitecard? A new piece at Gamasutra sheds a bit of light on that as well as a few more details about the project as a whole.

"I'm originally a developer," says Project Whitecard CEO Khal Shariff. "I thought, 'oh, I could be a developer for the rest of my life, or I could start my own company.'" That company has some pretty lofty goals for its first MMO, including reaching out to millions of kids worldwide and getting them interested in STEM education (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics).

"We are dedicated to using game technology to do things that, when somebody interacts with the game, it maybe leaves the world better or leaves somebody smarter," Shariff says.

MassivelyAstronaut: Moon, Mars, and Beyond developer talks educational mission originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>astronautastronaut-moon-mars-and-beyondeducationeducationalengineeringfamilyinterviewskhal-shariffkidsmathematicsmmo-industrynasaproject-whitecardreal-worldsciencespace-mmostemtechnologyThu, 01 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exclusive: Referee Ruby plays Treasure War in Free Realms]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/exclusive-referee-ruby-plays-treasure-war-in-free-realms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/exclusive-referee-ruby-plays-treasure-war-in-free-realms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/exclusive-referee-ruby-plays-treasure-war-in-free-realms/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Free Realms Referee Ruby
Referee Ruby is back again this week with another exclusive Free Realms video, this time showing off the Treasure War card game. Accessible through Greenwood Forest, Treasure War is a simple, card-styled rock-paper-scissors game in which players pit their cards against opponents' cards in an attempt to steal -- you guessed it -- treasure. The game features three modes: Quickplay, for low-risk, speedy, and fun matches vs. other players; Campaign, which requires the participant to face off against increasingly difficult NPCs for prizes; and Tournament, a competitive version of Quickplay that offers lucrative rewards.

Ruby notes that Treasure War isn't a standard TCG in which you build a custom deck; instead, your cards are chosen at random from your collection by the game itself. Of course, the Free Realms cash shop sells gems that can boost your odds of winning if you really need that extra edge. You can also purchase card packs for a chance at rare prizes like the glowy phoenix mount Ruby's riding at the end of the trailer.

Enjoy the full video just behind the break!

Continue reading Exclusive: Referee Ruby plays Treasure War in Free Realms

MassivelyExclusive: Referee Ruby plays Treasure War in Free Realms originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 24 Aug 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browsercard-gamecash-shopf2pfrfree-realmsfree-to-playkidsphoenixreferee-rubysoeSony-Online-Entertainmenttcgtrading-card-gametrailertrailerstreasure-warvideovideosWed, 24 Aug 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Universe goes F2P today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/lego-universe-goes-f2p-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/lego-universe-goes-f2p-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/lego-universe-goes-f2p-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

LEGO Universe - F2P
Free-to-play conversions have been in the news a lot lately, with games as diverse as Age of Conan and Champions Online throwing open their doors with various flavors of free access. LEGO Universe is the latest freemium convert, and today is the official kickoff for the brick-building MMORPG's new membership tier.

So what can you do for free in LEGO Universe?

Two adventure zones and one player property area are available for starters, and the game also offers up a decent selection of free mini-games, build options, and basic functionality (including the ability to sample faction gear and collect up to 10,000 coins). The LEGO Group is clearly looking to entice gamers to upgrade to a full membership, though, as it only costs $10 a month and it unlocks the full game including over 15 adventuring zones, access to upcoming expansion content, and the ability to join in competitions and community events. Head to the official LEGO Universe website for a full listing of free-to-play offerings and subscriber benefits. You can also click past the cut to see a new free-to-play trailer featuring gameplay and world-building highlights.

Continue reading LEGO Universe goes F2P today

MassivelyLEGO Universe goes F2P today originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Aug 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brick-buildingbricksbuildingbusiness-modelsf2pfamilyfree-to-playkidsLEGOlego-grouplego-universelego-universe-mmolegospress-releasesandboxsubscriber-benefitsthe-lego-grouptrailervideoMon, 15 Aug 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: Free Realms]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/14/rise-and-shiny-recap-free-realms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/14/rise-and-shiny-recap-free-realms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/14/rise-and-shiny-recap-free-realms/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Free Realms screenshot
This week I decided to revisit a game that has been covered and played by me (and this site) quite a bit before. In hindsight, Free Realms was a bit of a big deal when it was released. I have to admit that I thought it was going to be something different than it was, but I was pleasantly surprised at how it played and looked. It wasn't so long ago, but my, how things have changed in the game.

Critics have said that Sony Online Entertainment ruined certain systems while loyal fans have collected pets, decorated their houses, and had a pretty darn good time. Where do I fall along the spectrum? Well, I simply have not made as much time for the game as I would have liked lately, so I couldn't tell you. Early on, I was obsessed enough over the game to host a brief podcast about it and to level up several jobs. Fastforward to now, when I decided to take a week and revisit the game.

Click past the cut and I'll let you know what I found.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Free Realms

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Free Realms originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 14 Aug 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedcash-shopchildrensf2pfeaturedfrfree-realmsfree-to-playkidsLiveStreammark-tuttleMicrotransactionsminigamesSOESony-Online-EntertainmentvideoSun, 14 Aug 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: The best-looking games in free-to-play]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/free-for-all-the-best-looking-games-in-free-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/free-for-all-the-best-looking-games-in-free-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/free-for-all-the-best-looking-games-in-free-to-play/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Eden Eternal screenshot
Of all of the wacky arguments I have heard over the last few years, the "are video games art?" one has got to take the prize for most ridiculous. Sure, you can argue either side of anything, but to ask whether or not games are art just seems to be an attempt to assuage some boredom. We can also ask whether this life is really real, just in case we hadn't already been put to sleep. Art is what the artist says it is, period.

Art is also in the eye of the beholder. Our games are spread across a wide spectrum of styles, and many of us have very strong feelings about what we like and will not tolerate. I have seen people turn down great games simply because of the way a screenshot looked. Heck, I've done it myself. With as many games as I look at every week, occasionally it is smart (and fun) to organize them into lists. This week I am taking stock of my game list and figuring out the games that I feel look the best. Of course, you might not think so.

I decided to leave off games that are in testing or not available for the public yet. Click past the cut and see if you agree with me!

Continue reading Free for All: The best-looking games in free-to-play

MassivelyFree for All: The best-looking games in free-to-play originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 10 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeriaaeria-gamesanimebeau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedClone-Wars-Adventurescwadragon-nesteden-eternalf2pfamilyfaxionfaxion-onlinefeaturedflyfffree-for-allfree-to-playftpjagexjunebudjunebud-abkidsmilmonexonrappelzrunescapesoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstar-warsutvutv-true-gamesvindictusWed, 10 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Universe update adds progression system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/lego-universe-update-adds-progression-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/lego-universe-update-adds-progression-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/lego-universe-update-adds-progression-system/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

LEGO Universe has the creative aspects of MMOs and online gaming down pat. After all, we're talking LEGOs (edit: LEGO BRICKS OMG, LEGO BRICKS) here, and if there's one word that's synonymous with the long-running Danish toy line, that word is build.

What's there to do in LEGO Universe when your creativity runs dry, though? Thanks to the game's latest content update, traditional MMO character-building is now a viable option. Player minifigures may progress through 40 levels of content, unlocking points, achievements, and equipment along the way.

That's not all, as the latest LEGO Universe patch also features four new faction kits (Specialized Adventurer, Shinobi, Inventor, and Space Ranger), each of them aligned with one of the game's four Nexus Force factions and each offering players the opportunity to rank up and explore "new gear, powers, and abilities." Last but not least, the new LEGO Universe update brings a new instance challenge in the form of the Avant Gardens, and a big nasty known as the Spider Queen awaits players who are creative enough to make it through to the final battle.

MassivelyLEGO Universe update adds progression system originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avant-gardensbuildingcreativityequipmentf2pfamilyfree-to-playgame-updategeargrindinventorkidslegolego-universelegoslevel-upleveling-systemlevelsminifigure-levelspatchpress-releaseprogressionshinobispace-rangerspecialized-adventurerspider-queenMon, 08 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New trailer for Transformers Universe showing off what you'd expect]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/03/new-trailer-for-transformers-universe-showing-off-what-youd-exp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/03/new-trailer-for-transformers-universe-showing-off-what-youd-exp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/03/new-trailer-for-transformers-universe-showing-off-what-youd-exp/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

There's a reason that the Transformers franchise has been running more or less continually for the past 27 years, and that's in no small part due to sheer flexibility. The fiction allows for stories anywhere between world-spanning science fiction to light-hearted antics, and the years of comics, shows, and movies have touched on many areas. But the newest trailer for Transformers Universe, the upcoming MMO based in the current continuity, shows off a feature that's far more basic.

While the details are still light on the actual gameplay of the upcoming game, what we do know is that it promises to be an action-oriented MMO aiming at a browser client, allowing players to play a representative of either side in the fiction's factional warfare. While it will be running concurrently with Transformers: Prime when it launches in 2012, there's no word on whether the show continuity will affect the game in any way. But you don't need to worry about any of that to enjoy the video just past the cut -- all you need to do is admire what's sure to be a central part of the game no matter how it plays.

Continue reading New trailer for Transformers Universe showing off what you'd expect

MassivelyNew trailer for Transformers Universe showing off what you'd expect originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Aug 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-MMOshasbrojagexjagex-gameskid-oriented-gameskidslicensed-gamespreviewrobotstfutrailertransformerstransformers-primetransformers-universevideoWed, 03 Aug 2011 21:00:00 EST