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[Five top tips for your first few days of Diablo III]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/five-top-tips-for-your-first-few-days-of-diablo-iii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/five-top-tips-for-your-first-few-days-of-diablo-iii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/five-top-tips-for-your-first-few-days-of-diablo-iii/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Diablo III title image
Diablo III officially launched at midnight last night, opening the floodgates on what is possibly the most pre-ordered PC game in history. It's been almost 12 years since the previous game in the series launched, and it's still going to this day. Whether you've played previous games, have taken part in the Diablo III beta or are taking your first steps into Sanctuary today, everyone starts with a clean slate. In this article, I give my top five tips for spending your first few days wisely in Diablo III.

#5 - Spend most of your time on one character

It seems like a bit of a no-brainer to initially focus on one character, but in Diablo III's case, there's a special reason to do it. You'll likely finish normal mode around level 20-30, and until then, you'll get a new skill almost every level. It's only when you've completed normal mode and moved on to nightmare that the challenge really starts and you will have picked out an effective set of skills. Your last active skill unlocks at level 30, and from then on you'll gain a combination of two to three runes or passive skills every level until you hit the level cap at 60.

Read on for four more tips you should keep in mind as you start playing Diablo III.

Continue reading Five top tips for your first few days of Diablo III

MassivelyFive top tips for your first few days of Diablo III originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgauction-housebarrelsbattlenetblacksmithblizzardblizzard-entertainmentchartd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiifantasyfeaturedgothic-fantasygraphguideguideslaunch-daylevellevel-chartlevelinglevelsmultiplayeronline-multiplayerpartypassivesphysicsrpgrunessanctuaryskill-chartskillstipstop-fivetop-tipsweaponsTue, 15 May 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Diablo III launch day roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/diablo-iii-launch-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/diablo-iii-launch-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/diablo-iii-launch-day-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Diablo III title image
It's been a decade in the making, but today Diablo III finally arrived. The past few months have been filled with Diablo III news and more data than you can imagine, from speculation on the release date to details of gameplay and the different difficulty modes available. We've seen five epic class reveals on the Darkness Falls, Heroes Rise launch site and a series of unlocks that ended with the awesome animated Wrath of Angels short.

In this launch article, we pull together some of the top Diablo III news from the past few months. If you're playing the game today (or not!), be sure to check out our top five tips for making the most of your first few days in Diablo III.

Continue reading Diablo III launch day roundup

MassivelyDiablo III launch day roundup originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 May 2012 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetbetablizzardblizzard-entertainmentd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiifantasyfeaturedgothic-fantasylaunchlaunch-daylaunch-day-round-uplaunch-day-roundupmultiplayernewsonline-multiplayerrpgtrailervideowrath-of-the-lich-kingTue, 15 May 2012 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you take time off work to play games?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/the-daily-grind-do-you-take-time-off-work-to-play-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/the-daily-grind-do-you-take-time-off-work-to-play-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/the-daily-grind-do-you-take-time-off-work-to-play-games/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World - Zombies incoming
Holy shitaki mushrooms! There are a lot of cool MMOs coming out this year! If 2011 was kind of a downer for new AAA titles, 2012 is more than making up for it with the likes of Guild Wars 2, The Secret World, and TERA (at least two of which will release within a month of one another).

The only problem is finding enough time in the day to play all these gems (not to mention making time to keep up with old favorites). Heck, I'm even contemplating a brief vacation of sorts, the better to have some uninterrupted sessions with all these new games.

What about you, dear readers? Have you ever taken time off from work for an MMO?

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 take time off work to play games? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daily-grindfeaturedgame-discussiongamer-discussionguild-wars-2launch-daylaunchesmmo-discussionmmo-hot-topicsmmo-issuesmmo-launchesmmo-topicsmmorpg-discussionmmorpg-hot-topicsmmorpg-topicsopinionsecret-worldterathe-daily-grindthe-secret-worldThu, 23 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare stages SWTOR freeze mob event in New York City's Times Square]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/23/bioware-stages-swtor-freeze-mob-event-in-new-york-citys-times-s/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/23/bioware-stages-swtor-freeze-mob-event-in-new-york-citys-times-s/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/23/bioware-stages-swtor-freeze-mob-event-in-new-york-citys-times-s/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Darth Malgus vs. Jedi cosplay
If you happened to be walking around Times Square on the night of December 20th, you may have witnessed one of the more unique MMO launch day promotions in recent memory. BioWare enlisted the help of Darth Malgus and a cadre of heavily armored Jedi (or at least, their cosplay equivalents) to stage a Star Wars: The Old Republic freeze mob event complete with lightsabers and bewildered onlookers.

What's a freeze mob? Well, it's just what it sounds like, and fortunately for those of you who didn't get to see it live, there's a video of the shenanigans after the cut.

Continue reading BioWare stages SWTOR freeze mob event in New York City's Times Square

MassivelyBioWare stages SWTOR freeze mob event in New York City's Times Square originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Dec 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarecosplaydarth-malgusea-biowareelectronic-artseventsfreeze-mobjedilaunchlaunch-dayreal-world-eventssci-fistar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorvideoFri, 23 Dec 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Top five SWTOR launch day secrets]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/20/hyperspace-beacon-top-five-launch-day-secrets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/20/hyperspace-beacon-top-five-launch-day-secrets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/20/hyperspace-beacon-top-five-launch-day-secrets/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Hyperspce Beacon: Top 5 launch day secrets
It's official: The year's most highly anticipated MMO is no longer anticipated. As of today, Star Wars: The Old Republic has officially launched in both North America and Europe (and our Australian friends have had it shipped from the US). Despite some earlier issues about the time of delivery, everyone who pre-ordered can play on launch day thanks to the 48-hour grace period and the adjusted shipping date for most retailers. I guess that'll teach BioWare not to release so close to Christmas.

Now that you have the game in your hands, what do you do? Of course, you enter in the code to your SWTOR account, but I mean, what do you do once you get into the game? First, if you have absolutely no clue which direction to go, you should read a couple of the class introductions in Massively's giant SWTOR pre-launch guide. Once you've decided on a class, hop past the break as I give you my top five things you must watch out for very early on in the game -- things that will make your launch day experience just a bit more interesting.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Top five SWTOR launch day secrets

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Top five SWTOR launch day secrets originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Dec 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AurebeshAverage-brown-wookieeBastila-ShanBioWarecodexDatacronsEAElectronic-Artsfeaturedgalactic-basichungry-eyesJaesa-WillsaamJedi-ExilejukeboxKnights-of-the-Old-RepublicLaunchlaunch-dayloreLucasArtsRevanRevanitessatele-shansith-warriorStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicSWTORthe-old-republicTORTue, 20 Dec 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare documents the beginning of your SWTOR saga]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/20/bioware-documents-the-beginning-of-your-swtor-saga/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/20/bioware-documents-the-beginning-of-your-swtor-saga/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/20/bioware-documents-the-beginning-of-your-swtor-saga/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

SWTOR
The launch day of Star Wars: The Old Republic is upon us, and while most any interested parties are fully immersed in BioWare's mega-MMO, there are always those who are still on the fence about the game or haven't heard about it yet. To give a proper nudge in the right direction, BioWare's released an eight-minute documentary titled Your Saga Begins to give a broad overview of SWTOR's strengths and direction.

The team spends the time making a case for not only why the game is special but how it should appeal to the Star Wars fan in all of us. Covering the bases of story, voiceovers, companions, exploration, graphical style, and more, the developers hit on all of the selling points of the game while giving first-time viewers a good reason to give this title a shot.

Even if you're a veteran of the Mandalorian War, there should be a tidbit or two in this documentary that's new to you, whether it be absorbing the behind-the-scenes voice recordings or seeing just how big and bushy some of the devs' beards have become. You can watch the full documentary after the jump -- and don't forget to check out our comprehensive guide to launch and beyond!

Continue reading BioWare documents the beginning of your SWTOR saga

MassivelyBioWare documents the beginning of your SWTOR saga originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Dec 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beardbeardsbiowaredocdocumentaryea-biowarelaunchlaunch-daysagastar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorvideovoiceoveryour-saga-beginsTue, 20 Dec 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rosh Online launches, gifts players with lots of presents]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/rosh-online-launches-gifts-players-with-lots-of-presents/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/rosh-online-launches-gifts-players-with-lots-of-presents/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/rosh-online-launches-gifts-players-with-lots-of-presents/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Rosh Online - siege battle
Launch day for Rosh Online is here, and the new free-to-play title is now officially live. Ignited Games has also added a few extra features that were absent from the recent beta test. Players can now take part in siege war and mining war PvP, and a wide variety of new pets and weapon enchantment stones are available for purchase in the cash shop.

Ignited is also running a couple of special launch events. First up is the Nobody is a Rookie promotion, which includes a gift box full of items to ease the newbie transition. That's not all, as players will also receive another gift box containing level 19 gear. There's also the Blue Box Red Box promotion, and it entails holiday gift boxes filled with rare items.

Rosh Online: The Return of Karos is a fantasy title set in the world of Asmara, which features a traditional XP-based leveling system, a PvP morality system, and large-scale guild and castle sieges.

[Source: Ignited press release]

MassivelyRosh Online launches, gifts players with lots of presents originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfantasyfree-to-playgift-boxesignited-gameslaunch-daylaunchespromotionsroshrosh-onlinerosh-online-the-return-of-karosWed, 07 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Is your glass half empty or half full?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/14/the-daily-grind-is-your-glass-half-empty-or-half-full/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/14/the-daily-grind-is-your-glass-half-empty-or-half-full/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/14/the-daily-grind-is-your-glass-half-empty-or-half-full/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Mortal Online had an awesome launch
Sometimes we're willing to overlook release-day problems in light of other features that we love in a new MMO. When Fallen Earth launched, I loved the premise so much, I turned a blind eye to the rubber-banding mobs and other severe lag issues. What? It's a teleporting prairie chicken. It could happen in the wasteland! Let me hit it with the business end of a street sign! It'll stop moving!

Fallen Earth is only one example (and not even close to the worst), but especially at launch, our favorite MMOs are rarely problem-free. Some players are willing to skip over those problems to enjoy the new shiny, while others won't tolerate these games unless all problems are fixed immediately.

Of course, the issue of fixing problems in our MMOs is important, but we're curious about your typical reaction to launch-day problems. Do you give the devs the benefit of the doubt and a certain grace period, or do you head straight for the forums on day one with a list of demands. 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: Is your glass half empty or half full? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 14 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>half-emptyhalf-fulllaunch-dayopinionoptimismpessimismreleasetdgthe-daily-grindFri, 14 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR launch day questions answered]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/24/swtor-launch-day-questions-answered/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/24/swtor-launch-day-questions-answered/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/24/swtor-launch-day-questions-answered/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

SWTOR: The wait is just about over
The community team at BioWare told us that we would know when the train was coming, but it came crashing through our house when half of us were still sleeping. As we reported earlier, Star Wars: The Old Republic set its launch day for December 20th for North America and December 22nd for Europe. All the fans exhaled in relief, then promptly started asking more questions.

First off, the Australian and New Zealand launch dates have not been set, and BioWare cannot commit to a launch day yet for that region. However, back in August, Senior Community Manager Stephen Reid posted on the official forums that "There are no plans to 'region lock' or 'IP block' players from the game. You may experience some latency issues if you're not playing in a launch territory." This still holds true today.

To prevent signup issues on launch day, log-ins will be throttled. However, pre-order customers will still gain early access to the game. Senior Community Coordinator Allison Berryman reported on the official forum: "The beginning of Early Game Access will depend on a number of factors, including results from our Game Testing Program and Pre-Orders, but there will be multiple days of access."

Lastly, in case you missed it earlier, BioWare did announce the subscription costs. It comes as no surprise to most MMO gamers that the first month is free with the purchase of the game. After that it's $14.99 per month (£8.99 or €12.99), $41.97 for 3 months (£25.17 or €35.97), or $77.94 for six months (£46.14 or €65.94). There have been no lifetime subscription announcements as of yet, but we will let you know if we hear anything.

MassivelySWTOR launch day questions answered originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 24 Sep 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Allison-BerrymanaustraliaBioWareEAearly-accessElectronic-Artsip-blockslaunchlaunch-datelaunch-dayLucasArtsnew-zealandregion-lockedStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicStephen-Reidsubscriptionsubscription-modelswtorthe-old-republicthrottledtorSat, 24 Sep 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Troy Online launching tomorrow]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/troy-online-launching-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/troy-online-launching-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/troy-online-launching-tomorrow/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Troy Online - launch date
ALT1Games has just issued a press release regarding Troy Online's official release date (it's tomorrow, August 19th, if you're curious). The free-to-play fantasy MMO has been in open beta testing since August 12th, and aside from a little login server switcheroo, players will be getting the same game experience when they join at release.

The devs have simplified the registration process in an attempt to make the game accessible to more users, and you can now connect and play without signing up for a full membership. All it takes is your registration on the Troy Online homepage and you'll be free to enjoy the wholesale fantasy bloodletting on display as well as the title's traditional MMO classes and mythology-inspired setting.

ALT1Games is also running a few "final test events," and more information on these -- as well as how to sign up and download the game -- is available at the official Troy Online website.

MassivelyTroy Online launching tomorrow originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alt1-gamesalt1gamesbetaf2pfree-to-playlaunchlaunch-daylaunchesmythologyopen-betatroytroy-onlineThu, 18 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Black Prophecy North American launch day round-up]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/13/black-prophecy-north-american-launch-day-round-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/13/black-prophecy-north-american-launch-day-round-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/13/black-prophecy-north-american-launch-day-round-up/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

It's launch day for Black Prophecy, and while the impending blast-off probably won't generate as much publicity as last week's final space shuttle mission, it's nonetheless a day long remembered for fans of spaceships, sci-fi, and Reakktor's free-to-play followup to Neocron.

But wait a minute, didn't Black Prophecy launch last March? Why yes, yes it did... in Europe. Today marks the official North American street date, and Massively's got you covered in terms of all the Black Prophecy news that's fit to print.

Join us after the cut for recaps of the European launch, the North American closed beta phase, and a bunch of other blurbs to tide you over until you're able to strap into your very own internet spaceship.

Continue reading Black Prophecy North American launch day round-up

MassivelyBlack Prophecy North American launch day round-up originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Jul 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>american-launchblack-prophecyf2pfeaturedfree-to-playgamigogamigo-aginternet-spaceshipslaunchlaunch-daylaunch-day-rounduplaunch-rounduplaunchesreakktorreakktor-mediaReakktor-Media-GmbHrecaproundupshooterspace-shooterWed, 13 Jul 2011 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gods & Heroes launches today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/gods-and-heroes-launches-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/gods-and-heroes-launches-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/gods-and-heroes-launches-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It's Tuesday, and that means that somewhere in the wild hinterlands of the internet, an MMORPG is probably gearing up to officially open its doors to the public. Today's starlet is Gods & Heroes: Rome Rising, and the long-in-development title from Heatwave Interactive is finally ready for its close-up.

Whether you're into Roman mythology, you yearn for traditional class- and quest-based combat, or you're curious about the title's ancestral estate system (that's player housing, if you're wondering), you'll want to partake of our launch-day roundup that recaps our best and most current Gods & Heroes coverage.

We've got screenshot galleries, hands-on impressions, dev chats, and videos galore, not to mention info about the game's payment plans and pre-order details. What are you waiting for? Hop past the cut for details.

Continue reading Gods & Heroes launches today

MassivelyGods & Heroes launches today originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 Jun 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ancestral-estatefantasyfeaturedgods-and-heroesgods-and-heroes-rome-risingheatwaveheatwave-interactivelaunchlaunch-daylaunch-day-roundupLaunch-Roundupmythologyplayer-housingrome-risingroundupTue, 21 Jun 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Elsword Online launch day is here]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/05/elsword-online-launch-day-is-here/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/05/elsword-online-launch-day-is-here/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/05/elsword-online-launch-day-is-here/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

What's better than launch day for Elsword Online? Well, free beer for everyone springs to mind, but since we can't afford the latter, you'll have to settle for the former. Kill3rCombo's action manga is the next best thing for fans of anime-themed MMOs, though. The free-to-play title sports a highly stylized look resulting in an original side-scroller that feels as much like a comic book as it does a video game.

Elsword boasts three customizable player characters and fighting styles that evolve based on job class upgrades and a variety of skills and combos. Gameplay includes solo content and cooperative missions, and there's a bit of PvP for the competitive crowd as well.

"By keeping with the original manga aesthetic and animation, we hope to give players easily accessible gameplay while also staying true to the game's Asian roots," says Ben Colayco, CEO of Kill3rCombo. Head to the game's official website to download the client and get started.

MassivelyElsword Online launch day is here originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 May 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animeben-colaycoelswordelsword-onlinef2pfantasyfree-to-playkill3r-combokill3rcombolaunchlaunch-daylaunchesstylizedThu, 05 May 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Launch day for Allods Online is finally here]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/26/launch-day-for-allods-online-is-finally-here/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/26/launch-day-for-allods-online-is-finally-here/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/26/launch-day-for-allods-online-is-finally-here/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The long-awaited launch day for Allods Online is finally here. Yep, the free-to-play fantasy title from gPotato and Astrum Nival is finally making it official after nearly 15 months of beta testing. A lot has happened over the last year, from expansions and huge content drops to controversial cash shop decisions and revisited death penalties.

While you're stuck at work -- or otherwise unable to log in -- have a look through our launch-day roundup and catch up on all the Allods news that you may have missed. We've got impressions, interviews, and more just after the cut. Also be sure and have a look at our Allods gallery below, and visit the game's official website for more info.

Gallery: Allods Online

Continue reading Launch day for Allods Online is finally here

MassivelyLaunch day for Allods Online is finally here originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Apr 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allodsallods-onlineastrum-nivalf2pfeaturedfree-to-playgalleriesgallerygpotatolaunchlaunch-daylaunch-rounduplaunchesmmo-industryreleaserelease-dayroundupscreenshotscreenshotsTue, 26 Apr 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[ARGO Online launch day is here]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/argo-online-launch-day-is-here/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/argo-online-launch-day-is-here/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/argo-online-launch-day-is-here/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

burda:ic has announced the official launch of its steampunk/sci-fi/fantasy hybrid ARGO Online. The free-to-play game is shedding its open beta skin and welcoming players to the 23rd century, according to a new press release that details everything the burgeoning title has to offer.

New ARGOnauts will take on the role of World War IV survivors, and they'll don their choice of two factional mantles (the tech-savvy Noblian or the nature-loving Floresslah) before embarking on a journey rife with quests, dungeons, and PvP.

ARGO Online features eight classes, traditional guild and auction house systems, as well as pet and achievement mechanics designed to immerse players in a unique F2P experience. Head to the game's official website for more info.

MassivelyARGO Online launch day is here originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Apr 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alaplayaargoargo-onlineburdaburda-icf2pfantasyfree-to-playlaunch-daylaunchespost-apocalypticreleaserelease-daysci-fisteampunkThu, 21 Apr 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Old Republic's Cory Butler talks flashpoints, testing and launch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/20/the-old-republics-cory-butler-talks-flashpoints-testing-and-la/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/20/the-old-republics-cory-butler-talks-flashpoints-testing-and-la/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/20/the-old-republics-cory-butler-talks-flashpoints-testing-and-la/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

With all of the buzz surrounding Star Wars: The Old Republic these days, some fans may be frustrated that they've yet to be accepted into the hallowed halls of game testing. However, soaking up interviews and developer diaries is an acceptable distraction from the wait, which is why we're glad that the folks at Darth Hater grabbed some face time with Associate Producer Cory Butler to talk about TOR's flashpoints and testing progress.

Butler is pleased with how BioWare is raising the bar for instances by including a gripping tale to enrich the experience: "Every Flashpoint begins with an exciting story and contains difficult decisions which have meaningful impact on the challenges you'll face, the enemies you'll fight, and the outcome of the Flashpoints."

Butler said that testing is in full swing and BioWare's gathering great feedback from the process. While he declined to disclose the amount of current testers, he did admit that "it is a bunch."

As The Old Republic grows nearer to launch, how does Cory Butler envision the launch day happening? "Honestly, our hope is that as important and exciting as it is, Launch Day is another day at the office for us. Don't get me wrong, I'm not trying to downplay how significant a smooth launch of the game is to us. It is just that we are working on plans and backup plans and backups to the backup plans for quite some time now, so we're ready to execute all these plans at launch."

MassivelyThe Old Republic's Cory Butler talks flashpoints, testing and launch originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Apr 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabiowareclosed-betacory-butlerdarth-haterea-biowareflashpointsgame-testinginterviewlaunchlaunch-daystar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtortestingthe-old-republictorWed, 20 Apr 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Tanks rolls on to release day]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/12/world-of-tanks-rolls-on-to-release-day/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/12/world-of-tanks-rolls-on-to-release-day/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/12/world-of-tanks-rolls-on-to-release-day/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

How's about we strap ourselves inside 60 tons of steel, form up with a company of like-minded comrades, and steam-roll those unfortunate chaps rolling along in the enemy tank brigade on the other side of the map? If you answered hooaahh, World of Tanks is probably an MMO that you'll want to check out (and even if you didn't, the game is free-to-play, so you've got nothing to lose).

So grab your buddies, your extra ammo, and a cup of that engine degreaser that passes for coffee and avail yourself of video tutorials, interviews with Victor Kislyi, and clan wars discussions -- all courtesy of the best World of Tanks coverage on the web. That's right, release day for Wargaming.net's action/strategy MMO is finally here, and Massively's got your mission-critical intel briefing just after the cut.

Continue reading World of Tanks rolls on to release day

MassivelyWorld of Tanks rolls on to release day originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 12 Apr 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoclan-warsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhistoricallaunchlaunch-daylaunch-roundupmilitaryreal-worldreleaserelease-dayroundupstrategyvictor-kislyiwarwargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-war-2world-war-iiwotTue, 12 Apr 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Allods Online launching April 26th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/05/allods-online-launching-april-26th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/05/allods-online-launching-april-26th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/05/allods-online-launching-april-26th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

We'll forgive you if you did a double-take at the headline proclaiming an impending Allods Online launch, because frankly we did the same thing. While it seems like the free-to-play sci-fi/fantasy hybrid has been around forever, it has in fact been in an open beta period since February of 2010.

All that is about to change on April 26th, as Gala-Net has announced the title's official release coinciding with the 2.0.02: Astral Odyssey patch. So while the game has been in the public eye long enough to provoke a controversy, resolve another one, and generally make itself at home amidst the collective free-to-play psyche, it's all been something of a gigantic warm-up.

The Astral Odyssey update is bringing a lot of new content to the table, including a level cap increase (47), two high-level zones (Kirah and the Isle of Revelation), and two new gear systems (refining and draconic relics). Six new allods are coming as well, and you can read all about the officially official release patch at the game's website.

[Update: The EU version will be launching May 11th]

MassivelyAllods Online launching April 26th originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 05 Apr 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.0.02allodsallods-onlineastral-odysseyastrum-nivalbetadraconic-relicsf2pfree-to-playgala-netgpotatoisle-of-revelationkirahlaunchlaunch-daylevel-47level-cap-increaseopen-betarefiningthats-a-long-open-betaTue, 05 Apr 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Divine Souls launches today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/05/divine-souls-launches-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/05/divine-souls-launches-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/05/divine-souls-launches-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Divine Souls has been in the works for a while; we first previewed the title way back in March of 2010. Since then, the team at Outspark has been hard at work polishing, tweaking, and updating the free-to-play action MMO, and today gamers around the globe get to see the results.

Yep, it's launch day, and very soon you'll be able to indulge in the game's detailed visuals and arcade-style fighting game functionality (including complex air- and ground-based combos). Divine Souls also boasts Xbox and PlayStation controller support and is designed to run on a huge variety of hardware configurations.

The game also features a small downloadable client to get you up, running, and into the action quickly. Choose from one of three classes (Mage, Slasher, or Fighter), check out the trailer after the cut, and look for our Divine Souls first impressions later this week.

Continue reading Divine Souls launches today

MassivelyDivine Souls launches today originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 05 Apr 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionaction-mmobrawlercombosdivine-soulsf2pfantasyfighterfighting-gamefree-to-playlaunchlaunch-daymageoutsparkslasherTue, 05 Apr 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Black Prophecy blasts off in Europe today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/21/black-prophecy-blasts-off-in-europe-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/21/black-prophecy-blasts-off-in-europe-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/21/black-prophecy-blasts-off-in-europe-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

T-minus three, two, one... and that sound you hear is the latest space-based MMORPG lifting off the launch pad, heading for the stratosphere and the stars beyond. At least, that's what gamigo and Reakktor are hoping when it comes to Black Prophecy, which officially takes a bow in Europe today.

Beta characters, clans, and clan sectors will be wiped for the kickoff, and Black Prophecy will initially feature both an English and a German server. Snowcrash (no, not that one) has posted a note informing customers of impending forum downtime and has also let us know that game updates will be available via the launcher application while the launch-day forum restructuring is in progress.

"This is not an end. It's a beginning; the foundation is laid and we will now move forward with the continued development of Black Prophecy after its release," says assistant production manager Chris "Snowcrash" Schutt. While you're waiting to log in -- or stuck at work -- check out our coverage roundup after the cut and get caught up on the biggest Black Prophecy news items from the past few months.

Continue reading Black Prophecy blasts off in Europe today

MassivelyBlack Prophecy blasts off in Europe today originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Mar 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betablack-prophecycharacter-wipechris-schuttdowntimeeuropean-launchf2pfeaturedforumsfree-to-playgamigolaunchlaunch-dayreakktorreakktor-mediaReakktor-Media-GmbHsci-fisnowcrashMon, 21 Mar 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Tanks launching April 12th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/world-of-tanks-launching-april-12th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/world-of-tanks-launching-april-12th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/world-of-tanks-launching-april-12th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

After nine straight months of intensive beta testing, the end (and the beginning) is finally in sight for fans of Wargaming.net's World of Tanks. The World War II-based action MMO is officially launching in both Europe and North America on April 12th, and die-hard testers "who did a long way from [closed beta] to release will get some bonuses" according to a post on the game's website.

World of Tanks looks to blend the fast-action gameplay of its squad-based modes with the large-scale strategy of the clan wars mechanic to create the definitive heavy armor MMO title. The game features destructible environments and authentically rendered combat vehicles from a variety of nations, and it's all wrapped in a free-to-play package designed to allow curious gamers to try before they buy.

"Our team has been working really hard to create a unique blend of action, strategy, simulation, and RPG in World of Tanks, and now the moment all fans across the globe have been waiting for is right around the corner," says Wargaming.net CEO Victor Kislyi.

MassivelyWorld of Tanks launching April 12th originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Mar 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfree-to-playhistoricallaunchlaunch-daynew-titlesrelease-datetankswarwargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-war-2world-war-iiwotFri, 18 Mar 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX East 2011: Massively interviews RIFT's Scott Hartsman]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/15/pax-east-2011-massively-interviews-rifts-scott-hartsman/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/15/pax-east-2011-massively-interviews-rifts-scott-hartsman/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/15/pax-east-2011-massively-interviews-rifts-scott-hartsman/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

With the launch of RIFT still fresh, members of the Trion team packed their bags and flew to Boston to attend PAX East. Even though they didn't have a booth, their "We're not in Azeroth anymore" banner made their presence known. In addition, Community Manager Cindy "Abigale" Bowens hosted a party in Boston to celebrate the launch with players and fans. Massively had a chance to sit down and talk with Trion CCO and RIFT Executive Producer Scott Hartsman about launch day, security, plans for the future, and a whole lot more. Read on for the full interview!

Continue reading PAX East 2011: Massively interviews RIFT's Scott Hartsman

MassivelyPAX East 2011: Massively interviews RIFT's Scott Hartsman originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abigaleadd-onsaddonsappappscindy-bowensdungeon-finderfeaturedguild-warsinterviewinterviewslaunchlaunch-daypaxpax-2011pax-eastpax-east-2011riftrift-planes-of-telarascott-hartsmanserver-populationserver-populationsserver-queuesshardssocial-gaming-nightsuccesstriontrion-worldsTue, 15 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dreamlords: Resurrection launches, Paradox offering free ducats]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/10/dreamlords-resurrection-launches-paradox-offering-free-ducats/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/10/dreamlords-resurrection-launches-paradox-offering-free-ducats/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/10/dreamlords-resurrection-launches-paradox-offering-free-ducats/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

MMORTS gamers have reason to celebrate, as Paradox Interactive has announced the (latest) launch of its free-to-play Dreamlords title. A German version of the game was published by gamigo in 2007, while a North American version originally debuted in the summer of 2008 under the name Dreamlords the Reawakening.

This time around, Paradox is calling it Dreamlords: Resurrection, and the company is also giving away 1000 Paradox ducats (the game's item shop currency) to anyone and everyone who signs up.

Dreamlords: Resurrection was developed by Lockpick Entertainment and puts the player in the role of a titular guardian and tasks him with inspiring followers, building an army, and engaging in various defend-and-conquer excursions against the Nightmares that roam the world. The game features cooperative PvE play where the player can team up with other Dreamlords, as well as fast-paced PvP combat and RTS staples such as troop and technology research. Paradox has released a new gameplay trailer to celebrate the Dreamlords launch, and you can view it after the cut.

Continue reading Dreamlords: Resurrection launches, Paradox offering free ducats

MassivelyDreamlords: Resurrection launches, Paradox offering free ducats originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Mar 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dreamlordsdreamlords-resurrectionf2pfree-to-playgamigolaunch-daylauncheslockpick-entertainmentmmortsparadoxParadox-InteractivertsstrategytrailervideoThu, 10 Mar 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT launch-day roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/01/rift-launch-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/01/rift-launch-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/01/rift-launch-day-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The day many MMO gamers have been waiting for is here -- it's time for the official launch of Trion Worlds' epic fantasy MMO, RIFT! For those of you who decided not to take the pre-order plunge and will instead be starting with the second wave of players, we've assembled a pile of posts to help speed you on your way. From some of our spotlight columns and impression postings on the game to exclusive soul reveals and more, there's a little something for everyone.

So grab your favorite beverage, fire up your installer or downloader, and settle in for some of the highlights of our RIFT coverage. Of course, if you manage to make it through all of these posts before you're able to log in and play, there are tons of other great information in our RIFT archives to check out as well!

Enter At Your Own Rift: The first day FAQ
For this week's Enter At Your Own Rift, we'll take a look at a few common questions that players might have. Are you wondering about how to form a guild? Have you already made a soul build that you regret and want to reset? Are you lost trying to find an auctioneer or a mount merchant? Read on for some answers!
Ten levels of RIFT: A guide to your first day in Telara
With two RIFT beta events under my belt, I was given the supreme honor of creating a guide to the first 10 levels of the game. Naturally, I fell apart under the stress, assumed the fetal position for a couple days while whimpering about "frame rates," and then was prodded into action by our editors. That's quite literally "prodded," mind you -- Massively purchased a pair of cattle prods last year at a police auction. It's going to be years until the scorch marks fade from my spine.

Continue reading RIFT launch-day roundup

MassivelyRIFT launch-day roundup originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Mar 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exclusivesfeaturedlaunchlaunch-daylaunch-day-round-upriftrift-planes-of-telararounduproundupstriontrion-worldsTue, 01 Mar 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT details Greenscale's Blight raid]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/28/rift-details-greenscales-blight-raid/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/28/rift-details-greenscales-blight-raid/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/28/rift-details-greenscales-blight-raid/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The big day is almost here, folks. Yes, after months of beta previews, trailers, reveals, and a head-start, March 1st marks the official kickoff for Trion Worlds' RIFT MMORPG. The company's last PR gasp prior to the launch date onslaught is a look at the Greenscale's Blight raid content.

Who is Greenscale, you might be wondering? Well he's no orc or goblin, as fantasy stalwarts might suppose after a cursory glance at the name. No, Greenscale the Primeval is a dragon most foul, responsible for unimaginable destruction and terror by virtue of his penchant for "seeding the world in vines and vegetation that could devour cities" according to Trion's latest literature.

As you're counting down the hours until launch day (or taking a break from your headstart), join us after the cut for a bit of lore relating to the fearsome wyrm and the prison temple that serves as his current home (as well a challenging bit of content for Defiants and Guardians alike).

Gallery: RIFT: Core Gallery

Gallery: RIFT: Location Reveals

Continue reading RIFT details Greenscale's Blight raid

MassivelyRIFT details Greenscale's Blight raid originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 28 Feb 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>defiantdungeonfantasygalleriesgallerygreenscalegreenscale-the-primevalguardianlaunchlaunch-daynew-titlesriftscreenshotstriontrion-worldsMon, 28 Feb 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter At Your Own Rift: The first day FAQ]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/23/enter-at-your-own-rift-the-first-day-faq/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/23/enter-at-your-own-rift-the-first-day-faq/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/23/enter-at-your-own-rift-the-first-day-faq/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

You've watched the trailers, downloaded the podcasts, scoured the forums, and sold your soul for a VIP key. Tomorrow, your patient wait is over, and the RIFT head-start officially begins. As you stock up on Red Bull and Mountain Dew and fight off the shakes during your server queue wait, you might have a few questions about what your first moments in RIFT will be like.

For this week's Enter At Your Own Rift, we'll take a look at a few common questions that players might have. Are you wondering about how to form a guild? Have you already made a soul build that you regret and want to reset? Are you lost trying to find an auctioneer or a mount merchant? Read on for some answers!

Continue reading Enter At Your Own Rift: The first day FAQ

MassivelyEnter At Your Own Rift: The first day FAQ originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Feb 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaenter-at-your-own-riftfeaturedguild-formationlaunchlaunch-dayplanar-focusplanariteRIFTrift-betarift-invastionsrift-planes-of-telaraScott-hartsmansoul-systemtriontrion-worldsWed, 23 Feb 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Earthrise launch day arrives, sandbox title available for purchase]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/04/earthrise-launch-day-arrives-sandbox-title-available-for-purcha/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/04/earthrise-launch-day-arrives-sandbox-title-available-for-purcha/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/04/earthrise-launch-day-arrives-sandbox-title-available-for-purcha/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Zomg it's a sci-fi sandbox! You'll have to forgive our somewhat subjective enthusiasm on this one, as it's an increasingly rare occasion when we're able to announce the launch of something other than a themepark with classical fantasy elements. Yes, Earthrise is here to (hopefully) save the day for the sandbox die-hards in the audience, and Masthead Studio's skill-based title is available for purchase in both a retail edition (which features a poster and map) and a digital download from Direct2Drive (which comes with exclusive Overdrive armor).

"Our team has channeled years of dedication and hard work into Earthrise, and we are thrilled for those fans who have been following us this entire time, as well as those who are just now checking us out, to experience the world of Enterra. We are already working on updates and expansion packs to be integrated within the next few months, and are excited to continue to develop and enhance the world," says Masthead producer Atanas Atanasov.

As of press time, the server has not come up, and a couple of us have been unable to enter our activation keys into the account page on the Earthrise website. Fear not though, as we've got plenty for you to do while you're waiting impatiently to check out the world of Enterra. Join us after the break for a launch-day roundup of all the recent Earthrise news, interviews, and videos to get yourself up to speed and ready for action.

Continue reading Earthrise launch day arrives, sandbox title available for purchase

MassivelyEarthrise launch day arrives, sandbox title available for purchase originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Feb 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Atanas-Atanasovdigital-downloadearthriseenterrafeaturedgalleriesgallerylaunchlaunch-daylaunch-day-round-uplaunchesmastheadmasthead-studiosoverdrive-armorretail-boxretail-releaseround-uproundupsandboxsci-fiscreenshotsFri, 04 Feb 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Cryptic unmasks the Champions F2P trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/cryptic-unmasks-the-champions-f2p-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/cryptic-unmasks-the-champions-f2p-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/cryptic-unmasks-the-champions-f2p-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Defender calls out to all Champions: "Report to the nearest crisis zone and engage the enemy."

If you have not experienced Champions Online yet, now is the time. Cryptic's superhero MMORPG is officially free-to-play as of today. This is your chance to design a hero in what G4TV has called "the finest character creator system yet seen in an online RPG." Or perhaps you're a former Champions Online player who hasn't played for a while... this is a great time for you to get back into the game to see what you have been missing.

In the F2P launch-day trailer, Millennium City's being attacked while the other Champions are spread around the world in battles of their own. The distress call has gone out to you. Will you reply? Catch the full trailer after the break, then you can head over to the official site and start saving the world today.

Continue reading Cryptic unmasks the Champions F2P trailer

MassivelyCryptic unmasks the Champions F2P trailer originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 25 Jan 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Atarichampions-onlineCOcrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfree-to-playlaunch-daysuper-herosuperherosuperheroestrailervideoTue, 25 Jan 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE releases DC Universe launch trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/soe-releases-dc-universe-launch-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/soe-releases-dc-universe-launch-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/soe-releases-dc-universe-launch-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Launch day for SOE's long-awaited DC Universe Online is finally upon us, and in addition to breathless anticipation, server queues, and coordinating friend meet-ups, we also have a brand new trailer making the rounds. The clip, which clocks in at around a minute and a half, starts with footage from last summer's Blur Studios cinematic before segueing into in-game material featuring heroes, villains, and player characters from the storied DC mythos.

The video also plays up DCUO's superhero flavor in a manner reminiscent of Hollywood's greatest action movie trailers, from the heroes and villains facing off in the streets to the dramatic orchestral score and the "save this universe...or destroy it" titles. Check out all the mayhem after the cut, and let us know your early impressions of the game as the servers come up.

Continue reading SOE releases DC Universe launch trailer

MassivelySOE releases DC Universe launch trailer originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Jan 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmanblur-studiocinematicdc-comicsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuolaunch-daylaunch-trailerrelease-daysoeSony-Online-EntertainmentsuperherosupermantrailervideoTue, 11 Jan 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DC Universe Online: Launch-day roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/dc-universe-online-launch-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/dc-universe-online-launch-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/dc-universe-online-launch-day-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Faster than a speeding bullet! More powerful than a locomotive! Able to leap tall buildings in a single bound! Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's the launch of DC universe Online! Hopefully, you've already pre-ordered the game and have the loadscreen in front of you right now. If not, perhaps you will soon.

When the game was first announced back in July of 2008, Sony Online Entertainment CEO John Smedley said, "I think for the first time, people are going to feel like there's a superhero game that makes you feel like a superhero." Many fans agree. DCUO is one of the first MMOs to use action-game mechanics; it also boasts physics that allow you to interact with the environment. Its character creation screens allow you to build a character intended to be modified as the game progresses. And most importantly, DCUO is the first MMORPG to be launched for both the PlayStation 3 and the PC at the same time.

After the break, we've rounded up some of the best articles, videos, and images to bring you up to speed for today's launch of the game. Massively is also dedicating two new features to this particular game. On Saturdays, the Alter-Ego column will cover the ins and outs of this explosive title. Then on Wednesdays, Massively TV will host a video livestream of the adventure of our DCUO superhero. The game is breaking new ground in the genre. Trust us when we say that we want to be there for every minute.

Continue reading DC Universe Online: Launch-day roundup

MassivelyDC Universe Online: Launch-day roundup originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Jan 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc-comicsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuofeaturedjohn-smedleylaunchlaunch-daylaunchesPlayStationPlaystation3ps3roundupSOESony-Online-EntertainmentWarner-BrosWarner-Bros-InteractiveTue, 11 Jan 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Earthrise server located on US east coast]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/10/earthrise-server-located-on-us-east-coast/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/10/earthrise-server-located-on-us-east-coast/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/10/earthrise-server-located-on-us-east-coast/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The folks behind the Earthrise sci-fi sandbox made headlines a couple weeks ago with announcements that the game would launch on February 4th and that players would be grouped together on a single worldwide shard. As it turns out, the server is located on the east coast of the United States, which is a somewhat surprising move given the European pedigree of the game's parent company and the title's Europe-centric retail plans.

Masthead Studios community manager Kuliani has compiled a short list of frequently asked questions about the impending release and published it on the game's official forums. In addition to the server location announcement, he confirms that the Earthrise digital download will be available via the game's official website (as opposed to third parties like Steam or D2D) and that new forums will be introduced on launch day.

MassivelyEarthrise server located on US east coast originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 10 Jan 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betadigital-downloadearthrisekulianilaunch-daymastheadmasthead-studiosrelease-datesandboxsci-fiserver-locationMon, 10 Jan 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Vindictus launch day roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/27/vindictus-launch-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/27/vindictus-launch-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/27/vindictus-launch-day-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

With blood, guts, and gore galore, it's been an interesting ride for Vindictus since we first saw the official reveal in March. From those early days at GDC, on through several batches of screenshots, videos, and even beta keys, people have been clamoring for more on this new free-to-play title from Nexon. Well, for those who never seemed to get a hold of a beta key, today marks the official launch of Vindictus, with its abundance of in-your-face action.

While you're waiting for the client to finish downloading and installing, we've gathered up a plethora of previous coverage for you to peruse while you patiently await the program. From the earliest steps to the most recent events, we've been there every step of the way -- and if you missed any of it, you'll find it lovingly tucked behind the break in our Vindictus launch day roundup!

Continue reading Vindictus launch day roundup

MassivelyVindictus launch day roundup originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Oct 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free-to-playlaunch-daylaunch-day-round-upnexonnexon-americaroundupvindictusWed, 27 Oct 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Universe launch day roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/26/lego-universe-launch-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/26/lego-universe-launch-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/26/lego-universe-launch-day-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Many of us at Massively have been looking forward to the launch of LEGO Universe, and we're pretty sure a lot of you have too. Most of us never really outgrow LEGO bricks, so translating them into an MMO format seems like a recipe for fun.

The months leading up to today's launch have been full of opportunities to check out the game -- we took multiple trips into the world of LEGO Universe to check out different areas and report on what we found. In between were interviews, some awards, and an avalanche of images and trailers.

Follow along after the jump for the highlights of the past months, from the launch date announcement to the heaps of just-before-launch-day goodies!

Continue reading LEGO Universe launch day roundup

MassivelyLEGO Universe launch day roundup originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Oct 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualfamilygazilliongazillion-entertainmentkidslaunchlaunch-daylaunch-day-round-upLEGOLEGO-bricksLEGO-Universenetdevilround-upTue, 26 Oct 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIV launch day roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/final-fantasy-xiv-launch-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/final-fantasy-xiv-launch-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/final-fantasy-xiv-launch-day-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

For those of you not fanatical enough to pre-order Final Fantasy XIV and start playing last Wednesday, today marks the official worldwide retail release of the highly anticipated Square-Enix MMO on the PC.

You can bet we've been knee-deep in coverage for the game, especially considering the fact that we have some fans on staff and a weekly column dedicated to it. For that reason, and to help you navigate your way through the news and info leading up to launch, we've compiled a handy roundup of our FFXIV coverage. Follow along below and after the jump for our best FFXIV articles to help you on your way through Eorzea.

First Impressions: Final Fantasy XIV
There are times when my job is kind of a mixed blessing. Case in point: It falls to me to talk about my first impressions of Final Fantasy XIV, which is about as not for everyone as a game can possibly be. It features some things that seem custom-built to annoy certain players into apoplectic fits, starting with the controls and the hardware mouse that has been absent for the whole of beta. (I don't know whether it'll be in the launch today. But probably!) I would be remiss not to mention any of these elements.
What scares me about Final Fantasy XIV
I am not the biggest Final Fantasy fan. But that's more because I lack for time, not because I lack interest. I played FFXI, but only until level 18 or so, and even then I would only return once in a while. The game was punishing to a solo player even with the recent changes that gave more opportunity to level. There was something ever-alluring about the world, however -- something complex and deep, and I knew that, if I could just become more powerful, it would show itself to me. Skip to the present and to the FFXIV beta.
A World of Warcraft player's guide to Final Fantasy XIV
So you're a veteran player of World of Warcraft, and you're ready to take a step away from the game that you've been playing for however many years and start in on something new. And you even know where you want to forge your new home: Eorzea, the continent on which Final Fantasy XIV's adventures take place. It should be a fairly easy transition, yes?

Continue reading Final Fantasy XIV launch day roundup

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XIV launch day roundup originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 30 Sep 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-xivimpressionslaunch-daylaunch-day-round-upmassively-metaretail-releaseround-upsquare-enixThu, 30 Sep 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[First Impressions: Final Fantasy XIV]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/first-impressions-final-fantasy-xiv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/first-impressions-final-fantasy-xiv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/first-impressions-final-fantasy-xiv/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

There are times when my job is kind of a mixed blessing. Case in point: It falls to me to talk about my first impressions of Final Fantasy XIV, which is about as not for everyone as a game can possibly be. It features some things that seem custom-built to annoy certain players into apoplectic fits, starting with the controls and the hardware mouse that has been absent for the whole of beta. (I don't know whether it'll be in the launch today. But probably!) I would be remiss not to mention any of these elements.

On the other hand, I adore this game. The game isn't what I would have made; it's better, and it hits so many notes in just the right way that I don't particularly care about the discordant elements. So that means that my job is to give a good idea of how Final Fantasy XIV plays without letting my deep, unrestrained affection run rampant. Still, enough about the balancing act I have to go through -- how does the game actually play?

Continue reading First Impressions: Final Fantasy XIV

MassivelyFirst Impressions: Final Fantasy XIV originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>combatcontrol-mappingcontrol-schemecontrolsdesigndesign-stylesfeaturedffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivfirst-impressionsgame-mechanicsgameplayguildleveslaunch-daylauncheslevequestsopinionpacerhythmsandboxsandparksquaresquare-enixstarting-newthemeparkultraviolenceWed, 22 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist and the Girdle of Anarchy: A chat with Colin Cragg]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/21/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-girdle-of-anarchy-a-chat-with-co/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/21/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-girdle-of-anarchy-a-chat-with-co/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/21/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-girdle-of-anarchy-a-chat-with-co/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

When I declared September to be "Anarchy Online month" I had no idea how far it would go. I mean, sure, I expected an outpouring of fond memories from players and perhaps a statue erected in my honor, but for the UN to pass a resolution for a worldwide celebration of Funcom's brainchild is quite above and beyond.

So really, it's been a wild ride thus far. That's what we game archaeologists prepared for when we attended MMO U (go Fightin' N00bs!) and dusted off old copies of Neverwinter Nights. Be flexible, be enthusiastic, and always be ready for an older title to sweep you off your feet -- these are the sage words of my instructors.

Because of this, I didn't find myself tongue-tied when Anarchy Online's Colin Cragg agreed to an interview. I might have blushed and stared at my feet so that I wouldn't become lost in his wizened, sage eyes, but I marched forward nonetheless. So what did AO's head honcho have to say about working on a mature MMO? Click the link and wonder no longer!

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist and the Girdle of Anarchy: A chat with Colin Cragg

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist and the Girdle of Anarchy: A chat with Colin Cragg originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conananarchy-onlineanarchy-online-launchaocolin-craggddodungeons-and-dragons-onlineeqeverquestfacebookfarmvillefeaturedfightin-n00bsfuncomgaute-godagerinterviewlaunch-daylord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrommouneverwinter-nightsRagnar-TornquistshadowlandsTeletubbiesthe-game-archaeologistthe-secret-worldunTue, 21 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Join us for our Final Fantasy XIV launch day Livestream]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/20/join-us-for-our-final-fantasy-xiv-launch-day-livestream/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/20/join-us-for-our-final-fantasy-xiv-launch-day-livestream/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/20/join-us-for-our-final-fantasy-xiv-launch-day-livestream/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

You've heard the debates. You've seen the screenshots. You've read the beta previews. Now, this Wednesday at 8:30 p.m. EDT, we're bringing the game to you live, thanks to the power of internet streaming.

Come join me, Seraphina Brennan, on Massively TV as I unbox the Final Fantasy XIV collector's edition and jump into the fray of collector's edition launch day! We'll cover the trials and tribulations of creating a character, push into the starting cities amongst a gigantic wave of people, and pray every waking minute that the server doesn't explode in a ball of fire. (Exciting stuff!)

I'll also be taking questions, shout-outs, and comments from our Livestream and IRC chats (irc.quakenet.org, #massively), so please drop by and talk at me while I combat the villainous "Lag" and his partner, "Disconnect." I'll try to answer as much as I can about the game, in addition to offering my opinion on the game's various systems, controls, graphics, and overall gameplay.

Need an emailed event reminder? Drop by our Livestream page and be sure to hit the big "remind me" button next to the event listing at the top of the page, above the video!

Gallery: Final Fantasy XIV

MassivelyJoin us for our Final Fantasy XIV launch day Livestream originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Sep 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chatcollectors-editioncommunitycontroller-vs-keyboardff-14ffxivffxiv-launchfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivlaunch-daylivestreammassively-tvmassivelytvq-and-asquare-enixvideoMon, 20 Sep 2010 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist and the Girdle of Anarchy: Your stories]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/14/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-girdle-of-anarchy-your-stories/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/14/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-girdle-of-anarchy-your-stories/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/14/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-girdle-of-anarchy-your-stories/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

I have to admit that I have a particular soft spot for Anarchy Online. It was, for better and worse, my first MMO -- on launch day, no less. That experience terrified me so much that I became convinced my machine could never run an online game, and so it wasn't until Shadowlands released that I returned to Rubi-Ka for another go. Fortunately, that time things went more smoothly, and I cut my teeth on that content. Sure, it was mostly over my head, and I'm pretty sure I gimped my character by level 3, but the otherworldly atmosphere and giddy newness of MMOs in general more than made up for it.

After last week's brief overview of the many years of Anarchy Online's operation, vets poured out of the grid to share their own screenshots and stories. It may not be the hip new thing these days -- more like, it needs a hip replacement -- but to hear these players tell it, AO isn't as washed up as you may think.

Read on for sordid tales that would make any of the Game Archaeologist's own adventures look like a dip in the kiddie pool!

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist and the Girdle of Anarchy: Your stories

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist and the Girdle of Anarchy: Your stories originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conananarchy-onlineanarchy-online-launchaoaoce-peeneddieeq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iifeaturedfixerfuncomgaute-godagergmgridimni-teklaunch-dayold-athenomniprison-missionspugpvproleplayRolePlayingrprunescapeshadowlandsthe-game-archaeologistwhoompahwhoompah-oompaworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 14 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mortal Online launch day roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/09/mortal-online-launch-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/09/mortal-online-launch-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/09/mortal-online-launch-day-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ever since Star Vault initially announced Mortal Online back in 2008, we've been curiously awaiting the launch of the game. With the promise of lush graphics wrapped around a heavily sandboxed PvP game, it's looked like the niche game that many players have been hungering for. Now, after a handful of setbacks and decisions to hold the release date, players will have the chance to start playing Mortal Online in earnest -- and we've got a launch-day roundup that's chock full of some of the highlights from the last two years for you!

Quick Mortal Online preview
The game appears to hail from the open world school of design, offering open looting; real-time, Elder Scrolls-esque combat; and level-free advancement (it's still a class-based game).
Mortal Online presentation puts all you want to know in one place
The Mortal Online team decided to create a PowerPoint presentation (available here -- the .rar file is 100mbs and includes some videos) to explain to the world what their game is. As it turns out, the presentation begins with a list of what their game isn't. The short version is that they're trying to make a very different MMO experience.

Continue reading Mortal Online launch day roundup

MassivelyMortal Online launch day roundup originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 Jun 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>launchlaunch-daymomortal-onlineroundupstar-vaultWed, 09 Jun 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fantasy Earth Zero celebrates launch with special events]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/18/fantasy-earth-zero-celebrates-launch-with-special-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/18/fantasy-earth-zero-celebrates-launch-with-special-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/18/fantasy-earth-zero-celebrates-launch-with-special-events/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It's launch day for Fantasy Earth Zero, the PvP-oriented free-to-play game from Gamepot USA and Square-Enix. The official launch alone would be enough reason for fans to be excited, but there's better yet to come, as the game is running several events to celebrate. The most obvious one is a week of boosted experience and money -- from today until the 25th of May, all players will receive a bonus 50% to both experience and Rings gained. It helps ensure that your time spent leveling now will be on the faster side, allowing players to dive into the high end of the game even faster.

Players are also being given five free enchantments to help boost their prowess in battle within the same timeframe. If all that weren't enough, Mission Maps will be updating at a higher clip during the week after launch -- the Mission Maps exist as an alternative to spending money in the cash shop, which makes a higher turnaround help speed up progress further. All players who took part in the second open beta will also receive a New Soldier Set as a present, containing potions as well as an experience-boosting ring. Take a look at our gallery below for some special launch-day screenshots, and if you're curious, take a closer look at Fantasy Earth Zero itself.

Gallery: Fantasy Earth Zero Launch Gallery

MassivelyFantasy Earth Zero celebrates launch with special events originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 May 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionbonusbonus-experienceeventfantasy-earth-zerofezgamepotgamepot-usain-game-eventslaunchlaunch-daylaunch-eventlaunch-eventspvpsquaresquare-enixTue, 18 May 2010 19:00:00 EST