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 Perfect Ten: Ways to prepare for the coming of SWTOR]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/24/the-perfect-ten-ways-to-prepare-for-the-coming-of-swtor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/24/the-perfect-ten-ways-to-prepare-for-the-coming-of-swtor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/24/the-perfect-ten-ways-to-prepare-for-the-coming-of-swtor/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Perfect Ten
Welcome to a very special edition of The Perfect Ten, the column that my two toddlers contribute to with their awe-inspiring counting abilities! With last week's dropping of Star Wars: The Old Republic's NDA, the internet has exploded with information, testimonials, and poorly spelled flamewars between the camps of believers and non-believers alike. It's a good time to be alive, eh?

In the spirit of the NDA drop and the upcoming December 20th launch -- less than a month! -- I've put together a list of 10 excellent ways that a SWTOR fan can prepare him or herself for the coming MMOcalypse. I totally understand that it can be frustrating to be waiting for an anticipated game launch, feeling impotent with your inability to speed up time. However, taking action in other ways can help with the wait and make us feel like we're being productive. That's what I'm here for today.

It's OK, there's no need to thank me. I get Light Side points for this.

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Ways to prepare for the coming of SWTOR

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Ways to prepare for the coming of SWTOR originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-new-hopebetabiowarecomic-bookcomic-booksfeaturedguildknights-of-the-old-republicKnights-of-the-Old-Republic-2kotorlight-sidelistlistsmoviesndanovelizationsnovelsperfect-tenpre-orderreturn-of-the-jedistar-wars-galaxiesstar-wars-the-old-republicswgswtorthe-art-and-making-of-the-old-republicthe-empire-strikes-backthe-perfect-tenThu, 24 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare links SWTOR and KOTOR in a new novel]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/22/bioware-links-swtor-and-kotor-in-a-new-novel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/22/bioware-links-swtor-and-kotor-in-a-new-novel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/22/bioware-links-swtor-and-kotor-in-a-new-novel/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Just about everyone who has played Knights of the Old Republic wants to know what happened to Revan after the game was done. After all, he was the main character for 60-plus hours of gameplay. Who wouldn't be attached? BioWare announced today that those fans will get their wishes fulfilled. Drew Karpyshyn, a principal writer for Star Wars: The Old Republic and author of the Bane novels, has set his pen to another Star Wars book. This one simply titled after its primary protagonist: Revan.

In an interview on the official SWTOR website, Karpyshyn gives us a tease as to how this novel will relate to the new MMORPG.
I think the novel will give them a much better understanding of the Sith Emperor and the Empire, for one thing. The Old Republic Sith Empire is very different from what people know from the movies, or even from the Great Hyperspace War comics that focus on characters like Naga Sadow and Ludo Kressh.

The novel will also give them some very direct background and detailed information that ties in directly with key Flashpoints in the game. I can't say too much, of course, but like any great prequel the books will give you the details of what came before to add an extra layer of depth to the experiences in the game.
Although he does not mention an exact date for the book's release, we do know that it will come later this year. This reporter hopes that it is before the release of SWTOR.

MassivelyBioWare links SWTOR and KOTOR in a new novel originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Apr 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWarebookdarth-revandel-reyDel-Rey-BooksDrew-KarpyshynEAElectronic-ArtsKnights-of-the-Old-RepublickotorLucasArtsnovelprequelRevanStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorFri, 22 Apr 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: The BioWare schtick]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/07/hyperspace-beacon-the-bioware-schtick/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/07/hyperspace-beacon-the-bioware-schtick/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/07/hyperspace-beacon-the-bioware-schtick/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

I'm going to dote a little on BioWare for a bit. Specifically, I would like to dote on Knights of the Old Republic, the precursor to Star Wars: The Old Republic. I want to accentuate the positive up front here, because in a moment I will say things that may be construed as negative. However, they're not. I have complete respect for what BioWare has done and is doing.

KOTOR was built on an original gaming engine (the Odyssey Engine). This gaming engine was designed as a 3-D version of the Infinity Engine, which is video game engine specifically designed to emulate mechanics found in the Dungeons and Dragons pen and paper game. In 1998, Baldur's Gate (Infinity Engine) -- which was said, at the time, to be like Diablo but more story-driven -- won the Origins Award for Best Roleplaying Computer Game. KOTOR, using a 3-D version of the same engine, is not lacking in its awards. It won game of the year from the Game Developers Choice Awards, Computer Gaming World, IGN, GMR Magazine, PC Gamer, Xbox Magazine, and G4, among other awards too long to list here.

The point of this is to show BioWare's track record and to show that BioWare went so far as to build a story-making game from the ground up. Now, based on reports from Gamasutra, BioWare is using the HeroEngine for SWTOR, but that, obviously, does not mean there will be less focus on storytelling in the game.

But has BioWare's storytelling energy finally run out? Have the original ideas presented in KOTOR and Baldur's Gate diminished to monotony? Has BioWare become -- dare I say it -- predictable? If it has, is that a bad thing? Continue reading to explore these ideas.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: The BioWare schtick

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: The BioWare schtick originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Dec 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>A-Fire-in-the-Mindbaldurs-gateBioWaredaniel-ericksoneaElectronic-Artsfeaturedgameroitgeorge-lucashero-journeyIan-Miles-Cheongjoseph-campbellKnights-of-the-Old-RepublicKOTORLucasArtsStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-hero-with-a-thousand-facesthe-old-republictorTue, 07 Dec 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR finds a companion for the Jedi knight]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/15/swtor-finds-a-companion-for-the-jedi-knight/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/15/swtor-finds-a-companion-for-the-jedi-knight/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/15/swtor-finds-a-companion-for-the-jedi-knight/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

In SWTOR's Deceived trailer, there was an odd shot of the Jedi leader giving a signal to an astromech droid. Per usual, the writers at BioWare do not put anything into their trailers without a specific reason. This past Friday, that little droid was revealed to be a companion for the Jedi knight class, named T7-O1 (tee seven - oh one). This little bot calls back to both T3-M4 of Knights of the Old Republic and, of course, R2-D2 of the Star Wars movies. In fact, his attitude is very similar to R2-D2's. According to the companion page on SWTOR's official site, he considers his owners to be more like partners and less like masters.

T7-O1 was activated over two centuries before the Treaty of Coruscant and has yet to be memory-wiped in that whole time. He remembers every organic he has ever worked with, from the petty smugglers, to Senator Oodora of Manaan, to Captain Nico Okarr, and to Jedi Master Ven Zallow, whom we witnessed being killed by Darth Malgus in the previously mentioned trailer. For your Jedi knight character, you can expect this droid to be an invaluable source of information. His surveillance, cartography, and data-slicing skills are unmatched.

BioWare has not revealed where your Jedi knight will meet T7-O1, just like every other companion mentioned for this game, but rest assured, he's waiting for you somewhere in that galaxy far, far away.

MassivelySWTOR finds a companion for the Jedi knight originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 15 Aug 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>astromechBioWarebwooocompanioncompanionsdarth-malgusdeceiveddroidEAea-biowareeletronic-artsfan-fridayjedi-knightKnights-of-the-Old-RepublickotorLucasArtsR2-D2Star-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorswtor-fan-fridayt3-m4t7-o1the-old-republictortreaty-of-coruscantven-zallowSun, 15 Aug 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Cats invade Star Wars: The Old Republic in this week's Fan Friday]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/23/cats-invade-star-wars-the-old-republic-in-this-weeks-fan-frida/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/23/cats-invade-star-wars-the-old-republic-in-this-weeks-fan-frida/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/23/cats-invade-star-wars-the-old-republic-in-this-weeks-fan-frida/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The community of Star Wars: The Old Republic did not quite make the Twitter and Facebook goals, so the developers decided to punish us by announcing another species that we will not be able to play. (Just kidding, it wasn't punishment.) In addition to spotlighting fan art and video, this week's Fan Friday column mentions Cathar as being another species players of SWTOR will bump into on their travels across the galaxy. The feline species from the planet bearing the same name was first mentioned by name in Tales of the Jedi: Dark Lords of the Sith, but gamers are probably more familiar with it from the other BioWare game, Knights of the Old Republic. Although the devs did not say where or how the players will run into this highly anticipated species, fans are hoping for a Cathar companion character.

As mentioned above, the social media goal was not reached. Even so, the community team did give the fans some gifts. The Fan Site Kit has been updated with more digital goodies. New avatars, screenshots, and biographical images can now grace your SWTOR fan site. Not to mention, the team has included six new desktop wallpaper images straight from the exciting "Hope" trailer.

Be sure to check out all of this and the amazing new fan art on the official SWTOR site.

MassivelyCats invade Star Wars: The Old Republic in this week's Fan Friday originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Jul 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWareCatGirlcatgirlsCathardark-lords-of-the-Sithdesktop-wallpaperEAea-biowareElectronic-Artsfacebookfan-fridayfan-sitefan-site-kitfan-sitesKnights-of-the-Old-RepublicKOTORLucasArtsStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorTales-of-the-Jedithe-old-republictortrailertwitterwallpaperFri, 23 Jul 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Taris adding a little post-apocalyptic flavor to SWTOR]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/26/taris-adding-a-little-post-apocalyptic-flavor-to-swtor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/26/taris-adding-a-little-post-apocalyptic-flavor-to-swtor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/26/taris-adding-a-little-post-apocalyptic-flavor-to-swtor/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

For those of us who played Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic, the name Taris will immediately spark up some memories of those first few hours of playing the original game that started it all. Taris, for the record, was an ecumenopolis (or city-wide planet) much like Coruscant, only unlike the more famously known hub of the galaxy, Taris was destroyed and forgotten during the events of KOTOR.

This week's new Developer Dispatch video covers the dev team's efforts to make a uniquely post-apocalyptic zone for Star Wars: The Old Republic, and it really delivers. Even if you haven't had the pleasure of playing KOTOR, we think Taris is going to be something to really look forward to -- except perhaps those Rakghouls.

Find the video below the break.

Continue reading Taris adding a little post-apocalyptic flavor to SWTOR

MassivelyTaris adding a little post-apocalyptic flavor to SWTOR originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 26 Feb 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebioware-mmobioware-mmorpgbioware-star-warsbioware-swtordeveloper-dispatcheaelectronic-artskotorlucas-artslucas-arts-mmolucas-arts-mmorpgstar-wars-gamestar-wars-knights-of-the-old-republicstar-wars-mmostar-wars-mmorpgstar-wars-the-old-republicstar-wars-torstarwarsstarwars-the-old-republicsw-torswtortaristhe-old-republictrailervideoFri, 26 Feb 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Taris announced for Star Wars: The Old Republic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/13/taris-announced-for-star-wars-the-old-republic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/13/taris-announced-for-star-wars-the-old-republic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/13/taris-announced-for-star-wars-the-old-republic/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Fans of Star Wars: The Old Republic are most likely veterans of Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic, for reasons that should be immediately obvious. So the announcement of Taris on the official site is no doubt going to bring back some warm feelings of nostalgia... or irritation at the planet that you had to spend roughly seven years on to find Bastilla. Maybe a little of both.

Of course, by the same token players might remember that Taris didn't exactly make it through the end of the game intact. Being leveled by an orbital bombardment left the planet a smoldering ruin for the rest of that game, and according to the planet's official dossier, the better part of three hundred years. The Republic is attempting to re-colonize the planet in a show of defiance against the Sith, but they're running into a few problems.

The rakghouls and plagues that marked the planet's lowest sectors remain amidst the ruins, along with the Sith attempting to block the Republic from the obvious symbolic victory of retaking the world. We're still a year out from Star Wars: The Old Republic, but with a few of the sites we can look forward to visiting, some players might feel as if they've never left.

MassivelyTaris announced for Star Wars: The Old Republic originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 13 Feb 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebioware-mmobioware-mmorpgbioware-star-warsbioware-swtoreaelectronic-artskotorlucas-artslucas-arts-mmolucas-arts-mmorpgorbital-bombardmentrepublicsithstar-wars-gamestar-wars-knights-of-the-old-republicstar-wars-mmostar-wars-mmorpgstar-wars-the-old-republicstar-wars-torstarwarsstarwars-the-old-republicsw-torswtortaristhe-old-republicSat, 13 Feb 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: SWTOR's 'inquistoring' Consular conundrum]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/30/the-digital-continuum-swtors-inquistoring-consular-conundrum/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/30/the-digital-continuum-swtors-inquistoring-consular-conundrum/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/30/the-digital-continuum-swtors-inquistoring-consular-conundrum/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The revealing of Star Wars: The Old Republic's final two classes has incited much discussion amongst the community and inside my own brain. On one hand, lots of people are happy to have more Sith and Jedi classes to choose from. However, on the other hand, some people are disappointed in the lack of creative and unexpected class options.

In all reality, BioWare probably made the right choice, but let's look at the view of both sides for the sake of argument and to have a little fun.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: SWTOR's 'inquistoring' Consular conundrum

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: SWTOR's 'inquistoring' Consular conundrum originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Nov 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BioWare Producer Blaine Christine recently sat down for a Star Wars: The Old Republic interview with Steven Crews at The MMO Gamer. The interview hits on a number of facets of SWTOR's gameplay and the process of creating the title. They also discuss how BioWare is designing the game to dissuade everyone from (only) running around wielding lightsabers through the unique strengths of each class, but their talk really focuses on the game's story.

Blaine discusses how the story for SWTOR players, whether they choose to be good or evil, will always be more than kill ten rats or "collect ten boxes for some random vendor." That story you play through fits the role you've chosen for yourself. Blaine likens a player's story progression to Knights of the Old Republic. He tells The MMO Gamer, "If you look at KOTOR and how that worked out, if you played light side versus dark side, there were distinct differences in the story, and distinct differences in how your character developed. It's going to be very similar to that."

Continue reading BioWare Producer on heroism and villainy in Star Wars: The Old Republic

MassivelyBioWare Producer on heroism and villainy in Star Wars: The Old Republic originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareblaine-christineclassesgame-mechanicsinterviewsknights-of-the-old-republickotorlorenew-titlesquestssci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsteven-crewsstoryswtorthe-mmo-gamerTue, 20 Oct 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMOs top Steam and Direct2Drive weekly charts]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/15/mmos-top-steam-and-direct2drive-weekly-charts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/15/mmos-top-steam-and-direct2drive-weekly-charts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/15/mmos-top-steam-and-direct2drive-weekly-charts/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We told you September was going to be a crazy month for MMOs! It seems that for the week of 9/6 to 9/12, MMOs topped both the Steam and Direct2Drive sales charts. Aion: Collector's Edition was first and Champions Online second on Steam and and it was the same for D2D, except they swapped first and second positions. Fallen Earth (preorder) was third on D2D, while not for sale on Steam. The Aion: Standard Edition took tenth on Steam and fifth on D2D.

It's also worth mentioning that Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic, while not an MMO, ranked highly for the week as well (third on Steam and fourth on D2D). BioWare announced a special $10 deal for KotOR at PAX last week for fans of their upcoming MMO, Star Wars: The Old Republic. People buying KotOR through D2D will receive a 25% discount on SWTOR when it releases. Speaking of D2D, you should keep your eye on their special Five Year Anniversary page because next Monday ten RPG/MMOs will be going on sale for $5.00 each!

Update: Thanks for the fix, cb!

MassivelyMMOs top Steam and Direct2Drive weekly charts originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Sep 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionchampions-onlinefallen-earthknights-of-the-old-republickotorpax-2009sales-chartsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorTue, 15 Sep 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX 2009: BioWare offers Star Wars: The Old Republic fans discount on KOTOR]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/07/pax-2009-bioware-offers-star-wars-the-old-republic-fans-discou/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/07/pax-2009-bioware-offers-star-wars-the-old-republic-fans-discou/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/07/pax-2009-bioware-offers-star-wars-the-old-republic-fans-discou/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We're all about MMOs at Massively (shocker), but once in a while something from our RPG past resurfaces and captures our attention again. Clearly we've got a number of Star Wars fans among our readers looking at how many people are following our Star Wars: The Old Republic coverage, and for many gamers the original Knights of the Old Republic (circa 2003) was a memorable experience. BioWare announced at PAX 2009 that they're handing out $10 doses of nostalgia by offering KOTOR downloads for PC through both Direct2Drive and Steam.

Getting back to the MMO angle, there's another 25% off of that for Star Wars: The Old Republic community members who download the game from Direct2Drive. Sure, PAX attendees get their KOTOR downloads for free -- damn you, Kyle Horner! -- but seriously, it's only $10 to begin with. If you missed Knights of the Old Republic the first time around, this is as good a time as any to catch up. Check out the announcement over on the official SWTOR site and create your account before September 15th if you're really adamant about saving a few bucks.

MassivelyPAX 2009: BioWare offers Star Wars: The Old Republic fans discount on KOTOR originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 Sep 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Player housing seems to be an oft requested feature for generally any MMO, but the last place we expected to hear rumors about it was for Star Wars: The Old Republic. Granted, this rumor stems from a BioWare employee at Gamescom being a little too tired and letting "housing" slip as one of the many features of the game. Of course, it's also just as likely that said person was so tired they simply misspoke.

Rumors have a way of digging into the brain, though, and this one is no different. If you think back to KOTOR and Mass Effect, both games had a kind of home base for the game's main characters. Wouldn't housing be pretty much the same thing? Yeah, we just went there.

MassivelyRumor: The Old Republic to have player housing? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Aug 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaelectronic-artsknights-of-the-old-republickotorlucasartsmass-effectstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republicThu, 27 Aug 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Let the Star Wars races begin]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/17/the-digital-continuum-let-the-star-wars-races-begin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/17/the-digital-continuum-let-the-star-wars-races-begin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/17/the-digital-continuum-let-the-star-wars-races-begin/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


I've been holding off on this for a little while, but it's the kind of subject that is impossible for me to avoid indefinitely. Classes were the last topic I touched upon, and there was quite a lot of conversation. In fact, there was a whole bunch of it to follow. So let's discuss the potential races for Star Wars: The Old Republic and, as usual, feel free to toss in your thoughts and picks in the comments. It wouldn't be the same without them.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Let the Star Wars races begin

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Let the Star Wars races begin originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 17 Aug 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebounty-hunterdroiddroidseaelectronic-artsfeaturedkotorlucasartsopinionstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-digital-continuumthe-old-republictrandoshantwilekwookieezabrakMon, 17 Aug 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars: The Old Republic reveals Ord Mantell as its newest planet]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/11/star-wars-the-old-republic-reveals-ord-mantell-as-its-newest-pl/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/11/star-wars-the-old-republic-reveals-ord-mantell-as-its-newest-pl/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/11/star-wars-the-old-republic-reveals-ord-mantell-as-its-newest-pl/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


BioWare has revealed Ord Mantell as Star Wars: The Old Republic's newest planet via a flurry of screenshots, concept art and even a new wallpaper. It reminds us a lot of Dantooine from the original KOTOR game, but with a little more going on than a Jedi Academy and tons of grass.

Don't get us wrong because we enjoyed or original stay in Dantooine, but reading the lore piece on Ord Mantell is causing a noticeable unnatural buildup of saliva. Embroiled in a ruthless civil war? Mountainous plains and volcanic islands? A corrupt government? These are all the makings of a wonderfully fun adventure for any player of either faction.

We're mostly excited about the ongoing battle between the Republic loyal old government and separatists looking for independence. As the marauders, Nar Shaddaa black market tech and elite Republic forces are all likely to be converging just as we -- and you -- arrive on the planet once Star Wars: The Old Republic launches sometime in the hopefully not-too-distant future.

Gallery: Star Wars: The Old Republic Screenshots

A HuttCantina of the Hutt PalaceDroids with blastersTomb Lightsaber Duel Trooper opens fire

Gallery: Star Wars: The Old Republic Concept Art

Gallery: Star Wars: The Old Republic Wallpapers

The Temple HallwayThe TreatyThe Sith ChamberThe Old Forest

MassivelyStar Wars: The Old Republic reveals Ord Mantell as its newest planet originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 11 Apr 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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If there's one thing a self indulging Star Wars fan knows, it's that lore is bountiful in our favorite science fiction pastime. So it comes as little surprised that a series high quality weekly webcomics just isn't enough for Star Wars: The Old Republic. BioWare has gone the distance and begun to put forth an audio timeline leading up to the current peace between the Galatic Republic and Sith Empire.

The historical record will be spoken by Master Gnost-Dural, Keeper of the Jedi Archives, who is in turn voiced by actor Lance Henriksen. BioWare fans will recognize him as the voice of Mass Effect's Admiral Hackett of the Human Systems Alliance. As for how many of these we should plan for, looking at the timeline reveals several more historical points (we counted 18) that took place before this inaugural first.

We'll try to feign a little surprise when "history" from the Knights of the Old Republic RPGs crops up somewhere in here, although hopefully it'll be more than a recap of those game's storylines.

MassivelyThe Old Republic's timeline as voiced by Lance Henriksen originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 28 Mar 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaelectronic-artsgalactic-republicgnost-duralknights-of-the-old-republickotorlucas-artsmass-effectsith-empirestar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republictimelineSat, 28 Mar 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Where mundane and fantastical merge]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/31/the-digital-continuum-where-mundane-and-fantastical-merge/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/31/the-digital-continuum-where-mundane-and-fantastical-merge/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/31/the-digital-continuum-where-mundane-and-fantastical-merge/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


The wizard leaps across the chasm, deftly avoiding a hurled ball of fire that the Goblin shaman had thrown in a rage. A space fighter weaves through suspended rocks in space as hostile blaster fire scorches the tips of his wing span. A retail employee swings the massive hammer he found in the home improvement section, saving a co-worker from the blood-thirsty sprite from another world?

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Where mundane and fantastical merge

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Where mundane and fantastical merge originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 31 Jan 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaelectronic-artsfantasyfeaturedjoystiqfeaturesjumanjikotorlovecraftlovecraftianmundanesci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsteampunksuperherothe-digital-continuumwizardzathuraSat, 31 Jan 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare CEO also wishing for a one console world]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/bioware-ceo-also-wishing-for-a-one-console-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/bioware-ceo-also-wishing-for-a-one-console-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/bioware-ceo-also-wishing-for-a-one-console-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


We've heard this one before, folks, that classic vision of a one-console world. Apparently, BioWare CEO Ray Muzyka shares in this big publisher/developer fever dream, and who could blame him? The idea of developing one game on a single console with a massive install base on a closed platform is quite obviously a great deal for a developer, and also for publishers having to put up the cash. But ultimately there's no reason for competition in a world like that, which a large part of the reason console gaming thrives as it does now.

At least it looks like BioWare has a strong affinity for consoles yet. So maybe there's a console version of Star Wars: The Old Republic in our future, although whether or not it's going to be on the one console to rule them all or not is still up in the air, we guess.
Star Wars: The Old Republic BioWare has finally unveiled Star Wars: The Old Republic, their new MMO! Massively's got you covered on all the details. Check out our comprehensive guide on everything we know so far about the game, or just peruse our screenshot/concept art galleries. Join us in the Galaxy far, far away!

MassivelyBioWare CEO also wishing for a one console world originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Jan 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareconsoleeaelectronic-artskotorray-muzykastar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorThu, 29 Jan 2009 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[What does BioWare have planned for SWTOR?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/16/what-does-bioware-have-planned-for-swtor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/16/what-does-bioware-have-planned-for-swtor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/16/what-does-bioware-have-planned-for-swtor/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


In a recent interview with GameSpy, BioWare's co-founders (affectionately referred to as The Doctors) explain a bit more about the origins of the upcoming Star Wars: The Old Republic MMO and what went into its creation process so far.

This interview is full of useful info to any fan of BioWare or their Knights of the Old Republic games, yet one question grabbed our attention more than the others. Considering the fact that the game has been so heavily advertised as big on story, GameSpy asked about the decision to make the game 300 years after KotOR. "Setting the game three centuries after KotOR arose from sitting down and writing out a timeline of events that took place after the fall of Darth Malak, during and after the events of KotOR 2. We had always alluded to a great darkness in Deep Space which Revan had sought to confront after KotOR, and we decided that great darkness would be a massive Sith Empire in exile, biding its time and waiting to come back for vengeance against the Jedi and the Republic."

Check out the full interview for more on the strong player-driven storyline, combat and what MMO BioWare considered making before SWTOR came along.
Star Wars: The Old Republic BioWare has finally unveiled Star Wars: The Old Republic, their new MMO! Massively's got you covered on all the details. Check out our comprehensive guide on everything we know so far about the game, or just peruse our screenshot/concept art galleries. Join us in the Galaxy far, far away!

MassivelyWhat does BioWare have planned for SWTOR? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Dec 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarekotorstar-wars-the-old-republicstorylineswtortorTue, 16 Dec 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Picking apart the first Star Wars: The Old Republic video piece by piece]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/12/picking-apart-the-first-star-wars-the-old-republic-video-piece/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/12/picking-apart-the-first-star-wars-the-old-republic-video-piece/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/12/picking-apart-the-first-star-wars-the-old-republic-video-piece/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


The first video for Star Wars: The Old Republic is out now, and with its release comes the first of many posts and features wherein we look at every possible angle or detail in the new information and try to discern what it could all really mean. So let's take a look at the list we've put together for the very first in-game footage:

  • Kel'dor are playable. (possible)
  • Bounty Hunter is a player class. (possible)
  • Companions fight with you in combat. (confirmed)
  • The art style picked by BioWare works much better in motion than in screens. (confirmed)
  • BioWare is holding back on a big game feature yet to be revealed. (speculation)
  • Combat similar to KOTOR, but much faster-paced and with a lot more "Whoa" attacks and effects. (confirmed/possible)
  • Players who go extreme lightside or darkside may not be able to play with each other. (speculation)
  • BioWare is totally psyched to be working with LucasArts on making another Star Wars game. (confirmed, like totally)
We're anxiously awaiting the next video so that we may once again devour it with a geeky hunger like no other.
Star Wars: The Old Republic BioWare has finally unveiled Star Wars: The Old Republic, their new MMO! Massively's got you covered on all the details. Check out our comprehensive guide on everything we know so far about the game, or just peruse our screenshot/concept art galleries. Join us in the Galaxy far, far away!

MassivelyPicking apart the first Star Wars: The Old Republic video piece by piece originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Dec 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Even though Star Wars: The Old Republic is now officially a real game, we still know very little about it aside from slivers of information BioWare has been able to share with us. What we know even less about is the combat system, which has simply been described as "choreographed" much like the battles featured in the Star Wars films. Thankfully, this little nugget of information gives us a springboard into what combat in the online Old Republic could be like, and while it's not much, it's definitely a start.

Continue reading Speculating on combat in Star Wars: The Old Republic

MassivelySpeculating on combat in Star Wars: The Old Republic originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 09 Dec 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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IncGamers had the opportunity to ask Star Wars: The Old Republic's lead designer James Ohlen some questions regarding the newly announced title. The most interesting of responses from Ohlen have him making very strong hints that while 300 years have passed since the first two titles, everyone's favorite assassin droid will make a return -- among other possibly alien species. We also learn that even though certain characters obviously won't have lived that long, quest will make plenty of allusions and references to legacies of past characters.

Another interesting reveal is that more than 100 people are currently working on Star Wars: The Old Republic. That's a fairly reasonable number for an MMO, but it gives us a good idea for how much effort is being put into a game that's apparently in a pre-alpha stage.
Star Wars: The Old Republic BioWare has finally unveiled Star Wars: The Old Republic, their new MMO! Massively's got you covered on all the details -- from liveblogging the announcement to screenshot galleries and more. Join us in the Galaxy far, far away!

MassivelyStar Wars: The Old Republic interview reveals shiny new information bits originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Nov 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Blizzard executive Paul Sams has a lot of things to say about BioWare and Star Wars: The Old Republic in an interview with Eurogamer. And while he starts off with, "I wouldn't bet against them, that's for sure." Sams doesn't stop there. He goes on to point out his reasons, stating that not many MMOs have both the strength in IP and development team that BioWare possess. He also points out the deep wallets of Electronic Arts, which will most certainly play an important role in getting Star Wars: The Old Republic just right via BioWare's "It's done when it's done" approach.

Still, Sams is quick to point out that building, running and maintaining an MMORPG is a very difficult task and that "time will tell" if the house that built KOTOR is able to react to the various situations that can erupt. A perfect example of this would be the server issues World of Warcraft has been facing for the past couple of days. Will BioWare be up to a job of that magnitude? Well, Sams is right, only time will tell.

MassivelyBlizzard exec: I wouldn't bet against BioWare originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Nov 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activision-blizzardbiowareblizzardeaelectronic-artseurogamerknights-of-the-old-republickotorpaul-samsstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorworld-of-warcraftwowWed, 12 Nov 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[First look at Star Wars: The Old Republic in PC Gamer magazine]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/07/first-look-at-star-wars-the-old-republic-in-pc-gamer-magazine/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/07/first-look-at-star-wars-the-old-republic-in-pc-gamer-magazine/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/07/first-look-at-star-wars-the-old-republic-in-pc-gamer-magazine/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

If ever there was a thing to go all googly-eyed over, it's the first look a Star Wars: The Old Republic. While it's a shame that such information isn't being released onto the web, at least we've got it earlier than most people were expecting. PC Gamer magazine has gotten an exclusive first look at BioWare's incubating MMO, including interviews with creative director James Ohlen, principal lead writer Daniel Erickson, and BioWare co-founders Dr. Ray Muzyka and Dr. Greg Zeschuk.

The issue also apparently has exclusive screenshots for anyone brave enough to look. We're sure that what we've seen so far are very early conceptual designs, but it still pains us to see log-sized lightsabers -- even if BioWare is willing to laugh at themselves over it.

MassivelyFirst look at Star Wars: The Old Republic in PC Gamer magazine originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 07 Nov 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Lightsabers, Jedi and Sith; all things that come to mind the moment someone says Star Wars: The Old Republic. BioWare probably pops up into most of our minds as well. It hasn't even been a week yet, but I'm already starting to see the potential greatness lying within BioWare's Austin, Texax studio's walls.

It's not surprising that Lucas Arts and Electronic Arts both think that this particular MMO could be bigger than World of Warcraft -- they've got invested interest in seeing that come true. My reasoning is a bit less financially induced ( In fact, I'll probably end up buying the super-limited edition and of course there's the monthly fees) and instead a matter of desire to see one of my favorite franchises both succeed in and expand upon one of my favorite genres.

Gallery: Star Wars: The Old Republic Screenshots

A HuttCantina of the Hutt PalaceDroids with blastersTomb Lightsaber Duel Trooper opens fire

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Is the force strong with The Old Republic?

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Is the force strong with The Old Republic? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 25 Oct 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activision-blizzardbiowareblizzardeaelectronic-artsfeaturedjoystiqfeaturesknights-of-the-old-republickotorlucas-artsstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-digital-continuumworld-of-warcraftwowSat, 25 Oct 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Check out the Star Wars: The Old Republic wiki]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/23/check-out-the-star-wars-the-old-republic-wiki/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/23/check-out-the-star-wars-the-old-republic-wiki/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/23/check-out-the-star-wars-the-old-republic-wiki/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Just like with any highly-anticipated MMO, Star Wars: The Old Republic now has an unofficial wiki for fans to go and obsess over during the multiple years' wait for the BioWare KotOR-based MMO to be released. There's already a bevy of information to sift through on the wiki, although most of it is from the official website or the waves of information that's likely already washed over everyone in the past couple of days -- you can even check out the first developer interview via the site. However, if you missed the features the hit the web during the deluge that was Star Wars: The Old Republic announcement day, then this wiki is the perfect way to catch up.

MassivelyCheck out the Star Wars: The Old Republic wiki originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Oct 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaelectronic-artskotorstar-warsswtortorwikiThu, 23 Oct 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Lore of Star Wars: The Old Republic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/the-lore-of-star-wars-the-old-republic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/the-lore-of-star-wars-the-old-republic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/the-lore-of-star-wars-the-old-republic/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


The hotly anticipated MMO Star Wars: The Old Republic (SWTOR) from BioWare has only just been announced, but they've already given us a clear picture of the game's setting and a bit of the lore as well. From what we can tell, you won't need to be a die-hard fan of Star Wars to appreciate the title, which is good news as there's a daunting amount of Star Wars canon out there. That said, it'll certainly help to have at least some grounding in what's going on in Star Wars: The Old Republic. To that end, Massively's put together a brief primer on the lore of SWTOR.

Who is this written for? People who've seen the films but may not necessarily have played Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic (KotOR) on PC or console, and especially those who haven't read the novels or various comic book lines released over the years. Read on, and we'll introduce you to the backdrop and factions of Star Wars: The Old Republic.

Continue reading The Lore of Star Wars: The Old Republic

MassivelyThe Lore of Star Wars: The Old Republic originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Oct 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarecoruscantdark-councildarth-vaderemperorempirefeaturedgalactic-republicjedijedi-counciljedi-orderjoystiqfeaturesknights-of-the-old-republickorribankotorlorenaga-sadowrepublicrevansci-fisithsith-empiresith-lordsith-lordsstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtortreaty-of-coruscanttythonWed, 22 Oct 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare's KotOR MMO to have companion characters]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/21/biowares-kotro-mmo-to-have-companion-characters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/21/biowares-kotro-mmo-to-have-companion-characters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/21/biowares-kotro-mmo-to-have-companion-characters/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


The moment 2pm hit, a tidal flood of information for Star Wars: The Old Republic came gushing out of every news facet. In the video being featured on Gamespot, people working on the newly announced -- but long rumored -- KotOR MMO mention something incredibly cool about the title: companions. Apparently, while playing Star Wars: The Old Republic players can meet, recruit, speak to and even be betrayed by companions just like in the first two singleplayer experiences. This seemingly ties into BioWare's addition of story as a "fourth pillar" to combat, exploration and character development.

Gallery: Star Wars: The Old Republic Screenshots

A HuttCantina of the Hutt PalaceDroids with blastersTomb Lightsaber Duel Trooper opens fire

Star Wars: The Old Republic is here! Bioware has finally unveiled Star Wars: The Old Republic, their new MMO! Massively's got you covered on all the details -- from liveblogging the announcement to screenshot galleries and more. Join us in the Galaxy far, far away!

MassivelyBioWare's KotOR MMO to have companion characters originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 Oct 2008 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebreakingeaelectronic-artsfeaturedjoystiqfeatureskotorlucasartsstar-warsswtorTue, 21 Oct 2008 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars MMO announced as The Old Republic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/21/star-wars-mmo-announced-as-the-old-republic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/21/star-wars-mmo-announced-as-the-old-republic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/21/star-wars-mmo-announced-as-the-old-republic/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

We've waited for it for a long time, we knew it was coming: BioWare has announced the Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic-inspired MMO at last: the title is Star Wars: The Old Republic! Commence rejoicing with Ewoks and Gungans in the streets!

A huge amount of information is SWTOR is already hitting the internet like a tsunami -- there's a preview at IGN, a video interview with Ray Muzyka and Greg Zeschuk at GameSpot, screenshots at Eurogamer -- this is just the beginning, folks! We're in for a fine, fine day for Sci-Fi nerds! Check out the GameSpot vid behind the jump!

Gallery: Star Wars: The Old Republic Concept Art


Gallery: Star Wars: The Old Republic Screenshots

A HuttCantina of the Hutt PalaceDroids with blastersTomb Lightsaber Duel Trooper opens fire

Gallery: Star Wars: The Old Republic Wallpapers

The Temple HallwayThe TreatyThe Sith ChamberThe Old Forest

Star Wars: The Old Republic is here! Bioware has finally unveiled Star Wars: The Old Republic, their new MMO! Massively's got you covered on all the details -- from liveblogging the announcement to screenshot galleries and more. Join us in the Galaxy far, far away!

Continue reading Star Wars MMO announced as The Old Republic

MassivelyStar Wars MMO announced as The Old Republic originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 Oct 2008 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebreakingfeaturedkotorkotor-mmolucasartsstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorTue, 21 Oct 2008 17:31:00 EST<![CDATA[The Star Wars / BioWare announcement is just hours away]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/21/the-star-wars-bioware-announcement-is-just-hours-away/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/21/the-star-wars-bioware-announcement-is-just-hours-away/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/21/the-star-wars-bioware-announcement-is-just-hours-away/#commentsFiled under: ,


We're just hours away from the highly anticipated announcement of the BioWare/LucasArts project most gamers expect to be a Knights of the Old Republic MMO. We here at Massively has been waiting for this day ... oh, for years. More recently, though, we've had some more concrete elements to talk about. Ever since the July confirmation of the project by EA's head, we've been very busy thinking, plotting, and planning. Our own Kyle Horner has explored theorycrafting, wondering about planets that might appear in the game and ways that non-Jedi might counter their force-using fellow players. Craig Withers explored the game's possibilities as well, talking about what he wants to see.

We've also heard quite a bit from you! We've asked you what class you want to play, and what game design components you want to see. We'll finish this quickie wrapup with IGN's "Top Ten Things We All Want to See in a KOTOR MMO", and ask that you come back in about six hours to follow along with Massively's coverage of this fantastic event!

MassivelyThe Star Wars / BioWare announcement is just hours away originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 Oct 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareknights-of-the-old-republickotorkotorolucasartsstar-warsswtorTue, 21 Oct 2008 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[LucasArts and BioWare confirm impending announcement]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/06/lucasarts-and-bioware-announce-impending-announcement/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/06/lucasarts-and-bioware-announce-impending-announcement/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/06/lucasarts-and-bioware-announce-impending-announcement/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

LucasArts and BioWare have invited members of the press to attend an event later this month at which the two companies will finally officially announce the game they've been working on together. They did not say what the game is, of course -- then how could they officially announce it at the event? Obviously we're suspicious that it will be the Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic MMO (or just Star Wars: The Old Republic, as the rumored title goes).

EA's John Riccitiello already confirmed the existence of that game under the table way back at E3, and other tidbits of news have only supported it since then. But hey, we suppose it could be something else. It was suggested in the Massively offices that maybe LucasArts bought the rights to He-Man, and it is in fact a He-Man MMO. Or maybe GI Joe. Yeah, we're a-stretchin'. More likely: a Willow game.

According to Worlds in Motion, the invitation says it's "the game that's been rumored about for years." Uh-huh. The announcement will come October 21st, so hold your horses. Or your speeders. Whatever.

MassivelyLucasArts and BioWare confirm impending announcement originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 06 Oct 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The site ComputerandVideogames reported earlier this week that new information may be coming soon about BioWare's Knights of the Old Republic MMO. We do know that the company is working on such a title, thanks to commentary from John Riccitiello during this year's E3. Unfortunately, the words don't stem from the most reliable source. The UK's Daily Star is the source of the claim, with the tabloid's site stating that it will be traveling to San Francisco to see the game in person.

We sent word to LucasArts, asking if they'd be willing to confirm or dismiss their intentions to make an announcement this month. The PR Manager we spoke to stated, specifically, that "LucasArts doesn't comment on unannounced games." We'll keep you updated when (and if) the annoucement is made.

MassivelyKotOR MMO announcement rumored to be coming soon originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 04 Oct 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareknights-of-the-old-republicknights-of-the-old-republic-onlinekotorkotororumorswtorSat, 04 Oct 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What do you want in the KotOR MMO?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/the-daily-grind-what-do-you-want-in-the-kotor-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/the-daily-grind-what-do-you-want-in-the-kotor-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/the-daily-grind-what-do-you-want-in-the-kotor-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

LucasArts' Star Wars: The Force Unleashed has sold like, a bajazillion copies since it launched a couple weeks ago. The Star Wars franchise definitely sells video games, even when they get lukewarm reviews. But we're not going to talk about sales today. We're going to talk about quality.

Since this site is about MMOs, and since we're going on about Star Wars, you've probably guessed that today's Daily Grind is about the Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic MMO in development at BioWare's Austin studio. We want to know: what do you think the KotOR MMO needs in order to achieve greatness? It can't just be World of Warcraft with lightsabers and sociopathic droids. It needs to be radical.

So what's it gonna take? What are you expecting -- nay, demanding -- from BioWare in perhaps the most hotly anticipated MMO since WoW or possibly of all time?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What do you want in the KotOR MMO? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 30 Sep 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>austinbiowarediscussionknights-of-the-old-republickotorkotor-mmokotor-onlinekotorolucasartsopinionstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-daily-grindthe-force-unleashedthe-old-republicTue, 30 Sep 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Top 10 things we all want in a KotOR MMO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/19/top-10-things-we-all-want-in-a-kotor-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/19/top-10-things-we-all-want-in-a-kotor-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/19/top-10-things-we-all-want-in-a-kotor-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Knights of the Old Republic MMO concept has been laid out there, despite no "official" announcement, and excitement is brewing everywhere. What would this MMO bring to the table? How would they successfully create another Star Wars-based online world and make it at least competitive in today's crowded MMO market?

Enter IGN's "Top 10 Things We Want in a KOTOR MMO" list. This list was compiled by the folks on IGN's PC Team to let us know what they think would make the game exciting and successful. Some of the features they've cited include space combat comparable to TIE Fighter, player-run territories (planets?) and no over-saturation of Jedis. Check out the complete list at their site for more, and let us know what you'd add to that list.

MassivelyTop 10 things we all want in a KotOR MMO originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Sep 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaignknights-of-the-old-republickotorkotor-mmokotorolucasartsstar-warsswtortop-10Fri, 19 Sep 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Six planets KOTORO shouldn't be without]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/06/the-digital-continuum-six-planets-kotoro-shouldnt-be-without/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/06/the-digital-continuum-six-planets-kotoro-shouldnt-be-without/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/06/the-digital-continuum-six-planets-kotoro-shouldnt-be-without/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


There are many worlds to explore in the Star Wars universe. Some are nothing but deserts, while others are covered completely by a single city. So how do you decide which planets to include in something like the upcoming KOTOR MMO? Well, you could just flippantly choose the ones that appeal to you the most, or spend way too much of your time researching planets to figure out which ones would suit both MMO gameplay and lore the best. I went with the latter choice for this week's Digital Continuum. Feel free to click the image above and read through the results.

Gallery: Six planets KOTORO shouldn't be without

AlderaanCoruscantKorribanKashyyykTaris

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Six planets KOTORO shouldn't be without originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 06 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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A survey that asked for player feedback on several hypothetical City of Heroes features included the possibility of a 'rogue' system, in which your character's actions in the game would dictate whether they swing to the hero side, the villain side, or a grey area inbetween. At present, heroes and villains are stamped as such from character creation onward, and the story arcs treat you as one or the other, with no moral ambiguity.

In the KOTOR games, of which an MMO version is now on the cards, characters can veer towards the light or dark side by means of their actions. You choose a side in the course of play, not by making an irrevocable choice at character creation.

Would you like to see a 'moral compass' system in any of the MMOs you play? Does the idea of corrupting a 'good' character or redeeming an 'evil' one appeal? Does it enrich a game to have meaningful moral choices that shape your character's affiliation? Or does such a system inevitably lock you in to the game's idea of good and evil, rather than allowing you to determine your own alignment?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: would you want a moral compass? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 12 Aug 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxkotorkotoromoral-compassswtorTue, 12 Aug 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LucasArts looking for PC and console MMO testers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/05/lucasarts-looking-for-pc-and-console-mmo-testers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/05/lucasarts-looking-for-pc-and-console-mmo-testers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/05/lucasarts-looking-for-pc-and-console-mmo-testers/#commentsFiled under: , ,


If you somehow still weren't convinced -- or in denial -- about the reality of a KOTOR MMO, here's some further proof of the matter. It's very compelling evidence but what's most interesting about the job requirements is this bit, "Strong familiarity and experience with gaming consoles, and Windows based PC's." Should we be expecting to hear the eventual announcement of an Xbox 360 or Playstation 3 KOTOR MMO? Seems like.

The good side of this news is you could meet the criteria LucasArts has set for a tester and be one of the first people to play the game. The bad news is that a new single-player KOTOR seems unlikely to be in anyone's current future. So if you're not initially sold on a massively multiplayer KOTOR, hopefully BioWare will actually own up to their claim of trying something different and change your mind in the long-run.

MassivelyLucasArts looking for PC and console MMO testers originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 05 Aug 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebreakingeaelectronic-artsknights-of-the-old-republickotorkotor-mmokotorolucas-artslucasartsmicrosoftplaystation-3ps3rumorsonystar-warsswtorxboxxbox-360Tue, 05 Aug 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: The MMO you're most looking forward to]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/28/the-daily-grind-the-mmo-youre-most-looking-forward-to/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/28/the-daily-grind-the-mmo-youre-most-looking-forward-to/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/28/the-daily-grind-the-mmo-youre-most-looking-forward-to/#commentsFiled under: ,


There are so many upcoming MMOs to anticipate, we honestly can't say which one we're looking forward to most. Champions Online looks like good fun (with a good sense of humor!), DC Universe Online has us wowed with its array of super powers (that thing where you can freeze someone in a block of ice and throw them around? We're led to understand it never gets old.), Wrath of the Lich King is sure to turn our attention back to Blizzard (we may or may not have the beta client open as we type -- we'd never admit it if we did), Warhammer Online is just around the corner, Star Trek Online calls to the inner geek in all of us, and Knights of the Old Republic Online (or whatever it might be called) is a siren's song to any geeks not falling head over heels for STO. We're in such a state of giddiness over upcoming games, we can't quite determine which one we're most excited about -- and that's where you come in. Which of the many new titles out there are you most looking forward to?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: The MMO you're most looking forward to originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 28 Jul 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentchampionschampions-onlinecrypticcryptic-studiosdc-universe-onlinedcuoeakotorkotor-mmokotoromythicsoestar-trek-onlinestoswtorworld-of-warcraftwotlkwowwrathMon, 28 Jul 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Five KOTOR MMO Jedi counter-measures]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/19/the-digital-continuum-five-kotor-mmo-jedi-counter-measures/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/19/the-digital-continuum-five-kotor-mmo-jedi-counter-measures/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/19/the-digital-continuum-five-kotor-mmo-jedi-counter-measures/#commentsFiled under: , ,


With the less-than-grandiose announcement that Electronic Arts, BioWare and Lucas Arts are working together on a KOTOR MMO, I've found myself pondering the game that until now was nothing but a rumor. Granted, I already thought about the game quite a lot even before it was the now more official affair.

There are no two ways about it. Star Wars as an MMO presents developers with a tough issue: how to deal with the Jedi class. I still think that one of the many mistakes with Star Wars Galaxies was setting it during the original trilogy, where Jedi were almost non-existent. I got the draw of the setting, but for an MMO it really didn't cater to the fervent desire to roll a Obi-wanna be character. Yet I also feel like it's a mistake making Jedi readily available without presenting players with other options that are equally appealing. Neo-futuristic-magical-samurai with energy swords aren't a hard sale for most players choosing which class they want to play. Thankfully, BioWare seems to have chosen itself a wonderfully powerful loop-hole: Knights of the Old Republic.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Five KOTOR MMO Jedi counter-measures

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Five KOTOR MMO Jedi counter-measures originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 19 Jul 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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We've had plenty of speculation -- lots and lots of it -- but now we've got confirmation from Electronic Arts chief executive John Riccitiello that Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic is indeed getting a massively multiplayer online iteration. Portfolio.com has the story.

The article quotes Riccitiello as saying, "... the one that people are dying for us to talk to them about -- in partnership with Lucas, coming out of BioWare, which is, I think, quite possibly the most anticipated game, full stop, for the industry at the point when we get closer to telling you about it." When directly asked if this was confirmation of Knights of the Old Republic Online, the executive said simply, "yes".

You can commence the freaking out now.

MassivelyKOTOR MMO confirmed by Electronic Arts originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Jul 2008 14:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebreakinge3e308eaeletronic-artskotorkotor-mmokotoroportfoliostar-warsswtorThu, 17 Jul 2008 14:17:00 EST<![CDATA[E308: BioWare says there is no KOTOR MMO (wink)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/16/e308-bioware-says-there-is-no-kotor-mmo-wink/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/16/e308-bioware-says-there-is-no-kotor-mmo-wink/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/16/e308-bioware-says-there-is-no-kotor-mmo-wink/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

We just saw BioWare show off their new Dragon Age: Origins here at E3, and while that singleplayer game looks great (imagine a Mass Effect game set in the world of Baldur's Gate), we did spring the requisite massively multiplayer question on them for you. At the very end of the Q&A session with developer Dan Tudge after the demo, the PR rep told us there was just "time for one more question," and we threw it out there: "So, how's the Knights of the Old Republic MMO coming?"

There was silence in the room for a moment. Tudge quietly said, "I... have no idea what you're talking about," and then everyone laughed as the PR rep nervously said, "Good answer." Tudge added, "You're asking me that in front of my boss?" And so we revised the question: Dragon Age has a very MMO-style design -- there's a minimap in the upper right, party portraits in the upper left, and a bar with icons for skills across the bottom. Does BioWare really want to make an MMO? "The interface looked like Baldur's Gate to me," said Tudge cooly. "The real question is, how much of the MMOs did Baldur's Gate influence?"

Touché. But we left the press conference with a smile, a special secret that we'll share with you now. As much as Tudge was thrown off by the question, as much as the PR flack was aghast that we asked it, we did leave with this satisfactory piece of information: they didn't, in point of fact, deny.
Did you enjoy this? Check out all of our E3 coverage as the week rolls forward!

MassivelyE308: BioWare says there is no KOTOR MMO (wink) originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 Jul 2008 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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